The Power of Donation
This pilot’s story underscores the profound and life-changing power of bone marrow donation. It’s a reminder that a simple act of kindness and generosity can have an extraordinary impact on another person’s life.
(wks/wks)
“New Zealand Rugby is diligently working to finalize the details of an exhilarating 2025 domestic test schedule for both the Black Ferns and All Blacks, with highlights including a highly anticipated July series against France. NZR has expressed optimism that the schedule will be unveiled to passionate fans in December,” stated New Zealand Rugby in an official announcement.
Over 33,000 enthusiastic fans filled the stands at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego for the recent test match, with a striking 70% of the attendees traveling from outside the city, showcasing the growing interest in rugby within the United States. This event not only provided thrilling action on the field but also opened up significant commercial opportunities and heightened exposure in the crucial lead-up to the 2031 Rugby World Cup, which will be hosted by the US.
The United States is gearing up to host its inaugural Rugby World Cup in 2031, and there is a noticeable push from USA Rugby to secure major test nations competing on American soil as part of the preparatory efforts for this landmark event. Reports indicate that the British and Irish Lions, alongside New Zealand Rugby, are considering scheduling a game in the US during their 2029 tour, prior to their arrival in New Zealand.
In 2025, under the leadership of coach Scott Robertson, the All Blacks are set to host three pivotal tests against France. This matchup will mark the first time the All Blacks have faced France since 2018. Additionally, they will take on the World Champion South Africa in two competitive encounters and include a thrilling Bledisloe Cup test.
The All Blacks will also embark on two challenging away tests against Argentina during the Rugby Championship and an away Bledisloe Cup clash against their fierce rivals, Australia.
The All Blacks first set foot on US soil in 1913, competing against the national team in Berkeley. It took a remarkable 101 years for them to return, this time securing a dominant 74-6 victory over the USA Eagles in Chicago.
The team made its return in 2016 and followed up with another match in 2021 against the US in Washington, prior to kicking off the European leg of their northern tour.
Scotland’s rugby team could also make an appearance on New Zealand shores next July, as plans are taking shape for a midweek fixture during their series. Coach Gregor Townsend confirmed this week that his squad is poised to face Fiji in the Pacific Islands, while also seeking to finalize another test, potentially in New Zealand, alongside a midweek game.
When pressed about facing the All Blacks, Townsend remarked, “No, probably a midweek game. You can work out who that could be.”
Blues coach Vern Cotter, a former Scotland coach, is cognizant of the Super Rugby Pacific season finishing around that time. A match against the Maori All Blacks could be a likely scenario for Scotland’s potential visit.
United tied in their first three Europa League matches, but a header from Diallo sent the ball into the bottom corner of the goal after a cross from Bruno Fernandes five minutes after the end of the break, giving coach Van Nistelrooy’s team the lead.
The two teams were looking for their first victory in the tournament, and the visiting Greek team had several opportunities to snatch something from Old Trafford, and United goalkeeper Andre Onana was forced to parry a shot from Madi Kamara in the first half.
PAOK had an excellent opportunity to equalize in the 64th minute, but unmarked striker Tariq Tissodali shot a weak shot that was blocked by Onana, and Diallo ensured United’s victory 13 minutes before the end of the match.
This time Diallo did it all on his own, snatching the ball from Baba Rahman, skipping past the defender and making his way to the edge of the penalty area before firing a stunning shot into the far corner.
Diallo told the TNT Sports television network, “It has been a long time since we (last) won in Europe. Today we showed why we are one of the best teams. It was important that we win today. It is important that we score every time. “I’ve been unlucky this season, so I’m happy to score two goals today, but the most important thing is to win.”
Former United striker Van Nistelrooy, who will soon be replaced by new coach Ruben Amorim, took over from the sacked Ten Hag ten days ago and has not lost in three matches with United.
Van Nistelrooy said, “The first half was very bad, if I’m being kind. It was clear that the second half was better. Amad made the difference today thanks to his two goals, but he was at the peak of his concentration. Congratulations to him, he played a good match. Our positioning was not good in the first half. We were better.” “A lot in the second half.”
