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— Clusters of higher education institutions will use the Noodle Learning Platform, which empowers universities to deliver online course offerings through a fully customizable platform.
NEW YORK, March 20, 2024 — The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) located in New Delhi, India, and Edify Online Corp (EdifyOnline) based in Birmingham, USA, have partnered with Noodle (Noodle), a technology company in New York, USA, to develop a shared ecosystem of lectures by global academic leaders and professors. This program will benefit the AIU’s 992 member universities, which serve over 5 million students. The Noodle Learning Platform (NLP) will be provided by Noodle, allowing universities to offer online courses through a fully customizable, LMS-agnostic all-in-one platform. The partners will work together to address the challenges, successes, and opportunities of implementing the program. Industry experts will review and publish the results to benefit all AIU members.
“With the help of EdifyOnline and Noodle’s NLP, AIU is preparing to enable a ‘shared HEIs ecosystem’ for AIU member universities to provide highly qualified and highly skilled international academic leaders at scalable and sustainable costs, as well as build bridges for Indian faculty to do the same for international HEIs in future,” said Secretary General of the AIU, Dr. Pankaj (Mrs.) Mittal.
Anil P. Agarwal, Co-Founder of EdifyOnline, believes that the Shared HEIs ecosystem is the future of higher education. It improves education standards and opportunities for all academic faculties, including those in India. Their mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to be enlightened, which supports the central theme of the Indian National Education Policy 2020. Agarwal is confident that their collaborative efforts with Noodle, AIU, and AIU member HEIs are timely, affordable, and synergistic.
“Our platform helps universities offer low-cost, high-quality education globally. Noodle empowers universities to transform the world with accessible and innovative education,” said John Katzman, Noodle’s CEO.
Dr. Amarendra Pani, the Joint Director and Director of the Research Division of AIU believes that the “University Clusters Pilot Study” in India will provide international exposure to students. The study will enable an ecosystem of shared lectures using international talent, triggering innovative ideas and processes leading to advanced research in higher education. He added that he and his research staff are looking forward to working with all stakeholders, including AIU member universities, to ensure the success of this pioneering initiative.
The Association of Indian Universities, founded in 1925, is India’s leading representative body for universities and higher education institutions. AIU membership comprises all types of universities, including conventional universities, open universities, deemed-to-be universities, state universities, central universities, private universities, and institutes of national importance. As of now, there are 992 university members of the AIU.
EdifyOnline provides a platform, EdifyProfessional®, where Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) can hire independent contractors for various academic roles such as instructors, guest lecturers, course content creators, professional development, and other specialized areas. The platform showcases highly qualified subject experts from around the globe. It is ideal for HEIs struggling with a lack of competent academic talent or seeking to expand their international competencies.
Noodle is a tech-enabled partner for higher education. As a Certified B Corporation, it helps academic institutions grow their online enrollments and build infrastructure. Noodle offers strategic consulting, customized services, and technology integration to make partners more efficient and responsive.
Source: Noodle
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:19 AM | View the original post
STRONGSVILLE, Ohio, March 18, 2024 — The United States Postal Service released a collection of four stamps called “Garden Delights.” These stamps celebrate the beautiful flora of America’s spring and summer gardens and acknowledge the crucial role of hummingbirds in pollination. Each stamp features a ruby-throated hummingbird gracefully hovering next to a zinnia, cigar flower, spotted touch-me-not, or sunflower. The ceremony to dedicate these stamps was held today in Strongsville.
The sight of spring flowers blooming is a delight for everyone, whether you’re an avid gardener or not. Gardens provide joy, food, and a sense of purpose to those who tend them and serve as a haven for birds, plants, and animals to find refuge and the necessary resources to survive.
No garden is complete without the buzzes, hums, and musical melodies of nature’s wildlife. Hummingbirds add charm to summer gardens with their unique features and small size.
Hummingbirds are exclusively found in the Americas, with around 16 species native to the United States. Among the smallest hummingbirds are the Ruby-throated ones, weighing about the same as a penny and measuring 3.5 inches long. These birds are the only hummingbirds found in the gardens of the eastern and central parts of the United States.
Hummingbirds are unique birds and remarkable pollinators. They can pollinate more than 7,000 flowering plants, which rely on them to collect and deliver the pollen necessary to produce fruit and seeds.
Greg Breeding used existing photographs by wildlife photographer Ben King to design the USPS stamps.
Source: U.S. Postal Service
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:21 PM | View the original post
Photos: Sara Ali Khan. Models represent various designers. Lakme Fashion Week presented leading designers in partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI). March 13-17, 2024. Images provided by FDCI/Lakme Fashion Week.
Mumbai, March 17, 2024 — Lakme Fashion Week, India’s premier fashion and lifestyle event, has been redefining fashion for over 25 years.
Over five days, over 100 designers, brands, and industry stakeholders showcase their work, making Lakmé Fashion Week the go-to destination for emerging talent, sustainability, and fashion businesses.
This season, Lakme Fashion Week and FDCI have combined their forces to present a joint schedule comprising the best curation and designers from Delhi, Mumbai, and across India.
Source: Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) / Lakme Fashion Week.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Check out the coolest vibrant looks and comfortable styles with @SkechersIndia @ILoveLakme @fdciofficial #reliancebrandsltd @R1SEWorldwide #UltimateFaceDefinition#SkechersAtLakmeFashionWeekxFDCl#Lakm?FashionWeekxFDCI #LFWxFDCI#Lakm?FashionWeek #LFW #FDCI #SkechersIndia pic.twitter.com/sKCqGXayLD
— Lakmé Fashion Week (@LakmeFashionWk) March 17, 2024
#janhvikapoor for KALKI on Day 5.@kalkifashion @ILoveLakme @fdciofficial #reliancebrandsltd @R1SEWorldwide #UltimateFaceDefinition#KalkiAtLakmeFashionWeekxFDCl#LakmeFashionWeekxFDCI #LFWxFDCI#Lakm?FashionWeek #LFW #FDCI#KALKIpresentsINARA #KALKIInara #SpringSummer24 pic.twitter.com/JeFScluLg8
— Lakmé Fashion Week (@LakmeFashionWk) March 17, 2024
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:13 AM | View the original post
Photos: Paris 2024 is on track to Welcome the World and deliver an Exceptional Games Vision. Images provided by and copyright © IOC Media Relations.
Paris, March 15, 2024 — The Organising Committee of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is working hard to ensure everything is in place for the upcoming event. The Coordination Commission of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that the preparations are on track to welcome the Olympic Movement to France. The Commission had its final meeting before the Games, announcing that the Olympic Games Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony would start at 7:30 pm local time (CEST) on July 26.
The Coordination Commission Chair, Pierre-Olivier Beckers-Vieujant, confirmed that Paris 2024 is on track to deliver its exceptional Games vision. The Organising Committee is focused on delivering spectacular, impactful, and sustainable Games with the continued support of stakeholders. The Olympic Torch Relay begins in just over a month and will mark a key milestone in the Organising Committee’s operational activities. It will also amplify engagement and excitement as the Games draw nearer.
Beckers-Vieujant added that Paris 2024 sets an exemplary model for future Games. The engagement initiatives and new approaches align with the reforms of the Olympic Agenda 2020 that make the Games younger, more urban, more sustainable, and more inclusive. These Games will also be the first-ever Olympic Games with gender parity, with the same number of places allocated to female and male athletes by the IOC.
