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A bid by The Onion satirical news outlet to buy Alex Jones' conspiracy theory platform Infowars returned Monday to a Texas courtroom, where a judge heard arguments on whether a bankruptcy auction was properly run as Jones alleges collusion and fraud. U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Lopez in Houston is looking into the November auction and how a trustee chose The Onion over the only other bidder — a company affiliated with Jones that offered twice as much money as The Onion. The judge said the hearing would last into Monday evening and pick up again on Tuesday afternoon. The sale of Infowars is part of Jones' personal bankruptcy case , which he filed in late 2022 after he was ordered to pay nearly $1.5 billion in defamation lawsuits in Connecticut and Texas filed by relatives of victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Connecticut. Jones repeatedly called the 2012 shooting that killed 20 children and six educators a hoax staged by actors and aimed at increasing gun control. Most of the proceeds from the sale of Infowars, as well as many of Jones' personal assets, will go to the Sandy Hook families to help satisfy judgments issued by juries and judges in state courts in Connecticut and Texas. Some proceeds will go to Jones' other creditors. The Onion, which wants to turn Infowars' website and social media accounts into parodies , offered $1.75 million for Infowars' assets in the auction, while First United American Companies — which runs a website in Jones’ name that sells nutritional supplements — bid $3.5 million. The Onion's bid also included a pledge by many of the Sandy Hook families to forgo some or all of the auction proceeds due to them to give other creditors a total of $100,000 more than they would receive under other bids. The trustee, Christopher Murray, chose The Onion, saying its proposal was better for creditors because they would receive more money. Joshua Wolfshohl, an attorney for Murray, told the judge Monday that no wrongdoing occurred during the auction. He called the complaints by Jones and First United American Companies unfounded. “The vast majority of their complaints are just fantastic, imagined conspiracy theories that have no basis in reality," he said. Jones' lawyer, Ben Broocks, questioned Murray's rationale for choosing The Onion and alleged that a recent deposition of the trustee showed improprieties. He also questioned the validity of The Onion's bid, saying it was technically valued at $7 million because of the incentive offered by the Sandy Hook families. An auction company executive involved in the sale testified most of the afternoon. In court filings, Jones and First United American Companies accused Murray, The Onion and the Sandy Hook families of illegally colluding on the bidding, committing fraud and violating the judge's rules for the auction. Murray, The Onion and the families deny the allegations. In his own court filing, Murray called the allegations “a disappointed bidder’s improper attempt to influence an otherwise fair and open auction process.” Up for sale at the auction were all the equipment and other assets in the Infowars studio in Austin, Texas, as well as its social media accounts, websites, video archive and product trademarks. Jones uses the studio to broadcast his far-right, conspiracy theory-filled shows on the Infowars website, his account on the social platform X and radio stations. Jones has set up another studio, websites and social media accounts in case The Onion wins approval to buy Infowars and kicks him out. Jones has said he could continue using the Infowars platforms if the auction winner is friendly to him. Jones is appealing the $1.5 billion in judgments citing free speech rights but has acknowledged that the school shooting happened . On Friday, a Connecticut appeals court reduced by $150 million the original $1.44 billion judgment against Jones in the lawsuit against him in that state, but upheld the rest of the award. Jones' lawyer said he will ask Connecticut's highest court to review the appellate ruling. Jones is also appealing a $50 million judgment in a similar Texas defamation lawsuit.Israeli airstrikes killed a hospital director at his home in northeastern Lebanon and six others, while at least five paramedics were killed by Israeli strikes in the country's south on Friday, Lebanon's Health Ministry said. The United Nations reported heavy clashes between Israeli troops and Hezbollah fighters in southern Lebanon. Four Italian peacekeepers were lightly wounded when a rocket, likely fired by Hezbollah, hit their base, the U.N. said. A full-blown war between Israel and Hezbollah erupted in September after nearly a year of lower-intensity conflict. More than 3,640 people have been killed in Lebanon and 15,350 wounded, the majority following Israel’s escalation and ground invasion, the Health Ministry said Friday. In Gaza, Israeli strikes hit Kamal Adwan Hospital, one of the few hospitals still partially operating in the northernmost part of the territory, wounding six medical staff and damaging its generator and oxygen systems, the hospital director said Friday. More than 44,000 Palestinians have been killed in the Gaza Strip, the Health Ministry said. It does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its count, but it has said that more than half of the fatalities are women and children. Israel launched the war in Gaza after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting another 250 . Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are believed to be dead. Here’s the Latest: BEIRUT — An Israeli airstrike killed the director of a university hospital and six others at his home in northeastern Lebanon, state media said. The strike targeted Dr. Ali Allam’s house near Dar Al-Amal Hospital, the largest health center in Baalbek-Hermel province, which has provided vital health services amid Israel's campaign of airstrikes, the Health Ministry said. State-run media reported that the strike came without warning. The ministry described his death as a “great loss,” and provincial governor Bachir Khodr said in a post on X that, “Mr. Allam was one of the best citizens of Baalbek.” In two separate episodes on Friday, Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon killed five paramedics with Hezbollah's medical arm, the Health Ministry said, describing it as “war crime.” The militant group provides extensive social services, including running schools and health clinics. In a report published Friday, the World Health Organization said nearly half of all attacks on health care in Lebanon since Oct. 7, 2023, have resulted in fatalities. “This is a higher percentage than in any active conflict today across the globe,” WHO said. In Lebanon, 226 health workers and patients were killed and 199 were injured between Oct. 7, 2023, and Nov. 18, 2024, the report said. The Health Ministry said Friday that 3,645 people have been killed in nearly 14 months of war between Hezbollah and Israel, while 15,356 were wounded, the majority following Israel’s escalation in late September. The death count includes 692 women and 231 children. DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip — Israeli strikes hit Kamal Adwan Hospital, one of the few hospitals still partially operating in the northernmost part of Gaza, wounding six medical staff and damaging its generator and oxygen systems, its director said Friday. Hossam Abu Safiya said the strikes before dawn Friday hit the entrance of the emergency unit as well as in the hospital courtyard. He said two members of the nursing staff suffered critical injuries. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. Abu Safiya said the strikes caused damage to the functioning of the generator and disrupted oxygen supplies. The hospital is currently treating 85 wounded, 14 children in the pediatric ward and four newborns in the neonatal unit, he said. During the past month, Kamal Adwan Hospital has been hit several times, was put under siege and was raided by Israeli troops, who are waging a heavy offensive in the nearby Jabaliya refugee camp and towns of Beit Hanoun and Beit Lahiya. The Israeli military says it detained Hamas fighters hiding in the hospital, a claim its staff denies. UNITED NATIONS – Two rockets hit a headquarters of the U.N. peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon, injuring four Italian peacekeepers, the United Nations says. U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said the rockets were likely launched by Hezbollah militants or by affiliated groups Friday, impacting a bunker and a logistics area in the southwest headquarters at Chamaa. One of the structures that was hit caught fire, and the blaze was swiftly put out by U.N. staff, he said. According to Italy’s Defense Ministry, some glass shattered due to the explosion, hitting the four soldiers. Dujarric said the four injured peacekeepers were receiving treatment at the medical facility of the mission, known as UNIFIL. “Thankfully, none of the injuries are life-threatening,” he said. Italy’s Defense Minister Guido Crosetto called the attack on the UNIFIL base “intolerable.” He reiterated that the Italian contingent remains in southern Lebanon “to offer a window of opportunity for peace, and cannot become hostage to militia attacks.” Dujarric said Friday’s attack was the third on Chamaa in a week and came amid heavy shelling and ground skirmishes in the Chamaa and Naqoura areas in recent days. UNIFIL’s main headquarters is in Naqoura. Friday’s attack follows a rocket attack on a UNIFIL base east of the village of Ramyah on Tuesday that injured four peacekeepers from Ghana. Dujarric said UNIFIL strongly urges Hezbollah and its affiliates and Israel to avoid fighting near its positions, which are supposed to be protected. “We remind all parties that any attack against peacekeepers constitutes a serious violation of international law” and the U.N. Security Council resolution that ended the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war, he said. BEIRUT — Israeli airstrikes hit Beirut’s southern suburbs and the southern port city of Tyre on Friday, after the Israeli army issued several evacuation warnings saying it is targeting Hezbollah sites. The strikes in Beirut came dangerously close to central Beirut and Christian neighborhoods. One strike hit a building housing a gym and medical and beauty clinics, located just meters (yards) from a Lebanese army base. “What is there in the building to target? This attack they carried out on us in this building is a criminal and vile act,” resident Hassan Najdi told The Associated Press. “Because if their intention is targeting Hezbollah, this building has nothing to do with Hezbollah.” Najdi said he purchased an apartment in the building last year but had not yet moved in. He allowed a displaced family to move in and urgently asked them to evacuate after receiving the Israeli warning. The blasts sent plumes of smoke into the air and shattered glass in the vicinity. No casualties have been reported, but the strikes caused damage to nearby infrastructure and a key road connecting central Beirut to its southern suburbs. “We remain steadfast,” said Ali Daher, an employee at a mall facing the targeted building. “Everything that is lost can be replaced, and whatever is destroyed can be rebuilt in (no time).” In Tyre city, the Israeli military conducted multiple airstrikes after a series of warnings, claiming the targets belonged to Hezbollah’s Aziz unit, accusing it of firing projectiles into Israel. The Israeli military carried out other airstrikes across Lebanon, many without warnings, as heavy fighting between Israeli troops and Hezbollah in villages along the Lebanon-Israel border intensified. ROME — Italy said Friday it plans to discuss the arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court over the Israel-Hamas war when it hosts Group of Seven foreign ministers next week. Premier Giorgia Meloni insisted that one point remained clear for Italy: “There can be no equivalence between the responsibilities of the state of Israel and the terrorist organization of Hamas.” Italy is a founding member of the court and hosted the 1998 Rome conference that gave birth to it. But Meloni’s right-wing government has been a strong supporter of Israel after the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks, while also providing humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza. In a statement Friday, Meloni said Italy would study the reasonings behind the decision to issue arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense minister and Hamas’ military chief. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Italy respects the ICC and supports it. “But at the same time we are also convinced that the court must have a judicial role, and should not take up a political role.” Tajani will host G7 foreign ministers Monday and Tuesday outside Rome for the final meeting of the Italian G7 presidency. “As far as decisions are concerned, we will take them together with our allies,” Tajani said. During the G7 meetings, “we will talk about this with my allies there, and we will see what to do next.” Another member of the governing coalition, the outspoken Transport Minister Matteo Salvini was more defiant in supporting Israel. “If Netanyahu comes to Italy he will be welcomed,” Salvini was quoted by Italian media as saying. This item has been updated to correct that Salvini spoke of a potential Netanyahu visit to Italy, not Israel. ROME — Four Italian soldiers were slightly injured after two exploding rockets hit the United Nations' peacekeeping mission base on Friday in Chamaa in southern Lebanon, Italy's defense ministry said. Initial information suggested that two rockets hit a bunker and a room of the mission base, damaging the surrounding infrastructure, the ministry said. Shattered glass hit the four soldiers. The incident was the latest in which UN peacekeeping posts have been hit since Israel began its ground invasion of Lebanon on Oct. 1, leaving a number of peacekeepers wounded. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto called Friday's attack “intolerable.” He said he will try to speak to the new Israeli Defense Minister to ask him “to avoid using the UNIFIL bases as a shield.” Crosetto said the conditions of the four Italian soldiers “did not cause concern.” He reiterated that the Italian contingent remains in southern Lebanon “to offer a window of opportunity for peace and cannot become hostage to militia attacks.” Italy’s Premier Giorgia Meloni on Friday said she learned about the new attack with “deep indignation and concern.” Meloni reiterated that “such attacks are unacceptable,” renewing her appeal for the parties on the ground “to guarantee, at all times, the safety of UNIFIL soldiers and to collaborate to quickly identify those responsible.” GENEVA — The World Health Organization says nearly half of the attacks on health care in Lebanon have been deadly since the Middle East conflict erupted in October last year, the highest such rate anywhere in the world. The U.N. health agency says 65 out of 137, or 47%, of recorded “attacks on health care” in Lebanon over that time period have proven fatal to at least one person, and often many more. WHO’s running global tally counts attacks, whether deliberate or not, that affect places like hospitals, clinics, medical transport, and warehouses for medical supplies, as well as medics, doctors, nurses and the patients they treat. Nearly half of attacks on health care in Lebanon since last October and the majority of deaths occurred since an intensified Israeli military campaign began against Hezbollah militants in the country two months ago. The health agency said 226 health workers and patients have been killed and 199 injured in Lebanon between Oct. 7, 2023 and this Monday. JERUSALEM — Israel’s new defense minister said Friday that he would stop issuing warrants to arrest West Bank settlers or hold them without charge or trial — a largely symbolic move that rights groups said risks emboldening settler violence in the Israeli-occupied territory. Israel Katz called the arrest warrants “severe” and said issuing them was “inappropriate” as Palestinian militant attacks on settlers in the territory grow more frequent. He said settlers could be “brought to justice” in other ways. The move protects Israeli settlers from being held in “administrative detention,” a shadowy form of incarceration where people are held without charge or trial. Settlers are rarely arrested in the West Bank, where settler violence against Palestinians has spiraled since the outbreak of the war Oct. 7. Katz’s decision was celebrated by far-right coalition allies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. National Security Minister and settler firebrand Itamar Ben-Gvir applauded Katz and called the move a “correction of many years of mistreatment” and “justice for those who love the land.” Since Oct. 7, 2023, violence toward Palestinians by Israeli settlers has soared to new heights, displacing at least 19 entire Palestinian communities, according to Israeli rights group Peace Now. In that time, attacks by Palestinian militants on settlers and within Israel have also grown more common. An increasing number of Palestinians have been placed in administrative detention. Israel holds 3,443 administrative detainees in prison, according to data from the Israeli Prison Service, reported by rights group Hamoked. That figure stood around 1,200 just before the start of the war. The vast majority of them are Palestinian, with only a handful at any given time Israeli Jews, said Jessica Montell, the director of Hamoked. “All of these detentions without charge or trial are illegitimate, but to declare that this measure will only be used against Palestinians...is to explicitly entrench another form of ethnic discrimination,” said Montell. BERLIN — A German official has suggested that his country would be reluctant to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court. The ICC’s warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant put Germany, a staunch ally of Israel, in an awkward position. The government said in a statement Friday that it is one of the ICC’s biggest supporters, but “at the same time, it is a consequence of German history that unique relations and a great responsibility connect us with Israel.” The government said it takes note of the arrest warrants and that “we will examine conscientiously the domestic steps.” It said that any further steps would only be an issue if a visit by Netanyahu or Gallant were “foreseeable.” Government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit was pressed repeatedly at a regular news conference on whether it would be conceivable to arrest an Israeli prime minister. He replied: "It’s hard for me to imagine that we would carry out arrests in Germany on this basis.” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Friday refused to comment on the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and others, saying that the court's rulings are “insignificant” for Russia, which doesn’t recognizes the court’s jurisdiction. The ICC last year issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin and a number of other top Russian officials, accusing them of war crimes in Ukraine. The Kremlin has brushed off the warrants, saying that in Moscow’s eyes they’re “null and void.” Asked if the ICC warrants for Netanyahu and others can help resolve the tensions in the Middle East, Peskov said: “Well, in general, the actions of the ICC are unlikely to help anything. That’s the first thing. And secondly, we don’t see any point in commenting on this in any way, because for us these rulings are insignificant.” DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip — Large crowds of displaced people crammed themselves in front of a bakery in the Gaza Strip for the second day in a row, desperate to get their share of bread after bakeries closed for five days due to a flour shortage and the lack of aid. “I am a 61-year-old man. This is the third day that I have come to Zadna Bakery and I still cannot get bread ... I have children to feed,” said Majdi Yaghi, a displaced man from Gaza City. The price of a small bag of pita bread increased to $16 by Friday, a stark increase from about 80 cents last month. A bag of pasta now costs $4 and a small bag of sugar costs nearly $14. That has left many Palestinian families surviving on one meal a day and reliant on charitable kitchens to survive. In Khan Younis, women and children lined up at the al-Dalu charitable kitchen for bulgur, the only food available at the makeshift charity. One of the workers there, Anas al-Dalu, told the AP that they cook ten pots every day of either rice, beans, or bulgur. But that hardly fills the need for the thousands of people displaced in the area. “The charity here is in a difficult situation. It is a drop in the ocean, and there is no aid or charities. There is nothing," said Nour Kanani, a displaced man from Khan Younis. “It is a crisis in every sense of the word. There is no flour, no charities, and no food.” BEIRUT — Israeli troops fought fierce battles with Hezbollah fighters on Friday in different areas in south Lebanon, including a coastal town that is home to the headquarters of U.N. peacekeepers. A spokesperson for the U.N. peacekeeping force known as UNIFIL told The Associated Press that they are monitoring “heavy clashes” in the coastal town of Naqoura and the village of Chamaa to the northeast. UNIFIL’s headquarters are located in Naqoura in Lebanon’s southern edge close to the border with Israel. “We are aware of heavy shelling in the vicinity of our bases,” UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti said. Asked if the peacekeepers and staff at the headquarters are safe, Tenenti said: “Yes for the moment.” Several UNIFIL posts have been hit since Israel began its ground invasion of Lebanon on Oct. 1, leaving a number of peacekeepers wounded.
