Murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO ignites online fury over health insurance industryMayor Ken Sim announced Thursday that abolition of the elected Vancouver park board and bringing parks and recreation under the control of city council will lead to $70 million in savings over the next decade. In what the mayor described as a streamlining of services, the transition is expected to achieve further savings once a new governance model is established, including millions of dollars in infrastructure project costs. “And these are conservative estimates,” Sim told reporters at city hall Thursday. A city staff report that goes before council Nov. 27 estimated savings of $1.5 million to $3 million per year alone on “position savings,” which staff at a technical briefing prior to the news conference said will see park board staff fill city vacancies. "Our goal is not to have any staff layoffs," said deputy city manager Sandra Singh, adding that staff continues to meet with unions representing park board workers. Savings of $1.8 million to $3.3 million per year were identified under a category called “early operational integration opportunities.” For example, staff who currently support the elected park board could move into the city clerk’s office. Arts and culture, communications and marketing and social policy were some of the other areas identified as amalgamating to avoid duplication of services. The report estimated, so far, that 10 to 20 positions could be affected by duplication. Abolishing the seven-member elected board would translate to a savings of $280,000 per year, or $2.8 million over 10 years, said the report, which gave no indication when the park commissioners would be phased out. The hurdle for Sim since he announced in December 2023 that he wanted to abolish the board has been getting the provincial government to make the necessary amendments to the Vancouver Charter. Premier David Eby initially committed to honouring the mayor’s request — which was supported by the seven councillors belonging to his ABC Vancouver party — but suggested during the recent election campaign that it wasn’t a priority. “It's very unlikely this would be a priority for the province before the next municipal election [in 2026], and they've got a lot of work ahead of them,” Eby told an audience at an all-candidates’ meeting Oct. 12 at St. James Community Square. Glacier Media contacted the provincial government Thursday for an update on Vancouver’s request. Municipal affairs now falls under Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon’s portfolio. “We have received the City of Vancouver’s transition report, and we are reviewing it," Kahlon said in an emailed statement. “We have been that clear our top priority will be to deliver on the priorities of British Columbians. That includes the costs of daily life, strengthening healthcare, and building safe communities in a strong economy.” Asked about Eby’s position, Sim said he wouldn’t comment on private conversations he has had with the premier but added that his office had “an incredible working relationship” with the premier’s office. Brennan Bastyovanszky, chair of the park board, was at city hall Thursday to hear what Sim and city staff told reporters about the transition. Bastyovanszky was a member of ABC Vancouver until Sim announced he wanted to abolish the board. He told reporters after the news conference that he didn’t believe the numbers staff provided regarding savings, calling them “dubious.” He also questioned how city councillors could add parks and recreation to their duties, when they already put in long hours. “The amount of workload that the councillors would take on equates to an extra two days of work a week, on top of a full-time job,” Bastyovanszky said. “I don't see how the council is going to be able to manage that. It's going to remove access to elected officials and decision-makers.” Added Bastyovanszky: “This is a centralization of power that does not benefit the people in Vancouver. It erodes the trust in democracy.” The mayor said the transition will allow the city to legally designate 89 acres of land as permanent parkland, including sections of Stanley Park. Sim said the land would be protected, accessible and sustainable for generations to come. Beyond saving money and securing more green space, the transition is about improving how the city gets things done, said Sim, who was joined on a podium by First Nations leaders, city councillors and members of the transition team. “Right now, we are seeing significant delays in critical projects that impact our city — sewer upgrades, green infrastructure, streets, public spaces — they're being delayed, in some cases, by up to two years,” he said, noting a recent pump station project saw costs increase by $2 million because of extended negotiations with the park board.
