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New Jersey to start recreational marijuana sales April 21
Trenton, N.J. – Recreational marijuana sales in New Jersey for those 21 and older will begin April 21, Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy said Thursday.
Murphy’s announcement on Twitter comes just three days after state regulators green lighted permits for seven facilities that already sell medical cannabis to begin retailing recreational marijuana.
“This is a historic step in our work to create a new cannabis industry,” Murphy said.
The news comes about a year after the state’s regulatory commission started operating, and a year and a half after voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot question to permit recreational marijuana for people 21 and older.
New Jersey is one of 18 states, along with the District of Columbia, that have legalized recreational marijuana. There also are 37 states, including New Jersey, that have legalized medical marijuana.
Three of the seven facilities, known as alternative treatment centers, are in the northern part of the state. Three are in the south, and one is in central New Jersey.
To get approval, the centers agreed that the coming influx of recreational buyers won’t interrupt access for patients. The facilities said they would reserve parking spaces for patients as well as keep hours specifically for patients only.
There are about 130,000 medical marijuana patients in the state, with an estimated roughly 800,000 potential recreational consumers, and fewer than 800,000 estimated “tourism” consumers, according to the commission.
How much money the state will get in tax revenues from recreational marijuana isn’t clear. Murphy’s fiscal year 2023 budget, which is pending before the Democrat-led Legislature, estimates revenues of just $19 million in a nearly $49 billion budget. In 2019, as legalization of recreational marijuana was still just pending before voters, he had estimated about $60 million in revenue.
Legislation governing the recreational market calls for the 6.625% sales tax to apply, with 70% of the proceeds going to areas disproportionately affected by marijuana-related arrests. Black residents were likelier – up to three times as much – to face marijuana charges than white residents. Towns can also levy a tax of up to 2%. | 2022-04-14T21:31:35+00:00 | detroitnews.com | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/nation/2022/04/14/new-jersey-start-recreational-marijuana-sales-april-21/7323363001/ |
Facebook parent company Meta has been slammed with a record $1.3 billion fine for violating European Union data privacy rules.
The Data Protection Commission of Ireland announced the fine Monday, stating that Meta violated protection rules when it continued to transfer personal data from the E.U. to the U.S., which was in violation of data protection regulation Article 46(1).
The DPC also said that all such data transfers should be suspended.
The conclusion by the DPC stems from a judgment that came down from Data Protection Commissioner v. Facebook Ireland Limited and Maximillian Schrems, that concluded data transferred from the EU to the U.S. might be accessed by the U.S. government in a way that did not comply with EU law.
Meta responded to the DPC’s decision, saying it will appeal the ruling, including the "unjustified and unnecessary fine." The social media giant said it will seek a stay of the orders through the courts, who can pause the implementation deadlines.
"The ability for data to be transferred across borders is fundamental to how the global open internet works. From finance and telecommunications to critical public services like healthcare or education, the free flow of data supports many of the services that we have come to rely on," Meta said in a statement.
"Without the ability to transfer data across borders, the internet risks being carved up into national and regional silos, restricting the global economy and leaving citizens in different countries unable to access many of the shared services we have come to rely on," the company continued.
Meta said Facebook users will not face any immediate disruption as implementation periods from the decision don’t run until later this year.
SEE MORE: How to claim your money from the Facebook class action settlement
Trending stories at Scrippsnews.com | 2023-05-22T15:08:13+00:00 | denver7.com | https://www.denver7.com/meta-fined-record-1-3-billion-for-violating-eu-data-privacy-rules |
Saying ‘I love you’ on Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to break the bank
US will spend $25B+ this Valentine’s Day per the National Retail Federation
Published: Feb. 9, 2023 at 2:33 PM CST|Updated: 1 hour ago
InvestigateTV - Traditional Valentine’s Day gifts and celebrations can be quite pricey, but there are other ways to celebrate that are easier on your wallet.
The National Retail Federation projects that Americans will spend $25.9 billion this Valentine’s Day with more than half planning to spend almost $200.
Here are several ideas for celebrations that could save you a lot of money:
- Use any gift cards you may have received as holiday gifts
- Talk to your partner about curtailing costs and set mutual expectations
- Plan to have dinner out the weekend before or after when prices may be lower
- Cook dinner at home or get take-out
- Plan and outdoor date and bring wine and appetizers
- Skip Valentine’s themed gifts, which are always full price in February
- Order flowers other than roses to reduce costs, and skip the vase
For more ideas on budget friendly dates, check out NerdWallet’s article on free or cheap activities.
Copyright 2023 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | 2023-02-09T21:50:34+00:00 | kcrg.com | https://www.kcrg.com/2023/02/09/saying-i-love-you-valentines-day-doesnt-need-break-bank/ |
Coronavirus cases and hospitalizations continue to rise as parts of the Miami Valley region see a return to masking.
Ohio added 26,610 cases of COVID-19 in the last week, making it the second straight week with more than 20,000 cases. In the past three weeks the state is averaging 23,304 cases a week, according to the Ohio Department of Health.
The state recorded 690 hospitalizations and 40 ICU admissions in the past week, up from 550 hospitalizations and 39 ICU admissions the previous week. Ohio’s averaging 550 hospitalizations and 36 ICU admissions a week over the last three weeks, according to ODH.
As of Thursday, 1,166 people hospitalized in Ohio had tested positive for COVID, according to the Ohio Hospital Association. There were 139 patients in west central Ohio — which includes Champaign, Clark, Darke, Greene, Miami, Montgomery, Preble and Shelby counties — and 196 in southwest Ohio.
Southwest Ohio consists of Butler, Warren, Hamilton, Adams, Brown, Clermont and Clinton counties. The number of COVID patients hospitalized in the region has increased by 4% in the last week, but is up 131% in the past 60 days, according to OHA.
West central Ohio saw a 32% increase in patients with the virus over the last week and a 162% increase in the last 60 days.
Of the 147 ICU patients with COVID in Ohio, 26 are in southwest Ohio and 23 are in west central Ohio.
It’s a 109% increase from last week and a 360% increase over the past 60 days in west central Ohio.
Southwest Ohio reported an 18% increase in the past week and a 189% increase in the last 60 days, according to OHA.
Both Greene and Montgomery counties moved to high community levels of COVID in recent weeks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base reinstated a mask mandate after the base was transitioned to HPCON Charlie due to a steady increase in COVID cases and hospitalizations.
The CDC recommends people in counties with a high community level to wear a well-fitting mask while indoors in public regardless of vaccination status.
Those who are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe disease should wear a mask or respirator and consider avoiding non-essential indoor activities in public. They should also speak to their health care provider about possible treatment plans and other precautions they may need to take, according to the CDC.
Anyone with symptoms of COVID should get tested. People who feel ill should stay home and avoid contact with others.
The CDC also encouraged people stay up to date on coronavirus vaccines. More than 7.38 million people in Ohio have started the vaccine and 6.84 million have finished it, according to the state health department.
About the Author | 2022-07-21T20:28:55+00:00 | springfieldnewssun.com | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/oall-headline/LHGPFBBIOFCDNJK2T7CTQPFN2U/ |
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — James Harden scored 31 points, Joel Embiid had 24 points and 11 rebounds and the Philadelphia 76ers beat the Miami Heat 116-108 on Sunday night in Game 4 to even the Eastern Conference semifinal series.
The Heat won the first two games in Miami with Embiid out with a right orbital fracture and mild concussion. The 76ers won Games 3 and 4 at home with Embiid and his mask in the lineup.
Game 5 is Tuesday night in Miami.
Embiid is ready. So is Harden. And if the Heat can’t figure out those two, the next thing they face could be the offseason.
The Heat pecked away at the lead and got within five until Harden sank his fifth 3-pointer of the game with three minutes left. Harden crushed the Heat on catch-and-shoot 3s and hit one clutch shot after another in the fourth.
He at last played in the postseason like the three-time scoring champion the Sixers needed when they traded for him in February.
Harden drilled a step-back 3 for a 114-103 lead that sent the crowd into a frenzy — and the Sixers off to Miami with new life.
Jimmy Butler scored 40 points and nearly one-man willed the Heat to victory. The Heat missed 28 of 35 3-pointers.
Embiid worked out the Game 3 cobwebs and returned to the dominant form that earned him season-long “MVP!” chants from the Philly diehards. His first quarter was about as good as it gets for the center. He made 5 of 6 shots, including a 3-pointer, and scored 15 points to put the Sixers ahead. Worn out in Game 3 from days of inactivity because of the concussion, Embiid played all 12 minutes in the quarter.
“He’s really weathering the storm and getting through stuff,” coach Doc Rivers said before the game.
Harden took over the next quarter. After a scoreless first quarter, Harden scored 13 in the second. He missed his first four shots of the game until he buried a 3 and then got rolling. He scored a bucket in transition during a 15-2 run and then waved his arms toward the crowd, calling on the to get louder.
Philadelphia shot 64% from the floor in the half. But 10 turnovers — that Miami converted into 13 points — kept the Sixers from stretching the lead well into double digits. The Sixers made nine 3s in the half to Miami’s four.
Butler kept the Heat in the game with six straight points. He hit a layup, was nailed in the face by Embiid — who was whistled for a flagrant, then helped his former teammate to his feet — and Butler made the free throw. Butler hit a 3 off the possession and the Heat pulled to 74-70.
Butler drew Embid’s third foul with 1:37 left in the third and converted the three-point play that kept the Heat within four. Butler trolled Embiid on Instagram after the Sixers posted a picture of him in the mask and quoted a line from “The Dark Knight Rises.”
”(Expletive) yo mask,” Butler wrote.
Butler scored 17 points in the third, yet the Heat still trailed 89-85. The 76ers fans let him have it when Butler fired an airball in the fourth and Harden came right down and nailed a steptback 3 for a 97-85 lead.
TIP-INS
Heat: Dewayne Dedmon (illness) sat out Game 4. … Lowry, who scored his first bucket of the series on a layup, went to the locker room in the first half with a balky hamstring. He missed four straight playoff games before Game 3 with a strained left hamstring.
