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My favorite thing about the end of the year is seeing everyone’s Apple Music Replay and Spotify Wrapped. But here at NBC Select, we put our own spin on things by looking back on all the products we tested for our articles and the items we couldn’t resist buying during major sale events this year. I asked the NBC Select staff for their favorite products from this year, and highlighted the ones they loved the most below. These products span all shopping categories like tech, beauty and wellness, kitchen and more. SKIP AHEAD Kitchen | Home | Beauty + Wellness | Clothing + Accessories | Tech | Fitness | Hobby + Leisure | Travel | Pets Cookunity I gave in to the meal delivery hype this year and I’m so glad I did. Cooking everyday has never been a huge priority for me and frankly, I don’t enjoy spending a lot of time in the kitchen anyway. Cookunity accounts for about 50% of my meals during the week and it has reduced my middle-of-the-week stress when I’m commuting and at my busiest. Being able to pop one of these in the oven at the end of the day always feels great. The options are wide-ranging and being able to browse according to my diet preferences is super convenient. I have a couple of favorites I keep in rotation but I always leave room to try something new, which has had a positive impact on how I grocery shop because I’m willing to be a bit more adventurous with food. – Nikki Brown , SEO editor Moccamaster KBGV Select Coffee Maker I wrote a review of the Moccamaster coffee maker earlier this year after the brand sent it to me to try out. It easily became my favorite and most-used appliance in my kitchen. It makes up to 10 cups of coffee, and it makes the tastiest brew I’ve tried using a coffee maker so far. The coffee not only tastes delicious, but it’s also quick and easy to make; all I have to do is add coffee grounds to the brew basket, fill up the water reservoir and switch on the machine. Plus, it’s a beautiful, aesthetically-pleasing coffee maker that looks great on my countertop. It’s definitely on the pricey side, but it’s well worth the money, in my experience. – Mili Godio , updates editor Rifle Paper Co. Juniper Forest Wallpaper Once I resigned my lease this summer, I immediately started a bunch of DIY projects around my apartment to make it feel even more like home. I bought some new furniture and lights, but by far the most substantial project was adding peel-and-stick wallpaper to my bedroom and entryway. I spent months searching for the perfect pattern and saved over a dozen contenders before I ordered the winner: Rifle Paper Co’s Juniper Forest Wallpaper. I kept coming back to it and could really envision it in my space. Then, after I ordered a sample to test it out, I knew it was meant to be. The wallpaper is high quality and quite forgiving — it was easy to cut and I could take a piece off my wall when I needed to reposition it. I’ve had it up for about two months now and it’s stayed put and hasn’t peeled off in any spots. Overall, the wallpaper makes my rental look so much more complete, sophisticated and warm. I love it so much, I’m already thinking about my next project. – Zoe Malin , reporter ComfiLife Knee Pillow I bought this on Prime Day and my sleep quality has completely leveled up since. Though I move around a lot while sleeping, I almost always start on my side and this little gem keeps my body aligned and my hips from aching. Even without the velcro strap, it remains pretty snug between my legs and adds to the cozy combination of my comforter , pillows, sunrise clock and humidifier . I’ve been waking up feeling more refreshed compared to the first half of the year and I know it’s mostly because of this miracle worker. – Nikki Brown, SEO editor Govee Rgbic Floor Lamp During my latest move, I bought this floor lamp for my living room, and since then, it’s officially become the star of the show. When I’m watching TV or movies, I always turn on the lamp instead of the overhead light to create a calm and relaxing ambiance or to match the vibe of whatever I’m watching. Whenever my friends and family visit, they’re so impressed with how minimalistic it is and they love how I can change the color (or color patterns) using the companion app on my phone. – Bianca Alvarez , associate reporter Joybird Bryant Daybed This is one of my biggest purchases — correction: investments — of 2024. I’ve been wanting a daybed for awhile because I love putting my feet up in the living room and an ottoman never felt completely comfortable — plus, I love that I can have friends sleep over now without needing to drag out an air mattress. I am obsessed with the fabric I chose (Crave Carribean Twist) — green is one of my favorite colors and I find this shade really calming for my space and spirit. I’ve been sleeping on it while my apartment undergoes a bunch of renovations and it’s giving my bed a run for its money because it has a medium level firmness that feels supportive but not rigid. I’m warning my friends that once they sit on it, they will not want to move. – Nikki Brown, SEO editor Shark Stratos Cordless Stick Vacuum Calling a vacuum life-changing seems dramatic until you use this one. I bought it during Best Buy’s 48-Hour Flash sale and have been competing with my husband for who gets to vacuum ever since. At first I loved it because it can stand up to my long hair that’s constantly shedding and it bends in the middle to get under furniture, but I’ve now discovered a whole new reason to love it: Christmas tree needles. I will never give up having a real tree and this vacuum sucks up the needles better than any other I’ve used, including handhelds and the Dyson V8. – Rosalie Sparaco, senior social media editor Gorilla Grip Over the Door Shoe Organizer I have a lot of shoes, so when I moved into a new apartment that has very little closet space, I was at a loss on where to store all of them. I bought this shoe organizer that hangs over my closet door, and it’s been one of the best purchases I’ve ever made. It saves so much space and fits perfectly over the door, so I don’t struggle closing my closet every time I open it. Plus, I can see exactly where each shoe is, which saves a lot of time in the morning when I’m running out the door. Since it has 24 slots, it manages to hold most of my shoes (one shoe fits in each slot), including chunky sneakers and larger booties. I loved it so much, I bought a second one. – Mili Godio, updates editor Nuanchu Stainless Steel Gua Sha Using this $8 gua sha almost every day was one of the best self care investments I made this year. I sleep on my side, so I wake up with super puffy cheeks and my face often looks lopsided in the morning. Taking the five minutes to glide this around my face with whatever serum I’m trying out for our Wellness Awards or skin care content has made such a difference in how defined my jawline and cheekbones are. The light pressure feels so good and gives me that not-too-aggressive wake-up call my face craves in the morning. – Lindsay Schneider , commerce editor Lush Super Milk Conditioning Hair Primer One of the best products I put in my thick hair was this leave-in conditioner (which doubles as a heat protectant ) because it combines my favorite parts of spray and cream leave-ins. It has a very lightweight, creamy consistency, and I can apply it all over my damp, freshly washed hair without making a mess since it comes in a spray bottle. Since using this, my hair is softer, less frizzy, shinier and way less dry than it used to be. The best part is how good it makes my hair smell. After my first few uses, I would make everyone smell my hair because if I got to smell its sweet deliciousness, I had to do my due diligence and share it with the world. – Bianca Alvarez, associate reporter Hanni Splash Salve I have bought this almost monthly since testing it for our Wellness Awards. However, the application process takes some getting used to: once applied, you rinse it off by letting the water run over your skin instead of rubbing it off with your hands, which means you have to be mindful of not applying too much. Otherwise, you’re left with a lot of residue. That is truly the only caveat for me. I love the scent and after a couple weeks of use, my skin is pretty much always soft and I barely need to use traditional body lotion . And as someone who likes to use as little skin care products as possible, I’m happy that this has shortened my routine, especially when I do lap swim and shower at the gym before work. – Nikki Brown, SEO editor Dr. Scholl’s Severe Cracked Heel Repair Balm I’m on a quest to achieve ultra-soft heels, so I got this at the very end of November and have used it every other week or so. I like that it’s easy to apply to my heels without having to use my fingers and that it’s small, so it fits on my nightstand and leaves room for other items. It goes on smoothly, is unscented and doesn’t feel overly greasy, sticky or uncomfortable, even after putting socks on afterwards. I’ve noticed my heels are starting to feel a bit softer and less irritated every week. – Cory Fernandez , commerce editor Ouidad Clarifying Shampoo 2024, for me, was all about embracing my natural frizzy wavy hair. Depending on the day, my hair falls between a 2B to 3A curl and since I have to use so much product on a daily basis to style and defrizz, I was really in need of a shampoo that deeply (and I mean deeply ) cleansed my scalp and hairline. Nothing has worked as well as the Ouidad shampoo. It cleans my scalp and removes gel and gunk like no other and gives my curls the most bouncy, defined shape. I can’t sing its praises enough. If you have curly hair, you need this. – Lindsay Schneider, commerce editor Magic Molecule The Solution As a beauty reporter, I have always heard people talk about hypochlorous acid spray but have never used it. That was, until a few months ago, when it was one of the only products my skin tolerated during the worst eczema flare-up of my life. Aside from the fact it smells like pool water, it is simply perfection. Every morning and night, I would spray this and not once did it burn, sting or worsen my condition; instead, it reduced my redness significantly, made my skin feel soothed and calmed the dry, itchy, flaky look and feel on my face. – Bianca Alvarez, associate reporter Dosso Beauty Hypoallergenic