Author Archives: Danzig

Access Increased to Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency – Boston.gov

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Solarize Eastie will reduce costs for solar panel installation and the Community First Partnership will expand energy efficiency opportunities for environmental justice communities.

Today, Mayor Wu announced the launch of theSolarize Eastiepilot program to increase solar panel installation and onsite battery storage in East Boston. This partnership withGreenRoots, a local environmental organization, will bring the benefits of affordable renewable energy to residents in East Boston. This program uses a group buying model to reduce costs for residents by aggregating demand and securing a discounted price per watt. Alongside the launch of Solarize Eastie, Mayor Wu also announced that Boston has been selected for Mass SavesCommunity First Partnershipto provide cost-saving energy efficiency solutions to residents, small businesses, houses of worship, and local nonprofits primarily located in East Boston, Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan. The two programs are supplemented by American Rescue Plan Act funds.

These partnerships embody our commitment to investing in environmental justice and energy democracy, saidMayor Michelle Wu. I am grateful to GreenRoots and Mass Save for leadership for a Boston Green New Deal.

Solarize Eastie works to bring East Boston residents the opportunity to generate clean, renewable energy for their homes, reduce energy costs, and increase energy resilience. This program offers a variety of payment support, including a 15% discount below the average cost of solar PV installation, up-front subsidies for income-eligible building owners, and no-cost options. Throughout the year, this partnership will work to increase access to affordable and renewable energy for East Boston residents, helping them reduce their energy cost burden. To ensure that the program addresses the needs of the East Boston community, the City has partnered with GreenRoots, a community-based organization dedicated to improving and enhancing the urban environment and public health in East Boston, Chelsea, and surrounding communities.

Environmental justice means we need to ask hard questions about who is asked to carry the burden and who receives the benefits, saidReverend Mariama White-Hammond, Chief of Environment, Energy and Open Space. These kinds of partnerships allow us to bring energy benefits to environmental justice communities while helping us achieve our collective goal of decarbonization.

The goal of Solarize Eastie is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by increasing solar and battery storage adoption in East Boston and to bring the benefits to low- and moderate-income residents. More than half of East Boston's 45,000 residents are Latinx immigrants, and the neighborhood median income is $52,935. The City has selected ACE Solar and Resonant Energy to lead the installation process for Solarize Eastie. ACE Solar has been ranked as the top Residential Solar Contractor in Massachusetts for the fifth year in a row, and is among the top solar contractors in the country. Resonant Energy, based in Dorchester, specializes in bringing accessible solar options to communities with limited resources, affordable housing units, and nonprofit organizations throughout Massachusetts. ACE and Resonant Energy will offer their Solar Access Program, which allows low- and moderate-income residents to install solar without any FICO score requirement or any upfront or ongoing payment obligation.

"Solarize Eastie gives East Boston residents accessibility to make real choices in the way they power their homes and community," saidJohn Walkey, Director of Waterfront and Climate Initiatives, GreenRoots. "GreenRoots is thrilled to partner with the City of Boston and ACE Solar to enhance energy justice in East Boston. For too long, immigrants and people of color have been left out of the solar economy and they must be centered in our energy democracy efforts."

ACE Solar is honored to be a part of Solarize Eastie, saidColby Lawless, ACE Solar. We are eager to help East Boston adopt clean energy and, through the program and partnerships, provide accessible ways to do so. Clean, affordable energy should be available to everyone and thanks to Solarize Eastie this is more of a much needed reality.

"The Solar Access Program is an important program for limited resource communities," saysKelsie Daniels-Jackson, Resonant Energy. "It allows any homeowner, regardless of income or credit history, to install solar and see immediate on-bill savings without the burden of an additional bill from a typical third party financier."

The City of Boston has also been selected for theMass Save Community First Partnershipto bring energy cost savings to residents and small businesses in East Boston, Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan. All four neighborhoods are considered environmental justice communities, historically experiencing disproportionately low Mass Save participation rates. With intentional and equitable outreach to these communities in the first year of the program in particular for renters the Community First Partnership will share energy efficiency opportunities with residents to provide emissions reductions, cost savings, and increased comfort. Specifically, participants will receive a no-cost energy assessment to identify energy-saving opportunities, such as insulation and heating and cooling equipment upgrades. Through this partnership, the Mass Save Sponsors will offer up to 100% off the cost of approved upgrades. Participants can also receive a variety of no-cost energy-saving products such as water-saving devices and programmable thermostats.

The Sponsors of Mass Save are proud to offer no-cost energy assessments along with rebates and incentives for energy efficiency upgrades that save customers money and positively impact the environment by reducing energy use, said Tilak Subrahmanian, Vice President, Energy Efficiency and EV Mobility at Eversource. Through our partnership with the City of Boston, we will be able to expand our reach and help ensure our path to decarbonization is fair and equitable for all residents and businesses, said Chris Porter, Director, Customer Energy Management at National Grid.

These two programs will simultaneously work to reduce energy use and transition residents from utilizing fossil fuels to renewable energy, while delivering immediate benefits to residents in energy-burdened neighborhoods. These partnerships expand upon the Wu administrations commitment to energy democracy and becoming a Green New Deal city. Last month, Mayor Wu included transformative energy efficiency investments in herfirst proposed budget, such as $20 million for a nation-leading pilot for energy retrofits in triple deckers and other multi-family homes while maintaining affordability, as well as a $33 million investment of ARPA funding for upgrades to public housing units to improve air quality, energy efficiency and resident comfort at Boston Housing Authority developments Franklin Field, Ruth Barkley, Alice Taylor, Roslyn, and Rockland.

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Access Increased to Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency - Boston.gov

Why Young Workers Don’t Want Government Jobsand What To Do About It – Route Fifty

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While many state and local governments hope to attract young adults to fill open positions, they may be facing an uphill battle.A recent survey byNext100 and GenForward of young adults ages 18 to36 (with an over sample of Black, Asian and Latinx respondents) aimed to gain a better understanding of how this age group perceives government and their attitudes towards working in government.

The results are disheartening, the report states.

Although 48% of survey respondents considered themselves politically engaged or active, many of them reported that they didnt feel represented or well served by their largelywhite, male and wealthy local, state or federal government representatives.

Accordingly, young adults have little interest in working for governments that they view as out of touch and exclusionary. The survey report notes, few are excited to join the government themselves; and they are skeptical of the governments desire to employ them or its ability to have a meaningful impactsigning a petition was more likely to be viewed as impactful than working in government.

The negative sentiments revealed by this research could not come at a worse time. The Great Resignation continues, with half of all state and local government workers considering leaving their jobs, and a quarter of those considering leaving government altogether. Waves of retirements, pandemic-induced burnout, benefit reductions and a host of other factors have fanned the flames of the public sector employment fire. With so many opportunities available in the job market, the contrast between a modernized private sector and a public sector that has failed to pivot, change and respond to rapidly evolving worker expectations is stark.

With (a) labor force (that) is expected to become even more diverse than it is now and minorities projected to expand their share of the workforce considerably in the future, governments appear to be making little effort to become an employer of choice for the emerging population of workers. Survey respondents reported feeling excluded and unwanted by government employers, with just 24% agreeing or strongly agreeing with the statement: I believe that local government wants to hire people like me. Equally troubling is that just 18% agreed or strongly agreed with the statement: I want to work in local government at some point in my career.

Prevailing Distaste for Government Work

Whether intentional or not, governments are turning young people away from the industry. Immediate action is needed to alter the prevailing distaste young people have for this work.

State and local governments can start by implementing civic engagement programs geared towards young and multicultural audiences. These efforts should include voter education, policy engagement and campaigns that educate constituents about how to run for officeand empower them to do so. Engagement must begin while young people are still in school and continue to meet them where they are post graduation to build lifetimes of connection. That means getting out of city hall and hosting opportunities directly within communities, both in person and online.

Meanwhile, conscious efforts need to be made to diversify representation on committees, boards and ballots; and staff, candidates and elected officials need more support from government organizations to better connect with and include constituents in collaborative governance.

Focusing inward, government organizations need to abandon the tired message of making a difference by working in the public sector, a dusty adage that is obviously not resonating with a weary and wary younger generation. As partisan bickering andvocal minorities continue to stall meaningful change in communities, young job seekers from historically underrepresented backgrounds will not respond to messaging they perceive as rose colored and empty.

Instead, governments need to do the work within their organizations to provide meaningful, attractive opportunities to young workers. And public employers of all sizes need to start by prioritizing diversity, equity and inclusion practices that build welcoming and functioning workplaces for all employees. These efforts cannot be part of aspirational five- or 10-year plans, but need to be top of mind, budgeted and measurably executed now.

According to Next100/GenForwards survey, only 38% of respondents know how to get a job in local government. Governments must reframe passive recruitment strategies and include targeted outreach to underrepresented candidates to guide them towards government opportunities and assist them, if needed, in applying.

Next, governments must radically overhaul their operations and cultures to create work environments that are attractive to young, diverse workers. This may include:

Implementing and promoting these organizational accomplishments as employer branding rather than relying on trite messages about making a difference will help public sector employers attract and retain the young professionals their organizations need to thrive.

In short, actions, not words, are needed now to engage and attract the next generation of government workers.

As the survey report states, Government leaders must work to build inclusive institutions in which young adults from the communities most impacted by harmful policiesand who are most likely to benefit from transformative and impactful policiesare able and eager to work, thrive and have influence and impact in government. Its past time for the industry to embrace sweeping change and build cultures and communities that reflect the realities of the present and are prepared for the future.

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Why Young Workers Don't Want Government Jobsand What To Do About It - Route Fifty

Colorado Springs leaders look to the future through the lens of an aging population, education and affordable housing – Colorado Public Radio

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Local Colorado Springs business and economics experts focused on the changes and challenges created by population growth in the area during a recent El Pomar Foundation event. The expert panel discussed housing, jobs, racial diversity and more.

State demographer Elizabeth Garner presented recent trends, noting that the populations in Colorado Springs and El Paso County grew slightly faster than the state as a whole between 2010 and 2020, at 15 and 17.4 percent respectively. But it was not as high a percentage increase as the previous ten years.

Construction of new housing did not keep up with population growth during the last decade though, according to Garner, and that mismatch has stressed the market.

A lot of this constraint that we're feeling isn't because people were flocking here that we had no idea would come, she said. Fewer came than we thought. And we built fewer housing (units).

The segment of people 65 and older is growing faster than people under 18. If that trend continues as its forecasted to do, Garner said itll affect the economy, labor force, and public finance. One area in Colorado that illustrates this, she said, is the convergence of an aging population and lack of affordable housing. She cited her mom as an example.

My mom doesn't want to move and she is still in a 4,000-square-foot home living alone at 85, she said. But she loves her neighborhood. I call her a waste of a housing resource, Im her daughter so I can say it, that house should have five people in it, not one.

Garner said strategies are needed so people can downsize and stay in their communities as they age.

As part of the panel, Tony Rosendo, CEO and founder of Spur Philanthropy, responded to concerns about gentrification when building new housing. He said that up until 2015 there had been little development of the downtown area and that in order to "transform the city into the Colorado Springs of tomorrow," diversity and housing affordability needed attention.

Its important to stay out in front of these issues, he said, to make sure we keep our local flavor to projects and are not just selling our precious lands to larger developers.

There's an intentionality, as opposed to a passive nature of letting people develop your land and your communities.

And, overall wages have not kept pace with housing costs, according to Tatiana Bailey, who directs the UCCS Economic Forum. She said that makes it difficult to attract younger and more diverse workers.

Meanwhile, Bailey said the local economy has diversified beyond military and call center jobs during the last several decades and now theres a wide array of industries including technical, healthcare, and construction.

Any economist will tell you that's a good thing, Bailey said. You don't want all your eggs in one basket.

But she said, as the population ages, access to education for younger and more diverse groups of people is necessary to continue to support robust business growth.

We're not training people adequately for the jobs of today, Bailey said. The good news is that most of those jobs have livable wages. But we don't really provide the access. If we have a lot of racial ethnic minorities who are even more compromised, often in their ability to pay for that higher education, it's not going to work because that is our increasing proportion of our working-age people moving forward. So I think that we have to be intentional about looking at these trends.

Several of the panelists said they've seen an increase in efforts among business and community leaders to work together to address these challenges presented by the changing demographics in the Colorado Springs area.

