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A large number of mysterious drones have been reported flying over New Jersey and across the eastern U.S., sparking speculation and concern over where they came from and why. In response, the Federal Aviation Administration on Wednesday temporarily banned drone flights in 22 areas of New Jersey where critical infrastructure is located. FAA officials said the flight restrictions were requested by federal security agencies and are effective through Jan. 17. The FBI, the Homeland Security Department and state agencies have been investigating, but officials say there has been nothing so far to suggest that any drones have posed a national security or public safety threat. In fact, authorities say, many of the drone sightings have actually been legal drones, manned aircraft, helicopters and even stars. President Joe Biden said Tuesday night that there appears to be nothing nefarious about the flying objects. Despite federal officials’ comments, many state and municipal lawmakers have nonetheless called for stricter rules about who can fly unmanned aircraft — and for the authority to shoot them out of the sky. Federal government agencies have the authority to track and disable drones deemed to be threatening, but that power was set to expire after Friday. A temporary spending bill before Congress that would extend that power and avert a government shutdown was in flux Thursday after President-elect Donald Trump called for its rejection. Dozens of witnesses have reported seeing drones statewide since mid-November, including near the Picatinny Arsenal, a military research and manufacturing facility, and over President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, has said that drone-detection equipment supplied by the federal government has yielded little new information. He declined to describe the equipment except to say it was powerful and could even disable the drones, though he said that’s not legal on U.S. soil. Murphy urged Congress to give states more authority to deal with the drones. Meanwhile, federal and local authorities are warning against pointing lasers at suspected drones, because aircraft pilots are being hit in the eyes more often. Authorities also said they are concerned people might fire weapons at manned aircraft that they have mistaken for drones. The growing anxiety among some residents is not lost on the Biden administration, which has faced criticism from Trump for not dealing with the matter more aggressively. White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said Monday that the federal government has yet to identify any public safety or national security risks. “There are more than 1 million drones that are lawfully registered with the Federal Aviation Administration here in the United States,” Kirby said. “And there are thousands of commercial, hobbyist and law enforcement drones that are lawfully in the sky on any given day. That is the ecosystem that we are dealing with.” The federal government has deployed personnel and advanced technology to investigate the reports in New Jersey and other states, and is evaluating each tip reported by citizens, he said. About 100 of the more than 5,000 drone sightings reported to the FBI in recent weeks were deemed credible enough to warrant more investigation, according to a joint statement by the Department of Homeland Security, FBI, Federal Aviation Administration and Department of Defense. Speculation has raged online, with some expressing concerns that the drones could be part of a nefarious plot by foreign agents or clandestine operations by the U.S. government. Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said it’s unlikely the drones are engaged in intelligence gathering, given how loud and bright they are. And he repeated Tuesday that the drones being reported are not being operated by the Department of Defense. Asked whether military contractors might be operating drones in the New Jersey area, Ryder rebuffed the notion, saying there are “no military operations, no military drone or experiment operations in this corridor.” Ryder said additional drone-detecting technology was being moved to some military installations, including the Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey. Drone activity in the past week led to an hourlong closure of runways at New York’s Stewart International Airport, about 60 miles (100 kilometers) north of Manhattan, a four-hour closure of air space around Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio, and the arrests of two men in Boston accused by police of flying a drone too close to Logan International Airport. Trump has said he believes the government knows more than it’s saying. “Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down!!!” he posted on Truth Social. U.S. Sen. Andy Kim, a New Jersey Democrat, said he has heard nothing to support the notion that the government is hiding anything. He said a lack of faith in institutions is playing a key part in the saga. “Nothing that I’m seeing, nothing that I’ve engaged in gives me any impression of that nature. But like, I get it, some people won’t believe me, right? Because that’s the level of distrust that we face,” Kim said Monday. Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut last week called for the drones to be “shot down.” A Senate bill that would expand federal agencies’ authorities to track and disable drones has been pending since last year. It also includes a pilot program that would allow state and local law enforcement agencies to monitor and disable drones, under supervision by federal authorities. A similar bill in the House was introduced in June. More articles from the BDNSaquon Barkley has become the Shohei Ohtani of the NFL. There's no better home run hitter playing football right now. Barkley had touchdown runs of 72 and 70 yards for the Philadelphia Eagles in a 37-20 victory over the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday night. He now has five runs of 50-plus yards this season and is on pace to break Eric Dickerson's single-season record of 2,105 yards set in 1984. Barkley's historic performance against the Rams — his 255 yards set a team record — captivated a national audience and turned him into a fan favorite for the AP NFL MVP award. He's not the betting favorite, however. Josh Allen has the best odds at plus-150, according to Bet MGM Sportsbook. Two-time MVP Lamar Jackson is next at plus-250 followed by Barkley at plus-400. People are also reading... Running backs have won the award 18 times, including three-time winner Jim Brown, who was the AP's first NFL MVP in 1957. Quarterbacks have dominated the award, winning it 45 times. Only three players who weren't QBs or RBs have been MVP. It takes a special season for a non-QB to win it mainly because the offense goes through the signal caller. Quarterbacks handle the ball every offensive snap, run the show and get the credit when things go well and the blame when it doesn't. Adrian Peterson was the most recent non-QB to win it when he ran for 2,097 yards and 12 touchdowns for the Minnesota Vikings in 2012. Playing for a winning team matters, too. Nine of the past 11 winners played for a No. 1 seed with the other two winners on a No. 2 seed. The Vikings earned the sixth seed when Pederson was MVP. Barkley is a major reason why the Eagles (9-2) are leading the NFC East and only trail Detroit (10-1) by one game for the top spot in the conference. Does he have a realistic chance to win the MVP award? Kicker Mark Moseley was the MVP in the strike-shortened 1982 season when he made 20 of 21 field goals and 16 of 19 extra points in nine games for Washington. If voters once selected a kicker, everyone has a chance, especially a game-changer such as Barkley. Defensive tackle Alan Page was the MVP in 1971 and linebacker Lawrence Taylor won it in 1986. Running back Christian McCaffrey finished third in voting last year and wide receiver Justin Jefferson placed fifth in 2022. The Offensive Player of the Year award and Defensive Player of the Year award recognize the best all-around players on both sides of the ball, allowing voters to recognize non-QBs if they choose. Wide receivers and running backs have won the AP OPOY award seven times over the past 11 seasons. McCaffrey was the 2023 winner. The AP's new voting format introduced in 2022 also gives non-QBs a better opportunity to get MVP recognition. Voter submit their top five picks for each award, with a weighted point system. Previously, voters made one choice for each award. A nationwide panel of 50 media members who regularly cover the league vote for MVP and seven other awards. The awards are based on regular-season performance. Clinching scenarios The Chiefs (10-1) and Bills (9-2) already are in position to lock up postseason berths right after Thanksgiving. Kansas City clinches a playoff berth with a win over Las Vegas on Black Friday and a loss by Miami on Thursday night, or a win plus a loss by Denver on Monday night. Buffalo can wrap up a fifth straight AFC East title with a victory over San Francisco on Sunday and a loss by the Dolphins. Status quo in Dallas? It's not a given that the Dallas Cowboys will be looking for a new head coach after this season. Owner Jerry Jones said Tuesday on local radio that Mike McCarthy could end up getting a contract extension. "I don't think that's crazy at all. This is a Super Bowl-winning coach. Mike McCarthy has been there and done that. He has great ideas. We got a lot of football left," Jones said. McCarthy led the Cowboys (4-7) to three straight 12-win seasons, but they went 1-3 in the playoffs and haven't reached the NFC championship game since winning the Super Bowl 29 years ago. Injuries have contributed to the team's struggles this season, but Dallas was just 3-5 before Dak Prescott was lost for the rest of the season. The Cowboys upset Washington last week and their next four games are against teams that currently have losing records. If they somehow end up 9-8 or even 8-9, Jones could make a case for keeping McCarthy. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!
