NATO and Ukraine to hold emergency talks after Russian attack with hypersonic missileEmerging anti-US axis worrisome but 'not acting as a bloc'ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — John Elway says any remorse over bypassing Josh Allen in the 2018 NFL draft is quickly dissipating with rookie Bo Nix's rapid rise, suggesting the Denver Broncos have finally found their next franchise quarterback. Elway said Nix, the sixth passer selected in April's draft, is an ideal fit in Denver with coach Sean Payton navigating his transition to the pros and Vance Joseph's defense serving as a pressure release valve for the former Oregon QB. "We've seen the progression of Bo in continuing to get better and better each week and Sean giving him more each week and trusting him more and more to where last week we saw his best game of the year," Elway said in a nod to Nix's first game with 300 yards and four touchdown throws in a rout of Atlanta. For that performance, Nix earned his second straight NFL Rookie of the Week honor along with the AFC Offensive Player of the Week award. "I think the sky's the limit," Elway said, "and that's just going to continue to get better and better." In a wide-ranging interview with The Associated Press, Elway also touted former coach Mike Shanahan's Hall of Fame credentials, spoke about the future of University of Colorado star and Heisman favorite Travis Hunter and discussed his ongoing bout with a chronic hand condition. Elway spent the last half of his decade as the Broncos' GM in a futile search for a worthy successor to Peyton Manning, a pursuit that continued as he transitioned into a two-year consultant role that ended after the 2022 season. "You have all these young quarterbacks and you look at the ones that make it and the ones that don't and it's so important to have the right system and a coach that really knows how to tutelage quarterbacks, and Sean's really good at that," Elway said. "I think the combination of Bo's maturity, having started 61 games in college, his athletic ability and his knowledge of the game has been such a tremendous help for him,'" Elway added. "But also Vance Joseph's done a heck of a job on the defensive side to where all that pressure's not being put on Bo and the offense to score all the time." Payton and his staff have methodically expanded Nix's repertoire and incorporated his speed into their blueprints. Elway lauded them for "what they're doing offensively and how they're breaking Bo into the NFL because it's a huge jump and I think patience is something that goes a long way in the NFL when it comes down to quarterbacks." Elway said he hopes to sit down with Nix at some point when things slow down for the rookie. Nix, whose six wins are one more than Elway had as a rookie, said he looks forward to meeting the man who won two Super Bowls during his Hall of Fame playing career and another from the front office. "He's a legend not only here for this organization, but for the entire NFL," Nix said, adding, "most guys, they would love to have a chat with John Elway, just pick his brain. It's just awesome that I'm even in that situation." Orange Crush linebacker Randy Gradishar joined Elway in the Pro Football Hall of Fame this year, something Elway called "way, way overdue." Elway suggested it's also long past time for the Hall to honor Shanahan, who won back-to-back Super Bowls in Denver with Elway at QB and whose footprint you see every weekend in the NFL because of his expansive coaching tree. Elway called University of Colorado stars Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders "both great athletes." He said he really hopes Sanders gets drafted by a team that will bring him along like the Broncos have done with Nix, and he sees Hunter being able to play both ways in the pros — but not full time. Elway said he thinks Hunter will be primarily a corner in the NFL but with significant contributions on offense: "He's great at both. He's got great instincts, and that's what you need at corner." It's been five years since Elway announced he was dealing with Dupuytren's contracture, a chronic condition that typically appears after age 40 and causes one or more fingers to permanently bend toward the palm. Elway's ring fingers on both hands were originally affected and he said now the middle finger on his right hand is starting to pull forward. So, he'll get another injection of a drug called Xiaflex, which is the only FDA-approved non-surgical treatment, one that he's endorsing in an awareness campaign for the chronic condition that affects 17 million Americans. The condition can make it difficult to do everyday tasks such as shaking hands or picking up a coffee mug. Elway said what bothered him most was "I couldn't pick up a football and I could not imagine not being able to put my hand around a football." Get local news delivered to your inbox!
