Jaipur: Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani said on Saturday that the set of allegations being levelled against the conglomerate in the US was another attack on the group from which it would emerge stronger and more resilient. Addressing the 51st Indian Gems and Jewellery Award function, the Adani Group Chairman referred to the “set of allegations from the US about compliance practices at Adani Green Energy” as one of the three attacks that had taken place against the Adani Group recently. “This is not the first time we have faced such challenges. What I can tell you is that every attack makes us stronger and every obstacle becomes a stepping stone for a more resilient Adani Group,” he said. “The fact is that despite a lot of the vested reporting, no one from the Adani side has been charged with any violation of the FCPA or any conspiracy to obstruct justice. Yet, in today’s world, negativity spreads faster than facts – and as we work through the legal process, I want to re-confirm our absolute commitment to world-class regulatory compliance,” Gautam Adani contended. Listing the other two attacks, he said: “First – in 2010, when we were investing in a coal mine in Australia, our objective was clear: How to make India energy secure – and replace every two tons of poor-quality Indian coal with one ton of high-quality coal from Australia? However, the resistance from NGOs was huge and lasted almost a decade.” He said the opposition was so intense that the group ended up funding the entire project of $10 billion with its own equity. “While we now have a world-class operating mine in Australia and it could be seen as a great sign of our resilience, the fact is that 100 per cent equity funding took away over $30 billion of debt financing from our green energy projects,” Gautam Adani said. “The next example is from January last year, just as we were getting ready to launch our Follow-on Public Offering. We faced a short-selling attack initiated from abroad. This was not a typical financial strike; it was a double hit – targeting our financial stability and pulling us into a political controversy. All of this was further amplified by certain media with vested interests. But even in the face of such adversity, our commitment to our principles remained strong,” the Adani Group chief pointed out. He said that after successfully raising Rs 20,000 crore from India’s largest-ever FPO, the group made the extraordinary decision to return the proceeds. “We then further demonstrated our resilience by raising capital from several international sources and proactively reducing our Debt to EBITDA ratio to below 2.5 times, an unmatched metric in the global infrastructure space,” he said. Gautam Adani further stated that the all-time record financial results of the group in the same year showcased its commitment to operational excellence. Not a single Indian or foreign credit rating agency downgraded the Adani Group and finally, the Supreme Court’s “affirmation of our actions validated our approach”, he added. He also said that over the years, he had come to accept that the roadblocks have to be faced as the price of pioneering. “The more bold your dreams, the more the world will scrutinize you. But it is precisely in that scrutiny that you must find the courage to rise, to challenge the status quo, and to build a path where none exists. To pioneer is to embrace the unknown, to break limits, and to believe in your vision even when the world cannot yet see it,” Gautam Adani asserted.

He said: "I've had the most incredible opportunity to serve in a role that not only challenged me, but allowed me to grow, to learn and to make meaningful contributions alongside a talented and passionate team. "I am immensely grateful for the support, collaboration and friendships formed during these last four years. It's been a remarkable journey, and I look forward to carrying the skills and insights I've gained into my next appointments." The Lieutenant also highlighted how he had the honour of playing "a small part" in the April 2021 funeral of Prince Philip, the June 2022 Platinum Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth and the monarch's funeral three months later, as well as the May 2023 coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla - and "all the weird and wonderful in between". He went on: "There were engagements when our whole Household was involved, every single person, and there were times when I was quite rightly standing alone, calling the shots and backing the shots I'd taken. "It's now time to swap the top hat and tails for 'daily working rig' once again, and it's the right thing to do." He is leaving his role as equerry to return to his post in the Royal Navy, where he has served for nearly 24 years, according to the Daily Mail. Equerries are officers from one of the three branches of the Armed Forces who are chosen to assist senior royals in their respective royal duties, from organising public engagements to arranging their official schedules. Around six equerries work in the Royal Household at any given time and are appointments generally lasting about three years. Minnie Driver has joined the growing number of Hollywood stars going fresh-faced. 