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Article content Fans of country star Shania Twain on social media were split in their opinions over the two-piece number she wore at a Las Vegas show last week. Recommended Videos The singer, whose Come On Over residency is set to last to February at Planet Hollywood Las Vegas, was wearing the revealing garments, a long pink jacket and a matching cowboy hat. Some online compared the outfit to an adult diaper, the New York Post has reported. “I didn’t know Depends made such a sexy option,” one commentator wrote online. “Why is 59-year-old Shania Twain in a nude bodysuit and diaper on stage?” Some fans were kinder. “Maybe she has been hanging out with Cher.” Others defended the look. “She looks great for 60. How many of you look like that” another wrote. “She’s an entertainer. She’s 59 and rockin’ it while she still has it. All the power to you, Shania Twain. Legend. So obviously, it’s just me, but I think she looks fantastic!” one fan wrote, alongside a fire emoji. Recommended videoCHICAGO (AP) — As begins to take shape, those on both sides of the abortion debate are watching closely for clues about how his picks might affect reproductive rights policy in the . offer a preview of how his administration could handle abortion after he repeatedly on the campaign trail. He attempted to distance himself from anti-abortion allies by deferring to states on abortion policy, even while boasting about nominating three Supreme Court justices who helped strike down the constitutional protections for abortion that had stood for half a century. In an NBC News interview that aired Sunday, Trump said he doesn't plan to restrict medication abortion but also seemed to leave the door open, saying “things change.” “Things do change, but I don't think it's going to change at all,” he said. The of his , including nominations to lead health agencies, the Justice Department and event the Department of Veterans Affairs, has garnered mixed — but generally positive — reactions from anti-abortion groups. Abortion law experts said Trump's decision to include fewer candidates with deep ties to the anti-abortion movement could indicate that abortion will not be a priority for Trump's administration. “It almost seems to suggest that President Trump might be focusing his administration in other directions," said Greer Donley, an associate law professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. Karen Stone, vice president of public policy at , said while many of the nominees have “extensive records against reproductive health care,” some do not. She cautioned against making assumptions based on Trump's initial cabinet selections. Still, many abortion rights groups are wary, in part because many of the nominees hold strong anti-abortion views even if they do not have direct ties to anti-abortion activists. They're concerned that an administration filled with top-level officials who are personally opposed to abortion could take steps to restrict access to the procedure and funding. After Trump’s ambiguity about abortion during his campaign, "there’s still a lot we don’t know about what policy is going to look like," said Mary Ruth Ziegler, a law professor at the University of California, Davis School of Law. That approach may be revealed as the staffs within key departments are announced. Trump he would nominate anti-vaccine activist to lead the Health and Human Services Department, which anti-abortion forces have long targeted as central to curtailing abortion rights nationwide. Yet Kennedy shifted on the issue during his own presidential campaign. In campaign videos, Kennedy said he until , which doctors say is sometime after 21 weeks, although there is no defined timeframe. But he also “every abortion is a tragedy” and a national ban after 15 weeks of pregnancy, a stance he quickly walked back. The head of Health and Human Services oversees Title X funding for a host of family planning services and has sweeping authority over agencies that directly affect abortion access, including the Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The role is especially vital amid legal battles over a federal law known as EMTALA, which President administration has argued requires emergency abortion access nationwide, and FDA approval of the abortion pill mifepristone. Mini Timmaraju, president of the national abortion rights organization Reproductive Freedom for All, called Kennedy an “unfit, unqualified extremist who cannot be trusted to protect the health, safety and reproductive freedom of American families.” His potential nomination also has caused waves in the anti-abortion movement. Former Vice President , a staunch abortion opponent, urged the Senate to reject Kennedy’s nomination. Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of the national anti-abortion group Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, said the group had its own concerns about Kennedy. “There’s no question that we need a pro-life HHS secretary," she said. Fox News correspondent is Trump’s pick to lead the FDA, which plays a critical role in access to medication abortion and contraception. Abortion rights groups have accused him of sharing misinformation about abortion on air. , a staunch anti-abortion conservative, has been nominated for director of the Office of Management and Budget. Vought was a key architect of , a right-wing blueprint for running the federal government. Among other actions to limit reproductive rights, it calls for eliminating access to medication abortion nationwide, cutting Medicaid funding for abortion and restricting access to contraceptive care, especially long-acting reversible contraceptives such as IUD’s. Despite distancing himself from the conservative manifesto on the campaign trail, Trump is with people who played central roles in developing Project 2025. Trump acknowledged that drafters of the report would be part of his incoming administration during the Sunday interview with NBC News, saying “Many of those things I happen to agree with.” “These cabinet appointments all confirm that Project 2025 was in fact the blueprint all along, and the alarm we saw about it was warranted,” said Amy Williams Navarro, director of government relations for Reproductive Freedom for All. , Trump’s choice to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, is a who has been accused of dubious medical treatments and products. He voiced contradictory abortion views during his in 2022. Oz has described himself as praised the Supreme Court decision , claimed and referred to abortion as But he also has Trump’s states-rights approach, arguing the federal government should not be involved in abortion decisions. “I want women, doctors, local political leaders, letting the democracy that’s always allowed our nation to thrive to put the best ideas forward so states can decide for themselves,” he said during a Senate debate two years ago. An array of reproductive rights groups opposed his Senate run. As CMS administrator, Oz would be in a key position to determine Medicaid coverage for family planning services and investigate potential EMTALA violations. As Florida’s attorney general, defended abortion restrictions, including a 24-hour waiting period. Now she’s Trump’s . Her nomination is being celebrated by abortion opponents but denounced by abortion rights groups concerned she may revive the , an anti-vice law passed by Congress in 1873 that, among other things, bans mailing of medication or instruments used in abortion. An anti-abortion and anti-vaccine former Florida congressman, has been chosen to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which collects and monitors abortion data across the country. Former Republican congressman is Trump’s choice to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs amid a over and funding for troops and veterans. Collins voted consistently to restrict funding and access to abortion and celebrated the overturning of Roe v. Wade. “This is a team that the pro-life movement can work with," said Kristin Hawkins, president of the national anti-abortion organization Students for Life. ___ The Associated Press receives support from several private foundations to enhance its explanatory coverage of elections and democracy. See more about AP’s democracy initiative . The AP is solely responsible for all content. Christine Fernando, The Associated PressThe SIP Trunking Market: Trends, Size, Share, Growth, and Demand by 2031 12-12-2024 08:12 PM CET | IT, New Media & Software Press release from: Data Bridge Market Research (DBMR) SIP Trunking Market In today's interconnected world, communication technologies are evolving rapidly, reshaping how businesses and individuals connect. One of the standout advancements in this domain is Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) trunking, a technology that enables voice over IP (VoIP) calls by using internet protocol (IP) instead of traditional phone lines. The SIP trunking market has grown substantially over the past decade and is poised for remarkable growth leading up to 2031. This post delves into the critical aspects of the SIP trunking market, including its current trends, size, share, growth trajectory, and demand drivers. Access Full 350 Pages PDF Report @ https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-sip-trunking-market SIP trunking has emerged as a cornerstone of modern telecommunication infrastructure. Unlike traditional public switched telephone networks (PSTNs), SIP trunking enables businesses to make and manage calls through their existing internet connection. This shift towards IP-based communication offers advantages like cost savings, scalability, enhanced functionality, and flexibility. Businesses are increasingly adopting SIP trunking solutions to enhance operational efficiency and reduce communication expenses. The technology also supports unified communications, enabling features such as video conferencing, instant messaging, and real-time collaboration tools. These benefits are driving its adoption across industries ranging from healthcare to retail and from banking to IT services. Key Trends Shaping the SIP Trunking Market Cloud Migration: Many organizations are migrating their communication systems to the cloud to achieve cost efficiency, scalability, and improved disaster recovery capabilities. SIP trunking integrates seamlessly with cloud-based systems, boosting its demand. Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS): The growing popularity of UCaaS platforms is fueling SIP trunking adoption. UCaaS solutions integrate voice, video, messaging, and collaboration tools, with SIP trunking acting as a backbone for voice services. 5G Connectivity: The advent of 5G technology is enhancing the performance of SIP trunking by providing faster, more reliable internet connections. This improvement supports higher call quality and greater bandwidth for multimedia communication. SME Adoption: Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly adopting SIP trunking due to its affordability and ability to scale with business growth. Customized packages for SMEs are also driving adoption in this segment. Increased Focus on Security: As cyber threats grow, providers are investing in robust encryption and security measures to protect SIP trunking communications. This focus on security reassures businesses about the reliability of the technology. Market Size and Share Analysis Data Bridge Market Research analyses that the global sip trunking market which was USD 12.43 billion in 2023, would rocket up to USD 33.04 billion by 2031, and is expected to undergo a CAGR of 11.48% during the forecast period. Asia-Pacific is emerging as a high-growth region due to increasing investments in digital infrastructure and the rapid adoption of VoIP solutions in countries such as India, China, and Japan. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing steady growth, with enterprises modernizing their communication systems. Growth Drivers Several factors are contributing to the impressive growth of the SIP trunking market: Cost Efficiency: SIP trunking eliminates the need for separate voice and data networks, reducing costs significantly. This cost-saving aspect is a primary growth driver, particularly for cost-conscious businesses. Globalization: As businesses expand globally, they require efficient communication systems to connect with employees, partners, and customers across geographies. SIP trunking's ability to offer seamless international calling is fueling its adoption. Scalability and Flexibility: Businesses can easily scale their SIP trunking solutions up or down based on demand. This flexibility is particularly appealing in dynamic market environments. Digital Transformation Initiatives: Enterprises worldwide are undergoing digital transformation, upgrading their legacy systems to modern, IP-based communication solutions. SIP trunking is a key component of this transition. Remote Work Trends: The rise of remote and hybrid work models has increased the demand for reliable and flexible communication systems. SIP trunking supports remote collaboration, making it a preferred choice for organizations. Market Challenges Despite its advantages, the SIP trunking market faces challenges that could impact its growth: Initial Setup Costs: While SIP trunking reduces operational costs in the long run, the initial setup expenses can be a barrier for some businesses. Integration Complexity: Integrating SIP trunking with existing systems can be complex, especially for businesses with outdated telecommunication infrastructure. Regulatory Issues: Different countries have varying regulations regarding VoIP and SIP trunking, which can complicate deployments for global businesses. Security Concerns: Despite advancements in encryption and security protocols, concerns about hacking and data breaches persist. Demand Forecast for 2031 The demand for SIP trunking is projected to grow exponentially through 2031, driven by: Expansion of IoT and Smart Devices: As IoT devices proliferate, businesses need integrated communication systems to manage these connections efficiently. SIP trunking supports this requirement seamlessly. Increased Enterprise Adoption: Large enterprises are transitioning from legacy systems to SIP trunking for better scalability, reliability, and cost efficiency. Government Initiatives: Several governments are promoting digital transformation and IP-based communication systems, indirectly boosting SIP trunking adoption. Enhanced Features: Providers are continually innovating, adding features like AI-driven analytics, call routing, and improved call quality to SIP trunking solutions. These advancements are attracting more users. Browse Trending Reports: https://aimarketresearch2024.blogspot.com/2024/12/friction-feeders-market-size-share.html https://aimarketresearch2024.blogspot.com/2024/12/specialty-oilfield-chemicals-market.html https://aimarketresearch2024.blogspot.com/2024/12/frozen-drinks-market-size-share-trends.html https://aimarketresearch2024.blogspot.com/2024/12/colored-gemstones-market-size-share.html Conclusion The SIP trunking market is on a remarkable growth trajectory, with substantial opportunities for providers and businesses alike. As trends like cloud migration, 5G adoption, and digital transformation gain momentum, SIP trunking will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of communication. With its ability to deliver cost efficiency, scalability, and enhanced functionality, SIP trunking is set to become an indispensable tool for businesses aiming to thrive in the digital age. About Data Bridge Market Research: Data Bridge set forth itself as an unconventional and neoteric Market research and consulting firm with unparalleled level of resilience and integrated approaches. We are determined to unearth the best market opportunities and foster efficient information for your business to thrive in the market. Data Bridge endeavors to provide appropriate solutions to the complex business challenges and initiates an effortless decision-making process. Contact Us: Data Bridge Market Research US: +1 614 591 3140 UK: +44 845 154 9652 APAC : +653 1251 975 Email: corporatesales@databridgemarketresearch.com" This release was published on openPR.
