Inquiry focuses on recruitment practices for BS-01 to BS-04 positions within the PSQCA, after a complaint by an individual alleged procedural violations The Ministry of Science and Technology has launched an investigation into alleged irregularities in recruitment at the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) following directives from the Federal Ombudsman. According to a news report, the inquiry focuses on recruitment practices for BS-01 to BS-04 positions within the PSQCA, after a complaint by an individual named Irfanullah alleged procedural violations. Acting on the ombudsman’s findings, the ministry has tasked Shakil Arshad, DSA (Commercialisation), to lead the probe. Arshad is required to submit a comprehensive report and recommendations within 15 days. The investigation will identify those involved, assess individual culpability, and prepare a detailed charge sheet with a statement of allegations. The probe will also include reviewing all relevant records related to the recruitment process. The Federal Ombudsman, which oversees complaints of maladministration in federal agencies, ordered the investigation to ensure transparency and accountability. To facilitate the inquiry, the probe officer has been provided with a copy of the ombudsman’s findings. The report is expected to offer a detailed analysis of recruitment practices and shed light on the alleged irregularities within the national standards body. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );None

JERUSALEM — Israel approved a United States-brokered ceasefire agreement with Lebanon’s Hezbollah on Tuesday, setting the stage for an end to nearly 14 months of fighting linked to the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. Israeli warplanes meanwhile carried out the most intense wave of strikes in Beirut and its southern suburbs since the start of the conflict and issued a record number of evacuation warnings. At least 24 people were killed in strikes across the country, according to local authorities, as Israel signaled it aims to keep pummeling Hezbollah before the ceasefire is set to take hold at 4 a.m. local time on Wednesday. Another huge airstrike shook Beirut shortly after the ceasefire was announced. Israel’s security Cabinet approved the ceasefire agreement late Tuesday after it was presented by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his office said. U.S. President Joe Biden, speaking in Washington, called the agreement “good news” and said his administration would make a renewed push for a ceasefire in Gaza. An Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire would mark the first major step toward ending the regionwide unrest triggered by Hamas’ attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. But it does not address the devastating war in Gaza, where Hamas is still holding dozens of hostages and the conflict is more intractable. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to bring peace to the Middle East without saying how. The Biden administration spent much of this year trying to broker a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza but the talks repeatedly sputtered to a halt. Still, any halt to the fighting in Lebanon is expected to reduce the likelihood of war between Israel and Iran, which backs both Hezbollah and Hamas and exchanged direct fire with Israel on two occasions earlier this year. Israel says it will ‘attack with might’ if Hezbollah breaks truce Netanyahu presented the ceasefire proposal to Cabinet ministers after a televised address in which he listed a series of accomplishments against Israel’s enemies across the region. He said a ceasefire with Hezbollah would further isolate Hamas in Gaza and allow Israel to focus on its main enemy, Iran, which backs both groups. “If Hezbollah breaks the agreement and tries to rearm, we will attack,” he said. “For every violation, we will attack with might.” The ceasefire deal calls for a two-month initial halt in fighting and would require Hezbollah to end its armed presence in a broad swath of southern Lebanon, while Israeli troops would return to their side of the border. Thousands of additional Lebanese troops and U.N. peacekeepers would deploy in the south, and an international panel headed by the United States would monitor all sides’ compliance. But implementation remains a major question mark. Israel has demanded the right to act should Hezbollah violate its obligations. Lebanese officials have rejected writing that into the proposal. Biden said Israel reserved the right to quickly resume operations in Lebanon if Hezbollah