The novichok poisonings were the result of an “abject failure” by the British government to protect Sergei Skripal and the wider public, an inquiry has been told. The nerve agent attack in 2018, which left one person dead, several severely ill and more than 80 in hospital, was described as “preventable” because the authorities did not set up basic security measures to safeguard the former Russian spy. Vladimir Putin’s henchmen are said to have had “alarming access” to Skripal, allowing them to launch a reckless assassination attempt that put other members of the public in danger. • ‘Putin authorised this’ — untold story of the Salisbury poisonings On the final day of public hearings into the death of Dawn Sturgess , who was exposed to
The closer a Prince Rupert woman looked at the deer in her yard, the stranger things became for her. “It was the first time I’ve seen anything like that; it was pretty bizarre,” said Joan Dudoward. Dudoward is a senior residing on 11th Avenue East in Prince Rupert. A flash of movement caught her eye as she scrubbed her breakfast plates on a typical Wednesday morning. Peeking out the window above her sink, she gasped— a majestic buck with massive antlers stood gracefully in her yard. “As soon as I noticed the huge buck, I ran and grabbed my camera to photograph it. I’ve been taking photos since I was a teenager...I photograph everything,” she said. She says he cozied up to lie on the grass and stayed for about half an hour. “He was wiggling his ears so I zoomed in and noticed a tag clipped on him,” she said. “I thought, why is this dear clipped? I got very concerned.” Dudoward, driven by her curiosity, noted that one side of the clip was labelled “BC WILDLIFE 06-529,” while the other read “CALL RAP: 877-952-7227.” It was suspicious because the number displayed is very similar but different from the official number of B.C.’s Conservation Officer Service, which is 1-877-952-7277. Also, the legitimate acronym for their hotline, Report All Poachers and Polluters, is “RAPP,” not “RAP,” as indicated on the tag. She called the number on the neon green tag to inquire about the buck, but reached a woman who spoke to her very hurriedly, she said. The woman, who identified herself as Jessica, wanted to send Dudoward a “free medical alert device” that she could wear around her neck. “We’re very excited to tell you about a special promotion for select callers,” Dudoward recalls the woman saying. She was then asked questions such as her age to check eligibility. Jessica then explained that as a senior, the device would help her in emergencies, such as falls, by alerting her immediate contacts. To proceed with delivery, she said she needed some personal information from Dudoward, such as her address. Then, Dudoward was abruptly transferred to another agent who continued the call. But when she tried to ask her about the buck and why the agency had clipped its number on his ear, they wouldn’t respond but instead continued to promote their products “That’s just cruelty to animals. They are targeting seniors for sure, and hurting the deer in the process,” said Dudoward. She wondered how they must have handled the wild animal to dart him. She questioned, “Did they sedate him? What exactly happened there?” She was absolutely shocked. Dudoward couldn’t comprehend why B.C. Wildlife, a legitimate organization, would have put this company’s number on the buck's ear. The incident reminded her of this continued pattern of companies attempting to target elderly and vulnerable individuals. “I also have my mother’s old number, and it gets scam calls all the time,” she said. “How can they do that? Especially to seniors. They are trying to decide if they should pay the rent or get medication,” said Dudoward in frustration. She proceeded to contact the legitimate conservation officer’s number, who, like the local RCMP, didn’t pay much heed to her situation, she said. The next day, Dudoward called the agency’s number on the tag again, and the conversation took a completely different turn. Now, the agent asked if she was 18 and was promoting products aimed at youth. They informed her that she needed to pay $3 through a call paywall to proceed to the next step, during which she would be directed to the free products for which she was eligible. “The message keeps changing; this is so strange,” said Dudoward. investigated the call and found that it was an intricately designed AI automated voice call. The system guides the caller through different phases by detecting both their spoken responses and the number keys they press. Contrary to Dudoward’s initial belief, it wasn’t a live human speaking to her, but a pre-recorded one. In fact, similar cases of fraud involving medical alert devices have happened in the U.S. before, prompting the and the to issue cautionary alerts for consumers regarding these “robocalls.” The authorities advised seniors to immediately hang up, not press any keys when prompted, and avoid sharing personal information. “Fraud is the number one crime against older Canadians. Though people of all ages can be victims of fraud, older people get targeted more than others,” states the Canadian Government on its The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) says that there have been 40,623 reports of fraud this year up to Oct. 31, resulting in a loss of $503 million. Vishing is a social engineering technique that uses voice communication technology. It involves fraudulent phone calls to trick the victim into revealing personal data. The CAFC advises caution during phone calls. They urge people not to hesitate to say no if something feels off and not to feel pressured by urgency or time limits. They also encourage taking enough time to research before sharing personal information. contacted the B.C. Wildlife Federation for a comment regarding the tag on the buck. “The Conservation Officer Service darted this deer Nov. 5 to remove wires wrapped around its antlers. The tag is legitimate, but unfortunately has the wrong number on it for RAPP. The new versions of the tag have the correct number and COS will stop using these older tags,” said Jesse Zeman, executive director at B.C. Wildlife Federation. Although the exact cause of this mistake is unclear, anyone who suspects fraud should contact CAFC at 1-888-495-8501 or their local police.Extraterrestrials or foreign actors? What we know about the mystery US drone sightings
