PR in the Philippines

GREEN LAKE, Wis. — A Wisconsin man who staged his own drowning to leave his wife and three children has been in daily contact with authorities from Eastern Europe, detailing his actions but showing no intention of returning home, a sheriff reported Thursday. Sheriff Mark Podoll of Green Lake County announced at a press conference that Ryan Borgwardt has been communicating with officials since November 11th, following a three-month disappearance. The sheriff subsequently displayed a video Borgwardt sent to the sheriff’s office on that date. “The positive news is we know he’s alive and well,” Podoll stated. “The negative news is his precise location is unknown, and he hasn’t committed to returning home.” In the video, apparently recorded on his phone, Borgwardt, wearing an orange shirt and with a serious expression, addressed the camera directly. The video mostly showed a door and plain walls, with only a brief apartment panorama. “I’m safe and secure, no problem,” Borgwardt said. “I hope this works.” The sheriff indicated Borgwardt cited “personal matters” as his reason for fleeing, declining further explanation. “He aimed to improve things, in his view, and this was his chosen method,” Podoll explained. Borgwardt informed authorities he traveled approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) from his Watertown residence to Green Lake, capsized his kayak, discarded his phone in the lake, and then paddled an inflatable boat to shore. He selected this lake, he said, because of its significant depth (237 feet or over 72 meters), Wisconsin's deepest lake. Following this, the sheriff stated that he rode an electric bike around 70 miles (110 kilometers) overnight to Madison. From there, he took a bus to Detroit, then another bus to Canada, before boarding a plane, according to the sheriff. Podoll mentioned that police are still verifying Borgwardt’s account of events. The sheriff suggested potential charges of obstructing the investigation into his disappearance, though no charges have yet been filed. The more than one-month search for Borgwardt’s body cost at least $35,000, the sheriff’s office reported. Podoll said Borgwardt had not anticipated the search to exceed two weeks. Borgwardt’s return, Podoll said, depends entirely on his “free will.” The sheriff noted that Borgwardt’s primary concern about returning is public reaction. “His plan didn't unfold as envisioned,” the sheriff commented. “So now we’re offering him an alternative plan to return.” Authorities are continuously urging his return, the sheriff added. “Christmas is approaching,” Podoll remarked. “And what better present could his children receive than his presence at Christmas?” Borgwardt’s disappearance was initially investigated as a potential drowning after his kayaking trip on Green Lake in August, roughly 100 miles (160 kilometers) northwest of Milwaukee. However, subsequent evidence—including the acquisition of a new passport three months prior—led investigators to suspect a staged death, potentially to meet a woman he'd been communicating with in Uzbekistan. The sheriff declined to comment on specifics about this woman but confirmed that police contacted Borgwardt “through a Russian-speaking woman.” Prior to last week's contact, Borgwardt hadn't been heard from since the night of August 11th, when he texted his wife shortly before 11 p.m., stating he was heading to shore after kayaking. Deputies located his vehicle and trailer near the lake. They also discovered his overturned kayak with a life jacket, in an area where the lake's depth exceeds 200 feet (60 meters). The search for his body lasted over 50 days, involving repeated lake explorations by divers. In early October, the sheriff’s department learned that Canadian law enforcement checked Borgwardt's details the day after his disappearance. Further investigation revealed a report of his passport being lost or stolen, and the acquisition of a new one in May. The sheriff’s office stated that laptop analysis revealed a digital trail indicating Borgwardt's plan to go to Europe and attempts to mislead investigators. The laptop's hard drive had been replaced and browsers cleared the day he disappeared, according to the sheriff’s office. Investigators found passport photos, inquiries about transferring money to foreign banks, and communications with a woman from Uzbekistan. They also uncovered a $375,000 life insurance policy he obtained in January, intended for his family, not himself, the sheriff noted. Authorities contacted every phone number and email address from the laptop, eventually reaching the Russian-speaking woman, who then connected them with Borgwardt. It remains unclear if she is the woman from Uzbekistan. Podoll expressed uncertainty about Borgwardt's current financial situation but speculated he’s employed: “He’s intelligent.” —Associated Press writer Scott Bauer in Madison contributed to this report.