DeepSeek’s new AI model appears to be one of the best ‘open’ challengers yetJaylen Blakes, Maxime Raynaud and Oziyah Sellers combined for 35 points in a 47-point, first half explosion Saturday afternoon and Stanford ran away from California for an 89-81 Atlantic Coast Conference road win in Berkeley, Calif. Raynaud and Blakes finished with 20 points apiece for the Cardinal (8-2, 1-0 ACC), who won their first ever game in ACC competition. Andrej Stojakovic had a game-high 25 points and Jovan Blacksher Jr. added 14 for the Golden Bears (6-3, 0-1), who dropped their second in a row after a 6-1 start. Playing just its second true road game of the season, Stanford scored 14 of the game's first 18 points and never looked back. Raynaud and Ryan Agarwal hit 3-pointers in the run. Blakes had 14 points, Raynaud 11 and Sellers 10 in the first half, which ended with Stanford in front 47-31. Cal was still down 81-65, after two free throws by Stanford's Chisom Okpara with 3:58 remaining before making a little run. Mady Sissoko converted a three-point play and Rytis Petraitis and Joshua Ola-Joseph connected on consecutive 3-pointers in a 9-0 flurry that made it a seven-point game with still 2:13 to go. It got as close as six when Stojakovic drilled a 3-pointer with 1:21 left, but Okpara and Blakes dropped in late layups to keep the hosts at arm's length. Seven of the nine Cardinal who saw action hit at least half his field goal attempts, led by Raynaud's 8-for-15 and Blakes' 7-for-13. Stanford finished 52.6 percent as a team. Both were deadly from the 3-point line as well, with Raynaud going 4-for-6 and Blakes 2-for-4. With Sellers adding 3-for-6, the Cardinal made 11 of their 23 attempts (47.8 percent) from beyond the arc. Raynaud also found time for five blocks, while Agarwal and Aidan Cammann shared Stanford rebound honors with seven. Blakes complemented his 20 points with a team-high six assists and two blocks. The Cardinal registered 19 assists on 30 baskets, while Cal had just five on its 30 hoops. Agarwal and Okpara each also scored in double figures with 11 points. Facing his old team for the first time after transferring to Cal over the summer, Stojakovic shot 11-for-25. The Golden Bears finished at 42.3 percent overall and 38.1 percent (8 of 21) on 3-pointers. Ola-Joseph and Sissoko, who had 11 points, were the game's leading rebounders with eight apiece. -Field Level Media
Fake Elon Musk pictures used for engagement scams
A NUMBER of savvy Brits have already secured their 2025 Christmas decorations for a fraction of the original retail price. That includes one woman who saved herself an eye-watering £135 on ornaments, tree baubles, nutcrackers and even gift bags. Sofia Spencer Rachel Stevens didn’t nab the bargains in her local supermarket, though. Instead, she found them at a local garden centre - retailers which are often overlooked when it comes to bargain hunting. Sofia took to Facebook group Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK to boast about her finds and alert other shoppers. She wrote: “I love shopping at garden centres. “I bought all this and it should have been £205, but got for £70. “The wooden stars, one is 60cm and one 50cm - gorgeous quality. “Nutcrackers, decorations and gift bags ready for next year.” It’s not just Sofia who has twigged onto garden centre bargains. Sarah Green commented: “Love a garden centre Christmas sale.” Garden centres often stock premium and unique Christmas decorations, including hand-crafted ornaments, wreaths and garlands, many of which are unavailable in mainstream stores. They’re also a good place to pick up a faux Christmas tree at a good price. What’s more, countless garden centres in the UK have loyalty programs that offer members exclusive discounts or vouchers. These can often be redeemed against sale items, making your year-early savings even better. And it’s no secret that garden centre bosses and staff last Christmas. HERE'S what you need to know if you're buying a real Christmas tree: First thing's first: buy a pot (if it doesn't come in one already). You'll need to treat your tree just like a houseplant and give it water and attention. Make sure the container has good drainage - and it's a good idea to put something underneath to catch the excess water. Check the soil everyday to make sure it's not drying out. If it feels dry, give it some water. If it still feels moist, leave it alone as too much water can also kill a tree. Also check the LED bulbs on your tree lights aren't too hot as they could burn it, and keep your