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CHICAGO, June 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Democrats for the Illinois House, the official political arm of the Illinois House Democratic Caucus, announces Executive Director Lizbeth Ramirez will be departing to pursue other opportunities. Speaker Welch thanks Ramirez for her hard work and efforts to help the House Democratic Caucus.
Speaker Welch said, "Lizbeth stepped up and helped pull together a new political organization for the House Democrats. She committed to assisting with our efforts through the primary election, and I am incredibly appreciative for all that she accomplished. The caucus owes her a debt of gratitude for all of her hard work."
The organization's Chief Communications Officer, TaQuoya McConnico, will take the reins as Executive Director through the upcoming general election.
TaQuoya McConnico, a United States Air Force Veteran, is an award-winning communications and marketing professional and former WVON News Director. She also served as a Vice President at Teneo Strategy, a global CEO consulting and advisory firm founded. TaQuoya has received numerous awards for her work, including Verizon Wireless HQ Communications Improvement Recognition, President Obama's Call to Service Award, and The Village of Maywood Helping Hand Award. She was also named one of Chicago's Top Professionals Under the Age of 40 to watch by the Chicago Defender.
"Since joining the team early this year, TaQuoya has been an integral part of the growth and the development of Democrats for the Illinois House," said speaker Welch. "I look forward to the leadership she brings in helping us continue to grow and elevate our practices, build the culture for this new and vibrant organization, and incorporate old proven methodologies with the more modern and digital era."
McConnico led efforts to further build Democrats for the Illinois House including moving them further into social media and digital marketing.
"I am excited to continue to serve the Democratic Caucus in this more expanded role," said McConnico. "I care about each and every one of our legislators, their successes, and the success of our Caucus and communities. I couldn't be more excited to help Speaker Welch in continuing to forge a new era for House Democrats."
About Democrats for the Illinois House: Democrats for the Illinois House is the official political arm of the Illinois House Democratic Caucus. We support Democrats for the Illinois House in fighting for equality, justice, and opportunity for all. Under the leadership of House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch, Democrats for Illinois House (DIH) is dedicated to promoting the excellent work of the caucus, protecting incumbents, winning competitive races, and serving Illinoisans with integrity. The Illinois House Democratic Caucus is one of the most diverse in the nation representing African-American (22), Latinx (10), Asian American (4), Women (39) and LGBTQ+ (4) members. DIH is committed to creating an environment across the state that is inclusive and welcoming to all people.
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SOURCE Democrats for the Illinois House | 2022-06-30T23:17:16+00:00 | kfyrtv.com | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/06/30/democrats-illinois-house-announce-leadership-change/ |
The following is a listing of all home transfers in Atlantic County reported from June 26 to July 2. There were 98 transactions posted during this time. During this period, the median sale for the area was a 911-square-foot home on Boardwalk in Atlantic City that sold for $301,000.
Absecon
316 Pine Street, Absecon, $170,838, 720 sqft, $237 per sqft.
157 E. Wyoming Ave., Absecon, $200,000, 1,599 sqft, $125 per sqft.
608 New York Ave., Absecon, $280,000, 1,544 sqft, $181 per sqft.
123 Holly Road, Absecon, $299,900, 1,762 sqft, $170 per sqft.
Atlantic City
655 Absecon Blvd., Atlantic City, $41,000, 840 sqft, $49 per sqft.
422 Grammercy Place, Atlantic City, $65,000, 1,316 sqft, $49 per sqft.
3501 Ventnor Ave., Atlantic City, $115,000, 641 sqft, $179 per sqft.
2721 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, $126,000, 507 sqft, $249 per sqft.
612 Wisteria Road, Atlantic City, $150,000, 651 sqft, $230 per sqft.
516 Wistar Place, Atlantic City, $150,000, 942 sqft, $159 per sqft.
520 N. Trenton Ave., Atlantic City, $190,000, 1,102 sqft, $172 per sqft.
1411 Emerson Ave., Atlantic City, $190,000, 1,560 sqft, $122 per sqft, 2 bathrooms.
3101 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, $299,000, 978 sqft, $306 per sqft.
3101 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, $301,000, 911 sqft, $330 per sqft.
1 S. Bartram Ave., Atlantic City, $375,000, 1,940 sqft, $193 per sqft.
105 N. Windsor Ave., Atlantic City, $465,000, 1,536 sqft, $303 per sqft.
101 S. Raleigh Ave., Atlantic City, $577,500, 1,154 sqft, $500 per sqft.
100 S. Berkley Square, Atlantic City, $650,000, 1,198 sqft, $543 per sqft.
Brigantine
5104 Ontario Drive, Brigantine, $442,000, 3,090 sqft, $143 per sqft.
504 Casa Drive, Brigantine, $450,000, 1,450 sqft, $310 per sqft.
3800 W. Brigantine Ave., Brigantine, $459,000, 3,440 sqft, $133 per sqft.
908 Sarazen Road, Brigantine, $525,000, 1,512 sqft, $347 per sqft.
1317 Quimet Road, Brigantine, $535,000, 1,152 sqft, $464 per sqft.
1507 Sheridan Blvd., Brigantine, $594,000, 1,536 sqft, $387 per sqft.
3 Tiffany Place, Brigantine, $650,000, 2,160 sqft, $301 per sqft.
309 Gull Cove, Brigantine, $705,000, 2,232 sqft, $316 per sqft.
4705 Atlantic Brigantine Blvd., Brigantine, $735,000, 1,792 sqft, $410 per sqft.
231 33rd Street, Brigantine, $995,000, 2,188 sqft, $455 per sqft.
301 40th Street, Brigantine, $1,265,000, 2,802 sqft, $451 per sqft.
919 Bayshore Ave., Brigantine, $1,350,000, 1,113 sqft, $1,213 per sqft.
Egg Harbor City
711 W. Oak Street, Egg Harbor City, $174,393, 1,834 sqft, $95 per sqft.
334 Chicago Ave., Egg Harbor City, $239,900, 1,368 sqft, $175 per sqft.
Egg Harbor Township
121 Orchard Road, Egg Harbor Township, $110,000, 1,224 sqft, $90 per sqft.
106 Ohio Ave., Egg Harbor Township, $165,000, 1,264 sqft, $131 per sqft.
6120 Delilah Road, Egg Harbor Township, $220,000, 1,020 sqft, $216 per sqft.
522 Zion Road, Egg Harbor Township, $266,500, 1,522 sqft, $175 per sqft.
7 Adella Ave., Egg Harbor Township, $275,000, 1,035 sqft, $266 per sqft.
306 Hidden Oak Road, Egg Harbor Township, $425,000, 1,889 sqft, $225 per sqft.
1 White Oak Drive, Egg Harbor Township, $435,000, 2,208 sqft, $197 per sqft.
245 Sea Pine Drive, Egg Harbor Township, $470,000, 2,384 sqft, $197 per sqft.
Galloway
35 Sussex Place, Galloway, $115,000, 1,055 sqft, $109 per sqft.
5 Club Place, Galloway, $140,000, 1,116 sqft, $125 per sqft.
14 Apache Court, Galloway, $155,000, 1,110 sqft, $140 per sqft.
301 Orange Tree Ave., Galloway, $173,000, 1,252 sqft, $138 per sqft.
20 Pheasant Meadow Drive, Galloway, $220,500, 1,032 sqft, $214 per sqft.
605 E. Biscayne Ave., Galloway, $225,000, 1,941 sqft, $116 per sqft.
628 S. Sixth Ave., Galloway, $261,000, 1,624 sqft, $161 per sqft.
7 S. Quail Hill Blvd., Galloway, $262,500, 1,284 sqft, $204 per sqft.
115 Dover Court, Galloway, $295,000, 1,559 sqft, $189 per sqft.
508 First Ave., Galloway, $315,000, 1,446 sqft, $218 per sqft.
119 S. Concord Terrace, Galloway, $320,000, 1,248 sqft, $256 per sqft.
418 Ebony Tree Ave., Galloway, $362,000, 2,179 sqft, $166 per sqft.
108 Sheffield Court, Galloway, $370,000, 2,095 sqft, $177 per sqft.
109 Warwick Road, Galloway, $451,000, 2,320 sqft, $194 per sqft.
806 Forest Park Drive, Galloway, $645,000, 3,534 sqft, $183 per sqft.
Hammonton
49 Michael Road, Hammonton, $115,000, 1,014 sqft, $113 per sqft.
122 Jamestown Blvd., Hammonton, $230,000, 1,296 sqft, $177 per sqft.
509 Wharton Park Blvd., Hammonton, $280,000, 990 sqft, $283 per sqft.
879 Central Ave., Hammonton, $339,900, 1,665 sqft, $204 per sqft.
196 Golden Eagle Drive, Hammonton, $461,500, 2,131 sqft, $217 per sqft.
Linwood
2019 Woodlynne Blvd., Linwood, $350,000, 1,664 sqft, $210 per sqft.
4 Wilson Ave., Linwood, $480,000, 1,888 sqft, $254 per sqft.
211 E. Seaview Ave., Linwood, $640,000, 2,424 sqft, $264 per sqft.
Longport
2700 Atlantic Ave., Longport, $760,000, 1,258 sqft, $604 per sqft.
Margate City
11 N. Coolidge Ave., Margate City, $350,000, 441 sqft, $794 per sqft.
209 N. Jerome Ave., Margate City, $550,000, 1,504 sqft, $366 per sqft.
9600 Atlantic Ave., Margate City, $610,000, 1,250 sqft, $488 per sqft.
203 N. Huntington Ave., Margate City, $1,437,500, 2,439 sqft, $589 per sqft.
7401 Bayshore Drive, Margate City, $2,750,000, 2,291 sqft, $1,200 per sqft.
Mays Landing
2726 Evergreen Court, Mays Landing, $124,900, 1,376 sqft, $91 per sqft.
6124 Hoover Drive, Mays Landing, $128,000, 1,292 sqft, $99 per sqft.
4845 Anglesey Court, Mays Landing, $130,000, 1,828 sqft, $71 per sqft.
6057 Black Horse pike., Mays Landing, $260,000, 1,260 sqft, $206 per sqft.
6161 Goldfinch Drive, Mays Landing, $265,000, 1,158 sqft, $229 per sqft.
70 Westover Circle, Mays Landing, $292,500, 1,756 sqft, $167 per sqft.
509 11th Ave., Mays Landing, $297,000, 1,125 sqft, $264 per sqft.
6151 Robin Drive, Mays Landing, $300,000, 1,626 sqft, $185 per sqft.
7347 Driftwood Lane, Mays Landing, $305,500, 1,368 sqft, $223 per sqft.
89 Meadow Circle, Mays Landing, $317,500, 1,587 sqft, $200 per sqft.
168 Canterbury Court, Mays Landing, $331,000, 1,840 sqft, $180 per sqft.
15 Renaissance Drive, Mays Landing, $350,000, 1,728 sqft, $203 per sqft.
7680 Venice Blvd., Mays Landing, $369,900, 2,022 sqft, $183 per sqft.
112 Knights Bridge Way, Mays Landing, $465,990, 2,115 sqft, $220 per sqft.
Northfield
29 Northfield Ave., Northfield, $218,900, 1,456 sqft, $150 per sqft.
2705 Burroughs Ave., Northfield, $745,000, 3,404 sqft, $219 per sqft.
Pleasantville
1321 N. Main Street, Pleasantville, $94,000, 2,508 sqft, $37 per sqft.
56 E. Park Ave., Pleasantville, $150,000, 1,148 sqft, $131 per sqft.
921 Spruce Ave., Pleasantville, $173,000, 1,148 sqft, $151 per sqft.
218 E. Edgewater Ave., Pleasantville, $210,000, 1,216 sqft, $173 per sqft.
307 N. Main Street, Pleasantville, $215,000, 1,602 sqft, $134 per sqft.
202 W. Ashland Ave., Pleasantville, $225,000, 1,039 sqft, $217 per sqft.
801 Brown Lane, Pleasantville, $237,900, 985 sqft, $242 per sqft.
213 W. Wright Street, Pleasantville, $260,000, 1,309 sqft, $199 per sqft.
Somers Point
125 Devon Road, Somers Point, $377,500, 1,319 sqft, $286 per sqft.
134 W. Meyran Ave., Somers Point, $395,000, 1,448 sqft, $273 per sqft.
58 Higbee Ave., Somers Point, $475,500, 1,508 sqft, $315 per sqft.
Ventnor City
101 N. Surrey Ave., Ventnor City, $1,399,000, 981 sqft, $1,426 per sqft.
5713 Winchester Ave., Ventnor City, $2,459,000, 3,052 sqft, $806 per sqft.
Real Estate Newswire is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to generate analysis of data from Propmix, an aggregator of national real-estate data. | 2023-07-03T22:38:38+00:00 | nj.com | https://www.nj.com/realestate-news/2023/07/see-all-homes-sold-in-atlantic-county-june-26-to-july-2.html |
(KTLA) – Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California, is set to debut its much-anticipated — and record-breaking — Wonder Woman roller coaster next week.
The ride, called Wonder Woman Flight of Courage, is scheduled to open Saturday, July 16.
Before boarding, those waiting in the Greek-inspired ride queue will be treated to immersive storytelling and a deep dive of the comic book heroine’s history and greatest accomplishments.
Riders on Flight of Courage will be treated to an immersive experience upon stepping into the ride queue, which was “influenced by Greek architecture,” according to Six Flags. Once on the ride, guests can expect steep climbs, an intense 87-degree drop and three inversions while reaching speeds of up to 58 mph along the coaster’s 3,300-foot track.
The coaster will propel riders as high as 131 feet in the air, but it will also launch Magic Mountain into uncharted territory: Flight of Courage will become the tallest and longest single-rail coaster on the planet upon its debut, park officials said.
The coaster is located in Magic Mountain’s six-acre DC Universe area, already the site of Batman: The Ride and several other DC Comics-themed attractions. Upon its debut, Wonder Woman Flight of Courage will become Magic Mountain’s 20th roller coaster — the most of any single theme park in the world.
The opening of Wonder Woman Flight of Courage comes only one month after Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey debuted its Jersey Devil Coaster, which was also billed as the longest and tallest single-rail coaster in the world. The new Wonder Woman ride, however, is one foot taller and features 300 more feet of track.
In addition to opening up Flight of Courage, DC Universe at Magic Mountain is currently undergoing expansion and remodeling to add new immersive elements, retail spaces and an “innovative restaurant and bar experience,” Six Flags said. | 2022-07-09T19:37:14+00:00 | kxnet.com | https://www.kxnet.com/news/national-news/six-flags-in-california-to-debut-record-breaking-wonder-woman-coaster/ |
Request unsuccessful. Incapsula incident ID: 1003000750040385133-98166206374810317 | 2022-07-20T09:55:17+00:00 | bizjournals.com | https://www.bizjournals.com/pacific/news/2022/07/19/native-hawaiian-convention-addresses-tough-issues.html |
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP)Aaron Rodgers is about to face a Bill Belichick-coached team for just the third time in his 15 seasons as the Green Bay Packers’ starting quarterback.
While the two haven’t matched up very often, they gained plenty of respect for each other from afar. They’ll meet again Sunday when the Packers host Belichick and the New England Patriots.
”Best coach in the history of the game, I think,” Rodgers said.
The Packers (2-1) and Patriots (1-2) have split the two previous matchups Rodgers started. Rodgers threw for 368 yards and two touchdowns in a 26-21 home victory over the Patriots in 2014. His 259 yards passing and two touchdowns weren’t quite enough in a 31-17 loss at New England in 2018.
Rodgers also came off the bench to replace an injured Brett Favre and went just 4 of 12 for 34 yards in a 35-0 home loss to the Patriots in 2006, two years before he became the Packers’ starting quarterback.
The four-time MVP has come a long way since, throwing 453 career touchdown passes with only 95 interceptions.
”He doesn’t make very many mistakes,” Belichick said. ”He never has. He’s a very resourceful quarterback. He makes the plays that are there. Then he makes a few plays that really aren’t there. Then he rarely makes a mistake where he has a bad play. There’s very, very few of those. I think that’s one of the things that makes him a great quarterback.”
Belichick’s team enters this game with less certainty at quarterback.
Usual starter Mac Jones’ status is up in the air after an ankle injury knocked him out of the Patriots’ 37-26 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. If Jones isn’t available, veteran Brian Hoyer would be making his first start since 2020.
The difference in the two quarterback situations helps explain why the Packers are favored by 9+ points, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
Even so, the Packers realize they can’t take anything for granted when they’re facing a guy who has won six Super Bowl titles as a head coach.
”He’s the best of the best, regardless of sport,” Packers coach Matt LaFleur said. ”It’s not a shocker as to why he’s won so many Super Bowls and why he’s won so many games. He does a great job of taking what you do best away from you and keeping you off balance.”
CHANGING IT UP?
Jones averages 5.2 completed air yards per pass attempt to rank third in the NFL behind only New Orleans’ Jameis Winston (5.7) and Miami’s Tua Tagovailoa (5.4), according to Pro Football Reference.
How much the passing plan will change if Jones is unavailable is unclear. Recent history says there could be a significant drop-off if Hoyer is under center.
In 15 appearances since 2018, Hoyer has averaged only 3.6 completed air yards per pass attempt.
RUNNING BACK TANDEMS
Each of these teams relies on two running backs to share the load relatively equally.
Green Bay has Aaron Jones and A.J. Dillon. Jones has 32 carries for 217 yards and nine catches for 76 yards. Dillon has 40 carries for 138 yards and eight receptions for 58 yards.
New England features Damien Harris and Rhamondre Stevenson. Harris has 36 carries for 160 yards and six catches for 31 yards. Stevenson has 29 carries for 145 yards and seven catches for 34 yards.
SURGING PASS RUSHERS
New England’s Matt Judon and Green Bay’s Rashan Gary have both recorded a sack in each of the first three weeks.
They’re not the only effective pass rushers on their respective teams.
New England’s Deatrich Wise has a team-high four sacks and got three of them against the Ravens. Green Bay’s Kenny Clark is coming off a two-sack performance in a 14-12 victory at Tampa Bay, and Preston Smith also has two sacks this season.
OUTSIDE MEN
Patriots cornerback Jonathan Jones has an interception, two pass breakups and a pair of forced fumbles. It’s helped him rate as Pro Football Focus’ top player as his position through three weeks.
He’s excelled most as an outside defender, where he’s played more than 80% of his snaps this season. Jones said he’s embracing the challenge of defending there as opposed to the slot thus far.
”You’re definitely on your own,” he said. ”It’s a different perspective than being on the inside. There’s not as many bodies between you and the quarterback.”
The Packers’ top cornerback is Jaire Alexander, who missed most of the Bucs game with a groin injury.
ROTATING AT TACKLE?
Green Bay offensive tackle David Bakhtiari played against Tampa Bay, marking just his second game appearance since tearing his left anterior cruciate ligament on Dec. 31, 2020. Bakhtiari had played in the Packers’ 2021 regular-season finale, but hadn’t received any game action since until Sunday.
The Packers worked Bakhtiari in gradually by having him alternate series with Yosh Nijman at left tackle. The Packers haven’t indicated whether they will continue that rotation against New England.
—
AP Sports Writer Kyle Hightower contributed to this report.
—
More AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl and https://twitter.com/AP-NFL | 2022-09-30T01:08:56+00:00 | ourquadcities.com | https://www.ourquadcities.com/nfl/packers/pats-visit-to-lambeau-offers-rare-rodgers-belichick-matchup/ |
Well, it was nice while it lasted.
For nearly a year, the average used vehicle in the United States had been edging toward affordable again for millions of people. The relief felt belated and relatively slight, but it was welcome nonetheless.
From an eye-watering peak of $31,400 in April of last year, the average price had dropped 14% to $27,125 early this month.
Now, with the supply of used vehicles failing to keep up with robust demand, prices are creeping up again, with signs pointing to further increases ahead. So many buyers have been priced out of the new-car market that fewer trade-ins are landing on dealer lots. Deepening the shortage, fewer used vehicles are coming off leases or being off-loaded by rental car companies.
Average list prices for used car have edged up by about $700 in the past month, and Alex Yurchenko, chief data officer for Black Book, which tracks prices, expects them to keep rising at least into summer.
“If you have to buy a used vehicle,” he suggested, “right now would be a good time.”
Pete Catalano, a dealer in Independence, Missouri, near Kansas City, has been struggling to get his hands on enough affordably priced cars. Typically, Catalano and his daughter, who co-own Stadium Auto, would have about 50 vehicles on their used-car lot near Arrowhead Stadium. They now have only about half as many. Some of their rival dealers, Catalano said, enjoy a competitive advantage because they can afford to offer financing to buyers with poor credit.
Squeezed by higher prices for gasoline, groceries and utilities, many of Catalano’s customers can’t afford either new or late-model used vehicles. Some would-be buyers he knows are using tax refunds just to make ends meet instead of buying a needed car.
“A used inexpensive car is now becoming more and more of a luxury,” Catalano said. “What the market wants right now is not available, and that’s $3,000, $4,000 and $5,000 cars.”
Behind the vehicle shortage and inflated prices is simple supply and demand. Much of the problem stems from the surging prices of new cars. In February, according to Edmunds, the average new vehicle in the United States sold for nearly $48,000 — beyond the reach of many consumers.
Though the supply of new vehicles has inched up, they remain relatively scarce and expensive. Automakers still lack sufficient computer chips to produce enough vehicles to meet demand, a lingering consequence of pandemic-related supply shortages. Sales of new vehicles last year were about 3 million below normal levels. Fewer new-car sales mean fewer trade-ins, which mean fewer used vehicles for sale.
With used prices rising again, analysts say buyers who can afford to do so should buy soon. Auto loan rates may continue rising this year as the Federal Reserve keeps raising interest rates.
On used lots these days, bargains are hard to find. Even after accounting for the price drops of the past year, the average used vehicle remains about 35% above where it was before the pandemic erupted three years ago. At that time, the average price was $20,425.
Once the government sent stimulus checks to most American households, demand for autos rose as many people spent their money. As they did, the supply of used vehicles fell and prices surged. By early last year, the average used-vehicle price was more than 50% above its pre-pandemic point.
Worsening the shortfall was a scarcity of affordable new vehicles. Automakers were using their tight supply of computer chips to build pricier and more profitable SUVs and pickups. They built fewer affordable new models — a trend that sent more buyers to used-car lots. The result was increased demand and higher prices for used vehicles.
All of which left people like Carol Rice struggling to find a decent affordable used vehicle. Rice, 65, endured a long period of frustration while shopping for a used small pickup for her farm near Carbondale, Kansas. For six months, she found little.
“I’m retired, and I can’t afford to buy a new vehicle,” she said. “There weren’t that many used vehicles, and if there were used vehicles, they were quite expensive.”
Last month, she finally found a 2003 Ford Ranger on Catalano’s website that she liked and could afford. She bought it for $7,700. Though it’s 20 years old and has 140,000 miles on it, the Ranger is in solid condition and has the all-wheel-drive that Rice wanted.
“It was a good-looking vehicle, and the price was right,” she said.
In the immediate future, few analysts expect price declines for used vehicles. Catalano doesn’t foresee any sustained price drops for perhaps the next year or two.
Others say it’s hard to predict. Amy Gieffers, a senior vice president at Vroom, an online auto buying site, notes that some market forces could continue to keep supply down and prices up: Fewer trade-ins, less leasing, lower fleet sales by rental car companies.
On the other hand, she says, more expensive vehicles and higher loan rates could depress buyer demand. Eventually, dealers might be forced to cut prices.
“It’s really complex right now,” she said, “because you have some competing forces.”
Both Yurchenko of Black Book and Charlie Chesbrough, a senior economist at Cox Automotive, say they expect used-vehicle prices to rise through summer before easing slightly as part of a normal late-year depreciation cycle.
At the start of this year, Chesbrough said, he thought higher loan rates would chase away buyers from both the new and used markets. Instead, robust demand from affluent buyers for pricey late-model used vehicles has strengthened sales in the United States.
Many of these buyers are paying cash to avoid higher interest rates. Edmunds.com says the average loan rate on a used vehicle is now 11.3%, up from 8.1% when the Fed started raising rates a year ago.
Because demand is intense and vehicle supplies short, Chesbrough doesn’t foresee sales dropping even if the economy were to slide into a recession. Though many buyers with lower credit scores have left the market, sales remain solid.
With used-car inventories likely to remain crimped for the foreseeable future, Chesbrough doesn’t expect prices to ever fall back to near their pre-pandemic levels
“We just haven’t been creating enough personal transportation in the last couple of years,” Chesbrough said. | 2023-03-31T07:26:53+00:00 | fox44news.com | https://www.fox44news.com/news/national-world-news/used-car-prices-after-finally-easing-are-back-up-again/ |
MacKenzie Scott is dedicating an unusually large share of her giving to nonprofits in the South — a region that megaphilanthropy and particularly tech donors have long been criticized for ignoring.
The maverick philanthropist has earmarked at least $3.1 billion for organizations in southern states since 2020 — nearly a third of the $10.6 billion in gifts disclosed on her new Yield Giving website. Her two largest donations in the region went to Prairie View A&M University in Texas and Enterprise Community Partners, a national organization focused on housing and racial equity. Both received $50 million. Altogether, she’s made 479 donations in the region.
Scott’s focus on the South is just one of the early findings from the data posted on Yield Giving. Altogether, she has made 1,604 gifts that total $14 billion. The website lists the recipients for all the donations, including amounts for 1,153. A full report of those outstanding donation amounts has been delayed, the site says, to benefit the recipient groups.
With each donation, the website notes one or more of 53 “focus areas” for the nonprofit. Because her contributions are unrestricted, the organization can use the money for operations or any area of its mission work.
For instance, Scott lists a $10 million gift to Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee as addressing economic development but also financial inclusion, workforce development, vocational education, and youth development.
As a result, the data provides a sense of Scott’s giving priorities, though not a precise accounting. The philanthropist has earmarked the most cash from her reported donations to education, with $8.9 billion going to groups with a focus on K-12, post-secondary, vocational, or some other form of learning institution. Health care groups have received $8.4 billion. (Donations may be designated for multiple focus areas; gifts to address education may also be counted as targeting health or other topics.)
Outspoken on racial and gender issues, Scott made $7.5 billion in gifts to groups that focus on equity and justice.
Other takeaways from the data:
— The vast majority of her disclosed giving — $8.9 billion — went to domestic issues. Globally focused groups received a little more than $1 billion.
— Co-Impact, a collaborative of big philanthropists trying to improve the health and well-being of people globally, received the largest reported gift, $75 million. The next largest were: GiveDirectly ($60 million), the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, Prairie View, and Enterprise Community Partners ($50 million each).
— Affiliates of large federated organizations collectively saw gifts of hundreds of millions, including United Ways, which received at least $625 million. Earlier this year, Habitat for Humanity announced $436 million in gifts from Scott to its network of groups
— Her smallest gifts ($300,000) went to Junior Achievement of New Mexico, the Caribe Girl Scouts Council in Puerto Rico, and Junior Achievement of West Kentucky.
• The average gift size was $9.2 million.
____
This article was provided to The Associated Press by the Chronicle of Philanthropy. Drew Lindsay is a senior writer at the Chronicle. Email: drew.lindsay@philanthropy.com. The AP and the Chronicle receive support from the Lilly Endowment for coverage of philanthropy and nonprofits. The AP and the Chronicle are solely responsible for all content. For all of AP’s philanthropy coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/philanthropy. | 2022-12-16T18:02:42+00:00 | sfgate.com | https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/New-data-MacKenzie-Scott-gifts-prioritize-The-17659085.php |
NEW YORK – CNN anchor Don Lemon tweeted an apology to viewers for his remarks about Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley shortly before returning to work on Wednesday, then stuck to the news.
He made no mention of his comments last week that Haley was not in “her prime,” during the first hour of “CNN This Morning,” sticking to stories like President Joe Biden's trip to Ukraine, the Ohio train derailment and winter weather.
Lemon, during the hour before he went on the air, tweeted that he appreciated the opportunity to return to work. He was absent for three days.
“To my network, my colleagues and our incredible audience — I'm sorry,” he tweeted. “I've heard you, I'm learning from you, and I'm committed to doing better.”
His tweet made no mention of Haley, who called Lemon's comments sexist and has been referring to them in fundraising appeals.
On last Thursday's show, Lemon and fellow hosts Poppy Harlow and Kaitlan Collins had been discussing Haley's suggestion that politicians over 75 should be subject to mandatory mental competency tests.
“Nikki Haley isn’t in her prime, sorry,” Lemon said. He said a woman is considered to be in her prime in her 20s, 30s and maybe her 40s. Haley is 51.
He doubled down on his message even after being challenged by his female colleagues. “I think we need to qualify,” Harlow said at one point. “Are you talking about prime for childbearing or are you talking about prime for being president?”
After video of his comments spread quickly online, Lemon tweeted regret for his “inartful and irrelevant” comments. He was scolded the next day by CNN chief executive Chris Licht during an internal staff meeting, and appeared on the call to apologize.
Late Sunday, Licht told staff members in a memo that Lemon would return to work and undergo unspecified training. Licht said in the memo, obtained by The Associated Press, that it was important that the network balance accountability with fostering a culture in which people “can own, learn and grow from their mistakes.”
Lemon was switched from his own prime-time show when a revamped “CNN This Morning” was launched in November, one of Licht's biggest swings since taking control of the network last year.
Between poor ratings and awkwardness between the new anchor team, it hasn't gone well. | 2023-02-22T13:26:08+00:00 | clickorlando.com | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/politics/2023/02/22/cnns-don-lemon-tweets-another-apology-returns-to-work/ |
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Las Vegas Sands (NYSE: LVS) will release its fourth quarter 2022 financial results on Wednesday, January 25, 2023, after market close.
The company will host a conference call to discuss its results at approximately 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time.
A webcast of the conference call will be available at www.investor.sands.com.
Sands is the world's preeminent developer and operator of world-class Integrated Resorts.
Our iconic properties drive valuable leisure and business tourism and deliver significant economic benefits, sustained job creation, financial opportunities for local businesses and community investment to help make our host regions ideal places to live, work and visit.
Sands' portfolio of properties includes Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and The Venetian Macao, The Plaza and Four Seasons Hotel Macao, The Londoner Macao, The Parisian Macao and Sands Macao in Macao SAR, China, through majority ownership in Sands China Ltd.
Sands is dedicated to being a leader in corporate responsibility, anchored by our core tenets of serving people, planet and communities. Our ESG leadership has led to inclusion on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for World and North America and recognition as one of Fortune's World's Most Admired Companies. To learn more, visit www.sands.com.
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SOURCE Las Vegas Sands Corp. | 2023-01-19T05:09:52+00:00 | kwch.com | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2023/01/19/sands-release-fourth-quarter-2022-financial-results/ |
PITTSBURGH, Oct. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "I spent too much time and water rinsing dishes before placing them in the dishwasher. I thought there should be a way to clean dishes reusing pressurized water from the food disposal unit located under the sink," said the inventor, from Ledgewood, N.J., "so I invented the Sink Water Jet. My efficient design allows you to easily clean dishes within your sink basin."
The patent-pending invention provides an effective way to recycle and rotate water from the dish disposal unit back into the sink basin for rinsing dishes. In doing so, it offers added water pressure for quick and easy cleaning of dishes. As a result, it saves time and energy and it helps to conserve water. It also offers an alternative to using the dishwasher every day. The invention features a multi-functional design that is easy to use so it is ideal for households and commercial locations.
The original design was submitted to the National sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 21-HBR-126, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.
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SOURCE InventHelp | 2022-10-18T20:16:07+00:00 | wlox.com | https://www.wlox.com/prnewswire/2022/10/18/inventhelp-inventor-develops-modified-sink-disposal-unit-rinsing-dishes-hbr-126/ |
A bartender in the process of closing a Harrison Twp. bar was robbed early Wednesday morning.
Around 2:18 a.m., Montgomery County sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the Greenleaf Inn at 4200 N. Dixie Dr. on a robbery in progress.
A man with a black hoodie put something in the bartender’s back and demanded money while she was in the back room, according to the sheriff’s office.
During the investigation, deputies discovered the man took money as well as the bartender’s purse. He then fled the bar on foot.
A K9 unit searched the area along with additional deputies but they were unable to find the suspect, according to the sheriff’s office.
The sheriff’s office is continuing to investigate the incident.
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About the Author | 2022-09-28T14:10:30+00:00 | daytondailynews.com | https://www.daytondailynews.com/crime/bartender-robbed-at-gunpoint-in-harrison-twp/KFRH2ODPUFBY7FC2I5CJ4MEZZU/ |
HELSINKI (AP) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in the Finnish capital, Helsinki, for a one-day Nordic summit.
Zelenskyy is expected to meet with four Nordic prime ministers who are gathering at the residency of the Finnish President Sauli Niinistö on Wednesday. They will discuss their support to Ukraine.
The Nordic countries – Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Iceland — have largely rallied around Ukraine following Russia’s Feb. 24, 2022, invasion.
Those attending the meeting at the Finnish Presidential Palace in Helsinki are Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Norway’s Jonas Gahr Støre, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Iceland’s Katrín Jakobsdóttir and Finnish President Niinistö.
Niinistö said the summit will discuss Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, the Nordic countries’ continued support for Ukraine, developments in Ukraine’s relationship with the European Union and NATO and Ukraine’s peace initiative.
“There is still an urgent need for military support to ensure that the Ukrainians stand as strong as possible in the fight against Russia,” Danish Prime Minister Frederiksen said in a statement. “We must help rebuild Ukraine and keep alive the hope for a normal everyday life and a just future on the other side of the war.”
___
Follow AP's coverage of the war in Ukraine: https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | 2023-05-03T09:45:24+00:00 | expressnews.com | https://www.expressnews.com/news/politics/article/ukraine-s-zelenskyy-in-finland-for-summit-of-18075368.php |
WASHINGTON, July 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In addition to over 200,000 comments opposing the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) proposed ban on menthol cigarettes, flavored cigars and vapes, Menthol Is Not A Crime has uncovered a grassroots movement opposing the ban, ranging from clergy to law enforcement to farmers to small business owners to everyday current and former smokers. This mounting group of community leaders is growing and becoming increasingly active across the U.S.
Clergy With A Candle, a civil rights organization highlighting inequities in American society, is traveling to Washington, D.C. this month to meet with Georgia's federal lawmakers to outline how misguided the ban is and its historic implications including redlining, stop-and-frisk, and mandatory minimums.
"... 85% of Black and Brown smokers favor menthol cigarettes and a ban targeting this kind of cigarette will potentially create an illegal underground market that disproportionately places Black and Brown Americans in the crosshairs of the criminal justice system," said Rev. Shanan Jones, President of Concerned Black Clergy of Metropolitan Atlanta.
Last month, the National Black Farmers Association held a Fish Fry in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, candidate for Congress, Sandy Smith spoke to over 55 local farmers stating that the ban is, "targeting our Black Community and it's wrong…. We have bigger fish to fry."
Francis Armstrong, owner of Blue Riding Tobacco, which has seven stores and employs 39 people, the majority of whom are Black, stated that, "...70% of our sales are from tobacco products and accessories… If the regulations were to go into effect, I estimate that we will lose 80% of the sales," and "..we will be forced to shut doors and send our employees to the unemployment line."
