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Prices involve a lot of psychology. That's why retailers roll out 3-for-1 discounts, promote offers to buy one get one free, and round prices down to end in 99 cents. Similarly, a high-priced stock can dampen an investor's enthusiasm. After all, would you rather have five shares of a stock, each worth $100, or half a share that is worth $500? I think most people would choose the former. With that in mind, let's examine a few high-priced stocks that investors are hoping will execute a stock split in 2025. Fair Issac When I put together a similar list of anticipated stock splits one year ago , Fair Issac ( FICO -1.23% ) was at the top of my list. And while my other two choices ( Nvidia and Chipotle Mexican Grill ) did split their shares in 2024, Fair Issac didn't. Nevertheless, it turned in a fantastic year, as its shares have rallied almost 80% as of this writing. However, that leaves Fair Issac shares priced at more than $2,000 a share. The company's most recent stock split came more than 20 years ago, and at this point, the company could easily perform a significant split, perhaps as much as a 20-to-1, bringing its share price down to around $100 a share. At any rate, investors should keep an eye on this credit rating juggernaut. With its asset-light business model, the company generates excellent profitability, with gross margins around 80% and operating margins above 43%. Moreover, Fair Issac has steadily grown its revenue from $1.2 billion to $1.7 billion over the last five years, representing yearly growth of about 8%. In other words, this under-the-radar financial mainstay is an excellent business, stock split or not. Netflix A few years ago, another stock split seemed out of the question for Netflix ( NFLX -1.80% ) . Shares tumbled nearly 75% in the first half of 2022, bottoming near $166. Yet, since then, the company and its stock have come roaring back. Shares have recently crossed the $900 mark, as revenue and profits have reached all-time highs. That has investors wondering whether the company might announce its first stock split since 2015. I think Netflix will announce a stock split, perhaps as much as a 10-for-1 split at some point in 2025. Meanwhile, the company remains a solid investment. The addition of an advertising tier , along with the company's crackdown on password sharing , has pushed Netflix's operating margin to an all-time high of 25.7%. NFLX Operating Margin (TTM) data by YCharts What's more , the company has emerged as the big winner in the streaming wars. According to November data provided by Nielsen, streaming video now accounts for over 41% of all viewing hours. And of that 41%, Netflix now accounts for 7.7% of all streaming hours, trailing only YouTube (10.8%). Meanwhile, key Netflix competitors like Amazon 's Prime Video (3.7%), Hulu (2.9%), and Disney + (1.9%) remain way behind. As a result, Netflix's stock could continue surging in 2025 -- and perhaps make a stock split even more likely. Tesla Finally, there's Tesla ( TSLA -4.95% ) . It was a mostly lackluster year for Tesla shares -- until Election D ay . Yet, once Donald Trump was named the winner of the election , Tesla shares skyrocketed, thanks to Elon Musk's close ties to the incoming president. As of this writing, Tesla shares are priced at over $450 a share, making them ripe for a potential stock split in 2025. Tesla's most recent stock split was a 3-for-1 split carried out in 2022. When that stock split was first announced in June 2022, shares were trading around $700. Therefore, it's possible the company might consider a 2-for-1 split if shares were to reach and hold the $500 level in 2025. In any event, investors may want to consider Tesla for a few reasons. Obviously, the stock has gotten a bump thanks to Musk's key role within the incoming Trump administration, but there are other reasons, too. The company appears close to deploying some form of autonomous driving along with robotaxis in Austin, Texas. It's another sign that the company may be about to unlock new value propositions that Tesla investors have long hoped for. In addition, some analysts are even more excited by the company's humanoid robot, Optimus. Given recent advancements in artificial intelligence technology, humanoid robots could soon become mainstays in any number of labor-intensive jobs. That presents another potentially lucrative market for Tesla to explore in the coming years. Tesla stock is once again approaching levels at which a stock split is plausible. And even more importantly, the company appears to be firing on all cylinders.
UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson killed in ‘brazen, targeted attack’ in NYC; manhunt underwayState Representative Chris Pielli Named Legislative Fellow at West Chester University'Is This A Joke?': Don Lemon Slams Time For Making Trump 'Person Of The Year'Notable quotes by Jimmy Carter
Valhallan Esports Training aims to provide guidance, community for New Braunfels gamersNone
Newmont's EVP & COO Viljoen sells $374,310 in stockFearing for his life, Josue Chube Choque remembers shouting that he was a journalist as protesters attacked him in Bolivia last month. The reporter was working for TV station Unitel, covering widespread protests by supporters of Bolivia’s former president as they blocked roads across the country. Choque said he received multiple hits to his body and face after being ambushed while covering confrontations between the police and protesters in the town of Mairana. “At some point we saw people coming from every side of the road. We were being ambushed — the police, other colleagues and me,” he told VOA, adding that he was prevented from leaving. “All I did was cover my face, eyes, nose, pray to God.” Choque identified himself multiple times as a journalist but, he said, “No one paid attention to what I was saying, and protesters continued hitting me.” The reporter was held against his will for several hours, and his equipment was taken. Finally, with the assistance of some women in the community, he was able to leave. The journalist is one of around two dozen media workers attacked while covering the protests. Their cases reflect a worsening environment for the press in Bolivia, according to analysts who say verbal attacks from officials, physical assaults and withholding of advertising revenue are making journalism more challenging. Zulema Alanis Bravo, president of the National Association of Journalists in Bolivia, said that journalists are being attacked more frequently. She referenced the latest report of the Human Rights Observatories in Bolivia, which says that on average, a reporter is attacked every three days in the country. “Unfortunately, in none of the cases we have seen a transparent investigation, a reparation and no justice,” said Bravo. “Belligerence against journalists and the media has increased in recent years.” An independent investigation commissioned by the Inter-American Commission of Human Rights earlier this year found that in Bolivia, “there are worrying conditions of threats and extreme risks for journalistic work.” The country fell seven points on the World Press Freedom Index. It currently ranks 124 out of 180, where 1 shows the best media environment. Media watchdog Reporters Without Borders, which compiles the index, has documented at least 25 cases of reporters being attacked while covering last month’s protests. A VOA crew was among those harassed, while working in the town of Parotani. Raul Penaranda, who in 2018 co-founded the independent news outlet Brujula Digital, said the environment for journalists has worsened amid a political crisis. Former President Evo Morales is calling on his supporters to protest the current government, which leaves journalists caught in clashes between protesters and police. During his presidency and since leaving office, Morales regularly targeted the press and singled out individual journalists and their outlets, including Penaranda. Morales has “constantly [been] against journalists and their work,” Penaranda said. But under President Luis Arce, Penaranda said, the allocation of state advertising is a tool of “reward and punishment,” with media perceived to be aligned with the government being favored. Meanwhile, media viewed as critical miss out on funds and potential sponsors. The government “pressures the private sector not to advertise,” Penaranda said. The adversarial rhetoric from political leaders has a knock-on effect. “There is a lot more challenges nowadays to work as a journalist,” said Choque. “It looks like there is a similar motto around the country. Colleagues have heard in multiple places while covering protests that people who are supporters of the former president scream at reporters, ‘Let’s burn them alive.’” Arce’s media team did not respond to VOA's request for comment. VOA attempts to reach a current spokesperson for Morales and to reach a legislator who worked for his party were unsuccessful. When it comes to physical attack, Bravo said that a lack of justice, coupled with journalists being wary of reporting incidents to authorities, combine to make the situation worse. In Choque’s case, he says he reported the incident to police. But after receiving multiple threats, he left the country while an investigation takes place.
Colorado justices reject media request for police officer records on narrow groundsFearing for his life, Josue Chube Choque remembers shouting that he was a journalist as protesters attacked him in Bolivia last month. The reporter was working for TV station Unitel, covering widespread protests by supporters of Bolivia’s former president as they blocked roads across the country. Choque said he received multiple hits to his body and face after being ambushed while covering confrontations between the police and protesters in the town of Mairana. “At some point we saw people coming from every side of the road. We were being ambushed — the police, other colleagues and me,” he told VOA, adding that he was prevented from leaving. “All I did was cover my face, eyes, nose, pray to God.” Choque identified himself multiple times as a journalist but, he said, “No one paid attention to what I was saying, and protesters continued hitting me.” The reporter was held against his will for several hours, and his equipment was taken. Finally, with the assistance of some women in the community, he was able to leave. The journalist is one of around two dozen media workers attacked while covering the protests. Their cases reflect a worsening environment for the press in Bolivia, according to analysts who say verbal attacks from officials, physical assaults and withholding of advertising revenue are making journalism more challenging. Zulema Alanis Bravo, president of the National Association of Journalists in Bolivia, said that journalists are being attacked more frequently. She referenced the latest report of the Human Rights Observatories in Bolivia, which says that on average, a reporter is attacked every three days in the country. “Unfortunately, in none of the cases we have seen a transparent investigation, a reparation and no justice,” said Bravo. “Belligerence against journalists and the media has increased in recent years.” An independent investigation commissioned by the Inter-American Commission of Human Rights earlier this year found that in Bolivia, “there are worrying conditions of threats and extreme risks for journalistic work.” The country fell seven points on the World Press Freedom Index. It currently ranks 124 out of 180, where 1 shows the best media environment. Media watchdog Reporters Without Borders, which compiles the index, has documented at least 25 cases of reporters being attacked while covering last month’s protests. A VOA crew was among those harassed, while working in the town of Parotani. Raul Penaranda, who in 2018 co-founded the independent news outlet Brujula Digital, said the environment for journalists has worsened amid a political crisis. Former President Evo Morales is calling on his supporters to protest the current government, which leaves journalists caught in clashes between protesters and police. During his presidency and since leaving office, Morales regularly targeted the press and singled out individual journalists and their outlets, including Penaranda. Morales has “constantly [been] against journalists and their work,” Penaranda said. But under President Luis Arce, Penaranda said, the allocation of state advertising is a tool of “reward and punishment,” with media perceived to be aligned with the government being favored. Meanwhile, media viewed as critical miss out on funds and potential sponsors. The government “pressures the private sector not to advertise,” Penaranda said. The adversarial rhetoric from political leaders has a knock-on effect. “There is a lot more challenges nowadays to work as a journalist,” said Choque. “It looks like there is a similar motto around the country. Colleagues have heard in multiple places while covering protests that people who are supporters of the former president scream at reporters, ‘Let’s burn them alive.’” Arce’s media team did not respond to VOA's request for comment. VOA attempts to reach a current spokesperson for Morales and to reach a legislator who worked for his party were unsuccessful. When it comes to physical attack, Bravo said that a lack of justice, coupled with journalists being wary of reporting incidents to authorities, combine to make the situation worse. In Choque’s case, he says he reported the incident to police. But after receiving multiple threats, he left the country while an investigation takes place.
