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Liverpool's lead cut in Premier League and Man City ends slump. Chelsea and Arsenal win

Oregon started signing day behind Ohio State and Michigan in the Big Ten recruiting rankings and was poised to finish Wednesday on top. The Ducks flipped five-star cornerback Na'eem Offord from the Buckeyes and four-star quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele from California — additions that pushed them to No. 4 nationally and No. 1 in the Big Ten in the 247Sports Composite rankings. A Big Ten-high four five-stars signed with the Ducks. Ohio State's class, ranked fifth in the country, is highlighted by a pair of national top-five prospects in quarterback Tavien St. Clair and cornerback Devin Sanchez. Michigan's class was rated third best in the Big Ten and seventh best in the nation. Quarterback Bryce Underwood, the No. 1 national recruit, was scheduled to sign his letter of intent with the Wolverines on Wednesday evening. Two other Big Ten teams were ranked in the top 20, No. 13 Southern California and No. 17 Penn State. Leader of the pack Oregon closed with a flourish with Offord and Sagapolutele flipping on signing day and four-star linebacker Gavin Nix switching from Miami on Tuesday. The Ducks signed some of the nation's top prospects at wide receiver and cornerback. Dakorien Moore is the No. 1 receiver and Dallas Wilson is No. 4. Offord is the No. 2 corner, Brandon Finney is No. 5 and Dorian Brew is No. 8. They also signed a second quarterback, the four-star Akili Smith Jr., whose father was the Ducks' quarterback in 1997-98 and an NFL first-round draft pick. Best of the rest Five-star quarterback Husan Longstreet was USC's top signee, and the Trojans beat out Ohio State and Oregon for five-star defensive lineman Jahkeem Stewart. Penn State landed the No. 4 offensive lineman in the country in Malachi Goodman. Among eight four-star defensive players to sign was linebacker LaVar Arrington Jr., whose father was a 1998 All-American for the Nittany Lions and No. 2 overall draft pick in 2000. Nebraska signed four-star linebackers in Dawson Merritt and Christian Jones and got a pleasant signing-day surprise when four-star wide receiver Cortez Mills flipped from Oklahoma. Under the radar Iose Epenesa, the No. 14 national prospect and No. 3 defensive lineman, continues his family's tradition at Iowa. The edge rusher from Edwardsville, Illinois, is the brother of former Iowa star AJ Epenesa. Another brother, Eric, is a walk-on linebacker for the Hawkeyes. Their father, Eppy, played at Iowa in the 1990s. ... Indiana's breakthrough season produced a minimal bump in the recruiting rankings. The Hoosiers, who signed 21 players, went from No. 16 last year to No. 13 in the Big Ten. . ... Maryland signed four four stars, including the nation's No. 5 quarterback prospect in 6-foot-4, 215-pound Malik Washington. ... Michigan State didn't sign a four-star recruit for the first time since at least 2009. ... Purdue, three days after the firing of Ryan Walters and coming off one of the worst seasons in program history, signed just six players. Star of the class Michigan's NIL collective reportedly offered Underwood an eight-figure financial package and Tom Brady provided a strong nudge to get him to flip from LSU two weeks ago. Underwood is from Belleville, Michigan, less than a half-hour drive from Ann Arbor, and he has said playing close to home also was a factor. Underwood is the first No. 1 national prospect to land at Michigan since defensive end Rashan Gary in 2016. Biggest surprise An Ohio State stocking cap sat alongside Auburn and Oregon ballcaps on a table at Offord's signing ceremony at Parker High in Birmingham, Alabama. He picked up the Auburn cap and put it on for a split-second, then flipped it into the crowd and put on the Oregon cap. With three of the top eight cornerback prospects and four-star safety Trey McNutt expected to sign, the Ducks would have the highest-rated group of defensive backs. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-footballOlivia Lloyd | (TNS) The Charlotte Observer CHARLOTTE, N.C.