The growing dissatisfaction only increases in the law enforcement community that is extremely concerned with how this ban will be implemented.
Corey Pegues, a retired NYPD Deputy Inspector, in speaking about crack and cocaine during the War on Drugs voiced his concern stating, " the Black and Brown community is still dealing with people in jails and families disbanded… Police officers will use the menthol ban to start engaging men and women," as a tool of enforcing other crimes.
Only through joining the growing coalition opposing the ban, can we fight for our community. The public has until August 2 to submit a written comment via the FDA website at https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/FDA-2021-N-1349-0001.
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SOURCE Menthol Is Not A Crime | 2022-07-15T14:56:17+00:00 | mysuncoast.com | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/15/fda-hot-water-with-community-groups-swing-states/ |
NEW YORK, Nov. 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --
WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues to investigate potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of Rollins, Inc. (NYSE: ROL) resulting from allegations that Rollins may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.
SO WHAT: If you purchased Rollins securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=2735 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.
WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On October 28, 2020, Rollins disclosed that a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigation had been initiated and believed the SEC's focus to be how accruals and reserves were established at period ends and their impact on reported earnings going as far back as January 2015.
Then on February 26, 2021, Rollins announced that an internal investigation into the same matters found "a significant deficiency in the Company's internal controls relating to the documentation and review of accounting entries for certain reserves and accruals." On this news, Rollins share prices fell $0.87, or 2.5%, to close at $33.17 per share on February 26, 2021, damaging investors.
Then on April 18, 2022, the SEC announced that Rollins agreed to pay $8 million to settle the charges that Rollins made unsupported reductions to its accounting reserves to improperly boost its earnings per share. On this news, Rollins share price fell $0.55, or approximately 1.7%, to close at $34.29 on April 18, 2022, damaging investors.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Information:
Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
Fax: (212) 202-3827
lrosen@rosenlegal.com
pkim@rosenlegal.com
cases@rosenlegal.com
www.rosenlegal.com
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SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A. | 2022-11-28T20:15:02+00:00 | kwtx.com | https://www.kwtx.com/prnewswire/2022/11/28/rosen-recognized-investor-counsel-encourages-rollins-inc-investors-inquire-about-securities-class-action-investigation-rol/ |
At least 29 people have fallen ill during a fast-moving E. coli outbreak in Michigan and Ohio, while the source of the outbreak is still unknown.
Of the confirmed cases, 15 are in Michigan and 14 are in Ohio. No deaths have been reported from the outbreak, but at least nine people have been hospitalized.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that those numbers are likely undercounted and that "the true number of sick people in this outbreak is likely higher."
The CDC is asking for help in finding the source of the outbreak. If you're experiencing E. coli symptoms, you should write down everything you ate in the week before becoming sick and report your illness to your local health department.
This outbreak is larger than the usual summer uptick
Symptoms of E. coli sickness vary from person to person but often include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea that is often bloody, vomiting and a fever. These symptoms usually start within three to four days after the bacteria is swallowed, the CDC said, and most people recover without treatment within a week.
While the source of the current outbreak is unknown, some of the cases have been linked to each other through laboratory testing and results, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said.
Michigan has seen a jump in E. coli infections compared to this same time last year. At least 98 cases have been recorded this August compared to 20 cases in the same time period last year.
"While reports of E. coli illness typically increase during the warmer summer months, this significant jump in cases is alarming," Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive, said in a statement. "This is a reminder to make sure to follow best practices when it comes to hand hygiene and food handling to prevent these kinds of foodborne illness."
The CDC offers tips on how to avoid E. coli infections
To help prevent E. coli infections, the CDC recommends keeping things clean. This includes washing your hands often, washing surfaces and utensils, and rinsing produce before eating or preparing it.
Separating things like raw meats from foods that won't be cooked also helps lessen the chance for contamination.
Temperature is also important. Ensuring your meats are cooked to a high enough temperature helps kill germs, the CDC said. Keeping perishable food refrigerated or making sure it gets back in the fridge within two hours is also a good prevention practice.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2022-08-18T15:54:08+00:00 | nprillinois.org | https://www.nprillinois.org/2022-08-18/a-rapidly-spreading-e-coli-outbreak-in-michigan-and-ohio-is-raising-health-alarms |
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday evening's drawing of the Louisiana Lottery's "Pick 3" game were:
8-4-1
(eight, four, one)
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday evening's drawing of the Louisiana Lottery's "Pick 3" game were:
8-4-1
(eight, four, one) | 2022-07-30T05:34:15+00:00 | ourmidland.com | https://www.ourmidland.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Pick-3-game-17339780.php |
HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — Zyon Pullin had 27 points and UC Riverside defeated Weber State 72-65 at the Vegas 4 on Monday.
Pullin shot 10 for 16 (3 for 3 from 3-point range) and 4 of 6 from the free-throw line for the Highlanders (3-2). Flynn Cameron scored 17 points and added seven rebounds.
The Wildcats (1-3) were led by Alex Tew, who recorded 15 points and two blocks. Zahir Porter added 11 points and six rebounds.
NEXT UP
These two teams both play Tuesday. UC Riverside takes on Wright State while Weber State takes on Abilene Christian.
___
The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar. | 2022-11-22T07:22:12+00:00 | lmtonline.com | https://www.lmtonline.com/sports/article/Pullin-scores-27-as-UC-Riverside-beats-Weber-17602976.php |
Riding a wave of production, Waverly-Sr surfed over Gilbert 49-37 during this Iowa girls high school basketball game.
Last season, Waverly-Sr and Gilbert faced off on February 7, 2022 at Gilbert High School. For a full recap, click here.
In recent action on January 30, Waverly-Sr faced off against Mason City. For results, click here.
You're reading a news brief powered by ScoreStream, a world leader in fan-driven sports results and conversation. Help us collect and deliver more game results from your favorite teams and players by downloading the ScoreStream app. Nearly a million users nationwide share team scores and player performance stats with this convenient free app. | 2023-02-07T06:04:43+00:00 | wcfcourier.com | https://wcfcourier.com/sports/high-school/basketball/girls/waverly-sr-earns-solid-win-over-gilbert-49-37/article_4fa75533-2268-5480-9db8-67a06ec5ad98.html |
Every season provides a new opportunity for a set of players to earn their time in the spotlight and prove to everyone in the area that they are the best of the best. NJ Advance Media breaks down the Union County Conference here and highlights playmakers in the running for Player of the Year.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. | 2022-10-17T15:07:35+00:00 | nj.com | https://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2022/10/who-are-2022-player-of-the-year-candidates-in-the-union-county-conference.html |
- For the new generation of its most iconic, urban-centric SUV, Hyundai started with the EV variant to bring technology-led design thinking to the entire KONA range
- The subcompact SUV's four variants, including EV, ICE/HEV and sporty N Line, to share a universal architecture but each with unique styling
- The upscaled KONA offers not only dynamic road presence but also a driver-centric interior with versatile living space that serves both practical and aesthetic needs
SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor Company today unveiled an EV-derived, futuristic design for its new generation KONA subcompact SUV. The upscaled model will be available in four variants, including all-electric, hybrid electric, internal combustion engine and sporty N Line, with a universal architecture for all and unique styling for each*.
"Upscaled with KONA's unique character, the all-new KONA confidently expresses its bold and dynamic presence," said SangYup Lee, Head of Hyundai Design Center. "KONA has evolved in every respect to embrace an even wider range of diversity, to become a true lifestyle supporter."
Upscaled KONA conveys more dynamic road presence, accommodates more 'living space'
The all-new KONA has evolved into a larger yet still urban-centric SUV with bolder styling that conveys a more dynamic road presence and driver-centric interior. To provide maximized 'living space' for customers, the all-new model grew to 4,355 mm in length, which is 150 mm longer from the previous generation, based on the EV variant.
Unlike most vehicles that are made available with a variety of powertrains, the KONA started with the EV variant design, which was then adapted the design for the ICE, HEV and N Line models. This unconventional approach allowed Hyundai to bring tech-centric design thinking to all KONA variants. Despite the shared architecture, EV, ICE/HEV and sporty N Line model has distinctive futuristic styling.
The all-new KONA's clean, distinctive nose characterizes the front section's pure volume, which contributes to the model's smooth aerodynamic performance. The pure volume is highlighted by the stretched Seamless Horizon Lamp, which is pixelated on the EV variant, marking the first Hyundai model with a Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamp that adds to the EV's distinctive character. KONA's use of Parametric Pixels also propagates a distinctive design element from Hyundai's popular EV lineup.
Lifestyle-supporting usability with driver-oriented layout and practical features
The all-new KONA's larger interior 'living space' provides practical features and an evolved in-car experience to accommodate diverse lifestyles. The EV-derived universal architecture accommodates a sporty layout with floating horizontal C-Pad to emphasize KONA's slim and wide interior, providing a versatile space for driver and passengers.
The 12.3-inch dual wide displays and floating module impart a high-tech impression. Ambient lighting enhances the user experience and convenience. With the column type shift-by-wire relocated from the center console to behind the steering wheel, it provides an uncluttered layout and additional space for belongings in the central tunnel.
For more information about the all-new KONA, please visit HERE.
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SOURCE Hyundai Motor Company | 2022-12-19T21:43:49+00:00 | live5news.com | https://www.live5news.com/prnewswire/2022/12/19/all-new-hyundai-kona-gets-bolder-more-dynamic-ev-led-design-with-unique-styling-across-range-powertrains/ |
Not five minutes into my drive of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance, the car has decided I need to relax. Maybe I’m tense about tapping into all 791 hp from this plug-in hybrid powertrain…or taking advantage of the performance suspension to slice through these roads in the Santa Monica Mountains…or deserving the trust afforded me to pilot a car with a sticker price that will certainly top $150,000.
The S 63 E Performance may be the most technologically advanced car that has ever hit the market. The S-Class has typically held that mantle, but turning the S 63 E into a plug-in hybrid by incorporating technology born in Formula 1 takes it to the next step. It doesn’t just use the hybrid system to chase efficiency. It also aims at performance while maintaining an air of civility. Essentially, the S 63’s new tech is meant to help a car that does almost everything well add a few more bullets to its holster.
Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance: Hybrid power broker
The engine makes the same power as it did in the last S 63, which was last offered in 2020 as a sedan and 2021 as a coupe. It’s a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 that huffs out 603 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with the same 9-speed automatic transmission with a wet clutch instead of a torque converter. By itself, this combo launched the 2020 S 63 from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds.
An AMG grille with vertical slats and a unique front bumper with larger inlets feed more air to the engine than in other S-Classes. The S 63 also has a round AMG logo on the hood instead of a standing star ornament, to go with its forged wheels, AMG side skirts, and a rear diffuser.
The engine is just part of the new powertrain. Like in the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C 63 S E Performance, an electric motor sits on the rear axle where it’s teamed with a 2-speed transmission and a limited-slip differential in a single drive unit. The electric motor can add 188 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque to bring the totals to 791 hp and 1,018 lb-ft. A 13.1-kwh lithium-ion battery is also mounted in the floor above the rear axle. Using technology from the Mercedes F1 program, it consists of 1,200 liquid-cooled cells that are stabilized at 113 degrees F so the battery can provide repeated shots of energy to the motor.
The powertrain doesn’t always make full power, but then again drivers rarely use full power. The full 188 hp from the motor is always available for up to 10 seconds at a time whenever the driver pins the throttle, but the motor lends a peak 38 hp in Comfort mode and 94 hp in Sport mode.
The S 63 may have supercar power, but it doesn’t hit like a supercar. At its core, the big Benz is a very civilized luxury car after all. Comfort mode provides a smooth throttle pedal, though without the laziness from the throttle and transmission that characterizes other S-Class models. Sport mode livens the reactions and Sport+ puts them on high alert. No matter the mode, when the engine is on, it rumbles reassuringly in the background, only howling when I mash the throttle.
Sport+ also enables a launch control function called Race Start. It’s easy to use: Simply come to a stop, apply the brake and throttle at the same time, then let off the brake.
I try it out at a stop sign on an abandoned stretch of canyon road. The V-8 lets out a series of staccato barks as it runs up against a rev limiter, and in this case the S 63 does launch like a supercar. Power comes on so hard that the rear end wiggles and the 0-60 mph run flashes by in a scant 3.2 seconds, according to both Mercedes and my butt dyno. The 9-speed automatic cracks through the gears and the car tops out at an electronically limited 155 mph.
At the other end of the spectrum, I try out the default EL, or Electric mode, which is accompanied by a synthetic spaceship-like whirr. The motor has power enough to get the car underway and up to freeway speeds without turning on the engine. It switches to Comfort’s hybrid mode when accelerating too hard, topping 87 mph, or pushing past a detent near the end of the throttle pedal travel.
Throughout my day in the S 63 E Performance, the battery charge pinballs up and down. EL saps the charge and Sport+ uses the brake regeneration and engine to charge it back up. An initial drive in EL mode drops the battery charge from full to 41%, but several miles in Sport+ push it back up to 71%. Later, EL mode drops it to 25%, at which point the powertrain switches on and the car changes to Comfort mode, but more miles in Sport+ bring it back up to the mid 40s by the end of the day.
In any driving mode, drivers can choose from four levels of brake regeneration, from 0 to 3. The car freewheels in the 0 setting, while 1 provides a feel like engine braking with an automatic transmission. Level 2 has stronger regen, and 3 provides what Mercedes calls one-pedal driving.
For most of my drive, I don’t even notice what regen setting I’m in because this feels like a gas-powered car. Later, I discover that the regen settings are chosen through the drive mode dial on the right side of the steering wheel. I try them out and find that Level 3 allows mostly one-pedal driving, but I’m not confident about coming to a full stop and find myself using the brake pedal. It doesn’t matter because one-pedal driving feels wrong with the V-8 purr in the background, so I switch back to Level 1.
I never make a full range run in EL mode, but expect the EPA figure to come in at about 15 miles of electric range. Mercedes says the S 63 E Performance can charge from 25-100% in 3.25 hours on a Level 2 outlet or 7 hours on a Level 1 outlet through its 3.7-kw onboard charger.
Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance: Wrangles its mass
The plug-in hybrid powertrain adds 450 pounds or more to an already heavy car, bringing the total to at least 5,700 pounds (that’s the European spec, and U.S. cars should weigh more thanks to additional equipment). However, Mercedes-AMG throws everything it can at the S 63 to control its mass and make it sportier. Like other S-Class models, it comes with a three-chamber air suspension and adjustable dampers. It also gets active anti-roll bars controlled by a 48-volt system, active engine mounts, and rear-wheel steering.
Company engineers also strengthened the body structure. Up front, they added an aluminum stabilizer bar under the engine and a suspension cross brace up top to improve torsional stiffness. Out back, they added aluminum struts in a diagonal layout across the underbody. The struts team with the battery and its fiber-reinforced plastic compartment to also increase body rigidity. When in their stiffer mode, the active engine mounts have the same effect.
Despite its weight, the S 63 E Performance is more controlled than other S-Classes. At 210.1 inches long, the S 63 carves out a large presence on the road, but it drives smaller than that. Rear-wheel steering helps it cut sharp corners tighter and maneuver more easily in parking lots. The active anti-roll bars and firmer settings for the air springs and dampers limit body lean, while active bolsters help keep front seat occupants in place in turns. Quick, direct, light steering makes it all feel very manageable. It’s no sport sedan and it’s not as sporty as the 2023 BMW 7-Series, but the S 63 E Performance gains some welcome body control that lesser S-Classes lack.
The handling can be aided by the drive modes. The dampers and air suspension react through three levels of firmness in Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes, with sharper reactions the higher you go up the scale. Thankfully, none of the modes disrupts the S-Class’s famously smooth ride quality, even on the available 255/30R21 front and 285/35R21 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires (20-inch wheels with similarly staggered tires come standard). The baseline is certainly firmer than other S-Class models, but it’s quite comfortable and road imperfections only have the chance to disrupt comfort in Sport+.
Those so inclined can also choose from Basic, Advanced, and Pro stability control modes to tighten up or free up the electronic nannies. If you’re driving this big beast hard enough to need Pro mode, you’re either a professional stunt driver or insane.
Big brakes arrest the S 63’s momentum. Up front, 15.7-inch rotors are clamped down upon by 6-piston calipers. At the rear, single-piston calipers pinch 15.0-inch rotors. On these mountain roads the brakes prove strong with a natural pedal feel instead of the numb feel in Mercedes’ electric cars.
Mercedes-Benz AMG S 63 E Performance: Quiet comfort
In addition to its controlled character, piloting the plug-in hybrid S 63 is a pleasure due to its cabin, which blends mature comfort with sporty touches and cutting edge technology. The sporty bits include a smaller twin-spoke steering wheel with paddle shifters, AMG nappa upholstery and emblems on the seats, a Supersport theme for the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Race and Supersport options for the head-up display, and access to the AMG Track Pace app that acts as telemetry and a driving coach on select tracks around the world.
The standard 12.8-inch portrait-style touchscreen also has several screens to show hybrid and performance displays, some of which combine. The efficiency-based screens are Energy Flow, which shows where the power is coming from as well as the state of the battery charge, and a Consumption screen with a graph of consumption in 30- and 90-minute intervals, as well as a three-hour interval.
Performance can be monitored through a Drive screen that shows engine and motor rpm and torque in real time, a Vehicle screen that shows the action of the dampers and the angle of steering front and rear, and an Engine screen with real-time hp and torque figures, as well as a pair of additional gauges.
I find it fun and informative to watch the Drive, Vehicle, and Engine screens to see where the power is coming from, how much power is being used, and what the rear wheels are doing at various speeds. The rear wheels can turn up to 2.5 degrees opposite of the fronts, but that’s only at parking lot speeds. On these twisty roads, they turn only about a half a degree opposite of the fronts at 40 mph and only a tenth or two-tenths of a degree up near the 62-mph inflection point at which they turn with the front wheels to improve stability.
Mercedes loads up the S 63 with luxury features as well, including a Burmester audio system with Dolby Atmos surround sound, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 64-color ambient lighting, and multi-contour front seats with heating, cooling, and massage. The seats are part of that aforementioned relaxation program called Energizing Comfort, which also incorporates audio and lighting elements to help smooth me out.
Like it always has, the S 63’s tech extends to safety features. They include adaptive cruise control, active lane control, automatic emergency braking with a cross-path function, blind-spot monitors that steer away from potential collisions, automatic lane changes, traffic-sign recognition, and a driver-attention monitor.
It all adds up to a technological tour de force that uses its tech to improve handling, power, comfort, safety, and connectivity. It will also, undoubtedly, come at a stunning price. Expect at least a few thousand more than the $152,995 of the last S 63. For that money, you’ll get a car that can do just about everything well, even deciding when you need to relax.
Mercedes-Benz paid for travel and lodging for Motor Authority to bring you this firsthand report.
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- 2024 BMW 4-Series spy shots and video | 2023-06-29T18:59:13+00:00 | keloland.com | https://www.keloland.com/automotive/internet-brands/review-2024-mercedes-benz-amg-s-63-e-performance-civilizes-big-horsepower/ |
WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Whether you’ve purchased your Christmas gifts days ago or waited until the last minute it’s the thought that counts.
22News found last minute shoppers in Westfield gravitating to the various boutiques on School Street Friday, where one young woman was considering buying her mother a special gift from one of the stores.
“This street in general has so many boutiques and little stores. I think it’s perfect to support small business during the holiday season,” said Anna Chrisanthopoulis.
This last minute Christmas shopping mission would likely result in the purchase of some jewelry for her mom. | 2022-12-23T21:10:46+00:00 | wwlp.com | https://www.wwlp.com/news/local-news/hampden-county/last-minute-shopping-in-westfield/ |
Mexico seizes ‘historic’ half-ton of fentanyl at warehouse
Published: Jul. 7, 2022 at 6:39 PM EDT|Updated: 1 hour ago
MEXICO CITY (AP) - Mexico’s army and National Guard have made what they call a “historic” seizure of over a half-ton of fentanyl at a warehouse in the northern city of Culiacan.
Synthetic opioids like fentanyl have been behind a major increase in overdose deaths in the United States.
As little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be lethal.
The nearly 1,200 pounds found at the warehouse could have produced millions of the counterfeit pills in which fentanyl is usually offered.
The Defense Department said Thursday that over a half-ton of meth was also found in the July 2 raid.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2022-07-08T00:08:53+00:00 | foxcarolina.com | https://www.foxcarolina.com/2022/07/07/mexico-seizes-historic-half-ton-fentanyl-warehouse/ |
Another day, another blow-up in the cryptocurrency market.
This time, FTX teeters on the brink of insolvency. The precise details are murky but the upshot is that creditors and investors may receive pennies on the dollar at best.
According to Investopedia, FTX Exchange is a leading centralized cryptocurrency exchange specializing in derivatives and leveraged products. It supports nine fiat currencies that investors can deposit and withdraw via a wire transfer. According to the Wall Street Journal, FTX held $16 billion in customer assets.
FTX has an affiliated trading firm called Alameda Research. Alameda apparently spent hundreds of millions of dollars backstopping other crypto firms. It may have traded aggressively with borrowed money. Reportedly, $10 billion of borrowed money came from FTX.
Last Sunday, customers requested $5 billion worth of withdrawals from FTX. FTX does not appear to have $5 billion of liquidity to pay them back. It would have to get money back from Alameda or raise it from other sources.
As an unregulated corner of the investment universe, cryptocurrency firms are subject to old-fashioned bank runs. Movie viewers may remember the scene in “It’s a Wonderful Life” where panicked depositors demand the return of their money from the Bailey Building and Loan. James Stewart tries to explain that only a portion of their money is sitting around in cash. The rest is tied up in home and business loans. These loans cannot be turned into ready money. If depositors insist on withdrawing all their money, Bailey Building and Loan will fail.
In the building and loan case, the loans were good assets that would eventually be paid off. The crisis was simply one of liquidity. The bank runs of the 1930s were stopped by federal deposit insurance which guaranteed that depositors below certain limits would always be paid in full and by emergency liquidity injections from the Federal Reserve.
These backstops do not exist in the Wild West of the crypto universe. Assurances that customer assets are backed up by adequate collateral are nothing more than assurances. As Warren Buffett is fond of saying, “You don’t find out who’s swimming naked until the tide goes out.”
When and if the tide will keep going out for crypto is anyone’s guess. Bitcoins, the largest factor in the market, fell from $66,000 a year ago to about $17,000 today. Ethereum, the second largest factor, fell from $4,900 to $1,200. Unlike traditional alternatives to paper money such as gold, crypto has no alternative uses. It is truly an asset that is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it.
Crypto skeptics have been predicting its demise almost from the day Bitcoin was created at $400 per coin in 2014. Crypto’s biggest boosters believe that, even at $66,000, investors hadn’t seen anything, yet.
Perhaps the situation can best be summed up this way: You pays yer money and you takes yer chance.
Jeffrey Scharf welcomes your comments. Contact him at jeffreyrscharf@gmail.com. | 2022-11-11T00:12:47+00:00 | santacruzsentinel.com | https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2022/11/10/crypto-market-walks-a-perilous-financial-line-jeffrey-scharf-everybodys-business/ |
UCSB Women’s Basketball to Host No. 15 Ranked UCLA on Saturday
The Gauchos Are Seeking Their Third Consecutive Victory Against UCLA
The biggest test of the season for the UCSB women’s basketball team will be here on Saturday as No. 15 ranked UCLA will be visiting the Thunderdome for a non-conference contest beginning at 7 p.m.
The Bruins (7-1) are coming off a 73-64 loss at No. 1 ranked South Carolina, but will be a thrilling challenge for a UCSB (5-1) team that is riding a two-game winning streak.
“We continue to grow and I think what’s really special is some players from last year that are just in different roles have really embraced that,” said UCSB coach Bonnie Hendrickson. “With losing Danae Miller at the point guard that’s who had the ball in her hands at the end of the games, so we were worried about who is replacing Danae, yes, but what was really magnified as a staff is who is going to have the ball in their hands at the end of the game. We’ve had some young players really step up.”
The Gauchos are led by the senior duo of Alexis Tucker and Ila Lane. Tucker, who started her college basketball career at Texas Tech, averages a team-high 15.5 points per game. Lane provides a dominating interior presence with 15.3 points per game and 11.2 rebounds per game.
“I think this is going to be a really good game. I’ve always wanted to play UCLA, they’ve got good guards,” Tucker said. “It will be a really challenging game, but we’re ready, we’re prepared, we’ve had two days of prep going over scout and everything so I’m really excited.”
UCLA head coach Cori Close is a UCSB alum and was a four-year starting point guard. She captained Santa Barbara’s two NCAA Tournament teams in 1992 and 1993, leading them both to the second round. Close was also a First Team All-Big West selection and the MVP of the conference tournament in 1993.
“I’m glad it’s in the Thunderdome,” Tucker said. “At UCLA would have been cool too, but it’s good to have that game here and I know there’s history with coach Cori Close so I think it will be a really good game.”
Depth has been a strength so far this season for UCSB and with 10 to 11 players accustomed to contributing Hendrickson has lots of weapons at her disposal.
“When we sub there’s not a drop off and that’s a huge advantage for us on both ends of the floor,” Hendrickson said. “If we need a better on-ball defender we’ve got that coming off the bench. If we need a better shooter we’ve got that coming off the bench so I think that’s been important.”
The Gauchos will need all of their players to be at their best as they pursue a signature victory. | 2022-12-03T07:02:10+00:00 | independent.com | https://www.independent.com/2022/12/02/ucsb-womens-basketball-to-host-no-15-ranked-ucla-on-saturday/ |
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KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — A spate of fires and explosions has turned Russian-annexed Crimea from a secure base for the further invasion of Ukraine into the latest flashpoint highlighting Moscow's challenges ahead in a war that is nearing the half-year mark.
A statement from British defense intelligence Wednesday that “Russian commanders will highly likely be increasingly concerned with the apparent deterioration in security across Crimea, which functions as rear base area for the occupation.”
Even Russia itself acknowledged it was an “act of sabotage” that caused Tuesday's explosions and fires that ripped through an ammunition depot near Dzhankoi in once-secure Crimea, leading to chaotic scenes when around 3,000 people had to be evacuated.
As a vivid reminder of Russia's vulnerability in Crimea, detonations at the depot near Dzhankoi were still continuing Wednesday.
A week earlier, Russia's military in Crimea already came under pressure when Ukraine said nine Russian warplanes were destroyed following explosions. At the time, Moscow still offered the possibility of a wayward cigarette butt as the cause.
No such explanations would suffice anymore as the war, which had long centered on brutal fighting in Ukraine's eastern Donbas region, has now given southern Crimea increasing importance.
Worsening the outlook in Crimea was a report by the Kommersant business paper, that explosions had also taken place near Gvardeyskoye in the center of the peninsula. By Wednesday, there still was no comment from the Russian authorities.
The British intelligence report said Gvardeyskoye and Dzhankoi “are home to two of the most important Russian military airfields in Crimea.”
Ukraine has stopped short of claiming responsibility for any of the blasts, including those at another Crimean air base last week. Russia seized the Crimean Peninsula in 2014 and has used it to launch attacks against Ukraine in the war that began on Feb. 24.
If Ukrainian forces were behind the explosions, that would represent a significant escalation in the war. Such attacks could also indicate that Ukrainian operatives are able to penetrate deeply into Russian-occupied territory.
On the eastern front, the stalemate between both sides continued, with the brutality of the shelling causing ever more death and destruction.
In the Donetsk region at the forefront of the Russian offensive, two civilians were killed and seven others were wounded by recent Russian shelling of several towns and villages.
Russian Tu-22M3 long-range bombers fired cruise missiles at the Odesa region overnight, leaving four people injured, according to Odesa regional administration spokesman Oleh Bratchuk.
In the southern city of Mykolaiv, two Russian missiles damaged a university building early Wednesday but injured no one.
The Russian forces also shelled Kharkiv and various parts of the Kharkiv region overnight, damaging residential buildings and civilian infrastructure but inflicting no casualties.
On Thursday, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres plans to travel to Ukraine for a meeting in the western city of Lviv with Zelenskyy and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. They are expected to discuss the grain shipments and a possible fact-finding mission to the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of shelling. | 2022-08-17T09:14:26+00:00 | ourmidland.com | https://www.ourmidland.com/news/article/Crimea-sabotage-highlights-Russia-s-woes-in-17378786.php |
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — After scores of customer complaints, a federal judge has issued a restraining order against the Knoxville-based company Solar Titan USA and put it under the control of a court-appointed receiver.
The Attorneys General of Tennessee and Kentucky sought and obtained a protective order against Ideal Horizon Benefits, the owner in title of Solar Titan USA, over numerous complaints of deceptive business practices and allegations that the company’s leaders used customer loan funds to pay for private yachts, multimillion-dollar homes and at least one private jet instead of fulfilling contractual obligations.
Richard Ray, Principal of Tria Financial Consulting, was appointed receiver of the company by U.S. District Court Judge Clifton L. Corker. He will assume temporary oversight of Solar Titan USA and its assets.
Ideal Horizon Benefits LLC doing business as Solar Titan USA is currently under the control of the United States District Court of East Tennessee at Knoxville, TN. Richard Ray is the court appointed receiver with oversight responsibilities over the Company. He will provide regular updates to the Court as ordered and will provide public announcements via this website as directed by the Court. If you are a customer and wish to file a consumer complaint please go to the “Contact Us” tab of this site and inform us of your complaint.
Solar Titan USA statement posted to their website
Many customers in East Tennessee have shared their stories of costly loans, unfinished work, and solar panels that don’t work with WATE. According to court documents, more than 200 formal complaints have been filed against Solar Titan USA in Tennessee and Kentucky since 2020.
Last month, WATE’s Don Dare spoke with Linda Yokley, a homeowner in Greeneville, whose solar panels from Solar Titan USA did not work after she paid $91,000 and waited months for repairs.
Solar Titan USA’s website that customers who wish to file a consumer complaint should go to the “Contact Us” tab of solartitanusa.com and inform them of the complaint. Those who have already filed a consumer complaint should also visit the site to inform them of the current status of the complaint.
The court-appointed receiver will oversee evaluations of complaints and present his recommended solution to the Court for approval. He may be reached at SolarReceiver@pjgudz | 2023-02-09T01:09:59+00:00 | wjhl.com | https://www.wjhl.com/news/regional/tennessee/solar-titan-usa-put-under-federal-courts-control-after-200-complaints/ |
DETROIT (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday evening's drawing of the Michigan Lottery's "Fantasy 5" game were:
03-14-19-20-22
(three, fourteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-two)
Estimated jackpot: $100,000
DETROIT (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday evening's drawing of the Michigan Lottery's "Fantasy 5" game were:
03-14-19-20-22
(three, fourteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-two)
Estimated jackpot: $100,000 | 2022-12-10T02:04:58+00:00 | ourmidland.com | https://www.ourmidland.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Fantasy-5-game-17644061.php |
CHESAPEAKE, Va. (AP) — The Walmart supervisor who shot and killed six co-workers in Virginia seemed to target people and fired at some victims after they were already hit and appeared to be dead, said a witness who was present when the shooting started.
Jessica Wilczewski said workers were gathered in a store break room to begin their overnight shift late Tuesday when team leader Andre Bing entered and opened fire with a handgun. While another witness has described Bing as shooting wildly, Wilczewski said she observed him target certain people.
“The way he was acting — he was going hunting,” Wilczewski told The Associated Press on Thursday. “The way he was looking at people’s faces and the way he did what he did, he was picking people out.”
She said she observed him shoot at people who were already on the ground.
“What I do know is that he made sure who he wanted dead, was dead,” she said. “He went back and shot dead bodies that were already dead. To make sure.”
Wilczewski said she had only worked at the store for five days and didn’t know with whom Bing got along or had problems. She said being a new employee may have been the reason she was spared.
She said that after the shooting started, a co-worker sitting next to her pulled her under the table to hide. She said that at one point, Bing told her to get out from under the table. But when he saw who she was, he told her, “Jessie, go home.” She said she slowly got up and then ran out of the store.
Police are trying to determine a motive, while former coworkers are struggling to make sense of the rampage in Chesapeake, a city of about 250,000 people near Virginia’s coast.
Some who worked with Bing, 31, said he had a reputation for being an aggressive, if not hostile, supervisor, who once admitted to having “anger issues.” But he also could make people laugh and seemed to be dealing with the typical stresses at work that many people endure.
“I don’t think he had many people to fall back on in his personal life,” said Nathan Sinclair, who worked at the Walmart for nearly a year before leaving earlier this month.
During chats among coworkers, “We would be like ‘work is consuming my life.’ And (Bing) would be like, ‘Yeah, I don’t have a social life anyway,’” Sinclair recalled Thursday.
Sinclair said he and Bing did not get along. Bing was known for being “verbally hostile” to employees and wasn’t particularly well-liked, Sinclair said. But there were times when Bing was made fun of and not necessarily treated fairly.
“There’s no telling what he could have been thinking. … You never know if somebody really doesn’t have any kind of support group,” Sinclair said.
On balance, Bing seemed pretty normal to Janice Strausburg, who knew him from working at Walmart for 13 years before leaving in June.
Bing could be “grumpy” but could also be “placid,” she said. He made people laugh and told Strausburg he liked dance. When she invited him to church, he declined but mentioned that his mother had been a preacher.
Strausburg thought Bing’s grumpiness was due to the stresses that come with any job. He also once told her that he had “had anger issues” and complained he was going to “get the managers in trouble.”
She never expected this.
“I think he had mental issues,” Strausburg said Thursday. “What else could it be?”
Tuesday night’s violence in Chesapeake was the nation’s second high-profile mass shooting in four days. Bing was dead when officers reached the store in the state’s second-largest city. Authorities said he apparently shot himself.
Police have identified the victims as Brian Pendleton, 38; Kellie Pyle, 52; Lorenzo Gamble, 43; and Randy Blevins, 70, who were all from Chesapeake; and Tyneka Johnson, 22, of nearby Portsmouth. The dead also included a 16-year-old boy whose name was withheld because of his age, police said.
A Walmart spokesperson confirmed in an email that all of the victims worked for the company.
Krystal Kawabata, a spokesperson for the FBI’s field office in Norfolk, Virginia, confirmed the agency is assisting police with the investigation but directed all inquiries to the Chesapeake Police Department, the lead investigative agency.
Another Walmart employee, Briana Tyler, has said Bing appeared to fire at random.
“He was just shooting all throughout the room. It didn’t matter who he hit,” Tyler told the AP Wednesday.
Six people also were wounded in the shooting, which happened just after 10 p.m. as shoppers were stocking up ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. Police said they believe about 50 people were in the store at the time.
Bing was identified as an overnight team leader who had been a Walmart employee since 2010. Police said he had one handgun and several magazines of ammunition.
Tyler said the overnight stocking team of 15 to 20 people had just gathered in the break room to go over the morning plan. Another team leader had begun speaking when Bing entered the room and opened fire, Tyler and Wiczewski said.
Tyler, who started working at Walmart two months ago and had worked with Bing just a night earlier, said she never had a negative encounter with him, but others told her he was “the manager to look out for.” She said Bing had a history of writing up people for no reason.