WASHINGTON ― Donald Trump instigated a violent attack on the Capitol, was impeached for it by the House, was criminally indicted for it, but in the end was given a pass for it by key voters in the seven swing states, new polling confirms, because they were more concerned about inflation and other pocketbook issues. “It’s clear that voters were thinking about their economic situation,” said Nick Ahamed from Priorities USA, a Democratic-aligned group that on Thursday released a post-election survey to quantify why Vice President Kamala Harris lost to a man who attempted a coup to remain in power the last time he held the White House. Ahamed said voters were not necessarily making a conscious tradeoff between democracy and lower living costs. It’s more that they largely did not believe that Trump represents a continued threat to democracy, despite his history. Even worse for Harris’ campaign, the voters she most needed to hang on to, those who flipped from Democratic President Joe Biden in 2020 to Trump in 2024, were even less likely to see Trump as a danger to the republic than the average voter. Only 24% of voters in Arizona, Nevada, Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Georgia and North Carolina believe that Trump is “very likely” to overturn the Constitution to remain in power ― which is still higher than the 18% of Biden-to-Trump voters who believe that. And while just 29% of voters thought it’s very likely that Trump would try to use the U.S. military to go after his political opponents and critics, among Biden-to-Trump voters that figure is just 24%. While both the Harris campaign and outside groups helping her focused on economic issues, the limited attempt to warn voters about Trump’s autocratic tendencies failed, Ahamed acknowledged. “We didn’t connect Trump’s authoritarian behavior and what it would mean for them in the next year and in the next four years,” he said. A more basic problem Democratic campaign operatives had, Ahamed added, is the assumption that most Americans saw Trump the same way they did. “Themes like ‘stronger together,’ ‘restore the soul of the nation,’ ‘we’re not going back,’ all are predicated on a hatred of Donald Trump that voters ... and the voters specifically that we lost, don’t necessarily feel,” he said. Polling, for example, showed Trump’s continued success at pushing the image that made him famous: his portrayal of a genius billionaire businessman on the television game show “The Apprentice.” Among Black men between 18 and 44, a full 38% like Trump because he “tells it like it is,” even though the former president has been a notorious liar his entire adult life, while 35% believe he is a “successful businessman and entrepreneur,” even though he inherited his wealth, and his business record includes bankrupting casinos. The poll also had warnings for Democrats about opposing “cultural heroes” of those voters they need to win over to win elections. Billionaire Trump supporter Elon Musk, for instance, is liked and disliked about equally among all voters. Among those who voted for Biden in 2020 but for Trump in 2024, he is seen favorably by 64% and unfavorably by only 20%. Don't let this be the end of the free press. The free press is under attack — and America's future hangs in the balance. As other newsrooms bow to political pressure, HuffPost is not backing down. Would you help us keep our news free for all? We can't do it without you. Can't afford to contribute? Support HuffPost by creating a free account and log in while you read. You've supported HuffPost before, and we'll be honest — we could use your help again . We view our mission to provide free, fair news as critically important in this crucial moment, and we can't do it without you. Whether you give once or many more times, we appreciate your contribution to keeping our journalism free for all. You've supported HuffPost before, and we'll be honest — we could use your help again . We view our mission to provide free, fair news as critically important in this crucial moment, and we can't do it without you. Whether you give just one more time or sign up again to contribute regularly, we appreciate you playing a part in keeping our journalism free for all. Already contributed? Log in to hide these messages. Democracy advocates, including anti-Trump Republicans , warned months ahead of the election that Jan. 6 was not likely to work as a campaign issue in 2024 because Trump successfully made his lie that the 2020 election had been stolen from him, and his follow-up claim that those arrested for their participation in the Capitol attack were “political prisoners” and “hostages” that deserved pardons, articles of faith within the Republican Party. While public opinion in the days and weeks after Jan. 6 ran overwhelmingly against the attack and Trump, those numbers began to shift over the months as Trump and pro-Trump media pushed conspiracy theories about the election as well as the violence on that day. The need to avoid alienating Trump’s hard-core supporters, in fact, in February 2021 led to Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell and most Republicans refusing to convict Trump on his impeachment, which would have led to his prohibition from holding federal office again. “Ultimately this comes down to Mitch McConnell,” Ahamed said. Related From Our Partner