Paris 2024 President Tony Estanguet stressed the importance of remaining focused and humble as the Olympic flame approaches France in just 60 days. The team met with the IOC Coordination Commission for three days to review crucial details. Despite challenges over the past seven years, the team remains confident and proud of their ambition.
The Olympic Games Paris 2024 will begin on July 26 and continue until August 11.
Source: IOC Media Relations
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:13 PM | View the original post
Photo: Takashi Yamazaki poses with the Oscar for Visual Effects during the live A.B.C. telecast of the 96th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Image provided by Michael Baker / A.M.P.A.S., Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
Photo: Jennifer Lame poses backstage with the Oscar for Film Editing during the live ABC telecast of the 96th Oscars at Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Image provided by Michael Baker / A.M.P.A.S, Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
Photo: Robert Downey, Jr. poses backstage with the Oscar for Actor in a Supporting Role during the live A.B.C. telecast of the 96th Oscars at Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Image provided by Michael Baker / A.M.P.A.S., Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
Photo: Eva Longoria arrives on the red carpet of the 96th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Image provided by Mke Baker / A.M.P.A.S., Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
Photo: America Ferrera arrives on the red carpet of the 96th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Image provided by Kyusung Gong / A.M.P.A.S., Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
LOS ANGELES, CA, March 11, 2024 - The 96th Academy Awards ceremony, also known as the Oscars 2024, occurred on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. It was broadcast live on A.B.C. and in over 200 countries worldwide.
Oppenheimer, a biographical thriller directed by Christopher Nolan, was the big night winner, taking home seven awards, including Best Picture. Nolan and actors Cillian Murphy and Robert Downey Jr earned awards for Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Supporting Actor, respectively. The event ended with a flourish at the Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles.
— The Full List of Oscar Winners 2024 —
⢠ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
WINNER
CILLIAN MURPHY
Oppenheimer
NOMINEES
BRADLEY COOPER
Maestro
COLMAN DOMINGO
Rustin
PAUL GIAMATTI
The Holdovers
JEFFREY WRIGHT
American Fiction
⢠ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
WINNER
ROBERT DOWNEY JR.
Oppenheimer
NOMINEES
STERLING K. BROWN
American Fiction
ROBERT DE NIRO
Killers of the Flower Moon
RYAN GOSLING
Barbie
MARK RUFFALO
Poor Things
⢠ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE
WINNER
EMMA STONE
Poor Things
NOMINEES
ANNETTE BENING
Nyad
LILY GLADSTONE
Killers of the Flower Moon
SANDRA HÃLLER
Anatomy of a Fall
CAREY MULLIGAN
Maestro
⢠ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
WINNER
DA’VINE JOY RANDOLPH
The Holdovers
NOMINEES
EMILY BLUNT
Oppenheimer
DANIELLE BROOKS
The Color Purple
AMERICA FERRERA
Barbie
JODIE FOSTER
Nyad
⢠ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
WINNER
THE BOY AND THE HERON
Hayao Miyazaki and Toshio Suzuki
NOMINEES
ELEMENTAL
Peter Sohn and Denise Ream
NIMONA
Nick Bruno, Troy Quane, Karen Ryan, and Julie Zackary
ROBOT DREAMS
Pablo Berger, Ibon Cormenzana, Ignasi Estapé and Sandra Tapia DÃaz
SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE
Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller and Amy Pascal
⢠CINEMATOGRAPHY
WINNER
OPPENHEIMER
Hoyte van Hoytema
NOMINEES
EL CONDE
Edward Lachman
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Rodrigo Prieto
MAESTRO
Matthew Libatique
POOR THINGS
Robbie Ryan
⢠COSTUME DESIGN
WINNER
POOR THINGS
Holly Waddington
NOMINEES
BARBIE
Jacqueline Durran
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Jacqueline West
NAPOLEON
Janty Yates and Dave Crossman
OPPENHEIMER
Ellen Mirojnick
⢠DIRECTING
WINNER
OPPENHEIMER
Christopher Nolan
NOMINEES
ANATOMY OF A FALL
Justine Triet
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Martin Scorsese
POOR THINGS
Yorgos Lanthimos
THE ZONE OF INTEREST
Jonathan Glazer
⢠DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM
WINNER
20 DAYS IN MARIUPOL
Mstyslav Chernov, Michelle Mizner, and Raney Aronson-Rath
NOMINEES
BOBI WINE: THE PEOPLE’S PRESIDENT
Moses Bwayo, Christopher Sharp, and John Battsek
THE ETERNAL MEMORY
Maite Alberdi
FOUR DAUGHTERS
Kaouther Ben Hania and Nadim Cheikhrouha
TO KILL A TIGER
Nisha Pahuja, Cornelia Principe and David Oppenheim
⢠DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM
WINNER
THE LAST REPAIR SHOP
Ben Proudfoot and Kris Bowers
NOMINEES
THE ABCS OF BOOK BANNING
Sheila Nevins and Trish Adlesic
THE BARBER OF LITTLE ROCK
John Hoffman and Christine Turner
ISLAND IN BETWEEN
S. Leo Chiang and Jean Tsien
NAI NAI & WAI PO
Sean Wang and Sam Davis
⢠FILM EDITING
WINNER
OPPENHEIMER
Jennifer Lame
NOMINEES
ANATOMY OF A FALL
Laurent Sénéchal
THE HOLDOVERS
Kevin Tent
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Thelma Schoonmaker
POOR THINGS
Yorgos Mavropsaridis
⢠INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM
WINNER
THE ZONE OF INTEREST
United Kingdom
NOMINEES
IO CAPITANO
Italy
PERFECT DAYS
Japan
SOCIETY OF THE SNOW
Spain
THE TEACHERS’ LOUNGE
Germany
⢠MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING
WINNER
POOR THINGS
Nadia Stacey, Mark Coulier, and Josh Weston
NOMINEES
GOLDA
Karen Hartley Thomas, Suzi Battersby, and Ashra Kelly-Blue
MAESTRO
Kazu Hiro, Kay Georgiou, and Lori McCoy-Bell
OPPENHEIMER
Luisa Abel
SOCIETY OF THE SNOW
Ana López-Puigcerver, David Martà and Montse Ribé
⢠MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE)
WINNER
OPPENHEIMER
Ludwig Göransson
NOMINEES
AMERICAN FICTION
Laura Karpman
INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY
John Williams
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Robbie Robertson
POOR THINGS
Jerskin Fendrix
⢠MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG)
WINNER
WHAT WAS I MADE FOR?
