Charvarius Ward will join the list of 49ers missing Monday night’s game against the Lions at Levi’s Stadium after the team ruled him out Sunday afternoon. The veteran cornerback and his girlfriend, Monique Cook, have been expecting the birth of a baby boy. The team cited personal reasons for Ward’s absence after coach Kyle Shanahan indicated Friday that Ward had good news but declined to explain further. Two months ago, Ward and Cook lost their first-born daughter unexpectedly at 23 months old. Ward missed three games in the wake of the devastating loss. As a pending free agent, Ward may have played his last game for the 49ers. He has been with the team the last three seasons after signing as a free agent from Kansas City, earning Pro Bowl honors last year as the top corner on an NFC champion team. He has 51 tackles and seven passes defensed this season after 72 tackles and five interceptions in 2023, including a two-pick, one-touchdown day last Dec. 17 at Arizona . In his absence, more will be thrust on the recently extended Deommodore Lenoir against the Lions’ air attack, and rookie Renardo Green will likely start in Ward’s place. Free agent signee Isaac Yiadom also may see more playing time. Along with Ward, left tackle Trent Williams (ankle) and linebacker Dre Greenlaw (calf) were ruled out earlier this week, as were guards Aaron Banks (knee) and Spencer Burford (calf). Williams was placed on injured reserve and Greenlaw is also out for the season. ©2024 MediaNews Group, Inc. Visit at mercurynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.49ers parting with LB who refused to play Thursday

They will also increasingly give rise to oligarchs. No, unregulated markets are not geared to equilibrium. Over several business cycles, they become controlled by those corporate powers that outperform others. Side effects include the neglect of public goods, the deepening of social disparities and the worsening of ecological problems. For reasons like this, gross domestic product (GDP), which simply counts a country’s annual monetary transactions, does not reveal a good picture of its standard of life. Distribution matters too. However, even high health expenditure as such does not indicate effective social protection. Many people may not have access to medical care. If it is very expensive, but inefficient, moreover, its costs boost GDP, even though patients would be better off if they received better care or needed less of it thanks to healthier lifestyles. In a similar way, environmental harm far too often adds to GDP. That happens when money is spent to repair – or at least alleviate – damages. This is why the UN Development Programme launched the Human Development Index (HDI) in 1990. It takes account of GDP, but is also based on indicators for health and education (life expectancy and literacy rates, for example). The idea was to shift attention from income data to public goods. The HDI is useful, but it has not become the commonly used indicator of economic success. In recent years, moreover, the debate on using more valid yardsticks than growth has waned again. At the time of the collapse of the investment bank Lehman Brothers in 2008, economists were discussing this matter. In the following financial crisis, the momentum was lost. Unfortunately, even the debate on environmental sustainability is becoming increasingly insane. Proponents of artificial intelligence (AI) are now arguing that the climate challenge is so complex that it will require the smartest possible solution, which, in their eyes, only AI programmes will deliver. As these programmes devour huge quantities of energy, Silicon Valley Titans now want to build new nuclear power plants. No, they do not have viable proposals for keeping radioactive waste safe for many centuries. The oligarchs are getting several things wrong. First of all, the legitimacy of policy-making does not depend on how smart a policy is, but whether it finds acceptance. That becomes more likely when it results from good-faith deliberation involving all relevant partners, because that kind of solution is plausible to many different interest groups and thus likely to serve the common interest. Moreover, we know perfectly well what we must do to get a grip on the global environmental crisis. We must muster the political will to stop. The oligopolists are not principally interested in climate change of course. What they really want is to entrench their power with new high-tech business models they control. Plutocrats believe they always know best and are thus entitled to impose their superior will on everyone. In doubt, they will not consult anyone representing other interest groups. They will rely on the AI programmes they have created. There is a growing pattern of plutocrats demanding a smaller state in spite of depending on government contracts, subsidies and bailouts themselves. We now live in the era of hubristic capitalism. Hubris is an ancient Greek concept that can be summed up as “pride that blinds”. Some of capitalism’s most important players today are so full of themselves and so obsessed with their investment ideas that they do not care about where humankind is heading. The focus on financial transactions instead of real-world results serves their interests. The plain truth is that we are witnessing the worst market failure in history: our species is destroying the planet we depend on. - Development And Cooperation( MENAFN - GetNews) In today's fast-paced industrial environment, precision and efficiency are paramount. Whether you're in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or any other industry that relies on meticulous measurements and rapid processes, having the right tools can make a world of difference. Memory Co., Ltd., a leading supplier of industrial automation solutions, is proud to introduce the Keyence LM-1100 – a cutting-edge laser displacement sensor that redefines the benchmarks of accuracy and performance. Designed to meet the evolving demands of modern industries, the Keyence LM-1100 stands as a testament to our commitment to delivering high-quality products that drive operational excellence. The Heart of Precision: The Keyence LM-1100 The Keyence LM-1100 is not just another sensor in the market; it's a game-changer. Engineered with advanced technology and crafted from superior materials, this sensor offers unparalleled precision and reliability. The LM-1100 utilizes state-of-the-art laser technology to measure displacements with an accuracy that is second to none, making it ideal for a wide array of applications ranging from precision machining to automated inspection systems. One of the key highlights of the Keyence LM-1100 is its speed. In industries where time is of the essence, the LM-1100′s rapid measurement capabilities ensure that processes are streamlined and productivity is maximized. Whether you're measuring the thickness of a material, the displacement of a machine part, or monitoring the