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By Keem Abdul. 2027, the year in which the majority of Nigerians will once again go to the polls to elect a new set of leaders, may be three years away, but to the forward-looking political player on a mission, it is already yesterday As far as Lagos State is concerned, and the question of who succeeds the current Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the prize is no less than the leadership of Nigeria’s commercial and industrial hub, and control over the largest subnational economy in Africa. On the political front, too, the stakes are extremely high. On one hand, it is a battle for the soul of the ruling All Progressives’ Congress (APC) – the party which, in its various incarnations, has held power in the state since the advent of the present democratic dispensation in 1999. On the other hand, the party is seeking to keep at bay the challenge of the two main opposition camps, namely, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and especially the Labour Party (LP) whose ‘insurgent’ campaign in the last election cycle, and the tremendous traction it gained among a segment of the electorate, gave the APC an almighty scare. While it may be premature to conclude that the victory of the APC in the 2027 polls is a foregone conclusion (because in politics, as they say, even a week is an eternity – let alone three years), it may be correct, however, to say that greater attention will be paid, in the run-up to 2027, to the contest within the ruling party (i.e., the battle over who emerges the APC’s gubernatorial flagbearer) than the battle between it and the opposition. While it may also be premature to predict the combination of factors and circumstances that will determine the emergence of said candidate (and next Governor), permutations have already begun, and some names are already being bandied about in the public domain. One of those names is that of Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo (Tokunbo) Abiru, who currently represents Lagos East Senatorial District in the upper legislative chambers. Whether or not the ready mention of his name at this stage of the coming race establishes him as the frontrunner, it is certainly an indication of the high regard and goodwill he commands in certain influential quarters within his party and constituency. A banker and financial titan-turned politician, Sen. Abiru is widely respected for his dedication to his constitutional role, and for his impactful interventions in his senatorial zone. Since his time as the Lagos State Commissioner for Finance, Abiru has distinguished himself in many ways. It was during his tenure, for example, that the state won international accolades for successfully floating an N80 billion bond. In the private sector where he operated before then, his expertise in financial management saw him rescue Skye Bank from the brink of collapse, transforming it into what is now Polaris Bank. At a point during the Tinubu presidential transition in 2023, Abiru was mentioned as a possible nominee for Finance Minister – before the position eventually went to Wale Edun. Abiru’s supporters believe his expertise in financial management and governance makes him the ideal candidate to lead Lagos into a new era of growth and prosperity. Another name also being thrown up is that of former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. During his four-year tenure at the helm (from 2015 to 2019), Ambode had a love-hate relationship with the APC leadership, which ultimately led to the truncation of his re-election bid in 2019. But his time in office is fondly remembered for its proactive approach to the challenges confonting Lagos State, and especially his achievements in the area of infrastructure – notably the rejuvenation of the Oshodi transport hub to the construction of new bridges and inner-city roads in virtually all 57 LGs and LCDAs across the state. In recent months, Ambode’s political stock seems to be on a slow but steady rise, and his rehabilitation from the margins (where he had been consigned since his ousting from Government House, Alausa) back to the mainstream seems to be gathering pace by the day. The drumbeat of support for his return to office has been taken up by various groups who describe his previous tenure as transformative, hence their desire to see him “complete the good work he started.” And yet, in spite of the frequency with which these two names, Abiru and Ambode, are being mentioned in the public domain, and the airplay they’re getting as a result, the brewing contest for 2027 is by no means a two-horse race. The hovering presence of a figure who, as we speak, is just a heartbeat away from the Governorship seat – namely, the current Deputy-Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat – cannot be ignored. A former Governorship aspirant himself, he is the subject of speculations and incipient support rom those who do not have to think too hard to imagine him in the role, having seen him perform his duties creditably at the side of Governor Sanwo-Olu. Hamzat’s pedigree as the scion of a political dynasty (his late father, Oba Mufutau Olatunji Hamzat having once been a chieftain of the influential Justice Forum) is a factor that may count to his advantage. Other figures also being mentioned are the current Chief of Staff to the President and immediate past Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and the Speaker of the Lagos State of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa. While Gbajabiamila’s potential candidacy hinges on his national profile and the network he has cultivated, Obasa (who holds the record of being the longest-serving Speaker in the state’s history) commands immense grassroots support within and well beyond his Agege constituency. Last, but certainly not the least, is the proverbial elephant in the room: a young newcomer who combines something of the background and attributes of each of the aforementioned potential aspirants – except for the fact that he has never held political office before now. He is no other than Seyi Tinubu, eldest son of the Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu. He has of late been receiving endorsements from influential stakeholders, many of who have highlighted his outstanding achievements as an entrepreneur and philanthropist, asserting that his track record in business speaks volumes about his capacity to deliver in public office. Mr. Tinubu’s hypothetical campaign for the Government House, Ikeja is however, riddled with pros and cons. One major pro is that in a clime where loyalty to the Tinubu Brand is often a ticket to the political equivalent of Eldorado, only the most