Latest news with #allowing
Yahoo
15 hours ago
- General
- Yahoo
Flames Prospect Morin's Memorial Cup Campaign Ends In Defeat To Knights In Sem-Final
Flames Prospect Morin's Memorial Cup Campaign Ends In Defeat To Knights In Sem-Final Calgary prospect Etienne Morin and the Moncton Wildcats' push for the Memorial Cup came to an end as they lost 5-2 to the OHL champions London Knights in the semi-final on Friday evening. Morin made many efforts in the man-advantage for the QMJHL champions. Advertisement In the first power play, the 20-year-old set up teammates Vincent Collard and Caleb Desnoyers but they couldn't finish. He even put up a shot that rang the crossbar. In the second man-advantage, Morin and the Wildcats finally struck oil, feeding the puck to Desnoyers who sniped the puck into the goal from the left faceoff circle, allowing Morin to register his first assist and third point of the tournament. The score got tied 1-1 This was Moncton's first successful power play after the previous four in the tournament did not yield a goal. Morin was called back into action for the Wildcats' third power play. He put up two blocked shots, but Moncton levelled the game 2-2 as soon as his shift ended on the man-advantage. Advertisement The 2023 second-round pick was quarterbacking 5v5 situations as well, as close to the end of the second period, London's Jared Woolley broke his stick in the offensive zone and wound up having to take Landon Sim's stick, leaving the Knights pseudo-shorthanded. Morin put up a shot that got blocked by Sim and fed another pass to Desnoyers which did not find the back of the net. Unfortunately, in the fourth of the third period, Morin would be unable to contain London's Blake Montgomery from scoring the game-winning goal. The Quebec native never recovered after that. The London Knights will now face another Flames prospect in Andrew Basha and the WHL champions Medicine Hat Tigers in the Memorial Cup Final on Sunday Puck drop is at 7 pm ET/4 pm ET.
1News
17 hours ago
- Politics
- 1News
Sweeping RMA changes for housing, freshwater, infrastructure rules proposed
Sweeping changes to the rules governing councils' oversight of everything from housing — to mining — to agriculture — under the Resource Management Act are being released to the public for feedback. The government has released discussion documents covering 12 national policy statements and similar instruments, with the aim of having 16 new or updated ones by the end of the year — ahead of legislation replacing the RMA next year. The consultation covers three main topics: infrastructure and development, the primary sector and freshwater. It is open from May 29 to July 27. The topics cover a wide range of portfolios, the early afternoon announcement fronted by RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay, Energy Minister Simon Watts, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones, Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard, and Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. (Source: ADVERTISEMENT "The changes we're now proposing to national direction under the existing RMA give effect to a range of coalition commitments, can be done quickly and relatively easily, and will help unclog the growth arteries of the economy," Bishop said. "Next year we'll replace the RMA with new legislation premised on property rights. Our new system will provide a framework that makes it easier to plan and deliver infrastructure and energy projects, as well a protecting the environment." Freshwater The changes would "rebalance Te Mana o te Wai to better reflect the interests of all water users", with councils able to "tailor" monitoring and management to local conditions. Councils would be directed to consider how they could help ensure stable domestic food supply, including providing for crop rotation in regional plans. Crop rotation within catchments could be allowed without a consent. Water storage rules would change aiming to ensure water flows during dry periods, protect against climate-change-caused drought, and reduce the need for extraction from natural rivers and lakes. Wetland regulations would change aiming to protect water filtration, flood control, and habitat for diverse species. ADVERTISEMENT The definition of "wetland" would be amended, now excluding unintentionally created "induced" wetlands, and allowing farming activities like irrigation, on-farm water storage and fencing considered "unlikely" to have an adverse effect, while constructed wetlands would have a new objective, standards, and consent pathway. Councils would no longer need to map wetlands by 2030, but Source Water Risk Management areas would now need to be mapped "to help safeguard drinking water sources from contamination". The government is also proposing to "simplify" requirements for fish passages to reduce the administrative burden "while still providing appropriate protection". Changes to rules for synthetic fertiliser are also proposed. Agriculture Minister Todd McClay. (Source: Primary sector Highly productive land changes would extend the timeframes to 2027/28, see the removal of the "Land Use Capability 3" category and trial the use of "special agricultural areas". ADVERTISEMENT Grazed beef cattle and deer in low intensity farms would no longer need to be kept out of wetlands. In forestry, councils would lose the ability to set harder controls, slash would need to be planned for and — above a certain size — removed, and low-intensity harvesting will be permitted by default if "any relevant forest planning requirement is complied with". Restrictions on mines and quarries in wetlands would be loosened. Aquaculture changes aim to streamline consenting for activities and research, and allow small structures in coastal marine areas with no consent. Infrastructure and development Granny flats of up to 70sqm, and papakāinga of up to 10 homes would be allowed without a consent on specific land zones. Papakāinga would also allow commercial activities of up to 100sqm, conservation activity, accommodation for up to eight guests, along with education, health, sports, marae, urupā and māra kai facilities. Medium papakāinga of up to 30 homes would be considered a "restricted discretionary" activity, with those of more than 30 units becoming "discretionary" activities. ADVERTISEMENT Energy changes include new policies on supporting the needs of the electricity network and management of environmental interests, and another new policy on recognising and providing for Māori interests in electricity transmission, and other changes. These would allow more routine work on electricity networks, establish a National Grid Yard and Subdivision Corridor, and scrap consenting for distribution and EV charging infrastructure. A new policy for natural hazards — covering flooding, landslips, coastal erosion, coastal inundation, active faults, liquefaction and tsunami — would cover all environments and zones including coastal environments, directing councils to take a risk-based approach and assess risk based on "likelihood and consequence". A definition of "significant risk" using a risk matrix would be provided, with councils directed to also use the best available information when making decisions. In telecommunications, new poles would be allowed by default in more areas, with restrictions in the road reserve also removed. Renewable energy generation, temporary facilities and connection lines to heritage buildings for telecommunications would no longer need consenting.