New Jersey has emerged as a hotspot for drone sightings, with 79 incidents reported in a single night. The existence of drones over critical areas, including as the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster and the Picatinny Arsenal in Morris County, was verified by a senior individual informed on the observations. Concerns about privacy and safety were heightened by the fact that many sightings were also caught on video. Citing insufficient federal action, Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali proclaimed a drone no-fly zone. In a social media statement, he called the scenario a "complete joke". New York Witnesses Expanding Drone Activity Drone activity has also increased, according to New Yorkers. Although Governor Kathy Hochul recognized the sightings, she said there is no proof that the drones pose a threat to national security or public safety. Several drones were spotted flying above a residential area in the Bronx, but they vanished before the cops could reach. After the first sightings were recorded, Staten Island officials contacted the FAA, indicating that metropolitan areas were becoming increasingly concerned. Pennsylvania Joins List of Affected States Drone sightings have been recorded in counties in eastern Pennsylvania, expanding the list of impacted areas. Although the precise sites were not revealed, locals were alarmed by how frequently they were spotted. To allay public fears, local officials are calling on federal agencies to accelerate their investigations. Maryland Raises Alarm Over Unexplained Drones Larry Hogan, the former governor of Maryland, claimed to have seen dozens of big drones fly over his house. He attacked the FBI and Homeland Security, among other government agencies, for their lack of clarification in a social media post. Hogan's remarks highlight the enigma surrounding the drones' origins and handlers. Federal Investigation Underway Although no formal explanations have been offered, the Federal Aviation Administration and other authorities are looking into the accidents. Calls for a more thorough reaction have been sparked by the lack of responses. Concerns over possible privacy infractions and security ramifications have been brought up by the sightings. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US News, World and around the world.
UPL's recognition by DJSI is based on the company's outstanding performance in achieving the highest scores in the agrochemical sector in the S&P Global 2024 Corporate Sustainability Assessment. The DJSI is a globally renowned benchmark for evaluating companies' Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance. The DJSI World Index highlights the top 10% of leading global companies in each industry, reflecting their commitment to promoting sustainable development. In addition, the DJSI Emerging Markets Index honours the top 10% of the largest 800 companies in emerging markets, selected for their outstanding ESG practices. Jai Shroff , Chairman and Group CEO of UPL Group, said: "At UPL, we believe that agriculture lies at the heart of global sustainability efforts, and we are immensely proud to lead our sector in the DJSI for the second consecutive year. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to Reimagining Sustainability by demonstrating how agriculture can be a force for good - empowering farmers, enhancing food security, fostering sustainable development, and creating a brighter future for all." UPL's excellent sustainability rating places the company among the top global performers. This acknowledgement is a testament to UPL's commitment to leading sustainable practices across its global operations, aligning with the best-in-class benchmarks for investors who prioritize long-term shareholder value. NOTES TO EDITORS: About UPL Group UPL Ltd. (NSE: UPL, BSE: 512070, LSE GDR: UPLL) is a global provider of sustainable agricultural products and solutions that cover the entire agrifood value chain. With annual revenue exceeding $5bn , the company is one of the largest agriculture companies worldwide, serving growers in more than 130 countries. UPL Group consists of four pure-play platforms that include UPL Corporation Ltd. (UPL Corp); UPL Sustainable Agri Solutions Ltd. (SAS); Advanta Enterprises Ltd.; and Superform Chemistries Ltd. (FKA UPL Speciality Chemicals Ltd.). Together, these platforms are dedicated to Reimagining Sustainability and driving progress in our food system through our innovative OpenAg® approach. To learn more about UPL, please visit upl-ltd.com and follow us on LinkedIn , X , and Facebook . UPL Corporation Ltd. (UPL Corp) is a leading global crop protection and biological solutions company defining the future through sustainable agriculture and a grower-first mindset. With a robust portfolio of holistic solutions, UPL Corp aims to create shared growth and prosperity for farming communities, agriculture, and our planet. As the largest of UPL Group's pureplay platforms, UPL Corp contributes to around $4bn in annual revenue and is a leader in fostering collaboration through OpenAg® to develop advanced technologies for crop health and productivity.
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Mechanical Ventilators Market Poised for Tremendous Growth from 2024 to 2032 12-19-2024 07:45 PM CET | Health & Medicine Press release from: Cognate Insights Mechanical Ventilators Market Latest Market Overview The global mechanical ventilators market is expected to reach USD 16.5 billion by 2024, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2% from 2024 to 2032. Mechanical ventilators are crucial medical devices that assist patients with respiratory distress by providing mechanical support for breathing. The growth of this market is driven by increasing incidences of chronic respiratory diseases, the rising geriatric population, and the growing prevalence of conditions like COVID-19, which necessitate the use of ventilators in hospitals. The market is also benefiting from technological advancements in ventilator designs, enhancing their efficiency and adaptability to various critical care scenarios. The Mechanical Ventilators Market has experienced steady growth in recent years and is expected to continue expanding at a strong pace from 2024 to 2032. This analysis offers a comprehensive overview, providing valuable insights into key trends and developments within the Mechanical Ventilators industry. These findings equip business leaders with the necessary knowledge to devise more effective strategies and enhance profitability. Furthermore, the report serves as a useful resource for new and emerging businesses, helping them make informed decisions as they navigate the market and seek growth opportunities. Major Players of Mechanical Ventilators Market are: Medtronic (Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland; Revenue: $31.2 billion in 2023) Philips Healthcare (Amsterdam, Netherlands; Revenue: $21.1 billion in 2023) GE Healthcare (Chicago, USA; Revenue: $19.5 billion in 2023) ResMed Inc. (San Diego, USA; Revenue: $4.2 billion in 2023) Drägerwerk AG (Lübeck, Germany; Revenue: $3.5 billion in 2023) Get Latest PDF Sample Report @ https://www.cognateinsights.com/request-sample/mechanical-ventilators-market-research Our Report covers global as well as regional markets and provides an in-depth analysis of the overall growth prospects of the market. Global market trend analysis including historical data, estimates to 2024, and compound annual growth rate (CAGR) forecast to 2032 is given based on qualitative and quantitative analysis of the market segments