tree away from radiators. When Christmas is over, try planting it in the garden so you can dig it up and use it again next year. It's a good idea to take it out of its pot when you do re-plant it though, as large trees don't survive well in pots as their roots need space to grow. In August, The Sun reported that one put out Christmas trees and decorations on the hottest day of the year. Staff at Summerhill’s in Basildon, Essex, spruced up the shelves with seasonal stuff as temperatures hit 32C. Manager Charlotte Harrington said: “For many, many years now, we’ve opened our Christmas department on the August bank holiday. "The stock comes in early and we gradually start putting it out on the shop floor. This is just a small fraction of what we have. “But our Christmas displays are so spectacular it takes time to get everything set up, so we have to start early .”India's former prime minister Manmohan Singh, architect of economic reforms, dies at 92
Ange Postecoglou’s wife was not happy with tense Tottenham fan showdown after defeatWatch: Steve Sarkisian calls out officials during angry halftime interview
How powerful can male friendships be and do we need to rethink what being a mate is all about? Watch Insight's episode Bromance, on SBS On Demand . Stream free On Demand Bromance episode • Insight • Current Affairs • 52m episode • Insight • Current Affairs • 52m Tommy Herschell was often the first one at the pub and the last one to leave. He says his need for connection was a 'bucket to fill'. But he admits his craving wasn't always healthy. Tommy's parents separated when he was 10 years old, and alcohol helped to dull his pain. "For so long, I just didn't process any of my emotions," he told Insight. "And I probably didn't have people around me that allowed me to do that. I had a lot of mates that enabled me to do all the silly things and be the life of the party." Tommy says he acted like "the life of the party", but his behaviour was hiding insecurities. Source: Supplied Over time, Tommy realised the crowd he enjoyed hanging out with weren't good for him. "None of the boys that I was with would really challenge me. From the outside, I was that bloke that was a bit rude, cheeky ... always over the top, probably telling stories that weren't always too true, seeking attention ... because I was so bloody insecure." One night, Tommy said he drunk so much he "lost the plot". "[I] sort of smashed around the house and caused a lot of chaos." His wife urged him to call his close mate Neil, who called him out on his drinking. READ MORE I was an only child with a superiority complex. Until my six children humbled me For Tommy, the rebuke came as a shock. "I thought, wow, that's my first mate that's dogged me," he said. "There's that rule, you don't dog your mates. You leave them alone ... you don't snitch on them. And he did the opposite." The next day Tommy contacted a rehab facility, and was soon in counselling to process the pain from his past. "[Neil] pulled me up and he saved my life and saved my family," Tommy said. 'The moment the activity went... Nicolas Zoumboulis , Julia Abbondanza , Caroline RichesIn a rapidly evolving tech landscape, Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL) finds itself at a pivotal juncture against a backdrop of thriving AI-related stocks. Despite a whirlwind of activity in the realm of AI investments, Oracle’s position remains intriguing amidst varying analyst insights. CJ Muse, an analyst at Cantor Fitzgerald, recently commented on the novel nature of AI investments, highlighting a significant departure from typical tech cycles. He noted major tech firms are channeling billions into AI, and yet they’re managing to generate substantial free cash flow. Muse emphasizes that this investment cycle is critical as companies push towards achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI), requiring advanced computing power to enhance AI reasoning capabilities. As various AI stocks garner attention due to positive analyst ratings and noteworthy developments, Oracle’s performance draws mixed reviews. Monness, Crespi, Hardt analysts recently shifted their stance on ORCL to a “Sell” rating , citing that its stock price may have outstripped its value compared to historical benchmarks. Despite a strong showing fueled by generative AI trends, concerns about Oracle’s increased capital expenditure plans for fiscal 2025 linger, seen as possibly unsustainable. While Oracle continues to make strides in cloud infrastructure, bolstered by strategic partnerships like