Need some assistance with NYT Strands today? Today's theme — "Lead the way" — isn't especially clear, but shouldn't be too tough once you have some answers on the board. Below, we've compiled some useful hints for Strands #275, as well as the answers, should it come to that. We'll start off with some clues, before building up to the full answer for Strands #275, so read on if you need a little help. Warning: Spoilers lie ahead for Strands #275. Today's NYT Strands answer — Today's theme and hints The official theme for NYT Strands #275 is... "Lead the way" And here's an unofficial hint from me: "Banish the darkness". If you're still in the dark, here are some useful words to give you those valuable clue tokens: Still struggling? The spangram will give you a hint about the connection word. Today, it starts with 'I' and ends with 'N'. Scroll down to find out what it is... It's ILLUMINATION. Today's Strands answers So, what are today's Strands answers for game #275? Drumroll, please... ...and the spangram was ILLUMINATION. Strands #275 “Lead the way” 🔵💡🔵🟡 🔵🔵🔵 Hi Strands fans. I'm not really sure the theme "Lead the way" is very helpful today. All the same, a single clue was all I needed to get through the puzzle relatively unscathed. I found the first answer on my own: CANDLE in the bottom-left corner. But after some head scratching, I couldn't think of what this had to do with the theme, so used a clue which revealed TORCH. Okay, so it's just about lighting? Pretty tenuous, but at least I could get going. I found the spangram after this, with ILLUMINATION spelt backwards from bottom to top. This cordoned off HEADLAMP in the top-left corner, clearing the west side of the grid. Two answers were left to find on the other half. FLASHLIGHT came first in the top left, and that just left LANTERN to find in the bottom right to complete the puzzle. Yesterday's Strands answers Reading this in a later time zone? You can find the full article on yesterday's Strands answers for game #274 right here .D-Marin has solidified its sector-leading approach to sustainability by earning the prestigious Silver Award in the EcoVadis ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) ratings. This year’s achievement places D-Marin among the top 6% of companies in the leisure industry, marking a significant improvement from last year’s ranking in the top 24%. This accolade underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility, social impact, and ethical governance. EcoVadis, a globally trusted provider of business sustainability ratings, evaluates companies across four key pillars: Environment, Labor and Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. For its 2024 assessment, D-Marin’s sustainability initiatives were rigorously reviewed, resulting in an outstanding Silver Medal, ranking just 1% below the Gold tier (which starts at the top 5%). This recognition reflects consistent progress and notable advancements in sustainable practices since D-Marin’s previous evaluation. D-Marin’s sustainability strategy includes a goal to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 42% by 2030, aligning with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and supporting the objectives of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. D-Marin actively implements environmental projects such as seabed and beach cleaning operations using innovative technologies like the Jellyfishbot and DPOL® floating pump. To date, these efforts have successfully removed over five tonnes of waste. Comprehensive employee training programs further ensure these initiatives’ long-term effectiveness in combating seawater pollution. D-Marin’s commitment to ESG extends beyond operational practices. The company participates in educational campaigns to raise awareness of environmental challenges and inspire collective action. As a member of the United Nations Global Compact, D-Marin promotes the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and collaborates with organizations such as HELMEPA and TURMEPA to protect seas and coastal environments. Oliver Dörschuck CEO of D-Marin quoted: “At D-Marin, we strive for excellence across all ESG pillars. Our mission is to reduce our environmental impact, foster positive social change, and uphold the highest standards of governance. We are proud to be recognised by EcoVadis for our commitment to sustainability and remain dedicated to contributing to a more sustainable future for all.” Source: D-Marin
Michael Croley | (TNS) Bloomberg News In the old days of 2016, when golfers visited the Dormie Club in West End, North Carolina — 15 minutes from the hotbed of American golf, Pinehurst — they were greeted by a small, single-wide trailer and a rugged pine straw parking lot. Related Articles Travel | A preview of some stunning hotels and resorts opening in 2025 Travel | Travel scams that can hurt your credit or finances Travel | Travel: Paddle the Loxahatchee River, one of two National Wild and Scenic Rivers in Florida Travel | 7 family-friendly ski resorts in the US that won’t break the bank Travel | Disneyland 2025: The top Disney events and festivals to plan for That trailer is now long gone. A gate has been installed at the club’s entrance and a long driveway leads to a grand turnaround that sweeps you past a new modern clubhouse that’s all right angles, with floor-to-ceiling