Over the last several years, the entertainment industry has been rocked by a succession of body blows. It came out of a global pandemic only to be hit with dual strikes (WGA and SAG-AFTRA) that caused historically long labor stoppages, which were followed by a work slowdown brought on by a deflation of the streaming bubble, exacerbated by the threat of strikes by below-the-line unions. Through it all, the honorees on Variety ’s 2024 Dealmakers report continued to work on behalf of their clients. On the whole, the deals weren’t as plentiful or as rich, but, necessity being the mother of invention, often more innovative. They approach the coming new year with a mix of optimism and uncertainty, as they navigate the threat and the promise of artificial intelligence — perhaps the most disruptive of technological innovations to date — while cautiously anticipating the incoming administration in Washington, D.C., which is seen as more friendly to corporate mergers and acquisitions, but hostile to Hollywood, in spite of its leader’s past ties to show business. CEO, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) In October, five years to the week after Khan launched professional wrestling promotion AEW as a direct competitor to Vince McMahon’s long-dominant WWE, he closed a multi-year media rights deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, worth a reported $185 million a year, that calls for AEW’s shows and events to be broadcast on TBS and TNT and stream on Max. The company is now valued at more than $2 billion, making it the third-most-valuable combat sports company in the world. Ain’t bragging if it’s true: “Our new arrangement signifies that AEW will make history as the first professional wrestling promotion to simulcast events weekly on top cable channels and a top streaming platform,” says Khan. Chris Spicer Marissa Román Griffith Alissa Miller Vanessa Roman Partners Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld The Akin team closed more than $3.5 billion in deals in the past year, spanning media, entertainment and sports. Recently, it repped CAT5, an action film label backed by Fifth Season, in its initial project, “Levon’s Trade” (Black Bear Pictures), written by Sylvester Stallone, and advised HarbourView Equity Partners on its investment in Mucho Mas Media, producers of the films “Rosario” and “The Long Game.” Be open-minded : “AI will obviously have an impact on all facets of the media and entertainment industry, but how much and to what extent is still TBD,” says the group in a joint statement. “Our advice for anyone in the industry, be it legal, financial, creative, etc., is to learn how to use the technology to be more efficient and better at your job as opposed to be scared of it. Embrace the change and look for ways to use it to your advantage.” Partners Alter Kendrick & Baron Alter and Baron closed almost $1 billion worth of music publishing and master recording catalog acquisitions and sales in the past year, representing Primary Wave Music Publishing (Neil Sedaka), BMG Rights Management (Peter Frampton), Reservoir Media Management (Louis Prima), Iconic Artists Group (Rod Stewart) and Influence Media Partners (Enrique Iglesias). Spotlight shining brighter on NIL deals: “There are a number of buyers that are — if not getting exclusive rights in that area, because it’s hard to value, particularly if those kinds of rights haven’t been historically exploited — at least getting the opportunity to bring things to the table,” says Alter. “Some sellers are looking for partners to help them make the biopic they’ve always wanted to make or the Broadway jukebox musical they’ve always wanted to do.” Pat Shah Global head of content acquisition, strategy & partnerships Rhonda Adams Medina Head of business affairs Kristin Lang Senior director of content acquisition Audible If there was doubt that Audible isn’t just about audiobooks and podcasts anymore, it was put to rest when Shah’s team cut a deal for the company’s first musical, “Dead Outlaw,” which premiered Off-Broadway and won a Drama Desk Award. They also negotiated pacts with MGM Studios to develop TV adaptations of original Audible audio titles and Imagine Entertainment to produce a fictional audio series exploring unsolved murders through the lens of church confessions, as well as traditional audiobook deals, including the acquisitions of multi-language audio rights to Andy Weir’s next novel and Matt Dinniman’s “Dungeon Crawler Carl” series. Hear the possibilities: “Audio is a distinct and differentiated way to expand the canvas of what’s possible storytelling-wise, [and] the creative community is eager to explore how to connect with audiences both new and existing through this format,” says Shah. Robyn Polashuk Partner; co-chair, entertainment and media industry group Adrian Perry Partner; co-chair, entertainment and media industry group and music industry group David Lefebvre Mike Hill Special counsel Covington & Burling Calling Covington & Burling’s Perry, Polashuk, Lefebvre and Hill a dream team could be an understatement, given the multi-billion-dollar impact of the deals they structure. They represented the Walt Disney Co. in the media licensing aspects of its agreement to merge Disney Star India’s $8.5 billion with Reliance’s Viacom 18, and advised Paramount Global on network distribution matters involved on its proposed $8 billion merger with Skydance Media. On the sports side, Hill advised the NBA on an 11-year, $76 billion media rights agreement with the Walt Disney Co. (ABC/ESPN), NBCUniversal and Amazon. Better dealmaking through science: “This year is marked by the acceleration of training, deployment and adoption of AI technologies, which has opened up a new content licensing and monetization market for media and other clients,” says Polashuk. Partners Davis Wright Tremaine The Davis Wright Tremaine quartet had a busy year, handling everything from talent deals to litigation. Miller advised on above-the-line contracts, tax incentives and production services on Seasons 2 and 3 of Amazon MGM Studios’ “The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power.” Zee handled more than 60 development deals for ITV Studios America’s partnerships with Tomorrow Studios and Bedrock Entertainment. Wei tackled unique production legal issues, including the vetting of “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver’s” offer to give Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas $1 million a year and a new RV in exchange for his resignation from the Supreme Court. Palacios advised on numerous documentaries for studios including Imagine Entertainment and Netflix and is lead defense counsel for the Cinemart in a defamation suit arising from its docuseries “Bug Out.” Pre-strike greenlights turned to red: “Talent hoped they would immediately go into production, but so many months had passed during the strike period that the studios started to take a second look at those projects, and in some cases scrapped them and started over,” says Miller. Partners Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein Lezcano Bobb & Dang These Del Shaw Moonves legal eagles span the entertainment spectrum from film, TV and docs to the legit stage. In the past year, Bobb cut deals for talent ranging from director Malcolm D. Lee (Blumhouse/Universal thriller “Help”) to actor David Oyelowo (starring role in National Theatre production of Shakespeare’s “Coriolanus”). A major player in the unscripted space, Cohan grew his sports-related business, cutting deals for Box to Box Films, Vox Media Studios, Pro Shop and the NFL, while repping stars like French chef and chocolatier Amaury Guichon and journalists Soledad O’Brien and Antonia Hylton. Lezcano negotiated Sterlin Harjo’s overall pact with FX, which spawned the pilot “The Sensitive Kind,” starring Ethan Hawke, and producer Gareth Neame’s deal for a third “Downton Abbey” film and his new multi-year deal to continue as chairman of Carnival Television. In addition to regularly handling deals for top entertainment execs, Tillers set Quinta Brunson to write, produce and star in the Universal comedy feature “Par for the Course” (with founding partner Nina Shaw), and Becky Hartman Edwards’ showrunner deal for Netflix’s “One Tree Hill” reboot. Relaxing talent holding deals: “The overall compensation package is not as lucrative as it used to be, nor are they ordering as many episodes as they did traditionally, so they have to be a little bit more lenient,” says Bobb. Founding partner Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein Lezcano Bobb & Dang A longstanding leader in the entertainment law community, Shaw had another year of big deals, including pacts for Lupita Nyong’o to join the all-star cast in Christopher Nolan’s next movie, Quinta Brunson to co-write, produce and star in the Universal feature comedy “Par for the Course” (with partner Lily Tillers), Ayo Edebiri to co-star in Luca Guadagnino’s “After the Hunt,” Victoria Mahoney to direct the Amazon MGM rom-com “Clean Air” and Jurnee Smollett to star in the Apple TV+ series “Firebug.” No profit participation for you!: “We always had really tough definitions of payouts, but a lot of people still got paid,” Shaw says. “Now, more and more, we see this concept that people don’t actually deserve to participate in the upside.” Partner; global co-chair, media, sport & entertainment DLA Piper Ara had a busy year repping Caryn Mandabach Prods. in its sale to Banijay U.K., animation studio Titmouse (“Big Mouth”) in an eight-figure renewal of its first-look pact with Netflix and Korean streaming service Coupang Play in its deal with Major League Baseball for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres to face off in a pair of preseason games in Seoul in March 2024. Laying fresh revenue pipelines: “While new dealmaking opportunities in music have emerged from the securitization of royalty income streams, financiers are increasingly exploring broader sector opportunities,” he says. “This includes consolidating legacy assets and ensuring steady cash flows in an industry that is constantly evolving.” Partner; chair of national advertising team DLA Piper Mulcahy has been at the center of many of the biggest transactions at the intersection of sports and entertainment. Most notably, he repped Amazon Prime Video in its 11-year, $21 billion global media rights deal with the National Basketball Assn. for an exclusive package of NBA and WNBA games, running through the 2035-2036 season. The deal, which closed in July, marks the league’s first streaming-only media rights agreement. Package it up: “Live sports is rapidly migrating to digital media channels and is getting more expensive to acquire and exploit. So in an effort to build the scale needed to cover those costs, we’re seeing competitors team up to bundle their products and services and go to market together,” says Mulcahy. Stacy Marcus Katherine Imp Michael Isselin Partners David Markman Partner; co-chair, entertainment transactions practice DLA Piper This DLA Piper team has been a key player in matters that have widespread impact on the industry, most notably negotiations for SAG-AFTRA’s commercials contract, where Marcus serves as chief negotiator for the Joint Policy Committee representing the advertising industry, assisted by Isselin as legal counsel. Imp’s responsibilities include serving as lead outside counsel for iHeartMedia’s podcast slate with Shondaland and repping Lego Group in the negotiation of content production and distribution arrangements with studios including Disney and Netflix, while Markman handles all aspects of Jeanie Buss and David McLane’s all-female wrestling promotion Women of Wrestling, including the negotiation of its multi-year distribution deal with Paramount/CBS Studios. See AI from both sides now: “AI is an umbrella and there are many really great uses for it that can improve creativity and efficiencies,” says Marcus, whether the users are brands, film and TV producers, creators or performers, as long as they have proper protections. Robert J. Sherman Partner; co-chair, entertainment finance practice Richard Petretti Claire Hall Partners DLA Piper Sherman and Hall are at the glowing center of the red-hot music catalog marketplace. In March, the duo secured approximately $500 million in financing for client HarbourView Equity Partners, backed by its music royalty