AP 10:12 JST, December 30, 2024 SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — A jetliner skidded off a runway, slammed into a concrete fence and burst into flames Sunday in South Korea after its landing gear apparently failed to deploy. All but two of the 181 people aboard were killed in one of the country’s worst aviation disasters, officials said. The Boeing 737-800 operated by Jeju Air plane arrived from Bangkok and crashed while attempting to land in the town of Muan, about 290 kilometers (180 miles) south of Seoul. Footage of the crash aired by South Korean television showed the plane skidding across the airstrip at high speed, evidently with its landing gear still closed, and slamming into the wall, triggering an explosion and generating plumes of thick, black smoke. The crash killed 179 people, the South Korean fire agency said. Emergency workers pulled two crew members to safety. They were conscious and did not appear to have any life-threatening injuries, health officials said. The chief of the Muan fire station, Lee Jeong-hyeon, told a televised briefing that the plane was completely destroyed, with only the tail assembly still recognizable in the wreckage. Officials were investigating the cause of the crash, including whether the aircraft was struck by birds, Lee said. The control tower issued a warning about birds to the plane shortly before it intended to land and gave the crew permission to land in a different area, Transport Ministry officials said. The crew sent out a distress signal shortly before the crash, officials said. Investigators retrieved the jet’s flight data and cockpit voice recorders, said senior Transport Ministry official Joo Jong-wan. He said it may take months to complete the probe into the crash. The runway will be closed until Jan. 1, the ministry said. Video of the crash indicated that the pilots did not deploy flaps or slats to slow the aircraft, suggesting a possible hydraulic failure, and they did not manually lower the landing gear, suggesting they did not have time, said John Cox, a retired airline pilot and CEO of Safety Operating Systems in St. Petersburg, Florida. Despite that, the jetliner was under control and traveling in a straight line, and damage and injuries likely would have been minimized if not for a barrier being so close to the runway, Cox said. “It’s all in one piece. Everything is coming along fine until it hits that wall, at which point it disintegrates into a catastrophe,” he said. Another aviation expert said videos showed the aircraft had used up much of the runway before touching down. With little braking ability, the aircraft skidded atop its engine cowlings, said Ross “Rusty” Aimer, CEO of Aero Consulting Experts. “It’s basically like skidding on ice,” he said. The Boeing 737-800 is a “proven airplane” that belongs to a different class of aircraft than the Boeing 737 Max jetliner that was linked to fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, added Alan Price, a former chief pilot at Delta Air Lines and now a consultant. More than 4,500 of the planes are in service around the world, according to the aviation analytics company Cirium. One of the survivors was being treated for fractures to his ribs, shoulder blade and upper spine, said Ju Woong, director of the Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital. Ju said the man, whose name was not released, told doctors he “woke up to find (himself) rescued.” Details on the other survivor were not immediately available. The passengers were predominantly South Korean and included two people from Thailand. Officials identified 88 of them in the hours after the crash, the fire agency said. Thailand’s prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, expressed condolences to the families of those aboard the plane in a post on X. Paetongtarn said she ordered the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to provide assistance. Boonchuay Duangmanee, the father of a Thai passenger, told The Associated Press that his daughter, Jongluk, had been working in a factory in South Korea for several years and returned to Thailand to visit her family. “I never thought that this would be the last time we would see each other forever,” he said. Kerati Kijmanawat, the director of Thailand’s airports, confirmed in a statement that Jeju Air flight 7C 2216 departed from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport with no reports of anything abnormal aboard the aircraft or on the runway. Jeju Air in a statement expressed its “deep apology” over the crash and said it will do its “utmost to manage the aftermath of the accident.” In a televised news conference, the company’s president, Kim E-bae, bowed deeply with other senior company officials as he apologized to bereaved families and said he feels “full responsibility” for the crash. He said the company had not identified any mechanical problems with the aircraft following regular checkups and that he would wait for the results of government investigations. Family members wailed as officials announced the names of some victims at a lounge in the Muan airport. Boeing said in a statement on X that it was in contact with Jeju Air and was ready to support the company in dealing with the crash. The crash happened as South Korea is embroiled in a political crisis triggered by President Yoon Suk Yeol’s stunning imposition of martial law and ensuing impeachment. South Korean lawmakers on Friday impeached acting President Han Duck-soo and suspended his duties, leading Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok to take over. Choi, who traveled to the site in Muan, called for officials to use all available resources to identify the dead as soon as possible. The government declared Muan a special disaster zone and designated a weeklong national mourning period. Yoon’s office said his chief secretary, Chung Jin-suk, presided over an emergency meeting between senior presidential staff to discuss the