76ers: Isaiah Joe (right ankle sprain) did not play.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. | 2022-05-09T04:04:18+00:00 | wsvn.com | https://wsvn.com/sports/harden-embiid-power-76ers-past-heat-116-108-even-series-2-2/ |
LONDON (AP) — British judges gave the go-ahead on Monday for the Court of Appeal to consider challenges to the U.K. government’s plan to send some asylum-seekers on a one-way trip to Rwanda.
Two High Court judges ruled in December that the controversial policy is legal, rejecting a lawsuit from several asylum-seekers, aid groups and a border officials’ union. The same judges said Monday that the claimants can challenge that decision on issues including whether the plan is “systemically unfair” and whether asylum-seekers would be safe in Rwanda.
No date has been set for the appeal hearing.
The Conservative government struck a deportation agreement with Rwanda last year that is intended to deter migrants from trying to reach the U.K. on risky journeys across the English Channel. More than 45,000 people arrived in Britain across the Channel in 2022, and several died in the attempt.
The U.K. plans to send some migrants who arrive in the country as stowaways or in small boats to Rwanda, where their asylum claims would be processed. Those granted asylum would stay in the East African country rather than return to Britain.
The U.K. government argues that the policy will deter criminal gangs that ferry migrants on hazardous journeys across one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes.
Human rights groups say it is immoral and inhumane to send people more than 4,000 miles (6,400 kilometers) to a country they don’t want to live in. They also cite Rwanda’s poor human rights record, including allegations of torture and killings of government opponents.
Britain has already paid Rwanda 140 million pounds ($170 million) under the deal struck in April, but no one has yet been sent to the country. The U.K. was forced to cancel the first deportation flight at the last minute in June after the European Court of Human Rights ruled the plan carried “a real risk of irreversible harm.”
Last month, the High Court said the policy didn’t breach Britain’s obligations under the U.N. Refugee Convention or other international agreements. But the judges added that the government “must decide if there is anything about each person’s particular circumstances” which meant they should not be sent to Rwanda, and had failed to do that for the eight claimants in the case.
___
Follow AP’s coverage of global migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration | 2023-01-17T09:59:38+00:00 | nwahomepage.com | https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/international/ap-international/ap-uk-plan-to-send-migrants-to-rwanda-faces-new-court-challenge/ |
Black man arrested on warrant for white man in case of mistaken identity
LAS VEGAS (KVVU/Gray News) - A case of mistaken identity will cost police in Nevada $90,000 after a Black man was arrested on a warrant for a white man.
The Henderson Police Department will pay $25,000 and Las Vegas Metro Police Department $65,000 to Shane Lee Brown, who was held in custody for nearly a week for a crime he was accused of committing.
In body camera video of a traffic stop in January 2020, when the then 23-year-old was stopped for not having his headlights on, he told officers he lost his wallet and license and had outstanding traffic tickets but planned to take care of them the next morning.
“We should call and see… If he has court tomorrow, we don’t want to arrest him that would be dumb,” one Henderson officer is heard saying.
When officers ran Brown’s name, it came back with a felony warrant, which was a weapons charge with Metro.
“You got arrested for something with a weapon in Metro, at least that is what they are saying,” the officer told Brown.
Brown replied that the officers had found the wrong guy.
“I’m not a felon, I didn’t commit a felony… I was trying to plead to anyone that would listen, to let everyone know like ‘Hey, can you double check?,’” Brown told KVVU.
Shane Neal Brown, a 51-year-old white man, had a warrant out for felon in possession of a firearm. In the body cam video of the 25-year old’s arrest, Henderson officers seemed unsure if they had the right man.
“Liability in this case is black and white, literally black and white,” Brown’s attorney E. Brent Bryson said.
In the video, one of the officers asked what they should tell the jail. The second officer said to tell them he has a weapons charge.
Brown was held in jail for six days, first in Henderson and then transferred to Clark County.
“Each of those entities stepped up and acknowledged that they had made a mistake,” Bryson said.
Bryson said the $90,000 settlement is close to the max.
“In Nevada, for negligence, when you sue a governmental entity, there is a statutory cap of $100,000,” Bryson said.
Losing his freedom, and being taken away from his two children for nearly a week, is still something that has traumatized the young father.
“I almost never drive any more unless it is absolutely necessary,” Brown told KVVU.
“It is just difficult for him to put what happened to him aside, and hopefully with time he will be able to do so,” Bryson contended.
Bryson hopes cases of mistaken identity can be prevented in the future with additional training of officers.
Copyright 2022 KVVU via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | 2022-06-29T21:20:58+00:00 | witn.com | https://www.witn.com/2022/06/29/black-man-arrested-warrant-white-man-case-mistaken-identity/ |
Meanwhile, the NhRP's first nonhuman animal rights case in California is already underway
ALBANY, N.Y., July 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today the Nonhuman Rights Project (NhRP) filed a motion to reargue the 5-2 decision by New York's highest court issued in June in a landmark case that seeks Happy the elephant's right to liberty and release from the Bronx Zoo to an elephant sanctuary.
The New York Court of Appeals "misapprehended and overlooked crucial points of law and fact … resulting in an arbitrary and irrational decision—one that not only sanctions the daily injustice inflicted upon Happy at the Bronx Zoo, but has created instability and confusion in New York law with grave implications for illegally confined human beings," the NhRP writes in its motion.
The NhRP repeatedly cites the two dissenting opinions, which harshly criticize the majority and have been lauded as a historic mark of progress in the global fight to secure fundamental legal rights for nonhuman animals. If the reargument motion is granted, the Court may order another hearing and will issue a decision explaining why it will either reverse or clarify its prior decision.
"No differently than if we had a human client, we feel it's important to do all we can in pursuit of freedom for Happy," said Monica Miller, the NhRP attorney who argued Happy's case. "This includes challenging the wrongness of the majority decision, which, as the two dissenting judges understood, harms Happy as much as it undermines the values and principles of justice upon which our own human rights depend. That's what this motion is about."
In May, the Court of Appeals became the first state high court in the US and the highest court of any English-speaking jurisdiction to consider a case calling for a nonhuman being to be recognized as a legal person (i.e. a rights-holder). In a widely covered hearing, the NhRP argued for recognition of Happy's fundamental right to liberty and release to a sanctuary where this right would be respected.
"As we file this motion we stress that, regardless of how the Court rules on it, the Bronx Zoo and the Wildlife Conservation Society, which manages the zoo, don't need a court order to do the right thing—which is to release Happy and the other elephant they keep in solitary confinement, Patty, to sanctuaries and close the elephant exhibit for good, as the Bronx Zoo once pledged to do," said Elizabeth Stein, an NhRP attorney and Happy's New York counsel.
With the Court not in session for the remaining summer months, the NhRP does not expect a decision on the motion until September at the earliest.
Meanwhile, the NhRP's first case in California–on behalf of Amahle, Nowalzi, and Vusmusi, three elephants held in captivity at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo who are victims of the continuing importation of elephants to US zoos–is already underway.
Earlier this week, the San Francisco Superior Court decided to transfer the case to the Fresno Superior Court on the same day Los Angeles Times columnist Nicholas Goldberg expressed sympathy and support for the launch of the NhRP's fight for nonhuman rights work in the state, writing in an Op-Ed: "For too long, we've salved our consciences with tepid animal welfare laws that allow us to feel magnanimous and benevolent—rather than acknowledging our moral obligations and recognizing that the other living creatures with whom we share the planet have rights too." On Wednesday, Dr. Keith Lindsay, one the world's foremost experts on elephants, discussed the science behind demands for the Fresno elephants' right to liberty in a webinar.
The NhRP sees both Happy's case and the Fresno elephants' case as examples of how "zoos mislead the public into thinking captivity in zoos is for the elephants' own good," said Miller, who is Amahle, Nowalzi, and Vusmusi's California counsel. The NhRP is considering whether to appeal the transfer order.
CASE NO./NAME: THE NONHUMAN RIGHTS PROJECT, INC. on behalf of HAPPY, Petitioner, v. JAMES J. BREHENY, in his official capacity as Executive Vice President and General Director of Zoos and Aquariums of the Wildlife Conservation Society and Director of the Bronx Zoo, and WILDLIFE CONSERVATION SOCIETY (Appellate Case No. 2020-02581)
CASE NO./NAME: NONHUMAN RIGHTS PROJECT, INC. on behalf of Amahle, Nowalzi, and Vusmusi, individuals, Petitioner, v. FRESNO CHAFFEE ZOO'S CORPORATION, AND JON FORREST DOHLIN, in his official capacity as Executive Officer and Zoo Director of the Fresno Chaffee Zoo (CASE NO: CPF-22-517751)
For a detailed timeline of Happy's case, court filings, and decisions, visit this page. For a detailed timeline of Nowalzi, Amahle, and Vusmusi's case, court filings, and decisions, visit this page. To download a photo of Happy, visit this page (credit: Gigi Glendinning).
The Nonhuman Rights Project is the only civil rights organization in the United States working through litigation, legislation, and education to secure fundamental rights for nonhuman animals.
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Nonhuman Rights Project | 2022-07-14T21:47:17+00:00 | wsfa.com | https://www.wsfa.com/prnewswire/2022/07/14/legal-fight-free-happy-elephant-continues-new-york/ |
Monday, Dec. 26
Brentford vs. Tottenham, 7:30 a.m.
Crystal Palace vs. Fulham, 10 a.m.
Everton vs. Wolverhampton, 10 a.m.
Leicester vs. Newcastle, 10 a.m.
Southampton vs. Brighton, 10 a.m.
Aston Villa vs. Liverpool, 12:30 p.m.
Arsenal vs. West Ham, 3 p.m.
England Championship
___
Saturday, Dec. 3
Sunderland vs. Millwall, 7:30 a.m.
