Pelican Press

Thessaloniki: 6 Creative Locals Offer Their Own Tips Thessaloniki: 6 Creative Locals Offer Their Own Tips Pella Christina Papachristou Creative Director PCP clothing @pellacp Cultural Destination The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki offers more than just a journey through historical treasures; its beautiful lounge café is a hidden gem. Ideal for relaxed conversations or quiet reading under the trees, this inviting space adds a contemporary touch to a classic setting. Only in Thessaloniki If you’re looking to disconnect, try the Hammam Baths at the Makedonia Palace Hotel. This heavenly retreat, one of the largest hammams in Greece, is known for its soothing ambiance and kind staff. End your visit with a delightful hibiscus tea and a rose-flavored loukoumi. Night out For a laid-back evening, start with a drink at Piece of Cake (19 Chrisostomou Smirnis), followed by a casual beer at Bulldogs & the Beast (1 Alexandrou Svolou). Finish at La Doze (1 Vilara) with its funky music, or head to Stereo (3-5 Dimarchou Vamvaka) for classic ’80s hits spun by Dimos. Guilty Pleasure The Vanilla Gelateria (129 Mitropoleos) offers handcrafted ice cream by Louizos, and the blood orange flavor, if available, is a must-try. The pistachio is equally irresistible! Shopping Therapy Elegance Plus (86 Tsimiski) on Tsimiski Street is a concept store where you’ll find everything from unique clothing and lingerie to stylish home gadgets. It’s the perfect place for thoughtful gift shopping. Pella Christina Papachristou Pella Christina Papachristou Tenia Menegaki Tenia Menegaki Tenia Menegaki Owner of Apodec @apodec Cultural Destination The recently renovated MOMus Museum of Contemporary Art is an essential stop for art lovers. Explore its stunning collection and appreciate how the artwork interacts with the outdoor surroundings, all while basking in the light that fills the space. Don’t forget to indulge in a coffee at the museum’s new café, the perfect end to your visit. Only in Thessaloniki Just a short drive from the city center, the Kalochori Lagoon offers a unique blend of industrial and natural beauty. Imagine elegant flamingos against the backdrop of smokestacks and rustic wooden mussel-farming huts perched over the lake’s waters – truly one of Thessaloniki’s hidden gems. Night out De Facto (19 Pavlou Mela) has long been a cherished destination. Cozy and inviting in the winter, it’s an ideal spot for people-watching. Guilty Pleasure Deligeorgakis’ (58 Aghias Sofias) sweet treats are iconic. Since 1943, they’ve been known predominantly for their loukoumi, but you must also try their marrons glacés, especially in the autumn, which is chestnut season. Shopping Therapy Akivernites Politeies, a cooperative bookstore and café (28 Alexandrou Svolou), is a true treasure trove. There’s joy in discovering books in their carefully curated selection, and you’ll most likely leave with a new magazine or a beautifully crafted notebook. Prodromos Monastiridis Prodromos Monastiridis Prodromos Monastiridis Marketing Director of the Τhessaloniki Concert Hall @prodromos_monastiridis Cultural Destination The Rotunda combines the city’s many different faces; look carefully for some of the many ancient Greek, Roman and Ottoman elements that still grace the city. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a concert there! Only in Thessaloniki Walk downhill from Yedi Kule, formerly a prison and now a museum, enjoying scenic views of the city as you head for Portara at the edge of the Old City. Head to Moni Vlatadon and then Agiou Dimitriou Street. You’ll see different periods of the city’s history reflected in historic churches, monuments, secret gardens and other sights that you pass. Night out Gourmet food, traditional Greek cuisine and street food treats can be found on streets such as Palaion Patron Germanou, Iktinou, Zefxidos and Pavlou Mela, as can lively spots for good music! Check out the bar Vogatsikou 3 (at that address) for great cocktails, L’Autre Café for a relaxing drink (8 Grigoriou Palama), Urban for music and beers (7 Zefxidos), and Local (17 Palaion Patron Germanou) for fine food and Greek wines. Guilty Pleasure Neos Galerios (3 Apellou), once a historic Thessaloniki café, is now a gourmet destination in the heart of the city. Shopping Therapy The store Artpeckers (12 Valaoritou) is where to find inspired accessories from two exceptionally creative artists. The art space Ro Gallery (5 Romanou) is home to exhibitions, events, and some of the city’s best designers. Alexis Nikou Alexis Nikou Nikos Nyfoudis Nikos Nyfoudis Alexis Nikou Graphic Designer @alexisnikou Cultural Destination Explore Thessaloniki’s lovely galleries and art spaces, meticulously curated to breathe new life into the city’s neighborhoods. The Eye Altering Gallery (2 Paikou) is on a quiet lane in the Fragomahalas area, and Pinakotheke (38 Karipi) is just a little further along pedestrianized Karipi Street. Only in Thessaloniki Above Egnatia Street, you’ll find an authentic yet modern side of the city. Stroll past charming antique shops on Tositsa Street to reach ESTET (78 Olympou), a new gem from Dimitris Vlassiou and Vasilis Chamam. Enjoy a grilled cheese sandwich with a tasty coffee; if you’re lucky, you might meet Laika, Dimitris’ adorable dog. Night out Head to Beetroot Cafe (8 Syngrou) for live jazz performances. If you’re a jazz fan, this is the place for you! Guilty Pleasure There’s nothing like sharing tsipouro with friends at Bakiri Café (23 Chalkeon), run by the wonderful Mr. Makis. You’ll fall in love with mini burgers and spicy peppers while lounging in a director’s chair. Shopping Therapy Tempera, a haven in the city center (44 Ermou), is a magical world full of art supplies, stationery, inks, and endless creative tools. I go with my daughters, and we always lose track of time! Nikos Nyfoudis Restaurater @nyfoodies_nikos Cultural Destination Just 18 kilometers from Thessaloniki lies Hortiatis, a member of Europe’s Martyred Cities Network; more than 100 villagers were executed here during the ******* Occupation. There’s a Roman Aqueduct, and a restored Byzantine church, too. Only in Thessaloniki Thessaloniki boasts a remarkable seafront. The stretch from Pier A to the Music Hall offers an inviting uninterrupted walking experience. This promenade is a captivating destination for visitors. Night out Thessaloniki’s nightlife thrives on Iktinou, Zefxidos, Olympou and Filippou streets. My favorite spots here include Elephantas (2 Filippou) for drinks, Pinch (14 Iktinou) for breakfast, Tiffany’s 1905 (3 Iktinou) for wine and dining, Urban (7 Zefxidos) for beer, and Cin Cin (22 Iktinou) for cocktails. Guilty Pleasure The city’s legendary Trigona Panoramatos – flaky filo cones with custard cream – and Armenovil, a semifreddo ice cream dessert, are cultural treasures. Find them at Tasos (16 Komninon, Panorama). Shopping Therapy A great bottle of wine is the ultimate keepsake. The city has many excellent wine shops: Moby ***** or the Whale (5 Morgentau), My Cava (86 Georgiou Papandreou), Destilado (9 Lori Margariti), and Winehouse (7 John Kennedy, Pylea). Vasiliki Gerovassiliou Vasiliki Gerovassiliou Vasiliki Gerovassiliou Marketing Specialist at Ktima Gerovassiliou @vasiliki_gerovassiliou Cultural Destination To truly experience Thessaloniki, you must explore it on foot. The Walking Tour Thessaloniki team offers walking tours of Ano Poli and the stretch running from the White Tower to the Port, revealing the art, history, and stories that make this city unique. Only in Thessaloniki Every November, the city comes alive with the energy of the International Film Festival. No matter how many films you see, you always crave more – this event lights up all of downtown Thessaloniki. Night out My evenings often start with a relaxing **** and tonic and good music at Piece of Cake (19 Chrisostomou Smirnis) and end at Souel Wine Bar (16 Pavlou Mela) with a glass of wine and lively discussions. Guilty Pleasure A stuffed burger from Snack Grill Express (7 Malakopis) in Toumba. This place feels wonderfully retro and is cherished by its devoted patrons. Shopping Therapy Oenovated (17 Sinopis) seamlessly blends street style with a passion for wine. This unique brand features trendy, wine-themed apparel and accessories, as well as aromatic candles in recycled wine bottles. Source link #Thessaloniki #Creative #Locals #Offer #Tips Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Baldwin, Moore and Pocan must get to work, not whine about efforts to cut waste Baldwin, Moore and Pocan must get to work, not whine about efforts to cut waste While most American’s are supporting on-going efforts to reduce government spending and the size of government, Wisconsin Sen. Tammy Baldwin and Reps. Gwen Moore and Mark Pocan (all Democrats) are only complaining. In a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article on Feb. 7, Pocan talked about a bill he is introducing that will prevent Elon Musk’s company, Space X, from getting government contracts (“Dems join push against Musk.)” That really sounds productive when Space X handles most of NASA’s launches, doesn’t it? Moore, who sits on Congress’ powerful tax writing body, could be working on tax legislation issues, but instead she does nothing. Baldwin criticized President Donald Trump’s threats of tariffs on Canada and Mexico without seemingly knowing the president has already received help at the border from Mexico and a pledge from both Mexico and Canada to help stop fentanyl shipments into the United States. This happened by Trump simply threatening tariffs. Baldwin, Moore and Pocan could be more helpful to taxpayers in Wisconsin and citizens across America if they would stop complaining and get involved in problem solving. Isn’t that what they are supposed to do? Phil Bail, Cedarburg More: Trump’s actions since taking office amount to coup against the United States | Letters More: Musk has done enormous damage to civil service and democracy. Enough is enough. | Letters More: I hope MAGA fans enjoy life under billionaire Elon Musk’s new world order | Opinion Tips for getting your letter to the editor published Here are some tips to get your views shared with your friends, family, neighbors and across our state: Please include your name, street address and daytime phone. Generally, we limit letters to 200 words. Cite sources of where you found information or the article that prompted your letter. Be civil and constructive, especially when criticizing. Avoid ad hominem attacks, take issue with a position, not a person. We cannot acknowledge receipt of submissions. We don’t publish poetry, anonymous or open letters. Each writer is limited to one published letter every two months. All letters are subject to editing. Write: Letters to the editor, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 330 E. Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 500, Milwaukee, WI, 53202. Fax: (414)-223-5444. E-mail: *****@*****.tld or submit using the form that can be found on the on the bottom of this page. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Musk and Trump solve big problems. Democrats complain. | Letters Source link #Baldwin #Moore #Pocan #work #whine #efforts #cut #waste Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