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NEW YORK (AP) — A slide for market superstar Nvidia on Monday knocked Wall Street off its big rally and helped drag U.S. stock indexes down from their records. The S&P 500 fell 0.6%, coming off its 57th all-time high of the year so far. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 240 points, or 0.5%, and the Nasdaq composite pulled back 0.6% from its own record. Nvidia’s fall of 2.5% was by far the heaviest weight on the S&P 500 after China said it’s investigating the company over suspected violations of Chinese anti-monopoly laws. Nvidia has skyrocketed to become one of Wall Street’s most valuable companies because its chips are driving much of the world’s move into artificial-intelligence technology. That gives its stock’s movements more sway on the S&P 500 than nearly every other. Nvidia’s drop overshadowed gains in Hong Kong and for Chinese stocks trading in the United States on hopes that China will deliver more stimulus for the world’s second-largest economy. Roughly three in seven of the stocks in the S&P 500 also rose. The week’s highlight for Wall Street will arrive midweek when the latest updates on inflation arrive. Economists expect Wednesday’s report to show the inflation that U.S. consumers are feeling remained stuck at close to the same level last month. A separate report on Thursday, meanwhile, could show an acceleration in inflation at the wholesale level. They’re the last big pieces of data the Federal Reserve will get before its meeting next week on interest rates. The widespread expectation is still that the central bank will cut its main interest rate for the third time this year. The Fed has been easing its main interest rate from a two-decade high since September to offer more help for the slowing job market, after bringing inflation nearly all the way down to its 2% target. Lower interest rates can ease the brakes off the economy, but they can also offer more fuel for inflation. Expectations for a series of cuts from the Fed have been a major reason the S&P 500 has set so many all-time highs this year. “Investors should enjoy this rally while it lasts—there’s little on the horizon to disrupt the momentum through year-end,” according to Mark Hackett, chief of investment research at Nationwide, though he warns stocks could stumble soon because of how overheated they’ve gotten. On Wall Street, Interpublic Group rose 3.6% after rival Omnicom said it would buy the marketing and communications firm in an all-stock deal. The pair had a combined revenue of $25.6 billion last year. Omnicom, meanwhile, sank 10.2%. Macy’s climbed 1.8% after an activist investor, Barington Capital Group, called on the retailer to buy back at least $2 billion of its own stock over the next three years and make other moves to help boost its stock price. Super Micro Computer rose 0.5% after saying it got an extension that will keep its stock listed on the Nasdaq through Feb. 25, as it works to file its delayed annual report and other required financial statements. Earlier this month, the maker of servers used in artificial-intelligence technology said an investigation found no evidence of misconduct by its management or by the company’s board following the resignation of its public auditor . All told, the S&P 500 fell 37.42 points to 6,052.85. The Dow dipped 240.59 to 4,401.93, and the Nasdaq composite lost 123.08 to 19,736.69. In the oil market, a barrel of benchmark U.S. crude rallied 1.7% to settle at $68.37 following the overthrow of Syrian leader Bashar Assad, who sought asylum in Moscow after rebels. Brent crude, the international standard, added 1.4% to $72.14 per barrel. The price of gold also rose 1% to $2,685.80 per ounce amid the uncertainty created by the end of the Assad family’s 50 years of iron rule. In stock markets abroad, the Hang Seng jumped 2.8% in Hong Kong after top Chinese leaders agreed on a “moderately loose” monetary policy for the world’s second-largest economy. That’s a shift away from a more cautious, “prudent” stance for the first time in 10 years. A major planning meeting later this week could also bring more stimulus for the Chinese economy. U.S.-listed stocks of several Chinese companies climbed, including a 12.4% jump for electric-vehicle company Nio and a 7.4% rise for Alibaba Group. Stocks in Shanghai, though, were roughly flat. In Seoul, South Korea’s Kospi slumped 2.8% as the fallout continues from President Yoon Suk Yeol ’s brief declaration of martial law last week in the midst of a budget dispute. In the bond market, the yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.19% from 4.15% late Friday. AP Business Writers Matt Ott and Elaine Kurtenbach contributed.Ambition isn’t just a trait — it’s a driving force that can move mountains, break barriers, and change lives. On TV, characters with ambition are the ones who keep us hooked, whether they’re climbing to the top or doing whatever it takes to get there. These are the people who don’t just dream big — they act on those dreams, often pushing boundaries and making decisions that leave us on the edge of our seats. From ruthless professionals to relentless dreamers, these characters know what they want and won’t stop until they have it. But ambition isn’t all glitz and glamour — often, it comes with a cost. These 11 TV characters show us just how far ambition can take you — and how much it can cost in the end. Selina Meyer – Veep Selina Meyer is the epitome of ambition — ruthless, determined, and willing to throw anyone under the bus to get ahead. As Vice President, then President, she stops at nothing to maintain her power, even if it means sacrificing relationships, principles, or her own dignity. On Veep , Selina’s political career is a constant battle for survival in a world where alliances are fleeting and betrayal is inevitable. Her obsession with climbing the ladder is matched only by her ability to manipulate, making her one of TV’s most ambitious — and funniest — characters. Watch Veep Online Erlich Bachman – Silicon Valley Erlich Bachman is the definition of ambition wrapped in a cocktail of arrogance and self-absorption. As a would-be tech mogul in Silicon Valley , Erlich constantly believes he’s on the verge of a breakthrough, even when his big ideas are, more often than not, just smoke and mirrors. With a penchant for self-promotion and a knack for convincing others he’s the genius behind the next big thing, he’ll do whatever it takes to remain relevant — even if it means betraying those closest to him. His ambition may be misguided, but it’s undeniably relentless. Watch Silicon Valley Online Patty Hewes – Damages Patty Hewes is a master of ruthless ambition, using her sharp mind and unyielding drive to climb to the top — no matter who or what gets in her way. As a high-powered attorney on Damages , she manipulates the legal system, her colleagues, and even her own protégés to secure her victories. Patty’s ambition is not just about winning cases; it’s about maintaining power and control, with no regard for the collateral damage. Her willingness to go to extreme lengths to protect her empire makes her one of TV’s most formidable — and dangerous — characters. Watch Damages Online Maddy Perez – Euphoria Maddy Perez’s ambition is driven by a thirst for attention and validation and a craving for the high life—no matter the cost. On Euphoria , Maddy constantly strives to prove her worth, navigating toxic relationships and using her charm to manipulate her way through the chaos of adolescence. While her ambition might seem more personal than professional, her desire to rise above her circumstances fuels her every move. Maddy’s journey is a reminder that ambition isn’t just about power or success—sometimes — it’s about survival in a world that constantly challenges you. Watch Euphoria Online Martha Scott – Baby Reindeer Martha Scott’s ambitions in Baby Reindeer are all about control, manipulation, and using others to achieve her own twisted version of success. As a successful businesswoman with a dark, obsessive side, she has no qualms about bending people to her will. Her ambition isn’t just about climbing the social ladder — it’s about dominating the lives of those around her, especially the vulnerable. Martha’s ability to disguise her true motives behind a veneer of charm makes her one of the most calculating, quietly dangerous characters on TV. Watch Baby Reindeer Online Cassie Dewell – Big Sky Cassie Dewell is the embodiment of ambition fueled by justice and survival. As a private investigator on Big Sky , Cassie’s relentless drive to uncover the truth pushes her to navigate dark, dangerous waters where others would hesitate. She’s not just solving crimes; she’s carving out her place in a world that constantly challenges her. Cassie’s ambition is marked by a strong moral compass and an unwavering determination to right the wrongs she encounters — no matter how far she has to go to do it. She’s tough, smart, and always one step ahead of those who try to stop her. Watch Big Sky Online Morgan Gillory – High Potential Morgan Gillory is a single mom with a genius-level IQ and an uncanny ability to solve problems others can’t even begin to understand. On High Potential , she goes from a janitor at the LAPD to a full-fledged consultant, helping the department crack some of its toughest cases. Despite the challenges of balancing motherhood and her extraordinary brain, Morgan’s ambition drives her to prove that she’s more than just a brilliant mind — she’s a force to be reckoned with. With every case she solves, she’s building her path to success, one crime at a time. Watch High Potential Online Olivia Benson – Law & Order: SVU Olivia Benson is the embodiment of unwavering ambition and dedication on Law & Order: SVU . As a seasoned detective, she’s driven by a relentless pursuit of justice for victims who often have no voice. Olivia’s ambition isn’t about career advancement or personal gain — it’s about making the world a safer place, one case at a time. Her tenacity and emotional intelligence allow her to navigate the toughest crimes with a mix of strength and compassion, proving that ambition can be about more than just success — it can be about making a real difference. Watch Law & Order: SVU Online Rick Grimes – The Walking Dead Rick Grimes’ ambition on The Walking Dead isn’t just about surviving the apocalypse — it’s about leading others through it. As the sheriff turned reluctant leader, Rick’s drive to protect his group and maintain a sense of morality in a broken world fuels every decision he makes. His ambition evolves from a desire for safety to a fierce determination to build a new society. Throughout the chaos, Rick constantly battles with the cost of his leadership, proving that ambition is a dangerous yet necessary force in a post-apocalyptic world. Watch The Walking Dead Online Miranda Bailey – Grey’s Anatomy Miranda Bailey is a powerhouse of ambition on Grey’s Anatomy , balancing the demands of being a top surgeon with the responsibility of mentoring the next generation. Her drive is rooted in her desire to prove herself in a male-dominated field. She constantly strives for excellence and pushes her colleagues to do the same. Whether navigating the hospital’s complexities or managing her personal life, Bailey’s ambition is unwavering. She’s tough, determined, and always working toward creating a legacy of professional success and personal growth. Watch Grey's Anatomy Online Jane Villanueva – Jane the Virgin Jane Villanueva is the perfect blend of ambition, heart, and determination. On Jane the Virgin, her dream of becoming a writer is constantly tested by unexpected twists — like being accidentally artificially inseminated — but she never lets that derail her. Jane’s ambition isn’t about fame or fortune; it’s about building a life that honors her values, her family, and her creative dreams. Her journey through love, career, and motherhood shows that ambition can be messy, unpredictable, and full of heart, but it’s always worth fighting for. Watch Jane the Virgin Online The TV Characters Who Never Stop Climbing Ambition is what keeps these characters pushing forward, no matter the obstacles. From overcoming personal struggles to taking on the world, they prove that nothing worth having comes easy. Whether it’s the fight for success, survival, or power, these TV icons show us that ambition isn’t just a trait — it’s a way of life. So, who’s your favorite ambitious character? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going! No account? Register here Forgot password
Middle East latest: Israeli strikes kill a hospital director in Lebanon and wound 6 medics in Gaza
Korea set to maintain on-year export gains in December: trade ministerCOLLEGE FB NOTESJudith Graham | (TNS) KFF Health News Carolyn Dickens, 76, was sitting at her dining room table, struggling to catch her breath as her physician looked on with concern. “What’s going on with your breathing?” asked Peter Gliatto, director of Mount Sinai’s Visiting Doctors Program. “I don’t know,” she answered, so softly it was hard to hear. “Going from here to the bathroom or the door, I get really winded. I don’t know when it’s going to be my last breath.” Dickens, a lung cancer survivor, lives in central Harlem, barely getting by. She has serious lung disease and high blood pressure and suffers regular fainting spells. In the past year, she’s fallen several times and dropped to 85 pounds, a dangerously low weight. And she lives alone, without any help — a highly perilous situation. This is almost surely an undercount, since the data is from more than a dozen years ago. It’s a population whose numbers far exceed those living in nursing homes — about 1.2 million — and yet it receives much less attention from policymakers, legislators, and academics who study aging. Consider some eye-opening statistics about completely homebound seniors from a study published in 2020 in JAMA Internal Medicine : Nearly 40% have five or more chronic medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease. Almost 30% are believed to have “probable dementia.” Seventy-seven percent have difficulty with at least one daily task such as bathing or dressing. Almost 40% live by themselves. That “on my own” status magnifies these individuals’ already considerable vulnerability, something that became acutely obvious during the covid-19 outbreak, when the number of sick and disabled seniors confined to their homes doubled. “People who are homebound, like other individuals who are seriously ill, rely on other people for so much,” said Katherine Ornstein, director of the Center for Equity in Aging at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing. “If they don’t have someone there with them, they’re at risk of not having food, not having access to health care, not living in a safe environment.” Related Articles Weight loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy are all the rage. Are they safe for kids? Rural governments often fail to communicate with residents who aren’t proficient in English Some breast cancer patients can avoid certain surgeries, studies suggest Herb Chambers makes massive, $100M gift to Mass General Hospital to fund cancer care Who gets obesity drugs covered by insurance? In North Carolina, it helps if you’re on Medicaid Research has shown that older homebound adults are less likely to receive regular primary care than other seniors. They’re also more likely to end up in the hospital with medical crises that might have been prevented if someone had been checking on them. To better understand the experiences of these seniors, I accompanied Gliatto on some home visits in New York City. Mount Sinai’s Visiting Doctors Program, established in 1995, is one of the oldest in the nation. Only 12% of older U.S. adults who rarely or never leave home have access to this kind of home-based primary care. Gliatto and his staff — seven part-time doctors, three nurse practitioners, two nurses, two social workers, and three administrative staffers — serve about 1,000 patients in Manhattan each year. These patients have complicated needs and require high levels of assistance. In recent years, Gliatto has had to cut staff as Mount Sinai has reduced its financial contribution to the program. It doesn’t turn a profit, because reimbursement for services is low and expenses are high. First, Gliatto stopped in to see Sandra Pettway, 79, who never married or had children and has lived by herself in a two-bedroom Harlem apartment for 30 years. Pettway has severe spinal problems and back pain, as well as Type 2 diabetes and depression. She has difficulty moving around and rarely leaves her apartment. “Since the pandemic, it’s been awfully lonely,” she told me. When I asked who checks in on her, Pettway mentioned her next-door neighbor. There’s no one else she sees regularly. Pettway told the doctor she was increasingly apprehensive about an upcoming spinal surgery. He reassured her that Medicare would cover in-home nursing care, aides, and physical therapy services. “Someone will be with you, at least for six weeks,” he said. Left unsaid: Afterward, she would be on her own. (The surgery in April went well, Gliatto reported later.) The doctor listened carefully as Pettway talked about her memory lapses. “I can remember when I was a year old, but I can’t remember 10 minutes ago,” she said. He told her that he thought she was managing well but that he would arrange testing if there was further evidence of cognitive decline. For now, he said, he’s not particularly worried about her ability to manage on her own. Several blocks away, Gliatto visited Dickens, who has lived in her one-bedroom Harlem apartment for 31 years. Dickens told me she hasn’t seen other people regularly since her sister, who used to help her out, had a stroke. Most of the neighbors she knew well have died. Her only other close relative is a niece in the Bronx whom she sees about once a month. Dickens worked with special-education students for decades in New York City’s public schools. Now she lives on a small pension and Social Security — too much to qualify for Medicaid. (Medicaid, the program for low-income people, will pay for aides in the home. Medicare, which covers people over age 65, does not.) Like Pettway, she has only a small fixed income, so she can’t afford in-home help. Every Friday, God’s Love We Deliver, an organization that prepares medically tailored meals for sick people, delivers a week’s worth of frozen breakfasts and dinners that Dickens reheats in the microwave. She almost never goes out. When she has energy, she tries to do a bit of cleaning. Without the ongoing attention from Gliatto, Dickens doesn’t know what she’d do. “Having to get up and go out, you know, putting on your clothes, it’s a task,” she said. “And I have the fear of falling.” The next day, Gliatto visited Marianne Gluck Morrison, 73, a former survey researcher for New York City’s personnel department, in her cluttered Greenwich Village apartment. Morrison, who doesn’t have any siblings or children, was widowed in 2010 and has lived alone since. Morrison said she’d been feeling dizzy over the past few weeks, and Gliatto gave her a basic neurological exam, asking her to follow his fingers with her eyes and touch her fingers to her nose. “I think your problem is with your ear, not your brain,” he told her, describing symptoms of vertigo. Because she had severe wounds on her feet related to Type 2 diabetes, Morrison had been getting home health care for several weeks through Medicare. But those services — help from aides, nurses, and physical therapists — were due to expire in two weeks. “I don’t know what I’ll do then, probably just spend a lot of time in bed,” Morrison told me. Among her other medical conditions: congestive heart failure, osteoarthritis, an irregular heartbeat, chronic kidney disease, and depression. Morrison hasn’t left her apartment since November 2023, when she returned home after a hospitalization and several months at a rehabilitation center. Climbing the three steps that lead up into her apartment building is simply too hard. “It’s hard to be by myself so much of the time. It’s lonely,” she told me. “I would love to have people see me in the house. But at this point, because of the clutter, I can’t do it.” When I asked Morrison who she feels she can count on, she listed Gliatto and a mental health therapist from Henry Street Settlement, a social services organization. She has one close friend she speaks with on the phone most nights. “The problem is I’ve lost eight to nine friends in the last 15 years,” she said, sighing heavily. “They’ve died or moved away.” Bruce Leff, director of the Center for Transformative Geriatric Research at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, is a leading advocate of home-based medical care. “It’s kind of amazing how people find ways to get by,” he said when I asked him about homebound older adults who live alone. “There’s a significant degree of frailty and vulnerability, but there is also substantial resilience.” With the rapid expansion of the aging population in the years ahead, Leff is convinced that more kinds of care will move into the home, everything from rehab services to palliative care to hospital-level services. “It will simply be impossible to build enough hospitals and health facilities to meet the demand from an aging population,” he said. But that will be challenging for homebound older adults who are on their own. Without on-site family caregivers, there may be no one around to help manage this home-based care. ©2024 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
THE DARKER SIDE
