axiebet88 voucher code free

The U.S. Navy is transforming a costly flub into a potent weapon with the first shipborne hypersonic weapon, which is being retrofitted aboard the first of its three stealthy destroyers. The USS Zumwalt is at a Mississippi shipyard where workers have installed missile tubes that replace twin turrets from a gun system that was never activated because it was too expensive. Once the system is complete, the Zumwalt will provide a platform for conducting fast, precision strikes from greater distances, adding to the usefulness of the warship. The USS Zumwalt is seen at the Huntington Ingalls shipyard Nov. 21 in Pascagoula, Miss. “It was a costly blunder. But the Navy could take victory from the jaws of defeat here, and get some utility out of them by making them into a hypersonic platform,” said Bryan Clark, a defense analyst at the Hudson Institute. The U.S. has had several types of hypersonic weapons in development for the past two decades, but recent tests by both Russia and China have added pressure to the U.S. military to hasten their production. Hypersonic weapons travel beyond Mach 5, five times the speed of sound, with added maneuverability making them harder to shoot down. Last year, The Washington Post reported that among the documents leaked by former Massachusetts Air National Guard member Jack Teixeira was a defense department briefing that confirmed China had recently tested an intermediate-range hypersonic weapon called the DF-27. While the Pentagon previously acknowledged the weapon's development, it had not recognized its testing. One of the U.S. programs in development and planned for the Zumwalt is the “Conventional Prompt Strike." It would launch like a ballistic missile and then release a hypersonic glide vehicle that would travel at speeds seven to eight times faster than the speed of sound before hitting the target. The weapon system is being developed jointly by the Navy and Army. Each of the Zumwalt-class destroyers would be equipped with four missile tubes, each with three of the missiles for a total of 12 hypersonic weapons per ship. In choosing the Zumwalt, the Navy is attempting to add to the usefulness of a $7.5 billion warship that is considered by critics to be an expensive mistake despite serving as a test platform for multiple innovations. The USS Zumwalt is seen at the Huntington Ingalls shipyard Nov. 21 in Pascagoula, Miss. The Zumwalt was envisioned as providing land-attack capability with an Advanced Gun System with rocket-assisted projectiles to open the way for Marines to charge ashore. But the system featuring 155 mm guns hidden in stealthy turrets was canceled because each of the rocket-assisted projectiles cost between $800,000 and $1 million. Despite the stain on its reputation, the three Zumwalt-class destroyers remain the Navy’s most advanced surface warship in terms of new technologies. Those innovations include electric propulsion, an angular shape to minimize radar signature, an unconventional wave-piercing hull, automated fire and damage control and a composite deckhouse that hides radar and other sensors. The Zumwalt arrived at the Huntington Ingalls Industries shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi, in August 2023 and was removed from the water for the complex work of integrating the new weapon system. It is due to be undocked this week in preparation for the next round of tests and its return to the fleet, shipyard spokeswoman Kimberly Aguillard said. A U.S. hypersonic weapon was successfully tested over the summer and development of the missiles is continuing. The Navy wants to begin testing the system aboard the Zumwalt in 2027 or 2028, according to the Navy. The U.S. weapon system will come at a steep price. It would cost nearly $18 billion to buy 300 of the weapons and maintain them over 20 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Critics say there is too little bang for the buck. “This particular missile costs more than a dozen tanks. All it gets you is a precise non-nuclear explosion, some place far far away. Is it really worth the money? The answer is most of the time the missile costs much more than any target you can destroy with it,” said Loren Thompson, a longtime military analyst in Washington, D.C. The U.S. Navy intercepted Houthi missiles and drones targeting two warships and three merchant vessels in the Gulf of Aden. But they provide the capability for Navy vessels to strike an enemy from a distance of thousands of kilometers — outside the range of most enemy weapons — and there is no effective defense against them, said retired Navy Rear Adm. Ray Spicer, CEO of the U.S. Naval Institute, an independent forum focusing on national security issues, and former commander of an aircraft carrier strike force. Conventional missiles that cost less aren’t much of a bargain if they are unable to reach their targets, Spicer said, adding the U.S. military really has no choice but to pursue them. “The adversary has them. We never want to be outdone,” he said. The U.S. is accelerating development because hypersonics have been identified as vital to U.S. national security with “survivable and lethal capabilities,” said James Weber, principal director for hypersonics in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies. “Fielding new capabilities that are based on hypersonic technologies is a priority for the defense department to sustain and strengthen our integrated deterrence, and to build enduring advantages,” he said. Image Credit: Jacob Lund / Shutterstock The financial challenges facing U.S. military households are a significant concern throughout the year. Holidays such as Memorial Day, Armed Forces Day, or Veterans Day highlight the ongoing struggles that service members face, particularly amid rising costs for everyday essentials. Recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey shows a troubling trend: Military personnel and their families are finding it more difficult to cover basic household expenses such as food, housing, and transportation than the average American. Our analysis examines how service members are faring in today’s economy compared to civilian households, highlighting the states where military families report the greatest challenges in managing their finances. As we enter Giving Season, we’ve also highlighted meaningful ways to support service members and their families through charitable contributions, offering an opportunity to make a direct impact on those who serve our nation. Service members are struggling more financially than the average American. Image Credit: Upgraded Points According to recent Household Pulse Survey data, members of the armed services are experiencing financial strain at higher rates than the general U.S. population. Over 40% of service members report difficulty covering their usual household expenses, compared to 36.6% of all U.S. adults. The data also shows heightened anxiety among service members regarding rising prices. Nearly 80% of military personnel express stress about recent price increases, significantly higher than the 71.8% of all U.S. adults who share similar feelings. Furthermore, 81.8% of service members are concerned about future price hikes, reflecting widespread uncertainty about inflation’s long-term impact on household budgets. More than half of service members in certain states have difficulty covering basic household expenses. Image Credit: Upgraded Points Across the U.S., the financial burden on service members varies significantly from state to state, primarily influenced by local economic conditions. According to the most recent data, Utah leads with 53.7% of service members reporting difficulty covering basic household expenses, closely followed by Louisiana (52.9%) and Alaska (52.8%). Other states where over half of service members are struggling include Indiana (52.0%), Tennessee (51.2%), New York (50.8%), and Florida (50.3%). A key issue service members frequently raise is that their Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) has not kept pace with the rapidly rising cost of housing. In states where service members face the greatest financial difficulties, such as Utah, Indiana, Tennessee, and Florida, home price increases have far exceeded the national average, exacerbating the strain on household budgets. Another critical factor affecting military families is the employment challenges military spouses face. According to the Department of Defense, the military spouse unemployment rate was 21% in 2023, compared to a national rate of 3.6% that year. Many military bases are located in rural or remote areas, limiting job opportunities for spouses, particularly in specialized fields. Additionally, frequent relocations make it difficult for spouses to sustain long-term careers, especially for those in professions requiring state-specific occupational licenses that can be difficult to transfer. Service members are also more likely to report financial struggles in states with higher-than-average unemployment rates, such as Louisiana, Alaska, and New York. Conversely, the state unemployment rate is below average in 9 of the 10 states where service members report the least financial difficulty. This suggests that strong local employment opportunities, particularly for spouses, significantly ease the financial burden on military households. Photo Credit: Bumble Dee / Shutterstock One of the most impactful ways to support service members, veterans, and their families who are facing financial hardships is through donations to reputable charities. These organizations are dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by military families and veterans, providing vital assistance in areas like housing, medical expenses, scholarships, and career training. To help guide your generosity, we’ve compiled a list of top-rated charities based on scores from Charity Navigator , CharityWatch , and GuideStar , which assess organizations on criteria such as impact, efficiency, accountability, and transparency. Here are some of the best charities supporting military families and veterans in need: 1. USO For over 80 years, the USO has provided crucial support to active-duty service members and their families. From financial assistance programs to community-building initiatives, the USO helps service members stay connected to loved ones while addressing their most pressing needs during deployments and transitions. 