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ag slotvip Business People: Symone Woolridge to anchor Fox 9 evening newscastsWorld number one Luke Humphries continued his bid for back-to-back World Championship titles after easing through to the last 16. While there was high drama in Alexandra Palace on the first day back after the Christmas break, where Damon Heta threw a nine-dart finish, Humphries enjoyed a serene evening. He beat Nick Kenny 4-0 to set up a mouth-watering fourth-round meeting with two-time champion Peter Wright. THE WORLD NUMBER ONE KICKS ON! Luke Humphries comfortably books his spot in the Last 16 with a 4-0 whitewash victory over Nick Kenny, averaging 98.59! 📺 https://t.co/pIQvhqYxEj #WCDarts pic.twitter.com/XAADalXD4Q — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) December 27, 2024 Kenny was unable to produce the form that saw him beat Raymond van Barneveld in the previous round and Humphries did not need to be anywhere near his best. “It was one of those games I didn’t want to take for granted,” he said. “I expected a tough game and I wasn’t firing, I felt there is so much more to give, I felt there was more to come out of me. “I didn’t want to give anyone an inch because they can take a mile. “I’m not going to give up this world title without a fight, I wasn’t at my best but when someone pushes me I know I can come up with the goods.” Earlier in the day Heta set the tournament alight on its resumption with a stunning nine-dart finish before bowing out. The Australian, seeded ninth, achieved darting perfection in the second set of his match with Luke Woodhouse to earn a cool £60,000 payday. However, his joy was short-lived as Woodhouse won a thrilling battle 4-3, having trailed 3-1. HEROIC HETA HITS THE NINE! 🔥 UNBELIEVABLE SCENES! 🤯 Damon Heta lands the second nine-darter of the tournament to raise the roof at Alexandra Palace! #WCDarts pic.twitter.com/DW6rhvFqez — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) December 27, 2024 Heta was millimetres away from throwing a nine-darter in the previous round when he missed the double 12, but he made no mistake this time in the first match after the Christmas break. Heta’s feat was the second time a nine-darter has been thrown in the 2025 tournament and the 16th of all time at the World Championship, following Christian Kist’s effort before Christmas. As well as landing the Australian a hefty payday, it also saw a lucky fan in Ally Pally win a £60,000, with £60,000 also being donated to Prostate Cancer UK. There were several other titanic battles, none better than Gerwyn Price’s sudden-death leg victory over Joe Cullen. Price looked like he was going to have an easy night when he coasted into a 3-0 lead, but Cullen hit back to send it to a decider, which went all the way. Cullen landed a ‘Big Fish’ 170 checkout to send the tie to a sudden-death leg on his throw but Price hit some big numbers to steal victory. “That was tough, I just wanted to get over the winning line,” he said during his on-stage interview. PRICE WINS A THRILLER! That might just be the game of the tournament so far! 💥 Gerwyn Price manages to break the Rockstars throw in the final leg of the game, and beats Joe Cullen 4-3 and books his place in the Last 16! 📺 https://t.co/pIQvhqYxEj #WCDarts pic.twitter.com/VnjnJxP0T0 — PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) December 27, 2024 “He kept coming back, the crowd were way behind him. “I thought I was going to lose, but I kept in there right to the end and got the win. “He played some good darts at the right times. I put myself in that position, I got myself out of it and I’m still in.” Seventh seed Jonny Clayton also battled to victory after squandering a 3-0 lead against Daryl Gurney. Gurney then had six darts to send the decider to a tiebreaker but lost his nerve and Clayton stole a 4-3 win. Stephen Bunting and Peter Wright, who was suffering from a chest infection, enjoyed much more safe passages with routine wins over Madars Razma and Jermaine Wattimena respectively.