— A pet food company based in North Carolina is recalling puppy mix sold in seven states after a batch tested positive for salmonella, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said. The contamination came to light when a litter of puppies got sick after consuming Blue Ridge Beef’s Puppy Mix, and the customer reported it to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, according to the FDA. The FDA said it notified the company that the food tested positive for salmonella on Nov. 27, and Blue Ridge Beef issued a voluntary recall on its 2-pound plastic-wrapped logs sold in North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York. The recall affects puppy mix sold from Aug. 6 to Aug. 23 with logs labeled with lot numbers 08/06/N25 and 08/16/N25, with UPC 854298001696. It’s not the company’s only recall in the past year. In January, Blue Ridge Beef expanded a December 2023 recall of its puppy mix, as well as some of its kitten food, due to possible salmonella and listeria contamination, FDA records show. “Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting,” according to the FDA. “Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans.” Related Articles National News | Shooting at a Northern California elementary school and suspect is dead, sheriff’s office says National News | Abandoned mines in the US pose dangers to people and property when land gives way National News | White House says at least 8 US telecom firms, dozens of nations impacted by China hacking campaign National News | Powell: Fed’s independence from politics is vital to its interest rate decisions National News | United Healthcare CEO kept a low public profile. Then he was shot to death in New York Pet owners who notice these symptoms should notify their veterinarian. Humans are also at risk of contracting the food-borne illness if they don’t wash their hands or sanitize surfaces the product has touched. The FDA said customers who believe they purchased the recalled mix should return the product to the place they bought it or destroy the food in a way that ensures no humans or animals will be contaminated. The company declined to comment on the recall to McClatchy News on Dec. 3. Blue Ridge Beef is located in Statesville in Iredell County, about a 40-mile drive north from Charlotte. ©2024 The Charlotte Observer. Visit charlotteobserver.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.City are now six games without a victory but appeared to be cruising towards three points before being stunned by the Eredivisie side, who hit them with goals from Anis Hadj Moussa, Santiago Gimenez and David Hancko to fight back from 3-0 down. Two goals from Erling Haaland, one of them a penalty, and one from Ilkay Gundogan had the 2023 European champions three up after 53 minutes as they sought the win that would help to get their ailing season back on track. FULL-TIME | A point apiece. 🩵 3-3 ⚫️ #ManCity | #UCL pic.twitter.com/6oj1nEOIwm — Manchester City (@ManCity) November 26, 2024 After the team collapsed in the closing stages, Ake called on his team-mates to show their mettle if their campaign is not to wither away. Speaking to Amazon Prime, he was asked whether he believed the the team’s problem is a mental one. “Maybe it is,” he said. “It is difficult to say. Obviously we have not been in this situation many times but this is where we have to show our character. “When everything seems to go against us and everyone is writing us off, we have to stay strong mentally, believe in ourselves and stick together. 🔢 pic.twitter.com/diyhxQXsdF — Feyenoord Rotterdam (@Feyenoord) November 26, 2024 “Every season there is a period when they write us off. We have to make sure we stay strong as a team and staff and make sure we get out of it.” The draw leaves City with work to do if they are to secure one of the eight automatic spots in the last 16 of this season’s Champions League. They are currently 15th in the table, two points outside of the top eight, and will need positive results in their next two games against Juventus and Paris St Germain to keep their hopes alive. They then face Club Brugge in their final league match on January 29. The result at least ended a run of five straight defeats in all competitions ahead of Sunday’s Premier League showdown with leaders Liverpool at Anfield. “When you are three goals up it feels like a defeat when you give up three goals at home,” said Ake. “It is tough now, a tough night, but the only thing we can do is look forward to the next one. Liverpool is a big game and it is another challenge to overcome. “(We were) 3-0 up and we played quite well and were under control, but then it all changed. “You just have to stay strong mentally. At 3-1 they then push on but I think we need to go for it a bit earlier so we could keep the pressure on them, but we stayed playing at the back and maybe invited more pressure on us. “Then when you concede the second one there is even more pressure and then we have to stay stronger mentally.”