2. Homes For Our Troops This charity is focused on providing specially adapted homes for severely injured post-9/11 veterans. It helps veterans regain independence. Homes For Our Troops also provides financial planning and household budgeting to ensure long-term stability for the recipients. 3. Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) Dedicated to advocating for veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, IAVA works to improve government policies and programs that support military families. Its advocacy ensures veterans have access to financial resources, healthcare, and education opportunities. 4. Fisher House Foundation This foundation builds “comfort homes” near military and VA medical centers, allowing families to stay free of charge while a loved one is hospitalized. By reducing travel and lodging expenses, Fisher House eases financial stress during difficult times. 5. Hope For The Warriors Offering a range of programs focused on financial stability, wellness, social support, and education, Hope For The Warriors provides critical support to service members, veterans, and their families. Its services include direct financial assistance for transitioning service members and veterans in need, career training and job placement, and scholarships for spouses. 6. Semper Fi & America’s Fund Semper Fi & America’s Fund assists wounded, ill, and injured service members and their families through direct financial assistance and case management during hospitalization and recovery. The organization also provides educational support, career assistance, and health and wellness services. 7. Wounded Warriors Family Support (WWFS) WWFS supports families of those wounded or killed in combat through programs like medical travel grants, meal and housekeeping assistance, in-home care services, and family retreats. By addressing these families' immediate and ongoing needs, WWFS alleviates the financial burdens of those suffering from recent tragic events. For more information, a detailed methodology, and complete results, see Rising Costs Hit Military Families Hard: Here’s How You Can Help on Upgraded Points . Photo Credit: Jacob Lund / Shutterstock Upgraded Points conducted the analysis using the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau Household Pulse Survey Phase 4.0–4.2 , covering the period from January 9, 2024, to September 16, 2024. Service members were defined as adults currently serving in the U.S. armed forces (Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard) and their spouses. This analysis focuses on 3 key questions from the survey: Statistics with fewer than 50 survey responses were omitted from the analysis. Additional statistics on home prices were sourced from Zillow’s Home Value Index , and unemployment rates were sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates . For complete results, see Rising Costs Hit Military Families Hard: Here’s How You Can Help on Upgraded Points. Get local news delivered to your inbox!Auto manufacturers, especially those new to the industry, often contract with other manufacturers and suppliers to help them design their products. Tata Technologies, which is part of Tata Industries, was hired by VinFast to design the chassis and suspension components for some of its cars. Hazar Denli, a chassis design engineer working for Tata Technologies, told the BBC recently that he identified improperly designed components in the suspension systems designed by Tata Technologies that could fail, putting people at risk of serious injury. Under stress, such as hitting a pothole at speed, the front wheels could become misaligned, causing the car to veer to the left or right without prompting, and the driver could lose control, Denli said. “We saw, for example, the front strut-to-knuckle connection was loosening, which could be extremely dangerous. It could cause a loosening of the entire structure that could cause wheels to come off. In a crash scenario, it could be completely unsafe. It could cause the vehicle to lose control.” In fact, during testing, there were incidents of a front wheel actually snapping off, he said. Denli was appointed to lead the engineering team working on VinFast front suspension and chassis design in September 2022 when the design and testing program was already well underway and there was intense time pressure to get the project completed. Soon after he started work there, he became concerned that VinFast was cutting corners and keeping costs down by employing a small team of inexperienced engineers while de-emphasizing safety. His concerns got more serious when he heard three of his predecessors had quit after short spells on the project. In February and March of 2023, during vigorous testing of VinFast cars, two components snapped off and another two failed. As the testing continued, further failures occurred. Denli reported the “extremely concerning” incidents to colleagues at Tata Technologies Limited, the consultancy’s UK division. “In the drive units, some of the brackets were completely failing and falling out on to the road.” He made his concerns known to senior executives at TTL and VinFast and recommended they redesign the components, but that would have required VinFast to postpone production of the car. VinFast was about to move forward with an initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange and decided to start production anyway. Denli asked to be assigned to another project but senior managers refused. Not wanting to be associated with the VinFast project any longer, he resigned With his skills in high demand, he soon found another position in chassis design, this time at Jaguar Land Rover, which is also owned by Tata Group. While working in his new position, reports of problems with VinFast VF6 and VF7 cars continued to appear online. Then, on April 24, 2024, a family of four was killed while riding in a VinFast automobile in Pleasanton, California. Police reported the vehicle lost control, veered off the road, hit a pole, and caught fire. The reports of the crash prompted Denli to post on Reddit that he had worked on the design of the car and it was a vehicle he believed put lives at risk. “I would get into every other vehicle I have designed from other brands ... and every vehicle has flaws. ... But Vinfast, I wouldn’t get into one ... never will and I won’t let my loved ones get into one either,” he wrote. Two months later, on 18 July, 2024, his contract at JLR was terminated. According to the BBC , it has reviewed confidential emails between executives at Tata Group showing they retaliated against Denli for posting his concerns on Reddit. Then they went even further and had him blacklisted. Internal documents obtained through a Data Subject Access Request reveal Tata Technologies HR director Patrick Flood discussed his company’s wish to have Denli’s new employment terminated with JLR’s HR director and board member Dave Williams. Flood told Williams that Tata Group client VinFast had conducted its own investigation and identified Denli as the author of the Reddit posts: “The concern is if he has done this now, he could do the same at JLR.” The same day he was sacked, Denli was blacklisted on industry recruitment platform Magnit , which told JLR he had been “red-flagged,” which meant any applications from him for other work using its platform would be automatically declined. Denli is now taking JLR to an employment tribunal. “I was distressed as to what was happening around the world where innocent people were paying the price — a very high price,” he told the BBC . “I thought that if some people would start to speak up about it, they would actually be forced to make some changes.” In UK employment law, workers have some protection from employer retaliation if they disclose information they reasonably believe shows the health and safety of any individual is likely to be endangered. Under the Public Interest Disclosure at Work Act 1998, any clause in a contract that seeks to bind them to silence is void. The US Department of Labor says, “An employer cannot retaliate against you for exercising your rights under the Department of Labor’s whistleblower protection laws. Retaliation includes such actions as firing or laying off, demoting, denying overtime or promotion, or reducing pay or hours. Retaliation occurs when an employer (through a manager, supervisor, or administrator) fires an employee or takes any other type of adverse action against an employee for engaging in protected activity. An adverse action is an action which would dissuade a reasonable employee from raising a concern about a possible violation or engaging in other related protected activity. Retaliation can have a negative impact on overall employee morale.” Good luck with that. While you are sitting at home trying to figure out how to pay your rent, your employer will be hiring an army of Armani-clad attorneys to string your case out until your entire financial world collapses. The BBC report did not delve into how Denli is supporting himself now, but once the whispering campaign begins, it’s hard to find work in your chosen field. The really scary part, at least for Americans, is that President Musk is hellbent on eliminating NHTSA, the Labor Department, and virtually every other federal agency as part of the mandate he says he received in the last election to slash the size of government. What this story is really about is how money — and the pursuit of it — distorts any notion of basic fairness. If a few families die because the wheels fall off their cars unexpectedly, well that is unfortunate, but no reason to slow the acquisition of ever increasing piles of money. No allegations can be allowed to interrupt an IPO or decrease corporate profits. Hazar Denli is just another person — one of millions — who has been chewed up and spit out by the insatiable maw of weaponized capitalism that makes profits the sole raison d’etre for corporations. CleanTechnica's Comment Policy LinkedIn WhatsApp Facebook Bluesky Email Reddit