The Star
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Platform introduces a new dimension to African sexuality through storytelling
HOLAAfrica, a digital platform fiercely dedicated to exploring contemporary narratives of African sexuality , has launched a new collection of albums titled Kivuli & Nuru: The Afrodisiacs Collection . This digital platform, renowned for its commitment to engaging with African narratives surrounding sex and pleasure, aims to foster community and create safe spaces through the power of storytelling. It is explained that the albums, available on various digital platforms, feature a rich tapestry of erotic stories that explore the intricate world of desire, intimacy, and identity. Founders Tiffany Kagure Mugo and Siphumeze Khundayi have taken their voices far beyond South Africa, sharing their vision on global TED Talk stages and garnering international attention. Mugo and Khundayi describe the essence of the albums as a celebration of LGBTQ+ intimacies, presented in the storytellers' own words, allowing for authentic connections and engagement with listeners. The pair highlight that each narrative uniquely reflects the diverse contexts and living conditions across the continent, making the collection a holistic representation of African eroticism. ' The stories were sourced from around the continent to make sure we caught a bunch of different contexts and ways of living and loving. The stories are as diverse as the countries they are from. From Cape to Cairo and Lagos to Nairobi, the stories show a spectrum of sexual experiences. People should listen to the stories because they are sensual, hot, intimate and gorgeous. Another reason people should listen is because we adore knowing about the fantasies, desires and sex lives of others. We are fascinated by it, ' Khundayi explained. Khundayi explains the titles of the albums, Kivuli and Nuru , translate to ' shadow ' and ' light ' in Kiswahili, aptly illustrating the duality of human sexuality. Many stories explore both the hidden aspects, the ' shadows ' of sexuality where many feel unable to express themselves, and the ' light ' that signifies empowerment and the acceptance of desire. Mugo elaborated on the inspiration driving this collection, citing a ' need for more sexiness, more sensuality, more deliciousness when it comes to African sexuality ' . ' The idea for this collection of stories came from a need for more sexiness, more sensuality, more deliciousness when it comes to African sexuality. There is something so sexy about having erotica read to you, and we wanted to harness that – the feeling of a lover whispering in your ear. The collection also wanted to collate and bring together African sexual stories, literally in their own words (most people voiced their work), and add African voices to the erotic landscape. We wanted to expand the way people saw and understood African sexuality in a way that was tempting and engaging. ' Emphasising the importance of audio storytelling, she likened the experience to that of a lover whispering intimate secrets in one's ear. ' We aimed to expand the understanding of African sexuality in a way that is tempting and engaging, ' she added. The pair further explains how these stories educate, stating, ' Stories have always been the biggest way to teach people about things, and in terms of sex and sexuality, these will do that. The stories will bring you into a world of sexuality that informs you through storytelling. ' [email protected] Saturday Star
Economic Times
a day ago
- Business
- Economic Times
ITR filing 2025: Excel utilities for ITR 1 and 4 for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26) released by Income Tax dept; Check who can file
— IncomeTaxIndia (@IncomeTaxIndia) Choose right income tax return form for ITR filing FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26) Live Events Who is eligible to file ITR 1 for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)? Who cannot use ITR 1 to file income tax return for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)? Who is eligible to file ITR 4 for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)? How to file ITR Excel utilities forms Steps to download ITR-1 and ITR-4 for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26) The Income Tax Department has released the Excel utility versions of Income Tax Return (ITR) Forms 1 and 4 for the Assessment Year 2025–26. These tools are now available for download on the official income tax e-filing portal , allowing eligible taxpayers to start preparation for filing of income tax returns for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26).The Income Tax Department has announced the release of excel utilities via a post on X (formerly Twitter). 