involving economic and non-economic factors. Furthermore, it reveals the comprehensive competitive landscape of the global market, the current and future market prospects of the industry, and the growth opportunities and drivers as well as challenges and constraints in emerging and emerging markets. Global Mechanical Ventilators Market Landscape and Future Pathways: North America: United States Canada Europe: Germany France U.K. Italy Russia Asia-Pacific: China Japan South Korea India Australia China Taiwan Indonesia Thailand Malaysia Latin America: Mexico Brazil Argentina Korea Colombia Middle East & Africa: Turkey Saudi Arabia UAE Korea Speak to Our Analyst for A Discussion on The Above Findings, And Ask for A Discount on The Report @ https://www.cognateinsights.com/check-discount/mechanical-ventilators-market-research Key drivers and challenges influencing the Mechanical Ventilators market: Regional Analysis: The report involves examining the Mechanical Ventilators market at a regional or national level. Report analyses regional factors such as government incentives, infrastructure development, economic conditions, and consumer behaviour to identify variations and opportunities within different markets. Market Projections: Report covers the gathered data and analysis to make future projections and forecasts for the Mechanical Ventilators market. This may include estimating market growth rates, predicting market demand, and identifying emerging trends. Company Analysis: Report covers individual Mechanical Ventilators manufacturers, suppliers, and other relevant industry players. This analysis includes studying their financial performance, market positioning, product portfolios, partnerships, and strategies. Consumer Analysis: Report covers data on consumer behaviour, preferences, and attitudes towards Mechanical Ventilators This may involve surveys, interviews, and analysis of consumer reviews and feedback from different by Application. Technology Analysis: Report covers specific technologies relevant to Mechanical Ventilators. It assesses the current state, advancements, and potential future developments in Mechanical Ventilators areas. 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For In-Depth Competitive Analysis - Purchase this Report now at @ https://www.cognateinsights.com/purchase-report/mechanical-ventilators-market-research Contact Us: Cognate Insights Web: www.cognateinsights.com Email: info@cognateinsights.com Phone: +91 8424946476 About Us: We are leaders in market analytics, business research, and consulting services for Fortune 500 companies, start-ups, financial & government institutions. Since we understand the criticality of data and insights, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available. To be at our client's disposal whenever they need help on market research and consulting services. We also aim to be their business partners when it comes to making critical business decisions around new market entry, M&A, competitive Intelligence and strategy. This release was published on openPR.
There are rolling hills and wild scenery, there’s weaving, tartan and tweed, tales of emigration and sites of bloody battle, with glorious beaches, distilleries, stately homes and spectacular wildlife. Indeed, there seems to be everything a visitor to Scotland might be seeking. Yet when David Hope-Jones stood in front of a group of businesses and guests and announced the ambitious vision to grow the South of Scotland tourism economy by £1bn and create 6,000 jobs within a decade, he heard an audible gasp. “There was some cynicism,” he says, recalling the announcement in March. “It is hugely ambitious. “But I’m a great believer that investment breeds investment and confidence breeds confidence.” Just a few months on and those shocked gasps are being replaced by more optimistic murmurings. Rubers Law sits between Hawick and Jedburgh (Image: South of Scotland Destination Alliance) Recently South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) - the tourism body for the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway – revealed the area had grown its visitor economy by 20% last year alone, increasing it by £150m to £911 million. It recorded 14% more jobs – 15,652 people now work in tourism across the area. In a part of the country which travellers tend to whizz through on their way to somewhere else, visitor numbers soared by 26%, to over five million. If that wasn’t enough to drown out the gasps, along came one of the country’s biggest holiday park operators. Earlier this month Centre Parcs confirmed its first site in Scotland will be just off the A7 near the Borders town of Hawick. The Three Brethren, 16th century cairns near Selkirk (Image: South of Scotland Destination Alliance) The move – still in early planning stages - would bring a £350 million investment, with around 700 lodges and assorted attractions in a newly developed forest setting and potential for 1,200 permanent jobs plus an estimated 800 additional construction jobs. Placed alongside a proposal to create Scotland’s third National Park across a swathe of Galloway landscape – currently the topic of heated debate between those for and against it – the £25 million Destination Tweed project with its plans for 113-mile walking and cycling trail, and the new Kirkpatrick Coast to Coast 250-mile cycling route, and that £1bn dream figure suddenly doesn’t seem so outlandish. There are other reasons for tourism chiefs to feel optimistic: South of Scotland has been dubbed the “Home of the Bike” with its network of trails and mountain biking at Glentress and Innerleithen. St Abbs Head sits on the southeastern coast (Image: South of Scotland Destination Alliance) It hosted key events within the 2023 UCI Championships programme which introduced millions of at-home viewers to the area and provided a direct economic impact worth £8m to the region, and the Mountain Biking Innovation & Technology Summit brought 200 delegates to explore what it has to offer. For visitors who prefer the water, earlier this year saw the launch of the 30 miles Tweed Valley Canoe Trail, there’s talk of a new Galloway national park, established and new walking trails and recent £30million investment in the Schloss Roxburghe Hotel that’s brought an influx of well-heeled visitors. Mountain biking at Glentress (Image: South of Scotland Destination Alliance/FLS) Such is the buzz that respected travel guide Lonely Planet singled out South of Scotland - an area spanning the cliffs of St Abbs Head in the southeast to the vast Solway Firth - as one its top 30 places in the world to visit in 2023. It echoed what David and others in the area have been striving to point out: that many make the "big mistake" of driving through on their way elsewhere instead of pausing to take in its attractions. Those who did stay, it said, could find "breathing room" even in summer and "peaceful corners". But for others who have watched as once relatively peaceful parts of Scotland became tourist hot spots blighted by camper vans, litter, inconsiderate wild campers and few signs of spending in local shops, there may well be nagging concerns. Read more by Sandra Dick: Unearthed: the dirty business of solving Scotland's worst crimes What makes Scottish Men's Sheds so special? Will the South of Scotland become the nation’s next NC500 style tourist hotspot? Can it cope with soaring tourist numbers? And what will all this extra tourism really mean for the area? “It’s not ‘sell cheap and stack high. The whole plan is not just about ‘let’s get lots of people to come here’,” says David, CEO of the