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"Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum." Section 1.10.32 of "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum", written by Cicero in 45 BC "Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem. Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" To keep reading, please log in to your account, create a free account, or simply fill out the form below.Hackers have taken over the website of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), underscoring increased cyberattacks in the country. According to Check Point Software Technologies, a cyber security platform provider, Nigerian industries have seen a sharp rise in cyberattacks. In July, the country ranked 19th in the global rankings for attacks. It noted that government agencies face 1,791 weekly attacks. A visit to the NBS’s website reveals ‘Page Hacked’ on an otherwise blank page. Confirming the attack, the NBS tweeted on Thursday night, “This is to inform the public that the NBS Website has been hacked, and we are working to recover it. Please disregard any message or report posted until the website is fully restored.” Growing digitisation has exposed government agencies and other sectors to cyber attacks. Nigeria’s growing digital economy is facing escalating threats from hackers, prompting the Federal Government to issue at least 33 cyberattack advisories in the past year. “The rapid digitalisation of Africa’s key sectors has positioned the continent as a prime target for sophisticated cyber threats,” stated Lionel Dartnall, acting Country Manager for South Africa at Check Point Software Technologies. Kashifu Inuwa, director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency, recently stated, “As we digitise, we know that there is a big threat to our cyber security. There are a lot of criminal activities happening in cyberspace, so as we build, we need to build with security in mind.” Attacks on government agencies usually become ransomware attacks, with hackers exchanging hacked data for money. In 2024, South Africa’s government entities saw a 90 percent surge in ransomware attacks, with 3,312 weekly attacks.

CLEVELAND — Here's hoping Mike Tomlin didn't spend too much time working on that NFL Coach of the Year speech. The feel-good vibes that have surrounded the Steelers' season — all of those correct buttons pushed and sticky situations navigated — backfired on Tomlin on Thursday night during what has become an all-too-common theme of his tenure. A humiliating loss to an inferior team, this time in the familiar setting of Cleveland's Huntington Bank Field and by a 24-19 score to the previously 2-8 Browns. Talk about spoiling a sterling start. "They made more plays over the course of 60 minutes," Tomlin said. "Obviously, we have to own our portions of it." It's a shame you can't put them on Craigslist or something. The Browns snapped the Steelers' five-game winning streak. Pittsburgh also dropped to 0-8 all time in road Thursday night games against teams in their division. Amazingly, Tomlin's Steelers have lost five of their past six games in Cleveland. What the Steelers must own from this one was substantial, too, starting with some poor decision-making by Tomlin, who actually entered the game as the betting favorite to win his first coach of the year award. A small sampling of things that will likely rub Steelers fans the wrong way: — Seemingly getting caught in between toward the end of the first half. Tomlin called a timeout after a second-down pass but then allowed around 40 seconds to run off the clock before Cleveland called timeout and kicked a field goal. Just call the timeout, get the ball back with some time, and give your team a chance. — It's not just all Tomlin and likely involves offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, but the fade route thrown to Cordarrelle Patterson once the Steelers took the lead in the fourth quarter made zero sense. George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, anyone? — Justin Fields randomly throwing deep to Pickens with the Steelers trying to salt away the game. — Not instructing his players to allow Browns running back Nick Chubb to score on a 7-yard run with 1:43 to go, a move that would've afforded the Steelers more than 50 seconds to answer. — Burning a timeout after a confusing sequence where Tomlin thought it was intentional grounding and deciding to hastily accept the penalty, another decision that can certainly be questioned. If you decline, it's an easier field goal. If you accept, you're obviously giving the Browns another shot. "We wanted to move them 5 yards back," Tomlin said. "They were potentially kicking into the wind, so we wanted to stop 'em and make the field goal a longer one." The decision, the same as many on this wintry night, turned out to be the wrong one, as Jameis Winston found wide receiver Jerry Jeudy 15 yards to convert on third-and-6, and Chubb scored the go-ahead touchdown with 0:57 left. "Missed opportunities," Cam Heyward said. "We have to eat it. They made more plays at the end. "I know everybody is pretty [upset] about the loss, but we have to learn from it and be better next time." It also wasn't simply about binary decisions such as these, but it's Tomlin's job to have the Steelers ready to play on the road — and against a lousy team — where the biggest conversation topic has been the potential firing of coach Kevin Stefanski and other goofy Cleveland talk. That didn't happen. It was a trap game, and the Steelers fell right into it, torpedoing their shot at the No. 1 seed in