panaloko free 100 BRISBANE: Nick Kyrgios lashed out Saturday at what he believes is the lenient treatment of world tennis number one Italian Jannik Sinner for a failed drug test and said integrity in the sport was “awful”. Sinner twice tested positive for the banned steroid clostebol in March. However, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted his argument that the steroid entered his system due to contamination from his physiotherapist and opted not to suspend him. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) subsequently appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a verdict pending. Kyrgios has been scathing about the ITIA decision in the past and didn’t hold back in a press conference ahead of his return to the game at the Brisbane International after an 18-month injury lay-off. “Tennis integrity right now, and everyone knows it, but no one wants to speak about it—it’s awful,” said the Australian. “It’s actually awful and it’s not okay. I know that people don’t like it when I just speak out about things, be honest about things. “For a kid that grew up playing tennis, I enjoyed the competition, I enjoyed playing. “I can get emotional, I can throw a racquet, but that’s nothing compared to cheating and taking performance-enhancing drugs.” Asked whether he was accusing Sinner of cheating, Kyrgios told journalists to look at the facts. “He did fail two doping tests at separate times, as well,” Kyrgios said. “It wasn’t one after the other -- they were a different time frame, so I mean, if you think that that’s the way that it got in his system, if that’s how you think it’s happened, then. “But, I mean, if he didn’t do anything wrong, then why did they take his prize money and points away? Obviously they found something wrong with it.” With former women’s world number one Iga Swiatek also having been suspended for a doping violation in 2024, Kyrgios said the sport’s image was being tarnished. “I just think that it’s been handled horrifically in our sport,” he said. The ITIA accepted that Swiatek’s violation was not intentional and she received only a one-month ban. “Two world number ones both getting done for doping is disgusting for our sport. It’s a horrible look,” said Kyrgios, who has been out of the sport since suffering knee and wrist injuries at the 2022 US Open. Kyrgios has had wrist reconstruction and said while it was a success, he was unsure how the wrist would cope with tournament play. “I’m just not going to take anything for granted,” he said. “I’m going to go out there and play. It’s literally going to be a day-by-day symptomatic injury moving forward. “If I play a long match, jam it the right way, who knows how it’s going to pull up the next day. That’s the type of injury it is.” Kyrgios’s comeback begins against rising French star Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. — AFP

BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Tens of thousands of Spaniards marched in downtown Barcelona on Saturday to protest the skyrocketing cost of renting an apartment in the popular tourist destination. Protesters cut off traffic on main avenues in the city center, holding up homemade signs in Spanish reading “Fewer apartments for investing and more homes for living" and “The people without homes uphold their rights.” The lack of affordable housing has become one of the leading concerns for the southern European Union country, mirroring the housing crunch across many parts of the world, including the United States . Organizers said that over 100,000 had turned out, while Barcelona’s police said they estimated some 22,000 marched. Either way, the throngs of people clogging the streets recalled the massive separatist rallies at the heigh of the previous decade’s Catalan independence movement. Now, social concerns led by housing have displaced political crusades. That is because the average rent for Spain has doubled in last 10 years. The price per square meter has risen from 7.2 euros ($7.5) in 2014 to 13 euros this year, according to the popular online real estate website Idealista. The growth is even more acute in cities like Barcelona and Madrid. Incomes meanwhile have failed to keep up, especially for younger people in a country with chronically high unemployment. Protestor Samuel Saintot said he is “frustrated and scared” after being told by the owners of the apartment he has rented for the past 15 years in Barcelona’s city center that he must vacate the premises. He suspects that the owners want him out so they can renovate it and boost the price. “Even looking in a 20- or 30-kilometer radius outside town, I can’t even find anything within the price range I can afford,” he told The Associated Press. “And I consider myself a very fortunate person, because I earn a decent salary. And even in my case, I may be forced to leave town.” A report by the Bank of Spain indicates that nearly 40% of Spaniards who rent dedicate an average of 40% of their income to paying rents and utilities, compared to the European Union average of 27% of renters who do so. “We are talking about a housing emergency. It means people having many difficulties both in accessing and staying in their homes,” said Ignasi Martí, professor for Esade business school and head of its Dignified Housing Observatory. The rise in rents is causing significant pain in Spain, where traditionally people seek to own their homes. Rental prices have also been driven up by short-term renters including tourists. Many migrants to Spain are also disproportionately hit by the high rents because they often do not have enough savings. Spain is near the bottom end of OECD countries with under 2% of all housing available being public housing for rent. The OECD average is 7%. Spain is far behind France, with 14%, Britain with 16%, and the Netherlands with 34%. Carme Arcarazo, spokesperson for Barcelona’s Tenants Union which helped organize the protest, said that renters should consider a “rent strike” and cease paying their monthly rents in a mass protest movement. “I think we the tenants have understood that this depends on us. That we can’t keep asking and making demands to the authorities and waiting for an answer. We must take the reins of the situation,” Arcarazo told the AP. “So, if they (the owners) won’t lower the rent, then we will force them to do it." The Barcelona protest came a month after tens of thousands rallied against high rents in Madrid. The rising discontent over housing is putting pressure on Spain’s governing Socialist party, which leads a coalition on the national level and is in charge of Catalonia’s regional government and Barcelona’s city hall. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez presided over what the government termed a “housing summit” including government officials and real estate developers last month. But the Barcelona’s Tenants Union boycotted the event, saying it was like calling a summit for curing cancer and inviting tobacco companies to participate. The leading government measure has been a rent cap mechanism that the central government has offered to regional authorities based on a price index established by the housing ministry. Rent controls can be applied to areas deemed to be “highly stressed” by high rental prices. Catalonia was the first region to apply those caps, which are in place in downtown Barcelona. Many locals blame the million of tourists who visit Barcelona, and the rest of Spain, each year for the high prices. Barcelona’s town hall has pledged to completely eliminate the city’s 10,000 so called “tourist apartments,” or dwellings with permits for short-term rents, by 2028.M&S shoppers are 'obsessed' with 'super cute' £125 cowboy boots