PepsiCo: The Buying Opportunity Is Now For This Dividend KingNoneMaharashtra polls: Bruised in LS, how NDA got its groove back

UnitedHealthcare CEO kept a low public profile. Then he was shot to death in New YorkI recently listened to an archive clip on the radio that consisted primarily of people whingeing about the railways. Amongst the biggest complaints was about dirty trains and u reliability of services and there was widespread hope that things were about to get better. It all sounds familiar but the clip was from 1961 and came as the nationalised UK rail network was about to make the momentous move from steam to diesel. Fast forward more than 60 years and things haven’t really changed that much, apart from no-one today will moan about the problem of soot making the stations dirty. British Rail had many good points, not least the fine dining carriages, but in the end it became a national joke. But it appears the Labour Government has no recollection of BR’s faults as it embarks on the renationalising of the network. Read More: Is the human cost of Net Zero drive really worth it? Even the name - Great British Railways - harks back to a glorious bygone age that many argue didn’t actually exist. Regardless, it is happening but will it make a difference? History tells us it won’t and will almost certainly make things worse. Scotrail, of course, was nationalised in 2022 but you’ll be hard pressed to find a passenger who will say with a straight face that things have improved. Under Labour’s plan, three rail operators will be taken into state control next year, but the move is not expected to bring down fares for passengers travelling on these lines. UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she recognised that “affordability is really important to people” but that people were “willing to pay for a good service”. Of course they will but there is no guarantee they will get one. Read More: One Day plaque row is battle between conservation over evolution South Western Railway will be renationalised in May 2025, C2C in July 2025, and Greater Anglia in autumn 2025, after Labour passed a law allowing it to do so. But some have criticised the plans, arguing that public ownership will not make much difference unless it is paired with fresh investment in the railways. And therein lies the rub - can the taxpayer seriously be expected to fund new rolling stock and other investments that private companies currently do to the tune of billions of pounds? In short, no, which means the whole exercise is pretty futile. Presently, shiny new trains rattle up and down the country making rail travel vastly superior to what it once was. But what happens when they all need replaced? They’re not cheap and politicians keep telling us they’re skint so where will the money come from? Almost certainly from higher fares which folk will be happy to pay if the service matched the ticket price which it almost never does. Under the existing system, Britain’s railway lines are run by train operating companies as franchises for a fixed length of time. The Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Act 2024, which has passed Westminster, allows the government to act on its manifesto promise to take rail contracts back into public ownership in five years as each private franchise runs out. The government also plans to set up a new arms-length body, the elaborately-titled Great British Railways (GBR), which will take over service contracts currently held by private firms as they expire in the coming years. Read More: How can CalMac run ferry services without any ships It wants GBR to take over responsibility for maintaining and improving rail infrastructure from Network Rail eventually. This moves comes as rail fares are due to rise by 4.6% from March as set out in the recent UK Budget, a figure that the transport secretary repeated when asked if tickets will get cheaper with public ownership. She described this as “the lowest absolute increase for the last three years”. Ms Alexander added that it while people may be willing to pay more for a “really good” service, including at evenings and weekends, performance had to improve. The transport department said that renationalisation would improve reliability, boost economic growth, and save £150m per year in fees. However, Rail Partners, which represents private train firms, said Labour has “parked the big decisions” on how to fix the railways. Responsibility for running train services was handed to private companies during the 1990s, and since then there has been a boom in rail usage. This year alone, passengers numbers have increased by 23% and 1.4bn passengers now use the railways annually. Some franchises have undoubtedly been a success, while many others less so. A few have been downright dreadful and have deservedly been stripped of their roles early. It is hard to conclude that nationalisation is less about passengers and more about ideology which is always a dangerous track to go down. As if to illustrate this, when Humza Yousaf (remember him)? announced the Dutch firm Abellio was being stripped of the franchise and Scotrail be nationalised, the top management was kept on. Read More: Sabbath isn't for everyone so Tesco should open on Sunday If, as the then Transport Secretary, claimed, Abellio was worse than useless, then the failing management would have been binned along with the franchise. Unions also like a nationalised industry as they know elected ministers are more likely to cave in to demands than a private company is. Let’s hope that nationalisation is a roaring success and passenger numbers keep rising As everyone would be a winner. This could be the age of the train after all.Before the season began, Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen was named one of the biggest trash talkers across the league. Now? The MVP favorite and All-Pro has been nominated for an award that is usually the opposite of his usual antics. Tina MacIntyre-Yee/Democrat and Chronicle / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Allen was selected as the Bills’ nominee for the 2024 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award Monday morning. The annual award is given to “an NFL player who best demonstrates the qualities of on-field sportsmanship, including fair play, respect for the game and opponents, and integrity in competition.” It's the second time since 2021 that Allen has been nominated for the award. Buffalo's franchise quarterback has been known as a dynamic leader of his career and one of the best players in the NFL today. He's the front-runner for the league's MVP award with 23 total touchdowns and has the Bills playing at a high level with a 9-2 record. Related: Who Should Bills Fans Root for in Week 12? Probably the most interesting thing about Allen's nomination, though, is the fact that his on-field antics and trash-talking abilities speak to the opposite of what the Rooney Sportsmanship Awards. By being named the biggest trash-talker in the league during the offseason, it shows Allen's opponents know how the quarterback handles being one of the best players in the league. Allen may not win the award overall, but it is a sign that some current players are a bit split in how they see the Bills' quarterback. And that confusion will only grow as Buffalo continues to find ways to win this year. Related: 'No Surprise' Who Bills Midseason MVP Is

Surging Ahead in the AI Race While Nvidia often grabs headlines with its soaring stock performance, another player in the semiconductor arena is quietly gaining momentum: Micron Technology. Known for its memory chips like DRAM and NAND, Micron reported a remarkable 400% increase in year-over-year data center revenue, driving its total quarterly revenue up by 84% to $8.7 billion. A Sleepy Giant Awakes Despite an impressive earnings report, Micron’s stock has slipped about 44% from its recent highs. This downturn, however, presents a compelling opportunity for investors. The company’s integrated model, which combines both design and manufacturing, positions it to capitalize effectively during industry booms. AI’s Growing Influence Micron is riding the wave of the AI boom with more than half of its revenue now stemming from data centers. Although recent guidance sent the stock plummeting by 19% due to anticipated softness in consumer segments like smartphones, this appears to be a temporary challenge. Management highlighted that impacts from inventory adjustments should be short-lived, with a rebound expected in the latter half of fiscal 2025. An Undervalued Treasure With close ties to giants like Nvidia, accounting for 13% of its revenue, Micron stands to benefit massively as AI demand intensifies. The High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) market, crucial for AI applications, is projected to expand significantly, potentially quadrupling Micron’s HBM revenue in the coming years. The Takeaway Investors have the chance to acquire Micron stock still underpriced compared to its peers. If the AI cycle continues its upward trajectory, this could translate into substantial returns, making Micron a promising pick