Baker Hughes Co. stock underperforms Wednesday when compared to competitors
TORONTO — Everything changed for Kia Nurse when she tore her anterior cruciate ligament in the 2021 WNBA playoffs. The basketball star from Hamilton was locked in as starter for a team in the semifinals. She’d been selected as an all-star just two years prior. But in one awkward fall three years ago, she was plunged into the depths of surgery and rehab. Nurse would miss the entire 2022 season due to the injury. She signed with the Seattle Storm for the 2023 campaign before a trade landed her with the Los Angeles Sparks last season. Meanwhile, Nurse represented Canada at the Paris Olympics in August, but she struggled as the team failed to reach the knockout round for the second straight time. The common thread throughout Nurse’s recent basketball journey? She just hasn’t quite felt like herself. “I still love basketball with all of my heart, and it's my favourite thing that I get to do. And I'm so privileged to be able to say that I get to do it as a job,” Nurse said. "But the last two years for me have been just really rocky, up and down.” Nurse, 28, will become a WNBA free agent as of Feb. 1. For now, she’s continuing her Raptors broadcast work with TSN and, on Monday, announced a new playing gig. In February, Nurse will join fellow WNBAers Alysha Clark and Sydney Colson among 37 others for Athletes Unlimited’s third basketball season in Nashville. Athletes Unlimited was founded as a women’s professional softball league in 2020 before expanding to basketball, volleyball and lacrosse. Its 24-game hoops campaign switches teams weekly and concludes by crowning a season-long individual champion. Players earn points through a fantasy-style system that rewards team successes like wins as well as individual accomplishments from made three-pointers to steals to drawn fouls. Outside of the unique scoring system, the game looks like traditional basketball — a major appeal to Nurse as she attempts to tap back into her roots. “I am not proud of my performance at the Olympics and not necessarily proud of how I’ve been playing over the last two years. I just have goals of finding my true love of the game and kind of coming back and being stronger physically, being more fit and just ultimately having a good year,” Nurse said. When Nurse’s career began in 2018, many WNBA players would ply their trade overseas during the off-season as a way of staying in shape and making additional money. But over the past half-decade — and perhaps expedited by Brittney Griner’s 2022 detainment in Russia — more options have emerged stateside, including Athletes Unlimited. “The (WNBA) now has a lot of the teams that have practice facilities, so they have full-time player development, practice-facility access and that's a big piece as well. But now ultimately we have these leagues at home like AU,” Nurse said. Athletes Unlimited will not be the only professional women’s basketball operation in North America this winter. A three-on-three league called Unrivaled, founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, will tip off in January in Miami. Nurse said Unrivaled was an option for her, but she preferred Athletes Unlimited. “I wanted a place where I'm happy with basketball again, really happy with myself and how I'm playing and a having a little more confidence boost from what I've had over these last two years. And I feel like AU, for me, that five-on-five setting was a big piece of it,” Nurse said. The timing of the Athletes Unlimited schedule — deep enough into the WNBA off-season but with enough leeway to fine tune things before the 2025 campaign begins — also stood out to Nurse. Ahead of AU, Nurse said she moved her training from Toronto to Hamilton, where she could stay closer to home and avoid the long highway drives. And following two seasons in which Nurse’s WNBA teams suffered a combined 61 losses, she’s hoping to find a landing spot in free agency with a winning franchise. “I want to ... have an opportunity make a deep playoff run, be kind of like an X-Factor player, somebody who can go out there, be a three-and-D player, can help make winning plays,” she said. Nurse said she and fellow WNBA veteran Bridget Carleton have discussed what went wrong in Paris and how it can be fixed ahead of Los Angeles 2028. Management changes have already occurred with the retirement of GM Denise Dignard and a mutual parting with head coach Victor Lapena. The national team recently met up in Toronto for an informal training camp where Nurse and Carleton aimed to lay the groundwork for the culture they hope to create over the next four years. “Getting back to the basics and just enjoying playing for Canada Basketball, but also creating a really strong, bonded culture where everybody does what they need to do for our team to win," she said. "We understand our roles (and) we understand the commitment piece of it because now there's so much going on and people are all over the place." This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 22, 2024. Myles Dichter, The Canadian Press
The Rural Municipality of Portage la Prairie had a busy and successful 2024 with many projects being completed in the area. Acting Reeve Roy Tufford outlines some of the accomplishments. “Looking back on 2024 the RM had a busy year and completed quite a few projects in addition to our regular road maintenance and drainage program,” Tufford said. Tufford notes one of the most significant projects was the completion of the new water reservoir and pumping station just east of Roquette. This multi-million dollar project was jointly funded by the province (through the Water Services Board), the RM, the city, and the Yellowhead water co-op. The new reservoir provides extra storage and backup as well as capacity to service more industrial development in our industrial park. Fans of the Portage Terriers can look forward to a night of excitement as the team hosts a skills competition sponsored by Simplot on Sunday, Feb. 23, at 6 p.m. The event, held at Stride Place, will feature players competing in events such as hardest shot and fastest skater. After the competition, fans can meet the players during an autograph session and join them on the ice for a free skate. Tickets are $2 at the door, but admission is free for season ticket holders and kids club members. Don’t miss this chance to connect with the team and enjoy an evening of fun on and off the ice. As the holiday season approached, the Salvation Army was once again at the heart of the community, ensuring families in need receive much-needed support through their annual Christmas hamper program. Major Brenda Hammond oversees the operation, which has been a lifeline for many struggling families in Portage la Prairie and surrounding areas. This year, the Salvation Army distributed hundreds of hampers, providing not just food, but also toys and stockings for children. “Toys and hampers are prepared in advance, carefully packed, and delivered on carts to families’ vehicles. We use green garbage bags to ensure the children can’t see what’s inside — that’s important you know,” said Hammond, about maintaining a sense of Christmas magic for the kids. Over 370 families signed up for holiday hampers this year. The Lions Den, long a cornerstone of community activity, was torn down on Dec. 17, marking the end of an era for the Portage la Prairie Lions Club. The beloved building, once a hub for events, meetings, and fundraisers, was returned to the City of Portage la Prairie by the Lions Club due to the club’s struggle with an aging membership and a lack of younger volunteers. According to Arishya Aggarwal, Chief of External Affairs for the Portage Lions Club, the decision to give up the Lions Den was a difficult one. With fewer members and the inability to secure new volunteers, the club faced the daunting prospect of disbanding. Despite losing the physical space, Aggarwal emphasized that the spirit of the Lions is far from gone. “We’ve faced challenges, but we’re not giving up. With a dedicated team of just 10 members, we’ve revitalized the club and successfully completed three community projects this year,” said Aggarwal. “The Lions Den may be gone, but we’ve not lost our Lions.” However, the club’s ability to reclaim the building from the city remains uncertain. The city now owns the Lions Den, and Aggarwal shared that the decision to demolish it was made by city officials.