catalog, which includes titles by artists including Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, Fleetwood Mac’s Christine McVie, Wiz Khalifa and Brad Paisley. They also repped leading independent music company Concord in its issuance of $850 million in asset-backed notes, which will be used for additional music acquisitions. Meanwhile, Petretti served as administrative agent on JPMorgan’s amendment of its $675 million term loan and revolving credit facility (expandable to $875 million) for Arnon Milchan’s Regency/Monarchy Entertainment group of companies. Business is good: “We see a maturing of the market for music securitizations and believe that music acquisition platforms sponsored by institutional investors and other sophisticated capital providers will continue to access and grow this subsector of the esoteric ABS [asset-backed securities] market,” says Sherman. General counsel and head of business legal affairs Fifth Season Arias assisted in securing a $225 million strategic investment from Toho, Japan’s largest film studio, which empowered Fifth Season to continue expanding its premium content slate. He’s provided ongoing oversight of business and legal practices for Emmy-nominated Apple TV+ series “Severance” and Max’s “Tokyo Vice,” and on the film side overseen the thriller “She Rides Shotgun,” starring Taron Egerton, and the comedies “Friendship,” starring Tim Robinson, and “Nonnas,” starring Vince Vaughn. Election impact on dealmaking: “We could see an easing of regulation on M&A in the media business, which could lead to more consolidation, while possibly boosting companies that have faced challenges being competitive, which is very good for the industry,” Arias says. Partner; founding chair, entertainment & sports law department Fox Rothschild Miller repped husband and wife clients Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance in numerous matters, including pacts for her to return for “Mission Impossible — The Final Reckoning” and for him to take over the role of Zeus in Season 2 of the Disney+ series “Percy Jackson and the Olympians,” as well as a first-look deal for the couple’s production company with 20th Television. He also closed deals for Chris “Ludacris” Bridges (2024 Super Bowl Halftime Show performance), Da’Vine Joy Randolph (starring roles in A24 rom-com “Eternity” and Michel Gondry’s Universal musical “Golden”) and comedian/host Taylor Tomlinson (Netflix special “Have It All”). One door opens and ...: “I see a paradigm shift breaking up the monopolies, creating more ways to make money and an opportunity for those nimble enough to find a new model and create their niche and build their audience,” Miller says. Partners Fox Rothschild Katz and Vaquerano have been working with HarbourView Equity Partners since its founding in 2021, handling all stages of negotiations — from due diligence to post-closing — on more than a billion dollars-worth of deals. This year, they were instrumental in securing $500 million in financing for HarbourView, backed by its music royalties catalog, which includes titles by artists such as Fleetwood Mac’s Christine McVie, Wiz Khalifa, Brad Paisley and James Fauntleroy. The bicoastal duo (Katz is in New York; Vaquerano in Los Angeles) also recently represented Merch Collective in its $25 million-plus majority interest sale to Sony Music Entertainment. Thinking globally: “There is heightened interest in deals relating to rights originating outside of the United States,” says Katz. “We need to be sure we are helping our clients to appropriately analyze the risk vs. reward tradeoff from exploring unfamiliar jurisdictions.” Partner; chair of entertainment & sports law department Fox Rothschild Simon is a force in the nonfiction space, closing deals for clients such as Oscar-winning director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy (Hulu’s Diane von Furstenberg doc “Woman in Charge”), Alex Stapleton’s House of Nonfiction Prods. (Netflix docuseries about Sean “Diddy” Combs, produced with 50 Cent), longtime AMC Network exec Josh Sapan (overall deal with IFC Films), the Obamas’ Higher Ground Prods. and Bloomberg Media. Streaming for the future: The continued championing of new talent is something that Simon feels is vitally important to the marketplace. “I would like to see the emergence of a strong, consolidated and commercially viable SVOD platform for the smart and bold independent voices of our time and those to come,” he says. J. Eugene (Gene) Salomon Jr. Managing partner Donald S. Passman Ethan Schiffres Daniel S. Passman Partners Gang, Tyre, Ramer, Brown & Passman The Gang, Tyre quartet has a roster of superstar music, film and television clients ranging from Taylor Swift and Stevie Wonder to Timothée Chalamet, Zac Efron and Heidi Klum. In the past year, they amplified their reputation as headliners in the music arena, cutting deals for Green Day’s “Saviors” album and subsequent stadium tour, P!nk’s $693.8 million-grossing Summer Carnival World Tour and the sale of Randy Newman’s recorded music and publishing rights to Litmus Music. On the film and TV side, they brokered Emma Corrin’s appearance in the Marvel blockbuster “Deadpool & Wolverine” and Ridley Scott’s producer and director deal for the upcoming Bee Gees biopic “You Should Be Dancing.” More cross-cultural opportunities: “You’ve got artists from different parts of the world making an impact,” says Salomon. “It used to be that Anglo-American repertoire dominated what was popular everywhere. That’s becoming less of the case and you’re seeing much more diversity.” Kevin Masuda Partner; co-chair, media, entertainment and technology practice group Benyamin (Ben) Ross Partner and co-chair, media, entertainment and technology practice group Steve Tsoneff Sarah Graham Partners Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher The Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher quartet advised Iconic Artists Group, co-founded by longtime Eagles manager Irving Azoff, in its strategic investment from HPS Investment Partners, giving Iconic access to $1 billion to further build out its portfolio. It also repped RedBird Capital Partners in its investment in Charles Barkley’s Round Mound Media and its acquisition of indie TV production and distribution company All3Media, and advised on the launch of Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop Dogg, an alcoholic beverage company founded by Dr. Dre, Snoop, Jimmy Iovine and Main Street Advisors. Who says deal flow is slow?: “Private equity involvement in M&A in the entertainment industry has accelerated, with a particular focus on catalogs, production companies, content libraries and talent-driven businesses like talent agencies, management firms and talent-founded consumer brands,” said the team in a statement. Partners Greenberg Glusker Fields Claman & Machtinger The Greenberg Glusker team worked collaboratively to cut a wealth of headline-grabbing deals, such as Tom Cruise’s strategic partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery and a subsequent pact to make an Alejandro G. Iñárritu film for the studio, both of which were handled by Galsor and Muir. The quartet’s clients also include actors Tom Hanks, Chris Hemsworth, Vin Diesel and Alice Braga, filmmakers Joe and Anthony Russo, James Cameron and David Fincher, authors J.K. Rowling and Jocko Willink, Silent House Prods., costume designer Colleen Atwood, Ubisoft Entertainment, Riot Games, the estates of J.R.R. Tolkien and Ray Bradbury, and Togethxr, (founded by female athletes Alex Morgan, Chloe Kim, Simone Manuel and Sue Bird). Fair compensation for streaming success: “Nobody has the right formula, and I think the formulas that people are discussing are not going to be the ones that are going to be adopted long-term, because they just don’t work,” says Galsor. Founder & CEO HarbourView Equity Partners Launched in 2021, Soares’ HarbourView Equity Partners has established itself as one of the hottest investment firms in the entertainment, sports and media markets, with roughly $1.5 billion in assets currently under its management. Recently, Soares invested in two media production companies focused on inclusive storytelling, Charles D. King’s Macro (“Judas and the Black Messiah,” “Mudbound”) and Mucho Mas Media (“The Long Game, “Rosario”). Growth creates opportunities: “I’ve been consistently focused on high-quality IP, while bringing a big focus on ROI and using data as currency in terms of who is watching and how often, which will help to empower all creative voices,” she says. Partner Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole Johnson has secured over $1 billion in production commitments for Tyler Perry Studios, including Netflix deals that closed in 2024 — a multi-year, first-look series pact and an agreement to produce multiple faith-based films — adding to a deal he made with the streamer in October 2023, calling for eight films over four years. He also handled Perry’s BET series producing agreement and the launch of two free ad-supported streaming channels featuring all of Perry’s BET output. Johnson’s non-Perry work included a joint-venture agreement between Andy and Barbara Muschietti and Skydance to create horror division Nocturna. Gaming the deflating production bubble: “Platforms are being more discerning in what they are investing in, so we need to work harder to show the value proposition to secure long-term, multi-part deals,” he says. Partner Kirkland & Ellis Traxler was at the center of two of the year’s biggest music catalog deals, repping Blackstone in its $1.6 billion purchase of Hipgnosis Songs Fund in April and Universal Music Group in its acquisition of a 25.8% stake in Chord Music Partners for a reported $240 million in February. Music catalog market comeback: “Most every client I’m in contact with about acquisitions feels that as interest rates hopefully continue to come down and economic conditions improve in different countries, opportunities will re-emerge to acquire catalogs,” he says. “There are still plenty of interesting catalogs at all sizes and all levels to attract different kinds of music companies. We need to work harder to show the value proposition to secure long-term, multi-part deals.” Partners Latham & Watkins As partners in Latham & Watkin’s entertainment, sports and media group, Bruington specializes in debt financing transactions and West handles music catalog acquisitions and represents talent in IP joint ventures and brand sponsorship deals, while Johnson and Ranger are transactional generalists. In the past year, they helped Blumhouse acquire Atomic Monster and buy out ITV’s equity interests in Blumhouse Television; advised Skydance Media in its merger with Paramount; negotiated KKR’s sale of Chord Music Partners; and represented Brittney Griner in an exclusive life rights and producing agreement with ESPN and ABC. Turbulent times stir up opportunities: “The big way it’s played out is that private capital has become a lot more nimble in the entertainment [space],” says Ranger. “There are new and more investors, and they’re increasingly open to deploying capital across a variety of investment strategies, rather than traditional equity, traditional debt deals.” CEO Legendary Entertainment Grode led Legendary’s buyback of Beijing-based Wanda Group’s remaining equity interest in the studio in October, putting its ownership solely in the hands of its management and private equity investment firm Apollo Global Asset Management. Grode says it gives them the freedom to pursue M&A opportunities “without the augmented regulatory risk that comes from having a foreign owner in our business.” Legendary was able to do it with cash on hand, thanks to back-to-back blockbusters “Dune: Part Two” and “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,” which grossed a combined $1.2 billion worldwide. AI can localize social media posts: “It’s proving to be very efficient in getting adjustments out the door quickly and at a good price point,” he says. James Feldman Managing partner Stephen Clark Melissa Rogal Jonathan Shikora Partners Lichter, Grossman, Nichols, Feldman, Rogal, Shikora & Clark Feldman cut feature deals for, among others, brothers Benny Safdie (write/direct “The Smashing Machine”) and Josh Safdie (co-write/direct “Marty Supreme”). Feldman and Rogal set Viola Davis for the HBO series “Waller,” while Rogal and Shikora