glass. Seconds after you exit your car, valets are zipping up in golf carts, taking your name, then your bags, handing you keys to your own golf cart, and then zipping off to drop your luggage in the four-bedroom cottage where you’ll stay. A short walk past an expansive putting green you’ll find the pro shop — and then you’ll see the club’s most elegant feature: its golf course. The changes have all come about because Dormie Club was acquired in 2017 by the Dormie Network, a national group that owns seven private golf facilities from Nebraska to New Jersey. (“Dormie” is a word for being ahead in golf — the names were coincidences.) A key to the network’s success has been its ability to find clubs ripe for acquisition, with outstanding golf courses and existing on-site lodging or the room to build it, says Zach Peed, president of the company and its driving force. After investing in Arbor Links Golf Club in Nebraska City, Nebraska, in late 2015, Peed believed he saw an opening in the golf market: a new model of hospitality for traveling professionals who wanted a pure golf experience that eschewed the pools and pickleball courts of their home clubs. His clubs would become dream golf-only getaways for avid players and their pals. “Dormie Network’s concept was sparked by having played competitive golf in college, combined with an element of experiencing and understanding hospitality,” says Peed. “It made sense to blend the two to create golf trips that had more value than just playing golf. We want genuine hospitality to help create unforgettable memories and new friendships.” Part of that formula has been in the lodging strategy; in North Carolina, 15 four-bedroom cottages now are a short golf cart ride from the main clubhouse. In each, golfers all have their own king-size bed and en suite bathroom. A large common room is dominated by a flatscreen television along with a well-stocked bar and snacks. That ability to be both social, or tucked away in your room, extends to the expansive new clubhouse, where a high-ceilinged bar area with blond wood creates an inviting space for dining and drinking, and several hideaway rooms allow for more private diners with just your group. So far, their commitment to hospitality has been helping them expand in both membership and club usage in the increasingly competitive market for traveling golfers. Major players such as Bandon Dunes, Pinehurst Resort, and the Cabot Collection have created — or renovated — a new paradigm where golfers get dining and lodging that’s as showcase-worthy as the courses they play. Comfortable sheets and options beyond pub food aren’t luxuries anymore, but staples for many group trips. Dormie has answered that call by focusing on both the big details and the small ones, like having the dew wiped off each golf cart at dawn outside guest cottages before the day begins or having a tray of cocktails delivered to golfers as their final putt falls on the 18th green. These touches may seem over-the-top, but they stand out in a world where golf travel is increasingly popular — and expensive — after the pandemic lockdowns. Since 2020 there has been an explosion in participation in the sport, with new golfers picking up the game and avid golfers playing more: According to the National Golf Foundation, a record 531 million rounds were played in 2023, surpassing the high of 529 million set in 2021. Supreme Golf, a public golf booking website, reports in its latest analysis that the average cost of a tee time has increased to $49 in 2024 from $38 in 2019, a 30% increase. Those cost increases are also on par (pun intended) with the costs of private clubs and initiation fees during that same period, where membership rosters that were dwindling pre-COVID now have waitlists 50 to 60 people deep, according to Jason Becker, co-founder and chief executive officer of Golf Life Navigators, which matches homebuyers with golf course communities. “There’s been an absolute run on private golf. If we use southwest Florida as an example, where there are 158 golf communities, this time last November, only five had memberships available,” he said. That inability to find a club close to home has pushed avid golfers to look farther afield, choosing national memberships at clubs that require traveling, usually via plane, to play. Dormie has capitalized on this growing segment, offering two types of memberships: First, a national membership, where members pay an initiation fee and monthly dues just as they would at a local club, but instead of one club they have access to seven. The second option is a signature membership for companies, “which allows businesses to use our properties for entertainment needs and requires a multiyear commitment,” Peed says. The network also offers a limited number of regional memberships for those living within a certain distance of one of its clubs. Dormie Network declined to provide the cost of memberships or monthly dues and wouldn’t give membership numbers, but the clubs are structured to lodge roughly 60 golfers, max, on-site at any given property at any time. The total number of beds across the network’s portfolio of properties has increased from 84 in 2019 to 432 today. It saw a jump from 10,000 room nights in 2019 to 48,000 in 2023. This September, Dormie opened GrayBull in Maxwell, in Nebraska’s, Sandhills region. Dormie Network tabbed David McLay Kidd to build the course, who also built the original course at Oregon’s famed Bandon Dunes. Kidd says of the property GrayBull sits on, “It’s like the Goldilocks thing: not too flat, not too steep. It’s kind of in a bowl that looks inwards, and there are no bad views.” That kind of remote destination, where the long-range views are only Mother Nature or other golf holes, is what drives many traveling golfers these days. Peed says his team leaned on years of knowledge from Dormie’s acquisitions as they built GrayBull, which started construction in 2022. “We had an understanding of how our members and guests use the clubs that allowed us to take a blank canvas in the Sandhills of Nebraska and combine all of the greatest aspects of each Dormie property into one.” ©2024 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.Studio City Enters into Senior Facilities Agreement