This victory raised United’s balance to six points from four matches, placing them in 15th place in the league stage of the tournament.
Manchester United’s Europa League Triumph: A Comedy of Errors and Glory!
Ah, Manchester United! The team that resembles a rollercoaster: thrilling, terrifying, and filled with unexpected twists! After tying their first three matches in this seasons’ Europa League, you’d think they were pulling off a masterclass in mediocrity. But, lo and behold, a header from Diallo—yes, the man of the hour—sent the ball spinning into the bottom corner of the goal following a textbook cross from Bruno Fernandes. This was five minutes into the second half, reminding us all that football is very much a game of two halves! Or in this case, three mismanaged matches followed by two scintillating goals from Diallo. Bravo!
Let’s not forget our Greek visitors, PAOK, who were as close to stealing a win as a seagull is to my fish and chips in Blackpool. I mean, sure, they had several opportunities to pinch something from Old Trafford, and their Madi Kamara had the audacity to make United’s goalkeeper Andre Onana parry a rather ambitious shot in the first half. Poor Onana, bless him. One minute he’s minding his own business, and the next he’s turning into a human brick wall! The sheer pressure must’ve been enough to make him wonder if he’d accidentally signed up for a game of dodgeball.
Now, PAOK—good chap Tariq Tissodali—had a brilliant chance to level the scores in the 64th minute. With the goal gaping and the defenders missing in action, Tissodali chose to execute a shot so weak that I half-expected it to veer off and ask for a deferral on its way to February. Thank you, Andre Onana, for blocking that shot and sparing us the horror of a draw! Just imagine the headlines—’United: Still Searching for the Meaning of Life—and a Win!’
But look, in classic United fashion, Diallo ensured their victory 13 minutes before the match was scribbled into the history books. In a moment that could only be described as pure footballing poetry, he snatched the ball from Baba Rahman, danced past a defender like a gazelle avoiding a lion, and unleashed a shot that would make any defender weep. Honestly, watching Diallo was like going to the theatre—only this time, you actually wanted the plot twist!
Post-match, the man of the moment, Diallo, sounding like a motivational poster, declared to TNT Sports: “It has been a long time since we won in Europe. Today we showed why we are one of the best teams. It was important that we win today.” Let’s have a round of applause for a man who clearly understands that speaking in sports is less about content and more about volume, enthusiasm, and a healthy dose of self-importance.
Now, let’s trot over to the benches—our good old friend Ruud van Nistelrooy is at the helm but will soon step aside for coach Ruben Amorim. He’s taken over from the sacked Ten Hag, and folks, he’s also not lost in three matches. That’s right, treat it as a superhero origin story—who needs backstory when you’ve got the resilience of Van Nistelrooy? Of the first half, he diplomatically said, “it was very bad, if I’m being kind.” You could almost hear the collective gasp from the fans! Could it be that our storied club has seen worse days than my attempts at karaoke?
But have faith, dear readers; Van Nistelrooy stood proud, saying that Amad Diallo was “at the peak of his concentration.” It seems like a glowing endorsement, or perhaps Van Nistelrooy was just trying to butter him up for dinner later! But aren’t we all just one good meal away from becoming the world’s best at something?
This hard-fought victory left United climbing to a staggering sixth place in their league-stage standings in the tournament. Talk about climbing the Everest of mediocrity! With six points from four matches, their league position is something to be cherished—like a fine wine left on the shelf far too long.
In conclusion, hats off to Manchester United! They’ve made taking the scenic route to victory an art form, and yet somehow, we can’t help but love the ride. After all, what’s football without a bit of flair, frustration, and a sprinkling of unintentional comedy?
After enduring a challenging start with three consecutive draws in their initial Europa League fixtures, United managed to secure a crucial win at Old Trafford. The breakthrough came just five minutes after halftime when a precise cross from Bruno Fernandes found Amad Diallo, who expertly directed a powerful header into the bottom corner of the net, giving coach Van Nistelrooy’s squad a much-needed lead.