the AFC in the process. Think about it: They needed this one to keep pace with the Chiefs and Bills. Now, they're facing an uphill climb — and doing so with plenty of questions before traveling to Cincinnati in about 10 days. The pass protection was rough early on, as defensive end Myles Garrett did his part to wreck the game. As much as Steelers fans might hate the guy, he was incredible with three sacks, five total tackles and a forced fumble, a solid answer to the T.J. Watt kerfuffle this week. Cleveland finished with four sacks of Russell Wilson, who did complete 21 of 28 passes for 270 yards, a touchdown and a 116.7 rating. Still, it wasn't enough to correct some drive-sustaining issues that plagued the Steelers early. A missed Chris Boswell field goal on the first drive — albeit from a hard-to-say-much 58 yards — then turning it over on downs. It was the first of two of those for the Steelers, who lost yards both times. They have to figure out how to sustain drives better. "They made a few plays," Wilson said. "Myles made a few plays. I thought we moved the ball at different moments, but we have to stay consistent." As Wilson said, this was a game the Steelers should have won — and not only because they forced three turnovers and had the lead in the fourth quarter of a game against a woebegone opponent. Their 8-2 start should've opened the group's collective eyes to what's possible should the Steelers take care of business. That didn't happen. The Steelers started slow on offense, made too many mistakes, botched a bunch of decisions and left Cleveland in the middle of the night with another unsightly blemish suffered here. The reason starts at the top. "It's painful, but it's life in this business," Tomlin said. "We'll take a look at the tape and learn from it. We're in the midst of some thick AFC North action. No rest for the weary. We have a big one coming up." Can't get here soon enough, honestly. (c)2024 the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Visit the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette at www.post-gazette.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

NoneThe African Development Bank Group has facilitated the mobilisation of $2.2bn to advance the second phase of Nigeria’s Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones initiative. This commitment was made during the Africa Investment Forum, Morocco, where Nigerian state governors, leaders from multilateral development organisations, diplomats, and private sector investors gathered to show their support. According to a statement released on Tuesday by the bank, the new funding builds on the success of the first phase and underscores a commitment to scaling up investments that connect both federal and state governments to critical agricultural infrastructure. The bank said the boardroom session attracted leading investors such as Arise IIP, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, Africa Export-Import Bank, Sahara Farms, BPI France, Africa50, and the US Development Finance Corporation. “By the end of the session, a total deal value of $2.2bn was announced, marking a major milestone for SAPZ Nigeria Phase II,” the bank declared. Phase I of the SAPZ programme is already benefiting states such as Cross River, Imo, Ogun, Oyo, Kaduna, Kwara, Kano, and the Federal Capital Territory. Phase II will expand to 24 additional states over the next three years, further linking Nigeria’s agriculture to agro-industrialization to drive economic growth. The President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, stated, “This is a defining moment for Nigeria’s agricultural transformation. “The Nigeria SAPZ II project will create millions of jobs, empower smallholder farmers, and position Nigeria as a leader in agro-industrialization. These investments exemplify the power of collaboration to achieve sustainable development in Africa.” Related News AfDB offers solutions to Nigeria’s debt, forex challenges AfDB, farmers hail FG's agricultural interventions in Anambra, Enugu African countries pay 500% higher costs on global market debt – AfDB The SAPZ Nigeria programme is a nationwide, government-enabled, and private-sector-led investment initiative designed to revolutionize Nigeria’s agricultural sector. SAPZs are strategically located in regions with high agricultural production potential. These zones are equipped with infrastructure, common services, and policy incentives to attract and integrate agricultural and industrial businesses. The Vice President for Agriculture, Human and Social Development at AfDB, Dr Beth Dunford, chaired the presidential boardroom session, which included remarks from AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina and other key figures. The Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Foreign Direct Investment, Princess Audu, represented Nigeria’s Vice President at the event. The Senior Special Adviser on Industrialization, Prof Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, highlighted the achievements of Phase I and outlined the roadmap for Phase II. He confirmed that Phase I construction will commence within a few months, with a flag-off ceremony planned for December. The Director-General for Nigeria at AfDB, Dr Abdul Kamara, expressed enthusiasm for the investments. “I am pleased to see this significant investment interest and commitment from our financing partners for Nigeria at a time when the country is ramping up efforts to attract investments into the agriculture sector to address food security, create job opportunities, and boost economic growth,” he said.