The leadership in this town has grown so positively in the last 10 years, said Aikta Marcoulier, Executive Director of Pikes Peak Small Business Development. We're crossing roads, we're crossing those paths that have never been crossed before to ensure the small business community is being supported the best that it can be.

She spoke about how the community has become more diverse and at the same time has had to deal with wildfires, floods and the pandemic. Im obviously a minority. I'm a woman and I'm a spouse of a veteran so (I) check all the boxes, she said, but we've come together to support those communities and those communities came together to support us as well through all of this.

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Colorado Springs leaders look to the future through the lens of an aging population, education and affordable housing - Colorado Public Radio

A Guidance document for Medical Teams responding to Health Emergencies in Armed Conflict and other Insecure Environments – World – ReliefWeb

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A. Why, What, Where, Who, When, and How?

The Red Book extracts from references and summarizes the most relevant sections from existing guidelines, manuals, and recommendations published by medical and humanitarian authorities from around the globe, including the World Health Organization (WHO), other UN agencies/bodies,3 MSF, the International Committee of the Red Cross, NGOs,4 other agencies/organizations, and the SPHERE standards. These references, while not exhaustive, will help guide medical teams to make principled, patient-focused humanitarian decisions.

1. Why?

Medical care for people caught up in armed conflict and other insecure environments saves lives and alleviates suffering. It is one of the most immediate and high priority needs of an affected population and is often the first type of response activated and/or requested by authorities and affected communities.Medical teams working in armed conflict and other insecure environments frequently face serious threats to their security and safety, challenges to patient access, and at times limited acceptance by affected communities in which they work and parties to the conflict. Such difficulties are likely to increase (6) and thereby creating a critical need to establish contact and trust with all sides in conflicts and in other insecure environments to ensure operational continuity.

This trust can best be achieved when all sides perceive the medical teams to be neutral, impartial, and independent, and specifically not aiding (or being perceived to aid) any one party to achieve a military, political or economic advantage. For medical teams that are deploying increasingly closer to the frontlines, the implications of and consequences for both staff and patients of teams not being fully prepared, and/or not fully comprehending the context in which they work, can be severe. Medical response can easily be hindered or compromised by intentional or unintentional acts and the behaviour and conduct of the teams themselves.

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A Guidance document for Medical Teams responding to Health Emergencies in Armed Conflict and other Insecure Environments - World - ReliefWeb

Here’s what’s in the final fentanyl bill – Colorado Public Radio

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After months of debate, Colorado lawmakers gave final approval on Wednesday night to the states new fentanyl accountability bill.

The bill introduces tougher criminal penalties for the possession of a smaller amount of fentanyl, or other drugs laced with fentanyl. At the same time, reformers were able to win some new funding for treatment and other services.

The measure passed the legislature with the support of most Democrats and a small minority of Republicans. Many Republicans argued it didnt go far enough to punish people involved with fentanyl, while some liberal Democrats warned it could help to restart a harmful war on drugs approach to addiction.

HB22-1326 lowers the amount of fentanyl eligible for a felony possession charge from four grams to one. That threshold applies to any mixtures containing fentanyl, including counterfeit pills that may contain only a few hundredths of a gram of the drug itself.

The new charge is the lowest tier of drug felony, also known as a DF4. It could result in up to six months in jail and two years of probation for first-time offenders. Unlike other felonies, judges wont be allowed to send people convicted of possession to prison.

The charge also includes provisions that are meant to soften the effects of a possession felony: If defendants complete probation or court-ordered treatment, the charge will be reduced to a misdemeanor on their criminal records.

Because treatment is not equally available across the state, and since individual prosecutors and judges will have discretion over how to apply the felony, people in different communities might face vastly different consequences for fentanyl possession.

In a last-minute compromise, the bill allows defendants to try to prove they didnt knowingly possess fentanyl, since the drug often is laced into other substances. To go this route, defendants would have to take their case to trial and present evidence that they were unaware of the fentanyl. A jury can then choose to reduce the conviction to a misdemeanor. In most cases, defendants do not opt to go to trial.

In Denver alone, about 380 people per year are expected to be charged with the new fentanyl felony, according to state analysts. The bill also includes harsher felony consequences for people caught dealing smaller amounts of fentanyl.

The bill includes several changes to the treatment system. Perhaps the biggest: County jails will have to offer medication-assisted treatment by July 2023.

After people are arrested, jails will be required to assess them for substance-use disorder and officials may then prescribe medications like buprenorphine or methadone.

Those medications can reduce withdrawal symptoms and studies have found that they can lower the chances of an overdose after a person is released.

Originally, the bill did not require jails to participate in the programs it only provided money to help them do so if they chose. But lawmakers pushed to make treatment mandatory a longtime goal for reformers like Sen. Brittany Pettersen, a sponsor.

Its devastating for me that when people come in contact with our system, with law enforcement, that theyre stigmatized even more, they dont get the help they need, said Democratic state Sen. Brittany Pettersen, a sponsor of the bill.

The bill adds $10 million for emergency treatment services. Cities and counties would be required to work with managed service organizations to provide crisis stabilization and detox. Democratic Rep. Jennifer Bacon was a driving force to get the money.

All of our data shows that the most effective tool in helping people quit is voluntary treatment, she said during a floor debate.

But the bill leaves a major request by substance-use treatment providers unfulfilled.

They wanted the state to dedicate several million dollars per year to increase the rates paid by Medicaid for addiction services. That reimbursement is typically about 20 percent lower than the rates paid for other behavioral health services, according to the Colorado Providers Association. The group argues that has contributed to a shortfall in treatment capacity in the state.

Pettersen said she supported increasing reimbursements but that this bill wasnt the right way to do it; such rates are normally set through a different process.

It was a pretty unorthodox way to increase provider rates, she said. She urged treatment advocates to start preparing now for another effort next year.

Build momentum together, organize early on for the money and work that we need, and to get better at voicing your coalitions demands to help fill the significant gaps that we continue to see, she said.

Additionally, the bill dedicates new money to harm reduction strategies:

Separately, lawmakers set aside $5 million to create treatment capacity for adolescents with substance addictions.

Daniel Darting, CEO of the managed care organization Signal, said that treatment providers are holding out hope for next year. They expect the states new Behavioral Health Administration will make substance use a priority.

Everything I see is that this is an intentional and sincere priority to move forward, he said.

The new bill requires Colorado to study several topics related to fentanyl, including the overall impact of the legislation; the online sale of opioids; and the specific effects of the new felony possession penalties.

The bill also encourages, but doesnt require, local agencies to submit data to the states overdose tracking project.

The goal of collecting data on felony prosecutions in particular, said Rep. Leslie Herod, a Democrat, is so we can ensure that we are not having adverse consequences or disproportionate impacts, especially on people of color or low-income people, as we've seen in the past.

In future sessions, she said, lawmakers would focus on the path toward true reform not just prison. Prison cant solve all of our societys problems.

The governors office has not said when or whether hell sign the bill.

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Here's what's in the final fentanyl bill - Colorado Public Radio

Australian State To Ban Nazi Hakenkreuz; No Prohibition On Use Of Sacred ‘Swastika’ By Hindus, Buddhists And Jains – Swarajya

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Australian state of Victoria is set to ban the public display of the Nazi Hakenkreuz (hooked cross).

On Wednesday (11 May), the Victorian government introduced a bill in the state Parliament that proposes to ban the intentional public displays of the Nazi symbol across the state.

The legislation titled 'Summary Offences Amendment (Nazi Symbol Prohibition) Bill' is expected to pass both houses of the Victoria's Parliament with bi-partisan support, reports Sydney Morning Herald.

The law only applies to the Nazi Hakenkreuz and does not prohibit the use of Swastika by Hindus, Buddhists and Jains.

After the passage of the bill, Victoria will be the first state in Australia to criminalise the display of the Nazi hate symbol. The law will enable police to remove and confiscate items that breach the ban.

We know that this is a symbol of hate and division, and it is incredibly harmful and damaging, the messaging it sends, Victoria's Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes was quoted in the SMH report as saying.

Victoria is multicultural. We are multi-ethnic. We do not want a community that stands for this type of behaviour," she added.

Symes said the Swastika used by the Buddhist, Hindu and Jain communities was an ancient and sacred symbol of peace and good fortune and would not be outlawed.

The Nazi Hakenkreuz is often, albeit incorrectly, referred to as 'Swastika'- an auspicious symbol held sacred by Dharmic religions including Hindus, Buddhists and Jains.

Also Read: Hitler Never Used Swastika: Evangelical Defamation Of Hindu Symbol

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Australian State To Ban Nazi Hakenkreuz; No Prohibition On Use Of Sacred 'Swastika' By Hindus, Buddhists And Jains - Swarajya

ThedaCare Breaks Ground on $100M Investment To Modernize ThedaCare Regional Medical Center – Neenah ThedaCare – ThedaCare

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Milestone to Expand and Enhance Access to Emergency Care

For more than a century, ThedaCare has proudly provided care for the people and families in Northeast and Central Wisconsin. In October 2021, system leaders announced a significant project, a $100M investment to modernize ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenahs campus, while enhancing and expanding services. The Inspired Past; Healthier Future modernization will transform health care for all those living in the region, and allow ThedaCare to continue its commitment to keeping care local.

ThedaCare is pleased to celebrate the groundbreaking of its Emergency Department to expand, redesign and create additional care space.

This milestone in the investment at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah comes as our health system is reinventing health care, said Imran A. Andrabi, MD, President and CEO of ThedaCare. ThedaCare is proud to be a proactive partner in health enriching the lives of all and creating value in everything we do. Through investments such as this, to our anchor hospital in Neenah, we can continue to prepare and respond to the needs of the communities we serve, keeping our patients and families safe and healthy, now and in the future.

The enhancements of the Emergency Department (ED) at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah will advance coordinated care throughout the ThedaCare service area, including critical access hospitals, giving patients greater access to innovative and specialized care. The project advancements will be welcomed additions to the campus that currently provides critical care services, such as the regions only Level II Trauma Center, certified Comprehensive Stroke Center and Emergency Department.

Coordinated Emergency Care During Construction

The groundbreaking highlights the first major phase of construction. Teams will be working to expand the ED, doubling the current care space. After completion, there will be 20 exams rooms, including specialized rooms for trauma and behavioral health, with the latest technology, equipment and space to provide patients with the best care experience.

To ensure the ability to rapidly adjust and plan for the future of health care needs, the design plan also includes an increased number of negative pressure rooms, also called isolation rooms, which provide a safe space to care for those with an infectious illness.

The ED layout is focused on patient safety and quality of care. The health care teams workstation will be located in the center of the area, with treatment rooms on the perimeter, giving teams a direct line of sight into each room. Through the commitment to understanding unique needs of the communities served, leaders recognized increasing demand for behavioral health support in the ED. The new space includes designated rooms for behavioral health services, keeping the safety of patients and team members top of mind.

Current services, including care in the ED, will remain open during the construction process.

Our patients and families were our priority when we planned our intentional construction phases, allowing them to continue accessing critical services with ease, said Lynn Detterman, Senior Vice President of ThedaCare South Region. We appreciate the communitys understanding as we work through construction at the Neenah campus. Our team members are committed to helping patients and visitors navigate any changes they might experience during this time.

Also, during this phase of construction, the ThedaStar Air Medical Program Helipad will be relocated to be adjacent to the Emergency Department entrance. The relocation will allow for patients to be rapidly transferred for Trauma Services once they arrive, when time is critical. There will also be a separate hallway for those patients experiencing a trauma, allowing them the privacy and dignity they deserve.

Modernization Made Possible with Community Generosity

Enhancements to better the patient experience at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah were funded in part through generous donors who support the ThedaCare Foundation-Neenah. Donors have already graciously contributed more than $15M to date, and continue to work with our community to provide everyone an opportunity to invest in this historic campaign.

We have a rich history of providing compassionate care to the people in this community, and are immensely fortunate to have caring, generous community members who support our mission of health and well-being , said Dr. Andrabi. This project was made possible in part through their kind donations, and we are grateful they have joined us in building a healthier future for all.

Groundbreaking Tied to Overall Modernization

The design of the enhancements is aimed to reduce cost, improve capacity, create sustained operational efficiency with more efficient work areas for health care teams and ultimately provide an exceptional patient experience. The design was created in partnership with physicians, clinicians and staff.

Additional highlights of the modernization include:

Inside the hospital, some offices and departments have been relocated in order to begin work on the creation of Main Street, where key diagnostic outpatient services will be located on the first floor of the hospital to ensure easier patient access.