In years of covering product announcements and trends for Fstoppers, I’ve observed a camera industry caught between reverence for its storied past and the gravitational pull of an ever-shifting technological landscape. The last decade has introduced mirrorless revolutions, ever-higher resolutions, astonishing autofocus gains, and previously unthinkable low-light capabilities. Yet it’s clear that technical specs alone no longer guarantee relevance. The world’s visual appetite grows daily, fueled by platforms and users hungry for instant, shareable media, while the cameras in our phones leverage computational magic to produce images that once required skill, patience, and dedicated equipment. Traditional camera makers risk drifting into niche territory unless they adapt to evolving user expectations. The conversation now must extend beyond incremental improvements. These shifts are not about short-term gimmicks. They’re about ensuring that dedicated cameras remain vital companions in a world where creativity, responsibility, and accessibility define value. The push for deeper computational imaging integration addresses a fundamental issue: consumer expectations have already been recalibrated by smartphones that combine multiple frames, analyze scenes at the pixel level, and apply subtle adjustments before the user even presses the virtual shutter. There’s a difference, of course, between smartphone convenience and the purposeful craft associated with professional-grade cameras. Yet ignoring the efficiency and flexibility of computational methods risks relegating advanced camera systems to the sidelines. Integration means blending the raw image quality of large sensors and high-quality optics with in-body processing that can handle noise reduction, HDR merges, focus stacking, or dynamic tone mapping on the spot. A camera that can intelligently combine frames to reveal richer detail or broader dynamic range would elevate the baseline from which photographers operate. As visual content proliferates and deadlines tighten, fewer creators want to spend hours doing things like combing through bracketing sequences in post. By making complex image assembly seamless, camera companies can preserve the medium’s integrity while letting photographers focus on vision rather than workflows. AI-assisted shooting modes present a similar opportunity. Autofocus systems capable of recognizing faces, eyes, or animals have already reshaped how photographers approach challenging scenes. Building upon this, next-generation AI could learn from shooting habits, lighting conditions, and subject patterns, offering subtle suggestions that improve hit rates. Without dictating style, it could guide a sports photographer toward a faster shutter, or assist a portrait shooter with depth-of-field choices when time is short. Many professionals and enthusiasts operate under constraints—time, unpredictability, limited opportunities to reshoot—and a camera that anticipates these challenges helps maintain relevance in markets where speed and consistency are prized. If cameras remain simple sensor-boxes requiring manual tinkering for every scenario, they risk losing ground to computationally advanced devices that instantly adapt. AI doesn’t need to replace technique; it can complement it, raising the baseline so that skillful users move faster and novices ascend the learning curve with more confidence. There’s a legitimate concern that AI might homogenize style or push photographers toward default aesthetics. This is precisely why careful design is critical. Well-implemented AI features would allow users to toggle suggestions, refine preferences, and retain ultimate control. The point isn’t to turn the camera into an infallible oracle that dictates settings, but to have it offer actionable insights based on pattern recognition and context. By doing this, cameras stay valuable tools in a creative ecosystem full of deadlines, diverse assignments, and rapidly evolving genres. As more creators reach for devices that guarantee a certain baseline of quality and adaptability, cameras that lag behind in AI-driven support will seem archaic. Adopting these features communicates that manufacturers understand the pressures photographers face today, pressures that demand solutions more elegant than just adding another megapixel or another frame per second. The camera industry, historically focused on mechanical precision and optical excellence, has not always placed environmental responsibility front and center. Today, consumers are more conscious of the environmental impact of electronics manufacturing, distribution, and disposal. The photography community includes environmentally aware professionals documenting fragile ecosystems and enthusiasts who see creativity as part of a holistic lifestyle. Cameras that incorporate recycled materials, prioritize long-lasting components, and come with transparent guidelines for end-of-life disposal or refurbishment could stand apart. This move would not be a mere gesture; it could resonate with photographers who value authenticity and integrity not only in their images but also in the tools they wield. Sustainability can become a differentiator that bolsters brand identity in a world increasingly skeptical of disposability and waste. The photographic ecosystem now exists within a dense web of platforms, clients, collaborators, and archives. Photographers must deliver images swiftly, back them up securely, and edit them efficiently. Traditional cameras often feel isolated, requiring card readers, clunky app connections, or manual cable transfers. Meanwhile, phones upload images to cloud storage with negligible friction. If dedicated cameras cannot match or surpass that convenience, they risk feeling cumbersome. Seamless connectivity would mean the camera can upload raw files directly to cloud services, communicate wirelessly with tablets or laptops, or sync metadata in real-time. It would mean cutting down on the mechanical rituals that sap time and energy from creative processes. In an environment where clients expect rapid turnarounds and social media thrives on immediate visuals, cameras that cooperate with modern infrastructures preserve their standing as professional and enthusiast tools of choice. Achieving meaningful connectivity goes beyond slapping a Wi-Fi chip into a camera and calling it a day. It could mean integrating user-friendly interfaces that make connecting to known devices effortless, offering open protocols so that