in the semiconductor sector. Unveiling Micron’s Potential in the AI Revolution Micron Technology’s Evolving Role in AI As the world witnesses rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), Micron Technology is emerging as a significant player in this transformative wave. Best known for its DRAM and NAND memory chips, Micron is carving a larger niche in the AI-driven semiconductor industry. The company witnessed a stunning 400% year-over-year increase in data center revenue recently, propelling its total quarterly revenue to $8.7 billion—a marked growth of 84%. Pros and Cons of Investing in Micron Investing in Micron has its advantages: – Pros: – Strategic Positioning: Micron’s integrated model of design and manufacturing is well-poised to exploit industry booms, particularly in AI-driven markets. – AI Revenue Boost: The company’s growing focus on data centers means it derives over half its revenue from this expanding sector. – Future HBM Growth: The High Bandwidth Memory market is essential for AI, and significant growth is expected, which could quadruple Micron’s related revenues. – Cons: – Market Volatility: Recent stock dips indicate potential volatility, with a 44% fall from recent highs. – Consumer Segment Weakness: Temporary softness in segments like smartphones may affect near-term performance. Anticipated Market Trends and Growth Looking ahead, industry experts predict substantial expansion in the High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) market. As AI technologies evolve, demanding more robust data processing capabilities, Micron is strategically positioned to benefit from this growth. Furthermore, their collaboration with tech behemoth Nvidia is a remarkable milestone, with around 13% of Micron’s revenue tied to this partnership, hinting at lucrative opportunities as AI demand escalates. Market Analysis and Predictions Micron’s strategic initiatives are closely aligned with broader semiconductor market trends. The growing importance of HBM in AI applications forecasts a promising future for Micron, especially given the projected quadrupling of its HBM revenues in forthcoming years. Investors recognize this potential, particularly as the AI revolution continues to accelerate, making Micron an intriguing prospect for those seeking exposure in the semiconductor sector. Competitive Landscape and Comparisons Compared to its competitors, Micron offers a unique investment proposition: – Nvidia Partnership: Unlike many peers, Micron has secured substantial revenue streams from collaborations with AI giants. – Future-Ready Technologies: While some companies focus heavily on traditional markets, Micron’s emphasis on memory advancements for AI underscores its future-forward strategy. Micron’s positioning in the semiconductor landscape, combined with its integrated model, sets it apart as a formidable contender in tapping the explosive AI market growth. For more insights into Micron’s future and its role in AI, explore their official page at Micron Technology .

CMS Energy Corp. stock rises Monday, still underperforms marketPunjab bypolls show AAP on course to big win in Delhi: Kejriwal

49ers’ Purdy throws without pain, while it’s wait and see with Bosa, Williams

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Most ruling party lawmakers were boycotting a parliamentary vote Saturday to deny a two-thirds majority sought by the opposition to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol over his short-lived imposition of martial law , as protests grew nationwide calling for his removal. The likely defeat of the motion is expected to intensify public protests calling for Yoon’s ouster and deepen political chaos in South Korea, with a survey suggesting a majority of South Koreans support the president’s impeachment. Yoon’s martial law declaration drew criticism from his own ruling conservative party, but it is also determined to oppose Yoon's impeachment apparently because it fears losing presidency to liberals. Impeaching Yoon would require support from two-thirds of the National Assembly, or 200 of its 300 members. The opposition parties who brought the impeachment motion have 192 seats, meaning they need at least eight additional votes from Yoon’s People Power Party. The opposition-controlled parliament began a vote earlier Saturday, but only three lawmakers from PPP took part with opposition members. If the number of lawmakers who cast ballots doesn't reach 200, the motion will be scrapped at midnight without the ballot counting, according to National Assembly. Opposition parties could submit a new impeachment motion after a new parliamentary session opens next Wednesday. There are worries that Yoon won't be able to serve out his remaining 2 1⁄2 years in office because his leadership took a huge hit. Many experts say some ruling party lawmakers could eventually join opposition parties’ efforts to impeach Yoon if public demands for it grow further. If Yoon is impeached, his powers will be suspended until the Constitutional Court decides whether to remove him from office. If he is removed, an election to replace him must take place within 60 days. National Assembly Speaker Woo Won Shik urged ruling party members to return to the chamber to participate in the vote, stressing that it was closely watched by the nation and also the world. “Don’t make a shameful judgment and please vote based on your convictions,” Woo said. Earlier Saturday, Yoon issued a public apology over the martial law decree, saying he won’t shirk legal or political responsibility for the declaration and promising not to make another attempt to impose martial law. He said would leave it to his party to chart a course through the country's political turmoil, “including matters related to my term in office." “The declaration of this martial law was made out of my desperation. But in the course of its implementation, it caused anxiety and inconveniences to the public. I feel very sorry over that and truly apologize to the people who must have been shocked a lot,” Yoon said. Since taking office in 2022, Yoon has struggled to push his agenda through an opposition-controlled parliament and grappled with low approval ratings amid scandals involving himself and his wife. In his martial law announcement on Tuesday night, Yoon called parliament a “den of criminals” bogging down state affairs and vowed to eliminate “shameless North Korea followers and anti-state forces.” The turmoil resulting from Yoon’s bizarre and poorly-thought-out stunt has paralyzed South Korean politics and sparked alarm among key diplomatic partners like the U.S. and Japan. Tuesday night saw special forces troops encircling the parliament building and army helicopters hovering over it, but the military withdrew after the National Assembly unanimously voted to overturn the decree, forcing Yoon to lift it before daybreak Wednesday. The declaration of martial law was the first of its kind in more than 40 years in South Korea. Eighteen lawmakers from the ruling party voted to reject Yoon's martial law decree along with opposition lawmakers. Yoon’s speech fueled speculation that he and his party may push for a constitutional amendment to shorten his term, instead of accepting impeachment, as a way to ease public anger over the marital law and facilitate Yoon’s early exit from office. Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the main liberal opposition Democratic Party, told reporters that Yoon’s speech was “greatly disappointing” and that the only way forward is his immediate resignation or impeachment. His party called Yoon’s martial law “unconstitutional, illegal rebellion or coup.” The passage of Yoon’s impeachment motion appeared more likely Friday when the chair of Yoon’s party called for his removal on Friday, but the party remained formally opposed to impeachment. On Saturday, tens of thousands of people packed streets near the National Assembly, waving banners, shouting slogans and dancing and singing along to K-pop songs with lyrics changed to call for Yoon’s ouster. A smaller crowd of Yoon’s supporters, which still seemed to be in the thousands, rallied in separate streets in Seoul, decrying the impeachment attempt they saw as unconstitutional. Lawmakers on Saturday first voted on a bill appointing a special prosecutor to investigate stock price manipulation allegations surrounding Yoon’s wife. Some lawmakers from Yoon’s party were seen leaving the hall after that vote, triggering angry shouts from opposition lawmakers. On Friday, PPP chair Han Dong-hun, who criticized Yoon's martial law declaration, said he had received intelligence that during the brief period of martial law Yoon ordered the country’s defense counterintelligence commander to arrest and detain unspecified key politicians based on accusations of “anti-state activities." Hong Jang-won, first deputy director of South Korea’s National Intelligence Service, told lawmakers in a closed-door briefing Friday that Yoon had ordered him to help the defense counterintelligence unit to detain key politicians. The targeted politicians included Han, Lee and Woo, according to Kim Byung-kee, one of the lawmakers who attended the meeting. The Defense Ministry said Friday it suspended three military commanders including the head of the defense counterintelligence unit over their involvement in enforcing martial law. Vice Defense Minister Kim Seon Ho has told parliament that Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun ordered the deployment of troops to the National Assembly after Yoon imposed martial law. Opposition parties accused Kim of recommending to Yoon to enforce martial law. Kim resigned Thursday, and prosecutors imposed an overseas travel ban on him.Ohtani wins third MVP, while Judge takes his second

SYM Investor Alert: A Securities Fraud Class Action Lawsuit Has Been Filed Against Symbotic ...

