Alameda County divested $32 million from the construction equipment company Caterpillar on Tuesday in response to outrage by activists over the use of the equipment by Israel’s military to . With the Board of Supervisors’ vote this week approving the move, Alameda County becomes the to strip public funds from corporations that support Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian territories of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank as part of a new effort to craft an ethical investment policy. “I have initiated the sale of three bonds from the Caterpillar corporation. Two of our three positions have already been sold,” Alameda County Treasurer Henry C. Levy, the only Jewish elected official in the county, said at Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting. “I am committed to working with community members to ensure the fiscal policies of our county create safe and sound impacts within the county with our investment’s impact.” The bonds represent 0.3% of Alameda County’s $11 billion investment portfolio. Levy said Caterpillar’s investments would become a “distraction” to creating a new ethical investment policy because of concerns around the company’s reputation. He said divestment from other companies in the county’s portfolio can not be decided until a full analysis is performed. Caterpillar did not respond to the Bay Area New Group’s request for comment. The strategy of divestment is heralded by activists for removing financial support from targeted entities by selling off bonds, contracts, and other investments. Divestment has historically been used to oppose apartheid in South Africa, spurring global support and the eventual collapse of the regime in 1994. Violence in Gaza escalated after the Oct. 7, 2023 attack by Hamas that killed 1,200 Israelis. Israel’s war in Gaza following the attack has killed nearly 45,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Around the Bay Area, pro-Palestinian activists have demanded divestment from Israel and many companies that do business with it. For months, the organization Bay Area Divest! has called for divestment from Caterpillar, which they claim knowingly sold its powerful D9 bulldozer to Israel’s military for use in the demolition of Palestinian homes to make way for future Israeli settlements. The international nonprofit Human Rights Watch has to the Israeli military since 2004. “By challenging corporations like Caterpillar, we are paving the way for a future where human rights are non-negotiable,” said economist Michelle Williams, a representative of Bay Area Divest! in a statement. “Our success shows that divestment is not just a tool for accountability—it’s a way to reshape public expectations and redefine what we collectively accept as just and ethical.” At the meeting Tuesday night, pro-Palestinian supporters spilled out of the Board of Supervisors chambers, forcing officials to open an overflow room. More than 100 residents spoke during the public comment period that extended well into the evening. Supervisor Keith Carson led the Board of Supervisors in calling for an ethical investment policy and the divestment from companies that support Israel’s occupation efforts. He said he had traveled to the Middle East last week and observed the human toll of the war in Gaza and the escalating conflict across the region. “Alameda County has a history of making investment decisions in alignment with our values such as the September 1985 unanimous action to divest from South Africa and the September 1996 unanimous decision to bar investing in companies that do business with Burma,” Carson said. “This is an attempt for us to pump the breaks, if not for us to continue to show that we all have to learn to co-exist. The vast majority of speakers during public comment supported the divestment. “I want to look you each in the eyes as you vote for or against this, and I will never forget any of these votes,” a District 3 resident who identified themselves as E said. “I want to watch you adopt the ethical investment strategy.” Though Levy had already initiated the sale of Caterpillar Inc. bonds, the county treasurer sought more prescriptive language for a formal ethical investment policy to be applied for the county. The crux of this issue, he said, came between positive screening – investing in favor of industries aligned with the county’s values – versus negative screening, which he feared could change with political headwinds. “You begin to put this laundry list of bad things – tobacco, private prisons – you begin to long list of things on it and I don’t think that’s a good way to write policy,” Levy said. “People are here for one particular issue, but next year there might be a different issue. And I don’t want to write a policy specifically about one issue.” Supervisor David Haubert was skeptical of the divestment strategy’s effectiveness in countering Israel’s occupation of Palestine and its use of Caterpillar bulldozers. He questioned whether Caterpillar should be held to the same standard as weapons manufacturers whose products are used by the Israeli military. “I don’t believe that Caterpillar said, ‘Please go use our tractors this way.’” Haubert said, drawing groans from the audience. “My fear is, if it’s not one tractor, then it’s another tractor. And where do you draw the line? If you divest from all tractors, then how do we build homes?” Where to draw the line for divestment will be the central question over the next 90 days for Levy and the Treasury Oversight Committee, who will craft a comprehensive investment policy to present to the Board of Supervisors. For pro-Palestinin activists, however, the county’s decision to proceed with divestment from Israel is the most significant victory in over a year of campaigning for an end to the war in Gaza. When the Board of Supervisors gave their unanimous approval, the supervisors’ chambers filled with the sound of activists’ cheers and the waving of Palestinian flags. Divestment is just one tool, Levy said, but he hoped the decision would lead to a more secure and safe community in Alameda County for Jews and Palestinians alike. “I feel a great sorrow that long histories of trauma have triggered fear, still trigger fear and other emotions when issues like this emerge,” Levy said. “This decision, and any future divestment decision that our office may make, is about adhering to the values of Alameda County and the principles of a more profound understanding of socially responsible investing.”First detected by cybersecurity researchers, DroidBot is a highly advanced form of malware that operates covertly on Android devices, stealing sensitive information such as login credentials, financial data, and personal details. What makes DroidBot particularly dangerous is its ability to disguise itself as a legitimate banking application, making it difficult for users to detect its presence on their devices.In a recent interview with the Portuguese media, former Manchester United winger Nani opened up about his past discussions with Benfica and Porto before ultimately choosing to join Sporting CP. The 34-year-old, who returned to his homeland in 2018 after a successful spell in Major League Soccer, explained that his decision to sign with Sporting was driven by loyalty to the club where he began his professional career.