Pre-Stretched Braiding Hair I have used Dosso braiding hair for years and 2024 was no exception. Whenever my friends ask me for braiding hair recommendations, this is the one and only brand I name drop. The hair is light as a feather and I’m not exaggerating when I say it has never caused my scalp to itch, even in the summer when I sweat more. The ombre colors are beautiful and the bundle packs are cost-effective — in my experience, I’ve only needed two 3-packs for waist-length, skinny box braids . – Nikki Brown, SEO editor Rhode Barrier Butter (waitlist) I’m constantly trying new product launches and this is hands down one of the best moisturizers I tried this year. It’s thicker than most creams and lotions but it’s the perfect consistency for someone who is constantly dealing with dry skin . I put this on twice a day and my skin has never felt more moisturized, soft and plump. I began using this during my flare-up (because it has the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance ) and it never irritated my skin and helped calm it down. What I love most during this is that it sits extremely well under makeup, which was a major problem I was having with my other moisturizers because they would pill every single time. This one creates a thick layer of hydration that maintains my skin and creates an even base. – Bianca Alvarez, associate reporter Lush Sticky Dates Shower Gel This year, I discovered Lush’s Sticky Dates line and never looked back. It’s an ultra-sweet, buttery caramel scent that makes me smell like a delicious baked good, which is exactly how I want to smell 24/7. I started out with the shower gel, and now have the body spray , scrub and lotion in this scent, and all of which have become a staple in my everyday shower routine. The shower gel lathers nicely and I notice the scent lasts for hours on my skin. I especially love using this shower gel and the body spray just before bed so I can fully enjoy the cozy, gourmand smell. – Mili Godio, updates editor Naturium The Glow-Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash Body care was one of my main areas of investment this past year, and this body wash from Naturium is my uncontested top pick. It has hydrating ingredients like glycerin and squalane and nourishing oils like jojoba, rosehip and sea buckthorn to help soften your skin, according to the brand. Since it’s oil-based, I expected it to have a thick, heavy texture, but it’s surprisingly lightweight and silky, and has a subtle sweet scent that makes me smell great without being too overpowering. I felt a difference in my skin’s softness immediately after the first wash, and after using it long-term I can definitely say that it’s helped to keep my skin looking and feeling hydrated and supple, which is why I use it every day. I also like to use it to moisturize my body after exfoliating with products like Naturium’s Glycolic Acid Body Wash or the Topicals Faded Brightening Bar . – Ashley Morris , associate SEO reporter Capezio Women’s Classic Short Sleeve Leotard I don’t own a lot of clothes on purpose, so when I do shop, I’m always looking for basics that I can mix and match for the office. I actually bought my first leotard second-hand but now I’m building up a small collection of these because they go with nearly anything in my wardrobe, and the compression accentuates my waist (and brings out my inner ballerina). – Nikki Brown, SEO editor Abercrombie & Fitch Men’s Essential Baggy Sweatpant I’ve always been on the hunt for a favorite pair of sweats. I would always find issues with a pair that initially seemed promising. Some of the sweatpants I tried had pockets that were too small, so my phone or keys would constantly fall out when I sat down or they would shrink dramatically after a wash. The Abercrombie and Fitch pair haven’t let me down so far. They feel soft and don’t shrink even after a few washes. The length and cut of the sweats are also very ‘90s with a slight baggy cut that is flattering for almost anyone. – Jordan Bowman , commerce editor A New Day Women’s Slim Fit Short Sleeve Seamless Baby T-Shirt This t-shirt, which I have in two colors, is a petite person’s dream. The bottom lands a couple inches below my belly button, so I can tuck it in depending on what I’m pairing it with. The fabric clings but doesn’t suffocate my frame — just a simple and extremely flattering shirt that I’ve worn more than anything else in my closet this year. – Nikki Brown, SEO editor Ugg Women’s Classic Ultra Mini I can’t say enough good things about the Ugg Ultra Minis. They’re one of the best shoe purchases I’ve ever made; they’re comfy, cozy and look cute (I got them in the Chestnut color, but I’m eyeing more colorways for the new year). I throw these on when I’m running errands, traveling (they’re the perfect airplane shoe, in my opinion) or as a final touch to an everyday outfit. I pair them with cozy socks (my favorite pair is the Aritzia Slouchy Crew Sock ) for an extra bit of comfort. Plus, they’re very warm, so they’re great for the colder fall and winter months. I also purchased the brand’s Tasman Slippers this year, which I’m also obsessed with. – Mili Godio, updates editor Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 These sneakers are hands-down my favorite footwear purchase of the year. Over the summer, I was on the hunt for a pair of shoes that were comfortable enough for daily wear, but still added a bold touch to my wardrobe. These sneakers strike that perfect balance for me — wearing them feels like walking on nothing (in the best possible way), and the silver colorway is striking enough to stand out, but neutral enough that I can still pair them with most of my wardrobe. Since Onitsuka closed their US sales in November of 2023, I originally bought my pair brand-new from a reseller website. However, as of August 2024 the brand has relaunched their US operations, and you can now purchase directly from them (which I absolutely plan on doing in the near future). – Ashley Morris, associate SEO reporter Keh I got a little obsessed with cameras this year, and quickly learned that new cameras and lenses are expensive. To ease that sticker shock, I decided to buy a pre-owned option, and Keh became my go-to used camera shop in 2024. The online retailer carries hundreds of used digital and film cameras, lenses and accessories. I ordered the digital Fujifilm X-T4, multiple film cameras and a few lenses this year — all of it matched the conditions listed, and the one instance where there was an issue, I contacted customer support and exchanged the camera for a working replacement, free of charge. Keh’s 21 day return policy has been invaluable, even though you have to pay for the return shipping. – Harry Rabinowitz , reporter CorePower Yoga All Access Membership After years of buying individual classes every week, I finally became a CorePower All Access member this year. The membership lets me go to an unlimited amount of in-person classes every month across New York City and take online classes whether I’m home or traveling. This membership is worth every penny for me, and it’s one of the best things I spend money on each month. I hit my goal of over 100 classes this year — the strength and yoga sessions are my favorite form of cross-training and make me a better runner since they force me to work muscles that support me mile after mile. I also love that I get two buddy passes every month so I can bring friends and family to the studios. – Zoe Malin, reporter Head Ti. Conquest Pre-Strung 27in. Blue Tennis Racket I became a serious tennis fan over the last few years. I played casually during the pandemic back in 2020 but this last year was a real turning point for my obsession. A few years ago I bought a cheap tennis racket on a whim without doing much research. I quickly learned that using bad gear will lead to bad results. My shots were out of control and my serve was just plain bad. This Head Ti racket gives me much better control compared to my old one. I’ve been using it for about six months now and it has a larger sweet spot and better balance so I can get a sense of rhythm while practicing. – Jordan Bowman, commerce editor Pvolve Studio Membership Earlier in 2024, I tried a Pvolve fitness class at the Soho location in New York City. I immediately became obsessed — they offer low-impact workouts that help build mobility and strength. After trying it out, I purchased the studio’s class packs and then graduated to the Starter Membership, which lets me go to eight classes per month. The classes are truly some of my favorite workouts I’ve ever done — they’re lively, easy to follow and definitely help me build up a sweat. Pvolve has several locations across the country where you can purchase in-studio memberships, plus it has on-demand classes you can stream with a separate membership in case you don’t have a location nearby (you can also bundle your in-studio and online membership). – Mili Godio, updates editor Lovevery Play Kits & Gym I became a parent this year, and it felt like I had a million things to worry about “solving” before and after birth. These baby play kits from Lovevery solved playtime for us — our baby has loved almost every toy inside every box we’ve opened. I contacted the brand before parenthood, and received The Looker Play Kit , The Charmer Play Kit and The Play Gym from the brand to try. During month one and month two, my child would stare at the high contrast cards and play gym cover for minutes at a time. For months three and four, my child was obsessed with the silicone teether toy and soft book of the Charmer Play Kit. Each box comes with a guide that has tips and child development information that helped me play with more knowledge and confidence. – Harry Rabinowitz, reporter Wells Lamont Leather Palm Work Gloves Shout out to Costco for introducing me to my favorite gardening purchase of 2024. These gloves are heavy duty but not so much that I can’t feel whatever I’m holding. They’ve withstood everything from sticky branches to rotted vegetables to heavy mud and more, all while protecting my manicure, which has fallen victim to less protective work gloves in the past. I can’t wait to use these again in the spring when it’s time to start planting seeds for summer. – Nikki Brown, SEO editor AMC Stubs A-List Membership As a known movie-obsessive, this AMC A-List membership was