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SAND SPRINGS, Okla. , Dec. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Webco Industries, Inc. (OTC: WEBC) today reported results for our first quarter of fiscal year 2025, which ended October 31, 2024 . For our first quarter of fiscal year 2025, we had a net loss of $0.1 million , or a loss of $0.13 per diluted share, while in our first quarter of fiscal year 2024, we had net income of $5.1 million , or $6.25 per diluted share. Net sales for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 were $141.4 million , a 10.4 percent decrease from the $157.8 million of sales in the first quarter of fiscal year 2024. Dana S. Weber , Chief Executive Officer and Board Chair, stated, "The domestic manufacturing economy has been worsening over the past year. Further, we have certain markets that are being adversely impacted by foreign imports. We continue to focus on positioning Webco for various economic environments and opportunities by maintaining a strong balance sheet and good liquidity and making compelling investments in our business. Our total cash, short-term investments and available credit on our revolver were $89.0 million at October 31, 2024 , which we believe to be a competitive advantage." In the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, we had income from operations of $1.1 million after depreciation of $4.7 million . The first fiscal quarter of the prior year generated income from operations of $8.0 million after depreciation of $3.7 million . Gross profit for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 was $13.6 million , or 9.7 percent of net sales, compared to $21.6 million , or 13.7 percent of net sales, for the first quarter of fiscal year 2024. Selling, general and administrative expenses were $12.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2025 and $13.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2024. SG&A expenses in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 reflect a decrease in costs related to lower profitability, such as company-wide incentive compensation and variable pay programs, offset by inflation we have experienced in wages and other expenses. Interest expense was $1.2 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 and $1.3 million in the same quarter of fiscal year 2024. Average construction-based investments decreased in fiscal year 2025 and, as a result, capitalized interest decreased $0.2 million when compared to the first quarter of fiscal year 2024. Capitalized interest decreases net interest expense in the consolidated statement of operations. Notwithstanding capitalized interest, the impact of increased interest rates was more than offset by lower average debt balances. Capital expenditures incurred amounted to $5.1 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, down from $10.1 in the first quarter of fiscal year 2024. Included in our capital spending for the first quarter of fiscal year 2024 was construction of our F. William Weber Leadership Campus, which houses our Tech Center and corporate headquarters. The Tech Center, which is the tip of the spear that leads Webco's trusted and technical brand throughout our industry, was completed in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024. As of October 31, 2024 , we had $18.6 million in cash and short-term investments, in addition to $70.4 million of available borrowing under our $220 million senior revolving credit facility. Availability on the revolver, which had $44.0 million drawn at October 31, 2024 , was subject to advance rates on eligible accounts receivable and inventories. Our term loan and revolver mature in September 2027. Accounting rules require asset-based debt agreements like our revolver to be classified as a current liability, despite its fiscal year 2028 maturity. Webco's stock repurchase program authorizes the purchase of our outstanding common stock in private or open market transactions. In September 2023 , the Company's Board of Directors refreshed the repurchase program with a new limit of up to $40 million and extended the program's expiration until July 31 , 2026. We purchased 2,850 shares of our stock during the first quarter of fiscal year 2025. Including the current fiscal year, Webco has purchased approximately 158,000 shares over the course of the last five fiscal years. The repurchase plan may be extended, suspended or discontinued at any time, without notice, at the Board's discretion. Webco's mission is to continuously build on our strengths as we create a vibrant company for the ages. We leverage our core values of trust and teamwork, continuously building strength, agility and innovation. We focus on practices that support our brand such that we are 100% engaged every day to build a forever kind of company for our Trusted Teammates, customers, business partners, investors and community. We provide high-quality carbon steel, stainless steel and other metal specialty tubing products designed to industry and customer specifications. We have five tube production facilities in Oklahoma and Pennsylvania and eight value-added facilities in Oklahoma , Illinois , Michigan , Pennsylvania and Texas , serving customers globally. Our F. William Weber Leadership Campus is in Sand Springs, Oklahoma and houses our corporate offices and our Webco TechCenterTM, providing a state-of-the-art laboratory and R & D facility to lead and develop technical solutions. Risk Factors and Forward-looking statements: Certain statements in this release, including, but not limited to, those preceded by or predicated upon the words "anticipates," "appears," "believes," "estimates," "expects," "forever," "hopes," "intends," "plans," "projects," "pursue," "should," "will," "wishes," or similar words may constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company, or industry results, to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied herein. Such risks, uncertainties and factors include the factors discussed above and, among others: general economic and business conditions, including any global economic downturn; government policy or low hydrocarbon prices that stifle domestic investment in energy; competition from foreign imports, including any impacts associated with dumping or the strength of the U.S. dollar; political or social environments that are unfriendly to industrial or energy-related businesses; changes in manufacturing technology; the banking environment, including availability of adequate financing; worldwide and domestic monetary policy; changes in tax rates and regulation; regulatory and permitting requirements, including, but not limited to, environmental, workforce, healthcare, safety and national security; availability and cost of adequate qualified and competent personnel; changes in import / export tariff or restrictions; volatility in raw material cost and availability for the Company, its customers and vendors; the cost and availability, including time for delivery, of parts and services necessary to maintain equipment essential to the Company's manufacturing activities; the cost and availability of manufacturing supplies, including process gases; volatility in oil, natural gas and power cost and availability; world-wide or national transition from hydrocarbon sources of energy that adversely impact demand for our products; problems associated with product development efforts; significant shifts in product demand away from internal combustion engine automobiles; appraised values of inventories that can impact available borrowing under the Company's credit facility; declaration of material adverse change by a lender; industry capacity; domestic competition; loss of, or reductions in, purchases by significant customers and customer work stoppages; work stoppages by critical suppliers; labor unrest; conditions, including acts of God, that require more costly transportation of raw materials; accidents, equipment failures and insured or uninsured casualties; third-party product liability claims; flood, tornado, winter storms and other natural disasters; customer or supplier bankruptcy; customer or supplier declarations of force majeure; customer or supplier breach of contract; insurance cost and availability; lack of insurance coverage for floods; the cost associated with providing healthcare benefits to employees; customer claims; supplier quality or delivery problems; technical and data processing capabilities; cyberattack on our information technology infrastructure; world, domestic or regional health crises; vaccine mandates or related governmental policy that would cause significant portions of our workforce, or that of our customers or vendors, to leave their current employment; global or regional wars and conflicts; our inability or unwillingness to comply with rules required to maintain the quotation of our shares on any market place; and our inability to repurchase the Company's stock. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any such forward-looking statements. No assurance is provided that current results are indicative of those that will be realized in the future. - TABLES FOLLOW - SOURCE Webco Industries, Inc.Believe it or not, Cowboys might have hope yet after chaotic win at WashingtonThe Inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix was the highest-profile new sporting event in the world last year. The collision of luxury and high-octane adrenaline left spectators in awe, showcasing the extravagant lifestyle and hospitality synonymous with Las Vegas. Stretching over 3.8 miles, the custom-designed street circuit features 17 high-speed turns and two DRS zones against the dazzling Las Vegas backdrop. Last year’s event garnered 315,000 fans to witness drivers racing down the strip at 215 mph. The last time Las Vegas hosted a Grand Prix was in 1982 when Formula One drivers competed on a track set up in a parking lot next to Caesars Palace. The success of Netflix reality show Drive to Survive has boosted Formula One’s stateside popularity in the United States in recent years. But the Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix isn’t just about what happens on the track; Sin City also offers high-end hospitality options for attendees. VIP packages include exclusive lounges, gourmet dining experiences, and up-close views of the action from private suites. Bellagio Is Where It’s At The ultimate ticket to this year’s Grand Prix race is the Bellagio Fountain Club , which sits mere feet from the 1.2-mile high-speed straight. This exclusive package constructed next to the city’s famous fountains is a powerhouse trifecta of indulgence, hospitality, and exhilaration. “Bellagio Fountain Club’s debut at last year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix event surpassed all expectations,” said Andrew Lanzino, MGM Resorts’ Vice President of Citywide Events Strategy. The private indoor and rooftop deck gives guests unobstructed trackside viewing. Celebrity chefs like Mario Carbone, David Chang, Alain Ducasse, Masaharu Morimoto, and Jean-Georges Vongerichten serve exquisite culinary offerings. At the same time, drinks flow at the open bar from master sommeliers and mixologists. The Bellagio Fountain Club is a highly sought-after ticket for race weekend, yet the hotel offers numerous activities everyone can enjoy. The Shoey Bar is back! Drink from a newly designed white shoe at the wildly popular tribute to one of racing’s most iconic celebrations (thanks to Daniel Ricciardo). The Bellagio’s Ferrari pop-up boutique returns for the second consecutive year, exclusively housing men’s and women’s collections, luxury leather accessories, one-of-a-kind items, and signed collectibles. Exclusive Balmain Racing menswear capsule and the French house’s iconic ready-to-wear, handbags, and shoes will be available at a temporary boutique at the Bellagio through January 5. Papi Steak Garage Isn’t Just Dinner The Fontainebleau Las Vegas is a luxurious new addition to the Vegas Strip. A long-anticipated sister property to the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach, this Las Vegas counterpart brings high-end design and world-class dining. As the official event partner for the Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix, Fontainebleau will host the international elite at Papi Steak Garage, fusing high-energy dining and trackside action. Hosted by Papi Steak, a renowned David Grutman’s Groot Hospitality hotspot, this package places guests within the pulse of the race, the Pit Lane. Known for its signature “Papi Steak,” a richly seasoned and expertly cooked Tomahawk, the restaurant blends vintage glamour with a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere. For racing enthusiasts looking to pair fine dining with Formula 1 excitement, the VIP ultra-luxe package experience includes: Beyond the Racetrack No matter what team you cheer for, Sin City comes alive during race weekend. For those looking to get a taste of the action off-track, F1-themed activations throughout the city keep the energy high. The lobby at ARIA is the epicenter of excitement for Mercedes-AMG Petronas fans. A fully decked-out installation features race simulators, team merchandise, and photo opportunities with a show car, among other specialized experiences. The Cosmopolitan elevates race weekend with The Boulevard Experience, a souped-up watch party atop the Boulevard Pool. New for this year’s race is a closed-circuit viewing of the live Las Vegas Grand Prix TV feed. The Brooklyn Bridge will transform into a motorsport fan’s dream with Williams Racing team-curated interactive experiences. The free event offers fans an inside look at what it means to be on the team. Guests wandering The Cosmopolitan will find a variety of complimentary race weekend experiences, including MoneyGram Haas F1 Team memorabilia and photo opportunities with a team show car. Aston Martin at Fontainebleau As an official partner of the Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix, the resort is a high-energy destination for sports, entertainment, and exclusive experiences. More than 20 displayed Aston Martin models give fans unprecedented opportunities to experience the exquisite craftsmanship and advanced technology defining this prestigious brand. Aston Martin’s Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer, Marco Mattiacci, says, “It’s an opportunity to connect with our community of owners and bring our brand to enthusiasts from across North America during a landmark moment in the F1 calendar.” The exclusive Aston Martin British Bloodline experience presents a curated selection of current and rare vintage performance cars. Among them is the return of an icon, the Vanquish, Aston Martin’s V12 flagship. This collection also features the newly launched Vantage sports car, the groundbreaking DB12 Super Tourer, and the DBX707, hailed as the supercar of SUVs. “As the excitement builds toward Race Week, we are thrilled to offer our guests an intimate look at the history and evolution of Aston Martin, a brand that symbolizes both excellence and sophistication,” says Fontainebleau Las Vegas President Maurice Wooden. “As a resort, we pride ourselves on bringing top-tier experiences to our guests, creating once-in-a-lifetime memories. Fontainebleau Las Vegas is extremely proud to be the exclusive partner of Aston Martin, and we are honored to bring this iconic luxury brand for the ultimate Race Week experience.” The hotel invites guests to experience Race Week in VIP style with the Aston Martin Million Dollar Package . This epitome of luxury allows guests to tailor their own Race Week adventure. It offers the extraordinary opportunity to take home an Aston Martin Vanquish, the stunning new flagship model from the prestigious British performance car brand. The Aston Martin Million Dollar Package also includes: Crockfords Is Vegas’ Best Kept Secret Experience the Grand Prix without the craziness of The Strip with a retreat to Crockfords Las Vegas , an ultra-luxe property located directly on Las Vegas Boulevard just outside the high-energy zone. Recharge at this exclusive hotel within Resorts World after an action-fueled day at the track. The Chairman’s Villa is an exclusive four-bedroom suite with direct views of the strip and race track from its private balcony on the 65th floor. This opulent suite includes a private lobby experience, a personal butler, and access to all of Crockford’s amenities. A large media room, formal dining room, chef’s kitchen, and billiards table bar mean guests can relax in the expansive living room while enjoying cocktails from a private bar or watching the drivers speed down the straight from the strip-facing balcony. The Chairman’s Villa is also supreme for hosting exclusive events or parties during race weekend. It is truly a one-of-a-kind accommodation that embodies the glamour and extravagance of Las Vegas and Formula 1. Smooth Operator Inspired by his nickname “Smooth Operator,” Carlos Sainz will bring the vibes to Las Vegas with the ‘Smooth Operator’ Dance Lounge at ARIA Resort & Casino. Sainz famously earned his moniker by singing the song while overtaking competitors during global Grand Prix events. The charismatic Grand Prix driver will take over ARIA’s ALIBI Ultra Lounge before racing around the Las Vegas streets. “Collaborating with Carlos Sainz on this exclusive party further strengthens the way we’re delivering the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix experience to fans unlike any other race of the year,” continues Lanzino. “Whether it’s one-of-a-kind dining experiences with world-famous chefs, virtual reality Grand Prix moments with championship teams, or dancing with the Smooth Operator himself, we are creating a variety of ways for visitors and locals to have the time of their lives.” This article was produced by Media Decision and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks . Copyright 2024 Wealth of Geeks