The next phase of construction, which will include work on the creation of Main Street, is scheduled to begin in fall 2022. The full modernization is expected to be complete in fall 2023.

About ThedaCare

For more than 110 years, ThedaCare has been committed to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves in Northeast and Central Wisconsin. The organization delivers care to more than 600,000 residents in 17 counties and employs approximately 7,000 health care professionals. ThedaCare has 180 points of care, including seven hospitals. As an organization committed to being a leader in Population Health, team members are dedicated to empowering people to live their unique best lives. ThedaCare also partners with communities to understand needs, finding solutions together, and encouraging health awareness and action. ThedaCare is the first in Wisconsin to be a Mayo Clinic Care Network Member, giving specialists the ability to consult with Mayo Clinic experts on a patients care. ThedaCare is a not-for-profit health system with a level II trauma center, comprehensive cancer treatment, stroke and cardiac programs, as well as primary care.

For more information, visit thedacare.org or follow ThedaCare on social media. Members of the media should call Cassandra Wallace, Public and Media Relations Consultant at920.442.0328 or the ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah switchboard at920.729.3100and ask for the marketing person on call.

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ThedaCare Breaks Ground on $100M Investment To Modernize ThedaCare Regional Medical Center - Neenah ThedaCare - ThedaCare

For Queer Nigerians, online dating can come with deadly risks – The Record by Recorded Future

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Boluwatife, an interior designer who lives in Nigeria, says 2019 was the worst year of his life.

That year, there were lost jobs. Boluwatifes father also died, triggering a major family dispute over his estate.

But the worst part, Boluwatife told The Record, was that he got kitoed that same year.

In the local queer community, the slang kito is used to refer to situations where homophobes disguise themselves as queer people in order to attack, exploit and even kill queer people who they lure with plans for romantic encounters.

Using fake profiles to scam people also known more generally as catfishing, especially when it involves dating sites or apps is a common form of social engineering.

But such attacks can be particularly devastating for victims who are sexual minorities in countries that stigmatize gay relationships, lack laws that protect queer people from discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, or even criminalize homosexuality as is the case in Nigeria.

Kitoing and similar incidents in other countries also spotlight the heightened online security risks many queer people around the world face everyday, especially in cases where the internet may be one of the few places they can access community.

But some queer Nigerians have also used the power of the internet to create online communities for calling out bad actors including creating digital publications to warn others about apparent insider threats.

Boluwatife, who we are only identifying by his first name for his safety, said he has friends whod been kitoed before and thought listening to their experiences would help him avoid the same fate.

But he was wrong.

Boluwatife told The Record his experience began on Badoo, a popular online dating app.

I dont often like Badoo because of how my friends describe it as the ghetto, but I thought I could find something legit there, he said. Badoo did not respond to a requests for comment.

Like anyone who meets someone they find attractive on a dating app, Boluwatife started flirting. Before he realized it, they were down for a hookup.

We decided to hook up at a hotel he had chosen. On arrival, I sensed something was off but I was so eager to move ahead since I felt I had chatted with this person for a while and I basically knew him so I walked up to him sitting in a bar and we started chatting, Boluwatife said.

Then three men walked up to them and started hitting him.

I was so confused at first, but then I realized I have been set up. They kept calling me homo, Boluwatife said.

They even used a small knife on me, I was bleeding and crying for help but the only person available was the bartender who was probably one of them, he said.

The attackers took his watch and his phone, forcing him to open up the latter so they could look through his messages, he said. They also made Boluwatife transfer 300,000 NGN (about $724) to them, according to Boluwatife. Then they threw him out.

The experience left him traumatized, he told The Record, but he felt unable to report the incident homosexuality is illegal throughout the country and can lead to imprisonment.

Boluwatifes experience is one shared by other queer people in Nigeria and other countries across the world where gay relationships are heavily stigmatized or criminalized. This can translate to the digital world in ways leave the queer communities at risk for surveillance, censorship, and discrimination, as highlighted in a 2020 Recorded Future report. For example, similar dating app sexuality-based extortion has been reported in India. And being open on other online platforms may also carry risks of punishment by repressive regimes.

In 2020 Human Rights Watch released a report on a Yemeni blogger named Mohamad Al-Bokari who was sentenced in Saudi court to 10 months in prison, a fine of $2,700 and a deportation to Yemen for making a post on social media requesting equal rights to all Saudi Arabians including queer people.

After his arrest, he was subjected to an anal examination by security officers, an intentional painful check that enabled them verify if he engaged in any homosexual practices.

Nation-state and other threat actors have further targeted queer activists and groups. And the queer community also remains more at risk for activities like doxxing when personal information is posted online and used for harassment which can compromise their physical safety.

Although the internet can be a place of liberation for many queer Nigerians, the general oppression they face can make it hard to gauge risk and nearly impossible to seek help with the victimized.

In January 2014, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Nigerias former president, signed into law the Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act or SSMPA. The law criminalizes sexual relationships between two persons of the same gender and includes punishments of up to 14-years-imprisonment.

Though no one has been sentenced under it, the law means queer Nigerians live under constant legal threat and contributes significantly to a climate of impunity for crimes committed against them, according to a Human Rights Watch 2016 report. The SSMPA law also imposes a 10-year sentence for those who registers, operates or participates in gay clubs, societies and organisation, or directly or indirectly makes public show of same sex amorous relationship in Nigeria.

In the northern part of Nigeria, some areas also uphold a version of Sharia law that demands death by stoning for homosexual activity, although those convicted are typically instead physically punished. In March 2014, Al Jazeera reported on four men who were sentenced under Islamic court and were punished with 15 lashes of cane if they failed to pay the $120 fine attached to them.

With the existence of these laws, queer Nigerians are often forced to go online in order to get some measure of privacy while also finding community. But homophobes followed them, in some cases recruiting queer people to help them victimize the community through kito as a source of livelihood for themselves, essentially creating insider threats within Nigerias online queer community.

Emeka, a young professional in a major Nigerian city who The Record is only identifying by his first name for safety, said he was the victim of one such attack.

Last April, he came across a friend on Tinder whom hed known since 2018, so they made a date, Emeka said.

He invited me over to his house, served me and made me comfortable. He told me he was going to buy some condoms and lubricant. After like six minutes, four guys walked into the room, they held bottles and rods, Emeka said.

At first I didnt understand what was happening, Emeka said, because he knew the person who he called Junior who lured him.

The men beat him, stripped him naked, then poured alcohol over him, he said.

They said if I didnt start confessing how I was gay they would set me on fire there so I obeyed and they videoed me, Emeka said.

Then they took his phone, he said, and withdrew the money that was left in his account about $85.

For Emeka, the trauma of betrayal lingered for a long time.

What killed me most was thinking Junior felt what I felt when we met. It even hurt the most when he threatened to out me to my family. Not everyday do you love someone and they betray you, he said.

Victims of kito can also often feel helpless because reporting it to law enforcement, as you might do with any other violent crime, might get them prosecuted under the SSMPA law leaving them in an even worse situation.

However, some of these victims arent having it.

Kitodiaries is a blog that has helped queer Nigerians navigate their sexuality.

Founded after the SSMPA law came into existence, the blog operates as an educational safe space for queer Nigerians where they can come and try to learn from other community members good and bad experiences.

The blog also has a page titled kito alert, where they provide information about individuals carrying out such attacks. This allows queer Nigerians who are regular readers to be aware of people who are known threats to the community.

But being vocal about LGBTQ+ rights in the country also comes with risks.

Matthew Blaise, one of Nigerias most prominent LGBTQ+ activists, was arrested by the men of the disbanded SARS unit on issue of perceived homosexuality, although technically only identifying as gay isnt a crime in the country. (SARS, also known as the Special Anti-Robbery Squad was a subgroup of the police force and founded in 1992 to tackle societal vices like armed robbery, cultism and other major crimes. However, the unit became notorious over time as it extorted and killed youth for having dreads, or carrying iPhones and laptops leading to popular #EndSARS protest that ended the unit.)

For Blaise, they were battered and tortured at the prison.

In an interview with Open Democracy, the activist described being haunted by the experience.

They messed with my mental health. I kept seeing those men in everything I do. On the street. In the face of people that genuinely love me. This is what they do to you. They break you until you are unable to pick up your shattered pieces any more, they said.

Ugonna-Ora Owoh is a journalist and writer living in Nigeria.

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For Queer Nigerians, online dating can come with deadly risks - The Record by Recorded Future

Preventing arson is everyone’s business – Record Herald

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COLUMBUS, Ohio In recognition of the recent National Arson Awareness Week, State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon stresses its important to always maintain a safe environment to protect your home against arson, no matter where you live.

Arson destroys more than buildings, said Reardon. It can devastate a community resulting in the decline of the neighborhood through increased insurance premiums, loss of business revenue, and a decrease in property values.

The State Fire Marshals Fire & Explosion Investigation Bureau is a law enforcement agency tasked with investigating the origin and cause of fire, explosions and fireworks incidents in Ohio. In 2021, 180 of the 810 fires they investigated were deemed arson. So far, in 2022, 46 of the 321 fires investigated were intentionally set.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, municipal fire departments in the United States responded to an estimated annual average of 52,260 intentionally set structure fires in the five-year period from 2014 to 2018. These fires caused an estimated 400 civilian deaths, 950 civilian injuries, and $815 million in direct property damage each year. Three in five intentional structure fires occurred in residential properties and most of these fires involved homes.

Ohioans are urged to incorporate the following safety guidelines and recommendations to decrease the opportunities for arson in their communities:

Illuminate Exterior Areas and Entrances: Install lights covering all sides of the house. Motion-activated lighting, which is inexpensive, should be placed near the entrances. Interior lights on timers give the illusion that a residence is occupied.

Clear Obstructions: Trim or remove shrubbery that blocks the view of the house from the street. During the growing season, bushes and trees may need to be trimmed frequently.

Install Smoke Alarms and a Fire Sprinkler System: The combination of working smoke alarms and home fire sprinklers reduces the likelihood of death from fire by more than 82 percent.

Clean Up Vacant Homes: Secure abandoned and vacant homes, which are potential arson targets. This may include adding additional locks or boarding up broken windows or other openings with plywood. Remove abandoned vehicles. Most car fires are started to cover up other criminal activity or simply as an act of vandalism.

Keep Doors and Windows Locked: All external doors should be equipped with dead bolts. A simple locked door could be the deterrent that saves a house from arson.

Clean House: Remove excess vegetation and piles of leaves. Clean around your house and garage, removing unused and unneeded paper, trash, cleaning supplies, partial cans of paint and other materials that could become kindling and fuel a fire for an arsonist.

If You See Something, Say Something: Report suspicious activity or if you suspect that an arson crime has been committed, contact your local fire or police department. If you suspect a child is setting fires, notify the proper authorities. Keep matches and lighters out of reach and out of sight of young children.

The Blue Ribbon Arson Committee offers $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of a person(s) responsible for arson. Anyone with information can contact the Ohio State Fire Marshals Office at 800-589-2728.

Josh Hobbs, Fire & Explosion Investigation Bureau Chief with the State Fire Marshal urges the public to provide any information, even if they think its insignificant.

Many arson cases have been solved by somebody sharing what they saw; even the smallest details can be just what our investigators need to get these individuals arrested and off the street, he said.

Arson fires are preventable through education and awareness, additional resources are available at the State Fire Marshals website: com.ohio.gov/fire.

The State Fire Marshal is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce, Ohios chief regulatory agency. The Department is focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.

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Everything You Need to Know About the Bay Areas Night Markets – Thrillist

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Welcome to Night Market, an exploration of these casual, open-air bazaars where food, music, and retail vendors all coalesce to celebrate Asian street food and culture. Check out the rest of our coverage to discover mouth-watering recipes, time-honored traditions, the true meaning of community, and how to make new night market memories of your own.

Eating your way through the night markets in Asia is a must for any traveler and food lover. Each stall usually specializes in a specific dish, so its easy to hop from stall to stall in an attempt to eat all the things. Youll see families sharing the braised pork belly dish Lu Rou Fan and gooey Oyster Omelettes at Shilin Night Market in Taipei, and late-night bar hoppers diving into a steaming bowl of Won Ton Mein from a stall at Temple Street Night Market in Hong Kong.