turned up the heat Monday night, delivering a spectacular performance that led the to a thrilling 114-110 victory over the . But while on-court brilliance was headline-worthy, it was his girlfriend heartwarming Instagram story that stole the show. Jones attended the game and her boyfriend, Connor McCaffery. The trio, dubbed the unofficial by Jones herself, cheered enthusiastically from the sidelines. with the caption: Haliburton certainly . The All-Star guard racked up a jaw-dropping , nailing an impressive nine three-pointers. His clutch 3-pointer with just over three minutes remaining, followed by a series of decisive plays, helped seal the victory for Indiana. Jones and Clark never stop supporting Indiana After the game, Jones posted a snapshot on her Instagram story, letting the world know just how proud she was of her boyfriend's heroics. the post read, accompanied by celebratory emojis. Jones and , often showing their support for Haliburton and bonding with teammates before and after games. Their friendship blossomed during Clark's rookie season with the Indiana Fever, . The group has become a fan favorite Adding to the dynamic, McCaffery, formerly an assistant coach for the , but remains a familiar face courtside. The tight-knit group's camaraderie and unwavering support . and Jones' touching tribute have only strengthened their status . With such strong backing on and off the court, Haliburton is poised to continue dazzling fans and his personal fan club alike.STEPHEN DAISLEY: How to lose friends... and influence nobody. If Flynn is their rising star, the SNP is in for some very dark nights Click here to visit the Scotland home page for the latest news and sport By STEPHEN DAISLEY FOR THE SCOTTISH DAILY MAIL Published: 18:11, 24 November 2024 | Updated: 18:22, 24 November 2024 e-mail View comments In the space of only a week, Stephen Flynn announced then unannounced his plan to sit in two parliaments at once, setting and then unsetting his sights on Aberdeen South and North Kincardine and the SNP ’s sitting MSP Audrey Nicoll. He went from claiming – with a straight face, no less – that he was motivated by saving taxpayers’ money to revealing his faulty grasp of the factional landscape within his own party. A figure who traded on his image as a cheeky chappy everyman, the ordinary bloke who wasn’t like all those other machine politicians, outed himself as a cynical schemer plotting his own advancement – and failing miserably. Flynn has so comprehensively trashed his own brand that you have to wonder if he’s also been moonlighting as the head of marketing for Jaguar. Cloak and dagger is commonplace in politics but Flynn somehow managed to trip over the cloak and fall on his own dagger. He went into last week an Aberdonian Svengali and came out of it looking like what you’d get if you ordered Niccolo Machiavelli from Wish.com. Mr Flynn is stuck inside a Nationalist social media bubble that takes no account of broader public opinion, writes Stephen Daisley Mr Flynn had been been planning to stand in the seat held by colleague Audrey Nicoll The objections from within the SNP were as ferocious as they were predictable. His plan to double job as an MP and MSP flew in the face of years of Nationalist messaging that this practice denied the public proper representation. Like it or not, this messaging enjoyed some purchase when the SNP deployed it against former Tory leader Douglas Ross. One Nationalist MP even introduced legislation to make double mandates unlawful. All the work put into devising and disseminating the SNP’s position, which is as much about emphasising the primacy of Holyrood as it is about needling opponents, was jeopardised by Flynn’s thoughtless self-interest. Then there was the complaint that a senior male politician was attempting to put a female colleague out of a job. I have less time for this objection, which seems like an attempt to graft identity-based victimhood politics onto something that has nothing to do with sex. But this is the SNP so, of course, there were always going to be those who saw things through this lens. That Flynn seemingly did not realise this makes you wonder not only what he was thinking but whether he was thinking at all. Whatever the reason for Nationalist disquiet, it is easy enough to understand. Audrey Nicoll is hardly the most charismatic MSP; she’s not someone you’d send on Newsnight to defend the SNP’s agenda. But there’s more to the role than panache and telly. Nicoll is a conscientious constituency member who chairs the criminal justice committee, one of the most exacting jobs at Holyrood. The Scottish Government’s frequent, and generally ill-advised, forays into rewriting the criminal law give her an intensive workload. While I don’t share her politics, we need Nationalists like Nicoll at Holyrood, MSPs willing to temper their loyalty to the SNP with the gumption to put its draft legislation under the spotlight and pick out at least some of the flaws. She was an easy target for Flynn as many a card-carrying Nationalist would struggle to answer the question: ‘What has Audrey Nicoll done for the SNP?’ But chairing a key committee in a parliament that needs a more robust committee system helps enhance scrutiny and accountability, and if anyone regards those things as unimportant they might want to ask themselves why. Nicoll was a mere bump in the road to Flynn’s next career move, someone who could be walked over so he could get where he wanted to go. That he has been forced to relent for now does not mean that he won’t try again. Indeed, depending on whatever rules the SNP’s national executive committee puts in place, he could in theory decide to pursue a Holyrood bid in 2026 while ditching his seat in Westminster. Unfortunately for him, this episode has shown him to be thoroughly ruthless – and utterly incompetent. Nationalist MSPs will have noted his willingness to take down one of his own and will be all the warier of him now. But they, and others, will also observe how ham-fisted his ploy proved to be. First he caused embarrassment for the party by trying to secure a dual mandate. Then the briefings began, for and against him, helpfully highlighting to the public the divisions roiling inside the SNP. This was followed by a swift U-turn which meant all that drama had been for nothing, other than the entertainment of the party’s opponents. If this strategy had a name, it would be How to Lose Friends and Influence Nobody. Since the Sturgeon era came crashing to a close, it has become evident just how little talent there was behind her. She was a one-woman political party, in large part by her own egotistical design, and her retreat from frontline politics has exposed that. You can’t build a political future on Kate Forbes alone and you certainly can’t when a loud segment of the activist base could never reconcile itself to her leadership. Which is how you end up with characters like Flynn deciding they are the future of Nationalism. When a party begins to drift, it grabs onto any old flotsam and jetsam to help keep it afloat. Alas, Flynn is more likely to sink the entire ship under the weight of his own ego. He was already a divisive personality. Flynn is extremely online, as evidenced by a Twitter persona steeped in football banter and breathless indignation, much of the latter focused on events in the Middle East rather than anything happening in Scotland. No doubt there is an audience for the image of him mock-crying over the misfortunes of England’s football team but there are also a great many voters who regard such clownishness as immature and unbecoming of a parliamentarian. That is the nub of Flynn’s problem: judgement. His is poor, stuck inside a Nationalist social media bubble that takes no account of broader public opinion. A politician with a more rounded world view might have stepped back to consider the optics of double-jobbing after years of his party denouncing it or the bitter taste that would be left in the mouths of Nationalist MSPs upon seeing a dedicated, if not terribly exciting, colleague abruptly put on notice by one of their own. Some party insiders tell me Flynn is the next big thing in the SNP, a future leader who could speak to young male voters who have grown disillusioned with the Nationalists. All I can say is that if Flynn is their rising star, the SNP is in for some very dark nights ahead. The past week has tarnished whatever image he had forged. When a politician leaves you pining for the strategic genius of Ian Blackford, there’s a chance you might not have a tactical mastermind on your hands. Whatever Flynn now chooses to do now, this episode will hang over him as a warning to anyone who dares take him seriously as a successor to John Swinney. He’s the Commons leader who launched a coup against a Holyrood backbencher which went so badly he had to call it off just days later. If Stephen Flynn is the way forward, thank goodness for the reverse gear. SNP Share or comment on this article: STEPHEN DAISLEY: How to lose friends... and influence nobody. 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IRVINE, Calif., Nov. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MUSE Microscopy, Inc., a innovator in digital pathology announced it's in their final phase. After a strategic acquisition by the current leadership team in 2021, MUSE has steadfastly pursued a visionary roadmap that has the potential to reshape the future of digital pathology. Today, that journey reaches an exciting moment with SmartPath MUSE TechnologyTM (SmartPath)-the industry's first tissue-to-digitalTM imager using MUSE (Microscopy with Ultraviolet Surface Excitation) technology, intended to create a solution that eliminates the need for traditional slide-based histology, a fundamental process that has remained unchanged for over a century. SmartPath's objective of this advanced imager is to provide new technology that rapidly captures high-resolution ultraviolet images, directly from whole fresh or formalin-fixed (non-FFPE) tissue, and convert these UV images to detailed H&E-like digital images for pathologist's review. Utilization of non-caustic fluorescent dyes on fresh tissue significantly improves RNA retained in the sample for downstream processing. This first of its kind imager implements a simple workflow, with the goal of bringing unprecedented efficiency to aid pathologists in diagnostic pathology labs worldwide. By eliminating cumbersome manual processes, SmartPath has the potential to propel pathology into the digital age and support a wide range of global IVD applications and market segments. Matthew Nuñez, CEO of MUSE Microscopy, Inc., expressed the company's enthusiasm about this landmark achievement: "We are immensely proud of the advancements we've made with SmartPath-a groundbreaking tissue-to-digital imager that redefines where true digital pathology starts. This moment signifies more than just a new product; it represents the potential for a fundamental transformation for the entire field of pathology, empowering professionals to move past legacy processes that have constrained advancements in workflow and diagnostics for far too long. With SmartPath, we are intent on setting a new standard and opening doors to the next generation of aids in pathology.” Transforming a Long-Standing Pathology Workflow The SmartPath Imager tackles one of pathology's most persistent challenges: the dependence on traditional glass slide histology. By leveraging rapid tissue-to-digital imaging technology, SmartPath seeks to transform pathology, from analog slide-based processes to