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Kentucky will aim to improve upon its best start in seven seasons when it hosts Western Kentucky on Tuesday night in Lexington, Ky., in the final game of the BBN Invitational. The Wildcats (5-0) are ranked No. 8 in the latest Associated Press poll and are setting impressive offensive milestones even for a program as tradition-rich as Kentucky, which includes eight national championships. The Wildcats have scored 97 or more points in their first four home games for the first time in program history and eclipsed the 100-point mark in three of those games. Their lone trip out of state was a solid 77-72 victory over Duke in a matchup of top-10 teams in Atlanta. Kentucky has also made at least 10 three-pointers in each of its first five games of a season for the first time ever. "I think Kentucky attracts good people," Kentucky coach Mark Pope said after the Wildcats' 108-59 win over Jackson State on Friday. "It's the one place in all college basketball where you represent just a fanbase in a different, unique way." Otega Oweh and Koby Brea have led the Wildcats' early scoring outburst. Oweh, who is averaging 16.2 points per game, had 21 points on 8-for-12 shooting against Jackson State. "He gets us off to unbelievable starts every night," Pope told reporters after that game. "He's probably been our most consistent guy in games." Brea, who scored 22 points against Jackson State and is averaging 16.0 points per game, is leading the nation in 3-point accuracy at 74.1 percent. As a team, the Wildcats are shooting 42.3 percent from beyond the arc. And the few times they miss, Amari Williams has been doing the dirty work on the glass, averaging 10.8 boards in addition to 9.6 points per game. Kentucky faces a different challenge than it's had to contend with so far in the Hilltoppers (3-2), who have won three in a row after losing their first two games to Wichita State and Grand Canyon. Their up-tempo play hasn't exactly resulted in great offensive output, but in the Hilltoppers' 79-62 win over Jackson State on Wednesday, they shot 45.2 percent from 3-point range (14 for 31). "I was happy to see a lot of different guys contribute tonight and, hopefully, get their feet under them a little bit and get some confidence," said Western Kentucky coach Hank Plona, who is in his first season as head coach. "Obviously, Tuesday will be quite a test and challenge for us and we'll need them to be at their absolute best." Western Kentucky has an experienced group, which returned mostly intact from last season. The team is led by Conference USA first-team selection Don McHenry, who is leading the team with 17.2 points and 2.2 steals per game. McHenry is one of four Hilltoppers with scoring averages in double figures. Julius Thedford (11.4 points per game) and Babacar Faye (15.0) are each shooting 40 percent or better from 3-point range. Western Kentucky also figures to challenge the Wildcats on the boards as it enters the game ranked in the top 25 in defensive rebounding (30.4 per game). Faye leads the Hilltoppers in that department, averaging 7.8 rebounds per game and figures to battle Williams inside. "We're not the biggest team in the world, but our depth and our quickness are our strengths," Plona said. --Field Level MediaThe prominent Illawarra men urging others to stand up against domestic violence

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ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Abacus Life, Inc. (“Abacus” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: ABL), a pioneering alternative asset manager specializing in longevity and actuarial technology, today announced the closing of its oversubscribed underwritten public offering of 12,500,000 shares of its common stock, consisting of 10,000,000 shares of its common stock sold by the Company and 2,500,000 shares of common stock sold by certain stockholders of the Company (the “Selling Stockholders”) at the public offering price of $8.00 per share. The gross proceeds raised in the offering, before underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated expenses of the offering, were approximately $100 million, of which approximately $80 million was raised in the primary offering by the Company and approximately $20 million was paid in connection with the sale of shares by the Selling Stockholders. Abacus intends to use net proceeds that it receives for its operations, including the purchase of life settlement policies, to support its overall business strategy, for working capital purposes, and for general corporate purposes, which may include funding previously announced and future acquisitions and repayment and refinancing of its indebtedness. Abacus did not receive any proceeds from the sale of shares of common stock by the Selling Stockholders. Piper Sandler & Co., TD Securities (USA) LLC, KKR Capital Markets LLC, B. Riley Securities, Inc. and SG Americas Securities, LLC acted as joint book-running managers and representatives of the underwriters for the offering. The registration statements on Form S-3 relating to this offering were declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on November 14, 2024. Final prospectus supplements and accompanying prospectuses relating to and describing the terms of the offering were filed with the SEC on November 25, 2024 and may be obtained from: Piper Sandler & Co. by mail at 1251 Avenue of the Americas, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10020 or by email at prospectus@psc.com; TD Securities (USA) LLC by mail at 1 Vanderbilt Avenue, New York, NY 10017, by telephone at (855) 495-9846 or by email at TD.ECM_Prospectus@tdsecurities.com; KKR Capital Markets LLC by mail at 30 Hudson Yards, 75th Floor, New York, NY 10001, Attention: Prospectus Delivery; B. Riley Securities, Inc. by mail at 1300 17th Street North, Suite 1300, Arlington, VA 