negotiated a multi-script development deal at Amazon for “Poker Face” showrunners Lilla and Nora Zuckerman. Clark serviced clients including Rian Johnson and Ram Bergman (Will Ferrell golf comedy series for Netflix) and “Shōgun” creators Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo. Why streamers are now providing viewer data: According to Feldman, it’s not just about WGA and SAG-AFTRA contract demands. “It’s also largely driven by the fact that all the streamers are trying to sell ads now, and these advertisers have a lot more leverage than the writers did to demand the equivalent of ratings,” he says. Partner Manatt, Phelps & Phillips Chatham repped Dr. Phil (McGraw) in the April launch of his television network Merit Street Media, which is available to more than 80 million homes via partnerships with a mix of broadcast, cable, satellite and FAST channel platforms. Other clients include Logan Paul, Gabriel Macht, Demi Moore and Gabrielle Reece. Products placed just-so: “Now we’re negotiating deals where content, commerce and community blur together,” he says. “Our clients are building robust first-party data operations through their content, then leveraging that to launch everything from spirits, sports drinks, condiments and lifestyle brands. The content is essentially a marketing catalyst for their broader business empire.” Partner Manatt, Phelps & Phillips Meller led the Manatt team that advised Chord Music Partners on its sale, in which KKR’s majority stake was bought by a consortium consisting of Universal Music Group and Dundee Partners for $240 million, resulting in a valuation of $1.85 billion after the deal closed in February. Building out business: “The music industry continues to trend toward artists and songwriters owning and exploiting their own copyrights and relying less on companies and gatekeepers,” he says. “Artists can set their own destiny. We help songwriter clients self-administer and get the most value from their works. Building brands outside of the traditional entertainment industry is also a critical element to an artist’s long-term financial success.” Partner Manatt, Phelps & Phillips Over the past year, Custer handled 23 multi-million-dollar music catalog deals, 21 of which were on the buyer side. Among those were 13 for Reservoir Media Management (including publishing assets of Tupac Shakur producer Big D Evans) and six for Seeker Music (including royalties for B.o.B.). On the seller side, he closed major deals for Pat Benatar and Jay Gruska. He also serves as general counsel for artists including Neil Young and the Pixies. These are the good ol’ days: It’s been a rocky road for the music industry since Custer launched his career in 1997, but he’s happy where it is today. “Now with the ascendency of streaming, touring and music asset sales transactions, there is never a dull day,” he says. Partner Manatt, Phelps & Phillips Stapleton advised Pophouse Entertainment on its $300 million acquisition of the catalog, brand name and IP of rock band Kiss and its purchase of a majority share of Cyndi Lauper’s publishing and recording revenue. He also serves as counsel for Jack White’s Third Man Records, recording artists Em Beihold and La Lom, and Emmy-winning director-producer Jeff Zimbalist (“Skywalkers: A Love Story”). Wolf at the door, thy name is AI: “Performers and songwriters have been fighting for well over a decade to get their fair share of streaming revenues,” he says. “Now, with AI technologies boosting the occurrence of streaming fraud and flooding DSPs with authorless music, artists are facing a new threat to their hard-won share of the streaming ecosystem.” Navid Mahmoodzadegan Co-founder & co-president Carlos Jimenez Global head of media, sports & entertainment Moelis & Co. Mahmoodzadegan and Jimenez were at the center of Hollywood’s biggest deal of the year, advising Skydance Media on its $8 billion merger with Paramount, which closed in July. “There are lot of transactions that are roller coaster rides,” says Jimenez. “This one was probably the steepest.” Prospects for the “New Paramount”: “It’s a business that, in totality, obviously has some of its challenges ahead of it,” says Jimenez. “But I’m very bullish about [Skydance’s] David Ellison and the RedBird [Capital Partners] team that they’ve assembled. If anybody’s going to turn the Titanic, I think they will.” Partners Myman Greenspan Fox Rosenberg Mobasser Younger & Light Before Dead & Company grossed more than $130 million with their 30-day residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas this past summer, Greenspan and Arnst negotiated all-encompassing agreements involving the innovative venue, including ones that secured various rights and clearances for merch and visual IP incorporated into the concert. Greenspan also repped Red Hot Chili Peppers singer Anthony Kiedis in Universal’s option of the movie rights to his autobiography “Scar Tissue” and chef and TV personality Giada De Laurentiis in her spokesperson pact with Oceania Vista cruise ships. Old school still rules: “There was a moment a few years ago that everybody was chasing TikTok artists and it was almost like TikTok replaced the A&R department,” says Greenspan. If you want to build a long and sustained career, “get out on the road, play your songs, deal with people individually, let them know who you are.” Chairman, global advertising & partnerships NBCUniversal Marshall oversaw the team that secured a record $1.25 billion in advertising revenue for NBC’s Summer 2024 Olympics and Paralympics coverage. Seventy percent of the advertisers were Olympics first-timers, contributing $500 million to the final tally, thanks in part to Marshall’s efforts the help smaller marketers break into the once-exclusive television arena via programmatic ad buys. Trend spotter: “In measuring the impact of advertising, we are evolving from proxies to a certified measurement ecosystem proving the true impact of a client’s media objectives,” he says. “As the feedback loop has strengthened, it is indisputable that the most impactful advertising campaigns are in premium video that is running across linear and streaming.” Amy Siegel Partner; co-chair of the entertainment, sports and media group Matthew Syrkin Partner; co-chair of the media tech group Lindsay Conner Silvia Vannini Partners O’Melveny & Meyers In response to lingering challenges from 2023’s strikes, this O’Melveny & Meyers quartet got creative to help clients adapt and thrive. With Siegel in the lead, the team repped Fifth Season in the sale of a 25% stake to Japanese studio Toho for $225 million and advised HighPoint Media Advisors in connection with Shamrock Content Strategy’s acquisition of a media portfolio of more than 550 feature films, 2,000 hours of TV programming and 450 songs. With Cooper running point, they handled several transactions for ITV, including the sell-back of the 45% stake in Blumhouse Television it bought from Blumhouse in 2017 and its co-production agreement with Amazon MGM Studios for the television series “The Better Sister.” AI drawing industry deeper into uncharted territory: “It’s changing how content is created and how Hollywood does business, creating both opportunities and potential liabilities for our clients,” says Siegel “We are closely following the legal landscape around AI as it continues to evolve.” Partner, entertainment & media group Reed Smith Love’s focus on the intersection of music, digital media and emerging technologies makes him a trusted representative for emerging and established musical artists, songwriters, music companies and institutional investors. Whether acting as outside counsel to investment collective PleasrDAO, representing South Korea’s YG Entertainment, nu metal band Korn and jazz legend Thelonious Monk’s estate in transactional music matters or serving as Concord Music Group’s lead music attorney on its $468.8 million acquisition of Round Hill Music Fund, Love knows his success depends on his clients’ success. Doing good works: “We’ve worked on well over $1 billion in music catalog transactions this year, but helping Kesha to establish Kesha Records and seeing her thrive as a fully independent artist is my proudest moment,” says Love. Partner; co-chair, entertainment & media industry group Reed Smith Sessa spent a large part of the past year handling major music acquisition deals for clients including Concord, Sony, Lyric, Kobalt, Hipgnosis, Litmus, Shamrock, Seeker, Pophouse and Flexpoint. Other highlights include advising the Smashing Pumpkins on a stadium tour with Green Day and Bon Jovi on various issues (including his Hulu docuseries “Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story”) and assisting Kesha in launching her new record label. Another record year for music catalog sales predicted: “Simply stated, music rights are a bankable asset class for the financial industry,” he says. “The model works so you will continue to see more buyers enter the space.” Leif Cervantes de Reinstein Shaun Clark Aerin Snow Partners Joseph Ireland Associate Sheppard, Mullin, Richter and Hampton Cervantes de Reinstein and Snow closed high-profile deals for clients including Lionsgate ($375 million acquisition of indie content platform eOne from Hasbro), while serving as outside corporate counsel handling equity financing transactions and joint ventures for 101 Studios (home to Taylor Sheridan’s “Landman,” “Tulsa King” and the “Yellowstone” franchise), including a strategic deal with Paramount Global for multiple series from A-list executive producers including Antoine Fuqua and George Clooney. Clark and Ireland were equally busy, repping Creative Wealth Media Lending in its acquisition of Bron Studios and Sony Pictures in its purchase of Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. Other clients include studios Legendary Pictures and Fremantle and iconic brands such as Peloton, Mazda, QVC and the Hershey Co. Optimistic about the coming year: “[We] expect that we will continue to see strategic collaborations between companies in different industries, [including] tech companies working with content providers, brands collaborating with celebrities, sports leagues collaborating with entertainers, and networks attempting to find new ways to generate revenue,” says Clark. “The M&A marketplace also looks more bullish.” Robert A. Darwell Senior partner; head of global media Ramela Ohanian Partner Nicolas Urdinola Senior associate Tiago Aquino Associate Sheppard, Mullin, Richter and Hampton The multilingual team led by Darwell has been busy handling the development, production and rights agreements on a slew of international projects for companies including Meta, Paramount, TelevisaUnivision, Gaumont, Globo and, most significantly, Amazon MGM Studios. As the outside counsel for the latter, they recently worked on deals for the Spanish feature “La Virgen Roja,” the Mexican series “Cada Minuto Cuenta,” the Colombian film “Pimpinero,” starring Medellín-born rock star Juanes, and an eight-part limited series adaptation of Chilean-American author Isabel Allende’s novel “House of Spirits,” which is Amazon’s highest-budget Latin American production to date. For Meta, they assisted its in-house legal team in negotiating the talent agreements for a series of AI chatbots embodying public figures such as Tom Brady, Kendall Jenner and Naomi Osaka. Look for more experiential entertainment: “It’s bringing new ways for audiences to connect with one another and, on the business side, there’s ancillary revenue streams for both studios and talent,” says Ohanian. Partner; co-leader, global entertainment, sports and media practice Sidley Austin If Dwayne Johnson were Thompson’s only client, he’d still be a very busy man. In the past year, the attorney handled the launch of the massively muscled multi-hyphenate’s Papatui line of personal care products, the merger of the XFL (which Johnson bought out of bankruptcy in 2020 with ex-wife Dany Garcia and other investors) with the USFL to create the United Football League in partnership with ESPN and Fox, and a deal for him to join the board of WWE parent company TKO Group Holdings, re-enter the ring and take full ownership of his nom de wrestling “The Rock.” Placing more bets on original IP: “While that might not be the wisest move from a pure economics standpoint, with a more diverse landscape of bold new content, it will increase