SSDA since 2022. “There are four strands: inspiring more people to come to South of Scotland to experience all we have, investing in quality, supporting businesses and doing it a responsible way. “What we care about is economic impact on communities here and how many jobs can be created.” Key, he adds, is encouraging visitors right across the year. And if they happen to be the particularly lucrative North American tourists, all the better. Schloss Roxburghe Hotel has had a £30m investment (Image: Schloss Roxburghe) International tourists spend three times that of domestic visitors. Currently, South of Scotland’s market share of those big spenders is just 6% compared to the Scottish national average of 23%. To boost its numbers, an area that historically saw its share of battles as it strived to keep invaders out, aims to target diaspora who often wrongly assume their hearts and roots lie in the Highlands. “The North American visitor comes with a sense of belonging and nostalgia; they feel Scottish," he adds. “The vast majority think they came from the Highlands. The truth is most people who emigrated did so from the Lowlands because they had money and were able to pay their fare. “We have stories to tell to that high spending American market of emigration from Scotland to New World. Floors Castle, Kelso (Image: South of Scotland Destination Alliance) “But we have not been telling it right. “We are developing a 10-year ‘game changing’ plan to tell that story and to get North Americans to come to South of Scotland which, to put it bluntly, is where they probably came from,” he adds. Likewise, the twisting tale of tartan and tweed also often considered to be the territory of the Highlands and Islands. “This is the historic centre of textile production, but we are not telling it right,” he adds. “We want to build a tartan and tweed centre in a discarded mill building where we can tell the story of tartan and tweed. “Not something glass boxes, but an immersive emotional experience like Johnnie Walker on Princes Street.” Read more by Sandra Dick: New Lanark spinning mill: 'Once closed, it'll never reopen' How a Scottish family business went hell for leather There is a fine balance to be struck, however, as many living on the NC500 route know only too well. Fodor's Travel 2025 'Go and No Lists' which highlight places to avoid travelling, has included the 516-miles North Coast 500 trail citing over-tourism, over-congested roads and shortfall of campsites and other essential facilities. Further south, opponents of the proposed Galloway National Park have already been vocal in highlighting concerns over attracting a flood of tourists to an area which is already struggling to find enough staff to work in hospitality, with a lack of affordable accommodation and rural roads. “A lot of people are worried about mass tourism,” adds David. “But it’s not about increasing visitor numbers and more to do with ensuring those who do come, spend well. “If we can bring visitors to the places that are struggling it will help everyone.” The Centre Parcs announcement came out of the blue, he adds. It offers opportunities to encourage its visitors, who often stay within its confines and then leave, to ‘bolt on’ extra days to explore the South of Scotland. Galloway Forest Park, Raiders Road (Image: South of Scotland Destination Alliance) Alongside permanent jobs will be construction workers with potential spin-off benefits for accommodation providers, restaurants, retailers and throughout the area’s economy. “In places like Hawick that has third generation unemployment since the mills closed in the 1970s and 1980s, that scale of job creation is same as reopening the textile mills of the Scottish Borders. “It will be transformative,” he adds. For campaigners hoping to see an extension to the Borders Railway which currently runs from Edinburgh to Tweedale, Centre Parcs is another reason to lengthen the line through more Borders towns and on to Carlisle. While there are hopes better job prospects for the next generation of workers, can halt the drift of young people leaving the area in search of work. “That causes the death of the high street and social economic problems,” David adds. The South of Scotland has become known as a destination for mountain biking and road cycling (Image: South of Scotland Destination Alliance) “This allows us to fix that gaping hole that the loss of the mass mill extinction left in the Scottish Borders, but we need to spend the next few years being active to make sure get the right skills, right people and right infrastructure.” Ewan Thomson of Hawick-based luxury cashmere producers Hawico, whose customers include some of the world’s biggest luxury designer brands, sees many positives ahead. “Newcastle and Edinburgh are only an hour away but people don’t know we are here. It’s like this area is a ‘drive through’ to the rest of the country. “The level investment going on just now is fantastic. It puts us on the map. “On the employment side, it will create challenges - it’s difficult enough trying to get people already. “But I see if from other side. It will probably drive more people to the area, people will see they can buy a house in Hawick that is still relatively affordable, the countryside is beautiful.” In Hawick, flood defence work which caused disruption in the town is nearly finished, there’s a buzz around the Centre Parcs announcement and hopes it will inspire new investment in roads, an extended railway and other infrastructure. A Future Hawick group of businesses is brainstorming ideas and pushing for investment. At Hawico, rooted in the 19th century, there’s ambition to engage with visitors, create new experiences to offer insights into the manufacturing process and tell the story of the Borders mills. “We see what the whisky people have done, and it’s fantastic. People also want to experience retail. “We bring people here and they are amazed at what goes into making a sweater. The River Tweed stretches 97 miles across the Border region (Image: South of Scotland Destination Alliance) “They see the machines going back and forward, all the colours. They often have no idea of the processes. “Most people think there was manufacturing in this area back in the day but it disappeared. “Yet we have businesses here making garments for Chanel and Hermes. “It’s now up to Hawick to make it an interesting place for people to want to come.” At the other side of the South of Scotland catchment area, Ed Forrest, Director at Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere, welcomes the flood of interest in the area, but with conditions. “Tourism is a real opportunity for us as a UNESCO Biosphere as long as it’s the right kind of tourism,” he says. “That’s sustainable tourism, that will be good for local communities and good for the environment and local economy. “We’re keen on tourism that is lead by local communities. “We’re not seeking mass tourism: that’s not the answer. But I do think we have a large enough area that can take much more of that small bespoke type of visitor looking for a unique experience.” Dark skies over Caerlaverock Castle near Dumfries (Image: South of Scotland Destination Alliance) At SSPA, David, meanwhile, insists he knew nothing of the Centre Parc’s plans when he unveiled the ambitious £1bn tourism target. “This is an area too long forgotten, unloved and unheard of, and suddenly we are at the front of the queue with large investment,” he adds. “We have potential here. It’s about creating that ambition, that vision, making that case politically and generating private sector investment.”