from Barbie; Music and Lyric by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell
NOMINEES
THE FIRE INSIDE
from Flamin’ Hot; Music and Lyric by Diane Warren
I’M JUST KEN
from Barbie; Music and Lyric by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt
IT NEVER WENT AWAY
from American Symphony; Music and Lyric by Jon Batiste and Dan Wilson
WAHZHAZHE (A SONG FOR MY PEOPLE)
from Killers of the Flower Moon; Music and Lyric by Scott George
⢠BEST PICTURE
WINNER
OPPENHEIMER
Emma Thomas, Charles Roven, and Christopher Nolan, Producers
NOMINEES
AMERICAN FICTION
Ben LeClair, Nikos Karamigios, Cord Jefferson, and Jermaine Johnson, Producers
ANATOMY OF A FALL
Marie-Ange Luciani and David Thion, Producers
BARBIE
David Heyman, Margot Robbie, Tom Ackerley and Robbie Brenner, Producers
THE HOLDOVERS
Mark Johnson, Producer
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Dan Friedkin, Bradley Thomas, Martin Scorsese and Daniel Lupi, Producers
MAESTRO
Bradley Cooper, Steven Spielberg, Fred Berner, Amy Durning and Kristie Macosko Krieger, Producers
PAST LIVES
David Hinojosa, Christine Vachon and Pamela Koffler, Producers
POOR THINGS
Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone, Producers
THE ZONE OF INTEREST
James Wilson, Producer
⢠PRODUCTION DESIGN
WINNER
POOR THINGS
Production Design: James Price and Shona Heath; Set Decoration: Zsuzsa Mihalek
NOMINEES
BARBIE
Production Design: Sarah Greenwood; Set Decoration: Katie Spencer
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Production Design: Jack Fisk; Set Decoration: Adam Willis
NAPOLEON
Production Design: Arthur Max; Set Decoration: Elli Griff
OPPENHEIMER
Production Design: Ruth De Jong; Set Decoration: Claire Kaufman
⢠ANIMATED SHORT FILM
WINNER
WAR IS OVER! INSPIRED BY THE MUSIC OF JOHN & Y.O.K.O.
Dave Mullins and Brad Booker
NOMINEES
LETTER TO A PIG
Tal Kantor and Amit R. Gicelter
NINETY-FIVE SENSES
Jerusha Hess and Jared Hess
OUR UNIFORM
Yegane Moghaddam
PACHYDERME
Stéphanie Clément and Marc Rius
⢠LIVE ACTION SHORT FILM
WINNER
THE WONDERFUL STORY OF HENRY SUGAR
Wes Anderson and Steven Rales
NOMINEES
THE AFTER
Misan Harriman and Nicky Bentham
INVINCIBLE
Vincent René-Lortie and Samuel Caron
KNIGHT OF FORTUNE
Lasse Lyskjær Noer and Christian Norlyk
R.E.D., WHITE AND BLUE
Nazrin Choudhury and Sara McFarlane
⢠SOUND
WINNER
THE ZONE OF INTEREST
Tarn Willers and Johnnie Burn
NOMINEES
THE CREATOR
Ian Voigt, Erik Aadahl, Ethan Van der Ryn, Tom Ozanich and Dean Zupancic
MAESTRO
Steven A. Morrow, Richard King, Jason Ruder, Tom Ozanich, and Dean Zupancic
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - DEAD RECKONING PART ONE
Chris Munro, James H. Mather, Chris Burdon, and Mark Taylor
OPPENHEIMER
Willie Burton, Richard King, Gary A. Rizzo, and Kevin O’Connell
⢠VISUAL EFFECTS
WINNER
GODZILLA MINUS ONE
Takashi Yamazaki, Kiyoko Shibuya, Masaki Takahashi and Tatsuji Nojima
NOMINEES
THE CREATOR
Jay Cooper, Ian Comley, Andrew Roberts, and Neil Corbould
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3
Stephane Ceretti, Alexis Wajsbrot, Guy Williams, and Theo Bialek
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - DEAD RECKONING PART ONE
Alex Wuttke, Simone Coco, Jeff Sutherland, and Neil Corbould
NAPOLEON
Charley Henley, Luc-Ewen Martin-Fenouillet, Simone Coco, and Neil Corbould
⢠WRITING (ADAPTED SCREENPLAY)
WINNER
AMERICAN FICTION
Written for the screen by Cord Jefferson
NOMINEES
BARBIE
Written by Greta Gerwig & Noah Baumbach
OPPENHEIMER
Written for the screen by Christopher Nolan
POOR THINGS
Screenplay by Tony McNamara
THE ZONE OF INTEREST
Written by Jonathan Glazer
⢠WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY)
WINNER
ANATOMY OF A FALL
Screenplay - Justine Triet and Arthur Harari
NOMINEES
THE HOLDOVERS
Written by David Hemingson
MAESTRO
Written by Bradley Cooper & Josh Singer
MAY DECEMBER
Screenplay by Samy Burch; Story by Samy Burch & Alex Mechanik
PAST LIVES
Written by Celine Song
Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
— The Academy snubbed India’s official International Feature Film entry for the 2024 Oscars: “2018: Everyone is a Hero.”
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:15 PM | View the original post
Photo: Coca-Cola launches Foodmarks with Bollywood icons Karisma Kapoor and Janhvi Kapoor. Image provided by Coca-Cola India.
New Delhi, India, March 14, 2024 — Coca-Cola India is introducing Coca-Cola Foodmarks in India as part of its global campaign, ‘A Recipe for Magic.’ This campaign celebrates the unique culinary experiences around the world that Coca-Cola enhances. Coca-Cola Foodmarks features global ‘food landmarks,’ destinations, and experiences that are ideal when you have the perfect moment, a delicious meal, and an ice-cold Coca-Cola.
The Coca-Cola Company made the global rollout of this product launch in India at the Embassy restaurant in the iconic Connaught Place in Delhi. The event was nostalgic, reminiscent of Hindi Cinema’s pivotal era. Bollywood celebrities Janhvi Kapoor and Karisma Kapoor attended the event, making it even more special. The event’s highlight was a timeless photograph featuring two icons, Raj Kapoor and a bottle of Coke, both captured in one frame.
The Coca-Cola Foodmarks experience transported the guests back to the golden age of Bollywood in the 1950s, evoking the atmosphere of Raj Kapoor’s on-set meal moments. The immersive film set was complemented by interactive moments using cutting-edge A.I. technology, taking guests through Bollywood. The decor, which included stardom posters and a musical stairway, added to the ambiance, while extraordinary photo backdrops provided the perfect photo opportunities. The evening was made even more enchanting by the arrival of the Kapoor stars in vintage cars, which added to the overall charm of the event. Local influencers and dignitaries also attended to experience the magic of Coca-Cola Foodmarks.
“We are excited to announce the launch of Coca-Cola Foodmarks in India, a country with a rich culinary heritage and vibrant food culture,” said Kaushik Prasad, Senior Director of Marketing at Coca-Cola INSWA. “Coca-Cola Foodmarks embodies the essence of Coca-Cola, which is to spread the real magic of shared moments, cultural nuances, and culinary excellence. We are thrilled to offer this experience to our patrons, allowing them to savor unique flavors while creating lasting memories.”
As part of the campaign, Coca-Cola will debut immersive, in-person experiences worldwide, showcasing unique experiences, each inspired by an iconic cultural moment.
Coca-Cola is a renowned beverage company in India that offers consumers a diverse range of high-quality and refreshing drink options. The company is committed to providing “Beverages For Life” and has an extensive portfolio of products that includes hydration, sports, sparkling, coffee, tea, nutrition, juice, and dairy-based beverages. Coca-Cola’s beverage range in India comprises Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Charged by Thums Up, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Maaza, Minute Maid juices, and juice-based beverages. The company also offers hydration beverages such as Limca Sportz, Smartwater, Kinley, Dasani, Bonaqua packaged drinking water, and Kinley Club Soda. Schweppes range and Smartwater are premium products. In addition, the company provides Costa Coffee and Honest Tea, an organic green tea-based beverage, among its coffee and tea offerings. Coca-Cola is continually revamping its portfolio by reducing sugar in its drinks and introducing innovative products.