What Most Gamers Miss about ‘Sniper Elite’ Is That It’s Never Just a Sniping Game That Deserves Much More Respect What Most Gamers Miss about ‘Sniper Elite’ Is That It’s Never Just a Sniping Game That Deserves Much More Respect With about twelve different installments, five in the main series, and more spin-offs to enjoy, the Sniper Elite series has made a meal out of the timeless classic of Nazi hunting, and it’s done a killing doing it. The mechanics have gradually improved from the first game to the most recent, and there is something enjoyable in each of these entries. Sniper Elite is one of the best stealth-based action-adventure franchises. | Credit: Rebellion Developments. That being said, if you have found yourself enjoying similar games, it does not follow that the original games are no longer relevant. However, players often tend to mistake this long-hailed franchise as a paltry sniper simulator, but it’s actually not. Sniper Elite is not just a generic sniper simulator This franchise is not just about popping enemy heads. | Credit: Rebellion Developments. Players have to put their feet in the shoes of Karl Fairburne, who is a *******-American Special Operations Executive and Office of Strategic Services operative battling Axis forces during World War II in this franchise. Sniper Elite is actually a tactical shooter video game series that focuses a lot more on stealth gameplay rather than a direct approach to combat. However, as per many players, this is just a sniper simulation title. But whoever has played this game has instantly understood it’s more than that. You have to play this game just like any other stealth-based action-adventure title, like Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Blacklist, Hitman: Absolution, or Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. But it is never a battle royale title. Comment byu/MoGhulisMoProblems from discussion ingaming In Sniper Elite, you can just sit at an advantageous angle and wait for the enemies to pop their heads off and enjoy that slow-mo bullet motion breaking the skull. But you won’t be able to do it for a long time because eventually, you are going to be spotted and get thrashed by enemy sentries. Every stealth game demands continuous movement and change of positions unless death is inevitable. The same goes for this franchise. There might be a “Sniper” in the “Sniper Elite,” but that is not the focus of the game. The sniper is “just one of many tools at your disposal.” So, it’s time you start playing the game the way it’s supposed to be played. Sniper Elite: Resistance gets a new patch Players are tasked with eliminating targets in 1940s France in the most recent special-ops game in the Sniper Elite series. Critics and players gave Sniper Elite: Resistance favorable reviews, with many praising the game’s new Propaganda mode, which fights for freedom. A lot of issues are going to be fixed in the latest patch in Sniper Elite: Resistance. | Credit: Rebellion Developments. Rebellion Development has released a new patch to enhance performance because they want players to keep having fun with the game. However, it needs to stop using the tactics of Far Cry. The most recent patch for Sniper Elite: Resistance has been made available by Rebellion. It fixes visual effects in the game’s menus and enhances overall performance. Every platform on which the game has been released has this patch. The patch notes don’t specify where these performance enhancements can be found, aside from mentioning the menus specifically. Given that Sniper Elite: Resistance is a more compact experience than the rest of the franchise, players who want to get the most out of the game will appreciate the patch. The Rebellion team has released a list of known problems that some players in Sniper Elite: Resistance are experiencing in addition to the most recent hotfix. Players have reported that there is significant stuttering for some PC users, particularly during Kill Cam moments. The Pistole Perfectionist medal is not also being unlocked properly, according to some users. Source link #Gamers #Sniper #Elite #Sniping #Game #Deserves #Respect Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

CVS Health (CVS) earnings Q4 2024 CVS Health (CVS) earnings Q4 2024 An exterior view of a CVS pharmacy in Danville, Pennsylvania. Paul Weaver | Lightrocket | Getty Images CVS Health on Wednesday reported fourth-quarter revenue and profit that topped estimates, even as its troubled insurance business continued to see higher medical costs. The company also issued a full-year 2025 adjusted earnings outlook of $5.75 to $6 per share, which was in line with Wall Street’s expectations. But CVS did not provide a revenue forecast for the year. It caps off the first full quarter with David Joyner, a longtime CVS executive, as CEO of the troubled retail drugstore chain. Joyner succeeded Karen ****** in mid-October, as CVS struggled to drive higher profits and improve its stock performance. The company underwent a management reshuffle as part of a broader turnaround plan that includes $2 billion in cost cuts over the next several years. CVS has grappled with rising costs in its insurance unit, Aetna, and a retail pharmacy business pressured by softer consumer spending and lower reimbursements for prescription drugs. Here’s what CVS reported for the fourth quarter compared with what Wall Street was expecting, based on a survey of analysts by LSEG: Earnings per share: $1.19 per share adjusted vs. 93 cents per share expected Revenue: $97.71 billion vs. $97.19 billion expected Shares rose more than 6% in premarket trading. CVS and other insurers such as UnitedHealth Group and Humana have seen medical costs spike over the last year as more Medicare Advantage patients return to hospitals for procedures they delayed during the pandemic. Medicare Advantage, a privately run health insurance plan contracted by Medicare, has long been a driver of growth and profits for insurers. But investors have become concerned about the runaway costs tied to those plans, which cover more than half of all Medicare beneficiaries. CVS booked sales of $97.19 billion for the fourth quarter, up 4.2% from the same ******* a year ago due to growth in its pharmacy business and insurance unit. The company posted net income of $1.64 billion, or $1.30 per share, for the fourth quarter. That compares with net income of $2.05 billion, or $1.58 per share, for the year-earlier *******. Excluding certain items, such as amortization of intangible assets, restructuring charges and capital losses, adjusted earnings were $1.19 per share for the quarter. CVS said its fourth-quarter earnings reflect higher medical costs in its insurance business and lower Medicare Advantage star ratings for the 2024 payment year, both of which weighed on the segment’s operating results for the quarter. Those star ratings help Medicare patients compare the quality of Medicare health and drug plans. Pressure on insurance unit All three of CVS’ business segments beat Wall Street’s expectations for the fourth quarter. CVS’ insurance business booked $32.96 billion in revenue during the quarter, up more than 23% from the fourth quarter of 2023. Analysts expected the unit to rake in $32.89 billion for the *******, according to estimates from StreetAccount. But the business reported an adjusted operating loss of $439 million for the fourth quarter, compared to an adjusted operating income of $676 million in the year-earlier *******. That change was driven by higher medical costs and the company’s Medicare Advantage star ratings, among other factors. The insurance unit’s medical benefit ratio — a measure of total medical expenses paid relative to premiums collected — increased to 94.8% from 88.5% a year earlier. A lower ratio typically indicates that a company collected more in premiums than it paid out in benefits, resulting in higher profitability. The fourth-quarter ratio was lower than the 95.9% that analysts were expecting, StreetAccount estimates said. CVS’ health services segment generated $47.02 billion in revenue for the quarter, down more than 4% compared with the same quarter in 2023. Analysts expected the unit to post $44.06 billion in sales for the *******, according to StreetAccount. That unit includes Caremark, one of the nation’s largest pharmacy benefits managers. Caremark negotiates drug discounts with manufacturers on behalf of insurance plans and creates lists of medications, or formularies, that are covered by insurance and reimburses pharmacies for prescriptions. CVS’ health services division processed 499.4 million pharmacy claims during the quarter, down from 600.8 million during the year-ago ******* due to the loss of an unnamed large client. Tyson Foods told CNBC in January 2024 that it dropped CVS as the pharmacy benefit manager for its roughly 140,000 employees, but it is unclear if any other companies stopped working with CVS during the year, as well. CVS’s pharmacy and consumer wellness division booked $33.51 billion in sales for the fourth quarter, up more than 7% from the same ******* a year earlier. Analysts expected sales of $33.03 billion for the quarter, StreetAccount said. That unit dispenses prescriptions in CVS’ more than 9,000 retail pharmacies and provides other pharmacy services, such as vaccinations and diagnostic testing. The increase was partly driven by higher prescription volume, CVS said. Pharmacy reimbursement pressure, the launch of new generic drugs and lower volume from front-of-store items like pantry food and toiletries, including from decreased store count, weighed on the unit’s sales. Source link #CVS #Health #CVS #earnings Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

CVS Health (CVS) earnings Q4 2024 CVS Health (CVS) earnings Q4 2024 An exterior view of a CVS pharmacy in Danville, Pennsylvania. Paul Weaver | Lightrocket | Getty Images CVS Health on Wednesday reported fourth-quarter revenue and profit that topped estimates, even as its troubled insurance business continued to see higher medical costs. The company also issued a full-year 2025 adjusted earnings outlook of $5.75 to $6 per share, which was in line with Wall Street’s expectations. But CVS did not provide a revenue forecast for the year. It caps off the first full quarter with David Joyner, a longtime CVS executive, as CEO of the troubled retail drugstore chain. Joyner succeeded Karen ****** in mid-October, as CVS struggled to drive higher profits and improve its stock performance. The company underwent a management reshuffle as part of a broader turnaround plan that includes $2 billion in cost cuts over the next several years. CVS has grappled with rising costs in its insurance unit, Aetna, and a retail pharmacy business pressured by softer consumer spending and lower reimbursements for prescription drugs. Here’s what CVS reported for the fourth quarter compared with what Wall Street was expecting, based on a survey of analysts by LSEG: Earnings per share: $1.19 per share adjusted vs. 93 cents per share expectedRevenue: $97.71 billion vs. $97.19 billion expected Shares rose more than 6% in premarket trading. CVS and other insurers such as UnitedHealth Group and Humana have seen medical costs spike over the last year as more Medicare Advantage patients return to hospitals for procedures they delayed during the pandemic. Medicare Advantage, a privately run health insurance plan contracted by Medicare, has long been a driver of growth and profits for insurers. But investors have become concerned about the runaway costs tied to those plans, which cover more than half of all Medicare beneficiaries. CVS booked sales of $97.19 billion for the fourth quarter, up 4.2% from the same ******* a year ago due to growth in its pharmacy business and insurance unit. The company posted net income of $1.64 billion, or $1.30 per share, for the fourth quarter. That compares with net income of $2.05 billion, or $1.58 per share, for the year-earlier *******. Excluding certain items, such as amortization of intangible assets, restructuring charges and capital losses, adjusted earnings were $1.19 per share for the quarter. CVS said its fourth-quarter earnings reflect higher medical costs in its