position of an object in real-time, the LM-1100 delivers results instantaneously, allowing you to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently. Designed for User-Friendly Operation At Memory Co., Ltd., we understand that the best technology is only as good as its usability. The Keyence LM-1100 is designed with a user-centric approach, ensuring that even those with minimal technical expertise can operate it with ease. The intuitive interface and straightforward setup process mean that you can deploy the sensor quickly and start reaping its benefits without the need for extensive training or additional resources. Moreover, the LM-1100′s compact design and robust construction make it ideal for use in a variety of environments. Whether you're working in a dusty factory floor or a sterile laboratory, the LM-1100′s durability and versatility ensure that it performs reliably under all conditions. This makes it an invaluable asset for businesses looking to enhance their operational capabilities without compromising on precision or reliability. Competitive Pricing for All Businesses As a leading exporter of industrial automation solutions, Memory Co., Ltd. is committed to making advanced technology accessible to businesses of all sizes. We understand that the cost of equipment can often be a barrier to innovation and growth. Therefore, we offer competitive pricing for both small and large orders of the Keyence LM-1100, ensuring that even startups and SMEs can benefit from this state-of-the-art technology. Our pricing strategy is not just about being affordable; it's about creating value. By offering the Keyence LM-1100 at competitive rates, we're enabling businesses to invest in technology that can significantly improve their operational efficiency and reduce costs over the long term. Whether you're looking to automate a single process or integrate a comprehensive automation system, the Keyence LM-1100 offers an excellent return on investment, helping you achieve your business goals more efficiently. The Power of Precision in Real-World Applications The versatility of the Keyence LM-1100 makes it a valuable tool in a multitude of industries and applications. In manufacturing, for instance, the sensor can be used to measure the thickness of materials, monitor the alignment of machine parts, and ensure the accuracy of finished products. In the automotive industry, the LM-1100 can be employed in quality control processes to detect defects and ensure that components meet stringent specifications. In aerospace, precision is paramount, and the Keyence LM-1100 excels in this area. From measuring the dimensions of aircraft components to ensuring the accuracy of assembly processes, the LM-1100 provides the level of precision needed to meet the rigorous standards of the aerospace industry. Similarly, in the medical field, the sensor can be used in applications that require meticulous attention to detail, such as the manufacturing of medical devices and the inspection of surgical tools. Why Choose Memory Co., Ltd. for Your Keyence LM-1100 Needs? When it comes to choosing a supplier for your Keyence LM-1100 needs, Memory Co., Ltd. stands out for several reasons. Firstly, our extensive experience in the industrial automation sector means that we have a deep understanding of the challenges faced by businesses like yours. We're not just selling products; we're providing solutions tailored to your specific needs. Secondly, our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is unmatched. We ensure that every Keyence LM-1100 we sell is rigorously tested and certified to meet the highest standards of performance and reliability. Our dedicated customer support team is always available to assist you with any queries or issues you may have, ensuring that you get the most out of your investment. Lastly, our global network of distribution channels means that we can provide the Keyence LM-1100 to businesses worldwide. Whether you're located in Europe, Asia, or anywhere else, we're committed to delivering the highest quality products and services to your doorstep. Conclusion: Embrace the Future of Precision with the Keyence LM-1100 In a world where precision and efficiency are key drivers of success, the Keyence LM-1100 represents a significant leap forward in industrial automation technology. With its unparalleled accuracy, rapid measurement capabilities, and user-friendly design, the LM-1100 is poised to revolutionize the way businesses operate. At Memory Co., Ltd. , we're proud to offer this state-of-the-art sensor to our clients. Our commitment to quality, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer service makes us the ideal partner for businesses looking to enhance their operational capabilities. Don't wait to embrace the future of precision; get in touch with us today and discover how the Keyence LM-1100 can transform your business. MENAFN13122024003238003268ID1108991857 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.

AP Trending SummaryBrief at 5:52 p.m. ESTA SUPERMUM with 12 kids has shared some of her best buys for over the festive period. Zoe Sullivan, 46, husband Ben, 49, and their dozen children make up one of the Scotland 's biggest families. The couple are parents to Elisabeth, 19, Olivia, 18, Noah, 14, Evangeline, 12, Tobias, 11, Agnes, seven, Joseph, six, Florence, two, and two sets of twins - Charlotte and Isabelle, 16, and Leah and Erin, eight. The bumper brood live in a six-bedroom house in Burghead, Moray, where they regularly document their busy lives on their YouTube channel . And this week Zoe visited Aldi to stock up on some of the family 's festive favourite treats. But while she was checking out all the food on offer, she came across a brilliant bargain that's ideal for a youngster this Christmas. The adorable Squishees are a super soft dupe for Squishmallows, which normally retail at around £20. They come in a few different characters, including the new black and white striped Humbug. And they only cost £6.99. Zoe said: "They have these Kevin the Carrot, sort of Squishmallow things and the Bah Humbug Christmas ones, which are quite cute." And Aldi says of the toys: "Uncover our top-secret toys before they're gone! "Kevin and Katie are here to save the day. Snuggle up with Kevin, Katie and the Humbugs Squishees this Christmas, collect the whole gang for the ultimate Kevin the Carrot fan or treat yourself." It wasn't the only festive bargain that Zoe was impressed by. The self-confessed chocolate addict loves the little Christmas choccy lollies from the budget supermarket, which she said are a nice , occasional after-dinner treat for the kids . And they cost just £1.79 for 10. Zoe also says the chocolate Santa is a great buy. It's £1.49, which is around the same price as other shops , but the mega mum reckons Aldi's is bigger than the competition . Meanwhile, the family recently revealed 14 brilliant, bargain stocking fillers to keep the kids happy.