'Attention taxpayers! The Excel Utility for ITR-1 and ITR-4 for AY 2025-26 has been enabled and is now available for taxpayers,' the Income Tax Department said on Singla, Partner at SBHS & Associates, says, 'It's a big relief to see that the Excel Utilities for ITR-1 and ITR-4 for Assessment Year 2025–26 have been released by the Income Tax Department. I have already filed ITR-4 using Excel Utility, and I am happy to share that the process was smooth - there are no major changes in the ITR-4 schema compared to last year, which makes it even easier for regular filers and tax professionals. However, a very important change has been made in the schema for ITR-1. A new validation rule has been introduced in the utility itself: if certain TDS section codes appear in Schedule TDS2 or TDS3—such as 194B, 194BB, 194S, 194LA, 195, 196A, 194Q, 194R and others—the income tax return will now be considered invalid for filing under ITR-1. This means taxpayers having income under special rates or from sources like online games, lotteries, crypto, property transfers, must use ITR-2 or other appropriate is a very welcome and practical change. In past years, many taxpayers unknowingly filed ITR-1 with such incomes, only to face defective return notices from CPC. By building this validation directly into the utility, the Department has helped prevent incorrect filings at source, saving both time and confusion.'Also read: When will salaried employees get Form 16 to file income tax return for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26)? Taxpayers are advised to carefully check the eligibility criteria before selecting and filing their income tax return FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26). Choosing the incorrect form may lead to complications or rejection of the ITR by the Income Tax Department. Tax experts recommend thorough reading of the instructions to avoid errors in ITR the financial year 2024–25 (assessment year 2025–26), resident individuals (excluding those classified as not ordinarily resident) with a total income of up to Rs 50 lakh — including income from salary, one house property, other sources such as interest, long-term capital gains under Section 112A up to Rs 1.25 lakh, and agricultural income not exceeding Rs 5,000 — are eligible to file cannot be used taxpayers who are either Director in a company or have invested in unlisted equity shares or in cases where TDS has been deducted u/s 194N or if income-tax is deferred on ESOP or has assets (including financial interest in any entity) located outside individuals, Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) and Firms (other than LLP) being a resident having total income up to Rs 50 lakh and having income from business and profession which is computed under sections 44AD, 44ADA or 44AE, and having long-term capital gains under section 112A up to Rs 1.25 lakh for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26).These ITR forms are editable forms that can be downloaded from the income tax website. Individuals can download these forms, fill them up and upload them back onto the e-filing income tax website. These forms are available in Excel and JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) Excel utility forms for ITR 1 and 4 are editable tools that can be downloaded, filled offline, and uploaded on the income tax e-filing website. Here are some steps you can follow to download forms ITR-1 and ITR-4Step 1: Visit the Income Tax e-filing portalStep 2: Download the applicable ITR form (Excel version)Step 3: Fill in the details as per your income profileStep 4: Validate the form and generate the XML or JSON fileStep 5: Upload it on the portal to complete the filing processWith the release of these utilities, it's time for eligible taxpayers to begin gathering their financial documents and start filing their returns well before the due date of September 15, 2025 for FY 2024-25 (AY 2025-26).
The Herald Scotland
a day ago
- The Herald Scotland
A premium audio player with streaming support
Good points? The device runs a customized version of Android 13, allowing installation of major music streaming services like Spotify, TIDAL, and Qobuz for seamless online listening. Internal storage includes 32GB of ROM (with 22GB usable), and it supports microSD cards up to 2TB which is ideal for large, high-resolution music libraries. It's powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 processor built on a 6nm process, which ensures smooth multitasking and responsive app performance. The 4.7-inch HD display with a resolution of 750x1334 pixels is bright and functional, allowing for clear navigation and playback control. A major strength of the JM21 is its dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 DACs, which provide exceptionally detailed and natural sound reproduction. These DACs support high-resolution audio formats up to 384kHz/32bit and DSD256 (natively), delivering excellent fidelity. FiiO's Digital Audio Purification System (DAPS) bypasses Android's global sample rate conversion, ensuring bit-perfect audio playback and maintaining the original quality of your music. The battery lasts up to 12.5 hours of continuous usage and recharges in less than two hours with a 5V/2A charger. Bad points? With only 22GB of usable internal storage, you'll likely need a microSD card right away, especially if you use offline streaming or store a large local library. Best for ... Audiophiles seeking uncompromised audio quality with support for both offline files and streaming apps and a powerful output for a variety of professional headphones. Avoid if ... You want a simpler player that doesn't rely on a full Android interface that needs regular updates. Score: 9/10 FiiO JM21, £179.99 (