a seamless and effective workflow that provides high-resolution digital tissue images to pathologists, without destructive direct-to-digital sample preparation. The statements made regarding the SmartPath Imager have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The SmartPath System is currently intended for research use only. This medical device has not yet been evaluated or cleared by the FDA. Its safety and effectiveness have not been established nor confirmed by FDA-approved research. SmartPath is not currently available for sale in the United States as a diagnostic aid or medical device for human pathology. This material is provided solely for informational purposes and does not substitute for professional medical advice. It also does not constitute an offer to promote the device for any medical use. About MUSE Microscopy, Inc. MUSE Microscopy, Inc. is a company that specializes in the application of Microscopy with Ultraviolet Surface Excitation (MUSE). We are developing a MUSE-enabled imaging system for diagnostic assistance in pathology, cytology, and research applications. SmartPath MUSE TechnologyTM (SmartPath), is intended to be a slide-free tissue-to-digital imaging platform that aims to revolutionize digital pathology by eliminating the need for traditional slide-based histology. Our goal is to offer a first-to-market, non-destructive tissue imaging solution. To learn more, you can visit their website at https://musemicroscopy.com/ or find them on social media platforms such as X, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Limits on Accuracy This press release is intended to provide information about MUSE Microscopy, Inc.'s research and potential product. Information is believed to be accurate at the time it is created. However, like any printed material, information may become outdated over time. Information may contain technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Information may be changed or updated without notice. There may also be improvements or changes in the products and services described in this press release at any time without notice. It is important that you rely on the advice of an appropriate professional. Nothing contained in any presentation is to be construed as medical, legal, investment, financial, or other advice. This information is not intended to be a substitute for such advice. MUSE Microscopy, Inc. does not endorse any specific techniques or methods of treatment. Individuals are advised to consult their health care professionals for full information about the potential adverse reactions from use of the medical technologies discussed in this press release. We will use reasonable efforts to include accurate and up-to-date information on the website, but MUSE Microscopy, Inc. makes no warranties or representations as to its accuracy. Forward-Looking Statements Forward-looking statements in this press release are based on our future expectations, plans prospects, and assumptions regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute "forward-looking statements” within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words "termed,” "anticipate,” "believe,” "continue,” "could,” "estimate,” "expect,” "intend,” "may,” "plan,” "potential,” "predict,” "project,” "should,” "target,” "will,” "would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Therefore, we caution you against relying on any of these forward-looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this document speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise, except as may be required by law. CONTACT: Matthew Nuñez Tel: 949.813.6121 [email protected] Source: MUSE Microscopy, Inc.Brazil’s Bolsonaro planned and participated in a 2022 coup plot, unsealed police report alleges

WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge terminated the gun case against Hunter Biden on Tuesday after President Joe Biden issued a sweeping pardon for his son. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika closed the case the week before Hunter Biden was to be sentenced. He could have faced up to 25 years in prison, though as a first-time offender he likely would have gotten far less time or avoided prison entirely. Prosecutors opposed dismissing the case, arguing in court documents that a pardon shouldn't wipe away the case “as if it never occurred." Hunter Biden was convicted on three felonies after he lied on a federal form to purchase a gun in Delaware by saying he wasn’t a drug user in 2018, a period when he has acknowledged being addicted. The judge's order ends the case but does not toss out the conviction. The Justice Department special counsel is also opposed to dismissing a case filed in California after Hunter Biden failed to pay $1.4 million in taxes . U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi in Los Angeles indicted he would dismiss the case once the pardon is formally received. Still, Scarsi was critical of the president's assertion that his son was singled out for political reasons, saying two judges had rejected similar arguments from his defense attorneys. The president's Sunday decision to go back on previous pledges and issue his son a blanket federal pardon for actions over the past 11 years has sparked a political uproar in Washington, drawing criticism from many Democrats as well as Republicans and threatening to cloud Biden’s legacy as he prepares to leave office on Jan. 20. Hunter Biden was originally supposed to strike a plea deal with prosecutors last year that would have spared him prison time, but the agreement fell apart after Noreika questioned unusual aspects of it. This story was first published Dec. 3, 2024. It was updated Dec. 4, 2024, to explain that the case was terminated, which ends the case but doesn’t toss out the conviction.