foolhardy chieftain or operative in the party would risk his/her political fortunes by daring to oppose the son of the President – especially if Asiwaju himself expresses even the slightest inclination towards having his son follow in his gubernatorial footsteps. However, similar to President Tinubu’s neutral stance towards his wife’s endeavour in pursuing her senatorial ambition, it is likely that he will not actively support his son’s ambitions unless the son establishes his own popularity base. The con, apart from Seyi’s relative lack of political experience vis-a-viz the other hopefuls, may come in the form of subtle, covert opposition (from both within and outside the party) to having the acclaimed Centre of Excellence (as Lagos State is often reffered to) become something of a Tinubu family fiefdom. In such a scenario, Seyi’s ambition may be dead in the water – barring a robust, direct intervention on his behalf. So, who will be the Lagos State Governor, come 2027? Although each aspirant’s ability to court critical stakeholders will be crucial to securing the top job, one suspects that the outcome will depend, to a great extent, on the preference of Mr. President – himself a former Lagos State Governor who continues to exert an enormous amount of influence in the affairs of the state. Apart from the President’s possible choice, other factors that might shape the 2007 contest include religion (after eight years of Sanwo-Olu, who is a Christian, there might be a consensus to have a Muslim at the helm – a scenario which benefits every of the aforementioned, except Ambode), as well as the possibility of zoning, and the influence of the Governor’s Advisory Council, GAC, of the APC. As far as the citizens of Lagos State are concerned, though, the only consideration that matters, as far as 2007 is concerned, is the socio-economic progress of the state and who can best deliver it in an effective and timely manner. In that spirit, their wish can only be: May the best man win. • Keem Abdul, publisher and writer, hails from Lagos. He can be reached via +2348038795377 or Akeemabdul2023@gmail.comMiddle East latest: Israeli strikes kill a hospital director in Lebanon and wound 9 medics in GazaSTOCKHOLM — Physics Nobel Prize winner Geoffrey Hinton and chemistry laureate Demis Hassabis on Saturday insisted on a need for strong regulation of artificial intelligence (AI), which played a key role in their awards. "AI is a very important technology to regulate, but I think it's very important that we get the regulations right, and I think that's the hard thing at the moment is it's such a fast-moving technology," Hassabis told a news conference in Sweden's capital Stockholm. Register to read this story and more for free . Signing up for an account helps us improve your browsing experience. OR See our subscription options.

Princess Diana's former Royal butler Paul Burrell has said he believes that his former employer's spirit 'sent' him his husband after they crossed paths on a train. Burrell, who spent ten years working with the Princess before her untimely death, expressed how he feels the late Royal had a hand in bringing his husband into his life to 'take care of me'. Now 66, he describes it as a 'sliding doors moment' during a journey from Euston to Crewe in 2007, which is where his eyes met those of his future spouse, Graham Cooper. The couple experienced an unexpected spark of romance within the carriage, and at that time, Burrell was not openly gay, having recently moved back to Britain after ending his marriage with his wife and two sons in the USA. Burrell, once serving as the Queen's footman, conveyed that there was an 'understanding' between him and Princess Diana regarding his sexuality, despite him being married to Maria Cosgrove with whom he has two sons and remained hitched from 1982 to 2016. Having divorced a year earlier, the erstwhile butler tied the knot with Mr Cooper, 62, whom he first encountered on that fateful train ride in 2007. Read more Coronation Street star Charlie Lawson shares 3am wild parties with Katie Price Reflecting on the challenges of coming out as gay, Burrell spoke on the What If? podcast: "And one day, a sliding doors moment... I was on a train coming from London.", reports the Mirror . "Euston to Crewe. And on that train, down the other end of the carriage, was a man who smiled at me. That's all, I just looked down the aisle, and he smiled, and I thought 'Oo, what just happened then? Something happened'." He recalled his inner turmoil when the man was leaving the train. "So I didn't speak to him the whole journey, it's an hour and a half to Crewe, he started to get off at Crewe - got his briefcase down and a coat, and I thought 'Oh wow, what if he gets off the train and it's sliding doors and I'll never see him again in my life?" Burrell then revealed what he did next. "He walked towards me and I thought 'I'm going on to Chester, I'm not getting off here!'. And I thought 'What do I say, what do I say, think quick, think quick'. So I looked up at him as he passed me and I said 'Have you got a card?'" The outcome left him pondering a higher power at work. "And he had the card in his hand, ready to leave on the table. He smiled again, and left the train. So I'm left with his number and a card. Now, what if? I think she [Princess Diana] sent him. Yes. To take care of me, yes." When asked by podcast host Lorraine Kelly if he thought Princess Diana knew he was gay, Burrell said: "Oh Lorraine, Lorraine, I did fabulous flower arrangements, I chose the right dress for the right occasion, I knew which jewels and shoes, heels or no heels, stockings or no stockings, come on. "Yeah. Yeah. We had an understanding, we had an understanding and so I was safe and she was safe. So it didn't matter in our world." The former butler has previously shared that he never disclosed his true sexuality to Princess Diana, who passed away in 1997. Speaking about the breakup of his marriage to Ms Cosgrove, mother to his two sons, Mr Burrell expressed: "Maria gave me my two children, you know I still love her to this day. But things happened when Diana died, our world fell apart. And truths came to the surface, as often does after death and things, and a tragedy in a family." He went on to recount how he attempted to forge a new path for his family in America, saying: "And I took my family out to the States, and thought I'd build them a new life so I built them a beautiful home, got them green cards, started their lives there. And I said look, I can't live in America. I can't, I'm British through and through. I've got to go home." He further explained the resultant separation from his family: "So I said to my wife, 'Do you want