insurance business and lower Medicare Advantage star ratings for the 2024 payment year, both of which weighed on the segment’s operating results for the quarter. Those star ratings help Medicare patients compare the quality of Medicare health and drug plans. Pressure on insurance unit All three of CVS’ business segments beat Wall Street’s expectations for the fourth quarter. CVS’ insurance business booked $32.96 billion in revenue during the quarter, up more than 23% from the fourth quarter of 2023. Analysts expected the unit to rake in $32.89 billion for the *******, according to estimates from StreetAccount. But the business reported an adjusted operating loss of $439 million for the fourth quarter, compared to an adjusted operating income of $676 million in the year-earlier *******. That change was driven by higher medical costs and the company’s Medicare Advantage star ratings, among other factors. The insurance unit’s medical benefit ratio — a measure of total medical expenses paid relative to premiums collected — increased to 94.8% from 88.5% a year earlier. A lower ratio typically indicates that a company collected more in premiums than it paid out in benefits, resulting in higher profitability. The fourth-quarter ratio was lower than the 95.9% that analysts were expecting, StreetAccount estimates said. CVS’ health services segment generated $47.02 billion in revenue for the quarter, down more than 4% compared with the same quarter in 2023. Analysts expected the unit to post $44.06 billion in sales for the *******, according to StreetAccount. That unit includes Caremark, one of the nation’s largest pharmacy benefits managers. Caremark negotiates drug discounts with manufacturers on behalf of insurance plans and creates lists of medications, or formularies, that are covered by insurance and reimburses pharmacies for prescriptions. CVS’ health services division processed 499.4 million pharmacy claims during the quarter, down from 600.8 million during the year-ago ******* due to the loss of an unnamed large client. Tyson Foods told CNBC in January 2024 that it dropped CVS as the pharmacy benefit manager for its roughly 140,000 employees, but it is unclear if any other companies stopped working with CVS during the year, as well. CVS’s pharmacy and consumer wellness division booked $33.51 billion in sales for the fourth quarter, up more than 7% from the same ******* a year earlier. Analysts expected sales of $33.03 billion for the quarter, StreetAccount said. That unit dispenses prescriptions in CVS’ more than 9,000 retail pharmacies and provides other pharmacy services, such as vaccinations and diagnostic testing. The increase was partly driven by higher prescription volume, CVS said. Pharmacy reimbursement pressure, the launch of new generic drugs and lower volume from front-of-store items like pantry food and toiletries, including from decreased store count, weighed on the unit’s sales. Source link #CVS #Health #CVS #earnings Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

From Sid to Canada-U.S. rivalry: What to know about NHL’s 4 Nations Face-Off From Sid to Canada-U.S. rivalry: What to know about NHL’s 4 Nations Face-Off The NHL 4 Nations Face-Off kicks off Wednesday night when Canada plays host to Sweden at the Bell Centre in Montreal. The tournament will also feature teams representing the U.S. and Finland with games happening in Montreal and Boston. About the 4 Nations Face-Off At the 2024 All-Star Game, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman announced that the tournament would be held instead of the traditional All-Star Game in 2025. The All-Star Game has been held since 1947 but the league has been tinkering with the format for years to try and make it more appealing to fans. Back when there were six teams, the reigning champions would square off against the best from the other five clubs in the all-star game. Story continues below advertisement As the league expanded it became conference vs. conference, but more recently a number of formats have been tried including a fantasy draft, a three-on-three format as well as having all-stars from each division square off. While this year’s tourney might be more interesting than others, don’t expect a repeat in 2026 when NHL players are expected to play in the Olympics. Where’s Russia? Back when Alan Eagleson was in charge of the NHLPA and Russian players were still behind the iron curtain, Canada and the U.S.S.R. would square off for hockey supremacy. More on Sports More videos Superstars from Russia emerged like Vladislav Tretiak and Valeri Kharlamov, who became terrifying foes for ********* fans but they were not included in the tournament as there is currently an international ban on Russia participating in events like these due to the invasion of Ukraine. While Russia was the world’s third-ranked team in May 2023, Germany was ranked fifth but a lack of players in the NHL forced them to be left out. Get daily National news Get the day’s top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day. With Germany and Russia out of the contest, this means that the NHL’s second and third leading scorers, Leon Draisaitl and Nikita Kucherov, will not be featured. Cross-border rivals Canada will square off against an uber-talented squad of Americans on Saturday night in Montreal. Story continues below advertisement Given the current political hostilities between the two countries, one would expect a feisty affair, especially if ********* fans choose to boo the U.S. anthem at the Bell Centre. If all the tariff talks were not enough to get ********* or Canadiens fans riled up, perhaps the presence of Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews as the captain of the U.S. squad will. On Tuesday afternoon, one could get a seat for the opening game between Canada and Sweden for $167 but a seat to the border battle between Canada and the U.S. would cost you $435. Sid The Kid ********* legend Sidney Crosby will lead the charge for his country as he will serve as captain once again. It is a role that the 37-year-old has held before, as he helped Canada win gold at the 2010 and 2014 Olympics before captaining the country’s victory at the 2016 World Cup. The NHL has skipped the last two Olympics, first for financial reasons in 2018 and then due to COVID in 2022, so this will be the first time we will have seen him suit up for Canada in close to 10 years. Crosby was almost unable to dress for the tourney as he missed a couple of games last week due to an upper-body ailment. Trending Now New Brunswick border town reacts to Trump’s 51st state comments ‘Unjustifiable blow’: Quebec leaders dumbfounded by Trump’s aluminum tariffs Story continues below advertisement Ones to watch While many eyes will be focused on Crosby, there are a couple of other Canadians who are expected to lead the front line. Halifax native Nathan McKinnon is currently the NHL’s top scorer as he has recorded 87 points this season, but the Colorado Avalanche centre will get some help. Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid and Toronto Maple Leafs winger Mitch Marner will are also among the NHL’s top five scorers, so Canada has a potent attack. For the U.S. to be effective in the tournament, they will need big games from Vegas Golden Knights forward Jack Eichel and Winnipeg Jets star Kyle Connor. In goal for Canada Canada coach Jon Cooper had a tough call to make when deciding who would be between the pipes. On Tuesday, it was announced that St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington will be starting for Canada ahead of Vegas Golden Knights netminder Adin Hill and Montreal Canadiens ‘keeper Sam Montembeault. It has not been Binnington’s best season as he sports a 15-19-4 record with an .897 save percentage and a 2.89 goals-against average. Meanwhile, Hill has a 20-10-4 record with an .900 save percentage and a 2.64 goals-against average. Story continues below advertisement Both Binnington (2019) and Hill (2023) have led their teams to NHL titles over the past few seasons. The Favourite As of Tuesday afternoon, Canada was listed as the favouite to win the 4 Nations Face-Off on Fanduel at +145 while the U.S. is right behind them at +155. Interestingly, though, when the two sides square off in Montreal, the moneyline odds for Canada are at -126 while a U.S. win is +194. Canada is a much heavier favourite for their contests against Sweden and Finland Both Sweden and Finland are considered longshots to win the tournament as they are +400 and +1000 respectively which means if one were to put $10 on the Finns, they would win $100. –with files from The ********* Press Source link #Sid #CanadaU.S #rivalry #NHLs #Nations #FaceOff Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Parliament green lights update of VAT rules to make them fit for digital times | News Parliament green lights update of VAT rules to make them fit for digital times | News On Wednesday, Parliament’s plenary approved the changes to the rules that member states indicated in November they wished to make to the VAT Directive. MEPs approved the rules with 589 votes in favour, 42 against and 10 abstentions. These changes will require that by 2030 online platforms must pay VAT for services provided through them in most of the cases where the individual service providers do not charge VAT. This will put an end to a distortion of the market because similar services provided in the traditional economy are already subject to VAT. This distortion has been most significant in the short-term accommodation rental sector and the road passenger transport sector. Member states will have the possibility of exempting SMEs from this rule, an idea which Parliament had also pushed. The update will also fully digitalise VAT reporting obligations for cross-border transactions by 2030 with businesses issuing e-invoices for cross-border business-to-business transactions and automatically reporting the data to their tax administration. With this, tax authorities should be in a better position to tackle VAT fraud. To simplify the administrative burden for businesses, the rules beef-up online VAT one-stop-shops so that even more businesses with cross-border activity will be able to meet their VAT obligations through a single online portal and in one language. Background This update to the VAT rules has been over two years in the making. On 8 December 2022, the Commission presented the ‘VAT in the digital age’ package (ViDA package) which consisted of three proposals. One of these was the update to the VAT directive of 2006. The Commission has calculated that Member States will recoup up to €11 billion in lost VAT revenues every year for the next 10 years. Businesses will save €4.1 billion a year over the next 10 years in compliance costs, and €8.7 billion in registration and administrative costs over a ten year *******. Source link #Parliament #green #lights #update #VAT #rules #fit #digital #times #News Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Rain predicted in the High Desert this week; will it be enough for wildflower blooms? – Yahoo Life Rain predicted in the High Desert this week; will it be enough for wildflower blooms? – Yahoo Life Rain predicted in the High Desert this week; will it be enough for wildflower blooms? Yahoo LifePalisades Fire area prepares for what could be the biggest storm so far this year ABC7 Los AngelesBiggest Storm Of The Season Bears Down On Los Angeles, With Increased Rainfall Totals Now Forecast – Update DeadlineSouthern California’s strongest storm of the winter is here: ‘High risk of flooding, debris flow’ Yahoo Source link #Rain #predicted #High #Desert #week #wildflower #blooms #Yahoo #Life Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Chappell