nice pool deadpool Just one day after layoffs at Ubisoft , Torn Banner, and Sweet Bandits put more than 300 people out of work , Friday the 13 th developer Illfonic has announced that it too is making cuts to its staff. "Today we had to accept the harsh reality that the state of the industry has impacted us here at Illfonic," co-founder and CEO Charles Brunghardt wrote in a message posted to LinkedIn . "It is with the heaviest of hearts that cuts to our teams had to be made today as we re-aligned to a refined strategy." Brunghardt didn't say how many employees were put out of work, but former community and social media manager Michael Robles said on LinkedIn that "a lot of very talented people were laid off." Illfonic was founded in 2007 and found success, despite some high-profile troubles, with Friday the 13 th : The Game. We quite liked it , and it was a success, selling almost two million copies over its first few months of release. But work was brought up short in 2018 by a dispute over ownership of the Friday the 13 th property. Illfonic's follow-up games did not fare as well. Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed was not great and failed to attract much of an audience, while the multiplayer horror game Killer Klowns From Outer Space , released earlier this year, was better received but also garnered little attention. Like yesterday's layoffs at Ubisoft, Torn Banner, and Sweet Bandits (and the late November shutdowns of Humanoid Origin and Worlds Untold ), these cuts seem especially brutal because of their proximity to the holidays. In the bigger picture, though, they represent an industry in a state of freefall, put there by Covid-19 mismanagement and the relentless pursuit of profit. As I said earlier today, because this keeps happening so often and so quickly, 2023 was awful and 2024 is set to be even worse: This kind of attrition is simply not sustainable, and yet at this point I don't have much hope that things are going to be meaningfully better in 2025. The biggest gaming news, reviews and hardware deals Keep up to date with the most important stories and the best deals, as picked by the PC Gamer team.By Noam N. Levey, KFF Health News Worried that President-elect Donald Trump will curtail federal efforts to take on the nation’s medical debt problem, patient and consumer advocates are looking to states to help people who can’t afford their medical bills or pay down their debts. “The election simply shifts our focus,” said Eva Stahl, who oversees public policy at Undue Medical Debt, a nonprofit that has worked closely with the Biden administration and state leaders on medical debt. “States are going to be the epicenter of policy change to mitigate the harms of medical debt.” New state initiatives may not be enough to protect Americans from medical debt if the incoming Trump administration and congressional Republicans move forward with plans to scale back federal aid that has helped millions gain health insurance or reduce the cost of their plans in recent years. Comprehensive health coverage that limits patients’ out-of-pocket costs remains the best defense against medical debt. But in the face of federal retrenchment, advocates are eyeing new initiatives in state legislatures to keep medical bills off people’s credit reports, a consumer protection that can boost credit scores and make it easier to buy a car, rent an apartment, or even get a job. Several states are looking to strengthen oversight of medical credit cards and other financial products that can leave patients paying high interest rates on top of their medical debt. Some states are also exploring new ways to compel hospitals to bolster financial aid programs to help their patients avoid sinking into debt. “There’s an enormous amount that states can do,” said Elisabeth Benjamin, who leads health care initiatives at the nonprofit Community Service Society of New York. “Look at what’s happened here.” New York state has enacted several laws in recent years to rein in hospital debt collections and to expand financial aid for patients, often with support from both Democrats and Republicans in the legislature. “It doesn’t matter the party. No one likes medical debt,” Benjamin said. Other states that have enacted protections in recent years include Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Washington. Many measures picked up bipartisan support. President Joe Biden’s administration has proved to be an ally in state efforts to control health care debt. Such debt burdens 100 million people in the United States, a KFF Health News investigation found . Led by Biden appointee Rohit Chopra, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has made medical debt a priority , going after aggressive collectors and exposing problematic practices across the medical debt industry. Earlier this year, the agency proposed landmark regulations to remove medical bills from consumer credit scores. The White House also championed legislation to boost access to government-subsidized health insurance and to cap out-of-pocket drug costs for seniors, both key bulwarks against medical debt. Trump hasn’t indicated whether his administration will move ahead with the CFPB credit reporting rule, which was slated to be finalized early next year. Congressional Republicans, who will control the House and Senate next year, have blasted the proposal as regulatory overreach that will compromise the value of credit reports. And Elon Musk, the billionaire whom Trump has tapped to lead his initiative to shrink government, last week called for the elimination of the watchdog agency . “Delete CFPB,” Musk posted on X. If the CFPB withdraws the proposed regulation, states could enact their own rules, following the lead of Colorado, New York, and other states that have passed credit reporting bans since 2023. Advocates in Massachusetts are pushing the legislature there to take up a ban when it reconvenes in January. “There are a lot of different levers that states have to take on medical debt,” said April Kuehnhoff, a senior attorney at the National Consumer Law Center, which has helped lead national efforts to expand debt protections for patients. Kuehnhoff said she expects more states to crack down on medical credit card providers and other companies that lend money to patients to pay off medical bills, sometimes at double-digit interest rates. Under the Biden administration, the CFPB has been investigating patient financing companies amid warnings that many people may not understand that signing up for a medical credit card such as CareCredit or enrolling in a payment plan through a financial services company can pile on more debt. If the CFPB efforts stall under