crash and reported the details to Choi. Yoon expressed condolences to the victims in a Facebook post. In Rome’s St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis said he joined in “prayer for the survivors and the dead.” U.S. President Joe Biden said the United States was ready to offer “any necessary assistance.” The Muan crash is one of the deadliest disasters in South Korea’s aviation history. The last time South Korea suffered a large-scale air disaster was in 1997, when a Korean Airlines plane crashed in Guam, killing 228 people on board. In 2013, an Asiana Airlines plane crash-landed in San Francisco, killing three and injuring about 200. Sunday’s accident was also one of the worst landing disasters since a July 2007 crash that killed all 187 people on board and 12 others on the ground when an Airbus A320 slid off a slick airstrip in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and hit a nearby building, according to data compiled by the Flight Safety Foundation, a nonprofit group aimed at improving air safety. In 2010, 158 people died when an Air India Express aircraft overshot a runway in Mangalore, India, and plummeted into a gorge before erupting into flames, according to the safety foundation.Todd Caputo Joins AutoAcquire AI as Strategic Advisorssbet77 bet 。

Nottingham's tram network is said to be in a "much stronger position" heading into the new year as it reports an increase in passenger journeys of over a million. The city's tram operator is still reporting a loss of £26 million, though the firm says this is "in line with expectations" and is a reduction of more than 50% from the loss reported last year. A continued crackdown on people avoiding fares is among the reasons being set out for the improved picture, which is being reported in the annual accounts for Tramlink Nottingham Limited. The accounts, published on December 20, cover the financial year that ended on March 31, 2024. Tim Hesketh, the chief exec of Tramlink, said: "We're always looking at ways we can improve the service we offer our customers and this year saw us double down on those efforts. We invested in new technology, made key updates to our ticket systems and strengthened our ties with the local police force, which all in turn ensures we can provide our customers with the very best service. Do you support plans to extend Nottingham's tram network? Let us know here "Though the country remains in a challenging economic climate, we have remained committed to ensuring value for money for the many tram users who use the network each day. As such, this year, we've worked hard to ensure that any cost increases incurred due to rising inflation and energy costs are kept to a minimum. That's a commitment that will remain into 2025 too". Nottingham's tram network, which first began operating in 2004, is run through a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) contract held by Tramlink. The PFI deal has seen private investors putting significant sums into the tram project, alongside investment from the Government and Nottingham City Council . Tramlink holds the contract for Nottingham's tram network until 2034 and Nottingham Trams Limited runs the network on behalf of Tramlink under the NET brand. Responsibility for trams after Tramlink's contract ends is likely to end up in the hands of the East Midlands Combined County Authority. A Nottingham City Council report from 2011 estimated its annual total costs in regards to the tram network would be around £70 million for the majority of the PFI contract. Nottingham City Council now says those figures are out of date, but says it cannot share the exact current payments due to confidentiality clauses in the tram contract. As well as the new figures on overall losses, Tramlink says the number of passenger journeys made throughout the last financial year was 15.5 million, an increase on the 14.4 million recorded the year before. The biggest reason for the significant reduction in losses recorded is the fact that Tramlink did not record an impairment charge last year. An impairment charge is recorded when the value of a company's assets is considered to have fallen. In Tramlink's case, that judgement was primarily made in the 2022/23 financial year because passenger numbers were still less than pre-pandemic levels. It meant an impairment charge of £26.7 million was recorded in the financial year before last. That impairment charge coincided with a deal being announced, which avoided Tramlink "running out of cash". The deal means Tramlink's loans will have to be repaid by 2033 rather than 2030 and that the cash reserves the company has to hold have been reduced from double-figure millions to single-figure millions. Mr Hesketh said: " We were confident that last year's financial restructuring project would give our network the security we needed to concentrate on making investments towards improvements to our service, and our most recent financial figures are an indicator of its success. "After a challenging few years, it's promising to see that we're now in a much stronger position, and we'd like to thank the city council and Department of Transport for all their support". Mr Hesketh has previously acknowledged that some of the original private investors in Nottingham's tram project, who invested with a promise of returns, will not be getting their money back. The tram boss says that the priority is to repay priority lenders like banks and Nottingham City Council. Yet for those junior lenders who might not end up getting their money back, Mr Hesketh claims they still value their contribution as it provides a boost to their portfolio of investments. On the latest results, the Tramlink chief exec added: "We would also like to thank our customers for their continued support over the last year, during which we delivered a 7.4% increase in passenger kilometres travelled, as well as increased tram reliability. We look forward to building on this in 2025".