England League One
___
Friday, Nov. 18
Portsmouth 0, Derby 0
Saturday, Nov. 19
Exeter 0, Ipswich 2
Barnsley 3, Milton Keynes Dons 1
Bristol Rovers 1, Peterborough 0
Burton Albion 2, Plymouth 2
Cambridge United 0, Accrington Stanley 1
Cheltenham 1, Wycombe 0
Fleetwood Town 1, Bolton 2
Lincoln 2, Morecambe 1
Oxford United 1, Forest Green 1
Port Vale 1, Charlton 0
Sheffield Wednesday 1, Shrewsbury 0
Friday, Dec. 2
Bolton vs. Bristol Rovers, 2:45 p.m.
Charlton vs. Cheltenham, 2:45 p.m.
Ipswich vs. Fleetwood Town, 2:45 p.m.
Morecambe vs. Exeter, 2:45 p.m.
Peterborough vs. Barnsley, 2:45 p.m.
Plymouth vs. Port Vale, 2:45 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 3
Derby vs. Sheffield Wednesday, 7:30 a.m.
Milton Keynes Dons vs. Burton Albion, 7:30 a.m.
Shrewsbury vs. Lincoln, 7:30 a.m.
Forest Green vs. Cambridge United, 8 a.m.
Accrington Stanley vs. Oxford United, 10 a.m.
England League Two
___
Saturday, Nov. 19
Barrow 3, Hartlepool 1
Bradford 1, Northampton 3
Colchester 3, Doncaster 0
Grimsby Town 1, Stevenage 1
Harrogate Town 3, Mansfield Town 0
Newport County 2, Gillingham 0
Salford 1, Carlisle 4
Stockport County 1, Leyton Orient 2
Sutton United 1, Rochdale 0
Swindon 0, Crewe 1
Tranmere 0, AFC Wimbledon 2
Walsall 2, Crawley Town 1
Tuesday, Nov. 22
Crawley Town vs. Gillingham, 2:45 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 2
Crewe vs. Newport County, 2:45 p.m.
Doncaster vs. Walsall, 2:45 p.m.
Stevenage vs. Barrow, 2:45 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 3
AFC Wimbledon vs. Grimsby Town, 7:30 a.m.
Leyton Orient vs. Bradford, 7:30 a.m.
Carlisle vs. Sutton United, 8 a.m.
Crawley Town vs. Swindon, 10 a.m.
Gillingham vs. Salford, 10 a.m.
Hartlepool vs. Stockport County, 10 a.m.
Mansfield Town vs. Colchester, 10 a.m.
Northampton vs. Tranmere, 10 a.m.
Rochdale vs. Harrogate Town, 10 a.m. | 2022-11-22T16:46:44+00:00 | seattlepi.com | https://www.seattlepi.com/sports/article/English-Standings-17603587.php |
With both the European Union and the United Kingdom set to ban internal-combustion engines next decade, Caterham, like most automakers that primarily operate in those regions, is preparing for an electric future.
That future will include an electric version of the iconic Seven track car, plus a more mainstream open-top sports car that will be revealed in months, Autocar reported on Wednesday following an interview with Caterham’s new design chief, Anthony Jannarelly, the French designer behind the Jannarelly Design-1 and the supercars of Dubai’s W Motors.
The new sports car, thought to be the design of Kazuho Takahashi, a former racing driver whose vehicle distribution company in Japan, VT Holdings, acquired Caterham in 2021, will feature the same type of steel space-frame construction as the Seven, but with modifications appropriate for a car designed to drive outside of a racetrack. Buyers are expected to have the choice of an aluminum or carbon-fiber body.
For the exterior design, Jannarelly has hinted at the same combination of retro and futuristic cues found on his Design-1 sports car, which features a shape inspired by Italian sports cars of the 1950s and ’60s but with plenty of modern cues blended in.
“My vision for a future Caterham will explore my retro-futuristic design philosophy,” he said in a statement. “I want to take the best of both worlds—the elegance and simplicity of the past combined with the proportions and precision details of a modern sports car.”
Caterham came close to launching a mainstream sports car last decade. It was being developed alongside the Alpine A110, though Caterham pulled out of the project in 2014 while Alpine went on to launch the A110 in 2017.
While Caterham’s new electric sports car will reportedly debut later this year, production isn’t expected to start until around 2026.
Any electric Seven will only arrive after that. Part of the reason is that that current EV technology is still too heavy for a car like the Seven.
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- BMW patents ability to tailor EV drive modes | 2023-05-03T14:29:22+00:00 | kfor.com | https://kfor.com/automotive/internet-brands/caterham-plans-electric-sports-car-with-design-by-anthony-jannarelly/ |
WFO SACRAMENTO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Friday, December 9, 2022
_____
WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Sacramento CA
311 AM PST Fri Dec 9 2022
...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM THIS
AFTERNOON TO 4 AM PST SUNDAY...
...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY FROM THURSDAY TO EARLY MORNING FRIDAY IS
CANCELLED...
* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 1 to 3
feet, locally up to 5 feet possible. Winds gusting as high as 50
mph.
* WHERE...Shasta Lake Area / Northern Shasta County, including
portions of Interstate 5, and the Coastal Range.
* WHEN...From 4 PM this afternoon to 4 AM PST Sunday.
* IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Chain
controls, travel delays and road closures are likely. Gusty
winds could bring down tree branches, and near whiteout
conditions at times.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels 3000-4000 feet today, before
rising to 3500-4500 feet Saturday. Snow levels will fall again
Sunday to 2500-3500 feet. The majority of the snow accumulation
will be above 3500 feet.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency.
The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can
be obtained by calling 5 1 1.
...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING
TO 4 AM PST MONDAY...
* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 5
feet, locally up to 6 feet possible. Winds gusting as high as
60 mph.
* WHERE...Burney Basin / Eastern Shasta County and Western Plumas
County/Lassen Park.
* WHEN...From 10 PM this evening to 4 AM PST Monday.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels 3000-4000 feet today, rising
on Saturday to 4000-5000 feet. Snow levels will fall again on
Sunday to 2500-3000 feet. The majority of the snow will be above
3500 feet.
...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 4 AM SATURDAY TO
4 AM PST MONDAY...
* WHERE...West Slope Northern Sierra Nevada, including Interstate
80 and Highway 50.
* WHEN...From 4 AM Saturday to 4 AM PST Monday.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels 3000-4000 feet through Friday,
rising on Saturday to 4500-5500 feet. Snow levels will fall
again on Sunday to 2500-3000 feet. The majority of the snow
accumulation will be above 3500 feet.
_____
Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | 2022-12-09T11:51:04+00:00 | expressnews.com | https://www.expressnews.com/weather/article/CA-WFO-SACRAMENTO-Warnings-Watches-and-17642292.php |
Virtual Conference Featuring Leading Companies Provides Opportunities for Investors To Gain Insight Into Key Industries
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. ("Oppenheimer") – a leading investment bank, wealth manager, and a subsidiary of Oppenheimer Holdings (NYSE: OPY) – announces its 25th Annual Technology, Internet and Communications Conference. The two-day virtual event will gather more than 120 companies across the software, cloud, emerging technology and services industries; as well as firms in the fintech and specialty finance, internet, SaaS/applications software and semiconductor spaces to meet with investors. Companies participating in the conference include Datadog, Etsy, The Trade Desk, Checkpoint, Atlassian, Paypal, and Digital Ocean, along with over 30 private companies including Databricks, Gong and AppsFlyer.
Robin Graham, Managing Director, Head of Technology Investment Banking at Oppenheimer, said, "Innovations in the technology sector continue to define the direction of social, commercial and industrial processes, as U.S. economic fundamentals indicate growth remains strong thanks to consumer demand, business investment and government spending. At a time when economies continue to reopen around the globe, technology companies at the forefront of the digital revolution's next phase can be expected to sustain considerable progress despite uncertainty and the risk of a recession. Oppenheimer looks forward to the productive conversations that will take place during 1-on-1 meetings among participants and investors at our 25th Annual Technology, Internet and Communications Conference."
Members of the Oppenheimer equity research team in attendance include:
- Dominick Gabriele, CFA, Executive Director and Senior Analyst, Fintech and Specialty Finance
- Chris Glynn, Managing Director and Senior Analyst, Industrial Multi-Industry
- Jason S. Helfstein, Managing Director and Senior Analyst, Internet
- Timothy Horan, CFA, Managing Director and Senior Analyst, Cloud and Communication Services
- George Iwanyc, Director, Analytics, Collaboration and Infrastructure Software and Communication Technology Solutions
- Noah Kaye, Managing Director and Senior Analyst, Sustainable Growth and Resource Optimization
- Jed Kelly, CFA, Managing Director and Senior Analyst, Online Travel & Internet
- Ittai Kidron, Managing Director and Senior Analyst, Analytics, Data, Security and Infrastructure Software
- Colin Rusch, Managing Director, Senior Research Analyst, Head of Sustainable Growth and Resource Optimization
- Richard E. Schafer, Managing Director and Senior Analyst, Semiconductors
- Brian Schwartz, Managing Director and Senior Analyst, SaaS / Applications Software
- Ken Wong, CFA, Managing Director, SaaS / Applications Software
- Martin Yang, CFA, Senior Analyst, Emerging Technologies and Services
- Ian A. Zaffino, CFA, Managing Director and Senior Analyst, Special Situations
The conference comes as investors weigh their options on tech companies to determine whether a potential economic downturn could yet again lift demand for tech services. Meaningful exposure to developed and emerging-market stocks are expected to remain key to allocation as concerns around supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and high inflation subside amid adjustments to monetary policy, and solid U.S. economic fundamentals provide the back support growth-oriented companies need to expand their market presence.
Erica L. Moffett, Head of Research Marketing Services and Associate Director of Equity Research at Oppenheimer commented, "The past two pandemic years have demonstrated that cloud-based services, online consumer platforms, and enterprise information management software companies are resilient in the face of tremendous changes. While a number of risks remain and the market faces new challenges from COVID-19 variants, delayed re-openings and higher commodity prices, investors are aware there are timely and relevant opportunities for companies poised to take advantage of the ever-evolving economy. As Oppenheimer continues to build on its powerful reputation of thought leadership across sectors, we welcome all attending our 25th Annual Technology, Internet and Communications Conference."