'The Serpent Queen' actress, 54, showed off make-up free selfies online and opened up on Instagram about why she regularly goes "without a scrap" of cosmetics. She captioned the pictures: "Ok, I'm pretty vain, so posting pictures without a scrap of makeup and un-touched up, are rare. "The only reason I'm doing it now is because I've been ill, I have felt everyone of my years recently and I'm pretty astonished that my friend Keren can make me look like this: Christmas glow without the 5 mulled wines." Minnie's fans filled the comments section of her post with praise for her "normalising" the make-up free look. It comes days after Jamie Lee Curtis honoured Pamela Anderson for going make-up free on red carpets. The 'Halloween' actress, who turned 66 last week, shared a barefaced picture on her social media to pay tribute to the 57-year-old former Baywatch star's continuing fresh-faced look which she has been sporting on red carpets since last year. Jamie captioned her image: "Just out of the shower selfie. Honouring @pamelaanderson @lastshowgirl and her no make-up ownership of self. "Sober. Strong. Steady on." Jamie was referring to her new film 'The Last Showgirl' in which she stars alongside Pamela. The actress added about her look: "Just noticed that it looks like I have mascara on, which is clearly a remnant of my workday yesterday. Clearly, mommy didn't wash her face very well." Jamie was one of Pamela's cheerleaders when the former pin-up went viral for her fresh-faced look at Paris Fashion Week couture shows last year. Pamela told last year how her decision to go fresh-faced was sparked by the passing of her make-up artist Alexis Vogel, who died in 2019 of breast cancer. She also decided to go "against the grain" by defying a trend for heavy make-up, saying the move felt "freeing, fun and a little rebellious".Penn State is now 12-2 after 14 games, with an opportunity to make the college football playoff’s Final Four with a quarterfinal win over 12-1 Boise State in the Dec. 31 Fiesta Bowl. Only four Penn State teams have won 12 games – the 1973 unbeaten team (12-0), the 1986 unbeaten national championship team (12-0), the 1994 unbeaten team (12-0) and the 2024 team. A victory over the Broncos would give these Lions more wins in a season than another team in program history. PSU is a prohibitive favorite over Boise State, as well. The Lions’ 38-10 victory over SMU on Saturday at Beaver Stadium was also James Franklin’s 100th win at Penn State. He has a career mark of 100-41. Playing in severe cold and wind, it was not a great day for the quarterbacks. SMU’s Kevin Jennings threw three interceptions, two of them returned for touchdowns by PSU linebackers Dom DeLuca and Tony Rojas. Drew Allar completed 13 of 22 passes for 127 yards. He missed some throws early, something Allar admitted afterward. “I had plenty of missed throws in that first quarter,” Allar said on Saturday. “I need to get the ball to the playmakers in space and allow them to show off their abilities.” For the season, Allar has completed 237 of 346 passes (68.4 percent) for 3,021 yards and 21 touchdowns. Allar has also run for six scores. Following the victory, Allar was asked about him winning “big” games at Penn State, and if the SMU victory qualified as a big win. Allar was also asked about Franklin winning big games and if the Lions’ program had made a “statement” with its effort against the Mustangs. Allar, who has announced he will return to Penn State for a fourth season in 2025, had plenty to say. “I don’t care what anyone says about me, my team, or my coach,” Allar said. “At the end of the day, our process is our process. The only things that matter are the ones that are in the building, day to day, and know what’s going on behind the scenes. “In terms of coach Franklin, he gets a lot of criticism that’s undeserved, and he’s done a lot more than people give him credit for. “Obviously, winning his 100th game, it’s special to be a part of that and be the team that was able to deliver that 100th game win to him. To have it on a stage like the playoffs and at home in Beaver Stadium, it’s truly special.” Allar added: “We don’t take these moments for granted, but at the end of the day, me personally, I don’t care what anybody said about me from the outside, just because, I saw a quote. Like, why would you take criticism from somebody that you would never take advice from? That kind of sticks with me. “There’s a lot of people out there that don’t really know what goes on behind the scenes, and it is what it is. It’s part of playing at a place like Penn State. “It’s, again, sticking to our guns and sticking to our process.” · BETTING: Check out our guide to the best PA sportsbooks , where our team of sports betting experts has reviewed the experience, payout speed, parlay options and quality of odds for multiple sportsbooks. · Sign up for the PennLive’s Penn State newsletters, the daily Penn State Today and the subscriber-exclusive Penn State Insider ©2024 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit pennlive.com . Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Only 60-70 Maoists Active in Odisha, Most of Them From Andhra: BSF

AP Sports SummaryBrief at 5:52 p.m. EST

Te Pāti Māori co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer has backed departing All Black TJ Perenara, after he used the side's haka ahead of their match against Italy to show support for the recent hikoi. "Toitū te mana o te whenua, toitū te mana motuhake, toitū te Tiriti o Waitangi," Perenara said at the weekend in front of the crowd in Turin , which translated as "the sovereignty of the land remains, the sovereignty of the people remains, the Treaty of Waitangi remains". The statement came after tens of thousands took part in a hikoi to Parliament , expressing opposition to the government's controversial Treaty Principles Bill. "I think it was awesome," Ngarewa-Packer said of Perenara's addition to the haka. "I mean, you know, a huge mihi to him and what he's achieved and done in his career, but also to bring rise to the mana of te Tiriti, to the mana that he has in that role, the mana of the haka - which Ngati Toa were really supportive of using during the hīkoi. She criticised the All Blacks' organisation, which cut the phrase from a video of the haka uploaded to its social media accounts. "I think there's just been, you know, sadly an under-reaction and a real lack of connection from the All Blacks in changing the haka on Instagram and on social media to not actually understand the mana of what he was