The attack was the second major shooting in Virginia this month. Three University of Virginia football players were fatally shot on a bus Nov. 13 as they returned from a field trip. Two other students were wounded.
The Walmart shooting also comes days after a person opened fire at a gay nightclub in Colorado Springs, Colorado — killing five and wounding 17. Tuesday night’s shooting brought back memories of another attack at a Walmart in 2019, when a gunman killed 23 at a store in El Paso, Texas.
Wilczewski, who survived Tuesday’s shooting in Virginia, said she tried but could not bring herself to visit a memorial in the store’s parking lot Wednesday.
“I wrote a letter and I wanted to put it out there,” she said. “I wrote to the ones I watched die. And I said that I’m sorry I wasn’t louder. I’m sorry you couldn’t feel my touch. But you weren’t alone.”
___
Associated Press writers Denise Lavoie in Chesapeake and news researchers Rhonda Shafner and Randy Herschaft in New York contributed to this report. | 2022-11-25T10:50:25+00:00 | fox59.com | https://fox59.com/news/ap-top-headlines/ap-witness-walmart-shooter-seemed-to-target-certain-people/ |
New Jersey bear hunt returns despite efforts by animal rights groups to ban it
By Toni Yates
Click here for updates on this story
NEWTON, New Jersey (WABC) — New Jersey’s first bear hunt in two years resumed Wednesday, despite efforts by animal rights groups to convince the courts to block its return.
The decision also marked a change of heart by Governor Phil Murphy, who was convinced by wildlife officials to bring back the hunt as increased sightings and encounters with bears in the state put the public at risk.
Within hours of the court ordered stay being lifted Tuesday, word went out to permitted hunters, 6,268 of them, that the hunt was on.
“We had one successful hunter yesterday check a bear,” said Dave Golden, Assistant Commissioner of New Jersey Fish and Wildlife.
The stay, successfully but temporarily won by Animal Rights groups, delayed the hunt for one day. On Wednesday, check stations were open.
All culled bears must now be brought to one of the five stations to be weighed. The Department of Environmental Protection is taking specific data on the animals.
“We tag nuisance bears, we know based on the bears being brought to the check stations that some of the bears being taken in to harvest are nuisance bears,” Golden said.
The DEP is trying to reduce the black bear population by 20% in the state.
The Murphy administration agreed to reinstitute the hunt in an emergency order as bear encounters with humans and pets rise.
The DEP says encounters have risen by 230% from last year to this year.
The hunt has sparked so much controversy that one hunter agreed to let cameras record the weigh in, but chose not to speak or be seen.
The hunt is scheduled to be on until December 10, unless not enough bears are culled.
“So, if we don’t reach a target of 20% harvest rate, then the hunt will be extended for four additional days,” Golden said.
In past years, before Governor Murphy ended the hunt, animal rights groups flocked to a Sussex County checkpoint to protest the hunt.
None were here on Wednesday but are continuing their fight in the courts to still try to end this year’s hunt.
It’s already approved for next year as well.
Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform. | 2022-12-08T20:56:52+00:00 | localnews8.com | https://localnews8.com/news/2022/12/08/new-jersey-bear-hunt-returns-despite-efforts-by-animal-rights-groups-to-ban-it/ |
TEMPE, Ariz., Feb. 24, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Rockford Fosgate, the industry leader in high-performance audio systems, is pleased to announce the promotion of Zach Luke to Vice President of Sales and Marketing.
In his 19 years with Rockford, Zach has held a variety of positions including director of marketing, regional sales manager, and for the last seven years, national sales manager.
Bill Jackson, Rockford president and CEO stated, "Zach brings a unique perspective to the business. He is passionate, highly driven, hates to lose, and embraces the Rockford culture. He understands retail, how customers buy and what motivates them. Most importantly, Zach understands our brand, it's history and how it has evolved over the years." Bill continued "I have had the pleasure to watch Zach grow and develop as a leader. I am pleased to have him on the team."
Zach Luke, Rockford Vice president of sales and marketing, said "I am excited to lead our sales and marketing team. My mantra has always been that the magic isn't in the idea, but the execution of it. With that I plan to build on our success by aligning creative ideas with the needs of the market to deliver a best-in-class experience with Rockford Fosgate."
This promotion follows the announcement that Theresa Anthony will be leaving Rockford on March 3rd. After more than 30 years in the audio world, she is moving on to the beauty products industry, accepting an executive role with a Gilbert Arizona based Cosmetics company.
Bill Jackson shared, "Theresa has spent much of her professional life in the audio industry. Beginning at Radio Shack back in 1991, her time with Mitek, to her 21 years as part of the Rockford team. Theresa has always been a driven person and willing to take on various challenges. Her dedication, loyalty and passion for the Rockford brand will be missed."
About Rockford Corporation
Setting the standard for excellence in the audio industry, Rockford Corporation markets high-performance audio systems under the brand Rockford Fosgate® for the mobile, motorsport, and marine audio aftermarket and OEM market. Headquartered in Tempe, Ariz., Rockford Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Patrick Industries, Inc. (NASDAQ: PATK).
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Rockford Corporation | 2023-02-24T19:21:26+00:00 | kxii.com | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2023/02/24/rockford-fosgate-promotes-zach-luke-vice-president-sales-marketing/ |
The women were sexually abused while incarcerated in federal prison in Dublin, California. The issue is part of a hearing Friday before the U.S. Sentencing Commission.
Copyright 2022 NPR
The women were sexually abused while incarcerated in federal prison in Dublin, California. The issue is part of a hearing Friday before the U.S. Sentencing Commission.
Copyright 2022 NPR | 2022-10-28T11:33:38+00:00 | iowapublicradio.org | https://www.iowapublicradio.org/news-from-npr/news-from-npr/2022-10-28/advocates-seek-compassionate-release-for-women-sexually-abused-while-incarcerated |
NEW YORK (AP) — Millions of COVID-19 vaccine doses have been ordered for small children in anticipation of possible federal authorization next week, White House officials say.
The government allowed pharmacies and states to start placing orders last week, with 5 million doses initially available — half of them shots made by Pfizer and the other half the vaccine produced by Moderna, senior administration officials said.
As of this week, about 1.45 million of the 2.5 million Pfizer doses have been ordered, and about 850,000 Moderna shots have been ordered, officials said. More orders are expected in the coming days.
Young children are the only group of Americans not yet eligible to get COVID-19 vaccinations. Up to about 20 million U.S. children under 5 would become eligible for vaccination if the government authorizes one or both shots.
More than 30,000 U.S. children younger than 5 have been hospitalized with COVID-19 and nearly 500 coronavirus deaths have been reported in that age group, said Dr. Vivek Murthy, the U.S. surgeon general.
“We have waited a long time for this moment,” White House COVID-19 coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha said at a briefing Thursday.
But it’s not clear how popular the shots will be. A recent survey suggests only 1 in 5 parents of young children would get their kids vaccinated right away.
And public health officials have been disappointed at how many older U.S. children, who have been eligible for shots for months, have yet to be vaccinated: Less than one-third of kids ages 5 to 11 have gotten the two recommended doses, according to government figures.
“As we go down in the age groups, we see lower and lower uptake” of vaccines, said Dr. Lucia Abascal of the California Department of Public Health.
Pfizer has asked FDA to authorize three doses of its COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 6 month to 4 years. Each dose is one-tenth of the amount adults receive.
Moderna has asked FDA to authorize two shots for kids ages 6 months to 5 years, each containing a quarter of the dose given to adults.
The Food and Drug Administration authorizes the use of vaccines, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issues recommendations to doctors and the public about using them.
An FDA advisory committee is scheduled to meet Tuesday and Wednesday to review data from the two companies. Officials say they expect a FDA decision shortly after that meeting.
A CDC advisory committee is scheduled for next Friday and Saturday, with a CDC decision expected soon after.
If all those entities give their OKs, vaccinations should begin in earnest as early as June 21, Jha said.
___
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | 2022-06-09T20:42:46+00:00 | ksn.com | https://www.ksn.com/news/health/coronavirus/officials-millions-of-covid-19-shots-ordered-for-youngest/ |
These platform improvements will help businesses across all verticals better connect with their customers through text messaging.
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., Sept. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Text Request, the business text messaging platform built to ignite customer engagement, has released a suite of new features and integrations throughout the summer to help business users better connect with their customers and other contacts through text messaging.
New features include:
- A desktop app
- Contact Merge Fields for individual messages and saved message Templates
- New reports for user logins and for payments
- Send and receive PDF attachments
- MMS (picture) messaging and PDFs for HIPAA Compliant Texting accounts
- Ability for account admins to redact messages, hiding personal info shared via text
- Improvements to the Zipwhip Migration Tool, which now automatically transfers text lines, users, contacts, message history, contact notes, opt outs, and templates from Zipwhip to Text Request without users having to download any data
Earlier this year, Text Request was named a recommended replacement for Zipwhip by Twilio, the company who acquired Zipwhip, and has already helped 1,000+ businesses transfer data to continue texting seamlessly. Current Zipwhip users looking to make the switch can start the process here. Zipwhip services end on November 30, 2022.
New integrations include:
- Help Scout: Import contacts from Help Scout to Text Request, and sync text conversations in Help Scout.
- Quickbooks: Sync contacts from Quickbooks to Text Request, automatically send notifications and receipts for invoices and payments, and handle inbound questions via text.
- Angi Leads: Trigger texts to new leads that come in through Angi, and continue the conversation via Text Request.
"It's a big year for product improvements," says Text Request co-founder and CTO Rob Reagan, "and we have several more notable updates coming this quarter and next. But it's an even bigger year for revenue growth. We've already doubled our recurring revenue this year."
Text Request has seen a large uptick in text messaging from both businesses and consumers since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Consumers increasingly expect contactless engagement and digital communications, and businesses have been adopting new technologies faster than ever.
"To connect with customers in 2022, you have to be texting," said Reagan. "We're here to make those connections possible and effortless for business teams."
Those seeking to learn more or to sign up for Text Request can visit www.textrequest.com, or text or call (423) 218-0111.
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Text Request | 2022-09-08T11:56:02+00:00 | wafb.com | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/09/08/text-request-adds-new-features-doubles-revenue/ |
After secret documents leak, Pentagon plans tighter controls to protect classified information
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon on Wednesday announced plans to tighten protection for classified information following the explosive leaks of hundreds of intelligence documents that were accessed through security gaps at a Massachusetts Air National Guard base.
Airman 1st Class Jack Teixeira, 21, is accused of leaking the highly classified military documents in a chatroom on Discord, a social media platform that started as a hangout for gamers.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, in a memo released Wednesday, ordered all of the department’s secured rooms where classified information is stored and accessed to be brought into compliance with intelligence community standards for oversight and tracking. The changes call for increased levels of physical security, additional controls to ensure documents aren’t improperly removed, and the assignment of top-secret control officers to monitor users.
A senior defense official who briefed reporters on the new directives said the department is trying to increase accountability, using technology that can better track what workers are doing and what information they are accessing. But at the same time, the official said, defense leaders don’t want to impede the ability to share critical information across the government when necessary.
Asked if the department is trying to limit the number of people who have access to classified information, the defense official said it is an effort to ensure that the department is properly determining what information each person may access and making sure that employees have a need to know the classified material they are reading.
The official spoke on condition of anonymity in accordance with Pentagon ground rules for the briefing.
In the memo, Austin also said the sensitive compartmented information facilities, or SCIFs, must be monitored to prevent the use of electronic devices inside the rooms. That effort would include “appropriate electronic device detection systems and mitigation measures” inside the secure areas, according to the memo.
According to authorities, Teixeira, who enlisted in the Air National Guard in 2019, began sharing military secrets first by typing out classified documents and later by removing classified documents from the base and taking them home to photograph them.
Teixeira worked as a a “cyber transport systems specialist,” essentially an IT specialist responsible for military communications networks, which gave him wide access to the military’s classified computing networks.
The case highlighted the potential vulnerabilities the department faces as it works to safeguard classified information at military facilities across the globe that have varying security procedures and layers of protection, said the senior defense official.
“There wasn’t a single point of failure,” the official added.
Court filings in Teixeira’s case revealed that Air National Guard supervisors warned him at least three times about improper access to classified information, but no further action to restrict his clearance or access was taken.
The official said one of the concerns the department found in its review was that facilities that were farther from headquarters had ambiguity on some of the military’s classified information policies, such as when a security violation was required to be reported higher up the chain of command.
Teixeira pleaded not guilty last month to federal felony charges.
The stunning breach exposed to the world unvarnished secret assessments of Russia’s war in Ukraine, the capabilities and geopolitical interests of other nations and other national security issues. It has led to sweeping security reviews looking at the large number of users who have access to top secret information, who is tracking them, and whether or not they have a need to know.
Austin also directed the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency to develop ways to more quickly flag and communicate concerns to local commanders about personnel, such as by improving how “continuous vetting information” — any updated reports on criminal records, credit reports or other indicators that are tracked as part of background checks — can be more quickly shared to flag a potential security risk.
An estimated 4 million people hold U.S. security clearances, according to a 2017 report from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Of those, roughly 1.3 million are cleared to access top-secret information.
The Defense Department has previously been criticized for delays vetting new employees for security clearances and for over-classifying information. Officials have tried to balance those concerns against efforts to come up with ways to better protect the documents without further slowing down needed access to information, the official said.
More recent figures weren’t immediately available. But some lawmakers have long wanted to update the U.S. system of classifying information and add safeguards for how documents are stored and tracked.
____
Associated Press writers Nomaan Merchant and Eric Tucker contributed to this report.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-07-05T20:48:50+00:00 | witn.com | https://www.witn.com/2023/07/05/after-secret-documents-leak-pentagon-plans-tighter-controls-protect-classified-information/ |
NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Both Republicans and Democrats say they’ll work together to tackle some of the top issues facing New Mexico in this year’s legislative session such as education, crime, healthcare, and tax reform.
This legislative session will have a record amount of money to do it, with an extra 3.6 billion dollars in new money this year. This is an opportunity New Mexico has never had before, but state lawmakers warn that doesn’t mean they can go on a spending spree.
“I really think we need to be a little more disciplined in our spending and not spend every single dollar that comes in, put some away for a rainy day,” Rep. Jason Harper said.
“We have increased this budget by 30 percent over the last two years and in New Mexico, if we don’t plan for reserves and restrain ourselves, we could come back and do cuts,” Sen. George Munoz said.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham is proposing to put $1 billion towards another round of tax rebates for New Mexicans. Munoz believes if those rebates come back this year, they need to be for the most vulnerable.”But if we’re going to do something we’re going to have to really target it. Target it to the inflationary pressures like our senior citizens, right?”
With Democrats holding all the power, Republicans acknowledge the fight they have to get their bills through.”There was certain legislation that I carried for six years that I couldn’t get passed and then as soon as someone else carried the bill it got passed,” Rep. Gail Armstrong said. “It’s very frustrating but in the end, if it’s something that’s good for New Mexicans, we’re happy.” | 2023-01-12T05:07:39+00:00 | krqe.com | https://www.krqe.com/news/politics-government/legislature/crime-education-are-top-priorities-heading-into-new-mexico-legislature/ |
Life Style Live “Hot Links”- July 18, 2023
You can find more from all of today’s “Life.Style.Live!” guests at the links below:
LE MACARON FRENCH PASTRIES
VIP Center for Business Women
CONNER PRAIRIE
https://www.connerprairie.org/explore/things-to-do/chautauqua/
GADGET GUY
KEEPING KIDS SAFE ON THREADS
Financial Education | 2023-07-19T02:27:31+00:00 | wishtv.com | https://www.wishtv.com/lifestylelive/life-style-live-hot-links-july-18-2023/ |
Mississippi enacts ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors
By Devan Cole, CNN
Transgender minors in Mississippi can no longer receive gender-affirming care in the state after its Republican governor signed a bill Tuesday that prohibits health care professionals from providing both hormone treatments and surgical procedures.
Gov. Tate Reeves’ approval of HB 1125 comes as Republican-led states around the country are pushing an unprecedented number of bills seeking to restrict gender-affirming care this year. Debates around the issue have reached into new territory in recent months after some lawmakers proposed measures that would extend some of the bans to people older than 18.
Gender-affirming care is medically necessary, evidence-based care that uses a multidisciplinary approach to help a person transition from their assigned gender — the one the person was designated at birth — to their affirmed gender — the gender by which one wants to be known.
Mississippi’s ban — which went into effect immediately after Reeves signed it — outlaws the prescription and administration of puberty-blocking medication and cross-sex hormone therapy in patients under the age of 18, and prohibits surgery related to gender transition. The law also makes it illegal for people to “knowingly engage in conduct that aids or abets the performance or inducement of gender transition procedures” to minors.
Any health care professional found to be in violation of the ban will have their license to practice medicine in the state revoked, according to the law, which also gives people who “assert an actual or threatened” violation of the ban the right to bring civil suits against “against any facility, individual or entity” for violating its provisions. The statute of limitations for bringing such suits is 30 years.
“At the end of the day, there are two positions here. One tells children that they’re beautiful the way they are. That they can find happiness in their own bodies. The other tells them that they should take drugs and cut themselves up with expensive surgeries in order to find freedom from depression. I know which side I’m on,” Reeves said in a statement on Tuesday.
Major medical associations agree that gender-affirming care is clinically appropriate for children and adults with gender dysphoria, which, according to the American Psychiatric Association, is psychological distress that may result when a person’s gender identity and sex assigned at birth do not align.
Though the care is highly individualized, some children may decide to use reversible puberty suppression therapy. This part of the process may also include hormone therapy that can lead to gender-affirming physical change. Surgical interventions, however, are not typically done on children and many health care providers do not offer them to minors.
LGBTQ advocates have long stressed that access to gender-affirming care is life-saving health care and is of critical importance to a group that suffers from uniquely high rates of suicide. A 2020 research brief from The Trevor Project, a nonprofit that works to prevent suicide among LGBTQ youth, noted that “pubertal suppression is associated with decreased behavioral and emotional problems as well as decreased depressive symptoms.”
The group blasted Reeves’ decision to sign the bill on Tuesday, with Kasey Suffredini, its vice president of advocacy and government affairs, saying in a statement that “decisions around medical care should be made between parents, patients, and doctors — not by politicians.”
Earlier this month, South Dakota enacted a similar health care ban, and Utah put one on its books in January. Alabama, Arizona and Arkansas also enacted bans on gender-affirming care in recent years, though two of them have been temporarily blocked by federal courts.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2023 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved. | 2023-03-01T01:41:05+00:00 | krdo.com | https://krdo.com/politics/cnn-us-politics/2023/02/28/mississippi-enacts-ban-on-gender-affirming-care-for-transgender-minors/ |
Bakery to host giveaway for senior citizens
JACKSON, Tenn. — Ready to help spread kindness?
Floral Cakes Bakery is helping the senior citizen community in our area by gathering supplies and holding a giveaway in November.
They say that you can bring items such as gloves, hand sanitizer, beans and rice, noodles, soup, peanut butter, crackers, and hot chocolate to Floral Cakes at 210 East Lafayette Street in Jackson.
The giveaway for the senior citizens will be from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. at the Farmers Market in downtown Jackson.
Find more local news here. | 2022-10-26T22:52:33+00:00 | wbbjtv.com | https://www.wbbjtv.com/2022/10/26/bakery-to-host-giveaway-for-senior-citizens/ |
Temperatures have already begun to drop in the Chicago area as a powerful winter storm begins to move in. According to current forecast models, by Thursday evening, temperatures will have dropped between 20 and 30 degrees, with wind chill temperatures around 25 degrees below-zero
But if that sounds cold, just wait until Friday morning.
Live Winter Storm Updates: Secretary of State Offices Join Growing List of Closures As Winter Storm Rolls In
At 10 a.m. Thursday, weather readings clocked in at 33 degrees, according to NBC 5 Storm Team. By Friday morning, it will feel 34 degrees below zero.
Get Chicago local news, weather forecasts, sports and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC Chicago newsletters.
That means it will feel 67 degrees colder.
Just before 10 a.m., the National Weather Service confirmed that the incoming arctic front had crossed the Mississippi River and was "marching" across Illinois. As a result, wind chills are beginning to "rapidly drop."
Winter Storm Warning in Effect
A winter storm warning will go into effect at noon Thursday through Saturday morning for the entire Chicago area, stretching as far south as Kankakee, as far west as Naperville and as far north as Waukegan.
In some western suburbs, including Crystal Lake, McHenry, Woodstock, Ottawa and Elgin, the warning will go into effect even earlier, beginning at 9 a.m.
Read More: More Than 700 Chicago Flights Canceled As Winter Storm With ‘White-Out' Conditions Takes Effect
In Porter County in northwest Indiana, a blizzard warning beginning at 3 p.m. Thursday will go into effect.
Latest forecast models show snow and blowing snow may result in "white- out conditions" that lead to zero visibility at times, making travel "extremely difficult." As dangerous temperatures plummet from 30 degrees to 16 degrees and wind chills as low as 25 to 35 degrees below-zero move in Thursday afternoon, roads are expected to become quickly iced-over.
Conditions for frostbite are expected, and power outages are also a possibility, thanks to wind gusts up to 50 miles-per-hour.
And although the latest snow total predictions remain between three and six inches, with most of it occurring Thursday afternoon and into the evening, the combination of "gusty winds, and plummeting temperatures will make travel conditions treacherous from Thursday afternoon onward," the NWS says.
Expected Storm Timeline
Thursday Morning
According to NBC 5 Storm Team, temperatures Thursday morning are expected to remain in the 20s and 30s. Some snow is expected to develop, with accumulation predictions up to two inches.
Strong winds of up to 25 miles-per-hour will also start to develop.
Thursday Afternoon
Latest forecast models show heavy, widespread snow across the Chicago is predicted to start around noon, with conditions "rapidly deteriorating" as the day continues, NBC 5 Storm Team meteorologist Paul Deanno says.
Around 3 p.m., snow is expected to be more widespread, and heavy at times, the NBC 5 Storm Team says. Between one and three additional inches of accumulation is expected.
According to predictions, temperatures will drop between 20 and 30 degrees in a matter of hours, with wind chills of 25 degrees below-zero moving in.
Winds are also expected to pick up, gusting up to 35 miles per hour.
Thursday Evening
Travel conditions are expected to worsen and temperatures are expected to continue falling. According to the NWS, "a flash freeze may cause ice covered roads, topped by the snow," NWS says, with periods of white-out, "blizzard conditions" likely Thursday later afternoon and lasting into Friday.
Periods of snow, blowing snow and strong winds will continue, creating treacherous travel conditions. The bottom line, the Illinois State Police warns, stay off the roads "for the next couple of days" unless travel is "absolutely necessary."
While timing of the storm's intensity has fluctuated over the last few days, as of Wednesday afternoon, NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Paul Deanno said the worst of the storm is expected to hit between 8 p.m. Thursday and 12 p.m. Friday.
Friday
While Friday may see some isolated snow showers, the majority of snowfall will have dissipated overnight.
However, strong winds as high as 45 to 50 miles-per-hour, blowing the snow that has already fallen could create blizzard-like conditions.
"Even when the snow stops, winds will still be strong," Deanno said. "So snow will be blowing around all over the place, making it look like it’s still snowing."
Northwest Indiana however could see higher snow totals, as lake effect snow in Porter County is predicted to take hold.
And while snow in the Chicago area is set to taper off, powerful winds dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills remain.
According to NWS, strong winds may result in power outages, and travel conditions could become "life-threatening" for anyone who becomes stranded on the road. "Near-blizzard and blizzard conditions are possible Friday and Friday night," the NWS says.
Additionally, the bitter cold wind chills below 40 degrees could result in frostbite, which can form on exposed skin in as little as 20 minutes, experts say.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
At 6 a.m., the winter storm warning will come to an end. However, bone-chilling temperatures and ice covered roads are expected to remain. While wind chills will improve, they are expected to remain between 25 and 30 degrees below-zero. Strong winds are also expected to continue.
On Christmas Eve, skies are expected to remain cloudy, with temperatures in the upper single digits.
On Christmas Day, the cold will continue but the sun will peek through. High temperatures in the low teens are expected, with wind chills below-zero. | 2022-12-22T18:40:35+00:00 | nbcchicago.com | https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/enjoy-it-now-chicago-temps-will-soon-feel-67-degrees-colder-than-they-do-right-now/3028892/ |
CASPER — House Republicans chose Rep. Albert Sommers to be the next speaker of the House on Saturday, passing over his far-right colleague Sheridan Rep. Mark Jennings for the post, a lawmaker who attended the GOP caucus in Casper told the Star-Tribune.
In the Senate, the Legislature’s current majority floor leader, Sen. Ogden Driskill, was voted president, a legislative source said.
Saturday’s vote means that, despite the inroads made by hard-line conservatives in the recent elections, key positions holding power within state government will still be controlled by more traditional Republicans.
That includes the post of Gov. Mark Gordon, who was reelected by a landslide and is ultimately responsible for signing bills into law.
Shortly following the general elections, Sommers and Jennings emerged as close competitors in a contest for speaker of the House that could have decisively shifted the tone of the Legislature further right, reflecting the same shift that occurred in this year’s election.
While Sommers represents a more traditional approach to Republican leadership, the selection of Jennings, who’s associated with the hardline conservative House Freedom Caucus, could have created a wider opening for far-right factions of the House to hold bigger sway over the body’s proceedings.
In his close to a decade of service in the Legislature, Sommers, a Pinedale rancher who has a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Wyoming, has been the House majority whip, speaker pro tempore and majority floor leader.
He’s a member of six committees this year and has chaired the Broadband Task Force and the Select Committee on School Finance Recalibration, as well as a subcommittee on updating the Legislative procedures manual.
It’s somewhat unusual for there to be multiple candidates jockeying for leadership positions in the Legislature.
Traditionally, those positions have been bestowed based on seniority which, in this situation, would have made Sommers the natural pick; Jennings has been in the Legislature for a shorter time than Sommers, and he’s never held a leadership position.
This isn’t the first time Jennings, who has connections to the far-right House Freedom Caucus, has vied for speaker of the House.
In 2020, the last time Legislative leadership was reshuffled, Jennings mounted an unexpected challenge to Gillette Rep. Eric Barlow for the post in an attempt to get the voice of what he called the “conservative right” to the table.
At the time, he admitted to a Star-Tribune reporter that his move broke from tradition, but added that House tradition had already been upended when Casper Rep. Steve Harshman decided to run in 2018 for a second term as speaker of the House.
Rock Springs Rep. Clark Stith was chosen speaker pro tempore, beating out his opponent Cody Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams, who also has ties with the House Freedom Caucus. Driskill, the Devils Tower Republican who’s the pick for Senate president, has been in the Legislature since 2011, and was previously the Senate vice president.
Besides being majority floor leader this year, he also chaired the Senate Corporations, Elections & Political Subdivisions Committee. He spearheaded the controversial 2022 Civics Transparency Act, a bill that former State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow associated with concerns over the teaching of critical race theory in schools, though Driskill maintained that it was simply meant to increase transparency. (The bill didn’t make it into law.)
Driskill also sponsored the 2021 charter school bill, which did make it into law and allows potential charter schools to get charter contracts through the State Loan and Investment Board rather than through local school districts.
Sheridan Republican Sen. Dave Kinskey was voted as Senate vice president.
The speaker of the House and Senate president have a lot of sway over how business gets done during the Legislative session. They get to choose who is on what committees, including making all appointments for committee chairs. They also have control over what legislation goes to what committees, and in what order.
On Saturday, the caucus also picked Baggs Sen. Larry Hicks as Senate majority floor leader.
Hulett Rep. Chip Neiman, who’s entering his second term and is also associated with the House Freedom Caucus, was chosen as majority floor leader on the House side.
The majority floor leaders have control over what bills get heard and in what order once legislation gets through committee.
Neiman’s win over his challenger, Cheyenne Rep. Jared Olsen, is very unusual.
Neiman is just finishing his first term in the Legislature. Multiple lawmakers told the Star-Tribune that they don’t remember the last time a freshman was chosen for a leadership position, if ever.
And, as the current House majority whip who was just reelected for his fourth term, Olsen has far more seniority and leadership experience compared to the Hulett lawmaker.
Neiman was instrumental in pushing forward Wyoming’s abortion trigger ban law along with Rodriguez-Williams, the bill’s sponsor. The abortion ban, which made it into law and briefly went into effect following the U.S. Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v. Wade over the summer, is being contested in court right now. Enforcement of the abortion ban is on pause for the duration of the lawsuit.
In August, Neiman and Rodriguez-Williams filed a motion to join the lawsuit as intervenors.
The judge presiding over the case will likely make the decision to grant or dismiss their request on Monday.
During a July Legislative committee meeting, senior lawmakers told Neiman that he had gone too far in trying to publicly pressure them into signing a pledge to support some election reform legislation. Several of the committee members said they were concerned the pledge backed them into a corner, forcing them to decide between signing to appease constituents in the moment then possibly having to go back on the promise if they didn’t agree with the draft legislation, or being singled out as a “Republican in Name Only.”
After hearing the other lawmakers speak, Neiman recognized that he may have “made some freshman errors.”
As another freshman lawmaker, Rodriguez-Williams’ bid for speaker pro tempore was also unusual.
Big Horn Rep. Cyrus Western was picked over Cheyenne Rep. Clarence Styvar for majority whip in the House. The majority whip helps the majority floor leader, makes sure party members are present on the floor, counts votes and communicates the majority position.
Though party caucuses will have already chosen who they want in leadership, there still has to be an official vote in the Legislature on candidates for speaker and speaker pro tempore in the House, as well as president and vice president of the Senate.
Those votes will happen on the first day of the session.
Although lawmakers can theoretically vote for a candidate other than the one that was chosen in their party’s caucus, that doesn’t happen very often.
Lawmakers from the Democratic Party will hold a caucus vote on Sunday to choose their party’s Legislative leadership. | 2022-11-22T12:51:15+00:00 | wyomingnews.com | https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/traditional-republicans-hold-onto-leadership-posts/article_877ef258-69ce-11ed-9537-331141dd5e11.html |
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3-day high-flow experiment begins at Glen Canyon Dam
7 PHOTOS | 2023-04-24T21:54:45+00:00 | azcentral.com | https://www.azcentral.com/picture-gallery/news/local/arizona-environment/2023/04/24/feds-begin-grand-canyon-3-day-flood-project-help-colorado-river/11730509002/ |
Discussion
At 200 PM CVT (1500 UTC), the center of Tropical Depression Ten was located near latitude 17.9 North, longitude 19.8 West. The depression is moving toward the north-northwest near 12 mph (19 km/h), and this general motion with some decrease in forward speed is forecast this weekend.
Maximum sustained winds are near 35 mph (55 km/h) with higher gusts. The depression could become a tropical storm during the next day or so before weakening later this weekend.
The estimated minimum central pressure is 1003 mb (29.62 inches) based on dropsonde data from a NASA DC-8 aircraft.
Watches and Warnings
There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.
Land Hazards
RAINFALL: The system is expected to produce 2 to 4 inches of rain across the Canary Islands through this weekend. | 2022-09-23T15:43:45+00:00 | ksat.com | https://www.ksat.com/weather/hurricane/2022/09/23/tropical-depression-forms-over-the-far-eastern-atlantic/ |
These suburban Indianapolis districts have Indiana's top ILEARN math, English scores
Several suburban school districts in Central Indiana remained at the front of the pack in state test scores, ILEARN results revealed this week.
Not only did the suburban districts perform above the state’s 2023 averages – 40.9% students at or above math proficiency standards and 40.7% at or above English language arts standards – but one was the highest-performing public school district in Indiana.
Bragging rights for Brownsburg
Brownsburg Community Schools had the highest proficiency for students passing math and ELA exams of all public school districts across the state. About 63% of students in the district passed both exams.
Trailing Brownsburg, but still among the top were Carmel Clay Schools (59.7%) and Zionsville Community Schools (54.6%). Zionsville Community students had the highest proficiency percentage on science and social studies exams.
Other school districts, including Westfield-Washington and Avon, remained mostly stagnant in ELA but Noblesville gained proficiency by a percentage point and a half.
Statewide ILEARN 2023 results:Indiana students make little progress toward post-pandemic learning recovery
Carmel, Noblesville officials react
Superintendent Michael Beresford said in a statement that Carmel Clay Schools' scores – which placed the district among the top five in the state – reflect the dedication and hard work of the community.
"The district's performance demonstrates the success of a rigorous curriculum, high-quality teachers and support provided throughout our district to students at all levels," Beresford said.
In Noblesville Schools, where students performed at a higher proficiency for math and English language arts this year than in 2022, Ryan Rich, assistant superintendent of learning, said test scores are only one measure of student success.
Still, the district is pleased with students' post-COVID progress, Rich said.
Marion County results:Schools' 2023 ILEARN scores improve slightly in math, remain steady in English
Here are suburban districts' proficiency rates for both ELA and math:
English language arts scores:
- Brownsburg Community School Corporation: 70.1%
- Carmel Clay Schools: 68.7%
- Hamilton Southeastern Schools: 59.1%
- Zionsville Community Schools: 64.8%
- Westfield-Washington Schools: 60.1%
- Noblesville Schools: 56.7%
- Center Grove Community: 58.3%
- Avon Community: 52%
- Clark-Pleasant Schools: 49.5%
Math scores:
- Brownsburg Community School Corporation: 74.5%
- Carmel Clay Schools: 70.4%
- Hamilton Southeastern Schools: 63.2%
- Zionsville Community Schools: 65.8%
- Westfield-Washington Schools: 65%
- Noblesville Schools: 56.2%
- Center Grove Community: 60.3%
- Avon Community: 59.3%
- Clark-Pleasant Schools: 43.6%
Combined math and English language arts scores:
- Brownsburg Community School Corporation: 63.4%
- Carmel Clay Schools: 59.7%
- Hamilton Southeastern Schools: 50.4%
- Zionsville Community Schools: 54.6%
- Westfield-Washington Schools: 52.1%
- Noblesville Schools: 45%
- Center Grove Community: 48.8%
- Avon Community: 44.7%
- Clark-Pleasant Schools: 35.2%
Contact the reporter at rfradette@gannett.com. | 2023-07-13T00:41:22+00:00 | indystar.com | https://www.indystar.com/story/news/local/hamilton-county/education/2023/07/12/ilearn-2023-suburban-indianapolis-districts-top-math-english-scores/70405901007/ |
Whether you’re looking for new sources of inspiration or just curious to hear stories from different perspectives, TED Talks by women are a great way to broaden your outlook. There is something for everyone, from discussions on the power of vulnerability to talks about beauty and injustice.
Watching women-led TED Talks are particularly enlightening during Women’s History Month. It not only allows us to recognize the immense contributions that women have made in history, but it also serves as a reminder of how much further we still need to go in terms of gender equality and female representation.
Here are 10 TED Talks that everyone should watch this month and beyond.
Anne-Marie Slaughter: “Can We All ‘Have It All?'”