Oppenheimer & Co. Inc.
Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. (Oppenheimer), a principal subsidiary of Oppenheimer Holdings Inc. (OPY on the New York Stock Exchange), and its affiliates provide a full range of wealth management, securities brokerage and investment banking services to high net-worth individuals, families, corporate executives, local governments, businesses and institutions.
Media Contacts:
jkuo@haventower.com or mdugan@haventower.com
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SOURCE Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. | 2022-08-09T11:08:27+00:00 | wbrc.com | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/08/09/innovators-take-spotlight-oppenheimer-amp-co-incs-25th-annual-technology-internet-communications-conference/ |
- 50-story tower at 320 S Canal St. will serve as BMO's U.S. Headquarters for decades to come
- Building designed to achieve WELL Building Platinum & LEED Gold standards
CHICAGO, June 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - BMO Financial Group today celebrated the grand opening of BMO Tower, Chicago, BMO's new U.S. Headquarters. The state-of-the-art, 50-story building is located at 320 S Canal St., in Chicago's West Loop Gate neighborhood.
"BMO Tower represents a major investment by BMO in Chicago," said David Casper, U.S. CEO, BMO Financial Group. "We're the largest bank in the world that has its U.S. headquarters in Chicago, a market in which we have a long, proud history of over 160 years."
"Each year, more corporations are realizing the incredible potential of our city to launch and grow a successful business," said Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. "BMO Tower will stand as a testament to our city's thriving corporate amenities and bustling downtown area. I'm deeply grateful for BMO's latest investment in Chicago and for their continued support of our communities."
More than 3,000 employees will be based at BMO Tower, which at over 700 feet is the tallest officer tower west of Canal Street.
The transformational new office space was designed to reflect the future of BMO, one that provides an exciting, vibrant environment for BMO customers to conduct their banking, and for employees to work.
BMO Tower, developed by Riverside Investment & Development, aligns with BMO's Zero Barriers to Inclusion 2025 strategy by supporting and enabling all employees to do their best work. The building is fully ADA compliant and features touchless wave sensors at entryways, braille and tactile lettering signage, and accessible water filling stations.
The main floor of the tower features a brand new, technology-enabled BMO branch, providing customers with a modern and open environment.
BMO Tower includes a state-of-the-art fitness center and a 1.5-acre green space. BMO collaborated with non-profit group IPaintMyMind to engage a local artist to paint a mural on the 17th floor. The mural depicts a community garden within the Chicago skyline. The art exemplifies BMO's Purpose to Boldly Grow the Good in business and in life.
BMO Tower was sustainably designed to achieve WELL Building Platinum and LEED Gold standards to safeguard tenant health and wellbeing. The building incorporates innovative technology to maximize occupant health, mitigate risk related to harmful environmental factors and enhance operational efficiency.
Serving customers for 200 years and counting, BMO is a highly diversified financial services provider - the 8th largest bank, by assets, in North America. With total assets of $1.04 trillion as of April 30, 2022, and a team of diverse and highly engaged employees, BMO provides a broad range of personal and commercial banking, wealth management and investment banking products and services to more than 12 million customers and conducts business through three operating groups: Personal and Commercial Banking, BMO Wealth Management and BMO Capital Markets.
Web: www.bmo.com | Twitter: @BMOmedia
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SOURCE BMO Financial Group | 2022-06-24T14:52:43+00:00 | wcjb.com | https://www.wcjb.com/prnewswire/2022/06/24/bmo-financial-group-marks-opening-bmo-tower-chicago/ |
A Black man in Lubbock, Texas, was sentenced to 70 years in prison on Wednesday for spitting at police officers. It’s the kind of story where people are likely to read the headline and assume there’s more to the story—and there is 36-year-old Larry Pearson, who was found guilty of two counts of harassment of a public servant for spitting at Lubbock Police officers, who had prior criminal convictions. According to Everything Lubbock, he had previously been convicted of aggravated robbery and continuous family violence. In fact, at the time of his arrest last year, he had been accused of striking his girlfriend multiple times.
“You’re not going to get 70 years for something like this when you’ve never been in trouble before,” Prosecutor Jessica Gorman said after Pearson was sentenced.
From Everything Lubbock:
Gorman told EverythingLubbock.com that Pearson was arrested in May of 2022 for domestic violence after a victim flagged down an officer in the 200 block of Zenith Avenue.
The victim told police that Pearson hit her several times, and that he had a gun. Gorman said that firearm turned out to be an airsoft gun. A police report at the time stated the victim had “multiple visible injuries” on her face. Gorman said after Pearson was taken into custody, he was upset the victim was not arrested instead.
Gorman said Pearson started kicking at the doors in the officer’s vehicle. When the officers opened the door to tell him to stop, Gorman said he spit at both officers. Gorman said Pearson kept spitting after he arrived at the Lubbock County Detention Center.
During closing arguments of the sentencing phase of Pearson’s trial, Gorman asked the jury to consider a number that would “send a message” to Pearson and society. Gorman told EverythingLubbock.com that Pearson had prior convictions of aggravated robbery and continuous family violence. Due to those convictions, the minimum sentence Pearson could have received would’ve been 25 years.
Still, there’s something unsettling about a Black man receiving seven decades behind bars for a crime that shouldn’t yield nearly that much time in a gun-happy, Confederacy-celebrating, critical race theory-hating MAGA state like Texas.
And given that, in America, Black people receive disproportionately harsh sentences compared to white people who commit the same crimes and have similar criminal histories, it isn’t much of a stretch to speculate that if Pearson was white, his sentence would be closer to the minimum of 25 years. And thus, Pearson’s story is being debated on Twitter with some (mostly Black people) calling it unjust, and others (mostly white people) saying he earned 70 years in lockup for crimes that individually wouldn’t get anyone anywhere near that much time.
Many would argue that no one who hasn’t taken a life should spend the rest of theirs in prison and that Pearson is just another example of Black lives being treated as disposable. And it’s worth noting that this is another story that proves the “blue lives matter” movement is defective nonsense in a country where penalties for committing crimes against police officers are already more severe than when they’re committed against civilians. (Pearson wouldn’t likely have gotten that much time for spitting on a citizen regardless of his prior rap sheet.)
But will a man who has prior convictions that indicate he’s a violent abuser receive the same sympathy other victims of racial injustice get?
What do y’all think?
SEE ALSO:
Sounds About White: Capitol Rioter’s Light Prison Sentence Could Mean More Insurrectionist Leniency
Mississippi’s Top Court Upholds Life Sentence For Weed Conviction By ‘Habitual Offender’
The post Outrage After Black Man Given 70-Year Prison Sentence For Misdemeanor Crime Of Spitting At Texas Cops appeared first on NewsOne.
Outrage After Black Man Given 70-Year Prison Sentence For Misdemeanor Crime Of Spitting At Texas Cops was originally published on newsone.com | 2023-04-17T15:32:22+00:00 | hot1009.com | https://hot1009.com/3612123/outrage-after-black-man-given-70-year-prison-sentence-for-misdemeanor-crime-of-spitting-at-texas-cops/ |
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is asking Congress for more than $2.8 billion in the federal budget he’s sending to Capitol Hill on Thursday to help advance his cancer-fighting goals.
More than half of the money, $1.7 billion, would go to the Department of Health and Human Services to support the Democratic president’s cancer initiatives across an array of departments and agencies, according to White House officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to share details with The Associated Press before Biden formally unveils his spending blueprint later Thursday in Philadelphia.
The funding request would support a “cancer moonshot’ initiative Biden announced last year with the goal of cutting cancer death rates in half over the next 25 years. Biden aims to help close gaps in cancer screenings, better understand and address environmental and toxic exposures associated with certain cancers, and reduce the effects of preventable cancers, such as those linked to tobacco and poor nutrition. The initiative also spends money on cutting-edge research and resources to support patients and their caregivers.
The “moonshot” program was launched in 2016 by President Barack Obama and led by his vice president — Biden. As president, Biden resurrected the initiative last year.
Cancer is personal for Biden and his wife, Jill, as the disease is for millions of people in the United States who have been diagnosed with cancer or have lost loved ones to various forms of the disease. Both the president and the first lady this year had lesions removed from their skin that were determined to be basal cell carcinoma, a common and easily treated form of cancer.
In 2015, the Bidens’ eldest son, Beau, died of an aggressive brain cancer at age 46.
While Biden’s budget is unlikely to clear Congress untouched, fighting cancer is an issue that Biden hopes can find bipartisan support.
Cancer is among four issues that Biden made part of a “unity agenda” he announced in his 2022 State of the Union address. Veterans, drug abuse and mental health are the other issues. Congress last year passed numerous pieces of legislation to address aspects of the agenda.
In recognition of March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the White House on Friday was hosting a discussion with government officials and others on improving outcomes for this particular form of cancer.
Excluding some skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the fourth most-common cancer in men and women and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Featured speakers will include Simone Ledward Boseman, the widow of “Black Panther” star Chadwick Boseman, who died in 2020 at age 43 after a four-year battle with colon cancer, and NBC News anchor Craig Melvin, who lost an older brother to the same disease, also at age 43.
Separately on Friday, Jill Biden was scheduled to visit the Louisiana Cancer Research Center in New Orleans with U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., and his wife, Laura, to talk about the president’s cancer budget request and highlight the importance of colorectal cancer screenings. The Cassidys are medical doctors. | 2023-03-09T18:11:51+00:00 | cbs42.com | https://www.cbs42.com/news/health/ap-health/biden-to-seek-more-than-2-8b-from-congress-for-cancer-fight/ |
ST. ANDREWS, Scotland (AP) — Tiger Woods is among the few who can appreciate how the Old Course played in the old days.