It's a photo that sent a tremor through British politics: Elon Musk flanked by British politician Nigel Farage and a wealthy backer, in front of a gilt-framed painting of a young Donald Trump. Taken this week at Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, the image suggested that Musk, a key player in the incoming US administration, could soon turn his disruptive attention to the UK. Farage, Trump's highest-profile British champion, confirmed talks are underway about Musk making a hefty donation to Farage's party Reform UK . The Times of London reported it could be as much as $100 million, which would be far and away the largest political donation in UK history. The reports have sparked calls for Britain's rules on political donations to be tightened - quickly. "We did discuss money," Farage told broadcaster GB News after the meeting with Musk. "That's a negotiation we will go back and have again. He is not against giving us money. He hasn't fully decided whether he will." Britain has strict limits on how much political parties can spend on elections, but they can accept unlimited donations, as long as the donors are UK voters or companies registered in Britain. Musk's social network X has a British arm, Twitter UK Ltd., with a registered address in London. 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The voting watchdog, the Electoral Commission, is calling for changes including limiting the amount a company can donate, so that it can't put in more money than it earns in Britain. "It's crucial that U.K. voters have trust in the financing of our political system," the commission's chief executive Vijay Rangarajan told The Guardian. "The system needs strengthening, and we have been calling for changes to the law since 2013, to protect the electoral system from foreign interference." Britain's center-left Labour Party pledged during the summer election campaign to tighten the rules on political donations, though legislation is not scheduled in the coming year. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's spokesman Dave Pares said Wednesday that work is already underway to "reinforce existing safeguards" against "impermissible proxy donations." Both the Labour government and the right-of-center opposition Conservatives are trying to figure out how to deal with Musk, who has taken a keen interest in the UK – and seemingly formed a strong dislike for Starmer. Musk often posts on X about the UK, retweeting criticism of Starmer and the hashtag TwoTierKeir – shorthand for an unsubstantiated claim that Britain has "two-tier policing," with far-right protesters treated more harshly than pro-Palestinian or Black Lives Matter demonstrators. Musk has compared British attempts to weed out online misinformation to the Soviet Union, and during summer anti-immigrant violence across the U.K. tweeted that "civil war is inevitable." Farage has echoed some of those themes in his own social media output and his party's anti-"woke" agenda, which includes pledges to slash immigration, scrap green-energy targets and leave the European Convention on Human Rights. Founded in 2021, Reform UK is the latest in a string of small hard-right parties led by Farage that have had limited electoral success, but an outsized influence on British politics. Farage's opposition to the European Union helped push the country toward voting in 2016 to leave the bloc, a seismic political and economic break with the U.K.'s nearest neighbors. Reform UK won just five of the 650 seats in the House of Commons in July's election, but came second in dozens more and secured 14% of the vote. Now it is pushing for fast growth, trying to professionalize its previously ramshackle organization and holding gatherings around the UK to recruit new members. Farage, a strong communicator who has embraced TikTok and other platforms, aims to emulate Trump's success in using the power of personality and social media to reach the "bro vote" - young men who are traditionally less likely to turn out at election time. Farage told GB News that Musk has "already given me considerable help – understanding the process from start to finish, reaching disaffected communities who frankly feel there's no point voting for anybody." (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )ASUNCION, Paraguay (AP) — Gaston Martirena and Adrian Martinez scored first-half goals as Argentina's Racing won its first Copa Sudamericana championship by beating Brazil's Cruzeiro 3-1 in the final on Saturday. Martirena opened the scoring in the 15th minute and Martinez added a goal five minutes later to give “La Academia” its first international title since 1988 when it won the Supercopa Sudamericana. “Maravilla” Martinez scored 10 goals in 13 matches and finished as the top scorer in the competition. Roger Martinez sealed the victory with a goal in the 90th. Kaio Jorge scored in the 52nd for Cruzeiro. ___ AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer The Associated PressThe most comprehensive guidance to the application of solar tape 11-26-2024 10:34 PM CET | Associations & Organizations Press release from: ABNewswire The Role of Adhesive Tapes in Solar Photovoltaic Manufacturing Adhesive tapes play a critical role in various aspects of solar photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturing. From bonding module frames, securing back supports, and protecting edges to organizing conductive wires, insulating busbars, and temporarily sealing laminations, different types of adhesive tapes are integral to ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and longevity of PV modules. Solar Frame Bonding Double-sided PE foam tape is a cornerstone for achieving high-quality, reliable adhesion in solar module frames. Its PE foam substrate offers an ideal combination of flexibility and internal strength, while the optimized acrylic adhesive ensures secure bonding to most backsheet materials. The application process is straightforward and efficient, enhancing production workflows. Recommended Tape: PE Foam Tape Key Benefits: Secure, stable frame attachment No edge lifting, reducing downtime or rework UV resistance, water resistance, and weather durability Fixing Back Supports of Solar Modules For securing back supports, concentrators, and solar reflectors, black PE foam tape offers a permanent, reliable solution without requiring curing time. Its ease of use accelerates installation while maintaining a clean work environment. Recommended Tape: Black PE Foam Tape Key Benefits: Neat, efficient application Fast bonding without drying or curing Enhanced production efficiency and reliability Permanent Edge Protection Frameless PV modules with glass backsheets are visually appealing but vulnerable to edge damage during production, transportation, and installation. Edge protection tape not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of frameless modules but also significantly reduces breakage rates by sealing edges to prevent water ingress or delamination. Recommended Tape: Matte Black Single-Sided Tape (PET Tape) Key Benefits: Protective sealing and durability Water resistance and reduced breakage Fixing and Aligning Solar Cells During the lamination process, solar cells must remain securely positioned, and wire harnesses should be neatly aligned. PET tape is ideal for this purpose as it provides excellent UV resistance and anti-aging properties, critical for long-term reliability. Recommended Tape: PET Tape Key Benefits: Maintains cell alignment during lamination Fixes and insulates solar ribbons in thin-film modules Organizing Junction Box WiresLoose wiring at the back of PV modules poses risks to product quality and installation safety. MOPP tape provides superior instant adhesion for securely fastening wire harnesses to various backsheet materials. Even after extended overseas transport, it remains easy to remove without leaving residue. Recommended Tape: MOPP Tape Key Benefits: Secure wire management Clean removal with no adhesive residue Mounting Junction Boxes Using PE foam tape for immediate bonding during junction box installation improves both safety and adhesion quality. This eliminates issues caused by silicone sealants, such as displacement during curing or incomplete bonding. The foam tape also offers UV resistance and a visually clean, even finish. Recommended Tape: PE Foam Tape Key Benefits: Improved safety and adhesion quality Weather durability and aesthetic finishFixing and Insulating Busbars In thin-film PV modules, busbars traverse the cell area and require secure insulation. Double-sided PET insulating tape is the perfect solution, offering strong adhesion to coated glass while providing reliable insulation. Recommended Tape: PET Insulating Tape Key Benefits: Fixes busbars securely Ensures electrical insulation Shielding Conductive Leads Conductive leads in PV modules require shielding on the sunlight-exposed side. Single-sided PET tape is excellent for permanently covering metal leads, ensuring a clean appearance and robust electrical insulation. These tapes are highly resistant to temperature changes, UV exposure, and environmental factors, making them ideal for permanent use. Recommended Tape: PET Light-Blocking Tape Key Benefits: Superior light-blocking and insulation properties Excellent peel strength and resistance to environmental degradation Removability from plastic and metal surfaces Temporary Hole Sealing During lamination, adhesive tape is essential for fixing leads and temporarily sealing holes or cracks in the backsheet. PET light-blocking tape provides high adhesion, heat resistance, and easy removability, making it versatile for various backsheet materials. Recommended Tape: PET Light-Blocking Tape Key Benefits: High adhesive strength Heat resistance and clean removal Broad compatibility with different backsheet materials Conclusion Adhesive tapes are indispensable in the solar photovoltaic industry, providing efficient, reliable, and long-lasting solutions for module assembly and protection. Whether for bonding frames, protecting edges, or managing electrical components, each tape type offers specific advantages tailored to the demands of modern PV module production. By integrating advanced adhesive technologies, manufacturers can ensure the durability, performance, and safety of solar modules in even the most challenging environments. Media Contact Company Name: Dongguan new Youwei adhesive products Co., Ltd. Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=the-most-comprehensive-guidance-to-the-application-of-solar-tape ] Country: China Website: https://www.uwtapes.com/ This release was published on openPR.