If that description has you salivating, then youll be happy to know that Asias long-standing night market cultures and some of its dishes have made their way stateside. The Bay Area, with its sizable Asian American and Pacific Islander population, has become a night market-inspired hub in the past few years, and events have been steadily growing. They feature street stall favorites from Asia like Giant Grilled Squid on a stick, as well as homegrown AAPI food innovations, like countless variations of Spam Musubi.

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The origins of Bay Area night markets

Bay Areas night markets dont operate daily like many of the ones in Asia, and the different safety codes for fire and health make exact night-market replications difficult. However, the limited run of the markets during a few weekends a year does create an enthusiastic crowd excited to eat from what can be upwards of 250 vendors.

626 Night Market founder Jonny Hwang created what he calls a California-style night market in Southern Californias San Gabriel Valley in 2012, drawing chefs and entertainers from local communities. It was during the Great Recession that he was inspired by how Asian night markets helped entrepreneurs showcase their abilities and develop their products, and wanted to do the same for struggling local businesses. Upon noticing that many attendees from the Bay Area traveled to the Arcadia and Orange County markets, Hwang decided to create 626 events in the Bay Area, beginning in 2018 in Pleasanton.

Foodieland Night Market, many of whose vendors started at 626, came to fruition in 2019, and also has events in both the Bay Area (San Mateo, Berkeley, and Sacramento) and Southern California. While also inspired by night markets in Asia, Foodieland advertises itself as more of a multicultural food and entertainment event.

On a smaller, more community-based level, UNDSCVRD night market started in San Franciscos SOMA Pilipinas Cultural District in 2017, modeled after Asian night markets and created because Filipinos like to party, says public relations agent Paloma Concordia matter-of-factly. The larger purpose of UNDSCVRDs party vibe, though, is to invest in and improve the local Filipino community by supporting small business ventures like food vendors.

Asian night market popularity in the Bay has also come full circle with the presence of actual brick-and-mortar restaurants taking a cue from Asias night markets. Kevin Lee opened a restaurant aptly named The Night Market in South San Francisco in 2017, inspired by the dai pai dong street stalls in Hong Kong, and even going so far as to acquiring street vendor equipment from Hong Kong.

It was quite natural to bring the Hong Kong night market style to a space fitting; not for a restaurant, but for the concept of stalls and fold out tables and plastic chairs indoor and outdoor, Lee said, of choosing the Bay Area as a restaurant location. The Night Market offers classic categories of Hong Kong night market food, like congee and noodles with a choice of toppings, such as mini red sausages and fish balls.

Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks, drawing inspiration from Taiwans night markets, is an international, Taiwan-based chain that has locations in six Bay Area cities, including San Francisco and Berkeley. Customers can get popular items such as giant Breaded Chicken Cutlets and Tea Eggs.

Popular vendors and dishes

While generally more expensive than many of the hawker stalls in Asia, the Bays night market food still retains the same inspiration, with snacks that can be easily eaten on the go. The night markets provide both exposure for new food entrepreneurs to practice running a food truck or stall, and for established businesses to bring their popular food to a crowd that might usually be too far away. Many vendors now appear at both 626 and Foodieland, as well.

Crowd favorites include Vietnamese American Garlic Noodlesthick and bouncy with an umami punch, sometimes served with lobster. Many vendors sell the noodles, like the Oakland-based Noodle Belly and SoCals Cafe 949, and Lobsterdamus.

There are multiple musubi vendors slinging the original SPAM, and new classics like Hot Cheeto-crusted musubi from Junk Mail Musubi, and ones seasoned with pork rinds from Supreme Musubi. The J-shaped soft-serve Hawaiian Honey Cones, which have now expanded its presence to several states, have gained a cult following. Bun Bao always has lines for its cute panda- and pig-shaped steamed buns.

Suga Bros, a sugar cane juice spot based in San Francisco that operates via Instagram, hopped on the Foodieland roster after only six months in operation. Thanks to its night-market presence, though, owners Patrick Nguyen and Harry Trinh say, Foodieland helped us in learning how to operate on a day-to-day basis. We also can't forget the extra engagement that helped us flourish the past six months after Foodieland.

Some of LAs most popular vendors even make the trek up to the Bay for 626 Night Markets. Hwang said, Attendees love our LA vendors. These include originals such as All Dat Dim Sum, Chick N Skin, and Shake Ramen that cant be found at any other Bay Area night markets. Other SoCal imports include Egghausteds Tamagoyaki and Lucky Ball BBQs Giant Grilled Squid on a stick.

UNDSCVRD offers a more intentional program for vendor growth. Filipino American food truck The Sarap Shop got its start at UNDSCVRD, where owners Kristen Brillantes and JP Reyes said, We positioned ourselves to utilize each UNDSCVRD to test new products and operating modes, such as launching their popular Halo Halo Milk Tea. Thanks to their growth from UNDSCVRD, The Sarap Shop now has an operation in the Chase Center arena, as well as an incubator to help new food entrepreneurs at UNDSCVRD.

What to expect this year

Since the night markets are not everyday occurrences, plan ahead for the popular events, which can get crowded. UNDSCVRD has one night market planned this year, but organizers hope to once again offer it multiple times per year in the future. Cant make it to the markets? The Bays night market-inspired restaurants will quell your cravings any time of the year.

626 Night Market: Bay AreaFriday, May 27Sunday, May 29Friday, July 29Sunday, July 31Alameda County Fairgrounds, PleasantonCost: $5$10 admission; buy tickets online (recommended) or at the door; $15 parking available

Foodieland Night MarketFriday, July 1Sunday, July 3Friday, September 23Sunday September 25San Mateo County Event Center, San Mateo

Friday, August 5Sunday, August 7Friday, August 12Sunday, August 14Friday, October 7Sunday, October 9Golden Gate Fields, Berkeley

Friday, August 19Sunday August 21Friday, September 2Sunday, September 5Cal Expo, Sacramento

Cost: $5$7 admission online only, free for children under 5; $15 parking available

UNDSCVRDSaturday, October 22Venue & Time TBD in SOMA Pilipinas, San Francisco

The Night Market RestaurantWednesday Monday, 11 a.m. 9 p.m.230B South Spruce Avenue, South San Francisco

Shihlin Taiwan Street SnacksOpen seven days a weekMultiple Bay Area locations

Tips for enjoying the Bay Areas night markets

While parking is available for a $15 fee at 626 and Foodieland night markets, a rideshare or public transportation might be more convenient for the other markets. The night markets are spacious, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Once there, it might also be a good plan of action to have your group split up to nab different food items. You can meet up at a predetermined time to share your top picks and go grab everyones favorites.

While many vendors take credit cards, Venmo, Apple Pay, and other digital forms of payment, its smart to have cash on hand.

Most importantlycome hungry! Youve got a lot of eating ahead of you.

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Whyalla Salvos look to help community with issues hindering the town – Whyalla News

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For 56 years the Salvation Army has continually helped Australian communities and right now, they are more relevant than ever in the Eyre Peninsula.

Every May, generations of Australians have donated to the thousands of Salvation Army volunteers knocking on doors, collecting in shopping centres and other public places.

With the community still dealing with the global pandemic, Doorway's Manager, Antoinette Day and her team deal with daily service provision to those Eyre Peninsula community members who are looking for help.

"Homelessness is definitely a major issue, as there is not enough interim accommodation and with the cold weather the risk to health and safety is increased," Antoinette said.

"There are very limited rental properties available. There is also an increase in people presenting with Addictions and Mental health issues.

"The increase in the cost of living has had a huge impact, as people with low incomes struggle to keep on top of bills and feed their families."

The COVID-19 pandemic has made social, employment and mental health problems within the Whyalla region rise.

"Many people lost their jobs and income," Antoinette said.

"The lockdowns caused many people to become isolated, especially those with no family here. There have been family breakdowns due to financial troubles and mental health issues.

"The price of food has increased significantly and many people have said they can't afford meat, fruit and vegetables, they get basics and school lunches.

"Government payments need to reflect the rise in the cost of living. More accommodation or shelters for the homeless, even tents and sleeping bags would help."

This year The Salvation Army will be collecting at static points and require volunteers to collect at different locations.

This year the locations are at Westlands by Woolworths, Whyalla Norrie Woolworths and Foodland IGA Whyalla.

For anyone needing help in the Whyalla area, there will be Salvation Army events that can lend a helping hand in the near future.

"The Salvation Whyalla Corps (Church) through our on-site Caf are looking to start an evening Connect group that will include dinner. Planning is still in its infancy at this stage," Antoinette said.

"Our Corps seek to be inclusive of people wanting to connect and engage for various reasons, our small Thrift Shop, Cafe, and Prayer Lounge are spaces we as Christians are intentional about connecting and engaging in the day to day lives of our volunteers, customers and community."

For anyone looking to contribute or lend their time to help out others through the Salvation Army, you can call Antoinette on 0439 204 161.

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Whyalla Salvos look to help community with issues hindering the town - Whyalla News

Golden State Warriors at Memphis Grizzlies Game 5 odds, picks and predictions – USA TODAY Sportsbook Wire

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The No. 3 seed Golden State Warriors (3-1) visit the FedExForum Wednesday to play the No. 2 seed Memphis Grizzlies (1-3) in Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals at 9:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we look at the Warriors vs. Grizzlies odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Golden State rallied from a dismal first-half offensive performance to beat Memphis 101-98 in Mondays Game 4. The Warriors scored just 38 first-half points and finished 9 of 37 from behind the arc.

The Grizzlies struggled in the half-court without All-Star PG Ja Morant, who will most likely miss the rest of this series with a knee injury. Memphis guards Dillon BrooksandDesmond Banescored a combined 20 points on 29.6% shooting (8 of 27).

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:16 p.m. ET.

Warriors

Grizzlies

Warriors 115, Grizzlies 103

PASSbecause the Warriors (-175) is a little too expensive for a close-out game on the road vs. a Grizzlies (+140) team thats shown it can play without their best player.

According to VegasInsider.com, roughly 90% of the action is on Golden States ML and its typically not profitable to follow such lopsided markets in sports betting.

But I dont like Memphiss chances of extending this series because the Warriors are outperforming the Grizzlies in 3 of the 4 factors and Morant put Memphis on his back in the first 3 games of this series.

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LEAN WARRIORS -4.5 (-105) only because we are getting to the party a little late since Golden State opened as 3.5-point favorites (per VegasInsider.com), but have been steamed up to the current number by the market.

However, the Warriors couldnt have played any worse in Game 4 and the Grizzlies +4.5 (-120) could only muster 98 points. Steph Curry,Klay Thompson andJordan Poole all shot terribly in Game 4 and that wont happen again.

Also, Golden State is outrebounding Memphis and the Grizzlies were the top rebounding team during the NBAs regular season. The Warriors shooters will start cashing in on the extra possessions gained through rebounding.

Most importantly, Memphis is scoring 13.7 fewer points per 100 possessions in non-garbage time this postseason with Morant off the floor (according to CleaningTheGlass.com) and he was the best player on the floor through the first 3 games of this series.

LEAN WARRIORS -4.5 (-105) since we are getting the worst of the number.

PASSsince my prediction aligns too closely with the markets projected score.

If anything, I lean to the Under 218.5 (-110) because the Under has cashed in 10 of the last 14 Warriors-Grizzlies meetings and Memphiss offense is greatly diminished with Morant out of the lineup.

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The future of golf betting? Heres what the PGA Tour thinks it will look like – Golf.com

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By: Evan Rothman May 11, 2022

A rendering of the forthcoming DraftKings sportsbook at TPC Scottsdale.

PGA Tour

Has wagering on golf taken off in the four years since a Supreme Court decision helped bring about legalized sports betting in many U.S. states? You bet your Nassau it has.

The amount of money wagered with PGA Tour official betting operators aka the handle rose almost 50 percent from 2020 to 21, and total bets increased almost 40 percent. Further growth is pretty much a given; among the more interesting questions is what kind of golf betting the future might bring, and what role it will play in the Tours business more generally. To find out, we spoke to Scott Warfield, the Tours vice president of gaming.

GOLF: The PGA Tour is bullish on in-play betting wagers made during an event, not before. Why?

Scott Warfield: Whos going to shoot the lowest round? This player versus that player. You get your bet in Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday; you come back on Sunday to see if you won. Its very stale, very stagnant.

Where were moving is focusing more on the live. Theres three holes left, and a threesome is coming through. Whos going to have the low score on this hole? Jon Rahm has 250 yards to the pin from the fairway on a par-5. Here are the odds he can get it inside 20 feet, 10 feet, five feet.