Trump, states could follow the lead of California, New York, and Illinois, which have all tightened rules governing patient lending in recent years. Consumer advocates say states are also likely to continue expanding efforts to get hospitals to provide more financial assistance to reduce or eliminate bills for low- and middle-income patients, a key protection that can keep people from slipping into debt. Hospitals historically have not made this aid readily available, prompting states such as California, Colorado, and Washington to set stronger standards to ensure more patients get help with bills they can’t afford. This year, North Carolina also won approval from the Biden administration to withhold federal funding from hospitals in the state unless they agreed to expand financial assistance. In Georgia, where state government is entirely in Republican control, officials have been discussing new measures to get hospitals to provide more assistance to patients. “When we talk about hospitals putting profits over patients, we get lots of nodding in the legislature from Democrats and Republicans,” said Liz Coyle, executive director of Georgia Watch, a consumer advocacy nonprofit. Many advocates caution, however, that state efforts to bolster patient protections will be critically undermined if the Trump administration cuts federal funding for health insurance programs such as Medicaid and the insurance marketplaces established through the Affordable Care Act. Trump and congressional Republicans have signaled their intent to roll back federal subsidies passed under Biden that make health plans purchased on ACA marketplaces more affordable. That could hike annual premiums by hundreds or even thousands of dollars for many enrollees, according to estimates by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a think tank. And during Trump’s first term, he backed efforts in Republican-led states to restrict enrollment in their Medicaid safety net programs through rules that would require people to work in order to receive benefits. GOP state leaders in Idaho, Louisiana, and other states have expressed a desire to renew such efforts. “That’s all a recipe for more medical debt,” said Stahl, of Undue Medical Debt. Jessica Altman, who heads the Covered California insurance marketplace, warned that federal cuts will imperil initiatives in her state that have limited copays and deductibles and curtailed debt for many state residents. “States like California that have invested in critical affordable programs for our residents will face tough decisions,” she said. ©2024 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.N.J. grandparents were scammed. This guy admitted showing up to collect payments.

NonePresident-elect Donald Trump is naming the former U.S. Border Patrol chief pushed out by the Biden administration to lead the Customs and Border Protection, which monitors hundreds of ways to enter the country. Trump's CBP nominee Rodney Scott is a 29-year border-enforcement veteran who clashed with President Joe Biden's team on how best to tackle illegal immigration and other border-related matters. He was asked to leave his Border Patrol position within the first six months of Biden taking office in 2021. Scott's return signals how seriously Trump is taking his ambitious immigration and border security agenda, which includes launching a mass deportation effort within his first 100 days. As the border patrol chief during Trump's first tenure as president, Scott helped implement the Remain in Mexico Policy , Title 42 and Safe Third Country agreements. The president-elect said he was "thrilled" to bring Scott back to public service. Customs and Border Protection has more than 60,000 federal employees, which makes it one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the country. It carries the responsibility of inspecting roughly 300 ports of entry, such as airports, seaports and land borders. That will be a significant role in Trump's returning administration should he keep his pledge to impose strict tariffs on foreign countries such as Canada, Mexico and China. Trump has unveiled a host of other appointments as part of his immigration crackdown featuring well-known hardliners such as Caleb Vitello, an assistant director for firearms and tactical programs as acting director of Immigrations and Customs Enforcement; Tony Salisbury as deputy homeland security adviser; and Brandon Judd, president of the National Border Patrol Council, to be ambassador to Chile. Heather Gonzalez, vice president of American Families United Vice President, a liberal-leaning immigration reform group , said Friday the nominations, "signal a dangerous commitment to continuing and even escalating" policies that could lead to family separation. "We reject any attempt to further criminalize immigrants, vilify them and break up families for political gain," Gonzalez said. "The nominees' track records suggest they will not work to protect the values of family unity and justice that are foundational to our nation. Instead, their leadership will only deepen the wounds inflicted on communities already living in fear and uncertainty." But South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, who has been plucked to be Trump's head of the Department of Homeland Security, praised Scott and Vitello's selection in a social media post Friday, welcoming both to the team. "Together, we will Make America Safe Again," Noem said in a post on Truth Social. Contributing: Josh Meyer

Georgia loses QB Carson Beck (arm) during SEC title gameTHE senior men’s cricket national team on Tuesday slumped to a humiliating 10-wicket defeat against Pakistan in a T20 international match at the Queens Sports Club. With the embarrassing defeat, Zimbabwe surrendered the three-match series with a game to spare. Zimbabwe were bundled out for 57 in 12.4 overs, losing their 10 wickets over a [...] Tafadzwa Zimoyo-Lifestyle Editor Hello, December and it is 18 days before Christmas Day. As December unfolds in Zimbabwe, the countdown to Christmas becomes a vibrant tapestry of traditions, family reunions, and shared joy. This holiday season is not just a mark on the calendar; it represents a deep-rooted cultural celebration that brings together communities across [...] Ivan Zhakata-Herald Correspondent IN an era marked by global turmoil, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has emerged as a beacon of stability. Despite confronting challenges ranging from localised conflicts to climate change, the region’s collaborative efforts in governance, peacekeeping and development have drawn international commendation. Speaking at the recent virtual SADC-ICP dialogue platform meeting, [...]