Kansas holds off Auburn for No. 1 in AP Top 25 as SEC grabs 3 of top 4 spots; UConn slides to No. 25 Kansas continues to hold the No. 1 ranking in The Associated Press Top 25 men’s college basketball poll. Auburn is pushing the Jayhawks in the latest poll after winning the Maui Invitational and checked in at No. 2. Two-time reigning national champion UConn nearly fell out entirely after an 0-3 week at Maui, falling from No. 2 to 25th. The Southeastern Conference had three of the top four teams with No. 3 Tennessee and No. 4 Kentucky behind the Tigers. The poll featured six new teams, headlined by No. 13 Oregon, No. 16 Memphis and No. 18 Pittsburgh. TCU, Duke climb into top 10, Notre Dame drops in women's AP Top 25; UCLA and UConn remain 1-2 TCU has its best ranking ever in The Associated Press Top 25 women’s basketball poll after a convincing win over Notre Dame. The Horned Frogs jumped eight spots to No. 9, the first time the school has ever been in the top 10. The Fighting Irish, who were third last week, fell seven spots to 10th after losses to TCU and Utah. UCLA remained No. 1, followed by UConn, South Carolina, Texas and LSU. USC, Maryland and Duke are next. Houston's Al-Shaair apologizes for hit on Jacksonville's Lawrence that led to concussion HOUSTON (AP) — Houston’s Azeez Al-Shaair took to X to apologize to Jacksonville’s Trevor Lawrence after his violent blow to the quarterback’s facemask led to him being carted off the field with a concussion. Back in the starting lineup after missing two games with a sprained left shoulder, Lawrence scrambled left on a second-and-7 play in the second quarter of Houston’s 23-20 win on Sunday. He initiated a slide before Al-Shaair raised his forearm and unleashed on the defenseless quarterback. In the long post, Al-Shaair says "To Trevor I genuinely apologize to you for what ended up happening.” Philadelphia ready to go the distance with RockyFest week dedicated to 'Rocky' movies PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Rocky Balboa fans are ready to go the distance to honor Philly’s favorite fictional fighter almost 50 years after the first movie launched the enduring series of an underdog boxer persevering despite the odds. The city Rocky called home at last has a week dedicated to the box office heavyweight champion of the world a year after the inaugural Rocky Day was held at the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps. RockyFest officially kicks off Tuesday and a series of events dedicated to the movies series are set to be held around the city. How to sum up 2024? The Oxford University Press word of the year is 'brain rot' LONDON (AP) — Oxford University Press has named “brain rot” its word of the year. It's defined as “the supposed deterioration of a person’s mental or intellectual state,” especially from consuming too much low-grade online content. Oxford University Press said Monday that the phrase “gained new prominence in 2024,” with its frequency of use increasing 230% from the year before. It was chosen by a combination of public vote and language analysis by Oxford lexicographers. The five other word-of-the-year finalists were demure, slop, dynamic pricing, romantasy and lore. Oxford Languages President Casper Grathwohl said the choice of phrase “feels like a rightful next chapter in the cultural conversation about humanity and technology.” Scientists gather to decode puzzle of the world's rarest whale in 'extraordinary' New Zealand study WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — Scientists and culture experts in New Zealand have begun the first-ever dissection of a spade-toothed whale, the world's rarest whale species. The creature, which washed up dead on a beach on New Zealand's South Island in July, is only the seventh specimen ever found. None has ever been seen alive at sea. Almost nothing is known about it but scientists, working with Māori cultural experts, hope to answer some of the many lingering questions this week, including where they live, what they eat, how they produce sound and how this specimen died. Hong Kong launches panda sculpture tour as the city hopes the bear craze boosts tourism HONG KONG (AP) — Thousands of giant panda sculptures will greet residents and tourists starting on Saturday in Hong Kong, where enthusiasm for the bears has grown since two cubs were born in a local theme park. The 2,500 exhibits will be publicly displayed at the Avenue of Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui, one of Hong Kong’s popular shopping districts, this weekend before setting their footprint at three other locations this month. The displays reflect Hong Kong’s use of pandas to boost its economy as the Chinese financial hub works to regain its position as one of Asia’s top tourism destinations. Violent hit on Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence 'has no business being in our league,' coach says JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence was carted off the field after taking a violent elbow to the facemask from Houston linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair. It prompted two sideline-clearing scuffles. Lawrence clenched both fists after the hit, movements consistent with what’s referred to as the “fencing response,” which can be common after a traumatic brain injury. Lawrence was on the ground for several minutes as teammates came to his defense and mobbed Al-Shaair. Lawrence eventually was helped to his feet and loaded into the front seat of a cart to be taken off the field. He was not transported to a hospital. He was quickly ruled out with a concussion, though. Al-Shaair and Jaguars rookie cornerback Jarrian Jones were ejected after the first altercation. Big Ten fines Michigan and Ohio State $100,000 each for postgame melee ROSEMONT, Ill. (AP) — The Big Ten Conference has announced it fined Michigan and Ohio State $100,000 each for violating the conference’s sportsmanship policy for the on-field melee at the end of the Wolverines’ win in Columbus .A fight broke out at midfield Saturday after the Wolverines’ 13-10 victory when Michigan players attempted to plant their flag on the OSU logo and were confronted by the Buckeyes. Police used pepper spray to break up the players, who threw punches and shoves. One officer suffered a head injury when he was “knocked down and trampled while trying to separate players fighting." The officer was taken to a hospital and has since been released. Marshall Brickman, who co-wrote 'Annie Hall' with Woody Allen, dies at 85 NEW YORK (AP) — The Oscar-winning screenwriter Marshall Brickman, whose wide-ranging career spanned some of Woody Allen’s best films, the Broadway musical “Jersey Boys” and a number of Johnny Carson’s most beloved sketches, has died. He was 85. Brickman died Friday in Manhattan, his daughter Sophie Brickman told The New York Times. No cause of death was cited. Brickman was best known for his extensive collaboration with Allen, beginning with the 1973 film “Sleeper.” Together, they co-wrote “Annie Hall," “Manhattan” and “Manhattan Murder Mystery." The loosely structured script for “Annie Hall,” in particular, has been hailed as one of the wittiest comedies. It won Brickman and Allen an Oscar for best original screenplay.FLEOA Urges Senate to Move Quickly to Take Up and Pass H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness ActDOHA, Qatar , Dec. 