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Governor vows to help promote educationPepper Pong, a portable game that combines elements of ping pong and pickleball, had done roughly $350,000 in sales as of last Friday afternoon, according to founder Tom Filippini. Twenty-four hours later, that figure had more than doubled — thanks to the company’s appearance that evening on ABC’s “Shark Tank.” “They were buying the connection more than the game,” he said. “You’re not giving a product. You’re giving a story about bringing people together. People are hungry for that connection.” Filippini pitched that story to the show’s “sharks,” talking about his struggles with alcoholism before getting sober in 2016. “We’ve easily gotten over 1,000 emails basically thanking us for telling our story, not for creating our product or asking about their order,” he said of the post-show response. “The product is really just a conduit in what we’re trying to accomplish, which is to head off this epidemic of isolation.” Filippini went on the show asking for $150,000 for a 10% stake in the company. He ultimately gave up 19 percent in exchange for an investment of that size from Todd Graves, founder of the Raising Cane’s fast food chain. It’s Pepper Pong’s first outside investment. Filippini said he’s put around $500,000 of his own money into the venture. Filippini noted that Graves is a paddle sports fan himself. He’s a part-owner of the Texas Ranchers, a professional pickleball team. And a Cane’s location built in collaboration with musician Post Malone has a pingpong track running along the walls of the restaurant. “I think Todd and I are really well-aligned in our feeling that business should be fun and lighthearted,” he said. “We call him the ‘aw-shucks’ billionaire.’” Filippini moved to Denver in 1997 and worked in mergers and acquisition investment before founding the vacation club Exclusive Resorts with Brent and Brad Handler in 2002. He sold the company, now based in McGregor Square, in 2004, and went back to the investing industry in 2010. In 2016, he started Aviation Innovation Holdings, a firm that invests in niche flight-industry companies. He spends nights and weekends, he said, on Pepper Pong. A self-proclaimed “ping pong fanatic,” Filippini grew up outside of Chicago playing table tennis with his two brothers and dad in their basement. “We’d play a lot and occasionally throw the rackets at each other and they’d break, so we’d be out of those for a while,” he said. This forced them to tinker with equipment, and led to them finding Nerf Ping Pong, the toy-gun empire’s tabletop version of the game. The ball was not up to snuff, he said, so they would source their own. Though they never found the perfect replacement, that idea became Pepper Pong decades later. “What we realized around 20 years ago is if you could soften the ball and slow the pace, you could level the playing field and extend rallies,” Filippini said. “You basically welcome more people to play and compete and have fun.” Pepper Pong retails on the company’s website for $70 a set, which includes four paddles, called “mullets,” and three foam balls, called “peppers.” The mullet has a ping pong base that shapes into more of a pickleball paddle on top. The peppers, about 30 percent bigger than a ping pong ball, are called jalapeño, habanero and ghost. They ascend in density and playability, with jalapeño being a beginner ball and ghost serving as the most difficult. The weight allows for more control and an approachable pace, Filippini said. Players can set up a “fence” — the game’s de facto net — anywhere from a car hood to Yeti cooler. This, he said, is a remedy to the space and equipment you need to play ping pong. The large table and speed that some people can hit the ball also makes a skill gap obvious, he said. Pepper Pong aims to level the playing field, and though there have been other portable ping pong sets on the market for decades that have tried to do the same thing, Filippini didn’t mince words when reflecting on their efficiency. “They’re a joke,” he said. Walmart and other retailers have reached out since the show to ask about carrying the product, Fillippini said, but he’s planning to sell on the Pepper Pong website for now, to ensure a deliberate roll out. “I was ready for that influx,” he said. “But we’re a zero full-time employee company, so we have to be very considerate about not biting off more than we can chew.” Pepper Pong is manufactured at a facility in Macao, China. Filippini noted it is the same center that produces Spikeball, another portable yard game. He was introduced to its founder, Chris Ruder, early on in the venture, and Filippini has sought advice from him throughout. Pepper Pong distributes out of a family-owned warehouse in Indiana. Filippini said he had to call on family and friends to help account for the massive order influx after the show.Innovation Thailand: A Look at Emerging TechnologiesGoldberg: This is the trouble with Musk’s debut as a federal budget negotiator