breaks the terms of the truce, but that the deal “was designed to be a permanent cessation of hostilities.” Netanyahu’s office said Israel appreciated the U.S. efforts in securing the deal but “reserves the right to act against every threat to its security.” Hezbollah has said it accepts the proposal, but a senior official with the group said Tuesday that it had not seen the agreement in its final form. “After reviewing the agreement signed by the enemy government, we will see if there is a match between what we stated and what was agreed upon by the Lebanese officials,” Mahmoud Qamati, deputy chair of Hezbollah’s political council, told the Al Jazeera news network. “We want an end to the aggression, of course, but not at the expense of the sovereignty of the state.” of Lebanon, he said. “Any violation of sovereignty is refused.” Warplanes bombard Beirut and its southern suburbs Even as Israeli, U.S, Lebanese and international officials have expressed growing optimism over a ceasefire, Israel has continued its campaign in Lebanon, which it says aims to cripple Hezbollah’s military capabilities. An Israeli strike on Tuesday leveled a residential building in the central Beirut district of Basta — the second time in recent days warplanes have hit the crowded area near the city’s downtown. At least seven people were killed and 37 wounded, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry. Strikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs killed at least one person and wounded 13, it said. Three people were killed in a separate strike in Beirut and three in a strike on a Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon. Lebanese state media said another 10 people were killed in the eastern Baalbek province. Israel says it targets Hezbollah fighters and their infrastructure. Israel also struck a building in Beirut’s bustling commercial district of Hamra for the first time, hitting a site that is around 400 meters (yards) from Lebanon’s Central Bank. There were no reports of casualties. The Israeli military said it struck targets in Beirut and other areas linked to Hezbollah’s financial arm. The evacuation warnings covered many areas, including parts of Beirut that previously have not been targeted. The warnings, coupled with fear that Israel was ratcheting up attacks before a ceasefire, sent residents fleeing. Traffic was gridlocked, and some cars had mattresses tied to them. Dozens of people, some wearing their pajamas, gathered in a central square, huddling under blankets or standing around fires as Israeli drones buzzed loudly overhead. Hezbollah, meanwhile, kept up its rocket fire, triggering air raid sirens across northern Israel. Israeli military spokesman Avichay Adraee issued evacuation warnings for 20 buildings in Beirut’s southern suburbs, where Hezbollah has a major presence, as well as a warning for the southern town of Naqoura where the U.N. peacekeeping mission, UNIFIL, is headquartered. UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti told The Associated Press that peacekeepers will not evacuate. Israeli forces reach Litani River in southern Lebanon The Israeli military also said its ground troops clashed with Hezbollah forces and destroyed rocket launchers in the Slouqi area on the eastern end of the Litani River, a few kilometers (miles) from the Israeli border. Under the ceasefire deal, Hezbollah would be required to move its forces north of the Litani, which in some places is about 30 kilometers (20 miles) north of the border. Hezbollah began firing into northern Israel, saying it was showing support for the Palestinians, a day after Hamas carried out its Oct. 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel, triggering the Gaza war. Israel returned fire on Hezbollah, and the two sides have been exchanging barrages ever since. Israel escalated its campaign of bombardment in mid-September and later sent troops into Lebanon, vowing to put an end to Hezbollah fire so tens of thousands of evacuated Israelis could return to their homes. More than 3,760 people have been killed by Israeli fire in Lebanon the past 13 months, many of them civilians, according to Lebanese health officials. The bombardment has driven 1.2 million people from their homes. Israel says it has killed more than 2,000 Hezbollah members. Hezbollah fire has forced some 50,000 Israelis to evacuate in the country’s north, and its rockets have reached as far south in Israel as Tel Aviv. At least 75 people have been killed, more than half of them civilians. More than 50 Israeli soldiers have died in the ground offensive in Lebanon.

