Latest news with #Shaker
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Yahoo
Line-jumping dispute leads to 3 Stow students being punched at Cedar Point, parent says
A parent is asking Stow-Monroe Falls school officials to look into possible policy changes after her daughter was punched during a recent class trip to Cedar Point. The parent, whose name is not being used because her daughter is a minor, told the school board May 19 that her child was on a Kimpton Middle School class trip to the Sandusky amusement park and waiting in line for a ride when the incident occurred. More: Prank calls flood Ypsilanti mom after her phone number appears on Cedar Point wall The parent said her daughter was one of three girls who were struck by another student from Shaker Heights Middle School on May 17. The incident, the parent said, happened after a group of students from Shaker Heights cut in line earlier in the day and were confronted by her daughter and the two other Stow students. The Shaker Heights students, the mother said, told the girls they were catching up with other classmates already in line. A second encounter happened later when the two groups were in line for another ride at the park. The mother said a Shaker student had told the girls they could cut in front of them on another ride after the earlier incident. "(A) Shaker boy clocked three of our girls in the back of the head, causing them all to have concussions," the mother told the board. She also said her daughter is being checked for more serious injuries. "(My daughter) is scared and in pain, not only physically, but emotionally and mentally," the parent told the board. "We do not want this falling on deaf ears." Sandusky Police Chief Jared Oliver said the incident involving the students is being investigated. "The injuries reported to us were minor, if any at all," the chief said. The police report of the incident was not readily available since it involves minors and identifiable information has to be redacted. Cedar Point's Code of Conduct prohibits guests from saving spots in line or cutting in front of other guests or leaving a line for any reason. Violators may be asked to leave the park. The parent wants Stow school officials to take a fresh look at its policies for class trips — like Cedar Point — where the number of students traveling far outnumber the chaperones and students are not directly supervised at all times. "I am deeply concerned about the lack of adequate supervision that was provided to these 13 and 14-year-old students," she said. "From what I understand this situation could have absolutely been prevented. "This has absolutely been a devastating development to our family and one that will have ongoing medical and emotional implications." Requests for comment were left May 21 with Stow and Shaker Heights school officials. This story may be updated. Craig Webb can be reached at cwebb@ This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: 3 Stow students punched over line-jumping dispute at Cedar Point
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Film AlUla: 'Saudi Filmmakers Are Like the Crown Jewels for Us'
In such a fast-moving industry, it can be easy to forget that, a mere six or so years ago, there was no film scene whatsoever in Saudi Arabia. The country has only been welcoming non-religious tourists since 2019, a year after cinemas reopened following a near 40-year ban. Now there are more than 800 to choose from. It's no wonder then, that Saudi-born Film AlUla acting executive director Zaid Shaker is buzzing with excitement. Perhaps even more so after 10 months in the role, since taking it on in July. 'All the pieces of the puzzle are falling into the right places,' says Shaker, who leads Film AlUla's mission to support film and TV production in the northwest region of Saudi Arabia, the kingdom's oldest UNESCO heritage site. 'We have lots of momentum. The [Saudi film] industry is thriving,' he continues. 'What's happening in AlUla is big, and I'm working with a fabulous team [that] makes any job easy. So, yes, I'm still very excited.' More from The Hollywood Reporter Palestine Film Institute Drums Up Support in Cannes - for Films and Gaza Eurovision 2025: Austria Wins Song Contest With Johannes Pietsch, Israel Places Second 'Die My Love' Review: Jennifer Lawrence Spirals Into Psychosis While Robert Pattinson Plunges Into Despair in Lynne Ramsay's Jarring Character Study Film AlUla Studios opened last spring and features 26,000-square-foot soundstages and a 61,500-square-foot backlot and also acts as a government liaison to support permitting and rebate or incentive applications. THR caught up with Shaker to find out how they've put the facility to use since opening, what additional spaces have already been added, and his thoughts on the continued growth of the Saudi film sector. Congratulations on the collaboration with MBS MENA Limited, made public this month. Has it already led to increased interest? Absolutely. We've had enquiries from studios and streamers eager to explore the facilities. We have strong momentum building for Q3 [the third quarter] and Q4, with a robust pipeline of local, regional, and international productions. Any new offerings for filmmakers we can share? Our state-of-the-art facilities are operation-ready: We are ready to receive our first film. It's looking very good. We have exciting news, which we'll be sharing soon, hopefully. Within our new facilities, we have a cutting-edge recording studio that can accompany a full orchestra. We have finalized the production hub, which is a creative space that can support filmmakers. And we have an amazing activation space within the facilities. Can you share details of any new confirmed shoots? This year, we are waiting to announce the first feature film production within the umbrella of the Stampede Arabia slate of films [which grew out of a pact with L.A.