At the height of the covid lockdowns and mandates a massive portion of the global economy was shut down, leading to supply chain instability, huge job losses and a stagflationary crisis. However, climate change propagandists argued that the event was actually a positive for the planet when it was revealed that emissions fell by 5.4%. They asserted that the covid lockdowns were a practice run for what they called "climate lockdowns" - Presenting a plan for scheduled disruptions to global economic activity as a means to slow the effects of climate change. Globalists also presented climate lockdowns as a kind of collective social punishment in the event that populations refused to cut carbon output on their own. As World Economic Forum "Agenda Contributor" Mariana Mazzucato argued in 2020: "Under a “climate lockdown,” governments would limit private-vehicle use, ban consumption of red meat, and impose extreme energy-saving measures, while fossil-fuel companies would have to stop drilling. To avoid such a scenario, we must overhaul our economic structures and do capitalism differently. Many think of the climate crisis as distinct from the health and economic crises caused by the pandemic. But the three crises – and their solutions – are interconnected..." After a public uproar over the notion of extending pandemic lockdowns into climate lockdowns, the establishment media would go on to "Fact Check" the issue and assert that it was a "conspiracy theory." They lied. The pandemic lockdowns would eventually be exposed as pointless; a disastrous drain on the global economy that did nothing to prevent the spread of the covid virus. But as we witnessed with most of the restrictions instituted during covid, the goal was never to protect the health of the populace. Rather, the goal was to acclimate the populace to an exponentially increasing list of violations of their basic freedoms. One organization that has a distinct interest in diminishing economic activity for the sake of preventing global warming is the International Monetary Fund (IMF). In a recent 'call for global climate action' the IMF states that restrictions on economic activity and general emissions activity would have to far surpass those enforced during the pandemic in order to get to their stated temperature target of less than 1.5 °C. Open lockdowns of developed nations might not ultimately be the tool that globalists use to reach net zero, but carbon taxation on an oppressive scale could end up having the same effect. Carbon taxes could act like steep interest rate increases commonly used by central banks to slow economic activity during inflation. An indirect economic shut down of this magnitude would be absolutely devastating for western nations in particular, resulting in crippling energy shortages, food shortages, job losses, and eventually total collapse and a population plunge. Net zero is not possible otherwise. The IMF and other globalist organizations suggest that all nations must achieve a net zero carbon goal by 2030 in order to avoid the "climate cliff" - The theory that once the Earth hits warming of more than 1.5 °C, there will be a domino effect which will lead to environmental catastrophe and even more carbon emissions and warming . To be clear, there is no evidence whatsoever to support the idea of the climate cliff, primarily because there is no evidence of a causation relationship between carbon emissions and global warming. In fact, there is no evidence that that human industry has a warming effect on the climate whatsoever. Temperature records for hundreds of millions of years prove that warming periods are a mainstay of the Earth's climate history. In comparison, our current era is one of the coldest, not the warmest. Climate scientists ignore this data and use temperature records going back to the 1880s. Meaning, their data is based on a mere 140 years of the Earth's history. The current warming rate is not significant to other periods, nor is there any evidence that human activity is causing it. Data on carbon levels of the past show that temperatures do not necessarily rise in tandem with carbon activity. Carbon emissions are also far lower today than they have been in the past. The claim that carbon concentration due to human activity has a drastic influence on global temperatures (or weather) is absolutely unfounded. The real reason for climate controls and carbon taxes seems to have far more to do with wealth redistribution from developed nations over to developing nations. The agenda is about centralizing the control of national wealth as well as individual liberties and private property. And the IMF, of course, would like to be one of the institutions at the helm of that wealth management empire.Ranchi: A total of 12 women candidates from various political parties were elected to the Jharkhand state assembly, bringing fresh faces to the forefront while some familiar names will be notably absent. Among them, five Congress candidates including Nishat Alam from Pakur, Mamta Devi from Ramgarh, Deepika Pandey Singh from Mahagama, Shilpi Neha Tirkey from Mandar and Shwetta Singh from Bokaro are from Congress, three Jharkhand Mukti Morcha candidates namely Kalpana Soren from Gandey, Sabita Mahto from Ichagarh and Lois Marandi from Jama and four BJP nominees including Purnima Sahu from Jamshedpur East, Majnu Kumari from Jamua, Ragini Singh from Jharia and Neera Yadav Koderma have won. Among the winners, Purnima is daughter- in-law of Odisha governor Raghubar Das who would be in the state assembly for the first time. She said, "My father- in-law has worked for the Jamshedpur East constituency for over 30 years and it is now my chance to serve it." Another elected MLA is Shwetta Singh. She said, "I have been making a list of people problems during campaigning. As an MLA, I would be able to raise the people's issues strongly." Maharashtra Jharkhand Maharashtra Alliance View i Party View Seats: 288 Results Majority: 145 BJP+ 229 MVA 47 OTH 12 Results : 288 / 288 BJP+ WON Jharkhand Alliance View i Party View Seats: 81 Results Majority: 41 INDIA 56 NDA 24 OTH 1 Results : 81 / 81 INDIA WON Source: PValue Chief minister Hemant Soren's wife Kalpana has managed to retain the Gandey seat which she had won in a by-election this year. It may be stated here that Kalpana took the plunge into active politics after Hemant came under Enforcement Directorate lens in a land scam. Among the candidates who have not made come back this elections is Baby Devi who lost from the Dumri assembly seat. She had become an MLA in 2023 mainly on sympathy votes when her husband and veteran politician Jagarnath Mahto passed away. The Jharkhand Loktantric Krantikari Morcha has, however, recorded strong presence here in the last Lok Sabha election and eventually its president Jairam Mahto defeated Devi in this election. It may be stated here that Joba Majhi who was elected as an MP and BJP's Sita Soren, Congress Amba Prasad, BJP's Aparna Sen Gupta, Congress Purnima Neeraj Singh and Pushpa Devi would be absent in the new assembly.