His first time playing St. Andrews for the British Open as a pro was in 2000, and on his final day of practice, Woods ripped a driver in relatively benign conditions to the front of green on the 352-yard ninth hole.
Then, swing coach Butch Harmon pulled out a replica of the gutta-percha golf ball from more than a century ago. Woods ripped another driver and then a 5-iron just over the back.
Such is the mystique of St. Andrews, particularly the Old Course.
This is the 150th edition of the Open, and it’s been 149 years since it was first held at the home of golf. Yes, the course has changed over the years. And yes, the evolution of the game has led to scores getting lower with each generation, just as times have come down on the track and in the pool.
But it’s still the Old Course.
“Even with advancements in technology, this golf course still stands the test of time,” Woods said. “It’s still very difficult, and it’s obviously weather dependent. You get winds like we did today, it’s a hell of a test.”
This was on Tuesday, the strongest wind of the week. Woods hit 6-iron for his second shot on the 386-yard 10th hole. He was 120 yards out into the wind. With a different wind, perhaps even no wind, he can still get driver around the green.
Amid so much celebration of history this week at St. Andrews, there are rumblings that the Old Course could be exposed as being obsolete. It already uses parts of three other courses to stretch it out to 7,313 yards. And while it’s a par 72 with only two par 5s, at least four of the par 4s might be reachable off the tee considering how crusty the links is this year.
And the fearsome wind, which along with the bunkers is the great defense of the Old Course, is forecast to be a little more than a wee breeze.
Rory McIlroy still rues a 3-foot birdie putt he missed on the 17th hole in the opening round in 2010. He had to settle for a 63. And then the wind arrived, and he shot 80.
Jordan Spieth, who missed the playoff by one shot in 2015 in his St. Andrews debut, raised concerns last week when he said the British Open could be little more than a “wedge contest” if the wind goes on holiday.
The reason it stands up to the modern game? “Because of the weather,” he said. But then he quickly added, “I don’t think it stands the test of time if it’s benign.”
He thought back to the last time, in 2015, when Zach Johnson won the three-man playoff after they finished at 15-under par. That was a Monday finish because of wind delays.
“If the conditions are calm for four days — which I don’t think happens over here — I think that with today’s technology, it becomes a shootout.”
It’s not all about power. Spieth says wind or not, there are certain spots to which players can hit because of subtle turns, pot bunkers, even a few gorse bushes depending on the line. Getting there is easier without wind. The next shot is easier. Scores get lower.
But then there’s Scottie Scheffler, who is contemplating hitting left toward the sixth fairway when he’s playing the 13th just to avoid the bunkers.
The No. 1 player in the world can join some elite company. Winning at Augusta National and St. Andrews is special. The list includes Woods and Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo and Seve Ballesteros, and most recently Johnson.
Scheffler is spending more time on the course than on the range, discovering countless options on how to play shots. From 30 yards or so off the green, he has used just about everything from a putter to a 6-iron. He already has experienced how differently the course has played with normal wind by Scottish standards — 5-iron, wedge into the first hole one day, 3-iron, 5-iron another day.
“When you get a little bit of wind, all bets are off,” he said.
In some respects, St. Andrews is like Pebble Beach. On a calm day, it can be a most enjoyable walk and as easy a course as players will find in a major championship. In the wind, it can be a holy terror. Nicklaus and Woods are the only players to have won majors on both.
“To believe the game of golf essentially started here, and it just absolutely is mind-boggling to me that it still stands up to the golfers of today,” Nicklaus said. “I tell you, if you get a little bit of weather — anytime you get it — it will tell you real fast how it makes you stand up to it.”
And without wind?
The record score in a major is 62 by Branden Grace at Royal Birkdale in 2017.
Martin Slumbers, the R&A chief, isn’t the least bit worried about scoring. He cares only about getting the Old Course as perfect as possible, and it’s close to that. The links are so firm and bouncy that the ball moves faster on the fairways than on the greens.
“The second bit is luck, and luck with Mother Nature,” he said.
Even with moderate wind, he is confident the Old Course can handle the best. He wasn’t bothered when someone raised the notion of a 59, which is 13-under par.
“There’s 7,300 yards. It’s got greens that are running at 10 1/2 to 11 (on the Stimpmeter). It’s got fairways where the ball is bouncing 50 yards if it’s hit and more if it catches the downslope. I’ll tell you what, if someone shoots that, I will be the first person on the 18th green to shake their hand because they have played outstanding golf.”
___
More AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2022-07-13T23:53:32+00:00 | wdtn.com | https://www.wdtn.com/sports/ap-sports/old-course-that-stands-test-of-time-at-modern-british-open/ |
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla., Oct. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Society of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists, and Practitioners (ASKP3) is excited to announce the publication of the Patient Portal, a platform for patients and medical providers to learn more about ketamine as a treatment for pain and mood disorders.
Recent breakthroughs in the use of ketamine are changing the landscape of emerging treatment options for patients managing pain and mood disorders. The wide range of information about ketamine in news articles, blogs, and magazines can be confusing to the public seeking to learn more.
As leaders in ketamine education and research, the ASKP3 has the expertise to speak about the ethical clinical use of ketamine in the best interest of patients from the medical community perspective.
The new Patient Portal was developed with consultation of medical providers and patient advocates backed by the latest research collated by the ASKP3 membership of ketamine specialists. The portal offers comprehensive, fact-based information about ketamine, including an introduction to ketamine and how it is being utilized to treat pain and mood disorders, what patients should consider when determining if ketamine treatment is a good fit for them, and what to expect from treatment. The Patient Portal also has information for loved ones supporting patients, what to look for in a clinic, and ways patients can get more involved in advocating for their healthcare.
The aim of the Patient Portal is to help patients and the broader medical community become more informed regarding ketamine as a medication. ASKP3 plans to grow this site with new information as research progresses with the hope that by bringing the medical community together, patients will become more empowered to find the best care for their medical needs.
Sandhya Prashad, M.D., Medical Director at Houston Ketamine Therapeutics and President of the ASKP3, commented today: "There is a lot of confusing information on the internet about ketamine. I am excited that ASKP3's Patient Portal will provide a foundation for both patients and the broader medical community regarding ketamine as a treatment option, focused on neutral, fact-based science, to help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare."
About ASKP3: The American Society of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists, and Practitioners is a non-profit organization comprised of a group of professionals dedicated to the safe and effective clinical use of ketamine for mental health disorders and chronic pain conditions. With over 500 active members worldwide, ASKP3 is in a prime position to further awareness and education regarding the safe, effective, and ethical use of ketamine treatment. www.askp.org
CLICK HERE to access the Ketamine Patient Portal.
Contact: Melanie Dixon, CAE
Executive Director
407-774-7880
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SOURCE American Society of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists, & Practitioners | 2022-10-13T14:57:59+00:00 | wlbt.com | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2022/10/13/patient-information-safe-ketamine-use-now-available/ |
ATLANTA (AP) — The cancellation of a major music festival in Atlanta has ignited a new fight over Georgia gun laws.
Live Nation has refused to say why it abruptly called off September’s Music Midtown festival last week.
On their website, they cited “circumstances beyond our control,” but the company hasn't publicly blamed the state's gun laws.
But news outlets ascribed the decision to state gun laws that could have prevented organizers from enforcing a ban on firearms.
Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams and other Democrats have blasted Republican Gov. Brian Kemp for the cancellation, though the gun law cited in news reports preceded his administration.
Kemp has accused Democrats of pushing critical narratives of Georgia’s firearms landscape to distract from inflation. | 2022-08-11T15:06:25+00:00 | kjrh.com | https://www.kjrh.com/news/national/cancellation-of-atlanta-festival-sparks-new-fight-over-guns |
WFO AMARILLO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Saturday, April 23, 2022
_____
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING
The National Weather Service in Amarillo has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...
Texas County in the Panhandle of Oklahoma...
Eastern Cimarron County in the Panhandle of Oklahoma...
Hansford County in the Panhandle of Texas...
Sherman County in the Panhandle of Texas...
Eastern Dallam County in the Panhandle of Texas...
* Until 200 AM CDT.
* At 106 AM CDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line
extending from 5 miles west of Elkhart to 5 miles southwest of
Griggs to 9 miles northeast of Dalhart, moving east at 40 mph.
HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts.
SOURCE...Radar indicated.
IMPACT...Minor damage to roofs, siding, and trees is possible.
* Locations impacted include...
Guymon, Stratford, Hooker, Goodwell, Gruver, Optima, Hough, Griggs,
Eva, Morse, Conlen, Texhoma and Sturgis.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a
building.
_____
Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | 2022-04-23T07:03:18+00:00 | seattlepi.com | https://www.seattlepi.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-AMARILLO-Warnings-Watches-and-Advisories-17121372.php |
/NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES/
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Graphite One Inc. (TSXV: GPH) (OTCQX: GPHOF) ("Graphite One" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement of up to 13.5 million units (the "Units") of the Company at a price of CA$1.15 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of up to CA$15,525,000 (the "Offering").
Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company and one transferable common share purchase warrant (the "Warrant") entitling the holder to acquire, on payment of CA$1.50 per Warrant to the Company, one common share for a period of 24 months from the first date of closing of the Offering. The Warrants include an acceleration provision whereby if the Company's share price closes above CA$2.00 for 10 consecutive trading days, the Company may elect to accelerate the expiry date of the Warrants by issuing a press release and notice to the Warrant holders for the expiry of the Warrants that is 45 days from the press release date. The Warrant holders may exercise the Warrants during this 45-day period but no later than the expiry date.
The Company may pay a finders' fee to arm's length parties in connection with the Offering.
The Offering will be subject to receipt of final applicable regulatory approvals including approval by the TSX Venture Exchange. All securities issued in connection with this Offering will have a restricted period that expires four months and a day following the date of issuance.
The net proceeds from the Offering will be used to support the upcoming feasibility study, including the summer drilling programs, for business development activities and for general working capital.