Exploring the Investment and Gaming Tech Nexus MicroStrategy, primarily known for its enterprise analytics and mobility software, has become a remarkable player in the domain of cryptocurrency investments. The company’s extensive commitment to Bitcoin has effectively tied its stock price to the cryptocurrency market’s volatile performance. In recent times, as Bitcoin and other digital currencies play an increasingly vital role in virtual economies, MicroStrategy’s movements offer intriguing insights into the future of gaming and digital transactions. A New Player in Gaming Economies? The gaming industry, riding the wave of blockchain technology, is exploring how decentralized currencies can enhance in-game economies and transactions. While not originally linked to gaming, MicroStrategy’s substantial Bitcoin holdings hint at potential synergies. As games increasingly incorporate blockchain and cryptocurrencies—whether via NFTs, play-to-earn models, or digital asset ownership—the company’s fortunes could indirectly impact gaming ecosystems. Investors and gaming industry stakeholders have their eyes on MicroStrategy’s strategic decisions as potential early indicators of broader trends. Betting on the Future? MicroStrategy’s stock, traditionally analyzed through the lens of enterprise solutions, now finds itself scrutinized through a dual lens; its integration with crypto influencing its potential role in the gaming world. As gaming companies explore new economic models, those observing MicroStrategy’s stock movement might glean unique foresights, especially considering the company’s bullish stance on Bitcoin. While the interplay between these domains remains speculative, the connection between technological adoption and investment opportunities creates a fascinating narrative worthy of avid monitoring. In conclusion, as digital economies evolve, MicroStrategy’s stock price offers an unexpected, yet captivating window into emerging trends at the intersection of finance and gaming. The Future of Crypto and Gaming: MicroStrategy’s Unlikely Influence As the lines between digital finance and gaming continue to blur, MicroStrategy has emerged as a key player not only in cryptocurrency investments but also as a potential influencer in gaming economies. Here’s an in-depth look into the evolving nexus between investment strategies, digital currencies, and gaming innovations. Insights into MicroStrategy’s Crypto Strategy MicroStrategy’s deep dive into Bitcoin investment has opened new avenues for understanding the dynamics of cryptocurrency markets. Their staunch support of Bitcoin reflects a broader trend towards embracing digital currencies as a strategic business asset. This move aligns with the increasing adoption of cryptocurrencies in global financial systems, providing a framework for companies looking to diversify their investment portfolios with digital assets. Impact on Gaming Economies While not a gaming company, MicroStrategy’s influence extends indirectly into gaming economies. Here’s how: – Decentralized Finance and Gaming : As blockchain technology permeates gaming, decentralized currencies offer secure, transparent, and efficient transaction processes. MicroStrategy’s crypto-heavy portfolio signals confidence in these technologies, and their business model showcases the potential of crypto integration in other verticals, including gaming. – Play-to-Earn Models : Cryptocurrencies facilitate innovative play-to-earn models, enhancing player engagement and monetization strategies. MicroStrategy’s actions could drive further exploration into how Bitcoin can fuel these evolving models, providing robust investment platforms for gaming companies. Pros and Cons of Crypto Investments Pros: – Diversification : Incorporating cryptocurrencies provides portfolio diversification, hedging against traditional market fluctuations. – Early Adoption Benefits : As crypto adoption rises, early adopters may benefit significantly from price surges and technological advancements. Cons: – Volatility : Cryptocurrencies are notorious for their price volatility, which can impact stock values and investor sentiments. – Regulatory Uncertainty : Without clear regulations, companies face risks from potential government crackdowns or policy changes. Future Trends and Predictions – Increased Crypto Adoption : As digital finance becomes mainstream, more companies may mimic MicroStrategy’s model, integrating crypto assets into their strategies. – Blockchain Expansion : Expect to see a further merger of blockchain with gaming, enhancing decentralization, ownership rights, and digital economies. Conclusion The interplay between MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin investment strategy and the gaming industry highlights the transformative potential of cryptocurrencies. While the direct connection remains speculative, the broader implications for digital financial models are significant. Companies, investors, and stakeholders should monitor these developments closely to stay ahead in an increasingly digital and decentralized world. For more insights on digital finance and technology trends, visit MicroStrategy .