Businesses are turning to advanced supply chain planning solutions to navigate the complexities of global supply chain operations and mitigate risks posed by economic instability, geopolitical tensions, and natural disasters. These tools are revolutionizing operations by optimizing inventory, improving efficiency, and ensuring adaptability in unpredictable markets. "Supply chain planning solutions are not just a trend—they're a necessity in today’s unpredictable environment," said Lalit Das, founder and CEO of 3SC. IPL 2025 mega auction IPL Auction 2025: Who went where and for how much IPL 2025: Complete list of players of each franchise "Companies adopting these technologies gain a competitive edge, enhancing customer satisfaction and cutting costs." Modern supply chains rely on smart solutions that can navigate uncertain market dynamics with agility and precision. "Solutions powered by AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics are enabling real-time decision-making, helping companies swiftly respond to market fluctuations and unforeseen disruptions, while keeping sustainability at the core of operations," said Das. Notably, 3SC, a leading provider of AI-ML-powered supply chain solutions, has been recognized in Gartner’s 2024 Asia/Pacific Context Magic Quadrant for Supply Chain Planning Solutions. The company’s tools are lauded for boosting resilience, agility, and sustainability across supply chains—vital attributes in a rapidly evolving global landscape.How Gaming and Electric Cars Collide! Tesla’s Stock Price as a Game Changer?None

Broncos hope to continue playoff push when they meet the banged-up Raiders

NEW YORK — Shohei Ohtani won his third Most Valuable Player Award and first in the National League, and Aaron Judge earned his second American League honor on Thursday. Ohtani was a unanimous MVP for the third time, receiving all 30 first-place votes and 420 points in voting by the Baseball Writers' Association of America. New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor was second with 263 points and Arizona second baseman Ketel Marte third with 229. Judge was a unanimous pick for the first time. Kansas City shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. got all 30 second-place votes for 270 points, and Yankees outfielder Juan Soto was third with 21 third-place votes and 229 points. Ohtani was unanimously voted the AL MVP in 2021 and 2023 as a two-way star for the Los Angeles Angels and finished second to Judge in 2022 voting. He didn't pitch in 2024 following elbow surgery and signed a record $700 million, 10-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers last December. Ohtani joined Frank Robinson for Cincinnati in 1961 and Baltimore in 1966 as the only players to win the MVP award in both leagues. He was the first player to twice become an unanimous MVP. He had combined with Atlanta outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. in 2023 for the first year both MVPs were unanimous. Ohtani hit .310, stole 59 bases and led the NL with 54 homers and 130 RBIs exclusively as a designated hitter, becoming the first player with 50 or more homers and 50 or more stolen bases in a season. He helped the Dodgers to the World Series title, playing the final three games with a torn labrum in his left shoulder. "The ultimate goal from the beginning was to win a World Series, which we are able to accomplish," he said through a translator. "The next goal is for me to do it again and so right now I'm in the middle of rehab and working out and getting stronger." When Ohtani returns to the mound, could he win MVP and the Cy Young Award in the same year? "That would obviously be great, but right now my focus is just to get to get back healthy, come back stronger, get back on the mound and show everybody what I can do," Ohtani said. Ohtani became the first primary DH to win an MVP in a season that started with the revelation his longtime interpreter and friend, Ippei Mizuhara, had stolen nearly $17 million from the star to fund gambling. Ohtani is the 12th player with three or more MVPs, joining Barry Bonds (seven) and Jimmie Foxx, Joe DiMaggio, Stan Musial, Roy Campanella, Yogi Berra, Mickey Mantle, Mike Schmidt, Alex Rodriguez, Albert Pujols and Mike Trout (three each). Balloting was conducted before the postseason. Judge led the major leagues with 58 homers, 144 RBIs and 133 walks while hitting .322. Witt topped the big leagues with a .332 average, hitting 32 homers with 31 stolen bases and 109 RBIs. Soto batted .288 with 41 homers and 109 RBIs. When Judge won his first MVP award in 2022, he received 28 first-place votes while Ohtani got the other two. Judge had discussed the MVP award with Philadelphia's Bryce Harper, the NL winner in 2015 and '21. "I was telling him, `Man, I'm going to try to catch up to you with these MVPs here, man,'" Judge recalled. "He'd say, hopefully, he could stay a couple ahead of me, which I think he'll do." When Judge won his first MVP award in 2022, he received 28 first-place votes while Ohtani got the other two. He is the Yankees' 22nd MVP winner, four more than any other team. Judge was hitting .207 with six homers and 18 RBIs through April, then batted .352 with 52 homers and 126 RBIs in 127 games. "March and April were not my friend this year." Judge said. "Just keep putting in the work and things are going to change. You can't mope. You can't feel sorry for yourself. Especially in New York, nobody's going to feel sorry for you. So you just got to go out there and put up the numbers?" ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The St. Petersburg City Council reversed course Thursday on whether to spend more than $23 million to repair the hurricane-shredded roof of the Tampa Bay Rays' ballpark, initially voting narrowly for approval and hours later changing course. The reversal on fixing Tropicana Field came after the council voted to delay consideration of revenue bonds for a proposed new $1.3 billion Rays ballpark. Just two days before, the Pinellas County Commission postponed a vote on its share of the new stadium bonds, leaving that project in limbo. “This is a sad place. I'm really disappointed,” council chair Deborah Figg-Sanders said. “We won’t get there if we keep finding ways we can’t.” The Rays say the lack of progress puts the new stadium plan and the future of Tropicana Field in jeopardy. “I can't say I'm confident about anything,” Rays co-president Brian Auld told the council members. The Trop's translucent fiberglass roof was ripped to pieces on Oct. 9 when Hurricane Milton swept ashore just south of Tampa Bay. There was also significant water damage inside the ballpark, with a city estimate of the total repair costs pegged at $55.7 million. The extensive repairs cannot be finished before the 2026 season, city documents show. The Rays made a deal with the Yankees to play next season at 11,000-seat Steinbrenner Field, New York's spring training home across the bay in Tampa. The initial vote Thursday was to get moving on the roof portion of the repair. Once that's done, crews could begin working on laying down a new baseball field, fixing damaged seating and office areas and a variety of electronic systems — which would require another vote to approve money for the remaining restoration. The subsequent vote reversing funding for the roof repair essentially means the city and Rays must work on an alternative in the coming weeks so that Tropicana Field can possibly be ready for the 2026 season. The city is legally obligated to fix the roof. BRIEFLY PIRATES: Pittsburgh hired Matt Hague as its hitting coach, bringing him back to the team that drafted him in 2008. Hague replaces Andy Haines, who was fired after Pittsburgh finished in the bottom 10 in the majors in every significant statistical category last season, including runs (24th) and home runs (25th), while also striking out a club-record 1,504 times, second-most in the National League behind Colorado. The 39-year-old Hague spent last season as an assistant hitting coach with the Toronto Blue Jays. Get local news delivered to your inbox!Memphis fights off No. 2 UConn in OT in Maui Invitational thrillerNone

It looked like a recipe for disaster. So, when his country's swimmers were being accused of doping earlier this year, one Chinese official cooked up something fast. He blamed it on contaminated noodles. In fact, he argued, it could have been a culinary conspiracy concocted by criminals, whose actions led to the cooking wine used to prepare the noodles being laced with a banned heart drug that found its way into an athlete's system. This theory was spelled out to international anti-doping officials during a meeting and, after weeks of wrangling, finally made it into the thousands of pages of data handed over to the lawyer who investigated the case involving 23 Chinese swimmers who had tested positive for that same drug. The attorney, appointed by the World Anti-Doping Agency, refused to consider that scenario as he sifted through the evidence. In spelling out his reasoning, lawyer Eric Cottier paid heed to the half-baked nature of the theory. "The Investigator considers this scenario, which he has described in the conditional tense, to be possible, no less, no more," Cottier wrote. Even without the contaminated-noodles theory, Cottier found problems with the way WADA and the Chinese handled the case but ultimately determined WADA had acted reasonably in not appealing China's conclusion that its athletes had been inadvertently contaminated. Critics of the way the China case was handled can't help but wonder if a wider exploration of the noodle theory, details of which were discovered by The Associated Press via notes and emails from after the meeting where it was delivered, might have lent a different flavor to Cottier's conclusions. "There are more story twists to the ways the Chinese explain the TMZ case