Pre-Feasibility Study Update
The pre-feasibility study on the Graphite One Project is in the final stages of completion. Results are expected to be released by August 31, 2022.
This media release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.
GRAPHITE ONE INC. (GPH: TSX‐V; GPHOF: OTCQB) continues to develop its Graphite One Project (the "Project"), whereby the Company could potentially become an American producer of high-grade anode materials that is integrated with a domestic graphite resource. The Project is proposed as a vertically integrated enterprise to mine, process and manufacture high grade anode materials primarily for the lithium‐ion electric vehicle battery market. As set forth in the Company's Preliminary Economic Assessment, potential graphite mineralization mined from the Company's Graphite Creek Property, is expected to be processed into concentrate at a graphite processing plant. The proposed processing plant would be located on the Graphite Creek Property situated on the Seward Peninsula about 60 kilometers north of Nome, Alaska. Graphite anodes and other value‐added graphite products would be manufactured from the concentrate and other materials at the Company's proposed advanced graphite materials manufacturing facility, the location of which is the subject of further study and analysis. The Company intends to make a production decision on the Project once a feasibility study is completed.
On Behalf of the Board of Directors
"Anthony Huston" (signed)
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
This release includes certain statements that may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address future production, establishment of a processing plant, and events or developments that the Company expects, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, continuity of mineralization, uncertainties related to the ability to obtain necessary permits, licenses and title and delays due to third party opposition, changes in government policies regarding mining and natural resource exploration and exploitation, and continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this forward-looking information, which is given as of the date it is expressed in this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, except as required by applicable securities laws. For more information on the Company, investors should review the Company's continuous disclosure filings that are available at www.sedar.com.
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SOURCE Graphite One Inc. | 2022-08-08T12:57:25+00:00 | wlbt.com | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2022/08/08/graphite-one-announces-private-placement-pfs-update/ |
LUXEMBOURG, Oct. 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ardagh Group S.A., (inclusive of Ardagh Metal Packaging and Ardagh Glass Packaging) and its renewable energy partners Eneco and Zoncoalitie are delighted to announce the start of construction for three on-site solar projects in the Netherlands.
The solar installations will supply renewable on-site generated electricity to Ardagh's Dongen, Moerdijk and Oss facilities and are part of Ardagh's strategy to use 100% renewable electricity by 2030.
The Netherlands is the first country where Ardagh will supply all of its production facilities with on-site generated sustainable energy via large-scale solar energy installations, with plans to further roll out the technology with local energy partners across all regions.
Adam Koehler, Global Renewable Energy Programme Manager at Ardagh Group comments, "It's an exciting time for Ardagh's renewable energy programme. These state-of-the-art solar installations will supply renewable electricity to all of our metal and glass facilities across the Netherlands, which will make a significant impact in reducing our carbon footprint."
Ardagh used independent solar energy specialist Zoncoalitie to conduct an extensive technical commercial and feasibility assessment, plus a tender and award process, selecting Eneco to deliver the Netherlands installations.
Ardagh is delighted to partner with Eneco, a leading energy company with its own plan to become climate neutral by 2035 in its own activities and the energy it supplies to customers. Approximately 24,700 panels will be installed across the three locations and will soon be able to generate approximately 12,677 MWh of renewable electricity each year.
In 2020, Ardagh launched its Renewable Energy Programme to implement its strategy and oversee its renewable electricity activities. The company's strategy is built on a combination of on-site, near-site and off-site renewable electricity projects. In Europe, five on-site solar projects (in the Netherlands, Irvine, Scotland and Dublin, Ireland) will replace 15,000 MWh of electricity consumption from the grid, while avoiding the release of 6,050 tons of carbon emissions per year. This represents 1% of Ardagh's total electricity consumption in this region.
Download image here
Notes to the editor
Ardagh Group is a global supplier of infinitely recyclable metal and glass packaging for brand owners around the world. Ardagh operates 65 metal and glass production facilities in 16 countries, employing more than 20,000 people with sales of approximately $10bn.
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SOURCE Ardagh Group S.A. | 2022-10-06T09:07:49+00:00 | wymt.com | https://www.wymt.com/prnewswire/2022/10/06/ardagh-groups-new-solar-energy-across-netherlands/ |
The battle against soaring prices is little more than a year old and central banks need to gird for the next big trial: Serving their nations in a world defined by protracted competition between the US and China. Policymakers will be reluctant cold war warriors — they are more comfortable aiming at inflation targets and tinkering with guidance on interest rates than fending off strategic adversaries.
Unfortunately, they don’t have the luxury of sitting this out.
Today’s new economic era presents a formidable challenge to monetary authorities grappling with the aftermath of the enormous stimulus pumped into the financial system during the early days of the pandemic. It will require not just setting borrowing costs in response to the birth and death of business cycles, but anticipating long-term ramifications of fractured supply lines and a diminished global labor pool. Central bankers will need to get used to aligning their stances even more closely with other parts of government, especially fiscal players, all the while keeping their cherished independence. It’s a daunting task, but not mission impossible.
That was the underlying message of an address by European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde to the Council on Foreign Relations in New York last week. “We are witnessing a fragmentation of the global economy into competing blocs, with each bloc trying to pull as much of the rest of the world closer to its respective strategic interests and shared values,” she said. “All this could have far-reaching implications across many domains of policymaking.” While this sounds like a statement of the obvious, it’s not every day that central bankers venture into international politics. They are loath to even do it domestically.
Lagarde’s remarks are a call to arms, and she may be the right person at the right time. Because it oversees a currency union, the ECB is, by its very existence, a transnational body. Lagarde’s experience as French finance minister during the 2007-2009 global financial crisis and subsequent stewardship of the International Monetary Fund elevate her stature. The sooner central banks start appreciating the shifting terrain Lagarde described, the easier the transition will be. Think about it now, she says. Not when blocs have already become frozen.
The good news is there are numerous of examples of central banks surviving after aligning themselves with national interest in times of crisis.Some fine illustrations are in Asia. Branches of government worked closely together and, while claims of an erosion of independence dogged these episodes, it wasn’t the end of the world — for bankers or politicians. Indonesia’s adventures in debt monetization during Covid stand out. The direct financing of state budgets by central banks was long considered a no-no. Yet Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati and Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo pulled it off, albeit with some fuss and howls about the sacrifice of autonomy. But no bond vigilantes appeared to punish Jakarta. Encouraged by the relatively benign response, the country passed a law in December that enabled the future use of BI’s balance sheet should an emergency require it.
It’s not just something for emerging markets, where institutional guard rails are sometimes wanting. As an academic and Federal Reserve governor, Ben Bernanke repeatedly urged the Bank of Japan and the government to work together to reflate the economy and banish deflation. Emergencies and long-term national interests required aggressive action, he stressed. In a 1999 paper, Bernanke invoked the New Deal of the 1930s and suggested it was “time for some Rooseveltian resolve.”
The idea is not quite a joining of forces, but a greater recognition of how crucial national agencies can better complement each other. Sounds great in theory, but the optics can be unsettling. It took until 2013 for the late Japanese prime minister, Shinzo Abe, riding high after a dramatic return to power, to wrestle the BOJ and Ministry of Finance into a formal understanding. Critics of the accord claimed the bank’s independence had been eroded. But unless the BOJ went along, Abe was likely to push them even further toward being an arm of the administration. The politics — and needs — of the moment worked against the BOJ. The idea of different strands of policy complementing rather than competing also hung over the work of a panel reviewing the Reserve Bank of Australia, which released its recommendations on Thursday.
To be clear, Lagarde isn’t contemplating monetary policy being subsumed into defense ministries or presidential palaces. “Insofar as geopolitics leads to a fragmentation of the global economy into competing blocs, this calls for greater policy cohesion,” she said. “Not compromising independence, but recognizing interdependence between policies and how each can best achieve their objective if aligned behind a strategic goal.”
It’s time for financial diplomacy to come in from the cold. In my decades as a journalist in Washington, London, Tokyo and in Southeast Asia, I have often been amazed at how little foreign policy types incorporate markets and monetary stakes into their thinking. Macro experts have tended to defer the study of statecraft to others. They belong together. The way the Fed has repeatedly embraced its role as central banker to the world through swap lines is a case in point. Though the Fed bristles at the idea it has a foreign policy role, no US foe received a dollar swap line during the pandemic or the Credit Suisse saga. In recent deployments, most — if not all — recipients have been formal allies or close partners. China has been building its own network of swap lines and acting as a creditor for a swag of developing countries. You think those IOUs are free?
Most central banks have at least a degree of independence, but they can’t afford to be too pure about it. The autonomy often comes with caveats or has gradations. The ECB’s singularity is enshrined in a treaty, but the euro it oversees is itself the culmination of a deeply political project. They live in a political world, tend to derive their mandates from the political class and even the most technocratic decisions have ramifications for hundreds of millions — if not billions — of people. So let’s embrace this emerging world sketched by Lagarde. Politics is already present.
More From Bloomberg Opinion:
• China Won’t Be Able to Charm the World on the Cheap: Minxin Pei
• What De-Dollarization? The Dollar Rules the World: Tyler Cowen
• China’s Financial Diplomacy Has Ways to Go: Daniel Moss
This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.
Daniel Moss is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering Asian economies. Previously, he was executive editor of Bloomberg News for economics.
More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion
©2023 Bloomberg L.P. | 2023-04-23T22:28:17+00:00 | washingtonpost.com | https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2023/04/23/us-china-tensions-what-a-cold-war-means-for-central-banks/647559c2-e224-11ed-9696-8e874fd710b8_story.html |
When 14-year-old Michael Carneal opened fire on his fellow students during a before-school prayer meeting in 1997, school shootings were not yet a part of the national consciousness. The carnage that left three students dead and five more injured at Heath High School, near Paducah, Kentucky, ended when Carneal put down his weapon and the principal walked him to the school office — a scene that seems unimaginable today.
Also stretching today’s imagination — Carneal’s life sentence guaranteed an opportunity for parole after 25 years, the maximum sentence permissible at the time given his age.