The Biden administration's recent actions against Alphabet, aiming to force divestiture, align with widespread anti-big business sentiment among Republicans. This crackdown on major American institutions – technology, food, pharmaceuticals, finance, and higher education – reflects a growing anger that's uniting seemingly opposing political factions. Contemporary MAGA supporters and self-described progressives share common ground with early 20th-century agrarian populists like Tom Watson and Eugene V. Debs. Despite Trump's divisive victory, a connection between political extremes is emerging. During Trump's 2015 campaign planning, he considered appealing to national outrage by moving left of Bernie Sanders. Senator Ron Johnson's enthusiastic endorsement of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination as Secretary of Health and Human Services, despite Kennedy's controversial views, wasn't entirely unexpected. However, Governor Jared Polis's similar support, citing shared anti-corporate views, was surprising. A Democratic Senator also voiced agreement with Kennedy's criticisms of corporations. Similarly, Matt Gaetz, a controversial MAGA figure, received unexpected defense from a Democratic representative. Tulsi Gabbard's nomination as Director of National Intelligence, despite being labeled a Russian asset by some prominent figures, garnered support from Bernie Sanders, who highlighted her dedication to the country. Sanders also criticized Democrats for dismissing Joe Rogan, a popular Trump supporter. The Biden administration's antitrust policy, while viewed by some as an attack on American competitiveness, is also seen by others as fostering new opportunities. The potential forced divestiture of Google Chrome could impact Alphabet's services. Both the Attorney General and the nominee for Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission have indicated a strong stance against tech giants. FTC Chair Lina Khan's antitrust enforcement faced resistance from some, prompting intervention from Vice President Harris. Interestingly, Senator J.D. Vance supports these moves, praising Lina Khan's work and even collaborating with progressive colleagues on legislation to curb large mergers. The deep roots of populist anger in American society stem from various sources: class resentment, fear of technological change, anxieties over demographic shifts, and a long-standing anti-intellectual tradition. This populist anger, regardless of its origins, is a potent force, transcending traditional political divides and easily ignited by charismatic leaders or significant events.

The ongoing COP29 in Baku has highlighted significant disagreements among nations regarding global decarbonization. Disputes over fossil fuels, financial responsibilities of wealthier nations, and geopolitical tensions raise concerns about the conference's potential failure. However, a more significant factor is emerging: the intertwined nature of climate and trade policies. A pre-conference dispute over carbon-targeting tariffs foreshadows future challenges. With President-elect Trump's anticipated disruption, trade policy's influence on climate discussions will likely grow. Many in the international climate policy community avoid addressing this contentious issue to prevent hindering progress elsewhere. This is shortsighted; the climate-trade relationship is crucial for future climate action. Pamela Coke-Hamilton, head of the International Trade Centre, emphasizes the need for open discussion and rules governing trade's climate impact, stating that ignoring it won't solve the problem. For the first few decades, trade policy played a minor role in international climate discussions. While scholars suggested carbon-based import penalties as an emissions reduction tool, policymakers favored cooperative approaches. However, differing climate policies increased the importance of linking emissions and trade. Countries like those in the European Union, heavily investing in emissions reduction, faced challenges as some trading partners lagged. Following the first Trump administration, the EU initiated a carbon fee on imports; other regions, such as the UK, Australia, and Canada, are exploring similar policies. Exporting nations are unhappy. Before COP29, major emerging economies threatened delays unless trade issues were addressed, citing increased costs of global climate action and hindered efforts of developing nations to meet climate commitments. While carbon tariffs do raise costs for developing economies, the precise impact remains uncertain. The issue was ultimately postponed, but it will likely resurface, especially with Brazil hosting next year's talks. A key post-COP29 question involves the U.S. stance. While lacking a national carbon price, the U.S. has various environmental regulations resulting in higher production costs for some goods. This creates opportunities for penalizing higher-emission imports. Both Democrats and Republicans have proposed carbon border fees, and the Biden administration formed a working group to study this. Intriguingly, Trump's reported trade policy appointee, Bob Lighthizer, supports such an approach. Supporters see potential for progress. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse highlights a Capitol Hill working group studying the issue. Skepticism remains about a future Trump administration adopting this. While Trump favors trade restrictions, he hasn't specifically mentioned carbon tariffs, instead focusing on broad import tariffs and potentially higher rates for China. His pro-tariff stance might not overcome his climate change skepticism. The effectiveness of linking climate and trade in reducing emissions depends on policy implementation. Well-designed policies can create a level playing field, ensuring all companies bear emissions costs, while poorly designed policies could disrupt trade without achieving emissions reductions. A major concern is the U.S. imposing carbon tariffs without a domestic carbon price, potentially benefiting some U.S. firms. Despite uncertainty under a second Trump administration, the discussion highlights the energy transition's economic impact and trade's unexpectedly significant role.

 Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his nomination as President-elect Donald Trump's Attorney General on Thursday. This followed ongoing scrutiny of a federal sex trafficking investigation, raising concerns about his confirmation as the nation's top law enforcement official. The Florida Republican made his announcement a day after meeting with senators to seek their support for his confirmation to lead the Department of Justice. “Although I had significant momentum, it's clear my confirmation was unjustly becoming a distraction from the crucial work of the Trump/Vance Transition,” Gaetz stated. “There's no time to waste on an unnecessarily prolonged Washington dispute; therefore, I'm withdrawing my name from consideration for Attorney General. Trump's DOJ must be ready on Day 1.” Gaetz's withdrawal hinders Trump's efforts to appoint loyalists to his administration and marks an early sign of potential resistance from within his own party.

Michael Schur, renowned for comedies like Parks and Recreation, The Good Place, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, presents his new Netflix series, A Man on the Inside, debuting November 21st. The show unites Ted Danson (The Good Place) and Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine), alongside Mary Elizabeth Ellis (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia) and Lilah Richcreek Estrada (Chicago Med), in a San Francisco retirement home setting. Danson's character, a widower named Charles, tackles a mystery solvable only from within the Pacific View Retirement Residence, while Beatriz plays Didi, the facility's manager. The series draws inspiration from the 2020 Oscar-nominated documentary The Mole Agent, set in a Chilean retirement home. Danson and Beatriz shared their recollections of significant firsts with TIME—their initial meeting, their first on-screen mystery-solving experiences, and their individual breakthroughs in the entertainment industry.

Candela's founder and CEO, Gustav Hasselskog, explains that the P12 ferry leverages hydrofoil technology and an electric propulsion system to achieve a 75% reduction in energy use.

As a president begins announcing his Cabinet selections, many still await Senate confirmation. These choices will test the loyalty of the Republican-led Senate and could lead to an unprecedented event – the first rejection in a century. Only twelve Cabinet nominations have ever been rejected in U.S. history. Rejection by a President’s own party is exceedingly rare. The last instance occurred in 1925 when the Republican Senate refused to confirm President Calvin Coolidge's Attorney General nominee, Charles B. Warren.  TIME featured Warren on its January 1925 cover following Coolidge's announcement. The magazine noted Coolidge's personal regard for Warren, highlighting his intellect and describing him as suave and capable. TIME further characterized Warren as a shrewd strategist. However, controversy surrounded the nomination. Warren's involvement in a "Sugar Trust" scandal, stemming from his recent departure as president of the Michigan Sugar Company, emerged. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) had charged seventeen companies, including the Michigan Sugar Company, with anti-competitive practices. Warren was named as a defendant. The New York Times reported evidence suggesting Warren facilitated the suppression of competition.  Senators worried this connection would compromise his impartiality in enforcing antitrust laws. Senator James Reed of Missouri famously commented on the nomination, expressing concern that the Department of Justice would fall under the control of the Sugar Trust. The initial confirmation vote ended in a 40-40 tie, leaving the Vice President, Charles Dawes, who happened to be at the Willard Hotel, unable to cast a tie-breaking vote.  Despite Republican warnings, Coolidge renominated Warren. The White House issued a statement affirming its commitment to his confirmation and even considering a recess appointment if necessary, emphasizing the importance of presidential prerogative in cabinet selections. The Senate again rejected Warren, this time by a 46-39 vote.  Only two subsequent Cabinet nominations have been rejected: one for Secretary of Commerce in 1959 and John Tower for Secretary of Defense in 1989—both Republican nominees rejected by a Democrat-controlled Senate.   ```

