Modern College of Business and Science Partners with Whispers of Serenity Clinic to Strengthen Mental Health Support

Muscat: The Modern College of Business and Science (MCBS) is proud to announce a significant partnership with Whispers of Serenity Clinic, led by Her Highness Dr. Al Sayyida Basma Al Said, to enhance mental health and well-being within its community. This collaboration underscores MCBS’s commitment to ensuring a supportive and empathetic environment for its students, faculty, and staff.With the increasing global focus on mental health, fuelled by challenges such as the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the stress of climate-related changes, this initiative is timely and vital. Her Highness Dr. Al Sayyida Basma emphasized, “The pressures of modern life demand that we place mental health at the forefront of our priorities, ensuring individuals have the tools and support they need to thrive.”Ms. Aisha Al Kharusi, Deputy Executive Chairperson of MCBS, commented, “This partnership underscores our commitment to nurturing a balanced approach to education, where academic achievement is paired with comprehensive mental health support. By prioritizing access to resources, we aim to empower every member of the MCBS community to succeed in all aspects of their lives.”Dr. Moosa Al-Kindi, Dean of MCBS, shared, “At MCBS, we believe that education extends beyond academics. This collaboration highlights our dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive environment, ensuring that students, faculty, and staff are equipped to overcome challenges and excel in their personal and professional journeys.”MCBS is committed to delivering exceptional care and support to its students, recognizing their well-being as fundamental to the college’s mission. Acknowledging that a safe, supportive, and productive environment benefits all, including faculty and staff, MCBS ensures a holistic academic atmosphere where everyone can thrive. By prioritizing mental health as a collective concern, the college cultivates inclusivity and mutual respect, creating a culture that drives both personal growth and institutional innovation.The partnership includes initiatives such as mental health first aid training, empowering community members to identify and address mental health crises effectively. Additionally, it aims to create an inclusive space where everyone feels supported, encouraging resilience and a sense of belonging.Through this collaboration, MCBS and Whispers of Serenity Clinic are committed to cultivating a culture of compassion, resilience, and understanding. The initiative serves as a reminder that emphasises the importance of mutual support and empathy in building a thriving academic and social environment.Contact:Department of Communications and MarketingMs. Arwa Al Hinai – Deputy Head of General Education & Director of CommunicationsModern College of Business and Science+968 24 583596Email: [email protected]