Globally, along with its bottling partners, The Coca-Cola Company employs over 700,000 people worldwide, providing economic opportunities to local communities.
Source: The Coca-Cola Company
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 9:42 AM | View the original post
New Delhi, March 13, 2024 — Google has partnered with the Election Commission of India (ECI) to provide trustworthy information and help people easily access important voting information on Google Search and YouTube. The search engine has also implemented measures to prevent the spread of false information and label AI-generated data during the upcoming general elections.
In a blog post published on Tuesday, Google stated that they are working with the ECI to make critical voting information easily accessible on Google Search in both English and Hindi, including details on how to register to vote and how to vote.
Google believes that supporting elections is a crucial part of its responsibility towards its users and the democratic process. As millions of eligible voters in India will cast their votes for the General Election in the coming months, Google said it is committed to supporting the election process by offering high-quality information to voters, safeguarding its platforms from any possible abuse, and helping people navigate AI-generated content.
Here is how Google will be providing support:
Connecting voters to helpful information
Safeguarding its platforms and combating misinformation
Enforcing its policies and using AI models to fight abuse at scale
Providing ongoing transparency on Election Ads
Working with the broader ecosystem to counter misinformation
Helping people navigate AI-generated content
⢠Industry Collaboration
Google recently became a member of the C2PA coalition, an initiative to provide more transparency and context for people regarding AI-generated content. As part of this effort, Google pledged, alongside other leading tech companies, to prevent the use of deceptive AI-generated imagery and audio or video content during this year’s global elections. A set of commitments called the ‘Tech Accord to Combat Deceptive Use of AI in 2024 Elections’ has been established to deploy technology to counter harmful AI-generated content that may deceive voters.
This initiative continues Google’s work in various countries and regions during elections. Google said it is committed to working with government, industry, and civil society to help voters access authoritative and helpful information online.
Prominent tech companies, including Adobe, Arm, Intel, Microsoft, and Truepic, formed the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) to create open technical standards that can verify the authenticity of digital content on the Internet, working in conjunction with the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) that combats traceability issues and misinformation spread to consumers. The CAI comprises media, tech companies, and academics working together to foster the adoption of an open industry standard for content authenticity and provenance.
Source: Google India
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— GlobalGiants.Com is a Member of Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI).
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:13 AM | View the original post
Photo: FEF India Fashion Awards x WION addressed Sustainability through the Lens of Fashion.
MUMBAI, India, March 8, 2024 — The 4th edition of the PEPSI presents the FEF India Fashion Awards (FEF IFA) 2024 x WION, started on March 7, 2024.
On the first day of the two-day event held at St. Regis Hotel in Mumbai, several industry experts came together to have insightful conversations. Celebrities such as Tamannaah Bhatia, an actor, and Masaba Gupta, a fashion designer and actor, added style and glamour to the inaugural day and participated in the ‘Fashion for Good’ sessions.
The event revolved around the ‘Fashion for Good’ theme and featured various sessions and panel discussions. These covered insightful and thought-provoking topics that explored the role of fashion in films and beyond.
Vaghish Pathak, the FEF India Fashion Awards Chairman, stated that “Fashion for good” is not a mere trend but a deliberate pledge to incorporate Sustainability into the essence of style. Fashion should reflect the importance of responsible choices that help improve the lives of small artisans and craftsmen who play a crucial role in preserving our heritage.
During a conversation about the significance of fashion, Tamannaah Bhatia, an actress, emphasized that in the past, people expressed more individuality than they do now. Nowadays, people tend to use fashion as a means of self-expression, which is something that happened to her. She further explained that she has become more confident in her choices and no longer needs to apologize.
Fashion Designer and Actor Masaba Gupta highlighted her brand’s sustainable practices, stating that they make small daily changes to ensure Sustainability. They have implemented a solid system to recycle and utilize waste fabric by creating scarves, masks, and scrunchies.
Fashion entrepreneurs showcased their business ideas and took advantage of the opportunity to transform their dreams into reality.
The FEF India Fashion Awards is a highly regarded platform in Asia that recognizes, salutes, and showcases the creativity and innovation of Indian fashion members to a global audience. The organization celebrates and honors fashion designers, models, photographers, artisans, and others whose outstanding contributions take the Indian fashion industry to greater heights.
Source: FEF India Fashion Awards
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:44 PM | View the original post
Photo: Global Star Nora Fatehi signs Record Deal with Warner Music Group. Image provided by & copyright © Warner Music Group. Image Credit: Apoorv Maurya.
DUBAI, UAE, Feb. 26, 2024 — Global star Nora Fatehi, the multi-talented singer, dancer, and actress whose music has already attracted millions of fans and billions of views and streams, has signed a new deal with Warner Music Group. It is her first agreement with a major global record company.
The partnership is to promote Nora’s global music career, working with teams in the U.S. and worldwide, expanding her fanbase through exciting projects and releases.
Nora is a Bollywood actress born in Toronto, Canada, to a family of Moroccan heritage. She has acted in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam films showcasing her versatility. Nora is fluent in several languages, including Darija, Arabic, English, and French, which has helped her build a passionate and diverse fanbase worldwide. She has over 46 million followers on Instagram and 21 million on Facebook. Her music has generated over 1.2 billion streams, and her featured videos have received over 5 billion views on YouTube.
In 2018, she starred in the movie Satyameva Jayate and performed a rendition of the classic Bollywood song “Dilbar.” The song became a huge hit, generating more than 20 million views on YouTube within the first 24 hours of its release. It made it the first song on YouTube to achieve such numbers on the platform. Later, she collaborated with the renowned Moroccan group Fnaïre and recorded an Arabic version of the song, which helped her expand her horizons and captivate a broad audience across the Arab world. She became the first Arab-African artist to hit one billion views on a single music video on YouTube.
Nora has made a name in international music with impressive collaborations with artists such as Tanzanian singer-songwriter Rayvanny for the Afropop track “Pepeta.” Moreover, Nora has also released solo tracks, including “Im Bossy,” while her Bollywood film songs have accumulated five billion views on YouTube. Some of her popular Bollywood songs include “O Saki Saki,” “Garmi,” “Dance Meri Rani,” “Manike,” Kusu Kusu,” and more.
Nora has performed at prestigious events worldwide, including a historic concert with Fnaïre at the Olympia in Paris in 2020 and her performance at the Global Arena of EXPO 2020 in Dubai. Nora’s participation in the closing ceremony of the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar was a significant highlight of her career, as she shared the stage with celebrated global artists and entertained fans with her exceptional dance moves and performance of “Light the Sky,” the FIFA World Cup anthem.
Nora’s acting career has also been thriving, and her latest film, Crakk - Jeethegaa Toh Jiyegaa, was just released on Friday. It is a Hindi language film promoted as India’s first-ever extreme sports action movie.
Nora Fatehi shared that she has had a successful career, but a new deal has taken her international musical journey to the next level. She aspires to become a global music star and performer, connecting with fans worldwide. She aims to create music and dance that brings people together, using the diversity of her cultural background. Nora is thrilled to collaborate with Warner Music to leverage their experience and expertise to help her achieve her goal.