In more mature markets, like Europe, where theyve had legalized sports betting for decades instead of years, in-play betting represents somewhere in the 70-80 percent range of all bets. Theyre less likely to bet on things like over-under, or a money line, or a spread. They bet more on the next tennis point, or whos going to have the next foul or score the next basketball point. Its much more microtransactions.

In the U.S., that in-play number is about 30 percent growing, but significantly smaller. Its been an illegal territory, and the easiest thing to bet on with a friend or a bookie or whatnot is that money line or spread or whos going to win the game. Over the next three, five, seven years, we see that in-game number continuing to increase to 50, 60, 70 percent. If the American bettor follows that trajectory, its my belief there are two sports that stand the best chance to capitalize baseball and golf.

GOLF: Why those two?

SW: Because of the amount of content and the pace of play, which is leisurely enough to work perfectly with in-play betting. With IMG Arena, our exclusive data provider in the space, were able to offer different opportunities around every hole, every player, every shot. Because of our investment in ShotLink data and, again, the pace of play, it sets itself up great for the growth of in-play betting here in the States.

GOLF: Explain the role of IMG Arena in in-play betting.

SW: You really cant do in-play betting in golf without the official league data. And if you want that data, i.e. ShotLink, thats where the IMG Arenas Golf Event Centre product comes in. Consider squatters people who come in and can watch an event and basically price and model different bet types without official league data. Its nearly impossible in golf, right? To know whether the shot is at 129, or is that 911? Unless you have the Golf Event Centre.

A ShotLink tablet in action on the PGA Tour.

GOLF: The Tour has five official betting operators. Whats their role, beyond just taking bets?

SW: FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, PointsBet, Parx those operators are the mouthpiece to sports fans, to sports bettors. Having partnerships with these market leaders helps because since theyre in business with us, theyre helping promote our events.

On days when theres an NFL game on, youre still getting promotion of PGA Tour events. Or in the spring when the Tour is up against NBA playoff games, theyre still promoting the Tour and talking about it.

Were trying almost to create a market. Traditionally, this has just been try and predict the outright winner of a golf tournament. We want to get to a place where its much more in-play and live and microtransactions. Part of that evolution is educating sports fans that if you didnt bet on the outright winner by Thursday morning, its OK. That market remains open, and it moves throughout the event as players bogey or par or birdie. Its education and entertainment and thats where the operators play a disproportionately important role for us, because theyre doing a lot of that work.

GOLF: Whats the story with the upcoming sports book project at TPC Scottsdale?

SW: DraftKings is operating in the state of Arizona as our designee, and theyre building a retail sportsbook at TPC Scottsdale that will be one of the best sportsbooks in the world, a global destination for golf fans. Ive shown it to a few of my golf buddies. Kiawah, Pinehurst and Bandon Dunes will still be in the rotation for our annual golf trips but now youll have a chance to go to TPC Scottsdale, play 36 holes of golf, sit in a world-class DraftKings sportsbook and watch your favorite events. Itll be a big one for us in the fall of 23.

GOLF: Beyond the financial considerations, why is it so important?

SW: The WM Phoenix Open is our largest crowd, and its a very young crowd. The scene is a scene. Given the brand of that event, having a sportsbook there just adds to the allure of one of the years most popular tournaments.

On top of that, the other 51 weeks a year have us really excited. Again, youre going to be able to play a couple world-class courses and drive your cart over in between those two courses to an open-air sportsbook with fire pits. Its going to be a unique thing.

We get asked a lot if this is something well see a lot of, and the answers no. It has to be the right course, the right tournament, and the right brand fit. This checked all those boxes for us. I wont say there wont be another one, but this will be unique. I think for DraftKings it will be almost a West Coast headquarters. Thats how theyre thinking about the uniqueness of this facility.

GOLF: How would you sum up the PGA Tours relationship with sports betting where it is, where its heading?

SW: For us, this whole space for us is about engagement. The Supreme Court made a decision in 2018 that allowed the states to regulate sports betting, if they so choose. Weve been trying to operate within that framework, continue to maintain and ensure absolute integrity with our product, and leverage the opportunity to engage the core fans and grow our audience.

Yes, there will be commercial benefit to all the stakeholders in all the sports. But first and foremost, we look at it as a way in this fragmented media landscape to get a fan to watch an extra three holes each weekend or attend two more events every year, to get a 25-year-old whos never thought about PGA Tour golf and viewing it or attending it as something they should consider.

Theres not a lot of new ways into sports fandom. Social media, e-sports, sports betting, the metaverse. Those are all areas where we can engage that key 21- to 35-year-old fanbase and do it responsibly and appropriately. For us, its continuing to find those partners who do it the right way, and creatively and look at what this might look like 7-10 years from now, not necessarily what it looks like today.

A former executive editor ofGOLF Magazine, Rothman is now a remote contract freelancer. His primary role centers around custom publishing, which entails writing, editing and procuring client approval on travel advertorial sections. Since 2016, he has also written, pseudonymously, the popular Rules Guy monthly column, and often pens the recurring How It Works page. Rothmans freelance work for both GOLFandGOLF.com runs the gamut from equipment, instruction, travel and feature-writing, to editing major-championship previews and service packages.

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The future of golf betting? Heres what the PGA Tour thinks it will look like - Golf.com

Lockheed testing artificial intelligence to fight wildfires – FOX 31 Denver

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JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. (KDVR) A global defense company shared details with FOX31 about the use of cutting-edge technology used in battlegrounds around the world to help fight wildfires.

Recognizing patterns, learning from experience, drawing conclusions, making predictions, or taking action, said Dan Lordan, senior manager for AI integration at Lockheed Martin Artificial Intelligence Center.

All those words describe artificial intelligence. Lockheed Martin, whose space division is based out of Jefferson County, wants to use AI to help gather critical details during a wildland fire.

Lordan says it starts with mapping out a wildfire. It can take hours to determine the size, shape, location and areas emitting the most heat.

With AI, the promise is we can cut that down to minutes, said Lordan.

Lockheed has teamed up with tech company NVIDIA to help create maps and models. Together they use variables like wind, humidity, vegetation and topography to not only determine what the fire is doing but also what it will do next.

Currently, Lordan said predicting a fires rate of spread and direction can take up to a day.

The promise is you can break that down to hours, said Lordan.

This means the ability to give command teams critical information and recommendations will decrease response time and make better decisions about fire suppression. This can range from digging trenches to performing back burns and using aerial suppression activity.

The same time reducing promises will apply to updating data and maps on the areas most prone to fires down to days instead of years.

The application of this technology to wildfires is already taking place.

Currently, we are flight testing prototype software with the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control, said Lordan. We are very excited about the progress we are making there.

Lockheed is also working to build a wildfire research lab where private and government groups can work to collaborate on bringing new technologies to help prevent and fight wildfires.

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Lockheed testing artificial intelligence to fight wildfires - FOX 31 Denver

Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning and the Future of National Security – smallwarsjournal

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Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning and the Future of National Security

AI is a once-in-a lifetime commercial and defense game changer

By Steve Blank

Hundreds of billions in public and private capital is being invested in AI and Machine Learning companies. The number of patents filed in 2021 is more than 30 times higher than in 2015 as companies and countries across the world have realized that AI and Machine Learning will be a major disruptor and potentially change the balance of military power.

Until recently, the hype exceeded reality. Today, however, advances in AI in several important areas (here, here, here, here and here) equal and even surpass human capabilities.

If you havent paid attention, nows the time.

AI and the DoD

The Department of Defense has thought that AI is such a foundational set of technologies that they started a dedicated organization -- the JAIC -- to enable and implement artificial intelligence across the Department. They provide the infrastructure, tools, and technical expertise for DoD users to successfully build and deploy their AI-accelerated projects.

Some specific defense-related AI applications are listed later in this document.

Were in the Middle of a Revolution

Imagine its 1950, and youre a visitor who traveled back in time from today. Your job is to explain the impact computers will have on business, defense and society to people who are using manual calculators and slide rules. You succeed in convincing one company and a government to adopt computers and learn to code much faster than their competitors /adversaries. And they figure out how they could digitally enable their business supply chain, customer interactions, etc. Think about the competitive edge theyd have by today in business or as a nation. Theyd steamroll everyone.

Thats where we are today with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. These technologies will transform businesses and government agencies. Today, 100s of billions of dollars in private capital have been invested in 1,000s of AI startups. The U.S. Department of Defense has created a dedicated organization to ensure its deployment.

But What Is It?

Compared to the classic computing weve had for the last 75 years, AI has led to new types of applications, e.g. facial recognition; new types of algorithms, e.g. machine learning; new types of computer architectures, e.g. neural nets; new hardware, e.g. GPUs; new types of software developers, e.g. data scientists; all under the overarching theme of artificial intelligence. The sum of these feels like buzzword bingo. But they herald a sea change in what computers are capable of doing, how they do it, and what hardware and software is needed to do it.

This brief will attempt to describe all of it.

New Words to Define Old Things

One of the reasons the world of AI/ML is confusing is that its created its own language and vocabulary. It uses new words to define programming steps, job descriptions, development tools, etc. But once you understand how the new world maps onto the classic computing world, it starts to make sense. So first a short list of some key definitions.

AI/ML - a shorthand for Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

Artificial Intelligence (AI) - a catchall term used to describe Intelligent machines which can solve problems, make/suggest decisions and perform tasks that have traditionally required humans to do. AI is not a single thing, but a constellation of different technologies.

Machine Learning (ML) - a subfield of artificial intelligence. Humans combine data with algorithms (see here for a list) to train a model using that data. This trained model can then make predications on new data (is this picture a cat, a dog or a person?) or decision-making processes (like understanding text and images) without being explicitly programmed to do so.

Machine learning algorithms - computer programs that adjust themselves to perform better as they are exposed to more data.

The learning part of machine learning means these programs change how they process data over time. In other words, a machine-learning algorithm can adjust its own settings, given feedback on its previous performance in making predictions about a collection of data (images, text, etc.).

Deep Learning/Neural Nets a subfield of machine learning. Neural networks make up the backbone of deep learning. (The deep in deep learning refers to the depth of layers in a neural network.) Neural nets are effective at a variety of tasks (e.g., image classification, speech recognition). A deep learning neural net algorithm is given massive volumes of data, and a task to perform - such as classification. The resulting model is capable of solving complex tasks such as recognizing objects within an image and translating speech in real time. In reality, the neural net is a logical concept that gets mapped onto a physical set of specialized processors. See here.)

Data Science a new field of computer science. Broadly it encompasses data systems and processes aimed at maintaining data sets and deriving meaning out of them. In the context of AI, its the practice of people who are doing machine learning.

Data Scientists - responsible for extracting insights that help businesses make decisions. They explore and analyze data using machine learning platforms to create models about customers, processes, risks, or whatever theyre trying to predict.

Whats Different? Why is Machine Learning Possible Now?

To understand why AI/Machine Learning can do these things, lets compare them to computers before AI came on the scene. (Warning simplified examples below.)

Classic Computers

For the last 75 years computers (well call these classic computers) have both shrunk to pocket size (iPhones) and grown to the size of warehouses (cloud data centers), yet they all continued to operate essentially the same way.

Classic Computers - Programming

Classic computers are designed to do anything a human explicitly tells them to do. People (programmers) write software code (programming) to develop applications, thinking a priori about all the rules, logic and knowledge that need to be built in to an application so that it can deliver a specific result. These rules are explicitly coded into a program using a software language (Python, JavaScript, C#, Rust, ).

Classic Computers - Compiling

The code is then compiled using software to translate the programmers source code into a version that can be run on a target computer/browser/phone. For most of todays programs, the computer used to develop and compile the code does not have to be that much faster than the one that will run it.

Classic Computers - Running/Executing Programs

Once a program is coded and compiled, it can be deployed and run (executed) on a desktop computer, phone, in a browser window, a data center cluster, in special hardware, etc. Programs/applications can be games, social media, office applications, missile guidance systems, bitcoin mining, or even operating systems e.g. Linux, Windows, IOS. These programs run on the same type of classic computer architectures they were programmed in.

Classic Computers Software Updates, New Features

For programs written for classic computers, software developers receive bug reports, monitor for security breaches, and send out regular software updates that fix bugs, increase performance and at times add new features.