FBI director Christopher Wray has said he plans to resign at the end of President Joe Biden’s term in January, an announcement that came a week and a half after President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate loyalist Kash Patel for the job. At a town hall meeting with the bureau workforce, Mr Wray said he would be stepping down “after weeks of careful thought”. Mr Wray’s intended resignation is not unexpected considering that Mr Trump had picked Mr Patel for the role in his new administration. Mr Wray had previously been named by Mr Trump and began the 10-year term — a length meant to insulate the agency from the political influence of changing administrations — in 2017, after Mr Trump fired then-FBI director James Comey. Mr Trump had demonstrated his anger with Mr Wray on multiple occasions, including after Mr Wray’s congressional testimony in September. “My goal is to keep the focus on our mission — the indispensable work you’re doing on behalf of the American people every day,” Mr Wray told agency employees. “In my view, this is the best way to avoid dragging the bureau deeper into the fray, while reinforcing the values and principles that are so important to how we do our work.” Mr Wray continued: “It should go without saying, but I’ll say it anyway — this is not easy for me. I love this place, I love our mission, and I love our people — but my focus is, and always has been, on us and doing what’s right for the FBI.” Mr Wray received a standing ovation following his remarks before a standing-room-only crowd at FBI headquarters and some in the audience cried, according to an FBI official who was not authorised to discuss the private gathering and spoke on condition of anonymity to The Associated Press. Mr Trump applauded the news on social media, calling it “a great day for America as it will end the weaponisation of what has become known as the United States Department of Injustice” and saying that Mr Patel’s confirmation will begin “the process of Making the FBI Great Again”. If confirmed by the Senate, Mr Patel would herald a radical leadership transformation at the nation’s premier federal law enforcement agency. He has advocated shutting down the FBI’s Washington headquarters and called for ridding the federal government of “conspirators”, raising alarm that he might seek to wield the FBI’s significant investigative powers as an instrument of retribution against Mr Trump’s perceived enemies. Mr Patel said in a statement Wednesday that he was looking forward to “a smooth transition. I will be ready to serve the American people on day one”.Jimmy Carter: A brief bio
Q-and-A: DWU football head coach Alex Kretzschmar reflects on first season leading the Tigers
NEW YORK , Dec. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report on how AI is driving market transformation - The global debt collection software market size is estimated to grow by USD 2.31 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.92% during the forecast period. Rise in non-performing loans (npls) is driving market growth, with a trend towards integration of advanced technologies in debt collection software. However, high cost of debt collection software poses a challenge. Key market players include AgreeYa Solutions Inc., Analog Legalhub Technology Solutions Pvt. Ltd., CDS Software, Chetu Inc., Comtech Systems Inc., Comtronic Systems LLC, DAKCS Software Systems Inc., Debt Pay Inc., DebtCol Software Pty. Ltd., Debtrak, Experian Plc, ezyCollect Pty. Ltd., Fair Isaac Corp., Fidelity National Information Services Inc., Gaviti Akyl Ltd., Indigo Cloud Ltd., MarketXpander Services Pvt. Ltd., Nestack Technologies Pvt. Ltd., PDCflow, PrimeSoft Solutions Inc., Quantrax Corp. Inc., Radixweb, receeve GmbH, Sila Inc., Totality Software Inc., A4dable Software, Ameyo Pvt Ltd., DBA PaySimple Inc., Simplicity Collection Software, Constellation Software Inc.; CGI Group Inc.; TransUnion; Nucleus Software Exports Ltd.; Pegasystems Inc.; Temenos Group AG; PAIR Finance; Credgenics AI-Powered Market Evolution Insights. Our comprehensive market report ready with the latest trends, growth opportunities, and strategic analysis- View Free Sample Report PDF Forecast period 2024-2028 Base Year 2023 Historic Data 2018 - 2022 Segment Covered Deployment (On-premises and Cloud-based), Industry Application (Small and medium enterprises and Large enterprises), and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa), Component, enterprise size, end-user Region Covered North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Key companies profiled AgreeYa Solutions Inc., Analog Legalhub Technology Solutions Pvt. Ltd., CDS Software, Chetu Inc., Comtech Systems Inc., Comtronic Systems LLC, DAKCS Software Systems Inc., Debt Pay Inc., DebtCol Software Pty. Ltd., Debtrak, Experian Plc, ezyCollect Pty. Ltd., Fair Isaac Corp., Fidelity National Information Services Inc., Gaviti Akyl Ltd., Indigo Cloud Ltd., MarketXpander Services Pvt. Ltd., Nestack Technologies Pvt. Ltd., PDCflow, PrimeSoft Solutions Inc., Quantrax Corp. Inc., Radixweb, receeve GmbH, Sila Inc., Totality Software Inc., A4dable Software, Ameyo Pvt Ltd., DBA PaySimple Inc., Simplicity Collection Software, Constellation Software Inc.; CGI Group Inc.; TransUnion; Nucleus Software Exports Ltd.; Pegasystems Inc.; Temenos Group AG; PAIR Finance; Credgenics Key Market Trends Fueling Growth The Debt Collection Software market is witnessing significant trends, including automation, multichannel communication, and affordability for organizations of all sizes. Large enterprises segment seeks economies of scale through deployment of advanced debt collection solutions. Services and solutions segments dominate, offering debt collection services and modern applications for effective loan recovery. Implementation of debt collection software involves business-specific needs, training, and implementation work. Legacy systems are being replaced with modern applications for productivity and effective debt recovery. Borrower data, overdue invoice reminders, phone calls, and online payment collection are essential components of the debt collection ecosystem. Banks and financial organizations prioritize debt collection journeys and money collection process, addressing complexities through automation, notifications, alerts, and compliance with consumer protection laws and debt collection regulations. Costs, bankruptcy status, and litigious consumers pose challenges. InterProse Corporation's InterProse ACE offers debt collection software for government organizations, with components including text messaging, voice mail drops, dialers, and compliance with debt collection regulations. Deployment options include on-premises and cloud-based, catering to enterprise size. The debt collection software market is undergoing a transformation through the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and data analytics. These technologies are streamlining debt collection processes by enhancing decision-making capabilities, automating repetitive tasks, and improving overall efficiency. AI specifically, is revolutionizing the financial industry by enabling automated decision-making processes, predictive analytics, and personalized customer interactions. For instance, AI algorithms analyze historical debtor data to forecast payment behaviors and suggest tailored collection strategies, resulting in more effective interventions. This technological integration is a game-changer for the debt collection industry. Insights on how AI is driving innovation, efficiency, and market growth- Request Sample! • The Debt Collection Software market faces challenges in automating debt collection processes for organizations, particularly in the large enterprises segment. Affordability and economies of scale are key considerations, as debt collection software solutions must effectively meet business-specific needs without straining budgets. Automation of loan recovery processes, online payment collection, and multichannel communication are essential for productivity and effective debt recovery. Services and solutions segments offer debt collection services and deployment of software for organizations. Debt collection journeys include overdue invoice reminders, phone calls, text messaging, voice mail drops, and dialers. Borrower data, debt collection regulations, bankruptcy status, and litigious consumers add complexities to the debt collection ecosystem. InterProse Corporation's InterProse ACE software addresses these challenges with automatic monitoring, notifications, and alerts. Deployment options include on-premises and cloud-based solutions, catering to various enterprise sizes. Training and implementation work are crucial for successful deployment and integration with core business systems, such as legacy systems and modern applications. Consumer protection laws and debt collection regulations must be adhered to, ensuring compliance and effective debt