Shiffrin confirms she'll miss Beaver Creek World Cup races

“Gladiator II” asks the question: Are you not moderately entertained for roughly 60% of this sequel? Truly, this is a movie dependent on managed expectations and a forgiving attitude toward its tendency to overserve. More of a thrash-and-burn schlock epic than the comparatively restrained 2000 “Gladiator,” also directed by Ridley Scott, the new one recycles a fair bit of the old one’s narrative cries for freedom while tossing in some digital sharks for the flooded Colosseum and a bout of deadly sea-battle theatrics. They really did flood the Colosseum in those days, though no historical evidence suggests shark deployment, real or digital. On the other hand (checks notes), “Gladiator II” is fiction. Screenwriter David Scarpa picks things up 16 years after “Gladiator,” which gave us the noble death of the noble warrior Maximus, shortly after slaying the ignoble emperor and returning Rome to the control of the Senate. Our new hero, Lucius (Paul Mescal), has fled Rome for Numidia, on the North African coast. The time is 200 A.D., and for the corrupt, party-time twins running the empire (Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger), that means invasion time. Pedro Pascal takes the role of Acacius, the deeply conflicted general, sick of war and tired of taking orders from a pair of depraved ferrets. The new film winds around the old one this way: Acacius is married to Lucilla (Connie Nielsen, in a welcome return), daughter of the now-deceased emperor Aurelius and the love of the late Maximus’s life. Enslaved and dragged to Rome to gladiate, the widower Lucius vows revenge on the general whose armies killed his wife. But there are things this angry young phenom must learn, about his ancestry and his destiny. It’s the movie’s worst-kept secret, but there’s a reason he keeps seeing footage of Russell Crowe from the first movie in his fever dreams. Battle follows battle, on the field, in the arena, in the nearest river, wherever, and usually with endless splurches of computer-generated blood. “Gladiator II” essentially bumper-cars its way through the mayhem, pausing for long periods of expository scheming about overthrowing the current regime. The prince of all fixers, a wily operative with interests in both managing gladiators and stocking munitions, goes by the name Macrinus. He’s played by Denzel Washington, who at one point makes a full meal out of pronouncing the word “politics” like it’s a poisoned fig. Also, if you want a masterclass in letting your robes do a lot of your acting for you, watch what Washington does here. He’s more fun than the movie but you can’t have everything. The movie tries everything, all right, and twice. Ridley Scott marshals the chaotic action sequences well enough, though he’s undercut by frenetic cutting rhythms, with that now-familiar, slightly sped-up visual acceleration in frequent use. (Claire Simpson and Sam Restivo are the editors.) Mescal acquits himself well in his first big-budget commercial walloper of an assignment, confined though he is to a narrower range of seething resentments than Crowe’s in the first film. I left thinking about two things: the word “politics” as savored/spit out by Washington, and the innate paradox of how Scott, whose best work over the decades has been wonderful, delivers spectacle. The director and his lavishly talented design team built all the rough-hewn sets with actual tangible materials the massive budget allowed. They took care to find the right locations in Morocco and Malta. Yet when combined in post-production with scads of medium-grade digital effects work in crowd scenes and the like, never mind the sharks, the movie’s a somewhat frustrating amalgam. With an uneven script on top of it, the visual texture of “Gladiator II” grows increasingly less enveloping and atmospherically persuasive, not more. But I hung there, for some of the acting, for some of the callbacks, and for the many individual moments, or single shots, that could only have come from Ridley Scott. And in the end, yes, you too may be moderately entertained. “Gladiator II” — 2.5 stars (out of 4) MPA rating: R (for strong bloody violence) Running time: 2:28 How to watch: Premieres in theaters Nov. 21. Michael Phillips is a Tribune critic.