The introduction of "Willow" marks a quantum leap in the field of computing, offering a glimpse into a future where quantum processors can effectively tackle real-world problems with unparalleled efficiency and speed. By leveraging the inherent properties of quantum mechanics, Google's quantum chip has shattered the limitations of traditional computing systems, opening up a realm of possibilities that were once deemed unattainable.
Among the over 40 new enemies introduced in the DLC, players can expect a diverse range of foes, each with their own unique abilities and tactics. From fearsome beasts to cunning sorcerers, the new enemies will require players to adapt their strategies and come up with creative ways to outwit and defeat them.Despite the technical challenges, the enthusiasm and fascination surrounding Sora remained undiminished. Users who were able to gain access to the website were treated to a firsthand look at the capabilities of this new AI powerhouse. From natural language processing to image recognition, from predictive analytics to creative writing, Sora demonstrated a level of intelligence and versatility that left many in awe.Defensively, both teams have shown vulnerabilities at times this season, which could make for an open and entertaining match. Leverkusen's young goalkeeper Lennart Grill will be tested by Inter's potent attack, while Inter's backline will need to be wary of Leverkusen's speed on the counter.
While Italy basked in World Cup glory, another footballing powerhouse, Barcelona, was making waves in club football. The Spanish giants, spearheaded by the likes of Ronaldinho, Deco, and Samuel Eto'o, dominated both domestically and in Europe. Under the astute guidance of coach Frank Rijkaard, Barcelona played a mesmerizing brand of football that captivated fans around the world. Their attacking flair and technical prowess set them apart from their competitors, leading to a successful campaign that culminated in La Liga and Champions League triumphs.
Seattle Seahawks receiver is DK Metcalf is just fine when he doesn't have the the ball because it means he gets to showcase his blocking skills. “I just look at it as a sign of respect that I’ve gained from other defensive coordinators and just continue to do my job with it as blocking or being a decoy,” the two-time Pro Bowler said. While opposing defenses have keyed in on Metcalf, other aspects of Seattle's offense have surfaced during its four-game winning streak. The run has the Seahawks (8-5) sitting atop the NFC West heading into Sunday night's game against the visiting Green Bay Packers (9-4). Geno Smith's new top target is second-year receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who needs 89 receiving yards for his first career 1,000-yard season. Smith-Njigba has 75 catches for 911 yards and five touchdowns, while Metcalf, often dealing with double coverage, has 54 catches for 812 yards and two scores. Metcalf says he feels the pride of a “proud parent or a big brother” when it comes to Smith-Njigba's success. Seattle's offense also got a boost from the ground game in a 30-18 victory over the Arizona Cardinals last weekend . Zach Charbonnet, filling in for the injured Kenneth Walker III, ran for a career-best 134 yards and two touchdowns. The Seahawks face another hot team in the Packers (9-4), who have won seven of nine. Green Bay's two losses over that stretch have come against NFC-best Detroit (12-1), including a 34-31 victory by the Lions on Dec. 5, which means the NFC North title is likely out of reach for the Packers. The Packers are well-positioned for a playoff berth, but that almost certainly won't come this weekend. They would need a win, a loss or tie by the Atlanta Falcons and a tie between the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers. Metcalf, who learned to block from his father, former Chicago Bears offensive lineman Terrence Metcalf, says he tries to take blocking seriously to set himself apart from other receivers. His priorities are simple when he's getting double-teamed and the ball goes elsewhere. “Trying to block my (butt) off and trying to get pancakes on defensive backs,” he said. When the Packers surged their way into the playoffs last season, quarterback Jordan Love was a major reason why. He had 18 touchdown passes and one interception during Green Bay's final eight games. During the last four games of this season, Love ranks third in the NFL with a 118.9 passer rating with six touchdowns, one interception and a league-best 10.3 yards per attempt. “I always feel like I can put the ball where I want to — and that’s part of it, too, having that confidence to be able to throw those passes,” Love said. “There’s always like I said a handful of plays that might not come off or be in the exact spot that you wanted it to or the throw might be a little bit off. So, that’s where you’ve just got to try to be at your best every play, be consistent and accurate as possible.” Green Bay’s pass defense has been picked apart the last two weeks. First, it was torched by Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins in a Packers win. Next, it allowed Jared Goff to complete his final 13 passes as the Lions rallied to victory. It won’t get any easier this week. Smith is second in the NFL in attempts, completions and passing yards and is fifth in completion percentage. “It’s been a remarkable turnaround for him in terms of just where he started,” Packers coach Matt LaFleur said. “It’s not always where you start, but where you finish. And it tells me a lot about the person in terms of his resiliency and ability to fight through some adversity. He’s a dangerous quarterback.” The potential return of former All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) could help the Packers. Will the Packers break out their head-to-toe white uniforms? The last time Green Bay wore the winter white look was in a 24-22 win over Houston in October. The Packers asked fans to weigh in on social media . As for the Seahawks, they'll be sporting their “Action Green” uniforms. Metcalf is a fan. “I would say this about the Action Green, I love them personally in my opinion, but the big guys hate them. I don’t know why, don’t ask me," he said. “Hopefully, the Packers wear all white, so it’ll be a fun-looking game.” AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