Digital Realty Trust Inc. stock underperforms Monday when compared to competitorsSuspect taken into custody after threat at Kimberly High SchoolCalFire took to social media Tuesday to showcase its most viewed images of 2024, offering a poignant reminder of the year’s challenging wildfire season. The agency reported managing 7,994 wildfires that scorched approximately 1,049,956 acres across the state. The fires took a heavy toll on structures, with 2,077 affected. Of these, 397 were damaged, and 1,680 were destroyed. Related Story: Despite the devastation, CalFire recorded just one fatality — a civilian — marking a decrease from the four fatalities in 2023, which included one civilian and three firefighters. Comparatively, 2023 saw 7,386 wildfires burn 332,822 acres, affecting 179 structures. That year, 22 structures were damaged, and 157 were destroyed, underscoring the increased intensity and impact of fires in 2024. The largest blaze of 2024, the Park Fire, ignited on July 24 in Butte and Tehama counties. It consumed 429,603 acres, making it the most significant wildfire of 2024. CalFire’s Most Viewed Photos of 2024 —

Doug Aitken’s Poetic Tableau of Southern CaliforniaJonah Goldberg: What if most Americans aren't bitterly divided?

Jonah Goldberg: What if most Americans aren't bitterly divided?Network completed in partnership with Escambia River Electric Cooperative brings high-speed internet to more than 12,000 rural homes and businesses KANSAS CITY, Mo. , Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Conexon Connect , the internet service provider (ISP) formed by rural fiber broadband leader Conexon , has completed its first fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) project in the state of Florida , a 2,000-mile network launched in partnership with Escambia River Electric Cooperative (EREC). The Connect, powered by Escambia River Electric Cooperative, network marks the ISP's sixth FTTH network completion. With this milestone, Conexon Connect has successfully delivered fiber internet access to 12,000 EREC members across rural Escambia and Santa Rosa counties in northern Florida , bringing world-class, high-speed internet service to homes and businesses previously lacking reliable connectivity. The newly completed network enables residents to access essential online services including telemedicine, remote education and modern work opportunities. "Completing the fiber network across EREC's service area is another major step forward in our mission to bring connectivity to underserved communities nationwide," said Randy Klindt , Conexon Founding Partner and co-CEO. "We're proud to empower these areas with digital access to help drive innovation, opportunity and growth in Florida ." The Connect, powered by Escambia River Electric Cooperative, network provides members access to multi-gigabit-speed symmetrical internet capabilities, offering the same fast download and upload speeds, as well as reliable phone service. Fiber broadband technology also enables the benefits of smart grid capabilities to the co-op's electrical infrastructure. "Over the past two years, we've worked tirelessly to bring this critical infrastructure to every EREC member in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties," said Ryan Campbell , CEO of EREC. "Today, every member of our cooperative has access to fast, reliable internet, which is not just about improving connectivity – it's about enhancing quality of life, fostering economic growth and ensuring that no one in our community is left behind in the digital age. This project represents our commitment to providing not just electricity, but the tools that empower our members to thrive in an increasingly connected world. By partnering with Connect, we've been able to make a lasting impact on our community." Conexon's current impact in Florida spans five electric cooperatives' service territories – delivering Connect high-speed internet to members of Tri-County Electric Cooperative, Glades Electric Cooperative and EREC – and partnering with Central Florida Electric Cooperative and Suwannee Valley Electric Cooperative as those co-ops build FTTH networks to serve their members with broadband. Collectively the co-ops' broadband project investment totals more than $260 million , with nearly 9,000 miles of fiber built to date, reaching well over 70,000 rural Floridians. "In rural areas across the state, there is only one group of people who truly care about getting broadband to every home in every rural area – not the telephone companies that have abandoned rural Florida , not the cable companies that never built to rural Florida – it is the rural electric cooperatives that have been serving their communities for over 85 years," said Conexon co-CEO Jonathan Chambers . "We are proud of the partnership we formed with Escambia River Electric Cooperative. In just eighteen months, we built a fiber broadband network to serve every member of the cooperative, a network that will last for decades to come." About Conexon Connect Conexon Connect, the fiber-to-the-home internet service provider (ISP) formed and operated by Conexon, is an emerging local broadband leader in rural communities