Watch the best shots from Daniel Berger and Nelly Korda's first round at the 2024 Grant Thornton Invitational, where strong iron play keeps the pairing in touch with the leaders. Brentley Romine reports from Florida on the latest surrounding PGA Tour Q-School action, where he catches up with Alistair Docherty after his terrific Friday and looks ahead to expected conditions this weekend. Watch the best shots from Rickie Fowler and Lexi Thompson's -9 first round at the 2024 Grant Thornton Invitational, which included a hot start, some beautiful iron shots and a special birthday celebration. Brentley Romine and Jim Gallagher Jr. join Golf Central to highlight notable golfers making waves at PGA Tour Q-School action in Florida and the pressure of trying to earn a PGA Tour card. Amy Rogers reports on the latest surrounding Mollie Marcoux Samaan stepping down as LPGA Tour commissioner, where she hears from Mel Reid and Megan Khang about what they'd like to see in the next commissioner. Amy Rogers catches up with several new teams ahead of this year's Grant Thornton Invitational, including Tom Kim-Jeeno Thitikul and Allisen Corpuz-Sahith Theegala. The Golf Central crew reflects on the wild storylines that came out of the 2024 men's major golf events and looks forward to 2025. Justin Thomas had a brutal day around the greens to end the Hero World Challenge, but Golf Central thinks he's trending in the right direction after a solid tournament as a whole. Todd Lewis and Brandel Chamblee analyze Scottie Scheffler's game at the Hero World Challenge and how he flexed his incredible overall skillset to cap a successful 2024 with a win. Tom Kim took a big leap on moving day at the Hero World Challenge, knocking in a dozen birdies and putting himself in contention for a win in the Bahamas. Todd Lewis and Brandel Chamblee look at the birdie-filled scorecard of Tom Kim's third round at the Hero World Challenge and how he was able to put himself in position to win on the final day.Examination of political investments reveals democrat involvement spooks corporate raiders
New Zealand police begin arrests for gang symbol ban as new law takes effectLok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Saturday said that the Indian Constitution is the guide to the whole world and “we are proud of our Constitution”. Addressing a programme following the inauguration of the Constitution Museum at OP Jindal Global University in Sonipat, he remarked that India is among the leading countries of the world today due to its Constitution. He said the Constitution Museum will inspire future generations. “We will celebrate Constitution Day on 26th November, with programmes being organised in all colleges, universities, and educational institutions. Birla said Prime Minister Narendra Modi started this programme in 2015 to make the people of the country aware of their Constitution. “We should remember our heritage and contribution and be proud of our country’s Constitution and its makers. Our democracy is the strongest in the whole world,” he remarked. Advertisement “Today, people around the world are adopting the values of our Constitution, which is the strength of our democracy. We gave the message of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ to the whole world, and today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are moving forward with this message,” he said. Remembering the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, on the occasion, he said, “Today, we are moving forward with Gandhiji’s ideas, and we are proud that the ideas of the Father of the Nation are being adopted across the world.” The Lok Sabha Speaker said that when the Constitution of the country was drafted, there was a need for equality, and it was within the basic structure of the Constitution that the foundation of equality was laid. He emphasised that the Constitution is not merely a legal framework but a document of social change. “Today, we are happy that we are taking forward the role of ‘Antyodaya’, thanks to our Constitution,” Birla said, thanking the Chancellor of the university and MP Naveen Jindal for building the Constitution Museum. In his address, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal said, “Our Constitution is a matter of pride and glory for us as it gave us the message of freedom, unity, and socialism. We are the Mother of Democracy.” He also congratulated the university for building the Constitution Museum. MP Naveen Jindal said, “Our country is moving forward with democratic values due to its Constitution. With this museum, the university has tried to present all the aspects — from the creation of the Constitution to its implementation and development in the country in front of future generations.” Birla said that a seminar on the Constitution is also being organised at the university campus for four days. Deputy Commissioner Dr Manoj Kumar, DCP East Prabina P, Vice Chancellor of the University C Raj Kumar, and many other dignitaries were present on the occasion. AdvertisementTime magazine gave Donald Trump something it has never done for a Person of the Year designee: a lengthy fact-check of claims he made in an accompanying interview. The fact-check accompanies a transcript of what the president-elect told the newsmagazine's journalists. Described as a “12 minute read,” it calls into question 15 separate statements that Trump made. Recommended Videos It was the second time Trump earned the Time accolade; he also won in 2016, the first year he was elected president. Time editors said it wasn't a particularly hard choice over other finalists Kamala Harris, Elon Musk, Benjamin Netanyahu and Kate Middleton. Time said Friday that no other Person of the Year has been fact-checked in the near-century that the magazine has annually written about the figure that has had the greatest impact on the news. But it has done the same for past interviews with the likes of Joe Biden, Netanyahu and Trump. Such corrections have been a sticking point for Trump and his team in the past, most notably when ABC News did it during his only debate with Democrat Kamala Harris this fall. There was no immediate response to a request for comment on Friday. In the piece, Time called into question statements Trump made about border security, autism and the size of a crowd at one of his rallies. When the president-elect talked about the “massive” mandate he had received from voters, Time pointed out that former President Barack Obama won more electoral votes the two times he had run for president. The magazine also questioned Trump's claim that he would do interviews with anyone who asked during the campaign, if he had the time. The candidate rejected a request to speak to CBS' “60 Minutes,” the magazine said. “In the final months of his campaign, Trump prioritized interviews with podcasts over mainstream media,” reporters Simmone Shah and Leslie Dickstein wrote. ___ David Bauder writes about media for the AP. Follow him at http://x.com/dbauder and https://bsky.app/profile/dbauder.bsky.social.ASUNCION, Paraguay (AP) — Gaston Martirena and Adrian Martinez scored first-half goals as Argentina's Racing won its first Copa Sudamericana championship by beating Brazil's Cruzeiro 3-1 in the final on Saturday. Read this article for free: Already have an account? As we navigate through unprecedented times, our journalists are working harder than ever to bring you the latest local updates to keep you safe and informed. Now, more than ever, we need your support. Starting at $14.99 plus taxes every four weeks you can access your Brandon Sun online and full access to all content as it appears on our website. or call circulation directly at (204) 727-0527. Your pledge helps to ensure we provide the news that matters most to your community! ASUNCION, Paraguay (AP) — Gaston Martirena and Adrian Martinez scored first-half goals as Argentina's Racing won its first Copa Sudamericana championship by beating Brazil's Cruzeiro 3-1 in the final on Saturday. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? ASUNCION, Paraguay (AP) — Gaston Martirena and Adrian Martinez scored first-half goals as Argentina’s Racing won its first Copa Sudamericana championship by beating Brazil’s Cruzeiro 3-1 in the final on Saturday. Martirena opened the scoring in the 15th minute and Martinez added a goal five minutes later to give “La Academia” its first international title since 1988 when it won the Supercopa Sudamericana. “Maravilla” Martinez scored 10 goals in 13 matches and finished as the top scorer in the competition. Roger Martinez sealed the victory with a goal in the 90th. Kaio Jorge scored in the 52nd for Cruzeiro. ___ AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer Advertisement