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Newly-minted Victoria Liberal leader Brad Battin believes he can be the man to unite what has been a deeply divided party room, and he has the support of John Pesutto’s former deputy David Southwick. Despite Battin picking former tennis star Sam Groth to be his second-in-charge, the former shadow minister for police, corrections, youth justice and crime prevention attended the Pillars of Light festival celebrating Chanukah alongside Southwick at Melbourne’s Federation Square on Dec. 29. Battin emerged victorious after the Liberal leadership vote on Dec. 27, defeating Kew MP Jess Wilson and Mornington MP Chris Crewther, who both sought the top job. Pesutto stepped down as opposition leader after exiled MP Moira Deeming was readmitted to the party room, achieving majority support 23-4 in a vote from her colleagues. Earlier this month, Deeming successfully sued Pesutto for defamation over comments he made while attempting to expel her from the Liberal Party, after she attended a Let Women Speak rally which was gatecrashed by neo-Nazis last year. Battin—seen by political pundits as a conservative-leaning Liberal—said he still had some work to do to mend fractures which might still remain in his party. But appearing alongside Southwick at the Pillars of Light festival on Dec. 29 was a big step forward in his ambition to bring his colleagues together. “David’s fantastic. I’ve had David with me since 2010, and David’s as passionate as ever,” Battin told The Epoch Times. “So we’ll be working together continuously.” He has retained his shadow minister portfolios for major projects, transport infrastructure, trade and investment, and cost of living. “It has been an immense pleasure to serve as Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party over the past three years,” Southwick said in a statement. “I have worked tirelessly to position our party for success at the next election, and I am incredibly proud that the Liberal Party is now in a winning position for the 2026 election.” Southwick said loyalty was important to him, which was why he previously stood by the embattled Pesutto, and also why he has now thrown his support behind Battin. “Loyalty in both good and bad times is important to me, and I am proud of the steadfast loyalty I demonstrated as Deputy Leader to both John Pesutto and Matthew Guy,” he said. “To John Pesutto, thank you for your service as leader. You have approached this role with strength and determination during a particularly difficult period. Battin added he had received a lot of support from his Berwick electorate, and across Greater Melbourne and Victoria, in response to him becoming the new Victoria Liberal leader. Sunday’s Chanukah celebration appearances—also alongside Southwick in his Caulfield electorate—were his first as the opposition leader. “In the party we’ll all get together and have our chat, but outside of the party the response has been fantastic,” he said. “(Being Liberal leader feels) very good. Obviously we’ve got a lot of work to be done. “We’re going to have a busy time and I’ve got to get out and about on days like today, but also start to develop what we’re going to do as the party moves forward.” The Epoch Times asked Wilson if she had ambitions for the leadership role while she met with residents in her Kew electorate on Dec. 14, and she said her sole focus was delivering better education and financial alternatives for Victorians. “I’m just focused on doing my job; that’s why I’m out in the community listening to people,” she said at the time. “I’m the shadow minister for education and the shadow minister for finance. That’s my focus. “We are firmly focused on the fact that we are in record debt and we’re seeing a housing crisis.” Battin also praised the Victorian Police “for the exceptional work they do in protecting our community, and they continue to protect our community.” Victoria Police have been in an ongoing pay dispute with the Allan Labor government, but Battin said rebuilding the state’s police force would be one of his top priorities. “It’s a beautiful community (uniting) through a tough period,” he said. This month’s firebombing at a Ripponlea synagogue saw millions of dollars of holy texts, handwritten Torah scrolls, artefacts and furniture destroyed or badly damaged. It was the latest of many acts of antisemitism towards Melbourne’s Jewish community following the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks, which led to over 1,200 innocent Jews being killed. “Many Jews do not feel safe in their own city,” Battin said. “And that is a sad state of affairs ... It is simply not on and not good enough. “As a former police officer, as a very proud member of the Victorian Liberal Party with the opportunity to lead that party over the next few years as we go to the election, the one thing I want to remind you is every single day we will stand with you. “And we will make sure that any changes that we want to put forward as policy are there to protect your rights and your freedoms when you go to your place of worship.”Mike Ferry, with the University of California San Diego Center for Energy Research, shows a bank of lithium ion batteries at UCSD in September 2022 in La Jolla, California. Winter Storm Elliott caused widespread power outages across the eastern U.S. in 2022, leaving 1.5 million people without electricity just days before Christmas. Indiana narrowly avoided similar rolling blackouts from the storm, which caused a huge spike in energy consumption while slowing the production of the natural gas that runs most power plants. But those outages could have been avoided or reduced if states had more large-scale battery energy storage systems, according to clean-energy advocates. The technology stores energy and can immediately disperse it to the grid whenever and wherever it's needed. That was was proven true in Texas last year during an extreme heat wave that spiked energy use and threatened power outages. The state had massively increased its battery energy storage capacity following a deadly winter storm two years earlier. The extra power kept the lights on for Texans during the heat wave. But in Indiana, electric utilities have been slow to adopt the technology that advocates say is essential as electricity-guzzling data centers and high-tech manufacturing facilities move into the state and strain the grid. Indiana’s main power-grid operator, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), has already issued warnings it could face an electric-capacity deficit as early as next summer as coal plants rapidly close and energy demand grows. The deficit is only expected to increase over the next five years in the 15 states in which MISO operates. Now, even with the looming energy threat, Indiana utility companies still aren’t fully utilizing battery storage to stabilize and bolster the grid, according to Kerwin Olson, executive director of the Citizen Action Coalition, the state’s largest consumer and environmental advocacy organization. “Battery storage has enormous value,” he said. “But I think it's a matter of moving these conservative utilities to adopt new technologies that they might not be as familiar with. I think they're a little hesitant to accept it as a real resource.” Today, Indiana’s utility companies operate six battery-energy-storage facilities with a total capacity of 100 megawatts (MG). That’s enough to power roughly 16,000 homes for several hours, but not nearly adequate to stop blackouts during extreme weather events. For comparison, Texas has over 5,700 MG of battery storage capacity tied to the grid. Nearly all of that has been built over the last four years. The state now has the most battery energy storage in the nation. A view from inside one of AES’ existing battery storage projects in the U.S. The Indianapolis utility installed the state's first facility in 2016. The industry as a whole has also seen major growth. By the end of 2024, the U.S. Energy Information Administration expects that the nation’s battery capacity will exceed 30 GW, or 30,000 MG, marking a five-fold increase since 2020. Energy storage systems do more than help avoid blackouts. Clean-energy advocates say they are playing a critical role in transitioning to renewables like wind and solar, which produce extra energy during peak operation that can be stored in batteries and then dispersed when needed. Those systems have existed for decades, but improvements to battery technology are making storage facilities more affordable and reliable than ever. In Indiana, the Indianapolis-based utility AES has led the state in implementing battery storage. The company tested the first grid-connected commercial lithium-ion battery in 2008 and opened a 20-MG site in 2016 that became the first grid-scale battery storage system in MISO. Now, AES is building a facility in Pike County that will store and deliver up to 200 MW of electricity for four hours to help meet energy demand during peak times. The project will be one of the largest storage systems in MISO. “As we’ve seen our generation portfolio transform over the past decade to include natural gas, wind and solar, battery storage has been necessary to improve grid operation and efficiency,” AES said in an email. Other utilities have been far less aggressive. Duke Energy and CenterPoint have each installed two smaller-scale systems. NIPSO this summer opened a 60-MW facility in White County and will soon open another 75-MW storage system in Jasper County. Most state utilities’ snails-pace adoption of battery storage indicates they don’t fully buy in to the benefits and are hesitant to embrace and incorporate a new technology, explained Olson. Kerwin Olson, executive director of the Citizens Action Coalition, informs residents of New Albany about proposed rate increases and how they will affect them. “I've heard utilities say, ‘We know what we know and we like what we know,’” he said. “Except what they know is incredibly expensive and incredibly dirty, and there's a better way to do it.” But the biggest obstacle to quickly expanding battery storage in Indiana isn’t the utilities, argued Noah Roberts, vice president of energy storage at American Clean Power, which represents over 800 clean-energy companies. It’s grid operators like MISO, which have outdated rules on how energy storage can be incorporated into the electric grid, he said. That’s led to a backlog of projects waiting to come online in Indiana. Those connection queues have become significantly longer in the last few years due to the increased requests coming from the growing number of renewable facilities, according to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission’s annual 2024 report. In 2021, over 22% of requests to connect to the grid came from battery storage. Roberts said how quickly battery energy is deployed in Indiana depends on whether MISO updates its rules to fully utilize the technology. Once those barriers are lifted, he predicts a major uptick in battery-storage projects. “As energy