than a James Bond movie," said Rob Koehler, the director general of the advocacy group Global Athlete. "And all of it is complete fiction." In April, reporting from the New York Times and the German broadcaster ARD revealed that the 23 Chinese swimmers had tested positive for the banned heart medication trimetazidine, also known as TMZ. China's anti-doping agency determined the athletes had been contaminated, and so, did not sanction them. WADA accepted that explanation, did not press the case further, and China was never made to deliver a public notice about the "no-fault findings," as is often seen in similar cases. The stock explanation for the contamination was that traces of TMZ were found in the kitchen of a hotel where the swimmers were staying. In his 58-page report, Cottier relayed some suspicions about the feasibility of that chain of events — noting that WADA's chief scientist "saw no other solution than to accept it, even if he continued to have doubts about the reality of contamination as described by the Chinese authorities." But without evidence to support pursuing the case, and with the chance of winning an appeal at almost nil, Cottier determined WADA's "decision not to appeal appears indisputably reasonable." A mystery remained: How did those traces of TMZ get into the kitchen? Shortly after the doping positives were revealed, the Institute of National Anti-Doping Organizations held a meeting on April 30 where it heard from the leader of China's agency, Li Zhiquan. Li's presentation was mostly filled with the same talking points that have been delivered throughout the saga — that the positive tests resulted from contamination from the kitchen. But he expanded on one way the kitchen might have become contaminated, harkening to another case in China involving a low-level TMZ positive. A pharmaceutical factory, he explained, had used industrial alcohol in the distillation process for producing TMZ. The industrial alcohol laced with the drug "then entered the market through illegal channels," he said. The alcohol "was re-used by the perpetrators to process and produce cooking wine, which is an important seasoning used locally to make beef noodles," Li said. "The contaminated beef noodles were consumed by that athlete, resulting in an extremely low concentration of TMZ in the positive sample. "The wrongdoers involved have been brought to justice." This new information raised eyebrows among the anti-doping leaders listening to Li's report. So much so that over the next month, several emails ensued to make sure the details about the noodles and wine made their way to WADA lawyers, who could then pass it onto Cottier. Eventually, Li did pass on the information to WADA general counsel Ross Wenzel and, just to be sure, one of the anti-doping leaders forwarded it, as well, according to the emails seen by the AP. All this came with Li's request that the noodles story be kept confidential. Turns out, it made it into Cottier's report, though he took the information with a grain of salt. "Indeed, giving it more attention would have required it to be documented, then scientifically verified and validated," he wrote. Neither Wenzel nor officials at the Chinese anti-doping agency returned messages from AP asking about the noodles conspiracy and the other athlete who Li suggested had been contaminated by them. Meanwhile, 11 of the swimmers who originally tested positive competed at the Paris Games earlier this year in a meet held under the cloud of the Chinese doping case. Though WADA considers the case closed, Koehler and others point to situations like this as one of many reasons that an investigation by someone other than Cottier, who was hired by WADA, is still needed. "It gives the appearance that people are just making things up as they go along on this, and hoping the story just goes away," Koehler said. "Which clearly it has not." Get local news delivered to your inbox!NoneThe U.S. Navy is transforming a costly flub into a potent weapon with the first shipborne hypersonic weapon, which is being retrofitted aboard the first of its three stealthy destroyers. The USS Zumwalt is at a Mississippi shipyard where workers have installed missile tubes that replace twin turrets from a gun system that was never activated because it was too expensive. Once the system is complete, the Zumwalt will provide a platform for conducting fast, precision strikes from greater distances, adding to the usefulness of the warship. The USS Zumwalt is seen at the Huntington Ingalls shipyard Nov. 21 in Pascagoula, Miss. “It was a costly blunder. But the Navy could take victory from the jaws of defeat here, and get some utility out of them by making them into a hypersonic platform,” said Bryan Clark, a defense analyst at the Hudson Institute. The U.S. has had several types of hypersonic weapons in development for the past two decades, but recent tests by both Russia and China have added pressure to the U.S. military to hasten their production. Hypersonic weapons travel beyond Mach 5, five times the speed of sound, with added maneuverability making them harder to shoot down. Last year, The Washington Post reported that among the documents leaked by former Massachusetts Air National Guard member Jack Teixeira was a defense department briefing that confirmed China had recently tested an intermediate-range hypersonic weapon called the DF-27. While the Pentagon previously acknowledged the weapon's development, it had not recognized its testing. One of the U.S. programs in development and planned for the Zumwalt is the “Conventional Prompt Strike." It would launch like a ballistic missile and then release a hypersonic glide vehicle that would travel at speeds seven to eight times faster than the speed of sound before hitting the target. The weapon system is being developed jointly by the Navy and Army. Each of the Zumwalt-class destroyers would be equipped with four missile tubes, each with three of the missiles for a total of 12 hypersonic weapons per ship. In choosing the Zumwalt, the Navy is attempting to add to the usefulness of a $7.5 billion warship that is considered by critics to be an expensive mistake despite serving as a test platform for multiple innovations. The USS Zumwalt is seen at the Huntington Ingalls shipyard Nov. 21 in Pascagoula, Miss. The Zumwalt was envisioned as providing land-attack capability with an Advanced Gun System with rocket-assisted projectiles to open the way for Marines to charge ashore. But the system featuring 155 mm guns hidden in stealthy turrets was canceled because each of the rocket-assisted projectiles cost between $800,000 and $1 million. Despite the stain on its reputation, the three Zumwalt-class destroyers remain the Navy’s most advanced surface warship in terms of new technologies. Those innovations include electric propulsion, an angular shape to minimize radar signature, an unconventional wave-piercing hull, automated fire and damage control and a composite deckhouse that hides radar and other sensors. The Zumwalt arrived at the Huntington Ingalls Industries shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi, in August 2023 and was removed from the water for the complex work of integrating the new weapon system. It is due to be undocked this week in preparation for the next round of tests and its return to the fleet, shipyard spokeswoman Kimberly Aguillard said. A U.S. hypersonic weapon was successfully tested over the summer and development of the missiles is continuing. The Navy wants to begin testing the system aboard the Zumwalt in 2027 or 2028, according to the Navy. The U.S. weapon system will come at a steep price. It would cost nearly $18 billion to buy 300 of the weapons and maintain them over 20 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Critics say there is too little bang for the buck. “This particular missile costs more than a dozen tanks. All it gets you is a precise non-nuclear explosion, some place far far away. Is it really worth the money? The answer is most of the time the missile costs much more than any target you can destroy with it,” said Loren Thompson, a longtime military analyst in Washington, D.C. The U.S. Navy intercepted Houthi missiles and drones targeting two warships and three merchant vessels in the Gulf of Aden. But they provide the capability for Navy vessels to strike an enemy from a distance of thousands of kilometers — outside the range of most enemy weapons — and there is no effective defense against them, said retired Navy Rear Adm. Ray Spicer, CEO of the U.S. Naval Institute, an independent forum focusing on national security issues, and former commander of an aircraft carrier strike force. Conventional missiles that cost less aren’t much of a bargain if they are unable to reach their targets, Spicer said, adding the U.S. military really has no choice but to pursue them. “The adversary has them. We never want to be outdone,” he said. The U.S. is accelerating development because hypersonics have been identified as vital to U.S. national security with “survivable and lethal capabilities,” said James Weber, principal director for hypersonics in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Critical Technologies. “Fielding new capabilities that are based on hypersonic technologies is a priority for the defense department to sustain and strengthen our integrated deterrence, and to build enduring advantages,” he said. Image Credit: Jacob Lund / Shutterstock The financial challenges facing U.S. military households are a significant concern throughout the year. Holidays such as Memorial Day, Armed Forces Day, or Veterans Day highlight the ongoing struggles that service members face, particularly amid rising costs for everyday essentials. Recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey shows a troubling trend: Military personnel and their families are finding it more difficult to cover basic household expenses such as food, housing, and transportation than the average American. Our analysis examines how service members are faring in today’s economy compared to civilian households, highlighting the states where military families report the greatest challenges in managing their finances. As we enter Giving Season, we’ve also highlighted meaningful ways to support service members and their families through charitable contributions, offering an opportunity to make a direct impact on those who serve our nation. Service members are struggling more financially than the average American. Image Credit: Upgraded Points According to recent Household Pulse Survey data, members of the armed services are experiencing financial strain at higher rates than the general U.S. population. Over 40% of service members report difficulty covering their usual household expenses, compared to 36.6% of all U.S. adults. The data also shows heightened anxiety among service members regarding rising prices. Nearly 80% of military personnel express stress about recent price increases, significantly higher than the 71.8% of all U.S. adults who share similar feelings. Furthermore, 81.8% of service members are concerned about future price hikes, reflecting widespread uncertainty about inflation’s long-term impact on household budgets. More than half of service members in certain states have difficulty covering basic household expenses. Image Credit: Upgraded Points Across the U.S., the financial burden on service members varies significantly from state to state, primarily influenced by local economic conditions. According to the most recent data, Utah leads with 53.7% of service members reporting difficulty covering basic household expenses, closely followed by Louisiana (52.9%) and Alaska (52.8%). Other states where over half of service members are struggling include Indiana (52.0%), Tennessee (51.2%), New York (50.8%), and Florida (50.3%). A key issue service members frequently raise is that their Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) has not kept pace with the rapidly rising cost of housing. In states where service members face the greatest financial difficulties, such as Utah, Indiana, Tennessee, and Florida, home price increases have far exceeded the national average, exacerbating the strain on household budgets. Another critical factor affecting military families is the employment challenges military spouses face. According to the Department of Defense, the military spouse unemployment rate was 21% in 2023, compared to a national rate of 3.6% that year. Many military bases are located in rural or remote areas, limiting job opportunities for spouses, particularly in specialized fields. Additionally, frequent relocations make it difficult for spouses to sustain long-term careers, especially for those in professions requiring state-specific occupational licenses that can be difficult to transfer. Service members are also more likely to report financial struggles in states with higher-than-average unemployment rates, such as Louisiana, Alaska, and New York. Conversely, the state unemployment rate is below average in 9 of the 10 states where service members report the least financial difficulty. This suggests that strong local employment opportunities, particularly for spouses, significantly ease the financial burden on military households. Photo Credit: Bumble Dee / Shutterstock One of the most impactful ways to support service members, veterans, and their families who are facing financial hardships is through donations to reputable charities. These organizations are dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by military families and veterans, providing vital assistance in areas like housing, medical expenses, scholarships, and career training. To help guide your generosity, we’ve compiled a list of top-rated charities based on scores from Charity Navigator , CharityWatch , and GuideStar , which assess organizations on criteria such as impact, efficiency, accountability, and transparency. Here are some of the best charities supporting military families and veterans in need: 1. USO For over 80 years, the USO has provided crucial support to active-duty service members and their families. From financial assistance programs to community-building initiatives, the USO helps service members stay connected to loved ones while addressing their most pressing needs during deployments and transitions. 2. Homes For Our Troops This charity is focused on providing specially adapted homes for severely injured post-9/11 veterans. It helps veterans regain independence. Homes For Our Troops also provides financial planning and household budgeting to ensure long-term stability for the recipients. 3. Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) Dedicated to advocating for veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, IAVA works to improve government policies and programs that support military families. Its advocacy ensures veterans have access to financial resources, healthcare, and education opportunities. 4. Fisher House Foundation This foundation builds “comfort homes” near military and VA medical centers, allowing families to stay free of charge while a loved one is hospitalized. By reducing travel and lodging expenses, Fisher House eases financial stress during difficult times. 5. Hope For The Warriors Offering a range of programs focused on financial stability, wellness, social support, and education, Hope For The Warriors provides critical support to service members, veterans, and their families. Its services include direct financial assistance for transitioning service members and veterans in need, career training and job placement, and scholarships for spouses. 6. Semper Fi & America’s Fund Semper Fi & America’s Fund assists wounded, ill, and injured service members and their families through direct financial assistance and case management during hospitalization and recovery. The organization also provides educational support, career assistance, and health and wellness services. 7. Wounded Warriors Family Support (WWFS) WWFS supports families of those wounded or killed in combat through programs like medical travel grants, meal and housekeeping assistance, in-home care services, and family retreats. By addressing these families' immediate and ongoing needs, WWFS alleviates the financial burdens of those suffering from recent tragic events. For more information, a detailed methodology, and complete results, see Rising Costs Hit Military Families Hard: Here’s How You Can Help on Upgraded Points . Photo Credit: Jacob Lund / Shutterstock Upgraded Points conducted the analysis using the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau Household Pulse Survey Phase 4.0–4.2 , covering the period from January 9, 2024, to September 16, 2024. Service members were defined as adults currently serving in the U.S. armed forces (Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard) and their spouses. This analysis focuses on 3 key questions from the survey: Statistics with fewer than 50 survey responses were omitted from the analysis. Additional statistics on home prices were sourced from Zillow’s Home Value Index , and unemployment rates were sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates . For complete results, see Rising Costs Hit Military Families Hard: Here’s How You Can Help on Upgraded Points. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

ISRO-NASA Set To Launch ‘NISAR’ Satellite In 2025: All About The Joint MissionInvestors will be looking out for any official announcement of a merger between Japanese automakers Honda Motor and Nissan Motor. Asia markets are poised to rise after a U.S. government shutdown was averted and as a cooler-than-expected inflation reading helped lift U.S. markets Friday. Asia-Pacific markets were set to start the holiday-shortened Christmas week on a positive note, after a U.S. government shutdown was averted over the weekend. > 24/7 San Diego news stream: Watch NBC 7 free wherever you are On Monday, investors will be looking out for any official announcement related to the merger of Japanese automakers Honda Motor and Nissan Motor . Japanese media outlet Jiji Press has reported that the announcement could come as early as Monday. This comes after Nissan shares saw a record surge last Wednesday, following a media report that the struggling Japanese automaker was looking to merge with Honda. Japan's Nikkei 225 is set to rise, with the futures contract in Chicago at 39,155 and its counterpart in Osaka at 39,070 against the index's last close of 38,701.9. Futures for Hong Kong's Hang Seng index stood at 19,886, pointing to a stronger open compared to the HSI's close of 19,720.7. Australia's S&P/ASX 200 started the day up 0.62%. Money Report How Gen X and millennials are changing the face of the traditional family office as they inherit over $80 trillion Stock futures inch higher as the market heads into holiday-shortened week: Live updates Last Friday in the U.S., all three major indexes climbed, helped by cooler-than-expected inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.18%, while the S&P 500 added 1.09% and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite advanced 1.03%. The personal consumption expenditures price index , the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, accelerated to 2.4% in November from 2.3% the previous month, but was still lower than the 2.5% estimate from Dow Jones. Excluding food and energy, core PCE rose 2.8% from a year ago, slightly below expectations of 2.9%. — CNBC's Brian Evans, Sean Conlon and Jeff Cox contributed to this report. Also on CNBC Warren Buffett's Berkshire buys Occidental, other shares during sell-off Peak pessimism for China has passed: Mizuho Americas Our focus is on growth without incurring cash burn: MobiKwik CEO