Warner Music Group (WMG) brings together artists, songwriters, and entrepreneurs to move entertainment culture globally, with a legacy spanning 200 years.
Source: Warner Music Group Corp.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:08 AM | View the original post
Photo: Hyundai Motor, Kia, and KAIST form a Joint Research Laboratory to develop Next-Generation Autonomous Driving Sensors.
Seoul, February 25, 2024 — Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have announced their partnership with KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology) to develop cutting-edge autonomous driving sensors for advanced self-driving cars.
Together, they aim to create an advanced research lab to develop high-performance, compact on-chip sensors and new signal detection technology essential in the highly competitive autonomous driving market.
This new technology has several advantages over existing methods. It produces less signal noise, calculates relative speed with objects, and eliminates interference from external light sources such as sunlight. Therefore, it can provide significant benefits in severe weather conditions.
Autonomous cars are vehicles that can operate without human intervention. They are equipped with sensors that gather information about their surroundings, such as radar sensors that monitor nearby cars, video cameras that detect traffic lights, read road signs, track other vehicles, and look for pedestrians, and Lidar sensors that bounce light pulses off the car’s surroundings to measure distances, detect road edges, and identify lane markings. Ultrasonic sensors located on the wheels detect curbs and other vehicles when parking.
Using complex software that processes all this sensory input, autonomous cars create and maintain a map of their surroundings, plot a path, and send instructions to the car’s actuators, which control acceleration, braking, and steering. The software follows traffic rules and navigates obstacles using hard-coded rules, obstacle avoidance algorithms, predictive modeling, and object recognition.
It’s worth noting that “self-driving” is often used interchangeably with “autonomous.” However, self-driving cars still require a human passenger to be present and ready to take control in some or all situations. On the other hand, fully autonomous vehicles can be self-aware and make independent decisions. However, a fully automated car follows the given instructions and drives itself as ordered. For Example, you may tell it, “Drive me to my office,” and it will take you there.
⢠Automechanika and Frost & Sullivan forge a new partnership for Global Impact.
Photo: Guides at Automechanika Frankfurt. Image provided by & copyright © Automechanika.
Frankfurt, February 25, 2024 — Meanwhile, Frost & Sullivan, a Global Growth Pipeline Company, is teaming up with Automechanika, a leading international trade fair brand for the automotive aftermarket. The partnership aims to enhance their services to industry professionals.
The collaboration combines Frost & Sullivan’s expertise in the automotive aftermarket sector and Automechanika’s commitment to providing exceptional trade show experiences. Both companies aim to improve the industry’s knowledge-sharing landscape through this strategic alliance and offer unparalleled value to participants and exhibitors at Automechanika’s 14 global events in 2024.
Sources: Hyundai Motor Company and Automechanika.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:42 AM | View the original post
— Watershed Moment in driving Mainstream Awareness and Adoption of Content Credentials —
San Jose, CA, February 14, 2024 — Today marks a watershed moment in driving mainstream awareness and adoption of Content Credentials — Google has joined the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) steering committee.
Google’s decision to join the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) steering committee is a consequential step toward developing technical standards for Content Credentials and their future integration into Google’s products and services.
The C2PA and the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) are committed to restoring trust and transparency online by developing technical standards for digital provenance and open-source tools based on those standards.
As misinformation continues to threaten the digital ecosystem, the need to increase trust in Digital Content has never been more pressing. Dana Rao, the EVP, General Counsel, and Chief Trust Officer of Adobe and a co-founder of the C2PA, acknowledges this need and believes that adopting Content Credentials could help validate and secure the media source, increasing transparency and restoring trust online.
The CAI’s work in fighting against misinformation is commendable, as it assists the world in confronting challenges across new frontiers in manipulated and misleading media. Expanding content credentials to new surfaces is a positive development, as it will help enhance public confidence in the integrity of official online government content.
The CAI collaborates with diverse communities to empower adoption and increase transparency. It collaborates with technology companies, social platforms, news organizations, and policymakers to develop policies, guidance, and tools for authenticating Digital Content.
Strengthening public confidence in the integrity of online information through Content Credentials is an exciting prospect and will benefit all individuals who rely on Digital Content.
Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) is a community of media and tech companies, NGOs, and academics working to promote the adoption of an open industry standard for content authenticity and provenance.
CAI members include Adobe, AFP, AP, BBC, Canon, Gannett, Microsoft, Nikon, The New York Times, Reuters, The Globe and Mail, TruePic, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Leica Camera, USA Today, and the University of Helsinki among others.
⢠CAI is thrilled to welcome Google as the newest member of the C2PA (Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity), the industry standard for combatting deepfakes through metadata and provenance technology. The CAI looks forward to a productive, ongoing relationship with Google as a steering committee partner.
Source: Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI)
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— GlobalGiants.Com is a Member of Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI).
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:15 AM | View the original post
Photos: Adidas presents the UCL Pro Ball London. Images provided by & copyright © Adidas.
London, February 12, 2024 — The Official Match Ball, Adidas UCL Pro Ball London, will be used throughout the 2023/24 UEFA Champions League⢠knockout stages, culminating in the showpiece final on June 1.
The new ball will be played with on the pitch for the first time during the first leg of the Round of 16 matches.
The ball stands out on the biggest stage and celebrates London, the final host city. It features vibrant graphics depicting two roaring lions fighting among the stars. The lion symbolizes England’s rich history and culture and capital city, the players’ bravery and strength, and the magnificence of European club football’s most coveted trophy.
The UEFA Champions League is a yearly club association football competition organized by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA).
Source: ADIDAS
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:42 PM | View the original post
Photos: Tadashi Shoji Fall/Winter 2024 Sketches.
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 11, 2024 — Tadashi Shoji, a global women’s formal wear brand known for its impeccable fit, trademark ease, and effortless femininity, premiers its Fall/Winter 2024 collection inspired by an enchanted forest.
On Friday, Feb. 9, 2024, Tadashi Shoji debuted its Fall/Winter 2024 collection as part of New York Fashion Week.
“In the heart of an enchanted forest, our Fall-Winter 2024 collection is brought to life as a story woven from the threads of the woods. As the moon rises, the evening gowns and cocktail dresses take center stage, with each piece becoming a chapter in this tale,” the brand said.
“The collection features intricate motifs inspired by the leaves flourishing in the heart of the woods. Soft chiffon adorned with a forest print will transport you to the canopies of trees under a star-studded night sky. Floral embroidered dresses with hand appliquéd 3-D flowers add a touch of nature’s depth. Chenille embroideries evoke the rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze. For Fall-Winter 2024, we invite you not just to wear a garment but to don a piece of an unbelievable story, where the magic of the forest weaves into the fabric of your attire,” Tadashi Shoji stated.
“Let each gown and dress be a chapter in your adventure. Where your movements dance in harmony with the spirit of the woods, creating a tapestry of enchantment that lasts beyond the winter winds,” said Shoji’s show notes.
Designer Tadashi Shoji, who stems from an artistic background, started his occasion wear brand in 1982 after noticing the few occasion dress options in the contemporary market. Celebrity fans include Taylor Swift, Michelle Obama, Mirai Nagasu, Octavia Spencer, Kate Hudson, Kaley Cuoco, and Sheryl Lee Ralph. The TADASHI SHOJI brand is available in over 700 major department and specialty stores. The company operates offices in Los Angeles and Shanghai and showrooms in New York City and Tokyo.