The fifth season of ABC's "Shark Tank" was particularly long — 29 episodes deep. Episode 25 premiered on April 18, 2014, to 6.77 million viewers, according to ratings measured by Nielsen. The first of the week's four pitches was for Ilumi, a smart lightbulb company. Watching the segment is an exercise in how much has changed over a decade, if just how much the price of smart lightbulbs has dropped since the episode was shot. Ilumi's bulbs were close to $100 each, though the company was positioned more as a maker of lighting systems than a singular bulb company, aiming for the high-end market. Ultimately, the ilumi founders would make a deal with Mark Cuban after fielding offers from multiple sharks. This is a case where loyal viewers may be aware that the deal formally closed, as it was the subject of a "Shark Tank Update" segment two seasons later. However, there have been some twists and turns since then. The company still exists, but one of the two co-founders left. Both the name and the mission have changed. By all appearances, the Ilumi name looks like it's on life support, but the rebranded company, Meshtek, seems like it's still going strong after a pivot to specialized Bluetooth technology and other internet-of-things device manufacturers. Swapnil Bora and Corey Egan entered the tank seeking $250,000 for 15% of ilumi, their Bluetooth-connected smart lightbulb business. They demonstrated the smart lightbulb features that we have all become familiar with, from color options to custom routines, before describing how they met while pursuing their MBAs. During that time, they started working on ilumi, and, in the process, won the University of Texas at Dallas's Business Idea Competition, netting a $5,000 prize that they invested back into their business. After explaining that they hadn't hit the market yet, the price point of the bulbs was revealed: $289 for a three-pack of bulbs, with Bora claiming that the bulbs each last up to 20 years and Egan saying that they're aiming for more of a high-end market where the price wasn't an issue and their product was viewed more as a lighting system than a brand of lightbulbs. Barbara Corcoran opted out first, thinking people would not want to control their lights with smartphones or tablets and that the price was too high. Lori Greiner followed, feeling that there were too many competitors to invest without finalized patents. Robert Herjavec, though, offered $350,000 for 35 percent, while Mark Cuban undercut him at 25 percent, and Kevin O'Leary went for 15 percent of licensing deals. Cuban briefly pulled out when Egan wanted to hear the other Sharks' offers, but after Egan asked for a "24 second shot clock" reprieve, they made a deal. Usually, with Mark Cuban deals, the best source to use to determine if the deal closed after the post-shooting due diligence process is the listing of his "Shark Tank" investments on his official website , but Ilumi isn't listed on that page. However, we know that the deal closed because ilumi got an official Shark Tank Update segment during season seven in the episode that opened with the pitch for SmartPlate . In that segment, Cuban joined Swapnil Bora and Corey Egan at the January 2016 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas , where they explained that since the production of their "Shark Tank" episode, ilumi had gone from pre-revenue to $2 million in sales with a pretty extensive network of retail partners. "This isn't a lightbulb company," explained Cuban during the recap segment. "This is a Bluetooth mesh networking company that will be able to control any type of device without having to use the internet." As 2016 rolled on, ilumi seemed intent on following through on what Cuban said in their update, focusing in press releases on their MeshTek branding. Eventually, in 2019, the company was renamed MeshTek Labs, marking its move into the larger "internet of things" market while leveraging its expertise in Bluetooth mesh networking. It's under that name that it's on Cuban's investment list, solving that mystery. When Bora was named Meshtek CEO in 2019, Cuban even lent a quote to the press release, saying MeshTek would "revolutionize how devices are controlled with edge computing and how connectivity will impact daily business activities." MeshTek is still alive and well as a Bluetooth mesh networking company specializing in "internet of things" devices, but the ilumi brand looks like it's more or less dead. As of this writing, there is nothing currently available to order from the ilumi website ; though the website still touts that ilumi products are now available in Best Buy, there are no relevant hits for a search for ilumi on BestBuy.com . Ilumi's official blog has also not been updated since September 2017 despite being updated on a regular basis up to that point. You can still get an ilumi lightbulb at Amazon for $49.99 , but that appears to be long-unsold stock and user reviews are mixed. On the other hand, MeshTek Labs appears to be doing fine. The most recent MeshTek press release in the Gale General OneFile news database (previously InfoTrac) is from November 2023 , and the official company blog is still up-to-date, albeit with less frequent posts than the ilumi blog had in its heyday. Going by the website and most recent press releases, it looks like the company turned into exactly what Mark Cuban predicted, with Meshtek now collaborating with companies that license its Bluetooth mesh technology. As far as the ilumi/MeshTek founders go, their LinkedIn pages indicate that one has left the company. Swapnil Bora is still the CEO of MeshTek, but he assumed that role because cofounder Corey Egan left that post in June 2018, eventually joining Meta in May 2020. Egan's still listed as a co-founder and a member of the board of directors, but he's exited entrepreneurship, working for Meta as a product manager. So far as Meshtek is concerned, if the company blog is any indication, then the company is continuing to make deals with other companies to push Bluetooth mesh networking forward for internet-of-things devices as an alternative to Wi-Fi. The most recent MeshTek press release, from November 2023 , dovetails with this, announcing a partnership with decorative lighting company Minleon USA to bring MeshTek's technology to Christmas lights and the like. "MeshTek's and Minleon's collaboration is leading to a rapid increase of transformative lighting installations that were once cost-prohibitive and complex," said Mark Cuban in the release. " The ability to control and manage hundreds and thousands of devices within millions of sqft area using Bluetooth is a milestone unsurpassed in an everchanging Technological World. The patented, long-range Bluetooth mesh is the brilliance behind the solution and the future of outdoor device connectivity."Caitlin Clark honored as AP Female Athlete of the Year following her impact on women's sports Caitlin Clark has been named the AP Female Athlete of the Year after raising the profile of women’s basketball to unprecedented levels in both college and the WNBA. She led Iowa to the national championship game, was the top pick in the WNBA draft and captured rookie of the year honors in the league. Fans packed sold-out arenas and millions of television viewers followed her journey on and off the court. Clark's exploits also put other women's sports leagues in the spotlight. A group of 74 sports journalists from AP and its members voted on the award. Other athletes who received votes included Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles and boxer Imane Khelif. Clark’s only the fourth women’s basketball player to win the award since it was first given in 1931. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.Lincoln Tech, Johnson Controls Celebrate First Graduating Class from JCI Academy at Denver Campus