TIME CEO Jessica Sibley's memo to staff on Thursday: Team, We're making significant progress toward building a sustainable future for TIME. To maintain this momentum and further diversify our revenue, I'm announcing the following promotions and structural changes within our B2B revenue team, effective immediately. Viktoria Degtar is appointed Global Chief Commercial Officer, leading TIME's unified global sales team. Since joining in 2019, Viktoria has demonstrated strong commercial leadership, expanding TIME's presence in key markets (Middle East, Africa, Singapore) and achieving record global revenue. She will now oversee TIME's global sales strategy, driving innovation, scaling commercial offerings, and providing tailored solutions leveraging TIME's storytelling and thought leadership. This will solidify TIME's position as a global leader in premium media and purpose-driven partnerships. She will remain based in London. Damian Douglas becomes Managing Director, International, overseeing sales in EMEA and APAC. Since 2019, Damian has shown exceptional leadership, driving EMEA growth and strengthening key client relationships. EMEA's 2024 performance, including nearly $10 million in revenue from TIME's top 10 global accounts, highlights his success. He will continue this growth, collaborating with Tim Howat to expand in APAC. He will report to Viktoria. Mike Duffy is named Head of EMEA, leading sales strategy and execution across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Since 2019, Mike has significantly strengthened TIME's presence, particularly in the Middle East. His strategic approach has made TIME a trusted brand in this key market. He will focus on further growth and impact in EMEA, reporting to Damian. Eric Kelliher, now reporting to Viktoria, continues leading the U.S. sales team as Chief Revenue Officer, U.S., driving innovation and expansion across North America, while ensuring global market collaboration. This restructuring reflects TIME's commitment to innovation, partnership growth, and delivering measurable client impact globally. Dan Macsai becomes TIME’s Chief Strategy Officer, a new role leveraging his editorial expertise and entrepreneurial skills to grow TIME's business. Building on his leadership of TIME Events—which achieved record growth in 2024—Dan will oversee the go-to-market strategy for TIME's core B2B media products (digital, social, branded content). This will position TIME at the forefront of media innovation. Since joining TIME in 2012, Dan has consistently demonstrated strong leadership. He will continue overseeing TIME Events and retain the title of Executive Editor, focusing on the TIME100 community and new initiatives. He will report to Editor in Chief Sam Jacobs and remain based in New York City.His team will include: Melody Khodaverdian as SVP, Partnerships & Strategy, overseeing go-to-market strategies for TIME Events and related media products. Since joining last year, Melody has shown strategic thinking and strong sales abilities, driving growth in TIME's events business. She will align partnerships with TIME's storytelling and thought leadership. Melanie Ruderman as VP, Digital & Strategy, overseeing go-to-market strategies for TIME's B2B digital media products. Since May, Melanie has used her digital strategy expertise to shape content creation and sales across social platforms (55+ million audience). She will lead efforts to innovate and scale TIME's digital media offerings. Chief Marketing and Impact Officer Sadé Muhammad and Chief Climate Officer Shyla Raghav will continue their current roles, focusing on monetizing initiatives led by Dan and his team. Please congratulate these colleagues on their new roles and contributions to revenue growth. Best, Jess

The “Best Companies and Colleges for Future Leaders” initiative identifies U.S. organizations that cultivate influential leaders. It investigates where leading U.S. figures receive their education and which companies serve as crucial stepping stones in their advancement to senior roles. The rankings highlight organizations significantly impacting the careers of high-achieving leaders. Methodology The methodology analyzes a diverse group of 4,000 highly influential U.S. leaders across various sectors. Researchers meticulously compiled the leaders' CVs, documenting publicly available educational and professional information from websites, resumes, corporate biographies, social media, and news articles. Leader selection focused on their career paths to their current influential positions; current roles were excluded from the data analysis. Only companies with substantial U.S. presence were included. This criterion applied only at the position level, allowing leaders with international experience to be included, but only for U.S.-based experiences. Board and advisory roles, along with honorary degrees and positions, were excluded, as they typically reflect established success rather than career development. The study collected roughly 16,000 career milestones (CV entries), including organization names, positions, and dates, from biographies, websites, CVs, and social media. Organizations were categorized under their current parent brands, accounting for mergers and acquisitions. Company headcounts and university enrollment figures were incorporated into a leadership index, adjusting for organization size. CV entries were classified as ‘educational’ or ‘professional.’ The final rankings consist of “Best Colleges for Future Leaders” and “Best Companies for Future Leaders,” derived from the leadership index. These rankings identify organizations excelling in leadership development. Read about the Read about the