22209, by telephone at (703) 312-9580 or by email at prospectuses@brileyfin.com; SG Americas Securities, LLC by mail at 245 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10167 or by email at us-ny-prospectus@sgcib.com; or by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the shares of the Company’s common stock or any other securities, nor shall there be any sale of such shares of common stock or any other securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction. About Abacus Abacus is a pioneering global alternative asset manager and market maker specializing in uncorrelated financial products. The Company leverages its longevity data and actuarial technology to purchase life insurance policies from consumers seeking liquidity. This creates a high-return asset class uncorrelated to market fluctuations for institutional investors. With nearly $3 billion in assets under management, including pending acquisitions, Abacus is the only publicly traded global alternative asset manager focused on lifespan-based financial products. Forward-Looking Statements All statements in this press release (and oral statements made regarding the subjects of this press release) other than historical facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements rely on a number of assumptions concerning future events and are subject to a number of uncertainties and factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such statements, many of which are outside the control of Abacus. Forward-looking information includes but is not limited to statements regarding the proposed offering, including the expected closing of the proposed offering; Abacus’s financial and operational outlook; Abacus’s operational and financial strategies, including planned growth initiatives and the benefits thereof, Abacus’s ability to successfully effect those strategies, and the expected results therefrom. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” ”intend,” “anticipate,” “goals,” “prospects,” “will,” “would,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions (including the negative versions of such words or expressions). While Abacus believes that the assumptions concerning future events are reasonable, it cautions that there are inherent difficulties in predicting certain important factors that could impact the future performance or results of its business. The factors that could cause results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: the fact that Abacus’s loss reserves are bases on estimates and may be inadequate to cover its actual losses; the failure to properly price Abacus’s insurance policies; the geographic concentration of Abacus’s business; the cyclical nature of Abacus’s industry; the impact of regulation on Abacus’s business; the effects of competition on Abacus’s business; the failure of Abacus’s relationships with independent agencies; the failure to meet Abacus’s investment objectives; the inability to raise capital on favorable terms or at all; the effects of acts of terrorism; and the effectiveness of Abacus’s control environment, including the identification of control deficiencies. These forward-looking statements are also affected by the risk factors, forward-looking statements and challenges and uncertainties set forth in documents filed by Abacus with the SEC from time to time, including the Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended, and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and subsequent periodic reports. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Abacus cautions you not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Abacus assumes no obligation and, except as required by law, does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Abacus does not give any assurance that it will achieve its expectations. Contacts: Robert Phillips – SVP Investor Relations rob@abacuslife.com (321) 290-1198 David Jackson – IR/Capital Markets Associate djackson@abacuslife.com (321) 299-0716 Abacus Life Public Relations press@abacuslife.comDestiny 2 Players Discover New Solo Game-Breaking Glitch That Instantly Melts Bosses - TheGamePost

OTTAWA — Federal Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland said on Monday that she hopes her government’s proposed GST holiday will help bridge the gap between Canada’s macroeconomic picture and historically stressed-out households by bringing good vibes to the latter. “People have been talking about a ‘vibecession’... and the fact that Canadians just aren’t feeling that good,” Freeland told reporters at a press conference in Ottawa to promote the temporary sales-tax reprieve. “That’s shaping their economic behaviour in ways that are not great for the Canadian economy.” “One of the positive impacts of this measure is to help Canadians get past that ‘vibecession’ because how (they) feel really does have a(n) economic impact.” Opposition Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said in question period that he took exception to Freeland’s use of the term “vibecession” given that millions of Canadians are still struggling to feed and house themselves amidst an ongoing cost of living crisis. “What’s (Freeland’s) message to people who are hungry and homeless after nine years of her government?” said Poilievre. “That they just need to get with her vibe?” Freeland fired back by telling Poilievre to be more “economically literate,” pointing to positive projections for Canada’s economic future put forward by international organizations such as The International Monetary Fund . The IMF assessed in July that Canada had avoided a recession mainly due to surging immigration that had kept GDP from shrinking, but that per capita incomes have shrunk. Statistics Canada reported in October that persistently high interest rates have pushed household inequality to historic levels, with the middle 60 per cent of Canadian households