Week 12 TNF: Steelers-Browns Preview, Props & PredictionBy ALEXANDRA OLSON and CATHY BUSSEWITZ NEW YORK (AP) — Walmart’s sweeping rollback of its diversity policies is the strongest indication yet of a profound shift taking hold at U.S. companies that are revaluating the legal and political risks associated with bold programs to bolster historically underrepresented groups in business. The changes announced by the world’s biggest retailer followed a string of legal victories by conservative groups that have filed an onslaught of lawsuits challenging corporate and federal programs aimed at elevating minority and women-owned businesses and employees. The risk associated with some of programs crystalized with the election of former President Donald Trump, whose administration is certain to make dismantling diversity, equity and inclusion programs a priority. Trump’s incoming deputy chief of policy will be his former adviser Stephen Miller , who leads a group called America First Legal that has aggressively challenged corporate DEI policies. “There has been a lot of reassessment of risk looking at programs that could be deemed to constitute reverse discrimination,” said Allan Schweyer, principal researcher the Human Capital Center at the Conference Board. “This is another domino to fall and it is a rather large domino,” he added. Among other changes, Walmart said it will no longer give priority treatment to suppliers owned by women or minorities. The company also will not renew a five-year commitment for a racial equity center set up in 2020 after the police killing of George Floyd. And it pulled out of a prominent gay rights index . Schweyer said the biggest trigger for companies making such changes is simply a reassessment of their legal risk exposure, which began after U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in June 2023 that ended affirmative action in college admissions. Since then, conservative groups using similar arguments have secured court victories against various diversity programs, especially those that steer contracts to minority or women-owned businesses. Most recently, the conservative Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty won a victory in a case against the U.S. Department of Transportation over its use of a program that gives priority to minority-owned businesses when it awards contracts. Companies are seeing a big legal risk in continuing with DEI efforts, said Dan Lennington, a deputy counsel at the institute. His organization says it has identified more than 60 programs in the federal government that it considers discriminatory, he said. “We have a legal landscape within the entire federal government, all three branches — the U.S. Supreme Court, the Congress and the President — are all now firmly pointed in the direction towards equality of individuals and individualized treatment of all Americans, instead of diversity, equity and inclusion treating people as members of racial groups,” Lennington said. The Trump administration is also likely to take direct aim at DEI initiatives through executive orders and other policies that affect private companies, especially federal contractors. “The impact of the election on DEI policies is huge. It can’t be overstated,” said Jason Schwartz, co-chair of the Labor & Employment Practice Group at law firm Gibson Dunn. With Miller returning to the White House, rolling back DEI initiatives is likely to be a priority, Schwartz said. “Companies are trying to strike the right balance to make clear they’ve got an inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome, and they want to get the best talent, while at the same time trying not to alienate various parts of their employees and customer base who might feel one way or the other. It’s a virtually impossible dilemma,” Schwartz said. A recent survey by Pew Research Center showed that workers are divided on the merits of DEI policies. While still broadly popular, the share of workers who said focusing on workplace diversity was mostly a good thing fell to 52% in the November survey, compared to 56% in a similar survey in February 2023. Rachel Minkin, a research associated at Pew called it a small but significant shift in short amount of time. There will be more companies pulling back from their DEI policies, but it likely won’t be a retreat across the board, said David Glasgow, executive director of the Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging at New York University. “There are vastly more companies that are sticking with DEI,” Glasgow said. “The only reason you don’t hear about it is most of them are doing it by stealth. They’re putting their heads down and doing DEI work and hoping not to attract attention.” Glasgow advises organizations to stick to their own core values, because attitudes toward the topic can change quickly in the span of four years. “It’s going to leave them looking a little bit weak if there’s a kind of flip-flopping, depending on whichever direction the political winds are blowing,” he said. One reason DEI programs exist is because without those programs, companies may be vulnerable to lawsuits for traditional discrimination. “Really think carefully about the risks in all directions on this topic,” Glasgow said. Walmart confirmed will no longer consider race and gender as a litmus test to improve diversity when it offers supplier contracts. Last fiscal year, Walmart said it spent more than $13 billion on minority, women or veteran-owned good and service suppliers. It was unclear how its relationships with such business would change going forward. Organizations that that have partnered with Walmart on its diversity initiatives offered a cautious