to come back with me?' and she said 'No, I'd rather stay here' and both boys said the same, they want to stay in America so I came back alone, so I was lonely in England and I came back and didn't know what to do with myself." It was during this period of solitude, he mentioned, that his significant 'sliding doors moment' occurred with his now-husband.Dear Eric: We live on a lake and love hosting our great-nieces and nephews on school breaks and the entire family on vacations. My husband and I have no children. Our niece’s families are dear to us. Our 11-year-old great-nephew has been gaming now for about a year. When he comes to visit, instead of reading or playing cards or board games with us, he wants to disappear with his video games. We feel vacated. How do we navigate this with his parents who think his being on a video gaming team at school is awesome and I think it is a bad omen? What is a fair place of compromise and balance? — Game Off Dear Game Off: Let his parents parent their child. The other night I re-watched the movie “Network” from 1977. In it, a character in his 60s dismisses a character played by Faye Dunaway by saying, “She’s the television generation. She learned life from Bugs Bunny. The only reality she knows is what comes to her over her TV set.” Every generation has anxieties about the ways that technology is changing social interactions or altering the minds of the generations below. While some of those concerns are valid, those of Faye Dunaway’s generation (now in their 70s and 80s) would argue that they’ve managed to stay quite well-rounded, despite TV. In moderation, video games have been shown to improve a child’s cognitive function and working memory. While your great-nephew’s gaming might not be your choice, it’s important that you not seek to undermine the research and thinking that his parents have done about it. What you’re really yearning for is a sense of togetherness as a family, so try talking to your niece and her spouse about group activities you can plan to meet your great-nephew where he is. Dear Eric: I eat at a local restaurant a couple times a week and tend to get one of three meals. This one waitress asks me what I want to eat, but then interrupts me to make guesses or tell me my choice. I just put my head down and nod yes or no to the guesses. It’s frustrating, but not life-threatening. She enjoys it. I hate it. However, if I were to say something, it would force her to make the choice of being herself, doing something she likes doing, or appeasing me so I can order the way I want to order. I don’t know if this is a big enough problem to have a “high road.” The answer will not change my life. She can easily change, and I can easily suffer. The question is who gets to be themselves? — Speaking Up Dear Speaking Up: I worked in the service industry for more than a decade. I loved it. I loved seeing regulars, meeting new people and carrying a lot of beverages in my hands at one time. The whole bit. I also loved knowing what people wanted, but I would always ask and confirm. That’s part of the job. She may think you’re a regular who likes to be known in this way. So, informing her that that’s not the case won’t be keeping her from being herself. It will be helping her to do her job better. You may not have the kind of temperament that easily or comfortably course-corrects in social situations. That’s just fine. But know you won’t be causing her suffering by saying something like, “I’ve already decided on my meal. Let’s skip the guessing today and I’ll just tell you.” This also clears the path for the two of you to talk about something else, if you want. Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at eric@askingeric.com . Get local news delivered to your inbox!

Is Enron back? If it's a joke, some former employees aren't laughingBy Keem Abdul. 2027, the year in which the majority of Nigerians will once again go to the polls to elect a new set of leaders, may be three years away, but to the forward-looking political player on a mission, it is already yesterday As far as Lagos State is concerned, and the question of who succeeds the current Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the prize is no less than the leadership of Nigeria’s commercial and industrial hub, and control over the largest subnational economy in Africa. On the political front, too, the stakes are extremely high. On one hand, it is a battle for the soul of the ruling All Progressives’ Congress (APC) – the party which, in its various incarnations, has held power in the state since the advent of the present democratic dispensation in 1999. On the other hand, the party is seeking to keep at bay the challenge of the two main opposition camps, namely, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and especially the Labour Party (LP) whose ‘insurgent’ campaign in the last election cycle, and the tremendous traction it gained among a segment of the electorate, gave the APC an almighty scare. While it may be premature to conclude that the victory of the APC in the 2027 polls is a foregone conclusion (because in politics, as they say, even a week is an eternity – let alone three years), it may be correct, however, to say that greater attention will be paid, in the run-up to 2027, to the contest within the ruling party (i.e., the battle over who emerges the APC’s gubernatorial flagbearer) than the battle between it and the opposition. While it may also be premature to predict the combination of factors and circumstances that will determine the emergence of said candidate (and next Governor), permutations have already begun, and some names are already being bandied about in the public domain. One of those names is that of Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo (Tokunbo) Abiru, who currently represents Lagos East Senatorial District in the upper legislative chambers. Whether or not the ready mention of his name at this stage of the coming race establishes him as the frontrunner, it is certainly an indication of the high regard and goodwill he commands in certain influential quarters within his party and constituency. A banker and financial titan-turned politician, Sen. Abiru is widely respected for his dedication to his constitutional role, and for his impactful interventions in his senatorial zone. Since his time as the Lagos State Commissioner for Finance, Abiru has distinguished himself in many ways. It was during his tenure, for example, that the state won international accolades for successfully floating an N80 billion bond. In the private sector where he operated before then, his expertise in financial management saw him rescue Skye Bank from the brink of collapse, transforming it