getting squeezed the worst by ballooning mortgage and car payments. The Statistics Canada report found that Canadian households in this income range lost ground in the second quarter of 2024, versus one year earlier. “Middle-income households’ investment gains did not keep pace with growth in interest paid on mortgages and consumer credit,” it said. Freeland joined Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Toronto last week to announce a two-month GST holiday , starting December 14, on certain household goods, including groceries, prepared foods and children’s clothing. The holiday tax break is expected to cost the federal government $1.6 billion in foregone revenue . Trudeau and Freeland also announced last week that Canadians who worked in 2023 and made less than $150,000 will be receiving a $250 cheque in the spring. The two programs together are expected to come at a combined cost of nearly $6.3 billion to taxpayers . Tyler Meredith, an ex-fiscal advisor to Freeland and her predecessor at the finance portfolio Bill Morneau, said that, while he wouldn’t use the word “vibecession” himself, there’s still a disconnect between people’s pocketbooks and macroeconomic forecasts. “The macro looks good but the micro does not,” Meredith said. “People make spending decisions based on the micro.” He added that he didn’t see the Trudeau government’s stimulus package changing the Bank of Canada’s approach to cutting interest rates going forward. “$6 billion in stimulus in a $3 trillion economy isn’t really cause to fundamentally rethink things from the Bank’s perspective,” said Meredith. National Post rmohamed@postmedia.com Get more deep-dive National Post political coverage and analysis in your inbox with the Political Hack newsletter, where Ottawa bureau chief Stuart Thomson and political analyst Tasha Kheiriddin get at what’s really going on behind the scenes on Parliament Hill every Wednesday and Friday, exclusively for subscribers. Sign up here . Our website is the place for the latest breaking news, exclusive scoops, longreads and provocative commentary. Please bookmark nationalpost.com and sign up for our daily newsletter, Posted, here .Jim Cramer on Dell Technologies Inc. (DELL): ‘I Think We’re Lucky To Be Able To Invest Alongside Him’ - Yahoo FinanceAltoona McDonald’s slammed with 1-star ‘rat’ reviews after Luigi Mangione arrest

Suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare's CEO struggles, shouts while entering courthouse (copy)

MARKHAM, Ontario — As Canada advances toward a greener future, electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly viewed as essential for reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. Government incentives and growing public awareness have encouraged many Canadians to make the switch to EVs. Despite this progress, there is still room for further adoption if certain concerns, such as cost and infrastructure, can be addressed. While infrastructure development and affordability take time to improve, some barriers lie squarely within the control of manufacturers. Recognizing this, VinFast, a global electric vehicle manufacturer, has taken an innovative step to address a key consumer concern: long-term reliability. By offering an industry-leading 10-year warranty, VinFast aims to reduce anxieties and accelerate EV adoption in Canada. The shift to EVs in Canada has been steady but uneven. While provinces like Quebec and British Columbia lead with aggressive zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandates, others lag behind due to infrastructure gaps and consumer skepticism. While interest in EVs is indeed growing, unfamiliarity still hinders wider adoption. Unlike traditional gasoline vehicles, which Canadians have relied on for decades, EVs represent a new frontier with different upkeep requirements, particularly around their batteries. Studies indicate that these uncertainties can deter potential buyers from transitioning to EVs. A recent survey by Ernst & Young’s 2024 Mobility Consumer Index (MCI) revealed a global slowdown in EV sales growth, with many prospective buyers citing high maintenance and repair costs as a top concern . In Canada, the proportion of prospective car buyers intending to purchase an EV has dropped by 3%, falling to 15% compared to last year—significantly below the global figure (24%). For Canadian consumers weighing the benefits of lower fuel costs and emissions against the perceived risks of costly repairs, a strong warranty can be a game-changer. Long warranties have certainly played a role in boosting consumer confidence, but they are especially significant for EV buyers. Unlike traditional cars, where decades of experience have clarified maintenance expectations, EVs rely on advanced battery systems and cutting-edge electronics. While this technology offers efficiency and environmental benefits, it also introduces uncertainty for those unfamiliar with it. For consumers who are already cautious with big-ticket purchases, the promise of a robust warranty provides peace of mind. The Ernst & Young MCI 2023 report highlighted this emerging trend, noting that 24% of survey participants identified costly battery replacements as a barrier to EV adoption . In 2024, this concern climbed into the top three barriers for the first time. In that context, warranties that extend well beyond the standard three or five years reassure consumers that manufacturers are committed to their products and willing to cover major repair costs. This assurance is particularly compelling in the current economic climate. VinFast has recognized these consumer anxieties and positioned itself as a leader in addressing them. The company’s 10-year/200,000-kilometer vehicle warranty and the 10-year/unlimited mileage for the high voltage battery (under standard usage) is among the most generous in the EV industry, exceeding the typical coverage offered