the best birthday gift I could’ve given myself this year. For just under $25 a month, I can see up to three movies a week at any AMC across the country, including enhanced formats like IMAX and 3D screenings. Cost-wise, it’s been a total gamechanger — instead of having to choose between movies to avoid breaking the bank, I can see every film I want for a fraction of the typical price. The monthly cost is only slightly higher than the price of a single ticket, so if you’re someone that sees even just two movies a month, it’s very much worth your while. The membership also covers special events like AMC-exclusive fan screenings and cast and crew Q & A screenings, along with discounts on concessions and member deals on your birthday. – Ashley Morris, associate SEO reporter Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack I spent the first half of 2024 as a super-commuter , and one of the things that helped me tremendously was this backpack that I initially got during our NBC Select Travel Awards . It was large enough to store all of my essentials and keep them organized, which was crucial when I was searching for items on the bus or train. It may sound extreme, but I genuinely stopped using all of my other backpacks after using this one. Now that I have moved back to New York, I use this as a work bag because I can pack everything I need. My lunch, headphones and chargers go in the interior bag, my laptop and planner go in the laptop sleeve, and my water bottle goes in the side pocket. And even with that, there is so much unused space. – Bianca Alvarez, associate reporter SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post I adopted my second cat at the end of 2023, and this year, I’ve slowly but surely learned that some pet supplies are great for one cat, but terrible for two. Case in point: my old short, wobbly cat scratcher. There wasn’t enough room for both of my cats to use it at the same time, and it constantly fell over. NBC Select editorial projects manager Rebecca Rodriguez , who also has two cats, recommended that I buy this one, and it’s exactly what I was looking for. It’s tall, sturdy and has a wide post, so both of my cats can scratch it, stretch out on it and jump on top of it. I’ve recommended it to many cat moms since buying it, especially since it has a minimalistic, neutral design and doesn’t draw attention to itself. – Zoe Malin, reporter Pawz Road Cactus Cat Tree I wish this cat tree came in more attractive colors — why do all pet trees have to be green and brown?! With that said, I’ve never seen my cats happier than when they are jumping and climbing all over this one. It’s a ceiling to floor model that sits sturdy in the corner of my living room so it’s not too much of an eye sore. I put it together myself in about an hour and a half, though I wish I had a spotter while I was securing it to the ceiling. If the price tag gives you pause, I implore you to just go for it and purchase, especially if you have multiple cats who are growing tired of their toys . – Nikki Brown, SEO editor I’m an associate reporter at NBC Select covering new product launches and topics relating to beauty and wellness, including recent stories on the best blow dryer brushes and workout leggings . For this story, our staff, who frequently try hundreds of products a month, share their favorite finds from this past year. Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) — Rashad King led Northeastern with 19 points, including the game-winning layup with three seconds remaining, and the Huskies beat Florida International 60-58 on Friday. King added eight rebounds for the Huskies (4-1). Harold Woods added 12 points while shooting 5 of 11 from the field and 2 for 4 from the line while he also had five rebounds. Vianney Salatchoum led the way for the Panthers (1-4) with 14 points, six rebounds and two blocks. Woods put up eight points in the first half for Northeastern, who led 30-27 at the break. King led Northeastern with 12 points in the second half. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .A Nigerian woman has expressed her joy on social media following the completion of her family's mansion In a video, she displayed the transformation of the building project which started in May, 2024 and ended in December Social media users who came across the video on the TikTok app stormed the comments section to congratulate the couple CHECK OUT: Learn at Your Own Pace! Our Flexible Online Course allows you to fit copywriting skills development around your busy schedule. Enroll Now! A Nigerian woman recently took to social media to share her excitement as she and her husband completed their luxurious family mansion. The impressive edifice, which was built from scratch, was captured in a video that showed its transformation. Woman shares transformation of family's building project In the video shared by the woman identified with the handle @ mummyariana02 on TikTok , she showed the construction process, from the laying of the foundation to the final finishing touches. PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Instagram - get the most important news directly in your favourite app! According to her, they began the project on May 5th, 2024 and completed it by December 23rd, 2024. Read also Nigerian lady living in UK cries out as rats ravage her home and destroy properties, video trends "Congratulations to me and hubby. Latest house owners. Started 5th of May 2024, Ended 23rd December, 2024," she said. Reactions trail video of couple's mansion The woman's post was met with an outpouring of congratulatory messages and well-wishes from TikTok users who were impressed by the couple's achievement. @lavubucite said: "How can I get the plan of this same house I love what I see and will love to build same please help a brother." @Enuma Uche said: "I tap from ur blessings. My 2025 shall be full of congratulations in Jesus mighty name Amen. A BIG CONGRATULATIONS TO U MY SISTER." @Nazhatluxuryventures said: "Congratulations. I tap from your bls. I am not even talking about my own but my parents. I really really want to build house for my parents. I know and believe wat God cannot do does not exist." @mercytony92 added: Read also Little boy who used to play with sand in Nigeria now enjoys snow as family relocates to US "This is how I am going to say congratulations to me and my husband next year. I never marry ooo but I know say e go sure for me and him." @Evidoski added: "My friend would say what money can't do, more money can do. Congratulations and God bless your new home." Watch the video below: Man flaunts his car and house Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a happy Nigerian man could not hide his joy after acquiring a luxurious car and house. In an intriguing video, he made it clear that he got the assets in 2024 despite the challenges he faced along the way. PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy! Source: Legit.ng
When Dr. Kemi Wijesundera moved into the new Telus Health family medicine clinic in downtown Toronto, he quickly found he had one less thing to worry about during consults. Each of the seven examination rooms in the modern new clinic, which Telus Health has opened under its “MyCare” brand, is equipped with “AI scribe” software that listens to appointments (with patients’ consent) and uses artificial intelligence to summarize the conversations in the standardized medical note form. Before the patient even gets out the door, the notes from their appointment, including their medical history, as well as any requisitions, prescriptions and special instructions from their doctor, are uploaded to their phone through the Telus MyCare app. “This is the future of health care,” says Wijesundera, a recent medical school grad and one of six family physicians at the new Telus Health MyCare Union clinic. Located in repurposed office space on York Street, just south of Union Station, the “digital first” clinic, which had a soft launch in late summer, is now fully operational. 516 Estimated number of Torontonians without a family doctor 2.5 Estimated number of Ontarians without a family doctor 6.5 Estimated number of Canadians without a family doctor Source: Ontario College of Family Physicians, Ontario Community Health Profiles Partnership, OurCare Initiative Toronto Star graphic Located in repurposed office space on York Street, just south of Union Station, the “digital first” clinic, which had a soft launch in late summer, is now fully operational and facing a unique challenge: at a time when an 516,000 Torontonians are looking for a family doctor, the physicians at the clinic are looking for patients — up to 6,000 of them. “It gives people who live in the Toronto area a new way to become attached to a family doctor within the public health-care system,” says Chris Engst, vice-president of consumer health for Telus Health, which opened its first two MyCare clinics in Victoria and Vancouver in 2020. The expansion is part of a broader, global trend that’s seeing private companies taking ownership stakes in the provision of medical services, an area many investors see as ripe with opportunity as wait-lists for family doctors and certain surgical procedures remain stubbornly high. Unlike its main telecom competitors, Rogers Communications and BCE, which have diversified into sports team and media ownership, Telus is staking a claim on health care. In 2022, it , formerly Morneau Shepell, for $2.3 billion, as well as buying up a substantial share of the market for electronic medical record (EMR) software in Canada over the last decade. After these and other acquisitions, Telus says it now provides health-care services to some 76 million people in more than 160 countries. “It’s a regular family practice. The physicians are doing everything from preventative care, immunizations, chronic disease management, acute care, whatever the care needs are of their patients,” says Dr. Alissia Valentinis, a family doctor and medical director of the Toronto MyCare clinic. 