Aircraft Platforms Market worth $301.19 Billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.2% 12-06-2024 08:22 PM CET | Associations & Organizations Press release from: ABNewswire Aircraft Platforms Market The Global Aircraft Platforms Market Size was valued at USD 235.24 billion in 2024 and is estimated to reach USD 301.19 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period. The report "Aircraft Platforms Market [ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/aircraft-platforms-market-158064874.html?utm_source=abnewswire.com&utm_medium=PaidPR&utm_campaign=aircraftplatformsmarket ] by Type (Transport Aircraft, Special Missions Aircraft, UAVs), Power Source (Fuel Cell, SAF-Based, Battery-Powered), Propulsion Technology (Turbofan, Turfoprop, Turbojet, Electric) and Region - Global forecast to 2030" The global aircraft platforms market is projected to reach USD 301.19 billion by 2030, from USD 235.24 billion in 2024, at a CAGR of 4.2%. This growth is mainly driven by increased air traffic, higher defense budgets due to geopolitical tensions, advancements in aerospace technology, and evolving UAV and UAM regulations. Key developments focusing on enhancing aircraft efficiency, integrating advanced technologies such as AI, and increasing payload capacities. Additionally, the leading players in this market focus on large R&D expenditures in creating advanced systems to fulfill strategic requirements of all major countries, which also include the North American, European, Asian-Pacific, and Middle East regions. Download PDF Brochure @ [ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=158064874&utm_source=abnewswire.com&utm_medium=PaidPR&utm_campaign=aircraftplatformsmarket ] Browse 539 market data Tables and 88 Figures spread through 395 Pages and in-depth TOC on "Aircraft Platforms Market" View detailed Table of Content here - https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/aircraft-platforms-market-158064874.html [ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/aircraft-platforms-market-158064874.html?utm_source=abnewswire.com&utm_medium=PaidPR&utm_campaign=aircraftplatformsmarket ] [ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/aircraft-platforms-market-158064874.html?utm_source=abnewswire.com&utm_medium=PaidPR&utm_campaign=aircraftplatformsmarket ] Based on type, the unmanned aerial vehicles segment is estimated to grow at highest CAGR in the market during the forecast period. The UAVs segment is estimated to have highest CAGR during the forecast period. This is primarily because due to their expanding applications in commercial sectors like delivery services, infrastructure inspection, and agriculture, alongside crucial military uses such as surveillance and targeted strikes. The rise in UAV adoption is bolstered by significant technological enhancements that improve operational efficiency, including longer flight durations, greater payload capacities, and enhanced autonomous operations. The integration of sophisticated AI algorithms is transforming UAVs into more autonomous systems capable of complex, decision-making tasks without direct human control. Regulatory environments are also evolving to better accommodate UAV operations, further facilitating growth by defining clearer paths to market for UAV technologies. This combination of advanced capabilities, expanding use cases, and supportive regulations underlines the dynamic expansion of UAVs within the global aircraft platforms market. Based on propulsion technology, the Piston Engine Aircraft segment is forecasted to grow at second highest CAGR during forecast period. The piston engine segment is forecasted to grow at the second highest CAGR during the forecast period in aircraft platforms market. Piston engine aircraft are anticipated to experience the second highest growth rate within the aircraft platforms market due to their cost-effectiveness and essential role in pilot training. These aircraft are significantly cheaper to acquire and operate which makes them ideal for flight schools and private owners, and aligns with the increasing global demand for commercial pilots. Technological improvements have also enhanced the efficiency and environmental compliance of piston engines which enables them to meet stricter emission standards and operate on cleaner fuels like unleaded gasoline. Furthermore, their ability to take off and land on shorter runways and their versatility for use in various flying activities such as from recreational to bush flying drives the market demand. Manufacturers are capitalizing on these attributes by developing new models equipped with advanced avionics and improved safety features, driving broader adoption across the aviation industry. North America is expected to hold the largest market share during the forecast period. The aircraft platforms market in north america is expected to hold largest market share during forecast period. North America will lead the share of aircraft platforms during the forecast period driven by substantial investments in both civil and military sectors. The region's dominance is supported by robust infrastructure for aviation manufacturing and a high concentration of leading aerospace companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin Corporation, and Northrop Grumman Corporation. These firms are continually innovating in terms of technology and design, particularly focusing on sustainability, reducing emissions, and improving fuel efficiency in civil aircraft, while integrating advanced technologies in military aircraft for superior capabilities in surveillance, stealth, and combat. The growth in North America is also driven by a strong demand for new aircraft to replace aging fleets and to expand capacities in response to increasing air travel demand. Additionally, the US government's significant defense budget allocates funds for advanced fighter jets, helicopters, and UAVs, ensuring ongoing investment in next-generation aircraft. All those segments and regions have drivers and restraints traceable back to either technological advancement or strategic defense requirements and, in aggregate, serve growth for the aircraft platforms sector. Key players in the aircraft platforms market are Airbus (France), Boeing (US), Embraer (Brazil), Textron Inc. (US), Lockheed Martin Corporation (US), General Dynamics (US), Northrop Grumman (US), Israel Aerospace Industries (Israel), Leonardo S.p.A (Italy), DJI (China), Bombardier (Canada), Ehang (China), ATR (France), General Atomics (US), Teledyne Flir LLC (US), Vertical Aerospace (UK), Archer Aviation (US), Dassault Aviation (France), and RTX (US). Media Contact Company Name: MarketsandMarkets Trademark Research Private Ltd. Contact Person: Mr. Rohan Salgarkar Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=aircraft-platforms-market-worth-30119-billion-by-2030-at-a-cagr-of-42 ] Phone: 18886006441 Address:1615 South Congress Ave. Suite 103, Delray Beach, FL 33445 City: Delray Beach State: Florida Country: United States Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/aircraft-platforms-market-158064874.html This release was published on openPR.

