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NoneKhamenei In Touch With Rebels? Iran's Unusual Message To Israel & Jolani On SyriaThe smallest rise since 2021 will take effect in January 2025, when Social Security beneficiaries receive a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). According to financial analyst Suze Orman, who recently offered her thoughts on the shift, this slight adjustment is indicative of a favorable economic trend as inflation slows down. Even though the boost might not seem like much, Orman emphasized its significance and the special role Social Security plays for seniors. Although a lower inflation adjustment may seem discouraging because everyone wants more money to pay for living expenses, Orman explained that it is excellent news because it shows that we are no longer dealing with rapidly rising fundamental prices . The 2023 adjustment, on the other hand, was a significant 8.7% to reflect the high rate of inflation in 2022. Here are some additional Social Security-related facts for 2025. Everything will change again in Social Security as of January Orman emphasized how Social Security’s yearly COLA, which automatically modifies benefits to reflect inflation, has special relevance. In contrast to 401(k) and IRA plans, Social Security is intended to assist recipients in preserving their purchasing power when living expenses fluctuate. He also highlighted that there are no assurances associated with your 401(k) and IRA assets, much less an inflation adjustment built in. If future beneficiaries wait to receive benefits, they won’t have to worry about losing out on the COLA. Particularly for p eople who wait until they reach their full retirement age (FRA) or even age 70 , delaying the filing of a Social Security claim can result in higher monthly benefits. Orman clarified that if you wait until your full retirement age (66 or 67, depending on your year of birth) or until age 70, you will be eligible for a significantly higher benefit. He also mentioned that annual COLA adjustments will be applied even if you haven’t started collecting benefits yet. You no longer have an excuse to claim an early (reduced) Social Security benefit. Additionally, the earnings limit is applied by Social Security for recipients who are still employed and have not yet attained full retirement age. Benefits for beneficiaries below their FRA will be temporarily decreased by $1 for every $2 earned over $23,400 in 2025. The upper ceiling rises to $62,160 for individuals who attain FRA in 2025. Orman explained that any benefits that are withheld as a result of this earnings test are just transitory. How much will the Social Security earnings limit increase next year for beneficiaries? The Social Security wage base , or the maximum amount of money that is subject to Social Security tax, will increase to $176,100 in 2025. This means that only income up to that amount is liable to Social Security taxes. Over this amount, income will continue to be free from payroll taxes. Finally, Orman suggested that beneficiaries and future retirees need to be aware of these changes when they are planning to retire. While the 2.5% COLA may not seem like much, it underscores how the SSA is a reliable source of inflation-adjusted income and therefore a critical tool for retirement security. Besides the Social Security earnings limit, monthly checks will also increase by 2.5% due to the cost of living adjustment (COLA) announced last month. Considering this 2.5% annual increase, monthly benefits will increase for retired workers, survivors, disabled people, and recipients of the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) , as here detailed:
Ex-AAP convener Anjali Damania forms political party
(All times Eastern) Schedule subject to change and/or blackouts Friday, Nov. 22 AUSTRALIAN RULES FOOTBALL (WOMEN’S) 11 p.m. FS2 — AFL Playoffs: Port Adelaide at North Melbourne, Preliminary Final 3:30 a.m. (Saturday) FS2 — AFL Playoffs: Adelaide at Brisbane, Preliminary Final AUTO RACING 9:25 p.m. ESPNEWS — Formula 1: Practice, Las Vegas Strip Circuit, Las Vegas 12:55 a.m. (Saturday) ESPN — Formula 1: Qualifying, Las Vegas Strip Circuit, Las Vegas People are also reading... COLLEGE BASKETBALL (MEN’S) 11:30 a.m. ESPN2 — Charleston Classic: TBD, Semifinal, Charleston, S.C. ESPNU — Myrtle Beach Invitational: TBD, Consolation Semifinal, Conway, S.C. 2 p.m. ESPN2 — Myrtle Beach Invitational: TBD, Semifinal, Conway, S.C. ESPNU — Charleston Classic: TBD, Consolation Semifinal, Charleston, S.C. 2:30 p.m. CBSSN — Greenbrier Tip-Off: Pittsburgh vs. LSU, Semifinal, West White Sulphur Springs, W.V. 5 p.m. CBSSN — Greenbrier Tip-Off: Wisconsin vs. UCF, Semifinal, West White Sulphur Springs, W.V. ESPN2 — Charleston Classic: TBD, Semifinal, Charleston, S.C. ESPNU — Myrtle Beach Invitational: TBD, Semifinal, Conway, S.C. 6 p.m. BTN — Campbell at Ohio St. 7 p.m. CBSSN — Continental Tire Baha Mar Championship: TBD, Third-Place Game, Nassau, Bahamas ESPNU — Legends Classic: TBD, Third-Place Game, New York FS2 — Merrimack at Butler SECN — S. Illinois at Florida 8 p.m. BTN — Utah St. vs. Iowa, Kansas City, Mo. FS1 — Nebraska at Creighton 9 p.m. SECN — Little Rock at Arkansas 9:30 p.m. ESPNU — Legends Classic: TBD, Championship, New York CBSSN — Continental Tire Baha Mar Championship: TBD, Championship, Nassau, Bahamas 10 p.m. BTN — Cal St.-Fullerton at UCLA 10:30 p.m. ESPN2 — Duke at Arizona PEACOCK — Saint Louis vs. Wichita St., Kansas City, Mo. 12:30 a.m. (Saturday) ESPN2 — North Carolina at Hawaii COLLEGE BASKETBALL (WOMEN’S) 7 p.m. ACCN — Florida at Florida St. COLLEGE FOOTBALL 7 p.m. ESPN2 — Temple at UTSA 8 p.m. FOX — Purdue at Michigan St. 10 p.m. FS1 — UNLV at San Jose St. GOLF Noon GOLF — PGA Tour: The The RSM Classic, Second Round, Sea Island Golf Club - Seaside Course, Sea Island, Ga. 3 p.m. GOLF — LPGA Tour: The CME Group Tour Championship, Second Round, Tiburon Golf Club, Naples, Fla. 7:30 p.m. TNT — The Match Superstars: Semifinals, Breakers West Country Club, West Palm Beach, Fla. TRUTV — The Match Superstars: Semifinals, Breakers West Country Club, West Palm Beach, Fla. (DataCast) 9 p.m. TNT — The Match Superstars: Final, Breakers West Country Club, West Palm Beach, Fla. TRUTV — The Match Superstars: Final, Breakers West Country Club, West Palm Beach, Fla. (DataCast) 9:30 p.m. GOLF — DP World Tour: The BMW Australian PGA Championship, Third Round, Royal Queensland Golf Club, Brisbane, Australia 1 a.m. (Saturday) GOLF — Asian Tour: The LINK Hong Kong Open, Third Round, Hong Kong Golf Club, Hong Kong HORSE RACING Noon FS2 — NYRA: America’s Day at the Races NBA BASKETBALL 7:40 p.m. ESPN — Golden State at New Orleans 10:05 p.m. ESPN — Dallas at Denver NHL HOCKEY 7 p.m. NHLN — Winnipeg at Pittsburgh SAILING 5 a.m. (Saturday) CBSSN — Sail GP: The Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix - Day 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates TENNIS 11 a.m. TENNIS — Davis Cup Finals Semifinal The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive TV listings provided by LiveSportsOnTV . Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Potiskum APC Youth Movement Reiterates Support For Buni, Cautions Youths On 2027India News | Ex-AAP Convener Anjali Damania Forms Political PartyArguably the biggest underdog story in MLS Cup playoff history, the New York Red Bulls can claim their first league trophy when they travel to Dignity Health Sports Park on Saturday to face the Los Angeles Galaxy . Last Saturday, the Galaxy punched their ticket into the showcase event with a 1-0 victory over the Seattle Sounders, while the Red Bulls continued their magical run, defeating Orlando City by that same score. For the first time in a decade, the Galaxy will play for the MLS Cup, with the most decorated club in league history regarding domestic trophies seeking to lift this one for a sixth time. Saturday will mark the 10th time they reach the cup final in their 29-year history, with LA winning all three of their previous matches at this stage in Carson. For a few years, Greg Vanney has been looking to find the right approach to get this team going, and their short passes out of the back this season have worked wonders, as they boast the fourth-highest pass competition rate in the defensive third (85.9%). It has been a historic playoff run for this edition of the Galaxy offensively, netting 16 goals in four games, one fewer than the post-season record set by a Greg Vanney-led Toronto side in 2016. No team in the regular season created as many quality scoring opportunities as the Galaxy, who led the league with 57.5 non-penalty expected goals, according to FBref's data. They have outscored their three playoff opponents this season at Dignity Health Sports Park by a combined margin of 12-2, claiming 16 triumphs at that venue this year across all competitions. During the regular season, they went unbeaten against Eastern Conference opposition at home, winning two of those three contests while conceding just one goal (1-1 draw versus Inter Miami). Having only claimed one victory in their final 11 matches across all competitions, virtually everyone had written the New York Red Bulls off before the post-season began. Miraculously, they have defied all the odds, sweeping their opening round series against the reigning MLS Cup champions, the Columbus Crew, before eliminating their arch-rivals, New York City FC and Orlando City. With their victory last weekend, they became the lowest-seeded team ever to reach the MLS Cup final (seventh), with Sandro Schwarz becoming the 12th head coach in league history to make the final in his first season at the helm. All year, the Red Bulls have been happy to let the opposition have the ball, averaging just 44.5% possession during the regular season and fewer than 40% in each of their playoff fixtures. When they win possession, it has usually been in advantageous positions, while they have made the most of those opportunities, scoring on two of their three targeted efforts in the Eastern Conference semi-finals versus NYCFC and netting on their only shot on goal last Saturday. The Red Bulls love to pass the ball forward as much as possible, ranking fifth in the regular season for average vertical passing distance (7.23 yards), relying on their attacking players to pressure opposing backlines, all of which has enabled them to get to within a game of their first MLS Cup. New York have won two of their last three meetings versus the Galaxy and claimed points in two of their last three visits to Dignity Health Sports Park. However, their only previous MLS Cup final appearance, which took place in Carson, saw them suffer a 3-1 defeat to the Columbus Crew in 2008 when that venue was known as the Home Depot Center. The Galaxy victory last weekend came at a huge cost, with the MLS regular-season leader for touches and their leader in assists, Riqui Puig , suffering a torn ACL and being ruled out of this match. Meanwhile, Marco Reus will be questionable after being taken off at the half of their Western Conference final due to a knock, while Martin Caceres will not be available because of an Achilles injury. Dejan Joveljic scored five minutes from the end to see off the Sounders, with John McCarthy making four stops to collect his second clean sheet of the 2024 playoffs. For the Red Bulls, Felipe Carballo will be a question mark after missing the previous encounter due to a foot issue, while Roald Mitchell and Kyle Duncan are out because of knee injuries. In Carballo's absence last week, Schwarz inserted Peter Stroud into the lineup, the only change to their starting 11 against Orlando City. Andres Reyes scored two minutes into the second half of their previous encounter, with Carlos Coronel collecting another clean sheet, saving 3.7 goals above expected in four playoff contests this year, with just two goals conceded in the post-season. Los Angeles Galaxy possible starting lineup: McCarthy; Yamane, Garces, Yoshida, Nelson; Delgado, Cerrillo, Fagundez; Pec, Joveljic, Paintsil New York Red Bulls possible starting lineup: Coronel; D. Nealis, Reyes, S. Nealis; Harper, Edelman, Stroud, Tolkin; Forsberg; Vanzeir, Morgan Even without Puig, the Galaxy will be heavy favourites for this clash, though we expect they will be left frustrated against a side with tremendous resolve who are more than comfortable hanging back. The Red Bulls are peaking at the right time, and their outstanding goalkeeping should keep them alive on Saturday, while they have been clinical when needed in the playoffs, which is why we project them to pull off what could go down as the biggest upset in the history of the MLS Cup finals. For data analysis of the most likely results, scorelines and more for this match please click here .