Lisa Simpson once said during an episode of “The Simpsons:” What could be more exciting than the savage ballet that is pro football? On Monday night, the entire Simpsons universe gets to experience it in a way not many could have imagined. The prime-time matchup between the Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys will also take place at Springfield’s Atoms Stadium as part of “The Simpsons Funday Football” alternate broadcast. The altcast will be streamed on ESPN+, Disney+, and NFL+ (on mobile devices). ESPN and ABC have the main broadcast, while ESPN2 will carry the final “ManningCast” of the regular season. The replay will be available on Disney+ for 30 days. Globally, more than 145 countries will have access to either live or on replay. “We’re such huge football fans, and the Simpsons audience and the football audience, I feel, are like the same audience of just American families and football. And the Simpsons are so much a part of the DNA of the American family and culture that for us to, like, mush them together in this crazy video game, it’s so fun,” said Matt Selman, executive producer of “The Simpsons.” While the game is the focal point, the alternate broadcast, in some ways, will resemble a three-hour episode of “The Simpsons.” It starts with Homer eating too many hot dogs and having a dream while watching football. Homer joins the Cowboys in the dream while Bart teams up with the Bengals. Lisa and Marge will be sideline reporters. “That’s the beginning of the story, and the story continues through the entire game until Homer wakes up from his dream at the end of the game. It is like a complete story, and the NFL game will happen in between. It’s just going to be an amazing presentation with tons of surprises,” said Michael “Spike” Szykowny, ESPN’s VP of edit and animation. This is the second year ESPN has done an alternate broadcast for an NFL game. It used the characters from “Toy Story” for last year’s Sunday morning game from London between the Atlanta Falcons and Jacksonville Jaguars. “The Simpsons” has featured many sports-themed episodes during its 35 seasons. Even though “Homer at the Bat” remains the consensus favorite sports episode for many Simpsons fans, there have been football ones such as “Bart Star” and “Lisa The Greek.” There also was a Super Bowl-themed one after Fox’s broadcast of Super Bowl 33 between Denver and Atlanta in 1999. Even though “The Simpsons” remains a staple on Fox’s prime-time schedule, it is part of the Disney family after their acquisition of 20th Century Fox in 2019. All 35 seasons are on Disney+. The show’s creators have worked with ESPN and the NFL to make sure the look and sound is definitely Simpsonsesque. The theme song is a mash-up of “The Simpsons” opening and “Monday Night Football’s” iconic “Heavy Action.” There have also been pre-recorded skits and bits to use during the broadcast featuring Simpson’s legendary voices Hank Azaria, Nancy Cartwright, Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, and Yeardley Smith. The telecast will be entirely animated, with the players’ movements in sync with what is happening in real-time on the field. That is done through player-tracking data enabled by the NFL’s Next Gen Stats system and Sony’s Beyond Sports Technology. While Next Gen Stats tracks where players are on the field with a tracking chip in the shoulder pads, there is skeletal data tracking and limb tracking data — which uses 29 points per player — to get closer to the player’s movements. The other data tracking will allow Beyond Sports and Disney to add special characters to the game. For example, there might be a play where Lisa catches the ball and goes 30 yards instead of Cincinnati’s Tee Higgins. “Lisa is much smaller than the rest of the players. So, in real life, the ball would go over her head, but now, with data processing, we can take the ball and make it go exactly into her hands. So for the viewer, it still looks believable, and it all makes sense,” said Beyond Sports co-founder Nicolaas Westerhof. The other major challenge is making “The Simpsons” two-dimensional cartoon characters into 3-D simulations. Szykowny and his team worked to make that a reality over the past couple of months. “That’s a big leap of faith for them to say, hey, we trust you to make our characters 3-D and work with it. Our ESPN creative studio team has done a wonderful job,” Szykowny said. Lisa, Krusty, Nelson, Milhouse and Ralph will be with Bart and the Bengals; while Carl, Barney, Lenny and Moe join up with with Homer and the Cowboys. The broadcast will also feature ESPN personalities Stephen A. Smith, Peyton Manning and Eli Manning. ESPN’s Drew Carter, Mina Kimes and Dan Orlovsky will call the game from Bristol, Connecticut, and also be animated. They will wear Meta Quest Pro headsets to experience the game from Springfield using VR technology. For Kimes, being part of the broadcast and being an animated Simpsons character is a dream come true. She is a massive fan of the show and has a framed photo of Lisa Simpson — who she said is a personal hero and icon — as part of her backdrop when she makes appearances on ESPN NFL shows from her home in Los Angeles. “I didn’t have any input, and I didn’t see anything beforehand, so I wasn’t sure if it would look like me, but it kind of does, which is very funny,” said Kimes, who drew Simpsons characters when she was a kid. “To see the actual staff turn me into one was a dream.” Even though the Bengals (4-8) and Cowboys (5-7) have struggled this season, Selman thinks both teams have personalities that appeal to “The Simpsons” universe. “We were just so lucky also that the Cowboys are sort of like a Homer Simpson-type team, American team, and Mike McCarthy might be a Homer-type guy, one might imagine,” he said. ”And then you have Joe Burrow on the other side who is a cool young, spiky-haired, blonde bad boy -- he’s like Bart. And that fits our character archetypes so perfectly. “If Homer is mad at Bart and has a hot dog dream while watching ’Monday Night Football’, and then it’s basically McCarthy versus Burrow, Homer versus Bart, and that’s the simple father versus son strangling — Homer strangling Bart dynamic that has been part of the show for 35 years. I don’t know if that would have worked as well if it was like Titans versus Jacksonville. We would have found something. We would have made it work.” AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