competition for people’s eyes and ears,” says Thompson, who also repped “Call Her Daddy” podcast host Alex Cooper in her new $125 million deal with SiriusXM. Managing Partner Singh, Singh & Trauben A onetime in-house lawyer for Universal Music, Singh occasionally moonlights as a producer, most recently with the 2024 Peacock docuseries “Reggaeton: The Sound that Conquered the World,” which he exec produced with client Daddy Yankee. But his day job is cutting deals for the likes of Missy Elliott (“Out of This World” tour), Latin music star Ozuna (publishing catalog sale to Kobalt/KMR Holdings), Flow La Movie (catalog sale to Cinq Music), FloyyMenor (deal with UnitedMasters) and Grupo Firme (new distribution agreement with Virgin and publishing deal with Universal). The power of music catalog sales: “This trend has reshaped how legacy artists, songwriters and producers approach their long-term financial strategies,” he says. David Eisman Partner; head of media and entertainment group Glen Mastroberte Partner, media and entertainment group Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom M&A specialists in the entertainment sector, Eisman and Mastroberte kept busy working on transactions spanning film, television, music, gaming and sports as the industry recovered from last year’s strikes. They’ve helped indie music labels like Drake’s OVO Sound and DJ Khaled’s We the Best Music strike major deals, and represented Parkwood Ventures in Beyoncé’s joint venture with Moët Hennessy and the development, marketing and launch of her SirDavis whisky brand. Proudest moment in 2024: For Eisman, it was handling UTA’s acquisition of top European soccer agency Roof. “That was the largest deal that UTA has ever done in its history,” he says. Rick Offsay Partner; global co-chair, entertainment, sports & media practice Justin Hamill Partner; global co-chair, mergers & acquisitions and private equity practice Latham & Watkins Hamill and Offsay tackle complex strategic transactions, like advising Skydance Media in a merger with Paramount and an investor group in a $8 billion-plus investment in Paramount Global and the acquisition of National Amusements. Separately, Offsay advised Carlyle in providing an $800 million asset-backed credit facility to Park County (“South Park”), while Hamill advised Endeavor in a $25 billion take-private acquisition of the company by Silver Lake. Staying ahead of the curve: “Comcast’s recent spin out of its cable networks, and Warner Brothers — [which has gone] through a number of transactions, including with Discovery — now needs to figure something else out,” says Offsay. “All of these legacy media companies are trying to figure out the next thing.” Exec VP, global head of corporate Sony Pictures Entertainment Anguelova played a key role in securing Sony Pictures Entertainment’s acquisition of the dine-in theater chain Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, marking the first time a major studio has re-entered the theatrical exhibition business since the 1948 Paramount Consent Decrees were lifted in 2020. The studio plans to harness Alamo’s four million loyalty club members to “eventize” its IP, including content from anime-centric subscription VOD streamer Crunchyroll. Managing the downturn: “Certainly, our offer structures are adapting and becoming more nuanced to be reflective of the new realities of the market, and to align with both seller and buyer interests,” says Anguelova. “The market is showing resilience for premium companies despite current challenges, as evidenced by recent high-profile transactions like the All3Media sale to RedBird.” Greg Akselrud Partner; chair of internet, digital media and entertainment practice Cathleen Green Senior counsel Stubbs Alderton & Markiles Influential Network could’ve used a big white shoe law firm to handle its $500 million acquisition by Publicis Groupe. Ex-Disney exec Ben Sherwood and former Hearst chief content officer Joanna Coles could’ve done the same when they took the editorial reins at the Daily Beast in a deal that gave the duo close to a 50% equity interest in the publication. Instead, they called on mid-size Sherman Oaks-based Stubbs Alderton & Markiles. According to Akselrud, it’s because not only are they well-versed in the issues, they also have the ability to see the blind spots in a deal and “think around the corner.” Can’t sell a new product on stars power alone: “You need to have a celebrity with a relatively decent following to launch the brand, but then you really must have marketing dollars to facilitate the growth,” says Akselrud. Global head of music business development TikTok Obermann played a key role in bringing Universal Music Group catalog back to TikTok in May 2024 with a new licensing agreement featuring enhanced AI protections. He’s also provided promotional and creative support for the platform’s partnerships with artists including Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Sabrina Carpenter and Post Malone. No need to panic about AI: “A year and a half ago, the feeling in the music industry was the sky might be falling because AI is coming at us in a fast and furious way, and we don’t know if we have the right guardrails,” he says. “We had ‘Fake Drake’ [in April 2023] and a couple of other cultural moments with AI in music, but it’s gone pretty quiet, if you think about it.” President, platform distribution The Walt Disney Company Disney’s roster of networks (including ABC, Disney-branded channels, ESPN, FX and National Geographic) had been dark on DirecTV for nearly two weeks in September before Connolly, serving as chief negotiator, hammered out an agreement. The multi-billion-dollar deal he facilitated covered carriage of the Mouse House’s linear channel portfolio, as well the option for consumers to subscribe to its streaming services (Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+) via select DirecTV packages or on an a la carte basis. The upside to bad times: According to Connolly, the production downturn “has created greater demand for content in the marketplace and more opportunities for us to strategically license our best-in-class, non-branded library content to third parties.” Adam Glick Exec VP, business operations, Warner Bros. Television Matt Matzkin Exec VP, operations, Warner Bros. Unscripted Television and Warner Bros. Animation Shanon Muir Senior VP, legal, Warner Bros. Television Group — Animation Warner Bros. Television Group Collectively, this Warner Bros. trio handled the dealmaking for just under 90 series for a multitude of platforms. Glick cut straight-to-series deals for an untitled HBO comedy from Bill Lawrence starring Steve Carell and the John Wells’ medical drama “The Pitt.” On the unscripted side, Matzkin launched the Food Network’s “Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking,” Max’s “Fast Friends” and the syndicated “True Crime News” and secured renewals for “Extra” and “The Jennifer Hudson Show.” Muir negotiated three new Cartoon Network series orders for “Foster’s Funtime for Imaginary Friends,” “Adventure Time Side Quests” and an untitled “Regular Show” project. Dealing digital supplements: “We have a number of podcasts that we produce on our own, and we’re also collaborating with other podcasts that are not produced by us, and trying to get our talent on to them,” says Matkzin. Partner Weintraub Tobin Gordon negotiated several headline deals for “Call Her Daddy” host and executive producer Alex Cooper, including a new multi-year $125 million pact with SiriusXM that will bring Cooper’s Unwell Network family of podcasts to the platform beginning in 2025. Other clients include actors Diane Lane and Zosia Mamet, podcasters Guy Raz and Caleb Pressley, novelist/screenwriter Maria Semple, dancer/singer/social media personality Niana Guerrero and actress/writer/comedian Jenny Lorenzo. Added visuals mean bigger bucks: “Video podcasts continue to gain popularity, and video has therefore become a key element, not only in driving audience engagement, but also providing great opportunity for promotion via clips on social media,” he says. Ariel Emanuel CEO, TKO Nick Khan President, WWE Mark Shapiro President & chief operating officer, TKO Andrew Schleimer Chief financial officer, TKO WWE Last year, Endeavor merged Ultimate Fighting Championship with World Wrestling Entertainment under the TKO Group Holdings banner. In January 2024, TKO’s leadership quadrumvirate closed a $5.2 billion, 10-year deal to make Netflix the exclusive home of WWE’s flagship show “Raw” in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Latin America and other territories beginning in January 2025. As part of the pact, Netflix will be the home for all WWE shows and specials outside the U.S. from that date forward, giving roughly 80% of international territories immediate access to 100% its content, with the rest of the globe filling out their WWE lineups as outstanding deals expire. Added value with Netflix: “While the money is extraordinarily important, the downstream impact and ancillary benefits to being with the distributor and just south of 300 million homes globally was something that got us very excited,” says Schleimer. Co-founder & managing partner Yorn Levine Barnes Krintzman Rubenstein Kohner Endlich Goodell & Gellman Yorn kept his 29-year-old firm at the front of the entertainment law pack in 2024, cutting deals for clients including Scarlett Johansson (starring role in “Jurassic World Rebirth”), Ellen DeGeneres ($20 million pact for Netflix comedy special), Zoe Saldaña (Golden Globe-nominated role in “Emilia Pérez”), Jonah Hill (write, produce and act in Apple TV+ movie “Outcome”) and Matthew McConaughey (Apple TV+ series “Brother From Another Mother”). Belt and suspenders treatment for AI: “We try to make sure that we add extra protection on top of what SAG has achieved with respect to studio deals for film and television,” he says. “We try for a zero-use policy across the board but are always open to see if AI can be beneficial for all concerned.” Partner Yorn Levine Barnes Krintzman Rubenstein Kohner Endlich Goodell & Gellman Barnes has been in the Snoop Dogg business for more than a quarter of a century, and business was very good this year, with the attorney closing deals for the rapper’s high-profile role in NBC’s Summer Olympics coverage and his judge gig on the network’s singing competition show “The Voice.” He did that while simultaneously helping set up his premium spirits company Still G.I.N., launched in partnership with Dr. Dre. Buckle up for Trump 2.0: “There may be an initial chilling effect on diverse hiring and productions,” he says. “And with such a vast ideological divide within the entertainment industry and beyond, some may be denied employment or access to capital based on their views.” Partner Yorn Levine Barnes Krintzman Rubenstein Kohner Endlich Goodell & Gellman Endlich recently negotiated comedian Bert Kreischer’s deal for two upcoming Netflix stand-up specials, and director/producer pacts for Taika Waititi’s Sony feature adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel “Klara and the Sun,” starring Amy Adams, and Jaume Collet-Serra’s Netflix thriller “Carry On,” starring Taron Egerton. He also set D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai to star in A24’s “Warfare.” World domination has its benefits: “Given the global reach of the major streaming platforms, there’s greater opportunity to work with international clients and make innovative deals with foreign production companies that have partnered with the streamers to produce programs for both a U.S. and worldwide audience,” he says. Partner Ziffren Brittenham As the co-executor and manager of Michael Jackson’s estate, Branca engineered a 50% sale of the late superstar’s music publishing and record masters to Sony Music worth a reported $600 million, while retaining control for the estate, which to date has yielded $2 billion from productions including the Tony-winning “MJ: The Musical.” Disruption on endless rotation: “When you trace the effect of technology in the industry, whether it went from piano rolls to wax discs to albums, and 45s to free download to streaming, it keeps changing the industry,” Branca says. “The most important thing that content owners are doing is trying to protect their IP rights from being basically taken for free while somebody else creates a new asset.”