Anne-Marie Slaughter questions the outdated notion that women must choose between a successful career and a fulfilling family life. Drawing on personal experience, she discusses how many women suffer from an “impossibility complex” due to unfair expectations of perfection placed upon them. Slaughter argues that to achieve true gender equality and allow everyone — regardless of gender — to have it all, society needs to fundamentally shift how it views parenthood, with fathers taking equal responsibility for parenting. She encourages us to focus on creating flexible working conditions instead of emphasizing individual choices as the solution to inequality.
Joy Buolamwini: “How I’m Fighting Bias in Algorithms”
Joy Buolamwini shares her experience of being overlooked by facial recognition software due to her dark skin. She draws attention to algorithms being trained with biased data that disproportionately underrepresent certain social groups, leading to discriminatory outcomes. To counteract this, Buolamwini founded the Algorithmic Justice League, a movement to fight bias in algorithms and hold tech companies accountable. She calls on us to pay attention to the dangers of AI algorithms and fight for fairer development practices before we end up with a future run entirely by automated decisions.
Susan David: “The Gift and Power of Emotional Courage”
Susan David explores how emotional courage can change our lives. Drawing on anecdotes from her life, David explains that emotional courage is the ability to acknowledge and embrace complicated feelings instead of suppressing them, allowing us to move forward. She points out how often we judge ourselves and others by our emotional reactions instead of recognizing that emotions are essential tools for understanding situations. She encourages us to be more loving and forgiving toward ourselves, accepting all feelings as part of our natural state of being. This way, we can build up the strength to recognize our uniqueness, which will eventually guide us to success in our personal and professional lives.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: “The Danger of a Single Story”
In her TED Talk, novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie pushes against the oversimplification of people and cultures by telling multiple stories about groups. She argues that when we limit our perception to one story, we form false stereotypes and create a limited understanding. To illustrate this point, she shares examples from her own experience growing up in Nigeria, from the harmful stereotypes she faced due to the single story of Africa that’s often in the West to how embracing her culture’s many stories allowed her to become a more well-rounded individual. Adichie encourages us to recognize and challenge our bias by actively seeking out multiple perspectives to build a more complete view of the world.
Aimee Mullins “The Opportunity of Adversity”
Aimee Mullins, who was born without shinbones, speaks about adversity and its power to forge strength. She shares her own experience growing up with a disability and how it taught her resilience and optimism in the face of difficult situations. Mullins emphasizes that having different stories and perspectives enriches our lives, allowing us to find beauty in diversity. She encourages us to open ourselves up to possibilities, enabling us to discover the hidden potential within each of us — potential that can be harnessed by embracing the things we may consider weaknesses. Success can be found in places we least expect it by breaking down boundaries between what is traditionally seen as a limitation and an opportunity for growth.
Anu Aga: “Death”
Indian billionaire businesswoman and social worker Anu Aga tells her story of losing several loved ones, including her husband and son, and facing the reality of death. She speaks about how death can bring unexpected emotional pain and how we must learn to cope with loss. In the face of tragedy, Aga found strength in faith and gratitude for the life she was given. Her talk emphasizes that it is possible to find hope even in times of sorrow and an appreciation for the precious few moments of joy that life offers us. Aga addresses the importance of sharing these stories to help others come to terms with their own grief and build an understanding of death’s finality by accepting its part in our lives.
Susan Cain: “The Power of Introverts”
Writer Susan Cain discusses the importance of introvertism in today’s society. Drawing on personal experience, she speaks about how extroverted ideals are often celebrated and how this can lead to introverts feeling unheard or unable to succeed in the world. Cain argues that these individuals possess their own hidden potential, which is only unlocked when their voices are acknowledged and respected. She emphasizes the need to balance the two personalities and create environments where different temperaments can thrive together. Her message encourages us to embrace our unique qualities and ultimately reach our full potential by recognizing our own strengths.
Mellody Hobson: “Color Blind or Color Brave?”
Mellody Hobson speaks of the need to embrace the differences of race in today’s society. She stresses that the key to progress is having a sincere and meaningful dialogue about our identities and experiences without judgment. Hobson, president and co-CEO of Ariel Investments, chairwoman of Starbucks Corporation and former chairwoman of DreamWorks Animation, asserts that it’s not enough to simply avoid racism, as we must also be proactive in creating an environment where everyone feels safe and respected. Her message highlights the importance of inclusion, rather than just “tolerance” by recognizing and celebrating different cultures, perspectives and backgrounds. Ultimately, she emphasizes that we all have a shared responsibility to create a more equitable society where everyone is accepted for who they are.
Brené Brown: “The Power of Vulnerability”
In her TED Talk, Brené Brown emphasizes vulnerability’s role in fostering meaningful connections. Drawing on her research, she speaks about how vulnerability is often seen as a weakness in society but can actually be a strength. She makes the case that allowing ourselves to be vulnerable allows us to build meaningful relationships and to understand our true selves better. Her talk highlights the importance of being honest with ourselves and others and connecting through openness and compassion. Brown presents her argument by giving personal examples of courage and renewal which result from living an authentic life.
Elizabeth Gilbert: “Your Elusive Creative Genius”
Author and journalist Elizabeth Gilbert discusses the notion of creative genius. She asserts that creativity is no longer connected to a single individual but rather a divine presence that comes to us in moments of inspiration and hard work. She points out that instead of trying to possess this power, we should honor it and allow it to flow through us as needed. Ultimately, her talk emphasizes the importance of embracing our creativity by trusting ourselves and embracing every moment along our journey. Gilbert encourages us to let go of any perfectionism or fear of failure to access our full potential as creative beings.
This story originally appeared on Simplemost. Check out Simplemost for additional stories. | 2023-03-19T16:30:43+00:00 | abc15.com | https://www.abc15.com/10-ted-talks-to-watch-for-womens-history-month |
Dreams are coming true at Zoo Miami.
The park welcomed a 17-year-old with a critical illness on Tuesday to make sure she got the greatest behind-the-scenes tour.
Hallie Blair and her family flew all the way to South Florida from Wichita, Kansas to make this happen.
She got to see giraffes, elephants, and chimpanzees, and even hold a 75-pound albino python.
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“I think my favorite was the snake,” she said. “I love snakes.”
She loves them so much, she has four snakes back home.
This is a wish come true and also part of Hallie’s bucket list and dream of being a zoologist.
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The 17-year-old has struggled with severe cystic fibrosis.
“I want to visit every zoo in the United States,” she said. “Zoos are my favorite thing to go to in the states. I chose Zoo Miami because it’s one of the biggest in the United States.”
She says she’s fascinated after seeing what Florida wildlife has to offer.
“I’ve never seen a lot of these animals in person,” she said. “Especially like manatees, unfortunately, iguanas. So many iguanas.”
This is a love for animals she shares with Ron Magill. He’s the Zoo’s goodwill ambassador and the one who shows Hallie and her family the exclusive parts of the zoo.
“Sometimes I think animals understand things and sense things that other humans don't,” Magill said. “And I think sometimes humans themselves, they put their walls down, they put their guard down. They feel safe around certain animals. Hallie is one of those people. And she has a special connection with animals. And I think, you know, the good vibes that animals bring her, hopefully, help her to, you know, face those challenges.”
Hallie has big plans for her future — that might include her joining us here in the Sunshine State.
“Animals have always been my thing,” she said. “Especially exotic animals, it’s been my dream to work with them. I kind of want to move to Florida and I might work here.” | 2022-11-22T21:52:23+00:00 | nbcmiami.com | https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/make-a-wish-grants-zoo-miami-trip-to-aspiring-zoologist/2915158/ |
Why can’t the Yankees get players like this?
Former New York pitching prospect Hayden Wesneski made his MLB debut Tuesday with the Chicago Cubs. Hours after being called up from the minors, the 24-year-old right-hander came out of the bullpen and threw five shutout innings, picking up the victory in Chicago’s 9-3 win over the Cincinnati Reds.
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Wesneski, traded to the Cubs ahead of the Aug. 2 deadline in exchange for reliever Scott Effross, gave up just two hits and one walk while striking out eight. He threw 61 pitches, 43 of which were strikes.
Wesneski had about 20 family members and friends from Texas in the stands.
“This was special,” Wesneski said. “I couldn’t have planned it any better. My friends and family are here. I threw really well. I don’t know how much more I could ask for.”
He relieved Wade Miley, who returned from a shoulder injury to make his first start since June 10. Wesneski retired 13 of the first 14 batters around a walk before Spencer Steer doubled with one out in the ninth and Aristides Aquino singled. Wesneski struck out Jake Fraley and Jose Barrero to end the game.
Wesneski threw at up to 95.7 mph, mixing 26 curveballs and five changeups among 61 pitches and getting four of his eight swings and misses on curves. He was 6-7 with a 3.51 ERA in 23 starts at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and 0-2 with a 5.66 ERA in five appearances at Triple-A Iowa.
“I took deep breaths,” Wesneski said. “I have a spot in Wrigley Field where I look at and found earlier in the day. When things were going a little sideways, I looked at it and said, ‘OK, let’s get locked in’ and went from there. It was the top of the left field foul pole.”
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Wesneski is the third ex-Yankees pitcher to find success after being moved ahead of the trade deadline.
Left-hander Jordan Montgomery, swapped for injured outfielder Harrison Bader, is 5-0 with a 1.47 ERA in six starts for the St. Louis Cardinals.
Left-hander JP Sears, moved in the deal for pitchers Frankie Montas and Lou Trivino, is 2-1 with a 2.63 ERA in five starts for the Oakland A’s.
MORE MLB:
- Ex-Yankees slugger Joey Gallo flashes leather and pop in Dodgers win
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- Red Sox exec makes bold promise about his last-place club
(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription.
Mike Rosenstein may be reached at mrosenstein@njadvancemedia.com. | 2022-09-07T13:05:51+00:00 | nj.com | https://www.nj.com/yankees/2022/09/ex-yankees-prospect-impresses-in-mlb-debut-with-cubs.html |
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. (KTVI) – Two 1994 unsolved cases in Missouri and Illinois have baffled investigators for decades.
Three investigative agencies in two states came together to solve a 28-year-old mystery.
In January 1994, Steven Asplund was reported missing in Illinois. He was last seen driving a Ford Mustang in Moline, Illinois. Three months later, a barge worker spotted a body in the Mississippi River near the Jefferson Barracks Bridge in St. Louis County, Missouri.
Both cases remained unsolved mysteries until this month when Moline Police Detective Mike Griffin reached out to St. Louis County Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Lindsay Trammell on a hunch after failing to receive any community leads.
“We’d exhausted all efforts with trying to identify him,” Trammell said.
After pouring through the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NAMUS) database, Griffin noticed a possible match with his unsolved case and one more than 200 miles away in St. Louis County.
“Our unidentified person’s case was very well documented,” Trammell said. “He was buried at a local cemetery called Friedens, so we actually had the plot number or location in the cemetery documented in our records.”
Said Griffin: “It is possible for a body to get downstream that far. It is possible, whether they get caught up in a passing barge, a passing boat, to get towed down there. … It was well within the realm of possibility, and that’s when we began looking farther south.”
DNA testing confirmed St. Louis County’s John Doe was actually Steven Asplund from Moline, Illinois.
“The evidence suggests he went into that water under his own power. Whether he was under the influence or whether he intended to do it, those are the two unknowns,” Griffin said. “But we do know from the evidence that was uncovered in St. Louis that there’s no trauma to the body. He didn’t go in by another’s force.”
Asplund’s family released a statement saying, in part, “The news, while bittersweet, will allow us some closure. We’ll still think of Steve every day, and miss him just the same, but these answers will provide comfort to us and his friends.”
Moline Police Chief Darren Gault praised his detective’s dogged pursuit in solving not one, but two, mysteries.
“Law enforcement is here to serve the community. We have access to a lot of resources and to try to give families closure, whether it is a violent crime or missing person,” he said. “It’s so important for us to try to help them out and give them answers.”
Cold case investigators believe this case could be groundbreaking in not only broadening out a search area, but also showing how different jurisdictions can work together.
Griffin said there are more than 14,000 unidentified remains nationwide that could be connected to missing person cold cases. | 2022-09-23T15:51:21+00:00 | ksn.com | https://www.ksn.com/news/national-world/one-officers-hunch-solves-2-cold-case-mysteries/ |
‘Tis the season for cozying up to a crackling woodstove or fireplace -- but firewood may be a bit harder to find in Michigan this year.
According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, loggers have shifted their attention to harvesting building-friendly softwood trees this year. When combined with competing demands for firewood-friendly hardwood material, fuelwood supplies are coming up shorter than usual in some areas, the DNR said.
“Demand for firewood pulp logs is strong,” said Tim Neff, general manager of AJD Forest Products in Grayling. “We have a waiting list from large firewood processors for production.”
If you find yourself in an area where local firewood sources have waiting lists, the DNR is sharing alternative ways to find, purchase or harvest fuelwood. Some sources include:
Firewood Scout: Search listings of local firewood producers at firewoodscout.org.
State forests: DNR fuelwood collection permits, which allow residents to collect up to five cords of dead and downed firewood from select state forests for personal use, can be purchased for $20 through the end of the year. Learn how here
National forests: Michigan’s three national forests offer firewood-cutting permits for personal use. Details can be found at each national forests website: Hiawatha National Forest, Huron-Manistee National Forest and Ottawa National Forest
The DNR is also reminding people to use local wood sources whenever possible, to avoid transporting firewood over long distances and unintentionally spreading damaging forest pests and diseases.
For those facing hardship in heating costs this winter, relief is available through resources from the Michigan Energy Assistance Program.
RELATED: How to get a winter’s worth of firewood from Michigan state forests for $20 | 2022-10-21T11:18:10+00:00 | mlive.com | https://www.mlive.com/news/2022/10/where-to-stock-up-on-firewood-to-heat-your-michigan-home-this-winter.html |
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — The athletics sanctioning organization that oversees most high school sports in Virginia told schools this week it has no immediate plans to change its regulations governing the participation of transgender athletes despite Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s new guidance concerning trans students.
The Youngkin administration’s model policies say student participation in athletics should be determined by biological sex, rather than gender or gender identity, with “reasonable modifications” offered only to the extent required by law.
But the Virginia High School League’s executive director, John “Billy” Haun, told school leaders Monday he recommended the league’s existing policies, which allow transgender athletes to participate on teams that match their gender identity under certain conditions, not be changed.
“As the VHSL fall sport season begins this week, I am recommending the League stay with the current policy which has served us well,” Haun wrote in an advisory to school leaders. “We certainly will respect the decision of any school division as they address their policies and will continue to review this matter as we move forward and the new school year begins.”
Haun noted that when previous Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam’s administration first rolled out model policies for the treatment of transgender students in 2021, the league’s policy — in place since 2014 — similarly remained unchanged.
The policy allows for consideration of participation by trans athletes who have undergone sex reassignment before puberty or who meet certain other conditions, such as undergoing hormone therapy “in a verifiable manner and for a sufficient length of time to minimize gender-related advantages.”
A miniscule number of students participate under the policy, according to data provided by VHSL spokesman Mike McCall. Between 2014 and the 2022-23 school year, 38 trans athletes filed appeals to participate under the process, with 34 granted.
The difference between the league’s stance, which was reported earlier by The Washington Post, and the Youngkin administration’s policies will likely lead to confusion for parents and school staff, said Breanna Diaz, policy and legislative counsel for the ACLU of Virginia.
Diaz noted that the 2020 law that initially directed the Department of Education to create model policies explicitly excluded the issue of athletics from the topics the guidelines should cover.
“It really is unknown territory,” said Diaz, whose organization has been sharply critical of the new policies.
Pursuant to the law, school boards are asked to adopt policies that are “consistent with” the administration’s.
Across the state, school boards and superintendents were beginning to process and respond to the new policies, which encompass more than just athletics and were made final last week. The administration’s guidelines also address issues like the use of bathrooms and other sex-segregated facilities and increase parental notification requirements about certain discussions involving gender identity.
That process of analyzing the policies will take some time, especially since some school boards have a summer break, said Scott Brabrand, executive director of the Virginia Association of School Superintendents.
But, as expected, school leaders in some blue-leaning parts of the state have already made clear they do not plan to adhere to the Youngkin administration’s guidance. A similar dynamic played out in prior years when districts in red-leaning areas declined to adopt the Northam administration’s model policies.
“I don’t think its going to be the same exact reaction from every school district,” said Brabrand, whose organization has not taken a formal position on the matter.
The 2020 law is silent on the issue of enforcement.
“The Virginia Department of Education has fulfilled its responsibility to develop the model polices, school boards are expected to follow the law,” Youngkin spokeswoman Macaulay Porter said in a statement Wednesday.
She did not directly address a question about whether the administration viewed the VHSL’s guidance as being in conflict with the policies but said that under the 2020 law, the VHSL “does not have a role.”
The development of the new model policies in politically divided Virginia comes as many other GOP-led states move to restrict transgender students’ participation in school athletics.
At least 22 other states have enacted laws to keep transgender girls and women from playing on girls or women’s school, club or intramural sports, with a majority applying from kindergarten through college. Also, North Carolina’s Republican-controlled Legislature plans to consider overriding Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto of a related measure, and Alaska’s governor-appointed state school board was considering a ban Wednesday.
Democrats who control the Virginia Senate blocked such legislation in February.
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Associated Press reporter John Hanna in Topeka, Kansas, contributed to this report. | 2023-07-26T23:40:35+00:00 | seattletimes.com | https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/northwest/virginia-athletics-organization-plans-no-changes-to-its-policy-for-trans-athletes/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_seattle-news |
Eric Church “Happy” to Open for Robert Earl Keen at Floore’s Country Store
This will be your final summer to see one of the greatest entertainers of our time perform live. Robert Earl Keen's farewell tour is well underway, and while the party never ends, Keen's touring days will this September.
We were honored to have the Texas legend headline our annual Red Dirt BBQ & Music Festival in May. And man was it great catching up with him on Radio Texas, LIVE!
When I asked him what he'll miss most about touring he quickly responded "the bus." Turns out Robert Earl is a big bus guy. You can hear our final interview directly above this paragraph.
He also told us he plans to focus more on his podcast, other ventures, and of course his family. But as we near the end of his time on the road, the entertainer still had something magical up his sleeve, revealed with a big announcement yesterday.
One of country music's biggest stars, Eric Church, announced that he'll be opening for Keen September 3rd at Floore's Country Store. Turns out The Chief is a big fan:
Robert Earl Keen Jr. has been a huge influence on my music and writing. We used to cover Corpus Christi Bay in my bar band in North Carolina in college. When he asked me to join him on the last shows of his career, I told him I'd do whatever he wanted. I'm happy to join him at Floore's to help send him off into the sunset. But don't forget friends.... The road goes on forever and the party never ends.
If you were hoping to be there, I hope you know someone on the inside, the show was actually already sold out before the Eric Church announcement. But you will have more opportunities to see Keen. Click here for his tour dates. | 2022-07-30T00:42:56+00:00 | knue.com | https://knue.com/eric-church-happy-to-open-for-robert-earl-keen-at-floores-country-store/ |
NEW YORK (AP) — For most of the six decades that monkeypox has been known to affect people, it was not known as a disease that spreads through sex. Now that has changed.
The current outbreak is by far the biggest involving the virus, and it’s been designated a global emergency. So far, officials say, all evidence indicates that the disease has spread mainly through networks of men who have sex with men.
“It clearly is spreading as an STI (sexually transmitted infection) at this point,” said Dr. Tom Inglesby, director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security.
To protect the people at highest risk while trying to contain the spread, public health agencies are focusing their attention on those men — and attacking the virus based on how it’s behaving now.
On Wednesday, the head of the World Health Organization advised men at risk for monkeypox to consider reducing their sexual partners “for the moment.”
But this is a complicated outbreak that may shift in how it spreads and which population groups are most affected. There is also debate about whether monkeypox should be called a sexually transmitted disease, with some critics complaining that the term creates a stigma and could be used to vilify gay and bisexual men.
Monkeypox can spread in nonsexual ways too, and it’s not enough to use condoms or other typical measures for stopping STDs, Inglesby and other experts say.
Here’s what we know.
WHAT MAKES SOMETHING AN STD?
A sexually transmitted disease is commonly defined as one that mainly spreads through sexual contact. But some STDs can be spread in other ways, too. HIV can spread through shared needles. Syphilis can spread through kissing. A common, parasite-caused sexual infection called trichomoniasis has been found to spread through the sharing of damp, moist objects like sponges or towels.
Monkeypox has not usually spread easily among people, and experts are still trying to understand exactly how it moves from person to person. In Africa, where small outbreaks have been common for years, people have been infected through bites from rodents or small animals.
But in May, cases began emerging in Europe, the United States and elsewhere that showed a clear pattern of infection through intimate contact with an infected person, like many other sexually transmitted diseases.
The public health workers who respond to outbreaks play a large role how they are framed. Much of the work on monkeypox has been done by professionals who operate sexual health clinics or specialize in STDs.
Indeed, the U.S. government’s response needs to be led by people with that expertise, said David C. Harvey, executive director of the National Coalition of STD Directors.
“The STD field has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in these areas developed over decades fighting various outbreaks and diseases affecting the very communities … we’re seeing monkeypox taking a toll on today,” Harvey said in a statement.
WHO IS GETTING MONKEYPOX?
WHO officials said last week that 99% of all the monkeypox cases beyond Africa were in men and that of those, 98% involved men who have sex with men. Experts suspect that monkeypox outbreaks in Europe and North America were ignited by sex at two raves in Belgium and Spain.
The statistics are the same for cases reported in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As in Europe, cases have emerged in other groups too, including at least 13 people who were female at birth and at least two children.
Last week, the New England Journal of Medicine published a study of hundreds of monkeypox infections in 16 countries. It found that the suspected means of transmission in 95% of the cases was sexual close contact, as reported by doctors. The researchers noted that it was impossible to confirm sexual transmission.
That idea seemed to be further supported by the finding that most of the men had lesions in the genital or anal areas or in the mouth — areas of sexual contact, the researchers said.
WHY IS THERE A DEBATE ABOUT CALLING IT AN STD?
While there is broad agreement among health officials that monkeypox is being transmitted during sexual encounters, some experts debate whether it should be called an STD. They worry that the term unfairly stigmatizes and that it could undermine efforts to identify infections and tame the outbreak.
When a disease is defined as a sexually transmitted infection that mainly affects men who have sex with men, many people may begin to think of it as “a gay disease” that poses no risk to them, said Jason Farley, an epidemiologist at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing.
That’s what happened in the early days of the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s, which contributed to the spread of HIV to other groups. Farley said.
“We learn nothing from our history,” said Farley, who is gay.
The WHO recommendation that at-risk men limit their sexual partners is sensible public health advice, he said. But it also amplifies “the message that this is a gay disease,” he said.
“This is the fine line between having a public health approach that focuses on the epidemiology of now, compared to the likelihood of the continued emergence of new cases in” the general community, he said.
“Monkeypox is not a sexually transmitted infection,” he said. “It is an infection that can be transmitted with sexual contact.”
WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT TRANSMISSION?
Some researchers have found evidence of the monkeypox virus in semen. A study in Spain found monkeypox virus DNA in the semen of some infected men, as well as in saliva and other body fluids. But the study didn’t answer whether the virus actually has spread through semen.
Sorting that out could affect the understanding of not only how men spread the infection, but also how long they might be contagious. Evidence of some other viruses — like Ebola and Zika — has been found in the semen of some men months after they were thought to be fully recovered.
Meanwhile, scientists believe the primary route of transmission during the current outbreak has been skin-to-skin contact during sexual encounters with someone who has symptoms. In that respect, it’s similar to herpes, some experts noted.
The virus also may spread through saliva and respiratory droplets during prolonged, face-to-face contact, such as during kissing and cuddling — a kind of spread that can occur outside of sex.
Researchers are exploring how often, and in what situations, that kind of spread might happen, said Christopher Mores, a professor of global health at George Washington University.
“We would do ourselves a disservice to try and exclude anything from the realm of possibility at this point,” he said.
Officials also say people can catch monkeypox from touching items that previously touched an infected person’s rash or body fluids, such as towels or bedsheets. That is thought to explain the infections of the U.S. children.
WHY ARE THESE DETAILS IMPORTANT?
It’s important to understand exactly how monkeypox spreads in order to give people the information they need to protect themselves, health officials say.
That said, health officials believe those who are currently at the highest risk are gay or bisexual men who have sex with multiple partners. That understanding has shaped much of the work to contain the outbreak, including prioritization of the supply of vaccines and treatments.
The government has been shipping a monkeypox vaccine, but the supply is limited. So far it’s only been recommended as a post-exposure treatment or for people who have had multiple sex partners in the past two weeks in a place where monkeypox cases have been reported.
The vaccine is new, and officials are trying to gather data on exactly how well it works.
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Associated Press Writer Jamey Keaten in Geneva contributed to this report.
___
The Associated Press Health & Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | 2022-07-29T00:52:15+00:00 | pix11.com | https://pix11.com/news/national-news/ap-national/if-monkeypox-spreads-through-sexual-contact-is-it-an-std/ |
West Virginia governor signs ban on gender-affirming care for minors
West Virginia joins at least 10 other states that have enacted laws restricting treatments for transgender youth.
West Virginia joins at least 10 other states that have enacted laws restricting treatments for transgender youth.
West Virginia joins at least 10 other states that have enacted laws restricting treatments for transgender youth.
Video above: States want to ban gender-affirming care. What is that, exactly?
West Virginia Republican Gov. Jim Justice on Wednesday signed a bill banning gender-affirming care for minors, joining at least 10 other states that have enacted laws restricting or outlawing medically supported treatments for transgender youth.
The bill outlaws those under 18 from being prescribed hormone therapy and fully reversible puberty blockers. It also bans minors from receiving gender-affirming surgery, something physicians say doesn't even happen in West Virginia.
Unlike measures passed in other states, however, West Virginia's law contains a unique exemption: It permits doctors to prescribe medical therapy if a teenager is considered at risk for self-harm or suicide.
Under the law, which will take effect in January 2024, a patient can be prescribed puberty blockers and hormone therapy after receiving parental consent and a diagnosis of severe gender dysphoria from two clinicians, including a mental health provider or an adolescent medicine specialist.
Both practitioners must be trained to diagnose and treat young people with severe gender dysphoria and provide written testimony that medical interventions are necessary to prevent or limit possible or actual self-harm.
The provisions were added at the urging of Senate Majority Leader Tom Takubo, who is a physician.
"These kids struggle. They have incredible difficulties," the Republican said on the Senate floor earlier this month. Takubo cited more than a dozen peer-reviewed studies showing a decrease in rates of suicide ideation and attempts among youth with severe gender dysphoria who had access to medication therapy.
Gender dysphoria is defined by medical professionals as severe psychological distress experienced by those whose gender identity differs from their sex assigned at birth.
The bill also prohibits minors from being prescribed hormone therapy before the age of puberty, something West Virginia physicians say doesn't happen anyway.
The medication dosage for any adolescent must be the lowest possible necessary to "treat the psychiatric condition and not for purposes of gender alteration," according to the bill.
The West Virginia law comes as Republican lawmakers across the U.S. have pursued several hundred proposals this year to push back on LGBTQ+ rights, particularly rights for transgender residents, including banning transgender girls from girls sports, keeping transgender people from using restrooms in line with their gender identities and allowing or requiring schools to deadname trans students.
Lawmakers in West Virginia and other states moving to enact bans on transgender health care for youth and young adults often characterize gender-affirming treatments as medically unproven, potentially dangerous in the long term and a symptom of "woke" culture.
Every major medical organization, including the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Psychiatric Association, supports gender-affirming care for youths.
A 2017 study by UCLA Law's The Williams Institute estimated West Virginia had the highest per capita rate of transgender youth in the country.
Video below: The U.S. assistant secretary for health talks about gender-affirming care, reproductive health, and more
The rate of suicide ideation, or having suicidal thoughts or ideas, for transgender youth in West Virginia is three times higher than the rate for all youth in the state, according to West Virginia Youth Risk Behavior Survey data.
Natalie Frazier, who oversees gender-affirming care for Planned Parenthood in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia, said the bill Justice signed Wednesday was "better than it could have been."
"But it's still unnecessary — just an unnecessary barrier to care that is going to end up harming people," she said, adding that not every child's family will have the resources to travel to two different clinicians for a gender dysphoria diagnosis.
Frazier, who is also a certified nurse midwife, said the diagnosis of severe gender dysphoria with risk of suicide "could probably apply to just about any kid getting access to gender-affirming care."
"That's why people are are so invested in providing the care because there is a disproportionate risk," she said. "That's something that any of these kids could be at risk for and nobody's going into this care lightly."
West Virginia's ban also includes exemptions for people who are born intersex and for people taking treatments for infection, injury, disease or disorder that has been "caused by or exacerbated by the performance of gender transition procedures."
Surgeries can be performed if a child is at risk for "imminent danger of death or impairment of a major bodily function."
At least 11 states have now enacted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming care for minors: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee, Utah, South Dakota and West Virginia. Federal judges have blocked enforcement of laws in Alabama and Arkansas, and nearly two dozen states are considering bills this year to restrict or ban care. | 2023-03-30T02:13:22+00:00 | wtae.com | https://www.wtae.com/article/west-virginia-governor-signs-ban-on-gender-affirming-care-for-minors/43459829 |
Men wanted in Mall of America shooting arrested in Chicago
(FOX 9) - Bloomington police said the two men wanted in the shooting at the Mall of America were arrested Thursday in Illinois after they were spotted getting haircuts.
The alleged shooter, 21-year-old Shamar Lark, and the man police said directed Lark to fire the shots, 23-year-old Rashad May, had been on the run for the last week.
During a news conference Thursday, Bloomington Police Chief Booker Hodges said Lark and May were picked up during a traffic stop in Chicago. They had been seen coming out of a barbershop and then getting into a car. The car, driven by a woman, was stopped by the Chicago FBI Fugitive Task Force, and they were taken into custody without incident.
"A week ago, we said that you can't shoot at the mall and expect to get away with it. You can't commit these acts and think you're going to enjoy the freedoms of a free society, and (now) you're getting haircuts. Haircuts," Hodges said.
Officers said on Aug. 4, Lark fired multiple shots inside the mall after a fight at the Nike store. Police said it appears May "prompted" Lark, who then fired multiple shots. Thankfully, no one was struck by the gunfire, but the act sparked a panic that had people running and looking for safety while officers swept the mall.
In the days after the shooting, three other people were arrested on charges of aiding Lark and May: 21-year-old Denesh Raghubir of Minneapolis, 23--year-old Delyanie Kwen-Shawn Arnold of Burnsville, and 23-year-old Selena Raghubir of Bloomington.
Lark and May were to be booked into the Cook County Jail in Illinois, and then they will have an extradition hearing so they can be brought back to Minnesota. As for why they were in Chicago, Hodges said police believe they had roots there.
Authorities found a weapon in the vehicle, but don't know if it was the gun used at the mall. Hodges also did not say whether the woman driving the car was arrested, but he issued a warning to anyone else involved:
"Anybody that helped them, and we’re able to find that out, we're going to lock them up, too," Hodges said.
Shooting and charges
On August 4, police working at Mall of America responded to multiple gunshots at the Nike store, where they found three shell casings on the floor inside the entrance. Officers checked surveillance video, which showed a fight breaking out involving six people near the checkout of the store, causing customers to run away.
Then two people involved in the altercation left the store briefly before the suspect returned and fired a handgun several times at the males involved in the fight. The suspected shooter, identified Monday as 21-year-old Shamar Lark, and another man, identified as 23-year-old Rashad May, then ran out the north doors of the mall, into the IKEA parking lot, charges said.
It was later learned the two men may have been picked up by a Best Western hotel shuttle at IKEA and were taken to the hotel, just south of Mall of America.
Police believe May called Arnold a few minutes after the shooting, and he received five calls from Arnold between 4:20-4:23 p.m., the complaint said. Arnold then contacted his girlfriend, Selena Raghubir, who is an assistant manager at the Best Western, as well as Selena Raghubir's cousin, Denesh Raghubir, who picked up Lark and May at IKEA in the Best Western shuttle.
Denesh Raghubir told police he knew the two men were friends of Selena Raghubir, and when he dropped them off at Best Western, Selena Raghubir immediately left the front desk and he didn't see her for about 45 minutes, charges said. He said Selena Raghubir later called him and asked him what time police left.
On Aug. 5, officers searched Arnold and Selena Raghubir's home and vehicle, where they found the shirts the men were wearing at the time of the shooting, charges said.
Shamar Lark (left) and Rashad May (right) are wanted after Thursday's shooting at the Mall of America.
Subsequent search
During a Monday afternoon news conference, Bloomington Police Chief Booker Hodges released photos showing Lark and May. Hodges says May "prompted" Lark to shoot up the store – which Lark followed through on.
Police issued a nationwide warrant for Lark and May and had information that the duo could be in the Chicago area.
"You cannot, in a free society, continue to enjoy all the freedoms that we have and when you show a complete lack of respect for humanity by firing in a crowded mall store," said Chief Hodges. "We cannot tolerate that as a society." | 2022-08-12T02:04:08+00:00 | fox10phoenix.com | https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/men-wanted-in-mall-of-america-shooting-arrested-in-chicago |
WIMBLEDON, England (AP) — Ons Jabeur used a tissue to wipe away tears as she walked to her post-match news conference 1 1/2 hours after falling to 0-3 in Grand Slam finals by coming up short against Marketa Vondrousova in the Wimbledon final Saturday.
Jabeur called it “the most painful loss of my career,” and was grateful for the consoling embrace she received from Kate, the Princess of Wales, during the trophy presentation at Centre Court — “Hugs are always welcome,” the 28-year-old Tunisian said — and the comforting words she heard later from Kim Clijsters, the International Tennis Hall of Fame member who was defeated in her first four major finals before winning the next four.
The 6-4, 6-4 setback against Vondrousova, the first unseeded woman to win Wimbledon, followed Jabeur’s losses to Elena Rybakina in the final at the All England Club last July and to Iga Swiatek in the final at the U.S. Open last September.
“You cannot force things. It wasn’t meant to be,” said Jabeur, the only Arab woman and only North African woman to make it to the last round in singles at any major tournament. “Hopefully I will be like the others that failed a couple of times … and it will come after.”
Her day started awkwardly: Jabeur showed up to the main stadium to warm up before the match wearing black clothes, which is against the All England Club’s rules requiring white attire on the competition courts.
So she had to interrupt that hitting session to go change.
“It was just an honest mistake,” she said.
Jabeur was seeded sixth at Wimbledon and beat four past Grand Slam champions along the way to Saturday, including Rybakina.
But Jabeur said she was too tense against Vondrousova, and the statistics seemed to bear that out.
She did not serve well: Only 48% of her first serves landed in and she was broken a half-dozen times.
She did not hit her backhand well: Her 17 unforced errors on that stroke alone were more than Vondrousova’s 13 total mistakes.
In all, Jabeur made 31 unforced errors.
No matter how much she tried to relax by taking deep breaths, no matter how much she tried to calm down with little chats to herself, it didn’t solve the problem.
“It’s painful,” she said, “because you feel so close to achieving something that you want, and actually (now go) back to square one.”
Jabeur took a 4-2 lead in the first set, only to drop 16 of the next 18 points.