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In a stunning turn of events, Syrian rebels have ended President Bashar al-Assad's 24-year authoritarian rule following a rapid offensive that took the world by surprise. With Damascus and Homs now under rebel control, the region faces a significant shift in power dynamics. President Assad reportedly fled Damascus to an undisclosed location as celebratory crowds took to the streets, chanting 'Freedom' after decades of Assad family rule. The fall is seen as a massive blow to Russia and Iran, who have long supported Assad, losing a strategic ally in the Middle East. The opposition promises a new era while international stakeholders express concerns about potential upheaval. As the rebellion's momentum grows, the world watches closely amid fears of further instability in an already volatile region. (With inputs from agencies.)

Exclusive — Sen. Deb Fischer: 'Had a Good Conversation' with Pete Hegseth During MeetingWith Trump on the way, advocates look to states to pick up medical debt fightHormel Foods Corp. stock rises Friday, outperforms market

A massive asteroid could strike Earth on Friday, the 13th, but not this one. The 2029 Friday 13 is the most concerning of all because there is a slim chance that we will be struck by a massive asteroid that is speeding towards Earth. Today is the day to pay close attention to the gap when boarding the train and to cast ten glances left and right before crossing the street. For what reason? Of course, it's Friday 13, the dreaded day, as quoted in a report by the Daily Star UK. You can avoid disaster on this year's frightfully unlucky day if you take precautions, but in 2029, just over four years from now, you might not be so fortunate because a massive asteroid might be on its way to Earth. First discovered in 2004, the titanic space rock known as Apophis was estimated in 2017 to have a 2.7% chance of striking Earth in 2029. Any chance of an impact in 2029 was ruled out by more observations of the asteroid. Also Read : The most eligible bachelor? Barron Trump becomes a sensation with ladies, grabs eyeballs on college campus Artificial Intelligence(AI) ChatGPT Mastery from Zero to Hero: The Complete AI Course By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Web Development Maximizing Developer Productivity: The Pomodoro Technique in Practice By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Web Development Java 21 Essentials for Beginners: Build Strong Programming Foundations By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Modern Marketing Masterclass by Seth Godin By - Seth Godin, Former dot com Business Executive and Best Selling Author View Program Soft Skills Cross-Cultural Communication Mastery: Connect with Confidence By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Web Development Intermediate Java Mastery: Method, Collections, and Beyond By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Finance A2Z Of Money By - elearnmarkets, Financial Education by StockEdge View Program Entrepreneurship From Idea to Product: A Startup Development Guide By - Dr. Anu Khanchandani, Startup Coach with more than 25 years of experience View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Generative AI for Dynamic Java Web Applications with ChatGPT By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Pam Moore By - Pam Moore, Digital Transformation and Social Media Expert View Program Web Development A Comprehensive ASP.NET Core MVC 6 Project Guide for 2024 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Finance Financial Literacy for Non-Finance Executives By - CA Raja, Chartered Accountant | Financial Management Educator | Former AVP - Credit, SBI View Program Entrepreneurship Marketing & Sales Strategies for Startups: From Concept to Conversion By - Dr. Anu Khanchandani, Startup Coach with more than 25 years of experience View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Java Programming with ChatGPT: Learn using Generative AI By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Finance Tally Prime & GST Accounting: Complete Guide By - CA Raj K Agrawal, Chartered Accountant View Program Legal Complete Guide to AI Governance and Compliance By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Finance A2Z Of Finance: Finance Beginner Course By - elearnmarkets, Financial Education by StockEdge View Program Web Development Advanced Java Mastery: Object-Oriented Programming Techniques By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Entrepreneurship Building Your Winning Startup Team: Key Strategies for Success By - Dr. Anu Khanchandani, Startup Coach with more than 25 years of experience View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI for Everyone: Understanding and Applying the Basics on Artificial Intelligence By - Ritesh Vajariya, Generative AI Expert View Program Marketing Digital marketing - Wordpress Website Development By - Shraddha Somani, Digital Marketing Trainer, Consultant, Strategiest and Subject Matter expert View Program Office Productivity Mastering Google Sheets: Unleash the Power of Excel and Advance Analysis By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Web Development Django & PostgreSQL Mastery: Build Professional Web Applications By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Strategy Succession Planning Masterclass By - Nigel Penny, Global Strategy Advisor: NSP Strategy Facilitation Ltd. View Program Web Development 12-Factor App Methodology: Principles and Guidelines By - Prince Patni, Software Developer (BI, Data Science) View Program Marketing Future of Marketing & Branding Masterclass By - Dr. David Aaker, Professor Emeritus at the Haas School of Business, UC Berkeley, Author | Speaker | Thought Leader | Branding Consultant View Program At that time, it was predicted to approach Earth closely on Friday, April 13, 2029, when it would be at least 18,300 miles away, that could drastically change, though, if a small object strikes the asteroid, according to a study conducted since then by Canadian astronomer Paul Wiegert. He stated the likelihood of an invisible minor asteroid diverting Apophis sufficiently to cause it to collide with Earth. The likelihood of this occurring is extremely low. not zero, though. The overall probability