Netflix has dropped the first trailer for Zero Day , the upcoming limited series starring Robert De Niro as a former U.S. president who is yanked out of retirement to investigate a nationwide cyberattack. “Three thousand, four-hundred, two people died on Zero Day, says De Niro’s former President George Mullen at the beginning of the trailer. “Plane crashes, train derailments. Total chaos.” From creators and executive producers Eric Newman ( Narcos ), Noah Oppenheim ( Jackie ) and Michael S. Schmidt, Zero Day stars De Niro as respected former U.S. President George Mullen, who, as head of the Zero Day Commission, is charged with finding the perpetrators of a devastating cyber attack that has caused chaos around the country and thousands of fatalities. As disinformation runs rampant and the personal ambition of power brokers in technology, Wall Street, and government collide, Mullen’s unwavering search for the truth forces him to confront his own dark secrets while risking all he holds dear. Angela Bassett, Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Plemons, Joan Allen, Connie Britton, Matthew Modine, Dan Stevens, Bill Camp, Gaby Hoffmann, and Clark Gregg also star. At one point in the trailer, Bassett’s character tells De Niro’s Mullen, “People believe what they need to believe. The truth is the truth, but it’s not always the most important thing.” Zero Day is written and executive produced by Newman and Oppenheim, with Lesli Linka Glatter as executive producer and director of all six episodes. Schmidt also serves as writer and executive producer, with De Niro and Jonathan Glickman as executive producers. Zero Day premieres February 20 on Netflix. Watch the trailer above.(BPT) - Consumers are facing increasing costs on virtually every purchase these days and auto insurance is no exception. While skyrocketing costs of this auto-related expense can be attributed to everything from parts replacement to service — even health costs as a result of accidents — consumers can better manage these increases with thoughtful study and attention to detail. Some of the common causes for higher insurance rates are Inflation, car accidents, extreme weather conditions such as hail, hurricanes and wind, along with increased vehicle theft claims. Mercury Insurance has partnered with financial literacy influencer Sam Jarman to highlight specific ways consumers can address these rising costs. "Your car is the second biggest expense for most people, right behind your home, and car insurance is a big part of that," said Jarman. "Checking rates and coverage with your Mercury Insurance agent makes sense along with choosing a car with low maintenance costs." According to Consumer Price Index data released earlier this year, car insurance rates are up almost 21% year-over-year for the 12 months which ended in February. The last time car insurance rates rose that much on an annual basis was 1976. Here are some auto insurance statistics recently released from Forbes : "Our goal is to help our customers get the best rates possible because we know that every dollar counts." said Justin Yoshizawa, Director, Product Management, State. "We encourage consumers to build a close relationship with their agent and discuss what discounts they may be eligible to receive. The answer might be surprising." Mercury offers the following tips for lowering your insurance costs: Review your deductibles with your insurance agent – It is recommended that you review your coverage and deductible with your Mercury agent at least once a year. Their wisdom and experience can help you make wise decisions regarding your insurance. Explore car insurance discounts – In addition to bundling your home and auto insurance, Mercury offers discounts for multi-car, good drivers, good students and auto pay. Your agent may have additional discounts to offer. Let Your Insurer Track Your Driving – Most insurers offer discounts for customers who install telematics. This technology allows your insurance company to collect information regarding your mileage and driving habits. This can also provide valuable information regarding your driving as well as saving you money. Drive a safe car with low repair costs – According to Bankrate , some of the cheapest cars to insure are the Subaru Outback, Honda CR-V and Honda Pilot. Also, look for cars with lower repair costs such as the Toyota Corolla, Toyota Prius and Tesla Model 3. Doing some research before you purchase a vehicle can save you money over the length of ownership. Install an anti-theft device on your car – Drivers may receive an additional discount on your auto insurance if you install an anti-theft device on your car. Before you buy a car, compare insurance costs – You can get a fast and easy quote from your Mercury Insurance agent. To receive a quote, you can reach us at 844-514-2893. To learn more about common types of auto insurance discounts, visit https://www.mercuryinsurance.com/resources/auto/understanding-types-of-auto-insurance-discounts.html . For more information on your auto insurance, you can reference the Insurance Information Institute .