1 Estimated number of Torontonians who could be without a family doctor by 2026 4.4 Estimated number of Ontarians who could be without a family doctor by 2026 Source: Ontario College of Family Physicians, INSPIRE-Primary Health Care Toronto Star graphic Dr. Alissia Valentinis, medical director of the Telus Health MyCare Union clinic, explains that the MyCare model is similar to other private clinics where doctors pay a percentage of their provincial billings to the company running the clinic to cover rent, staff and insurance. In this case, Telus Health manages the clinic while the physicians are independent contractors who are “100 per cent publicly funded.” “It’s a regular family practice. The physicians are doing everything from preventative care, immunizations, chronic disease management, acute care, whatever the care needs are of their patients,” says Valentinis. One thing the new Toronto MyCare clinic isn’t: a cramped and stuffy space in a lowrise office complex that some may associate with more traditional medical offices. A wall covered with plants about six metres long that stretches to the ceiling greets patients in the clinic’s waiting room on the second floor of Telus Harbour, a 30-storey, LEED Platinum office building next to Scotiabank Arena. Floor-to-ceiling windows that look down on York Street illuminate the seven, gleaming-white examination rooms that are equipped with two computer screens, one for virtual consultations and one for medical charting. One slightly larger examination room can accommodate minor procedures, such as the removal of lumps or bumps. A counselling room featuring cushioned seats offers a quiet space for doctors to have difficult conversations with patients, if necessary, or for breastfeeding moms to find some privacy. A team of clinical operations support staff assist physicians with administration, pharmacy inquiries, referrals and appointment bookings. “We’ve been using technology to try and think about, how do you deliver primary care in a unique way which helps to support the needs of patients and also helps to support the needs of the clinicians who work with us?” says Engst. A key pillar in this quest is the Telus Health MyCare app, a sort of all-in-one platform that not only holds MyCare patients’ electronic medical records, but also allows patients to book same-day or next-day appointments and see physicians at the Union clinic virtually or in-person. Despite the obvious value for patients in a city starved of family doctors like Toronto, the company’s expansion into the health-care space has not been without controversy. A living wall of plants about six metres long that stretches to the ceiling greets patients in the clinic’s waiting room on the second floor of Telus Harbour, a 30-storey, LEED Platinum office building next to Scotiabank Arena. A few years ago, Telus Health opened but then closed the doors of a family medicine clinic in downtown Toronto, a move it said was a “strategic decision” to “re-evaluate and refine our approach to supporting health-care needs in Toronto.” “This period of reflection and analysis led to the development and launch of the Telus Health MyCare Union clinic,” the company said in an email. “This new model represents an evolution of our initial concept, incorporating lessons learned and aligning more closely with our goal of improving access to primary care for thousands of Toronto residents.” In late 2022, British Columbia’s Medical Services Commission, responsible for that province’s public health insurance system, went to court seeking an injunction against a separate Telus Health program, called LifePlus, that the government alleged charged patients thousands of dollars a year for care already covered publicly — an illegal practice under the B.C. Medicare Protection Act. In April 2023, the commission and Telus Health reached an agreement and clarified processes to better distinguish insured from uninsured services, the company said. It’s unclear how much, if any, profit Telus is making on the Toronto MyCare clinic, but Engst did say its physicians bill the provincial health system just like any other public health-care clinician, with a portion of those fees going to cover support staff and overhead. A less tangible benefit for the company could be a treasure trove of potentially valuable data. And that has not gone unnoticed by privacy and public health-care advocates, who question what the Vancouver-based company is doing with its now vast holdings of personal health information. “Telus owns most of the electronic medical record (EMR) software market in Canada, including the EMR that I use. All of my prescribing information is in my EMR. Where is the data going and are they monetizing it for secondary use?” says Danielle Martin, chair of the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Toronto. Danielle Martin, chair of the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Toronto, says that while the MyCare Union clinic “is what every doctor and every patient wants and deserves” when it comes to physicians being able to focus on being clinicians instead of running an office, she questions why a private company is stepping in to meet demand instead of the public health-care system. Engst says Telus Health, as both a technology and health-care company, “brings unique capabilities to improve health-care delivery and access.” “To be clear, the Telus Health MyCare Union clinic supports the public health-care system by providing access to publicly insured services,” he added. Martin notes that the province already funds models similar to the MyCare clinics through family health teams and community health centres, but these interprofessional teams — which include not only doctors, but also nurses, social workers, dietitians and pharmacists — only cover about 30 per cent of the population. “This is what creates a market for Telus, because doctors prefer to work in an environment like that and patients prefer to get care in an environment like that,” says Martin, who is also a family doctor. But she questions what Telus Health does with the patient data it retains. “Telus owns most of the electronic medical record (EMR) software market in Canada, including the EMR that I use. All of my prescribing information is in my EMR. Where is the data going and are they monetizing it for secondary use?” Martin says. In an email, Telus Health said it does not sell any data collected by its virtual-care platforms, including MyCare, and is “deeply committed” to the internationally recognized Privacy By Design principles. Privacy by Design, created by Ontario’s former privacy commissioner Ann Cavoukian, is a system based on seven principles intended to proactively embed privacy into information technology and business systems. “All data collected from our services are treated as personal health information and handled in accordance with the rigorous laws and best practices applicable to personal health information,” the company said. 19 Estimated number of hours per week family doctors spend on administrative work Source: Ontario Medical Association Toronto Star graphic Back at the MyCare Union clinic, Wijesundera says the technology deployed by Telus Health is what made working at the clinic attractive as a new medical grad who wants to spend more time seeing patients and less time doing paperwork. “This is potentially going to solve physician burnout,” he says. The Ontario Medical Association reports that family doctors spend about 19 hours per week on administrative tasks, such as writing notes or filling in patient forms. “I get more time to look at the patient, have a conversation and it’s not just me on the computer typing. It’s a nice interaction. The patients feel heard as well.”Overhauls of 'heritage brands' raise the question: How important are our products to our identities?
Rethinking trade and cooperation in an era of uncertainty to navigate global shocks
The year came and went, and as always with Philly sports, there were some incredible highs, some devastating lows, and then just some outright weird, baffling nonsense. This is the appreciation of the best though – the end of a drought, the reach for untouchable milestones, the glimmers of hope, and sights of the athletically impossible. You probably know what most of them are – and inevitably, some favorites won't be here, so feel free to sound off down in the comments or on social media. Here are the best plays from Philly sports in 2024... 10. Phils win the NL East The Phillies had already clinched their postseason spot, but they put a hold on the clubhouse celebration for something else. Returning home to Citizens Bank Park to face the Cubs in late September, the Phillies were on the brink of clinching their first NL East title in 13 years. Aaron Nola, the longest-tenured Phillie and the one who pitched through six stellar innings in Houston to finally break the playoff drought two years ago, did it again here to put another longstanding franchise shortcoming to bed , all while J.T. Realmuto, Nick Castellanos, and Kyle Schwarber did the damage on the scoreboard to hand the ball to Matt Strahm, Jeff Hoffman, and then deadline acquisition Carlos Estévez out of the bullpen with a clear runway. Philly on their feet for 27 👏 pic.twitter.com/QwSmhi5Ps3 The relievers combined for three shutout innings to close the game out, the first white divisional banner Philadelphia had seen in a long, long time went waiting through the cooling air, and finally, the real party was on. For the first time in 13 years... pic.twitter.com/lJf2TBtoEu Of course, there were hopes and ambitions for much, much greater with this club, but as was the trend that lingered from 2023 and on through 2024, they unraveled. 9. Castellanos walks off Game 2 The Phillies were put on their heels just as soon as they opened the NLDS in a fear that many fans were wary of entering the series against a rival and surging New York Mets club. The Mets had outlasted Zack Wheeler in Game 1 and then laid into the Phils' bullpen, all while the Phillies' own bats failed to take off. They needed an answer, but it took a while to find one. Down 3-0 in the sixth, Bryce Harper took the swing that woke the whole city up, driving a ball into the center-field ivy to suddenly make it a one-run ballgame, then just as quickly a tied one when Nick Castellanos looped one into the left-field seats. In the eighth, after the Phillies fell back down, Bryson Stott cleared the bases with a triple to send them ahead, but the Mets still had a grip over the Philadelphia bullpen to bring the game into a 6-6 tie in the bottom of the ninth. That's when Castellanos, who ended up as the Phillies' most disciplined contact hitter that series, stepped up as the hero . NICK CASTELLANOS WINS IT FOR THE @PHILLIES !!! #NLDS pic.twitter.com/vM14etkamy The series shifted up to Queens, the Phillies never built any real momentum, and their postseason run, set by World Series or bust expectations, never even got off the runway. The Phillies lost the NLDS, 3-1. 