the one with Amazon, the firm faces stiff competition from industry giants in the public cloud space. Despite these challenges, Oracle ranks 7th among promptly buzzing AI stocks due to its continued innovation and market presence. For those eyeing promising AI opportunities, exploring under-the-radar stocks might offer a chance for more substantial returns over a shorter period than established names like Oracle, as noted in recent financial analyses. Is Oracle Navigating the AI Wave Successfully? Unveiling Insights and Predictions Oracle Corporation is at a critical juncture amidst a flourishing landscape of AI-related investments, with varied insights from analysts marking its trajectory. As the tech giant makes headway in the AI domain, let’s explore some fresh perspectives and critical elements that are shaping its journey. Market Insights and Analysis In the rapidly advancing realm of artificial intelligence, Oracle’s strategic positioning is under scrutiny. While Oracle is making significant inroads in cloud infrastructure and AI, its approach has drawn mixed reviews from analysts. In particular, there is debate about whether Oracle’s market value has exceeded its fundamental worth, a concern accentuated by Monness, Crespi, Hardt analysts’ recent “Sell” recommendation. Pros and Cons of Oracle’s AI Strategy # Pros 1. Cloud Expansion : Oracle is enhancing its cloud-based offerings, a critical growth area in the era of digital transformation. 2. Strategic Partnerships : Collaborations with major firms, such as Amazon, highlight Oracle’s efforts to stay competitive. # Cons 1. Valuation Concerns : Analysts have raised concerns about Oracle’s stock being possibly overvalued, given historical benchmarks. 2. Sustainability of Capital Expenditures : Increased spending in fiscal 2025 raises questions about the long-term sustainability of its investments. AI Investment Trends and Innovations Oracle is navigating an AI investment cycle marked by substantial enhancements in computing power. The broader tech industry is pushing toward achieving artificial general intelligence, and Oracle’s efforts are pivotal in this ambition. However, while Oracle is among the top AI stocks, other emerging companies are capturing attention due to potentially higher short-term returns. Predictions and Future Directions Moving forward, analysts predict Oracle will face stiff competition from leading cloud providers. However, its continuous investment in AI and infrastructure could bolster its position in the market. As AI becomes more ingrained in various industries, Oracle’s efforts in cultivating strategic partnerships and enhancing its offerings may prove influential. Final Thoughts Oracle’s journey through the AI landscape is emblematic of both the challenges and opportunities presented to established tech firms. Staying competitive requires balancing innovation with sustainable growth strategies. As the company navigates this pivotal period, stakeholders and investors will need to closely monitor these dynamics to fully leverage Oracle’s potential in the evolving tech market. For more information on Oracle and its technological advancements, visit the Oracle website .Texas A&M outfielder Jace LaViolette and left-hander Ryan Prager have been listed on the top 100 prospects for the 2025 MLB Draft, as announced by MLB Pipeline on Friday. LaViolette, a 2024 All-American, was rated as the No. 2 prospect and is the highest ranked collegiate player on the board. In 132 games as an Aggie, LaViolette has slashed .297/.433/.683 to go along with five triples, 26 doubles, 50 home runs and 141 RBI. LaViolette has also scored 137 times, drawn 112 walks and stolen 25 bases. In 2024, LaViolette helped guide A&M to the College World Series Finals after batting .305 to go with 29 homers and 78 RBI. He also drew a program-record 64 walks and scored the second-most runs in school history with 87. With his 29 homers, LaViolette became the first player in Texas A&M history to record back-to-back seasons with 20-or-more homers. Prager checked in at No. 70 on the list and the fifth-ranked collegiate left-hander. He was selected 81st overall in the 2024 MLB Draft by the Los Angeles, but decided to return to A&M for 2025. Coming off an All-American campaign in 2024, he logged a 9-1 record to go along with a 2.95 ERA and 124 strikeouts to only 20 walks in 97.2 innings. The lefty’s 124 strikeouts ranked as the ninth-most in program history and became the first Aggie to surpass 100 punchouts in a single season since Dustin Saenz in 2021.