Prices involve a lot of psychology. That's why retailers roll out 3-for-1 discounts, promote offers to buy one get one free, and round prices down to end in 99 cents. Similarly, a high-priced stock can dampen an investor's enthusiasm. After all, would you rather have five shares of a stock, each worth $100, or half a share that is worth $500? I think most people would choose the former. With that in mind, let's examine a few high-priced stocks that investors are hoping will execute a stock split in 2025. Fair Issac When I put together a similar list of anticipated stock splits one year ago , Fair Issac ( FICO -1.23% ) was at the top of my list. And while my other two choices ( Nvidia and Chipotle Mexican Grill ) did split their shares in 2024, Fair Issac didn't. Nevertheless, it turned in a fantastic year, as its shares have rallied almost 80% as of this writing. However, that leaves Fair Issac shares priced at more than $2,000 a share. The company's most recent stock split came more than 20 years ago, and at this point, the company could easily perform a significant split, perhaps as much as a 20-to-1, bringing its share price down to around $100 a share. At any rate, investors should keep an eye on this credit rating juggernaut. With its asset-light business model, the company generates excellent profitability, with gross margins around 80% and operating margins above 43%. Moreover, Fair Issac has steadily grown its revenue from $1.2 billion to $1.7 billion over the last five years, representing yearly growth of about 8%. In other words, this under-the-radar financial mainstay is an excellent business, stock split or not. Netflix A few years ago, another stock split seemed out of the question for Netflix ( NFLX -1.80% ) . Shares tumbled nearly 75% in the first half of 2022, bottoming near $166. Yet, since then, the company and its stock have come roaring back. Shares have recently crossed the $900 mark, as revenue and profits have reached all-time highs. That has investors wondering whether the company might announce its first stock split since 2015. I think Netflix will announce a stock split, perhaps as much as a 10-for-1 split at some point in 2025. Meanwhile, the company remains a solid investment. The addition of an advertising tier , along with the company's crackdown on password sharing , has pushed Netflix's operating margin to an all-time high of 25.7%. NFLX Operating Margin (TTM) data by YCharts What's more , the company has emerged as the big winner in the streaming wars. According to November data provided by Nielsen, streaming video now accounts for over 41% of all viewing hours. And of that 41%, Netflix now accounts for 7.7% of all streaming hours, trailing only YouTube (10.8%). Meanwhile, key Netflix competitors like Amazon 's Prime Video (3.7%), Hulu (2.9%), and Disney + (1.9%) remain way behind. As a result, Netflix's stock could continue surging in 2025 -- and perhaps make a stock split even more likely. Tesla Finally, there's Tesla ( TSLA -4.95% ) . It was a mostly lackluster year for Tesla shares -- until Election D ay . Yet, once Donald Trump was named the winner of the election , Tesla shares skyrocketed, thanks to Elon Musk's close ties to the incoming president. As of this writing, Tesla shares are priced at over $450 a share, making them ripe for a potential stock split in 2025. Tesla's most recent stock split was a 3-for-1 split carried out in 2022. When that stock split was first announced in June 2022, shares were trading around $700. Therefore, it's possible the company might consider a 2-for-1 split if shares were to reach and hold the $500 level in 2025. In any event, investors may want to consider Tesla for a few reasons. Obviously, the stock has gotten a bump thanks to Musk's key role within the incoming Trump administration, but there are other reasons, too. The company appears close to deploying some form of autonomous driving along with robotaxis in Austin, Texas. It's another sign that the company may be about to unlock new value propositions that Tesla investors have long hoped for. In addition, some analysts are even more excited by the company's humanoid robot, Optimus. Given recent advancements in artificial intelligence technology, humanoid robots could soon become mainstays in any number of labor-intensive jobs. That presents another potentially lucrative market for Tesla to explore in the coming years. Tesla stock is once again approaching levels at which a stock split is plausible. And even more importantly, the company appears to be firing on all cylinders.
UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson killed in ‘brazen, targeted attack’ in NYC; manhunt underwayState Representative Chris Pielli Named Legislative Fellow at West Chester University'Is This A Joke?': Don Lemon Slams Time For Making Trump 'Person Of The Year'Notable quotes by Jimmy Carter
Valhallan Esports Training aims to provide guidance, community for New Braunfels gamersNone
Newmont's EVP & COO Viljoen sells $374,310 in stockFearing for his life, Josue Chube Choque remembers shouting that he was a journalist as protesters attacked him in Bolivia last month. The reporter was working for TV station Unitel, covering widespread protests by supporters of Bolivia’s former president as they blocked roads across the country. Choque said he received multiple hits to his body and face after being ambushed while covering confrontations between the police and protesters in the town of Mairana. “At some point we saw people coming from every side of the road. We were being ambushed — the police, other colleagues and me,” he told VOA, adding that he was prevented from leaving. “All I did was cover my face, eyes, nose, pray to God.” Choque identified himself multiple times as a journalist but, he said, “No one paid attention to what I was saying, and protesters continued hitting me.” The reporter was held against his will for several hours, and his equipment was taken. Finally, with the assistance of some women in the community, he was able to leave. The journalist is one of around two dozen media workers attacked while covering the protests. Their cases reflect a worsening environment for the press in Bolivia, according to analysts who say verbal attacks from officials, physical assaults and withholding of advertising revenue are making journalism more challenging. Zulema Alanis Bravo, president of the National Association of Journalists in Bolivia, said that journalists are being attacked more frequently. She referenced the latest report of the Human Rights Observatories in Bolivia, which says that on average, a reporter is attacked every three days in the country. “Unfortunately, in none of the cases we have seen a transparent investigation, a reparation and no justice,” said Bravo. “Belligerence against journalists and the media has increased in recent years.” An independent investigation commissioned by the Inter-American Commission of Human Rights earlier this year found that in Bolivia, “there are worrying conditions of threats and extreme risks for journalistic work.” The country fell seven points on the World Press Freedom Index. It currently ranks 124 out of 180, where 1 shows the best media environment. Media watchdog Reporters Without Borders, which compiles the index, has documented at least 25 cases of reporters being attacked while covering last month’s protests. A VOA crew was among those harassed, while working in the town of Parotani. Raul Penaranda, who in 2018 co-founded the independent news outlet Brujula Digital, said the environment for journalists has worsened amid a political crisis. Former President Evo Morales is calling on his supporters to protest the current government, which leaves journalists caught in clashes between protesters and police. During his presidency and since leaving office, Morales regularly targeted the press and singled out individual journalists and their outlets, including Penaranda. Morales has “constantly [been] against journalists and their work,” Penaranda said. But under President Luis Arce, Penaranda said, the allocation of state advertising is a tool of “reward and punishment,” with media perceived to be aligned with the government being favored. Meanwhile, media viewed as critical miss out on funds and potential sponsors. The government “pressures the private sector not to advertise,” Penaranda said. The adversarial rhetoric from political leaders has a knock-on effect. “There is a lot more challenges nowadays to work as a journalist,” said Choque. “It looks like there is a similar motto around the country. Colleagues have heard in multiple places while covering protests that people who are supporters of the former president scream at reporters, ‘Let’s burn them alive.’” Arce’s media team did not respond to VOA's request for comment. VOA attempts to reach a current spokesperson for Morales and to reach a legislator who worked for his party were unsuccessful. When it comes to physical attack, Bravo said that a lack of justice, coupled with journalists being wary of reporting incidents to authorities, combine to make the situation worse. In Choque’s case, he says he reported the incident to police. But after receiving multiple threats, he left the country while an investigation takes place.
Colorado justices reject media request for police officer records on narrow groundsFearing for his life, Josue Chube Choque remembers shouting that he was a journalist as protesters attacked him in Bolivia last month. The reporter was working for TV station Unitel, covering widespread protests by supporters of Bolivia’s former president as they blocked roads across the country. Choque said he received multiple hits to his body and face after being ambushed while covering confrontations between the police and protesters in the town of Mairana. “At some point we saw people coming from every side of the road. We were being ambushed — the police, other colleagues and me,” he told VOA, adding that he was prevented from leaving. “All I did was cover my face, eyes, nose, pray to God.” Choque identified himself multiple times as a journalist but, he said, “No one paid attention to what I was saying, and protesters continued hitting me.” The reporter was held against his will for several hours, and his equipment was taken. Finally, with the assistance of some women in the community, he was able to leave. The journalist is one of around two dozen media workers attacked while covering the protests. Their cases reflect a worsening environment for the press in Bolivia, according to analysts who say verbal attacks from officials, physical assaults and withholding of advertising revenue are making journalism more challenging. Zulema Alanis Bravo, president of the National Association of Journalists in Bolivia, said that journalists are being attacked more frequently. She referenced the latest report of the Human Rights Observatories in Bolivia, which says that on average, a reporter is attacked every three days in the country. “Unfortunately, in none of the cases we have seen a transparent investigation, a reparation and no justice,” said Bravo. “Belligerence against journalists and the media has increased in recent years.” An independent investigation commissioned by the Inter-American Commission of Human Rights earlier this year found that in Bolivia, “there are worrying conditions of threats and extreme risks for journalistic work.” The country fell seven points on the World Press Freedom Index. It currently ranks 124 out of 180, where 1 shows the best media environment. Media watchdog Reporters Without Borders, which compiles the index, has documented at least 25 cases of reporters being attacked while covering last month’s protests. A VOA crew was among those harassed, while working in the town of Parotani. Raul Penaranda, who in 2018 co-founded the independent news outlet Brujula Digital, said the environment for journalists has worsened amid a political crisis. Former President Evo Morales is calling on his supporters to protest the current government, which leaves journalists caught in clashes between protesters and police. During his presidency and since leaving office, Morales regularly targeted the press and singled out individual journalists and their outlets, including Penaranda. Morales has “constantly [been] against journalists and their work,” Penaranda said. But under President Luis Arce, Penaranda said, the allocation of state advertising is a tool of “reward and punishment,” with media perceived to be aligned with the government being favored. Meanwhile, media viewed as critical miss out on funds and potential sponsors. The government “pressures the private sector not to advertise,” Penaranda said. The adversarial rhetoric from political leaders has a knock-on effect. “There is a lot more challenges nowadays to work as a journalist,” said Choque. “It looks like there is a similar motto around the country. Colleagues have heard in multiple places while covering protests that people who are supporters of the former president scream at reporters, ‘Let’s burn them alive.’” Arce’s media team did not respond to VOA's request for comment. VOA attempts to reach a current spokesperson for Morales and to reach a legislator who worked for his party were unsuccessful. When it comes to physical attack, Bravo said that a lack of justice, coupled with journalists being wary of reporting incidents to authorities, combine to make the situation worse. In Choque’s case, he says he reported the incident to police. But after receiving multiple threats, he left the country while an investigation takes place.