Some Democrats are frustrated over Joe Biden reversing course and pardoning his son Hunter
Indulging in nightlife still a social taboo, says HCProjecting Ohio State’s spot in the College Football Playoff rankings after Michigan loss
This week marks Part 2 of the “Glicked” phenomenon at Take 2 Blog. In a change from the blog’s usual format, Rebecca and Joe will each review a different movie. Last week, Rebecca reviewed “Wicked” and Joe reviewed “Gladiator II.” This week, Rebecca takes on “Gladiator II” and Joe will conjure a “Wicked” review. 2000’s “Gladiator” was a cinematic triumph, a glorious return to the sword-and-sandal epics of classic Hollywood. Ridley Scott’s masterpiece won five Academy Awards, including best picture and best actor for Russell Crowe, and ushered in a wave of films and TV shows set in the period. The film has a special place in my heart because it was the first one I saw at Cinemark, right after the sprawling cineplex opened in Moosic. It marked the first of hundreds of films I’ve seen at the cinema in the years since. I was indeed entertained by “Gladiator” 24 years ago. But was I just as entertained by its sequel? That’s a more complicated question. “Gladiator II” is an unexpected sequel — and an unnecessary one at that. Denzel Washington’s dazzling performance and some tremendous action sequences make the sequel worth watching. But “Gladiator II” doesn’t reach the heights of its magnificent predecessor. It’s a just-OK return to the Colosseum that could have been better — and more entertaining. The follow-up takes place 16 years after the original. In the years after the death of rebellious warrior Maximus (Crowe) in the ring, Rome remains largely unchanged, neglecting its citizens. A new gladiator for the people emerges in Lucius (Paul Mescal), who is captured after the death of his wife. Seeking revenge, Lucius becomes entangled in the political machinations of his ambitious owner Macrinus (Washington), conflicted Roman general Acacius (Pedro Pascal) and indulgent twin emperors Geta (Joseph Quinn) and Caracalla (Fred Hechinger). In its return to Rome, “Gladiator II” is content to follow the beats of the original. Lucius’ motivations for revenge are very similar to those of Maximus, and he takes out those frustrations in the ring. Even the film’s setup echoes the first one’s premise, with little progress made in Rome. The sequel is two hours and 28 minutes long, led by a slow first half. When Washington is offscreen and there’s breaks in the action, the film can be pretty dull. But when the film reaches the halfway point, it picks up tremendously. That’s when “Gladiator II” comes alive, forging its own path. The always excellent Washington can be counted on to entertain. The Academy Award-winning actor delivers a deliciously over-the-top performance as the villainous Macrinus. As an owner of gladiators, Macrinus is cunning, manipulative and flamboyant as he plots his way to power. He looks at everyone around him as a steppingstone. The character is a one-man “Game of Thrones,” and Washington relishes every scene. Macrinus is the most interesting character in the movie, and perhaps should have been the main character. With his standout supporting role, Washington may have put himself in the running for his third Academy Award. While Washington commands the screen, most characters in “Gladiator II” lack depth. Chief among them in Mescal’s Lucius, the titular gladiator. It’s not Mescal’s fault. This is the first film I’ve seen from the Oscar-nominated actor and he does everything required of him. It’s just that the film doesn’t require a lot beyond certain emotions. As Lucius, Mescal is mostly called upon to be a stoic figure, angry and vengeful, which he does well. The actor bulked up for the role and wields the physicality to battle his opponents in the Colosseum. He makes a believable fighter. But with sparse dialogue, the character is mostly a blank slate until the second half. In his young career, Mescal doesn’t have the presence yet that Russell Crowe had in the 2000 film. When we learn about his background, that’s when Lucius becomes more of a realized character as opposed to a fighting figure. Mescal does a great job of channeling the impressionable young child that moviegoers met in the first film. If Washington is the star of “Gladiator II,” then the second star is the spectacular action. Scott cements his status as a master of spectacle, with epic battles on land and in the ring. The sequel relies on a blend of practical effects and CGI. An impressive battle between armies kicks off the proceedings, stunning in scope and scale. A Colosseum was built especially for the film, allowing the brutal fights to the death to feel real. The structure is even flooded with water to simulate a naval battle. But the film uses more animals in the ring than the original, which takes away from the gritty realism. The mutated monkeys, rhinos and sharks prove more distracting than fearsome. The supporting cast of “Gladiator II” rises to the occasion, despite varying levels of depth. Connie Nielsen returns from the original as Lucilla, providing an emotional link to the first film. The actress taps into a range of emotions, from grief to the joy of reunion, as she gives the film its heart. The great Pascal portrays Acacius as a man of honor and duty who questions the corrupt system he serves. The character is intriguing. But the actor is underused, appearing far less in the film than expected. He and Mescal share little onscreen time together. But when they do, their