Photo: Contributed The L.V. Rogers Grizzlies Senior Boys Volleyball Team made a trip to the BC High School Championships for the first time in decades. The team includes, back row, L-R, coach Renato Concepcion, Johann Concepcion, Nathaniel Alban, Felix Eichenhofer, Conor Jackson, Sol Weinstein and assistant coach Jeremy McComb. Front, Reese Thompson, Lanz Gonzales, Kade Stanley and Binyam Stewart. L.V. Rogers Grizzlies teams recently completed an unforgettable fall season on the BC High School Sports scene. From the trails to the courts, fields and pool, Grizzlies athletes achieved great success. Here's a recap of the standout moments from an incredible fall season: Volleyball Senior boys The senior boys' volleyball team had a memorable season, capped off with a thrilling victory at home to win the zone championship against Fernie. The team was led by the outstanding efforts of Johann Concepcion and Lanz Gonzales, whose leadership and dynamic play inspired the Grizzlies to the Kootenay championship. Their success continued at provincials in Vernon, where they battled fiercely to secure a 14th-place finish among the best teams in the province. This was the first time an LVR sr. boys’ volleyball team has made the provincials in more than 20 years. Senior girls The senior girls' volleyball team also enjoyed a fantastic season, growing stronger with each tournament. Their trips to Thompson Rivers University, Fernie and Oliver were pivotal in their development, culminating with a 11th-place finish at provincials. The team went 4-3 at the provincial tournament. Junior girls The junior girls volleyball team showcased exceptional talent and determination this season. They earned an impressive second place finish at the South Okanagan Invitational, claimed victory at their home Grizzlies Invitational, and capped off the season with a third place finish in the West Kootenay zone. Their strong performances throughout the year highlight the team’s growth and potential for even greater achievements in the future. Cross country The cross-country team had incredible individual and team performances. Dawson Abraham consistently led the way, earning a fourth-place finish at the provincials for the junior boys' division. The girls' cross country team achieved a sixth-place finish at provincials, showcasing their dedication and teamwork. Their efforts reflect the growing strength of the program and set a high bar for future seasons to come. Ruby Nay, Jacqueline Willard, Aleah Smith and Avran Fisher led the squad. Soccer Senior boys The senior boys soccer team had a memorable season, concluding with an impressive seventh-place finish at provincials — the second best finish ever for an LVR sr. boys’ soccer team at the provincial level. The team displayed excellent teamwork and resilience, and their performance was highlighted by Lazlo Lorenzo’s selection to the provincial all-star team, a testament to his outstanding skill and leadership on the pitch. Rugby Rugby Sevens Both the boys and girls Rugby Sevens squads had a terrific fall season, competing fiercely in playdays held at Lakeside Park in Nelson, Cranbrook and Castlegar. With their best-ever number of athletes participating, the teams showed promise and determination, setting the stage for a successful 15’s season in the spring. The growth of the rugby program highlights the dedication of the players and coaches, and the Grizzlies are poised for continued success. Swimming The swim team made waves this fall with a terrific season in the pool. Four standout athletes, Kallie Badry, Keira Badry, Sasha Eaton and Charlotte Anderson qualified for provincials, representing the Grizzlies at the highest level with pride and determination. Their accomplishments reflect their dedication to the sport and the strength of the swim program. Specials thanks Thank you to all of our volunteer coaches and teacher-sponsors for their time, energy and commitment. A huge thanks to Jeremy McComb, Renato Concepcion, Sara Smith, Michele Hillaby, Scott Cormie, Alex Ulazonek, Niallan Collier, Leanne Douglas, Renee Kelly, Dylan Bennett, Mitch Popadynetz and Andre Perez. Looking ahead The winter season brings a flurry of basketball games back to the Den at L.V. Rogers. The jr. boys Grizzlies Invitational is set for Dec. 13-14 with 12 teams competing; The senior boys and girls fifth annual Kootenay Classic tournament is held Jan. 10-11 at the Den; and Over the Christmas break, the annual Alumni Tournament is scheduled for Boxing Day at the Den. Basketball fans are welcome to come out to support the squads.