A quarter century later, Carneal is 39 with a parole hearing next week that comes at a very different time in American life — after Sandy Hook, after Uvalde. Today police officers and metal detectors are an accepted presence in many schools, and even kindergartners are drilled to prepare for active shooters.
“Twenty-five years seemed like so long, so far away,” Missy Jenkins Smith recalls thinking at the time of the sentencing. Jenkins Smith was 15 when she was shot by Carneal, someone she considered a friend. The bullet left her paralyzed, and she uses a wheelchair to get around. Over the years, she has counted down the time until Carneal would be eligible for parole.
“I would think, ‘It’s been 10 years. How many more years?’ At the 20-year anniversary memorial, I thought, ‘It’s coming up.’”
Ron Avi Astor, a professor of social welfare and education at the University of California, Los Angeles, who has studied school violence, said public opinion around school shootings and juvenile punishment has changed a lot over the last 25 years. In the 1980s and 1990s, Astor provided therapy to children who had committed very serious crimes, including murder, but were rehabilitated and not jailed.
“Today all of them would have been locked up,” he said. “But the majority went on to do good things.”
Jenkins Smith knows first-hand that troubled children can be helped. She worked for years as a counselor for at-risk youth, where her wheelchair served as a stark visual reminder of what violence can do, she said.
“Kids who would threaten school shootings, terroristic threatening, were sent to me,” she said. Some are now adults. “It’s great to see what they’ve accomplished and how they’ve changed their lives around. They’ve learned from their bad decisions.”
But that doesn’t mean she thinks Carneal should be set free. For one thing, she worries that he is not equipped to handle life outside of prison and could still harm others. She also doesn’t think it would be right for him to walk free when the people he injured are still suffering.
“For him to have a chance at 39. People get married at 39. They have children,” she said. “It’s not right for him to possibly have a normal life that those three girls he killed will never have.”
Killed in the shooting were 14-year-old Nicole Hadley, 17-year-old Jessica James, and 15-year-old Kayce Steger.
Astor said that when it comes to the worst crimes, like many people, he struggles with the question of what age children should be held strictly accountable for their actions. As a class exercise, he has his students consider the appropriate punishment for a perpetrator at different ages. Should a 16-year-old be treated the same as a 12-year-old? Should a 12-year-old be treated the same as a 40-year-old?
Without any national consensus, you end up with a patchwork of laws and policies that sometimes result in very different punishments for nearly identical crimes, he said.
The shooting at Heath High School took place on Dec. 1, 1997, the Monday after Thanksgiving break. Less than four months later, 11-year-old Andrew Golden and 13-year-old Mitchell Johnson shot and killed four classmates and a teacher at Westside Middle School near Jonesboro, Arkansas. They wounded another nine children and one adult. The pair were tried as juveniles and released on their 21st birthdays.
Two decades later, in 2018, 19-year-old Nikolas Cruz killed 17 students and staff members at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. At the same time Carneal is being considered for possible release, a Florida juryis decidingwhether to sentence Cruz to death.
Jenkins Smith has tried for years to understand why Carneal opened fire on his fellow students that day. She was in the marching band with Carneal, and, before the shooting, “I loved being around him because he made a boring day fun,” she said.
She met with Carneal in prison in 2007 and had a long conversation with him. He apologized to her, and she said she has forgiven him.
“A lot of people think that exonerates him from consequences, but I don’t think so,” she said.
Carneal’s parole hearing is scheduled to start on Monday with testimony from those injured in the shooting and close relatives of those who were killed. Jenkins Smith said she knows of only one victim who supports some form of supervised release for Carneal — less confining than prison but not unrestricted freedom. On Tuesday, Carneal will make his case from the Kentucky State Reformatory in La Grange. If the board rules against release, they can decide how long Carneal should wait before his next opportunity for parole.
The parole hearing will be conducted by videoconference, but Jenkins Smith said she will position her camera to show her full body so the parole board can see her wheelchair. It will be, she said, “a reminder that everyone who experienced that impact 25 years ago is still dealing with it, for the rest of their lives.”
___
News Researcher Jennifer Farrar contributed to this report from New York City. | 2022-09-17T13:03:56+00:00 | washingtonpost.com | https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/25-years-after-kentucky-school-shooting-a-chance-at-parole/2022/09/17/2183be12-367e-11ed-a0d6-415299bfebd5_story.html |
Why Phoenix once celebrated “Thanksgiving” in April
There were no autumn leaves or football games when Phoenix celebrated an unusual early Thanksgiving more than 80 years ago. The rejoicing had nothing to do with bumper crops of corn and pumpkin or markets full of turkeys. Instead, grateful residents who gathered Downtown were giving thanks for that most basic of resources – life-sustaining water.
The occasion in 1941 was the end of a prolonged drought. The dry period was similar to the one often cited for the collapse of the Valley’s Hohokam civilization in the 1400s or that the Southwest is currently suffering.
After the Theodore Roosevelt Dam was completed in 1911, Phoenix appeared to have enough water infrastructure to handle Mother Nature's inconsistent precipitation. The new dam, which created the Valley's primary reservoir, quickly filled, and the dam's spillways overflowed four times by 1920.
But that same year, there was below-average precipitation, which continued for almost two decades. The drought created a water crisis in Phoenix as lawns turned brown and public swimming pools went unfilled. "Those planning to visit Roosevelt [Lake] should pack their own water in with them," advised Lin B. Orme, president of the Salt River Water Users' Association, in The Arizona Republic in 1940.
The skies finally opened up in late 1940. Generous rains allowed Phoenix to rescind water use restrictions in October, and the heavy precipitation continued into March. The subsequent runoff filled Roosevelt Lake and the five other smaller Salt River Project reservoirs on the Salt and Verde rivers for the first time, and the excess water caused flooding in the Valley.
Agriculture was still the most important sector of the local economy. "The measure of water in our reservoirs is the measure of our prosperity in the Salt River Valley," Orme told the Republic.
To celebrate the end of the drought, Arizona Governor Sidney Osborn declared a “Day of Thanksgiving for Water” on April 26, 1941. Revelers were encouraged to dress in either Western wear or Mexican fiesta outfits. To create a suitably rollicking atmosphere, organizers assembled the largest band ever to play in Arizona, made up of 500 musicians from Valley high schools and colleges.
An estimated 50,000 revelers descended on Downtown Phoenix for speeches, music, and dancing, at a time when the city’s population was 65,000. Central Avenue was transformed into an oversized chuckwagon restaurant for 500 diners, using tables improvised from pine boards and hay bales.
A stage was built in front of the Heard Building with a 24-feet-long by a 16-feet-high replica of Roosevelt Dam. Water poured over the model’s spillways to symbolize Arizona’s new bounty of this renewable natural resource. Cornucopias overflowing with the Valley’s crops flanked the dam.
Additional festivities took place at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. King Neptune, trident in hand, appeared with his court of swimsuit-clad sea sprites recruited from Arizona State Teacher's College. A "Welcome Water to Arizona” show featured dancers kicking up their heels beneath fireworks that went on past midnight.
But the fiesta de H2O wasn’t done. The next day, churches held special services to give thanks for the months of precipitation. The historical record, however, lacks information on how crowded the services were after one of the city's biggest celebrations.
Douglas C. Towne is the editor of Arizona Contractor & Community magazine, http://www.arizcc.com/, the 2022 winner of the Arizona Historical Society’s Al Merito Award. | 2022-11-18T13:24:20+00:00 | azcentral.com | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix-history/2022/11/18/why-phoenix-once-celebrated-thanksgiving-april/10707143002/ |
New streaming series featuring inspired culinary exploration and flavor adventures will share stories of craft food and beverage artisans in San Francisco, Portland and San Diego
HAYWARD, Calif., July 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Columbus Craft Meats, maker of premium, award-winning Italian deli meats and charcuterie for more than 100 years, is today announcing the launch of its new film series streaming on YouTube, "Search for the Perfect Bite."
Set to premiere in July, the show takes viewers on a tour of food exploration with Evan Inada, charcuterie director at Columbus. He is embarking on a quest to discover the "Perfect Charcuterie Bite" — an ideal combination of flavors and textures that will inspire food enthusiasts worldwide to create their own charcuterie moments — through the culinary offerings of three West Coast cities. The series launches July 27, 2023, on the Columbus Craft Meats YouTube channel.
"We wanted to create a series that embodies the unfiltered and authentic spirit of food exploration," Inada said. "Through 'Search for the Perfect Bite,' we invite viewers to join us on an adventure of discovery, unlocking extraordinary flavor combinations while offering practical advice to elevate their own charcuterie bites. What truly delighted me was the joy of meeting artisan purveyors in each city who share the Columbus® brand's passion for exceptional food while experiencing unexpected elements of the local food scene that added an exciting twist to our culinary adventures."
"Search for the Perfect Bite" brings the art of next-level charcuterie to life, celebrating the craftsmanship of food artisans in each city and the versatility of Columbus® products. In the first season of the show, Inada takes audiences on an unforgettable journey across three vibrant cities: San Francisco, the beloved home of the Columbus® brand; Portland, Ore., a haven for food enthusiasts; and San Diego, a hotspot of culinary innovation. In each destination, Inada encounters vendors and passionate foodies who share the unwavering dedication of Columbus® in creating exceptional food experiences.
"This culinary exploration celebrates the art of charcuterie and showcases the versatility of Columbus Craft Meats," said Sean McNeil, Columbus senior brand manager. "Evan Inada's collaboration with like-minded artisans in each city embodies our brand's commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, inspiring viewers to create their own remarkable charcuterie moments."
About Columbus Craft Meats
Founded in 1917 by Italian immigrants in San Francisco, Columbus Craft Meats produces premium salumi and deli meats sold in grocery deli departments nationwide. The company's products are made authentically from traditional recipes that bring out the bold, unique flavors of the finest cuts of meat, making the brand a leader in today's market. Columbus Craft Meats is a subsidiary of Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL). More information can be found at columbuscraftmeats.com.