collection. Costs, productivity, and effective debt recovery are the primary objectives for financial and banking organizations. The debt collection software market continues to evolve, providing innovative solutions to streamline the money collection process. • The debt collection software market is facing a significant challenge due to the high cost of the software. This issue poses a barrier for smaller debt collection agencies and businesses with limited financial resources, potentially reducing competition and increasing prices for consumers. The average cost of the software ranges from USD480 to USD1200 yearly per user, with enterprise solutions costing more based on specific requirements. This high expense can hinder market growth and limit access to effective debt collection solutions for many organizations. Insights into how AI is reshaping industries and driving growth- Download a Sample Report This debt collection software market report extensively covers market segmentation by 1.1 On-premises- On-premises debt collection software solutions hold a substantial position in the global debt collection software market, addressing the demands of businesses that value internal infrastructure management, data security, and customizability. These software solutions are installed and operated within an organization's premises, granting users a significant degree of autonomy over their debt collection operations. Large enterprises, particularly those in regulated industries like finance and healthcare, prefer on-premises debt collection software to safeguard sensitive debtor information and adhere to stringent data privacy regulations. Companies such as DAKCS Software Systems Inc. (DAKCS) provide tailored on-premises debt collection solutions, catering to the unique security and regulatory needs of large enterprises. This level of customization is particularly appealing to complex debt collection operations within large enterprises. On-premises debt collection software enables organizations to maintain full control over their data and operations, which is essential for large enterprises adhering to strict IT policies and security protocols. Providers like CDS Software offer extensive on-premises debt collection software, empowering large enterprises to manage their debt collection processes while ensuring data security and integrity. The need for direct control over data and operations, combined with the ability to customize software to align with specific business processes, is expected to fuel the growth of the on-premises segment in the global debt collection software market. Download complimentary Sample Report to gain insights into AI's impact on market dynamics, emerging trends, and future opportunities- including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) The Debt Collection Software market is witnessing significant growth due to the automation of debt collection processes, providing large enterprises with economies of scale and affordability. This market caters to both services and solutions segments, offering debt collection services and software solutions to organizations. The deployment of debt collection software streamlines the loan recovery process, enabling effective communication through multichannel methods. Borrower data management is crucial, and these systems provide features like overdue invoice reminders, phone calls, and online payment collection. Banking and financial organizations benefit greatly from these solutions, increasing productivity and improving the effectiveness of debt recovery. However, implementing debt collection software comes with complexities, including business-specific needs, training, and implementation work. Legacy systems and modern applications must be considered during strategy development. The debt collection ecosystem requires a well-thought-out plan for successful implementation. The Debt Collection Software market is witnessing significant growth due to the automation of debt collection processes, which helps organizations streamline their loan recovery process and improve productivity. The large enterprises segment is a major contributor to the market's growth, as they can leverage economies of scale and affordability. The market offers both solutions and services segments, with debt collection services being a popular choice for organizations seeking expert assistance in managing their debt collection journeys. The deployment of debt collection software involves careful strategy and implementation, taking into account business-specific needs and the complexities of the debt collection ecosystem. Modern applications replace legacy systems, offering online payment collection, overdue invoice reminders, and multichannel communication options like phone calls, text messaging, voice mail drops, and dialers. Implementation work includes training and adherence to debt collection regulations, consumer protection laws, bankruptcy status, and litigious consumers. The market caters to banking organizations, financial institutions, government organizations, and other entities, providing effective debt recovery and cost savings through automatic monitoring, notifications, and alerts. 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/debt-collection-software-market-to-grow-by-usd-2-31-billion-2024-2028-driven-by-rising-npls-and-ai-powered-market-evolution---technavio-302327886.html SOURCE Technavio
Fianna Fail largest party in Ireland as counting finishes - with coalition negotiations set to begin
A world-renowned Haida artist and avid supporter of the victims of war in Ukraine, is pitching his talents to a Victoria non-profit that provides life-changing prosthetics. Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas is the only living Indigenous artist whose work is in the permanent collection of the Modern and Contemporary Art Department at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. His works are also in the collections of the British Museum, Denver Art Museum, Peabody Essex Museum, Seattle Art Museum, Glenbow Museum in Calgary, Vancouver Art Gallery and Museum of Anthropology at UBC. Originally scheduled to have an art show at the TSEKH Art Gallery in Kyiv, Ukraine in the fall of 2021, Nicoll Yahgulanaas is instead using his art to raise funds and awareness for the war-torn country. One of the works that would have been displayed is called Kyiv Child, created after visiting Ukraine in 2019. “I made many friends on that trip, and now they are huddling in basements, holding their children close. They worry about food, water, and Putin's indiscriminate bombing of civilians,” Nicoll Yahgulanaas said in a statement. Yahgulanaas has raised $75,000 so far for Ukraine aid through Unicef and MSF, and the latest campaign targets $25,000 for the Victoria Hand Project. From a small lab at the University of Victoria, The Victoria Hand Project harnesses 3D printing technology to create life-altering prosthetics. The charity strives to empower individuals worldwide, particularly where accessing prosthetics is challenging. By offering affordable and sustainable solutions, they restore independence, hope, and dignity to those who have lost mobility due to limb loss. CEO Michael Peirone is grateful that the B.C. artist opted to share his talents with the Saanich-based project. Malaspina Printmakers in Vancouver is covering the costs to create the high-quality prints of Yahgulanaas’s work available for $700 . Other donors and supporters mean the funds are 100 per cent proceeds. Each print sale, $700, would essentially cover the costs associated with a prosthetic in Ukraine, Peirone told the Saanich News. “Unfortunately from what we’ve heard from partners on the ground working in Ukraine there is such a need for prosthetic care and the resources aren’t available,” he said. “The waitlists are growing, with people who have been waiting six months to a year after losing an arm defending their country. “Even if the war ended right this moment – and we wish it would – there’s still a great need for prosthetic care.” Three Victoria Hand Project team members travelled to Ukraine in June 2023 to train locals and set up two clinics for the organization’s usual in-country solution. “That helps with the long-term sustainability and decreases wait times. Also, we found it really fosters a sense of pride in the community,” Peirone said. The non-profit has made several in-person trips there, creating fast and affordable prosthetic limb production. The organization has already provided more than 110 prosthetics for Ukrainians. Get prints online at . It's one campaign among several underway at the Victoria Hand Project. A Giving Tuesday event (internationally recognized as Dec. 3) aims to raise $50,000 focused on providing prosthetic arms in Ukraine. An evening of Impact features a silent auction, compelling personal stories and food and beverages. Learn more about the initiative, purchase tickets or donate online at .