of a small impact directing Apophis into a collision with the Earth is less than one in five, the space expert stated, noting that only five percent of such impulses are in the proper direction to generate an Earth impact. In comparison, this figure is roughly 20 times less likely than winning the lottery, which is a pointless endeavour in the modern world. Again, though, it is not impossible. Actually, it's much more unlikely that you even exist. The likelihood that you are sitting there reading this right now is one in ten, not a billion, not a trillion, but ten with 2,685,000 zeros in front of it, when you consider all the variables like the right sperm finding the egg, your parents meeting, your grandparents meeting, and so forth. Also Read : 2024 Billboard Music Awards Finally Arrived- See Who All Have Won Perhaps we should be grateful that we are safe from flying cosmic apocalypse rocks this Friday, the 13th, but we should also be mindful of the gap and look both ways. FAQs Is the asteroid Apophis likely to collide with the Earth in 2029? Experts estimate the chances of Apophis hitting Earth in 2029 to be less than one in two billion. What factors might increase the asteroid's chances of colliding with Earth? A collision with a smaller asteroid could change Apophis' trajectory, but the chances of this happening are slim. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )Ahly failed to break the deadlock against South Africa’s Orlando Pirates in a tense CAF Champions League group-stage clash on Saturday. Despite a spirited battle, the match ended in a stalemate, leaving the Red Devils atop Group C with four points, tied with second-placed Orlando Pirates after two rounds. The hosts, Orlando Pirates, dominated the first half, generating several chances, but Ahly goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy stood firm with outstanding saves. Ahly coach Marcel Koller started Palestinian striker Wessam Abou Ali, recently recovered from an instep injury, alongside Moroccan midfielder Reda Slim and Emam Ashour, returning after missing previous games. In the second half, Koller introduced Percy Tau, Mohamed ‘Afsha’ Magdy, and Hussein El-Shahat to push for a breakthrough. Despite late pressure, including a stunning El-Shahat strike and efforts from Tau, Orlando Pirates goalkeeper S. Chaine held firm, keeping Ahly at bay. Ahly now prepares to host Algeria’s Chabab Riadhi De Belouizdad on Sunday, 22 December, in a pivotal third-round group stage clash.

Troy wins its first 2A football championship with stirring fourth quarter scoring driveCongressional bicameral team pushes for insurance, pharmaceutical reformBETHESDA, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 6, 2024-- Enviva, LLC (“Enviva” or the “Company”), a leading producer of industrial wood pellets, today announced its successful emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, marking a significant milestone in the Company’s strategic transformation. Enviva is well-positioned for long-term growth and consistent operating performance, allowing the Company to serve its customers as a market leader and critical partner in meeting their demand for renewable fuel. Enviva’s Plan of Reorganization (the “Plan”) was confirmed by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, with overwhelming support from the Company's key stakeholders and business partners. As part of its financial restructuring, Enviva has equitized more than $1 billion of indebtedness and American Industrial Partners Capital Fund VIII (“AIP”) has become the largest shareholder of the Company. To support ongoing operations and future growth initiatives, Enviva is capitalized at emergence with an attractive exit loan facility, as well as access to further capital through a delayed draw term loan. As part of the Plan, stakeholders provided $250 million of new money financing through an Equity Rights Offering to help fund the recapitalization of the Company. As a result of this, the Company’s liquidity and financial profile is very strong and the Company has no near-term debt maturities. The secured funding also fully finances completion of the Company’s 11 th production plant, under construction in Epes, Alabama, which is anticipated to produce its first pellets in May 2025. Once fully ramped, the Company expects the new plant to produce ~1 million metric tons of wood pellets per year, providing a significant opportunity to sell into new and existing markets. Also on emergence, Glenn Nunziata, who most recently served as Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, and James Geraghty, who formerly served as Executive Vice President of Finance, has been named Chief Financial Officer. “Emergence is a critical milestone and exciting step forward in positioning Enviva for a successful future,” said Glenn Nunziata, Enviva’s Chief Executive Officer. “On behalf of Enviva, I want to express our gratitude to all our stakeholders, especially our customers and associates, for their continued business and support. With a substantially reduced debt burden and dramatically improved liquidity profile, we are well-positioned to serve our customers reliably as a leading producer of industrial wood pellets and to rebuild trust and confidence in the communities in which we operate and markets in which we sell our product.” In connection with emergence, Enviva will operate as a private company with a new Board of Managers (“Board”) comprising representatives from key shareholders, including AIP, Keyframe Capital Partners, L.P., and Ares Management funds, who bring valuable financial, operational, and end-market experience to support Enviva’s operations and future growth. Jan Trnka-Amrhein, member of Enviva’s Board and Partner at AIP, added, "Enviva’s best-in-class portfolio of production assets and robust logistics capabilities allows for the Company to be the go-to partner for woody biomass renewable energy solutions. We see an immense opportunity for growth and expansion in the markets in which Enviva operates, and we’re confident that Enviva is well equipped to reliably meet its customers’ growing demand for biomass products.” Enviva extends its gratitude to its employees, customers, suppliers, and other partners for their support throughout the restructuring process. Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, Vinson & Elkins LLP, and Kutak Rock LLP served as legal counsel, Lazard served as investment banker, and Alvarez & Marsal North America, LLC served as restructuring advisor to Enviva. The Ad Hoc Group of Creditors was represented by Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP and McGuireWoods LLP as legal counsel and Evercore Group LLC as investment banker. About Enviva Enviva, LLC is a leading producer of industrial wood pellets, a renewable energy source produced by aggregating a natural resource, wood fiber, and processing it into a transportable form, wood pellets. Enviva owns and operates ten plants in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Mississippi, and is constructing its 11th plant in Epes, Alabama. Enviva sells most of its wood pellets through long-term, take-or-pay off-take contracts with customers located primarily in the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Japan, helping to accelerate the energy transition away from conventional energy sources in hard-to-abate sectors like steel, cement, lime, chemicals, and aviation. Enviva exports its wood pellets to global markets through its deep-water marine terminals at the Port of Chesapeake, Virginia, the Port of Wilmington, North Carolina, and the Port of Pascagoula, Mississippi, and from third-party deep-water marine terminals in Savannah, Georgia, Mobile, Alabama, and Panama City, Florida. Learn more at www.envivabiomass.com and follow us on social media @Enviva. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241206254913/en/ CONTACT: media@envivabiomass.com +1-301-657-5560 KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA MARYLAND INDUSTRY KEYWORD: PROFESSIONAL SERVICES OTHER ENERGY FOREST PRODUCTS ENERGY FINANCE NATURAL RESOURCES SOURCE: Enviva Inc. Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/06/2024 04:18 PM/DISC: 12/06/2024 04:18 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241206254913/en

Winston's performance in snowy win over Steelers adds new layer to Browns' quarterback conundrumThe director, Corporate Development of Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, Jochen Stolle, has underscored the need for journalists and media relations practitioners to foster strong relationship even as he declared that the company is a fully-owned Nigerian company. Stolle made the assertion during media parleys hosted by Julius Berger in Abuja and Lagos. A press statement by the media relations unit, Monday, in Abuja, noted that: “In his welcome address to the august gatherings held first in Lagos and next Abuja, Stolle described the gatherings as not only unique but historic in many ways. “Apart from being the first media parley being held since he assumed office as the director, Corporate Development with direct authority over the Media Relations Office and Corporate Communications Department in the company, it is the first to be organised by Julius Berger‘s new Media Relations Manager, Emmanuel Isibor. “Beyond all that, it is the first time I am getting to meet you all, our dear media partners. But it will certainly not be the last. It marks a season of new and refreshing beginnings. And let me add that this also is the first time our new head, Corporate Communications, James Agama is getting to meet you all.” While describing the Lagos and Abuja parleys as annual rally to share under an atmosphere of laughter, backslapping and deeper friendship, the director said they are indeed refreshing moments for all. Putting the structure of the company in its right perspective, Stolle said, “Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is a fully owned Nigerian company that has contributed immensely to critical infrastructural development in the country. “We are listed on the Nigerian stock exchange. We are here to stay and we will continue to contribute our quota to the development of infrastructure in Nigeria.” The director said, “The company is proud to be associated with positive infrastructural development in Nigeria and will continue to adhere strictly to its core values of “excellence, responsibility, collaboration and courage. “As we build on this refreshing partnership journey together, it is my wish that we grow and nurture it into a mutually beneficial long term partnership built on the solid foundation of true friendship and trust. There is no gainsaying the fact that partnership for development has always been the hallmark of all we do at Julius Berger. “We partner for progress, collaboration, excellence, responsibility and courage. These are the strong pillars around which all we do revolve. “That Julius Berger has been operating in Nigeria for over 50 years now, and successfully too, lend sound credence to the foregoing.” Stolle stated further that, as a professional Nigerian engineering construction company of immense positive reputation, Julius Berger has been acclaimed for its contributions to the development of critical national infrastructures across the country. He said the same applies to building for some private concerns like the famous FAMFA Tower and the up and fast coming Lagos Hyatt Hotel. Concluding, the director stated: “We remain a Nigerian company, ever proud to associate with positive infrastructural developments in the country and ever ready to contribute our utmost professional best to further the goals of our founding fathers.”USC Aiken basketball swept by Lander in Peach Belt opener