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On December 25, 2024 , the First JETOUR Fan's Festival and the Launch of T2 i-DM was held in Qatar , themed "Think Future". During the event, JETOUR launched its user brand "Traveler" in the Middle East and its first hybrid model, JETOUR T2 i-DM. The launch event highlights JETOUR's commitment to exploring sustainable travel modes and ambition to become the "The World's Leading Brand in Hybrid Off-road Vehicles" under the "Travel+" strategy. JETOUR T2 i-DM not only inherits the strengths of T2 series, but also achieves high energy efficiency, high performance, high safety, and high intelligence with its advanced hybrid technology, i-DM. With a maximum combined power of 280kW and torque of 610N•m, T2 i-DM boasts a NEDC pure electric range of 139km and an overall range exceeding 1,000km at just 0.8L/100km, addressing range anxiety and promoting green travel. Mr. Dai Lihong, executive vice president of JETOUR Auto, emphasized technology's role in producing world-class products. The launch also introduced "Traveler", enriching user experience through diverse products and superior performance. This year, JETOUR has ranked third in sales across the Qatari auto market. The Fan's Festival invited user representatives from across the Middle East to witness the unveiling of "Traveler", experiencing "Travel+" culture through city tours and co-creation workshops. JETOUR prioritizes users, listening to their needs and co-creating products, brand, and lifestyle. Through "Traveler," JETOUR aims to provide richer travel experiences and benefits globally, leveraging the platform to spread the "Travel+" culture worldwide. Mr. Alex Tan , Vice President of JETOUR International, said, "Serving 'JETOUR users' and being 'a user-oriented JETOUR' are JETOUR's development philosophy. JETOUR will continue to build a travel community centered around users, cars, and lifestyles, sharing the joy of traveling together with users." JETOUR also partnered with Diamond League to promote athletics in Qatar and the Middle East , embodying JETOUR Speed and the brand's image of breakthroughs and innovations. With T2 selling over 150,000 units globally, T2 i-DM will continue its success to meet customers' needs and reshape the hybrid SUV market. The launch of T2 i-DM marks JETOUR's new journey towards "the World's Leading Brand in Hybrid Off-road Vehicles." JETOUR plans to introduce more hybrid and off-road models, providing customers with eco-friendly and diversified travel choices. With its innovative spirit and user-oriented philosophy, JETOUR will lead the global automotive industry towards a more sustainable and smarter future. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-launch-of-jetour-t2-i-dm-reshaping-the-hybrid-suv-market-302339886.html SOURCE JETOUR AUTO

WSDOT provides update on pilot project using drones to fight graffiti

Iqra University students explore advanced policing technology at Safe City IslamabadDETROIT — Fifty years later, a man who grew up in suburban Detroit tried to return a very overdue baseball book to his boyhood library. The answer: You can keep it — and no fine. Chuck Hildebrandt, 63, of Chicago said he visited the public library in Warren while in town for Thanksgiving, carrying a book titled "Baseball's Zaniest Stars." He borrowed it in 1974 as a 13-year-old "baseball nut" but never returned it. Chuck Hildebrandt of Chicago holds the book "Baseball's Zaniest Stars," which was due Dec. 4, 1974, at the Warren, Mich., library, on Dec. 10. "When you're moving with a bunch of books, you're not examining every book. You throw them in a box and go," said Hildebrandt, who lived in many cities. "But five or six years ago, I was going through the bookshelf and there was a Dewey decimal library number on the book. 'What is this?'" Inside the book was a slip of paper indicating it was due back at the Warren library on Dec. 4, 1974. Hildebrandt told The Associated Press he decided to keep the book until 2024 — the 50th anniversary — and then try to return it. He figured the library might want to publicize the long overdue exchange. Chuck Hildebrandt of Chicago shows the library slip in the overdue book "Baseball's Zaniest Stars" on Dec. 10. He said he recently met library director Oksana Urban, who listened to his pitch. Hildebrandt said he hasn't heard anything since then, though Urban told the Detroit Free Press that all is forgiven. "Some people never come back to face the music," she said of patrons with overdue books. "But there was really no music to face because he and the book were erased from our system." So "Baseball's Zaniest Stars" is back on Hildebrandt's shelf. In return, he's now trying to raise $4,564 for Reading is Fundamental , a nonprofit literacy group. The amount roughly represents a 50-year overdue library fine. Hildebrandt seeded the effort with $457. The Major League Baseball draft is unique among professional sports drafts. The 30 organizations pick teenagers and college students who will not join their big league clubs for years—if ever. These athletes will spend that time honing their craft in the minor leagues, where long bus rides and minuscule paychecks are the norm. A few will move quickly up the ranks, seizing playing time opportunities to advance their careers and making their names known to scouts, fans, and other observers around the country. Some of the best will become MLB stars, but there's minimal correlation to draft position. Four of the players on this list were picked after hundreds of other diamond darlings, and only two were #1 overall selections. There's also more than a handful who didn't do much for the teams that drafted them, including superstars such as Nolan Ryan, Ozzie Smith, and Randy Johnson. Each of these players was traded before they evolved into Hall of Famers. Still, calling the draft a "crapshoot" might be going too far. College players are " slightly more likely " than high schoolers to reach the revered stadiums of the majors, and third-rounders have a better chance than fifth-rounders, for example, though the margins are slim, as Vice