into what is now Polaris Bank. At a point during the Tinubu presidential transition in 2023, Abiru was mentioned as a possible nominee for Finance Minister – before the position eventually went to Wale Edun. Abiru’s supporters believe his expertise in financial management and governance makes him the ideal candidate to lead Lagos into a new era of growth and prosperity. Another name also being thrown up is that of former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. During his four-year tenure at the helm (from 2015 to 2019), Ambode had a love-hate relationship with the APC leadership, which ultimately led to the truncation of his re-election bid in 2019. But his time in office is fondly remembered for its proactive approach to the challenges confonting Lagos State, and especially his achievements in the area of infrastructure – notably the rejuvenation of the Oshodi transport hub to the construction of new bridges and inner-city roads in virtually all 57 LGs and LCDAs across the state. In recent months, Ambode’s political stock seems to be on a slow but steady rise, and his rehabilitation from the margins (where he had been consigned since his ousting from Government House, Alausa) back to the mainstream seems to be gathering pace by the day. The drumbeat of support for his return to office has been taken up by various groups who describe his previous tenure as transformative, hence their desire to see him “complete the good work he started.” And yet, in spite of the frequency with which these two names, Abiru and Ambode, are being mentioned in the public domain, and the airplay they’re getting as a result, the brewing contest for 2027 is by no means a two-horse race. The hovering presence of a figure who, as we speak, is just a heartbeat away from the Governorship seat – namely, the current Deputy-Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat – cannot be ignored. A former Governorship aspirant himself, he is the subject of speculations and incipient support rom those who do not have to think too hard to imagine him in the role, having seen him perform his duties creditably at the side of Governor Sanwo-Olu. Hamzat’s pedigree as the scion of a political dynasty (his late father, Oba Mufutau Olatunji Hamzat having once been a chieftain of the influential Justice Forum) is a factor that may count to his advantage. Other figures also being mentioned are the current Chief of Staff to the President and immediate past Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and the Speaker of the Lagos State of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa. While Gbajabiamila’s potential candidacy hinges on his national profile and the network he has cultivated, Obasa (who holds the record of being the longest-serving Speaker in the state’s history) commands immense grassroots support within and well beyond his Agege constituency. Last, but certainly not the least, is the proverbial elephant in the room: a young newcomer who combines something of the background and attributes of each of the aforementioned potential aspirants – except for the fact that he has never held political office before now. He is no other than Seyi Tinubu, eldest son of the Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu. He has of late been receiving endorsements from influential stakeholders, many of who have highlighted his outstanding achievements as an entrepreneur and philanthropist, asserting that his track record in business speaks volumes about his capacity to deliver in public office. Mr. Tinubu’s hypothetical campaign for the Government House, Ikeja is however, riddled with pros and cons. One major pro is that in a clime where loyalty to the Tinubu Brand is often a ticket to the political equivalent of Eldorado, only the most foolhardy chieftain or operative in the party would risk his/her political fortunes by daring to oppose the son of the President – especially if Asiwaju himself expresses even the slightest inclination towards having his son follow in his gubernatorial footsteps. However, similar to President Tinubu’s neutral stance towards his wife’s endeavour in pursuing her senatorial ambition, it is likely that he will not actively support his son’s ambitions unless the son establishes his own popularity base. The con, apart from Seyi’s relative lack of political experience vis-a-viz the other hopefuls, may come in the form of subtle, covert opposition (from both within and outside the party) to having the acclaimed Centre of Excellence (as Lagos State is often reffered to) become something of a Tinubu family fiefdom. In such a scenario, Seyi’s ambition may be dead in the water – barring a robust, direct intervention on his behalf. So, who will be the Lagos State Governor, come 2027? Although each aspirant’s ability to court critical stakeholders will be crucial to securing the top job, one suspects that the outcome will depend, to a great extent, on the preference of Mr. President – himself a former Lagos State Governor who continues to exert an enormous amount of influence in the affairs of the state. Apart from the President’s possible choice, other factors that might shape the 2007 contest include religion (after eight years of Sanwo-Olu, who is a Christian, there might be a consensus to have a Muslim at the helm – a scenario which benefits every of the aforementioned, except Ambode), as well as the possibility of zoning, and the influence of the Governor’s Advisory Council, GAC, of the APC. As far as the citizens of Lagos State are concerned, though, the only consideration that matters, as far as 2007 is concerned, is the socio-economic progress of the state and who can best deliver it in an effective and timely manner. In that spirit, their wish can only be: May the best man win. • Keem Abdul, publisher and writer, hails from Lagos. He can be reached via +2348038795377 or Akeemabdul2023@gmail.com

