Why do some consider the man accused of killing the UnitedHealthcare CEO a folk hero? A social workeNext Week in Business: jobless claims, mortgage rates and Wall Street's first trading day of 2025
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (KGO) -- The parents of a former OpenAI researcher who was found dead in a San Francisco apartment have hired an independent investigator to determine his cause of death. He was known for being a whistleblower. Mercury News reported the new updates after police found the body of 26-year-old Suchir Balaji on November 26 during a well-being check. The Medical Examiner says Balaji died by suicide and there are no signs of foul play, but his parents Poornima Ramarao and Balaji Ramamurthy have doubts and have hired an expert to perform an independent autopsy. RELATED: Ex-OpenAI engineer who raised legal concerns about the technology he helped build has died Balaji died just three months after publicly accusing OpenAI of violating U.S. copyright law while developing ChatGPT. His information was expected to play a key part in lawsuits against the company. OpenAI has said all of its work is legal under fair use laws. Balaji worked at OpenAI for nearly four years before quitting in August. He was well-regarded by colleagues at the San Francisco company, where a co-founder this week called him one of OpenAI's strongest contributors who was essential to developing some of its products. "We are devastated to learn of this incredibly sad news and our hearts go out to Suchir's loved ones during this difficult time," said a statement from OpenAI. His parents said they are still seeking answers, describing their son as a "happy, smart and brave young man" who loved to hike and recently returned from a trip with friends. Balaji grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and first arrived at the fledgling AI research lab for a 2018 summer internship while studying computer science at the University of California, Berkeley. He returned a few years later to work at OpenAI, where one of his first projects, called WebGPT, helped pave the way for ChatGPT. If you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. The Associated Press contributed to this reportSir Keir Starmer has paid tribute to his “wonderful” brother Nick, who has died aged 60 after suffering from cancer. The Prime Minister said his younger brother, who had learning difficulties because of complications at birth, had met “all the challenges life threw at him with courage and good humour”. He died peacefully on Boxing Day, according to the Prime Minister’s spokesman. The Prime Minister had been due to go on holiday with his family on Friday, but it is understood that he will now remain at home, and hopes to join them later. Sir Keir said in a statement: “My brother Nick was a wonderful man. “He met all the challenges life threw at him with courage and good humour. We will miss him very much. “I would like to thank all those who treated and took care of Nick. Their skill and compassion is very much appreciated.” Sir Keir spoke candidly about his brother in a recent biography written by journalist and former Labour Party adviser Tom Baldwin. While growing up in Surrey, the brothers shared a bunk bed in a room with an airing cupboard, and “just enough space for a couple of small desks where we’d do our homework”. The biography recorded how each child of the Starmer family was given a dog for their 10th birthday, and Nick and his twin sister Katy received Jack Russell terriers called Greg and Ben. The book also described how their mother, Jo, had taught Nick to read, but Sir Keir remembered how the school described his brother as “remedial”. Sir Keir, the middle child of four siblings, said: “They had no expectation of him or anything and I’m not sure he even sat exams, so he had nothing to show for coming out of education. “We were a family of six, so it didn’t feel lonely and I shared a room with him, but Nick didn’t have many friends and got called ‘thick’ or ‘stupid’ by other kids.” He added: “Even now I try to avoid using words like that to describe anyone.” Nick worked on scrap cars and scaffolding, earning enough money to rent a home near where he had grown up, according to the book. It said Sir Keir was best man at Nick’s wedding, and the now Prime Minister recalled borrowing a car so his brother was not “driving his bride from the church in his beaten-up minivan, which had all his clothes in the back”. The marriage ended and Nick lived for some time in Yorkshire. In 2022, Sir Keir stepped away from local election campaigning to make several hospital visits to see his brother, who was seriously ill at the time. The Prime Minister also spoke about Nick in his speech at this year’s Labour Party conference in Liverpool. As he described his early encounters with art and culture, and the need to remove social barriers, Sir Keir told delegates: “My brother, who had difficulties learning, he didn’t get those opportunities. “Every time I achieved something in my life, my dad used to say, ‘Your brother has achieved just as much as you, Keir’. “And he was right. I still believe that.” Mr Baldwin, writing for The Times on Friday, recalled the moment in 2023 that he learned from Sir Keir that his brother was dying of lung cancer. He wrote: “This has been a huge part of his life over the past couple of years, during which he made regular trips to Leeds where his brother was in hospital. “Even during the election campaign and since he entered Downing Street, Starmer has continued to visit without a camera crew in sight. “He got to know the staff treating his brother so well that he could recite all their names and they would let him into the hospital through a back door so that there would be no publicity.” Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch was among those in the world of politics to offer their condolences. She wrote on X, formerly Twitter: “This is such awful news. Particularly devastating at Christmas time. “My sincere condolences to Keir Starmer and all his family.” Irish premier Simon Harris wrote: “My sincere sympathy to Keir Starmer and his family on such sad news. “They are in my thoughts at this difficult time.”
'Crazy cheap' Teslas hit the market as Hertz fire sale intensifies after error buying 100,000 EVs By JOE HUTCHISON FOR DAILYMAIL.COM Published: 14:49 EST, 27 December 2024 | Updated: 15:03 EST, 27 December 2024 e-mail 2 View comments Hertz's decision to buy 100,000 Teslas has backfired badly - but it does mean cheap EVs are up for grabs. The car rental giant began to sell off its stock of Teslas a year ago - due to a lack of demand from customers who prefer gas models. Bosses also said they wanted to offload the cars due to high repair costs. With slow demand, Hertz is being forced to sell the electric vehicles at steep discounts. In the past week, a Hertz customer shared a jaw-dropping deal on Reddit : a 2023 Tesla Model 3 for just $17,913 - less than half its retail price of $38,990. In January the company said that the proceeds from the sales would go to funding more gas powered cars. It is a departure from its previous target that 25 percent of its overall fleet would be electric by the end of 2024. In 2022, it said it would buy up to 65,000 EVs over five years from Polestar. That was just months after it ordered 100,000 cars from Tesla . The selling of the EV fleet aligns with a broader trend in the US auto market in which demand for electric cars appears to have fallen . The cut prices comes after a rocky financial year for Hertz who reported a wider-than-expected third-quarter loss and missed revenue estimates last month. The company has started to scale back the amount of the vehicles they have in their stock, citing higher repair costs In the last week, a Hertz customer shared to Reddit with a deal they received to purchase a 2023 Model 3 Tesla, for $17,913 - less than half its retail price of $38,990 The company recorded a $1 billion asset impairment charge during the quarter, citing a decline in fleet values, and an overall decline in car prices as consumers delay purchases in the current economy. In its latest report, market research firm Cox Automotive said that affordability remains a challenge for consumers, with fewer models for sale in the $15,000 price bracket, which is more popular among used car buyers. Hertz's depreciation per unit surged 89 percent to $537 million in the quarter ended Sept. 30 from a year earlier. On an adjusted basis, the company lost 68 cents per share compared with analysts' average estimate of a loss of 50 cents, according to data compiled by LSEG. In April, the company reported $392 million in losses for the first quarter with former CEO Stephen Scherr telling investors they 'continued to face headwinds related to our electric vehicle fleet'. Scherr said that the company's strategy going forward was to plan a reduction in EV's, and to sell 30,000 of them by the end of the year. The company recorded a $1 billion asset impairment charge during the quarter, citing a decline in fleet values Hertz brought superstar footballer Tom Brady, seen here, as part of their ad campaign to promote the EV's in their fleet It was a sharp u-turn on their 2021 plans to buy 100,000 of the cars, even enlisting the help of Tom Brady to promote the venture. In a filing to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) earlier this year, Hertz noted that the decision to sell the cars would likely cost around $245 million due to differences between their value at the end of 2023 and the prices for which they eventually sell. Depreciation of its electric vehicle fleet in recent years is another phenomenon Hertz has previously alluded to. Many of the Teslas it purchased were leased to Uber as part of a scheme that enabled drivers to rent them for the job, starting at around $330 a week. Although Teslas are a popular choice among cab drivers, there are various complications when it comes to renting one for a trip, such as limited range and a potential lack of access to charging stations. Tesla Reddit Share or comment on this article: 'Crazy cheap' Teslas hit the market as Hertz fire sale intensifies after error buying 100,000 EVs e-mail Add commentHouseholds use Black Friday sales to update the wardrobeGTA 6 developer teases 'cutting-edge' tech, 'procedural generation' for objects, environments
By AJ Vicens (Reuters) – U.S. officials have added a ninth telecommunications company to the list of entities compromised by a sweeping Chinese-linked cyberespionage operation known as Salt Typhoon, a top White House official said Friday. Anne Neuberger, the U.S. deputy national security advisor for cyber and emerging technology, told reporters on a call that the unnamed telecom was added to the list after the U.S. government shared guidance on how to detect and defend against the operation. Officials have previously alleged that the attackers targeted Verizon, AT&T, Lumen and others. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency on Dec. 18 urged senior government and political figures to move mobile communications to end-to-end encrypted apps as a result of the Salt Typhoon campaign, which has targeted officials associated with the campaign of former Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris and President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance, according to reports. Officials have said “a large number of Americans’ metadata was taken” as part of the campaign. Chinese officials have previously described the allegations as disinformation and said Beijing “firmly opposes and combats cyber attacks and cyber theft in all forms.” Sen. Ben Ray Lujan, a Democrat from New Mexico, called Salt Typhoon the “largest telecommunications hack in our nation’s history” during a Dec. 11 hearing, while Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz said the U.S. “must plug any vulnerabilities in communications networks.” Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said Dec. 5 her agency was proposing rules requiring telecommunications carriers to secure their networks in light of the Salt Typhoon revelations. Neuberger said Friday that the “Chinese gained access to networks and essentially had broad and full access,” giving them the capability to “geolocate millions of individuals, to record phone calls at will,” and that updated FCC rules could help limit the scope and impact of future intrusions. (Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) Disclaimer: This report is auto generated from the Reuters news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content. var ytflag = 0;var myListener = function() {document.removeEventListener('mousemove', myListener, false);lazyloadmyframes();};document.addEventListener('mousemove', myListener, false);window.addEventListener('scroll', function() {if (ytflag == 0) {lazyloadmyframes();ytflag = 1;}});function lazyloadmyframes() {var ytv = document.getElementsByClassName("klazyiframe");for (var i = 0; i < ytv.length; i++) {ytv[i].src = ytv[i].getAttribute('data-src');}} Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );The Philadelphia Eagles ruled wide receiver DeVonta Smith out for Sunday night's game at the Los Angeles Rams due to a hamstring injury. Smith did not practice all week and will miss his second game of the season and just the third of his four-year NFL career. He was inactive in a Week 4 loss at Tampa Bay due to a concussion. Smith, 26, leads the Eagles with 41 receptions and four touchdown catches ands ranks second with 516 receiving yards in nine starts this season. The former Heisman Trophy winner has 281 catches for 3,694 yards and 23 scores in 59 games (58 starts) since the Eagles drafted him with the 10th overall pick in 2021. NFC East-leading Philadelphia (8-2) takes a six-game winning streak to Los Angeles (5-5), which has won four of its last five games. --Field Level MediaThe struggling retailer said sales had been “disappointing” in the Christmas trading period and that its cash reserves are “less than previously anticipated”. It said the poor trading was partly because of the “impact of inflationary pressures on consumer confidence and spending”. But it also blamed “”subdued consumer demand for the brand”. “As a result, the board anticipates that additional funding will be required by the group in early 2025,” it said on Friday. Glasgow-based fashion retailer Quiz has been struggling for several months, and recently announced that it will delist from the London Stock Exchange to cut costs. The company operates 62 stores and 47 concessions across the UK and according to its website has about 1,500 staff. Earlier this month, it said it had suffered a poor trading period in November and had hired advisers as it neared running out of cash. Since then, demand has “shown signs of improvement” in December, with online revenues tracking similar with the previous year, it said. In-store sales caused the company particular headaches, it said, with sales trending “behind those achieved last year”. Chairman Peter Cowgill said the company needs to “substantially reduce” costs, which will likely see the closure of parts of the business. Beyond that, he wrote, “there exists substantial risks associated with the group’s ability to continue as a going concern”, meaning it could go bust. The company pointed to a potential extra annual cost of £1.7m because of increases in the minimum wage and employer national insurance contributions. Those policies, announced by the Government in the autumn, will not take effect until April, before which Quiz needs fresh funding. Get all the latest news from around the country Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
If you’re ready to have more fun, connect with friends and break out of your comfort zone in 2025, immersive experiences are the way to go. These creative activities blend entertainment, art and technology into unforgettable nights out. Immersive nightlife goes beyond the conventional dance floor or cocktail bar, integrating interactive storytelling, cutting-edge technology, and multisensory elements to create environments where guests become part of the experience. Think of it as stepping into a live-action movie, an art installation, or a futuristic game. From AI-enhanced light shows to rooms where walls respond to your movements, the goal is to engage every sense and leave patrons awestruck. These experiences often incorporate elements of escapism, transporting attendees to entirely new worlds. Whether it’s a speakeasy hidden inside a labyrinthine puzzle or a nightclub designed as a space station, immersive nightlife challenges the imagination while delivering high-energy fun. One of the most popular types of immersive nightlife experiences is escape rooms, which have been growing in popularity in the U.S. over the past 10 years. These interactive adventures challenge groups to solve puzzles, uncover clues, and work together to “escape” within a set time limit. Modern escape rooms often incorporate high-tech elements like projection mapping, augmented reality, and even live actors to elevate the experience. Themes range from solving a heist to surviving a zombie apocalypse, making every visit unique. Escape rooms have become their own industry, with chains like Escapology – whose locations include Los Angeles, San Diego and Riverside counties – as well as highly creative smaller operations like Wizards & Wires Escape Games in Riverside, Unlocked in Costa Mesa and Lara’s Labyrinth in San Diego For nightlife enthusiasts, late-night escape room events with added theatrical elements or themed cocktails are a fresh twist on traditional social outings. Virtual reality (VR) lounges are another thrilling addition to the immersive nightlife scene. These venues offer cutting-edge VR experiences where guests can dive into fantastical worlds, compete in multiplayer games, or even participate in interactive storytelling. With high-resolution headsets and motion-tracking technology, these lounges allow patrons to fully immerse themselves in otherworldly adventures.Many VR lounges pair these experiences with trendy bar menus, creating a social hub where guests can relax, compare scores, and extend the fun after their virtual escapades. Popular SoCal VR hotspots include Los Virtuality in Los Angeles, Sandbox VR in Woodland Hills and The GRID in Oceanside. Interactive art museums and installations bring a creative flair to immersive nightlife. These spaces invite visitors to become part of the artwork itself, using touch, sound, and motion to activate exhibits. Picture walking through rooms that react to your presence with cascading lights, evolving soundscapes, or transformative projections. Some venues even host nighttime events with live music, themed cocktails, and exclusive access to exhibits, creating a blend of culture and entertainment that’s perfect for a night out. These art-driven experiences are not only visually stunning but also provide a unique way to explore creativity while socializing. A great example is WNDR Museum in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter where you can take in over 15 installations of awe-inspiring immersive art. The news and editorial staffs of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.Trump team signs agreement to allow Justice to conduct background checks on nominees, staff
FBI Tells Telecom Firms to Boost Security Following Wide-Ranging Chinese Hacking Campaign
Volunteering gives Calah Derocher a fresh startSwiss marine power company WinGD has won an order for 16 X-DF dual-fuel engines after a late-stage switch by a major ship owner. The company was influenced by WinGD’s extensive track record for reliable operations, continuous improvements to the market-leading X-DF concept and successful operational experience since the first series of X-DF2.0 engines were delivered earlier this year. The order was received relatively late in the newbuilding planning phase as operational and delivery concerns arose around the engines originally selected. Despite the timing, close collaboration with engine builder, yard and ship owner – which already uses X-DF engines on several LNG carriers – ensured that construction was not delayed. WinGD Director Sales, Volkmar Galke said: “Although we aim to be the first choice, we were delighted to add to our orderbook from a significant customer. With the longest established low-pressure two-stroke engine in the market and strong relationships with engine builders and shipyards, we were well placed to pick up the process quickly once the owner decided to switch engine type.” X-DF was first introduced to the market in 2016 and has since recorded more than 8 million reliable running hours, with more than 800 engines in service and on the orderbook. Advances including Intelligent Control by Exhaust Recycling (iCER) and Variable Compression Ratio (VCR) technology mean X-DF is now not only the leading low-pressure design, but also more competitive than high-pressure Diesel-cycle engines. X-DF2.0 with VCR offers lower overall operating and system costs, and emissions, making it a favourite amongst LNG operators. Recent upgrades to the next generation of X-DF engines have significantly enhanced the appeal in the LNGC segment. The latest version, 2.2, uses a smaller bedplate and A-frame tailored to the five-cylinder models usually deployed on LNG carriers. The result is a smaller engine footprint and greater ship design flexibility, with the same high performance and efficiency within the engine ratings typically used. Consistent development work with engine builders and shipyards means that X-DF2.0 engines with VCR can now be incorporated into most standard vessel designs. Indeed, with WinGD dominating orders for newbuild vessels over the past two years, it could be argued that X-DF powered vessels are now the standard design. And with a recent reorganisation intended to strengthen cooperation at the vessel integration stage, WinGD is geared to support owners that need ready solutions to any emerging engine power requirements. Source: WinGD