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The article elaborates on the efforts by these Nordic nations to ensure civilian readiness for potential crises, including military conflicts, natural disasters, and disruptions to essential services. International media have seen the move as reflecting heightened security concerns in the wake of the ongoing Ukraine conflict. However, the move is part of broader regional efforts to bolster resilience amid increasing geopolitical and environmental instability. In Finland, the Ministry of the Interior released new guidance designed to prepare citizens for various crises, including long-term power outages, water shortages, and communication disruptions. The advice also covers coping with extreme weather events and potential military conflicts. The updated guidance reflects Finland’s growing emphasis on civilian preparedness as a cornerstone of national security, particularly in light of the country’s proximity to Russia and the evolving security landscape in Europe. Similarly, Sweden has begun distributing a revised version of its wartime preparedness booklet, Om krisen eller kriget kommer (If Crisis or War Comes), to all five million households. The fifth edition of this booklet, which was first introduced during World War II, places a stronger focus on readiness for war and extreme crises. It provides citizens with practical advice on stockpiling essential items such as water, diapers, medication, and baby food, as well as growing food at home. New sections include tips on managing evacuations, administering first aid, caring for pets, and supporting vulnerable populations. The guide also offers advice on how to talk to children about crises and cope with anxiety during emergencies. Original story was published by CNN on 18.11.2024 and can be found here . Educating young people about social media would be far more effective than a ban – Finland can show us how The debate around Australia’s proposed social media ban for under-16s was covered in an article by The Conversation on November 22. The article compares the move with Finland, as the Nordic country has been seen as a model for addressing digital literacy and online safety. While the ban in Australia aims to protect children, critics argue it is a reactive policy rather than a long-term solution. Concerns include the potential for social media platforms to become less regulated spaces where harmful content proliferates, and the risk of young people being unprepared to navigate digital risks once they turn 16. Finland integrates digital literacy into its national curriculum, teaching responsible online behaviour from a young age and embedding these lessons across all grade levels. Beyond schools, public libraries and community centers offer programs for adults, fostering lifelong digital skills. Finland’s anti-fake news initiative, launched in 2014, has also equipped citizens to counter misinformation. The article highlights how the Finnish education system emphasizes critical thinking, teaching students to identify bots, recognize manipulated images and videos, and detect half-truths or false profiles. This practical approach has consistently positioned Finland as a global leader in digital media literacy, ranking first out of 35 countries in resilience six times in a row. Original story was published by The Conversation on 22.11.2024 and can be found here . Finland withdraws from the Barents Euro-Arctic Council Finland’s decision to withdraw from the Barents Euro-Arctic Council (BEAC) after 2025 was covered in an article by High North News on November 21. The article explores the rationale behind the decision, citing changes in the European security landscape and the international environment, particularly in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Barents cooperation, established in 1993, was once an effective forum for regional collaboration, especially between Finland, Russia, and neighbouring Nordic countries. However, after Russia’s withdrawal from BEAC in 2023, Finland, along with Norway and Sweden, is reconsidering the utility of this format. Finland’s Foreign Minister, Elina Valtonen, emphasized that the Barents cooperation no longer meets contemporary needs and has led to overlapping structures. “Before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Barents cooperation was an effective channel for Finland to interact with others in the northern regions. However, this form of cooperation no longer meets today’s needs, and it creates overlapping structures. Finland’s goal is a stable and prosperous Nordic region, and we will continue to invest in it through various forms of cooperation,” Elina Valtonen , Minister of Foreign Affairs, said. Moving forward, Finland plans to invest in strengthening cooperation with Norway and Sweden through other platforms, particularly through the Nordic Council of Ministers. A key initiative will involve developing a joint strategic agenda for the northern regions of Finland, Norway, and Sweden, focusing on security and regional stability. Finland’s exit from the BEAC will also include a departure from the agreement that established the International Barents Secretariat. Original story was published by High North News on 21.11.2024 and can be found here . Finland’s government is Robin Hood in reverse The austerity measures and tax reforms implemented by the Finland’s current government were covered in an article by Jacobin on November 21. The article observes how the Prime Minister Petteri Orpo ’s coalition government has embraced "authoritarian neoliberalism," characterized by a combination of austerity measures, social spending cuts, and tax reforms favouring the wealthy, all while undermining trade unions and civil liberties. The government, including the conservative National Coalition Party and far-right Finns Party, has drastically reduced spending on social services such as healthcare and social security, while introducing tax cuts for high earners. These cuts are expected to push tens of thousands of Finns into poverty and exacerbate inequality. This approach has been justified by the government as necessary to stimulate economic growth and reduce unemployment, but critics argue that it will only harm the most vulnerable sectors of society. The government has also targeted labour unions, weakening their power through new legislation designed to limit strikes and protests, which is seen as a way to curb workers’ rights and suppress collective action. The government’s anti-immigrant stance is also highlighted, particularly through legislation that gives authorities the power to block asylum seekers and tighten the requirements for migrant workers. Another concern highlighted in the article is the funding cuts to NGOs and public media, seen as serving the interests of private businesses and limiting dissenting voices. The article reflects how these austerity measures and far-right policies are becoming normalized in Finland, undermining the country’s social democratic foundations. Original story was published by Jacobin on 21.11.2024 and can be found here . Finland suspends foreign aid to Somalia over refusal to take back refugees