Then she went ahead 3-1 and 4-3 in the second set but again let that edge disappear.
Popular with other players and among fans of the sport, Jabeur heard the louder backing from the stands for much of the match — something Vondrousova said she expected.
“I feel like everybody likes Ons. I do, too. So I mean you have to be prepared for it,” said Vondrousova, a 24-year-old left-hander from the Czech Republic who had lost her only previous major final, at the 2019 French Open.
“Many people are looking up to her and they want her to have the Grand Slam so bad,” Vondrousova said. “And I feel like she’s going to do it one day. She’s such an amazing person, and I think she has many more to come.”
Now Jabeur will regroup and try to figure out how to get back to the most important match at her sport’s most important events.
She has established herself as one of the best players in women’s tennis, reaching three of the past five major finals.
And her 28 wins on grass over the past three seasons were the most by anyone since Maria Sharapova picked up 30 victories from 2004-06, a stretch that included a Wimbledon title.
“Will definitely keep learning, keep being positive. I think that’s the thing that will keep me going,” Jabeur said. “Otherwise, if I’m going to be depressed about it, it’s not going to help much.”
___
Howard Fendrich has been the AP’s tennis writer since 2002. Follow him on Twitter at https://twitter.com/HowardFendrich
___
AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2023-07-15T21:27:06+00:00 | cbs4indy.com | https://cbs4indy.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-ons-jabeur-gets-consoled-by-princess-kate-after-a-loss-at-wimbledon-made-her-0-3-in-slam-finals/ |
Happy was quite happy.
Adam Sandler - who starred as the title character in the 1996 golf comedy "Happy Gilmore" - wrote a congratulatory tweet to golfer Will Zalatoris after he earned his first PGA Tour victory on Sunday.
Why would one of Hollywood's top stars take such interest in a 26-year-old golfer? Well, prior to his victory at the FedEx St. Jude Championship on Sunday, Zalatoris was perhaps best known for resembling Happy Gilmore's caddie.
He also was known for being the best golfer on the PGA Tour without a victory after several close finishes.
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So, when Zalatoris beat Sepp Straka in a three-hole playoff to hoist his first PGA trophy, Sandler took the time to offer congratulations. He included some similar celebratory photos of Gilmore and Zalatoris.
"Congrats Will! I'm happy for you! Happy's happy for you! Enjoy it all!" Sandler tweeted.
Sports
It wasn't the first time Sandler tweeted at his former caddie's doppelganger. Ahead of the final round of the 2021 Masters, Sandler tweeted a photo of Gilmore's caddie and Zalatoris, who was in contention.
"Have fun today young man. Mr. Gilmore is watching you and very proud," Sandler wrote.
Zalatoris replied to Sandler after his second-place finish at the Masters.
"If you're ever in need of a caddie again let me know. I'll be better this time. I'm always available for you, Mr. Gilmore," Zalatoris tweeted.
Gilmore's actual caddie, played by Jared Van Snellenberg, also is doing well for himself. The Columbia University graduate is the assistant professor of psychiatry at Stony Brook University School of Medicine on Long Island. No mention on his faculty page of being an actor...or caddie.
As for Zalatoris, he has not yet replied to Sandler on Twitter, but he did respond to a tweet from golf legend Annika Sorenstam.
Still no comment from Shooter McGavin. | 2022-08-16T22:21:02+00:00 | nbcmiami.com | https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/sports/adam-sandler-congratulates-happy-gilmore-caddie-lookalike-will-zalatoris/2837055/ |
Updated July 11, 2023 at 1:59 PM ET
The U.S. Marine Corps is operating without a Senate-confirmed commandant for the first time in over 150 years because one Republican, Sen. Tommy Tuberville, continues to block military officer nominations.
The position of Marine Corps commandant, the branch's highest-ranking officer, was vacated on Monday as Gen. David Berger retired after 42 years in the service.
Marine Corps Gen. Eric Smith, the current assistant commandant, was nominated to replace him, but is facing a Senate confirmation delay thanks to a procedural move from the Alabama senator.
Tuberville, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has refused to confirm officer positions since the start of this year, citing his disapproval of the Pentagon's 2022 decision to support service members and their families in traveling out of state to receive an abortion.
Smith will remain in his title as assistant but will effectively take over the commandant's duties, performing both roles until he can be confirmed by the Senate, Defense Department spokesperson Sabrina Singh told reporters on Monday.
She added that Smith's confirmation is one of roughly 265 officer nominations that've been delayed by the Alabama senator.
The Pentagon says the delays are leaving a "huge impact"
The delayed confirmation marks the first time the Marine Corps has been without a Senate-confirmed commandant since the death of then-Commandant Archibald Henderson in 1859.
The role oversees the Marine Corps as its highest-ranking officer, a four-star general and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Smith will have most of the authorities he needs to fill the role, but may struggle without a second-in-command, his predecessor told CNN.
"He can't do both jobs at the same time," Berger said in an interview on Monday. "So he's going to have to do his job in a very different way than I was able to, because I could travel, he was here, he could travel, I was here."
In a Defense Department statement, Secretary Lloyd Austin said that "smooth and timely transitions" are central to "the full strength of the most powerful fighting force in history."
Department spokesperson Singh later told reporters that the hold is leaving a "huge impact" across the force. Some officers are being asked to delay their retirement, to assume higher duties without higher pay or to force their families into logistical nightmares as they remain in relocation limbo, she said.
"I've heard cases of two students who were dis-enrolled from their current school because they were supposed to move with their family [...] now they can't enroll in a new school because they don't know when they'll be able to relocate," Singh said. In another case, a spouse ended her job contract with one employer but has been unable to start her next job.
Bigger concerns about the impact on national security were on display Tuesday, as the Armed Services Committee held a nomination hearing for Air Force Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr.
Brown has been nominated as the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The current chairman, Gen. Mark Milley is set to step down this year as he reaches his term limit.
When asked by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., during the hearing to comment on the impact of Tuberville's protest, Brown mentioned the risk to retention efforts at a time when the military has seen a decline in recruitment.
"Our more junior officers will now look up and say, 'if that's the challenge that I'm going to have to deal with in the future, I'm going to find balance between my family and serving in a senior position'," Brown said. "We will lose talent because of those challenges."
In an interview with CNN on Monday, Tuberville implied that Brown would be confirmed separately to the other nominations.
"He's going to go through confirmation tomorrow, and we will vote on him by itself. He will not be held up," he said. Absent that confirmation, Adm. Christopher Grady would step up in a "performing the duties of" capacity, the Pentagon said.
Tuberville claims the military is falling prey to left-leaning ideology
In the 14-minute conversation with host Kaitlan Collins, Tuberville defended his actions, saying "if I thought it was hurting readiness or recruiting, I wouldn't be doing this."
When asked if he thought he knew more about military readiness than former defense secretaries who've criticized him, he responded: "They weren't elected. I was elected to represent the people of Alabama in this country."
The Pentagon has previously defended its abortion travel policy, saying that service members and their families are often sent to live in locations they may not otherwise choose but should still have access to reproductive care of their choosing.
Tuberville opposes the policy because he believes it uses taxpayer money to fund abortions, in violation of a federal policy known as the Hyde Amendment that prohibits the use of federal funds for abortion except in cases of rape, incest or when the mother's life is at risk. The Pentagon says it only funds travel, not the procedure itself.
But for Tuberville, the policy is just the latest evidence supporting his wider claim that the military is under attack from left-leaning political forces.
He's spoken out against fresh efforts to root out extremism within the military and accused Defense leaders of teaching critical race theory, which Secretary Austin has rebutted.
If his hold continues, more than 650 officer roles could fall vacant by the end of the year, Singh said.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2023-07-11T18:34:29+00:00 | wyomingpublicmedia.org | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2023-07-11/one-senators-abortion-protest-leaves-the-marine-corps-without-a-permanent-leader |
Kalani Antoine brought 28 points, including four 3-pointers, as South Brunswick won, 74-34, over Bridgewater-Raritan at the Coaches vs. Cancer showcase at Montgomery.
Harmeha Chhabra added 13 points and 10 rebounds for South Brunswick (5-4), which jumped out with a 28-4 run in the first quarter.
Bridgewater-Raritan is now 1-7.
Hamilton West 55, North Hunterdon 40
Ben Boufford led with 24 points, including three 3-pointers and seven from the line, as Hamilton West (7-4) pulled away after the break to defeat North Hunterdon (3-5).
Hamilton West outscored North Hunterdon by 35-21 in the second half after leading by just one point at halftime.
James DelSantro paced North Hunterdon with 17 points and five rebounds.
Pemberton 62, Voorhees 52
Jalen Clarke sank four 3-pointers and nine from the line in his leading 23 points as Pemberton (9-1) built a first-half lead that was too much for Voorhees (0-6).
Dekari Harrell added 15 points, six rebounds, five assists and three steals for Pemberton, which led 37-20 at halftime.
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Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. | 2023-01-07T22:49:37+00:00 | nj.com | https://www.nj.com/highschoolsports/2023/01/coaches-vs-cancer-at-montgomery-high-boys-basketball-recaps.html |
LAS VEGAS (AP) — A Las Vegas investigative reporter was stabbed to death outside his home and police are looking for a suspect, authorities said.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police officers found journalist Jeff German, 69, dead with stab wounds around 10:30 a.m. Saturday after authorities received a 911 call, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported.
German died of “multiple sharp force injuries” in a homicide, the Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner said Sunday.
It appears German was in an altercation with another person that led to the stabbing, which is believed to be an isolated incident, police said.
“We believe the altercation took place outside of the home,” Capt. Dori Koren, a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department spokesman, said at a news conference. “We do have some leads. We are pursuing a suspect but the suspect is outstanding.”
Glenn Cook, the Review-Journal’s executive editor, said German had not communicated any concerns about his personal safety or any threats made against him to anyone in the newspaper’s leadership.
“The Review-Journal family is devastated to lose Jeff,” Cook said in a statement. “He was the gold standard of the news business. It’s hard to imagine what Las Vegas would be like today without his many years of shining a bright light on dark places.”
German joined the Review-Journal in 2010 after more than two decades at the Las Vegas Sun, where he was a columnist and reporter who covered courts, politics, labor, government and organized crime.
He was known for his stories about government malfeasance and political scandals and coverage of the 2017 mass shooting at a Las Vegas music festival that killed 60 people and wounded more than 400 others.
According to the Review-Journal, German held a master’s degree from Marquette University and was the author of the 2001 true-crime book “Murder in Sin City: The Death of a Las Vegas Casino Boss,” the story of the death of Ted Binion, heir to the Horseshoe Club fortune. | 2022-09-05T13:34:45+00:00 | localsyr.com | https://www.localsyr.com/news/national/ap-police-las-vegas-journalist-dies-in-stabbing-outside-home/ |
RACHEL MARTIN, HOST:
Things are getting smarter - phones, speakers, bathroom sinks. What does it mean when your stuff seems to know what you want before you do? NPR's technology correspondent Shannon Bond went to the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas to find out.
SHANNON BOND, BYLINE: CES is filled with some of the most familiar names in technology; Google, Amazon, Samsung - Weber grills?
CHRIS SCHERZINGER: The Weber Connect platform can turn any grill into a smart grill, and so it gives you a step-by-step grilling experience to make sure that you get the very best food on the back end.
BOND: Chris Scherzinger is CEO of Weber. For the company's CES debut, he's come prepared to talk the technology talk - platform, smart grill. He shows me what he means at Weber's outdoor barbecue here in Las Vegas. There's hardware - a big black grill with a small display on one side.
SCHERZINGER: That screen will tell you the temperature of the grill itself. It'll tell you the temperature of each probe that you're using. So in this case there's a probe going into this brisket, and you'd read that on the screen.
BOND: It's lunchtime, and the air is filled with the smoky smells of brisket and chicken being grilled for tacos. The smart grill syncs up to Weber's new smartphone app, Weber Connect. You open the app and pick the meat you want to cook. The app tells you the right seasoning, when to flip it, when it's done.
A lot of the companies that showed up at CES this year make products that are hardly known for technology - grills, toilets, mattresses. So why does every product today need to be smart or connected? Some people here at CES tell me it's about using technology to free ourselves from technology.
JONATHAN BRADLEY: Eighty percent of consumers bring a phone into the bathroom. We're trying to reverse that a little.
BOND: Jonathan Bradley is a product manager at Kohler, which makes bathroom fixtures.
BRADLEY: We want the bathroom to stay a place of rest, relaxation, calm and recharging and only have technology when you actually need it.
BOND: At CES the company is showing off its new showerhead, Moxie. It has a removable, waterproof speaker right in the middle where the water comes out. You operate it through Amazon's Alexa voice assistant or your phone's Bluetooth connection. Moxie joins other tech-ified (ph) fixtures in Kohler's Konnect line. There's a mirror you can ask to brighten or lower the light or play your favorite radio station. The mirror can even tell the shower to turn on and off, at least when the Wi-Fi at CES cooperates.
BRADLEY: Alexa, ask Konnect to start my shower.
ALEXA: Sorry, something went wrong. Please try again.
BRADLEY: Oh, here we go.
BOND: Can I try turning it off?
BRADLEY: Yeah.
BOND: Alexa, ask Konnect to stop my shower.
ALEXA: Turning off shower.
BOND: Kohler is not the only company I run into that thinks technology can save us from our bad tech habits. At another booth, there's a line to try out Muse. It's a headband that gives voice-guided meditations. The sounds you hear change depending on your brain activity, heart rate and breathing. Co-founder Ariel Garten says using her product to meditate has given her some distance from her smartphone.
ARIEL GARTEN: I can sit with a little bit of discomfort of wanting to check my phone and say, nope, it's OK. Move my mind away, onto something that matters to me. So it's a little bit ironic that we're using technology to disconnect from technology, but it really works.
BOND: It sounds tempting, but the line is long and other gadgets beckon.
Shannon Bond, NPR News, Las Vegas. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR. | 2023-02-21T12:00:39+00:00 | kanw.com | https://www.kanw.com/2020-01-08/consumer-electronics-show-highlights-internet-connected-gadgets |
NEW YORK and HOUSTON, Oct. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- DarkPulse, Inc. (OTC Markets: DPLS) ("DarkPulse" and the "Company"), a technology company focused on the manufacture, sale, installation, and monitoring of laser sensing systems based on its patented BOTDA dark-pulse sensor technology (the "DarkPulse Technology") which provides a data stream of critical metrics for assessing the health and security of infrastructure, today announced it has closed the acquisition of an equity position in Gladstone Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation (NASDAQ: GLEE) (the "SPAC").
Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement with Gladstone Sponsor, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the "Original Sponsor"), and the SPAC, the Company purchased 2,623,120 shares of Class B Common Stock and 4,298,496 Private Placement Warrants, each of which is exercisable to purchase one share of Class A Common Stock from the Original Sponsor, for $1,500,000 (the "Purchase Price").
The SPAC is a blank check company incorporated in January 2021 as a Delaware corporation formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses.
While the SPAC may pursue an acquisition opportunity in any business, industry, sector or geographical location, it is focusing on industries that complement its management team's background, and it intends to capitalize on the ability of its management team to identify and acquire a business where its management team has extensive experience.
The SPAC is a "shell company" as defined under the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, because it has no operations and nominal assets consisting almost entirely of cash. The SPAC will not generate any operating revenues until after the completion of its initial business combination, at the earliest. To date, the SPAC's efforts have been limited to organizational activities and activities related to its initial public offering as well as the search for a prospective business combination target.
DarkPulse, Inc. uses advanced laser-based monitoring systems to provide rapid and accurate monitoring of temperatures, strains and stresses. The Company's technology excels when applied to live, dynamic critical infrastructure and structural monitoring, including pipeline monitoring, perimeter and structural surveillance, aircraft structural components and mining safety. The Company's fiber-based monitoring systems can assist markets that are not currently served, and its unique technology covers extended areas and any event that is translated into the detection of a change in strain or temperature. In addition to the Company's ongoing efforts with respect to the marketing and sales of its technology products and services to its customers, the Company also continues to explore potential strategic alliances through joint venture and licensing opportunities to further expand its global market position.
For more information, visit www.DarkPulse.com
This news 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. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as "believe," "expect," "may," "should," "could," "seek," "intend," "plan," "goal," "estimate," "anticipate" or other comparable terms. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this news release regarding our strategies, prospects, financial condition, operations, costs, plans and objectives are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: our ability to successfully market our products and services; the acceptance of our products and services by customers; our continued ability to pay operating costs and ability to meet demand for our products and services; the amount and nature of competition from other security and telecom products and services; the effects of changes in the cybersecurity and telecom markets; our ability to successfully develop new products and services; our success establishing and maintaining collaborative, strategic alliance agreements, licensing and supplier arrangements; our ability to comply with applicable regulations; and the other risks and uncertainties described in our prior filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.
Media contact:
DarkPulse, Inc.
media@DarkPulse.com
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SOURCE DarkPulse, Inc. | 2022-10-13T14:45:40+00:00 | wsfa.com | https://www.wsfa.com/prnewswire/2022/10/13/darkpulse-inc-closes-acquisition-equity-position-gladstone-acquisition-corp/ |
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. | 2023-02-13T02:10:33+00:00 | wtmj.com | https://wtmj.com/entertainment/2023/02/12/ap-top-entertainment-news-at-824-p-m-est-3/ |
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Hundreds of defendants in Oregon who were convicted of crimes by non-unanimous juries before the U.S. Supreme Court struck down such jury verdicts have a right to a new trial, under a decision issued by the state’s supreme court on Friday.
The Oregon Supreme Court ruling applies to state cases with non-unanimous jury verdicts where a criminal conviction was final and the appeals, if any, were over before the 2020 Supreme Court decision.
The state’s justice department said it will work immediately to implement the decision. It could affect at least 400 convictions, according to Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum.
Oregon voters in the 1930s enacted a law that allowed for non-unanimous jury verdicts of 10-2 or 11-1 in most criminal cases, except those for first-degree murder. Until recently, Oregon was the only state in the country, along with Louisiana, that allowed people to be convicted of a crime when at least one juror expressed doubt.
But the U.S. Supreme Court struck down non-unanimous jury verdicts in 2020, ruling in Ramos v. Louisiana that they violated defendants’ constitutional right to a trial by jury and had roots in racism.
Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote for the court that the practice should be discarded as a vestige of Jim Crow laws in Louisiana and racial, ethnic and religious bigotry that led to its adoption in Oregon.
“In fact, no one before us contests any of this; courts in both Louisiana and Oregon have frankly acknowledged that race was a motivating factor in the adoption of their States’ respective non-unanimity rules,” Gorsuch wrote.
The Oregon Supreme Court’s Friday ruling echoed a similar stance.
“While Oregon did not approve non-unanimous juries as part of a brutal program of racist Jim Crow measures against Black Americans, its own voters — consistent with this state’s long and foundational history of bigotry and Black exclusion laws — approved non-unanimous juries as a means of excluding nonwhites from meaningful participation in our justice system,” Senior Judge and Justice pro tempore Richard Baldwin wrote. “With that understanding — and with a measure of courage — we can learn from our history and avoid such grievous injury in the future to our civic health.”
Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum welcomed the decision, as did criminal justice advocates and defense lawyers.
Portland defense lawyer Ryan O’Connor represented Jacob Watkins, who was convicted of four felonies by a 10-2 jury in 2010. O’Connor said he hadn’t yet spoken with Watkins, who is in prison, but that Watkins’ family told him they were thrilled about the ruling.
“They said it’s the best holiday gift they’ve ever received,” O’Connor told The Associated Press, describing Friday as “a really wonderful day for justice” in Oregon. “It’s a big deal to probably reverse hundreds of convictions. Until today, people were sitting in prison … based on verdicts that everyone agreed were unconstitutional.”
The Oregon District Attorneys Association expressed skepticism over the ruling. It said that “retrying decades old cases can be challenging if not impossible” and expressed concern for crime victims.
“Many of these cases that will be forced to be retried are violent person crimes, and will cause significant victim re-traumatization,” it said in a news release. “We must ensure that these victims, many who are women and children, need not face the terror of testifying once again before their abusers.”
After the 2020 U.S. Supreme Court decision, Oregon’s Appellate Division reviewed more than 750 criminal convictions that were on appeal and identified hundreds requiring reversal, according to the state justice department. Oregon appellate courts have since sent over 470 of the cases back for new trials, the department said.
Convictions dating back decades could be overturned, state justice department officials said, although the statute of limitations might bar relief for some older convictions.
___
Claire Rush is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Claire on Twitter. | 2022-12-31T08:37:17+00:00 | siouxlandproud.com | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/news/national/ap-oregon-people-convicted-by-split-juries-can-have-new-trial/ |
A 4-year-old took a loaded handgun to school, authorities in Texas said.
According to the Corpus Christi Police Department, someone spotted the gun on Wednesday morning and called for the officer who was working at the school.
Police said the officer immediately took possession of the weapon.
Investigators determined the gun belonged to the child's parents.
Paul Torres, 30, was arrested and charged with making a firearm accessible to a child and abandoning or endangering a child.
The Corpus Christi Police Department reminded people that they need to ensure that their firearms are securely stored away from children.
"We recommend that all guns are unloaded, trigger locked, and in a locked gun safe, or pistol box with the ammunition locked away separately," the department said in a statement. | 2022-09-01T15:05:05+00:00 | kjrh.com | https://www.kjrh.com/news/national/father-faces-charges-after-police-say-4-year-old-took-handgun-to-school |
Amber Alert: Police search for missing Georgia girl, 15
Published: Jul. 16, 2022 at 8:55 PM CDT|Updated: 1 hour ago
LITHONIA, Ga. (Gray News) - Police in Georgia have issued a Levi’s Call, that state’s version of an Amber Alert, for a missing 15-year-old girl.
DeKalb County police are searching for Ta’Niyah King.
She is described as 5′4″ tall and weighing 90 lbs.
King was last seen in the area of 3027 Winding Grove in Lithonia, which is just outside Atlanta. She was wearing a white shirt, black jeans, hot pink bonnet, no shoes. Her hair is in braids.
She is believed to be with Dana Dutley who may be travelling in a 2015 blue Chevrolet Malibu with license plate number CDI2646.
Anyone with information is asked to call DeKalb County police at 678-937-2852 or 911.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | 2022-07-17T03:22:49+00:00 | wlox.com | https://www.wlox.com/2022/07/17/amber-alert-police-search-missing-georgia-girl-15/ |
The round, led by ICONIQ Growth, will allow Pigment to drive sustainable growth and further product innovation to help companies like Klarna, Miro and PVH adapt to change, with confidence
SAN FRANCISCO , June 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pigment, the business planning platform, today announced an $88 million Series C funding round led by ICONIQ Growth. The Series C investment brings the company's total amount raised to $248M in under three years. Felix Capital, as well as previous investors Meritech, IVP and FirstMark have also joined the round.
This latest infusion of capital comes off the back of a 600% increase in revenue and a 10x increase in users throughout 2022, with companies such as Klarna, Miro, PVH (including brands such as Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein), Airtable, Figma, Webhelp and Poshmark choosing Pigment to help plan, make decisions, and drive growth.
"In today's economic climate, far too many companies are being held back because they don't have the right tools in place to get a full view of their business, manage changes, and grow. They're forced to plan and make decisions with inaccurate, incomplete and siloed information," said Eléonore Crespo, co-CEO and co-founder, Pigment.
"Our vision from the beginning has been to help people and organizations of all sizes make better business decisions. With this infusion of funding, we are on a clear path to drive innovation and change the status quo in an industry desperately in need of it. Pigment has never been more critical and relevant than it is today," added Romain Niccoli, co-CEO and co-founder, Pigment.
Pigment will use the funds to drive sustainable growth at the company, with headcount expected to increase by 25% by the end 2023, across enterprise sales, partnerships and product teams. The company will also invest in product innovation for decision-makers across disciplines, including:
- Pigment AI, a chat-like interface to automate tasks, bring more people into the planning process and accelerate decision-making
- New automations to enable collaborative planning across teams to reduce the budgeting cycle and increase forecasting accuracy
- New HR and Sales planning features to aid specific teams to plan and report according to their needs, with organizational chart visualizations and territory heat maps
"We've had a great partnership with Pigment since the beginning and product innovation is a key reason our relationship continues to deepen," said Sebastian Siemiatkowski, co-founder and CEO, Klarna. "With Pigment's AI and workforce planning investments, I am confident that Klarna is and will continue to be better equipped to make the right decisions about our business in the best interests of our customers."
"At Figma, our finance team wears many hats - we're responsible for circulating business information, quickly diagnosing issues, and presenting leadership with solutions. Pigment allows us to understand our levers and make timely decisions for the business while remaining lean," said Praveer Melwani, CFO, Figma.
ICONIQ Growth, Pigment's newest investor, has made meaningful investments in some of the world's largest technology companies including Adyen, Datadog, Gitlab, Miro, Snowflake, and more. "We are delighted to support Pigment with our global platform as they continue to expand their footprint in the US and beyond," said Matt Jacobson, General Partner at ICONIQ Growth. "We've been incredibly impressed by Eléonore and Romain's intense focus on product velocity and remarkable customer care, which has translated into exceptional growth and affinity," added Seth Pierrepont, General Partner, ICONIQ Growth.
In the past year, Pigment has strengthened its North American presence, opening an office in Toronto and hiring senior leadership in the U.S. and Canada. Notable recent hires include Sean Brophy, Global Head of Sales, who joined from Alteryx where he led enterprise sales; and Vanessa Brangwyn, Global Head of Customers, who joined from Achievers, where she was Chief Customer and Revenue Officer.
Pigment is a business planning platform. By bringing together people, data and processes into an intuitive, adaptable, integrated platform, teams can quickly build trusted strategic and operational business plans to drive growth, react to change and future-proof their business. Industry-leading companies like Klarna, Figma, Airtable, PVH and Webhelp trust Pigment every day, allowing them to make confident and accurate decisions. Learn more at www.gopigment.com.
ICONIQ Growth partners with visionaries defining the future of their industries to transform the world. Our investment platform and unique ecosystem help amplify our portfolio companies' success from early growth stage to IPO and beyond. Our portfolio includes Adyen, AirBnB, Alibaba, Alteryx, Automattic, BambooHR, Braze, Chime, Collibra, Coupa, Datadog, Docusign, Gitlab, Marqeta, Miro, Procore, Red Ventures, Relativity, ServiceTitan, Snowflake, Sprinklr, Truckstop, Uber, Wolt, and Zoom, among others. Elevated by our global community of founders, pioneers, and leaders, we are entrepreneurs backing entrepreneurs. For more information, please visit ICONIQGrowth.com.
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SOURCE Pigment | 2023-06-08T13:25:47+00:00 | wafb.com | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2023/06/08/pigment-announces-88-million-series-c/ |
MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. (AP) — A former troop leader was sentenced to 12 to 20 years in prison Wednesday after pleading guilty to two counts of criminal sexual conduct stemming from Michigan’s review of child sexual abuse lawsuits against the Boy Scouts of America.
Mark Chapman, 51, of New York was accused of sexually assaulting two boys at the time he was a scoutmaster in the Detroit suburb of Roseville, where he also worked in and attended The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Chapman received sentences of 12 to 20 years and 10 to 15 years to be served concurrently.
Chapman pled guilty to first-degree criminal sexual conduct and second-degree criminal sexual conduct.
“Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that those who prey upon children will be punished,” Michigan Attorney Geneneral Dana Nessel said in a statement. “As our review of allegations made against adults in the Boy Scouts of America continues, I encourage those with information to come forward and share their story.”
Starting in 2000, one victim was abused at the church — where the troop sometimes met — and other places from the time he was 13 or 14 until he was 17, according to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.
The second victim was assaulted for years beginning when he was about 11.
The Michigan charges were announced March 9, before Chapman’s parole from a New York prison where he served more than nine years for child abuse convictions there. A victim in New York also is one of the alleged victims in Michigan.
The attorney general’s office and the Michigan State Police last year launched a joint review of what now are 5,000 civil claims forwarded by the Boy Scouts. A completed review of 550 claims resulted in roughly 60 inquiries being sent to state police for further investigation.
The Boy Scouts in February reached a tentative settlement with a bankruptcy committee representing more than 80,000 men who say they were molested as children by Scout leaders and others. All told, the compensation fund would total more than $2.6 billion, which would be the largest aggregate sex abuse settlement in U.S. history. | 2022-12-14T22:31:15+00:00 | cenlanow.com | https://www.cenlanow.com/national/ap-ex-boy-scout-leader-gets-12-to-20-years-on-sex-abuse-charges/ |
LONDON, UK — As the World Health Organization's emergency committee convenes Thursday to consider for the second time within weeks whether to declare monkeypox a global crisis, some scientists say the striking differences between the outbreaks in Africa and in developed countries will complicate any coordinated response.
African officials say they are already treating the continent's epidemic as an emergency. But experts elsewhere say the mild version of monkeypox in Europe, North America and beyond makes an emergency declaration unnecessary even if the virus can't be stopped. British officials recently downgraded their assessment of the disease, given its lack of severity.
Monkeypox has been entrenched for decades in parts of central and western Africa, where diseased wild animals occasionally infect people in rural areas in relatively contained epidemics. The disease in Europe, North America and beyond has circulated since at least May among gay and bisexual men. The epidemic in rich countries was likely triggered by sex at two raves in Spain and Belgium.
Some experts worry these and other differences could possibly deepen existing medical inequities between poor and wealthy nations.
There are now more than 15,000 monkeypox cases worldwide. While the United States, Britain, Canada and other countries have bought millions of vaccines, none have gone to Africa, where a more severe version of monkeypox has already killed more than 70 people. Rich countries haven't yet reported any monkeypox deaths.
“What’s happening in Africa is almost entirely separate from the outbreak in Europe and North America,” said Dr. Paul Hunter, a professor of medicine at Britain’s University of East Anglia who previously advised WHO on infectious diseases.
The U.N. health agency said this week that outside of Africa, 99% of all reported monkeypox cases are in men and of those, 98% are in men who have sex with other men. Still, the disease can infect anyone in close, physical contact with a monkeypox patient, regardless of their sexual orientation.
“In these very active gay sexual networks, you have men who really, really don’t want people to know what they’re doing and may not themselves always know who they are having sex with,” Hunter said.
Some of those men may be married to women or have families unaware of their sexual activity, which “makes contact tracing extremely difficult and even things like asking people to come forward for testing,” Hunter said, explaining why vaccination may be the most effective way to shut down the outbreak.
That’s probably not the case in Africa, where limited data suggests monkeypox is mainly jumping into people from infected animals. Although African experts acknowledge they could be missing cases among gay and bisexual men, given limited surveillance and stigmatization against LGBTQ people, authorities have relied on standard measures like isolation and education to control the disease.
Dr. Placide Mbala, a virologist who directs the global health department at Congo’s Institute of National Biomedical Research, said there are also noticeable differences between patients in Africa and the West.
“We see here (in Congo) very quickly, after three to four days, visible lesions in people exposed to monkeypox,” Mbala said, adding that someone with so many visible lesions is unlikely to go out in public, thus preventing further transmission.
But in countries including Britain and the U.S., doctors have observed some infected people with only one or two lesions, often in their genitals.
“You wouldn’t notice that if you’re just with that person in a taxi or a bar,” Mbala said. “So in the West, people without these visible lesions may be silently spreading the disease.”
He said different approaches in different countries will likely be needed to stop the global outbreak, making it challenging to adopt a single response strategy worldwide, like those for Ebola and COVID-19.
Dr. Dimie Ogoina, a professor of medicine at Nigeria's Niger Delta University, said he feared the world’s limited vaccine supplies would result in a repeat of the problems that arose in the coronavirus pandemic, when poorer countries were left empty-handed after rich countries hoarded most of the doses.
“It does not make sense to just control the outbreak in Europe and America, because you will then still have the (animal) source of the outbreak in Africa,” said Ogoina, who sits on WHO’s monkeypox emergency committee.
This week, U.S. officials said more than 100,000 monkeypox vaccine doses were being sent to states in the next few days, with several million more on order for the months ahead. The U.S. has reported more than 2,000 cases so far, with hundreds more added every day.
Some U.S. public health experts have begun to wonder if the outbreak is becoming widespread enough that monkeypox will become a new sexually transmitted disease.
Declaring monkeypox to be a global emergency could also inadvertently worsen the rush for vaccines, despite the mildness of the disease being seen in most countries.
Dr. Hugh Adler, who treats monkeypox patients in Britain, said there aren’t many serious cases or infections beyond gay and bisexual men. Still, he said it was frustrating that more vaccines weren’t available, since the outbreak was doubling about every two weeks in the U.K..
“If reclassifying monkeypox as a global emergency will make (vaccines available), then maybe that’s what needs to be done,” he said. “But in an ideal world, we should be able to make the necessary interventions without the emergency declaration.” | 2022-07-21T12:41:09+00:00 | wcnc.com | https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/nation-world/who-monkeypox/507-1da57825-90c1-44ff-94d0-e9c882c7086b |
SAN DIEGO (AP) — President Joe Biden on Friday is set to tour a southern California communications company that is expected to benefit from his legislative push to bolster American semiconductor manufacturing — and he’s taking a vulnerable Democratic congressman with him.
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Biden will be joined by Rep. Mike Levin for the visit to Carlsbad-headquartered Viasat as he looks to highlight the CHIPS and Science Act, a $280 billion legislative package, ahead of Tuesday's midterm elections. The bill is one of the Biden administration’s most significant legislative achievements.
Levin, a two-term congressman representing a San Diego-area district that was once a GOP stronghold, is locked in a tight race with former San Juan Capistrano Mayor Brian Maryott. Biden headlined a rally Thursday night in Oceanside, California, for Levin.
Coronavirus pandemic-era supply disruptions and a dearth of domestic chip manufacturing hampered Viasat, which relies on such components for services it provides to industrial customers and the U.S. military. Biden intends to use the event to highlight how the CHIPS act will help companies like Viasat reduce their reliance on overseas chip manufacturers, according to the White House.
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Later Friday, Biden will head to Chicago to participate in a political reception. Biden is heading to the Democratic stronghold amid signs that some House members representing suburban Chicago districts may be facing more competitive than expected reelection battles.
The Congressional Leadership Fund, a super political action committee, or super PAC, aligned with the GOP House leadership, this week announced a $1.8 million ad buy targeting Democratic Rep. Sean Casten, who represents a district that Biden won by about 11 percentage points in 2020. Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California, the House minority leader, is due to campaign with GOP challenger Keith Pekau in the district Friday. | 2022-11-04T10:03:59+00:00 | seattlepi.com | https://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Biden-to-plug-tech-bill-in-California-campaign-17557887.php |
Three Morehouse Graduates Pitch Their Patented Workout Platform to the Sharks
ATLANTA, Jan. 4, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Metric Mate, a data analytics company whose innovations transform any strength training equipment into SMART equipment, will appear on ABC's Shark Tank on Friday, January 13, 2023 at 8 PM EST, episode 1411. The company's patented "Training Accountability Partner" technology, or T.A.P. for short, seamlessly counts reps and sets, and automatically analyzes workout metrics like calories burned, intensity, force, power, and fatigue. Users' data can then be shared with personal trainers, physical therapists, or with friends anywhere in the world via the mobile app or social media for accountability and motivation for healthy living.