8. The Eagles finally win (big) in Dallas The last time the Eagles won on the road at Dallas was during the Super Bowl run in 2017. Seven years flew fast, and so did the landscape of the NFC East. So in a lot of ways, a victory over the Cowboys in AT&T Stadium, could stand as a statement for what the 2024 Eagles were really about. And they delivered a blowout. The Eagles' defense didn't allow a touchdown and only 146 yards in total offense to Dallas and backup QB Cooper Rush – after they had lost starter Dak Prescott for the season. Jalen Hurts shrugged off five sacks to throw for two touchdowns, and rush for two more, and Saquon Barkley, even on what stood as a quiet day by his standards, still powered through Dallas tacklers to make the highlight reel. Saquon Barkley is just absurd pic.twitter.com/iHO5qhD8le By the fourth quarter, the Cowboys' sideline stood dejected and third-stringer Trey Lance was in taking snaps. The only smiles in the building were in midnight (or kelly) green. The Eagles left with a 34-6 final score , a fifth straight win to improve to 7-2, even footing within the division against a Washington team that got off to a hot start, but moreover, with the message that they were really the ones in the NFC East's driver's seat now. 7. The mark of a captain The Flyers were trying to keep up in the playoff race midway through February – a revelation that caught nearly everyone by surprise for what was dubbed a rebuilding team – but on a Saturday night against Seattle, Sean Couturier turned the puck over then flubbed on the chase back after it, which allowed the Kraken to score the tying goal early into the third period. Couturier came back to the bench. He got an earful from head coach John Tortorella. He wasn't thrilled about it, but he went back out there. The veteran center, who was away for nearly two years from a series of back issues and with tons of doubt over how effective he could still be coming back, won a crucial offensive zone faceoff and then cut to the front of the net to tip-in the go-ahead goal. The Flyers held on and won, 3-2, Tortorella spoke glowingly of Couturier's drive and professionalism postgame, and behind the scenes, the coach and the organization saw all they needed to see. "Oh that was 'F you!' to me, yeah," Tortorella said of Couturier's winning goal from that night . "I'm sure it was. So be it. So be it. That's part of it. That's what I like about him though. He's a crusty old pro. He's a huge part of this. "I have a tremendous amount of respect for how he's handled this year after taking two years off, but there's no free passes. We need him terribly in games to be consistent." Philadelphia goal! Scored by Sean Couturier with 14:30 remaining in the 3rd period. Assisted by Travis Sanheim and Travis Konecny. Philadelphia: 3 Seattle: 2 #SEAvsPHI #LetsGoFlyers #SeaKraken pic.twitter.com/0v9VgN4pHq A few days later, Sean Couturier was named the next captain of the Philadelphia Flyers . 6. The Nico Batum game Oftentimes it's the stars who carry you, but other times it's the role players who lift you – who save you. The Sixers were a disaster through the first half of their play-in game against the Miami Heat, and the worry shifted from hitting the playoff wall again to whether they would even get a chance to crash into it to begin with. Then 35-year-old Nico Batum stepped off the bench and struck a spark. He scored 20 points, sank six major threes, and when the Sixers rallied to pull ahead and bring the game down to the wire, made the saving block on Tyler Herro's long-range attempt to put the ball back in Philadelphia's hands with the seconds ticking down. Nico Batum said postgame he was able to block Tyler Herro's 3 in the clutch because the Sixers coaching staff showed him the exact the play the Heat ended up running just a minute before. "Coaches showed me that play literally like a minute before. So I was expecting that play." pic.twitter.com/pQmA1wMhdV The Sixers moved on to secure a matchup against the rival Knicks in Round 1 of the playoffs, and Batum, though he wasn't in Philly long, etched himself a spot in the city's fabled sports lore ... Then the Sixers hit the wall again. 5. 'Cold-blooded' Michkov Matvei Michkov arrived in from Russia ahead of schedule, and was quickly showing flashes of becoming the elite player Flyers fans were clinging to hope that he would be. But in November against the visiting Chicago Blackhawks, he showed Philadelphia he wasn't just going to be good, he showed that he lives for the moment, that he's going to be a star . The Flyers were tied 2-2 and head to overtime against Chicago, and on a power play in the extra frame, they were cycling in the offensive zone with Michkov carrying the puck along the wall. He tossed it up to Travis Sanheim at the blue line, and once he saw the Chicago skaters' eyes follow the puck, he quietly began drifting down toward the net. Couturier set a pick in front, Travis Konecny took a pass in to the far side, then just as quickly slipped the puck across the crease expecting Michkov to be there. The rookie was, with all the open net in the world to shoot at from in close, and to a crowd that jumped to its feet before the horn even blared to signal that the Flyers had won. MICHKOV MAGIC IN OT AGAIN pic.twitter.com/96O6C29Who Michkov was the hero. He's here, and though the Flyers are still a long ways away from where they want to be, he's going to be one of the main pieces who helps them get there. "There's not many moments you're gonna get," Michkov said afterward, via Russian interpreter Slava Kuznetsov . "When you get the moment, you have to be cold-blooded and realize it, finish it." 4. Maxey keeps the Sixers alive in Game 5 The Sixers had looked overwhelmed by the breaking out New York Knicks, who were on the brink of sending them home up three in Game 5 and up 3-1 for the first-round playoff series. Philly was about 10 seconds away from yet another date with heartbreak, until Tyrese Maxey sprinted around a Joel Embiid pick down the court, then launched up a three from the Knicks logo at Madison Square Garden. It fell. Maxey forced overtime, where he and Embiid then went into overdrive to force a Game 6 back home at the Wells Fargo Center. TYRESE MAXEY MY GOODNESS pic.twitter.com/tucGGgCodT Heartbreak had to wait...one more game... 3. Barkley runs for the record Saquon Barkley took off running in the open field to the sound of "M-V-P!" chants, but the Eagles weren't home at the Linc. They were at SoFi Stadium in L.A. – more than 2,700 miles away from South Philly. Yet that hardly seemed to matter. The Eagles contingent that November night out west was huge, and the Birds stormed through the Rams, 37-20, with Barkley taking off for 255 rushing yards (and 302 yards from scrimmage in total) to shatter the franchise's single-game record . SAQUON. PERIOD. 📺: #PHIvsLAR on NBC/Peacock 📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/OBVX9o6oqV Everyone in the building knew Barkley was getting the ball and there was nothing the Rams' defense could do about it. It was a point and performance that flipped the NFL MVP conversation on its head, at least for a bit, and made it pretty clear that soon enough, Barkley was going to break LeSean McCoy's single-season rushing record of 1,607 yards (he did) and might've even had a legitimate shot at chasing down Eric Dickerson's all-time record of 2,105 yards (though that seems to have tapered off now). Nonetheless, Barkley's been an absolute game-changer for the Eagles since he signed here. 2. Embiid for 70 Joel Embiid dropped 70 points on the San Antonio Spurs back in January. He was only the ninth player in NBA history to ever score 70 points or more in a single game – until Dallas' Luka Dončić somehow did it himself a few nights later. 70-PIECE FOR EMBIID 😱 Spurs-Sixers | Live on NBA TV 📲 https://t.co/TJ4nCPRIJL pic.twitter.com/SR00f4VhHe But January 22, 2024, that was one of the greatest scoring performances professional basketball has ever seen. He'll always own that – and the reaction Kevin Durant had to it after the fact. KD couldn't believe Embiid dropped 70 tonight 🤣 pic.twitter.com/14S9ZY2whT 1. The backwards hurdle DeVonta Smith made a one-handed touchdown catch, Barkley even made his own impressive over-the-shoulder grab for the opening score, and Nakobe Dean jumped up to make the game-saving interception against the Jaguars... Yet that will all forever come second to the freeze-frame, poster-on-the-wall moment of Barkley hopping right over a tackler's head completely backwards. SAQUON BARKLEY IS NOT OF THIS WORLD. 📺: #JAXvsPHI on CBS/Paramount+ 📱: https://t.co/waVpO909ge pic.twitter.com/UtCENDw6no It captured the city's heart – if you walked through the Christmas village at City Hall these past few weeks, prints, paintings, and shirts of the hurdle were everywhere; shook the football world to its core from any angle you could see it ; made a Kelly green No. 26 jersey the item to have throughout the Delaware Valley; and will have kids playing football out in the yard, or even in Madden , trying to recreate it for years to come. It was the moment everyone knew that Saquon Barkley as an Eagle was going to end up as something truly special. "Crazy," Smith said after that Eagles win with a huge grin on his face . "I ain't ever seen nothing like it." "It was THE best play I've ever seen," head coach Nick Sirianni stated outright. And it'll likely be the first thing everyone imagines when it comes to the 2024 Philadelphia Eagles – hopefully on the way to the Super Bowl by the time it's all said and done. "I don't even know how you think of that." "How the f*** did he see him?" "It was THE best play I've ever seen." The Eagles' reactions to Saquon Barkley's backwards hurdle after Sunday's win over Jacksonville: https://t.co/jifiwg6bzr Follow Nick on Twitter: @itssnick Follow Nick on Bluesky: @itssnick Like us on Facebook: PhillyVoice Sports