across the country. Connect works predominantly with electric cooperatives and communities, building networks using Conexon's proven methodology and architecture that leverage existing infrastructure to power reliable and affordable 100 percent fiber broadband service for rural homes and businesses. Connect currently operates in Colorado , Florida , Georgia , Kentucky , Louisiana , Mississippi , and Missouri . About Escambia River Electric Cooperative Founded in 1939, Escambia River Electric Cooperative (EREC) is a member-owned electric distribution cooperative serving approximately 12,000 residents in northern Escambia County and Santa Rosa County, Florida . Headquartered in Jay, Florida , with an additional location in Walnut Hill , EREC has a long-standing commitment to providing affordable, reliable electric power to its members. In recent years, the cooperative has expanded its service offerings, including the successful deployment of high-speed fiber internet to every member in its service area. EREC's mission is to provide dependable electric and broadband services at competitive rates while enhancing the region's quality of life through community-driven initiatives. These include supporting economic development, promoting safety and environmental education, and generously contributing time, energy, and resources to charitable organizations, schools, and community events. Cindy Parks 913-526-6912 cindy.parks@conexon.us View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/conexon-connect-completes-first-fiber-to-the-home-project-in-florida-marking-sixth-broadband-network-completion-nationwide-302316929.html SOURCE Conexon Connect © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

As we approach 2025, the landscape of business operations is rapidly evolving, driven by new artificial intelligence (AI) automation trends. These innovations are not just incremental improvements; they represent fundamental shifts in how organizations function, interact with customers, and manage their resources. Understanding and using these trends is crucial for businesses aiming to stay competitive and efficient in an increasingly digital world. In this guide by Jono Catliff, explore seven pivotal AI automation trends that you simply can’t ignore as we approach 2025. So, if you’re ready to and embrace a future where efficiency meets innovation, read on to discover how these trends can be your secret weapon in the digital age to get a competitive edge. Life Cycle Automation streamlines client interactions by automating processes from inquiry to contract finalization, enhancing customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. AI in Automation is advancing with AI assistants handling tasks like email management, reducing human involvement in routine activities and refining business processes. AI-driven Document Processing automates data extraction and analysis, integrating seamlessly with systems to save time and reduce errors, making sure data accuracy. AI Chatbots are evolving to manage customer interactions and automate tasks like invoice dispatch, becoming central to customer service and operational efficiency. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) automates repetitive tasks, allowing human resources to focus on complex tasks, enhancing productivity and reducing errors. Life cycle automation is redefining how businesses manage client interactions from initial contact to long-term engagement. This comprehensive approach encompasses: Automated lead generation and qualification Personalized onboarding processes Intelligent contract management systems Proactive customer retention strategies By implementing life cycle automation, you can and focus on strategic initiatives. This shift not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures a consistent, high-quality customer experience throughout the entire relationship. The result is improved customer satisfaction, increased loyalty, and more predictable revenue streams. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of automation, transforming routine tasks into intelligent, adaptive processes. AI assistants are now capable of: Managing complex email communications Coordinating intricate workflows across departments Providing data-driven insights for decision-making Predicting and preventing operational bottlenecks As AI technology continues to advance, expect to see even more sophisticated applications that can and optimize processes in real-time. This evolution will enable businesses to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency and responsiveness. Below are more guides on automation from our extensive range of articles. The integration of AI in document processing is transforming how businesses handle information. This technology enables: Automated extraction of key data from various document types Intelligent categorization and filing of information Seamless integration with existing accounting and ERP systems Real-time data analysis and reporting By using AI-powered document processing, you can , minimize errors, and gain faster access to critical business information. This trend not only saves time but also enhances