third-party developers can build powerful companion apps, and enabling intelligent file handling that prioritizes, sorts, or compresses images depending on their intended destination. The camera might learn which projects a photographer wants to back up automatically, or which clients receive instant proofs. By embracing connectivity as part of the camera’s core identity, manufacturers acknowledge that photography is rarely an isolated act. This approach would serve everyone from wedding photographers juggling extensive catalogs to photojournalists who must transmit images before the story cools, reinforcing cameras as vital instruments rather than decorative relics. Inclusive ergonomics and accessibility enhancements matter because cameras are creative tools meant for a wide range of people. Historically, design decisions have catered to a somewhat narrow demographic, assuming a particular set of physical abilities and preferences (I mean, even guitars can be left-handed). There’s growing recognition that creativity thrives when everyone can participate. This includes people with varying hand sizes, grips, visual acuity, or motor capabilities. By introducing modular grips, customizable controls, adjustable text sizes, haptic feedback, or voice commands, cameras can empower more users. A photographer with limited mobility should not find the device’s interface a barrier to expression. More inclusive design ensures that dedicated cameras don’t remain niche products for physically unencumbered enthusiasts only, but open up to broader communities. Doing so fosters goodwill, sets brands apart as empathetic innovators, and ensures that future generations see these devices as considerate companions rather than exclusionary tools. These five directions—computational imaging, AI assistance, sustainability, connectivity, and inclusive ergonomics—intersect in ways that could reshape the camera industry’s value proposition. For instance, computational imaging paired with robust connectivity might allow on-the-fly creation and transmission of stacked HDR images directly to a collaborator’s editing station. AI guidance integrated with accessible menus can help a new user, who might have once been deterred by complexity, gain confidence swiftly. Sustainable materials combined with long-term firmware support ensure a camera that remains functional and relevant for years, reducing turnover and building brand loyalty. Each of these aspects strengthens the others, crafting a holistic identity for modern cameras that transcends simplistic spec wars. This is critical for maintaining and increasing relevance at a time when consumers increasingly care about usability, ethics, adaptability, and, in particular, personal resonance. The camera industry has a history of innovation, but it has sometimes lagged in embracing broader cultural shifts. Smartphones have accustomed everyone to immediate optimization, making it harder for dedicated cameras to justify their existence without matching or exceeding that adaptability. AI-assisted modes align with a desire for efficiency in a competitive marketplace, where professionals can’t afford to miss crucial moments. Sustainability addresses growing public awareness that technology should not be disposable, and that products should reflect the values of conservation and long-term responsibility. Connectivity responds directly to the logistical headaches that too many photographers face, bridging the gap between capture and delivery, and letting them focus on storytelling rather than file management. Inclusive ergonomics recognizes that no tool should exclude voices that might offer fresh perspectives. Each of these steps meets a real-world need, ensuring cameras remain tools that serve rather than hinder. This shift also means camera manufacturers must invest in research, partnerships, and new types of expertise. Computational imaging requires skilled image scientists and software engineers working alongside optical experts. AI integration demands reliable machine learning pipelines, data sets that respect privacy and diversity, and careful interface design. Sustainability calls for transparent supply chains, modular engineering, and life-cycle planning. Connectivity might involve adopting standards from the broader tech world, collaborating with software and cloud service providers, and building robust APIs. Inclusive ergonomics means engaging with accessibility consultants, user feedback loops, and iterative design processes. Each of these investments pays off by building resilience, adaptability, and credibility. The camera brands that embrace such complexity will appear forward-thinking, dynamic, and prepared for whatever cultural or technological shifts lie ahead—and they will be. Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.President-elect Donald Trump asked the Supreme Court on Friday to pause the potential TikTok ban from going into effect until his administration can pursue a “political resolution” to the issue. The request came as TikTok and the Biden administration filed opposing briefs to the court, in which the company argued the court should strike down a law that could ban the platform by Jan. 19 while the government emphasized its position that the statute is needed to eliminate a national security risk. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.Titans showing signs of growing tougher under 1st-year coach Brian Callahan

With the news that Cadillac is joining F1 in 2026, Mario Andretti has been named to the board of directors for the organization. An Andretti-Cadillac team was denied entry in 2023, but this new formation is more acceptable to the FIA. Mario Andretti is a legend. Formula One, NASCAR, IndyCar – there isn’t much that he wasn’t able to accomplish during his driving days. At 84 years old, he’s headed back to F1. Today, Andretti responded to the news . He is more than happy to have a role within this new organization. “I feel very lucky that I’ve been able to stick around for this long and do what I love for so long,” the legendary driver wrote on social media. “And the idea that the Cadillac F1 Team wants me around...I’ll help where I can, a non-exclusive role with the team, not involved in day-to-day operations (because I don’t want a job), but offering advice, inspiration, friendship anywhere I can. I am beyond fortunate.” I feel very lucky that I've been able to stick around for this long and do what I love for so long. And the idea that the Cadillac F1 Team wants