Roan’s call for industry change will ‘need every voice’ Chappell Roan’s call for industry change will ‘need every voice’ Eleanor Shearwood & Riyah Collins BBC Newsbeat Getty Images Charli XCX has matched Chappell Roan’s donation to a charity supporting artists A charity supporting artists’ mental health says it’s been “blown away” by the support it’s had since Chappell Roan called for better rights for musicians at the Grammy’s. The Pink Pony Club hitmaker donated $25,000 (£20,000) to Backline, a US-based charity, after an emotional speech on stage as she collected her award for Best New Artist. Charity director Hilary Gleason has told BBC Newsbeat there’s been a surge of further support after criticism of a column by a music executive which described Chappell’s speech as “misinformed”. “We really appreciate her using that moment to call for action to change the music industry,” she says. Monday was Backline’s “single biggest fundraising day” she says, with artists including Charli XCX and Noah Kahan matching Chappell’s contribution. “A lot of others have followed suit,” Hilary says, citing donations from global touring companies and promoters. Hilary feels Chappell is “taking it one step further than a speech” but she’ll need more support to make sure there is sustained change. “This is a movement and it’s gonna take every single person in the industry calling for this. “So we’re really excited to be at the forefront of this conversation right now, but it’s going to be a long game,” she says. Getty Images Chappell said she took her change to call for change in front of “the most powerful people in music” During her speech, Chappell reflected on her own experience when she was dropped by her label during the pandemic, saying she struggled to find a job and could not afford health insurance. Hilary says while success in the music industry “looks different for everyone”, Chappell’s experience isn’t uncommon. “It’s not always an informed process as you’re getting into contracts at the start of your career, so it can be really isolating,” she says. Touring can also put a strain on artists, she adds. “That lifestyle involves a lot of time away from home, it can be really hard on relationships, there’s often a lot of substance use… so touring professionals have a really hard road ahead of them.” ‘Help us make change’ Singer Jeff Draco says he could really relate to the issues Chappell raised in her speech. “It’s really tough being independent and when you’re not backed by a major label,” the 24-year-old from Washington DC tells Newsbeat. When he first started performing six years ago, Jeff says he “really struggled” with his mental health but didn’t have anyone to turn to for support. “Things can feel really heavy when it’s your main passion and it’s like, this is the thing I love the most – why is it painful right now?” Backline offers support to workers across the industry, from artists down to tour bus drivers, with access to financial aid as well as wellbeing services but both Jeff and Hilary think the industry needs more radical change. Hilary says it’s hard to map out the charity’s vision for the future because “it looks different than anything that’s existed before” but broadly they want “support from the first day you start in the music industry until the day you retire”. For US artists, that includes access to healthcare and Jeff says he’d also like to see “more structural support” from labels, including things like mentoring for emerging artists. A report in 2023 by the Help Musicians charity found artists in the *** also face similar challenges to their American counterparts. It found a lack of sustainable income was a barrier to the careers of 44% of artists who took part in their survey and 23% said they were unable to support themselves or their families. However, a column in The Hollywood Reporter, written by music executive Jeff Rabhan, made the argument that labels aren’t charities and artists are not traditional employees. He branded Chappell “disingenuous” because she’s profiting from the industry she’s calling out. Posting on her Instagram story after announcing her donation, Chappell said “sharing my personal experience on a Grammy stage wasn’t meant to be a crowdfunded bandaid”. “But a call to action to the leaders of the industry to step up, help us make real change,” she said. Chappell also challenged Jeff Rabhan to match her donation, however he has not responded to requests from Newsbeat about this. Listen to Newsbeat live at 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays – or listen back here. Source link #Chappell #Roans #call #industry #change #voice Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Stellar Blade’s PC Release Could Be a Massive Success but There’s One Major Catch Stellar Blade’s PC Release Could Be a Massive Success but There’s One Major Catch Stellar Blade is heading to PC, and developer Shift Up has high expectations for its success. The game came out on PlayStation 5 last year and was one of the biggest unexpected hits of last year and was even nominated for two awards at The Game Awards 2024. We haven’t gotten a release date yet but we can’t wait. | Image Credit: Shift Up The PS5 exclusive has already proven to be a financial win, generating $43 million in royalties in 2024. With the PC market being significantly larger, the studio believes the new version will outperform the console release. But the developers need to remember this one crucial point. Modding is going to be crazy in Stellar Blade It’ll be a shame if there’s no mod support. | Image Credit: Shift Up We recently saw Shift Up’s earnings report that showed record-breaking revenue for the studio, largely driven by Stellar Blade’s sales. Despite launching as a PS5 exclusive, the game quickly crossed the million-sold mark and is still generating revenue through updates and collaborations. The studio is now focusing on bringing it to PC, stating that it expects it to outsell the console release. Shift Up told investors that they expect the PC version of Stellar Blade to perform better than the console version and will add new content for the PC release! #StellarBlade – PC Optimization – Enhancing user convenience – Additional content – Steam Deck optimization pic.twitter.com/lR77DTWZVq — Genki (@Genki_JPN) February 11, 2025 While Sony’s first-party exclusives have had a rocky history when making the switch to PC, the developers have been studying past failures so that Stellar Blade’s port doesn’t suffer the same fate. Games like Horizon Zero Dawn and The Last of Us Part 1 launched on PC with technical issues. Another aspect of the studio’s strategy is to make sure the game runs smoothly, even on handheld devices like the Steam Deck. Alongside technical improvements, the PC release will feature additional content, though it is unclear whether any of it will be exclusive. Another big selling point of the PC will of course be modding. Mod support hasn’t been announced yet. Comment byu/NotRenjiro from discussion instellarblade Comment byu/NotRenjiro from discussion instellarblade Comment byu/NotRenjiro from discussion instellarblade For many PC players, modding is a big aspect of gaming. The Stellar Blade community is no different. Over on the subreddit for the game, players are already talking about potential mods. So while some players are eager to replay the game at higher resolutions and frame rates, a significant portion of the audience is looking forward to customizing their experience through mods. The studio is very confident of the PC release Eve is the main protagonist of the critically acclaimed action-adventure video game. | Credit: ShiftUp Financially, Shift Up is in a strong position heading into the PC release. The company reported $151.4 million in revenue for 2024, marking a 30.4% increase from the previous year. Stellar Blade played a key role in this success, bringing in $43 million in royalties. So ultimately, Stellar Blade had a successful PlayStation 5 launch. But to get the same level of success on PC, the studio needs to deliver more than just a standard port. Luckily for Shift Up, the Asian market has grown since last year because of ****** Myth: Wukong‘s massive success, and there’s room for more. The expectations for the upcoming PC release are high from players and the studio. There’s a real possibility that it could outperform the PlayStation 5 version. The studio’s careful approach to optimization and additional content is a step in the right direction. Still, the game also needs mod support as discussed to not miss out on a portion of the PC audience. Source link #Stellar #Blades #Release #Massive #Success #Major #Catch Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Albany centenarian Valmai Hanna reveals the secret to her long life is to “find something best in every day” Albany centenarian Valmai Hanna reveals the secret to her long life is to “find something best in every day” Surrounded by presents, balloons and family who have travelled thousands of kilometres to see her, 100-year-old Valmai Hanna admits the secret to a good, long life is “find something best in every day”. Source link #Albany #centenarian #Valmai #Hanna #reveals #secret #long #life #find #day Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Hideki Kamiya Wants Your Imagination to Run Wild With His Confession About ****** May Cry and Okami Hideki Kamiya Wants Your Imagination to Run Wild With His Confession About ****** May Cry and Okami Clover Studio’s chief game designer, Hideki Kamiya, the mind behind successful games like ****** May Cry and Okami, recently made a confession that seems to have breathed new life into his games’ universe. Okami and ****** May Cry have some common links. Image Credit: Capcom He mentioned that all of his games belong to the same universe, including Bayonetta, ****** May Cry, Okami, Viewtiful Joe, and The Wonderful 101, and that fans should always keep an open mind about it. This recent confession triggered the creative juices of the game’s fans by letting their imaginations run wild. Fans should be open-minded about the Hideki Kamiya universe Okami is set within Japanese mythology and still has connections to DMC. Image Credit: Clover Studio Hideki Kamiya’s universe, or the Kamiya-verse, as he calls it, comprises all the games he has ever designed. This recent revelation has driven fans to the edge of their seats as they try to run their imaginations wild. Each game is interconnected in one manner or the other, and if you dig deep enough, you might find the connections between them all, including ****** May Cry and Okami. Hideki Kamiya says that Bayonetta, ****** May Cry, Okami, Viewtiful Joe, and The Wonderful 101 are all part of the same universe pic.twitter.com/AQc7f27Bsz — Culture Crave (@CultureCrave) February 11, 2025 Yeah let’s make everything multiverse aghh — Asique Alam (@asiquealam) February 12, 2025 Kamiya is known for his eccentrics, and even while he talks about the interconnectedness of his games, he fails to give a detailed description of how they might be connected. Kamiya would much rather force the players to create their interpretations by using their imaginations instead of directly feeding them the connections. Addressing the questions raised by the fans, he said on his YouTube channel: All the games I create exist in the same single universe, the Kamiya-verse. This question specifically mentions Bayonetta and ****** May Cry, but for me Viewtiful Joe, Okami and The Wonderful 101 are all part of the same universe. Everything is interconnected, so please let you imaginations run wild. His answer clearly states that the Kamiya-verse is all interconnected and encourages fans to come up with their interpretations. By doing so, he just added several more years to the lifespan of his games since this approach offers a fresh perspective to look at his games. ****** May Cry and Okami have some thematic links Even Viewtiful Joe is somehow interconnected to his other games. Image Credit: Clover Studio Both games, ****** May Cry and Okami, have some thematic similarities despite being a little different from one another. DMC features a more gothic style, whereas Okami is set in Japanese mythology; however, both games share battling supernatural forces and restore balance. There might be some Easter eggs and other subtle suggestions that might point toward the direction of a link between the two games. After his latest statement, it could also be speculated that players might see more obvious crossovers in his future titles. ****** May Cry is one of his most successful franchises, which has also been adapted into an anime. Even Bayonetta and Viewtiful Joe, two timeless classics from Kamiya, link with each other in mysterious ways. Though the two games belong to vastly different genres, one being an action-adventure while the other being a beat-em-up, they still somehow complement one another in the Kamiya-verse. This approach to storytelling offers a fresh perspective on his games and makes them more layered and nuanced since the events of one game might somehow influence the other. This accounts for an interesting premise for the Kamiya-verse. What links do you think are shared among these games? Let us know in the comments below. Source link #Hideki #Kamiya #Imagination #Run #Wild #Confession #****** #Cry #Okami Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