by many competitors. This long coverage directly tackles the primary concerns of EV buyers: the high cost of battery repairs and the reliability of advanced electronic systems. By standing firmly behind its technology, VinFast signals to Canadians that it is confident in the longevity and quality of its vehicles. For VinFast customers, this warranty is more than a marketing tool; it’s a reason to trust the brand. Testimonials from early adopters in North America highlight the pivotal role the warranty plays in purchase decisions. “The 10-year warranty gave us confidence to make the switch,” said Jason Cheung, a VinFast owner who values the long-term support. VinFast’s commitment to long-term reliability has not only earned consumer trust but has also propelled the company to new heights. In its home market of Vietnam, VinFast has become the leading automotive brand—surpassing foreign and gasoline-powered competitors—an impressive feat achieved in just over five years. In North America, VinFast is gaining significant momentum. September, in particular, marked a record-breaking month for the company, fueled by strong customer demand and competitive offerings. Building on this success, VinFast recently began delivering its flagship VF 9—a three-row, 7-seater SUV—in Canada. The VF 9 comes with the company’s signature market-leading 10-year/200,000-kilometer limited warranty, underscoring its commitment to customer satisfaction and long-term reliability. VinFast’s commitment doesn’t stop at its warranty. The company has introduced services aimed at easing the broader transition to EV ownership. For example, VinFast’s app provides a seamless solution by connecting drivers to a comprehensive network of public charging stations across North America. Additionally, the brand offers 24/7 roadside assistance, further enhancing its appeal to Canadian consumers who value reliability and convenience. These added services underscore VinFast’s holistic approach to building trust, not just in its vehicles but in the EV ecosystem as a whole. VinFast’s focus on delivering comprehensive warranties and services reflects a strategic understanding of consumer behavior. By addressing concerns upfront, the company is not only encouraging more Canadians to consider EVs but also challenging the broader industry to adopt similar practices. As Canada aims to meet its climate targets and phase out gas-powered vehicles, efforts like VinFast’s could play a crucial role in accelerating the transition. By removing barriers and building trust, the brand is helping Canadians see EVs not as risky investments but as reliable, long-term solutions. With the support of bold innovators like VinFast, Canada’s shift to electric transportation is not only possible—it’s inevitable. _____________________ John Lindo:Structural health monitoring (SHM) is vital for safeguarding infrastructure by identifying and addressing damage risks. Traditional methods, however, often struggle to deliver accurate real-time data on high-stress areas, like crack tips, where failure is most likely. These regions require careful monitoring to predict and prevent catastrophic structural failure. Yet, capturing the complexities of stress concentrations at crack tips remains a significant challenge. This study addresses these shortcomings by proposing a novel solution to achieve real-time structural assessments of pre-cracked structures. Researchers from the National University of Sciences & Technology, Islamabad, and the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, have introduced an innovative contribution to the field of SHM, in the . Their study introduces a two-dimensional, six-node triangular inverse crack-tip element formulated to ensure strain singularities at the crack tip without compromising computational efficiency, enabling real-time health assessments of cracked structures. The study presents a two-dimensional, six-node triangular inverse crack-tip element, marking a significant advancement in SHM of through-thickness pre-cracked structures. The proposed crack-tip element integrates seamlessly with the inverse finite element method (iFEM) for shape-sensing and health assessment applications of engineering structures with and without preexisting cracks. A critical characteristic for accurate fracture analysis is maintaining strain singularities at the crack tip, accomplished by strategically repositioning mid-side nodes in this research. The element is adaptable to both structured and unstructured mesh discretization, making it highly versatile for modeling complex geometries, particularly in areas of high stress, such as crack tips. Rigorous validation confirms its effectiveness in shape-sensing and computing stress intensity factors (SIFs) across various crack geometries and loading conditions, highlighting its potential to revolutionize real-time monitoring of structures with preexisting cracks. Prof. Dr. Erkan Oterkus, the corresponding author and supervisor of the research, is of the view that "the formulation of the inverse crack-tip element represents a step forward in monitoring and the assessment of engineering structures with preexisting cracks. This approach enables precise shape-sensing capabilities and accurate reconstruction of critical fracture parameters, which are crucial for timely and informed decision-making regarding the maintenance and safety of critical infrastructure." This research has transformative potential across industries where structural integrity is paramount, notably in the aerospace and marine sectors. It enhances safety by detecting issues early, reduces maintenance costs through targeted repairs, and extends the lifespan of vital structures. Automating and streamlining the evaluation process minimizes downtime and operational disruptions, paving the way for more innovative, efficient, and sustainable infrastructure management.