‘Tis the Season: The Season of Small Business and Small Business Saturday

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Beto Yarce, PNW RegionalAdministrator, U.S. SmallBusiness AdministrationBy Beto YarcePacific Northwest Regional Administrator, U.S. Small Business AdministrationDid you know that, according to various surveys, more than 80% of Americans trust small businesses and believe it’s important to support them? This approval rating is higher than virtually every other American institution.Americans understand that small businesses contribute to the vibrancy of their communities, support local nonprofits, employ more than half of our workforce and are a significant economic engine both locally and nationally. Additionally, about 80% of small businesses say that the end of the year is important for their bottom line.Those are just some of the reasons why we encourage people who love their communities to actively participate in Small Business Saturday and the Season of Small Business. In addition to all the sparkle the season brings, this is when many small businesses shine!The Saturday after Thanksgiving and the entire holiday season is the perfect time to drop by unique retail shops, scrumptious eateries and businesses offering memorable experiences.Small Business Saturday was launched by American Express in 2010 with the U.S. Small Business Administration joining as a co-sponsor in 2011. Since then, the popularity of Small Business Saturday has grown exponentially. In fact, according to the National Retail Foundation, 2023’s Small Business Saturday was an incredibly popular shopping day, second only to Black Friday. To build on this holiday tradition, the SBA launched the Season of Small Business last year to encourage local spending throughout this festive time of year.Wherever you live, small businesses are eager to meet your needs this holiday season.Here are some ideas to celebrate Small Business Saturday and the Season of Small Business:Make supporting small businesses a full day of fun! Begin your day by inviting a friend to enjoy a warm beverage and treat, take in some small business shopping, try out a new eatery for lunch, visit a hands-on craft shop for an activity then top off the day with a relaxing dinner at a favorite local restaurant.Go to an in-town activity like a tree-lighting, community theater show or choir performance, visiting a local restaurant before or after. It’s also a terrific way to interact with others who love your community, too.Take pics when you’re shopping, eating or experiencing a small business. Check-in at the business, post to social media and tag the business. Let others know about your memorable experience. Use hashtags for even more exposure: #ShopSmall, #ShopSmallSaturday and #SeasonofSmallBizSet aside a portion of your holiday budget specifically for small business products and services. In fact, you can do this with your annual budget, too.If you’re a small business owner, you may want to consider adding some additional marketing and outreach ideas to your plans:Visit SBA’s Small Business Saturday site: Small Business Saturday | U.S. Small Business AdministrationCheck out SBA’s info page for Season of Small Business: Season of Small Business | U.S. Small Business AdministrationCall out Small Business Saturday and the Season of Small Business in your social media posts and comments by using the following hashtags:#ShopSmall#SmallBizSaturday#ShopLocal#IShoppedSmall#GiftBigShopLocalFollow the SBA’s Pacific Northwest Region’s LinkedIn and X accounts for links to more tips, marketing materials and the latest updates on Small Business Saturday and the Season of Small Business.It’s easy for anyone to make a positive impact on their own communities by shopping at local businesses on Small Business Saturday and throughout the Season of Small Business, and have a great time while doing so. You’ll be glad you did!For more information on how the SBA can assist your small business start, grow, expand or recover, please visit www.sba.gov. Para Español visita www.sba.gov/esBeto Yarce was appointed by President Joe Biden to oversee the SBA’s programs and services as the agency’s Regional Administrator for the Pacific Northwest serving Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington.

One Year After Mohbad’s Passing, Omowunmi Launches First Business With Heartfelt Note

Omowunmi, wife of late Nigerian singer Mohbad, has taken a significant step forward by launching her own business, Cee Hairven, a couture hairline.
In an emotional statement on the brand’s official Instagram page on Saturday, Omowunmi shared her journey, describing the past year as a whirlwind of navigating solo parenthood and finding the strength to move forward.

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Omowunmi unveiled her debut collection, The Liam Luxe, named after her son, as a testament to their shared resilience.

READ MORE: Wizkid Dominates Spotify Charts With Record-Breaking Debut For “Kese”

She wrote, “I never imagined I’d be here, sharing this journey with you all. Life after my husband’s passing has been a whirlwind—stepping into the roles of both mom and dad for Liam while figuring out how to move forward seemed impossible at times. Many sleepless nights were spent wondering how to keep going. But through it all, your love, encouragement, and support have been my guiding light.
“Today, I’m beyond excited to introduce Cee. Hairven.A labor of love born from resilience and passion. This isn’t just a business; it’s a reflection of my journey, my strength, and my commitment to making you feel beautiful and confident.
“Our journey begins with THE LIAM LUXE COLLECTION, inspired by the strength my son and I have built together. Each wig in this collection is a premium piece, crafted with the finest materials and a deep sense of care—because you deserve nothing less.
“Every wig tells a story, just like you and me. And now, I’m inviting you to be part of this story. Let’s make THE LIAM LUXE COLLECTION a sell-out success in just one week! Together, we can create a movement—a celebration of beauty, love, resilience, and sisterhood.
ChDolls, are you ready? Let’s do this!”.
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Business News | India Stock Outlook: Market Participants Will Watch out for Q2 Earnings, FPI Activities and Global Cues