Mohamed Farid, Chairperson of the Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA), attended the launch of $500m in sustainability bonds issued by the Arab African International Bank (AAIB). These bonds, backed by investments from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and British International Investment (BII), are part of an initiative to support Egypt’s transition to a green economy while fostering the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). In his speech at the signing ceremony, Farid emphasized that the issuance of these sustainability bonds aligns with Egypt’s commitments under the Paris Agreement. He noted that this issuance represents one of the largest of its kind by an Egyptian financial institution, highlighting Egypt’s leadership in green financing. Farid referenced Egypt’s pioneering role in the region, citing the issuance of the country’s first sovereign green bonds in 2020, valued at $750 million, aimed at funding projects that protect ecosystems and promote a low-carbon economy. He also underscored Egypt’s dedication to the Paris Agreement (signed in 2016) and its Egypt Vision 2030 sustainable development agenda. Farid also noted that three non-banking financial institutions supervised by the FRA have issued social bonds to advance similar sustainability objectives. He described the sustainability bond issuance as the culmination of collaborative efforts between both banking and non-banking sectors, underscoring the role of integrated regulatory frameworks in advancing Egypt’s sustainability and decarbonization goals—efforts that are extending across the Middle East and Africa. Farid highlighted the rapid growth of sustainability bonds in Africa, citing a remarkable 412% increase in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year. Africa saw $6.6bn in sustainability bond issuances in 2024, up from $1.3bn the year prior, demonstrating strong momentum in sustainable financing across the continent. He also outlined FRA’s initiatives to promote market transparency and sustainability, including the Egyptian Exchange’s collaboration with S&P to launch a sustainability index in 2010, which tracks the performance of listed companies based on sustainable development criteria. Additionally, the FRA has mandated that listed companies disclose environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics, tailored to their size and scale. To further these efforts, FRA introduced amendments to capital market regulations in September 2022, establishing clear classifications for green bonds, sustainability bonds, and other related instruments. These amendments aim to ensure precision and inclusivity in supporting sustainability initiatives, not only in environmental matters but across the broader sustainability spectrum. Farid also addressed the issue of global climate pollution, stressing the unequal contributions of developed and developing nations. He called for equitable solutions, arguing that developing countries, which contribute less to global emissions, should receive concessional financing to implement climate adaptation and mitigation projects. This support is crucial for achieving carbon neutrality and safeguarding the planet’s future. He reiterated the importance of directing investments to African and emerging markets, which are particularly vulnerable to climate risks. Farid concluded by emphasizing the critical role of clear regulatory frameworks in driving sustainable development, calling for increased investments and collaborative efforts to promote decarbonization and sustainability across the economy, with a special focus on SMEs and underserved sectors. Farid’s remarks underscored that through collective action, Egypt and other developing nations can confront climate challenges while spurring growth in green and sustainable investments.One of the key aspects of Huang's mindset is her belief in the power of perseverance and resilience. She acknowledges that success is not always guaranteed, and there will be setbacks and failures along the way. However, Huang encourages people to view these challenges as opportunities for growth, learning, and self-improvement. By embracing difficulties with a positive attitude and a resilient spirit, individuals can emerge stronger, wiser, and more determined to pursue their dreams.NEW YORK, Nov 26 (Reuters) - The Boston Athletic Association is to pay prize money to athletes who finished behind doping offenders at their races. The organizer of the world's oldest annual marathon said on Tuesday it was in the process of contacting athletes entitled to prizes after their results were re-ranked due to disqualification. The payouts would apply to runners since 1986, when BAA first introduced prize money. "While the multi-step process to reclaim and redistribute prize money has been complex and time-consuming for all involved, we have worked – and continue to work — diligently towards a resolution that supports clean athletes," BAA President and CEO Jack Fleming said in a statement. Marathon running has been hit with a spate of high-profile doping cases in recent years, particularly from powerhouse Kenya. Kenya's Diana Kipyokei was stripped of her 2021 Boston Marathon title for doping two years ago and was handed a six-year ban. The BAA said voluntary payments would begin in January and that athletes who believe they were adversely affected should apply for compensation. "We are doing what we can to ensure fair competition among athletes, and we will always seek to play host to the fairest of playing fields at all of our events," added Fleming. Sign up here. Reporting by Amy Tennery in New York; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

George Horne recently spoke of how a lack of November Test game time had given him a “kick up the backside” ahead of a hectic spell with Glasgow. After those colourful words came a powerful statement of intent as an electric display from the scrum half powered the Warriors to a fine start to their Champions Cup campaign. Horne’s star shone the brightest in a galaxy of plenty as Franco Smith’s side put Sale to bed long before half-time in this late-night kick-off. When Horne touched down his hat-trick try — Glasgow’s fifth — right on the interval he became only the second man in club history to reach a half-century of scores. At this rate, he will be past DTH van der Merwe’s 54 before the year, never mind the season, is out.The unnamed Chinese business owner had been running a small hotel in a conflict-affected area of Syria, where he had welcomed guests from various nationalities, including other Chinese travelers. When the situation escalated and violence erupted near his hotel, he found himself faced with a difficult decision – to stay and risk the safety of himself and his guests, or to evacuate and seek refuge in a safer location.

The morning session started on a positive note, with the Shanghai Composite Index opening higher as investor sentiment was buoyed by positive developments in the domestic economy. However, as the session progressed, profit-taking activities set in, leading to a slight pullback in the index. Despite this, the overall market sentiment remained positive, supported by strong trading volumes.