Appointment of Evelyn Angelle to Bird’s Board of DirectorsMALAGA, Spain (AP) — The last man to face — and beat — Rafael Nadal in professional tennis, 80th-ranked Botic van de Zandschulp , converted his 10th match point Friday to finally close out a 6-4, 6-7 (12), 6-3 victory over Daniel Altmaier and help the Netherlands reach its first Davis Cup final by sweeping Germany. Tallon Griekspoor, who is ranked 40th, sealed the 2-0 win for the Dutch in the best-of-three-match semifinal by hitting 25 aces and coming back to defeat Jan-Lennard Struff 6-7 (4), 7-5, 6-4. When it ended, appropriately, on an ace, Griekspoor shut his eyes, dropped to his knees and spread his arms wide. “We have been talking about this for two, three years,” Griekspoor said. “We believed in ourselves so much. We always felt like this was possible. To do it now feels unbelievable.” The other semifinal is Saturday, with No. 1-ranked Jannik Sinner and defending champion Italy taking on Australia . The championship will be decided Sunday. “We don’t have that top 5 player. We don’t that top 10 player. We don’t have that top 15 player,” Dutch captain Paul Harhuuis said. “But it’s a team effort. ... So proud of these guys.” In Friday's opener, van de Zandschulp was up a set and just a point away from leading 5-2 in the second when Altmaier began playing more aggressively and interacting more with the German fans, yelling and throwing uppercuts or raising his arms after key points. In the tiebreaker, Altmaier managed to save five match points before converting his own fourth set point to extend the contest. But van de Zandschulp — who upset four-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz at the U.S. Open — quickly moved out front in the final set, even if he eventually needed five more match points in the last game before serving it out. “At some point, I didn’t know what to do any more on the match points,” van de Zandschulp said. “I had the toughest match of my life on Tuesday (against Nadal), so everything that comes next is maybe a little bit easier.” In the quarterfinals, van de Zandschulp outplayed Nadal for a 6-4, 6-4 result that marked the end of the 22-time Grand Slam champion’s career because the Netherlands went on to eliminate Spain 2-1. The 38-year-old Nadal announced last month that the Davis Cup would be his final event before retiring. Presumably because people purchased tickets ahead of time with plans to watch Nadal compete in the semifinals, there were hundreds of unoccupied blue or gray seats surrounding the indoor hard court at the Palacio de Deportes Jose Maria Martina Carpena in southern Spain on Friday. Now truly a neutral site, the place was not nearly as loud and rowdy as on Tuesday, although there were shouts of “Vamos, Rafa!” that drew laughter while van de Zandschulp played the 88th-ranked Altmaier. It took Griekspoor more than 75 minutes and nearly two full sets to figure out how to break No. 43 Struff and then did it twice in a row — to lead 6-5 in the second set, and then go up 1-0 in the third. That was plenty, because Griekspoor saved the only two break points he faced. The Netherlands hadn’t been to the semifinals since 2001. The Germans — whose best current player, two-time major finalist Alexander Zverev, is not on the team in Malaga — have won three Davis Cups, but not since 1993, when 1991 Wimbledon champion Michael Stich led them to the title. AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis
Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah agree to a ceasefire to end nearly 14 months of fighting JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel has approved a United States-brokered ceasefire agreement with Lebanon’s Hezbollah, setting the stage for an end to nearly 14 months of fighting linked to the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. Israeli warplanes meanwhile carried out the most intense wave of strikes in Beirut and its southern suburbs since the start of the conflict and issued a record number of evacuation warnings. At least 24 people were killed in strikes across the country, according to local authorities, as Israel signaled it aims to keep pummeling Hezbollah before the ceasefire is set to take hold at 4 a.m. local time on Wednesday. President Joe Biden, speaking in Washington, called the agreement “good news” and said his administration would make a renewed push for a ceasefire in Gaza. AP finds that a Pentagon-funded study on extremism in the military relied on old data Early this year, Pete Hegseth told a Fox News audience a new, Pentagon-funded study proved that the number of military service members and veterans involved in the Jan. 6 insurrection did not indicate a wider problem in the armed forces. Hegseth, Donald Trump's pick to head the Department of Defense, wasn’t alone. The Wall Street Journal’s opinion page highlighted the same report as evidence that extremists in military communities were “phantoms” created by a “false media narrative.” The X account for Republicans on the House Armed Services Committee posted that the study showed the focus on extremism in the military was a “witch hunt.” But The Associated Press has found that the study relied on old data, misleading analyses and ignored evidence that pointed to the opposite conclusion. Trump's threat to impose tariffs could raise prices for consumers, colliding with promise for relief DETROIT (AP) — If Donald Trump makes good on his threat to slap 25% tariffs on everything imported from Mexico and Canada, the price increases that could follow will collide with his campaign promise to give American families a break from inflation. Economists and industry officials say companies would have little choice but to pass along the added costs, dramatically raising prices for food, clothing, automobiles, booze and other goods. The president-elect floated the tariff idea and an additional 10% tax on goods from China, as a way to force the countries to halt the flow of illegal immigrants and drugs into the U.S. But his posts Monday threatening tariffs on his first day in office could be a negotiating ploy to get the countries to change behavior. Mexico suggests it would impose its own tariffs to retaliate against any Trump tariffs MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has suggested Mexico could retaliate with tariffs of its own, after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump threatened to impose 25% tariffs on Mexican goods if the country doesn’t stop the flow of drugs and migrants across the border. Sheinbaum says she is willing to engage in talks on the issues, but said drugs were a U.S. problem. She says "one tariff would be followed by another in response, and so on until we put at risk common businesses,” referring to U.S. automakers that have plants on both sides of the border. After delay, Trump signs agreement with Biden White House to begin formal transition handoff WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday signed a required agreement with President Joe Biden’s White House to allow his transition team to coordinate with the existing federal workforce ahead of taking office on Jan. 20. The overdue agreement was supposed to have been signed by Oct. 1, according to the Presidential Transition Act, and the Biden White House has issued appeals in both public and private for Trump’s team to sign on. The agreement is a critical step in the process meant to ensure an orderly transfer of power at noon on Jan. 20 and limits the risk that the Trump team could find itself taking control of the massive federal government without being aware of ongoing programs and operations. Brazil’s Bolsonaro participated in a 2022 coup plot, unsealed police report says SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazil’s former far-right President Jair Bolsonaro was fully aware of and actively participated in a coup plot to remain in office after his defeat in the 2022 election, according to a Federal Police report that has been unsealed. Brazil’s Federal Police last Thursday formally accused Bolsonaro and 36 other people of attempting a coup. They sent their nearly 900-page report to the Supreme Court, which lifted the seal. Bolsonaro has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing or awareness of any plot to keep him in power or oust his leftist rival and successor, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Biden proposes Medicare and Medicaid cover costly weight-loss drugs for millions of obese Americans WASHINGTON (AP) — Millions of obese Americans would be eligible to have popular weight-loss drugs like Wegovy or Zepbound covered by Medicare or Medicaid under a new rule the Biden administration proposed Tuesday morning. The proposal, which would not be finalized until after President-elect Donald Trump takes office, could cost taxpayers as much as $35 billion over the next decade. It would give millions of people access to weekly injectables that have helped people shed pounds so quickly that some people have labeled them miracle drugs. New rule allows HIV-positive organ transplants People with HIV who need a kidney or liver transplant will be able to receive an organ from a donor with HIV. That's according to a new rule announced Tuesday by U.S. health officials. Previously, such transplants could be done only as part of research studies. The new rule takes effect Wednesday. It's expected to shorten the wait for organs for all, regardless of HIV status, by increasing the pool of available organs. The practice is supported by a decade of research, during which 500 transplants of kidneys and livers from HIV-positive donors have been done in the U.S. Surveillance tech advances by Biden could aid in Trump's promised crackdown on immigration President-elect Donald Trump will return to power next year with a raft of technological tools at his disposal that would help deliver his campaign promise of cracking down on immigration — among them, surveillance and artificial intelligence technology that the Biden administration already uses to help make crucial decisions in tracking, detaining and ultimately deporting immigrants lacking permanent legal status. One algorithm, for example, ranks immigrants with a “Hurricane Score,” ranging from 1-5, to assess whether someone will “abscond” from the agency’s supervision. Ukraine says Russian attack sets a new record for the number of drones used KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — The Ukrainian air force says Russia launched 188 drones against most regions of Ukraine in a nighttime blitz, describing it as a record number of drones deployed in a single attack. It said Tuesday that most of the drones were intercepted, but apartment buildings and critical infrastructure such as the national power grid were damaged. No casualties were immediately reported in the 17 targeted regions. Russia has been hammering civilian areas of Ukraine with increasingly heavy drone, missile and glide bomb attacks since the middle of the year. The Russian Defense Ministry, meanwhile, issued a rare official acknowledgement of its assets being hit on its own soil by U.S.-made longer-range missiles that the U.S. recently authorized Ukraine to use.