saying and doing and and that's, that's a real shame," she told Morning Report on Monday. "He just simply said quite beautifully, 'the mana and the strength of our land, the mana and the strength of our autonomy and the mana of te Tiriti o Waitangi', which, you know, te Tiriti is you know, is the most mana document, which is why you're seen certainly the reaction to the [Treaty] Principles Bill. "But I actually think to remind the mana of the unity intended of te Tiriti and to sort of keep everybody, you know, more balanced and mindful that there is mana in our haka, there is mana in Māori. And this is an example of how we use it to protect each other. And I think that's sad that it's, it's been, you know, confused and used in a way that you know, to be honest for them to cut it, it shows that they're almost, you know, not proud of te Tiriti and getting caught up in the ACT narrative, which is really, really disturbing." The bill was introduced as a part of National's coalition agreement with ACT. ACT leader and bill architect David Seymour said sports stars were not necessarily authorities on political matters. "Because someone is very good at rugby, for example, doesn't mean that they have any extra expertise. In fact, the point of the Treaty Principles Bill is that everybody can read it and make up their mind, regardless of how famous they are." He welcomed Perenara raising awareness of the bill, but wished the 32-year-old 89-test veteran had focused more on the game. "What TJ Perenara has done is point people to the bill, encourages them to go and read it so people can make up their own mind and the arguments we're advancing for it. So, yes, I mean, in a way he's doing exactly what I hope people would do, although I also hoped they'd put a few more points on Italy." The All Blacks won the game 29-11, but in unconvincing fashion . New Zealand Rugby recently added a line into its constitution, acknowledging Māori as tangata whenua and Te Tiriti ō Waitangi as the country's founding document. Ngarewa-Packer said the All Blacks, like Parliament, could not enjoy an association with some aspects of Māori culture while rejecting others. Seymour criticised Te Pāti Māori's use of a haka in the House to protest the Treaty Principles Bill. "You cannot use our culture for performative, for entertainment and when it suits the commercial, you know, or the needs of the organisation, when its true intent, it's authenticity and intent of the emotion and messaging, it's no longer wanted by the organisation - you just don't get to have it both ways. "That's part of the tikanga that we're contending with in the House - want to do karakia Māori, want to do karanga Māori, waiata Māori. But if we use our tikanga [authentically] or in our deep, you know, emotions, then suddenly it's not wanted. So you just don't get it both ways." National has said it will vote the Treaty Principles Bill down at its second reading, but not before several months of consultation and the select committee process. Several former National Party MPs have criticised the bill, including former Prime Minister Dame Jenny Shipley and former Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson . Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.The happiest country in the world... and the longest-lived Costa Rica offers experiences to enjoy that romantic or family trip with nature, adventure, culture, gastronomy, and relaxation in equal parts. These are 15 reasons to visit: Pura Vida Happiness The happiness of the country of Pura Vida is written in its DNA. Costa Rica is one of the fastest-growing international destinations, where tourism is one of the driving forces of the Costa Rican economy. It is one of the oldest democracies in the Americas, and it is a peaceful country that abolished its army more than 70 years ago. Moreover, it is home to one of the five Blue Zones in the world, the Nicoya Peninsula. It is the only Blue Zone in Ibero-America and the largest in area, with more than 800 inhabitants over 90 years old. Discover a route dedicated to cheese In the Turrialba area, known for its Volcano, one of the “big ones” in Costa Rica along with the Arenal Volcano, Irazú Volcano, and Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, a thematic route has also been developed taking advantage of the origin designation of “Turrialba Cheese,” one of its most characteristic products. In addition to gastronomy, the family can also delve into “tica” culture with a visit to the Guayabo National Monument or experience nature at the Turrialba Volcano National Park, which has reopened its doors after several years of closure. Experience “Wellness Pura Vida” Getting a massage with volcanic stones heated in water with temperatures between 50 and 65 degrees and placed therapeutically on the skin, like the outdoor spa treatments on Montezuma beach in the province of Puntarenas; or bathing in volcanic water and mud at certified sites such as the hot springs near the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano in Guanacaste or La Fortuna de San Carlos, will allow you to enjoy a relaxing bath in the heart of nature. Observe a sloth up close In the rural areas of Costa Rica, it is possible to encounter a sloth slowly crossing the street or resting in the treetop next to the road. Discovering nature in the country with the highest biodiversity density in the world With over half a million species, Costa Rica has 6.5% of the world’s biodiversity and stands out as one of the best places in the world to explore flora and fauna. A quarter of its territory is protected by national parks and reserves, and these places have an astonishing variety of ecosystems, including tropical rainforest, dry tropical forest, cloud forest, mangrove forest, the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific coast, and miles and miles of coastal reefs. Moreover, the great diversity