Source: Tadashi Shoji
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:45 AM | View the original post
Los Angeles, February 5, 2024 — Taylor Swift made history at the 2024 GRAMMYs by winning Album of the Year for her album ‘Midnights’ for the fourth time, making her the artist with the most wins in this Category at the Grammys. She surpassed legends like Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, and Paul Simon, who have each won the award three times.
During her acceptance speech, Swift expressed her shock and gratitude and thanked her producer, Jack Antonoff, and collaborator, Lana Del Rey, who was also nominated in the same Category. She called Antonoff “a once-in-a-generation producer” and Del Rey “a legacy artist, a legend in her prime right now.”
Swift also said that the award is the work and that she wants to keep making music. She added that she loves her job, which makes her very happy.
Swift had already won the Best Pop Vocal Album award earlier in the telecast, marking her 13th win at the Grammys. It was a big night for her, and she used her first win to announce her upcoming album, ‘The Tortured Poets Department,’ to be released on April 19.
Meanwhile, Miley Cyrus won The GRAMMY for Record of the Year for “Flowers.”
Source: Recording Academy / GRAMMYs
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:40 PM | View the original post
Photos: Tissot T-Touch Connect Sport. Images provided by & copyright © TISSOT.
Tissot is known for its ability to merge style and functionality, and their latest offering, the Tissot T-Touch Connect Sport, is no exception. Building on the success of the T-Touch Connect Solar, this new unisex sports watch is for active individuals who value their well-being and want a high-quality timepiece on their wrist.
The Tissot T-Touch Connect Sport features a quartz movement and is recharged by solar power. With a 43mm diameter, the watch has high-performance solar cells on the dial that capture light and store energy in an accumulator, allowing it to run for months without needing to be charged. The watch also has tactile sapphire glass and an AMOLED screen responsive to touch or side pushers, providing a versatile interactive experience.
Source: TISSOT
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:55 PM | View the original post
U.S. Postal Service Issues Winter Woodland Animals Stamps.
Photo: U.S. Postal Service Issues Winter Woodland Animals Stamps. Deer. And Rabbits. And Owls. And Foxes.
WASHINGTON — The United States Postal Service commemorates four species that reside in North American woodlands with the release of the Winter Woodland Animals stamps. These species, including deer, rabbits, owls, and foxes, are some of the most recognizable wildlife found throughout America and remind us of the stunning natural environment surrounding us.
White-tailed deer are one of the most abundant species in North America and are admired for their beauty and agility. Rabbits often live near the edge of forests to easily find food from gardens, yards, and meadows. Foxes are tough and adaptable creatures that have learned to thrive in almost every environment. Owls are fascinating birds of prey that prefer to nest in tree cavities or abandoned nests of other birds.
The stamps feature whimsical, graphic illustrations of these creatures. Antonio Alcala, an art director for the Postal Service, designed the stamps with Katie Kirk, who illustrated them using geometric shapes of bold, solid color. Each animal appears with details of its habitat in winter, such as a full or crescent moon, snow-covered trees, holly branches with berries, and delicate snowflakes.
Source: U.S. Postal Service
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:10 AM | View the original post
Photos: Times Square is testing the Confetti Release. December 29, 2023. At Midnight on New Year’s Eve, thousands of kilos of confetti will be released from the rooftops of buildings, creating a blizzard of colorful confetti and pyrotechnic effects. The hundreds of kilos of confetti include wishes from thousands of revelers worldwide. Images provided by & copyright © Times Square.
Photo: The Numerals 2-0-2-4 are delivered to Times Square by Kia. Images provided by & copyright © Times Square.
Photos: Times Square Confetti Wishing Wall. People write their wishes on the confetti to be released on New Year’s Eve at Midnight. The hundreds of kilos of confetti include wishes from thousands of revelers worldwide. Images provided by & copyright © Times Square.
New York, December 30, 2023 — Times Square in New York City has been the center of attention on New Year’s Eve for over a century, with the rooftop celebrations that began in 1904. The ball-lowering tradition that started in 1907 has now become a symbol of welcoming the New Year.
The Times Square Alliance has unveiled the New Year’s Eve Wishing Wall for the forthcoming New Year’s Eve celebrations. This unique feature gives people from all over the world a personal opportunity to be part of the festivities by writing their wishes for the upcoming year on confetti that will be released at Midnight.
At Midnight, the New Year’s Eve Ball lights will be turned off as the New Year “2024” numerals burst to life, shining high above Times Square.
The famous confetti release occurs from the rooftops of buildings throughout Times Square, creating a blizzard of colorful confetti and pyrotechnic effects. The hundreds of kilos of confetti include wishes from thousands of revelers worldwide, hoping for peace, love, good health, and a better future in the new year.
NEW YEAR’S EVE IN TIMES SQUARE 2023 - 2024
SCHEDULE
THE EVENT
⢠6:00 p.m. to 6:03 p.m.
Lighting and Raising the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball
The celebration begins atop One Times Square with the lighting and raising of the New Year’s Eve Ball, where representatives from Carnival Cruise Line and Times Square New Year’s Eve flip the giant switch that lights the New Year’s Eve Ball accompanied by special pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square.
⢠6:04 p.m. to 6:05 p.m.
Times Square Reveler Stories
Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with Times Square revelers.
⢠6:06 p.m. to 6:18 p.m.
SAFA Chinese Cultural Performance
The Sino-American Friendship Association (“SAFA”) presents a spectacular Chinese cultural performance titled “Cheers to 2024 with Harmony Wuliang.” A beautiful blend of modern and traditional music and dance to celebrate the Year of the Dragon on the Countdown Stage at Duffy Island between 46th and 47th Streets. The Chinese cultural performance will conclude with red and gold pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square.
⢠6:30 p.m.
Times Square 2024 Hats, Balloons, Eyeglasses, Necklaces, Gloves and Scarves
The sanitation crew of the Times Square Alliance, dressed in bright red uniforms, hands out tens of thousands of fun items to the revelers in Times Square to celebrate the New Year. Planet Fitness provides festive hats in purple, gold, and purple and yellow balloons tied with gold mylar ribbons. Fontainebleau Las Vegas provides eyeglasses in the shape of bowties and a commemorative 2024 chip. Carnival Cruise Line offers illuminated necklaces, while Kay Jewelers gives out warm blue gloves. Additionally, the Sino-American Friendship Association is providing beautiful red scarves.
⢠6:57 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Hourly Kia Countdown with Jaymes Vaughan
Jonathan Bennett and Jaymes Vaughan will appear on the Countdown Stage as we approach the New Year. They will wish the Times Square revelers a “Happy New Year” and lead the ten-second countdown to the 7 o’clock hour. This countdown will be accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square. Additionally, Jonathan will be reading several of the Confetti Wishes that will be mixed into the confetti release at Midnight, and he will also share his wish for the New Year.
⢠7:01 p.m. to 7:02 p.m.
Times Square Reveler Stories
Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with Times Square revelers.
⢠7:05 p.m. to 7:17 p.m.