This photo taken on Sept. 11, 2024 shows the pavilion of Tesla at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong) BEIJING, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- China's fast-growing new-energy sector is not only a domestic success story, but also serves as a global game-changer, offering collaboration dividends across the entire industrial chain and providing a fresh boost to the global economy. This global impact is evident in the Thai government's backing for Chinese automakers to build an electric vehicle supply chain in the country, a move that Surasit Thanadtang, director of the Thai-Chinese Strategic Research Center under the National Research Council of Thailand, deems a smart strategy. Already, several Chinese car manufacturers have established factories in Thailand, including SAIC, Great Wall, BYD and Chery. This influx of Chinese electric vehicles is not only attracting further investment but also inspiring Chinese automotive supply chain companies to expand their presence there. Firms like Gotion High-Tech and SVOLT Energy Technology have set up battery production bases, while electronics manufacturers such as Ningbo Sunrise Elc Technology and Changzhou Aohong Electronics have announced new investments in Thailand. Thailand is tapping into China's knowledge and technical expertise to bolster its own electric vehicle sector, drive technological advancements, and generate employment opportunities, Surasit said. China's foray into the new-energy sector is not an isolated endeavor. It is an open-door policy aimed at fostering growth. This approach has led to an increasing number of multinationals aligning with China's new-energy sector to capitalize on the opportunities it presents. Tesla's rapid development serves as a fitting example. Since the launch of its Shanghai plant in 2019, the facility has leveraged China's comprehensive supply chain system and top-tier intelligent manufacturing capabilities to become the most efficient vehicle factory within Tesla's global network. With the ability to produce a car in less than 40 seconds, the factory has emerged as Tesla's primary global export center. In 2023, it delivered 947,000 vehicles, accounting for more than half of Tesla's global deliveries last year. In April, Mercedes-Benz announced an upgrade to its Shanghai R&D hub to expedite intelligent innovation in China, and Volkswagen Group China declared a 2.5-billion-euro investment to expand its production and innovation center in Hefei, Anhui Province. BMW's production base in Shenyang, northeast China's Liaoning Province, has seen cumulative investments nearing 100 billion yuan (about 13.91 billion U.S. dollars) since 2010. These investments are not just about growth in China but also about leveraging China's expertise to enhance their global competitiveness. "In the past, it was often said that China needs Bosch and its innovative technologies for the development of the country's automotive industry. But today, the narrative has shifted: Bosch also needs China," Xu Daquan, president of Bosch China, said at the second China International Supply Chain Expo in November. China's new-energy industry also helps forge a win-win model for green and low-carbon energy transitions. For instance, the De Aar Wind Farm in South Africa, the first wind power project financed, constructed and operated by a Chinese company in Africa, has eased the local electricity crunch. While in Kenya, the Garissa Solar Power Plant, also built by a Chinese company, has started operations, lifting tens of thousands of households out of energy poverty. China is ready to fulfill its responsibilities as a major developing country by collaborating with others to enhance clean energy industries and supply chains, share knowledge and experience, promote the shift to green and low-carbon energy, and contribute to global sustainable energy development, according to the white paper titled "China's Energy Transition," published in August. Currently, China is collaborating on green energy projects with over 100 countries and regions. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, the average global cost per megawatt-hour for wind and solar power has plummeted by over 60 percent and 80 percent, respectively, over the last decade. A substantial portion of these savings is credited to Chinese innovation, manufacturing prowess, and engineering excellence, which are driving down costs and making renewable energy more accessible worldwide, experts say.Cool, awesome and gimmicky gifts to make your life more fun this year and beyond. 1. Xiaomi 14T Pro (21,990 baht) This top-of-the-line, competitively priced phone combines advanced AI capabilities with high-end hardware and Leica-engineered camera technology. It features a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2712x1220 pixels, supporting a refresh rate of up to 144Hz and a peak brightness of 4,000 nits, ensuring clear visibility even under direct sunlight. You may not get all the bells and whistles as on Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra, but you are getting 90% of what the S24 Ultra offers at about half the price. Moreover, it charges at 120W which is four times faster than Apple's iPhone 16 Pro Max (which can only do 30W). 2. Galaxy Ring (14,900 baht) Bored of fitness trackers and smartwatches but still want a health tracker? This titanium ring can deliver a holistic view of your health. It tracks sleep, heart rate and physical activities and then gives you advice to improve your health accordingly. It only needs to be charged once a week. 3. Ugreen 145W Power Bank 25,000mAh (2,691 baht) If you want a power bank that charges fast, real fast, can charge three devices at the same time, can go on planes and is not too big to carry, this is a great pick. 4. 3D holographic fan (2,450 baht) If you want to live your Star Wars dream of having a holographic projector, this can project still or moving pictures from your phone. 5. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (42,900 baht) If you want a phone that has the best AI capability, best screen, solid speed and battery longevity, metallic build, seven years of guaranteed updates, great zoom capability, together with the best stylus on any phone, you can't go wrong with the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. 6. Govee Curtain Light (6,990 baht) Illuminate your boring curtains with 520 customisable and programmable LED lights. The lights can show images, patterns or interact with the music you play, which can be controlled with a phone app. 7. Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo (9,000 baht) This crazy expensive interactive alarm clock responds to your body's movement with game sounds, so you can feel like you're waking up in the game world itself. Set an alarm inspired by five Nintendo games, with more on the way as free updates later on. 8. JBL Go3 (990 baht) This small cheap waterproof Bluetooth speaker is a great pick for anyone who does not have a speaker yet. It produces sound that punches way above its pay grade. 9. MOFT Snap Phone Tripod Stand (1,290 baht) This handy magnetically attachable phone stand can transform into a selfie stick on a whim and is a must-have for phones that have magnetic capability (or you can get a phone case that has it). 10. Tomtoc Explorer T21 sling bag (1,390 baht) The T21 is a sling bag small enough to be portable but spacious enough for essentials, making it ideal for everyday carry. The bag has multiple compartments, including a main compartment for larger items (like a small tablet or book). I have been carrying a phone, a Nintendo Switch, a wallet, a keychain, multiple cards and a set of wireless earphones in this bag with no issues at all.