"Metric Mate's T.A.P. Technology will change the way everyone experiences their fitness journey," says Metric Mate CEO, MT Strickland. "The opportunity to pitch our product will highlight the global potential of our platform – we want the world to T.A.P. In!"
Launched in 2017 with a vision to help everyone get in shape and live healthier lives, Metric Mate's client portfolio includes regional gyms, professional trainers, and athletes from high school to the pros. Led by three Morehouse Men, the company has persevered to become a Georgia Top 40 Innovative Company and has been granted 3 patents to date.
"As a minority-owned company, we've continually had to overcome obstacles that others have not, but that's what makes this bond between us so unique," says Braxton Davis, Chief Strategy Officer. "Outside of being business partners, we are first Morehouse Brothers, and we will always have our brothers' back."
Metric Mate's appearance on Shark Tank kicks off a pivotal year in the company's continued growth. "It was an incredible feeling to showcase our technology platform on a national stage. We've worked hard to make this a reality," says Chief Technology Officer, Ecleamus Ricks, Jr.
To learn more about Metric Mate, please visit www.themetricmate.com.
Metric Mate is a data analytics company whose patented Metric Mate T.A.P. Sensor and smartphone apps turn any strength training equipment into SMART equipment. Led by three Morehouse graduates, and backed by the Atlanta Accelerator, Techstars, Metric Mate uses data analytics to transform, connect, and restore the user's mind, body, and spirit anytime, anyplace.
Media Contact
Kim Bright
kim@starbornmedia.com
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SOURCE Metric Mate | 2023-01-04T16:24:25+00:00 | uppermichiganssource.com | https://www.uppermichiganssource.com/prnewswire/2023/01/04/metric-mate-an-atlanta-based-data-analytics-company-appear-abcs-shark-tank/ |
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — Standing in the same parking lot where he was shot in the neck a year ago in a racist attack at a Buffalo supermarket, Zaire Goodman said he was grateful to see the community come together in remembrance Sunday.
His family and others affected by the mass shooting gathered with top state and local officials, first responders and religious leaders to remember the 10 people who were killed and three, including Goodman, who were wounded at Tops Friendly Market, which closed Sunday for the one-year anniversary of the shootings.
Goodman, who worked at the store and was shot while collecting carts outside, has been back to the. market many times since, even visiting while it was being remodeled in the weeks after the massacre as some questioned whether it should ever reopen.
“I just wanted to show people that it’s alright. We don’t need to close the store indefinitely,” he said. “We know the store is still important to people in this area.”
Mayor Byron Brown read the 13 victims' names before a moment of silence. A first responder then chimed a bell 13 times. Brown, Gov. Kathy Hochul and U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer were among those who gave speeches.
“It’s a beautiful day. It’s Mother's Day," Hochul said. “And the cruel irony behind the fact is a day we celebrate a life that comes into this world, making someone a mother, is also a day we’re here to think about those who are no longer with us. It’s hard. It's been a really hard year.”
Earlier in the week, panelists discussed ways to combat racism and social media radicalization and residents were invited to reflect at an outdoor community gathering.
In the year since the shooting, relatives of the victims have spoken before Congress about white supremacy and gun reform and organized events to address food insecurity that worsened when the market, the neighborhood's only grocery store, was inaccessible for two months.
President Joe Biden honored the lives of those killed in Buffalo in an op-ed published Sunday in USA Today. He called on Congress and state legislative leaders to act by banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, requiring background checks for all gun sales, and repealing gun manufacturers' immunity from liability. His administration passed a landmark gun measure in June following a series of mass shootings.
New York state law already bans possessing magazines that hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition.
Gun control organizations and advocates including Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action held nearly 200 events across the country over the weekend, calling on Congress to reinstate a bipartisan assault weapons ban.
In Buffalo, Wayne Jones, whose mother Celestine Chaney, 65, died in the attack, urged the city and its institutions to keep on investing in the area and its residents even after the anniversary events are over.
That's why he is willing, he said, “to keep opening up this wound that I have” and talk about it.
The son of 63-year-old shooting victim Geraldine Talley on Sunday released a book that he said describes what he went through after losing his mother. He titled it: “5/14 : The Day the Devil Came to Buffalo.”
“I definitely know that she wouldn’t want me to be consumed by sadness and anger,” Talley said of his mother, speaking outside of the store as the anniversary approached, “so I will definitely try to find strength in her memory and use it to fight injustice and racism for the rest of my life in her name.”
Inside the remodeled store, fountains flank a poem dedicated to the victims. A commission is at work designing a permanent memorial outside. In the meantime, a hand-painted mural overlooking the parking lot promotes unity, with a Black hand and white hand meeting together in prayer.
An 18-year-old white supremacist carried out the attack after driving more than 200 miles (320 kilometers) from his home in rural Conklin, New York.
Besides Chaney and Talley, the dead included Andre Mackneil, who was buying a cake for his son's third birthday; church deacon Heyward Patterson; community advocate Katherine Massey; Ruth Whitfield, whose son was a Buffalo fire commissioner; Roberta Drury, who had moved back to Buffalo to help a brother diagnosed with cancer; church missionary Pearl Young; Margus Morrison, who was buying dinner for a family movie night; and Aaron Salter, a retired Buffalo police officer who was working as a security guard.
The gunman pleaded guilty to murder and other charges and was sentenced to life in prison without parole in February. A federal case against him is pending.
___
Associated Press Writer Maysoon Khan from Albany, New York, contributed to this report.
Credit: AP
Credit: AP | 2023-05-14T20:48:01+00:00 | springfieldnewssun.com | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/nation-world/moment-of-silence-bell-tolling-for-buffalo-supermarket-mass-shooting-victims-1-year-after-massacre/ZD4M2UBL4NBNRDWK34GGFF42HA/ |
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Attorneys asked a jury Monday to award $55 million to the widow of a former USC football player in a landmark case accusing the NCAA of failing to protect him from repetitive head trauma that led to his death.
Matthew Gee, a hard-hitting linebacker who was on the 1990 Rose Bowl-winning squad, endured countless blows that caused permanent brain damage and led to cocaine and alcohol abuse that eventually killed him at age 49, his lawyers said in closing arguments. His widow, Alana Gee, was in the courtroom Monday.
In the first case of its kind to go to a jury, the attorneys told Los Angeles Superior Court jurors that the NCAA, the governing body of college athletics in the U.S., had known about effects of head trauma in sports since the 1930s but failed for decades to notify players of the risks or put rules in place to protect players.
“You cannot bring Matt back but you can say what the NCAA did to him was wrong,” attorney Bill Horton said. “Put this on the NCAA’s radar. … This is the only way they will ever listen.”
A lawyer for the NCAA said Gee experienced a sudden cardiac death brought on by long-standing hypertension and acute cocaine toxicity. He discussed a raft of Gee’s other serious health problems, which he said were not related to football.
“The NCAA had nothing to do with the things that tragically took Mr. Gee’s life,” attorney Will Stute said.
The issue of concussions in sports, and football in particular, has been front and center in recent years as research has discovered more about long-term effects of repeated head trauma in problems ranging from headaches to depression and, sometimes, early onset Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease.
The monthlong trial is one of hundreds of wrongful death and personal injury lawsuits brought by college football players against the NCAA in the past decade.
But Gee’s is only the second case to go to trial with allegations that hits to the head led to chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a degenerative brain disease. A 2018 case in Texas settled a few days into the trial.
Gee was one of five linebackers on the 1989 Trojans squad who died before turning 50. As with teammate and NFL star Junior Seau, who killed himself in 2012, Gee’s brain was examined posthumously at Boston University’s Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy Center and found to have CTE.
CTE is associated with memory loss, depression and progressive dementia. It can only be diagnosed after death.
Boston University has found CTE in the brains of 110 of 111 deceased former NFL players and 48 of 53 former college players, according to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Hall of Famers diagnosed after death include Ken Stabler and Mike Webster.
In his senior year, Gee was team captain and led USC in tackles, forced fumbles and fumble recoveries.
Gee married Alana, his college sweetheart, after graduating in 1992, and they lived a normal life for 20 years. They raised three children as he ran a successful insurance company in Southern California.
But things took a turn around 2013, when he began to lose control of his emotions, according to the lawsuit. He became angry, confused and depressed. He drank heavily. He told a doctor he forgot entire days.
Attorneys for Gee said that CTE, which is found in athletes and military veterans who suffered repetitive brain injuries, was an indirect cause of death because head trauma has been shown to promote substance abuse.
Stute said the wrongful death case was about what caused Gee’s death and not whether CTE exists, which he said is still a hypothesis.
After years of denials, the NFL acknowledged in 2016 that BU’s research showed a link between football and CTE. The league agreed to settle head injury cases covering 20,000 retired players providing up to $4 million for a death involving CTE. It’s expected to exceed $1.4 billion in payouts over 65 years for six qualifying conditions.
In 2016, the NCAA agreed to settle a class-action concussion lawsuit, paying $70 million to monitor former college athletes’ medical conditions, $5 million toward medical research, and payments of up to $5,000 toward individual players claiming injuries.
Gee never reported having a concussion and he said in an application to play with the Raiders after graduating that he had never been knocked unconscious, Stute said.
He said the NCAA was being placed in a position of having to defend itself from allegations it was unaware of at the time, noting that CTE had not been discovered until 2005. He said nothing the NCAA could have done would have kept Gee alive today.
“You can’t hold the NCAA responsible for something 40 years later that nobody ever reported,” Stute said. “The plaintiffs want you in a time travel machine. We don’t have one … at the NCAA. It’s not fair.”
A former NFL official who reviewed all available tapes of Gee’s USC games said he was tackled in a safe manner without using his head, and there were no signs of head injuries, Stute said.
Horton countered that at the time Gee played, the NCAA didn’t share what it knew about medical risks of repetitive head injuries, didn’t prevent players from returning to the field after injuries, and didn’t limit the number of practices despite recommendations to do so, Horton said.
As he showed photos of Gee at his wedding and holding his young daughter in a pink tutu, Horton choked up, noting that Tuesday would have been Gee’s birthday.
“Deliver a verdict … so he didn’t die for nothing,” Horton said. “So every 18-year-old kid who plays football will know the dangers of the game they’re playing.” | 2022-11-22T15:02:07+00:00 | everythinglubbock.com | https://www.everythinglubbock.com/sports/ap-widow-asks-55m-from-ncaa-for-ex-usc-football-players-death/ |
190, Tyreek Hill, MIA at BAL 9/18 (11 rec., 2 TD)
184, Justin Jefferson, MIN vs. GB 9/11 (9 rec., 2 TD)
179, T.J. Hockenson, DET vs. SEA 10/2 (8 rec., 2 TD)
171, Jaylen Waddle, MIA at BAL 9/18 (11 rec., 2 TD)
169, DeVonta Smith, PHI at WAS 9/25 (8 rec., 1 TD)
160, Tyreek Hill, MIA at CIN 9/29 (10 rec., 0 TD)
158, Mack Hollins, LAS at TEN 9/25 (8 rec., 1 TD)
156, DeVante Parker, NE vs. BAL 9/25 (5 rec., 0 TD)
155, A.J. Brown, PHI at DET 9/11 (10 rec., 0 TD)
149, DK Metcalf, SEA at DET 10/2 (7 rec., 0 TD)
148, Stefon Diggs, BUF vs. TEN 9/19 (12 rec., 3 TD)
147, Chris Olave, NO at CAR 9/25 (9 rec., 0 TD)
147, Justin Jefferson, MIN at NO 10/2 (10 rec., 0 TD)
141, Davante Adams, LAS at LAC 9/11 (10 rec., 1 TD)
140, Marquise Brown, ARI vs. LAR 9/25 (14 rec., 0 TD)
129, Ja'Marr Chase, CIN vs. PIT 9/11 (OT) (10 rec., 1 TD)
128, Cooper Kupp, LAR vs. BUF 9/8 (13 rec., 1 TD)
124, Tee Higgins, CIN vs. MIA 9/29 (7 rec., 1 TD)
122, Stefon Diggs, BUF at LAR 9/8 (8 rec., 1 TD)
122, Courtland Sutton, DEN vs. HOU 9/18 (7 rec., 0 TD)
122, Cooper Kupp, LAR at SF 10/3 (14 rec., 0 TD)
121, Travis Kelce, KC at ARI 9/11 (8 rec., 1 TD)
121, Michael Pittman Jr., IND at HOU 9/11 (OT) (9 rec., 1 TD)
120, Mike Williams, LAC at HOU 10/2 (7 rec., 0 TD)
117, Christian Kirk, JAC at WAS 9/11 (6 rec., 0 TD)
116, Amon-Ra St. Brown, DET vs. WAS 9/18 (9 rec., 2 TD)
116, Allen Lazard, GB vs. NE 10/2 (OT) (6 rec., 0 TD)
115, Deebo Samuel, SF vs. LAR 10/3 (6 rec., 1 TD)
114, Jarvis Landry, NO at ATL 9/11 (7 rec., 0 TD)
113, Mike Williams, LAC at KC 9/15 (8 rec., 1 TD)
110, Nelson Agholor, NE at PIT 9/18 (6 rec., 1 TD)
108, Cooper Kupp, LAR vs. ATL 9/18 (11 rec., 2 TD)
108, Rashod Bateman, BAL vs. MIA 9/18 (4 rec., 1 TD)
107, Tyler Lockett, SEA at SF 9/18 (9 rec., 0 TD)
105, Tyler Boyd, CIN at NYJ 9/25 (4 rec., 1 TD)
105, Tre'Quan Smith, NO at CAR 9/25 (4 rec., 0 TD)
104, Mark Andrews, BAL vs. MIA 9/18 (9 rec., 1 TD)
103, Mike Evans, TB vs. KC 10/2 (8 rec., 2 TD)
102, Garrett Wilson, NYJ at CLE 9/18 (8 rec., 2 TD)
102, Jerry Jeudy, DEN at SEA 9/12 (4 rec., 1 TD)
102, Robbie Anderson, CAR vs. CLE 9/11 (5 rec., 1 TD)
102, Jaylen Waddle, MIA vs. BUF 9/25 (4 rec., 0 TD)
102, George Pickens, PIT vs. NYJ 10/2 (6 rec., 0 TD)
102, Terry McLaurin, WAS vs. PHI 9/25 (6 rec., 0 TD)
101, Amari Cooper, CLE vs. PIT 9/22 (7 rec., 1 TD)
101, Amari Cooper, CLE vs. NYJ 9/18 (9 rec., 1 TD)
101, Davante Adams, LAS vs. DEN 10/2 (9 rec., 0 TD) | 2022-10-09T15:14:06+00:00 | lmtonline.com | https://www.lmtonline.com/sports/article/NFL-Top-Performers-Receiving-17497402.php |
Founder of agentinc and billion-dollar agent unveils his secrets to real estate success
CORONA DEL MAR, Calif., Sept. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- John McMonigle, leader of the Wall Street Journal's five-time #1 Real Estate Team in the World, has released 40 Days of Farming, an eye-opening real estate self help book, through Matt Holt/Penguin Random House. As one of the world's top real estate agents, McMonigle lays out the insider strategies that have empowered him to sell over $8.5 billion in real estate over the past 15 years.
"There's a million books on how to become a successful real estate agent but none of them work," says author John McMonigle. "I wrote 40 Days of Farming because I wanted agents to learn what they don't teach you in real estate school. So far, our own agentinc agents have seen a 300% increase in productivity by following the techniques inside 40 Days of Farming."
40 Days of Farming offers an array of outside-the-box tactics to give agents an upper hand, while also highlighting spiritual and mental health tests designed to generate and maintain an ideal work/life balance.
"Many of us chose to be agents so we could make our own schedule," says McMonigle. "But the reality is, many of us work seven days a week. 40 Days of Farming is designed to help agents achieve success while also building healthy time management skills. What's the point of being successful if you can't enjoy your success?"
40 Days of Farming also provides detailed insight into geographic farming, a proven strategy that utilizes targeted regional and neighborhood marketing to increase visibility and expand brand awareness.
"Geographic farming is a vital aspect of success in real estate," says McMonigle. "But it's not just about plastering your farm with marketing materials—it's about using it in combination with the principles found in 40 Days of Farming to reach your highest earning potential and surpass your financial and personal goals."
40 Days of Farming is available now on Amazon, as well as in bookstores across the country. Visit 40daysoffarming.co to learn more about the book and online program.
agentinc was founded in 2019 by renowned real estate executive, John McMonigle, five-time winner of Wall Street Journal's #1 Real Estate Team in the World award. agentinc's record-breaking executive team offers agents stock awards and ground floor shareholder opportunities to expand revenue beyond the listing.
Media Contact:
Lauren Phillips
lauren@agentinc.com
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SOURCE Agentinc | 2022-09-01T15:32:57+00:00 | wafb.com | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/09/01/john-mcmonigles-40-days-farming-hits-bookstores/ |
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Los Angeles detectives are investigating whether a recording last year that captured city council members' racist remarks was made illegally, the police chief said Tuesday.
The recording's disclosure earlier this month unleashed a growing scandal in the nation's second-largest city just weeks before Election Day. The council members' bigoted discussion — laden with crude insults — laid bare the unequal representation and divided political power along racial lines in Los Angeles.
The council president, Nury Martinez, resigned in disgrace, while two other council members have resisted widespread calls — from the White House down — for their ousters.
The uproar began with the release nearly two weeks ago of a previously unknown recording of a 2021 private meeting involving Martinez and Councilmen Kevin de León and Gil Cedillo, as well as powerful labor leader Ron Hererra, head of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor.
"The department has initiated a criminal investigation into an allegation of eavesdropping," Los Angeles Police Chief Michel Moore said Tuesday during a media availability in response to a question from The Associated Press.
The group, all Latino Democrats, was captured on the recording scheming to protect their political clout in the redrawing of council districts during an hourlong, closed-door meeting that was laced with bigoted comments. They used racist language to mock colleagues — as well as one councilman's young Black son — while they planned to protect Latino political strength in council districts. It's not known who made the tape, or why.
Under California law, all parties must consent to the recording of a private conversation or phone call. Otherwise, the person who made the recording could face criminal and civil penalties. The state's wiretapping statutes are among the strongest in the nation and allow the "injured party" — the person being recorded without their permission — to sue.
Martinez, de León, Cedillo and Herrera approached the Los Angeles Police Department on Friday — more than two weeks after the recording, which had been posted on Reddit, was first reported by the Los Angeles Times — and asked for the agency to open an investigation, Moore said.
"This (request) was done by the principals — this wasn't done through some intermediary or otherwise," he added.
Detectives have since interviewed the group about why they believe the recording was made "unlawfully and surreptitiously," the chief said.
"We'll also look, as far as possible, to understand how such a recording was made and identify, if possible, the person or persons responsible," he said.
The LA County Federation of Labor previously called the leak of the recording illegal and unsuccessfully attempted to halt the LA Times' publication of the discussion's details.
No suspects have been identified, Moore said. Detectives will consult with the city attorney — whose office handles misdemeanors — and county prosecutors for felony charges if needed.
Other questions remain about what the investigation could entail and whether other recordings were made at the labor federation's headquarters.
The state is separately investigating how the council districts were drawn and whether the process was rigged. Attorney General Rob Bonta, a Democrat, has said his investigation could lead to civil liability or criminal charges, depending on what is found.
The fallout has left City Hall in turmoil and President Joe Biden has called on de León and Cedillo to step down. Noisy protesters at City Council meetings have provided a steady backdrop of chants and shouting as they try to increase pressure on the duo to resign.
___
Associated Press Writer Michael R. Blood in Los Angeles contributed. | 2022-10-26T03:37:44+00:00 | wsfltv.com | https://www.wsfltv.com/news/national/la-police-investigating-if-racist-recording-taped-illegally |
BOSTON (AP) — Celtics star forward Jayson Tatum is missing a rematch with the Orlando Magic on Sunday because of personal reasons.
The 24-year-old Tatum is having an outstanding season. He leads the team in scoring (30.2 points per game) and rebounding (8.2).
Entering Sunday, Tatum was fifth in the league in scoring.
Boston, which owned the league’s best record heading into the matchup with Orlando, lost the opener of consecutive home games against the Magic on Friday, 117-109.
Tatum scored 31 points in that game.
___
AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2022-12-18T20:15:10+00:00 | lmtonline.com | https://www.lmtonline.com/sports/article/Celtics-Tatum-out-against-Magic-for-personal-17662664.php |
FALL RIVER, Wis. — Martha Lou Wagner died Sunday (July 10, 2022) in Fall River, Wis.
She was born June 8, 1936, to Louis and Sybil (Tolbert) Carter, in Eldorado. She attended Eldorado schools and graduated from high school in 1954. She attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, where she earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in chemistry. She married Ronald Wagner on Aug. 14, 1960, in Eldorado. She taught high school before starting her family. She earned an associate degree in computer programing from Danville Junior College in Danville in 1978. She worked as a computer programmer at Carle Foundation Hospital and Solo Cup, both in Urbana.
She is survived by her daughters, Ruth (Thomas) Bradshaw of Columbus, Wis., and Alice Wagner (Vince Giannini) of Redmond, Ore.; grandchildren, Katherine Bradshaw (Devin Edwards) and Peter Bradshaw (Carmen Rong); a sister, Judith Ann (William) Johnson; a sister-in-law, Caryl Carlton; and a brother-in-law, Wayne Wagner.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ronald, in 2015; brother, William Carter; sisters-in-law, Dorothy Carter, Phyllis Haas and Barbara Nikolai; and brother-in-law, Walter Wagner.
We encourage you to share your online condolences with Martha’s family at jensenfuneralandcremation.com. | 2022-07-16T05:44:42+00:00 | news-gazette.com | https://www.news-gazette.com/obituaries/martha-wagner/article_1a50b30e-0495-11ed-aab1-c7320ee3d4a4.html |
AI tools can create new images, but who is the real artist?
Countless artists have taken inspiration from “The Starry Night” since Vincent Van Gogh painted the swirling scene in 1889.
Now artificial intelligence systems are doing the same, training themselves on a vast collection of digitized artworks to produce new images you can conjure in seconds from a smartphone app.
The images generated by tools such as DALL-E, Midjourney and Stable Diffusion can be weird and otherworldly but also increasingly realistic and customizable — ask for a “peacock owl in the style of Van Gogh" and they can churn out something that might look similar to what you imagined.
But while Van Gogh and other long-dead master painters aren't complaining, some living artists and photographers are starting to fight back against the AI software companies creating images derived from their works.
Two new lawsuits — one this week from the Seattle-based photography giant Getty Images — take aim at popular image-generating services for allegedly copying and processing millions of copyright-protected images without a license.
Getty said it has begun legal proceedings in the High Court of Justice in London against Stability AI — the maker of Stable Diffusion — for infringing intellectual property rights to benefit the London-based startup's commercial interests.
Another lawsuit in a U.S. federal court in San Francisco describes AI image-generators as “21st-century collage tools that violate the rights of millions of artists.” The lawsuit, filed on Jan. 13 by three working artists on behalf of others like them, also names Stability AI as a defendant, along with San Francisco-based image-generator startup Midjourney, and the online gallery DeviantArt.
The lawsuit alleges that AI-generated images “compete in the marketplace with the original images. Until now, when a purchaser seeks a new image ‘in the style’ of a given artist, they must pay to commission or license an original image from that artist.”
Companies that provide image-generating services typically charge users a fee. After a free trial of Midjourney through the chatting app Discord, for instance, users must buy a subscription that starts at $10 per month or up to $600 a year for corporate memberships. The startup OpenAI also charges for use of its DALL-E image generator, and StabilityAI offers a paid service called DreamStudio.
Stability AI said in a statement that “Anyone that believes that this isn’t fair use does not understand the technology and misunderstands the law.”
In a December interview with The Associated Press, before the lawsuits were filed, Midjourney CEO David Holz described his image-making service as “kind of like a search engine” pulling in a wide swath of images from across the internet. He compared copyright concerns about the technology with how such laws have adapted to human creativity.
“Can a person look at somebody else’s picture and learn from it and make a similar picture?” Holz said. “Obviously, it’s allowed for people and if it wasn’t, then it would destroy the whole professional art industry, probably the nonprofessional industry too. To the extent that AIs are learning like people, it’s sort of the same thing and if the images come out differently then it seems like it’s fine.”
The copyright disputes mark the beginning of a backlash against a new generation of impressive tools — some of them introduced just last year — that can generate new visual media, readable text and computer code on command.
They also raise broader concerns about the propensity of AI tools to amplify misinformation or cause other harm. For AI image generators, that includes the creation of nonconsensual sexual imagery.
Some systems produce photorealistic images that can be impossible to trace, making it difficult to tell the difference between what’s real and what’s AI. And while some have safeguards in place to block offensive or harmful content, experts fear it’s only a matter of time until people utilize these tools to spread disinformation and further erode public trust.
“Once we lose this capability of telling what’s real and what’s fake, everything will suddenly become fake because you lose confidence of anything and everything,” said Wael Abd-Almageed, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Southern California.
As a test, the AP submitted a text prompt on Stable Diffusion featuring the keywords “Ukraine war” and “Getty Images.” The tool created photo-like images of soldiers in combat with warped faces and hands, pointing and carrying guns. Some of the images also featured the Getty watermark, but with garbled text.
AI can also get things wrong, like feet and fingers or details on ears that can sometimes give away that they’re not real, but there’s no set pattern to look out for. Those visual clues can also be edited. On Midjourney, users often post on the Discord chat asking for advice on how to fix distorted faces and hands.
With some generated images traveling on social networks and potentially going viral, they can be challenging to debunk since they can’t be traced back to a specific tool or data source, according to Chirag Shah, a professor at the Information School at the University of Washington, who uses these tools for research.
“You could make some guesses if you have enough experience working with these tools,” Shah said. “But beyond that, there is no easy or scientific way to really do this."
For all the backlash, there are many people who embrace the new AI tools and the creativity they unleash. Some use them as a hobby to create intricate landscapes, portraits and art; others to brainstorm marketing materials, video game scenery or other ideas related to their professions.
There's plenty of room for fear, but “what can else can we do with them?” asked the artist Refik Anadol this week at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where he displayed an exhibit of climate-themed work created by training AI models on a trove of publicly available images of coral.
At the Museum of Modern Art in New York, Anadol designed “Unsupervised," which draws from artworks in the museum’s prestigious collection — including “The Starry Night” — and feeds them into a digital installation generating animations of mesmerizing colors and shapes in the museum lobby.
The installation is “constantly changing, evolving and dreaming 138,000 old artworks at MoMA’s archive,” Anadol said. “From Van Gogh to Picasso to Kandinsky, incredible, inspiring artists who defined and pioneered different techniques exist in this artwork, in this AI dream world.”
Anadol, who builds his own AI models, said in an interview that he prefers to look at the bright side of the technology. But he hopes future commercial applications can be fine-tuned so artists can more easily opt out.
“I totally hear and agree that certain artists or creators are very uncomfortable about their work being used,” he said.
For painter Erin Hanson, whose impressionist landscapes are so popular and easy to find online that she has seen their influence in AI-produced visuals, the concern is not about her own prolific output, which makes $3 million a year.
She does, however, worry about the art community as a whole.
“The original artist needs to be acknowledged in some way or compensated,” Hanson said. “That's what copyright laws are all about. And if artists aren’t acknowledged, then it’s going to make it hard for artists to make a living in the future.”
——
O'Brien reported from Providence, Rhode Island. | 2023-01-20T19:14:14+00:00 | wyff4.com | https://www.wyff4.com/article/ai-images-who-is-real-artist/42592783 |
Gas Prices Hit Record Highs, Rising Inflation A Concern
The Consumer Price Index increased 0.3 percent in April on a seasonally adjusted basis after rising 1.2 percent in March, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased 8.3 percent. The energy index rose 30.3 percent over the last year, and the food index increased 9.4 percent, the largest 12-month increase since the period ending April 1981.
Regular gasoline hit a record $4.40 a gallon Wednesday according to AAA’s survey. Gas prices were already expected to breach the $4 a gallon mark for the first time since 2008.
But prices aren’t likely to fall and may set a record after schools let out and drivers start hitting the road for vacations next month. The national average price could easily hit $4.50 a gallon or even higher this summer. | 2022-05-12T04:42:07+00:00 | klax-tv.com | http://klax-tv.com/gas-prices-hit-record-highs-rising-inflation-a-concern/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=gas-prices-hit-record-highs-rising-inflation-a-concern |
Troy University signs over building's deed to Valiant Cross Academy
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - Troy University transferred the deed of one of its Montgomery campus buildings to Valiant Cross Academy on Tuesday. Valiant Cross is an all-male school that was created to address issues facing young African American students.
A ceremony was held to deed building 136 over to the school, which had leased the building for its high school since January 2018.
After the signatures of Troy University Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. and Valiant Cross Academy Leadership were put to paper, Valiant Cross took full ownership of the building.
Afterward, Dr. Hawkins presented four scholarships to recent Valiant Cross Academy graduates. Two students received the Lamar P. Higgins Scholarship, while two others earned the Brock Brothers’ Valiant Cross Academy Scholarship, named for the academy’s founders Anthony Brock, Head of School, and Frederick Brock, Director of Operations.
The signing happened at the Rosa Parks Library and Museum and comes months after Valiant Cross took ownership of the historic River City Church building on Dexter Avenue back in October. That building serves the academy’s middle school students.
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Copyright 2023 WSFA. All rights reserved. | 2023-06-27T21:16:41+00:00 | wsfa.com | https://www.wsfa.com/2023/06/27/troy-university-signs-over-buildings-deed-valiant-cross-academy/ |
The Washington Post on the Catholic Church scandal:
On his plane back to Rome from a Middle East trip recently, Pope Francis acknowledged that the Vatican faces pushback in its efforts to overhaul the Catholic Church’s habits of denial, secrecy and coverup surrounding clerical sexual abuse. “There are people within the church who still do not see clearly,” he said, adding that “not everyone has courage.”
The pontiff’s delicate phrasing, and his timing, underscored the compounding damage the scandal has inflicted on the church’s moral authority and prestige. Days after Pope Francis shared those thoughts with journalists, new revelations of high-level sexual misconduct and coverup in France shattered illusions of progress by the church toward establishing a culture of transparency and accountability in its hierarchy.
That problem was crystallized in the admission by Cardinal Jean-Pierre Ricard, who was the archbishop of Bordeaux for 18 years before he retired in 2019, that he had behaved “in a reprehensible way” with a 14-year-old girl 35 years ago when he was a parish priest. The news was made more astonishing by the fact that Cardinal Ricard served as president of the Bishops’ Conference of France from 2001 to 2007, even as revelations of clerical sexual abuse rocked the church – first in Boston, then throughout dioceses in the United States and worldwide. Yet the prelate continued exercising his authority as one of the French church’s most prominent figures. He is now being investigated by French prosecutors in Marseille for “aggravated sexual assault.”
The cardinal’s public confession followed last month’s disclosure that another prelate, Michel Santier, 75, had been removed as bishop of Creteil, near Paris. The fact that he had been disciplined, after allegations that he had abused young adults decades ago, was overshadowed by the church’s silence on the matter. It had said nothing about the accusations or action taken against him until they were reported by the French media in October. He is now also under investigation by prosecutors.
Pope Francis has said there is no turning back from “irreversible” steps designed to enhance safeguards against clergy child sexual abuse and has said the church has adopted a “zero tolerance” policy toward offenders in the priesthood and the hierarchy. His push for reforms has featured broadening the church’s definition of sexual crimes, requiring nuns and priests to inform their superiors of abuse allegations, holding bishops and other prelates to account for their handling of instances of abuse, and empowering the Vatican’s own commission that deals with cases of sexual abuse, elevating its status and clout.
Yet the ongoing evidence of years-long silence in cases involving senior prelates and others in the hierarchy points to the internal institutional foot-dragging that Pope Francis acknowledged. So does the attitude of the church hierarchy in many poor countries, where the scandals of the past two decades are widely regarded as mainly a Northern Hemisphere problem, and little information has been made public about sexual abuse cases.
Pope Francis’s record is mixed on the greatest scandal to envelop the church in centuries. His forthrightness on the issue is admirable, but ultimately he, and the church, will be judged on the tangible progress they have made.
This editorial originally appeared in the Washington Post, and is reprinted here via the Associated Press. Read more online at https://www.washingtonpost.com | 2022-11-21T14:06:46+00:00 | yumasun.com | https://www.yumasun.com/opinion/guest-editorial-catholic-church-s-sex-abuse-scandal-continues-onward/article_153f8a96-6766-11ed-84fb-5b581cea4a39.html |
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Oct. 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SVB (NASDAQ: SIVB), the financial partner for the innovation economy, will report its financial results for the quarter ended September 30, 2022, on Thursday, October 20, 2022, after the close of the stock market.
The Company will file its quarterly financial results with the SEC via form 8-K and issue an advisory release via newswire containing a link to its full financial results, which will be also posted on the Investor Relations section of its website at https://ir.svb.com
Conference call: Thursday, October 20, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time
Dial-in information: 1 (888) 330-3016 or 1 (646) 960-0828, Confirmation 5682116
Live audio webcast: A live audio webcast of the call can be accessed via SVB's investor relations website at https://ir.svb.com
Replay: An audio replay of the call will be available at http://ir.svb.com for 12 months beginning October 20, 2022
Upcoming Quarterly Earnings Announcements: The Company expects to release results for upcoming quarters on the following dates, which are subject to change:
The Company expects to issue an advisory release confirming the date of each quarterly announcement and call approximately 2 weeks prior to the scheduled announcement date.
SVB Financial Group (NASDAQ: SIVB) and its subsidiaries help innovative companies and their investors move bold ideas forward, fast. SVB Financial Group's businesses, including Silicon Valley Bank, offer commercial, investment and private banking, asset management, private wealth management, brokerage and investment services and funds management services to companies in the technology, life science and healthcare, private equity and venture capital, and premium wine industries. Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, SVB Financial Group operates in centers of innovation around the world. Learn more at svb.com.
SVB Financial Group is the holding company for all business units and groups © 2022 SVB Financial Group. All rights reserved. SVB, SVB FINANCIAL GROUP, SILICON VALLEY BANK, MAKE NEXT HAPPEN NOW and the chevron device are trademarks of SVB Financial Group, used under license. Silicon Valley Bank is a member of the FDIC and the Federal Reserve System. Silicon Valley Bank is the California bank subsidiary of SVB Financial Group. [SIVB-F]
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SOURCE SVB Financial Group | 2022-10-06T22:58:10+00:00 | kswo.com | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2022/10/06/svb-confirms-date-time-quarterly-earnings-call/ |
DALLAS, July 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- La La Land Kind Cafe, a chain of coffee shops with the purpose of normalizing kindness and hiring and mentoring foster youth, announced that it has secured a $20 million investment from John Phelan, former Co-Founder and Chairman Emeritus of MSD Capital, L.P. and Founder of Rugger Management LLC, and Andy Teller, a private investor.