response. The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, a non-profit that last year named Walmart one of America’s top corporation for women-owned enterprises, said it was still evaluating the impact of Walmart’s announcement. Pamela Prince-Eason, the president and CEO of the organization, said she hoped Walmart’s need to cater to its diverse customer base will continue to drive contracts to women-owned suppliers even if the company no longer has explicit dollar goals. “I suspect Walmart will continue to have one of the most inclusive supply chains in the World,” Prince-Eason wrote. “Any retailer’s ability to serve the communities they operate in will continue to value understanding their customers, (many of which are women), in order to better provide products and services desired and no one understands customers better than Walmart.” Related Articles National News | Ex-FBI informant accused of lying about the Bidens is indicted on federal tax charges National News | Bird flu virus was found in raw milk. What to know about the risks National News | Ransomware attack on software supplier disrupts operations for Starbucks and other retailers National News | Man found guilty of holding down teen while he was raped at a youth center in 1998 National News | What Black Friday’s history tells us about holiday shopping in 2024 Walmart’s announcement came after the company spoke directly with conservative political commentator and activist Robby Starbuck, who has been going after corporate DEI policies, calling out individual companies on the social media platform X. Several of those companies have subsequently announced that they are pulling back their initiatives, including Ford , Harley-Davidson, Lowe’s and Tractor Supply . Walmart confirmed to The Associated Press that it will better monitor its third-party marketplace items to make sure they don’t feature sexual and transgender products aimed at minors. The company also will stop participating in the Human Rights Campaign’s annual benchmark index that measures workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees. A Walmart spokesperson added that some of the changes were already in progress and not as a result of conversations that it had with Starbuck. RaShawn “Shawnie” Hawkins, senior director of the HRC Foundation’s Workplace Equality Program, said companies that “abandon” their commitments workplace inclusion policies “are shirking their responsibility to their employees, consumers, and shareholders.” She said the buying power of LGBTQ customers is powerful and noted that the index will have record participation of more than 1,400 companies in 2025.Leo – (23rd July to 22nd August) Daily Horoscope Prediction says, shine Bright and Take Bold Steps Today brings opportunities for growth and connection, Leo. Focus on communication and self-awareness to enhance both personal and professional aspects of your life. Leo, today encourages you to harness your natural confidence and charisma to build stronger relationships and pursue new opportunities. Whether in your personal life or career, communication will be key. Stay mindful of your financial choices and prioritize self-care to maintain your well-being. Use this day to set the stage for future successes by being proactive and staying positive. Leo Love Horoscope Today: In matters of the heart, Leo, communication is your best ally. Open up to your partner or someone special, and share your thoughts and feelings honestly. Single Leos may find new connections through social interactions or unexpected meetings. Let your warmth and charm guide you, and don't shy away from expressing your true emotions. This is a day to strengthen bonds and create deeper understanding in your relationships. Leo Career Horoscope Today: At work, take the initiative, Leo. Your leadership qualities can shine today, helping you to make progress on key projects. Collaborate with colleagues to enhance team efforts and consider seeking advice from mentors if needed. New opportunities may present themselves, so keep an eye out for potential advancements. Your positive attitude and determination will leave a lasting impression and could pave the way for future success. Leo Money Horoscope Today: Financially, it's important to stay vigilant today, Leo. Review your budget and avoid unnecessary expenditures. If you're considering investments, ensure you've done thorough research before making any commitments. Opportunities to improve your financial standing may arise, so remain open to new ideas and advice. Focus on long-term stability rather than quick gains, and you’ll find yourself on a more secure financial path. Leo Health Horoscope Today: Take time to focus on your well-being, Leo. Incorporate some relaxation techniques into your routine, such as meditation or deep breathing, to manage stress effectively. Pay attention to your diet and ensure you're getting enough exercise to maintain physical health. Staying active will boost your energy levels and enhance your mood. Remember, taking care of your body and mind today will benefit you greatly in the days ahead. Leo Sign Attributes Strength: Generous, Loyal, Energetic, Enthusiastic Weakness: Arrogant, Luxury seeker, Careless, and Self-complacent Symbol: Lion Element: Fire Body Part : Heart & Spine Sign Ruler : Sun Lucky Day : Sunday Lucky Color: Golden Lucky Number : 19 Lucky Stone : Ruby Leo Sign Compatibility Chart Natural affinity: Aries, Gemini, Libra, Sagittarius Good compatibility: Leo, Aquarius Fair compatibility: Cancer, Virgo, Capricorn, Pisces Less compatibility: Taurus, Scorpio By: Dr. J. N. Pandey Vedic Astrology & Vastu Expert Website: www.astrologerjnpandey.com E-mail: djnpandey@gmail.com Phone: 91-9811107060 (WhatsApp Only)