Smith also added eight rebounds and four steals for the Paladins (9-1). Garrett Hien scored 10 points while going 5 of 10 and 0 of 4 from the free-throw line and added seven rebounds. Nick Anderson shot 3 for 9 from beyond the arc to finish with nine points. The Tigers (7-4) were led by Xaivian Lee, who posted 16 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Princeton also got 13 points and four assists from Dalen Davis. Caden Pierce also had 11 points and four steals. NEXT UP Up next for Furman is a Saturday matchup with South Carolina State at home, and Princeton hosts Monmouth on Tuesday. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .Special to the Gazette The City of Boston has announced a new program to support Boston homeowners in building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on their property. This initiative, administered by the Boston Home Center (BHC), a division of the Mayor’s Office of Housing, offers a new bank loan option alongside grants and other financial assistance to help cover costs related to designing, permitting, and building an ADU. Additionally, the Planning Department is releasing an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Guidebook, an illustrated manual that will help property owners in Boston who may want to build an ADU on their property. This book is available online, and in all Boston Public Library branches. Building on the Mayor’s leadership to make Boston a home for everyone, these steps are important to increasing the City’s multigenerational housing stock, keeping families together and building wealth. “Accessory Dwelling Units are a powerful tool in our efforts to address the housing crisis in Boston,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “By creating more flexible and affordable living options, ADUs allow homeowners to maximize their property while contributing to the availability of housing in our neighborhoods. This initiative not only supports families looking to generate extra income or house loved ones but also strengthens our communities with more diverse and accessible housing choices.” Through the loan programs, the BHC provides income-eligible owners of 1-3 unit homes who plan to add an ADU with a Technical Assistant Grant of up to $7,500. This grant provides eligible homeowners with targeted funding and staff guidance throughout the pre-construction phases of researching, designing, and permitting their ADU. Additionally, homeowners can apply for an ADU Loan from the City of up to $50,000 to support construction costs. The ADU Loan carries 0% interest and is deferred, meaning there are no monthly payments. Homeowners approved for this program are paired with a BHC Construction Specialist who monitors progress throughout the building process. Eligible homeowners who receive an ADU Loan may also explore additional financing opportunities with participating lenders. To qualify for the program, applicants must meet specific income and asset limits. “Accessory Dwelling Units are an important part of our strategy to expand housing options in Boston,” said Sheila A. Dillon, Chief of Housing. “ADUs give homeowners a way to create additional living spaces that can serve as a source of income, provide housing for family members, and help address the city’s housing needs. By making it easier to build ADUs, we are supporting residents, increasing housing supply, and strengthening neighborhoods.” As part of this effort, the City is also piloting a new ADU Bank Loan in partnership with local banks, Leader Bank, Dedham/Southshore Bank, Needham Bank, and the Cooperative Bank. Recognizing the challenges posed by construction expenses, the Boston Home Center and the Mayor’s Office of New Urban Mechanics initiated a collaboration with Harvard’s Laboratory for Values in the Built Environment and local lending institutions to develop innovative solutions that ensure low- and moderate- income homeowners can access the unique benefits ADUs provide. This resulting loan fills a gap in the market, providing affordable financing to cover construction costs associated with building ADUs. Our research shows that homeowners need new loan products to meet the unique opportunity that rental ADUs can offer homeowners, and provide equitable access to ADU financing,” said Charu Singh, Research Associate at the Laboratory for Values in the Built Environment at Harvard GSD. “I’m proud of the groundbreaking work our group has done to equitably expand the lending toolbox, especially during this time when Boston is struggling with too few housing options and high costs.” Building on Mayor Wu’s commitment to remove barriers to building ADUs across Boston’s neighborhoods, the ADU Guidebook is designed to provide homeowners with practical guidance and inspiration for adding an ADU to their property, whether it is for additional living space, rental income, or housing family members. The ADU Guidebook features realistic, buildable designs tailored to Boston’s neighborhoods. Although the designs will still require permits and may need review by the Zoning Board of Appeal, they offer a clear starting point to help residents more easily move forward with their ADU. It will be available online and at all Boston Public Library branches. “This Guidebook is a fantastic starting point for anyone looking to add another unit to their home, and we hope it will inspire people to see ADUs as an expedient and unique way to add to our housing stock,” said Chief of Planning Kairos Shen. “I look forward to working with the community on new complementary zoning that will make the process of adding an ADU more flexible and affordable.” These initiatives align with the City’s broader zoning reform efforts to enable more housing options across Boston. By updating zoning regulations, the City aims to break down barriers and foster flexible housing solutions. ADUs not only help increase the housing stock but also offer residents opportunities to age in place, provide extra space for growing families, or generate rental income. ADUs can help residents stay in their neighborhoods, adapt their homes, and address their evolving needs. By allowing various forms of ADUs, the City aims to help homeowners fully utilize their properties, create more space, or unlock new income opportunities. Founded in 2010 as one of the first municipal innovation offices in the world, the Mayor’s Office of New Urban Mechanics serves as the City’s civic research and design team, building partnerships between internal and external agencies to pilot projects that increase the quality of life for all of Boston’s residents and visitors. The City of Boston’s Planning Department shapes growth that serves Boston’s residents and centers their needs. Our mission is to address our City’s greatest challenges: resilience, affordability, and equity, and to take real estate actions and prioritize planning, development, and urban design solutions that further these priorities. We seek to build trust with communities through transparent processes that embrace predictable growth and shape a more inclusive city for all.