New Year’s Eve Musical Performance by Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion performs a medley of her hit songs on the Planet Fitness Center Stage.
⢠7:56 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Hourly Kia Countdown with Gotham FC
As we approach the New Year, Jonathan Bennett, joined by players from 2023 NWSL champion NJ/NY Gotham FC, will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year” and lead the ten-second countdown to the 8 o’clock hour accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square.
They will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at Midnight and share their wish for the New Year.
⢠8:01 p.m. to 8:02 p.m.
Times Square Reveler Stories
Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with Times Square revelers.
⢠8:03 p.m. to 8:08 p.m.
New Year’s Eve Dance Performance by AGNEW
New York dance group AGNEW will perform for the revelers on the Planet Fitness Center Stage on the Broadway Plaza between 45th and 46th Streets.
⢠8:10 p.m. to 8:12 p.m.
Highlights of Good Riddance Day
The Times Square New Year’s Eve host, Jonathan Bennett, will share highlights from Good Riddance Day with the Times Square revelers from the Countdown Stage.
⢠8:30 p.m. to 8:35 p.m.
ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”: Performance by Tyla
Tyla performs her hit songs on the Countdown Stage.
⢠8:37 p.m. to 8:55 p.m.
⢠8:57 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Hourly Kia Countdown with Jeremy Hassell
As we approach the New Year, Jonathan Bennett, joined by Jeremy Hassell, will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year” and lead the ten-second countdown to the 9 o’clock hour accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square. He will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at Midnight and share his wishes for the New Year.
⢠9:02 p.m. to 9:05 p.m.
⢠9:10 p.m. to 9:29 p.m.
New Year’s Eve Musical Performance by Flo Rida
Flo Rida performs his hit songs My House, Low, Wild Ones, GDFR, and the world premiere of his new highly anticipated single OMG on the Planet Fitness Center Stage.
⢠9:37 p.m. to 9:43 p.m.
ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”: Performance by Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter performs her hit songs on the Countdown Stage.
⢠9:49 p.m. to 9:52 p.m.
⢠9:57 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Hourly Kia Countdown with Planet Fitness
As we approach the New Year, Planet Fitness spokesperson will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year” and lead the ten-second countdown to the 10 o’clock hour accompanied by purple and yellow confetti release and colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square.
The spokesperson will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at Midnight and share his wish for the New Year.
⢠10:01 p.m. to 10:02 p.m.
Times Square Reveler Stories
Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with Times Square revelers.
⢠10:04 p.m. to 10:08 p.m.
Univision’s ¡Feliz 2024!: Performance by Maria Becerra
Maria Becerra performs a medley of her hit songs on the Planet Fitness Center Stage.
⢠10:09 p.m. to 10:12 p.m.
⢠10:21 p.m. to 10:24 p.m.
⢠10:34 p.m. to 10:40 p.m.
ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”: Performance by Jelly Roll
Jelly Roll performs his hit songs on the Countdown Stage.
⢠10:45 p.m. to 10:48 p.m.
⢠10:57 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Hourly Kia Countdown with Raúl de Molina
As we approach the New Year, Raúl de Molina will appear at the Countdown Stage to wish the Times Square revelers “Happy New Year” and lead the ten-second countdown to the 11 o’clock hour accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects atop One Times Square. He will also read several of the Confetti Wishes to be mixed into the confetti release at Midnight and share his wish for the New Year.
⢠11:02 p.m. to 11:07 p.m.
Univision’s ¡Feliz 2024!: Performance by Yng Lvcas
Yng Lucas performs a medley of his hit songs on the Planet Fitness Center Stage.
⢠11:08 p.m. to 11:11 p.m.
⢠11:12 p.m. to 11:14 p.m.
Times Square talks with NYC Mayor Eric Adams
Co-Host Jeremy Hassell talks with New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
⢠11:16 p.m. to 11:20 p.m.
The Associated Press Presents 2023 Year-In-Review Video Highlights
The Associated Press, the world’s oldest and largest news-gathering organization, presents a news reel highlighting some of the most memorable events of 2023.
⢠11:38 p.m. to 11:46 p.m.
ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve”: Performance by LL Cool J
LL Cool J performs his hit songs on the Countdown Stage.
⢠11:51 p.m. to 11:58 p.m.
Exceptional Musical Performance by Paul Anka
Paul Anka performs his legendary song My Way, and John Lennon’s Imagine on the Planet Fitness Center Stage.
⢠11:59 p.m.
The Sixty-Second Countdown
The Mayor of New York City, joined by players from 2023 NWSL champion NJ/NY Gotham FC, pushes the crystal button that signals the descent of the New Year’s Eve Ball and leads the final sixty-second countdown to the New Year on the Countdown Stage.
The Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball
The lighted Ball descends 66.7 feet in sixty seconds. The Ball is a geodesic sphere, twelve feet in diameter, weighing 11,875 pounds. The Ball is covered with 2,688 crystal triangles and lit by 32,256 LEDs.
⢠Midnight (12:00 a.m.) — New Year’s Day
2024 Sign
At the stroke of Midnight, the New Year’s Eve Ball lights are turned off as the New Year “2024” numerals burst to life, shining high above Times Square.
Times Square Confetti Release and Pyrotechnic Effects
The world-famous New Year’s Eve confetti is released from the rooftops of buildings throughout Times Square, creating a celebratory blizzard of colorful confetti as revelers welcome the New Year accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects. The three thousand pounds of confetti includes thousands of wishes from revelers worldwide, hoping for peace, love, good health, and a better future in the new year.
⢠12:04 a.m. to 12:09 a.m.
Fontainebleau 70th Anniversary Surprise Video Performance and Ball Re-lighting
In honor of their 70th anniversary, Fontainebleau is presenting a surprise video countdown and musical performance to highlight the re-lighting of the Times Square Ball for 2024!!!
⢠12:15 a.m. - End of Show.
Source: Times Square
|GlobalGiants.Com|
About one million revelers, equivalent to the population of Chandigarh in India, gathered in Times Square to celebrate the arrival of 2024.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:43 PM | View the original post
New Delhi, India, December 26, 2023 — Coca-Cola has extended its partnership with the International Cricket Council (ICC) for another eight years. This partnership will establish Coca-Cola as a long-standing partner of the ICC and amplify global cricket experiences. The official signing ceremony occurred at ICC Headquarters and marked a historic milestone for the partnership. It demonstrated Coca-Cola’s commitment to sports and confirmed the collaboration as one of the longest-ever associations formed by the ICC with a single brand, spanning 13 years (2019 - 2031).
The partnership will see Coca-Cola’s brands becoming exclusive non-alcoholic beverage partners for all men’s and women’s events at the pinnacle of the sport, including the ICC Cricket World Cups, ICC T20 World Cups, and ICC Champions Trophies until the end of 2031. During the partnership, there will be a prominent international men’s and women’s event every year and a World Test Championship Final every two years.
During the recent ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup India 2023, Thums Up and Limca Sportz were the exclusive beverage and sports drink partners, activating a host of online and offline fan engagement activations. Additionally, Sprite took center stage with its captivating ‘Thand rakh’ campaign, aimed at elevating and sustaining the enthusiasm of cricket fans throughout the biggest World Cup ever.