A wealthy couple have appeared in court after a gardener died while working at their £2.5 million country mansion. Former Ministry of Defence chief Nicholas Prest, 71, and his wife Anthea, 70, have both denied being to blame for the death of gardener Paul Marsden, who was working on the grounds of their property at the time. Self-employed Mr Marsden, 47, had been using a quad bike to spray weed killer when he fell from the vehicle in April 2020. An inquest previously heard he was was discovered underneath the "all terrain vehicle" by another worker, and a post mortem examination revealed he had died of asphyxia. Mr Prest and his wife are each accused of two charges under the Health and Safety at Work act in relation to Mr Marsden's death They do not face charges of manslaughter, but instead are accused over charges of failing to check workers had protective equipment and that the quad bike was safe to use, reports Wales Online . Following a prosecution brought by the Health and Safety Executive, the couple appeared together in the dock on Wednesday at Cardiff Crown Court, where they spoke only to confirm their names, dates of birth, and address. They also spoke to plead not guilty to both charges during the brief hearing and will stand trial next October. One charge alleges the Prests didn't check that persons including Paul Marsden "were exposed to risks arising from the failure to provide suitable and sufficient training, plant and personal protective equipment when using all-terrain vehicles." The other charge alleges the couple failed to" take such measures as it was reasonable for you to take to ensure, so far as was reasonably practicable, that plants provided for use, namely that an all terrain vehicle, was safe and without risk to non-employees, namely Paul Marsden, for use on the premises." Mr Prest, previously worked for the MoD before setting up his own companies and is now the chairman of defence technology giant Cohort. He lives with Mrs Prest at the sprawling countryside house close to the village of Llandogo in Monmouthshire, which overlooks the River Wye and across into the Forest of Dean. The couple have previously hosted a number of garden parties at the Pilstone House home as charity fundraising events for causes such as the NHS and Ukraine. The Prests, of Llandogo, were handed unconditional bail. Mr Marsden's brother Gary and father John followed the proceedings on video link after judge Eugene Egan granted them permission to attend remotely.

EXCLUSIVE Donald Trump announces he is making Kimberly Guilfoyle his ambassador to Greece in stunning move Guilfoyle is a former Fox News host and a big Trump fundraiser By ROB CRILLY, CHIEF U.S. POLITICAL CORRESPONDENT FOR DAILYMAIL.COM IN WASHINGTON, D.C. Published: 17:35 EST, 10 December 2024 | Updated: 18:24 EST, 10 December 2024 e-mail 32 shares 136 View comments Donald Trump announced Tuesday he was appointing ex-Fox News host Kimberly Guilfoyle as his ambassador to Greece . Guilfoyle, 55, studied international law and entered public life as a prosecutor in San Francisco and Los Angeles , but entered the Trump orbit as fiancee to the president-elect's son Don Jr , 46. 'Her extensive experience and leadership in law, media, and politics along with her sharp intellect make her supremely qualified to represent the United States, and safeguard its interests abroad,' Trump said in a Truth Social post. 'Kimberly is perfectly suited to foster strong bilateral relations with Greece, advancing our interests on issues ranging from defense cooperation to trade and economic innovation.' The announcement comes just hours after Daily Mail published photographs of Don Jr. hand-in-hand with the Palm Beach socialite , Bettina Anderson, showing his days with Guilfoyle are clearly over. Don Jnr and Guilfoyle began dating in 2018 and became engaged in 2020. However, Daily Mail has reported extensively that their relationship is all but over since September. Donald Jr. continued to be photographed with 55-year-old Guilfoyle after our revelation, but she has not been snapped with him since November 12 – and was reported to have been 'blindsided'. 'There are a ton of people vying for this. It is one of the hottest posts in the world,' said a source familiar with the president-elect's thinking. 'Not just because it's an amazing place place to live, but because it's a hotbed of activity with everything that is happening in Syria , throughout the middle east, and the migrant crisis.' The source added that Guilfoyle, aside from her relationship with Don Jr. had known Trump for 20 years, and raised hundreds of millions of dollars for his campaigns. 'He wants her to represent him on the world stage,' the source added. Kimberly Guilfoyle is the favorite to be Donald Trump's next ambassador to Greece Guilfoyle was a host on Fox News for more than a decade and has known Trump for 20 years 'She studied international law and will be amazing spokeswoman for Donald Trump. 'She'll be the Jackie O of the MAGA movement.' Guilfoyle was assistant district attorney in San Francisco from 2000 to 2004. But it was her marriage to Democratic politician Gavin Newsom that brought into the public eye, when she was first lady of San Francisco during his first two years as mayor of that city. Insiders said that experience would help her cope with the demands of being Trump's representative overseas. Guilfoyle was an energetic campaigner for Trump and appeared on stage with the family at the election night party in West Palm Beach. She addressed foreign policy during her convention speech in Milwaukee. 'In our vision, America will combat foreign aggressors and ensure our service members are protected, not abandoned, as they carry out their dangerous missions abroad, because we know we can only have peace through strength,' she said in July. Donald Trump, Jr., and Bettina Anderson hold hands leaving Buccan restaurant in Palm Beach, Florida on Monday Donald Trump, Jr., and Bettina Anderson leave Buccan together on Monday night She appeared with other members of the Trump family in their box at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in July Guilfoyle addressed the party faithful on day three of the Republican National Convention But the appointment comes as her fiancee Don Jr. has been repeatedly pictured with Bettina Anderson , 38, around Palm Beach, suggesting his six-year engagement in well an truly over. The new couple's latest date saw them attend exclusive hotspot Buccan for two hours to celebrate Anderson's birthday. The restaurant is just three miles from Bettina's townhouse, where Don often stays. They looked every bit a new couple, with Don Jr holding her Bettina's hand as they left the venue just before 10pm. Guilfoyle's new role means she will likely be swapping life in Florida for Jefferson House, the American ambassador's residence in the Greek capital Athens. It comes with a swimming pool in the backyard and enough reception space to entertain hundreds of dignitaries. It was named for Thomas Jefferson who held up Greek democracy as the most important influence on the founding of the American republic. Donald Trump Jr Politics Greece Los Angeles Share or comment on this article: Donald Trump announces he is making Kimberly Guilfoyle his ambassador to Greece in stunning move e-mail 32 shares Add comment

REBELDOGS Introduces First Movie-Crypto Collaboration, Linking Cinema and Support for Dog Shelters1. Attacks against seafarers and international shipping The Committee heard various statements delivered by Member States about the ongoing attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea area and the Black Sea area. The Committee expressed concern over the safety and welfare of seafarers, freedom of navigation, threats to the marine environment and stability of the global supply chain resulting from the attacks by Houthis on commercial ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The Committee reiterated the call for the immediate release of the MV Galaxy Leader and its 25 seafarers which have remained captive since its hijacking in November 2023, marking a year of imprisonment of innocent seafarers. The Committee expressed gratitude to the European Union for the support provided through Operation ASPIDES, as well as all Member States providing assets to the region. The Committee commended the IMO Secretary-General’s strong commitment and efforts, including his recent visit to the countries in the region, to re-establish safety and security in the Red Sea and the immediate release of the MV Galaxy Leader. The Committee also took note of statements related to the Black Sea area. 2. Amendments to mandatory IGC and IGF Codes adopted The Committee adopted amendments to the following mandatory Codes under SOLAS: International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code) The Committee adopted amendments to Chapter 16 of the IGC Code, related to the use as fuel of cargoes identified as toxic products, in the context of alternative fuels and new technologies. The amendments are expected to enter into force on 1 July 2026. The Committee approved an MSC circular on the voluntary early application of the IGC Code, associated with these amendments. International Code of Safety for Ship Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) The Committee adopted amendments to parts A and A-1 of the IGF Code relate to ship design, fire safety, ventilation and other safety issues. The amendments are expected to enter into force on 1 January 2028. Noting that there may be capacity-building implications in relation to these amendments to the IGC and IGF Codes, the Committee agreed to advise the Technical Cooperation Committee accordingly and encourage Member States in need of capacity-building assistance to contact IMO. 3. Goal-based new ship construction standards – audit outcomes Under the International Goal-based Ship Construction Standards for Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers (GBS Standards), construction rules for ships, developed by classification societies or national administrations, must be verified. This verification is carried out by international GBS Audit Teams appointed by the IMO Secretary-General, in line with the Revised GBS verification guidelines (resolution MSC.454(100)). In 2024, a combined GBS audit was carried out, with the following outcomes: Initial GBS Verification Audit of Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia (BKI) Following consideration, the Committee confirmed that the information provided by BKI demonstrated conformity with the IMO’s GBS standards, provided that BKI adopt the relevant actions to rectify “non-conformities”, and submit a new request for an audit, in accordance with the Revised GBS verification guidelines. GBS Audit of IACS Recommendation 34/Rev.2 on Standard wave data Following consideration of IACS Recommendation 34/Rev.2, the Committee did not find enough evidence of compliance with relevant GBS standards. The Committee recommended a revision of IACS Rec.34/Rev.2, containing more detailed information. The information contained in IACS Recommendation 34/Rev.2 is intended to provide the basis for the development of IACS Common Structural Rules (CSR) around wave induced loads and motions. The Committee agreed that a “following audit” on the IACS Rec.34 revision be subsequently carried out, in conjunction with that of the consequential rule changes in CSR. Third GBS Workshop The Committee requested the Secretariat to plan and prepare for the third GBS Workshop, tentatively scheduled to take place in 2025, after MSC 110 (18 – 27 June, 2025). 