Baker Hughes Co. stock underperforms Wednesday when compared to competitors
TORONTO — Everything changed for Kia Nurse when she tore her anterior cruciate ligament in the 2021 WNBA playoffs. The basketball star from Hamilton was locked in as starter for a team in the semifinals. She’d been selected as an all-star just two years prior. But in one awkward fall three years ago, she was plunged into the depths of surgery and rehab. Nurse would miss the entire 2022 season due to the injury. She signed with the Seattle Storm for the 2023 campaign before a trade landed her with the Los Angeles Sparks last season. Meanwhile, Nurse represented Canada at the Paris Olympics in August, but she struggled as the team failed to reach the knockout round for the second straight time. The common thread throughout Nurse’s recent basketball journey? She just hasn’t quite felt like herself. “I still love basketball with all of my heart, and it's my favourite thing that I get to do. And I'm so privileged to be able to say that I get to do it as a job,” Nurse said. "But the last two years for me have been just really rocky, up and down.” Nurse, 28, will become a WNBA free agent as of Feb. 1. For now, she’s continuing her Raptors broadcast work with TSN and, on Monday, announced a new playing gig. In February, Nurse will join fellow WNBAers Alysha Clark and Sydney Colson among 37 others for Athletes Unlimited’s third basketball season in Nashville. Athletes Unlimited was founded as a women’s professional softball league in 2020 before expanding to basketball, volleyball and lacrosse. Its 24-game hoops campaign switches teams weekly and concludes by crowning a season-long individual champion. Players earn points through a fantasy-style system that rewards team successes like wins as well as individual accomplishments from made three-pointers to steals to drawn fouls. Outside of the unique scoring system, the game looks like traditional basketball — a major appeal to Nurse as she attempts to tap back into her roots. “I am not proud of my performance at the Olympics and not necessarily proud of how I’ve been playing over the last two years. I just have goals of finding my true love of the game and kind of coming back and being stronger physically, being more fit and just ultimately having a good year,” Nurse said. When Nurse’s career began in 2018, many WNBA players would ply their trade overseas during the off-season as a way of staying in shape and making additional money. But over the past half-decade — and perhaps expedited by Brittney Griner’s 2022 detainment in Russia — more options have emerged stateside, including Athletes Unlimited. “The (WNBA) now has a lot of the teams that have practice facilities, so they have full-time player development, practice-facility access and that's a big piece as well. But now ultimately we have these leagues at home like AU,” Nurse said. Athletes Unlimited will not be the only professional women’s basketball operation in North America this winter. A three-on-three league called Unrivaled, founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, will tip off in January in Miami. Nurse said Unrivaled was an option for her, but she preferred Athletes Unlimited. “I wanted a place where I'm happy with basketball again, really happy with myself and how I'm playing and a having a little more confidence boost from what I've had over these last two years. And I feel like AU, for me, that five-on-five setting was a big piece of it,” Nurse said. The timing of the Athletes Unlimited schedule — deep enough into the WNBA off-season but with enough leeway to fine tune things before the 2025 campaign begins — also stood out to Nurse. Ahead of AU, Nurse said she moved her training from Toronto to Hamilton, where she could stay closer to home and avoid the long highway drives. And following two seasons in which Nurse’s WNBA teams suffered a combined 61 losses, she’s hoping to find a landing spot in free agency with a winning franchise. “I want to ... have an opportunity make a deep playoff run, be kind of like an X-Factor player, somebody who can go out there, be a three-and-D player, can help make winning plays,” she said. Nurse said she and fellow WNBA veteran Bridget Carleton have discussed what went wrong in Paris and how it can be fixed ahead of Los Angeles 2028. Management changes have already occurred with the retirement of GM Denise Dignard and a mutual parting with head coach Victor Lapena. The national team recently met up in Toronto for an informal training camp where Nurse and Carleton aimed to lay the groundwork for the culture they hope to create over the next four years. “Getting back to the basics and just enjoying playing for Canada Basketball, but also creating a really strong, bonded culture where everybody does what they need to do for our team to win," she said. "We understand our roles (and) we understand the commitment piece of it because now there's so much going on and people are all over the place." This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 22, 2024. Myles Dichter, The Canadian Press
The Rural Municipality of Portage la Prairie had a busy and successful 2024 with many projects being completed in the area. Acting Reeve Roy Tufford outlines some of the accomplishments. “Looking back on 2024 the RM had a busy year and completed quite a few projects in addition to our regular road maintenance and drainage program,” Tufford said. Tufford notes one of the most significant projects was the completion of the new water reservoir and pumping station just east of Roquette. This multi-million dollar project was jointly funded by the province (through the Water Services Board), the RM, the city, and the Yellowhead water co-op. The new reservoir provides extra storage and backup as well as capacity to service more industrial development in our industrial park. Fans of the Portage Terriers can look forward to a night of excitement as the team hosts a skills competition sponsored by Simplot on Sunday, Feb. 23, at 6 p.m. The event, held at Stride Place, will feature players competing in events such as hardest shot and fastest skater. After the competition, fans can meet the players during an autograph session and join them on the ice for a free skate. Tickets are $2 at the door, but admission is free for season ticket holders and kids club members. Don’t miss this chance to connect with the team and enjoy an evening of fun on and off the ice. As the holiday season approached, the Salvation Army was once again at the heart of the community, ensuring families in need receive much-needed support through their annual Christmas hamper program. Major Brenda Hammond oversees the operation, which has been a lifeline for many struggling families in Portage la Prairie and surrounding areas. This year, the Salvation Army distributed hundreds of hampers, providing not just food, but also toys and stockings for children. “Toys and hampers are prepared in advance, carefully packed, and delivered on carts to families’ vehicles. We use green garbage bags to ensure the children can’t see what’s inside — that’s important you know,” said Hammond, about maintaining a sense of Christmas magic for the kids. Over 370 families signed up for holiday hampers this year. The Lions Den, long a cornerstone of community activity, was torn down on Dec. 17, marking the end of an era for the Portage la Prairie Lions Club. The beloved building, once a hub for events, meetings, and fundraisers, was returned to the City of Portage la Prairie by the Lions Club due to the club’s struggle with an aging membership and a lack of younger volunteers. According to Arishya Aggarwal, Chief of External Affairs for the Portage Lions Club, the decision to give up the Lions Den was a difficult one. With fewer members and the inability to secure new volunteers, the club faced the daunting prospect of disbanding. Despite losing the physical space, Aggarwal emphasized that the spirit of the Lions is far from gone. “We’ve faced challenges, but we’re not giving up. With a dedicated team of just 10 members, we’ve revitalized the club and successfully completed three community projects this year,” said Aggarwal. “The Lions Den may be gone, but we’ve not lost our Lions.” However, the club’s ability to reclaim the building from the city remains uncertain. The city now owns the Lions Den, and Aggarwal shared that the decision to demolish it was made by city officials.