Founder and CEO Francois Reihani opened his first La La Land Kind Cafe location at just 23 years. Since 2019, La La Land Kind Cafe has opened eleven store locations throughout Texas and California, with the purpose of normalizing kindness, and empowering foster youth aging out of the foster care system. La La Land Kind Cafe provides paid on-the-job and customer service training, mentorship, and assistance with job placement, housing, schooling, and therapy for foster youth. "Kindness first, coffee second is the company's motto," says Reihani.
Since opening La La Land Kind Cafe, Reihani has received countless opportunities and offers from banks and Venture Capitalist, but such a transactional deal never felt right. Until he was introduced to John Phelan and Andy Teller. Since their introduction two years ago, Reihani was able to build a true relationship with both Phelan and Teller, leading this investment to feel more like a bond and partnership than a financial investment. "We are thrilled to partner with John and Andy. Their experience and expertise will be invaluable as we continue to grow our business and positively impact the world." Teller adds, "we are excited to invest in La La Land Kind Cafe and its social mission."
Both Phelan and Teller understand that La La Land Kind Cafe is not just a coffee shop, it is about making a greater impact on society. Their passion for La La Land Kind Cafe's mission is what drew Reihani to finalize this exciting next phase of the business. La La Land Kind Cafe is raising the standard of what we should all expect from businesses. They believe that a business can be kind, give back, care about the community, and serve high quality products while still making a profit, and La La Land Kind Cafe will prove it can be done. "Francois and his team have built an incredible company," said Phelan. "We are committed to supporting their growth and helping them achieve their financial and social goals. La La Land Kind Cafe is raising the standard of what we should expect from companies. A business can give back, care about the community, and serve high-quality products while being profitable."
With the new investment, La La Land Kind Cafe plans to expand its operations and open new locations throughout the United States. "We are excited to use this investment to continue our mission of making the world a kinder, happier place," said Reihani. "We believe that kindness is the key to a better future, and we are committed to making a difference in the lives of our guests, employees, and communities that we serve."
This next phase of the business is more than just about company growth for Reihani. "I believe this is a huge step into our path to bringing a deeper human connection to "strangers." It's a long term life goal for me and as we are able to get the right backing of people who believe in what we are doing, it's a special thing to create and run something that physically brings humanity closer together. In hospitality we are normally the only "strangers" someone speaks to outside close friends or family. This means we physically represent humanity. We're changing standards by not only creating the environment that brings happiness but interactions that show the power of humans being connected, and telling hundreds of thousands of humans a year that we love them. Words that are now not heard often. That's what is exciting. To expand that power."
About La La Land Kind Cafe
La La Land Kind Cafe is a chain of coffee shops with the purpose of normalizing kindness and hiring and mentoring foster youth. The company was founded in 2019 by Francois Reihani. La La Land Kind Cafe has 11 locations throughout Texas and California.
About Rugger Management LLC
Rugger Management LLC is a single-family office focused on generating outstanding, long-duration risk-adjusted returns through direct investments and partnerships with exceptional managers. Rugger Management LLC is based in Palm Beach, FL.
Media Contact:
Sarah Nazzal
sn@lamaisoneleven.com
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SOURCE La La Land Kind Cafe | 2023-07-05T12:57:48+00:00 | wagmtv.com | https://www.wagmtv.com/prnewswire/2023/07/05/millennial-entrepreneur-francois-reihani-raises-20-million-expand-his-business-kindness-la-la-land-kind-cafe/ |
MIAMI GARDENS — As the Miami Dolphins shifted from voluntary organized team activities the past two weeks to mandatory minicamp that began Tuesday, center Connor Williams was not with the team.
Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel said it’s not an excused absence for Williams.
“We’ve been in direct communication,” McDaniel said. “I’m not going to get necessarily into the nuts and bolts of his business here. … Not worried about it. Worried about the dudes that are here, for sure.”
Williams is entering the final season on his current contract with Miami after signing a two-year, $14 million deal last offseason. Without a long-term contract in place, he is set to make $8,375,000 in 2023 after transitioning from guard to center with the Dolphins in 2022.
Williams is the lone Dolphins player not present for minicamp after several others were missing voluntary OTAs of the past two weeks.
“I try to understand every player’s perspective,” McDaniel said. “I think that’s part of my job, is to be empathetic to best come to a solution.”
Miami had such players as wide receiver Tyreek Hill, defensive tackle Zach Sieler and left tackle Terron Armstead back with the team after they were not seen on the practice field during OTA sessions that were open to the media the past two weeks. None of those three practiced during team drills Tuesday.
Sieler and fellow defensive tackle Christian Wilkins are among other key players who are on the final years of their deals. Wilkins has been present throughout OTAs.
“Connor’s dealing with his situation how he deals with it,” said right guard Robert Hunt of not having his fellow starting offensive lineman next to him at minicamp. “I talked to him, went to dinner with him for his birthday. Connor’s good.”
Of Hunt’s own contract extension talks as he enters the final year of his rookie contract after being selected in the second round of the 2020 draft: “I’ll leave that up to the people up front and my agents. Of course, I’ve got some say in it, but it’s the least of my worries right now.”
With Williams not at drills, Liam Eichenberg, who still hopes to win the left guard spot, has been taking snaps at center.
Jaelan Phillips impressing
McDaniel, on Tuesday, raved about edge rusher Jaelan Phillips’ offseason.
“I’ve seen him practice at a level that’s far superior than any other level of practice that I’ve seen from him since I’ve been here,” the coach said. “It’s cool to watch a young player not get caught up in September and get more focused on June 6, which is the only date that exists (right now).”
That’s a strong endorsement for a player who’s already known to have one of the strongest work ethics on the roster.
Phillips, a humble sort, didn’t necessarily agree with McDaniel that his practices have been that good. But he did say he’s trying to reach a specific with his improvement.
“I’m just trying to get everything to be muscle memory at this point,” Phillips said. “That’s kind of the point when that switch happens, when all the things you’re working become second nature so that when you’re playing you’re not even thinking about throwing moves and doing different things, you’re just going.”
Practice observations
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa wore the orange jersey Tuesday as the previous practice’s outstanding performer, meaning that’s how he concluded OTAs. Under that orange jersey designation, Tagovailoa got to select Tuesday’s music.
The musical vibe was chill and island-ish, appropriate being that Tagovailoa is from Hawaii, and among the selections were Somewhere over the Rainbow (Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwo’ole), Don’t Stop Believin’ (Journey), Boogie Shoes (KC and the Sunshine Band), Celebration (Kool & The Gang), Let it Whip (Ballin Entertainment), Pass the Dutchie (Musical Youth), and Killing Me Softly With His Song (The Fugees). …
Tagovailoa had a touchdown pass to fullback Alec Ingold from the 10-yard line on the first play of 7 on 7. For the most part, Tagovailoa was accurate, as usual, Tuesday. …
Tagovailoa followed with a touchdown pass to wide receiver Robbie Chosen, his second read. …
Cornerbacks Xavien Howard and Noah Igbinoghene had nice coverage on incomplete passes to tight end Durham Smythe and wide receiver Cedrick Wilson Jr. The defensive backs had a decent showing overall on a day with lots of give-and-take between the offense and defense in the passing game. …
Quarterback Skylar Thompson had a 10-yard touchdown pass to rookie running back De’Von Achane on a wheel route. Achane’s speed has been obvious. …
Thompson followed with a touchdown pass to tight end Eric Saubert on a low-key but fairly productive day for tight ends. …
Wide receiver River Cracraft made a nice adjustment while falling down in double coverage to make a touchdown reception from Thompson. …
Cornerback Tino Ellis had a good pass break up against wide receiver Freddie Swain in the end zone on a pass thrown by quarterback Mike White. …
Linebacker Duke Riley had a sack against Thompson, getting past tackle James Tunstall. Pass protection was better up the middle than on the edges. …
Linebacker Malik Reed sniffed out a screen pass to wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. …
Tight end Tyler Kroft had a nice juggling touchdown reception vs. cornerback Justin Bethel, who came back with a pass broken up vs. Saubert on the next play. …
Rookie quarterback James Blackman, who didn’t see much action in team drills, appeared to be throwing with more purpose and authority. …
Punters Jake Bailey and Michael Turk looked good placing the ball inside the 10-yard line in individual drills. Bailey is the favorite to replace Thomas Morstead. …
Among the players that didn’t fully participate in Tuesday’s minicamp were offensive tackle Terron Armstead, cornerback Nik Needham, cornerback Jalen Ramsey, cornerback Trill Williams, defensive lineman Zach Sieler, Phillips, wide receiver Tyreek Hill, cornerback Keion Crossen, linebacker Channing Tindall, safety Brandon Jones and defensive lineman Jaylen Twyman. | 2023-06-10T09:11:05+00:00 | sun-sentinel.com | https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2023/06/06/dolphins-center-connor-williams-not-with-team-for-start-of-mandatory-minicamp/ |
Provides Notice of Release of Second Quarter Financial Results
(All amounts are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated)
TORONTO, July 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - New Gold Inc. ("New Gold" or the "Company") (TSX: NGD) (NYSE American: NGD) reports second quarter operational results for the Company as of June 30, 2022, and provides an update to its 2022 operational outlook for the Rainy River Mine, the New Afton Mine, and the consolidated operational outlook. The Company is also providing notice that it will release its second quarter 2022 financial results before markets open on Thursday, August 4, 2022.
During the second quarter, operations at the Rainy River Mine were adversely impacted by heavy rainfall and flooding around the Fort Frances area in northwestern Ontario. Total tonnes mined from the open pit in the quarter were below expectations as flooding in the pit due to the unfavorable weather impacted the mining rate, the mine sequencing, and access to higher grade ore planned for the second half of the year. The Rainy River Mine therefore utilized the low-grade ore material during the quarter, resulting in both lower grades processed and lower gold ounces produced. The lower tonnes mined (ore and waste) year-to-date has caused a change to the mine plan for the remainder of 2022. The Company's new Chief Operating Officer is incorporating these impacts on the mine plan, and together with newly hired operating expertise at the site, will focus on positioning the open pit operations to its optimal conditions. This change requires the operation to continue to process low-grade ore material in the second half of 2022. As a result, Rainy River's gold equivalent1 production for 2022 is now expected to be between 230,000 to 250,000 ounces (previously 265,000 to 295,000 ounces). Primarily due to lower gold production, as well as, current inflationary cost pressures, operating expenses per gold eq. ounce are now expected to be between $960 to $1,040 per gold eq. ounce2 (previously $730 to $810 per gold eq. ounce), and all-in sustaining costs are now expected to be between $1,620 to $1,720 per gold eq. ounce3 (previously $1,270 to $1,370 per gold eq. ounce). Underground development continues to advance, with Intrepid on track for initial production in the fourth quarter. The mine continues to assess opportunities to offset the negative impact to both production and costs.
During the second quarter, New Afton focused on B3 and C-Zone development and closed the low grade-higher cost recovery level zone earlier than planned. As a result of the early shutdown, tonnes mined was lower than expected. To maintain mill feed, the operation utilized the low-grade stockpile during the quarter, resulting in lower grades and recoveries, and ultimately, lower production. Copper production guidance for 2022 is now expected to be between 25 to 35 million pounds (previously 35 to 45 million pounds). Gold production is expected to be at the low end of the annual production guidance range of 35,000 to 45,000 ounces. Due to the lower production, as well as, current inflationary cost pressures, operating expenses per gold eq. ounce are now expected to be between $1,485 to $1,565 per gold eq. ounce2 (previously $1,100 to $1,180 per gold eq. ounce), and all-in sustaining costs are now expected to be between $2,210 to $2,310 per gold eq. ounce3 (previously $1,695 to $1,795 per gold eq. ounce). Production ramp-up at the B3 zone continues to advance with development expected to be completed by September.
Due to the of the revisions at both Rainy River and New Afton, consolidated gold equivalent1 production for 2022 is now expected to be between 325,000 and 365,000 ounces (previously 380,000 to 440,000 ounces), consisting of consolidated gold production guidance of 260,000 to 290,000 ounces (previously 295,000 to 335,000 ounces) and consolidated copper production guidance of 25 to 35 million pounds (previously 35 to 45 million pounds). New Gold expects its consolidated 2022 operating expenses per gold eq. ounce to be between $1,120 to $1,200 per gold eq. ounce2 (previously $840 to $920 per gold eq. ounce), and all-in sustaining costs to be between $1,875 to $1,975 per gold eq. ounce3 (previously $1,470 to $1,570 per gold eq. ounce). All other consolidated and mine site capital investment and exploration estimate guidance, including sustaining capital and sustaining leases and growth capital, remain unchanged.
"Rainy River experienced challenges during the quarter as the Fort Frances area saw extreme rainfall and flooding," stated Renaud Adams, President & CEO. "I remain confident about the increased production profile as outlined in Rainy River's latest updated Technical Report announced earlier this year. At New Afton, the planned closure of the Lift 1 cave, including the recovery level, is now complete. While we've announced revisions to New Afton's copper guidance for the year, the priority remains on the B3 ramp-up and advancing C-Zone development, which remains on time for first ore in the second half of 2023. With another solid quarter of development prioritizing long-term growth initiatives at both of our operations behind us, I remain confident both are on the cusp of increasing production profiles leading to strong free cash flow generation for our Company for multiple years to come. Concurrently, our exploration efforts have continued to focus on high priority targets with a planned exploration update expected in the third quarter. I believe there is additional value to unlock at our assets through substantial resource to reserve conversion and look forward to updating the market on our progress."
The Company will release its second quarter 2022 financial results before markets open on Thursday, August 4, 2022. A conference call and webcast will follow at 8:30 am Eastern Time.
- Participants may listen to the webcast by registering on our website at www.newgold.com or via the following link https://produceredition.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1556145&tp_key=026884e3d6
- Participants may also listen to the conference call by calling North American toll free 1-888-664-6383, or 1-416-764-8650 outside of the U.S. and Canada, passcode 67678068
- A recorded playback of the conference call will be available until September 4, 2022 by calling North American toll free 1-888-390-0541, or 1-416-764-8677 outside of the U.S. and Canada, passcode 678068. An archived webcast will also be available at www.newgold.com.
New Gold is a Canadian-focused intermediate mining Company with a portfolio of two core producing assets in Canada, the Rainy River gold mine and the New Afton copper-gold mine. The Company also holds a 5% equity stake in Artemis Gold Inc., and other Canadian-focused investments. New Gold's vision is to build a leading diversified intermediate gold company based in Canada that is committed to the environment and social responsibility. For further information on the Company, visit www.newgold.com.
- Total gold eq. ounces include silver and copper produced/sold converted to a gold equivalent. All copper is produced/sold by the New Afton Mine. Gold eq. ounces for Rainy River in Q2 2022 includes production of 93,210 ounces of silver converted to a gold eq. based on a ratio of $1,800 per gold ounce and $24.00 per silver ounce used for 2022 guidance estimates. Gold eq. ounces for New Afton in Q2 2022 includes 7.4 million pounds of copper produced and 24,108 ounces of silver produced converted to a gold eq. based on a ratio of $1,800 per gold ounce, 4.00 per copper pound and $24.00 per silver ounce used for 2022 guidance estimates.
- "Operating expenses per gold eq. ounce" is a supplementary financial measure which is calculated as total operating expenses divided by total gold equivalent ounces.
- "All-in sustaining costs", "sustaining capital and sustaining leases", and "growth capital" are all non-GAAP financial performance measures that are used in this news release. These measures do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. For more information about these measures, why they are used by the Company, and a reconciliation for Q1 2022 and Q1 2021 to the most directly comparable measure under IFRS, see the "Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures" section of this news release.
All-In Sustaining Costs per Gold eq. Ounce
"All-in sustaining costs per gold equivalent ounce" is a non-GAAP financial performance measure that does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. New Gold calculates "all-in sustaining costs per gold equivalent ounce" based on guidance announced by the World Gold Council ("WGC") in September 2013. The WGC is a non-profit association of the world's leading gold mining companies established in 1987 to promote the use of gold to industry, consumers and investors. The WGC is not a regulatory body and does not have the authority to develop accounting standards or disclosure requirements. The WGC has worked with its member companies to develop a measure that expands on IFRS measures to provide visibility into the economics of a gold mining company. Current IFRS measures used in the gold industry, such as operating expenses, do not capture all of the expenditures incurred to discover, develop and sustain gold production. New Gold believes that "all-in sustaining costs per gold equivalent ounce" provides further transparency into costs associated with producing gold and will assist analysts, investors, and other stakeholders of the Company in assessing its operating performance, its ability to generate free cash flow from current operations and its overall value. In addition, the Human Resources and Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors uses "all-in sustaining costs", together with other measures, in its Company scorecard to set incentive compensation goals and assess performance.
"All-in sustaining costs per gold equivalent ounce" is intended to provide additional information only and does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other mining companies. It should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. The measure is not necessarily indicative of cash flow from operations under IFRS or operating costs presented under IFRS.
New Gold defines "all-in sustaining costs per gold equivalent ounce" as the sum of total cash costs, net of capital expenditures that are sustaining in nature, corporate general and administrative costs, capitalized and expensed exploration that is sustaining in nature, lease payments that are sustaining in nature, and environmental reclamation costs, all divided by the total gold equivalent ounces sold to arrive at a per ounce figure. The definition of sustaining versus non-sustaining is similarly applied to capitalized and expensed exploration costs and lease payments. Exploration costs and lease payments to develop new operations or that relate to major projects at existing operations where these projects are expected to materially increase production are classified as non-sustaining and are excluded. Gold equivalent ounces of copper and silver produced or sold in a quarter are computed using a consistent ratio of copper and silver prices to the gold price and multiplying this ratio by the pounds of copper and silver ounces produced or sold during that quarter.
Costs excluded from all-in sustaining costs are non-sustaining capital expenditures, non-sustaining lease payments and exploration costs, financing costs, tax expense, and transaction costs associated with mergers, acquisitions and divestitures, and any items that are deducted for the purposes of adjusted earnings.
Sustaining Capital and Sustaining Leases
"Sustaining capital" and "sustaining lease" are non-GAAP financial performance measures that do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. New Gold defines "sustaining capital" as net capital expenditures that are intended to maintain operation of its gold producing assets. Similarly, a "sustaining lease" is a lease payment that is sustaining in nature. To determine "sustaining capital" expenditures, New Gold uses cash flow related to mining interests from its consolidated statement of cash flows and deducts any expenditures that are capital expenditures to develop new operations or capital expenditures related to major projects at existing operations where these projects will materially increase production. Management uses "sustaining capital" and "sustaining lease", to understand the aggregate net result of the drivers of all-in sustaining costs other than total cash costs. These measures are intended to provide additional information only and should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.
Growth Capital
"Growth capital" is a non-GAAP financial performance measure that does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. New Gold considers non-sustaining capital costs to be "growth capital", which are capital expenditures to develop new operations or capital expenditures related to major projects at existing operations where these projects will materially increase production. To determine "growth capital" expenditures, New Gold uses cash flow related to mining interests from its consolidated statement of cash flows and deducts any expenditures that are capital expenditures that are intended to maintain operation of its gold producing assets. Management uses "growth capital" to understand the cost to develop new operations or related to major projects at existing operations where these projects will materially increase production. This measure is intended to provide additional information only and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.
The following tables, which are specifically included for regulatory compliance purposes, reconcile the non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable IFRS measure for the periods of Q1 2022 and Q1 2021.
For additional information with respect to the non-GAAP measures used by the Company, refer to the detailed "Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measure" section disclosure starting on page 26 in the MD&A for the three months ended March 31, 2022 filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information contained in this news release, including any information relating to New Gold's future financial or operating performance are "forward-looking". All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, which address events, results, outcomes or developments that New Gold expects to occur are "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "targeted", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "projects", "potential", "believes" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation of such terms. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements with respect to: the anticipated timing with respect to the release of its second quarter 2022 financial results and the associated conference call and webcast; the intended focus on positioning the open pit operations to its optimal conditions and continued processing of the low-grade ore material in the second half of 2022 at Rainy River; the Company's expectations and guidance regarding production, costs, capital investments and expenses on a consolidated and mine-by-mine basis, and the factors contributing to those expected results; continued underground development and projected timing for initial production from the Intrepid; the intention to continue to assess opportunities to improve production and costs; planned prioritization of B3 ramp-up and C-Zone development at New Afton and projected timing for first ore; guidance revisions being limited to this year; the anticipated increase in production profiles and resulting strong free cash flow generation for multiple years to come; expectations regarding additional value through resource to reserve conversion; planned timing of an exploration update expected to be released in the third quarter; and the deferral of certain sales to the third quarter of 2022.
All forward-looking statements in this news release are based on the opinions and estimates of management that, while considered reasonable as at the date of this news release in light of management's experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, are inherently subject to important risk factors and uncertainties, many of which are beyond New Gold's ability to control or predict. Certain material assumptions regarding such forward-looking statements are discussed in this news release, New Gold's latest annual management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A"), its most recent annual information form and technical reports on the Rainy River Mine and New Afton Mine filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. In addition to, and subject to, such assumptions discussed in more detail elsewhere, the forward-looking statements in this news release are also subject to the following assumptions: (1) there being no significant disruptions affecting New Gold's operations other than as set out herein; (2) political and legal developments in jurisdictions where New Gold operates, or may in the future operate, being consistent with New Gold's current expectations; (3) the accuracy of New Gold's current mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates and the grade of gold, silver and copper expected to be mined and the grade of gold, copper and silver expected to be mined; (4) the exchange rate between the Canadian dollar and U.S. dollar, and to a lesser extent, the Mexican Peso, and commodity prices being approximately consistent with current levels and expectations for the purposes of 2022 guidance and otherwise; (5) prices for diesel, natural gas, fuel oil, electricity and other key supplies being approximately consistent with current levels; (6) equipment, labour and materials costs increasing on a basis consistent with New Gold's current expectations; (7) arrangements with First Nations and other Aboriginal groups in respect of the New Afton Mine and Rainy River Mine being consistent with New Gold's current expectations; (8) all required permits, licenses and authorizations being obtained from the relevant governments and other relevant stakeholders within the expected timelines and the absence of material negative comments or obstacles during any applicable regulatory processes; (9) there being no significant disruptions to the Company's workforce at either the Rainy River Mine or New Afton Mine due to cases of COVID-19 (including any required self-isolation requirements due to cross-border travel to the United States or any other country or any other reason) or otherwise; (10) the responses of the relevant governments to the COVID-19 outbreak being sufficient to contain the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak; (11) there being no material disruption to the Company's supply chains and workforce that would interfere with the Company's anticipated course of action at the Rainy River Mine and the New Afton Mine; and (12) the long-term economic effects of the COVID-19 outbreak not having a material adverse impact on the Company's operations or liquidity position.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, without limitation: price volatility in the spot and forward markets for metals and other commodities; discrepancies between actual and estimated production, between actual and estimated costs, between actual and estimated Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources and between actual and estimated metallurgical recoveries; equipment malfunction, failure or unavailability; accidents; risks related to early production at the Rainy River Mine, including failure of equipment, machinery, the process circuit or other processes to perform as designed or intended; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, including the risks of obtaining and maintaining the validity and enforceability of the necessary licenses and permits and complying with the permitting requirements of each jurisdiction in which New Gold operates, including, but not limited to: obtaining the necessary permits for the New Afton C-Zone; uncertainties and unanticipated delays associated with obtaining and maintaining necessary licenses, permits and authorizations and complying with permitting requirements, including those associated with the C-Zone permitting process; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; changing costs, timelines and development schedules as it relates to construction; the Company not being able to complete its construction projects at the Rainy River Mine or the New Afton Mine on the anticipated timeline or at all; volatility in the market price of the Company's securities; changes in national and local government legislation in the countries in which New Gold does or may in the future carry on business; controls, regulations and political or economic developments in the countries in which New Gold does or may in the future carry on business; the Company's dependence on the Rainy River Mine and New Afton Mine; the Company not being able to complete its exploration drilling programs on the anticipated timeline or at all; disruptions to the Company's workforce at either the Rainy River Mine or the New Afton Mine, or both, due to cases of COVID-19 or any required self-isolation (due to cross-border travel, exposure to a case of COVID-19 or otherwise); the responses of the relevant governments to the COVID-19 outbreak not being sufficient to contain the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak; disruptions to the Company's supply chain and workforce due to the COVID-19 outbreak; an economic recession or downturn as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak that materially adversely affects the Company's operations or liquidity position; there being further shutdowns at the Rainy River Mine or New Afton Mine; significant capital requirements and the availability and management of capital resources; additional funding requirements; diminishing quantities or grades of Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources; actual results of current exploration or reclamation activities; uncertainties inherent to mining economic studies including the Technical Reports for the Rainy River Mine and New Afton Mine; impairment; unexpected delays and costs inherent to consulting and accommodating rights of First Nations and other indigenous groups; climate change, environmental risks and hazards and the Company's response thereto; tailings dam and structure failures; actual results of current exploration or reclamation activities; fluctuations in the international currency markets and in the rates of exchange of the currencies of Canada, the United States and, to a lesser extent, Mexico; global economic and financial conditions and any global or local natural events that may impede the economy or New Gold's ability to carry on business in the normal course; compliance with debt obligations and maintaining sufficient liquidity; taxation; fluctuation in treatment and refining charges; transportation and processing of unrefined products; rising costs or availability of labour, supplies, fuel and equipment; adequate infrastructure; relationships with communities, governments and other stakeholders; geotechnical instability and conditions; labour disputes; the uncertainties inherent in current and future legal challenges to which New Gold is or may become a party; defective title to mineral claims or property or contests over claims to mineral properties; competition; loss of, or inability to attract, key employees; use of derivative products and hedging transactions; counterparty risk and the performance of third party service providers; investment risks and uncertainty relating to the value of equity investments in public companies held by the Company from time to time; the adequacy of internal and disclosure controls; conflicts of interest; the lack of certainty with respect to foreign operations and legal systems, which may not be immune from the influence of political pressure, corruption or other factors that are inconsistent with the rule of law; the successful acquisitions and integration of business arrangements and realizing the intended benefits therefrom; and information systems security threats. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development, construction, operation and mining, including environmental events and hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and gold bullion losses (and the risk of inadequate insurance or inability to obtain insurance to cover these risks) as well as "Risk Factors" included in New Gold's most recent annual information form, MD&A and other disclosure documents filed on and available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Forward looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results and future events could materially differ from those anticipated in such statements. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements. New Gold expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, events or otherwise, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Patrick Godin, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of New Gold. Mr. Godin is a Professional Engineer and member of the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec. He is a "Qualified Person" for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.
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SOURCE New Gold Inc. | 2022-07-11T22:12:02+00:00 | newschannel10.com | https://www.newschannel10.com/prnewswire/2022/07/11/new-gold-reports-second-quarter-operational-results-provides-update-2022-operational-outlook/ |
(WHTM) — Nick Sirianni comes from a family of coaches. His father Fran was a longtime track and football, and his two older brothers, Jay and Mike, have spent years as head football coaches.
But Nick is the first in the family to reach a Super Bowl and his brother Mike shares what this means to Nick and the entire family. | 2023-02-10T16:19:51+00:00 | kxnet.com | https://www.kxnet.com/the-big-game/the-sirianni-family-gears-up-for-the-super-bowl/ |
LANSING, Mich. (AP) — A Michigan election board on Friday voted to put a question on the November ballot about whether the state should expand opportunities to vote, including through absentee and early voting, after the state Supreme Court ordered it to do so.
The court sided Thursday with supporters of Promote the Vote 2022, a coalition of organizations that submitted signatures to put the proposed constitutional amendment before voters.
The measure would require state-funded absentee ballot drop boxes, as well as postage for absentee ballots and applications, and allow voters to join a permanent list to have absentee ballots sent for every election. It also would allow Michigan voters to verify their identity with a signed statement or a photo ID, and it would require nine days of in-person early voting.
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Promote the Vote 2022 has said that the initiative will help ensure that every state voter’s voice is heard.
Republicans oppose the measures, saying they would open the door to fraud. In Michigan and elsewhere, the GOP has pushed stricter rules around voting and repeated former President Donald Trump's lie that the 2020 election was stolen from him. Trump lost the state and the presidency to Joe Biden.
Promote the Vote asked the court to order a state elections board to certify the measure for the Nov. 8 ballot after the Board of State Canvassers voted along party lines on Aug. 31 not to do so. The four-member board’s two Democrats said the initiative should be on the ballot, while its two Republicans said it should not.
The Republican members and other opponents said some of the language on the petitions was unclear, and Michigan GOP spokesman Gus Portela called it “a dangerous proposition.”
Promote the Vote argued it submitted more than enough signatures to meet the 425,000-signature requirement to be certified, and called opponents' arguments against it “frivolous.”
All four board members voted Friday to put the measure on the ballot, following the Supreme Court's directive.
Burnett reported from Chicago.
Joey Cappelletti is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. | 2022-09-09T16:00:45+00:00 | wcfcourier.com | https://wcfcourier.com/news/national/michigan-board-approves-ballot-measure-on-voting-access/article_5d17edb7-a797-549d-9c59-d127f19e15ed.html |
Leading global technology research and advisory firm recognizes Unisys for the second consecutive year for its depth of expertise and continuous innovation
BLUE BELL, Pa., July 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Unisys Corporation (NYSE: UIS) today announced that leading global technology research and advisory firm Information Services Group (ISG) has recognized the company as a global leader for its cloud and infrastructure solutions in reports published in the U.S. and Brazil.
The 2022 ISG Provider Lens™ "Next-Gen Private/Hybrid Cloud - Data Center Services & Solutions" report summarizes the relative capabilities of more than 50 software vendors/service providers. Each provider is positioned based on quantitative data collected from providers, ISG internal data and/or data obtained through secondary research. In each quadrant, providers are categorized as being leaders, product challengers, contenders or market challengers.
"This recognition from such a prestigious firm serves as a proof point of our strong capabilities in cloud transformation, application modernization, holistic security and management solutions," said Manju Naglapur, senior vice president and general manager, Cloud and Infrastructure Solutions, Unisys. "We are focused on helping clients transform and manage their hybrid cloud assets so they can simplify cloud complexities and achieve business agility."
U.S. recognition
In the U.S., ISG ranked Unisys as a leader in the managed services (midmarket) quadrant. The firm lauded the company's cloud management solutions, partner ecosystem and security expertise as strengths in its analysis.
ISG also recognized Unisys as a leader in managed services and managed hosting in its U.S. public sector quadrant report. ISG noted Unisys' extensive experience across all levels of state and local government, as well as in education, in healthcare and with regulatory agencies. According to the report, Unisys "has adopted an outcome-driven approach that ensures productive engagements and offers capabilities to help customers comply with strong security requirements."
Brazil recognition
ISG also issued the 2022 ISG Provider Lens™ "Next-Gen Private/Hybrid Cloud - Data Center Services & Solutions" report in Brazil and named Unisys a leader in the managed services (large accounts) quadrant. ISG recognized the company for offering a robust service automation platform — CloudForte® — with an experienced delivery team in Brazil and noted how it differentiates from others by including sophisticated security measures in every engagement.
The ISG reports mark the latest recognition for Unisys in cloud and infrastructure solutions. Earlier this year, ISG named Unisys a leader in managed public cloud services categories in the U.S., U.K. and Brazil and in consulting and transformation services in the U.S. and Brazil.
To learn more about this research and why ISG recognizes Unisys as a leader, click here.
About Unisys
Unisys is a technology solutions company that delivers successful outcomes for the most demanding organizations around the world. Unisys offerings include digital workplace solutions, cloud and infrastructure solutions, enterprise computing solutions and business process solutions. For more information on how Unisys delivers for its clients across the commercial, financial services and government sectors, visit www.unisys.com.
Follow Unisys on Twitter and LinkedIn.
RELEASE NO.: 0728/9879
Unisys and other Unisys products and services mentioned herein, as well as their respective logos, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Unisys Corporation. Any other brand or product referenced herein is acknowledged to be a trademark or registered trademark of its respective holder.
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SOURCE Unisys Corporation | 2022-07-28T12:42:07+00:00 | mysuncoast.com | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/28/information-services-group-isg-names-unisys-leader-next-gen-private-hybrid-cloud-managed-services-us-brazil/ |
- Shares plunged after Snap provided weaker-than-expected guidance despite beating on the top and bottom lines.
- The company has faced a slowing advertising market and daily-active-user growth, despite big bets on A.I. technology.
- Shares remain up 12.6% year-to-date but are well off their 2021 highs.
Snap shares plunged at the start of trading, falling 19% as analysts and investors recoiled from a weaker-than-expected forecast for the current period.
Overall sales declined 4% year-over-year, with a slightly-than-expected lower-end total sales forecast for the third quarter. Snap is regarded by some analysts as a bellwether for digital marketing spend, which has struggled of late but is experiencing a modest recovery.
The broader social media industry has become "harder" to forecast in, CEO Evan Spiegel said in an interview with CNBC's Julia Boorstin on Wednesday.
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Morgan Stanley maintained a $6.5 price target and an underweight rating on the social media stock. "Revenue continues to be challenged," Morgan Stanley analyst Brian Nowak said in a Wednesday morning report. "The cost to compete for ad dollars and engagement also continues to rise," Nowak noted.
Bank of America analyst Justin Post reiterated a neutral rating and an $11 price target. Despite "signs of smaller advertiser traction, we continue to prefer other stocks in the Online media group given Snap's usage (time spent) pressure," Bank of America said.
Shares of Snap have plunged significantly since reaching a November 2021 share price of over $73. The company has faced slowing daily-active-user growth in North America and, like many tech companies, laid off 20% of its global workforce, or more than 1,000 employees.
Money Report
CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report. | 2023-07-26T15:18:37+00:00 | nbcchicago.com | https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/business/money-report/snap-stock-drops-19-on-weak-forecast/3194403/ |
(The Hill) – Prices have cooled in the once red-hot housing market, but competition is heating up between two generations in seemingly perpetual conflict.
Millennials entering their prime homebuying years and baby boomers — many of whom are nearing retirement age — are vying for the same homes.
Not all baby boomers are looking for smaller properties to spend their retirement years, and some millennials are encroaching on space in the suburbs, where their older peers would typically downsize.
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But most boomers have a key advantage: substantial equity from previous home purchases and higher incomes, which help them avoid the growing costs of a long-term mortgage.
“Boomers are not downsizing and Millennials — first-time buyers in particular — are buying later in life. This puts both generations of buyers in head-to-head competition for similarly sized properties,” Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist and vice president of research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR) told The Hill in an email.
Yet Lautz said shifting working situations created during the pandemic, alongside high home prices, have changed buying patterns among generations.
“In addition, with the rise of remote and hybrid work and constraints on housing affordability, Millennial home buyers are embracing the suburbs and even small towns — locations which have traditionally been the refuge of retirees,” Lautz said in the email.
Baby boomers beat out millennials as the largest share of buyers last year
Baby boomers made up the largest share of homebuyers last year at 39 percent, according to a recent report from the NAR. Their share rose by 10 percentage points from the previous year.
By contrast, millennials, who recently became a homeowner majority generation, saw their share of the market shrink in 2022. Millennials accounted for 28 percent of home purchases last year, down from 43 percent in 2021, when they made up the largest share.