The most significant dress I will ever wear could not, under any circumstances, be new. To wed in anything but vintage would have felt like a betrayal. For decades, I have dressed in garments from, or lovingly inspired by, the 1950s—a time when fashion was all about romance. If a wedding is a declaration of love, I was certain my wedding dress—a Bergdorf Goodman creation from 1957—would articulate it with an eloquence no current design could achieve. Even though I live just two New York City blocks from Bergdorf Goodman—the most storied temple to fashion this side of the Atlantic—curiously, my dress was unearthed in the small Dutch town of Roermond. (More on that later.) I found it online and, upon its arrival, reverently unboxed it like a relic. It was perfect. Urbane enough for a Manhattan City Hall wedding, yet still dainty. A slender row of covered buttons ran the bodice’s length, stopping at the bow cinched across the hips; above, a V-neck collar framed the neck with a swan-like elegance. But it was the interior that revealed the true gem: a “Bergdorf Goodman on the Plaza” label in the retailer’s distinctive lilac hue. Handwritten beneath the store’s name were the details: July 6, 1957, and the names O’Keefe and Cath. Bergdorf Goodman has always been synonymous with high fashion, but the label “On the Plaza” harkened to a particular era. For decades, the flagship on Fifth Avenue and 58th Street housed a custom salon, an atelier bustling with seamstresses catering to the sartorial whims of society’s grande dames. In February of 1956, Vogue published this cheeky excerpt from the then-upcoming Bergdorf’s on the Plaza book: “In the workrooms there are several thousand forms, each padded to the exact proportions of the customer it represents. Some have been there for thirty years; peel off the padding put on over the years, and you'd see some lovely figures of many years and many desserts ago.” The dress, then, was a remnant of Bergdorf’s golden age—when buyers returned from Paris with bonded models of Dior and Balenciaga to inspire their adaptations. O’Keefe, the likely bride, had been rendered immortal in silk by Cath, a dressmaker whose careful work was now in my possession. So how, exactly, did this dress wind up in my hands? Well, my Poirot-worthy sleuthing led me down a trail that began with a Dutch dealer named Soul of Eve and wound through the world of Live Auctioneers. There, a fashion historian operating under the name Hoboken Auctions recalled buying it from a Chicago-based eBay seller who picked it up from Bristol Community College’s theater department in Fall River, Massachusetts. “It was donated,” I was told by the Chicago dealer, “by someone from New Bedford, Fall River, or somewhere in that region. Or maybe Rhode Island.” Beyond that, the trail went cold, even after hours spent rifling through the Bergdorf Goodman archives housed at the Museum of the Fashion Institute of Technology; O’Keefe and her story slipped through my fingers. Yet even though her identity remains a mystery—dear reader, I am always open to your tips—one thing is certain: the woman had taste. Given its circuitous journey, the dress required a little rejuvenation. Enter Patricia Voto, the designer-cum-bridal-whisperer behind One/Of whose atelier on East 70th Street has quietly become the place for discerning brides. She revived the once-wilted bow to a buoyant state and added to the architecture of the dress by trimming a strip of horsehair to the hem. Slight adjustments to the princess seams ensured it fit like a glove. Accessories fell into place with poetic symmetry. A vintage Judith Leiber satin bag, antique ivory as the dress itself, was plucked from The RealReal. And though I had every intention of finding the perfect Manolo Blahnik mule at the legendary shoe designer’s boutique, it was Bergdorf Goodman—but of course—who had an exclusive on the style I wanted. On my wrist was a Victoriana tennis bracelet and timeless diamond drops dangled from my ears, both from De Beers. My lips, as ever, were painted in the same shade of scarlet red I have worn for half a decade. On the morning of September 29, I woke in a suite at the Plaza Hotel, a place packed with my memories—as a teenager, I worked there as a shop girl, selling Eloise books in the Plaza’s gift shop—to get ready with my sister. My hair was coiffed into a sleek modern bun by David Cotteblanche, the stylist behind three of my Met Gala hairdos, and a Bobbi Brown artist applied my makeup. My husband arrived at City Hall looking splendid: a custom navy suit, Tod’s shoes, and an Hermès tie. His lapel was adorned with Lily of the Valley—a bloom I insisted on carrying, despite its elusive, spring-only nature. My mother, with Herculean determination, procured a fall bouquet, knowing all too well that I wasn’t going to let go of the “references.” Blame it on Dior (who had a long love affair with the bloom) and Funny Face (in which Audrey Hepburn carries it as a fashion model playing the blushing bride). Next, we trekked—umbrellas in hand, the rainy forecast only adding to the sense of adventure—to City Hall, where we joined a throng of couples, all giddy with anticipation. The room seemed to hum with the cacophony of love stories converging in one place. Amid the rush of it all, my dress and my carefully chosen details anchored me. In that moment, as I said “I do,” I