FBI director Christopher Wray has said he plans to resign at the end of President Joe Biden’s term in January, an announcement that came a week and a half after President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate loyalist Kash Patel for the job. At a town hall meeting with the bureau workforce, Mr Wray said he would be stepping down “after weeks of careful thought”. Mr Wray’s intended resignation is not unexpected considering that Mr Trump had picked Mr Patel for the role in his new administration. Mr Wray had previously been named by Mr Trump and began the 10-year term — a length meant to insulate the agency from the political influence of changing administrations — in 2017, after Mr Trump fired then-FBI director James Comey. Mr Trump had demonstrated his anger with Mr Wray on multiple occasions, including after Mr Wray’s congressional testimony in September. “My goal is to keep the focus on our mission — the indispensable work you’re doing on behalf of the American people every day,” Mr Wray told agency employees. “In my view, this is the best way to avoid dragging the bureau deeper into the fray, while reinforcing the values and principles that are so important to how we do our work.” Mr Wray continued: “It should go without saying, but I’ll say it anyway — this is not easy for me. I love this place, I love our mission, and I love our people — but my focus is, and always has been, on us and doing what’s right for the FBI.” Mr Wray received a standing ovation following his remarks before a standing-room-only crowd at FBI headquarters and some in the audience cried, according to an FBI official who was not authorised to discuss the private gathering and spoke on condition of anonymity to The Associated Press. Mr Trump applauded the news on social media, calling it “a great day for America as it will end the weaponisation of what has become known as the United States Department of Injustice” and saying that Mr Patel’s confirmation will begin “the process of Making the FBI Great Again”. If confirmed by the Senate, Mr Patel would herald a radical leadership transformation at the nation’s premier federal law enforcement agency. He has advocated shutting down the FBI’s Washington headquarters and called for ridding the federal government of “conspirators”, raising alarm that he might seek to wield the FBI’s significant investigative powers as an instrument of retribution against Mr Trump’s perceived enemies. Mr Patel said in a statement Wednesday that he was looking forward to “a smooth transition. I will be ready to serve the American people on day one”.Kishan Nanayakkara featured in 2024 APAC Leading Lights listSET-listed Demco, a contractor and engineering service provider, is continuing to rack up revenue in the final quarter, helped by a recent contract to build electricity transmission systems worth 270 million baht. The contract, awarded by Siam Power Generation in Rayong, includes the construction of a 230/115 kilovolt (kV) substation with 230kV underground systems and a 115kV transmission line. Construction is scheduled for completion in early 2026, said Pongsak Sirikupt, chief executive and managing director of Demco. The contract is part of Demco's plan to increase revenue in the fourth quarter this year. "We have to drive growth in the fourth quarter by bidding for new projects in the state and private sectors," said Mr Pongsak. He said the company has an opportunity to grow more revenue in the final quarter, following an outstanding performance in the third quarter. From July to September, the company posted a net profit of 62.5 million baht, an increase of 248% year-on-year, said Mr Pongsak. For the first nine months of this year, Demco's net profit was 20.5 million baht, a year-on-year increase of 311%. The company is committed to clearing a backlog worth 3.15 billion baht, with 3 billion baht coming from electrical engineering work and the remainder from jobs related to communication and signalling, as well as renewable energy. He said Demco is seeking new opportunities in businesses related to smart grids, energy storage systems, battery-powered vehicles and carbon credit trade. Carbon credits refer to the amount of carbon dioxide emissions reduced by environmental projects, including clean energy development and environmentally friendly businesses. The credits can be sold to other companies to offset the carbon dioxide they release into the air. Demco announced earlier it plans to diversify into digital technology businesses and continue to grow its renewable energy portfolio. The company is keen to diversify into new energy businesses, especially those applying digital technology such as smart grid development.