Buyers in the baby boomer generation were largely repeat buyers last year, Lautz said, meaning they already had equity from previous homes to boost their purchasing power.
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“As they enter the home buying market, half of Older Boomers and one-third of Younger Boomers paid all cash allowing them to more easily make housing trades and win any multiple-bid situations,” she wrote.
Mortgage rates are boosting competition between generations
The Federal Reserve’s near-zero interest rates early in the pandemic led to mortgage rates dropping to historic lows. This offered greater breathing room for younger, first-time buyers — especially millennials — to achieve homeownership.
But as the Fed began hiking interest rates to fight inflation, mortgage rates spiked and made housing unaffordable for many amid already high home prices.
Sky-high mortgage rates are especially harmful to buyers with less equity who will make smaller down payments.
“If they are to rely on a mortgage for their next purchase, they are going to want to wait until rates are lower than they are today,” KPMG economist Yelena Maleyev told The Hill.
“If they plan on paying all-cash, they are not as affected by higher mortgage rates and can provide a more enticing offer than a first-time buyer,” Maleyev said.
New construction could offer relief
Construction is picking up, and figures released Tuesday show a month-on-month increase in housing starts. They rose 2.2 percent in April to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.40 million, according to data the Census Bureau released Wednesday.
The uptick was led by a 5.2 percent increase in multifamily units under construction, but new single-family homes were also on the rise.
The availability of new homes as the year progresses could offer relief to younger buyers if those with more resources move on to the new spaces.
“This could mean that more baby boomers will shift to the newly built market and release some much-needed supply to the existing market,” Maleyev said.
“The concern remains what size and price that supply will be; most first-time buyers are not in the market for mansions,” she concluded.
Redfin Chief Economist Daryl Fairweather recently told The Hill the nation did not build enough homes in the first place, especially after the 2008 financial crisis.
“The demand meeting that lack of supply is where we get this increase in prices,” Fairweather said.
“Yes, there’s a lot of demand because the millennials are the biggest generation, but we should have seen that coming.” | 2023-05-19T19:48:42+00:00 | siouxlandproud.com | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/news/boomers-and-millennials-fight-for-homes-as-housing-market-cools/ |
Several neighborhoods report receiving KKK flyers in Kentucky
MT. STERLING, Ky. (WKYT/Gray News) - Officials in Kentucky are investigating after people reported finding “concerning” flyers filled with Ku Klux Klan propaganda in their front yards.
“I found it out by my house in the road,” said Jim Carroll, a resident of the Holly Hills neighborhood in Mt. Sterling.
At least a dozen other people in the neighborhood spoke with WKYT but did not want to go on camera. Many of them said they were concerned about the flyers and some said it makes them feel unsafe.
Carroll said he didn’t even read the flyer.
“I feel safe,” he said. “It doesn’t bother me any.”
However, Whit Whitaker, the president of the Lexington-Fayette Chapter of the NAACP, said people should be concerned.
“The seed’s been planted. You don’t know who else has saw that, and just because this was an indirect action, it could lead to direct action violence or violent activities,” Whitaker said.
Whitaker said people should report any incident like this to authorities but should also take other steps if they wish to enact change.
“You see something, say something, do something - mobilization,” said Whitaker. “You have a neighborhood association. If you are truly offended, then you mobilize your neighborhood association and say, ‘This is unacceptable; we need to stay vigilant.’”
Mt. Sterling police said they are investigating who put these flyers in this neighborhood.
Police said they have received reports of similar flyers being found in Paris, Kentucky, and they are looking into it.
Copyright 2023 WKYT via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | 2023-06-13T16:28:30+00:00 | wagmtv.com | https://www.wagmtv.com/2023/06/13/several-neighborhoods-report-receiving-kkk-flyers-kentucky/ |
MLB teams extend alcohol sales during games; move criticized by some
CINCINNATI - A pitcher with the Philadelphia Phillies is criticizing some Major League Baseball teams for extending alcohol sales with games running around 30 minutes shorter due to the sport's new pitch clock.
Matt Strahm said Thursday on the Baseball Isn't Boring podcast that teams should be moving the cutoff for beer sales up to the sixth inning, rather than stretching to the eighth or later, since fans will have less time to sober up and drive home.
At least five teams — the Houston Astros, Arizona Diamondbacks, Texas Rangers, Minnesota Twins and Milwaukee Brewers — have extended alcohol sales past the traditional seventh-inning cutoff. The Baltimore Orioles had already allowed sales into the eighth.
Other teams haven't ruled out changes.
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"The reason we stopped it in the seventh before was to give our fans time to sober up and drive home safe, correct?" Strahm said. "So now with a faster pace game, and me just being a man of common sense, if the game is going to finish quicker, would we not move the beer sales back to the sixth inning to give our fans time to sober up and drive home?
"Instead, we’re going to the eighth, and now you’re putting our fans and our family at risk driving home with people who have just drank beers 22 minutes ago."
Strahm suggested team owners should re-evaluate whether the extension of beer sales looks out for the safety of fans, or whether it's a "way to make their dollars back."
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Through the first 1 1/2 weeks of the season, the average MLB game time has been down 31 minutes because of the rule changes, particularly the new pitch clock.
That means fans are spending less time — and perhaps less money — at stadiums.
For the nonprofit Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the extension of beer sales doesn't change much. The goal remains keeping drunk people off the road.
"If it cuts off sales in the seventh inning, the eighth inning or the ninth inning, that really doesn’t affect our stance because regardless, we just don’t want people to drink alcohol and then drive home from the game," Erin Payton, regional executive director of MADD, told The Associated Press in a statement.
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The Astros were the latest team to announce an extension of alcohol sales. The team said Thursday fans would be able to purchase alcohol at limited locations through the end of the game.
The Rangers allowed some alcohol sales in the eighth inning last season, but have made that option more widely available in 2023. The team said the move to offer in-seat service to everyone — fans can order on their phones — was done partly in reaction to the pitch clock and the potential of shorter game times so fans would not have to miss extended action waiting in lines at concession stands.
Brewers President of business operations Rick Schlesinger confirmed to MLB.com that their team's move to extend alcohol sales through the eighth was an experiment.
"If it turns out that this is causing an issue or we feel that it might cause an issue, then we’ll revert to what we have done previously," Schlesinger said.
MLB says it does not regulate when teams sell alcohol. Most franchises have used the seventh inning as a cutoff, at least partly to avoid overserving customers who could then get in their cars and drive home.
But in reality, most teams already had areas around the ballpark where fans could get alcohol after the seventh, even if the concession stands stopped serving. Many parks are connected to restaurants or have VIP areas where the booze still flows. | 2023-04-13T18:21:50+00:00 | fox6now.com | https://www.fox6now.com/sports/mlb-teams-extend-alcohol-sales-during-games-criticized |
EDINBURGH – The coffin of Queen Elizabeth II returned to Buckingham Palace on Tuesday evening, making its way through a drizzly London as crowds lined the route for a glimpse of the hearse and to bid her a final farewell.
People parked their cars along a normally busy road, got out and waved as the hearse, with lights inside illuminating the flag-draped coffin, made its way into London. In the city, people pressed in on the road and held their phones aloft as it passed.
Thousands outside the palace cheered, shouted “God save the queen!” and clapped as the hearse swung around a roundabout in front of the queen's official London residence and through the wrought iron gates. Her son, King Charles III, and other immediate family members waited inside.
The coffin traveled to London from Edinburgh, where 33,000 people filed silently past it in the 24 hours at St. Giles’ Cathedral after it had been brought there from her cherished summer retreat, Balmoral. The queen — the only monarch many in the United Kingdom have ever known — died there Sept. 8 at age 96 after 70 years on the throne.
The military C-17 Globemaster carrying the casket touched down at RAF Northolt, an air force base in the west of London, about an hour after it left Edinburgh. U.K. Prime Minister Liz Truss, Defense Secretary Ben Wallace and a military honor guard were among those at the base for the arrival.
One who stood in the rain waiting for the hearse to pass, retired bus driver David Stringer, 82, recalled watching the queen’s coronation on a newsreel as a boy.
“It’s a great shame,” he said. “I mean, I didn’t think about her every day, but I always knew she was there, and my life’s coming to a close now and her time has finished.”
The coffin will be taken by horse-drawn gun carriage Wednesday to the Houses of Parliament to lie in state for four days before Monday’s funeral at Westminster Abbey.
“Scotland has now bid our Queen of Scots a sad, but fond farewell,” said Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. “We will not see her like again.”
Charles had returned to London from Northern Ireland, where his visit drew a rare moment of unity from politicians in a region with a contested British and Irish identity that is deeply divided over the monarchy.
The new king is making his own journey this week, visiting the four nations of the U.K. – England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Hundreds gathered around Hillsborough Castle near Belfast, the royal family’s official residence in Northern Ireland, in the latest outpouring of affection following the queen’s death. The area in front of the gates to the castle was carpeted with hundreds of floral tributes.
Charles and his wife Camilla, the Queen Consort, got out of their car to wave to the crowd and sometimes used both hands to reach out to villagers, including schoolchildren in bright blue uniforms. Charles even petted a corgi — famously his late mother’s favorite breed of dog — held up by one person, and some chanted “God save the king!”
“Today means so much to me and my family, just to be present in my home village with my children to witness the arrival of the new king is a truly historic moment for us all,” said Hillsborough resident Robin Campbell.
While there was a warm welcome in Hillsborough, the British monarchy draws mixed emotions in Northern Ireland, where there are two main communities: mostly Protestant unionists who consider themselves British and largely Roman Catholic nationalists who see themselves as Irish.
That split fueled three decades of violence known as “the Troubles” involving paramilitary groups on both sides and U.K. security forces, in which 3,600 people died. The royal family was touched personally by the violence: Lord Louis Mountbatten, a cousin of the queen and a much-loved mentor to Charles, was killed by an Irish Republican Army bomb in 1979.
A deep sectarian divide remains, a quarter century after Northern Ireland’s 1998 peace agreement.
For some Irish nationalists, the monarch represents an oppressive foreign power. But others acknowledge the queen’s role in forging peace. On a visit to Northern Ireland in 2012, she shook hands with Sinn Fein deputy leader Martin McGuinness, a former IRA commander — a once-unthinkable moment of reconciliation. On Tuesday the new king shook hands with Sinn Fein Vice President Michelle O’Neill.
In a sign of how far Northern Ireland has come on the road to peace, representatives of Sinn Fein attended commemorative events for the queen and meeting the king on Tuesday.
Alex Maskey, a Sinn Fein politician who is speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly, said the queen had “demonstrated how individual acts of positive leadership can help break down barriers and encourage reconciliation.”
Charles responded that she had tried to play a role “in bringing together those whom history had separated, and in extending a hand to make possible the healing of long-held hurts.”
He said he would draw on his mother’s “shining example” and “seek the welfare of all the inhabitants of Northern Ireland.”
Still, not everyone was welcoming the new king.
On the Falls Road in Belfast, a nationalist stronghold, several walls are decorated with murals of Bobby Sands, an IRA member who died while on a hunger strike in prison in 1981, and others killed in the Troubles.
“No, he’s not our king. Bobby Sands was our king here,” said 52-year-old Bobby Jones. “Queen never done nothing for us. Never did. None of the royals do.”
Irish leaders attended a service of reflection at St. Anne's Cathedral in Belfast despite tense relations between Dublin and London over Brexit. Since Britain left the European Union in 2020, the U.K. and the EU have been wrangling over trade rules for Northern Ireland, the only part of the U.K. that shares a border with a member of the bloc.
Before being flown to London, the queen's oak coffin was carried from St. Giles’ Cathedral to the strain of bagpipes. Crowds lining the Royal Mile through the historic heart of Edinburgh broke into applause as the coffin, accompanied by the queen’s daughter, Princess Anne, was driven to Edinburgh Airport.
“I was fortunate to share the last 24 hours of my dearest mother’s life,” Princess Anne said in a statement. “It has been an honour and a privilege to accompany her on her final journeys. Witnessing the love and respect shown by so many on these journeys has been both humbling and uplifting.”
___
Follow AP stories on the death of Queen Elizabeth II and Britain’s royal family at https://apnews.com/hub/queen-elizabeth-ii | 2022-09-13T23:19:49+00:00 | ksat.com | https://www.ksat.com/news/world/2022/09/13/king-charles-in-belfast-queens-coffin-to-return-to-london/ |
Gifts for impressing a Funko Pop Collector
Funko started selling their vinyl Pop figurines in 2010. Since then, the line has developed a serious following of collectors. Some of the rarest figurines are worth over $1,500 today. Of course, you don’t have to get the rarest of the rare when buying for a collector. You just need to know what they already have and where their interests lie. It can also help to see what’s going on in the Funko Pop world and which toys are releasing soon, as this is an opportunity to potentially pick up a rare item before it’s impossible to find.
What to know about Funko “chase” Pop toys
You might have heard collectors talking about “chase” pop figurines. This refers to a popular Funko Pop that occasionally comes in a design differing from the standard. These unique figurines are usually marked with a gold sticker on the box to let you know they are rarer. The thing about these figures is you can’t exactly order one online. Retailers have a few from Funko and ship them out at random the same way you might find a rare Pokémon card in a standard pack or a special prize in a cereal box. A “chase” figure costs the same but might be in a different pose, wear different accessories or even glow-in-the-dark.
How are “flocked” figurines different?
Flocked means a velvet or suede texture is on the surface instead of the usual smooth feel of standard vinyl figurines.
What is the “Diamond Collection”?
The Diamond Collection refers to a line of very sparkly Funko Pop toys. This line takes previously released figures and recreates them covered in glitter and a sticker to identify it as part of the Diamond Collection.
What makes a figurine exclusive or limited edition?
An exclusive Funko Pop means there are limited ways to get the figure. It is released exclusively through a specific store or during a special event like a convention. If you find an exclusive figurine online at a place like Amazon, then that means it was acquired through the exclusive channel and is now being re-sold.
Funko Pop recent toy releases
Funko Pop Television: Friends – Music Video Phoebe Buffay
Remember the one where Phoebe was in a music video? This unique figurine shows the iconic “Friends” character dressed up for her “Smelly Cat” music video. She’s even holding Smell Cat himself.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Rocks: Britney Spears – Oops I Did it Again
This Britney Spears figurine is straight out of the “Oops I Did it Again” music video. She’s wearing her flashy red outfit and has her hands to her chest as she dances the video.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Television: Parks and Rec – Janet Snakehole
When April and Andy decided to develop alternate personas on “Parks and Rec”, April invented Janet Snakehole. Janet is “a wealthy widow with a terrible secret,” who wears all her finery topped with a stylish black veiled hat.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Television: The Boys – Starlight in Bodysuit
This Starlight figurine is an Amazon Exclusive, which makes sense given that “The Boys” is an Amazon television series. Starlight is featured here wearing her gold and white bodysuit.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Movies: Groundhog Day – Phil Connors with Punxsutawney Phil
This is a Phil Connors figurine from the cult classic comedy “Groundhog Day”. Phil comes holding his microphone, ready to report the weather, with Punxsutawney Phil, the groundhog at his side.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Broadway: Hamilton – Alexander Hamilton
Here is leading man Alexander Hamilton from Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hit Broadway musical, “Hamilton”. This one is special because it is the very first figurine in the “Hamilton” Funko Pop series.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Marvel: WandaVision – 50’s Wanda
This Marvel Pop is the 1950s TV version of Wanda from the hit Disney+ series “WandaVision.” Featured in black and white, Wanda has perfectly styled hair, dress and apron while holding a lobster.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Rocks: Selena – Selena in Burgundy Outfit
Selena was one of the most popular Mexican-American performers during the second half of the 20th century. The singer’s Funko Pop figurine is wearing a sparkly burgundy outfit and holding a microphone, though this design is not part of the Diamond Collection.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Sports: Ali – Muhammad Ali
This sports series figurine features the legendary Muhammad Ali in his boxing gloves. Ali was a 20th-century boxer and activist and is considered one of the best heavyweight boxers of all time.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop toy exclusives
Funko Pop Marvel: Spider-Man vs. Spider-Man 2 Pack
This set comes with two Spider-Man vinyl figurines depicting that an infamous scene from the 1960s “Spider-Man” animated series. This pack was originally released as an Entertainment Earth Special Edition item.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Icons: George R.R. Martin
Here is a figurine of George R.R. Martin, the bestselling author most widely known for his “A Song of Ice and Fire” book series on which the HBO series “Game of Thrones” is based. This figurine was originally released as a Barnes and Noble Exclusive.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Games: Pok̩mon РEevee (flocked)
This flocked Eevee is an excellent gift for any “Pokémon” fan. It was a 2020 Wondrous Convention Limited Edition Exclusive and therefore harder to come by than some other “Pokémon” Funko Pop figurines.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop: Game of Thrones – Arya Stark
Here is a sword-wielding Arya Stark figurine from the hit HBO series “Game of Thrones”. This figure was a 2019 Spring Convention Limited Edition Exclusive.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Marvel: Blade – Blade
This figurine is Marvel’s Blade from the comic series and film trilogy of the same name. What makes this figurine special is that it was a 2021 Summer Convention Limited Edition item.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Television: Supernatural – Castiel with Wings
Here is the trench coat-clad angel Castiel with wings from the popular WB/CW series “Supernatural”. This item released originally as a Hot Topic Exclusive.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Icons: Stephen King with Red Balloon
This figurine is horror author Stephen King holding a book and a red balloon as a wink to his bestselling novel, “It”. This particular King figurine was released as a Special Edition item.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Basketball: UNC – Michael Jordan (Home Jersey)
Legendary basketball player Michael Jordan wears his light blue home jersey for the UNC team. This item released originally as a Walmart Exclusive.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Rocks: Queen – Freddie Mercury (Diamond Collection)
Here is lead singer Freddie Mercury from the band Queen. This figurine comes from the Diamond Collection, so his pants, belt and shoes sparkle, plus his chest is lightly flocked.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Rides: Supernatural – Baby with Dean
This figurine has the beloved car, Baby, with Dean Winchester riding inside, both from the hit WB/CW series “Supernatural”. It’s a prized item for fans of the show because not too many Funko Pop Vinyl toys feature Baby and this one, in particular, was 2017 Summer Convention Exclusive, hence the hefty price tag.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop toy fun favorites
Funko Pop Star Wars: The Mandalorian – The Child with Cup
Here is the beloved “Baby Yoda” from the Disney+ series “The Mandalorian”. He is featured here on a little “Star Wars” stand, holding a cup in both hands.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Television: Jeopardy! – Alex Trebek
This is a figurine of famed Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek in a suit holding a “Final Jeopardy!” card. Chase versions of this item do exist and randomly sent out by the distributor.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Rocks: TLC – Left Eye
Lisa Lopez, known as Left Eye, from R&B group TLC wearing her hair up with a blue sweatshirt around her waist. Chase versions of this item do exist and randomly sent out.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Sports Legends: USWNT Players – Megan Rapinoe
This is Megan Rapinoe from the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team. She is seen here in her famous pose, with arms raised to the air victoriously.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Television: Stranger Things – Eleven with Eggos
Here is the fan-favorite Eleven from season one of Netflix’s “Stranger Things”. She is seen here with her shaved head, blue jean jacket and bloody nose as she holds a box of her favorite food, Eggo waffles. A chase version with Eleven in her blonde wig exists and randomly sent out.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Icons: Marilyn Monroe – Marilyn Monroe in White Dress
This vinyl figurine shows classic Hollywood movie star, Marilyn Monroe. Her pose in the white dress is from her iconic outfit in the 1955 film “The Seven Year Itch”.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Disney: The Little Mermaid – Ursula
Here is Ursula from Disney’s “The Little Mermaid”. Here, she smiles while holding two eels.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Rocks: Prince – Prince (Purple Rain)
This figurine is the iconic singer-songwriter Prince. Here, Prince wears his famous “Purple Rain” purple suit and playing a white and gold guitar.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Movies: The Lord of The Rings – Balrog
This is an intimidating vinyl figurine of the Balrog from “The Lord of the Rings” (based on the trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien). What makes this figurine unique is that it stands 6-inches tall, almost twice as big as the average Funko Pop figurine.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Movies: Edward Scissorhands – Edward with Dinosaur Shrub
This deluxe set features the title character from Tim Burton’s “Edward Scissorhands” standing beside a shrub he has pruned into the shape of a dinosaur. This figure is a little wider and taller than average, standing at about 5.5-inches in height.
Sold by Amazon
Funko Pop Television: The Walking Dead: Glenn Rhee
Here is the fan-favorite Glenn from AMC’s top-rated television series “The Walking Dead“. He is featured wearing a red baseball cap and holding a rifle.
Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | 2022-11-02T07:18:12+00:00 | texomashomepage.com | https://www.texomashomepage.com/reviews/br/toys-games-br/hobby-collectibles-br/best-funko-pop-toy-gifts-for-collectors/ |
A Perry County dentist has been recognized nationally by the American Dental Association.
Dr. Saniya Setia, a dentist at Marysville Family Dentistry in Marysville was recently recognized by the association for her expertise in providing comprehensive dental care to underserved communities, contributing to dental literature, and advocating for her profession.
Setia of Mechanicsburg was one of 10 dentists in the United States to receive an American Dental Association 10 Under 10 Award in 2023, and the only recipient from Pennsylvania. There were 165 submissions.
The award honors 10 dentists who graduated from a dental school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation less than 10 years ago who demonstrate excellence and inspire others in science, research, education, clinical practice, philanthropy, leadership, and advocacy.
“Oral health has such an impact on our body and well-being,” Setia said in a news release. “It’s why I was inspired to help people who did not have the resources or access to care. Everyone should have the right to a healthy and beautiful smile.”
A native of Chandigarh, India, Setia was India’s only graduating dentist in 2013 to receive the International Certificate of Merit for her contributions toward dental literature, academics, and community service. She moved to the U.S. to further her dental education and training at the University of Colorado, where she graduated top of her class in 2016.
After graduating from the University of Colorado, Setia practiced at a Federally Qualified Health Center in Georgia that cared for patients who had financial barriers to dental health and did not have dental insurance.
In Georgia, she advocated for equality in oral care and provided a full scope of dental services. She also ran programs to specifically educate OB/GYN physicians and the community on oral health, sleep-disordered breathing, lactation, and child jaw development.
Setia has been a dentist at Marysville Family Dentistry for less than two years. The practice offers cosmetic dentistry, periodontal services, preventative dentistry and restorative dentistry.
“I’ve been actively working to enhance the scope of dentistry from both the dentist and patient perspective,” she said.
Setia has co-authored textbooks, published articles in peer-reviewed journals, and has spoken at national and international conferences about a range of public health topics, dental and medical conditions, and dental student education. In addition, Setia advocates for patients and the dental profession.
Setia became one of the youngest recipients to be awarded an honorary Fellowship in the Pierre Fauchard Academy, which is an international dental honor society. She now serves as the chair for its Pennsylvania chapter and helps recognize and award the Academy and Oral Health Foundation student scholarships.
Marysville Family Dentistry is owned by Progressive Dental Concepts, which owns a number of dental practices under different names in the Camp Hill, Carlisle, Harrisburg, Hershey, Marysville, New Cumberland, Palmyra, Shiremanstown, and York areas.
“Dr. Setia has a remarkable passion for serving others,” Dr. CJ Foer, cofounder and principal at Progressive Dental Concepts, said in the news release. “She is an amazing example for her colleagues both at PDC and nationally. We are excited that she is receiving well-deserved recognition for her efforts.”
Sign up for “Eat, Shop, Go”, a weekly report from PennLive on food, restaurants, business, retail centers, things to do and places to go all around central Pa. Sign up for free by clicking here. | 2023-04-24T16:33:02+00:00 | pennlive.com | https://www.pennlive.com/health/2023/04/central-pa-dentist-receives-national-award.html |
In-person events represent 62% of Q4 events being hosted on Bizzabo
NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bizzabo, the Event Experience Operating System (OS), announced today a 20% increase in the number of events hosted on its platform, compared to last year. This growth follows the resurgence of in-person events, along with Bizzabo's continued investment in its product and culture. Between January and September 2022 alone, the number of in-person events held on Bizzabo's Event Experience OS increased by 724%. The majority of events held in the second half of 2022 will occur in person.
"In-person events have returned this year, and their purpose has been elevated as marketers bring a renewed focus on delivering meaningful experiences for those gathering physically and virtually," said Alon Alroy, CMO and co-founder of Bizzabo. "Events are an essential part of any marketing strategy to generate sales pipeline, build brands, and communities. That's why we're doubling down on our Event Experience OS to truly elevate the experience for attendees, sponsors, exhibitors and organizers."
As in-person events return, hybrid events continue to be a table stakes option for Event Experience Leaders. Hybrid events have made up 7-11% of events held monthly on the Bizzabo platform since March 2022. According to a recent survey conducted by Bizzabo, 68% of event organizers plan to have a virtual component at their next in-person event.
And while the number of in-person and hybrid events has grown, virtual events remain a crucial component of marketing strategies. Between January and September 2022, the number of virtual events held on the Bizzabo platform has been consistent, decreasing just 0.43%.
Amid this growth, Bizzabo is closing new client deals 44% faster, with an expanded customer base that includes Wella, Stack Overflow, Federal Reserve Bank and 6Sense, among others.
In recent months, Bizzabo has invested in its Event Experience OS, the industry and its workforce by:
- Launching its new on-site software offering with an enhanced check-in solution and expanding its award winning event app.
- Powering Hubspot's INBOUND 2022 with its innovative smart wearable technology.
- Enhancing the Bizzabo Networking product feature, providing a community space with one-on-one messaging, spontaneous meetings and smart scheduling capabilities.
- Launching The Venue as a digital destination enabling event participants to consume content, network and connect at events of all formats.
- Launching the company's inaugural Event Experience Awards, recognizing the Top 55 Event Experience Leaders of 2022.
- Releasing the "Event Success: Maximizing the Business Impact of In-person, Virtual, and Hybrid Experiences" book, published by Wiley.
- Moving into new offices in Tel Aviv and New York, custom-designed to support collaborative, in-person experiences.
- Promoting Simone Astuni to Senior Vice President of Customer Experience, Meital Gurman to Vice President of Product, and Noa Weyl to Vice President of Legal, and hiring Kerry Lambert as Vice President of Customer Success and Melissa Hardt as Vice President of Revenue Marketing.
Additionally, the company earned several high-profile accolades, including:
- Ranking in the top 25% on the Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies list for 2022, placing at No. 1,093.
- Being named to Inc. Magazine's annual Best Workplaces list.
- Earning Business Intelligence Group's 2022 BIG Innovation award and the 2022 SaaS Awards' Best SaaS Product for Ticketing or Event Management award, ranking as a finalist in the Event Technology Awards for the Best New Technology Product and Best Event Management Platform categories and winning three Global Eventex Awards.
Bizzabo continues to power high-energy in-person, virtual and hybrid events for the world's leading brands. For more information about Bizzabo and the Event Experience OS, visit www.bizzabo.com.
Bizzabo powers immersive in-person, virtual, and hybrid experiences. The Bizzabo Event Experience OS is a data-rich open platform that allows Event Experience Leaders to manage events, engage audiences, activate communities, and deliver powerful business outcomes — while keeping attendee data private and secure. Bizzabo powers the events of world-leading brands — from Fortune 100 enterprise organizations and financial institutions to creative agencies and scaling tech companies. Bizzabo was founded in 2011 by Boaz Katz, Alon Alroy, and Eran Ben-Shushan. Headquartered in New York and Tel-Aviv, Bizzabo has additional offices in Kyiv, Montreal, and London to support its global customer base.
Media Contact:
BLASTmedia for Bizzabo
Jaclyn Pullen
bizzabo@blastmedia.com
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SOURCE Bizzabo | 2022-09-28T12:27:47+00:00 | wlbt.com | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2022/09/28/bizzabo-announces-724-growth-in-person-events-2022/ |
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NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP) — Cyprus will earmark 2% of gross domestic product to defense spending in line with other European Union member states as a means to strengthen the east Mediterranean island nation’s foreign policy bargaining power, the new Cypriot president said Friday.
Nikos Christodoulides told reporters after a visit to a special forces training camp that he aims to put Cyprus among other countries like Greece and France, “at the core” of a recent EU push to bolster the bloc’s deterrent capabilities and defense infrastructure.
“I also served as foreign minister and I know that without a strong deterrent force, without a strong defense, your say in foreign policy matters is clearly limited,” Christodoulides said.
According to official figures, Cyprus’ GDP in 2022 was estimated at 27 billion euros. A 2% of GDP target would mark a slight increase in current expenditure on ethnically split Cyprus’ military. It’s also reflective of NATO members’ commitment to spend 2% of their GDP on defense spending, although Christodoulides has said he has no intention to apply for membership in the military alliance at this time.
Cyprus was divided in 1974 when Turkey invaded following an Athens junta-backed coup aimed at union with Greece. Only Turkey recognizes a Turkish Cypriot declaration of independence in the island’s northern third where it maintains more than 35,000 troops.
“As long as there’s occupation in our country, we are obligated to bolster our deterrent capabilities,” said Christodoulides.
The president, who defeated a career diplomat in a Feb. 12 runoff to win the presidency, said his government would also strive to underscore Cyprus’ status as a member of the EU to upgrade defense cooperation with neighboring countries.
He also hailed the September 2022 full lifting of a decades-old U.S. arms embargo on Cyprus as a significant decision that his government would “utilize.” The decision renders Cyprus eligible for ““exports, re-exports and transfers of defense articles … for the fiscal year 2023.” | 2023-03-10T19:01:27+00:00 | everythinglubbock.com | https://www.everythinglubbock.com/news/international/cypriot-president-pledges-2-of-gdp-on-defense-spending/ |
DENVER (AP) — A recount has confirmed that an indicted Colorado county clerk who alleged voting fraud lost the primary election she ran in last month in her attempt to win the post of running the state’s elections, officials announced Thursday.
The results barely changed, with Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters picking up 13 more votes in the recount of the votes cast in the June 28 election to determine the Republican candidate for secretary of state. Peters received about 29% of the vote, Democratic Secretary of State Jena Griswold said in a statement.
The winner of the GOP primary for the job of overseeing Colorado’s elections, Pam Anderson, received 13 more votes during the recount and finished with 43%. A third candidate, Mike O’Donnell, got 11 more votes.
Peters’ voicemail was full and she did not immediately return a text message or emails seeking comment on the recount results.
She filed a lawsuit Wednesday against Griswold and the state’s county clerks alleging the recount was not conducted according to state law. The lawsuit claims that the accuracy of randomly selected machines used to count ballots should have been verified with a hand count before the recount began.
Griswold’s office said in a statement that the lawsuit was meritless.
“The allegations in the lawsuit are based on debunked conspiracies that have been rejected by judges in previous cases. The recount is over and was conducted under Colorado election law and rule,” the statement said.
Peters faces several felony charges for her alleged role in allowing unauthorized people to break into her county’s election system in search of proof of the conspiracy theories spun by former President Donald Trump after his 2020 election loss.
She has denied she did anything illegal and contends the charges are politically motivated. She has issued reports purporting to show suspicious activity within voting systems, but those have been debunked by various officials and experts.
A judge prohibited Peters from overseeing last year’s and this year’s local elections in Mesa County, a western region of the state that is largely rural and heavily Republican. Trump lost Colorado in 2020 but won the majority of the vote in this county.
Peters’ margin of loss in the GOP secretary of state primary did not require an automatic recount but she raised more than the $256,000 required to pay for one, reportedly mostly from supporters outside the state after making a plea for help on Steve Bannon’s podcast.
During the recount, 37 ballots that had been filled out and returned by voters were discovered in a bin with ballots returned as undeliverable that were being prepared for storage in Elbert County, which is near Denver.
Those ballots were opened and counted for the first time during the recount but did not change the results of any race, the secretary of state’s office said.
A breakdown of county recount results provided by Griswold’s office showed that there were also some small changes in ballot tallies in other counties that changed the vote results. | 2022-08-05T20:14:04+00:00 | kron4.com | https://www.kron4.com/news/politics/ap-politics/recount-confirms-that-indicted-colorado-clerk-lost-election/ |
NEW YORK (AP) — The northern lights could put on a show this week — though the audience will be much smaller than some early forecasts had suggested.
The sky spectacle will be fairly typical: Stretches of Canada have a chance to spot the shimmering curtain of the aurora borealis, while a few in the U.S. could see a faint reddish glow on the horizon. Here’s what to know about the updated predictions.
An early forecast by the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute, using data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, suggested that the northern lights could be visible much farther south than usual this week. But that forecast was based on long-term predictions about the solar activity responsible for the display. Forecasts using more current data from NOAA predict nothing special for the U.S.
“For the same reasons that it’s hard to predict weather on Earth, it’s hard to predict weather in space,” said Northeastern University physicist Jonathan Blazek.
In North America, the predictions show a broad stretch of Canada and Alaska could see the northern lights overhead Wednesday and Thursday. Those in small slices of the contiguous U.S. — including parts of Wisconsin, Michigan and Montana — could also get a peek. But for them the aurora will probably be a “faint glow on the horizon,” rather than a shimmering green curtain, said Lt. Bryan Brasher, a project manager for NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.
For those in range, seeking out clear, dark skies between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. will give the best chance to see the aurora’s colorful glow.
The northern lights happen when particles from the sun make their way toward Earth and collide with our planet’s atmosphere.
The sun is constantly sending material our way in a stream known as the solar wind. These particles carry an electric charge, and when they bump into gases such as oxygen and nitrogen in the Earth’s atmosphere, they transfer some of their energy — “like two billiard balls hitting each other,” Brasher said.
This puts the atoms and molecules in an excited state. They shake off some of that energy in the form of light, creating the colorful displays of greens, blues, pinks and reds.
This solar wind is always flowing, but its levels can vary.
“There are solar storms where you get more particles than usual. It’s windier than usual,” Blazek said. “There’s also periods when it’s fairly quiet.”
It’s during those periods of stronger solar wind activity when we tend to see more auroras, Blazek explained. More solar particles can make the northern lights brighter and also push them down toward the equator — giving people farther south a view.
Sometimes, the sun also shoots out huge amounts of plasma in what’s known as a coronal mass ejection, Brasher said. If one of these outbursts hits Earth, even in a “glancing blow,” it can disturb our planet’s magnetic field and also cause shimmering auroras.
Scientists are constantly monitoring the sun using telescopes on Earth and in space in part because space weather can impact radio communications, satellites, power grids and more, Brasher said.
The sun spins on its axis once every 27 days. So, if scientists notice a spot with high activity, they might get a hint that it could come back around in a few weeks, he said.
But conditions can change by the time the sun makes a full rotation. Even then, there are so many factors at play that it can be hard to be sure about what’s to come.
Generally, the sun’s activity is “on the up-and-up” as we’re heading toward a solar maximum in the next couple of years, Brasher said. So we may be seeing more solar storms soon — which will mean more northern lights.
“Everyone should stay tuned, because we probably have a lot more coming,” Brasher said.
___
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | 2023-07-13T02:22:04+00:00 | everythinglubbock.com | https://www.everythinglubbock.com/news/national/ap-northern-lights-might-be-visible-this-week-but-most-of-the-u-s-wont-see-them/ |
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