me around....I'll help where I can, a non-executive role with the team, not involved in day-to-day operations (because I don't want a... This won’t be Andretti Global. However, this appears to be a solid compromise. There are several Andretti allies and close business partners on the Cadillac F1 team. Dan Towriss and Mark Walter will lead the team, they are majority owners at Andretti Global. As for the engines that they will run, Cadillac F1 will use Ferrari engines for 2026 and 2027. They will then introduce their own engine in 2028. Cadillac enters F1, could it come to NASCAR? Cadillac races globally. Their addition to F1 is a big deal. But could Cadillac get involved in NASCAR? With the Chevy Camaro being discontinued, is there a chance that GM could swap Chevy out for the Cadillac brand? To answer those questions simply, I don’t think so. It sounds far-fetched. Cadillac competes in sports car racing, IMSA, WEC, and now F1 – stock car racing doesn’t really fit the brand. But for a certain race fan, a Cadillac brand in the Cup Series would be a dream come true. NASCAR is hoping to add another manufacturer. There are a lot of rumors about Honda and maybe Hyundai. But any additions are likely years away. Could a rebranding from Chevy to Cadillac make NASCAR a more attractive brand for other manufacturers? Again, I’m not sure that’s a legitimate solution, but may be a fun offseason debate. Cadillac F1 team has me thinking about a Next Gen CT5 and I don’t hate the picture in my head. If you could pick any manufacturer to invest into NASCAR, who would you choose? This article first appeared on 5 GOATs and was syndicated with permission.DUP minister rejected suggestion licensing laws could be relaxed for jubileeDEAR MISS MANNERS: Due to the small size of our home, we host two holiday parties each year, essentially splitting one big gathering into two events so that we can see everyone. We send different invites to separate guest lists. It is always a little uncomfortable when friends talk to each other and wonder why one of them was invited on this day and another on a different day. Could I send an invitation that lists both parties, and let the guests RSVP as to the one they would like to attend? Of course, that would require guests to respond. Many don’t even send regrets, which is all we currently ask. I want to let my friends feel open to come to whichever is most convenient for them. Is that tacky? GENTLE READER: You are asking for a lot of trouble on behalf of people who do not even trouble themselves to answer your invitations. Even if this new plan prompts them to respond, what if they all want to attend on the same day? Lopsided attendance would defeat your judgment about the best use of your space. If it were Miss Manners, she would invite only polite people, thus giving only one party. Perhaps a very intimate one. But you presumably want them all, as you have been kindly overlooking the rudeness of ignored invitations year after year. So here is a kinder suggestion: Scrawl the phrase “‘A’ list,” as if by accident, somewhere on both sets of invitations. (Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com ; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com ; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)

Packers fail yet again to produce a premier performance against a top NFC team in loss to VikingsStormont minister Maurice Morrow told an official he would not raise the issue with the Northern Ireland Executive, despite similar measures being considered in England and Wales. A file on planning arrangements for the jubilee celebrations reveals a series of civil service correspondences on how Northern Ireland would mark the occasion. It includes a letter sent on January 11 2001 from an official in the Office of the First Minister/Deputy First Minister (OFMDFM) to the Department of Social Development, advising that a committee had been set up in London to consider a programme of celebrations. The correspondence says: “One of the issues the committee is currently considering is the possibility of deregulating liquor licensing laws during the golden jubilee celebrations on the same lines as the arrangements made for the millennium. “It is felt that the golden jubilee bank holiday on Monday 3 June 2002 is likely to be an occasion on which many public houses and similar licensed premises would wish to stay open beyond normal closing time.” The letter said a paper had been prepared on the issue of extending opening hours. It adds: “You will note that paragraph seven of the paper indicates that the devolved administrations ‘would need to consider deregulation separately within their own jurisdictions’. “I thought that you would wish to be aware that this issue is receiving active consideration for England and Wales and to consider whether anything needs to be done for Northern Ireland.” Some months later a “progress report” was sent between officials in OFMDFM, which again raised the issue of licensing laws. It says: “I spoke to Gordon Gibson, DSD, about Terry Smith’s letter of 12 January 2001 about licensing laws: the matter was put to their minister Maurice Morrow (DUP) who indicated that he would not be asking the NIE (Northern Ireland Executive) to approve any change to current licensing laws in NI to allow for either 24 hour opening (as at the millennium) nor a blanket approval for extended opening hours as is being considered in GB. “In both cases, primary legislation would be required here and would necessitate consultation and the minister has ruled out any consultation process.” The correspondence says individual licensees could still apply for an extension to opening hours on an ad hoc basis, adding “there the matter rests”. It goes on: “DSD await further pronouncements from the Home Office and Gibson and I have agreed to notify each other of any developments we become aware of and he will copy me to any (existing) relevant papers. “Ministers may well come under pressure in due course for a relaxation and/or parity with GB.” The document concludes “That’s it so far...making haste slowly?” Emails sent between officials in the department the same month said that lord lieutenants in Northern Ireland had been approached about local events to mark the jubilee. One message says: “Lord lieutenants have not shown any enthusiasm for encouraging GJ celebrations at a local level. “Lady Carswell in particular believes that it would be difficult for LLs to encourage such activities without appearing political.”