OpenAI Officially Releases Sora, Capable of Generating Videos Up to 20 Seconds LongReturning home to the United States, Evan found himself craving the flavors of China that had left such a lasting impression on him. He began experimenting in his own kitchen, trying to recreate the dishes he had enjoyed during his travels. With each successful attempt, he felt a connection to the places he had visited and the people he had met along the way.

GETTING from A to B on public transport, roads, walking and cycling were the top three issues raised in consultation for a 10-year blueprint for the future of Lake Macquarie. Login or signup to continue reading With 90 suburbs wrapped around the jewel in the crown of the city, locals have limited access to regular public transport services to where they want to go. Community members have clearly told the council they want better-quality roads built to keep up with development and fix bottlenecks. They also want to be able to walk and cycle safely to the local shops. The draft 10-year Community Strategic Plan will go before the council on Monday, put together with the help of feedback from residents who took part in online surveys, forums, pop-up sessions and a community summit between June last year and August 2024. In the document, Lake Macquarie mayor Adam Shultz said the council will strive to develop lively local and strategic centres, balancing new growth with environmental preservation and the relaxed lifestyle the community loves. "We also want to prioritise attracting visitation and investment by ensuring we remain an exciting place to do business and a unique tourism destination," he said. "We will do this by partnering with a range of organisations, community groups and other levels of government. "The community has told us that employment, housing, access to open and community spaces as well as environmental protection are at the forefront in their minds." Access to open and community spaces ranked highly, and community support and safety were both in the top 15 most mentioned themes during public engagement. The plan outlines where the council is now and identifies key challenges and risks for the city over the next decade. Those challenges include a growing population , forecast to go from 220,000 in 2024 to 244,000 in 2035 and 260,000 in 2046. The council will need to plan for infrastructure to support housing, education, health and transport needs. While community members recognised the city needs to embrace development, they said they want it to be appropriate and not at the expense of the environment or lifestyle. The community is also ageing, with a median age 10 per cent higher than the NSW average, and the council expects the trend will drive demand in health services and infrastructure. The city's economy is moving away from mining and manufacturing to services and knowledge-based industries. Social and business services are projected to grow to 52 per cent of jobs by 2035. According to the council, the jobs of the future will require an increasingly skilled workforce with growing opportunities in the circular economy , adaptive reuse of former mining land and renewable energy. In the document, Lake Macquarie council chief executive Morven Cameron said the forward-thinking plan provides a clear blueprint to deliver for the community. "The plan reflects a significant amount of community engagement, and it outlines the position we are in today and key issues which we will need to address to achieve our long-term aspirations as a city," she said. "We are committed to ensuring our community finds it easy to be involved in the decision-making process and are given the chance to have their say." If the council votes in favour of the draft plan on Monday, it is expected to go on public exhibition for 62 days. Madeline Link is a born and bred Novocastrian who started her career as a journalist in the New England North West in 2016. She is an experienced council and court reporter, former deputy editor of the Northern Daily Leader and two-time Kennedy Award finalist. In unrelated incidents, she previously reported on country music in Australia's country music capital and was once flung across Lake Macquarie in a power boat at more than 100 kilometres per hour. Maddie now works at the Newcastle Herald with a focus on Newcastle council. To keep up with my stories, follow my X @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au. Madeline Link is a born and bred Novocastrian who started her career as a journalist in the New England North West in 2016. She is an experienced council and court reporter, former deputy editor of the Northern Daily Leader and two-time Kennedy Award finalist. In unrelated incidents, she previously reported on country music in Australia's country music capital and was once flung across Lake Macquarie in a power boat at more than 100 kilometres per hour. Maddie now works at the Newcastle Herald with a focus on Newcastle council. To keep up with my stories, follow my X @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au. DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update. WEEKDAYS Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis. WEEKDAYS Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. WEEKLY Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. WEEKLY Love footy? We've got all the action covered. WEEKLY Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. WEEKLY Get the latest property and development news here. WEEKLY Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. WEEKDAYS Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. WEEKLY Follow the Newcastle Knights in the NRL? Don't miss your weekly Knights update. TWICE WEEKLY Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. WEEKLY Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. TWICE WEEKLY Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. AS IT HAPPENS Be the first to know when news breaks. DAILY Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! DAILY Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily!One of the most anticipated aspects of the new season is the revamped ranking system. With improved matchmaking algorithms and rewards, players can look forward to a more competitive and rewarding experience in ranked matches. The new season also brings changes to the meta, as players adapt to the strengths and weaknesses of the new hero and adjust their strategies accordingly. This constant evolution of the game keeps players on their toes and ensures that no two matches are ever the same.Article content 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 honour on Thursday. Recommended Videos 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 Acuna 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?”

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