Ridley vs. Interboro just another game that means everything to the respective programs' players Subscribe to continue reading this article. Already subscribed? To login in, click here.Winter has arrived in Vancouver, and it has brought a bunch of great events to enjoy without breaking the bank. Here’s our rundown of 24 free and inexpensive events you’ll want to check out this season around Metro Vancouver! Family Day, Japanese New Year, and more. Be sure to check out our for more fantastic things happening around town. PuSh International Performing Arts Festival is back for another groundbreaking year this winter, and it promises a lineup of works for every type of live arts enthusiast. Highlights include the return of Dances for a Small Stage, Dune Wars Kiki Ball, and the popular Club Push. January 23 to February 9, 2025 Various times Various venues Various prices including several free events. Purchase Winter has arrived in Vancouver and it has brought a bunch of great events you can enjoy without breaking the bank. Here is our rundown of 24 free and inexpensive events you’ll want to check out this season around Metro Vancouver! Family Day, Japanese New Year, and more. And for more great events happening around town, be sure to check out our . Music on Main, Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre, and Zonzo Compagnie are teaming up for the inaugural Big Bang Festival, a day of musical adventure for children ages five and up. The immersive festival will be a journey through music and sound art, with mini-concerts, interactive activities, and surprise performances throughout the day. Featuring performances by Belgian singer Naomi Beeldens, Vancouver musicians Dailin Hsieh and Saina Khaledi, and more. February 16, 2025 Doors at 11:30 am, festival starts at 1:30 pm Roundhouse Community Centre, Vancouver Free and ticketed events. Purchase Calling all whimsical winter lovers! The Robson Square Ice Rink is open for the new skating season and all ages are invited to hit the ice. Located under the covered outdoor plaza at Robson Square, the rink operates seasonally when temperatures begin to dip. Skating is free, and those without skates can rent them on-site for a fee. Helmets are mandatory for anyone under the age of 12. The downtown Vancouver wintry tradition will operate until the end of February. Open daily until February 28, 2025 9 am to 9 pm (holiday hours apply on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day) Robson Square — 800 Robson Street, Vancouver; beneath Robson Street and Howe Street Free for all ages if you bring your skates. Skate rentals are also available for a fee. Car lovers, start your engines! The Vancouver International Auto Show is making its highly anticipated return to the Vancouver Convention Centre from March 19 to 23, 2025 The 2025 Auto Show will feature displays of the latest vehicles, test drive opportunities, and insights into electric and hybrid technologies from top automotive manufacturers as well as local BC dealerships. March 19 to 23, 2025 12 to 9 pm (Wednesday), 10 am to 9 pm (Thursday to Saturday), 10 am to 6 pm (Sunday) Vancouver Convention Centre West — 1055 Canada Place $19 to $21 for general admission | $14 to $15 for students and seniors | $6 for kids | $38 to $53 for a family pass. Purchase Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre invites guests to begin 2025 with free Japanese New Year Celebrations. Guests can take part in free calligraphy lessons. You can also learn how to play Shogi, a popular mind sport from Japan, try Japanese tea, and join a free Hawaiian Hula dance class. January 4, 2025 10 am to 3 pm Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre – 6688 Southoaks Crescent, Burnaby Free Gingerbread Lane, the sweetest street in Vancouver, is back for its 32nd year as the Hyatt Regency once again plays host to the popular festive tradition. Now until December 27, 2024 Regular hotel hours Hyatt Regency Vancouver — 655 Burrard Street, Vancouver Free Head to VIFF Centre – Vancity Theatre for the latest Wallace & Gromit classic, Various dates until January 2, 2025 Various times. See the full schedule VIFF Centre – 1181 Seymour Street, Vancouver Various prices, including $10 for youth under 18, $11 for students and accessible patron, $14 for seniors, and $16 for adults. Purchase New Year’s Eve is just around the corner, and if you’re looking to welcome 2025 with a bang, Whistler Blackcomb’s Fire and Ice is the perfect event for you. North America’s largest ski resort is bringing back its popular outdoor winter event starting on Tuesday, December 31, at 8:30 pm. The free signature event features exciting performances, freestyle skiing and riding, and a stunning pyrotechnics display for all ages. December 31, 2024, then every Sunday from January 5 to March 9, 2025 8:30 pm (New Year’s Eve), 7:30 pm (January 5 to March 9, 2024) Skiers Plaza at Whistler Village base between Whistler and Excalibur Gondolas Free