Netflix has dropped the first trailer for Zero Day , the upcoming limited series starring Robert De Niro as a former U.S. president who is yanked out of retirement to investigate a nationwide cyberattack. “Three thousand, four-hundred, two people died on Zero Day, says De Niro’s former President George Mullen at the beginning of the trailer. “Plane crashes, train derailments. Total chaos.” From creators and executive producers Eric Newman ( Narcos ), Noah Oppenheim ( Jackie ) and Michael S. Schmidt, Zero Day stars De Niro as respected former U.S. President George Mullen, who, as head of the Zero Day Commission, is charged with finding the perpetrators of a devastating cyber attack that has caused chaos around the country and thousands of fatalities. As disinformation runs rampant and the personal ambition of power brokers in technology, Wall Street, and government collide, Mullen’s unwavering search for the truth forces him to confront his own dark secrets while risking all he holds dear. Angela Bassett, Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Plemons, Joan Allen, Connie Britton, Matthew Modine, Dan Stevens, Bill Camp, Gaby Hoffmann, and Clark Gregg also star. At one point in the trailer, Bassett’s character tells De Niro’s Mullen, “People believe what they need to believe. The truth is the truth, but it’s not always the most important thing.” Zero Day is written and executive produced by Newman and Oppenheim, with Lesli Linka Glatter as executive producer and director of all six episodes. Schmidt also serves as writer and executive producer, with De Niro and Jonathan Glickman as executive producers. Zero Day premieres February 20 on Netflix. Watch the trailer above.(BPT) - Consumers are facing increasing costs on virtually every purchase these days and auto insurance is no exception. While skyrocketing costs of this auto-related expense can be attributed to everything from parts replacement to service — even health costs as a result of accidents — consumers can better manage these increases with thoughtful study and attention to detail. Some of the common causes for higher insurance rates are Inflation, car accidents, extreme weather conditions such as hail, hurricanes and wind, along with increased vehicle theft claims. Mercury Insurance has partnered with financial literacy influencer Sam Jarman to highlight specific ways consumers can address these rising costs. "Your car is the second biggest expense for most people, right behind your home, and car insurance is a big part of that," said Jarman. "Checking rates and coverage with your Mercury Insurance agent makes sense along with choosing a car with low maintenance costs." According to Consumer Price Index data released earlier this year, car insurance rates are up almost 21% year-over-year for the 12 months which ended in February. The last time car insurance rates rose that much on an annual basis was 1976. Here are some auto insurance statistics recently released from Forbes : "Our goal is to help our customers get the best rates possible because we know that every dollar counts." said Justin Yoshizawa, Director, Product Management, State. "We encourage consumers to build a close relationship with their agent and discuss what discounts they may be eligible to receive. The answer might be surprising." Mercury offers the following tips for lowering your insurance costs: Review your deductibles with your insurance agent – It is recommended that you review your coverage and deductible with your Mercury agent at least once a year. Their wisdom and experience can help you make wise decisions regarding your insurance. Explore car insurance discounts – In addition to bundling your home and auto insurance, Mercury offers discounts for multi-car, good drivers, good students and auto pay. Your agent may have additional discounts to offer. Let Your Insurer Track Your Driving – Most insurers offer discounts for customers who install telematics. This technology allows your insurance company to collect information regarding your mileage and driving habits. This can also provide valuable information regarding your driving as well as saving you money. Drive a safe car with low repair costs – According to Bankrate , some of the cheapest cars to insure are the Subaru Outback, Honda CR-V and Honda Pilot. Also, look for cars with lower repair costs such as the Toyota Corolla, Toyota Prius and Tesla Model 3. Doing some research before you purchase a vehicle can save you money over the length of ownership. Install an anti-theft device on your car – Drivers may receive an additional discount on your auto insurance if you install an anti-theft device on your car. Before you buy a car, compare insurance costs – You can get a fast and easy quote from your Mercury Insurance agent. To receive a quote, you can reach us at 844-514-2893. To learn more about common types of auto insurance discounts, visit https://www.mercuryinsurance.com/resources/auto/understanding-types-of-auto-insurance-discounts.html . For more information on your auto insurance, you can reference the Insurance Information Institute .