Classic Computers- Hardware

The CPUs (Central Processing Units) that write and run these Classic Computer applications all have the same basic design (architecture). The CPUs are designed to handle a wide range oftasks quickly in a serial fashion. These CPUs range from Intel X86 chips, and the ARM cores on Apple M1 SoC, to thez15 in IBM mainframes.

Machine Learning

In contrast to programming on classic computing with fixed rules, machine learning is just like it sounds we can train/teach a computer to learn by example by feeding it lots and lots of examples. (For images a rule of thumb is that a machine learning algorithm needs at least 5,000 labeled examples of each category in order to produce an AI model with decent performance.) Once it is trained, the computer runs on its own and can make predictions and/or complex decisions.

Just as traditional programming has three steps - first coding a program, next compiling it and then running it - machine learning also has three steps: training (teaching), pruning and inference (predicting by itself.)

Machine Learning - Training

Unlike programing classic computers with explicit rules, training is the process of teaching a computer to perform a task e.g. recognize faces, signals, understand text, etc. (Now you know why you're asked to click on images of traffic lights, cross walks, stop signs, and buses or type the text of scanned image in ReCaptcha.) Humans provide massive volumes of training data (the more data, the better the models performance) and select the appropriate algorithm to find the best optimized outcome.

(See the detailed machine learning pipeline later in this section for the gory details.)

By running an algorithm selected by a data scientist on a set of training data, the Machine Learning system generates the rules embedded in a trained model. The system learns from examples (training data), rather than being explicitly programmed. (See the Types of Machine Learning section for more detail.) This self-correction is pretty cool. An input to a neural net results in a guess about what that input is. The neural net then takes its guess and compares it to a ground-truth about the data, effectively asking an expert Did I get this right? The difference between the networks guess and the ground truth is itserror. The network measures that error, and walks the error back over its model, adjusting weights to the extent that they contributed to the error.)

Just to make the point again: The algorithms combined with the training data - not external human computer programmers - create the rules that the AI uses. The resulting model is capable of solving complex tasks such as recognizing objects its never seen before, translating text or speech, or controlling a drone swarm.

(Instead of building a model from scratch you can now buy, for common machine learning tasks, pretrained models from others and here, much like chip designers buying IP Cores.)

Machine Learning Training - Hardware

Training a machine learning model is a very computationally intensive task. AI hardware must be able to perform thousands of multiplications and additions in a mathematical process called matrix multiplication. It requires specialized chips to run fast. (See the AI hardware section for details.)

Machine Learning - Simplification via pruning, quantization, distillation

Just like classic computer code needs to be compiled and optimized before it is deployed on its target hardware, the machine learning models are simplified and modified(pruned) touse less computingpower, energy, and memory before theyre deployed to run on their hardware.

Here is the original post:

Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning and the Future of National Security - smallwarsjournal

Global Artificial Intelligence (AI) Market to Reach US$341.4 Billion by the Year 2027 – Yahoo Finance

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ReportLinker

Abstract: Whats New for 2022? - Global competitiveness and key competitor percentage market shares. - Market presence across multiple geographies - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial.

New York, May 11, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Global Artificial Intelligence (AI) Industry" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p05478480/?utm_source=GNW - Online interactive peer-to-peer collaborative bespoke updates - Access to our digital archives and MarketGlass Research Platform - Complimentary updates for one yearGlobal Artificial Intelligence (AI) Market to Reach US$341.4 Billion by the Year 2027

- Amid the COVID-19 crisis, the global market for Artificial Intelligence (AI) estimated at US$46.9 Billion in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$341.4 Billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 32.8% over the analysis period 2020-2027.Services, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is projected to grow at a 32.6% CAGR to reach US$142.7 Billion by the end of the analysis period.After an early analysis of the business implications of the pandemic and its induced economic crisis, growth in the Software segment is readjusted to a revised 30.4% CAGR for the next 7-year period. This segment currently accounts for a 37.9% share of the global Artificial Intelligence (AI) market.

- The U.S. Accounts for Over 41.2% of Global Market Size in 2020, While China is Forecast to Grow at a 39.1% CAGR for the Period of 2020-2027

- The Artificial Intelligence (AI) market in the U.S. is estimated at US$19.3 Billion in the year 2020. The country currently accounts for a 41.22% share in the global market. China, the world second largest economy, is forecast to reach an estimated market size of US$64.7 Billion in the year 2027 trailing a CAGR of 39.1% through 2027. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 27.6% and 29% respectively over the 2020-2027 period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 31.2% CAGR while Rest of European market (as defined in the study) will reach US$64.7 Billion by the year 2027.

- Hardware Segment Corners a 19.9% Share in 2020

- In the global Hardware segment, USA, Canada, Japan, China and Europe will drive the 36.6% CAGR estimated for this segment. These regional markets accounting for a combined market size of US$7.7 Billion in the year 2020 will reach a projected size of US$68.5 Billion by the close of the analysis period. China will remain among the fastest growing in this cluster of regional markets. Led by countries such as Australia, India, and South Korea, the market in Asia-Pacific is forecast to reach US$46.7 Billion by the year 2027.

- Select Competitors (Total 865 Featured) AIBrain, Inc. Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Amazon Web Services Baidu, Inc. Cisco Systems, Inc. eGain Corporation General Electric Company Google, Inc. Intel Corporation International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) Meta (Facebook company is now Meta) Micron Technology, Inc. Microsoft Corporation Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation Nuance Communications, Inc. NVIDIA Corporation Omron Corporation Oracle Corporation Rockwell Automation, Inc. Salesforce.com, inc. Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. SAP SE SAS Institute Inc. Siemens AG

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05478480/?utm_source=GNW

I. METHODOLOGY

II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. MARKET OVERVIEW Impact of Covid-19 and a Looming Global Recession With IMF Making an Upward Revision of Global GDP for 2022, Companies Remain Bullish About an Economic Comeback EXHIBIT 1: World Economic Growth Projections (Real GDP, Annual % Change) for 2020 through 2022 Artificial Intelligence Gains Significant Interest as Industries Expedite Digital Transformation Strategies A Peek into Application of AI in War Against the Pandemic Machine Learning Benefits Healthcare Organizations COVID-19-Led Budgetary Reticence Dampens Spending, but AI Enjoys Resilient Interest in Banking Sector Retailers Rely on AI to Stay Afloat & Embrace New Normal Emphasis on Technology Adoption Elicits AI Implementation in Manufacturing Industry Competition AI Marketplace Characterized by Intense Competition EXHIBIT 2: Artificial Intelligence (AI) - Global Key Competitors Percentage Market Share in 2022 (E) Growing Focus on AI by Leading Tech Companies with Huge Financial Resources AI Presents Compelling Opportunities for Established & Startup Companies Competitive Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial for 300 Players Worldwide in 2022 (E) Funding Landscape Remains Vibrant in the AI Technology Space EXHIBIT 3: Global AI Investment (in US$ Billion) for the Years 2015 through 2021 EXHIBIT 4: Distribution of Global Investment in AI by Region/ Country: 2021 EXHIBIT 5: Number of AI Startups with $1 Billion Valuations for the Years 2014-2020 EXHIBIT 6: AI Cumulative Funding (in US$ Billion) by Category (As of 2020) AI Applications and Major Startups Artificial Intelligence (AI): A Prelude Technologies Enabling AI Market Outlook Prominent Factors with Implications for Evolution & Future of Artificial Intelligence Advances in Real World AI Applications Bolster Growth Inherent Advantages of AI Technology to Accelerate Adoption in Varied Applications Banking Sector Shows Unwavering Interest in AI AI Reshapes the Future of Manufacturing Industry AI-based Services Segment Captures Major Share of Global AI Market Developed Markets Dominate, Asia-Pacific to Spearhead Future Growth Deep Learning and Digital Assistant Technologies Present Significant Growth Potential Major Challenges Faced in AI Implementation World Brands Recent Market Activity

2. FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS

3. MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS Accelerating Pace of Digital Transformation to Benefit Demand for AI EXHIBIT 7: Digital Transformation by Industry: 2020 EXHIBIT 8: Industry Adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Function: 2020 Noteworthy Technological Trends to Watch-for in Artificial Intelligence Space Machine Learning and AI-Assisted Platforms Personalize Customer Experiences in Marketing Applications EXHIBIT 9: Ranking of Business Outcomes Realized through AI Application in Marketing Businesses to Gain from Application of AI in Predictive Marketing Analytics and Demand Forecasting Growing Role of AI in the Metaverse AI Hosting at Edge to Drive Growth EXHIBIT 10: Global Edge Computing Market in US$ Billion: 2020, 2024, and 2026 AI-enabled Analysis and Forecasts Aid Organizations Make Profitable Decisions AI-Powered Biometric Security Solutions Gain Momentum EXHIBIT 11: Global Biometrics Market in US$ Billion: 2016, 2020, and 2025 New and Improved Concepts in ML and AI take Stage IIoT & AI Convergence Brings in Improved Efficiencies EXHIBIT 12: Global Breakdown of Investments in Manufacturing IoT (in US$ Billion) for the Years 2016, 2018, 2020 and 2025 EXHIBIT 13: Industry 4.0 Technologies with Strongest Impact on Organizations: 2020 Increasing Adoption of AI Technology to Boost AI Chipsets Market Combination of Robotics and AI Set to Cause Significant Disruption in Various Industries AI Innovations Widen Prospects Blockchain & Artificial Intelligence (AI): A Powerful Combination Big Data Trends to Shape Future of Artificial Intelligence AI in Retail Market: Multi-Channel Retailing and e-Commerce Favor Segment Growth EXHIBIT 14: Digital Transformation in Retail Industry Promises Lucrative Growth Opportunities: Global Retail IT Spending (In US$ Billion) for the Years 2018, 2020, 2022 & 2024 AI for a Competitive Edge for Retail Organizations Online Retailers Eye on Artificial Intelligence to Boost Business in Post-COVID-19 Era AI & Analytics Help Retailers Survive Economic & Operational Implications of COVID-19 AI for Fashion Retail and Beauty AI for Grocery, Electronics, and Home & Furniture Ecommerce Attracts Strong Growth Detailed Insight into How e-commerce Makes use of AI EXHIBIT 15: Global B2C e-Commerce Market Reset & Trajectory - Growth Outlook (In %) For Years 2019 Through 2025 EXHIBIT 16: Retail M-Commerce Sales as % of Retail E-commerce Sales Worldwide for the Years 2016, 2018, 2020 & 2022 Financial Sector: AI and Machine Learning Offer Numerous Gains Fintech Deploys AI to Target Millennials AI in Media & Advertising: Targeting Customers with Right Marketing Content Possibilities Galore for AI in Digital Marketing AI-Enabled CRM Market: Promising Growth Opportunities in Store Artificial Intelligence Set to Transform Delivery of Healthcare Services AI to Play a Significant Role in Automation and Improving Clinical Outcomes EXHIBIT 17: Global Healthcare AI Market - Percentage Breakdown by Application for 2020 AI in Pharmaceutical Sector COVID-19 Spurs New Developments and Expedites AI Adoption in Healthcare Industry Artificial Intelligence Holds Potential to Accelerate Detection & Treatment of COVID-19 Rising Prevalence of Diabetes to Drive AI Adoption in Diabetes Management Market EXHIBIT 18: World Diabetes Prevalence (2000-2045P) Barriers Restraining AI Adoption in Healthcare Sector Automotive AI Market: Need to Enhance Customer Experience Propels Growth EXHIBIT 19: Automotive AI Market By Segment Demand Recovery in Automobile Sector Steers Growth Opportunities EXHIBIT 20: World Automobile Production in Million Units: 2008- 2022 Increasing Focus on Electric Vehicles and Autonomous Vehicles Provide the Perfect Platform to Shape Future Growth EXHIBIT 21: Global Autonomous Vehicle Sales (In Million) for Years 2020, 2025 & 2030 Automakers Focus on Integrating AI-Powered Driver Assist Features in Vehicles AI to Enhance Connectivity, Provide Infotainment and Enhance Safety in Vehicles AI for Smart Insurance Risk Assessment of Vehicles Artificial Intelligence Steps into Manufacturing Space to Transform Diverse Aspects Industrial AI to Influence Manufacturing in a Major Way Industrial IoT, Robotics and Big Data to Stimulate AI Implementations EXHIBIT 22: Global Investments on Industry 4.0 Technologies (in US$ Billion) for the Years 2017, 2020, & 2023 EXHIBIT 23: Global Predictive Maintenance by Market in US$ Billion for Years 2020, 2022, 2024, and 2026 AI as a Service Market: Obviating the Need to Make Huge Initial Investments AI in Education Market to Exhibit Strong Growth EXHIBIT 24: Global Market for AI in Healthcare Sector (2019): Percentage Breakdown of Revenues by End-Use - Higher Education and K-12 Sectors Focus on ITS, IAL and Chatbots Favors Market Growth Agriculture Sector: A Promising Market for AI Implementations AI Technologies Used in Agricultural Activities - A Review AI Poised to Create Smarter Agriculture Practices in Post- COVID-19 Period Food & Beverage Industry to Leverage AI Capabilities to Resolve Production Issues and Match Up to Customer Expectations AI Adoption Gains Acceptance in Modern Warfare Systems in the Defense Sector Energy & Utilities: Complex Landscape and High Risk of Malfunctions Enhances Need for AI-based Systems COVID-19 Raises Demand for AI Technologies in Oil & Gas Sector EXHIBIT 25: Top Technology Investments in Oil and Gas Sector: 2020 AI in Construction Sector: Need for Cost Reduction and Safety at Construction Sites Drive Focus onto the Use of AI-based Solutions