storage is deployed in Indiana and other states in the Midwest, they will realize the very real and tangible benefits of integrating energy storage,” Roberts said. “That will accelerate other changes that need to occur to enable more energy storage.” Even with grid restrictions, a slate of battery projects are under construction that will substantially expand the state’s capacity. But it’s not utilities building them. Nearly all the projects are coming from private developments. Five projects are set come online in the next three years, adding in total 443 MG of storage. A list of upcoming battery storage projects being built by private companies that have been approved in Indiana as of July 1, 2024. That energy can be sold to utilities, some of which do have plans to add substantial amounts of battery storage to their portfolio in the next five years. Duke Energy wants 400 MW of storage to be in service by 2030. NIPSCO plans to add 500 to 900 MG by 2029, but noted that depends on MISO and how it accredits the energy. Indiana lawmakers have also started to cautiously consider battery storage and have approved new regulations on the burgeoning industry. An energy-policy task force report in 2022 determined that “thoughtful attention to fact-based and rational timelines” is necessary to responsibly include battery storage on the grid. Legislators followed up on the report last year by passing a bill detailing a number of siting and safety rules for battery projects, which must now receive approval from the Department of Homeland Security and comply with the National Fire Protection Association’s standards. The Indiana Office of Energy Development has also commissioned a report researching utility-scale battery energy storage systems and their economic impact to provide best practices for local governments and utilities that want to implement them. The report is due in March. Indiana Sen. Eric Koch, R-Bedford, who chairs the Senate Utility Committee, said he hopes battery-storage technology continues to improve, but until it does, he holds some reservations about its large-scale adoption. Eric Koch “We have to be very careful about introducing new technologies into the field before they've been validated and verified, but we should always be doing research,” he said. Koch said he and other lawmakers have put serious thought into ensuring the state has enough electricity to accommodate the rapid growth of data centers and other high-energy users. They plan to introduce legislation next year targeting energy policy involving those industries, he said. “It could be an issue, but it is certainly a manageable issue,” he said. “And if we manage it right, I don't foresee any concerns.” But Olson said legislators and utilities need to make battery storage a top priority in that plan. Failing to incorporate it into the state’s energy portfolio likely means utilities will only build more natural gas power plants, which are far more expensive and come with their own environmental concerns. For that to happen, state officials need to fully embrace the benefits battery storage provides to the grid and to Hoosier residents, he argued. “Storage is an absolute necessity if we are going to have an all-of-the-above energy strategy that has a goal of reducing prices for customers and increasing reliability, resiliency and stability of the grid,” he said. “Otherwise, we're going to be left with the outdated 20th century model.”
Hypebeast's 2024 Gift Guide: Oakley’s High-Performance Pieces to Level Up Everyday FitsTrump has flip-flopped on abortion policy. His appointees may offer clues to what happens nextAs technology evolves at an unprecedented pace, professionals across industries must stay updated with the latest trends and innovations. The rapid adoption of new technologies means that your resume should not only reflect your past achievements but also demonstrate your proficiency in the skills and tools that are defining the future. In 2025, tech skills will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping career trajectories, making it essential to incorporate relevant trends into your resume to ensure you stand out. Whether you're an established tech expert or just beginning your journey in the tech world, it’s crucial to present yourself as adaptable, forward-thinking, and in tune with the current technological landscape. This article delves into practical steps to help you enhance your resume with the most relevant tech skills, ensuring that it appeals to potential employers and reflects the skills that are shaping the future of work. Emphasise your most relevant technical expertise The first step in updating your resume is to ensure that you are highlighting the that matter most in 2025. With so many new technologies emerging, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, but focusing on the most sought-after skills can help you stay ahead of the curve. Make sure to include skills related to artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, blockchain, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics. These are the areas in which employers are investing heavily and looking for expertise. Rather than simply listing general skills, dive into specific tools and platforms you have experience with. For example, if you’re proficient in machine learning, mention specific frameworks like TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Keras. For blockchain, name the platforms such as Ethereum or Hyperledger. Specificity demonstrates depth of knowledge. In addition to technical expertise, like problem-solving, critical thinking, and adaptability are increasingly important. Highlighting your ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage projects, and communicate complex technical information will make you more appealing to potential employers. Showcase real-world projects and achievements Your resume should do more than just list your skills. It should demonstrate how you’ve applied them in real-world scenarios. Showcasing key projects, whether they were part of previous jobs, personal initiatives, or freelance work, helps give context to your skills. Highlight projects where you’ve made a significant impact. For instance, if you developed an AI-based recommendation system or built a secure blockchain application, make sure those are front and center. The more relevant the project is to the current trends, the better. Employers are always interested in the results of your work. Don’t just describe the project – explain how it benefited the company or client. when possible (e.g., "Reduced processing time by 30% using machine learning algorithms" or "Improved website security by implementing blockchain-based encryption"). If you haven’t already, creating an online portfolio or GitHub repository is essential. This can house your code, designs, and detailed case studies of the projects you’ve worked on. Including links to your portfolio in your resume shows that you’re not just talking about your skills but also showcasing them. Adopt a modern, tech-optimised resume layout A tech-friendly resume format can help ensure that your resume is not only eye-catching but also optimised for both human recruiters and (ATS). In the tech world, having a clean, structured, and well-organised resume is just as important as having the right skills. Use clear headings, bullet points, and ample white space to make your resume easy to read. Avoid cramming too much information into small sections. Make sure that the most important information (e.g., your technical skills and key projects) stands out. Many tech companies use applicant tracking systems to filter resumes before they ever reach a human. To ensure your resume passes through these systems, include industry-specific keywords and phrases related to the technologies you work with. This way, your resume has a better chance of getting noticed by both software and people. Customise your resume for every job opportunity One of the most crucial aspects of a resume in 2025 is customisation. With the diversity of tech roles available, a generic resume just won’t cut it. To ensure that you’re putting your best foot forward, tailor your resume to the specific role you’re applying for. Before submitting your resume, carefully read the job description. Identify the key skills and experiences the employer is looking for, and adjust your resume accordingly. For example, if the job requires expertise in cloud computing, make sure your experience with AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud is clearly highlighted. Every tech role requires different skills. For a software development position, emphasise your coding proficiency and familiarity with specific programming languages. For a cybersecurity role, focus on your experience with encryption, penetration testing, or threat analysis. If the job description uses specific terminology or buzzwords, incorporate them into your resume (without overdoing it). This will help you connect with the recruiter’s needs and make your resume feel like a perfect match for the position. Highlight your ongoing learning and flexibility In the fast-evolving tech world, showcasing your ability to continuously learn and adapt is essential. Employers value candidates who are proactive about staying current with the latest trends and technologies. Demonstrating your commitment to professional development can set you apart from others in the competitive job market. If you’ve recently completed relevant or courses (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Google Cloud Professional Data Engineer, or courses on platforms like Coursera or Udemy), make sure to include them. These show that you are actively pursuing growth and staying up to date with the latest technologies. Personal projects can be a great way to demonstrate your commitment to learning. If you’ve built a website, contributed to open-source software, or worked on side projects related to new technologies, these are valuable additions to your resume. If you’ve worked in environments where you had to quickly learn new tools or adapt to shifting priorities, mention these experiences. Employers are keen to know how you deal with change and whether you can thrive in fast-paced, ever-changing environments. Conclusion In 2025, tech resumes need to reflect not just your current skills but also your ability to stay relevant in a rapidly changing field. By highlighting relevant technical skills, showcasing key projects, using a tech-friendly format, tailoring your resume for each job, and demonstrating your commitment to continuous learning, you can position yourself as a forward-thinking candidate ready to embrace the future. Make sure to update your resume regularly, reflecting both the latest trends and your personal growth, so you remain competitive in the evolving tech landscape.
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