According to Athena Advisers , 1 in every 18 real estate consultancy clients is an investor in commercial properties, “a proportion that acquires more significant weight if we take into account that Athena Advisers is mainly recognised for its operations in the residential market, although in recent years it has reinforced commercial activity” explains David Moura-George, director of Athena Advisers Portugal. Even though the end of programs to encourage foreign investment via the acquisition of properties in the national market or even the changes registered in the Local Accommodation rules may have led many investors in residential properties to take refuge in another asset class, according to David Moura-George, “these limitations do not in themselves explain this turnaround, especially because the trend is global”, he maintains. “These clients can be either individual investors who invest 2 million euros in the purchase of plots of land for the construction of schools in Greater Lisbon or consortiums that invest 100 million euros in hotels in the French Alps”. In Athena Advisers' opinion, investors or regular owners of residential properties are gaining confidence in the commercial market as they become more familiar with its specificities and complexity. “For a commercial real estate investor, residential is just one part of their portfolio. But for the common investor in residential properties, the world of commercial properties is often placed in another dimension where people speak a different language”, notes the general director of the consultancy. “However, once these investors get to know the local market and the players in the commercial sector in depth, they very quickly move from investing in assets of 2-3 million euros to assets of 6-8 million euros, or more. This is what we call going from “resi-normal” to “commercial-climber”, he explains. For this new type of investor in commercial real estate, there are also new asset classes that are more accessible to their investment and/or debt capacity. The more traditional segments of large office buildings or shopping centers may not be within the reach of these investors, but there is a diverse set of properties that are better suited to their portfolio and are seeing increasing demand. This is the case of street stores and supermarkets, warehouses, technology parks, small hotels and tourist residences with services, schools and student housing, as well as investments in real estate development, often using crowdsourcing. Higher returns and security in investments - as long as the stability of tenants, good rents and long-term contracts are ensured - and the lack of concern with the day-to-day management that residential properties normally require, are among the main motivations for this turnaround. According to David Moura-George “residential properties often attract those looking for a more emotional connection with their investments, typically seeking to obtain returns that can vary between 3% and 4%. In commercial assets, the focus is 100% financial with returns that can vary from 5% to 10% in the domestic market, in addition to leases of 10 to 20 years reducing management headaches.” In recent years, the Portuguese commercial property market has registered record levels of investment, with annual volumes ranging between 2 billion euros and 3.4 billion euros (2018-2022), and despite the challenges of the current national and international situation have negatively impacted these values ​​in 2023, with good prospects for recovery already this year, the truth is that Portugal continues to be seen as a stable market and one of the most interesting in terms of the risk/return relationship in the European panorama”, assures the managing director of Athena Advisers. In addition to the acquisition of income assets, real estate development is also attracting many investors who usually looked to the residential sector and crowdsourcing is emerging with a financing model that allows these entrepreneurs to make investments at values ​​that would otherwise be practically unattainable. “Crowdsourcing is a great example of how these investors can join forces and have the opportunity to co-invest in a real estate project as shareholders,” explains Moura-George. Currently, Athena Advisers is involved in several projects in the Portuguese market whose development results from crowdsourcing, “among them a hotel in Costa da Caparica, to be announced soon, and a residential tourism project in the municipality of Aljezur”, he concludes.His game is in his name. He’s known as ‘Big-Play V.A.’ And that has to bring a smile to the faces of Calgary Stampeders fans, knowing he’s suddenly now QB1 in The Stampede City. If you don’t know enough about Vernon Adams Jr., here’s a playbook of what you’re getting after the veteran CFL quarterback introduced himself to Calgarians on Thursday morning at McMahon Stadium: Age: 31. Height: 5-foot-11. Weight: 200 lb. CFL stats (including playoffs): 39-25 record; 64.4% pass completion; 17,367 passing yards; 1,788 rushing yards; 130 TDs; 63 INTs Adams has been in the league eight years, growing from his stops early on with the Montreal Alouettes, the Saskatchewan Roughriders and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats for success as a front man in the CFL since 2019, when he put up 3,942 passing yards with 24 touchdowns against 13 interceptions with the Alouettes. His 2023 campaign with the B.C. Lions was his best, as he rolled up 4,769 yards with 31 TDs and 18 INTs, along with 324 rushing yards. “Big plays, excitement, energy, focus, leadership ... just things like that, man,” said Adams, when asked to describe what he brings to the field. “I just want to be the best I can be. I know I can keep getting better each and every year, and I feel myself just getting better. “So I just need to be healthy for all 18 games and really help this team out the best I can.” What fans and the Stamps can be most excited about is his ability to extend plays with his legs. After last week’s trade to bring Adams to the fold, GM/head coach Dave Dickenson said the team had not showcased a QB with Adams’ mobility since Henry Burris more than a dozen years ago. “It’s there, but I’m no Lamar Jackson,” said Adams, who stands five-foot-11 at 200 lbs. “I’m not going to run like that, but I’m more of a scramble-to-find-guys-open quarterback. I think that’s where big plays come from, because DBs think, ‘OK, we only need to cover for three four seconds,’ and if I have that time to extend the play and find someone on a scramble drill, that can hurt defences. And I know defensive co-ordinators do not like that.” But fans sure do. Dickenson himself seems excited to put a much-needed touch of flash and dash back into the Red and White offence with Adams’ ability to run. “It’s instinct for me,” continued Adams. “You know ... if I feel (the pressure), I’ll get out (of the pocket). I am a passer first. I do want to sit in that pocket and go through my reads and get the guys involved. But if I need to do it, then I will run.” With Adams, the Stamps aren’t just getting an upgrade at the pivot position. They’re getting a bona fide leader, who has the ear of many players in the CFL. “I would call myself a top recruiter in this league,” declared Adams with a big grin. “I think guys just gravitate towards my passion, my energy ... just things like that ... the way I am as a leader, a competitor, a winner ... “I’ve always been like that, and I’m just continue to be like that. And hopefully, I