Finland’s decision to temporarily suspend its foreign aid to Somalia due to the country’s refusal to take back refugees was covered in an article by The European Conservative on November 21. The article highlights the reason for this action as Somalia’s refusal to cooperate with Finland on the repatriation of Somali nationals who are living illegally in Finland. The decision was announced by Finland’s Minister for Foreign Trade and Development, Ville Tavio , on November 20, 2024. This suspension applies specifically to the development cooperation aid program, which typically allocates €8-9 million annually. However, it does not affect humanitarian aid, and certain funding programs may still be exempt from the suspension. The Finnish government has emphasized that the aid could be resumed if Somalia makes progress in cooperating with Finland on “re-admissions cooperation,” which involves the return of illegal migrants. “Return cooperation has not reached a sufficient level,” Ville Tavio said. “States must naturally strive to ensure that all those illegally in their country are returned when that can be done safely,” Tavio added. Original story was published by The European Conservative on 21.11.2024 and can be found here . HTMANCHESTER, England (AP) — Liverpool’s lead at the top of the Premier League was cut to seven points after a thrilling 3-3 draw with Newcastle on Wednesday. Chelsea moved up to second by thrashing last-place Southampton 5-1, while Arsenal is third after a 2-0 win over Manchester United. Fourth-place Manchester City ended its with a 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest. Liverpool’s result will give hope to its title rivals after Fabian Schar’s 90th-minute equalizer at St James’ Park. Arne Slot’s team had twice come back from a goal down to take the lead in the 83rd through Mohamed Salah’s second goal of the match. But the Merseyside club was denied an eighth-straight win in all competitions when Newcastle produced a fightback of its own. “I have mixed feelings, we were outstanding in the second half, but we were not good enough in the first half," Slot said. “Maybe 3-3 is what the game deserved.” Chelsea and Arsenal took advantage. Chelsea's third league win in a row puts it ahead of Arsenal on goal difference. City also reduced the gap and is nine points behind Liverpool after finally ending the worst run of results of Pep Guardiola’s managerial career. “We needed it. The club, the players, everyone needed to win,” Guardiola said. After wins over Real Madrid and City last week, Liverpool’s title credentials were given a stern test by Newcastle, which led at halftime through Alexander Isak and again in the second half through Anthony Gordon. Goals from Curtis Jones and Salah twice leveled the game before Salah looked to have sealed the win late on. Schar equalized after Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher misjudged a late free kick. It meant Liverpool dropped points for only the third time this season after drawing against Arsenal and losing to Forest. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca said this week that his team was not in the title race, but the standings tell a different story. The London club is Liverpool’s closest challenger after its latest win against 10-man Southampton. Axel Disasi, Christopher Nkunku, Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer and Jadon Sancho were all on target in the rout at St Mary’s Stadium. Southampton had briefly leveled the game through Joe Aribo, but Chelsea was already 3-1 up and in control when Jack Stephens was sent off before the break. Arsenal inflicted a first loss on new United head coach Ruben Amorim with a 2-0 win at the Emirates Stadium. Two goals from second-half corners made the difference, with Jurrien Timber and William Saliba finding the back of the net, but Arsenal still slipped to third, despite edging closer to Liverpool. Mikel Arteta's team finished runner-up in each of the last two seasons and looks primed to challenge again after making an unconvincing start to the campaign. “You get written off but we stuck together as a group," Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice said. “You stick together and we’re starting to reap the rewards of that.” Making his first start since September, Kevin De Bruyne showed City exactly what it has been missing by scoring a goal and creating another as the four-time defending champion got back to winning ways. The Belgium playmaker provided the cross for Bernardo Silva to give City an eighth-minute lead against Forest at the Etihad Stadium. He produced a trademark finish to sweep the ball past goalkeeper Matz Sels in the 31st to put City on course for a first win in eight games. Jeremy Doku made it 3-0 in the 57th, but it was De Bruyne’s performance that stood out after seeing much of his season disrupted by a groin injury. He left the field in the 74th to an ovation from the home crowd. “It’s been a tough time but you have to accept the challenge and I think we did well today," De Bruyne said. "The Premier League is getting harder and harder. We have to improve as a team first and we’ll see in a couple of months where we are. Hopefully, we would have improved a bit and are a lot closer.” But victory could have come at a cost with concerns over the fitness of Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake, who both went off. “Nathan doesn’t look good. We (will) see tomorrow,” Guardiola said. “Manu is making the last two months struggle a lot.” A first win in six games for Everton moved Sean Dyche’s team further away from the relegation zone, while back-to-back losses for Wolverhampton left the club second from bottom of the standings. Ashley Young and Orel Mangala put Everton in control before two second-half own goals from Craig Dawson sealed a 4-0 win for the Merseyside club, which is five points clear of the bottom three. Aston Villa ended an even longer winless run by beating Brentford 3-1 to secure a first victory in nine games in all competitions. Morgan Rogers, Ollie Watkins from the penalty spot and Matty Cash were on target. James Robson is at AP soccer:
Shiffrin confirms she'll miss Beaver Creek World Cup racesThe year 2024 has become a real race for the automotive industry. The growing influence of Chinese manufacturers, new customs barriers, and economic difficulties have become major challenges for automotive companies around the world. Nevertheless, there are some stunning models on the market, both electric and gasoline, that demonstrate technological advances and new approaches to design and comfort. The Telegraph experts have presented the top ten best cars of 2024, which have received rave reviews. Renault 5 One of the most striking novelties of the year was the electric Renault 5. The revival of this classic model has become a real treat for car enthusiasts. The model combines modern technology with the spirit of the original Renault 5, which won hearts in the 70s and 80s. Driving pleasure, stylish design, and affordable prices (from £22,995) make this car a popular choice among fans of electric models. Aston Martin Vantage Aston Martin has presented one of the best models of the brand this year. Although the company is experiencing financial difficulties, the car itself impresses with its excellent performance: a powerful AMG-Mercedes V8 engine and excellent handling make this car an ideal choice for those who want to combine elegance with high technical performance. Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce This year, Alfa Romeo introduced the Junior Veloce, which has become a benchmark for electric crossovers. Thanks to its elegant appearance and excellent technical characteristics, this car quickly gained popularity. It has 204 hp and delivers stunning dynamics that enhance the driving experience. Porsche Macan 4 Electric The Porsche Macan 4 Electric is another breakthrough among electric crossovers. With up to 381 hp and excellent handling, this car offers drivers not only environmental friendliness but also a real driving pleasure. This proves that even in the world of electric cars, it is possible to maintain uniqueness and drive. Toyota Prius Toyota Prius, the classic hybrid, has received significant updates this year. The fifth generation of the model impresses with its new design and improved dynamics. Aimed at eco-friendly drivers, the Prius combines high efficiency with comfort on the road, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a sustainable yet stylish car. Hyundai Ioniq 5 N The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is an electric SUV that offers a unique combination of power and technology. Impressive dynamics and fake engine noise create the feeling of a real gasoline car, making the Ioniq 5 N extremely exciting for drivers who want to reach high speeds. Bentley Continental GT The newest version of the Bentley Continental GT features a hybrid powertrain that significantly improves its performance and comfort. Drivers can enjoy the silence of the electric drive or enjoy the sound of the V8 engine, which adds even more elegance to the car. Mazda MX-5 The Mazda MX-5 continues to amaze drivers with its lightness and agility. The 2024 update makes this car even more enjoyable to drive. Although it does not have the power comparable to large SUVs, its lightness and drive give a unique pleasure from every trip. Porsche Cayenne S The Porsche Cayenne S is a car that combines a powerful V8 engine with incredible performance. This car can satisfy even the most demanding drivers, offering an excellent combination of style, engine sound, and handling. The Cayenne S has become a great example of how a gasoline car can combine traditional values with modern requirements. Hyundai Kona Electric This is an electric crossover that is suitable for family use. Its ability to provide a comfortable and carefree ride makes it an ideal choice for those who want to switch to an electric model without giving up their daily needs. The absence of unnecessary technological "chips" and a user-friendly interface make this car accessible to a wide audience. Subscribe to the OBOZ.UA channels on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events.
The company opens international research contest to strengthen technology leadership; open for entries until January 31, 2025 Selected researchers to receive annual research funding of up to USD 150,000 annually BIC program revamped to enhance two-way collaboration between industry and academia SEOUL, South Korea , Dec. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- LG Energy Solution (KRX: 373220) has announced its launch of the 'Battery Innovation Contest (BIC) 2025' to identify and support the next groundbreaking battery technologies. Innovators from universities and research institutions worldwide are encouraged to submit proposals until January 31, 2025 , at https://bridge.lgensol.com/ . Since its inaugural competition in 2017, BIC has been LG Energy Solution's flagship research contest. This year's edition has been revamped to foster greater collaboration between academia and industry. Selected researchers will receive annual research funding of up to USD 150,000 annually. Additional funding may be granted to projects making significant achievements through extended contracts. Maximizing Industry–Academia Benefits through Two-way Communication Unlike previous iterations of the competition, 'BIC 2025' allows participants to submit proposals on specific topics pre-announced by LG Energy Solution. "By presenting specific research optics, we aim to go beyond merely supporting academia and maximize the mutual benefits between the industry and academia," said an LG Energy Solution spokesperson. To facilitate active collaboration, LG Energy Solution has introduced the ' BRIDGE ' system, a platform designed to manage open innovation programs like BIC. The system facilitates seamless collaborations with features that help teams working on joint research projects track their objectives and deliverables. LG Energy Solution has unveiled the preselected 18 research topics for collaborative projects on the ' BRIDGE ' platform, such Battery Safety diagnosis algorithm technology and New materials for LFP Batteries topic. At the same time, the contest retains its traditional format to ensure participants are free to propose completely original research ideas. All research proposals must be submitted through the ' BRIDGE ' system. "Providing Differentiated Customer Value via Enhanced Technology Leadership" To protect the original ideas of every participant, LG Energy Solution has split the application process into two stages: initial proposals that provide concise information, followed by detailed proposals from a shortlist of candidates. This change aims to safeguard the ideas of researchers not selected for funding. "The BIC platform serves as a bridge of wisdom between members of academia and industry, driving technological innovation for the all-important battery sector," said Je-Young Kim , CTO of LG Energy Solution. "Through this initiative, we aim to provide differentiated value to our customers by strengthening our technology leadership." As of today, LG Energy Solution has supported 26 battery research projects through the 'BIC' initiative, with some evolving into large-scale projects that have received additional funding and resources. Thanks to the success of this competition, the company continues to establish partnerships with world-leading universities and research institutions, reinforcing its commitment to preparing the battery field for the future. About LG Energy Solution LG Energy Solution (KRX: 373220), a split-off from LG Chem, is a leading global manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, mobility, IT, and energy storage systems. With 30 years of experience in revolutionary battery technology and extensive research and development (R&D), the company is the top battery-related patent holder in the world with over 58,000 patents. Its robust global network, which spans North America, Europe, and Asia , includes battery manufacturing facilities established through joint ventures with major automakers. Committed to building sustainable battery ecosystem, LG Energy Solution aims to achieve carbon neutrality across its value chain by 2050, while embodying the value of shared growth and promoting diverse and inclusive corporate culture. To learn more about LG Energy Solution's ideas and innovations, visit https://news.lgensol.com . SOURCE LG Energy Solution