OZARK-How to apply for and get those congressional appropriations for your organization was the featured topic at the Lunch and Learn hosted by the Ozark Dale County Economic Development Corporation and the Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce. Representatives from city and county governments, law enforcement, education, and nonprofit organizations heard a legislative update and learned tips on walking through the appropriation process from Melanie Hill, Southeast Alabama Representative for U.S. Sen. Katie Britt. In the second year of her first term in office, Britt has field offices in Tuscaloosa, Hunstville, Aniston, Birmingham, Montgomery, Mobile, and Dothan. Each has a field representative serving as a liaison for citizens with issues involving federal agencies. The Dothan office is base for the 13 Wiregrass counties Hill is responsible for, she said. Hill encouraged those interested in more information about appropriations that have been preliminarily approved to visit Britt’s website, https://www.britt.senate.gov , and clicking on “appropriations requests” under the “priorities” tab. “Our team goes and fights for the money” requested by Britt’s constituents, Hill stressed. The office hopes to be able to fund about 100 projects. The money granted is distributed in the next calendar year, she said. ‘“I’ve known her since she was six years old,” Hill said about the first-term senator and Enterprise native. “I told her when she was 13 years old standing in the Coppinville Junior High School parking lot that I wanted to work for her when she became governor one day,” Hill said. “What she is doing on behalf of people is tremendous,” Hill said. “She reaches across the (political) aisle because she knows the value of doing that. “A lot of the things she deals with are issues for everybody, regardless of their political affiliation,” Hill added. “To get America back where we want it to be, we have to reach across the aisle and come to some agreements.” Britt accepts applications for congressional appropriations via her website, Hill said. Those organizations interested in more details about whether they may qualify for congressional appropriations, can contact her at melanie_hill@britt.senate.gov . Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Staff Writer {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.
Insurgents reach gates of Syria’s capital, threatening to upend decades of Assad ruleNC State and East Carolina meet in next season's opener. But first, the Military Bowl
Every Palantir Investor Should Keep an Eye on This NumberNone
Pierce's 20 lead Presbyterian past Youngstown State 67-42
GENEVA (AFP) – A Roman gold coin bearing the image of Brutus, the assassin of Julius Caesar, will go to auction in Geneva on Monday, with bids set to start above USD850,000. “A numismatist’s eyes light up when beholding a coin like this,” because this is “a piece of history”, said head of the Numismatica Genevensis (NGSA) auction house behind the sale Frank Baldacci. The aureus, the gold coin currency used in ancient Rome, was issued by Brutus and his friends a year or two after they assassinated Roman ruler Caesar in 44 BC, he said. The coin, which weighs eight grammes, is “of immense historical importance both artistically and politically”, NGSA said. Bidding will start at CHF750,000 (USD852,000), but Baldacci said it would likely go for more than CHF1 million. “This could go quite high,” he told AFP , pointing out that the piece was a bit like “the Da Vinci of Roman coins”. This particular aureus features Brutus’ profile framed with laurel leaves on one side. The other celebrates his recent military victories with warlike symbols. It is one of only 17 known examples. The coin was “cast not in Rome but in a mint that travelled with Brutus and his armies as he tried to seize power after the assassination of Julius Caesar”, Baldacci said, adding that it had a “propaganda value”. The laurel wreath is clearly a sign of “someone who wants to promote himself as emperor”, he said, pointing out that ‘IMP’ – for emperor – was engraved next to Brutus’ face, even though he did not hold that title. The coin was struck shortly before the fateful Battle of Philippi in 42 BC, which ended with Brutus killing himself after losing to Octavian and Mark Antony as they sought to avenge Caesar’s death. The aureus has since travelled discreetly through the centuries, with little known about its owners along the way. “But we know that during the Renaissance, there were a lot of princes and lords who had Roman coin collections,” Baldacci said. The coin resurfaced in the 1950s when it was catalogued as part of a private collection. It reappeared again in 2006, when it was put up for auction in Zurich, and sold to a private collector for CHF360,000.
$10M Registered Direct Offering Priced At-The-Market Under Nasdaq RulesRockfire Resources plc ( LON:ROCK – Get Free Report )’s share price was down 8.9% on Friday . The company traded as low as GBX 0.16 ($0.00) and last traded at GBX 0.16 ($0.00). 40,381,969 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 91% from the average daily volume of 21,155,254 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 0.18 ($0.00). Rockfire Resources Stock Performance The firm has a market capitalization of £5.07 million, a PE ratio of -2.20 and a beta of 0.38. The firm’s 50 day moving average price is GBX 0.13 and its 200-day moving average price is GBX 0.15. Rockfire Resources Company Profile ( Get Free Report ) Rockfire Resources plc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the mineral exploration in Australia. The company explores for gold, silver, copper, zinc, lead, and molybdenum deposits. It holds five exploration permits for minerals in Queensland; and an exploration and exploitation license in Greece. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Rockfire Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rockfire Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .
NoneNone