JPMorgan upgrades this beaten-down industrial salt stock, says it’s primed for a major turnaround JPMorgan upgrades this beaten-down industrial salt stock, says it’s primed for a major turnaround Compass Minerals could be a winner from this year’s cold winter, per JPMorgan. Analyst Jeffrey Zekauskas upgraded the stock to overweight from neutral. He also raised his target price by $2 to $15 per share, which suggests 25.3% upside potential from Tuesday’s close. Compass Minerals has struggled of late, with multiple “business dislocations that have not turned in a positive direction” over the past five years — which have dragged down the stock by around 83% over the *******. The company was also fined and sued by the Securities and Exchange Commission for misleading investors. On top of that, it abandoned efforts to become a lithium producer, had quality issues after acquiring flame retardant company Fortress and got rid of its dividend early last year. Most recently, management lowered its earnings guidance for the full year. CMP 5Y mountain CMP 5-yr chart However, Zekauskas believes Compass stands to benefit from an improving balance sheet and cold winter. Compass’ core business is salt for ice and snow management on the roads in the U.S. and Canada, he noted. “Warm weather in October and November led to earnings weakness in the December quarter (1Q:F25) and so a more conservative approach to annual earnings for F2025,” Zekauskas wrote in a note on Wednesday. “January, however, has been an above-average snow month, inventories at depots in the South have been depleted, and weather has been cold across the Midwest and Northeast. The cold weather, should it continue, positions the company well for better earnings later in F2025 and perhaps in F2026,” he added. The analyst also thinks Compass could hit positive free cash flow this year as it brings down its inventories. This could also serve as the foundation for earnings growth in 2026, he added. “Compass was generating negative cash flow as its inventories built up during a two-year ******* of unseasonably warm weather and it invested in exploring a lithium opportunity. Cash flow and free cash flow is capable of being generated as excess inventories are worked lower and cost positions are improved,” Zekauskas said. Shares climbed more than 4% Wednesday before the bell. Source link #JPMorgan #upgrades #beatendown #industrial #salt #stock #primed #major #turnaround Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Russia says it will never swap Ukrainian territory for Kyiv-held parts of Kursk region Russia says it will never swap Ukrainian territory for Kyiv-held parts of Kursk region MOSCOW (Reuters) – The Kremlin said on Wednesday Russia will never discuss trading the Ukrainian territory it holds for areas in Russia’s western Kursk region held by Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told the Guardian newspaper that he planned to offer Russia a straight territory exchange to help bring an end to the war, including offering pockets of Kursk that Ukraine holds. Kyiv staged a lightning incursion over the border last August and seized chunks of Kursk, from which Russian troops are still battling to eject them. Trusted news and daily delights, right in your inbox See for yourself — The Yodel is the go-to source for daily news, entertainment and feel-good stories. “We will swap one territory for another,” Zelenskiy said, adding that he did not know which part of Russian-occupied territory Ukraine would ask for back. “I don’t know, we will see. But all our territories are important, there is no priority,” he said. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow categorically rejects all offers to trade territory. “This is impossible,” he told reporters at a daily briefing. “Russia has never discussed and will not discuss the exchange of its territory.” President Vladimir Putin told Russians at his marathon annual phone-in in December that their troops would definitely eject Ukrainian forces from Kursk, but declined to say when this would happen. Peskov said: “Ukrainian units will be expelled from this territory. All who are not destroyed will be expelled.” Russia controls just under 20% of Ukraine, or more than 112,000 square kilometres, while Ukraine controls around 450 square kilometres of the Kursk region, according to open source maps of the battlefield. Russian forces in 2024 advanced in Ukraine at the fastest rate since 2022, the war’s first year, but the gains have come at the cost of heavy, though undisclosed, losses in men and equipment. (Reporting by Dmitry Antonov; Writing by Lucy Papachristou; Editing by Mark Trevelyan) Source link #Russia #swap #Ukrainian #territory #Kyivheld #parts #Kursk #region Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Huge potential but a threat to the fabric of society? Huge potential but a threat to the fabric of society? At Saudi Arabia’s Leap 2025 event in February, the kingdom announced huge investment in artificial intelligence (AI), while the conference element of the show majored heavily in key questions about AI. These ranged from the next steps, such as getting business value from enterprise AI, to challenges in developing agentic AI, as well as the more distant future in robotics and causal AI. Also addressed was the need to focus on how AI will change society and how to ensure it is a force for good rather than one that undermines social coherence. Agentic AI needs common sense Yaser Al-Onaizan, CEO of the National Center for AI in the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), focused on agentic AI as the next step, as in AI that works on our behalf. “The large language models [LLMs] understand how language is constructed, the sequences that people generate,” he said. “But the promise of AI is that it will be in everything we do and touch every day. But it needs to be invisible. It cannot be in your face – it should be listening to you, understanding you and doing things based on your opinion, without you even asking sometimes. “So, for example, you can interact with a model and instead of just giving you information about flights, it can go on and reserve flights or make a hotel reservation for you.” But, said Al-Onaizan, the challenge is for AI to work on humans’ behalf and to get things right, to understand “common sense”, so that decisions made autonomously fit with what’s practical for those on whose behalf it works. Agentic AI to causal AI Meanwhile, Lamia Youseff, founder of Jazz Computing, is an industry thought leader in AI and cloud, with a CV that includes Google, Microsoft, Facebook and Apple, and academic research institutions including Stanford, MIT and UCSB. She says we can see AI in several phases and inflection points: Enterprise AI – for which big data led the way by gathering huge amounts of data together for analysis. Enterprise AI introduces optimisations and has brought “a tsunami of new products and services”. Agentic AI – the next step for the next two years will bring agents that work on our behalf, taking commands, conversing with LLMs, breaking commands into steps and taking actions. Robotics and humanoids – which will require great innovation in communications and machine understanding of human language to combine LLMs and robotics, such as in driverless cars, and critically, with the ability to interact in a 3D world. Causal AI – where AI can predict incredibly complex real-world events, such as stock market fluctuations. Unlocking AI for the enterprise Elsewhere, speakers focused on how to gain business value from AI. This included Aiden Gomez, CEO of ********* company Cohere, which specialises in use of LLMs in enterprises. His focus is on making LLMs useful for enterprises by helping build an application stack that makes use of them. “You have to be technical, you need to be a developer, to be able to build something on top of this model to create value on the other side,” he said. Challenges include being able to lower barriers so AI can integrate with internal systems, and security where AI moves out of the proof-of-concept phase and touches the most sensitive customer data. “The biggest thing the enterprise world needs is good solutions that can plug in and go,” he said. “The barrier is for enterprises to adopt AI securely, which means completely private deployments. Then we can start to shift the work that humans are doing onto these models. To succeed, they need to be able to use the systems that humans today use to get their job done and integrate generative AI with the internal software and systems.” Gomez added: “When people were just testing out the technology, the security piece wasn’t so important, because they weren’t putting mission-critical data into those systems. Now, we’re moving out of the proof-of-concept phase and we’re going into production, and these models are touching the most sensitive customer data, so security is front of mind.” He, too, pointed to agentic AI as the next stage and the challenges that need to be solved. The first is the use of reasoning models and the second is learning from experience. “Just think about what reasoning is,” said Gomez. “What happens now is you can ask the model what’s 1+1, or you can ask it to prove Fermat’s last theorem, and the model would spend the same amount of time answering both of those questions, which makes no sense. “With reasoning, you can spend different amounts of energy on different difficulties and problems. So now we can approach things dramatically more efficiently, but more effectively. That’s a major unlock for agentic AI. You want agents to be able to think through problems and really reason about it,” he added. “The second thing is learning from experience. So, with a human, when you tell them, ‘You did something wrong. Here’s how to fix it’, they remember that and they learn forever not to make that same mistake. When models have that capability to learn from experience with the user it will unlock the ability to teach your own model just by interacting with it.” AI: We must not be passive to the dangers Finally, Lambert Hogenhout, chief of