4. Roadmap revised for the development of a Code for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) The Committee continued its work to develop a Code to regulate autonomous ships, with re-establishing the WG on MASS. The Committee noted the progress at the WG, in particular it finalized chapters 7 (Risk Assessment), 12 (Connectivity), which was relocated to new chapter 17bis, and 18 (Search and Rescue) of the draft MASS Code. Given the remaining work to be done, the Committee agreed to a revised road map for developing the MASS Code, subject to further revision when necessary: 5. Development of a safety regulatory framework to support the reduction of GHG emissions from ships using new technologies and alternative fuels The Committee received an update on the work of the Correspondence Group on Development of a Safety Regulatory Framework to Support the Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships using New Technologies and Alternative Fuels (GHG safety). The Correspondence Group, established at MSC 108, has been working on capturing detailed information (technical background, hazards, and risks to ship/shoreside) for the new technologies and alternative fuels. Safety obstacles and gaps in existing regulations are also being assessed. The Committee endorsed the addition of a new category on “swappable traction lithium-ion battery containers” to the list of new technologies developed by the Correspondence Group. The Correspondence Group will continue work intersessionally and report to MSC 110. Amendments to SOLAS Chapter II-1 on the application of IGF Code approved While the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) applies to fuels that are gases or have a low-flash point, SOLAS Chapter II-1 states that the IGF Code applies to ships using low-flashpoint fuels, regardless of whether they were in liquid or gaseous form. The Committee approved draft amendments to Chapter II-1 of the SOLAS Convention to clarify that the IGF Code applies to gaseous fuels or low flash-point fuels. The approved SOLAS amendments will be submitted with a view to adoption at MSC 110 in June 2025, with expected entry into force in 2027. 6. Cyber risk management The Committee advanced its work to identify next steps to enhance maritime cybersecurity, following the approval by MSC 108 of the revised Guidelines on Maritime Cyber Risk Management (MSC-FAL.1/Circ.3/Rev.2) The Committee agreed on the need to further develop cybersecurity standards for ships and port facilities, with the possibility of establishing a working group at MSC 110, pending submissions under this agenda item. The Committee invited Member States and international organizations to submit proposals for consideration on the next steps to enhance maritime cybersecurity; and extended the target completion of the output to 2026. 7. Measures to enhance maritime security – updates The Committee noted updates on key developments in the IMO’s work to enhance maritime security. This includes information about the submission of security-related information for port facilities in GISIS, and a report on capacity-building projects and initiatives implemented by the Secretariat, including: 8. Piracy and armed robbery against ships – updates The Committee received an update on developments related to piracy and armed robbery against ships. This includes reports on acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships for the first six months of 2024, and recent developments related to regional initiatives such as the Djibouti Code of Conduct/Jeddah Amendment and Yaoundé Code of Conduct. According to information received on IMO’s GISIS platform, 72 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships were reported to IMO as having occurred or been attempted in January to June 2024. For the same period in 2023, 90 incidents were reported. This constitutes a decrease of approximately 20% at the global level compared to the same period in 2023. The areas most affected by acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships in January to June 2024 were the Straits of Malacca and Singapore area (37), Indian Ocean (13), West Africa (10), Arabian Sea (7), followed by the South China Sea (4) and South America (Atlantic) (1). 9. Guidelines on the recovery of deceased people approved The Committee approved the MSC-FAL circular on Guidelines concerning the recovery of deceased persons and of death after recovery. This will be forwarded to the Facilitation Committee (FAL) for its concurrent approval. The guidelines address the need for awareness about the proper handling of non-survivors in migrant boats, supplementing resolution MSC.528 (106) on Recommended cooperation to ensure the safety of life at sea, the rescue of persons in distress at sea and the safe disembarkation of survivors. This includes legal and cultural considerations, as well as paying due respect to the practice of the migrants, the local public health policies in handling a deceased person among survivors rescued in a migrant boat; and considerations in handing over bodies between various organizations. 10. Revised guidelines for formal safety assessment (FSA) approved The Committee approved the Revised guidelines for Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) for use in the IMO rule-making process, for dissemination as MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.12/Rev.3, subject to concurrent approval by MEPC 83. A Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) is a structured and systematic methodology aimed at enhancing maritime safety, by using risk analysis and cost-benefit assessment. FSAs can be used as a tool to help in the evaluation of new maritime regulations. The revision of the Revised guidelines updates various sections, including among others, updating methods, list of references and the flow chart of the FSA methodology. 11. Reports of Sub-Committees The Committee considered the reports of its Sub-Committees: The Committee approved the reports in general and took the following actions: Sub-Committee on ship systems and equipment (SSE 10) Amendments to 1994 and 2000 HSC Codes Revision of SOLAS chapter III and the LSA Code Unified interpretations (UI) Amendments emanating from assumed weight in self-righting tests and retro- reflective materials Revision of MSC.1/Circ.677 Minor correction to SOLAS regulation II-2/11 Sub-Committee on navigation, communications and search and rescue (NCSR 11) Ships’ routeing measures Revision of resolution A.707(17) Amendments to the IAMSAR manual Revision of SAR.7/Circ.15 Performance standards for a digital navigational data system (NAVDAT) Revision of resolution A.1001(25) Pilot transfer arrangements Revision of resolution MSC.74(69), annex 3 Other circulars Sub-Committee on the carriage of cargoes and containers (CCC 10) Interim guidelines for the safety of ships using ammonia as fuel Updated work plan for the development of new alternative fuels Draft amendments to the IGC Code and preparation of a new consolidated version of the Code Sub-Committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments (III 10) Interim guidelines on Cape Town Agreement on fishing vessel safety Preventing collisions with fishing vessels Observations on quality of investigation reports Analysis of consolidated audit summary reports (CASRs) Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response (PPR 11) 12. Domestic ferry safety The Committee noted the recent activities and initiatives undertaken with respect to enhancing domestic ferry safety, particularly in the context of partnerships with the Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA), the Pacific Community (SPC), World Maritime University (WMU), INTERFERRY and the Lloyd’s Register Foundation. Source: IMO

In 2024, Denton bid farewell to academic visionaries, former city leaders and journalists who left legacies for students. They were remembered for building college programs, mentoring athletes, leading the city through change and pursuing truth. Nov. 20, 1943-Jan. 9, 2024 This University of North Texas professor taught and researched environmental science for 32 years. Kenneth Dickson contributed more than 225 publications in his field — the environmental connections between water, energy, agriculture, natural resources, as well as sustainability. He was credited with bringing just over $20 million into UNT. Kenneth Dickson His ideas around connection inspired the Environmental Education, Science and Technology Building on the UNT campus, which brought together offices, classrooms, experimental and educational spaces where scientists and faculty across the range of environmental studies can exchange ideas and inspire the next generation. As the founding director of the Elm Fork Education Center, Dickson created space for children to experience the excitement of discovery. His aim was to open doors for his students as others had opened doors for him. d. Jan. 28, 2024 Argyle Middle School Principal Scott Gibson, 49, died after an accident in another state. Gibson taught in Denton and Northwest ISD schools, then joined Argyle ISD as an assistant principal at Argyle Middle School in 2006. He became the principal in 2009. He is remembered as an engaging leader who inspired staff members and created a positive learning environment for Argyle students. Gibson was inspired by his parents' dedication to their students and followed their footsteps into education. March 8, 2007-Feb. 3, 2024 The 16-year-old Denton High School student was killed in a shooting at Denia Park. Family, friends and classmates remembered Ely Mendez Gomez as a free-spirited and respectful teen who had a host of hobbies and interests and faithfully walked the family dog. His death left an absence in the lives of his peers, and teachers recalled a positive, quiet young man in their classes. June 19, 1948-April 9, 2024 UNT professor John Spencer Baen, an Argyle resident, built his academic career as a key player and teacher in the G. Brint Ryan College of Business real estate program. Baen died suddenly in Costa Rica, where he was on a fishing trip with friends. Baen taught in the Mean Green real estate program for nearly 40 years, after earning a Ph.D. in real estate from Texas A&M University in 1982. He was a prolific academic writer, authoring 70 articles and five books. He served as a representative of the American Real Estate Society and director of the International Real Estate Society. He was a co-founder and principal of Real Capital Investments, a retail investment brokerage firm. Mark Burroughs, at the time Denton's mayor-elect, is pictured in 2008. Nov. 3, 1957-May 2, 2024 Former Denton Mayor Mark Burroughs died unexpectedly in the spring. At age 66, Burroughs left his mark as a father, grandfather, attorney and public servant. Burroughs was the second of seven children who excelled in school, in debate and math clubs as well as a French horn player at Klein High School. He went to Stephen F. Austin State University and finished in three years, getting degrees in history, business and political science. He earned his law degree at the University of Texas School of Law and practiced in Houston and Fort Worth before opening a practice with Gregory J. Sawko in Denton. Burroughs served three terms on the Denton City Council as an at-large member. He worked on regional agency boards and committees in North Texas and worked with local and regional transportation and clean air groups. He kept a busy civic calendar as well, lending his time and talent to the arts and public broadcasting. He served as the mayor of Denton from 2008 to 2014, applying his knowledge and experience to local growth and city leadership. May 2, 1954-May 3, 2024 Mike Sutton poses for a portrait