reported. Teams not only make picks based on years-in-advance projections but also whether they can sign players, a step that must be completed before those youngsters begin playing professionally. To see how clubs have fared since the inaugural draft in 1965, ATS.io compiled a list of the best draft pick by each franchise using data from Baseball Reference . The players were ranked using career wins above replacement , so not one recent choice was named. The amazing Mike Trout, a 32-year-old selected in 2009, is the youngest player. Unsigned picks were not considered, and players who were traded as picks were credited to their acquiring teams. Data is as of June 5, 2024. - Draft: 11th overall pick in 2006 - Position: Pitcher - Games played: 457 - Career stats: 214 wins, 3.15 earned run average, 1.08 walks plus hits per inning - College/HS: University of Missouri (Columbia, Mo.) - Wins above replacement: 75.0 - Draft: 1st overall pick in 1990 - Position: Shortstop - Games played: 2,499 - Career stats: 468 home runs, .303 batting average, .930 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: The Bolles School (Jacksonville, Fla.) - Wins above replacement: 85.3 - Draft: 48th overall pick in 1978 - Position: Third baseman - Games played: 3,001 - Career stats: 431 home runs, .276 batting average, .788 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Aberdeen HS (Aberdeen, Md.) - Wins above replacement: 95.9 - Draft: 19th overall pick in 1983 - Position: Pitcher - Games played: 709 - Career stats: 354 wins, 3.12 earned run average, 1.17 walks plus hits per inning - College/HS: University of Texas at Austin (Austin, Texas) - Wins above replacement: 139.2 - Draft: 31st overall pick in 1984 - Position: Pitcher - Games played: 744 - Career stats: 355 wins, 3.16 earned run average, 1.14 walks plus hits per inning - College/HS: Valley HS (Las Vegas, Nev.) - Wins above replacement: 106.6 - Draft: 7th overall pick in 1989 - Position: First baseman - Games played: 2,322 - Career stats: 521 home runs, .301 batting average, .974 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Auburn University (Auburn, Ala.) - Wins above replacement: 73.8 - Draft: 36th overall pick in 1965 - Position: Catcher - Games played: 2,158 - Career stats: 389 home runs, .267 batting average, .817 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Binger HS (Binger, Okla.) - Wins above replacement: 75.1 - Draft: 333rd overall pick in 1989 - Position: Shortstop - Games played: 2,543 - Career stats: 612 home runs, .276 batting average, .956 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Illinois Central College (East Peoria, Ill.) - Wins above replacement: 73.1 - Draft: 8th overall pick in 1995 - Position: First baseman - Games played: 2,247 - Career stats: 369 home runs, .316 batting average, .953 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: University of Tennessee (Knoxville, Tenn.) - Wins above replacement: 61.8 - Draft: 2nd overall pick in 2004 - Position: Pitcher - Games played: 518 - Career stats: 260 wins, 3.25 earned run average, 1.12 walks plus hits per inning - College/HS: Old Dominion University (Norfolk, Va.) - Wins above replacement: 81.7 - Draft: 428th overall pick in 1988 - Position: Outfielder - Games played: 2,103 - Career stats: 130 home runs, .299 batting average, .794 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: University of Arizona (Tucson, Ariz.) - Wins above replacement: 68.4 - Draft: 29th overall pick in 1971 - Position: Shortstop - Games played: 2,707 - Career stats: 317 home runs, .305 batting average, .857 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: El Segundo HS (El Segundo, Calif.) - Wins above replacement: 88.6 - Draft: 25th overall pick in 2009 - Position: Centerfielder - Games played: 1,518 - Career stats: 378 home runs, .299 batting average, .991 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Millville Senior HS (Millville, N.J.) - Wins above replacement: 86.1 - Draft: 7th overall pick in 2006 - Position: Pitcher - Games played: 425 - Career stats: 210 wins, 2.48 earned run average, 1.00 walks plus hits per inning - College/HS: Highland Park HS (Dallas, Texas) - Wins above replacement: 79.7 - Draft: 76th overall pick in 2007 - Position: First baseman - Games played: 1,589 - Career stats: 417 home runs, .258 batting average, .874 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Notre Dame HS (Sherman Oaks, Calif.) - Wins above replacement: 44.3 - Draft: 3rd overall pick in 1973 - Position: Shortstop - Games played: 2,856 - Career stats: 251 home runs, .285 batting average, .772 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: William Howard Taft Charter HS (Woodland Hills, Calif.) - Wins above replacement: 77.4 - Draft: 55th overall pick in 1969 - Position: Pitcher - Games played: 692 - Career stats: 287 wins, 3.31 earned run average, 1.20 walks plus hits per inning - College/HS: Santiago HS (Garden Grove, Calif.) - Wins above replacement: 94.5 - Draft: 295th overall pick in 1965 - Position: Pitcher - Games played: 807 - Career stats: 324 wins, 3.19 earned run average, 1.25 walks plus hits per inning - College/HS: Alvin HS (Alvin, Texas) - Wins above replacement: 81.3 - Draft: 6th overall pick in 1992 - Position: Shortstop - Games played: 2,747 - Career stats: 260 home runs, .310 batting average, .817 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Central HS (Kalamazoo, Mich.) - Wins above replacement: 71.3 - Draft: 30th overall pick in 1971 - Position: Shortstop - Games played: 2,404 - Career stats: 548 home runs, .268 batting average, .908 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Ohio University (Athens, Ohio) - Wins above replacement: 106.9 - Draft: 6th overall pick in 1985 - Position: Outfielder - Games played: 2,986 - Career stats: 762 home runs, .298 batting average, 1.051 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Arizona State University (Tempe, Ariz.) - Wins above replacement: 162.8 - Draft: 86th overall pick in 1977 - Position: Shortstop - Games played: 2,573 - Career stats: 28 home runs, .262 batting average, .666 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (San Luis Obispo, Calif.) - Wins above replacement: 76.9 - Draft: 2nd overall pick in 1985 - Position: First baseman - Games played: 1,976 - Career stats: 284 home runs, .303 batting average, .880 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Mississippi State University (Mississippi State, Miss.) - Wins above replacement: 56.5 - Draft: 1st overall pick in 1993 - Position: Shortstop - Games played: 2,784 - Career stats: 696 home runs, .295 batting average, .930 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Westminster Christian School (Miami, Fla.) - Wins above replacement: 117.6 - Draft: 402nd overall pick in 1999 - Position: Third baseman - Games played: 3,080 - Career stats: 703 home runs, .296 batting average, .918 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Metropolitan Community College-Maple Woods (Kansas City, Mo.) - Wins above replacement: 101.4 - Draft: 3rd overall pick in 2006 - Position: Third baseman - Games played: 1,986 - Career stats: 342 home runs, .264 batting average, .804 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: California State University, Long Beach (Long Beach, Calif.) - Wins above replacement: 58.6 - Draft: 4th overall pick in 1986 - Position: Pitcher - Games played: 486 - Career stats: 211 wins, 3.28 earned run average, 1.22 walks plus hits per inning - College/HS: Georgia Institute of Technology (Atlanta, Ga.) - Wins above replacement: 67.8 - Draft: 17th overall pick in 1995 - Position: Pitcher - Games played: 416 - Career stats: 203 wins, 3.38 earned run average, 1.18 walks plus hits per inning - College/HS: Arvada West HS (Arvada, Colo.) - Wins above replacement: 64.2 - Draft: 36th overall pick in 1985 - Position: Pitcher - Games played: 618 - Career stats: 303 wins, 3.29 earned run average, 1.17 walks plus hits per inning - College/HS: University of Southern California (Los Angeles, Calif.) - Wins above replacement: 101.1 Data reporting by Karim Noorani. Story editing by Carren Jao. Additional editing by Kelly Glass. Copy editing by Robert Wickwire. Photo selection by Clarese Moller. This story originally appeared on ATS.io and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio. - Draft: 96th overall pick in 1976 - Position: Outfielder - Games played: 3,081 - Career stats: 297 home runs, .279 batting average, .820 on-base plus slugging - College/HS: Oakland Technical HS (Oakland, Calif.) - Wins above replacement: 111.1 Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly!Detroit-area library says Chicago man can keep overdue baseball book — 50 years later

New York NY, Dec. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Power Strip As a global technology leader in power management solutions, TESSAN has just unveiled their new product, TESSAN Tower Power Strip , engineered to respond to modern dwelling and work environments' changing power demands. With a small-in-size and multipurpose design as well as several strong safety functions, this upcoming product satisfies the increasing amount of demand for easy power distribution in a technology-enhanced world. The floor-plan, space-efficient design provides a solution to the flat power strips in a practical way to suit the homes, offices, kitchens and common areas. Engineered for Modern Power Needs The TESSAN Tower Power Strip differentiates itself with a 14-in-1 design containing 11 AC outlets, 3 USB ports and 1 USB-C out port, which allows for simultaneous powering of multiple electronic devices. Laptop and game computer, smart appliance, mobile, and all purposes, TESSAN Tower Power Strip is designed to be used for a broad spectrum of applications. Key features include This innovative power strip combines functionality and convenience to meet modern needs. Its Wide-Spaced Outlets allow large plugs or adapters to fit comfortably without blocking other outlets, ensuring hassle-free device connections. The inclusion of a USB-C Port enables rapid charging for the latest devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops, making it an essential accessory for tech enthusiasts. With a Compact Vertical Design, it reduces clutter and fits neatly on desks, countertops, or in tight spaces, offering a clean and organized setup for home or office use. Wide-Spaced Outlets: Accommodates large plugs without obstructing neighboring outlets. USB-C Port: Provides fast charging for modern devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Compact Vertical Design: Saves space and minimizes clutter, ideal for desks and confined areas. Enhanced Safety Measures To the growing use of electronic devices, the TESSAN Tower Power Strip is designed for safety and the following:. Surge Protection: Shields connected devices from power surges and voltage spikes. Overload Protection: The automatic shutdown switch provides against overheating and thereby safety risks. Durable Flat Plug: Offers versatility and space-saving benefits without compromising safety. These capabilities guarantee a reliable power option for homes, field workers and tech aficionados. Versatile Applications The TESSAN Tower Power Strip is built to address a range of requirements, and therefore is a useful extension to a variety of contexts:. Home Offices: Supports multiple devices for remote work setups. Living Rooms: Powers gaming consoles, smart TVs, and chargers and decrease clutter. Kitchens and Workshops: Provides appliances and tools with energy in a neat and organized way respectively. Travel and Shared Spaces: Compact and portable, ideal for dorms, RVs, and hotels. Commitment to Innovation That this launch reflects the commitment of the company to provide products that meet contemporary lifestyles whilst maintaining product safety and user experience is emphasized. The emphasis on quality and innovation has made the company a respected role model of the power solutions market. About TESSAN TESSAN is a global authority over power management solutions providing novel products that combine state-of-the-art technology with user-friendly designs. Committed to safety, sustainability, and quality, TESSAN continues to redefine power connectivity for today’s consumers. For more information, visit https: /tessan.com or follow TESSAN on social media to stay updated with new products and innovation. Media Contact Contact Person: Annie Dong Website; https://tessan.com/ Email; sales@tessan.com Phone; +1-833-362-9899 New York, United StateFianna Fail and Fine Gael eye independent TDs as option to secure Dail majority

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Milma milk powder factory opened at Moorkanad in Malappuram

DENVER — As part of a national “moonshot” to cure blindness, researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus will receive as much as $46 million in federal funding over the next five years to pursue a first-of-its-kind full eye transplantation. “What was once a dream — to cure blindness — is potentially within our grasp,” the campus’ chancellor, Don Elliman, said during a press conference Monday morning. The University of Colorado team, led by researcher Dr. Kia Washington, was one of four in the United States that received funding awards from the federal Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health , or ARPA-H. The CU-based group will focus on achieving the first-ever vision-restoring eye transplant by using “novel stem cell and bioelectronic technologies,” according to a news release announcing the funding. Researchers have already successfully completed the transplant procedure — albeit without vision restoration — in rats. Now they’re set to proceed to larger animals, Washington said. A team at New York University performed a full eye transplant on a human patient in November 2023, though the procedure — while successful — did not restore the patient’s vision. Washington said developing a small-animal model, even without vision restoration, was a key milestone in advancing the project. The goal is to fully restore the optic nerve — which carries visual information