data, analytics and emerging technologies at the United Nations, warned of the dangers of AI to human society if we are passive in our approach to it. In other words, AI has the capacity to undermine human agency and even be a force that can work against us if uncontrolled. In his view, the key risks posed by AI include threats to: Autonomy – in which AI makes you more competent, almost perfect, but means you are thereafter forced to interact with AI to be the person it makes you. Identity – in which AI even has the capability to build a replica of someone’s personality if it has enough information about the person. It takes identity theft to a new level. Purpose – where if AI replaces many jobs, what is left for humans, and how do we make sure we focus on what humans are good at, such as cooperation and creativity? Happiness and connection to society – it’s very important for humans to feel happy and connected to society. If that is undermined, there will be problems. “AI is giving us lots of ways to improve our business and our private life,” said Hogenhout. “But in the long term, say 20 years, I think nobody predicted what the world is going to look like 20 years from now. “Some people have a very positive view, where the robots do the work and we can spend our days playing golf or watching interesting movies. But the dystopian view says we will lose our purpose in life, and for humans it is going to become quite **********, except for a few AI billionaires.” Hogenhout pointed to how smartphones have changed everything and how AI is likely to do the same. First, he spoke about the issue of autonomy. “I’ve always wanted to be funnier when I respond to messages from my friends. I’ve wanted to be more eloquent when I write emails to my boss. And you know, I can with the help of AI. But it means I rely on AI for every communication, and when everybody does that, when everybody is perfect, can you afford not to use it, to be the only non-augmented human? We’re going to be forced to augment ourselves with AI.” And on identity, Hogenhout talked about how AI has the potential to comprehensively clone a human being’s personality. “What if somebody takes everything I’ve ever written – emails, posts, everything – and it knows how to respond like me? But there are actually companies doing that already. “There’s an app called Hereafter that’s meant for elderly people. Your grandfather, for example, can be interviewed and information added about his life. Then, once grandpa dies, on your phone there is grandpa’s voice and you can ask him things like what’s happening with the Super Bowl or a football match and it responds exactly like Grandpa would have.” That forces the question, said Hogenhout, of what distinguishes us if it is so easy to replicate identity down to the level of voice, of opinions? At the moment, we’re too passive. We’re just waiting for the next amazing AI system to come out. We’re not thinking about how this is going to affect our lives Lambert Hogenhout, United Nations Finally, Hogenhout looked at purpose. “The meaning in our lives comes from the work we do, but it’s already clear a lot of jobs are going to be replaced. It’s true, we do dumb stuff a lot of the time, but we have incredible skills and abilities,” he said. “What makes us quite unique as a species is our creativity. There’s also this sense of not accepting reality as it is. But, we’re not just innovators. I think we’re very good at cooperating. There’s a reason that we’re all together here at this conference, because we want to learn from each other. These connections are very important in society. “It’s important for us to take decisions and to feel fulfilment. We want to make sure AI increases living connections, that we are not eliminated, that it makes a good society. A society where a number of people are excluded is not going to work. It will create problems,” added Hogenhout. His conclusion is that AI will change us in big ways but we need to ensure we act intentionally. Otherwise, the potential to lock large swathes of humanity out of a core whose lives are augmented by AI will lead to a broken society, from which problems will result. “At the moment, I think we’re too passive. We’re just waiting for the next amazing AI system to come out. We’re not thinking ahead, thinking about how this is going to affect our lives.” Source link #Huge #potential #threat #fabric #society Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

CPI Report Today: Dow Futures Edge Down Ahead of Inflation Data — Live Updates – The Wall Street Journal CPI Report Today: Dow Futures Edge Down Ahead of Inflation Data — Live Updates – The Wall Street Journal CPI Report Today: Dow Futures Edge Down Ahead of Inflation Data — Live Updates The Wall Street JournalConsumer price report Wednesday expected to show inflation isn’t going away CNBCWatch What to Expect From January’s CPI Report BloombergMorning Bid: Markets look to US CPI with one eye on tariffs ReutersConsumer Price Index (CPI) for January 2025 is Projected to Rise 2.9% Year-Over-Year FactSet Insight Source link #CPI #Report #Today #Dow #Futures #Edge #Ahead #Inflation #Data #Live #Updates #Wall #Street #Journal Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Morgan Stanley upgrades this chipmaker, sees it rallying more than 20% Morgan Stanley upgrades this chipmaker, sees it rallying more than 20% NXP Semiconductor is headed for better times after a difficult two years, according to Morgan Stanley. Analyst Joseph Moore upgraded the stock to overweight from equal weight. His new price target of $257 implies shares gaining 21.8% from Tuesday’s close. The Dutch chipmaker has lagged the rest of the industry because it held back on shipments to direct customers and distributors, per Moore. Over the past 12 months, shares of NXP have declined 10.9%. Meanwhile, the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH) has advanced 23% during the *******. However, Moore thinks the stock has finally hit its trough. “Cyclical and secular tailwinds [are] aligning,” Moore wrote in a Tuesday note. “With conviction that the [microcontroller unit] cycle is finally bottoming, we see NXPI as the best positioned within our US analog/MCU coverage given the idiosyncratic tailwinds (auto outperformance, GM% expansion).” The company has also made structural improvements that position it for margin outperformance, Moore added. “We have stayed sidelined on NXP until now as while the company has managed the downcycle well we saw the auto semi correction during 2H 2024 to be a challenging headwind for the company,” he said. But “NXP’s cycle management is reflective of the company lowering utilization early (40% internal wafers) and controlling variable cost (70% variable vs 30% fixed).” Shares climbed more than 3% Wednesday before the bell following the upgrade. Year to date, the stock has added 1.5%. Most analysts are optimistic on the stock. LSEG data shows that 21 of 31 who cover the chipmaker rate it a buy or strong buy. The average price target also signals nearly 18% upside. Source link #Morgan #Stanley #upgrades #chipmaker #sees #rallying Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Where the Oscar Race Stands After ‘Emilia Pérez’ Controversy Where the Oscar Race Stands After ‘Emilia Pérez’ Controversy Sometimes, the ******* after the Oscar nominations can feel like a snooze. There may be a notable snub that’s worth discussing for a few days, but things eventually settle down and people begin to behave themselves as they head into the final stretch of the season. This hasn’t been that. The last two weeks in particular have been some of the most tumultuous in recent memory, thanks in large part to the controversy involving old tweets made by one of the “Emilia Pérez” stars, Karla Sofía Gascón. The initially defiant actress went rogue to defend herself, keeping her scandal in the headlines during several crucial voting periods. Now, a film that led the field with 13 Oscar nominations has been hobbled. After all of that turbulence, where do things stand? Here are five narratives now emerging from the season that I plan to keep an eye on. As this year began, the awards-season aspirations of “Anora” appeared to stall out. The Sean Baker-directed comedy went winless at the Golden Globes on Jan. 5, and that failure-to-launch feeling lingered over the next few weeks when the Critics Choice Awards, where “Anora” hoped to score anew, were postponed from Jan. 12 to Feb. 7 because of the Los Angeles wildfires. What a difference a weekend makes. On Friday, “Anora” picked up a best-picture prize at that delayed Critics Choice ceremony, and scored top honors the next night at separate shows held by the Directors Guild of America and the Producers Guild of America. Any movie that triumphs with both of those guilds has to be considered the best-picture front-runner, even though five years ago, “1917” conquered at the PGA and DGA awards and still lost the top Oscar to “Parasite.” While surveying the best-picture field in mid-December, I noted that whenever I spoke to voters and industry insiders about their favorite films of the year, “Anora” was the title that came up again and again. Both that movie and “Emilia Pérez” had built strong coalitions across many different voting demographics. With the latter wounded, it’s now “Anora” that has taken the lead. ‘Emilia Pérez’ looks for a lifeline “Emilia Pérez” may be down, but can it be counted entirely out? This past weekend painted a mixed picture of its post-scandal chances: Though it managed three wins at the Critics Choice Awards, including a supporting-actress prize for Zoe Saldaña, voting for that ceremony closed weeks before Gascón’s tweets came to light. At the PGA awards, where voting ended just as the Gascon controversy ramped up, and the DGA awards, where voting closed two days after the film’s director, Jacques Audiard, disavowed Gascón and her comments in an interview, “Emilia Pérez” went home empty-handed. If the movie still has a shot at picking up major Oscars, it needs to build a bulwark at this weekend’s BAFTA awards, since that British voting body shares a significant overlap with the academy. The movie swept December’s European Film Awards, where it won every category it was nominated in (including a best-actress victory for Gascón), so a good showing at BAFTA would indicate that international voters remain enamored with “Emilia” and either unaware or unconcerned when it comes to the controversies that have engulfed it. And though I don’t think stateside voters will take Gascón’s actions out on her co-star Saldaña, the Screen Actors Guild awards later this month will test that theory: That nominating committee went wild for “Wicked,” so I expect the supporting-actress contender Ariana Grande to at least put up a fight. ‘Conclave’ and ‘Wicked’ go the long route To be considered a major best-picture contender, a film typically needs to score a best-director nomination, too. So how should a movie press on after the directors’ branch delivers a snub? Two of this year’s contenders hope to chart an unconventional path. Pretty much everyone I’ve spoken to enjoyed “Conclave” as a pulpy but elevated thriller, though it’s rare to find someone who considers it their bar-none, number-one movie of the year. No matter: The “Conclave” awards strategy, which counts on the unique preferential ballot used by the Oscars, is to make a strong go of it by being everybody’s number-two movie. A movie that compiles enough points from second-place votes could very well beat out a film that ranks first on some ballots, but toward the bottom on others. In a season packed with controversy, maybe that likability will be enough. “Wicked” has an even tougher path, since it lacks both