S.Korea political upheaval shows global democracy's fragility - and resilience
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping education, challenging traditional teaching methods, and redefining how students prepare for the future. Po-Shen Loh, a mathematician and educator, is at the forefront of efforts to adapt education to this evolving landscape. He argues that conventional approaches, such as rote learning and test-focused preparation, are no longer sufficient to equip students with the skills they need to thrive in an AI-driven world. Instead, Loh advocates for an educational model that prioritizes creative thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world . Learn more about Loh’s fantastic approach, which combines math, communication, and even drama to foster a new generation of independent thinkers. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or lifelong learner, his ideas offer a refreshing perspective on how education can prepare us not just for exams, but for life in an . If you’ve ever felt that traditional methods fall short in equipping us for the challenges ahead, you’re not alone—and Loh’s innovative strategies might just hold the key to bridging that gap. Traditional rote learning is becoming obsolete in an AI-driven world, as it fails to foster critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability—skills essential for future success. Po-Shen Loh advocates for an educational model that emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, creative problem-solving, and real-world applications to prepare students for modern challenges. Innovative teaching methods, such as integrating math with drama and improvisation, enhance both analytical and communication skills, making learning more dynamic and engaging. Loh’s approach incorporates social entrepreneurship, encouraging students to address real-world problems, develop empathy, and cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset for societal impact. Adapting education to an AI-driven future requires a holistic focus on critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability, equipping students to thrive in rapidly changing environments. By focusing on these elements, Loh’s vision seeks to prepare students for a future where adaptability and innovation are paramount. His approach challenges the status quo, urging educators to rethink how they teach and how students learn in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Rote memorization has been a cornerstone of education for decades, but its limitations are becoming increasingly evident in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven environment. While memorization may help students perform well on standardized tests, it does little to nurture critical thinking, creativity, or adaptability—skills that are essential for success in the modern world. Loh critiques the overemphasis on repetitive test preparation, arguing that it stifles creativity and mental flexibility. In an era where AI tools like can instantly generate answers, the ability to think independently and critically evaluate solutions is far more valuable than simply recalling information. Students must move beyond memorization to develop the capacity to tackle complex, unfamiliar problems with confidence and ingenuity. The reliance on rote learning also fails to prepare students for the dynamic challenges they will face in their careers. As industries evolve and new technologies emerge, the ability to adapt, innovate, and think critically will be far more important than the ability to regurgitate facts. Loh’s perspective underscores the need for an educational shift that prioritizes these higher-order skills. To address the shortcomings of traditional education, Loh has developed an innovative system that integrates math education with communication skills and creative problem-solving. This approach emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to explore concepts through a blend of technical and creative disciplines. By doing so, it fosters a deeper understanding of subjects while also enhancing essential soft skills. Key elements of this system include: Students engage with a combination of technical subjects, such as mathematics, and creative fields, like drama and improvisation. This blend helps them develop both analytical and expressive abilities, creating a more well-rounded skill set. Activities such as improvisation encourage students to articulate their thought processes clearly and confidently. These exercises not only improve communication skills but also promote collaboration and teamwork. Lessons are designed to extend beyond theoretical knowledge, challenging students to apply their learning to practical, real-world scenarios. This approach bridges the gap between academic concepts and their practical utility. By combining technical expertise with creative exploration, this model ensures that