China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project to boost regional transport, prosperityBjørn Lomborg, the president of the think tank Copenhagen Consensus Center, in this interview with SYLVESTER ENOGHASE , speaks on how conducting a cost-benefit assessment on Healthcare in Nigeria would make Federal Government spend its resources most effectively to achieve the greatest amount of social good for Nigerians. Excerpts: Could you please, give highlights of why you are here in Nigeria? I am in Nigeria to contribute to the Africa Dialogue on Financing to End Tuberculosis and to suggest the best policies for Nigeria I have in the last few days in Nigeria to suggest and give reasons on why investing in tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment is one of the world’s most efficient policies. I met with the Health Ministers of the Philippines Dr. Herbosa, Indonesia, Nigeria, and South Africa, as well as many other notabilities, and I have been able to convince African leaders that every dollar spent delivers an astounding $46 of social good. I had several meetings with multiple Nigerian politicians and public institutions about conducting a cost-benefit assessment of where the country could spend its resources most effectively to achieve the greatest amount of social good for its citizens. Besides meeting several times with the Nigeria Health Minister, Dr. Muhammad Pate, I also met with Prof. Sulaiman, head of the 400-person National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies to discuss how tuberculosis, the world’s most deadly infectious disease last year, killing 1.25 million people and proffer solutions These solutions are seldom making headlines, but they are cheap and incredibly powerful as specified the global plan to end TB, 2023–2030 Following your interventions on African health policies in Nigeria, how do you see other world leaders adhering to the global plan to end TB, 2023–2030 from next year? There is hope that African leaders with adhere to recent global modeling exercise conducted for the Global Plan to End TB, 2023–2030. The Global Plan provides aspirational scenarios to reduce the number of TB deaths and the TB incidence by 90% and 80%, respectively, by 2030 relative to 2015 in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. The Global Plan, commissioned by the Stop TB partnership, is a collaborative and inclusive document, developed with the input of numerous partners, including the Copenhagen Consensus, stakeholders, and experts over the course of almost 2 years. The plan calls for scaling up existing tools for addressing TB—such as molecular diagnostics and approaches for early case finding—as well as funding and deploying innovations, such as digital adherence tools and a new vaccine over the period 2023 to 2030. The Global Plan reports that US$ 250 billion in funding would be required between 2023 and 2030 to implement the plan, leading to 6.6 million averted deaths and 234 million averted disability-adjusted-life-years. The analysis takes the Global Plan modeling as the starting point to conduct benefit–cost analysis for the Halftime SDG Series. While it was not constructed as an optimisation exercise, it can provide insight into a plausible range of BCRs for increased funding to TB. The primary baseline used to assess marginal benefits and costs is one where TB burden follows the steady downward trajectory prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, without any assumed disruption in TB notifications and treatment after 2022. This baseline assumes TB services have recovered fully during 2022 and reverted to pre-pandemic trends. In 2030, incremental costs total US$ 5.2 billion, and in 2050, an extra US$ 2.6 billion is required. Importantly, these costs include health system costs and substantial markups beyond patient costs such as programme costs and enablers, meaning they are likely to represent long-term resource needs. With this funding, incremental averted cases and deaths are 370,000 and 85,000, respectively, in the first year and continue rising over time. By 2030, LLMCs see 4.5 million fewer cases and 906,000 fewer deaths compared to a standard baseline By 2050, there are 8.0 million fewer incremental cases and 1.4 million fewer incremental deaths. Could you please, give us the objectives of the global plan to end TB, 2023–2030? The Global Plan is a collaborative document that was developed over 2021 and 2022. The aim of the plan was to identify and model interventions that would end TB as a public health challenge by 2030, defined as a reduction in number of TB deaths and TB incidence per 100,000 by 90% and 80%, respectively, relative to 2015. The Global Plan calls for a series of major activities, each with multiple interventions like: scaling up TB diagnosis and care such as modern diagnostics, integration of screening and testing with other health services, expanding screening for early detection of TB, and support for patients to avoid catastrophic costs. Scaling up TB prevention such as preventative treatment for contacts and those living with HIV, airborne infection prevention and control, addressing risk factors for TB, and deploying a new vaccine. Partnering with key stakeholders, the community and private sector, including supporting community-based and home-based models for delivering TB prevention and care, and scaling up public–private mix approaches to improve the quality of TB care. Ending TB through universal health coverage, pandemic preparedness and response, and socioeconomic actions including expanding access to TB services through universal health coverage initiatives and positioning the TB response at the center of pandemic preparedness and response efforts. Considering human rights, stigma, gender, and key and vulnerable populations including positioning universal human rights as the foundation of the TB response, eliminating TB-related stigma and discrimination, and ensuring that TB interventions are gender sensitive and gender transformative. Accelerating development of new TB tools including investing, at minimum, US$ 5 billion annually to accelerate the R&D of new TB diagnostics, medicines, and vaccines, developing a new TB vaccine by 2025, and investing at least US$ 800 million annually in basic science research. The total undiscounted funding requirement is reported as US$ 250 billion across 2023 to 2030 with approximately US$ 210 billion for service delivery and US$ 40 billion for R&D. With these interventions, epidemiological modeling projects that the Global Plan would drive down cases and deaths with a particularly rapid decrease between 2025 and 2028. Across 2023–2030, the Global Plan predicts 43 million averted cases, 6.6 million averted deaths, and 234 million averted daily. Could you please, be specific on how TB investment would avert substantial mortality? This report also shows that TB investment would avert substantial mortality, estimated at 27.3 million averted deaths over the 28-year period between 2023 and 2050 inclusive: almost 1 million averted deaths per year on average. Accounting for all estimated direct and indirect costs, the cost per averted death is slightly over US$ 2000. Interventions to address TB represent exceptional value-for-money. Sir, could please, be specific on your prospect for 2025? It is encouraging to see that 2024 was the year that likely steered us onto a path of more effective and reasonable climate policy. There has been an undeniable backlash to inefficient and expensive climate policies in many elections, most notably in the US and Europe, and I am hopeful that the incoming US administration will shift the focus of its climate policy more towards green R&D. The recent statements made by the nominee for Energy Secretary, who has publicly echoed many of my longstanding arguments, give me hope for an overdue course correction. We have also observed a tremendous appetite for a more nuanced, fact-based debate on climate after years of fear-mongering. Let us hope the world can become even more focused on the most efficient policies. We at the Copenhagen Consensus have certainly pushed hard for this over the past year. We have worked with Zambia, Namibia, Uzbekistan, Eswatini, and Uganda to highlight the most efficient policies, such as tuberculosis, malaria, nutrition and education. For instance, in the Pacific island of Tonga, we presented a new report on the best solutions for the nation, together with the Prime Minister, Speaker of the Parliament, and the Crown Prince. We’ve talked prioritisation with Ministers and other high-ranking government officials of countries including India, Argentina, Brazil, Nigeria, Malawi, Ghana, New Zealand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Peru. The interest in and positive reviews for Best Things First have exceeded our wildest expectations. Next year, 2025 to be precise, it will be published in more languages. I have also had the privilege of presenting it to the foreign aid agencies of Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Norway, and to the yearly gathering of Chief Economists from all development agencies. What do you anticipate or your gesture for a New Year’s resolution? As we approach the New Year, we need to stop chasing grand lists of unachievable goals and focus on what’s working. Our resolution should be to direct whatever resources we have —our time, attention, money, or political will — toward the actions that bring about the greatest improvements in people’s lives. Across hundreds of pages of peer-reviewed, free analysis, we have identified the 12 smartest things we could do to make life better for the poorer half of the planet. PROFILE: Dr. Bjorn Lomborg researches the smartest ways to improve the environment and the world. He is the author of several best-selling books, Visiting Fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution, and he has worked with many hundreds of the world’s top economists, including seven Nobel Laureates. TIME Magazine has named him one of the world’s 100 most influential people. Lomborg is a frequent commentator in print and broadcast media, for outlets including the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Times of India and China Daily. His monthly columns are published in 35+ newspapers across all continents in more than a dozen languages. The Copenhagen Consensus Center was named Think Tank of the Year in International Affairs by Prospect Magazine. It has repeatedly been top-ranked by University of Pennsylvania in its global overview of think tanks.