decision-making capabilities by providing accurate, up-to-date data at your fingertips. AI chatbots are evolving from simple query responders to sophisticated interfaces capable of managing complex customer interactions. These advanced chatbots can: Handle multi-step processes like invoice generation and dispatch Provide personalized product recommendations Offer real-time support across multiple channels Learn and adapt to customer preferences over time As AI technology progresses, chatbots will become increasingly , offering seamless, 24/7 customer service while significantly reducing operational costs. RPA is transforming how businesses handle repetitive tasks by deploying software robots to mimic human actions in digital environments. Key applications include: Automated data entry and validation Streamlined file management and organization Efficient processing of financial transactions Automated report generation and distribution By implementing RPA, you can for more complex, value-added tasks. This not only boosts productivity but also reduces errors and improves employee satisfaction by eliminating monotonous work. While automation drives efficiency, maintaining a human element remains crucial for brand identity and customer trust. Humanizing automation involves: Integrating human oversight in automated processes Making sure brand consistency in automated communications Providing options for human interaction when needed Using automation to enhance, not replace, human creativity By striking the right balance, you can while preserving the personal touch that builds lasting customer relationships. Hyper automation represents the pinnacle of automated business processes, combining various technologies into a cohesive, self-improving system. This trend encompasses: Integration of AI, machine learning, and RPA Continuous process optimization through data analysis Automated decision-making based on real-time insights Scalable automation across entire organizations By embracing hyper automation, businesses can achieve and adaptability, positioning themselves to thrive in rapidly changing market conditions. As we move towards 2025, these seven automation trends will continue to reshape the business landscape. By understanding and strategically implementing these innovations, you can position your organization at the forefront of efficiency, customer satisfaction, and competitive advantage. The key lies in not just adopting these technologies, but in integrating them thoughtfully into your business strategy to create a more agile, responsive, and successful enterprise. Media Credit:

NoneHere, the PA news agency looks at the seven Grand Slam finals contested by the pair. Murray turned in a poor performance in Melbourne, failing at the third attempt to win a set in a Grand Slam final as Djokovic broke serve seven times and hit six aces to claim a comprehensive win 6-4 6-2 6-3. “You had an unbelievable tournament and deserved to win,” the Scot said in reference to his opponent. “I look forward to playing against you in the future.” It took five sets for Murray to claim his first Grand Slam title, becoming the first British man to achieve the feat since Fred Perry in 1936. The final clocked in at four hours and 54 minutes as Murray prevailed 7-6 (10) 7-5 2-6 3-6 6-2 to end a wait of 287 tournaments in British male tennis for a victory. “I want to congratulate Andy on his first grand slam, he thoroughly deserves it,” said Djokovic. “I really tried my best. I gave it my all. It was a tremendous match.” Murray was dogged by injury in Melbourne with a heavily strapped right foot and a tight hamstring as Djokovic fought back from a set down to land a third consecutive Australian Open title, 6-7 (2) 7-6 (3) 6-3 6-2. “His record here is incredible,” said Murray. ”Very few people have managed to do what he has done, a deserved champion.” Murray ended a 77-year wait for a British men’s victory at Wimbledon by defeating his old foe 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 in SW19, serving emphatically with nine aces and only two double faults to throw off the weight of history. The Scot had been 4-1 down in the second set as the match threatened to slip away from him and with it the chance to cement his place in tennis folklore, but having wasted three championship points he finally sealed the deal when Djokovic drove into the net with his final shot. Djokovic triumphed 7-6 (5) 6-7 (4) 6-3 6-0 and after the 24 matches and five grand slam finals the pair had played against each other across nine years, the Serb had established a 16-8 overall lead and 3-2 in slam finals. “Success is being happy,” said Murray. “It’s not about winning every single tournament you play, because that isn’t possible.” The Serb landed a fourth win over Murray in Australian Open finals and his 11th in 12 matches to land his 11th major title, whilst the Scot made it five consecutive final losses in Melbourne, a new record in the Open era. “I feel like I’ve been here before,” said Murray after a 6-1 7-5 7-6 (3) loss. “Congratulations Novak, six Australian Opens, an incredible feat, and incredible consistency the last year.” This was Murray’s first final at Roland