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When Ukrainian fighters began reporting back to family and friends that they could use more and better-quality drones to combat Russian forces, average Ukrainians swung into action. Today a civilian drone assembly operation – including in people’s homes – is helping many military units to stave off an encroaching enemy. In October, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told foreign arms manufacturers that Ukraine is now capable of producing 4 million drones annually, with private companies, the military, and civilians all playing a role. Hennadii Mischevskyi, director of testing at Social Drone, a volunteer drone assembly group based in Kyiv, assembles drones at his dining room table, sometimes drawing on the help of his 7-year-old daughter. Social Drone started out a little over a year ago with three friends assembling five to 10 camera-carrying drones a week for one front-line army unit. Today Social Drones’ stable of 1,200 volunteers assembles about 700 drones a week. “If I want to live in an independent Ukraine, if I want my children to grow up in a free country, I feel I have to do something to help those who are fighting on the front lines,” Mr. Mischevskyi says. “I think the growth of our group indicates just how much Ukrainians feel the same.” Sometimes when Hennadii Mischevskyi is assembling military drones on his dining room table, his 7-year-old daughter leans on him and asks a very 7-year-old-child’s question: Why can’t you come play with me? “I tell her Daddy is busy helping our country; I’m helping the army do its job better so they can help us,” he says. “Sometimes she asks if she can help, so I let her sort the little screws that are part of the assembly,” he adds. “I can tell she is happy to join in.” Mr. Mischevskyi and his home drone assembly operation are a small piece of a nationwide civilian effort in Ukraine to supply the military with many of the thousands of drones it uses every month in the war with Russia. Reminiscent of American and British civilian involvement during World War II – which ranged from the collecting of used foil to women working in factories – Ukraine’s civilian drone assembly operation is a critical factor in many army units’ ability to stave off an encroaching enemy. Including the fundraising drives that finance the drone production, the nationwide operation offers insight into how much average Ukrainians remain involved in their country’s defense 1,000 days into the war. “If I want to live in an independent Ukraine, if I want my children to grow up in a free country, I feel I have to do something to help those who are fighting on the front lines,” says Mr. Mischevskyi, director of testing at Social Drone, a volunteer drone assembly group based in Kyiv. “I think the growth of our group indicates just how much Ukrainians feel the same and want to do something to help.” Indeed, Social Drone started out a little over a year ago with three friends assembling five to 10 camera-carrying drones a week for one front-line army unit. Today Social Drones’ stable of 1,200 volunteers assembles about 700 drones a week. In October, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told foreign arms manufacturers that Ukraine is now capable of producing 4 million drones annually, with private companies, the military, and civilians all playing a role. The drone assembly campaign grew out of the surge in volunteering and civic involvement following Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Groups sprung up to help families displaced by the war and to furnish soldiers with everything from medical supplies to warm socks. When family members and friends in combat units began reporting back that they could use more and better-quality drones, average Ukrainians swung into action. One example is Klyn Drones in Kyiv. It started out as a volunteer group replacing homes’ war-damaged roofs, and then shifted to drone assembly this past spring when group members decided they wanted to do something to contribute to Ukraine’s defense. “We decided [drone assembly] would be a more effective means of being involved,” says Andrii Yukhno, an engineer who runs Klyn Drones out of a basement along with two friends and two adopted dogs. “To be honest,” he adds, “we thought it would allow us to be directly involved in the elimination of the enemy.” Six months later, Klyn – whose name means “wedge” or describes the V formation of migrating geese – delivers drones in batches of 150 to army units they have established a relationship with. In return, the soldiers send back drone footage that demonstrates their effectiveness. “We’ve received videos of our drones striking Russian armed vehicles and targeting Russian tanks,” Mr. Yukhno says. “That gives us the sense of direct involvement in defending our country that we were looking for.” Those videos are also an important piece of Klyn’s fundraising – the success of which determines the pace of the group’s drone production. “We’re finding that the initial high involvement of regular people has started to drop off as more people live their lives almost as if the war doesn’t exist,” Mr. Yukhno says. “So the videos with our drones in action remind people of the part we all have to play in defeating the enemy.” Donors who give enough are allowed to name a drone or inscribe one with a message. “People choose the name of the village they are from that Russia has destroyed, or the name of a loved one who was killed in the fighting,” he says. Such videos are also crucial for the fundraising organized by Oleksandra, a conference interpreter and mother in Odesa who, like some others interviewed, asked that her last name be withheld. The video that “really works” with donors, she says, has a kamikaze drone striking new units of Russian soldiers. “When the [operator] doing the voiceover shouts ‘Woo-hoo!’ that’s when [donors] really respond.” Oleksandra says she considered assembling drones but realized fundraising fit better with her skills and schedule. Recently, wanting to do more, she has started combing the internet to find quality drone parts at the best price. Most parts still come from China, but a growing share of drone kits and parts are produced in Ukraine. “I just feel that if we can’t be on the front line, we should all be involved somehow to win this war and preserve our independence,” Oleksandra says. Back at Klyn Drones, in a space the size of a small classroom, Mr. Yukhno and fellow assemblers Sasha and Stanislav do the painstaking work of drone-building. They wield small screw drivers, tweezers, and solder guns, with dogs Lilou and Leonia – both strays picked up in abandoned villages – at their feet. Ukraine’s defense ministry contracts with big companies to provide large orders of drones. But civilian assemblers say the military units they supply often express their preference for the models produced by the volunteer cottage industry. “We pay attention to the quality of our work and pride ourselves on delivering a product that will serve our soldiers well,” says Mr. Yukhno. To illustrate, Sasha