inside Big Mike’s Coffee at 1306 W. Hickory St. in 2009. Sutton said he opened the shop to fill the void left by the closing of Kharma Cafe, a longtime coffeehouse on Fry Street. “It’s important to honor the community down here — it’s important to bring it back or people will stop coming to Fry Street,” he told the Denton Record-Chronicle in 2009. "Big" Mike Sutton could seem gruff, but locals remember him as a Fry Street business owner whose heart was as big as his personality. Sutton died in Missouri, where he had retired, the day after his 70th birthday. Sutton was best known for his business Voyager’s Dream on Hickory Street near UNT, selling crystals, hand drums, new age music and all sorts of trinkets meant to make you feel centered. He was also a dedicated pacifist who turned his car into a “deathmobile,” writing the names, ages and hometowns of U.S. service members killed in Afghanistan and Iraq. He ran several times for the Denton City Council from 2008 to 2011, filing for a recount in his last bid after losing the District 3 race by 29 votes. Sutton turned Voyager's Dream into Big Mike’s Coffee in 2009 before selling it to a new owner and retiring. As Aura Coffee, it still serves as a hub for the community. April 29, 1945-June 13, 2024 Attorney Mike Gregory shared his experience and skills as a public servant as a lawyer, a seminar leader and eventually as an adjunct professor at Texas Woman's University and UNT as an undergraduate law lecturer. Mike Gregory Gregory, a graduate of the University of Texas and its School of Law, began his law practice in 1974. He was a board-certified family law specialist and a certified mediator. He lent his time to the local and state bar association, serving as president of the Denton County Bar, president of the Denton County Collaborative Professionals, president of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists and director of the State Bar of Texas. He was named Denton County Bar Association Member of the Year in 2014-15. In 2018, he was appointed by the Texas Supreme Court as a member of the Board of Disciplinary Appeals. He was a devoted volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America. North Texas Hall of Fame running back Abner Haynes, left, talks with UNT President Neal Smatresk during the school’s dedication of Unity Plaza in 2022. Haynes died in July at the age of 86. Sept. 19, 1937-July 17, 2024 UNT Athletics Hall of Fame member Abner Haynes’ legacy on the football field is considerable, but the role he and Leon King played in the integration of the South might be even more impactful. Haynes, who died at the age of 86 in Dallas, and King were the first Black players to integrate a football program at a four-year Texas school. Haynes was a two-time all-Missouri Valley Conference running back, led North Texas to an appearance in the 1959 Sun Bowl and was named an All-American by Time magazine that season. He went on to play for the Dallas Texans, who later became the Kansas City Chiefs. He led the American Football League in rushing in 1960 and was its first Player of the Year. UNT’s history as a pioneer of integration in the South is a source of pride for the school, which honored Haynes and King with the opening of Unity Plaza in 2022, featuring busts of both Haynes and King. Grammy Award-winning musician Shaun Martin, left, performs with gospel superstar Kirk Franklin in 2016 during a rehearsal in Dallas. d. Aug. 3, 2024 Dallas musician Shaun Martin, singer and keyboardist of Denton-born jazz band Snarky Puppy and a UNT graduate, died in August at the age of 45. While Martin was still a student at Dallas' Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, he began working with gospel choir director Kirk Franklin and later became his music director. As a music major in college, Martin worked with Erykah Badu on her second album, Mama’s Gun . It was also at UNT where he joined a group of student musicians to create Snarky Puppy, a jazz fusion band that went on to win five Grammy Awards. Martin himself has won seven Grammys: three as a Snarky Puppy member and four for his work with Franklin. Dec. 31, 1950-Aug. 11, 2024 Herschel Voorhees was a Denton High School alumna and a UNT graduate who spent 40 years in medicine. The bulk of his career was spent serving as the chief of staff and executive director of the UNT Health and Wellness Center, where students could get primary health care on campus. Voorhees was an outdoorsman and an outspoken advocate for students and for medicine. He applied his curiosity to medicine and the many trails and parks he hiked. Fort Worth musician Daron Beck, formerly of Denton, died in August at the age of 48. He’s shown posing for a portrait in Dallas in 2020. June 19, 1976-Aug. 22, 2024 Daron Beck, best known as the vocalist and keyboardist of experimental sci-fi synth-doom duo Pinkish Black, died after an illness at his home in the Fort Worth area. Beck previously lived in Denton, where his bands in the ’90s and early 2000s included Pointy Shoe Factory, Maxine’s Radiator and Thorazine Dreams. In 2005, he appeared in an episode of American Idol , making an impression on the judges with his audition although he didn’t advance in the competition. “I knew they were going to play me up as some kind of weirdo freak, but I’d rather be that than American Idol anyway,” he told the Denton Record-Chronicle at the time. May 6, 1975-Oct. 8, 2024 Ryan High School defensive coordinator Aaron De La Torre, shown in a 2019 photograph. Aaron De La Torre, a college athlete who turned pro, then went into high school coaching, died suddenly on Oct. 8. He grew up in Irving and played football at Stephen F. Austin State University and then played with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Dallas Cowboys and in NFL Europe before retiring from playing professionally. De La Torre settled in Denton as Ryan High School's assistant football coach. He was in his seventh season when he died. He coached with his son, Alex, for two years, including the the program’s journey to the 2019 state championship game, in which his youngest son, Kolt, was a player. While his leadership on the field is missed, the mentorship De La Torre gave to students is a bigger loss, friends and family said. Oct. 8, 1932-Dec. 11, 2024 Retired journalist, editor, teacher and author Keith Shelton died this month after a short time in hospice care. Shelton cut his teeth on the country's biggest modern stories. Keith Shelton He began as a city hall reporter for the Wichita Falls Record-News and then the Dallas Times-Herald . In Dallas, Keith covered the assassination of John F. Kennedy, as well as the careers of four other presidents. He also covered the tenure of Gov. John Connally. He served on the Texas Supreme Court Task Force on Judicial Ethics, became president of the Dallas Press Club and served as secretary of the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas, later becoming its director. He was named the editor of the Denton Record-Chronicle in 1965. He later served as managing editor and then executive editor of the Record-Chronicle, the Lewisville News and the Grapevine Sun . His work with Denton Publishing Co. spanned 35 years. Shelton launched a 23-year tenure as a member of journalism faculty at UNT. He earned his master's degree in journalism, taught three future Pulitzer Prize winners and became the first faculty adviser to the student newspaper. He transitioned to director of news and information services and journalist in residence in the 1990s and early 2000s, as he became the sole caregiver of his late wife, a polio survivor. In his retirement, Shelton chronicled his work as a reporter in Chance: My Life as a Series of Chances. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.ALTOONA, Pa. (AP) — The suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO struggled with deputies and shouted Tuesday while arriving for a court appearance in Pennsylvania, a day after he was arrested at a McDonald’s and charged with murder. Luigi Nicholas Mangione emerged from a patrol car, spun toward reporters and shouted something partly unintelligible referring to an “insult to the intelligence of the American people” while deputies pushed him inside. Prosecutors were beginning to take steps to bring Mangione back to New York to face a murder charge while new details emerged about his life and how he was captured. The 26-year-old Ivy League graduate from a prominent Maryland real estate family was charged with murder hours after he was arrested in the Manhattan killing of Brian Thompson , who led the United States’ largest medical insurance company. At the brief hearing, defense lawyer Thomas Dickey informed the court that Mangione will not waive extradition to New York but instead wants a hearing on the issue. Mangione was denied bail after prosecutors raised concerns about public safety and a potential flight risk. Mangione, wearing an orange prison jumpsuit, mostly stared straight ahead at the hearing, occasionally consulting papers, rocking in his chair or looking back at the gallery. At one point, he began to speak to respond to the court discussion but was quieted by his lawyer. Mangione likely was motivated by his anger with what he called “parasitic” health insurance companies and a disdain for corporate greed, a law enforcement bulletin obtained by The Associated Press said. He wrote that the U.S. has the most expensive health care system in the world and that profits of major corporations continue to rise while “our life expectancy” does not, according to the bulletin, based on a review of his hand-written notes and social media posts. Mangione called “Unabomber” Ted Kaczynski a “political revolutionary” and may have found inspiration from the man who carried out a series of bombings while railing against modern society and technology, according to police bulletin. Mangione remained jailed in Pennsylvania, where he was initially charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm, forgery and providing false identification to police. Manhattan prosecutors have obtained an arrest warrant, a step that could help expedite his extradition from Pennsylvania. Mangione was arrested in Altoona, Pennsylvania — about 230 miles (about 370 kilometers) west of New York City — after a McDonald's customer recognized him and notified an employee, authorities said. Officers found him sitting at a back table, wearing a blue medical mask and looking at a laptop, according to a Pennsylvania police criminal complaint. He initially gave them a fake ID, but when an officer asked Mangione whether he’d been to New York recently, he “became quiet and started to shake,” the complaint says. When he pulled his mask down at officers' request, “we knew that was our guy,” rookie Officer Tyler Frye said. Images of Mangione released Tuesday by Pennsylvania State Police showed him pulling down his mask in the corner of the McDonald's while holding what appeared to be hash browns and wearing a winter jacket and beanie. In another photo from a holding cell, he stood unsmiling with rumpled hair. New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said Mangione was carrying a gun like the one used to kill Thompson and the same fake ID the shooter had used to check into a New York hostel, along with a passport and other fraudulent IDs. NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said Mangione also had a three-page, handwritten document that shows “some ill will toward corporate America." A law enforcement official who wasn’t authorized to discuss the investigation publicly and spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity said the document included