New Delhi [India], November 17 (ANI): The domestic stock markets, in the upcoming week, will focus their attention back to the Foreign Institutional Investment (FIIs) selling, global cues and domestic developments such as earnings of the companies and winter session of the Parliament, say analysts. Additionally, the performance of the banking and IT sectors will be crucial in determining the market’s next move, as per the experts. Also Read | Universal Children’s Day 2024 Wishes, Images and HD Wallpapers: Share These Greetings, Quotes, Messages and Photos To Celebrate World Children’s Day.”Traders will keep a close watch on global market trends. The performance of the banking and IT sectors will be crucial in determining the market’s next move,” said Ajit Mishra – SVP, Research, Religare Broking Ltd.V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services opined that Trump victory has impacted both the equity and bond markets in the US. Equities have boomed on expectations of the positive impact of the promised corporate tax cut by Trump and his pro-business policies, he said. Observing the market movement, Manish Goel, Founder and MD, Equentis said that investors are closely monitoring the situation in the Maharashtra amid the elections for signs of political stability and potential policy changes.Also Read | WBBL 2024: Lucy Hamilton Becomes Youngest Bowler To Take Five-Wicket Haul in Women’s Big Bash League.”Immediate market reactions are expected based on the outcome and perceived stability of the new government. The election result will influence both state governance and broader Indian market sentiment,” Goel said. The markets resumed their corrective trend after a brief period of consolidation, shedding over two and a half percent for the week. Despite a flat opening, pressure from heavyweight stocks pushed the benchmarks lower, resulting in a muted session to close out the week. Mounting concerns over rising CPI inflation and persistent disappointments in corporate earnings weighed heavily on sentiment.As a result, the Nifty and Sensex settled near the week’s lows at 23,532.70 and 77,580.30, respectively.Most sectors mirrored the benchmarks’ downward trajectory, with metals, FMCG, and auto stocks among the hardest hit. However, the IT sector showed resilience, managing to gain nearly a percent amid the widespread selling. Broader indices, including midcap and smallcap stocks, were hammered, losing over 4 per cent each. (ANI)(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)

Out West Books gift wraps three titles for the holidays

Each week as part of SunLit — The Sun’s literature section — we feature staff recommendations from book stores across Colorado. This week, the staff from Out West Books in Grand Junction recommends books ranging from Oz to outlaws to the building in the backwoods.

Toto

By A.J. HackwithAce Books$19November 2024Purchase

From the publisher: I was mostly a Good Dog until they sold me out to animal control, okay? But if it’s a choice between Oz, with its creepy little singing dudes, and being behind bars in gray old Kansas, I’ll choose the place where animals talk and run the show for now, thanks.

It’s not my fault that the kid is stuck here too, or that she stumbled into a tug-of-war over a pair of slippers that don’t even taste good. Now one witch in good eyeliner calls her pretty and we’re off on a quest? Teenagers. I try to tell her she’s falling in with the wrong crowd when she befriends a freaking hedge wizard made of straw, that blue jay with revolutionary aspirations, and the walking tin can. Still, I’m not one to judge when there’s the small matter of a coup in the Forest Kingdom…. 

     Look, something really stinks in Oz, and this Wizard guy and the witches positively reek of it. As usual, it’s going to be up to a sensible little dog to do a big dog’s job and get to the bottom of it. And trust me: Little dogs can get away with anything.

From Didi Herald, bookseller: All my life whenever someone asked me what I wanted for Christmas I always replied “books!” As an adult traveling over the holidays in some years, I always hoped to be gifted an enthralling book to make the post holiday journey home bearable. When I give a book as a gift, I want it to give the reader an enjoyable read with a giggle or two and, especially if they are traveling, some first class escapism.

With “The Wizard of Oz,” “The Wiz” and “Wicked” so ingrained in our culture for generations, Toto offers a comfortably familiar story but with 21st century characters that would be a blast to hang out with. It is truly Toto’s story. He’s a trash talking snarky little dog with a big heart who will protect his snarky, hoody wearing, teen girl. Landing in Oz thrusts them into the middle of a family feud that is escalating into a world war but friends and found family give Toto and company an edge. “Toto” is at the top of my gift giving list.

By Patrick HutchinsonSt. Martin’s Press$29December 2024Purchase

From the publisher: Wit’s End isn’t just a state of mind. It’s the name of a gravel road, the address of a run-down off-the-grid cabin, 120 shabby square feet of fixer-upper Patrick Hutchison purchased on a whim in the mossy woods of the Cascade Mountains in Washington state.