of flora and fauna that can be seen at a glance is the best learning about biodiversity. Birdwatching in Sarapiquí The Sarapiquí area is located north of the province of Heredia and Turrialba in the province of Cartago, situated less than three hours from San José, the capital of Costa Rica. It has a wide range of tourism products in adventure activities, nature, birdwatching, and cultural rescue elements. In addition to Braulio Carrillo National Park, the city of Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí is an interesting destination for its identity and wealth. Savor the local cuisine The traditional gallo pinto, the tamal asado, the empanada with chicharrones... Costa Rican cuisine opens up to the palate in a combination of flavors and aromas that will leave no one indifferent. In just over 51,000 kilometers, Costa Rica has 12 climatic zones and a series of microclimates that make the harvest and variety of numerous fruits and vegetables possible. The best way to enjoy it is with juices and natural sodas, common in all the country’s restaurants and cafes. Among the fruits, you can find papaya, banana, pineapple, and passion fruit, but Costa Rica also has local products like cashew fruit, which comes from the mango family and is frequently used to make a drink similar to lemonade. Another local product is pejibaye, which is usually served with mayonnaise. Enjoying one of the best coffees in the world Savoring a tico coffee will be the crowning touch of the after-meal conversations for lovers of this beverage. To gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture surrounding coffee, guided tours are organized in different regions of the country that explain the origin and processing of the bean at its various stages. The family will also be able to sample other sweet delights of Costa Rican cuisine such as milk cajetas, snow cones, cotton candy, or biscuits. Beer tour in “Chepe” “Chepe” is the affectionate name for the capital of Costa Rica, San José. A fun and curious way to get to know the city is through a craft beer tour where you can try different styles of Costa Rican beer and the most suitable pairing for each style. Accompanied by a beer expert, you can also discover San José at night with the history of its most emblematic neighborhoods. Acquiring an ox cart as a keepsake The traditional “ox cart” in Costa Rica is not just a typical carriage, but it has become the most recognized craft in the country, also declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. The colorful and unique art of painting carts from the Sarchí area in the province of Alajuela will leave no one indifferent. In the past, they were used to transport coffee, but now the ox carts in Costa Rica are a symbol of the country’s cultural heritage, and they are painted with bright colors and unique designs that turn them into works of art. Additionally, travelers will find numerous souvenirs that recreate this very particular decoration. Participate in a cacao ceremony The cacao bean is full of magnesium, calcium, and antioxidants and is considered to have heart benefits. To experience its health benefits and discover the history and culture of Costa Rica, nothing is better than participating in a cacao ceremony in the style of the indigenous peoples. Thus, sitting in a circle, you can enjoy the ceremonial drink, made from boiled cacao beans, and participate in the chants accompanied by traditional instruments. Adventure in the Heights Costa Rica is a land of volcanoes (some of them active); humid and misty tropical forests, enormous waterfalls, and rushing rivers. This generous nature offers the traveler a varied range of activities to discover the country from above. Hanging bridges like those in the Monteverde region, zip lines or canopy tours, or cable cars will be the options offered to appreciate the beautiful “tico” landscape from above. Staying in an eco-friendly hotel Costa Rica is a pioneer in ecotourism and sustainable tourism. The country has a wide variety of eco-friendly accommodations that allow tourists to reduce their ecological footprint during their visit. From places with beach bungalows, tents, and old farms to hotels with solar energy or luxury establishments, there is a wide selection throughout the country that allows visitors to travel sustainably anywhere in Costa Rica. Walking on a sand whale tail The Marino Ballena National Park, on the southwest Pacific coast, is a renowned spot for humpback whale watching, but it is also known for the sand formation called the Tombolo. During low tide, this formation looks from the air like a whale’s tail, and from the land, you can walk on it, observing a real whale’s tail. In addition to Uvita Beach, where the tombolo is located, there are other beaches within the Protected Wilderness Area: Bahía, Colonia, Ballena, Arco, and Piñuelas, and even without spotting whales in the sea, the views are spectacular. Rafting on the Pacuare River The Pacuare River is one of the most well-known in Costa Rica for its intense rapids and for kayaking. This couple’s experience will demonstrate the level of complicity between them in jumps and maneuvers while navigating one of the most famous courses in the world for this activity. Additionally, just a six-hour drive apart, surfing enthusiasts can practice their favorite sport in two oceans due to Costa Rica’s size and location. Tags costa rica costa rica news Daily News National News news news costa rica visit costa rica Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — A fight broke out at midfield after Michigan stunned No. 2 Ohio State 13-10 on Saturday as Wolverines players attempted to plant their flag and were met by Buckeyes who confronted them. Police had to use pepper spray to break up the players, who threw punches and shoves in the melee that overshadowed the rivalry game. Ohio State police said in a statement “multiple officers representing Ohio and Michigan deployed pepper spray.” Ohio State police will investigate the fight, according to the statement. After the Ohio State players confronted their bitter rivals at midfield, defensive end Jack Sawyer grabbed the top of the Wolverines' flag and ripped it off the pole as the brawl moved toward the Michigan bench. Eventually, police officers rushed into the ugly scene. Ohio State coach Ryan Day said he understood the actions of his players. “There are some prideful guys on our team who weren't going to sit back and let that happen,” Day said. The two Ohio State players made available after the game brushed off questions about it. Michigan running back Kalel Mullings, who rushed for 116 yards and a touchdown, didn't like how the Buckeyes players involved themselves in the Wolverines' postgame celebration. He called it “classless.” “For such a great game, you hate to see stuff like that after the game," he said in an on-field interview with Fox Sports. “It’s just bad for the sport, bad for college football. But at the end of the day, you know some people got to — they got to learn how to lose, man. ... We had 60 minutes, we had four quarters, to do all that fighting.” Michigan coach Sherrone Moore said everybody needs to do better. “So much emotions on both sides," he said. "Rivalry games get heated, especially this one. It’s the biggest one in the country, so we got to handle that better.” Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

Three people were killed in a Monday afternoon shooting that left five others wounded in the Chicago Lawn neighborhood on the Southwest Side, according to the Chicago Fire Department. The shooting occurred about 2 p.m. near West 59th Street and South St. Louis Avenue, CFD spokesman Larry Langford said. Police Department Chief of Patrol Jon Hein said there were no suspects in custody as of about 5:15 p.m. The victims were four men and four women and ranged in age from 20 to 35, Hein said. Three of the men died of their wounds. The Fire Department transported six to local hospitals while two of the victims took themselves for medical treatment, he said. Police had been called to the address before, he said. Hein was unable to give many details about the shooting but said it appeared to have taken place at a social gathering. “We have eight victims and we’re going to solve this crime and find the individuals responsible for this terrible incident,” he said. At about 4:15 p.m., some neighbors were still waiting to be let back into their homes. Ralph Campos, 61, said he lived next door to the house where the shooting occurred. The current occupants had only lived there for a few months, he said. Campos was waiting inside Nutrition59, a smoothie and tea shop across the street from the home. He peered outside the window. He said he couldn’t remember any trouble with his neighbors but said he would see two young women out front often. Maria Guadarrama-Garcia, 38, said it was her second day in business as a co-owner of Nutrition59. She spoke with her husband, Jesus Sanchez, 43, translating. She had been putting out flyers and menus with the music turned up when a neighbor called and told her to lock the door and hide. “We got this business in this area and we thought it was kind of good,” Sanchez said. “And then look, this was our second day.” A few drops of blood were on the floor of the business. Neither Sanchez nor Guadarrama-Garcia were sure how it got there.New York, November 30 (QNA) - The main US stock indexes ended Friday's trading session higher. The Standard & Poor's 500 index rose by 0.56 percent to reach 6,032.44 points. The Nasdaq Composite Index rose by 113.80 points, or 0.83 percent, to record 19,218.17 points. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 136.31 points, or 0.42 percent, to reach 44,910.65 points.

Inconsistent Lightning set to face improving AvalancheThree people were killed in a Monday afternoon shooting that left five others wounded in the Chicago Lawn neighborhood on the Southwest Side, according to the Chicago Fire Department. The shooting occurred about 2 p.m. near West 59th Street and South St. Louis Avenue, CFD spokesman Larry Langford said. Police Department Chief of Patrol Jon Hein said there were no suspects in custody as of about 5:15 p.m. The victims were four men and four women and ranged in age from 20 to 35, Hein said. Three of the men died of their wounds. The Fire Department transported six to local hospitals while two of the victims took themselves for medical treatment, he said. Police had been called to the address before, he said. Hein was unable to give many details about the shooting but said it appeared to have taken place at a social gathering. “We have eight victims and we’re going to solve this crime and find the individuals responsible for this terrible incident,” he said. At about 4:15 p.m., some neighbors were still waiting to be let back into their homes. Ralph Campos, 61, said he lived next door to the house where the shooting occurred. The current occupants had only lived there for a few months, he said. Campos was waiting inside Nutrition59, a smoothie and tea shop across the street from the home. He peered outside the window. He said he couldn’t remember any trouble with his neighbors but said he would see two young women out front often. Maria Guadarrama-Garcia, 38, said it was her second day in business as a co-owner of Nutrition59. She spoke with her husband, Jesus Sanchez, 43, translating. She had been putting out flyers and menus with the music turned up when a neighbor called and told her to lock the door and hide. “We got this business in this area and we thought it was kind of good,” Sanchez said. “And then look, this was our second day.” A few drops of blood were on the floor of the business. Neither Sanchez nor Guadarrama-Garcia were sure how it got there.

“Barbenheimer” was a phenomenon impossible to manufacture. But, more than a year later, that hasn’t stopped people from trying to make “Glicked” — or even “Babyratu” — happen. The counterprogramming of “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” in July 2023 hit a nerve culturally and had the receipts to back it up. Unlike so many things that begin as memes, it transcended its online beginnings. Instead of an either-or, the two movies ultimately complemented and boosted one another at the box office. This combination of images shows promotional art for "Gladiator II," left, and "Wicked." Uncredited - handout one time use, ASSOCIATED PRESS And ever since, moviegoers, marketers and meme makers have been trying to recreate that moment, searching the movie release schedule for odd mashups and sending candidates off into the social media void. Most attempts have fizzled (sorry, “Saw Patrol” ). People are also reading... This weekend is perhaps the closest approximation yet as the Broadway musical adaptation “Wicked” opens Friday against the chest-thumping sword-and-sandals epic “Gladiator II.” Two big studio releases (Universal and Paramount), with one-name titles, opposite tones and aesthetics and big blockbuster energy — it was already halfway there before the name game began: “Wickiator,” “Wadiator,” “Gladwick” and even the eyebrow raising “Gladicked” have all been suggested. Movie review: 'Wicked' is designed to wow and wow again “'Glicked' rolls off the tongue a little bit more,” actor Fred Hechinger said at the New York screening of “Gladiator II” this week. “I think we should all band around ‘Glicked.’ It gets too confusing if you have four or five different names for it.” As with “Barbenheimer," as reductive as it might seem, “Glicked” also has the male/female divide that make the fan art extra silly. One is pink and bright and awash in sparkles, tulle, Broadway bangers and brand tie-ins; The other is all sweat and sand, blood and bulging muscles. Both films topped Fandango’s most anticipated holiday movie survey, where 65% of respondents said that they were interested in the “Glicked” double feature. Theaters big and small are also pulling out the stops with movie-themed tie-ins. B&B Theaters will have Roman guards tearing tickets at some locations and Maximus popcorn tubs. Marcus Theaters is doing Oz photo ops and friendship bracelet-making. Alamo Drafthouse is leaning into the singalong aspect (beware, though, not all theaters are embracing this) and the punny drinks like “Defying Gravi-Tea.” This image released by Universal Pictures shows Cynthia Erivo, left, and Ariana Grande in a scene from the film "Wicked." Uncredited - handout one time use, ASSOCIATED PRESS “Rather than it being in competition, I think they’re in conversation,” “Gladiator II” star Paul Mescal said. “This industry needs a shot in the arm. Those films gave it last year. We hope to do it this year.” And the hope is that audiences will flock to theaters to be part of this moment as well. It's a sorely needed influx of could-be blockbusters into a marketplace that's still at an 11% deficit from last year and down 27.2% from 2019, according to data from Comscore. Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack “Competition is good for the marketplace. It’s good for consumers,” said Michael O'Leary, the president and CEO of the National Association of Theatre Owners. “Having two great movies coming out at the same time is simply a multiplier effect.” “Glicked” is currently tracking for a combined North American debut in the $165 million range, with “Wicked” forecast to earn around $100 million (up from the $80 million estimates a few weeks ago) and “Gladiator II” pegged for the $65 million range. “Barbenheimer” shattered its projections last July. Going into that weekend, “Barbie” had been pegged for $90 million and “Oppenheimer” around $40 million. Ultimately, they brought in a combined $244 million in that first outing, and nearly $2.4 billion by the end of their runs. It’s possible “Glicked” will exceed expectations, too. And it has the advantage of another behemoth coming close behind: “Moana 2,” which opens just five days later on the Wednesday before the Thanksgiving holiday. “Glickedana” triple feature anyone? This image released by Paramount Pictures shows Pedro Pascal, left, and Paul Mescal in a scene from "Gladiator II." Aidan Monaghan - handout one time use, ASSOCIATED PRESS “These are 10 important days,” O'Leary said. “It’s going to show the moviegoing audience that there’s a lot of compelling stuff out there for them to see.” There are infinite caveats to the imperfect comparison to “Barbenheimer,” as well. “Wicked” is a “Part One.” Musicals carry their own baggage with moviegoers, even those based on wildly successful productions (ahem, “Cats”). “Gladiator II” got a head start and opened internationally last weekend. In fact, in the U.K. it played alongside “Paddington in Peru,” where that double was pegged “Gladdington.” “Gladiator” reviews, while positive, are a little more divided than the others. And neither directors Ridley Scott nor Jon M. Chu has the built-in box office cache that Christopher Nolan’s name alone carries at the moment. The new films also cost more than “Barbie” ($145 million) and “Oppenheimer” ($100 million). According to reports, “Gladiator II” had a $250 million price tag; “Wicked” reportedly cost $150 million to produce (and that does not include the cost of the second film, due next year). The narrative, though, has shifted away from “who will win the weekend.” Earlier this year, Chu told The Associated Press that he loves that this is a moment where “we can root for all movies all the time.” Close behind are a bevy of Christmas releases with double feature potential, but those feel a little more niche. There’s the remake of “Nosferatu,” the Nicole Kidman kink pic “Babygirl” and the Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown.” The internet can’t even seem to decide on its angle for that batch of contenders, and none exactly screams blockbuster. Sometimes the joy is just in the game, however. Some are sticking with the one-name mashup (“Babyratu”); others are suggesting that the fact that two of the movies feature real-life exes (Timothée Chalamet and Lily-Rose Depp) is enough reason for a double feature. And getting people talking is half the battle. When in doubt, or lacking a catchy name, there’s always the default: “This is my Barbenheimer.” Associated Press journalist John Carucci and Film Writer Jake Coyle contributed reporting. Last summer, Malibu's iconic blonde faced off against Cillian Murphy and the hydrogen bomb in the unforgettable "Barbenheimer" double feature. Cheddar Stay up-to-date on what's happening

Global energy executive joins Prometheus Hyperscale to accelerate sustainable data center growth and provide strategic counsel on $10B flagship project in Evanston, Wyoming HOUSTON , Nov. 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Prometheus Hyperscale, a leading developer of sustainable hyperscale data centres, is delighted to announce the appointment of Bernard Looney as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mr. Looney, former CEO of BP, brings to the role more than three decades of energy sector expertise – from the frontline to the boardroom. He will provide strategic guidance on the development of the company's growth plans, including its $10B flagship data center in Evanston, Wyoming , which will be among the largest facilities of its kind in the world when completed. The announcement of Mr. Looney's appointment comes as societies and large technology companies grapple with how to power the explosive growth in artificial intelligence (AI). The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that by 2026 data centers globally will use over 1,000 terawatt-hours (TWh) annually, around the same as Japan uses today. Against this backdrop of soaring demand and squeezed supply, Prometheus is pioneering new standards in hyperscale data center operations. These approaches include harnessing a variety of energy sources to power its data centers, including renewables, natural gas and possibly nuclear at a later date through our strategic partnership with Oklo. Prometheus aims for its data centers to not impact grid customers. Another key challenge is the enormous amount of power and water used to cool data centers to prevent the servers from overheating. Prometheus Hyperscale uses a unique liquid cooling system that dramatically outperforms traditional air-cooling methods, reducing energy consumption by up to 50%. This system also utilises deep underground water reservoirs and captures the waste heat to reuse or sequester it. It's believed that Prometheus Hyperscale's flagship project will be the first hyperscale data center in the United States to combine liquid heat transfer and heat reuse technologies. Founded by Trenton Thornock , an experienced leader in energy, finance and infrastructure, Prometheus Hyperscale's flagship project in Evanston, Wyoming , promises to be the most advanced sustainable data center in the United States , and one of the largest in the world, when it becomes operational in 2025/26. The 1GW-capacity developed site will cover an area of 640-acres (one square mile), making it approximately three quarters the size of New York's Central Park. Four further sites are currently earmarked across Arizona and Colorado . As Chairman, Mr. Looney will ensure the successful execution of Evanston as well as Prometheus's broader business goals. His appointment comes following the recent announcement that Trevor Neilson , a renowned climate technology entrepreneur and philanthropist, will serve as the company's President. It's estimated that $1 trillion will be invested in the U.S. in data centers in the next five years – with an additional $1 trillion internationally. Trenton Thornock , Founder and CEO of Prometheus Hyperscale commented: "Having Bernard Looney join as Chairman is a tremendous step forward for Prometheus. Bernard's track record and transformative leadership in the energy sector aligns perfectly with our vision for the future of data centers. His insights, as well as his extensive operational and project delivery experience, will be invaluable as we bring our flagship project in Evanston, Wyoming to life and set new benchmarks for sustainable digital infrastructure." Trevor Neilson , President of Prometheus Hyperscale, commented: "Bernard is the perfect person to guide Prometheus as we form partnerships across the energy sector to access low-carbon electrons that will power the future of AI. His extensive industry experience and leadership will be instrumental as Prometheus establishes itself at the forefront of sustainable data center operations." Bernard Looney commented: "I am delighted to join Prometheus Hyperscale at this pivotal moment as the world grapples with the intersection of AI, Energy and Sustainability. Innovative power solutions are desperately needed to ensure that AI is unleashed to tackle some of the biggest global challenges including healthcare, economic growth, and the energy transition. We must work to find solutions that lead to Net Positive AI – where the benefits to our world outweigh any costs. The flagship Evanston project is one such solution and I look forward to lending a helping hand, working alongside Trenton, Trevor, and the entire Prometheus team to help bring this vision to life. I can't imagine a more exciting challenge." Factsheet: Prometheus Hyperscale's Flagship Project in Evanston, Wyoming Prometheus's site in Evanston, Wyoming , aims to redefine sustainable infrastructure in the data center industry, setting a new benchmark for operational excellence and environmental responsibility. Key aspects of the project include: Extensive Land and Power Capacity: The project encompasses a 12,000-acre ranch, including a dedicated 640-acre plot (about 1 square mile) for data center facilities. Prometheus has secured an initial 120 MW of grid power through Rocky Mountain Power, with plans for an additional 120 MW, ensuring robust power availability without curtailment risks. On-Site Renewable and Low-Carbon Power Generation: With an on-site generation goal of over 1 GW, which will make it one of the largest data centers in the world, Prometheus is incorporating a mix of wind, solar and gas power sources. Additionally, the company has a strategic partnership with Oklo focused on next-generation fission-based nuclear power, delivering reliable, sustainable baseload energy to the campus. High-Performance Fiber Connectivity: The Evanston site will connect directly to the Northern transcontinental fiber trunk, offering high-speed, low-latency connections between the East and West Coasts. With agreements for up to 400G of service and plans to scale up to 800G when commercially available, the project is poised to meet the rigorous connectivity needs of AI, cloud, and high-performance computing clients and to be one of the biggest data centers in the world. Cutting-Edge Liquid Cooling Technology: Prometheus's unique liquid cooling systems will be deployed to achieve unparalleled energy efficiency by capturing and reusing waste heat. This innovative solution is specifically engineered for high-performance computing environments and will play a critical role in reducing the carbon footprint of the facility. Strategic Location and Access to Skilled Labor: Located 80 miles from Salt Lake City, Utah , the Evanston site benefits from proximity to a large, skilled workforce, bolstered by a regional Journeyman Lineman program focused on data center operations. This strategic location supports the project's operational and expansion goals while reinforcing Prometheus's commitment to regional economic growth. For more information about Prometheus Hyperscale and its sustainability initiatives, please visit www.prometheushyperscale.com . About Prometheus Hyperscale Prometheus Hyperscale, founded by Trenton Thornock , is revolutionizing data center infrastructure by developing sustainable, energy-efficient hyperscale data centers. Leveraging unique, cutting-edge technology and working alongside strategic partners, Prometheus is building next-generation, liquid-cooled hyperscale data centers powered by cleaner energy. With a focus on innovation, scalability, and environmental stewardship, Prometheus Hyperscale is redefining the data center industry for a sustainable future.Baker Mayfield mocks Tommy DeVito's celebration as the Bucs embarrass the Giants 30-7

Marcus Lum Nearly 60 percent of youngsters are not optimistic about Hong Kong's economic prospects, according to a think tank's survey. Youth IDEAS, founded by the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups' Youth Research Centre, interviewed 600 young workers aged 18 to 34 from September 28 to October 4, who gave the economic prospects an average score of 5.95 out of 10. The survey found that 59.5 percent of those interviewed expressed concerns about "salary reduction" and "professional knowledge or skills falling behind." Over 80 percent agreed that strategies such as "promoting a mega event economy," "developing digital economy and promoting new quality productive forces," and "strengthening the development of eight major centers" would help promote Hong Kong's development. The survey also found that over 85 percent agreed with "nurturing local talent is a key factor in promoting Hong Kong's economic development" and "learning new technologies is a crucial skill for future employment." Tony Lau Hon-yiu, convener of the think tank's employment and economy group, said Hong Kong's economic transformation requires multiparty cooperation and well-positioned human resource policies. He suggested that the city promote collaboration between applied science universities and enterprises to offer technical training courses that meet industry demands. "Applied science universities should collaborate with enterprises to establish technical training courses focusing on industry needs, such as big data analysis and artificial intelligence, to increase the supply of local technical talent." Lau said companies should be encouraged to introduce paid study leave and tax incentives to strengthen local talent development. He added that mainland technology enterprises should utilize their advanced technologies to enhance training quality and market competitiveness. Local youths can have the opportunity to enhance their value in these emerging industries and find suitable roles and opportunities during the transition period as the administration has been developing the digital economy and innovation technology industries, he said. marcus.lum@singtaonewscorp.comThis is not a drill: Marvel's Spider-Man 2 on PS5 is at its lowest ever price right now, but likely not for longTJ Perenara's Tiriti haka addition welcomed by both Te Pāti Māori and David Seymour