Garros but it brought a familiar conclusion as Djokovic triumphed against him for the fifth time in seven Grand Slam finals. The 3-6 6-1 6-2 6-4 success was a first win for the Serb in Paris and saw him hold all four slams simultaneously. Murray went on to win Wimbledon the following month and was voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year but, addressing Djokovic in Paris, said: “This is his day today. What he’s achieved the last 12 months is phenomenal, winning all four of the grand slams in one year is an amazing achievement.”Pathstone Holdings LLC grew its position in SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF ( NYSEARCA:MDYG – Free Report ) by 0.3% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 73,138 shares of the company’s stock after acquiring an additional 206 shares during the period. Pathstone Holdings LLC owned about 0.21% of SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF worth $6,417,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. LPL Financial LLC grew its holdings in SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF by 9.8% during the second quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 1,685,162 shares of the company’s stock worth $141,655,000 after purchasing an additional 150,580 shares during the period. Parcion Private Wealth LLC boosted its stake in shares of SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF by 30.8% during the 3rd quarter. Parcion Private Wealth LLC now owns 825,383 shares of the company’s stock worth $72,419,000 after acquiring an additional 194,413 shares during the period. AE Wealth Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF by 12.2% during the 2nd quarter. AE Wealth Management LLC now owns 744,990 shares of the company’s stock worth $62,624,000 after acquiring an additional 81,121 shares during the last quarter. Confluence Investment Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF by 165.6% during the 3rd quarter. Confluence Investment Management LLC now owns 488,176 shares of the company’s stock worth $42,833,000 after acquiring an additional 304,355 shares during the last quarter. Finally, FAS Wealth Partners Inc. raised its stake in SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF by 3.8% in the 2nd quarter. FAS Wealth Partners Inc. now owns 439,487 shares of the company’s stock valued at $36,943,000 after acquiring an additional 16,010 shares during the period. SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF Price Performance MDYG stock opened at $93.48 on Friday. SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF has a one year low of $69.97 and a one year high of $93.52. The stock has a market cap of $3.31 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.50 and a beta of 1.09. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $88.74 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $86.28. About SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF SPDR S&P 400 Mid Cap Growth ETF, before expenses, seeks to closely match the returns and characteristics of the S&P Mid Cap 400 Growth Index. The S&P MidCap 400 Growth Index measures the performance of the mid-capitalization growth sector in the United States equity market. The Index consists of those stocks in the S&P MidCap 400 Index exhibiting the strongest growth characteristics based on: sales growth; earnings change to price, and momentum. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MDYG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF ( NYSEARCA:MDYG – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for SPDR S&P 400 Mid CapGrowth ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

BURLINGTON, N.J., Nov. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Burlington Stores, Inc. BURL , a nationally recognized off-price retailer of high-quality, branded apparel, footwear, accessories, and merchandise for the home at everyday low prices, announced today that Shira Goodman, former Chief Executive Officer of Staples, Inc., is joining its Board of Directors and its Audit Committee effective January 1, 2025. John Mahoney, Chairman of the Board, stated, "We are very pleased to welcome Shira to our Board as a highly accomplished business leader with considerable public company board experience. I believe that she will enhance the depth and strength of our Board as it continues to oversee the Company's continued strategic growth." Michael O'Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer, stated, "We are very excited to have Shira as a Board member. She has almost three decades of experience in the retail industry, and her perspectives and expertise will benefit us as we continue to execute on the Burlington 2.0 strategy and aim to drive sales and earnings growth in the years ahead." Ms. Goodman added, "I am excited to join Burlington's Board and work with the leadership team. I believe the Company is well positioned for continued growth and I am eager to contribute to the Company's continued success." About Shira Goodman Ms. Goodman has served as an Advisory Director to Charlesbank Capital Partners, a private equity firm, since January 2019. She previously served as the Chief Executive