4. GLOBAL MARKET PERSPECTIVE Table 1: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 2: World Historic Review for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 3: World 12-Year Perspective for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 4: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Services by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 5: World Historic Review for Services by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 6: World 12-Year Perspective for Services by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 7: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Software by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 8: World Historic Review for Software by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 9: World 12-Year Perspective for Software by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 10: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Hardware by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 11: World Historic Review for Hardware by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 12: World 12-Year Perspective for Hardware by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 13: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Computer Vision by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 14: World Historic Review for Computer Vision by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 15: World 12-Year Perspective for Computer Vision by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 16: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Machine Learning by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 17: World Historic Review for Machine Learning by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 18: World 12-Year Perspective for Machine Learning by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 19: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Context Aware Computing by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 20: World Historic Review for Context Aware Computing by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 21: World 12-Year Perspective for Context Aware Computing by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 22: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Natural Language Processing by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 23: World Historic Review for Natural Language Processing by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 24: World 12-Year Perspective for Natural Language Processing by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 25: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Advertising & Media by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 26: World Historic Review for Advertising & Media by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 27: World 12-Year Perspective for Advertising & Media by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 28: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for BFSI by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 29: World Historic Review for BFSI by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 30: World 12-Year Perspective for BFSI by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 31: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Healthcare by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 32: World Historic Review for Healthcare by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 33: World 12-Year Perspective for Healthcare by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 34: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Retail by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 35: World Historic Review for Retail by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 36: World 12-Year Perspective for Retail by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 37: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Automotive & Transportation by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 38: World Historic Review for Automotive & Transportation by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 39: World 12-Year Perspective for Automotive & Transportation by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 40: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Manufacturing by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 41: World Historic Review for Manufacturing by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 42: World 12-Year Perspective for Manufacturing by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 43: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Agriculture by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 44: World Historic Review for Agriculture by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 45: World 12-Year Perspective for Agriculture by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 46: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Other End-Uses by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 47: World Historic Review for Other End-Uses by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 48: World 12-Year Perspective for Other End-Uses by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of World for Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

III. MARKET ANALYSIS

UNITED STATES Artificial Intelligence (AI) Market Presence - Strong/Active/ Niche/Trivial - Key Competitors in the United States for 2022 (E) Artificial Intelligence Market: An Overview Healthcare: A Promising Application Market for AI Technology Funding for AI Startups Continues to Grow EXHIBIT 26: Top Funded AI Startups in the US: 2021 Market Analytics Table 49: USA Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Component - Services, Software and Hardware - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for the Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 50: USA Historic Review for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Component - Services, Software and Hardware Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 51: USA 12-Year Perspective for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Component - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for Services, Software and Hardware for the Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 52: USA Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Technology - Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Context Aware Computing and Natural Language Processing - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for the Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 53: USA Historic Review for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Technology - Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Context Aware Computing and Natural Language Processing Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 54: USA 12-Year Perspective for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Technology - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Context Aware Computing and Natural Language Processing for the Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 55: USA Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by End-Use - Advertising & Media, BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, Automotive & Transportation, Manufacturing, Agriculture and Other End-Uses - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for the Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 56: USA Historic Review for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by End-Use - Advertising & Media, BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, Automotive & Transportation, Manufacturing, Agriculture and Other End-Uses Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 57: USA 12-Year Perspective for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by End-Use - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for Advertising & Media, BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, Automotive & Transportation, Manufacturing, Agriculture and Other End-Uses for the Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

CANADA Market Overview Top-Tier Canadian Cities Primed for AI Growth Market Analytics Table 58: Canada Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Component - Services, Software and Hardware - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for the Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 59: Canada Historic Review for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Component - Services, Software and Hardware Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 60: Canada 12-Year Perspective for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Component - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for Services, Software and Hardware for the Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 61: Canada Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Technology - Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Context Aware Computing and Natural Language Processing - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for the Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 62: Canada Historic Review for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Technology - Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Context Aware Computing and Natural Language Processing Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 63: Canada 12-Year Perspective for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Technology - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Context Aware Computing and Natural Language Processing for the Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 64: Canada Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by End-Use - Advertising & Media, BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, Automotive & Transportation, Manufacturing, Agriculture and Other End-Uses - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for the Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 65: Canada Historic Review for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by End-Use - Advertising & Media, BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, Automotive & Transportation, Manufacturing, Agriculture and Other End-Uses Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 66: Canada 12-Year Perspective for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by End-Use - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for Advertising & Media, BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, Automotive & Transportation, Manufacturing, Agriculture and Other End-Uses for the Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

JAPAN Artificial Intelligence (AI) Market Presence - Strong/Active/ Niche/Trivial - Key Competitors in Japan for 2022 (E) Market Analytics Table 67: Japan Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Component - Services, Software and Hardware - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for the Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 68: Japan Historic Review for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Component - Services, Software and Hardware Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 69: Japan 12-Year Perspective for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Component - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for Services, Software and Hardware for the Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 70: Japan Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Technology - Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Context Aware Computing and Natural Language Processing - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for the Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 71: Japan Historic Review for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Technology - Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Context Aware Computing and Natural Language Processing Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 72: Japan 12-Year Perspective for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Technology - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Context Aware Computing and Natural Language Processing for the Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

Table 73: Japan Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by End-Use - Advertising & Media, BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, Automotive & Transportation, Manufacturing, Agriculture and Other End-Uses - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for the Years 2020 through 2027 and % CAGR

Table 74: Japan Historic Review for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by End-Use - Advertising & Media, BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, Automotive & Transportation, Manufacturing, Agriculture and Other End-Uses Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2015 through 2019 and % CAGR

Table 75: Japan 12-Year Perspective for Artificial Intelligence (AI) by End-Use - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for Advertising & Media, BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, Automotive & Transportation, Manufacturing, Agriculture and Other End-Uses for the Years 2015, 2021 & 2027

CHINA Artificial Intelligence (AI) Market Presence - Strong/Active/ Niche/Trivial - Key Competitors in China for 2022 (E) Market Overview China Continues Investments in AI Startups EXHIBIT 27: Chinese AI Market: Funding for AI Startups (in $ Billion): 2016-2020

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Global Artificial Intelligence (AI) Market to Reach US$341.4 Billion by the Year 2027 - Yahoo Finance

Why artificial intelligence is vital in the race to meet the SDGs – World Economic Forum

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Seven years have passed since world leaders met in New York and agreed 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to resolve major challenges including poverty, hunger, inequality, climate change and health.

The pandemic undoubtedly diverted attention from some of these issues in the past couple of years. But even before COVID-19, the UN was warning that progress to meet the SDGs was not advancing at the speed or on the scale needed. Meeting them by 2030 will be tough.

Yet I remain optimistic. The pandemic demonstrated like nothing else the power of working collaboratively, across borders, for the benefit of society. It concentrated minds, funding and policy to accelerate research into virus detection, disease treatments, vaccines and manufacturing platforms.

It was a truly remarkable effort from the global community to develop effective vaccines within a year of the virus first being detected, and these and other treatments have dramatically reduced the viruss fatality rate. This can be attributed to the brilliance, perseverance and creativity of scientists across the world. But they were not working alone: Artificial intelligence (AI) also played a key part.

The US company Moderna was among the first to release an effective COVID-19 vaccine. One reason it was able to make this breakthrough so quickly was the use of AI to speed up development. Modernas Chief Data and Artificial Intelligence Officer Dave Johnson explains that AI algorithms and robotic automation helped them move from manually producing around 30 mRNAs (a molecule fundamental to the vaccine) each month, to being able to produce around 1,000 a month.

Moderna is also using AI to help their mRNA sequence design. Its co-founder Noubar Afeyan recently predicted during a visit to Imperial College London that immune medicine will see large advances in the coming years, and we can look forward to a future where medicine is more pre-emptive than reactionary.

If we can catch disease early and delay it, at a minimum, we could have a lot more impact at a lot less cost, he said. This is a great example of how AI can free up time for scientists to accelerate discovery and dedicate efforts to solving big challenges.

We are also seeing examples of AI technology driving improvements in other areas of healthcare, such as disease screening for cancer and malaria. Researchers from Google Health, DeepMind, the NHS, Northwestern University and colleagues at Imperial have designed and trained an AI model to spot breast cancer from X-ray images.

The computer algorithm, which was trained using mammography images from almost 29,000 women, was shown to be as effective as human radiologists in spotting cancer. At a time when health services around the world are stretched as they deal with long backlogs of patients following the pandemic, this sort of technology can help ease bottlenecks and improve treatment.

For malaria, a handheld lab-on-a-chip molecular diagnostics systems developed with AI could revolutionize how the disease is detected in remote parts of Africa. The project, which is led by the Digital Diagnostics for Africa Network, brings together collaborators such as MinoHealth AI Labs in Ghana and Imperial College Londons Global Development Hub. This technology could help pave the way for universal health coverage and push us towards achieving SDG3.

There are numerous other examples of how advances in AI could support our understanding of climate change (SDG13), enable our transition to sustainable transport systems (SDG11), and accelerate agri-tech to help farmers end food poverty and malnutrition (SDG2) among many benefits to the other SDGs too.

For example, the Alan Turing Institute, the UKs national centre for data science and artificial intelligence, are using machine learning to better understand the complex interactions between climate and Arctic sea ice.

With an expanding global population, we face challenges around food demand and production not only how to reduce malnourishment but the impact on the planet too, such as deforestation, emissions and biodiversity loss. To meet these needs, the use of AI in agriculture is growing rapidly and is enabling farmers to enhance crop production, direct machinery to carry out tasks autonomously, and identify pest infestations before they occur.

Smart sensing technology is also helping farmers use fertilizer more effectively and reduce environmental damage. An exciting research project, funded by the EPSRC, Innovate UK and Cytiva, will help growers optimize timing and amount of fertilizer to use on their crops, taking into account factors like the weather and soil condition. This will reduce the expense and damaging effects of over-fertilizing soil.

Developing sustainable and smart transport systems will also be vital as cities and countries look to reduce the impact of air pollution and improve infrastructure. In the last decade, AI has powered a revolution in transport and mobility, from autonomous vehicles to ride-sharing apps and route-planners. AI is also being used to make public transport systems more efficient, reduce traffic congestion and pollution, and improve safety.

Despite its benefits to research and medicine, integrating AI into society and innovation is not always smooth sailing. Recent controversies on facial recognition, automated decision-making and COVID-related tracking, have led to some caution and suspicion. We need to ensure that AI is employed in ways that are trusted, transparent and inclusive. We need to make sure that there is an internationally coordinated, collaborative approach, just as there was in the pandemic.

The World Economic Forums Global AI Action Alliance brings together more than 100 leading companies, governments, international organizations, non-profits and academics united in a commitment to maximize AI's societal benefits while minimizing its risks.

The World Economic Forums Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, in partnership with the UK government, has developed guidelines for more ethical and efficient government procurement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Governments across Europe, Latin America and the Middle East are piloting these guidelines to improve their AI procurement processes.

Our guidelines not only serve as a handy reference tool for governments looking to adopt AI technology, but also set baseline standards for effective, responsible public procurement and deployment of AI standards that can be eventually adopted by industries.

We invite organizations that are interested in the future of AI and machine learning to get involved in this initiative. Read more about our impact.