from the eye to the brain — and to fully connect a patient’s brain with a donor’s eye. The CU team will work on large animals next to advance “optic nerve regenerative strategies,” the school said, as well as to study immunosuppression, which is critical to ensuring that patients’ immune systems don’t reject a donated organ. The goal is to eventually advance to human trials. ARPH-A, created two years ago, will oversee the teams’ work in the coming years. Researchers at 52 institutions nationwide will contribute to the teams. The CU-led group will include researchers from the University of Southern California, the University of Wisconsin, Indiana University and Johns Hopkins University, as well as from the National Eye Institute . The total funding available for the teams is $125 million, ARPA-H officials said Monday. The money is provided in a contract, not a grant, and ARPA-H officials likened it to a venture capital approach: The four teams will compete alongside each other, and projects showing success or promise will receive full funding over the next five years. The teams may also be combined or lean on each other, depending on their results, Washington said in an interview. The project is ambitious, officials said. But its success could unlock deeper medical advancements. “If you can do this, just think about what you could do for traumatic brain injury, for spinal cord injury,” said ARPA-H’s Dr. Calvin Roberts, an ophthalmologist who will oversee the broader project. “And so those of us who work in the eye, what we love about working in the eye is that it’s just a model for things that are going around elsewhere in the body.” The other teams’ research will include “3-D printed click-lock gel technology with micro-tunneled scaffolds containing stem cell-derived retinal cells,” donor eye procurement and the actual performing of transplant surgeries, according to ARPA-H. The effort to cure blindness, Washington joked, was “biblical” in its enormity — a reference to the Bible story in which Jesus cures a blind man. She and others also likened it to a moonshot, meaning the effort to successfully put Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon nearly 50 years ago. If curing blindness is similar to landing on the moon, then the space shuttle has already left the launchpad, Washington said. “We have launched,” she said, “and we are on our trajectory.” ©2024 MediaNews Group, Inc. Visit at denverpost.com . Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) holiest city Makkah witnessed heavy rainfall over the past few days, prompting local authorities to activate emergency protocols to safeguard people. The unexpected rainfall created a captivating scene as Umrah pilgrims continued their prayers. A video shared on social media platforms shows pilgrims braving the rain during their tawaf (circumambulation) ritual around the holy Kaaba. Some pilgrims were seen raising their hands to the sky in devotion and seeking forgiveness amid heavy rainfall. Due to the weather conditions, civil defence teams were dispatched to strategic locations in the pre-action mode of civil defence to handle emergencies. Moderate to heavy rains caused significant flooding in some regions, prompting municipal teams to use machinery and field pumps to drain water and restore normal conditions. Additionally, traffic and safety patrols were increased throughout Makkah city. في لحظات إيمانية.. ضيوف الرحمن يتوسلون بالدعاء لحظة هطول الأمطار. – pic.twitter.com/VOGQeCDZKG لقطات مهيبة.. الكعبة المشرفة تتزيّن اليوم بمياه الأمطار. – pic.twitter.com/q1JpSHMkto «اللهم صَيِّبًا نَافِعًا».. pic.twitter.com/nqB2Abi7Pd

Nixon’s official acts against his enemies list led to a bipartisan impeachment effort | OpinionA man tragically died after collapsing on a night out in Louth. Emergency services were at the scene of the bar where he collapsed within seven minutes on Saturday evening, according to the owner. Lincolnshire Police confirmed the man sadly died in hospital. The tragedy happened in The King's Head, in Mercer Row. A spokesperson for Lincolnshire Police said: "We can confirm that a man in his twenties was taken ill at The King’s Head on Mercer Row in Louth during the evening of Saturday 21 December, and he sadly died in hospital. "The file has been passed to the coroner. There are believed to be no suspicious circumstances." The owner of the King's Head, Sharon Davies, said: "It is shocking for everyone. It is so horrific and sad. It is his family and friends that we are thinking of the most." Sharon, who has owned the hotel and bar for 21 years, said: "In all my time, I have never experienced anything like that. We closed straight away." She was in charge on Saturday evening. "As soon as staff were made aware, they did CPR. We called 999 and his friends were calling the ambulance too. Someone went to get the defibrillator from outside the Market Hall in New Street and the paramedics were here within seven minutes, which was amazing," she said. The owner told how staff had greeted the group of friends earlier in the evening and all were polite and friendly and sat together near the bar. She told how staff ushered members of the public out of a separate door after the man collapsed, while emergency services rushed in through the front door. Ambulances were parked on Mercer Row. East Midlands Ambulance First Responders arrived and, moments later, two double-crewed ambulances arrived. Sharon said: "They were all brilliant. They were here within seven to eight minutes and they tried to revive him for about three-quarters of an hour. My son Chris helped everyone to leave. We were full with guests having meals. "It was a busy night before Christmas. I made sure all the staff were okay and spoke to the parents of some of them when they came to collect them. Some have had time off. "It is so, so sad. I feel devastated for his family. I have kids as well. You never expect when they go out for a night out that you won't see them again. It is horrific and sad." Sharon added: "I am so proud of my staff. But we wish it had never happened." Keep up to date with all the latest breaking news and top stories from Grimsby with our free newsletterWednesday, December 25, 2024 As the festive season approaches, cities around the globe deck their streets with shimmering lights and elaborate decorations, transforming into enchanting winter wonderlands that capture the spirit of Christmas. From the iconic skyscrapers of New York City to the historic avenues of London, the cozy pubs of Dublin, the snow-capped vistas of Zurich, and the vibrant illuminations of Tokyo, each city offers its own unique blend of holiday cheer. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of magical Christmas markets, spectacular light displays, or traditional cultural festivities, these top holiday destinations provide the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable memories. Join us as we explore the magic of Christmas in New York City, London, Dublin, Zurich, and Tokyo, each promising a distinct and delightful holiday experience. Top Five Holiday Destinations for an Unforgettable Christmas Experience New York City, USA Dubbed the Big Apple, New York City is a global epicenter of culture, art, and architecture. This city is renowned for its stunning skyline, iconic Broadway shows, and landmark attractions. During the Christmas season, New York transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland, creating a magical backdrop for festive celebrations. Highlights of a New York Christmas: The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a cherished emblem of the holiday season, captures the hearts of both tourists and New Yorkers. This towering evergreen comes alive each winter with thousands of twinkling lights. The annual lighting event kicks off on Wednesday, December 4, with the tree lit from 5am to midnight daily. Special extended hours are planned for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, ensuring the tree dazzles from dawn until 9pm. The spectacle concludes in mid-January when the tree is dimmed until the next holiday season. The tree features an impressive display of over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and is crowned with a striking 900-pound star composed of Swarovski crystals, shimmering with millions of facets. Returning this winter, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Lightscape offers a stunning visual journey from November 22 through January 5, 2025. This event showcases a dazzling trail decorated by artworks from both local and international artists, featuring landmarks like the Winter Cathedral and an elaborate Fire Garden. The path is illuminated by over a million lights, creating a magical atmosphere enhanced by synchronized music. Visitors can enjoy a variety of seasonal treats and beverages along the trail, enhancing the festive experience. Ticket prices vary from $24 to $45 for adults and $12 to $23 for children, based on the selected date. Hosted inside Grand Central Terminal, the New York Transit Museum presents its 20th annual Holiday Train Show. This enchanting display allows visitors to tower over a 34-foot-long miniature New York City, complete with landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire State Building. Lionel model trains navigate from a diminutive Grand Central across a mini East River towards the North Pole. This delightful exhibit is available through February 2025 and is free to the public. Operating hours are Monday through Friday from 10am to 7:30pm, and weekends from 10am to 6pm, excluding major holidays. Located in the shuttle passage at 42nd Street and Park Avenue, next to the Station Master’s Office, it’s a captivating experience for all ages. London, England London is a city where history and modernity converge, offering visitors a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. During Christmas, London lights up with festive cheer, making it a top destination for holiday travelers. Reasons to Visit London at Christmas: As the festive season takes hold, London transforms into a wonderland of Christmas markets, each offering a unique experience. Delight in the quaint charm of Covent Garden Christmas Markets, where daily gatherings showcase an array of handmade crafts and one-of-a-kind gifts. The Winter Festival at Southbank Centre bursts with culinary delights and cultural activities, making it a hit for families. Near the iconic Tower Bridge, Christmas by the River at London Bridge City entices with festive wooden cabins, while Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland captivates the young with its fairground attractions. Ice skating is a quintessential winter pastime in London, with several picturesque rinks dotting the city. Somerset House not only offers skating against a grand historical backdrop but also boasts a terrace with stunning views of the Thames. The Canary Wharf rink dazzles amidst its modern skyline, and the royal Hampton Court Palace provides a regal skating experience in Richmond upon Thames. Each location is equipped with support for novices and cozy spots for onlookers to enjoy a drink. The holiday lights in London are a spectacle not to be missed. The botanical splendor of Kew Gardens dazzles with an expanding light trail that delights both locals and visitors. Meanwhile, Oxford Street is adorned with spectacular illuminations, though it’s advisable to brace for the crowds during this bustling season. With the pound at its lowest in three decades, now is an opportune time for international visitors to indulge in London’s retail offerings, particularly during the post-Christmas sales. For the Little Ones: Explore the magical world of Hamleys, the renowned toy store where live demonstrations keep the atmosphere lively. For a touch of nostalgia, Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop offers classic playthings, while the LEGO® Toy Shop in Leicester Square features one of the largest selections of LEGO® in the world. For the Adults: Oxford Street promises its usual vibrancy, perfect for those ready to brave the crowds. Alternatively, the Burlington Arcade provides a refined shopping experience with its upscale boutiques. For a more eclectic mix, visit Duke of York Square or explore the boutique-laden lanes of Seven Dials near Covent Garden. Each of these experiences encapsulates the spirit of a London Christmas, offering joyous activities and beautiful settings that are sure to create lasting memories. Dublin, Ireland The capital of Ireland, Dublin is celebrated for its historical landmarks and lively cultural scene. During the Christmas period, the city offers a unique blend of traditional Irish hospitality and festive activities. Dublin’s Christmas Attractions: This season, Dublin shines as a beacon of festive joy, with each event and locale offering its own slice of holiday magic, inviting everyone to partake in the cherished traditions and joyful celebrations. Zurich, Switzerland Zurich is the heart of Switzerland’s economic and cultural activities, renowned for its well-preserved medieval old town and vibrant cultural scene. During Christmas, Zurich offers a picturesque setting with its snow-capped landscapes and festive markets. Zurich’s Christmas Highlights: Niederdorf’s Market Dörfli Wander through the quaint streets of the Niederdorf quarter in Zurich’s old city center, where numerous market stands create a picturesque scene. The charm of this area makes it a delightful experience, even for those who stroll without the intention to purchase. The Singing Christmas Tree A standout feature of Zurich’s Christmas celebrations is the Singing Christmas Tree. This unique tree-shaped stage hosts local carolers who perform daily, offering a heartwarming display of holiday spirit and musical talent. It’s an enchanting spot for visitors to gather and enjoy traditional carols. Wienachtsdorf Village Nestled near the Zurich Opera House on Sechseläutenplatz, the Wienachtsdorf Village offers a cozy winter wonderland. The square dazzles with festive decorations, including a sprawling food court under the glow of a 15-meter Christmas