SOLON, Ohio , Nov. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Tarkett, a global leader in innovative and sustainable flooring solutions, recently led the renovation of the Niles Township Respite Center near Chicago, Illinois . The initiative was part of the company's charitable giving program, Tarkett Cares , which encourages employees to share their time, talents and corporate flooring donations with local communities where the company operates. While planning Design Days 2024, an annual, three-day interior design show in Chicago , the Tarkett team wanted to find a way to contribute to their host city in a new way. "Instead of focusing on one-off customer giveaways, we wanted to invest in something that could create lasting value for the community that hosts our industry each year," said Roxane Spears , vice president of sustainability for Tarkett. Spears contacted Lisa Kaplan , a Chicago -area resident and former commercial flooring professional, who directed her to the Niles Township Respite Center as a place in need. Located in Skokie, Illinois , the Niles Township Respite Center provides relief to residents facing housing and food insecurities. The space offers access to showers, laundry facilities, a clothing closet, food pantry and more. "The Respite Center's efforts to serve community members struggling with housing and food insecurity align perfectly with Tarkett's commitment to social equity and the Tarkett Cares program," Spears said. "While the center operates on a tight budget, it does so much to help so many. If we can support the center's work by providing cleaner, safer spaces for people as they work through challenging circumstances—that's the impact we want to make." With a deep knowledge of how thoughtfully designed interiors and healthy materials can contribute to better indoor air quality and an overall sense of well-being, the team updated the center's flooring with third-party certified products featuring soothing patterns and colors that would help everyone at the center feel more at home and at peace. Tarkett donated new floors (including the costs of labor for installation) for a quiet room, multi-purpose room, entryway and stairs. The team's enthusiasm for the project spread to other local contractors; FloorsMD provided installation services and their president, Michelle DeLuco , served as an onsite coordinator throughout the project. Tarkett's ethos® carpet tile was installed in the quiet room. ethos is Cradle to Cradle Certified® Silver and has a non-PVC backing that can be recycled back into itself. Contour LVT, which can be recycled into auto mats when taken back through Tarkett's ReStart® take-back and recycling program, was installed in the entryway and multi-purpose room. Coordinating Johnsonite® stair treads were also added to enhance safety and durability. After seeing the newly installed floors, DeLuco felt energized and determined to find a way to go a little further. The project scope grew to include a room expansion, ceiling height adjustment, fresh coat of paint and additional carpet tile for four offices that had suffered flood damage. The additional flooring materials and labor were covered by Tarkett and FloorsMD. ECI and its Executive Construction Foundation, Maxxon and Aspen Commercial Painting also contributed to the expanded project scope. The Respite Center was not charged for any portion of the renovation. "The center had such good bones and was already doing tremendous work for the community. It was very heart-pleasing to see what impact we could make with just a little bit of elbow grease and a group of people who cared," DeLuco said. Ruth Orme-Johnson , a social worker for the Respite Center, said the renovations drastically improved the energy of the space. "It was just wonderful to know that we're giving our clients the kind of calm, positive and inviting environment that we really have always wanted to. You can just feel everyone relax a little bit," Orme-Johnson said. "Our new floor, our new space has been such a gift in terms of being welcoming to everybody. It's also helped me feel proud of the work I do. The space allows the people we help believe they're capable and have the agency to take those steps that will have a positive impact on their lives long term." Mike Isaacs , public relations outreach coordinator for Niles Township Government, said the impact of the renovation exceeded everyone's expectations. "It's been really inspiring," he said. "Our gratitude is forevermore, that's for sure." In addition to corporate giving, the global Tarkett Cares program empowers employees to donate two days of volunteer activity each year. Globally, Tarkett employees have volunteered 3,800 days and contributed to over 900 community initiatives between 2017 and 2023. Take a virtual tour of the renovated Niles Township Respite Center. About Tarkett With a 140-year history, Tarkett is a worldwide leader in innovative and durable flooring and sports surface solutions, generating net sales of 3.4 billion euros in 2023. The Group has around 12,000 employees, 23 R&D centres, 8 recycling centres, and 34 production sites. Tarkett designs and manufactures solutions for hospitals, schools, housing, hotels, offices, shops, and sports fields, serving customers in more than 100 countries. To build "The Way to Better Floors", the Group is committed to the circular economy and sustainable development, in line with its Tarkett Human-Conscious Design ® approach. Tarkett is listed on the Euronext-regulated market (compartment B, ISIN: FR0004188670, ticker: TKTT). www.tarkett-group.com Every Step Matters For years, Tarkett has raised the sustainability standards of the flooring industry. The company designs floors with transparency you can trust as it creates healthy impacts on indoor spaces and protects our air, water, soil, and every living thing. Tarkett's ReStart ® take-back and recycling program will either repurpose or recycle every type of flooring from any manufacturer. Its near-term science-based carbon emissions reduction targets have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and are fully aligned with the Paris Climate Agreement objective to limit global warming by 1.5 degrees Celsius. For more information, visit commercial.tarkett.com/sustainability . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tarkett-leads-effort-to-renovate-chicago-area-respite-center-as-part-of-tarkett-cares-program-302315799.html SOURCE Tarkett USA , Inc.