It is imperative that we put good processes and practices in place to ensure AI is developed in a positive and ethical way to see it adopted and used to its fullest by citizens and governments.

We must now work together to ensure that artificial intelligence can accelerate progress of the Sustainable Development Goals and help us get back on track to reaching them by 2030.

Written by

Alice Gast, President, Imperial College London

The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not the World Economic Forum.

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Why artificial intelligence is vital in the race to meet the SDGs - World Economic Forum

Glean Named to Forbes AI 50 List of Top Artificial Intelligence Companies of 2022 – Yahoo Finance

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Inclusion on the list marks the first entry for the work assistant that helps employees search across all their companys apps to find exactly what they need

PALO ALTO, Calif., May 11, 2022--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Glean, the work assistant with intuition, announces that the company has been named to the Forbes AI 50 awards list. The list recognizes standouts in privately-held North American companies making the most interesting and effective use of artificial intelligence technology. This accomplishment is the first inclusion for Glean, which came out of stealth just over half a year ago. The accolade is based on Gleans ongoing innovative use of AI to help employees search for exactly what they need and discover the things they should know at work.

In todays increasingly complex workplacewhere distributed work is on the rise and the SaaS explosion has acceleratedemployees are desperate for an easier way to access the information and people needed to do their work. A recent study revealed that employed Americans on average spend 25% of their work week looking for the documents, information, or people they need to do their jobs. This is so draining that 43% say theyd consider leaving their jobs if their employer didnt provide them with an easy way to access the information and people they need to get their jobs done.

Glean brings all of a companys knowledge together, so employees can search for exactly what they need and discover the things they should know. At its core, Glean delivers powerful unified search across all applications used at a company, using a deep understanding of who individuals are, what theyre working on, and who theyre working with, to instantly deliver highly personalized results. Since launching in September 2021, the company has seen incredible customer engagement.

"The growth of remote and hybrid work has given rise not only to productivity problems, but also employee experience problems. With company information scattered across potentially hundreds of applications, finding the right information has become a difficult and time-consuming process. And employees can feel left out of the loop when they cant find what they need to get their jobs done," said Arvind Jain, CEO and founder of Glean. "Glean combines an intuitive work assistant with powerful and flexible search that leverages AI and deep learning to scan across a companys entire collection of workplace apps to quickly locate the desired information. The ability to instantly deliver the knowledge and information workers need is resulting in new levels of efficiency and employee delight. This benefits the workers and the organizations alike."

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Gleans ongoing commitment to reducing time spent looking for information and duplicating work has seen tangible impact among their customers. Customers report that their employees on average save 2-3 hours per employee per week by using Glean. Earlier this year Glean also released new features including Go Links and Collections to help companies organize their knowledge.

About Glean

Glean is the work assistant with intuition. It brings all your companys knowledge together, so you can search for exactly what you need and discover the things you should know. Glean searches across all your companys apps, understanding context, language, behavior, and relationships with others, to find personalized answers to your questions. It surfaces knowledge and makes connections with the people who can helpmaking it easier for you and your team to get big things done. Glean is led by Arvind Jain (Google, Co-Founder of Rubrik), T.R. Vishwanath (Microsoft, Facebook), Tony Gentilcore (Google), and Piyush Prahladka (Google, Uber), with funding from General Catalyst, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Kleiner Perkins, and The Slack Fund. Learn more at http://www.glean.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220511006052/en/

Contacts

Paloma OchiEmail: press@glean.com Website: http://www.glean.com

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Glean Named to Forbes AI 50 List of Top Artificial Intelligence Companies of 2022 - Yahoo Finance

Can Artificial Intelligence remove unintended bias from health care? Clinicians optimistic, but wary – Medical University of South Carolina

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During one of the many live collaboration panels of MUSCs 2022 Innovation Week, an interesting discussion ensued, mirroring a common debate in health care and that is: How does artificial intelligence (AI) fit in?

Last week, as several clinicians and key members of the Clemson-MUSC AI Hub which was formed in 2021 were on hand at the Gazes Cardiac Research Institute, it became quickly evident that AI is gaining traction throughout the world of heath care. But equally evident was the fact that theres still some skepticism from the mainstream when it comes to the best ways to use it.

For congenital cardiologist G. Hamilton Baker, M.D., associate professor of pediatrics, AI remains a tremendous untapped resource.

AI is such a blanket term, he said in an interview right after the formation of the Clemson-MUSC AI Hub last year. Were leveraging data science and wrangling those giant databases with appropriately applied machine learning methods.

Baker has been utilizing AI in his work for several years now, working on a number of different AI+Biomedical projects ranging from congenital heart disease to diabetic eye disease.

I feel very strongly about education on AI. The goal is to teach clinicians how to understand and utilize AI. We arent asking people to learn how to code, we simply want them to learn how AI can work for them, Baker said.

At the Gazes, the topic quickly centered on AI and bias. Some clinicians believe the most elegant aspect of AI is that it removes unintended biases by letting the computers which are inherently without bias because theyre metal and silicone do the data crunching and leaving the treatment to the physicians.

When two clinicians might disagree on something, AI can help uncover unknown biases and dispel others, said MUSC Public Health Sciences assistant professor Paul Heider, Ph.D. AI just looks at the data and makes decisions that are based on that alone.

However, others argued that those AI programs were written by humans, and those inadvertent biases almost certainly were sprinkled in.

Trustworthiness is a key word that we need to be focusing on here, said Brian Dean, Ph.D., chairman of the Division of Computer Science at Clemson University. Because the AI system is becoming less of a smart sensor that provides input to the medical decision-making process and more of a teammate. So we have to be super careful because, after all, AI was trained based on human expert opinion, which is biased.

Dean agreed that AI is an extremely valuable tool for the medical field, cautioning all to simply be judicious with its use.

Jihad Obeid, M.D., co-director of the Biomedical Informatics Center at MUSC, agreed. If you use it as a decision aid, rather than a decision-maker, he said, AI can be a real asset.

Regardless of the differences of opinion in the room, panel members agreed that AI has unlimited potential for researchers and clinicians alike.

When it comes to AI in health care, its so tempting to talk about the hype, all the big stuff it can do, Baker said. But the truth of the matter is there are plenty of easy, smart projects where AI could really make a significant difference, and we just need more people on board.

According to MUSC provost Lisa K. Saladin, PT, Ph.D., MUSC is already using AI to develop techniques that can help to diagnose and treat a range of ills, including cancer, Alzheimers disease, substance abuse, child abuse, epilepsy, aphasia, inflammatory skin conditions and cardiac issues.

Baker said that clinicians who are interested in implementing AI into their research or practice should look into the AI Hub, as it offers a host of resources, including funding for AI. During this years Innovation Week, the Clemson-MUSC AI Hub gave out $100,000 worth of grants to five worthy projects.

We want people to know about this, he said. I know there are lots of people out there who could really use our help. We want to accelerate the adoption of AI for those who are interested."

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Can Artificial Intelligence remove unintended bias from health care? Clinicians optimistic, but wary - Medical University of South Carolina

Living in the age of conscious-technology An interview with artificial intelligence innovator, Matthew James Bailey – Crestone Eagle

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The Crestone Eagle May, 2022

by Jennifer Eytcheson

JE: Hi Matthew, thanks for joining me today. As I look out the window of the Eagle office toward the mountains, artificial intelligence is not the first thing that comes to mind. Tell me why you chose Crestone as your base camp to help change the future of artificial intelligence, how we think about it and how we will use it.

MJB: Good morning Jennifer. Thank you very much for the opportunity to be here. As with many people, I didnt choose Crestone, Crestone chose me. My journey here started about six years ago as part of my own spiritual journey into consciousness. Ive been living here 2 years continuing in that journey, whilst also discovering new strategies and inventions to tap into the world of technology to make this world a better place to inhabit. Being in Crestone helps remind me that consciousness is the most valued and precious treasure within this universal experience. Every single person holds this treasure. New systems must hold this in the forefront of innovation and I am here to shepherd that.

Speaking of huge undertakings for humankind, I understand you will be collaborating with a world-leading space agency? Whats going on there?

Yes, thats right. They are an impeccably credible organization. They just launched the James Webb Telescope to explore new truths in our universe. They are dedicated to new truths for humanity. Recently I was invited by NASA as a visiting scholar to speak to their executives and leaders on how to build a new ethical intelligence using my formula. The conversation was rich in stimulating and philosophical dialogue. Imagine emotional intelligence on earth and in space!

Sounds intriguing. I look forward to hearing more about that in the future. What are some other things youve been working on lately?

What Im doing is building a platform to support the innovation of new conscious-centric, ethical-enabled support for human progression. Education and empowerment are key for the leaders of a new tomorrow, so we are creating a university full of master classes where people can be trained and equipped on how to become extraordinary leaders in the world of humans and machines.

I also do talks around the world in business and government and on social media platforms. For example, we had a discussion on Clubhouse last week with one of Crestones global leaders, John P. Milton, and Foster Gamble who co-created one of the most viewed documentaries in human history, ThriveWhat on Earth Will It Take?. Were building a group of global leaders that bring together different pieces of the jigsaw puzzle to build this new global platform to enable ethical-centered futures for humanity and to support the health and well-being of consciousness on our planet.

Wow! With all that, youve had time to write a book. Tell me about it.

The book is called Inventing World 3.0Evolutionary Ethics for Artificial Intelligence. Its how to build a new world vision to nourish the health of human consciousness. I waited ten years to write this book, patiently biding my time for the digital world and the world itself to be ready to create a new destiny with its partnership with artificial intelligence. I wrote the book here in Crestone, inspired by nature and by the unified field. I can say many of its predictions are coming true and many of its inventions are about to be used. Its available at the Crestone Mercantile and on Amazonhttps://aiethics.world/the-book

Is there another one coming?

Yes, its in the planning stage. This book will emphasize how each culture, each philosophy and each spiritual tradition expresses its ethics, and how to create a constitution to protect each tradition going into the age of artificial intelligence. We are looking for people to support the book. We want to travel the world and speak to spiritual and political leaders to get their participation in creating the artificial intelligence manual for the future.

Lets imagine our world in 10 years. How will AI make that world different from now?

The wheels of artificial intelligence are going to take us beyond what our ancestors could have ever imagined. So let me give you an example. Imagine a digital-buddy, your guardian, your personalized guru supporting you in every facet of life. Like having a doctor, psychiatrist, attorney with you 24/7. This will be an AI that will nourish and nurture based on your free will and sovereign choice to live a self-actualized lifestyle. This is bigger than the mobile phone or computer. After all, we want everybody on spaceship earth to thrive. Spiritual leaders like SadhGuru agree with my vision.

The challenge that artificial intelligence has invited us into is this: Will it be shepherded benevolently and do well for our human species today and tomorrow? As such we are being tested on the quality of our values and our mindset for creating better plans for humankind.

Do you see world leaders doing anything to make sure the challenges are minimized?

The world is starting to understand that we must care for the future of our species intelligence mindfully. UNESCO made an announcement late last year that their member states were adopting the first ever global agreement on the ethics of AI. This will not only protect but also promote human rights and human dignity, and will be an ethical guiding compass and a global normative bedrock allowing us to build a strong respect for the rule of law in the digital world. That is a good start. But they must go much further if they are truly to be trusted in shaping the future of artificial intelligence. The challenge is how to take the next step. This is why I wrote the book Inventing World 3.0, explaining how we can forge ahead in the world of artificial intelligence.

What else do you want people to know about your work?

Crestone is such a special place with pioneers who will lead us in different aspects of consciousness to benefit the human species. For example, John P. Milton and I are collaborating to expand The Way of Nature Empowerment Leadership training for leaders in artificial intelligence around the world. Check out https://aiethics. world to see more.

A challenge we are working with is that in order to build and progress these new systems, ethical intelligence (organic and artificial) must be the foundationthe outwards expression of consciousness itself. Consciousness has evolved and expressed itself through the human species and we must ensure that systems support the continual nourishment of our species. Some have no concept of this precious universal treasure and that is where theyre going wrong. Its important to remember the future of AI is in our hands. What will we choose?

(Authors note: Matthew taught me how to use Google Docs, Speak to Text for this interview. It wasnt perfect, I had to make correctionsespecially with his English accentbut it was a form of AI that made life a little easier by allowing me to really listen to what Matthew had to say, helping our human connection.)

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Living in the age of conscious-technology An interview with artificial intelligence innovator, Matthew James Bailey - Crestone Eagle