Another long-running restaurant has announced they will be closing their doors after being in business for 40 years. According to several posts online, Al-E-Oops in Lancaster is set to close next Wednesday, just one day ahead of Thanksgiving. Al-E-Oops is located at 5389 Genesee Street in Lancaster and is known for its BBQ. According to their website, the location of Al-E-Oops was in the same building as the old General Store and Stage Coach which celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2023. There is no word yet if a new restaurant will take over that location when Al-E-Oops closes next week. Al-E-Oops is not the only restaurant that will be shutting down. Both Wendy's and Burger King announced this month that they will be shutting down locations across the country. Both of the fast food chains are closing old/outdated locations with the hope of renovating them and re-opening some of them in 2025. They have not yet announced which locations will be shutting down. This is also the second major closing to happen in Lancaster this year. After 22 years, Save-A-Lot located in the heart of the Village of Lancaster closed down in October. There have been rumors of a Dash's market or another grocery store planning on moving into that space, but nothing has been confirmed. READ MORE: CHECK OUT THE LIST OF RESTAURANTS THAT WILL BE OPEN THIS YEAR ON THANKSGIVING DAY Check Out The Best Wing Deals In Western New York We took to social media and asked where are the best places to grab a deal on wings in Western New York. Gallery Credit: Dave FieldsIlya Samsonov turned aside 31 shots for his 14th career shutout and Tanner Pearson had a goal and an assist as the Vegas Golden Knights extended their season-best winning streak to six games with a 3-0 victory over the Calgary Flames on Sunday night in Las Vegas. It was Samsonov's first shutout with the Golden Knights and marked his sixth win in his past seven starts. Brett Howden and Victor Olofsson also scored goals and Shea Theodore added two assists for Pacific Division-leading Vegas, which improved to an NHL-best 15-3-0 at home. The Golden Knights also moved into a tie with the Winnipeg Jets for the NHL lead in points with 53. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.

Deion: Shedeur Sanders, Travis Hunter insured for bowl game

Palvella Therapeutics Announces Closing of Merger with Pieris Pharmaceuticals and Concurrent ...

GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) — Pjay Smith Jr. scored 23 points as Furman beat Princeton 69-63 on Saturday. Smith also added eight rebounds and four steals for the Paladins (9-1). Garrett Hien scored 10 points while going 5 of 10 and 0 of 4 from the free-throw line and added seven rebounds. Nick Anderson shot 3 for 9 from beyond the arc to finish with nine points. The Tigers (7-4) were led by Xaivian Lee, who posted 16 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Princeton also got 13 points and four assists from Dalen Davis. Caden Pierce also had 11 points and four steals. NEXT UP Up next for Furman is a Saturday matchup with South Carolina State at home, and Princeton hosts Monmouth on Tuesday. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

WASHINGTON — American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide Tuesday because of a technical problem just as the Christmas travel season kicked into overdrive and winter weather threatened more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive. Government regulators cleared American flights to get airborne about an hour after the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a national ground stop for the airline. The order, which prevented planes from taking off, was issued at the airline's request. The airline said in an email that the problem was caused by trouble with vendor technology that maintains its flight operating system. An American Airlines employee wearing looks toward quiet check-in counters Tuesday in the American terminal at Miami International Airport in Miami. Dennis Tajer, a spokesperson for the Allied Pilots Association, a union representing American Airlines pilots, said the airline told pilots at 7 a.m. Eastern that there was an outage affecting the system known as FOS. It handles different types of airline operations, including dispatch, flight planning, passenger boarding, as well as an airplane's weight and balance data, he said. Some components of FOS have gone down in the past, but a systemwide outage is rare, Tajer said. Flights were delayed across American's major hubs, with only 37% leaving on time, according to Cirium, an aviation analytics company. Out of the 3,901 domestic and international American Airlines flights scheduled for Tuesday, 19 were canceled. Cirium noted that the vast majority of flights departed within two hours of their scheduled departure time. A similar percentage — 36% — arrived at their destinations as scheduled. Meanwhile, the flight-tracking site FlightAware reported that 4,058 flights entering or leaving the U.S., or serving domestic destinations, were delayed, with 76 flights canceled. The site had not posted any American Airlines flights on Tuesday morning, but showed in the afternoon that 961 American flights were delayed. Cirium said Dallas-Fort Worth, New York's Kennedy Airport and Charlotte, North Carolina, saw the greatest number of delays. Washington, Chicago and Miami experienced considerably fewer delays. Travelers wait in line for security checks Tuesday at the Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles. Amid the travel problems, significant rain and snow were expected in the Pacific Northwest at least into Christmas Day. Showers and thunderstorms developed in the South. Freezing rain was reported in the Mid-Atlantic region near Baltimore and Washington, and snow fell in New York. Because the holiday travel period lasts weeks, airports and airlines typically have smaller peak days than they do during the rush around Thanksgiving, but the grind of one hectic day followed by another takes a toll on flight crews. Any hiccups — a winter storm or a computer outage — can snowball into massive disruptions. That is how Southwest Airlines stranded 2 million travelers in December 2022, and Delta Air Lines suffered a smaller but significant meltdown after a worldwide technology outage in July caused by a faulty software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike. Many flights during the holidays are sold out, which makes cancellations even more disruptive than during slower periods. That is especially true for smaller budget airlines that have fewer flights and fewer options for rebooking passengers. Only the largest airlines, including American, Delta and United, have "interline agreements" that let them put stranded customers on another carrier's flights. An American Airlines employee wearing a Santa Claus hat walks through the American terminal Tuesday at Miami International Airport in Miami. This will be the first holiday season since a Transportation Department rule took effect that requires airlines to give customers an automatic cash refund for a canceled or significantly delayed flight. Most air travelers were already eligible for refunds, but they often had to request them. Passengers still can ask to get rebooked, which is often a better option than a refund during peak travel periods. Finding a last-minute flight on another airline tends to be expensive. An American spokesperson said Tuesday was not a peak travel day for the