Place des Arts invites guests of all ages to immerse themselves in art. Tour the not-for-profit arts education centre, then take part in the drop-in style activities inspired by the content and/or mediums in the current exhibitions. : February 4, 2025 1 to 3 pm : Place des Arts – 1120 Brunette Avenue, Coquitlam Free, register Heritage Christmas and the Burnaby Village Museum are truly where history comes alive. Enjoy the magical atmosphere of festive lights and traditional decorations in this 1920s-era village. There will also be seasonal entertainment, demonstrations and activities, and delicious food served up at Heritage Christmas. Keep an eye out for the historic streetcar on your way to the old-timey ice cream parlour. Now until January 3, 2025 Various times Burnaby Village Museum — 6501 Deer Lake Avenue Free; Carousel rides $2.62 plus tax or a Baker’s Dozen (13 rides) for $31.45 plus tax The Vancouver Polar Bear Swim returns to English Bay on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, and you’re going to want to bring your warmest towel. Start off the new year the right way by plunging into the Pacific Ocean during the frigid 105th event. The chilly event takes place from noon to 4 pm, with the program starting at 2 pm and the official swim happening at 2:30 pm. Those who register for the event online can also receive a commemorative certificate. January 1, 2025 Noon to 4 pm; official swim at 2:30 pm English Bay Beach – Beach Avenue between Gilford Street and Bidwell Street Free. Participants are encouraged to There is plenty of family fun and holiday cheer in Stanley Park throughout the festive season, even with the . Guests will be treated to stunning light displays during their visit to the Train Plaza, including returning favourites like the giant red reindeer, a vintage fire truck, and the tunnel of lights in the plaza. The event is also in support of the Burn Fund. Now until January 4, 2025 (closed on December 25) 4 to 10 pm Pipeline Road in Stanley Park, via the West Georgia Street park entrance Free to visit the holiday lights display and festive activities in the plaza Lights at Lafarge, Metro Vancouver’s largest free outdoor winter lights display, is back again for another holiday season. The annual tradition will illuminate Lafarge Lake in Coquitlam throughout the season, with over 100,000 twinkling lights to enjoy until the end of February. Guests of all ages can explore the outdoor display that wraps its way entirely around the lake, leading them on a 1.2 km loop through themed zones. Now until February 2025 Nightly from 4 to 11 pm Town Centre Park – 1299 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam Free Help remove invasive plants and clean up litter at various parks in Surrey this winter. Tools and training will be provided, and all ages are welcome. Nature Work Parties are drop-in, rain or shine, though events may be cancelled in high winds or extreme weather conditions. Participants are also asked to wear appropriate clothing for outdoor winter activities. Various dates 10 am and 10:30 am staggered start times Various parks in Surrey Free The City of North Vancouver’s free is welcoming skaters until March 2025. Skaters of all ages can glide on the approximately 12,000 sq ft surface daily from noon to 8 pm. And fun can be had no matter the weather – the Shipyards Skate Plaza is covered by a retractable roof. Now until March 2025 Noon to 8 pm The Shipyards Commons, North Vancouver Free. Skate rentals are available for $7 for adults and $5 for children (quantities are limited) The Bill Reid Gallery is named after the renowned Haida artist and is the only public gallery dedicated to contemporary Indigenous Art of the Northwest Coast in the country. The gallery is home to the Simon Fraser University Bill Reid Collection and also hosts a variety of special exhibitions, workshops, panel discussions, and more. Guests can visit the Bill Reid Gallery for free from 2 to 5 pm on the first Friday of each month. The first Friday of every month 2 to 5 pm 639 Hornby Street, Vancouver By donation Vancouver Public Library hosts a variety of movie screenings for the public at its branches throughout the winter, and the best part is they are free to check out. Upcoming movie screenings include , Window, and Various dates Various times Various VPL Branches Free The Vancouver Art Gallery was founded in 1931 and is renowned as one of North America’s leading visual arts institutions. The largest public art museum in Western Canada currently has a variety of exhibitions on display, and you can check them out for free during the Free First Friday Nights events. The first Friday of every month 4 to 8 pm 750 Hornby Street, Vancouver Free Learn about Chinatown’s heritage and culture through hands-on activities during Family Saturdays at the Chinatown Storytelling Centre. The event happens on the third Saturday of each month from 11 am to 1 pm and includes guided tours, prizes, special