On average, General Mills sold more than 1,400 boxes of cereal per minute at U.S. retailers over the past year. That was more than enough to retain the crown as the nation’s top cereal producer ahead of rival Kellogg. With $3.4 billion in sales over the past 12 months, according to Circana data, General Mills now sells 31% of all cereal in stores around the country. Yet that prime position has eroded in recent years as higher prices for cereal and just about everything else turn more consumers toward cheaper knockoffs. All major cereal companies are losing market share to store brands and private labels, which now accounts for 9% of all cereal sold at retailers in the U.S., according to Circana, a Chicago-based market research firm. In 2021 generics had just a 5.6% market share. And upstarts like Purely Elizabeth and Seven Sundays are also growing, capitalizing on strong consumer spending on products with a health and wellness focus. The cereal executives in Golden Valley know they can’t take their hard-won leadership position for granted. “We’re the leader of the category. We have to behave like the leader,” Dana McNabb, president of North American retail at General Mills, said during a call with analysts last week. “What we’re learning is that when we get on our front foot and do what we’re good at, we see growth.” That means partnering with the NFL’s Kelce brothers for advertising and a new mashup cereal , keeping Chex stocked for holiday mixes and developing high-protein Cheerios, which will be released next month. With a focus on value and “remarkability,” McNabb said, “I think we will continue to see progress in our market share.” Cereal remains the single largest category for the company’s U.S. retail business. A Jeffries analysis pegs it at nearly 20% of domestic retail sales. Selling more cereal, then, is essential. But it’s no easy task. As the major sales boost during the pandemic fades and price increases have reached their limit, the industry is back to the pre-pandemic norm of steady decline or tepid growth at best. Piper Sandler analyst Michael Lavery says General Mills is “focused on making the right adjustments to promotion to help hold and grow market share and remain competitive.” The company is already discounting products at its highest rate in five years, and General Mills expects to trade short-term profit growth to keep the deals coming in order to get in more homes and build long-term momentum. ‘Flattish’ growth is here Honey Nut Cheerios remains the best selling brand in the U.S., followed by Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes and Honey Bunches of Oats from Lakeville-based Post Consumer Brands. Compared to General Mills, cereal is even more important for Post, as it accounts for nearly half of its domestic retail sales. Post Holdings CEO Rob Vitale told investors last month cereal is returning to “flattish” growth, which is precisely what happened this year. Total retail cereal sales grew 0.2% through the 12 months ending Dec. 1, according to Circana, and that growth was driven by modest price increases. The actual number of boxes and bags of cereal sold declined 1.3%. “We can’t shrink our business to prosperity,” Vitale said. “Our branded portfolio outperformed the category, and private label continued to grow.” Private label cereal grew 9% this year to a $1 billion business, a benefit to Post, which produces many store brand varieties. Kellogg also sees “stable” cereal sales on the horizon. Last year the company split up into the cereal-focused W.K. Kellogg Co. and snack-focused Kellanova, maker of Pop-Tarts and Cheez-it crackers. Compared to its Minnesota competitors, “all we do is think about cereal,” Kellogg CEO Gary Pilnick said at an investor conference earlier this month. Among the 10 top-selling cereal brands this year, most of which saw sales declines, Frosted Flakes grew the most, both in dollars and in units sold. “Cereal is undefeated. We haven’t lost a debate yet about where to invest our money because everything we do is about cereal,” Pilnick said. “We know we’ll drive the business.” Doing well at school Retail store sales aren’t the whole cereal story, however — General Mills and others sell tons of cereal to schools, hotels and other foodservice venues. “Our market share in schools more than twice what it is in retail,” General Mills CEO Jeff Harmening said in an interview last week. That gives Lucky Charms and other brands a dominant position with kids, building brand affinity from a young age. Which pays dividends down the line, as McNabb said nostalgia is a key strategy for connecting with cereal consumers. Harmening said as more schools offer breakfast, they tend to go with General Mills for cereal. “One of the reasons we’ve been able to be so successful is that we keep enhancing the nutritional profiles of our cereals,” he said. “Our kids will be better off and better positioned to learn, and we do better, too, but so are the kids, and so we feel great about that” Harmening said acting like the cereal leader means “delivering for consumers what they’re looking for.” “I feel good about our cereal business, in both what you see at the grocery store every day and what we’re selling through schools.”Bowen Yang wasn’t sure when he was going to watch the final cut of “Wicked.” “Everyone has their weird hang-ups about watching something that they’re in,” he tells TODAY.com. Yang, who’s worked on “Saturday Night Live” since 2018, says he was “really hesitant” to see the film. In “Wicked,” Yang plays Pfannee (pronounced “fanny”), a student at Shiz University and one of Glinda’s (Ariana Grande) friends — or, as Yang puts it, Glinda’s “publicists.” On Oct. 12, Grande hosted “SNL.” That week, Universal Pictures hosted a “Wicked” screening for the cast of the sketch comedy show, Yang says. (TODAY.com and Universal Pictures share Comcast as a parent company.) “I was like, ‘I don’t think I’m going to go. I don’t want to see it around my friends and my co-workers,’” Yang says. “I was so nervous. I was terrified, because it was a long, really tough time, just to juggle both at the same time,” he adds. Then, he thought of his first time visiting New York City. “I begged my parents to go to the Gerswhin (Theatre, home of “Wicked”). We couldn’t afford tickets, but I was like, ‘Can I at least go so I can press my face up against the glass?’” he says. “The same day, we went two avenues over to Rockefeller Center to go do the NBC Studios tour. We picked the TODAY show, we went to Conan, and then we went to ‘SNL.’” Now, seeing “Wicked” as a member of the “Saturday Night Live” cast felt “full circle,” he says. “It’s the perfect way to close that loop, like I have to see it with ‘SNL’ people,” he says. “It was the perfect way to do it. I’m so glad I did it that way.” As for any notable reactions from his castmates? “ Sarah Sherman was there, and she sobbed the entire movie. Just to watch her cry with joy and being emotional about things is my favorite thing. She’s the emotional, validating force in my life,” he says. In an interview with TODAY.com, Yang shares his thoughts on the “Wicked” set, discusses all those Glicked (“Gladiator II” and “Wicked”) memes and, in true “Las Culturistas” fashion, his rules for Ozian culture. This interview has been edited for clarity. A lot of the ‘Wicked’ set was practical effects (physically constructed). What was the most shocking set piece for you? Most surprising, shocking set moment was, I think just walking into Shiz (University) the first day. Like every single person was awestruck. Even the people who were on the crew who had worked on like every Marvel movie, all the “Harry Potter” movies and like, every other big blockbuster, was like, ‘We’ve never seen anything like that.’ So it just blew everyone’s expectations out of the water. But then the most shocking single moment was — there's a giant sculpted face of Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard that I'm sure you know what I'm talking about in the movie. And Ari (Ariana Grande) and I were just walking around set one day, just like having a little walk about, and then we just popped up on it, and it really gave us a jump scare. But it’s just because he’s so striking and handsome, of course. Well you see it (in the movie), and you’re like, ‘That’s Jeff Goldblum.’ That's Jeff Goldblum. I think it's the first time you ever see him in the movie. It's really amazing. It's quite — it leaves an impression. So in between takes, you all had free rein of the set? Yeah, it felt like a Sleep No More immersive theater experience. You just walked around and like, it felt so intimate. It felt we were at school, just in the quad, just walking around. Did it make you feel closer to your character? Definitely. All of us were like, within these social dynamics of being at school. It felt very freshmen orientation-y because it was like, we're in a classroom together. Seating arrangement was very intentional. I think it accelerated familiarity with everybody. Who was the first person you met on set? First person I met when I got to rehearsals was Ari. Yeah, it was really special. It was Ari, and then it was Bronwyn James, who plays Shenshen, my other half, my other extension. Was there a moment with you all when you realized, ‘Oh we’re not just coworkers. We are friends’? We would have wine nights after shoots, especially when we were shooting remotely out in the countryside. The Shiz campus was like, all the way outside of London. And so they put us up in this place where we would just like, have a little night cap. And it was just a really tasteful adult thing. And then we would all go to bed and show up to work the next morning. It just felt like an adult summer camp. What is your ‘Wicked’ story? Are you a fan of the musical? I’ve been obsessed with it. Cynthia (Erivo) and I have the same thing where we didn’t see it until much later in our lives, but we knew the songs and the story, obviously... If you were in a drama club in the aughts, it was just the thing, like you lived and breathed it. I just remember going to the library and renting out the original Broadway cast recording and flipping through the booklet — remember those? And just seeing pictures of Idina (Menzel, the original Elphaba) and Kristin (Chenoweth, the original Glinda). I was like, something has changed within me. I was like, this is the best, this is the coolest thing I’ve ever seen. Tell me a little bit about your character Pfannee. What is Pfannee looking for at Shiz University? Pfannee's vibe. There's a moment where Pfannee and Shenshen run up to Galinda when she gets off the boat at Shiz that you might see in an extended version of the film. But they are just there to rekindle this friendship with Galinda that they've had since they were kids. That's background, that's not totally necessary, but I think, what's really interesting about them as characters is that they see and they operate on status. They see Galinda, and they're like, she's someone that we can, like, glom onto. We talked about them early on and Jon (M. Chu) was like, "I don't think these are the lackeys, or like the snickering best friends. I think there's something more to them." And we were like, "Yeah, what is it?" I think what we landed on was that they are kind of Galinda's publicists. Ari was very protective of Galinda not being the one to enact the bullying, she’s good. And so it falls on these two characters to be the nefarious ones. We’re the ones who give her the hat and are like, ‘You know who should wear this? Elphaba.’” You're just protecting your client. We're just protecting our client! Exactly. Do you have a favorite meme about ‘Wicked’? I think the star of the internet discourse of “Wicked” is that little flying squirrel that plays the drums at the Ozdust. That little diva. Was he on set? He was on set, and he was a real charmer. I think everybody had a moment with him in private, and it was very steamy — No! We didn't have any (animals). There’s also Glicked (the phenomenon of ‘Gladiator II’ and ‘Wicked’ sharing a release date). Is that the best possible name we can come up with here? Barbenheimer (“Barbie” and “Oppenheimer”) is such a perfect portmanteau. Glicked... I don’t know. Glad — Gladwick. I like Gladwick. Gladwick's fun. Gladwick's cute. It sounds like a candle you buy a target. Gladwick. Are you all leaning into Glicked? Oh yeah, we're so excited. This is the perfect time of year to do a double feature. You've totally got nothing but time, hopefully. Which order should people watch them in? I think “Gladiator II” is going to be slightly more intense, maybe more of an emotional drain, perhaps. It’s going to be very, I think, quite violent. And I think our movie is a cute salve to put over that wound. Yeah, maybe watch “Wicked” after “Gladiator.” In ‘Las Culturistas’ style , do you have any rules of Ozian culture? The rules of Ozian culture are: The train to the Emerald City is too small. That's rule of culture No. 7. Rule of Ozian culture No. 61 is animals know how to party better than humans do. That's why they're at the Ozdust. And rule of Ozian culture No. 4 is Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) is unfortunately a style icon, even though she's a villain. Part 2. For your character and for the citizens of Oz, what's ahead for them? Look, everyone’s like, ‘This is the longest intermission ever.’ It needs to be that because a lot of time passes between the acts. A lot happens right when we pick up. Galinda is in this very front-facing position. Pfannee and Shenshen are at her side still, but a lot is in motion. The world has literally changed, and the landscape of it is very different. There is this campaign against this one person that they're like, the reason for all the problems in the world. The story is so flexible how it relates to our real world, but I think, it's going to be interesting to see it — (Editor’s note: Paul Mescal , star of “Gladiator II,” stopped to say hello to Yang in the TODAY green room.) And a lot has shifted in the topography of things. But yeah it needs that, because if you go straight from “Defying Gravity” to what happens in Act 2, it just feels like too much of a lurch.