a line in which Mangione claimed to have acted alone. “To the Feds, I’ll keep this short, because I do respect what you do for our country. To save you a lengthy investigation, I state plainly that I wasn’t working with anyone,” the document said, according to the official. It also had a line that said, “I do apologize for any strife or traumas but it had to be done. Frankly, these parasites simply had it coming.” Pennsylvania prosecutor Peter Weeks said in court that Mangione was found with a passport and $10,000 in cash, $2,000 of it in foreign currency. Mangione disputed the amount. Thompson, 50, was killed Wednesday as he walked alone to a Manhattan hotel for an investor conference. Police quickly came to see the shooting as a targeted attack by a gunman who appeared to wait for Thompson, came up behind him and fired a 9 mm pistol. Investigators have said “delay,” “deny” and “depose” were written on ammunition found near Thompson's body. The words mimic “delay, deny, defend,” a phrase used to criticize the insurance industry . From surveillance video, New York investigators determined the shooter quickly fled the city, likely by bus. A grandson of a wealthy, self-made real estate developer and philanthropist, Mangione is a cousin of a current Maryland state legislator. Valedictorian at his elite Baltimore prep school, he went on to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees in computer science in 2020 from the University of Pennsylvania, a spokesperson said. “Our family is shocked and devastated by Luigi’s arrest,” Mangione’s family said in a statement posted on social media late Monday by his cousin, Maryland Del. Nino Mangione. “We offer our prayers to the family of Brian Thompson and we ask people to pray for all involved.” From January to June 2022, Luigi Mangione lived at Surfbreak, a “co-living” space at the edge of touristy Waikiki in Honolulu. Like other residents of the shared penthouse catering to remote workers, Mangione underwent a background check, said Josiah Ryan, a spokesperson for owner and founder R.J. Martin. “Luigi was just widely considered to be a great guy. There were no complaints,” Ryan said. "There was no sign that might point to these alleged crimes they’re saying he committed.” At Surfbreak, Martin learned Mangione had severe back pain from childhood that interfered with many aspects of his life, from surfing to romance, Ryan said. Mangione left Surfbreak to get surgery on the mainland, Ryan said, then later returned to Honolulu and rented an apartment. Martin stopped hearing from Mangione six months to a year ago. ___ Scolforo reported from Altoona and Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. Contributing were Associated Press writers Cedar Attanasio and Jennifer Peltz in New York; Michael Rubinkam and Maryclaire Dale in Pennsylvania; Lea Skene in Baltimore; and Jennifer Sinco Kelleher in Honolulu.

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Miami’s barrier islands are home to many tall luxury buildings, and, according to a study recently published in Earth and Space Science, about three dozen are sinking. Thirty-five luxury condos and hotels across Florida’s Sunny Isles Beach, Surfside, Miami Beach and Bal Harbour have faced subsidence in the past handful of years, the study found. It was authored by researchers from the University of Miami, Florida Atlantic University, University of Houston, University of Hanover in Germany, GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences and California Institute of Technology. It involved reviewing Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar data. The sinking of the high-rises amounted to 2-8 centimeters over a multiyear span running 2016 through 2023, according to the researchers. High-rises expect to see “up to several tens of centimeters” of settlement “during and immediately after construction,” the University of Miami Rosenstiel School said in a Friday post on its website. Builders constructed a “majority” of the affected condos and hotels after 2014, according to the study. “We found that subsidence in most high-rises slows down over time, but in some cases, it continues at a steady rate. This suggests that subsidence could persist for an extended period,” senior author Falk Amelung was quoted as saying. The study authors had some theories about what was behind the subsidence, based on their research. The sinking “is primarily due to the gradual reconfiguration of the sand grains into a denser packing within sandy layers interbedded in the limestone” in the area, the study said. The researchers hypothesized a link between construction-related vibrations or groundwater flow and the sinking, according to the study. Other things like daily tidal flow and stormwater injection could also have factored into the phenomenon. “The discovery of the extent of subsidence hotspots along the South Florida coastline was unexpected. The study underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and a deeper understanding of the long-term implications for these structures,” lead author Farzaneh Aziz Zanjani said. The broader Miami-Dade County had a population of nearly 2.7 million people as of July 2023, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. More than 27.2 million people visited the area last year, per the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau.

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MSC INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY CO. DECLARES REGULAR QUARTERLY DIVIDENDWhat a year it’s been for Miros! In May 2024, Miros turned 40—a notable milestone in the proud history of our company. But as much as we can celebrate how far we’ve come over the past four decades, it’s where we’re headed that truly excites me. This year has been transformative, not only for the offshore industry but also for Miros, with remarkable achievements and breakthroughs in technology, partnerships, sustainability efforts, and, most importantly, delivering value to our customers. Let me take you through some of the key highlights that made this milestone year notable. In 2024, the offshore industry experienced significant advancements, driven by technological innovations and the growing need for enhanced safety, efficiency, and operational precision. Among the key trends was the further integration of AI in wave measurement and prediction, which has transformed short-term wave forecasting. This technology has been instrumental in improving safety during critical offshore operations, such as vessel positioning, walk-to-work transfers, and subsea activities. Continuous, real-time wave monitoring has become indispensable for optimizing offshore operations. By providing accurate, actionable data, it supports decision-making processes in dynamic environments where conditions can change rapidly. Whether it’s ensuring safe equipment deployment, stabilizing vessels, or improving operational efficiency during challenging weather conditions, precise wave measurement has become the backbone of offshore activities. For Miros, 2024 was nothing short of trailblazing. We made incredible strides in innovation, customer impact, and global reach. Here are the key milestones that shaped our journey: One of our proudest moments was the launch of PredictifAITM, a groundbreaking solution co-developed with our offshore partners. This next-generation product offers real-time insights into wave fields and vessel motion, predicting conditions seconds to minutes ahead. It was a defining step forward, empowering operators to act with precision and confidence. Image: Miros Caption: Marius Five Aarset, CEO Miros We also introduced the new Forecast application designed to provide comprehensive offshore insights, enabling operators to make informed, data-driven decisions by integrating forecasts with real-time measured ocean data. At the same time, we focused on advancing our core technologies including the accuracy, analytics, and user-friendliness of our wave sensors and Oil Spill Detection (OSD) system. Our technologies were put to the test in real-world activities, such as lifting operations, wind turbine installation, jacking operations, cable and pipelay campaigns, diving support operations, ROV launch and recovery, gangway transfers. Here are some examples I want to highlight: Miros Wavex played a vital role aboard the CSOV Rem Power, providing real-time wave data to ensure safe gangway connections during walk-to-work operations. Similarly, in the Northern Lights CCS project, our WaveSystem was integral to the success of Norway’s pioneering CO2 storage pipeline. Miros’ WaveFusion® provided precise, real-time data that immediately improved critical decision-making for crew safety and operational efficiency when Vattenfall faced operational disruptions at Aberdeen Bay due to the limitations of weather forecasts in predicting local sea conditions. Environmental accountability also took center stage, with our OSD system supporting onboard ADNOC’s oil recovery fleet, as well as protecting Dubai’s sensitive coastlines from potential spills. Brazil is at the forefront of coastal protection. Our OSD System will support Petrobras and Brazil’s environmental agency IBAMA with tamper-proof monitoring and alarm systems. These projects not only showcase the reliability of our solutions but also demonstrated their critical role in advancing safety and environmental stewardship at sea and in coastal areas. Image: Adobe Stock Caption: Multi-purpose supply vessel for offshore operations. Expanding Our Global Reach and Building a Culture of Excellence Miros strengthened its global presence in 2024, forging strategic partnerships with leading industry players like Elcome International LLC and Belga Marine. These collaborations amplified our impact in key regions, including Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and Brazil. Thanks to the trust and loyalty of our clients, we experienced significant growth in repeat business and doubled our as-a-service contracts again in 2024. Our people are at the core of our success. We challenge and inspire our employees to embrace a dynamic mix of perspectives and skills, which drives our results, ensuring our teams stay at the forefront of technological innovation. In 2024, we proudly attained the ISO 27001 certification, a globally recognized standard for information security management. This milestone highlights our robust, risk-based approach to managing data and infrastructure, reinforcing our commitment to excellence. Another strategic accomplishment was the acquisition of Miros Mocean AS. The full integration of Miros Mocean into Miros allows us to further consolidate and optimize our portfolio of vessel performance services. Our strengthened offering will now provide even greater value to customers and partners across the maritime industry. As we turn the page to 2025, we’re gearing up to launch our new cloud-based OSD Monitoring solution in Q1, setting a new benchmark in real-time spill detection technology. Additionally, we’re focused on expanding AI-driven capabilities and deepening our involvement in wave and vessel motion prediction technologies. Jonas Røstad, our CCO, put it best when he said, “the key to innovation is never standing still.” With this mindset, Miros is ready to scale new heights, tackle new challenges, and shape the future of ocean insights measurement and prediction technology. 2024 has been a remarkable year, filled with milestones and moments of pride. As we move forward, I’m excited about what lies ahead and confident that together, we’ll continue riding the waves of innovation and success. Here’s to a future anchored in excellence! Source: Miros