offers from neighbouring restaurants, and free admission for youth 17 years and under. The third Saturday of each month 11 am to 1 pm (Centre is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm) 168 East Pender Street, Vancouver Free for youth 17 and under; an adult must accompany guests under 12. Admission is $10-$12; purchase The Improv Centre welcomes performers of all levels to get up onstage with professionally trained improvisers at its free monthly community jam. The 18+ event features theatre exercises, improv games, and more during the fun, interactive jam. The last Saturday of every month 3:30 to 5:30 pm The Improv Centre — 1502 Duranleau Street, Vancouver Free Visitors will find over 85 farms and producers and a selection of food and coffee trucks. Shop for fruits and veggies, eggs and dairy, meat, prepared food, craft beverages, craft items, and more. Every Saturday until March 29, 2025 10 am to 2 pm 50 E 30th Avenue and Ontario Street, Vancouver Kitsilano Farmers’ Market takes place on Sundays in the parking lot of the Community Centre and offers a good selection of fresh local produce and gourmet treats to stock up on the week. There are also a number of artisan vendors and food trucks to check out at the market. : Every Sunday until April 27, 2025 10 am to 2 pm : West 10th Avenue and Trafalgar Street, Vancouver You can shop at the Granville Island Public Market year-round. It’s indoors, so it’s a great option on a rainy day. This place is loved by locals and tourists alike. Shop for all your basics and extras here and grab lunch from some of the city’s best eats. Every day 9 am to 6 pm Granville Island – 1661 Duranleau Street, Vancouver Established in 2008, the Port Moody Winter Farmers’ Market began as a bi-weekly market in the lobby and courtyard of the Port Moody Rec Centre. Now a weekly market, shoppers can stop by every Sunday for local BC produce, artisan crafts, and delicious baked goods. Every Sunday until April 2025 10 am to 2 pm Port Moody Recreation Complex – 300 Ioco Road, Port Moody

Jimmy Carter dies at 100: Several world leaders and US politicians mourned the demise of former US President Jimmy Carter. He played a key role in brokering peace between Israel and Egypt and also received Nobel Peace Prize for his work. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has paid tribute to the former US president and said that he has left a legacy of “compassion, kindness, empathy, and hard work”. Here's how other leaders and US politicians have reacted. PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN AND FIRST LADY JILL BIDEN "Today, America and the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian. Over six decades, we had the honor of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But, what’s extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well." US VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA HARRIS "President Jimmy Carter was guided by a deep and abiding faith — in God, in America, and in humanity. Jimmy Carter’s life is a testament to the power of service — as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy, the 76th Governor of Georgia, and the 39th President of the United States. He reminded our nation and the world that there is strength in decency and compassion." US PRESIDENT-ELECT DONALD TRUMP "The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers." EGYPT PRESIDENT ABDEL FATTAH AL-SISI "In this moment of sorrow, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of former American President Jimmy Carter, as well as to the President and the people of the United States of America. His significant role in achieving the peace agreement between Egypt and Israel will remain etched in the annals of history, and his humanitarian work exemplifies a lofty standard of love, peace, and brotherhood. His enduring legacy ensures that he will be remembered as one of the world's most prominent leaders in service to humanity." US SECRETARY OF STATE ANTONY BLINKEN "Throughout decades of public service, President Carter embodied integrity, compassion, and a commitment to advancing the freedom, security, and welfare of others. He channeled that spirit in his foreign policy, from negotiating the return of the Panama Canal to its host nation, to developing arms control agreements with the Soviet Union. And he brought it to his every exchange and conversation, from heads of state to ordinary citizens. President Carter also showed us what can be achieved through tireless and principled diplomacy, mediating a landmark deal with Israel and Egypt that helped forge peace between two nations that had spent decades at war. His efforts are an important reminder of what’s possible, especially amidst renewed conflict and suffering in the region." CANADA PRIME MINISTER JUSTIN TRUDEAU “Jimmy Carter’s legacy is one of compassion, kindness, empathy, and hard work. He served others both at home and around the world his entire life — and he