To say Hutchison didn’t know what he was getting into is no more an exaggeration than to say he’s a man with nearly zero carpentry skills. Well, used to be. You can learn a lot over six years of renovations.     CABIN is the story of those renovations, but it’s also a love story; of a place, of possibilities, and of the process of construction, of seeing what could be instead of what is. It is a book for those who know what it’s like to bite off more than you can chew, or who desperately wish to.

From Marya Johnston, owner: Haven’t each of us, at some point in time, attempted a carpentry project that was way out of our league? A birdhouse? A doghouse?

Patrick Hutchison hardly knew how to use a chainsaw when he tired of his office job as a copywriter and bought his own little “shabbin” (as some friends of mine call their own shabby cabin or shed/cabin). It’s such a dream idea, isn’t it? Building a cabin in the woods? But sometimes the actuality of building it and/or living in it can be far less romantic. Hutchison’s humor and heart are evident in this DIY tale of fulfilling that dream of a cabin in the woods, the reality of said dream, and the satisfaction of overcoming the challenges and obstacles that are part of the deal. 

I loved this book. My husband (who has had his own “shabbin” experiences), chuckled and read me passages out loud (even though I’d already read the book, mind you)  which is a good indicator that he enjoyed it, too. This is a great gift for anyone on your holiday list.  But beware: purchase of this book could lead to larger purchases, like land and lumber.   

Didi Herald, bookseller, adds: My husband, who spends most of his time building, fixing, and creating at our off-grid home, in back of beyond, rarely reads. He devoured this book in a couple days when I took it home and read a bit out loud. I couldn’t get it back until he finished it.

Bandit Heaven

By Tom ClavinSt. Martin’s Press$30October 2024Purchase

From the publisher: Robbers Roost, Brown’s Hole, and Hole in the Wall were three hideouts that collectively were known to outlaws as “Bandit Heaven.” During the 1880s and ‘90s these remote locations in Wyoming and Utah harbored hundreds of train and bank robbers, horse and cattle thieves, the occasional killer, and anyone else with a price on his head.

Clavin’s “Bandit Heaven” is the entertaining story of these tumultuous times and the colorful characters who rode the Outlaw Trail through the frigid mountain passes and throat-parching deserts that connected the three hideouts—well-guarded enclaves no sensible lawman would enter. There are the “star” residents like gregarious Butch Cassidy and his mostly silent sidekick the Sundance Kid, and an array of fascinating supporting players.

From Marya Johnston, owner:   If you live in the West and you don’t know about the Outlaw Trail, this book is for you.  If you DO know about our outlaw history, it’s still a new, fun read.  I was telling some young men about this book the other day and they didn’t know who Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid were.  How is that possible?  Here in western Colorado, we literally follow in the footsteps of the Wild Bunch.  They traipsed all over the ground we walk on! 

     This is a small book full of lots of rich history and interesting characters; many of whom have books written about them in their own rite: Tom Horn, the ruthless bounty hunter; Matt Warner, outlaw turned sheriff; the Basset Women, Anne and Josie, who grew up around the Wild Bunch; Charlie Saringo, the Pinkerton “Cowboy Detective” who spent his life chasing after Butch. Their colorful lives are all detailed in this book.  And if you want to read more about them, we’ve got lots of books on these people in the store! 

     I know a thing or two about the Wild Bunch and the Outlaw Trail, and I can tell you that Tom Clavin has done some extensive research…and gets it right. I’m planning on giving this book to several members of my family.  It’s a great read and would make a gift that anyone would be happy to receive.

THIS WEEK’S BOOK RECS COME FROM:

Out West Books

533 Main St., Grand Junction

outwestbooks.co

As part of The Colorado Sun’s literature section — SunLit — we’re featuring staff picks from book stores across the state. Read more.

Type of Story: ReviewAn assessment or critique of a service, product, or creative endeavor such as art, literature or a performance.