students are not only mastering content but also developing the ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively. These skills are invaluable in any field, making this approach a powerful tool for preparing students for the future. Enhance your knowledge on by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Loh’s vision for education extends beyond academic achievement to encompass social impact. As a social entrepreneur, he emphasizes the importance of creating educational systems that benefit all stakeholders, including students, educators, and communities. His initiatives often involve public outreach and community engagement, providing students with opportunities to address real-world challenges while gaining a deeper understanding of societal needs. Examples of this approach include: Students participate in initiatives that tackle local challenges, fostering a sense of purpose and responsibility. These projects allow students to see the tangible impact of their skills and efforts. Through hands-on experiences, students learn to identify opportunities, develop innovative solutions, and create meaningful change. This mindset prepares them to navigate complex problems with confidence and creativity. By interacting with diverse groups and addressing societal issues, students develop empathy and a broader understanding of how their skills can contribute to the greater good. This hands-on, purpose-driven approach not only reinforces academic concepts but also instills a sense of social responsibility. It prepares students to think critically about how they can use their knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the world. As AI continues to transform industries and redefine the skills required for success, education must evolve to keep pace. Loh highlights the importance of teaching students how to think critically, adapt to new challenges, and approach problems creatively. Traditional methods, such as solving routine math problems, are being replaced by exercises that encourage innovative thinking and interdisciplinary exploration. Loh also emphasizes the value of cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset. Whether students aspire to launch their own ventures or innovate within existing organizations, this mindset equips them to: Recognize and seize possibilities in a rapidly changing environment. Take calculated risks and learn from failures, turning setbacks into valuable learning experiences. Develop solutions that address real-world needs and contribute to lasting progress. By fostering these skills, Loh’s approach prepares students to navigate the complexities of an AI-driven world with confidence and creativity. It equips them to not only adapt to change but also to drive innovation and lead in their chosen fields. Loh’s educational philosophy is rooted in a holistic approach that combines technical expertise with essential soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, and adaptability. By blending disciplines like math, drama, and social entrepreneurship, his model creates a well-rounded learning experience that prepares students for the challenges of the modern world. This vision goes beyond academic success. It aims to empower students to become independent learners, creative thinkers, and effective problem-solvers. By fostering these qualities, Loh’s approach equips students with the tools they need to excel in an era defined by rapid technological change and global interconnectedness. Whether you are a student, educator, or professional, Loh’s insights offer valuable guidance on how to thrive in a world where creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability are the keys to success. His innovative educational model serves as a blueprint for preparing individuals not just for academic achievement, but for lifelong growth and contribution. Media Credit:
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Additionally, the low management fees associated with ETFs make them a cost-effective investment option, especially compared to actively managed mutual funds. This cost efficiency, combined with the transparency and tradability of ETFs, has made them an appealing choice for both retail and institutional investors looking to access the stock market.
FIIs Likely To Turn Out Consistent Buyers In Indian Markets SoonAs Wang Shiling prepares to take her driving test in London, the public eagerly anticipates the outcome and wishes her success in this important milestone. The young celebrity's journey towards independence and adulthood is closely followed by fans and admirers, who are eager to witness her growth and achievements. The supportive presence of Li Xiang by her daughter's side serves as a reminder of the importance of family and unity in the face of challenges and responsibilities.
Ohio State, Michigan players involved in postgame scuffle
The End of an Era: Messi Misses Out on Annual Best XI for the First Time in 18 Years, Ronaldo Snubbed for the Third Consecutive YearThe man in the video, identified only as Ahmad, had spent five years in a Syrian prison for his involvement in peaceful protests against the government. His release came as a result of international pressure and negotiations, marking a rare moment of hope in the war-torn country's ongoing conflict.
Through their trials and triumphs, our heroes learn valuable lessons about the power of friendship, the importance of perseverance, and the true meaning of bravery. With each step they take, they inspire those around them to reach higher, dream bigger, and believe in the impossible.Alarm in France over fate of detained French-Algerian writer