points out the difference in soldering quality between a Klyn drone and a commercial model. At Social Drone, Mr. Mischevskyi says the army units they work with know by now they can trust the product to work right out of the box because every drone gets a test flight – not the case, he says, with more mass-produced drones. Units can alter specifications with small producers and expect faster turnaround if they suddenly need drones with, say, night vision or heavier weapons-delivery capacity. At Tricky Drones in Odesa, co-founder and drone engineer Andrii Iavorskyi shows off a stack of boxed drones ready for shipment. As he shows a visitor around Tricky’s two-room operation just off a leafy residential street, Hryhorii Rybalka, the outfit’s sole paid employee, works on a receiver chip that will help operate the drone at longer distances. Mr. Iavorskyi, a video producer by profession, was considering a job with a large drone manufacturer last year when he decided to start a drone assembly operation. A year later, Tricky Drones is building about 1,000 drones a month and is on a Defense Ministry list of drone suppliers military units can contact. Operating with about a dozen volunteers, Tricky produces a variety of drones of varying sizes and functions. Mr. Iavorskyi recalls getting a succinct request from an army volunteer unit seeking a large drone that could operate off of a car battery. “Just make it work” was the only instruction the unit sent. But of all the drones Tricky produces, he says, he’s proudest of the reconnaissance drones that fly up to 40 miles to monitor enemy positions and movement. “That’s a mission a soldier used to have to risk his life to accomplish,” Mr. Iavorskyi says. “To me it’s well worth the $600 that drone might cost to save a precious life.” Oleksandr Naselenko assisted in reporting this story.J&K L-G extends terms of two V-Cs, ‘bypassing’ consultation with CM Abdullah

WASHINGTON (AP) — A freelance photographer and local government official from Illinois has been arrested on charges alleging he joined a mob’s attack on the U.S. Capitol and pushed against a police officer’s riot shield, according to court records unsealed on Friday. Patrick Gorski, 27, was arrested in Chicago on Thursday on charges including obstructing law enforcement officers during a civil disorder, a felony. A federal judge ordered him released on bond after his initial court appearance. Gorski didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment. An attorney who represented him after his arrest declined to comment on Gorski’s behalf. Authorities allege that during the attack, Gorski climbed scaffolding, breaching police lines, and took photos and videos inside the building. He yelled at officers, pushed against an officer’s riot shield and was eventually forced out after being sprayed with a chemical irritant, authorities said. When the FBI interviewed him, Gorski did not claim that he was working as a photojournalist during the Jan. 6, 2021, riot and said he didn’t bring his professional camera to the Capitol. He told federal agents that he had worked as a photographer for the Chicago Fire Department and for Donald Trump’s 2020 presidential campaign. RELATED COVERAGE Judge reduces prison sentence for Capitol rioter who berated and insulted him Police in Finland arrest five suspects over separatist violence in southeast Nigeria What to know about Transgender Day of Remembrance and violence against trans people He has not professionally published any photographs of the Capitol riot, according to the FBI. What to know about Trump’s second term: Staffing the administration: Here are the people Trump has picked for key positions so far. Plus, a look at recess appointments and how could Trump use them to fill his Cabinet. Follow all of our coverage as Donald Trump assembles his second administration. An FBI agent’s affidavit says some of Gorski’s sports photographs are available through Getty Images and have been “picked up” by The Associated Press and USA Today. Authorities said Gorski has continued to take photos at some local sporting events in Chicago but hasn’t published any political photographs in the last five years. Gorski is not an Associated Press journalist and has never been employed by the news organization, said Lauren Easton, AP’s vice president of corporate communications. “We have distributed some photos he took for AP’s photo partners and member news organizations,” Easton said in a statement. Gorski’s resume says he works as a building commissioner for the Village of Norridge, Illinois, and graduated earlier this year from Southeastern Illinois University with a master’s degree in public administration. He attended then-President Trump’s “Stop the Steal” rally near the White House on Jan. 6 before he marched to the Capitol in a group of people that included conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and Owen Shroyer , who has hosted a show on Jones’ Infowars website. On the west side of the Capitol, Gorski climbed up a wall onto stairs, helped another rioter onto the wall and removed a tarp covering scaffolding, according to the FBI. He climbed up and down the scaffolding before he helped pass a bike rack to other rioters, the agent’s affidavit says. Gorski pointed and yelled at police officers outside the building. He also clapped and chanted, “Let us in!” After rioters broke through a police lines and sent officers retreating, Gorski hung a flag over the edge of a balcony. Gorski used his phone to take photos or videos inside a tunnel entrance that police were guarding, according to the affidavit. He screamed at the officers, “This is our house!” as he pushed against an officer’s riot shield, the FBI said. Gorski left the tunnel after several minutes and entered the Capitol through the Senate Wing door, taking more photos or videos inside the building, the affidavit says. An officer had to forcibly move Gorski from a doorway in another part of the Capitol, according to the agent. Gorski retreated after police sprayed him with a chemical irritant. Approximately one year after the attack, the FBI received a tip that Gorski had posted photos of the riot in a group chat with friends. More than 1,500 people have been charged with federal crimes stemming from the Capitol riot. ___