loved doing it. He was always thoughtful and generous with his advice to me. My deepest condolences to the Carter family, his many loved ones, and the American people who are mourning a former President and a lifelong humanitarian. May his selfless service continue to inspire us all for years to come.” PANAMA PRESIDENT JOSE RAUL MULINO "I offer my condolences to the family and to the people and Government of the United States on the death of former President Jimmy Carter. His stint in the White House was marked by difficult times, and were crucial for Panama in negotiating and signing the Torrijos-Carter Treaties in 1977, which transferred the (Panama) Canal into Panamanian hands and made our country truly sovereign. May his soul rest in peace.” VENEZUELAN GOVERNMENT OF PRESIDENT NICOLAS MADURO "The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela regrets the death of former President of the United States of America, Jimmy Carter, and extends its most sincere condolences to his family and friends. Former President Carter was a man of proven commitment to peace and dialogue. His contributions to global politics and his dedication to peace have left an indelible mark on the world." FRENCH PRESIDENT EMMANUEL MACRON “Throughout his life, Jimmy Carter has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of the most vulnerable and has tirelessly fought for peace. France sends its heartfelt thoughts to his family and to the American people.” AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER ANTHONY ALBANESE “President Carter rose from humble beginnings to leave a remarkable legacy. Beyond being elected to the Presidency or being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, Jimmy Carter's legacy is best measured in lives changed, saved and uplifted.”

The are set to make goaltender the highest-paid player at his position in NHL history. The Rangers and Shesterkin have agreed to an eight-year contract extension with an average annual value of $11.5 million, reports . With that annual salary, Shesterkin will overtake left wing (and leading scorer) as the Rangers' highest-paid player. Panarin makes $11.6 million per season as part of a seven-year, $81.5 million he agreed to in 2019. was previously the highest-paid goalie in league history, with an average annual salary of $10.5 million as part of his eight-year, $84 million contract with the , signed in 2018. Shesterkin, 28, is in his sixth season with the Rangers and the last year of a four-year contract that pays him $5.66 million per year. He and the team have been negotiating since the offseason, attempting to work out a new deal before Shesterkin became a free agent. He was the team's fourth-round selection (No. 118 overall) in the 2014 NHL Draft from SKA St. Petersburg in Russia's Kontinental Hockey League. You’ve got to be kidding me with this save by Shesterkin. The change of direction after sliding to his right. The stretch. Grabbing the puck right off the goal line. Incredible — Jesse Granger (@JesseGranger_) This season, Shesterkin has an 8–9–1 record in 18 games with a 3.05 goals against average and .908 save percentage. For his career, he's compiled a 143–68–18 record with a 2.48 GAA and .920 save percentage. Shesterkin had his best season during the 2021-22 campaign during which he finished with a 36–13–4 record and led the NHL with a 2.07 GAA and .935 save percentage. He was awarded the Vezina Trophy, given to the league's best goaltender. The Rangers are currently fourth in the Metropolitan Division with a 13–10–1 record and 27 points. They hold the eighth spot in the Eastern Conference by percentage points over the and one point ahead of the . defenseman and team captain to the . Clearing Trouba's $8 million salary off the payroll may have helped get the deal with Shesterkin done.Beijing raises its estimate for the size of its economy in 2023

COLLEGE BOWLSPRING, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 23, 2024-- Perma-Pipe International Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: PPIH) announced today financial results for the second quarter and fiscal year-to-date period ended October 31, 2024. "Net sales for the third quarter were $41.6 million, a decrease of $4.1 million, as compared to the same quarter last year. Net income attributable to common stock of $2.5 million was an increase of $0.5 million, or 29%, compared to $1.9 million in the third quarter of 2023. For the nine months ended October 31, 2024, net sales of $113.4 million represent an increase of 3% compared to the nine months ended October 31, 2023. The net income attributable to common stock of $7.2 million was an increase of $5.4 million, or 294%, compared to net income attributable to common stock of $1.8 million in the nine months ended October 31, 2023,” noted President and CEO David Mansfield. “Backlog in the third quarter shows considerable growth and now stands at $114.2 million. This is the equivalent to approximately