can get some good guys here.” Despite trading away Adams in favour of younger QB talent Nathan Rourke, new Lions GM Ryan Rigmaiden praised Adams for his ability to help bring key players to the CFL’s West Coast squad. Last year’s 1,000-yard running back William Stanback, who followed Adams to Vancouver from Montreal, was among those recruits. And that’s massive for the Stamps, as they’ve committed themselves to a rebuild following the 5-12-1 playoff miss of last season, announcing publicly the need to improve in all facets of the team this winter. “You know ... I’ll do my best to sit with Dave and the guys and see what their plans are free agency-wise,” Adams said. “I know a lot of players would love to come over here and help be a part of this thing we’ve got going. “The team is good here — the system is good,” continued the QB. “You see (Toronto Argonauts head coach) Ryan Dinwiddie and ( Saskatchewan Roughriders sideline boss) Corey Mace and their teams being successful, and that’s still a little bit of the Calgary on those teams. “Now we just come here and we spice it up a little bit. We bring in a few more players and have the players we have here be all on the same page. “And let’s get back on track.” The Stamps are getting back on track with not only the acquisition of Adams — made possible when the club sent three draft-picks over the next two years in exchange for the QB and the Lions’ fourth-round selection in 2025 and their third-round pick in 2026 — but also with the recent signing of fellow helmsman P.J. Walker. It’s a move Adams embraces to help boost the new QB room in Calgary. “I’m a huge fan of P.J.,” Adams said. “I’ve seen him in the XFL and playing those good games in the NFL, as well. So being a fan of him, I’m excited for him to come in here and learn some things from him. But then I can teach him some things about the CFL game, as well. So we’re going to push each other. “I want guys coming in, pushing me and holding me accountable so I can be the best version of myself. “I love pressure,” continued Adams, who got a big taste of it in his senior NCAA year with the nationally renowned Oregon Ducks. “Pressure is a privilege, and not everyone gets to take on that pressure. I’ll look it right in the face, and I’m like, ‘Let’s go!’ ” Forever a player who’s had the CFL on his radar dating back to his record-breaking days with the NCAA’s Eastern Washington Eagles program — a three-down factory itself, considering Matt Nicholls, Bo Levi Mitchell and Eric Barriere have also come north from that school — Adams hasn’t shied away from learning how to become a better three-down quarterback. He’s learned from some of the league’s best QBs over the years. Among those mentors were Kevin Glenn, Jeremiah Masoli and Darian Durant. But the “most impactful” in “moulding” Adams was Trevor Harris. “He sat me down in Montreal and said, ‘Hey, V.A., this is how we’ve got to do it as the leader — as the quarterback — of a franchise. This is how you’ve got to do it. This is how your routine has to be,’ ” Adams said. “He showed me his, and I made it my own. “It was huge. Trevor was always so positive with me in giving me so much hope. I give him a lot of credit. “Earlier in Montreal, I didn’t gameplan and study as much and have that good routine as I did when I got to B.C.,” continued Adams. “It was more just reacting and playing off my athletic ability. I think that’s why I got traded so much. Coaches saw the potential, but they didn’t see the work.” Now, he’s known as a QB who’s more prepared — a guy who spends more time honing his game. Included in that preparation is hosting off-season mini-camps for the offence he’s running, which is now a Red and White thing. “I started it in Montreal years ago” Adams said. “Usually I do it where I’m living — in Tacoma, Washington — where I fly receivers out in a couple of quarterbacks. Fly them in on like a Wednesday through Sunday, and we work Thursday, Friday, Saturday. And we also do just team-bonding activities — just getting to know each other and get on the same page and working out together. I got yoga lined up for us and everything. So I just try to bring us all together. “Because when you know your brothers off the field, and it’s, ‘I’m fighting for his family, I’m playing for his family, and he’s playing for my family,’ you just play together more as a team and you understand what he’s going through off the field. So I’m gonna give him my all every single time. I just want my teammates in this organization to know that’s what I’m all about.” And off the field? “I’m chill,” added Adams, again with a wide smile. “Off-seasons, I use my mornings from 5 a.m. to about 12 for football. And then after that, it’s daddy duties. I keep my family mainly to myself. But you’ll see them around. “And I don’t watch too much NFL. I will go out my way to watch CFL, though. I like that. I like watching film, going back and self-scouting and things like that. “As a young American coming to the CFL, it’s like, ‘OK, let’s do three years up here and try to get back down south.’ It didn’t work out that way, but you fall in love with the game. And so I fell in love with the game, and I’m appreciative of every opportunity I’ve gotten up here in the CFL.” tsaelhof@postmedia.com On X: @ToddSaelhofPM

DURHAM, N.H. (AP) — Kinkead Dent threw for 246 yards and ran for another 56 yards and a touchdown as UT Martin rolled to a 41-10 win over New Hampshire in an FCS first-round game on Saturday. The Skyhawks (9-4) advance to face unbeaten and top-seeded Montana State (12-0) in the second round.KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Colorado’s march to the Big 12 title game took a hit on Saturday. Red-hot Kansas dominated on offense all day, upsetting the 16th-ranked Buffaloes, 37-21, at Arrowhead Stadium. CU (8-3, 6-2 Big 12) came into the day tied for first in the conference and controlling its own path to the Big 12 title game. The Buffs can still get there, but will need a bit of help. Kansas (5-6, 4-5) became the first team in FBS history with a losing record to beat three consecutive top 25 teams. The Jayhawks upset Iowa State and BYU in previous weeks before having their way with the Buffs. The Buffs’ Shedeur Sanders threw three touchdown passes and Travis Hunter caught eight passes for 125 yards and two touchdowns, but it wasn’t nearly enough against the Jayhawks. KU running back Devin Neal rushed for 207 yards and three touchdowns and added 80 yards and a touchdown as a receiver. He helped to spot Kansas a 17-0 lead and it never looked back. KU rushed for over 300 yards and scored on its first seven possessions. The only possession in which the Jayhawks didn’t was its last one, when they drove