airline — with about 2,000 fewer flights than the busiest days — so the airline had somewhat of a buffer to manage the delays. The groundings happened as millions of travelers were expected to fly over the next 10 days. The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen 40 million passengers through Jan. 2. Airlines expect to have their busiest days on Thursday, Friday and Sunday. American Airlines employees check in travelers Tuesday in the American terminal at Miami International Airport in Miami. Many flights during the holidays are sold out, which makes cancellations more disruptive than during slower periods. Even with just a brief outage, the cancellations have a cascading effect that can take days to clear up. About 90% of Americans traveling far from home over the holidays will be in cars, according to AAA. "Airline travel is just really high right now, but most people do drive to their destinations, and that is true for every holiday," AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz said. Gasoline prices are similar to last year. The nationwide average Thursday was $3.04 a gallon, down from $3.13 a year ago, according to AAA. Charging an electric vehicle averages just under 35 cents per per kilowatt hour, but varies by state. Transportation-data firm INRIX says travel times on the nation's highways could be up to 30% longer than normal over the holidays, with Sunday expected to see the heaviest traffic. "It's not the destination, it's the journey," said American essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson. Ralph clearly was not among the travellers on one of more than 350 cancelled or 1,400 delayed flights after a worldwide tech outage caused by an update to Crowdstrike's "Falcon Sensor" software in July of 2023. U.S. airlines carried nearly 863 million travellers in 2023, with Canadian carriers accounting for another 150 million, many of whom experienced lost luggage, flight delays, cancellations, or were bumped off their flights. It's unclear how many of them were compensated for these inconveniences. Suffice it to say, posting a crabby rant on social media might temporarily soothe anger, but it won't put wasted money back in pockets. Money.ca shares what to know in order to be compensated for the three most common air travel headaches. Bags elected to go on a vacay without you? Check off the following: If you expect a large payout, think again. Tariffs (air carrier contracts) limit the compensation amounts for "loss of, damage to, or the delay in delivery of baggage or other personal property." In the case of Air Canada, the maximum payout is $1,500 per passenger in the currency of the country where the baggage was processed. To raise that limit, purchase a Declaration of Higher Value for each leg of the trip. The charge is $0.50 for each $100, in which case the payout limit is $2,500. For Delta Air Lines, passengers are entitled to up to $3,800 in baggage compensation, though how much you'll receive depends on your flight. Delta will pay up to $2,080 for delayed, lost, and damaged baggage for international travellers, almost half of what U.S. domestic passengers can claim. If your flight is marked delayed for more than 30 minutes, approach the gate agent and politely request food and hotel vouchers to be used within the airport or nearby. Different air carriers and jurisdictions have their own compensation policies when flights are delayed or cancelled. For example, under European Union rules, passengers may receive up to 600 Euros, even when travelling on a non-EU carrier. Similarly, the DOT states that travellers are entitled to a refund "if the airline cancelled a flight, regardless of the reason, and the consumer chooses not to travel." However, US rules regarding delays are complicated. Some air carriers, such as Air Canada, do not guarantee their flight schedules. They're also not liable for cancellations or changes due to "force majeure" such as weather conditions or labour disruptions. If the delay is overnight, only out-of-town passengers will be offered hotel accommodation. Nevertheless, many airlines do offer some compensation for the inconvenience. If your flight is marked delayed for more than 30 minutes, approach the gate agent and politely request food and hotel vouchers to be used within the airport or nearby. In terms of cash compensation, what you'll get can differ significantly based on things like departure location, time, carrier, and ticket class. The DOT offers a helpful delay and cancellations dashboard designed to keep travellers informed about their compensation rights. The dashboard is particularly helpful because, as the DOT states on its website, "whether you are entitled to a refund depends on a lot of factors—such as the length of the delay, the length of the flight, and your particular circumstances." The Canadian Transportation Agency is proposing air passenger protection regulations that guarantee financial compensation to travellers experiencing flight delays and cancellations, with the level of compensation varying depending on the situation and how much control the air carrier had. The proposed regulations include the following: The airline is obligated to complete the passenger's itinerary. If the new ticket is for a lower class of service, the air carrier would have to refund the cost difference; if the booking is in a higher class of service, passengers cannot be charged extra. If the passenger declines the ticket, the airline must give a full refund, in addition to the prescribed compensation. For overnight delays, the air carrier needs to provide hotel accommodation and transportation free-of-charge. Again, if you are unsatisfied, the Canadian Transportation Agency or Department of Transportation may advocate on your behalf. Passengers get bumped because airlines overbook. When this happens, the air carrier must compensate you. For international flights in the US, the rate is 200% of your one-way fare to your final destination, with a $675 maximum. If the airline does not make travel arrangements for you, the payout is 400% of your one-way fare to a maximum of $1,350. To qualify, you must check-in by the stated deadline, which on international flights can be up to 3 hours ahead. Keep in mind that if you accept the cash, you are no longer entitled to any further compensation, nor are you guaranteed to be rebooked on a direct flight or similar type of seat. Don't be too quick to give up your boarding pass. Negotiate for the best compensation deal that would include cash, food and hotel vouchers, flight upgrade, lounge passes, as well as mileage points. But avoid being too greedy—if the gate attendant is requesting volunteers and you wait too long, you'll miss the offer. According to Air Canada's tariff, if a passenger is involuntarily bumped, they'll receive $200, in cash or bank draft, for up to a two-hour delay; $400 for a 2-6 hours delay; and $800 if the delay is over six hours. (Air Canada was forced to raise its payouts in 2013 due to passenger complaints.) The new rules would raise the payout significantly: $900 for up to six hours; $1,800 for 6-9; and $2,400 for more than nine hours, all to be paid within 48 hours. Statistically speaking, Delta Airlines is the carrier most likely to bump. A few years ago, Delta raised its payout maximum to $9,950, while United Airlines tops out at $10,000. This story was produced by Money.ca and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Get local news delivered to your inbox!