tree, surrounded by mini bonfires that provide warmth and ambiance. The food court serves an array of dishes, from Swiss specialties to international cuisine, catering to all tastes. Time to Dance at ILLUMINARIUM For those eager to dance the night away, the courtyard of the Swiss National Museum is transformed into the ILLUMINARIUM. This festive venue features an indoor dance area with live DJs and food stands, creating a relaxed environment perfect for enjoying a drink and socializing. The entire courtyard is illuminated spectacularly, enhancing the atmosphere with a digital art show that is synchronized to music, making it a visual and auditory feast. Tokyo, Japan Tokyo blends traditional Japanese customs with modern innovation, offering a unique holiday experience. The city is known for its dazzling illuminations and vibrant holiday markets, making it a fascinating destination for Christmas. Why Visit Tokyo for Christmas: Tokyo’s Dazzling December Lights Across Tokyo, the city comes alive with light installations at shopping centers, landmarks, and festive celebrations. Marunouchi’s main avenue is transformed with trees shimmering in champagne gold lights, creating a stunning visual experience. At Ebisu Garden Place, marvel at one of the largest Baccarat chandeliers in the world, which dazzles with 250 sparkling lights. Festive Shopping and Celebrations in Tokyo For those in search of the perfect holiday gift, Tokyo’s Christmas markets are a treasure trove. These markets are not just about shopping—they’re cultural hubs where you can savor mulled wine and enjoy live music and performances. This season, the “Tokyo Christmas Market” at Jingu Gaien is a must-visit, boasting a 14-meter tall Christmas Pyramid from Germany, set against a backdrop of majestic ginkgo trees. Tokyo’s Winter Ice Rinks Tokyo’s winter transforms several of its venues into ice skating rinks, providing a perfect blend of sport and seasonal fun. These rinks offer a delightful escape for families and friends to glide across the ice, perhaps after a day of shopping or enjoying the city’s light displays. Oji Fox Parade: A Unique New Year Tradition Inspired by an ukiyo-e print by the renowned artist Utagawa Hiroshige, the Oji Fox Parade is a captivating cultural event. According to legend, on New Year’s Eve, foxes would disguise themselves and parade towards the Oji Inari Shrine. Today, locals honor this myth by donning fox costumes, lighting kitsunebi (mystical fox fires) lanterns, and parading from Shozoku Inari Shrine to Oji Inari Shrine, accompanied by traditional music. This enchanting procession is a highlight of Tokyo’s New Year celebrations, blending folklore with festive cheer. Each of these cities offers its own unique version of Christmas magic, making them perfect destinations for those looking to immerse themselves in holiday festivities around the globe. Whether you’re looking for historic charm, festive markets, or dazzling winter lights, these cities promise a memorable holiday season.

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All the 2025 showbiz dates you need to know from Sabrina Carpenter’s tour to Brit Awards and GlastonburyYaron Yakobi and Tzahi Hagag will become parties at interest in the company led by Ehud Barak and Alexander Rabinovich. , Medical cannabis company InterCure (TASE: INCR; Nasdaq: INCR), headed by Ehud Barak (chairperson) and Alexander Rabinovich (CEO), has announced that it has raised NIS 66 million, with an option to increase the amount to NIS 107 million for the rehabilitation of its facility at Kibbutz Nir Oz in the Gaza Strip border area. The investment is at a price close to the market price of the shares, giving InterCure a market cap of NIS 235 million. The capital is being raised from existing shareholders, Rabinovich among them, and from two new investors who will become parties at interest in the company: technology investor Yaron Yakobi, and real estate developer Tzahi Hagag. Each will hold more than 5% of InterCure when the round is complete. InterCure has also announced that it has obtained a NIS 30 million line of credit from an Israeli bank, the name of which was not disclosed. "This investment marks a pivotal moment for InterCure, delivering the momentum needed to reignite our growth and drive us forward," Rabinovich said. "Following a challenging period with our Southern Facility in Kibbutz Nir Oz, this funding, represents a huge vote of confidence from investors who believe in the company's growth strategy, alongside one of the leading banks in Israel. We believe this investment will enable us to strengthen our position in Israel and drive our expansion into key international markets, with a focus on Europe and Germany particularly. "We remain hopeful for a swift end to the ongoing war and the return of all hostages, including our employees and our close friends from the kibbutzim surrounding the Gaza strip, to their homes and we are confident in our ability to contribute significantly to the post-war recovery efforts of such area." InterCure, which until late 2023 was a growing and profitable company, suffered damage to its NIS 200 million production facility at Nir Oz on October 7. The facility produced half of the cannabis strains that the company sells in Israel, its main market. Under Israeli law, the company's Southern Facility, located in an area impacted by the terrorist attack and the war in Gaza, is entitled to full compensation for all direct and indirect damage from the Hamas attack, including loss of profits. "To date, the Company has received advance payments totaling tens of millions of NIS from Israeli authorities as part of this compensation. These advances, which represent only a small portion of the Company's total damages, have supported the initial phases of the ongoing restoration efforts. However, given the prolongation of the war and the fact that the last significant advance was received from the Israeli authorities only in April 2024, the current funding, will enable the Company to successfully advance its recovery and restoration efforts without further delays. RELATED ARTICLES How virtuous is Paragon on privacy? "We expect that this funding will position the Company to return to the growth and profitability rates it achieved prior to the war, during the year 2025. The Company anticipates receiving additional substantial payments from the Israeli authorities, to which the Company is entitled to, and is working closely with its professional advisors and the authorities to receive these payments," InterCure’s announcement said. In the first half of 2024, InterCure had revenue of NIS 125 million, 40% less than in the corresponding period of 2023. It posted a net profit of NIS 1.4 million for the period, which compares with NIS 5.1 million for the corresponding period. Because of the damage to the Southern Facility, it posted a loss of NIS 62 million for 2023 as a whole. Published by Globes, Israel business news - en.globes.co.il - on December 22, 2024. © Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd., 2024.