The matchup was particularly significant for both teams, as they were vying for their first victory in the tournament. The visiting Greek side, PAOK, came close to breaking the deadlock on multiple occasions, with United’s goalkeeper Andre Onana showcasing his skills. In the first half, Onana was called into action to parry a fierce shot from Madi Kamara, demonstrating his capacity to keep the visitors at bay.
In a pivotal moment during the 64th minute, PAOK’s striker Tariq Tissodali found himself unmarked inside the box and had a golden opportunity to equalize. However, his lackluster attempt was easily blocked by Onana, who was alert and ready. Diallo later sealed the victory for United with a remarkable individual effort. He intercepted the ball from Baba Rahman, deftly maneuvered past the defender, and unleashed a stunning strike from the edge of the penalty area that curled beautifully into the far corner of the net.
Reflecting on the match, Diallo shared with the TNT Sports television network, “It has been a long time since we (last) won in Europe. Today we showed why we are one of the best teams. It was important that we win today. It is important that we score every time. I’ve been unlucky this season, so I’m happy to score two goals today, but the most important thing is to win.”
Former United striker Van Nistelrooy, who has stepped in following the dismissal of Ten Hag just ten days prior, relished the victory that keeps his unbeaten streak intact across three matches with the team. He commented on the match, saying, “The first half was very bad, if I’m being kind. It was clear that the second half was better. Amad made the difference today thanks to his two goals, but he was at the peak of his concentration. Congratulations to him, he played a good match. Our positioning was not good in the first half. We were better a lot in the second half.”
This vital victory propelled United to a total of six points from four matches, positioning them in a challenging 15th place within the league stage of the tournament.
**Interview with Amad Diallo: A Day to Remember for Manchester United**
**Interviewer:** Today, we have Amad Diallo, the star of the show for Manchester United’s recent Europa League victory against PAOK, joining us. Amad, congratulations on the win and your two goals! How does it feel to finally get that first victory after three draws?
**Amad Diallo:** Thank you! It feels amazing to finally get the win. It’s been a tough start for us in the Europa League, and we knew we needed to show our quality today. Scoring two goals and helping the team to victory is what it’s all about for me.
**Interviewer:** You scored your first goal just five minutes into the second half. Can you walk us through that moment? What was going through your mind when you headed in the goal from Bruno’s cross?
**Amad Diallo:** When Bruno sent that cross in, I just focused on getting my positioning right. I knew I had to make good contact with the ball. Thankfully, it went in the way I hoped! It’s all about teamwork, and Bruno’s delivery was perfect. I was just able to finish it.
**Interviewer:** Your second goal showcased your skill and determination. You stole the ball from Baba Rahman and made a great run. What was the key to that goal?
**Amad Diallo:** That goal was all about being proactive. I read the play, took my chance, and made sure to keep my composure when I shot. You have to be ready to make those moments count, and I’m just grateful it went in!
**Interviewer:** You mentioned it being a long time since Manchester United last won in Europe. How important was it for the team to get this win, not just for points but for morale?
**Amad Diallo:** It was very important for us to get this win, especially at Old Trafford. A victory boosts our confidence, shows our fans that we’re fighting, and proves that we can compete at a high level. Every game counts, and this win sets the tone for the rest of our campaign.
**Interviewer:** Coach Van Nistelrooy has taken over recently and managed to keep the team unbeaten in three matches. What’s the atmosphere like under his guidance?
**Amad Diallo:** The atmosphere is positive and motivated. He encourages us to express ourselves on the pitch and has a great understanding of the game. We’re all working hard together, and I believe we’re moving in the right direction.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, as a player, how do you cope with the pressure and expectations that come with being at a club like Manchester United?
**Amad Diallo:** It’s part of the game. I embrace the pressure—it drives me to improve and prove myself. At the end of the day, I focus on what I can control: my performance and helping the team. Each game is a chance to show what we can do!