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How the Israel-Gaza war is also playing out in Europe's soccer stadiumsThe Gunners delivered the statement Champions League victory their manager had demanded to bounce back from a narrow defeat at Inter Milan last time out. Goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhaes, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard got their continental campaign back on track, lifting them to seventh place with 10 points in the new-look 36-team table. It was Arsenal’s biggest away win in the Champions League since beating Inter by the same scoreline in 2003. “For sure, especially against opposition we played at their home who have not lost a game in 18 months – they have been in top form here – so to play with the level, the determination, the purpose and the fluidity we showed today, I am very pleased,” said Arteta. “The team played with so much courage, because they are so good. When I’m watching them live they are so good! They were all exceptional today. It was a big performance, a big win and we are really happy. “The performance was there a few times when we have played big teams. That’s the level that we have to be able to cope and you have to make it happen, and that creates belief.” A memorable victory also ended Sporting’s unbeaten start to the season, a streak of 17 wins and one draw, the vast majority of which prompted Manchester United to prise away head coach Ruben Amorim. The Gunners took the lead after only seven minutes when Martinelli tucked in Jurrien Timber’s cross, and Saka teed up Havertz for a tap-in to double the advantage. Arsenal added a third on the stroke of half-time, Gabriel charging in to head Declan Rice’s corner into the back of the net. To rub salt in the wound, the Brazilian defender mimicked Viktor Gyokeres’ hands-over-his-face goal celebration. That may have wound Sporting up as they came out after the interval meaning business, and they pulled one back after David Raya tipped Hidemasa Morita’s shot behind, with Goncalo Inacio netting at the near post from the corner. But when Martin Odegaard’s darting run into the area was halted by Ousmane Diomande’s foul, Saka tucked away the penalty. Substitute Trossard added the fifth with eight minutes remaining, heading in the rebound after Mikel Merino’s shot was saved. A miserable night for prolific Sporting striker Gyokeres was summed up when his late shot crashed back off the post.Andrej Jakimovski hit a layup with 8 seconds left, and Colorado upset No. 2 UConn 73-72 in the consolation bracket of the Maui Invitational on Tuesday in Lahaina, Hawaii. Colorado (5-1) rallied from down 11 in the first half to get the win over the two-time defending national champions Huskies. Jakimovski finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds and Julian Hammond III and Elijah Malone each scored 16 for the Buffaloes, who advanced to the fifth-place game in Maui on Wednesday. Down 72-71, Jakimovski drove the right side of the lane and made a scoop shot as he was falling down. UConn called timeout to set up the final play but Hassan Diarra missed a 3-pointer with 2 seconds left. Liam McNeeley led UConn with 20 points, Solo Ball scored 16 and Diarra finished with 11. The Huskies (4-2) lost two straight for the first time since dropping three in a row from Jan. 11-18, 2023. Colorado trailed by eight at halftime and Diarra hit two 3-pointers early in the second half that made it 46-37. The Buffaloes scored the next 11 points to take a 48-46 lead, their first of the game. Hammond bookended that run with a pair of triples. UConn went back in front 55-52 on Tarris Reed Jr.'s driving layup but Malone's bucket with 8:34 left tied it at 59. McNeeley's hook shot gave the Huskies a 63-60 lead before Jakimovski drained a 3-pointer to tie it again with 5:16 left. Ball hit a 3-pointer and a layup to give UConn a five-point lead but Colorado got within 70-69 on two free throws by Malone with 2:04 left. A putback from Jaylin Stewart made it a three-point game with 1:29 remaining. Malone answered with a layup, Javon Ruffin blocked Diarra's shot and Colorado got an offensive rebound with 24 seconds left to set up the winning basket. McNeeley made his first four shots from deep and had 16 points by intermission to lead the Huskies. Colorado had opportunities to make it a close game by halftime but went just 12-for-19 from the foul line and trailed 40-32. UConn attempted only four free throws in the first half and had five players with two or more fouls, including Reed, who had three. --Field Level Media
Photo by Mark Peterson Media/Prince Albert Raiders. Daxon Rudolph (10) of the Prince Albert Raiders skates with the puck while avoiding Red Deer Rebels forward Kalan Lind (13) during WHL action at the Art Hauser Centre on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024 It wasn’t exactly the start to the season that the Prince Albert Raiders envisioned at the start of training camp, but they are right in the thick of the playoff race with the second half of the season about to begin. Prince Albert started the season with a 2-7-2-0 record through their first 11 games of the season, including dropping all but one game on their B.C. Division road trip back in October. The Raiders have been slowly but surely climbing the standings posting a 13-4-1-0 record since returning home from that trip. Raider head coach Jeff Truitt says a big reason for the turnaround has been the willingness of the team to buy in. “I always say it’s the first 15 games of a season to start to find out exactly where you’re at. That was kind of the point where now we got guys in certain spots. We got guys with good line combinations. You take a look at your defensive core. Everything kind of got dissected a little bit and rearranged a little bit at that time. I think we settled down and we’re able to kind of figure things out with the right personnel and I think that was key. The guys bought in and they’ve got a good mood about them. The expectation is higher, there’s no doubt. We’re right in the thick of it and it’s a lot better than being right out of it so the building continues.” Early in the season, the Raiders had several bodies in and out of the lineup. Several players would spend a handful of games in the Green and Gold before being either reassigned or released by the club. The list of players who spent some time with the Raiders includes Norwin Panocha, Lukas Kral, Cedricson Okitundu and Brandon Osborne. Several players have appeared in games as affiliate players this season including Liam Myhre, Brock Cripps and Benett Kelly. Truitt says the Raiders have been able to gel as a team with a more solidified roster. “We were without some guys and we were just kind of trying to establish things that maybe we couldn’t. I think when the guys came back, we’d be able to sort some things out and get some chemistry going. I think the confidence grew, we were doing small things better and those small things grew into other things. The team became a team and that was important. That just goes to show you that everybody’s pulling the right way that good things are going to happen and we want that to continue.” One area where the Raiders have seen major improvement from last season has been on the man advantage. After having the 10th best power play in the WHL last season at 23.3%, Prince Albert has become the top power unit in the league so far this season converting a 30.1 % clip through 29 games. Truitt says the power play is an area of strength for the Raiders and something he wants to see continue in the second half of the season. “I think it’s the chemistry end of it. The skill level is there and how they execute with each other. It’s a team within a team, both power plays and penalty kills. It’s a team effort that way, but we’ve got two units that have proven that they can score here. I think with the repetition that’s going on, Ryan (McDonald)’s been really good with these guys on their structure and their responsibilities. I think that it’s grown and again, it’s something we want to keep going.” Keen observers of the Raider schedule so far will notice one very important fact: Prince Albert has yet to play a game against the archrival Saskatoon Blades this season. The last time the Highway 11 rivals faced each other was in the playoffs last April, when the Blades eliminated the Raiders in five games. The Blades hold a 17-10-2-2 record and sit in second place in the Eastern Conference, but struggled posting a 3-5-1-1 in their last 10 games going into the break. Truitt says he expects the rivalry to be close and heated, just like in year’s past. “Saskatoon is a high flying team. They have got lots of skill and they’re obviously at the top of the conference for a reason here. It’s very similar to last year (with) how they play. With our group, we just need to worry about us and learn from some corrections we’ve made over the first 29 games and hopefully get on the right side of them. We’re looking at six games in nine (days) as soon as we return. There’s not a lot of time to sit and breathe either. We see those guys quite a bit, so I’m sure the rivalry will be heated.” With a 15-11-3-0 record on the season, the Raiders currently sit in eighth place in the Eastern Conference standings. Only six points separate the Medicine Hat Tigers at the top of the conference and the Raiders who hold the eighth and final playoff spot. The Raiders, along with the Brandon Wheat Kings have played the fewest amount of games so far this season. Truitt says he sees the conference being close all the way to the final game of the regular season and into the playoffs. “I’ve never seen it from top to bottom that tight right now. Usually a top team or two have already separated themselves and have gone (and) everybody else is kind of in that middle gap. Right now, anything can happen in this Eastern Conference. If you were going to name who’s going to win this conference right now at the Christmas break, I don’t know if you can really say anything because it is tight. You can just draw them out of a hat and maybe that’s the way it’s going to go. It’s going to be an interesting second half.” THe Raiders begin the second half of the WHL schedule on Friday night when they host the Swift Current Broncos. Puck drops at 7 p.m. Editor’s Note: The interview with Jeff Truitt for this story was done on Dec. 18 in Calgary, prior to the announcement that Truitt will be taking a medical leave of absence from the team. The Prince Albert Daily Herald wishes Truitt a safe and speedy recovery. sports@paherald.sk.ca -Advertisement-They were all exceptional – Mikel Arteta loved seeing Arsenal run riot in LisbonDividend Stocks Are Primed for a Comeback in 2025