a director and screenplay nomination, and no film since 1932’s “Grand Hotel” has taken the best-picture trophy without those key nods. Still, I’ve talked to voters who plan to cast votes for “Wicked” simply because the success of that kind of spectacle is good for both Hollywood and the Oscars. (Pour out a glass of glowing Bene Gesserit juice for “Dune: Part Two,” the other blockbuster nominated for best picture, as it simply hasn’t been able to marshal that same rah-rah enthusiasm.) Bupkis for ‘Brutalist’ At a reception before the DGA awards on Saturday, I polled my fellow pundits and a clutch of publicists on which contender they expected to prevail. Every person I spoke to predicted that Brady Corbet would take home the night’s top honor for his epic ******* drama “The Brutalist,” which he somehow pulled off on a budget of under $10 million. For rising to that challenge, Corbet had already won the Golden Globe for best director, and in an era in which the best-picture and best-director Oscars can often go to two separate films, he seemed to have a strong shot at taking at least one of those prizes. I wondered if Sean Baker, who directed “Anora,” had heard those same predictions, since he seemed utterly shocked when he and not Corbet was announced as the DGA winner. It helped, I think, that Baker is an affable director who’s known in filmmaking circles, while the serious-minded Corbet is an actor-turned-director who is only just now breaking into the mainstream. And though those who love “The Brutalist” really, really love it, the three-hour, thirty-five minute movie can be polarizing: I have not encountered scads of women who consider it their favorite film of the year. Like “Emilia Pérez,” the movie will now have to count on some BAFTA victories to help it make up momentum. ‘I’m Still Here’ waits in the wings Is the international-film Oscar back in play? Just weeks ago, you’d have been a fool to bet against “Emilia Pérez” in that category, since the prize almost always goes to the movie with the strongest best-picture shot. But with that film now on the ropes, we could have a real race on our hands. Any Oscar voter who has befriended or even brushed shoulders with a Brazilian has likely received a text from that person in recent weeks, since advocating for “I’m Still Here” and its leading lady, Fernanda Torres, has practically become a national pastime. It’s true that the Walter Salles-directed movie, about an activist whose dissident husband is disappeared by Brazil’s military dictatorship, faces an uphill battle in the best-picture and best-actress categories. (“The Substance” star Demi Moore is still the favorite in the latter contest). Still, as the only other major contender in the international-film category, there’s a path for “I’m Still Here” to win over voters who’d prefer a tasteful alternative to the scandal-tarred “Emilia Pérez.” Source link #Oscar #Race #Stands #Emilia #Pérez #Controversy Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump executive order vows substantial cuts to federal workforce – The Washington Post Trump executive order vows substantial cuts to federal workforce – The Washington Post Trump executive order vows substantial cuts to federal workforce The Washington PostMusk shows why he’s such a powerful ally for Trump and would be an even more menacing enemy CNNGrimes speaks out after Elon Musk parades son around Oval Office The IndependentTrump EO directs agencies to submit reorganization plans, prepare for RIFs Federal News NetworkAppearing With Trump, Musk Makes Broad Claims of Federal Fraud Without Proof The New York Times Source link #Trump #executive #order #vows #substantial #cuts #federal #workforce #Washington #Post Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Why is AI in everything these days? What you need to know about the world’s favorite buzzword Why is AI in everything these days? What you need to know about the world’s favorite buzzword Look at your phone, fitness tracker, favorite apps, or smart home devices – AI is everywhere. But AI itself isn’t new. Some form of it has been embedded into your everyday technology for years. What is new is how aggressively companies are marketing AI-powered features. If you’ve been looking for new gadgets recently or following product launches at events like CES 2025, you’ve probably noticed a surge in AI branding. From toothbrushes to televisions, vacuums to video doorbells, and speakers to smartwatches, manufacturers are labeling everything as “AI-powered.” But what does that actually mean? Are we witnessing real innovation, or is AI just the latest marketing buzzword designed to sell more products? The Narwal Flow robot vacuum uses cameras and an AI chip to clean your home (Image credit: Narwal) Unpacking the AI buzz AI technologies have been around for decades, but recent breakthroughs have made them more powerful and practical – giving companies a real reason to integrate AI into more of their products. At the same time, AI has also become a powerful marketing tool. Slapping an “AI-powered” label on a product generates excitement, attracts investors, and convinces consumers, like you and me, that a device is cutting-edge, “the next big thing,” and worth spending our money on. We’ve seen this happen before with buzzwords like “smart,” “metaverse,” and “cloud computing.” Yes, these terms do describe real technology, but they’re also so overused in marketing that they lose their meaning. AI is no different. Some products genuinely benefit from AI-driven features, while others use the term vaguely to sound more advanced than they really are. And because AI sounds impressive, companies often don’t explain what’s actually happening behind the scenes. Many people also associate AI with tools like ChatGPT or the way it’s portrayed in sci-fi movies, leading to the assumption that all AI works the same way. But in reality, AI isn’t really one thing – it’s a broad category that includes everything from simple automation to complex neural networks. What actually is AI? Like many tech terms, AI (artificial intelligence) is often used loosely – sometimes to describe cutting-edge breakthroughs, and sometimes just to make a product sound more advanced. But AI isn’t a single technology. It’s best to think of it as an umbrella term for a range of systems that allow machines to process information, recognize patterns, and make decisions. It can mimic aspects of human intelligence, but it doesn’t actually “think” the way we do – at least not yet. (Image credit: Shutterstock/SomYuZu) Some of the key types of AI tech We won’t dive into every AI technology here because it’s complex – further proof that AI isn’t just one thing – but let’s break down some of the main types you’re likely to encounter when shopping for gadgets, choosing apps, or exploring new productivity tools. Automation and rule-based (not really AI, but often marketed as AI): Some systems labeled AI-powered are actually just basic automation. These follow fixed rules without learning or adapting. They can be useful but don’t improve or change over time like the other types below do. Examples: Email spam filters, sorting emails, some chatbots, automated customer service replies, etc. Machine Learning (ML): AI that learns from data and improves its predictions over time. Instead of just following rules, it adapts based on new information. Examples: Recommendations on the likes of Netflix and Spotify, search engine rankings, fraud detection, spam filtering, etc. Deep learning: A more advanced form of machine learning that uses many layers of neural networks to process large amounts of data. It’s behind AI that can recognize patterns in text, speech, and images. Examples: Voice assistants (like Alexa and Siri), self-driving cars, medical imaging, advanced facial recognition, etc. Large Language Models (LLMs): A type of deep learning AI designed to process text and generate human-like text. Trained on huge amounts of text data, which allows them to (most of the time) understand context, generate responses, and assist with all sorts of tasks. Examples: ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Claude AI, AI writing assistants, etc. Natural Language Processing (NLP): AI that understands and generates human language, making interactions feel more natural. Examples: Voice assistants, Google Translate, AI transcription services, etc. Computer vision: AI that interprets and processes images or videos. It can “see” and recognize objects, faces, or even movements. Examples: Facial recognition on your phone, smart security cameras, medical imaging, etc. Predictive AI: AI that analyzes past data to predict future outcomes by looking for patterns. Examples: Weather forecasting, traffic predictions on map apps, stock market predictions, predictive text, etc. Generative AI: AI that creates new content, like text images, music, or video. Examples: ChatGPT (text), Midjourney (art), etc. Robotics: AI and robotics are often linked or even used synonymously, but they’re not the same. It’s best to think of robots as physical machines that can perform tasks, often with the help of sensors, cameras, or a set of instructions. Some robots do use AI inside them to navigate or adapt to their environment. Examples: Self-driving cars, robotic vacuums, drones, etc. These are just some examples – AI is evolving rapidly, and new applications emerge all the time. But knowing the basics helps you see past the marketing buzz. Many companies don’t specify what kind of AI they’re using, so the label “AI-powered” could mean anything from a simple chatbot to a highly sophisticated learning model. Also, AI technologies often work together. Many of the tools you already use – like ChatGPT or Spotify – combine multiple types of AI, such as machine learning, deep learning, predictive AI, and natural language processing. Is AI actually useful? The Samsung Galaxy Ring features “AI powered health insights” (Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / TechRadar) That’s the big question – and the answer isn’t straightforward. In some cases, AI personalizes and enhances experiences – like Spotify and Netflix, which use AI to recommend content based on your listening and watching habits. Or smart rings, like the Oura Ring 4 and the Samsung Galaxy Ring, which analyze sleep and health data to make personalized recommendations. AI also powers Google Maps and Waze, predicting traffic patterns to optimize routes. Some products use AI for voice control and hands-free assistance, like Meta’s AI-powered smart glasses, which offer real-time translations. Or Alexa and Siri, which handle smart home tasks. In cars, AI assistants help with navigation and entertainment. Other tech adds AI to improve a single key feature, like Sony earbuds, which use AI for adaptive noise cancellation, or smartphone cameras – like in the Google Pixel or iPhone – which enhance low-light photography. In gaming, NVIDIA’s DLSS AI upscaling boosts graphics performance without sacrificing speed. But even when AI seems justified in all of the examples above, that doesn’t mean it’s new and may have simply been rebranded to fit with the trend of using AI in marketing. It also doesn’t mean it’s always necessary. For example, if you’re struggling with sleep, an AI-powered wearable might help you identify genuinely useful lifestyle adjustments. But that’s totally subjective. Don’t be swayed by tech just because it’s got an AI label on it. The key is to look past that label – if AI genuinely improves the product’s function, a function that you really need, then it’s a worthwhile addition. If not, it could just be a gimmick. The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses have Meta’s AI built into them (Image credit: Future) Why the words we use matter Why does it matter if “AI” is used to describe everything from advanced neural networks to simple automation? For starters, being a savvier consumer helps you cut through the hype and save money. Misleading AI marketing also creates unrealistic expectations – or unnecessary fears. When companies overpromise AI’s capabilities or fail to explain how it actually works, it makes it harder to have meaningful discussions about its real benefits and risks. For example, should you trust an AI tool with your personal data? What about the environmental cost of training large AI models? These are important conversations, but they’re harder to have when “AI” is used as a vague catch-all term. The more informed you are, the better decisions you can make about the tech you use every day. You might also like Source link #days #worlds #favorite #buzzword Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