Adani enters metals business with mega $5bn investment plan

The Adani Group, one of India’s leading conglomerates, is expanding its footprint in the metals industry with a massive $5 billion investment plan over the next five years, said media reports. 

 

It will be setting up aluminium and steel businesses along with ramping up copper production in India. 

 

This significant move into the metals production aims to leverage synergies with Adani’s existing infrastructure, energy, and logistics operations.

 

According to a report in Mint, the Group will spend this amount in the next three to five years on mining, refining, and production of copper, iron, steel, and aluminium. Of the total investment, $2 billion will go for copper and the remaining amount for other metals.

 

To pose tough competition for rivals

 

Adani Group’s latest venture is likely to give tough competition to industry majors like Anil Agarwal-promoted Vedanta, Aditya Birla Group’s Hindalco Industries and Tata Group, the report added.

 

This is the second time that the group has invested such megabucks in the metal industry, wherein, for the first time in 2022, the enterprise declared an investment of $5.2 billion in developing an alumina refinery in the eastern Indian state of Odisha.

 

On one hand, the recently announced investment plan will likely boost the group’s infra business. It may also save on energy production costs by offering more affordable energy solutions than rivals.

 

The Adani Group has come up with the funding for the nation’s metals business 2 years after its grand entry and consequent success in the country’s cement sector.

 

Notably, The Adani Group started the first phase of its copper operations with a smelter capacity of 500 ktpa in March. 

 

The conglomerate has been eyeing to tap into the aluminium and steel market and had secured approval to build an alumina refinery and a captive power plant in Rayagada, Odisha. 

 

Though the work on this project is yet to commence, the company has previously considered setting up an alumina refinery under its subsidiary, Mundra Aluminium.

 

Adani Group will have a face-off with industry giants such as Hindalco, Vedanta and Tata Group, riding the synergies shared with its other businesses.

 

“The group is well-positioned to enter other metals, including aluminium, iron and steel,” a person close to the group told the Economic Times.

 

Strategic shift in India’s metals sector

 

The Adani Group’s venture into the metals sector reflects a strategic shift, aligning with its recent diversification efforts in cement. Similar to its venture into cement through the acquisition of Ambuja Cements and ACC, Adani’s expansion into metals is expected to challenge industry incumbents, including Tata Steel and Hindalco Industries, said industry experts.

 

This $5 billion investment, spread across the next 3 to 5 years, focuses on copper, aluminium, and steel—3 crucial metals for India’s industrial and renewable energy ambitions, they stated.

 

A substantial portion of Adani’s investment will target copper production, with an estimated $2 billion allocated to expand its Kutch Copper plant. 

 

“India’s demand for copper, especially in renewable energy and electric vehicles (EVs), is expected to double over the next 5 years. Copper is vital for wiring, cabling, wind turbines, and EV motors, and Adani aims to meet this rising demand while reducing India’s reliance on imports,” stated the experts. 

 

Aluminium, too, is essential for solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable energy infrastructure. 

 

Currently, Adani imports aluminium dust for its solar panel production. With $3 billion allocated to aluminium and steel, Adani plans to establish its own aluminium assets, significantly lowering production costs.

 

Ambitious renewable energy goals

 

The Adani Group has ambitious renewable energy goals, aiming to achieve 50 GW of renewable capacity by 2030. Aluminium and copper are critical materials for renewable energy infrastructure, including solar panels and wind turbine components. 

 

By producing these metals in-house, Adani will reduce material costs and achieve greater control over its energy production ecosystem. 

 

In addition to aluminium and copper, iron and steel will play a vital role in Adani’s infrastructure and construction projects, including roadways, real estate, and other large-scale developments. 

 

The new investments are part of Adani’s strategy to ensure captive consumption for its green energy and infrastructure projects, reported Mint. 

 

With a goal of reaching 50GW in renewable energy by 2030, securing its own supply of aluminum and steel is seen as crucial for building solar and wind power infrastructure, it stated.