Coca-Cola has been globally committed to supporting local sporting events and organizations worldwide. The Coca-Cola Company has an eight-decade-long association with the Olympics. Moreover, for over four decades, it has been associated with the FIFA and T20 World Cup and using the power of sports to bring people together and transform lives.
The Coca-Cola Company is a leading beverage company in India that offers consumers a variety of high-quality and refreshing drink options. The Company’s vision is to provide “Beverages for life,” it has a broad portfolio of products, including hydration, sports, sparkling water, coffee, Tea, nutrition, juice, and dairy-based products.
The Coca-Cola Company employs over 700,000 people globally, including its bottling partners, contributing to economic opportunities in local communities worldwide.
Source: Coca-Cola
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:01 AM | View the original post
Photo: American television news reporter, news anchor, and model Jennifer Lahmers arrives on the red carpet of the 95th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 12, 2023. Image provided by & copyright © Kyusung Gong / A.M.P.A.S. [File Photo]
Photo: American actress and talk show host Kelly Ripa arrives on the red carpet of the 95th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 12, 2023. Image provided by & copyright © Michael Baker / A.M.P.A.S. [File Photo]
LOS ANGELES, CA - The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the 96th Academy Awards Shortlists in 10 categories: Documentary Feature Film, Documentary Short Film, International Feature Film, Makeup and Hairstyling, Music (Original Score), Music (Original Song), Animated Short Film, Live Action Short Film, Sound and Visual Effects.
India’s official entry in the international feature film category, “2018: Everyone is a Hero”, is out of the Oscars race. The film failed to make it to the shortlist of 15 films for the category.
The International Feature Film shortlist includes Amerikatsi (Armenia), The Monk and the Gun (Bhutan), Fallen Leaves (Finland), The Taste of Things (France), The Teachers’ Lounge (Germany), Godland (Iceland), Io Capitano (Italy), Perfect Days (Japan), Totem (Mexico), The Mother of All Lies (Morocco), Society of the Snow (Spain), Four Daughters (Tunisia), 20 Days in Mariupol (Ukraine), and The Zone of Interest (United Kingdom).
Films from 88 countries were eligible in the category. The shortlisted movies will advance to the next round of voting.
SHORTLISTS
DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM
Fifteen films will advance in the Documentary Feature Film category for the 96th Academy Awards. One hundred sixty-seven films were eligible in the category. Members of the Documentary Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees.
The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:
DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM
Fifteen films will advance in the Documentary Short Film category for the 96th Academy Awards. One hundred fourteen films qualified in the category. Members of the Documentary Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees.
The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:
INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM
Fifteen films will advance to the next round of voting in the International Feature Film category for the 96th Academy Awards. Films from 88 countries and regions were eligible in the category.
The Academy invited members from all branches to participate in the preliminary round of voting. They must have met a minimum viewing requirement to be eligible to vote in the category.
In the nominations round, Academy members from all branches are invited to opt in to participate and must view all 15 shortlisted films to vote.
The films, listed in alphabetical order by country, are:
MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING
Ten films will advance in the Makeup and Hairstyling category for the 96th Academy Awards. All Academy’s Makeup Artists and Hairstylists Branch members will be invited to view excerpts and interviews with the artists from each shortlisted film on Sunday, January 14, 2024. Branch members will vote to nominate five films for final Oscar consideration.
The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE)
Fifteen scores will advance in the Original Score category for the 96th Academy Awards. One hundred forty-eight scores were eligible in the category. Members of the Music Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees.
The scores, listed in alphabetical order by film title, are:
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG)
Fifteen songs will advance in the Original Song category for the 96th Academy Awards. Ninety-four songs were eligible in the category. Members of the Music Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees.
The original songs are listed below in alphabetical order by film title:
ANIMATED SHORT FILM
Fifteen films will advance in the Animated Short Film category for the 96th Academy Awards. Ninety-three films had qualified in the category. Short Films and Feature Animation Branch members vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees.
The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:
LIVE ACTION SHORT FILM
Fifteen films will advance in the Live Action Short Film category for the 96th Academy Awards. One hundred eighty-seven films had qualified in the category. For the first time, the Academy invited its members from all branches to participate in the preliminary round of voting. They must have met a minimum viewing requirement to be eligible to vote in the category.
In the nominations round, Academy members from all branches are invited to opt in to participate and must view all 15 shortlisted films to vote.
The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:
SOUND
Ten films will advance in the Sound category for the 96th Academy Awards. All eligible members of the Sound Branch vote to determine the shortlist and the nominees. Academy members will be invited to view excerpts from each shortlisted film beginning Thursday, January 11, 2024, in the San Francisco Bay area, followed by London, Los Angeles, and New York. Branch members will vote to nominate five films for final Oscar consideration.
The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:
VISUAL EFFECTS
Ten films remain in the running in the Visual Effects category for the 96th Academy Awards. The Visual Effects Branch Executive Committee determined the shortlist. All members of the Visual Effects Branch will be invited to view excerpts and interviews with the artists from each shortlisted film on Saturday, January 13, 2024. Branch members will vote to nominate five films for final Oscar consideration.
The films, listed in alphabetical order by title, are:
Nominations voting begins on Thursday, January 11, 2024, and concludes on Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
The Academy will announce the Nominations for the 96th Academy Awards on Tuesday, January 23, 2024.
The 96th Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will be televised live on A.B.C. and in more than 200 territories worldwide.
Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:53 AM | View the original post
Photo: During the 2022 Annual Meetings at the International Monetary Fund, a behind-the-scenes look at the first day. Washington, DC, United States. October 10, 2022. IMF Photo/STEPHEN VOSS. [File Photo]
Washington, DC, December 19, 2023 — The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has concluded its yearly consultation with India. IMF noted that India’s economy has grown robust over the past year, with employment surpassing pre-pandemic levels, formalization progressing, and the financial sector remaining resilient. The current account deficit widened in 2023 as domestic demand and external shocks outweighed robust services exports and proactive diversification of critical oil imports. Despite this, growth is expected to remain strong, with real GDP projected to grow 6.3 percent in 2024 and 2025. However, risks to the outlook are balanced, with a sharp global growth slowdown and further global supply disruptions cited as potential challenges.
Executive Directors commended India’s authorities for their prudent macroeconomic policies and reforms that resulted in the country’s strong economic performance, resilience, and financial stability. They called for appropriate policies to sustain economic stability and further progress in critical structural reforms to unleash India’s significant potential.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) directors also praised the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) efforts to maintain economic stability through proactive monetary policy actions and a solid commitment to price stability. They agreed that the current neutral monetary policy stance, based on a data-dependent approach, is appropriate and should gradually help bring inflation back to its target level.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) annually conducts bilateral discussions with member countries to gather economic and financial information. During these discussions, officials discuss the country’s economic developments and policies. The IMF staff then prepares a report, which the Executive Board discusses. The Managing Director summarizes the views of the Executive Directors and transmits them to the member country’s authorities.
Source: IMF
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— The editor holds an Academic Certificate in Financial Market Analysis from the Institute for Capacity Development at the International Monetary Fund in Washington, DC.
The number of people in the labor force is generally closely related to whether an economy is growing at a reasonable rate. We explain unemployment in this video. https://t.co/kGB0Uom1lW pic.twitter.com/T2rohzC7PK
— IMF (@IMFNews) December 8, 2023
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:33 PM | View the original post
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