Saquon Barkley is the NFL's version of Shohei Ohtani: AnalysisChild artiste Hudson Meek, best known for his role in Baby Driver, passes away. He died on December 22 in Alabama after falling from a moving vehicle. He was 16, according to Variety. Hudson Meek dies at 16 The news of his demise was shared on his Instagram. "Our hearts are broken to share that Hudson Meek went home to be with Jesus tonight. His 16 years on this earth were far too short, but he accomplished so much and significantly impacted everyone he met," the post read. Hudson Meek accident details revealed According to local news site AL.com. Hudson died after falling from a moving vehicle in Vestavia Hills, Alabama. The attack happened on December 19 and died from blunt force trauma two days later despite efforts at medical intervention. Meek was taken to a hospital and died Saturday night. Vestavia Hills police are investigating his death, as per Variety. Thousands of people took to social media to express their condolences to the actor's family. His death raised many questions as to how he fell from a moving vehicle or whether someone pushed him or he was under drug influence. The Vestavia Hills Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death, the coroner’s office said. Hudson Meek rose to fame with his portrayal as a young version of Ansel Elgort's main character Baby, a professional getaway driver with a passion for music. He also appeared in MacGyver, The School Duet, Genius, Found, Legacies, Union, Momma Jenny & the Brooks Boys, Providence, Half Pint, 90 Minutes, The List and The Santa Con. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Hollywood, Entertainment News and around the world.The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY) Shares Purchased by Public Sector Pension Investment Board
The stock market experienced a tumultuous day as major technology firms faced sharp declines, sparking interest and concern among investors. Tesla , Nvidia , and Microsoft all endured significant losses in alignment with a broader market pullback. Tesla’s stock plunged a significant 4.56%, marking a notable shift after its earlier performance this year. Analysts attribute this decline to profit-taking, given the company’s previously soaring stock values, and apprehensions about dropping demand in crucial markets, including China. Nevertheless, the electric vehicle giant continues to hold a firm position in major markets such as the United States and Europe, despite increasing competition globally. In another part of tech, Nvidia, known for its pioneering role in video game chips, saw its shares drop by 3.05%. The company has enjoyed robust growth thanks to a rising demand for AI technologies. However, investor concerns about possible overvaluation have cast a shadow over its recent achievements. Rising Treasury yields may also signal a broader shift away from growth stocks, impacting Nvidia adversely. Adding to the tech sector’s woes, Microsoft faced a decline of 2.26%. The software behemoth’s recent challenges indicate market caution about how broader economic forces might shape its growth prospects. As the year winds down, fluctuations in these tech giants’ stock values suggest increasing investor anxiety. Despite being pivotal to market resurgence, the delicate interplay between optimism and caution was evident as these stocks led a market downturn. Unveiling New Dynamics: The Evolving Landscape of Tech Stocks The recent slump in major technology stocks like Tesla, Nvidia, and Microsoft has not only grabbed headlines but has also sparked a significant discussion about the future dynamics of the stock market. As these tech giants face sizable market value declines, investors are left debating over key factors that could shape the future of these stocks and the broader market. Industry Outlook and Market Trends # Tesla’s Market Position and Competitive Landscape Tesla’s 4.56% drop in stock value has raised critical questions about sustainability in the electric vehicle (EV) market. Analysts point to profit-taking as a primary reason, but there are broader implications. Concerns about potential dampened demand in markets like China could forecast market saturation challenges. In spite of this, Tesla maintains its dominance particularly in the U.S. and European markets. Look to see how technological innovations and policy changes in those regions impact Tesla’s strategy going forward. # Nvidia and the AI Boom Nvidia’s 3.05% decline comes despite its leadership in AI and video gaming chips, underscoring potential market overvaluation worries. As tech stocks waver, AI remains a significant growth area; Nvidia’s future may hinge on its ability to balance investor expectation with realistic market performance. Rising Treasury yields also suggest a possible pivot away from high-growth tech stocks, indicating that Nvidia and similar companies need to strategize around more stable, long-term growth investments. # Microsoft’s Strategic Challenges Microsoft experienced a 2.26% decrease, which is relatively mild but indicative of broader economic caution affecting tech stocks. This decline highlights the challenges Microsoft faces amidst varying global economic trends. As a leader in cloud technology and enterprise solutions, Microsoft’s adaptability to these economic conditions may shape its performance in 2024 and beyond. Strategic Insights and Predictive Factors # Economic Indicators and Tech Stocks The tech sector’s recent downturn correlates with rising Treasury yields and fears of inflation, suggesting a potential shift in investor strategy from growth-oriented to value-focused investments. Market observers predict this could drive future valuation adjustments in the tech sector. # Investor Sentiment and Stock Valuation The recent declines suggest heightened investor sensitivity to valuation metrics and growth sustainability. Firms like Tesla, Nvidia, and Microsoft are under pressure to justify their high valuations amidst fluctuating economic conditions. Looking Ahead: What to Expect? – Innovation and Competition : Expect companies like Tesla and Nvidia to continue leveraging R&D to stay ahead amidst increasing competition. – Regulatory Environment : Watch for regulatory changes in major markets that may impact operational flexibility and demand for tech products. – Sustainability Factors : As the tech industry evolves, sustainability initiatives and eco-friendly technologies may become more prominent, especially for companies like Tesla. Conclusion The present volatility in tech stocks like Tesla, Nvidia, and Microsoft reflects broader market trends and investor concerns. As economic and political landscapes evolve, these companies must strategically navigate challenges to maintain their industry positions. For more insights into Tesla and its market strategies, visit Tesla . For Nvidia’s latest technological advancements, see Nvidia . To explore Microsoft’s innovation in cloud services and software, check out Microsoft .As science continues its evolution, discoveries and technologies can act like a master key that open doors leading to novel advancements. Artificial intelligence is one such key, making innovations possible by solving complex problems, automating tasks and enabling research that would have been impossible, or very time-consuming, without it. But do we want to do research on all topics, and shall we try the AI master key on every door? To explore this question, let’s consider the use of AI by genomics experts as an example. In recent years, genomics experts have added unbelievable depth to what we know about the world and ourselves. For example, genetics researchers have revealed facts about when certain animals and plants were domesticated. In another example, researchers used DNA from 30,000-year-old permafrost to create fertile samples of a plant called narrow-leafed campion. Importantly, genetic engineering has facilitated extraordinary advances in the treatment of complicated conditions, such as sickle-cell anemia. Thanks to AI, we are witnessing a dramatic increase in the pace and scalability of genomic exploration. But given the risks and possible consequences of AI use in science, should we rush headlong into using AI in all kinds of projects? One relevant example is research on Neanderthals, our closest relatives, who lived about 40,000 years ago. Neanderthals have been studied for several years now through genetic investigation of their fossils and their DNA. Genetic engineering can potentially use ancient DNA- and genome- editing methods to re-create a Neanderthal or aspects of a Neanderthal’s genetics and physiology. To do this, scientists could start by figuring out the DNA sequence of a Neanderthal by comparing it with the DNA of modern humans, because they are closely related. Then, scientists could use the gene-editing tool known as CRISPR to swap out parts of human DNA with Neanderthal DNA. This process would require a lot of trial and error and might not succeed soon. But based on what we know about genetics, if something is possible, AI can help make it happen faster, cheaper and with less effort. Scientists are excited about these developments because they could facilitate new discoveries and open up many research opportunities in genetic research. With or without AI, research on Neanderthals will proceed. But the extraordinary power of AI could give the final push to these discoveries and facilitate this kind of resurrection. At that point, the scientific community must develop norms and guidelines about how to treat these resurrected beings with dispositions very similar to humans. We would need to carefully consider their rights and well-being almost in the same way as when humans are involved and not as research subjects or artifacts of scientific curiosity. These ethical issues are discussed in more detail in a new paper published in the journal Nature Machine Intelligence. A more holistic question to consider is: Should we prioritize the use of resource-intensive AI, researchers’ time and public funds to resurrect extinct beings? Or should we invest these resources into conserving species that are critically endangered today to prevent biodiversity from more degradation? Hosseini is an assistant professor in the department of preventive medicine at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. He wrote this for The Chicago Tribune . Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Millions of users in the European Union are finding that the iPhone 14 and iPhone SE have suddenly disappeared from Apple’s online store. This abrupt removal has left many wondering what prompted this drastic move from the tech giant. The answer lies in a recent EU regulation mandating all new smartphones to feature a USB-C charging port. Apple, known for its proprietary Lightning connector, has had to adjust its product lineup to comply with this new legislation. This shift means that as of December 28th, 2024, Apple has ceased sales of the iPhone 14 series and the iPhone SE in the EU. While this news might be disappointing for those hoping to snag these models, it marks a significant step towards standardization and reduced electronic waste in the region. The USB-C Revolution: Why Apple Made the Switch For years, Apple has resisted the industry-wide adoption of USB-C, sticking with its Lightning connector on iPhones and a variety of other devices. However, the EU’s push for a common charging solution has finally led Apple to make the switch, starting with the iPhone 15 lineup. The EU’s rationale behind this regulation is twofold: While Apple initially expressed concerns about the regulation stifling innovation, the company ultimately complied, leading to the discontinuation of older models like the iPhone 14 and iPhone SE in the EU market. What This Means for Consumers If you’re in the EU and were hoping to buy an iPhone 14 or iPhone SE, you’re out of luck – at least through official Apple channels. Here’s a breakdown of what this change means for consumers: The Bigger Picture: E-Waste and Standardization The EU’s push for USB-C on smartphones is part of a broader effort to reduce electronic waste and promote sustainability. Consider these statistics: By enforcing the USB-C standard, the EU is setting a precedent that could influence other regions and industries to adopt similar measures. This move has the potential to significantly impact global e-waste reduction efforts and promote greater interoperability between devices. My Take: A Necessary Change, Despite the Inconvenience As a tech enthusiast, I’ve always been frustrated by the proliferation of different charging cables and connectors. While I understand Apple’s desire to maintain control over its ecosystem, I believe the shift to USB-C is a positive step. From a consumer standpoint, it’s undeniably convenient to have one charger that works across multiple devices. More importantly, the environmental benefits of reducing e-waste are undeniable. Though the discontinuation of the iPhone 14 and SE in the EU might cause some short-term inconvenience, I believe the long-term benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Apple and the Industry? Apple’s compliance with the EU’s USB-C regulation signals a potential turning point in the tech industry. It will be interesting to see how this change influences other manufacturers and whether other regions follow the EU’s lead. This move could also accelerate the adoption of wireless charging technologies as the primary means of powering devices. While wireless charging is still relatively slow and inefficient, advancements in technology could make it a more viable alternative in the future. Key Takeaways This situation highlights the growing importance of sustainability and standardization in the tech industry. While change can be disruptive, it often paves the way for a better future.AGNC Investment ( AGNC 1.68% ) attracts a lot of investing attention for one reason: It has a massive 15% dividend yield. But dividend investors shouldn't run out and buy this stock. It wasn't a dividend buy in 2024, and it won't be one in 2025, either. In fact, it probably will never be a great investment option for dividend investors. Here's what you need to know. AGNC's troubling dividend track record AGNC Investment's dividend yield is around 15% right now. That sounds like an anomaly, but it isn't. The yield has been around 10% or higher for most of the real estate investment trust's (REIT's) existence. In fact, the average yield, including the period when the dividend was just starting to be built up after the company's initial public offering (IPO), is about 14%! AGNC Dividend Yield data by YCharts Real estate investment trusts are structured to pass income on in a tax-advantaged manner to shareholders. So it would be understandable if the high yield here got dividend investors excited. Only dividend yield doesn't tell you the whole dividend story. This chart looking at the company's quarterly dividend payments and the share price is far more informative. AGNC data by YCharts Dividend yield is a pretty simple math equation: You divide the annualized dividend by the stock price. If the dividend is falling, as it has been for AGNC Investment, the only way for the yield to remain high is for the stock price to fall, too. That is what has happened. Given that most dividend investors are likely trying to live off of the dividends they collect, which effectively means they are being spent, AGNC Investment would have left dividend investors with less income and a smaller nest egg. That is not a good outcome. Why does AGNC Investment exist? For dividend investors, AGNC Investment was a terrible stock to own in 2024, and it will be a terrible stock to own in 2025. It will probably be a terrible stock to own forever ... if you are a dividend investor. That doesn't mean it is a terrible stock for every investor. In fact, if you reinvest the dividends that have been paid, AGNC Investment has been a pretty good investment. AGNC data by YCharts The chart highlights two vastly different outcomes. On a stock price-only basis, AGNC Investment's price is down about 50% from its IPO. Total return , which assumes dividend reinvestment, is hugely positive at a gain of over 400%. Essentially, the massive dividend payments have more than made up for the stock price weakness if you reinvested the dividend. But this means that anyone salivating at the huge 15% dividend yield with the thought of using that cash to pay for living expenses will be making a big investment mistake if they buy this stock. AGNC Investment's real goal is total return, as well as providing investors exposure to the mortgage market, given that the REIT owns mortgage securities. If you use an asset allocation model that includes mortgage exposure and reinvest dividends, well, AGNC Investment could be a great choice for you. Only that's not what most dividend investors do. It is the type of approach taken by large institutional investors like pension funds. You need to know what you own with AGNC Investment It is easy to get so enamored with a huge dividend yield that you overlook very real problems at a company. To be fair, there really aren't huge problems at AGNC Investment. It is a reasonably well-run mortgage REIT. The thing that investors risk overlooking is that the mortgage REIT isn't designed to generate income so much as to provide a strong total return. The dividend is just a part of the total return equation. If you are looking at AGNC Investment and its huge yield as 2024 draws to a close, make sure you understand what it is really offering investors.
US expected to send £1 billion in weapons to Ukraine before Trump takes officeArteta wanted his team to prove their European credentials following some underwhelming displays away from home, and the Gunners manager got exactly what he asked for. Goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhaes, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard got their continental campaign back on track in style following the 1-0 defeat at Inter Milan last time out. A memorable victory also ended Sporting’s unbeaten start to the season, a streak of 17 wins and one draw, the vast majority of which prompted Manchester United to prise away head coach Ruben Amorim. The Gunners had failed to win or score in their two away games in the competition so far this season, but they made a blistering start in the Portuguese capital and took the lead after only seven minutes. Declan Rice fed overlapping full-back Jurrien Timber, who curled a low cross in behind the home defence for Martinelli to finish at the far post. Arsenal doubled their lead in the 20th minute thanks to a glorious ball over the top from Thomas Partey. Saka escaped the clutches of his marker Maximiliano Araujo to beat the offside trap and poke the ball past advancing goalkeeper Franco Israel for Havertz to tap home. It was a scintillating first-half display which completely overshadowed the presence of Viktor Gyokeres in Sporting’s attack. The prolific Sweden striker, formerly of Coventry, has been turning the heads of Europe’s top clubs with his 24 goals in 17 games this season – including a hat-trick against Manchester City earlier this month. But the only time he got a sniff of a run at goal after an optimistic long ball, he was marshalled out of harm’s way by Gabriel. David Raya was forced into one save, tipping a fierce Geovany Quenda drive over the crossbar. But Arsenal added a third on the stroke of half-time, Gabriel charging in to head Rice’s corner into the back of the net. Our second-half goalscorers ❤️ pic.twitter.com/aFCIMffFaK — Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 26, 2024 To rub salt in the wound, the Brazilian defender mimicked Gyokeres’ hands-over-his-face goal celebration. That may have wound Sporting up as they came out after the interval meaning business, and they pulled one back after Raya tipped Hidemasa Morita’s shot behind, with Goncalo Inacio netting at the near post from the corner. Former Tottenham winger Marcus Edwards fired over, as did Gyokeres, with Arsenal temporarily on the back foot. But when Martin Odegaard’s darting run into the area was halted by Ousmane Diomande’s foul, Saka tucked away the penalty. Substitute Trossard added the fifth with eight minutes remaining, heading in the rebound after Mikel Merino’s shot was saved, and Gyokeres’ miserable night was summed up when his late shot crashed back off the post.