London Irish: Eddie Jordan-led consortium buys club out of administration London Irish: Eddie Jordan-led consortium buys club out of administration London Irish Rugby Club have been bought out of administration by a consortium led by former Formula 1 team owner and businessman Eddie Jordan. In June 2023 London Irish were forced out of the Premiership because of unpaid wages and shortly after entered administration with debts of about £30m. They were punished after missing a deadline to make those payments or complete a takeover, and as a result are currently not allowed to play in any league. Jordan’s group called ‘The Jordan Associates’ says it is targeting a “swift return” to competing professionally. “The primary goal of the new ownership is to return London Irish Rugby Club to the pinnacle of international professional club rugby, aiming for a swift return to top-flight competition,” it said. “The Jordan Associates team will now turn its attention to negotiating a full and sustainable return for London Irish to competitive rugby, hand-in-hand with London Irish’s supporter base.” The Jordan Grand Prix F1 team competed between 1991 and 2005, winning four races between 1998 and 2003. “We are incredibly excited about this opportunity to steer London Irish towards new heights,” Jordan Associates senior partner Kyle Jordan said. “Our investors bring not just financial backing but a profound passion for rugby and a commitment to the community, and in particular want to reach out to the global Irish diaspora to build the exile brand.” In December, Jordan said he had been diagnosed with a “quite aggressive” form of *******. The 76-year-old said he has bladder and prostate ******* which had spread to his spine and pelvis. Jordan was a regular pundit on television when the BBC held the broadcasting rights to F1 between 2009 and 2015. Source link #London #Irish #Eddie #Jordanled #consortium #buys #club #administration Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Pandoland sets sail for a global release in April 2025 Pandoland sets sail for a global release in April 2025 Pandoland is set to release worldwide late in April 2025 Take on the role of a captain and search for lost treasures Several pre-registration rewards up for grabs After its release in Japan last year, Pandoland, the casual maritime RPG from Game Freak and WonderPlanet, is set to launch worldwide in late April 2025. Before its release, you can pre-register on Google Play and the App Store to unlock exclusive rewards. It’s set in the uncharted world of Pandoland, and you take on the role of an expedition leader searching for legendary treasures. The adventure is designed to be open-ended, letting you explore at your own pace. As you navigate the cloud-covered map, you’ll uncover hidden locations, mysterious artifacts, and new allies to help on your journey. It’s not easy to find such a treasure alone. As you traverse across the seas, you’ll team up with more than 400 different friends. In addition, dungeons scattered throughout the world hold valuable treasures and allies. By taking on these challenges, you can strengthen your team and unlock new abilities. Beyond solo exploration, Pandoland offers a cooperative experience as well. You can invite friends and family to join your expedition, share maps, and embark on treasure hunts together. Whether you prefer adventuring alone or alongside others, there’s plenty to discover as you expand your maritime journey. While you wait, why not take a peek at this list of some of the best RPGs to play on Android right now? Pre-registration for Pandoland comes with a set of rewards to help you get started. By logging in for 30 consecutive days, you’ll receive 15,000 diamonds, a rare SR character named Charlotte, an SR-level item called Meat on the Bone, and 500 coins. These resources can boost your team’s strength as you prepare for the challenges ahead. If that sounds like something up your alley, pre-register for Pandoland now by clicking on the link below. It will be free-to-play with in-app purchases. Visit the official website for more information. Source link #Pandoland #sets #sail #global #release #April Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

iPhone SE 4 May Launch Next Week, M4 MacBook and Other Devices to Follow Soon: Report iPhone SE 4 May Launch Next Week, M4 MacBook and Other Devices to Follow Soon: Report iPhone SE 4 could reportedly be launched as soon as next week. As per a report, the Cupertino-based tech giant is planning to hold several product briefings over the next few weeks, with two announcements expected to occur this week. The company is said to be planning a small announcement on Wednesday, followed by another on Friday. These could include upgrades for the Apple Vision Pro or the launch of the iPad 11 (2025). Separately, the company could also announce a new MacBook model powered by the M4 chipset. Apple Could Hold Several Product Briefings Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman previously reported about the imminent launch of the iPhone SE 4 in his Power On newsletter. On Tuesday, he revealed more details about Apple’s plans in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter). Gurman claimed that the iPhone SE 4 could be announced next week during a product briefing. However, the journalist did not share any particular launch date. Additionally, Gurman also revealed that two announcements could also occur this week, with the first expected to occur on Wednesday. The second product briefing is said to take place on Friday. While no details about what could be announced were shared, it is speculated that the company could launch the iPad 11 (2025) and upgrade the Apple Vision Pro with Apple Intelligence features. Apart from these, Gurman also claimed that the Cupertino-based tech giant will also introduce the M4-powered MacBook Air “within weeks”. However, Gurman did not provide any particular time frame for the launch. If the claims are true, the next iteration of the iPhone SE will arrive after a gap of three years. Several leaks about the upcoming mid-range smartphone have surfaced. As per the reports, the iPhone SE 4 could resemble the iPhone 14 model, ditching the home button and Touch ID. It is also speculated to arrive with a USB Type-C port and support for Apple Intelligence features. The iPhone SE 4 is also rumoured to be equipped with the A18 chipset and is said to be paired with 8GB of RAM. The handset is expected to be priced higher than the iPhone SE (2022), which was priced at Rs. 43,900 for the base 64GB storage variant. Source link #iPhone #Launch #Week #MacBook #Devices #Follow #Report Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Bankok United snatch late ACL2 draw with Sydney FC Bankok United snatch late ACL2 draw with Sydney FC Sydney FC have been whacked with an Asian Champions League 2 sucker-punch, conceding a 95th minute equaliser in a 2-2 round-of-16 draw with Bangkok United. The home side looked set to take a lead into next week’s second leg when super sub Adrian Segecic cancelled out Richairo Zivkovic’s penalty then scored a second 19 minutes later in the second half at Allianz Stadium on Wednesday. Segecic has made a habit of turning games late on for Ufuk Talay’s side, scoring seven goals from the bench in his past five substitute appearances. But just as Sydney were dreaming of heading to Thailand next week to defend a lead in a bid to secure a spot in the quarter-finals, disaster struck. Thitipan Puangchan fired a close-range shot from a tight angle past Harrison Devenish-Meares to send a small section of Bangkok supporters in the 5,131 crowd into a frenzy. “It’s disappointing to concede a late goal like that and for them to equalise,” Talay said. “We know there’s another leg, we’re still in a good place in that sense. “The positive sign is that we are creating chances but I think we had more of the ball and created some good chances, but didn’t capitalise in the first half.” Sydney were crestfallen and frustrated and understandably so after having two penalty appeals turned down by referee Yamashita Yoshimi in a first half where they fluffed good chances. The first came penalty shout came when left-back Jordan Courtney-Perkins was bowled over in the Bangkok box. Later, Thossawat Limwanasathian brought down Sydney frontman Patryk Klimala. Yoshimi would eventually signal a penalty but it came early in the second half when Bangkok’s Muhsen Al-Ghassani raced onto a long ball over the top of the Sydney defence. The Omani international was felled by Devenish-Meares inside the box as he attempted to round the Sydney goalkeeper. Bangkok striker Zivkovic converted from the spot to give the away side a 50th minute lead. Talay immediately went to his bench, with Douglas Costa and Segecic thrown on to give the home side more spark in the final third. It worked instantly, with Costa playing in Segecic and the young playmaker guiding the ball past Patiwat Khammai for a 60th minute equaliser. “***** has given us a lot of energy when he comes on,” Talay said. “That’s why we bring him on. He’s scoring goals, which is very important for him.” Suddenly, Sydney had a spring in their step. Nobody was oozing more confidence than Segecic, who was allowed far too much space by the Thai side. The midfielder let rip from the edge of the Bangkok box in the 79th minute to put his side in the lead. But just as Sydney were preparing to celebrate a come-from-behind win, Puangchan struck to salvage a draw. Source link #Bankok #United #snatch #late #ACL2 #draw #Sydney Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump’s Hot Take On Bullies Leads To Epic ‘Self Own’ Trump’s Hot Take On Bullies Leads To Epic ‘Self Own’ President Donald Trump on Tuesday offered up his thoughts on bullies, but his critics said he may as well have been talking about himself. The moment came as Trump was speaking to reporters in the White House about his plans to redevelop Gaza and his Saturday deadline for ****** to release its remaining Israeli hostages. “I don’t think they’re gonna make the deadline, personally, I think they wanna play tough guy,” Trump said. “But we’ll see how tough they are.” One reporter asked if that deadline would undermine peace talks. Trump said he didn’t think so, adding: “You know bullies? You know what a bully is, right? You know the bully, I’ve always ― and I found it throughout my life ― a bully is the weakest person. And they’re bullies. ****** is bullies. The weakest people are bullies. You know that, right?” Trump’s critics were quick to point out that he’s been accused of being a bully himself often enough ― and they called his comments about them being “the weakest people” something of a confession: Source link #Trumps #Hot #Bullies #Leads #Epic Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]