NEW YORK -- If anybody knows Deion Sanders' mind, it might be Travis Hunter . And the two-way Colorado star says Coach Prime is indeed staying put with the Buffaloes. "I got a lot of insight. He ain't going nowhere. He's going to be right where he's at right now," Hunter said Friday in Manhattan, where he's a heavy favorite to win the Heisman Trophy on Saturday night. In his second season at the school, Sanders coached No. 20 Colorado to a 9-3 record this year and its first bowl bid since 2020. Hunter, Sanders and the Buffaloes will face No. 17 BYU (10-2) in the Alamo Bowl on Dec. 28. Editor's Picks Travis Hunter's rise to college football immortality 7h Mark Schlabach Colorado's Hunter reels in honors on awards night 19h Latest intel on Deion Sanders' future at Colorado: Why one NFL job might be the perfect fit 8d Jeremy Fowler and Adam Rittenberg Sanders' success and popularity in Boulder has led to speculation the flashy and outspoken former NFL star might seek or accept a coaching job elsewhere this offseason. Sanders, however, has dismissed such talk himself. Hunter followed Sanders from Jackson State, an HBCU that plays in the lower level FCS, to the Rocky Mountains and has already racked up a staggering string of individual accolades this week, including The Associated Press Player of the Year. The junior wide receiver and cornerback plans to enter the 2025 NFL draft and is expected to be a top-five pick -- perhaps even No. 1 overall. But he backed up assertions from Sanders and his son, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders , that both stars will play in the Alamo Bowl rather than skip the game to prepare for the draft and prevent any possible injury. "It's definitely important because, you know, I started this thing with Coach Prime and Shedeur and most of the coaches on the coaching staff, so I want to finish it off right," Hunter said. "I didn't give them a full season my first year [because of injury], so I'm going to go ahead and end this thing off right. It's going to be our last game together, so I'm going to go out there and dominate and show the loyalty that I have for him. "Definitely looking forward to it. I'm just excited to go out there and play football one more time before the offseason."Turkish Airlines to Begin Operations at The New Terminal One at JFK and Unveil World-Class Lounge
NoneDOYLESTOWN, PA — Therapist Annalisa Smithson hadn’t contemplated incorporating animals into her sessions until a 10-pound Maltese hopped into a client’s lap. The office dog at the center where she had been working served as an informal – and completely accidental – icebreaker for a veteran struggling with addiction issues and post-traumatic stress disorder. “We didn’t have enough rapport built that he was ready to open up to me,” Smithson recalled of how the dog followed them into a session and jumped onto his lap. “He looked at her and started petting her with both hands. His whole story just poured out.” That a-ha moment convinced Smithson, of Pottstown-based Unleashed Counseling , to research animal-assisted therapy as a modality to potentially implement into her practice. “I need to do this,” Smithson said she remembered thinking, adding, “At the time, I didn’t even have a dog.” She enlisted her first animal assistant, Benji, in 2018 and began studying animal-assisted therapy at Harcum College. “The human needs to be trained first,” she said. Smithson, who also incorporates nature-based therapy into her practice, has since expanded her office to include “nine humans, four dogs, and one rabbit” with two additional rabbits joining in January. As she was venturing out on her own five years ago, she enlisted help from SCORE Bucks County mentor Bill Grant. “The advice he gave me at our first meeting was life changing,” Smithson recalled of how Grant helped her establish her new office. “’Your life is too precious for a long commute.’ I followed his advice and ultimately landed in an office with a private nature trail and the shortest commute ever. He helped me set the foundation for work-life balance.” She’s met with Grant monthly throughout the last five years, along with co-mentor Robert Sherry. Together, they have tackled personnel changes, her long-term plans, the possibility of developing a franchise business model, addressed medical billing and reimbursement issues, improved social media strategies, identified areas for cost reduction and increased profitability, and worked on program development and implementation. “I get something out of it every single month,” Smithson said. Grant, who has more than 30 years of experience in business relations, financial management and is a certified public accountant, has seen tremendous growth in Smithson’s practice throughout their mentoring journey. “Annalisa’s innovative approach to therapy, including the use of therapy animals and outdoor green spaces, has created a uniquely calming and healing environment for her clients,” Grant said. “Her commitment to creating meaningful experiences for her team and her clients is evident in everything she does.” Smithson recently completed the SBA Thrive program, which has helped in building and planning for the expansion of offerings and locations. Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Smithson is working to establish a satellite office on a Berks County farm. One of her clinicians is moving to New Jersey and Smithson is considering opening a satellite office there as well. “It all felt so serendipitous,” she said. “2025 is going to be a huge year for us.” Smithson is also partnering with Dentler’s Dog Training on a new program aptly titled “Therapy’s Best Friend: A Companion Animal Program.” The six-week program will be unleashed beginning in spring 2025. It entails a client and his or her dog coming twice per week for what she describes as “short-term solution-focused therapy.” The clients, their dogs, a therapist and a dog trainer work collaboratively to teach dogs skills to be a better emotional support companion. “You know that being around your dog makes you feel better. So let’s be intentional about deepening that bond with activities like ‘deep pressure,’ and ‘the gratitude game,’ Smithson said. “Therapy’s Best Friend is going to be a game-changer stressed out people who love dogs (which is most of us).” About SCORE Since 1964, SCORE has helped more than 17 million aspiring entrepreneurs. Each year, SCORE provides small business mentoring and workshops to more than 375,000 new and growing small businesses. With more than 70 members across Bucks and Eastern Montgomery counties, SCORE Bucks County provides free mentoring services annually to local small business owners through one-on-one counseling and small business seminars. Learn more: www.score.org/buckscounty For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN .