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The leader of Sinn Fein has expressed determination to form a government of the left in Ireland as she insisted her party’s performance in the General Election had broken the state’s political mould. Despite Mary Lou McDonald’s confidence around shaping a coalition without Fine Gael and Fianna Fail – the two parties that have dominated the landscape of Irish politics for a century – the pathway to government for Sinn Fein still appears challenging. With counting following Friday’s election still in the relatively early stages – after an exit poll that showed the main three parties effectively neck-and-neck – there is some way to go before the final picture emerges and the options for government formation crystalise. Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader, Simon Harris, has dismissed talk of a Sinn Fein surge and said he was “cautiously optimistic” about where his party will stand after all the votes are counted. Meanwhile, Ireland’s deputy premier and Fianna Fail leader, Micheal Martin, insisted his party has a “very clear route back to government” as he predicted seat gains. The counting process could last days because of Ireland’s complex system of proportional representation with a single transferable vote (PR-STV), where candidates are ranked by preference. The early indications have turned the focus to the tricky arithmetic of government formation, as the country’s several smaller parties and many independents potentially jockey for a place in government. Ms McDonald told reporters at the RDS count centre in Dublin that she would be “very, very actively pursuing” the potential to form a government with other parties on the left of the political spectrum. The smaller, left-leaning parties in Ireland include the Social Democrats, the Irish Labour Party, the Green Party and People Before Profit-Solidarity. Ms McDonald said her party had delivered an “incredible performance” in the election. “I think it’s fair to say that we have now confirmed that we have broken the political mould here in this state,” she said. “Two party politics is now gone. It’s consigned to the dustbin of history and that, in itself, is very significant.” She added: “I am looking to bring about a government of change, and I’m going to go and look at all formulations. “If you want my bottom line, the idea of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael for another five years, in our strong opinion, is not a good outcome for Irish society. “Obviously, I want to talk to other parties of the left and those that we share very significant policy objectives with. So I’m going to do that first and just hear their mind, hear their thinking. But be very clear, we will be very, very actively pursuing entrance into government.” In Friday night’s exit poll, Sinn Fein was predicted to take 21.1% of first-preference votes, narrowly ahead of outgoing coalition partners Fine Gael and Fianna Fail at 21% and 19.5% respectively. Prior to the election, Fianna Fail and Fine Gael both ruled out entering government with Sinn Fein. Fine Gael leader Mr Harris rejected suggestions Sinn Fein had broken new ground. He told reporters in his count centre in Greystones, Co Wicklow: “Certainly we haven’t seen a Sinn Fein surge or anything like it. “I mean, it looks likely, on the figures that we’ve seen now, fewer people, many fewer people would have voted Sinn Fein in this election than the last one. “In fact, I think they’re down by around 5% and actually the parties, particularly the two parties, the two larger parties in government, are likely to receive significant support from the electorate. So definitely, politics in Ireland has gotten much more fragmented.” He said it was too early to tell what the next government would look like. “I think anybody who makes any suggestion about who is going to be the largest party or the construct of the next government, they’re a braver person than I am,” he said. “Our electoral system dictates that there’ll be many, many transfers that will go on for hours, if not days, before we know the final computations at all. “But what I am very confident about is that my party will have a very significant role to play in the years ahead, and I’m cautiously optimistic and excited.” Fianna Fail’s Mr Martin told reporters at a count centre in Cork he was confident that the numbers exist to form a government with parties that shared his political viewpoint. Mr Martin said it “remains to be seen” whether he would return to the role of Taoiseach – a position he held between 2020 and 2022 – but he expressed confidence his party would outperform the exit poll prediction. “It’s a bit too early yet to call the exact type of government that will be formed or the composition of the next government,” he said. “But I think there are, there will be a sufficiency of seats, it seems to me, that aligns with the core principles that I articulated at the outset of this campaign and throughout the campaign, around the pro-enterprise economy, around a positively pro-European position, a government that will strongly push for home ownership and around parties that are transparently democratic in how they conduct their affairs.” Asked if it would be in a coalition with Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and the Social Democrats, he said that would be “racing a bit too far ahead”. The final result may dictate that if Fianna Fail and Fine Gael are to return to government, they may need more than one junior partner, or potentially the buy-in of several independent TDs. Mr Martin said it was unclear how quickly a government can be formed, as he predicted his party would gain new seats. “It will be challenging. This is not easy,” he added. The junior partner in the outgoing government – the Green Party – looks set for a bruising set of results. Green leader Roderic O’Gorman is in a fight to hold onto his seat, as are a number of party colleagues, including Media Minister Catherine Martin. “It’s clear the Green Party has not had a good day,” he said. The early counting also suggested potential trouble for Fianna Fail in Wicklow, where the party’s only candidate in the constituency, Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, is considered to have a battle ahead, with the risk of losing his seat. Meanwhile, there is significant focus on independent candidate Gerard Hutch who, on Saturday evening, was sitting in fourth place in the four-seat constituency of Dublin Central. Last spring, Mr Hutch was found not guilty by the non-jury Special Criminal Court of the murder of David Byrne, in one of the first deadly attacks of the Hutch-Kinahan gangland feud. Mr Byrne, 33, died after being shot six times at a crowded boxing weigh-in event at the Regency Hotel in February 2016. A Special Criminal Court judge described Mr Hutch, 61, as the patriarchal figurehead of the Hutch criminal organisation and said he had engaged in “serious criminal conduct”. The constituency will be closely watched as other hopefuls wait to see if transfers from eliminated candidates may eventually rule him out of contention. In the constituency of Louth, the much-criticised selection of John McGahon appeared not to have paid off for Fine Gael. The party’s campaign was beset by questioning over footage entering the public domain of the candidate engaged in a fight outside a pub in 2018. The Social Democrats have a strong chance of emerging as the largest of the smaller parties. The party’s leader, Holly Cairns, was already celebrating before a single vote was counted however, having announced the birth of her baby girl on polling day.None
DRIVERLESS Knight Rider-style buses are set to hit UK roads in days as thousands brace for the terrifying new concept. The self-driving motors will soon be zooming along the streets of Central Milton Keynes. Photographs of the StreetCAV, a 'plug-and-play' shuttle, show a pod-like vehicle with bars and handles like any normal bus. Except it's almost impossible to tell which end is the front, because there's no space for a driver's seat. Instead, the entire pod has room for passengers, with seats along either side and a central door. Before it is given the green light, the buses will be trialled in the city centre in December, MK Citizen reported. If successful, the vehicles should be ready to board its first passengers in 2025. The driverless shuttles are currently on display in the town's Smart City Experience Centre. Zenzic’s CAM Supply Chain UK programme was launched by the government to help bring the UK in the running for world-leader in development of self-driving vehicles. It has pumped money into the ambitious project, which will be lead by the Smart City Consultancy (SMCCL). “The StreetCAV project has been going for some time now so we are absolutely thrilled that it is finally at a stage where we can reveal it to the world," Ian Pulford, CEO at SMCCL, said. “Thanks to the partners we’ve been fortunate to involve in the project, we truly believe we have developed a solution which can change the future of urban mobility while making our towns and cities smarter, greener, and more inclusive. "We have also worked rigorously to ensure public safety. Working closely with Milton Keynes City Council, BT and ECS, we will establish a city centre control room, connected by a specifically designed communications network, provided by CableFree, which will in-turn allow the Ohmio vehicles to be supervised and managed remotely. “It really has been a fantastic project to work on and we can’t thank all of our partners and funders enough for their continued work and support.” Mark Cracknell, program director at Zenzic, added: “We are proud to have supported the development of StreetCAV and to have worked with all of the partners involved in this pioneering project. “Should the trial prove a success, it could lay the foundations for a more connected, inclusive, and resilient transportation network not only for Milton Keynes, but for towns and cities across the globe. “It is a perfect example of how, by working more collaboratively and bringing together industry, academia and the public sector, the UK can lead the way in accelerating the self-driving revolution.” The Sun Online has reached out to Milton Keynes Council for comment. Milton Keynes isn't the only town which could soon have driverless motors roaming around its streets. In early 2023, The Sun Online reported how self-driving, zero-emission shuttles will be piloted in Sunderland after receiving £6m in government and industry funding. The Sunderland Advanced Mobility Shuttle project added it would trial three self-driving Aurrigo Auto-Shuttles. A safety driver will be on board the shuttles just in case. These futuristic-looking vehicles will transport passengers on public roads between Sunderland Interchange, Sunderland Royal Hospital and the University of Sunderland City Campus. The initiative is led by Sunderland City Council in partnership with Aurrigo, Stagecoach, Angoka Ltf, Newcastle University and Bai Communications. The project has received a £3m government grant matched by industry pros - which totals £6m. Liz St Louis, director of Smart Cities at Sunderland City Council, said to Chronicle Live : "Leveraging the power of 5G technology and Sunderland’s leading smart city infrastructure. "The focus of our ambitious project partners is underpinned by an ethos of leaving no one and nowhere behind. "Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs) will provide huge social, industrial and economic benefits across the world and we’re hugely optimistic about a technology-fuelled future, powered by local expertise, right here in Sunderland."
In the wee hours Sunday at the United Nations climate talks, countries from around the world reached an agreement on how rich countries can cough up the funds to support poor countries in the face of climate change. It's a far-from-perfect arrangement, with many parties still unsatisfied but some hopeful that the deal will be a step in the right direction. Philadelphia news 24/7: Watch NBC10 free wherever you are World Resources Institute president and CEO Ani Dasgupta called it “an important down payment toward a safer, more equitable future,” but added that the poorest and most vulnerable nations are “rightfully disappointed that wealthier countries didn’t put more money on the table when billions of people’s lives are at stake.” The summit was supposed to end on Friday evening but negotiations spiraled on through early Sunday. With countries on opposite ends of a massive chasm, tensions ran high as delegations tried to close the gap in expectations. Here's how they got there: What was the finance deal agreed at climate talks? Rich countries have agreed to pool together at least $300 billion a year by 2035. It’s not near the full amount of $1.3 trillion that developing countries were asking for, and that experts said was needed. But some delegations said this deal is headed in the right direction, with hopes that more money flows in the future. The text included a call for all parties to work together using “all public and private sources” to get closer to the $1.3 trillion per year goal by 2035. That means also pushing for international mega-banks, funded by taxpayer dollars, to help foot the bill. And it means, hopefully, that companies and private investors will follow suit on channeling cash toward climate action. The agreement is also a critical step toward helping countries on the receiving end create more ambitious targets to limit or cut emissions of heat-trapping gases that are due early next year. It’s part of the plan to keep cutting pollution with new targets every five years, which the world agreed to at the U.N. talks in Paris in 2015. The Paris agreement set the system of regular ratcheting up climate fighting ambition as away to keep warming under 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels. The world is already at 1.3 degrees Celsius (2.3 degrees Fahrenheit) and carbon emissions keep rising. What will the money be spent on? The deal decided in Baku replaces a previous agreement from 15 years ago that charged rich nations $100 billion a year to help the developing world with climate finance. The new number has similar aims: it will go toward the developing world's long laundry list of to-dos to prepare for a warming world and keep it from getting hotter. That includes paying for the transition to clean energy and away from fossil fuels. Countries need funds to build up the infrastructure needed to deploy technologies like wind and solar power on a large scale. Communities hard-hit by extreme weather also want money to adapt and prepare for events like floods, typhoons and fires. Funds could go toward improving farming practices to make them more resilient to weather extremes, to building houses differently with storms in mind, to helping people move from the hardest-hit areas and to help leaders improve emergency plans and aid in the wake of disasters. The Philippines, for example, has been hammered by six major storms in less than a month, bringing to millions of people howling wind, massive storm surges and catastrophic damage to residences, infrastructure and farmland. “Family farmers need to be financed," said Esther Penunia of the Asian Farmers Association. She described how many have already had to deal with millions of dollars of storm damage, some of which includes trees that won't again bear fruit for months or years, or animals that die, wiping out a main source of income. “If you think of a rice farmer who depends on his or her one hectare farm, rice land, ducks, chickens, vegetables, and it was inundated, there was nothing to harvest,” she said. Why was it so hard to get a deal? Election results around the world that herald a change in climate leadership, a few key players with motive to stall the talks and a disorganized host country all led to a final crunch that left few happy with a flawed compromise. The ending of COP29 is "reflective of the harder geopolitical terrain the world finds itself in,” said Li Shuo of the Asia Society. He cited Trump's recent victory in the US — with his promises to pull the country out of the Paris Agreement — as one reason why the relationship between China and the EU will be more consequential for global climate politics moving forward. Developing nations also faced some difficulties agreeing in the final hours, with one Latin American delegation member saying that their group didn't feel properly consulted when small island states had last-minute meetings to try to break through to a deal. Negotiators from across the developing world took different tacks on the deal until they finally agreed to compromise. Meanwhile, activists ramped up the pressure: many urged negotiators to stay strong and asserted that no deal would be better than a bad deal. But ultimately the desire for a deal won out. Some also pointed to the host country as a reason for the struggle. Mohamed Adow, director of climate and energy think tank Power Shift Africa, said Friday that “this COP presidency is one of the worst in recent memory,” calling it “one of the most poorly led and chaotic COP meetings ever.” The presidency said in a statement, “Every hour of the day, we have pulled people together. Every inch of the way, we have pushed for the highest common denominator. We have faced geopolitical headwinds and made every effort to be an honest broker for all sides.” Shuo retains hope that the opportunities offered by a green economy “make inaction self-defeating” for countries around the world, regardless of their stance on the decision. But it remains to be seen whether the UN talks can deliver more ambition next year. In the meantime, “this COP process needs to recover from Baku,” Shuo said. ___ Associated Press reporters Seth Borenstein and Sibi Arasu contributed to this report. ___ The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.Plug Power Inc. stock underperforms Thursday when compared to competitorsPhillip Hughes' personality endeared him to many, within cricket and beyond. Photo: Tony McDonough/AAP PHOTOS Phillip Hughes' death was felt as much in the Adelaide club room at East Torrens as it was in the Australian Test sheds. Black Friday Sale Subscribe Now! Login or signup to continue reading All articles from our website & app The digital version of Today's Paper Breaking news alerts direct to your inbox Interactive Crosswords, Sudoku and Trivia All articles from the other regional websites in your area Continue So too, on the fields of farms around Macksville as in Sydney's western suburbs where he lived for six years. "Everyone thought he was their mate," Tom Cooper tells AAP. "Half the people didn't even know him, but that sums him up." Cooper is one of the people who did know Hughes best. The pair both grew up on the NSW north coast, and first played together in junior cricket representative systems as teenagers. They crossed paths again playing in Sydney, before becoming teammates and housemates in Hughes' later years at South Australia. Phillip Hughes after scoring his Test century against Sri Lanka in Colombo in 2011. (AP PHOTO) On the field their last partnership is officially recognised as unbroken, with Cooper the non-striker when Hughes was hit on the neck at the SCG 10 years ago on Monday. "He's not one of those blokes who felt he was too good for anything," Cooper continues. "The fact a few of his best mates in Adelaide are from his club side says a lot, and he would have only played a handful of games there. "People often come and are too good for their club side. They are all about themselves. But not him." In Cooper's mind, Hughes was a best friend and farmer who happened to be very good at cricket. He is one of countless players to recount stories of how the left-hander would talk about his cows between overs, or what stud he might buy if he brought up another ton. "He was that laid back and relaxed," Hughes' first NSW captain and Test opening partner Simon Katich says. Phillip Hughes and Simon Katich leave the field after defeating New Zealand in Wellington in 2010. (Ross Setford/AAP PHOTOS) "To witness the two hundreds in Durban against that South African attack (in his second Test at age 20 in 2009), he was just at the peak of his powers. "Between overs we were talking about his cows in Macksville more than we were (Dale) Steyn and (Morne) Morkel." Phillip Hughes celebrates his century on the third day of the second Test in Durban in 2009. (AP PHOTO) In many ways, Hughes was a pioneer for professional cricketers pursuing life balance. His first-class debut came at a time when welfare managers were being introduced, urging players to consider time after sport. Hughes required no pushing. His dream was his own cattle farm, which he purchased as Four 0 Eight Angus on the NSW north coast. A decade after his death, it is still operated by his family. "He really felt he was a farmer," Hughes' batting coach and long-term mentor Neil D'Costa says. "He was playing for Australia and showing cows at the Easter Show. This is unheard of for someone so young. "I took him to a meeting once, it was frightful. "Talking about artificial insemination with a guy. They knew everything, and then some. "We got in the car and he was pumped and he said, 'what do you reckon?' And I said 'you both disgust me'. "But he said: 'That's how you make money cuz.' He loved it." That love helped Hughes' cricket. When many believed he was treated harshly by Australia's selectors, Hughes would return to his family and the farm. Cooper recalls a time when the opener scored a century in a Sheffield Shield game, but his highlight of the day was his heifer winning an award at the Macksville Show. "He'd just scored a first-class hundred, and it was just like another day at the office," Cooper said. "But his heifer winning at the little Macksville show? 'Get your dancing boots on, we're going out to celebrate'. "That was his happy place. And to just have that avenue outside of cricket, it didn't matter if he scored a hundred, got a duck, got dropped, whatever. "To me he was content if he never played cricket again, he would just go back to the farm and have the happiest life ever." Cricket has soldiered on since Hughes' passing. But Cooper looks only at the size of Hughes' funeral, the globe-crossing travel of attendees and his lasting legacy as a tribute to a man far greater than a talented cricketer. The procession of mourners after the funeral in Macksville. (Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS) "He was just a genuine country bloke that had an exceptional talent of scoring runs," Cooper said. "There are so many stories. We'd just message each other all the time saying 'haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaappy'. "You know those type of people that everyone just likes? That was him." Australian Associated Press Share Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Email Copy More from AFL Marinoff, Garner favourites to be named AFLW's best Joanna Guelas Tough-tackling Conway ready for Roos Steve Barrett Lions mow down Crows, storm into AFLW grand final Steve Barrett Marinoff, Garner favourites to be named AFLW's best Joanna Guelas Tough-tackling Conway ready for Roos Steve Barrett Lions mow down Crows, storm into AFLW grand final Steve Barrett Ruthless Roos thump Power to charge into AFLW decider Anna Harrington More from sports Sunday roast: Why Caps believe again, and the United screamer you need to see Caden Helmers • No comment s 'It reinforces what you do': The Canberra horse race making a difference Caden Helmers • No comment s This ACT Comets quick is about to take on India's all-stars for the PM's XI Caden Helmers • No comment s Sunday roast: Why Caps believe again, and the United screamer you need to see Caden Helmers • No comment s 'It reinforces what you do': The Canberra horse race making a difference Caden Helmers • No comment s This ACT Comets quick is about to take on India's all-stars for the PM's XI Caden Helmers • No comment s Tragedy drives one. 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The crypto market is heating up again. With the fourth Bitcoin ( BTC -1.84% ) halving seven months in the rearview mirror and a crypto-friendly result in the 2024 elections , the leading coins seem poised for another skyrocketing surge. As of Nov. 22, Bitcoin has gained 27% this month, and Ethereum ( ETH -4.46% ) posted a richer gain of 36%. But the biggest names aren't always the best buys. The XRP ( XRP -14.56% ) token has soared 136% higher in November. Is XRP a better way to build wealth in the crypto market than Ethereum or Bitcoin? Why Bitcoin and Ethereum hold more value over time Generally, Bitcoin and Ethereum should have more value than XRP in the long run. Bitcoin aims to act as a general-purpose system for storing monetary value. Ethereum was built to power automated financial systems and other software apps, which are the foundation of decentralized finance (DeFi) . XRP's mission of providing quick, low-cost payments across international borders is still ambitious and legitimate -- but it can't compare to the larger visions of smart contracts and full-fledged digital currencies. So, I don't expect XRP to outgrow Ethereum or Bitcoin forever. I suppose it could happen if another cryptocurrency (or some entirely new financial technology) replaces Bitcoin as the leading "digital gold" or if one of the so-called Ethereum killers provides an objectively superior smart contracts platform. That would be bad news for the old crypto kings but not necessarily good for XRP and its investors. XRP's evolving market position That being said, XRP has a lot of room to grow before butting heads with Ethereum and Bitcoin. This is the sixth-largest cryptocurrency by total market value today, far behind the giants at the top. It would be particularly shocking to see XRP carry a larger market cap than Bitcoin -- but it could multiply in value more than 20 times over without raising that question, and I'd have to assume that Bitcoin wasn't rising over the same period: Cryptocurrency Market Capitalization 1-Year Price Change Bitcoin $1.93 trillion 167% Ethereum $395 billion 62% XRP $80 billion 136% Data collected from CoinMarketCap on Nov. 22, 2024. Bitcoin aims to replace physical gold as a system for storing financial value. That's about a $14 trillion market today. The global volume of border-crossing payments is much larger than that, estimated at approximately $190 trillion a year. But the fees, currency exchange costs, and service expenses associated with these massive money flows are far smaller at $193 billion in 2023. So, XRP is aiming for a smaller revenue-generating opportunity. And keep in mind that its RippleNet payment service is known for moving money with minimal fees. So, the token's actual revenue target will be far below the current banking system's share of foreign money transfers. XRP deserves your consideration alongside larger coins Now you know how XRP's long-term value compares to Bitcoin's and Ethereum's, and I've touched on the limits of this token's target market. Bitcoin can clearly fill a role in your portfolio that XRP isn't even trying to address, and the same can be said about Ethereum . A well-rounded cryptocurrency portfolio should have some exposure to the two largest names in this sector. I'm not saying you should sell your Bitcoin and go all-in on XRP today. Still, the XRP token looks undervalued and has plenty of room for growth in the next few years. The legal challenge brought by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission four years ago should wrap up in 2025. Money center banks worldwide are taking blockchain-based payment systems more seriously than ever, with XRP playing a leading role in that adoption trend. And the RippleNet service is getting busy -- the number of daily XRP payments has tripled in six months. I could keep talking about positive trends in the Ripple space, from liquidity pools to central bank digital currencies , but you get my point. This fairly large cryptocurrency is going places. So, on top of the generally bullish mood in the crypto sector, XRP has several growth catalysts in play. Don't forget Bitcoin and keep Ethereum in mind as well, but you should also make room for another winning name. A modest scoop of XRP tokens should serve your nest egg well in this bull market.
Uber and WeRide Unveil Autonomous Mobility Service in Abu DhabiLOS ANGELES — He’d been battered for weeks, lingering on the turf in pain at various points in previous wins over Nebraska and UCLA, always game enough to return a few players later after gingerly limping off. But running back Woody Marks, long USC’s Iron Man at running back, couldn’t return after another blow Saturday against Notre Dame. After a first-quarter handoff for nine yards, Marks laid on the turf for a few beats before stumbling to his feet, appearing slightly disoriented as he entered a medical tent on USC’s sideline. He eventually returned to the sideline as redshirt freshman Quinten Joyner took his place, but walked off into the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum tunnel at the two-minute mark of the first half as the CBS broadcast reported he’d be out for the rest of the afternoon . It was a massive loss for USC’s offense, and could’ve served as the end of Marks’ time in a Trojans jersey depending on his bowl-game decision. If so, what a run it has been for the Mississippi State transfer: finishing with 1,133 yards on the ground in 12 games, putting together one of the more complete seasons by any USC running back in recent memory. They came marching one by one down the barrel of the Coliseum, adorned with wreaths of honor, USC’s Easton Mascarenas-Arnold and Jaylin Smith and Woody Marks all exchanging hugs with Lincoln Riley as an early crowd erupted in claps for its program pillars. It was a moment of levity, USC honoring beloved seniors Saturday afternoon on the final day of its regular season. It was also, however, a sobering reality. With Mascarenas-Arnold, Smith and Marks went 138 combined tackles and four interceptions and 1,421 yards from scrimmage; with left guard Emmanuel Pregnon and center Jonah Monheim went two crucial pieces of a much-improved Trojans offensive line. Walking out from the tunnel on Senior Day, certainly, doesn’t provide an end-all, be-all on players’ futures. But it gave a hint, certainly, that several names who still carried eligibility – Mascarenas-Arnold, Smith, wide receiver Kyron Hudson – could be moving on come the winter. “We’ll have a few guys, obviously, who will have some decisions to make on if they go pro or if they stay and play another year,” Riley said Tuesday, when asked how he might adjust USC’s offensive personnel in the offseason. “Not a ton, but we’ve got a couple guys that have those decisions. We’ll just see. We’re going to try to get the right talent in here.” USC will be hard-pressed to add that talent, certainly, as eyes turn ahead to a bowl-game slot and the 2025 season. If every player honored on USC’s announced Senior Day graphic moves on , either via the NFL draft or the transfer portal, USC stands to lose 17 players from its offense, defense and special teams who started Saturday against Notre Dame. Here’s the breakdown: Offense: WR Kyle Ford, TE Lake McRee, RB Woody Marks, C Jonah Monheim, LG Emmanuel Pregnon, RT Mason Murphy, WR Kyron Hudson Defense: S Akili Arnold, LB Easton Mascarenas-Arnold, LB Mason Cobb, CB Jacobe Covington, DT Nate Clifton, DT Gavin Meyer, CB Jaylin Smith, CB Greedy Vance Jr. Special teams: P Eddie Czaplicki, K Michael Lantz It’s still probable, as Riley mentioned, that a few of those names elect to stay at USC for another season. McRee, Murphy and Hudson, in particular, are redshirt juniors and would likely see their draft stock elevated by a return for a prominent senior year at USC. Still, the Trojans will have major work to do in the transfer portal and with depth development this offseason, particularly at center, replacing Monheim, and cornerback. Related Articles Not a day after the NFL’s Chicago Bears canned head coach Matt Eberflus following a 23-20 loss to the Detroit Lions , former star quarterback and No. 1 overall draft pick Caleb Williams was back at the Coliseum on for his USC jersey-retirement ceremony in a palate cleanser of a Saturday afternoon. Williams, the Heisman Trophy winner who conquered opposing defenses and NIL riches in his time at USC, took a moment to thank the Coliseum crowd upon leading the Trojans out of the tunnel Saturday. “Number 13 is back,” Williams announced over the PA, speaking in a microphone to wide cheers. “And not only – is in the rafters now, because of all of you.”
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( MENAFN - EIN Presswire) Martha Barrantes shares insights on SME growth, predicting trends like digital transformation, sustainability, and supply chain resilience. SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA, December 28, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- Renowned financial consultant and entrepreneur Martha Barrantes , with over 25 years of experience in accounting and financial management, has unveiled her latest projections for the growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the face of current global economic shifts. Known for her commitment to empowering SMEs, Barrantes provides invaluable insights into how businesses can navigate challenges and seize opportunities to achieve sustainable growth. "Economic shifts present both obstacles and openings for SMEs," says Barrantes. "Understanding the trends and proactively adapting to these changes is the key to ensuring long-term success. SMEs must be agile, innovative, and well-prepared to leverage the opportunities that come their way." Analyzing the Economic Landscape Barrantes explains that the global economic environment is being shaped by several transformative factors, including technological advancements, supply chain disruptions, and inflationary pressures. While these elements pose challenges, they also create fertile ground for innovation and growth within the SME sector. "SMEs are uniquely positioned to adapt quickly to changing market conditions," Barrantes notes. "Unlike larger corporations, their smaller scale and flexibility allow them to pivot strategies and explore new business models with relative ease. However, this requires a clear understanding of the economic trends at play." Key Projections for SME Growth Based on her extensive experience and analysis, Barrantes shares several projections for SME growth in the current economic climate: 1. Digital Transformation Will Accelerate Barrantes predicts that the digitalization of SME operations will continue to gain momentum. "Businesses that invest in technology to improve efficiency, customer engagement, and scalability will have a significant competitive advantage," she asserts. From eCommerce platforms to cloud-based accounting systems, digital tools are becoming indispensable for SMEs aiming to streamline operations and expand their market reach. Barrantes highlights the importance of adopting technologies that align with specific business goals. 2. Sustainability as a Growth Driver Another key projection from Barrantes is the growing emphasis on sustainability. "Consumers and investors are increasingly prioritizing environmentally responsible businesses," she observes. "SMEs that integrate sustainable practices into their operations will not only contribute to a healthier planet but also attract a loyal customer base and investment opportunities." Barrantes advises SMEs to explore energy-efficient technologies, reduce waste, and partner with eco-conscious suppliers to position themselves as leaders in sustainability. 3. Supply Chain Resilience Will Be Paramount The global supply chain disruptions of recent years have underscored the need for robust supply chain strategies. Barrantes emphasizes that SMEs must build resilience into their supply chains to weather future uncertainties. "Diversifying suppliers, investing in inventory management systems, and fostering strong supplier relationships are crucial steps for mitigating risks," she explains. SMEs that proactively address supply chain vulnerabilities will be better equipped to maintain operations and meet customer demands. 4. Talent Retention and Development Will Define Success Barrantes projects that talent acquisition and retention will be central to SME growth. In an increasingly competitive labor market, businesses that prioritize employee development and well-being will stand out. "Offering competitive benefits, fostering a positive workplace culture, and investing in upskilling programs will help SMEs attract and retain top talent," she advises. "Your team is your most valuable asset, and their growth directly impacts your business's success." 5. Access to Financing Will Evolve Securing financing remains a critical factor for SME growth, and Barrantes anticipates that innovative financing options will become more accessible. "From crowdfunding platforms to fintech solutions, SMEs have more avenues than ever to secure funding," she notes. "However, it's essential to approach financing strategically and align it with long-term goals to avoid over-leverage." Strategies for Navigating Economic Shifts In addition to her projections, Barrantes offers actionable strategies to help SMEs thrive amid economic changes: Focus on Financial Planning: "Robust financial planning is the cornerstone of stability," Barrantes asserts. She encourages SMEs to regularly update their financial forecasts and maintain a cash reserve to navigate uncertainties. Embrace Innovation: Innovation is a powerful tool for overcoming challenges. Barrantes advises SMEs to explore new markets, diversify products, and adopt creative approaches to problem-solving. Prioritize Customer Relationships: Building strong relationships with customers can help SMEs maintain loyalty and adapt to evolving demands. "Understanding and addressing customer needs is essential for long-term growth," she emphasizes. Leverage Professional Expertise: Barrantes recommends seeking guidance from financial consultants and industry experts to navigate complex decisions. "Collaborating with professionals can provide fresh perspectives and enhance strategic planning," she adds. Empowering SMEs for a Resilient Future Barrantes' insights highlight the immense potential within the SME sector, even amidst economic shifts. She believes that with the right strategies and mindset, SMEs can not only survive but thrive in the current landscape. "SMEs play a vital role in driving economic growth and innovation," she says. "By equipping these businesses with the tools and knowledge they need, we can foster a resilient and prosperous future." About Martha Barrantes Martha Barrantes, a Costa Rican entrepreneur, boasts over 25 years of expertise in Project Management, Finance, Accounting, and Tax Consulting. She has founded, steered, and guided businesses toward success, fostering innovation, productivity, and profitability. Barrantes holds a Master's Degree in Finance and Tax Consulting. Martha Barrantes marthabarrantes email us here Visit us on social media: Facebook X Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content "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 author above. MENAFN28122024003118003196ID1109037938 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.MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Mike McDaniel has seen a change in quarterback Tua Tagovailoa over the past month. “He's found a way to improve the way he plays the position throughout the game,” the Dolphins coach said Sunday, after Tagovailoa threw for four touchdowns in a dominant 34-15 win over the New England Patriots. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.
When I first landed in Cambridge in 1990, ready to dive into the intellectual rigour of my studies, I was also plunged into a culinary crisis. Life in this new world was a mix of awe and bewilderment – especially at meal times. My gastronomic escapades initially alternated between the formal halls of Downing College and a modest Chinese takeaway shop along Lensfield Road. While the college dining hall served up quintessential British fare, the takeaway was my go-to for a taste of home. But at around £8 for a modest portion of fried noodles, it felt less like dinner and more like daylight robbery. My student wallet whimpered in protest, and to top it off, the noodles left me as hungry as a foreign student in a barren field. That’s when my survival instincts kicked in. Armed with the determination of a budget-conscious Malaysian and the resourcefulness of a botanist student, I hatched a plan to reclaim my culinary destiny. First stop: Cho Mee Asian sundry shop at Mill Road. There, I stocked up on packets of bee hoon noodles and essentials like soy sauce, oyster sauce (a must-have for any self-respecting stir-fry), and vegetables. However, one critical ingredient proved elusive: taugeh, the humble bean sprout. In Cambridge, especially during winter, taugeh was a rarity, and when it did appear, it was shockingly expensive. Paying premium prices for a garnish-sized portion of sprouts? Outrageous! That’s when inspiration struck: Why buy taugeh when I could grow my own? My Taugeh Experiment Taugeh, the humble bean sprout. Thus began my grand taugeh experiment. With a bag of dried mung beans from Cho Mee, a scrap of cloth, an unshakable belief in my botany knowledge and DIY skills, I set up my very own sprout farm in the dark heater room of my student house. Also, it is very important in any Malaysian cuisine it include the sauces especially oyster sauce. Planting mung beans was simple, yet surprisingly satisfying, like watching a tiny miracle unfold. I soaked the beans overnight, letting them swell with promise, then gently wrapped them in a damp cloth – secure, but with room to grow. Placing them in the warm, dark corner of the heater room, I watched as the seeds transformed into little sprouts, thanks to the warmth. Each day, I rinsed and watered them two or three times, nurturing them like a proud parent. Within days, my efforts bore fruit – well, sprouts, technically. Tiny green shoots began to emerge, breaking free from their husks. With each new sprout, the promise of a future harvest grew more real, filled with the potential for delicious culinary delights. Bean sprouts transform fried bee hoon into a masterpiece. Crisp, fresh, and gloriously abundant, they transformed my humble fried bee hoon into a masterpiece. The taugeh weren’t just an ingredient; they were a triumph. Remember the famous Ipoh Chicken Rice in Malaysia and their famous taugehs! In Malaysia, we exclaim .... “Best from Ipoh-Mali punya”. My Housemates Word of my culinary prowess spread faster than the irresistible aroma of sizzling garlic wafting out of our little student house – helped, of course, by my generous habit of inviting anyone and everyone over. My housemates quickly became die-hard fans of my wok-wielding wizardry, each contributing to the dynamic in their own ... distinctively creative ways First, there was the South African, whose internal radar for dinner seemed more accurate than a GPS. Without fail, he materialised just as the noodles hit the wok along with other dishes, of course. Groceries? Not his department – why mess with perfection? But to his credit, he was a cleaning ninja, often scrubbing the aftermath of my kitchen escapades until the counters gleamed. Maybe, he did contribute once with a bottle of wine. Then came the Dutchman, who clearly believed in the motto “eat first, sponge later.” Like clockwork, he followed the South African’s strategy of contributing nothing tangible but occasionally offered juice from Sainsbury to the pantry while diplomatically volunteering to wash up. His sponge-wielding skills, though, were undeniably top-notch. The two Englishmen, however, were the unsung heroes of our culinary arrangement. Unlike their freeloading counterparts, they graciously chipped in for ingredients, stocking up the fridge with everything from noodles to sauces. They even occasionally asked if I needed anything specific – a gesture that earned them honorary sous-chef status in my book. Together, we formed a peculiar but harmonious system: I cooked, the Dutch and South African cleaned, and the two Englishmen kept the pantry alive. It wasn’t perfect, but hey, it kept the fried noodles and other cuisine – and friendships – flowing. More Joined for Meals Joseph Tek treating course mates and friends to home-cooked food. Before long, my culinary ‘empire’ outgrew the confines of our student house. Word spread like the unmistakable aroma of garlic hitting a hot wok. Course mates, nostalgic Malaysians and Singaporeans (starved for a taste of home-cooked food), neighbours, and even random acquaintances I met by chance found themselves lured by the irresistible magic of my fried noodles with taugeh – and whatever else I managed to whip up. I have then evolved to introduce other types of fried noodles including tang hoon, vermicelli glass noodles, My kitchen escapades became legendary. Once, I hosted some 20 invited hungry friends for my birthday in 1991, transforming our modest home into a buzzing Asian food haven. On another occasion, I outdid myself, cooking enough bee hoon with taugeh for over 50 people during an international gathering at Fisher’s House. Let me tell you, seeing a group of culturally diverse students slurping noodles together is proof that world peace might just be achievable – one wok at a time. My tiny kitchen on Lensfield Road became more than just a place to eat; it was a melting pot of cultures, where laughter and stories flowed as freely as soy and oyster sauce. It didn’t matter where you were from – everyone left with a full belly, a happy heart and possibly the lingering smell of stir-fried noodles in their clothes. Truly, it was a glorious time when fried bee hoon united the masses! Those cold Cambridge nights were transformed by the sizzle of garlic, the aroma of noodles, and the camaraderie of newfound friends. My taugeh operation wasn’t just a money-saving hack; it was a bridge to connections, laughter and warmth. Who would’ve guessed that a bag of mung beans and a heater room could grow more than just sprouts? Turns out, they cultivated connections, laughter and memories that still bring a grin to my face today. What began as a humble mission to avoid pricey takeaways – because, really, I couldn’t have the energy to face Cambridge’s food prices then? – morphed into the fertile soil for friendships that would later prove to be more satisfying than any overpriced takeout could ever be. In that relatively cramped student flat, with nothing more than a wok, some cheap noodles, and an alarming number of sprouting beans, I found my secret weapon: the ability to create culinary ‘masterpieces’ under pressure. Forget microwave meals, this was the era of the “Wok of Wonder,” where the art of cooking and sharing food was the true test of friendship and survival. No fancy kitchen gadgets or celebrity chef skills required – just creativity, a pinch of optimism, and a whole lot of garlic and yes, never leave home without the oyster sauce. The humble mung bean, while modest in stature, held the power to transform any dreary night into an unforgettable event. A group of us would gather around the tiny stove, stir-frying and snacking, all while swapping stories and pretending we had everything figured out. Little did we know, we were creating the kind of memories that would last far beyond our time in Cambridge. These weren’t just meals; they were milestones, moments that bound us together in the best possible way – over laughter, shared triumphs and occasional kitchen disasters (who knew that overdose of salt or soy sauce could be that potent?). As the weeks turned into months, my scholarship funds grew alongside the sprouts. By the time I returned home, I had saved a small fortune, mostly thanks to my trusty mung beans and my ever-expanding repertoire of budget-friendly, yet surprisingly delicious dishes. Forget a financial advisor – I had bean sprouts and a burning desire to prove that you can live like royalty on a student budget. The Takeaway So, what’s the takeaway from all this? Besides a few mildly alarming kitchen incidents (burnt noodles, spitted cooking oil from wok, you get the picture), it’s simple: food is more than just fuel. It’s a magic potion for connection, a recipe for laughter and the secret ingredient to lifelong friendships. Seriously, who knew that a wok of fried noodles could be the foundation of so many inside jokes? Looking back, I can’t help but think: there’s definitely a book in this. A student’s survival guide to navigating the culinary wilderness with humour, heart and a dash of desperation. In fact, I’m already mentally designing the cover: “Wok and Roll: Tales from a Student’s Budget Gourmet.” It’s catchy, it’s punny and let’s be honest, it’s basically the memoir of my student life – minus the expensive food, of course. Sure, it won’t be winning any Michelin stars (unless they start awarding those for “Most Creative Use of Oyster Sauce”) and I’m fairly confident it won’t make it to the finals of MasterChef. But if it brings a smile to your face, fills your belly and most importantly, saves you a few pounds for that next round of overpriced food – well, then it’s a win in my book. Here’s to the simple joys of food, friendship, and the little gourmet adventures that bring us together. As we step into a fresh new year, may your sprouts grow tall, your noodles stay perfectly al dente and your wallets stay just a bit fuller. To all the wonderful people reading this, especially friend from Cantab. May the new year be filled with warmth, laughter and a dash of culinary magic. Cheers to new beginnings and the blessings that come with them. Happy New Year to all!
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