felt—truly and unmistakably—myself. The evening was spent celebrating with close family and friends at dinner at Fasano Club, where Champagne flowed, and toasts were made. By then, I had slipped into something less delicate: a white-and-black Mary McFadden Couture dress, also vintage, that had waited patiently in my closet for its special moment. McFadden’s signature pleats, with their effortless drape and freedom of movement, allowed me to revel fully in the festivities—it was the perfect piece to close out my very big day. Months later, while headed to an event and carrying my Judith Leiber bridal bag, I stepped into my elevator and a very elegant woman beside me leaned in. “Could I ask where you got that bag?” she asked. “I had one just like it, but I gave it to The RealReal.” I admitted to her it was likely the very same purse and we bonded over its unlikely reunion. What are the odds? The chances were as improbable as they were perfect—much like finding the one person in a city of millions. Those odds felt oddly right.Linda Annis offered a holiday message for shoppers: don’t let Christmastime Grinches steal your Christmas or your Christmas cheer. Annis, executive director of Metro Vancouver Crime Stoppers, gave her annual tips for a crime-free Christmas at a home in Cloverdale Dec. 9. “Every year, we ask the Grinch himself to help us remind people to follow some very common-sense precautions,” she said. “Nonetheless, every year we hear stories of people who still take chances with their valuables and their personal safety. That’s why we like to come out as the shopping season heats up with some helpful reminders, and a few things people might not have thought about.” Annis, who is also a Surrey city councillor, said the message is “especially important” as the year draws to a close and concerns with crime and public safety are riding. “Now is not the time to let down our guard when it comes to porch pirates, purse snatchers, home break-ins, parking lot B&Es and online fraudsters,” she said. “If you see a crime in action, call 9-1-1 or the local police right away. And if you have information about what nefarious deeds somebody’s up to, or see a suspicious person in the neighbourhood, but want to remain anonymous, call us at Crime Stoppers.” She added if anyone has information, they can telephone Crime Stoppers, use the P3 smartphone app to report crime anonymously, or visit solvecrime.ca. “Your anonymity is guaranteed by the Supreme Court of Canada. You’ll never be questioned or called to testify.” Annis, the Grinch, and little Cindy Lou Who teamed up to stage safety scenarios. Their efforts helped illustrate the dos and dont’s for the holidays as it pertained to shopping, both at stores and online. Annis ended her remarks with a few red hot, Grinch-thwarting tips to help prevent the onset of some Christmas blues. Ask neighbours to help keep an eye on your front door for deliveries. Some thieves actually follow delivery trucks to people’s homes so they can steal parcels as soon as the truck is gone. Use your video camera feeds to watch for both deliveries and crooks. Maybe you’ll spot someone stealing your Christmas lawn display, or packages from your porch. Where programs exist, register your doorbell and home security cameras to help police quickly find recordings of neighbourhood crimes. Voluntary programs in some cities, like Project Iris in Surrey, could help police solve a break-in or other crime at your house or your neighbour’s. Does the website you’re buying from, and the merch you buying, look legit? Maybe it’s cheaper that it really should be? Organized retail crime costs Canadians almost $5 billion a year, so buy from established businesses, not unknown sources. Shoplifted or stolen goods may be sold online or through flea markets, with the money often going to gangs dealing in drugs or illegal weapons. Think about who might be watching your sunny vacation pics on social media. Remember, your post from the beach tells the whole world you’re not at home – and that includes thieves. Large empty boxes outside your home tell everyone what valuable goodies are inside your house to steal. Boxes from that gaming computer, 65-inch TV, or other expensive gifts should be stored out of sight until the cardboard can be recycled. You can also close blinds to keep people from seeing inside your house. Etch your valuables in case they’re stolen. Ask local police to help etch your property with your driver’s license number. Also photograph valuables showing make, model and serial number. Theft is getting worse, so don’t leave valuables visible in your car. Before you lock up your car to go shopping, leave nothing visible inside. Not even pocket change or empty bottles or cans. And don’t fill your car with gifts and then go back into more stores. Someone may be watching what you’ve bought. Find a busy, well-lit section of the parking lot and lock your gifts out of sight in the trunk. Leave your garage door opener at home or in your pocket. A thief who takes your remote sitting from your console, and finds your address somewhere in the car, considers that an open invitation to come open your garage for a look. Watch your pockets in busy stores. Keep purses and wallets where you can keep track of them and thwart pickpockets who look to take advantage while jostling with holiday crowds. Visit for more info.