nine months revenue based upon prior years’ revenues. The continual strengthening of our backlog over the past two quarters is encouraging and provides a sense of optimism heading into next year. Additionally, backlog at the end of the third quarter represents the highest level since transitioning from MFRI to Perma-Pipe, which occurred in March 2017,” Mr. Mansfield continued. “Our third quarter and fiscal 2024 year-to-date results continue to reflect exceptional performance, which has remained consistent throughout the year. It is worth noting that our net income attributable to common stock for the nine months ended October 31, 2024, represents the highest level of earnings on a year-to-date basis since transitioning from MFRI to Perma-Pipe,” said Mr. Mansfield. “We are pleased with the level of business activity we have experienced and continue to see, as supported by the significant rise in backlog and share price. The increases in infrastructure spending in Saudi Arabia, India, and the U.A.E., represent key drivers of our overall improvement, for which the strength of our financial results further enables us to continue to execute on strategic initiatives,” concluded Mr. Mansfield. Third Quarter Fiscal 2024 Results Net sales were $41.6 million and $45.7 million in the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The decrease of $4.1 million, or 9%, was a result of the timing of project execution. Gross profit was $14.1 million, or 34% of net sales, and $13.2 million, or 29% of net sales, in the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The increase of $0.9 million, was driven primarily by better margins due to product mix. General and administrative expenses were $7.3 million and $5.7 million in the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The increase of $1.6 million, was due to higher payroll expenses and professional fees in the quarter. Selling expenses were $1.2 million and $1.5 million in the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The decrease of $0.3 million, was due to lower payroll expense in the quarter. Net interest expense remained consistent and was $0.5 million and $0.6 million in the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Other expense was $0.1 million and $0.5 million in the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The decrease of $0.4 million, was due primarily to exchange rate fluctuations in foreign currency transactions. The Company's ETR was 32% and 31% in the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The change in the ETR is due to the ability to recognize tax benefits on losses in the United States in the current year whereas the prior year had a full valuation allowance and changes to the mix of income and loss in various jurisdictions. Net income attributable to common stock was $2.5 million and $1.9 million in the three months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The increase of $0.6 million, was mainly due to better project execution in the quarter. Fiscal 2024 Year-to-Date Results Net sales were $113.4 million and $110.5 million in the nine months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The increase of $2.9 million, or 3%, was a result of increased sales volumes in the Middle East. Gross profit was $38.1 million, or 34% of net sales, and $29.4 million, or 27% of net sales, in the nine months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The increase of $8.7 million, was driven primarily by better margins due to product mix. General and administrative expenses were $19.5 million and $16.4 million in the nine months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The increase of $3.1 million, was due to higher payroll expenses and professional fees. Selling expenses were $3.8 million and $4.2 million in the nine months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The decrease of $0.4 million, was due to lower payroll expenses. Net interest expense was $1.5 million and $1.8 million in the nine months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The decrease of $0.3 million, was due primarily to declining interest rates on certain variable rate debt. Other expense was $0.2 million and $0.4 million in the nine months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The change was due primarily to exchange rate fluctuations in foreign currency transactions. The Company's ETR was 28% and 49% in the nine months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The change in the ETR is due to the ability to recognize tax benefits on losses in the United States in the current year whereas the prior year had a full valuation allowance and changes to the mix of income and loss in various jurisdictions. Net income attributable to common stock was $7.2 million and $1.8 million in the nine months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The increase of $5.4 million, was mainly due to better project execution during the year. Perma-Pipe International Holdings, Inc. Perma-Pipe International Holdings, Inc. (the “Company”) is a global leader in pre-insulated piping and leak detection systems for oil and gas gathering, district heating and cooling, and other applications. It uses its extensive engineering and fabrication expertise to develop piping solutions that solve complex challenges regarding the safe and efficient transportation of many types of liquids. In total, the Company has operations at fourteen locations in six countries. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements and other information contained in this press release that can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and are subject to the safe harbors created thereby, including, without limitation, statements regarding the expected future performance and operations of the Company. These statements should be considered as subject to the many risks and uncertainties that exist in the Company's operations and business environment. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following: (i) fluctuations in the price of oil and natural gas and its impact on customer order volume for the Company's products; (ii) the Company’s ability to purchase raw materials at favorable prices and to maintain beneficial relationships with its suppliers; (iii) decreases in government spending on projects using the Company’s products, and challenges to the Company’s non-government customers’ liquidity and access to capital funds; (iv) the Company’s ability to repay its debt and renew expiring international credit facilities; (v) the Company’s ability to effectively execute its strategic plan and achieve sustained profitability and positive cash flows; (vi) the Company's ability to collect a long-term account receivable related to a project in the Middle East; (vii) the Company’s ability to interpret changes in tax regulations and legislation; (viii) the Company's ability to use its net operating loss carryforwards; (ix) reversals of previously recorded revenue and profits resulting from inaccurate estimates made in connection with the Company’s "over-time" revenue recognition; (x) the Company’s failure to establish and maintain effective internal control over financial reporting; (xi) the timing of order receipt, execution, delivery and acceptance for the Company’s products; (xii) the Company’s ability to successfully negotiate progress-billing arrangements for its large contracts; (xiii) aggressive pricing by existing competitors and the entrance of new competitors in the markets in which the Company operates; (xiv) the Company’s ability to manufacture products free of latent defects and to recover from suppliers who may provide defective materials to the Company; (xv) reductions or cancellations of orders included in the Company’s backlog; (xvi) risks and uncertainties specific to the Company's international business operations; (xvii) the Company’s ability to attract and retain senior management and key personnel; (xviii) the Company’s ability to achieve the expected benefits of its growth initiatives; (xix) the impact of pandemics and other public health crises on the Company and its operations; and (xx) the impact of cybersecurity threats on the Company’s information technology systems. Shareholders, potential investors and other readers are urged to consider these factors carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements made herein are made only as of the date of this press release and we undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. More detailed information about factors that may affect our performance may be found in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available at https://www.sec.gov and under the Investor Center section of our website ( http://investors.permapipe.com .) Additional information regarding the Company's financial results for the three months ended October 31, 2024, including management's discussion and analysis of the Company's financial condition and results of operations, is contained in the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended October 31, 2024, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on or about the date hereof and will be accessible at www.sec.gov and www.permapipe.com . For more information, visit the Company's website. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241223777874/en/ CONTACT: Perma-Pipe International Holdings, Inc. David Mansfield, President and CEO Perma-Pipe Investor Relations (847) 929-1200 investor@permapipe.com KEYWORD: TEXAS UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: ENGINEERING CHEMICALS/PLASTICS OTHER ENERGY OIL/GAS MANUFACTURING ENERGY SOURCE: Perma-Pipe International Holdings, Inc. Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/23/2024 12:43 PM/DISC: 12/23/2024 12:43 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241223777874/enCanada didn't live up to its values on immigration in recent years, Carney says