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NEW DELHI (AP) — India’s former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, widely regarded as the architect of India’s economic reform program and a landmark nuclear deal with the United States, has died. He was 92. Singh was admitted to New Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences late Thursday after his health deteriorated due to a “sudden loss of consciousness at home,” the hospital said in a statement. “Resuscitative measures were started immediately at home. He was brought to the Medical Emergency” at 8:06 p.m., the hospital said, but “despite all efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9:51 p.m.” Singh was being treated for “age-related medical conditions,” the statement said. A mild-mannered technocrat, Singh became one of India’s longest-serving prime ministers for 10 years and leader of the Congress Party in the Parliament's Upper House, earning a reputation as a man of great personal integrity. He was chosen to fill the role in 2004 by Sonia Gandhi, the widow of assassinated Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi . But his sterling image was tainted by allegations of corruption against his ministers. Singh was reelected in 2009, but his second term as prime minister was clouded by financial scandals and corruption charges over the organization of the 2010 Commonwealth Games. This led to the Congress Party’s crushing defeat in the 2014 national election by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party under the leadership of Narendra Modi . Singh adopted a low profile after relinquishing the post of prime minister. Prime Minister Modi, who succeeded Singh in 2014, called him one of India’s “most distinguished leaders” who rose from humble origins and left “a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years.” “As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives,” Modi said in a post on the social platform X. He called Singh’s interventions in Parliament as a lawmaker “insightful” and said “his wisdom and humility were always visible.” Rahul Gandhi, from the same party as Singh and the opposition leader in the lower house of the Indian Parliament, said Singh’s “deep understanding of economics inspired the nation” and that he “led India with immense wisdom and integrity.” “I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride,” Gandhi wrote on X. Born on Sept. 26, 1932, in a village in the Punjab province of undivided India, Singh’s brilliant academic career took him to Cambridge University in Britain, where he earned a degree in economics in 1957. He then got his doctorate in economics from Nuffield College at Oxford University in 1962. Singh taught at Panjab University and the prestigious Delhi School of Economics before joining the Indian government in 1971 as economic advisor in the Commerce Ministry. In 1982, he became chief economic adviser to the Finance Ministry. He also served as deputy chair of the Planning Commission and governor of the Reserve Bank of India. As finance minister, Singh in 1991 instituted reforms that opened up the economy and moved India away from a socialist-patterned economy and toward a capitalist model in the face of a huge balance of payments deficit, skirting a potential economic crisis. His accolades include the 1987 Padma Vibhushan Award, India’s second-highest civilian honor; the Jawaharlal Nehru Birth Centenary Award of the Indian Science Congress in 1995; and the Asia Money Award for Finance Minister of the Year in 1993 and 1994. Singh was a member of India’s Upper House of Parliament and was leader of the opposition from 1998 to 2004 before he was named prime minister. He was the first Sikh to hold the country’s top post and made a public apology in Parliament for the 1984 Sikh Massacre in which some 3,000 Sikhs were killed after then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was assassinated by Sikh bodyguards. Under Singh, India adopted a Right to Information Act in 2005 to promote accountability and transparency from government officials and bureaucrats. He was also instrumental in implementing a welfare scheme that guaranteed at least 100 paid workdays for Indian rural citizens. The coalition government he headed for a decade brought together politicians and parties with differing ideologies that were rivals in the country’s various states. In a move hailed as one of his biggest achievements apart from economic reforms, Singh ended India’s nuclear isolation by signing a deal with the U.S. that gave India access to American nuclear technology. But the deal hit his government adversely, with Communist allies withdrawing support and criticism of the agreement growing within India in 2008 when it was finalized. Singh adopted a pragmatic foreign policy approach, pursuing a peace process with nuclear rival and neighbor Pakistan. But his efforts suffered a major setback after Pakistani militants carried out a massive gun and bomb attack in Mumbai in November 2008. He also tried to end the border dispute with China, brokering a deal to reopen the Nathu La pass into Tibet, which had been closed for more than 40 years. His 1965 book, “India’s Export Trends and Prospects for Self-Sustained Growth,” dealt with India’s inward-oriented trade policy. Singh is survived by his wife Gursharan Kaur and three daughters. Associated Press writer Sheikh Saaliq in New Delhi contributed to this report.Victims and families react as Biden spares the lives of 37 federal death row inmates