Officer of Staples, Inc. from September 2016 to January 2018. Ms. Goodman served in roles with increasing responsibility at Staples since joining the company in 1992, including President and Interim Chief Executive Officer from June 2016 to September 2016, President, North American Operations from January 2016 to June 2016, and President, North American Commercial from February 2014 to June 2016. Prior to that, she served as Executive Vice President of Global Growth from February 2012 to February 2014, Executive Vice President of Human Resources from March 2009 to February 2012, Executive Vice President of Marketing from May 2001 to March 2009, and in various other management positions. Prior to Staples, Ms. Goodman worked at Bain & Company from 1986 to 1992, in project design, client relationships and case team management. She currently serves on the board of directors of CarMax, Inc. and CBRE Group, Inc., and previously served on the board of directors of Henry Schein, Inc., Staples, Inc. and The Stride Rite Corporation. About Burlington Stores, Inc. Burlington Stores, Inc., headquartered in New Jersey, is a nationally recognized off-price retailer with Fiscal 2023 net sales of $9.7 billion. The Company is a Fortune 500 company and its common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "BURL." The Company operated 1,103 stores as of the end of the third quarter of Fiscal 2024, in 46 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, principally under the name Burlington Stores. The Company's stores offer an extensive selection of in-season, fashion-focused merchandise at up to 60% off other retailers' prices, including women's ready-to-wear apparel, menswear, youth apparel, baby, beauty, footwear, accessories, home, toys, gifts and coats. For more information about the Company, visit www.burlington.com . Investor Relations Contacts: David J. Glick Daniel Delrosario 855-973-8445 Info@BurlingtonInvestors.com Allison Malkin ICR, Inc. 203-682-8225 Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking and Cautionary Statements This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements discuss our current expectations and projections relating to our financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. We do not undertake to publicly update or revise our forward-looking statements, except as required by law, even if experience or future changes make it clear that any projected results expressed or implied in such statements will not be realized. If we do update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be made that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual events or results to differ materially from those we expected, including general economic conditions, such as inflation, and the domestic and international political situation and the related impact on consumer confidence and spending; competitive factors, including the scale and potential consolidation of some of our competitors, rise of e-commerce spending, pricing and promotional activities of major competitors, and an increase in competition within the markets in which we compete; seasonal fluctuations in our net sales, operating income and inventory levels; the reduction in traffic to, or the closing of, the other destination retailers in the shopping areas where our stores are located; our ability to identify changing consumer preferences and demand; our ability to meet our environmental, social or governance ("ESG") goals or otherwise expectations of our stakeholders with respect to ESG matters; extreme and/or unseasonable weather conditions caused by climate change or otherwise adversely impacting demand; effects of public health crises, epidemics or pandemics; our ability to sustain our growth plans or successfully implement our long-range strategic plans; our ability to execute our opportunistic buying and inventory management process; our ability to optimize our existing stores or maintain favorable lease terms; the availability, selection and purchasing of attractive brand name merchandise on favorable terms; our ability to attract, train and retain quality employees and temporary personnel in sufficient numbers; labor costs and our ability to manage a large workforce; the solvency of parties with whom we do business and their willingness to perform their obligations to us; import risks, including tax and trade policies, tariffs and government regulations; disruption in our distribution network; our ability to protect our protect our information systems against service interruption, misappropriation of data, breaches of security, or other cyber-related attacks; risks related to the methods of payment we accept; the success of our advertising and marketing programs in generating sufficient levels of customer traffic and awareness; damage to our corporate reputation or brand; impact of potential loss of executives or other key personnel; our ability to comply with existing and changing laws, rules, regulations and local codes; lack of or insufficient insurance coverage; issues with merchandise safety and shrinkage; our ability to comply with increasingly rigorous privacy and data security regulations; impact of