-based Stampede Ventures, run by Hollywood veteran Greg Silverman], which is very exciting. And there are also a couple of interesting talks. Are more companies coming to use the studio space or to take advantage of the location, or both? It's equally both. They're complementary. We can accommodate parallel productions: You can have a full production, shooting everything on the ground, and at the same time have two separate high-end productions shooting at the studio. AlUla has wonderful scenery and locations, these UNESCO heritage sites. But when it's really hot weather, people also need to be able to shoot indoors. So this gives you the ability to invite productions all year round. Have any new initiatives been introduced to speed up the growth of a skilled local workforce? Every initiative we do is centered around the local community: honing and up-skilling crew. We always incentivize training and have lots of programs with different partners, so we have these sort of continuous workshops to be able to raise the bar and introduce a sustainable film crew within the boundaries of AlUla. This is definitely evident in recent films such as [2023's] Norah, which was the first feature film from Saudi to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival: 40 percent of its crew was local. With Siwar, the most recent film by Osama Alkhurayji, which opened the Saudi Film Festival, 80 percent of the crew was local — so, double. AlUla Creates, meanwhile, is a very high-level and detailed training capacity-building program, which has yielded three short films, some of which screened at the Red Sea Film Festival. Will there be rough quotas for the percentage of Saudi employees on each project? While there are no fixed quotas, employing Saudi nationals — particularly in studio operations and support roles — is a key objective. AlUla's vibrant population of 65,000, with 65% under the age of 30, represents an incredible pool of dynamic, emerging talent. We also focus on strengthening the local economy by sourcing goods from local artisans and championing community-driven businesses. What new environmental practices have been introduced in AlUla? AlUla has lots of cultural significance. We are guardians and custodians of our important UNESCO heritage sites. For us, sustainability is a 360-degree approach toward everything. Lots of our incentives are granted to productions based on their sustainability measures, whether it's green or abiding by best international practices. Also, internally, we make sure to have all of our team attend every relevant seminar to keep up-to-date with every sustainable practice. Following 's Cannes success, which other local Saudi films are creating noise on the global scene, or which do you predict will? Looking forward, we have Hijra by Saudi filmmaker Shahad Ameen [the follow-up to 2019's Scales, which was Saudi's official Oscar submission in 2020]. It should be releasing at the end of this year. Some scenes were shot in AlUla, which is a testament to the fact that we never perceive any production as a one-time [thing]. And I have to mention Abdulaziz Alshlahei's Hobal [about a Bedouin family living in extreme isolation in the '90s], which, though not shot in AlUla, was a great stride for the Saudi ecosystem. Saudi filmmakers are like the crown jewels for us because, ultimately, one of the most important things we do is export our culture and enable these amazing storytellers. The Saudi Film industry launched with big fanfare from 2018. What is the focus now? To attract big buzzy international projects or foster more Saudi projects? The answer is somewhat holistic. For me, the more I am able to attract international films, the more I am able to introduce some sort of real-time training, shadowing programs to support local content. We have the bandwidth to entertain both, so it's about focusing. What stands out as an achievement you're proud of so far at AlUla? I am really proud of my team's resilience and persistence and how we are able to move ahead. The studios have a very personal spot in my heart. It was heartwarming to see the Saudi Film Festival opened by Siwar, a film shot in AlUla, this year. I'm also obviously proud of Norah. But for me, the studios — you have to see them to believe them. What's the Saudi film industry generally like right now? The kingdom now boasts more than 800 screens in a country that, eight or nine years ago, didn't have cinemas. Now you're talking about 42 percent of all of the Middle East box office revenue coming from Saudi. I bother all of my friends and family with this. The success of Hobal this year is a testimony that the audience in Saudi is very receptive, not only to commercial cinema but for unique stories. Whatever is happening in the MENA region, it's within the heart of Saudi and we're very fortunate to be working in AlUla and witnessing this and being a catalyst for what's happening. You're seeing it when you attend amazing platforms such as the Red Sea Film Festival or the Saudi Film Festival. You can see that [the Saudi industry is] brimming with this positive energy, this dialogue, [with] so many youths engulfed with this power of cinema. Best of The Hollywood Reporter 'The Goonies' Cast, Then and Now "A Nutless Monkey Could Do Your Job": From Abusive to Angst-Ridden, 16 Memorable Studio Exec Portrayals in Film and TV The 10 Best Baseball Movies of All Time, Ranked
Daily News Egypt
18-05-2025
- Business
- Daily News Egypt
Electricity Minister, Elsewedy Electric discuss collaboration on distribution, grid efficiency, and loss reduction
Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy Mohamed Shaker held a meeting with Ahmed El Sewedy, Chairperson of Elsewedy Electric, and his accompanying delegation to review ongoing and future areas of cooperation in Egypt's power sector. The discussions focused on Elsewedy Electric's progress in electricity generation, transmission, and distribution projects, particularly those supporting the Mostakbal Masr for Sustainable Development initiative. Both sides explored ways to strengthen collaboration in service quality enhancement, power reliability, technical and non-technical loss reduction, and the fight against electricity theft. The minister emphasized the importance of adhering to project timelines and accelerating connections to the national unified grid, especially in alignment with national agricultural, industrial, and infrastructure development plans. He also highlighted the strategic relevance of Elsewedy Electric's work in ensuring stable electricity supply to new and expanding communities. Key challenges facing current projects were addressed, with both parties discussing strategies for overcoming obstacles to expedite implementation. The meeting also considered proposals to reduce losses on low-voltage networks and improve the performance of distribution systems in residential and industrial zones. Discussions extended to potential public-private partnerships in electricity distribution, aiming to improve service delivery, increase revenue efficiency, and optimize asset management. These efforts fall within Egypt's broader strategy to leverage private sector capabilities—administrative, technical, and financial—to support the modernization of affiliated companies. Minister Shaker reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring secure and sustainable electricity supply, especially for national agricultural and industrial megaprojects. He also underscored the ministry's efforts to address illegal connections, enhance grid stability, and shift toward renewable energy to reduce fuel consumption and improve operational efficiency. He noted that the Ministry of Electricity is prioritizing the localization of energy-related industries, particularly renewable energy technologies, as part of Egypt's long-term development vision. This includes increasing local manufacturing of electrical components, upgrading the national grid, and moving steadily toward the implementation of a smart grid capable of integrating large-scale renewable energy generation. Shaker concluded by stressing the importance of adopting advanced technologies and energy storage solutions to minimize transmission losses and strengthen Egypt's transition to clean, reliable, and sustainable energy systems.
Boston Globe
09-05-2025
- General
- Boston Globe
Antique homes in Harvard and Roxbury
SQUARE FEET 4,135 LOT SIZE 1.14 acres BEDROOMS 3 BATHS 2 full, 1 half LAST SOLD FOR Unknown PROS Surrounded by conservation land in Harvard's historic Shaker Village, the circa-1795 'Second House' boasts wide pine floors and original Shaker details like chair rails and pegs. From the center entry hall, the sitting room at right has a fireplace while a family room at left has a wood stove. A bedroom and office flank the rear hall, where a nearby bath has a claw-foot tub. The lower level holds a spacious living room with wood stove, dining room with fireplace, eat-in kitchen, half bath, and laundry room with original brick boiling kettle. The backdoor opens to a serene backyard abutting wetlands. On the upper level, two large bedrooms and two smaller rooms share a bath. The walkup attic has several more rooms. CONS Dated kitchen. Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up 79 Shaker Road in Harvard Handout Advertisement John Petraglia, Petraglia Real Estate, 508-864-0583, $1,200,000 8 MONTROSE STREET / ROXBURY 8 Montrose Street in Roxbury Handout SQUARE FEET 3,013 LOT SIZE 0.16 acre BEDROOMS 3 BATHS 1 full, 2 half LAST SOLD FOR $537,500 in 2017 PROS Set in the Moreland Street Historic District near Howes Playground, this 1845 Gothic Revival charms with gingerbread trim, picket fence, crown molding, and full-length windows. From the flagstone porch, a front door with sidelights opens to a grand hall. The library at right has built-in bookshelves, while the enormous living room at left has a window bay and French doors to a sunroom, where glass doors open to a deck. Past a half bath and dining room with fireplace, the remodeled kitchen has quartz counters, double oven, and a breakfast nook; a mudroom with laundry leads to the patio and yard. Upstairs, find three bedrooms— the primary with cathedral ceilings and private powder room — plus a dressing room and spacious bath. CONS No garage. Advertisement The living area of 8 Montrose Street in Roxbury Handout Jackie Jaeger, Compass, 617-901-4551, Jon Gorey is a regular contributor to the Globe Magazine. Send comments to
Zawya
07-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Shaker reports stable Q1 2025 results and marks a milestone with first dividend recommendation since 2016