scenes carry an emotional heft. As the twin emperors, Quinn and Hechinger dig in as the spoiled and lavish rulers. Quinn is the more stable of the two as Geta, while Hechinger is unhinged as the childlike Caracalla. The two can be frightening together, but they don’t reach the terrifying heights of Joaquin Phoenix’s power-hungry Commodus. There’s also no explanation of how these two became emperors. With so much talk about power, it’s odd that the film doesn’t explain how they came into theirs. Was I ultimately entertained by “Gladiator II”? The answer is ... sometimes. The historical epic is a good sequel, but it doesn’t match the greatness of the first one. Washington gives an Oscar-worthy performance that elevates the film. Scott’s craftsmanship is on full display during the massive battles and eye-popping special effects. But the sweeping sequel can be tedious to sit through, with characters that are too thinly sketched. The sequel doesn’t take away from the original’s legacy, but it doesn’t add a lot to it, either. In a head-to-head battle, “Gladiator II” falls to “Gladiator.” 3 out of 5 stars The exploration into characters who are pure evil has become more and more popular as the movie industry is desperate to cling to established properties. After all, the top 12 grossing films of 2024 are sequels. No. 13 (for now) is the prequel “Wicked: Part I.” Obviously, “Wicked” predated this more recent run of evil characters’ origin stories, including “Maleficent,” “Cruella” and “Joker” to name a few. Its origins date back to a 1995 novel and the musical production that premiered in 2003. However, I struggle to connect with these stories. Some characters can just be evil without spending at least one movie showing audiences why they were or misunderstood. I don’t need the origin story of Cruella De Vil, who tries to kidnap and murder dogs to make fur coats. I don’t need Disney to make up a reason for that character to be sympathetic. Despite my misgivings about these kinds of films, “Wicked: Part I” proved a great end to my family’s wonderful Thanksgiving. Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West) produces another powerhouse performance. The two-time Oscar nominee (best actress and best original song for 2020’s “Harriet”) shines with a booming voice that culminates with the movie musical’s climatic song “Defying Gravity.” It wasn’t just the beautiful singing, but the emotions she expressed that gave the songs even more weight. Erivo proved just as impressive when she wasn’t singing. The emotions she displays with just her facial expressions and body language impress and help the audience quickly resonate with Elphaba. She also builds incredible chemistry with Peter Dinklage (who voices goat professor Dr. Dillamond), Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero) and, of course, Ariana Grande (Galinda, the future Glinda the Good Witch). Not that Grande should have been a revelation, but I didn’t know she had this type of role in her. I always thought Grande had catchy songs, and she’s obviously super talented, I just didn’t know she had the vocal range she displays in this movie. She hits ridiculous notes, and she too proves just as stellar with her acting. Grande constantly makes the audience laugh with her manipulation of others. Her delivery is so innocent, though, that it doesn’t turn the audience off to her. Deep down she shows Galinda has a heart. The chemistry between Erivo and Grande shines through the brightest in my favorite scene of the movie, which doesn’t involve singing. In fact, there’s really no sound at all. The dynamic duo shares a touching moment on the dance floor that made me buy into the whole movie. I also enjoyed a lot of the supporting cast. My favorite was the calming voice of Dinklage, who was perfect as a talking goat. To no surprise, Jeff Goldblum is the perfect casting as the quirky and conniving Wizard of Oz. Michelle Yeoh (Madame Morrible) once again produces a powerful presence. I’ve enjoyed director Jon M. Chu’s work, including 2018’s “Crazy Rich Asians” and 2021’s underrated “In the Heights.” “Wicked: Part I” is his best work yet. He gets the most out of his actors and every shot. The film also boasts crisp dance choreography, great special effects and vibrant colors to create a phenomenal theater experience. The movie also provides some fun cameos for fans of the Broadway musical. The opening title clearly states that the film is a Part I, but it did make me laugh when the film ended with a “To Be Continued” and an audience member shouted in disbelief. It’s a long movie at two hours and 40 minutes, which I believe is very close to the length of the musical itself. It does take a little bit for the movie to get moving, but quickly finds its stride and does not feel its length. Although it’s a Part I, it reaches a good conclusion and could stand on its own. I haven’t read the book or seen the musical, so I can’t speak to any of that, but I could tell you the movie in front of me was pretty phenomenal. “Wicked: Part I” proves a great film with powerhouse performances, led by Eviro and Grande. The film also looks beautiful with spectacular direction. The songs produce the perfect blend of fun and emotion with great talent singing them and excellent choreography in the dancing. I enjoyed “Gladiator II,” but “Wicked: Part I” is on another level and will be well-represented at the Academy Awards. And that’s saying a lot for a guy who doesn’t usually connect with prequels that explore the origin of evil characters. 4.5 out of 5 stars