legal and regulatory proceedings relating to us; use of social media by us or by third parties our direction in violation of applicable laws and regulations; our ability to generate sufficient cash to fund our operations and service our debt obligations; our ability to comply with covenants in our debt agreements; the consequences of the possible conversion of our convertible notes; our reliance on dividends, distributions and other payments, advance and transfers of funds from our subsidiaries to meet our obligations; the volatility of our stock price; the impact of the anti-takeover provisions in our governing documents; impact of potential shareholder activism; and each of the factors that may be described from time to time in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including under the heading "Risk Factors" in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K. For each of these factors, the Company claims the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Here, the PA news agency looks at the seven Grand Slam finals contested by the pair. Australian Open 2011 – Djokovic Murray turned in a poor performance in Melbourne, failing at the third attempt to win a set in a Grand Slam final as Djokovic broke serve seven times and hit six aces to claim a comprehensive win 6-4 6-2 6-3. “You had an unbelievable tournament and deserved to win,” the Scot said in reference to his opponent. “I look forward to playing against you in the future.” US Open 2012 – Murray It took five sets for Murray to claim his first Grand Slam title, becoming the first British man to achieve the feat since Fred Perry in 1936. The final clocked in at four hours and 54 minutes as Murray prevailed 7-6 (10) 7-5 2-6 3-6 6-2 to end a wait of 287 tournaments in British male tennis for a victory. “I want to congratulate Andy on his first grand slam, he thoroughly deserves it,” said Djokovic. “I really tried my best. I gave it my all. It was a tremendous match.” Australian Open 2013 – Djokovic Murray was dogged by injury in Melbourne with a heavily strapped right foot and a tight hamstring as Djokovic fought back from a set down to land a third consecutive Australian Open title, 6-7 (2) 7-6 (3) 6-3 6-2. “His record here is incredible,” said Murray. ”Very few people have managed to do what he has done, a deserved champion.” Wimbledon 2013 – Murray Murray ended a 77-year wait for a British men’s victory at Wimbledon by defeating his old foe 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 in SW19, serving emphatically with nine aces and only two double faults to throw off the weight of history. The Scot had been 4-1 down in the second set as the match threatened to slip away from him and with it the chance to cement his place in tennis folklore, but having wasted three championship points he finally sealed the deal when Djokovic drove into the net with his final shot. Australian Open 2015 – Djokovic Djokovic triumphed 7-6 (5) 6-7 (4) 6-3 6-0 and after the 24 matches and five grand slam finals the pair had played against each other across nine years, the Serb had established a 16-8 overall lead and 3-2 in slam finals. “Success is being happy,” said Murray. “It’s not about winning every single tournament you play, because that isn’t possible.” Australian Open 2016 – Djokovic The Serb landed a fourth win over Murray in Australian Open finals and his 11th in 12 matches to land his 11th major title, whilst the Scot made it five consecutive final losses in Melbourne, a new record in the Open era. “I feel like I’ve been here before,” said Murray after a 6-1 7-5 7-6 (3) loss. “Congratulations Novak, six Australian Opens, an incredible feat, and incredible consistency the last year.” French Open 2016 – Djokovic This was Murray’s first final at Roland Garros but it brought a familiar conclusion as Djokovic triumphed against him for the fifth time in seven Grand Slam finals. The 3-6 6-1 6-2 6-4 success was a first win for the Serb in Paris and saw him hold all four slams simultaneously. Murray went on to win Wimbledon the following month and was voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year but, addressing Djokovic in Paris, said: “This is his day today. What he’s achieved the last 12 months is phenomenal, winning all four of the grand slams in one year is an amazing achievement.”NEW YORK (AP) — Edmonton Oilers forward Jeff Skinner has been fined $2,000 for embellishment during a recent game against the New York Rangers, the NHL said Monday. Skinner was issued a warning after a diving/embellishment incident in an Oct. 22 game against the Carolina Hurricanes, the league said. His second citation, which triggered the fine, came in the second period of a 6-2 victory over the Rangers on Nov. 23. Skinner was being followed by Rangers defenseman K’Andre Miller as he had the puck along the boards in the New York zone. Skinner lost his footing and the puck despite minimal contact from Miller. The Oilers forward looked toward the referee as he got up but no penalty call was made on the play. The money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund. AP NHL: https://www.apnews.com/hub/NHL

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