RELATED TOPICS EARNINGS RELATED COMPANIES Midea Group Stanley Black HGISC HGISC Stanley Black BOC Samsung Life Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Al Hassan Ghazi Ibrahim Shaker Co. ('Shaker', the 'Group' or the 'Company'), Saudi Arabia's leading manufacturer, importer, and distributor of Air Conditioners and Home Appliances, has announced its financial results for the first quarter 2025. Financial Highlights: Revenue of SAR 400.42 million in Q1-FY25, down 3.1% year-on-year (YoY), driven by a decline in revenue from the home appliance segment, partially offset by a modest increase in the HVAC segment. Gross profit of SAR 100.63 million in Q1-FY25, up 2.93% YoY, supported by cost efficiencies and product mix. Operating income of SAR 25.08 million in Q1-FY25, down 20.00% YoY, mainly due to higher operating expenses, which offset the slight growth in gross profit. Net profit 1 of SAR 27.21 million in Q1-FY25, down 15.64% YoY, primarily due to a lower share of profit from an associate combined with the recognition of foreign exchange losses during the period which was partially offset by a decrease in the finance cost. Net Debt reduced by 32% YoY to SAR 237.29 million and improved Net Debt to EBITDA ratio to 6.4x from 7.6x as at Q1 2024 reflecting enhanced deleveraging efforts and improved capital structure efficiency. 1: Attributable to equity owners Mohammed Ibrahim Abunayyan, Chief Executive Officer at Shaker, said: "Shaker Group is making steady progress in executing our Elevate 2027 roadmap. Following a strong finish to 2024, we began 2025 on a stable note. Our HVAC solutions unit showed consistent growth this quarter, reflecting the strength of our operations. We continue to strengthen our position through expanded partnerships with global brands such as Samsung, LG, Black & Decker, and Midea, which are crucial in enhancing our product offerings and broadening our market reach. In line with our continued growth, we are proud to announce the first cash dividend since 2016, reflecting our strong financial position and commitment to delivering value to our shareholders. At the same time, we are focused on improving operational efficiency across all areas of our business. As we build on our solid foundation, we remain determined to solidify Shaker Group as a regional powerhouse in manufacturing, logistics, retail, and after-sales service, fully aligned with Saudi Vision 2030." On the financial front, revenue reached SAR 400 million, reflecting a 3% decline year-on-year, while gross profit increased by 3% to SAR 101 million, driven by a favourable product mix and improved cost efficiencies. EBITDA totalled SAR 37 million, and net profit amounted to SAR 27 million, marking declines of 19% and 16%, respectively. Shaker continues to strengthen its position as a leading player in Saudi Arabia's home appliance and HVAC sectors through strategic partnerships, operational expansion, and a focus on customer-centric growth. The HVAC segment continued to be the primary driver of performance, bolstered by sustained strength in B2B sales, indicating stable consumer demand. Meanwhile, softer performance was observed in the Home Appliances segment compared to the same quarter in the previous year. Shaker also maintained a robust balance sheet, with total borrowing reducing by 25% year-on-year and net debt reducing by 32%, alongside a significant improvement in leverage metrics, reflecting enhanced cash flow discipline and ongoing efforts to optimize its capital structure. Shaker's strengthened financial position has allowed it to deliver tangible returns to shareholders. For the first time since 2016, Shaker's Board of Directors has proposed a cash dividend of SAR 0.50 per share for fiscal year 2024, totalling SAR 27.75 million. This recommendation reflects the company's consistent financial performance and operational discipline, underlining its commitment to creating value for its shareholders. The company remains focused on growing its core segments, enhancing operational efficiency, and strengthening partnerships with leading global brands to solidify its position as a trusted end-to-end solutions provider in Saudi Arabia. Shaker was also recognized as Best Strategic Partner at the Midea MEARI Partner Conference 2024, celebrating over 15 years of collaboration built on trust and a shared commitment to excellence. Strategic Updates Shaker continues to make progress on its strategic priorities under the Elevate 2027 roadmap. This initiative is aimed at accelerating growth and reinforcing the company's leadership position by building on its core strengths and unlocking new opportunities in alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. Elevate 2027 seeks to drive sustainable growth, operational excellence, and long-term success in the home appliances and HVAC sectors. In February 2025, Shaker extended its Memorandum of Understanding with LG and the Ministry of Investment (MISA) to explore the local manufacturing of AC compressors. The MoU will now remain in effect through February 2026. The company also marked 30 years of successful collaboration with LG Electronics, a long-standing partnership that has been instrumental in the development of Saudi Arabia's HVAC market. As the exclusive partner for LG's residential and commercial air conditioning solutions, Shaker has played a key role in promoting energy-efficient technologies aligned with national sustainability goals. In February 2025, during the PIF Private Sector Forum, Shaker signed strategic agreements with ROSHN to supply its products and services at preferential terms over the long term. These agreements are aimed at ensuring inventory availability and timely delivery in line with the evolving needs of ROSHN's large-scale development projects, further strengthening Shaker's position as a trusted partner in the Kingdom's real estate ecosystem. In November 2024, Shaker Group also signed a supply agreement with Samsung to distribute home appliances in Saudi Arabia. This agreement aims to showcase the innovative features and high-quality design of Samsung products. In December 2024, Shaker signed an agreement with Stanley Black & Decker to add BLACK+DECKER® appliances to its portfolio, enhancing its product offering with a trusted global brand and supporting its commitment to delivering quality, innovation, and convenience to consumers across the Kingdom. Building on this strong foundation, Shaker continues to strengthen its strategic partnerships and support initiatives that drive local manufacturing, innovation, and sustainability within the Kingdom.