For “Hysteria!” actresses Anna Camp and Julie Bowen, horror is harder than comedy. “Horror is really hard actually because there is a fine line you have to walk; you have to make it feel grounded and you’re put in these extreme circumstances: You’re being possessed or pulled through the air, there’s nothing you can do to relate to that,” explained Camp of “Pitch Perfect” fame. “With comedy, you can have a relatable situation and go, ‘I’ve been in situations like that.’ There’s nothing you can compare (horror) to, so you have to use your imagination. I find it harder. Your imagination goes home with you at the end of the day. You’re still thinking crazy thoughts.” Bowen, best known for playing Claire Dunphy on “Modern Family,” agreed. “Comedy’s pretty binary because it’s like either you can make people laugh or you don’t. I can’t watch horror. I’m terrified, terrified! I am the easiest scare in the world, so as far as doing (horror), I want to make it as real as possible. It was hard because I had to be really, really crazy. There were times when I’d get back to my hotel room at 3 a.m., I didn’t want to be alone in my head,” said Bowen, laughing. Camp, Bowen, Royal Oak native Bruce Campbell (“Evil Dead”), showrunner David A. Goodman (“Futurama”), and Ypsilanti native/creator Matthew Scott Kane (“American Horror Story”) were promoting “Hysteria!” at the New York Comic Con in October. The horror series is streaming on Peacock. Set in the fictional Michigan town of Happy Hollow, the first episode of “Hysteria” begins with a popular quarterback’s disappearance and a pentagram is discovered on a garage door. As a result, rumors of the occult and satanic influence run rampant through the town. A trio of outcasts in a heavy metal band called Dethkrunch exploit this by rebranding themselves as a satanic metal band, which leads to them becoming the targets of the town’s witch hunt. “Something on my mind a lot in 2019 was we’re living in this post-factual age with social media. It seemed like decades and decades ago, you could trust the news. Now everything is in question. When lies end up getting disseminated as truth, that starts to warp people’s version of reality. Suddenly, they’re living in a world other people are not. That was going on in the world I was living in and I very quickly connected it to the 1980s satanic panic. It’s not really that different because people were saying Ozzy Osbourne, Jason Voorhees (of ‘Friday the 13th’), and the Smurfs were going to turn your kids into satanists and kill you in your sleep. That didn’t happen. It wasn’t true, but so many people got worked up into such a fervor over it, bad things happened. ... It was smoke without fire,” Kane said. “Disinformation is not new,” Campbell said. “Disinformation will tear a town apart.” Campbell portrays Happy Hollow Police Chief Ben Dandridge. “This guy’s a reasonable cop; he’s a rational person who doesn’t treat the teenagers like they’re idiots. It’s all very refreshing,” he said. “I want to play that guy again. I want cops to be that guy. I’m playing the cop (that) cops need to be. That’s my whole motivation for playing this guy: How would you like cops to be, especially the guy in charge, the chief of police? They’re lucky to have Chief Dandridge.” “It was truly an exciting moment when Bruce signed on,” Goodman said. By the end of the first episode, a supernatural phenomenon happens to Linda Campbell, played by Bowen. “Linda seems like one thing, then you realize she’s bananas. She’s either bananas or she’s possessed. Either way, it’s a complicated thing to play,” Bowen said. “With Julie, you can have your cake and eat it too,” Kane said. “She’s this fun, quirky mom. ... As the episode goes on, she’s pulled deeper into this thing and crazy stuff starts happening. That final act of the first episode was my favorite moment with her because this announced that this is not Claire Dunphy. We’re not doing that again; we’re pushing her as a performer. “Julie was so excited about doing stunts. She told us on many occasions she’s very sturdy and can take it. The same goes for Bruce and for Anna. We didn’t ask anyone to give us a flavor of the thing they did before. We cast people we loved so much (in their famous projects) that we wanted to give them the opportunity to do the exact opposite.” Added Bowen: “I got this script and was like, ‘Oh great. She’s a mom. How fun.’ I love moms. I’m a mom, but I felt this was not worth flying out of town to Georgia and being away from my kids. Then I got to the end of the pilot and was like, ‘She’s crazy!’ Is she possessed? There’s a lot more questions. It’s fun to just stretch again and do things I haven’t done in a while, which I found really exciting.” Kane said he felt lucky Bowen signed on at the beginning. “She was the first adult actor to sign on. That gave us such credibility to have a two-time Emmy-winning actor leading this show. Suddenly, it goes from this script from a relatively unknown writer into the new Julie Bowen show,” he said. It was the quality of the writing that attracted Camp, Bowen and Campbell to “Hysteria!” “I loved the script; it was incredibly well-written. It was immersed in the time period. It was such a good coming-of-age story, too — the feeling of being in high school again, being in the 1980s,” Camp said. “I talked to Matt who said my character (Tracy) was incredibly pivotal to the series and we’ll learn about why she is the way she is. So I was like, ‘I’d love to do this!’” For Campbell, the writing is everything. “A lot of times, I’ll get a script that could make the words interchangeable with every other character because the writing is very bland and just doesn’t have the detail you need. This was different. Every character was pretty distinct and pretty well-drawn,” he said. “It’s quality. It’s not a (expletive) show. It’s a real show that’s playing around with interesting themes. A lot of it is still relevant to this day.” “Hysteria!” has other Michigan connections, including University of Michigan alumnus Jonathan Goldstein (“Spider-Man: Homecoming”) and Dondero High School alumnus Jordan Vogt-Roberts (“Kong: Skull Island”), who both serve as executive producers. Kane explained why he set “Hysteria!” in Michigan. “You write what you know. I grew up in Ypsilanti, so that had a lot to do with it. More importantly, when you’re in a small town in the Midwest — somewhere like Michigan — these things don’t ever happen and word spreads fast and paranoia spreads quickly and (everything’s) blown out of proportion and takes up a lot of people’s minds,” he said. “Whether or not something is real doesn’t matter. It doesn’t matter if there are people willing to believe it does and willing it into the world. What does it matter if it’s objectively real or living rent-free in someone’s head?”
Stock market today: Wall Street rises toward more records
Jayden Daniels sets record for most rushing yards by a rookie QB in NFL historySan Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey and top backup Jordan Mason are being placed on injured reserve. McCaffrey left the snowy field in Buffalo on Sunday night after a 5-yard gain that was preceded by him heading to the sideline in apparent pain at the end of an 18-yard run. McCaffrey was diagnosed with a posterior cruciate ligament injury in his right knee and did not play in the second half. The 49ers also lost Jordan Mason, who emerged in a starting role with McCaffrey out the first two months of the season, to an ankle injury. Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Mason has a high-ankle sprain, which typically requires a recovery window of 4-6 weeks. Those moves push rookie Isaac Guerendo into the RB1 spot. He scored the team's only touchdown at Buffalo. The IR slots in San Francisco are manned by multiple starters, including wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, linebacker Dre Greenlaw, defensive tackle Javon Hargrave and safety Talanoa Hufanga. Mason had a team-leading 789 rushing yards and scored three touchdowns. Being placed on IR means he's not eligible to play until the regular-season finale at Arizona. McCaffrey had 53 yards on seven carries on Sunday night and caught two passes for 14 yards before exiting. He was playing in just his fourth game of the season after missing the first eight because of Achilles tendinitis. McCaffrey was the NFL Offensive Player of the Year last season, when he led the league with 2,023 yards from scrimmage: a league-leading 1,459 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns plus 67 catches for 564 yards and seven scores. McCaffrey hasn't scored a touchdown in his four appearances this season. He has rushed for 202 yards on 50 carries and caught 15 passes for 146 yards. "It was frustrating," Shanahan said after the game. "He had a great week of practice and I could feel his urgency and stuff and thought he came out great, looking really good, and it looked like he just got his shoestring there. ... I hurt for him, and tough for our team not having him." The 49ers (5-7) played without defensive end Nick Bosa (oblique) and left tackle Trent Williams (ankle) in the 35-10 loss. San Francisco has lost three in a row heading into next Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears (4-8) in Santa Clara, Calif. San Francisco resides two games behind the NFC West-leading Seattle Seahawks (7-5) with five games remaining on the schedule. Seattle and San Francisco split their season series. --Field Level MediaWhat's wrong with Boeing planes? Social media on fire as crash, faulty landings raise concern; netizens ask, should you be concerned while flying on one?