to the CU 16-yard line and then took a knee to run out the clock. With his three touchdown passes, Sanders set a single-season CU record, with 30. He also threw a TD in his 47th consecutive game, setting an NCAA Division I record. A recap of the Buffs’ loss against the Jayhawks: First quarter: Kansas received the opening kickoff and didn’t waste much time. On the sixth play, Jalon Daniels hit Devin Neal on a short pass and Neal cruised from there for a 51-yard touchdown. The Buffs went three-and-out on their first possession and then KU went to work again. This time, the Jayhawks marched 61 yards in 13 plays to get a 40-yard field goal from Tabor Allen. Score: Kansas 10, Colorado 0. Second quarter: CU closed the first quarter with the start of a solid drive, but that possession stalled when it was stuffed on back-to-back runs, turning the ball over on downs. Kansas took advantage, marching down the field again and scoring on a 9-yard TD by Neal to make it 17-0. CU finally responded on its next possession, as Travis Hunter caught a screen pass from Shedeur Sanders and burst through the defense for a 51-yard touchdown. CU held the Jayhawks to a 23-yard field goal by Allen to make it 20-7, but then scored again. Sanders connected with Drelon Miller for a 19-yard TD to pull the Buffs within a score. KU, however, got another Allen field goal, this one from 25 yards, just before the half. Score: Kansas 23, Colorado 14. Third quarter: The quarter got off to a nice start for the Buffs, as Isaiah Hardge had a 43-yard kickoff return. That was followed by a six-play, 51-yard scoring drive, capped by Sanders hitting Hunter for a 12-yard touchdown pass, pulling the Buffs within 23-21. CU just couldn’t stop the Jayhawks, though, who responded with a 10-play, 80-yard drive, finished off by Neal with a 1-yard touchdown run. CU three-and-out on its next possession and punted the ball back to KU with 4:54 to play in the quarter. The Jayhawks held the ball the rest of the quarter on a possession that continued into the fourth. Score: Kansas 30, Colorado 21. Fourth quarter: KU capped that drive that began in the third with Neal’s fourth touchdown of the day, a 2-yard run. That 8 minute, 7-second possession gave the Jayhawks a 37-21 lead with 11:47 to play. CU drove down to the Kansas 14-yard line, but stalled and turned the ball over on downs with 6:22 to go. KU ran out the clock from there. Final score: Kansas 37, Colorado 21.

Is Enron back? If it's a joke, some former employees aren't laughingLouisiana State Employees Retirement System decreased its holdings in shares of Amazon.com, Inc. ( NASDAQ:AMZN – Free Report ) by 0.3% in the third quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 835,900 shares of the e-commerce giant’s stock after selling 2,300 shares during the quarter. Amazon.com comprises about 2.9% of Louisiana State Employees Retirement System’s portfolio, making the stock its 4th biggest holding. Louisiana State Employees Retirement System’s holdings in Amazon.com were worth $155,753,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other large investors have also modified their holdings of the company. PayPay Securities Corp grew its holdings in shares of Amazon.com by 64.6% during the second quarter. PayPay Securities Corp now owns 163 shares of the e-commerce giant’s stock worth $32,000 after buying an additional 64 shares in the last quarter. Hoese & Co LLP purchased a new stake in shares of Amazon.com in the third quarter valued at about $37,000. Bull Oak Capital LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Amazon.com in the third quarter valued at about $45,000. Christopher J. Hasenberg Inc grew its holdings in shares of Amazon.com by 650.0% in the second quarter. Christopher J. Hasenberg Inc now owns 300 shares of the e-commerce giant’s stock valued at $58,000 after purchasing an additional 260 shares during the period. Finally, Values First Advisors Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Amazon.com in the third quarter valued at about $56,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 72.20% of the company’s stock. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth AMZN has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Cantor Fitzgerald reaffirmed an “overweight” rating and set a $230.00 target price on shares of Amazon.com in a research note on Monday, October 7th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft increased their target price on shares of Amazon.com from $225.00 to $232.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research note on Friday, November 1st. Maxim Group increased their price target on shares of Amazon.com from $251.00 to $260.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research report on Friday, November 1st. Royal Bank of Canada increased their price target on shares of Amazon.com from $215.00 to $225.00 and gave the stock an “outperform” rating in a research report on Friday, November 1st. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company reaffirmed an “equal weight” rating and issued a $197.00 target price on shares of Amazon.com in a report on Wednesday, November 20th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, forty-one have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average price target of $236.20. Amazon.com Stock Up 1.0 % Shares of NASDAQ:AMZN opened at $207.89 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21, a quick ratio of 0.87 and a current ratio of 1.09. Amazon.com, Inc. has a 1 year low of $142.81 and a 1 year high of $215.90. The stock has a market capitalization of $2.19 trillion, a P/E ratio of 44.52, a PEG ratio of 1.38 and a beta of 1.14. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $194.78 and a 200-day simple moving average of $186.94. Amazon.com ( NASDAQ:AMZN – Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 31st. The e-commerce giant reported $1.43 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts’ consensus estimates of $1.14 by $0.29. Amazon.com had a return on equity of 22.41% and a net margin of 8.04%. The business had revenue of $158.88 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $157.28 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $0.85 EPS. The company’s revenue for the quarter was up 11.0% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts forecast that Amazon.com, Inc. will post 5.29 earnings per share for the current year. Insider Buying and Selling at Amazon.com In other Amazon.com news, Director Daniel P. Huttenlocher sold 1,237 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, November 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $199.06, for a total value of $246,237.22. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 24,912 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $4,958,982.72. This trade represents a 4.73 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website . Also, SVP David Zapolsky sold 2,190 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $195.00, for a total transaction of $427,050.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 62,420 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $12,171,900. This trade represents a 3.39 % decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders sold 6,026,683 shares of company stock valued at $1,252,148,795 over the last 90 days. 10.80% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Amazon.com Company Profile ( Free Report ) Amazon.com, Inc engages in the retail sale of consumer products, advertising, and subscriptions service through online and physical stores in North America and internationally. The company operates through three segments: North America, International, and Amazon Web Services (AWS). It also manufactures and sells electronic devices, including Kindle, Fire tablets, Fire TVs, Echo, Ring, Blink, and eero; and develops and produces media content. Further Reading Five stocks we like better than Amazon.com How to Invest in Insurance Companies: A Guide The Latest 13F Filings Are In: See Where Big Money Is Flowing How to Use the MarketBeat Excel Dividend Calculator 3 Penny Stocks Ready to Break Out in 2025 3 Tickers Leading a Meme Stock Revival FMC, Mosaic, Nutrien: Top Agricultural Stocks With Big Potential Receive News & Ratings for Amazon.com Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Amazon.com and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

Wyoming Freedom Caucus and opponents won’t be singing ‘Kumbaya’

Algert Global LLC cut its position in shares of Freshworks Inc. ( NASDAQ:FRSH – Free Report ) by 26.8% in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 74,129 shares of the company’s stock after selling 27,150 shares during the quarter. Algert Global LLC’s holdings in Freshworks were worth $851,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. A number of other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Advisors Asset Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Freshworks by 34.2% in the first quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. now owns 2,971 shares of the company’s stock valued at $54,000 after purchasing an additional 757 shares in the last quarter. California State Teachers Retirement System grew its holdings in Freshworks by 0.5% during the 1st quarter. California State Teachers Retirement System now owns 161,706 shares of the company’s stock valued at $2,945,000 after buying an additional 831 shares during the last quarter. Moody National Bank Trust Division purchased a new position in Freshworks during the second quarter worth $144,000. CWM LLC raised its holdings in shares of Freshworks by 554.5% in the second quarter. CWM LLC now owns 3,397 shares of the company’s stock worth $43,000 after acquiring an additional 2,878 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Renaissance Capital LLC lifted its position in shares of Freshworks by 72.0% in the second quarter. Renaissance Capital LLC now owns 181,789 shares of the company’s stock valued at $2,307,000 after acquiring an additional 76,092 shares in the last quarter. 75.58% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research analysts recently weighed in on FRSH shares. Canaccord Genuity Group boosted their target price on shares of Freshworks from $17.00 to $19.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a research note on Thursday, November 7th. JMP Securities boosted their price objective on shares of Freshworks from $21.00 to $24.00 and gave the company a “market outperform” rating in a research report on Thursday, November 7th. Wells Fargo & Company upped their price objective on shares of Freshworks from $11.00 to $14.00 and gave the company an “equal weight” rating in a research note on Thursday, November 7th. Robert W. Baird lowered their target price on shares of Freshworks from $16.00 to $15.00 and set a “neutral” rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, November 7th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price target on Freshworks from $17.00 to $20.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a research note on Thursday, November 7th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus target price of $18.69. Insider Transactions at Freshworks In other Freshworks news, Director Zachary Nelson sold 8,433 shares of Freshworks stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $11.54, for a total transaction of $97,316.82. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 22,530 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $259,996.20. The trade was a 27.24 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink . Also, Director Jennifer H. Taylor sold 4,690 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, October 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $11.06, for a total transaction of $51,871.40. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 36,689 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $405,780.34. The trade was a 11.33 % decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last quarter, insiders sold 34,683 shares of company stock worth $397,518. 19.15% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Freshworks Trading Up 1.0 % FRSH stock opened at $15.99 on Friday. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $12.95 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $12.60. The company has a market cap of $4.84 billion, a PE ratio of -46.56 and a beta of 0.72. Freshworks Inc. has a 12-month low of $10.81 and a 12-month high of $24.98. About Freshworks ( Free Report ) Freshworks Inc, a software development company, provides software-as-a-service products worldwide. It offers Freshworks Customer Service Suite, which provides automated, personalized self-service on various channels, including web, chat, mobile messaging, email, and social; Freshdesk, a ticketing-centric customer service solution; Freshsuccess, a customer success solution; and Freshchat that provides agents with a modern conversational experience to proactively engage customers across digital messaging channels. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Freshworks Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Freshworks and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .House rejects Democratic efforts to force release of Matt Gaetz ethics reportWhy your favorite catalogs are smaller this holiday season

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