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Amad, for sharing your thoughts with us today. Best of luck for the rest of the Europa League campaign!
**Amad Diallo:** Thank you! I appreciate it, and we’ll keep pushing for more wins together!
London, United Kingdom – This week, Governor Phil Murphy, along with First Lady Tammy Murphy and a delegation from New Jersey, embarked on an ambitious economic mission to the United Kingdom, organized by Choose New Jersey. This strategic trip aims to deepen and enhance the economic ties between New Jersey and the UK, specifically targeting key growth sectors including life sciences, financial services, artificial intelligence, media, and clean energy. On Thursday, the delegation engaged in vital discussions in the bustling capital of London, setting the stage for fruitful collaborations and investments.
Governor Murphy Featured in Keynote Interview at Financial Times’ Future of AI Summit
During the high-profile Future of AI Summit, hosted by the esteemed Financial Times, Governor Murphy took center stage in a pivotal keynote interview. He underscored New Jersey’s commitment to cultivating a thriving AI innovation ecosystem, spotlighting initiatives such as the Princeton AI Hub and the statewide tax incentive program, Next New Jersey, which is administered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. In a compelling dialogue with Financial Times Technology News Editor Murad Ahmed, the Governor discussed the transformative potential of AI in both the United States and the UK, emphasizing the importance of ethical AI development that ensures equitable benefits for all societal members.
Governor Murphy, First Lady Tammy Murphy, and the Choose New Jersey Delegation Attend Business Roundtable with Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati LLP
In a significant development for New Jersey’s economic prospects, Governor Murphy, First Lady Tammy Murphy, and the Choose New Jersey Delegation engaged in a roundtable discussion with Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati LLP, renowned as the premier legal advisor for technology, life sciences, and innovative growth enterprises across the globe. The Governor passionately highlighted the unique advantages of establishing and expanding business operations within New Jersey’s Biotech, MedTech, and HealthTech sectors. He emphasized the state’s strategic geographic position, robust infrastructure, and the exceptional talents of its workforce, which together create an unparalleled business environment.
**Interview with Governor Phil Murphy on the New Jersey Economic Mission to the UK**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Governor Murphy. You’ve just returned from an important economic mission to the UK. Can you tell us about the goals of this trip?
**Governor Murphy:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The primary aim of our mission to the UK is to strengthen the economic ties between New Jersey and the UK, focusing on key sectors like life sciences, financial services, artificial intelligence, media, and clean energy. We believe that by collaborating with UK businesses and government, we can create new opportunities for investment and growth in New Jersey.
**Interviewer:** That sounds promising. What specific outcomes are you hoping to achieve from the meetings you held in London?
**Governor Murphy:** We held a series of discussions with industry leaders and officials that were aimed at identifying shared goals and potential partnerships. We aim to attract foreign direct investment into New Jersey, which can create jobs and support our key industries. Additionally, we want to establish long-term relationships that foster innovation and economic development.
**Interviewer:** Can you elaborate on the sectors you mentioned? Why are those sectors particularly important for New Jersey?
**Governor Murphy:** Certainly. These sectors are critical drivers of our state’s economy. For instance, the life sciences industry is one of New Jersey’s largest sectors, home to numerous pharmaceuticals and biotech companies. Financial services are essential for stability and growth, while AI and media represent the future of technology and innovation. clean energy is crucial for sustainability and aligning with our climate goals. Investing in these areas not only secures economic growth but also positions us as a leader in these emerging fields.
**Interviewer:** What are the next steps following this mission?
**Governor Murphy:** The next steps involve following up on the discussions we had. Our team will work on cultivating the relationships we’ve built and turning conversations into tangible commitments. We are also looking to provide resources and support to businesses interested in expanding or investing in New Jersey.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Governor Murphy. It seems like a pivotal step for New Jersey and its economic future.
**Governor Murphy:** Thank you. We are excited about the possibilities ahead and remain committed to making New Jersey a prime destination for investment and innovation.