 

Adani Group has been looking to expand its footprints to sectors which has so far been beyond its reach. After entering the cement industry two years ago, the group, through its flagship Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL) secured an iron ore mining contract in Odisha, thus marking its entry into India’s iron and steel production.

 

According to experts, Adani’s $5 billion investment in metals is more than just an expansion – it’s a transformation of India’s infrastructure and energy landscape. 

 

By producing essential metals domestically, Adani is helping India achieve greater self-sufficiency, reducing dependency on imports, and lowering production costs across its value chain, they added. 

NJIT visits George Washington following Robinson’s 20-point game

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NJIT Highlanders (0-4) at George Washington Revolutionaries (3-0)Washington; Monday, 7 p.m. ESTBOTTOM LINE: NJIT takes on George Washington after Sebastian Robinson scored 20 points in NJIT’s 81-69 loss to the Morgan State Bears.George Washington finished 15-17 overall with a 12-6 record at home during the 2023-24 season. The Revolutionaries averaged 76.8 points per game while allowing opponents to score 77.3 last season.

NJIT went 7-21 overall with a 2-13 record on the road last season. The Highlanders averaged 67.9 points per game last season, 13.4 from the free-throw line and 21.6 from 3-point range.The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

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Latest Business News Roundup In Nigeria November 10th – 16th 2024

Hello Readers, Bizwatchnigeria brings you the latest business news highlights in Nigeria for the week of November 10th–16th, 2024. Table of Contents Nigerian Government Redirects N5.4 Trillion Fuel Subsidy Savings To National Development Projects The Nigerian government confirms that it is redirecting an estimated N5.4 trillion in savings from the removal of fuel subsidies in 2024 towards…

Crawford County Quorum Court and library spar as book spat legal bills near $500,000

VAN BUREN — Crawford County’s legal quagmire over LGBTQ-related books in its library system has thrust other volumes into the spotlight: specifically, the budget books for both the library system and the county itself.
Leaders of both entities say they cannot afford to pay more than $118,000 in plaintiffs’ legal fees that they expect to be ordered by a federal judge to cover.
That sum would bring the taxpayer bill to almost $500,000 in legal expenses thus far over this issue.
Since May 2023, Crawford County has faced two lawsuits related to its treatment of LGBTQ-related books in its libraries. The issue bubbled up after some residents complained to the Quorum Court in late 2022 and early 2023.
Public comments regarded “some material that was being displayed at our county library on LGBT in which our county tax dollars are being used,” according to minutes from the Dec.

8-year-old boy raising money for Boston nonprofit with pop-up book stand

An ambitious second grader has started his very own pop-up book stand in Winchester, Massachusetts, and it’s all to benefit a local charity.

When 8-year-old Bobby Atchinson had books piling up in his bedroom, he wanted to give them away to give other kids the chance to enjoy them. But with help from his mom, Jeanna Atchinson, Bobby was able to take his idea to the next level.

“We started donating them and then I said to my mom, ‘why can’t we make a bookstore?’ And she said yeah and then she said we could give them to charity, and I said, ‘yeah, we can do that.'”

So Bobby and his mom put together “Bobby’s Books” — a pop-up book stand right in Winchester’s town center.

“It got on the newspapers and the radio and the newspaper and it started spreading out,” he said.

On the stand’s first day, 200 books were sold raising $1,000 that day alone for The Home for Little Wanderers — a Boston-based nonprofit helping children get housing and support.

“When he got the word out to his friends at school and to other families in town, they all dropped books off to our house and they all offered to help with the bookstore,” Jeanna Atchinson said. “And it’s been incredible to see other families excited about the option to raise money for other kids and help Bobby with this bookstore mission.”

Bobby’s Books will be open for its last day next Saturday, and then Bobby will present a check to the Little Wanderers on Giving Tuesday.

“He loves to read so it’s exciting to see that we’re able to do something with that passion and make him feel good about himself and also help kids in need,” his mom said. “It’s been a fantastic project for us as a family.”