About Hormel Foods — Inspired People. Inspired Food.™
Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minn., is a global branded food company with over $12 billion in annual revenue across more than 80 countries worldwide. Its brands include Planters®, Skippy®, SPAM®, Hormel® Natural Choice®, Applegate®, Justin's®, Wholly®, Hormel® Black Label®, Columbus®, Jennie-O® and more than 30 other beloved brands. The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named on the "Global 2000 World's Best Employers" list by Forbes magazine for three years, is one of Fortune magazine's most admired companies, has appeared on the "100 Best Corporate Citizens" list by 3BL Media 13 times, and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. The company lives by its purpose statement — Inspired People. Inspired Food.™ — to bring some of the world's most trusted and iconic brands to tables across the globe. For more information, visit hormelfoods.com and csr.hormelfoods.com.
Contact: Media Relations
Hormel Foods
media@hormel.com
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SOURCE Hormel Foods Corporation | 2023-07-26T13:04:48+00:00 | wsfa.com | https://www.wsfa.com/prnewswire/2023/07/26/columbus-craft-meats-launches-search-perfect-bite-original-film-series-youtube/ |
Oregonians are voting on a gun control measure. A ballot initiative in the state would require additional background checks and restrict magazine possession. It could set a national precedent.
NPR’s Katia Riddle reports.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2022-11-01T19:53:46+00:00 | wyomingpublicmedia.org | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-11-01/oregonians-vote-on-a-gun-control-measure |
The Sean Payton Sweepstakes is on.
The Broncos interviewed Payton in Los Angeles on Tuesday for their head-coaching vacancy, league sources confirmed to The Post. In the process, Denver became the first team to meet with him in person during this coaching cycle and the second to talk with him this week as the former New Orleans coach weighs a return to the sideline.
Payton coached the Saints from 2006-21 and compiled a 153-89 record. He won a Super Bowl in February 2010 and helped quarterback Drew Brees solidify a Hall of Fame resume along the way before resigning after the 2021 season, a year after Brees retired.
Payton interviewed virtually with Houston on Monday and said on FOX earlier that day that he planned to travel to New York late in the week to meet with Carolina owner David Tepper. Arizona, which just finalized a general manager hire, also has permission to interview Payton. That lineup combined with the unique circumstances of Payton’s contract situation — New Orleans has his rights through 2024, meaning any team that wants to hire him has to send something to the Saints for him — make this an uncommon, multi-team dance.
Payton said Monday during an interview on “The Herd” that he thought the compensation would end up being equivalent to a mid or late first-round draft pick and said, “there are a lot of ways to arrive at that,” as teams have different sets of draft picks.
The Broncos have San Francisco’s 2023 first-rounder, which will end up in the late-20s at best and could be as low as No. 31 if the 49ers win the Super Bowl.
Late last week, New Orleans general manager Mickey Loomis told reporters in New Orleans the franchise had a duty to maximize its return for Payton.
“It’s complicated. Because, look, I have such great respect for (Payton). He’s a close friend of mine,” Loomis said. “He’s a great coach. All those things. And I want the best for him. I do. We do, collectively as an organization. He gave everything he could possibly give to the New Orleans Saints and took us to heights that the organization and team never achieved before. So, I absolutely want the best for him.
“But I also recognize that he’s a valuable asset, his contract is a valuable asset to our club, and it’s our duty to maximize that. Look, I think between the quarterback … or a head coach, no one impacts winning more than those two guys in any building. So, I know what he brings to the table and I know that’s really valuable. And it’s our obligation to maximize that value if he chooses to coach again within that time frame where we have those rights.”
Bidding teams know, too, however, that the value New Orleans can get for Payton will drop next year if he doesn’t take a job this offseason. Payton appears motivated to get back to coaching this year.
“We have to have the compensation settled before they can actually make an offer to hire him,” Loomis said.
It all sets up for a high-stakes stretch if the Broncos decide to pursue him. Denver could push forward the conversation with the Saints after talking with Payton on Tuesday, but they do have interviews slated for Thursday and Friday with San Francisco defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans and Dallas defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, respectively. Not only that, but would Loomis want to hold out to see how Payton’s other interviews go this week and what those teams may be willing to trade? Payton has veto power in the sense that he can tell Loomis he’ll only go to one team or he’ll only consider a subset of those interested.
Ultimately, all sides will have to be on the same page.
“He’s got a job to do as the general manager with the Saints,” Payton said of Loomis. “He’ll get the right compensation and I’m sure the (acquiring) team, if it gets that far, will arrive at it.”
Payton has said multiple times in recent weeks that a franchise’s ownership ranks near the top of his priority list. The Broncos, of course, have an ownership group that just arrived in professional sports in August when it acquired the franchise but is also the wealthiest in the NFL.
“I’d start with ownership,” Payton said when host Colin Cowherd asked if ownership and a team’s quarterback situation were the two most important components. “Because look, finding both — generally speaking if the quarterback is there they’re probably a team that’s playing well. Generally speaking. The teams that have openings, I’m not going to say are broken, but they’ve had problems. That’s why there’s an opening.
“That element is critical, the ownership element. It’s hard to win in this league and it’s certainly harder if there are internal problems before you even play an opponent.”
That’s the next layer to the recruitment of Payton. In the search for organizational alignment, how much control will he want? How much say will he have over the 53-man roster? What would the dynamic be like between Payton and Broncos general manager George Paton, who in Penner’s words is “intimately involved” in Denver’s search process? Penner said the next head coach would report directly to the CEO rather than to Paton, which isn’t unusual in the NFL, but what if Payton has a different GM preference?
“Each team, we’re having that (kind of) discussion,” Payton said Monday. “There are pros (and cons). That’s the significance of the upcoming week or two, of meeting some of these individuals and asking some questions — maybe some difficult questions — and trying to get answers so we’re not having difficult questions when you’ve already taken the job.”
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Company to host conference call and webcast at 8:30 a.m. EST
CARMIEL, Israel, Nov. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Protalix BioTherapeutics, Inc. (NYSE American: PLX) (TASE: PLX), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development, production and commercialization of recombinant therapeutic proteins produced by its proprietary ProCellEx® plant cell-based protein expression system, today announced that it will release its financial results for the third quarter 2022 and provide a business update on Monday, November 14, 2022.
Management will host a conference call with investors to discuss the financial results and provide an update on recent corporate and regulatory developments.
Conference Call Details:
Date: Monday, November 14, 2022
Time: 8:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Toll Free (U.S.): 1-877-423-9813
International: 1-201-689-8573
Conference ID: 13734038
Webcast Details:
The conference will be webcast live from the Company's website and will be available via the following links:
Company Link: https://protalixbiotherapeutics.gcs-web.com/events0
Webcast Link: Registration – https://tinyurl.com/2s6sdx5e
Conference ID: 13734038
Please access the websites at least 15 minutes ahead of the conference to register, download and install any necessary audio software.
The conference call will be available for replay for two weeks on the Events Calendar of the Investors section of the Company's website, at the above link.
About Protalix BioTherapeutics, Inc.
Protalix is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of recombinant therapeutic proteins expressed through its proprietary plant cell-based expression system, ProCellEx. Protalix was the first company to gain U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of a protein produced through plant cell-based in suspension expression system. Protalix's unique expression system represents a new method for developing recombinant proteins in an industrial-scale manner.
Protalix's first product manufactured by ProCellEx, taliglucerase alfa, was approved by the FDA in May 2012 and, subsequently, by the regulatory authorities of other countries. Protalix has licensed to Pfizer Inc. the worldwide development and commercialization rights for taliglucerase alfa, excluding Brazil, where Protalix retains full rights.
Protalix's development pipeline consists of proprietary versions of recombinant therapeutic proteins that target established pharmaceutical markets, including the following product candidates: pegunigalsidase alfa, a modified stabilized version of the recombinant human α–Galactosidase–A protein for the treatment of Fabry disease; alidornase alfa or PRX–110, for the treatment of various human respiratory diseases or conditions; PRX–115, a plant cell-expressed recombinant PEGylated uricase for the treatment of severe gout; PRX–119, a plant cell-expressed long action DNase I for the treatment of NETs-related diseases; and others. Protalix has partnered with Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A., both in the United States and outside the United States, for the development and commercialization of pegunigalsidase alfa.
Investor Contact
Chuck Padala, Managing Director
LifeSci Advisors
+1-646-627-8390
chuck@lifesciadvisors.com
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SOURCE Protalix BioTherapeutics, Inc. | 2022-11-07T12:51:35+00:00 | live5news.com | https://www.live5news.com/prnewswire/2022/11/07/protalix-biotherapeutics-report-third-quarter-2022-financial-business-results-november-14-2022/ |
Circle partners with singer/songwriter Julia Cole for several network events
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Gray News) - Award-winning country music and lifestyle network and official home of the Grand Ole Opry Circle Network announced a new partnership with Nashville singer/songwriter Julia Cole, incorporating Cole into the network’s original programming to bring exclusive country music entertainment into the homes of Circle’s audience.
Cole, who recently made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry stage, will first star in an episode of Circle Network’s series, “My Opry Debut,” taking viewers on the journey with her as she prepares to take Nashville’s most iconic stage for the first time and giving fans a chance to uniquely connect with her on one of the most exciting days of her life.
Cole is also the host of Circle Network’s newest original series, “Circle’s Ultimate Fan Fest,” following her as she travels the country to different festivals including CMA Fest, Darius Rucker’s Riverfront Revival, Country Thunder Arizona, the State Fair of Texas and more.
As a musician, Cole is right at home at a music festival, but she also gets out of her comfort zone in the series, visiting festivals focused on IndyCar racing, skiing, low country boils and more. “Circle’s Ultimate Fan Fest” will give viewers a behind-the-scenes look at some of the country’s most exciting festivals through the eyes of Cole as she explores the events and talks to performers, grounds crews, fans and more about what it’s like to prepare for a festival and the most exciting parts of the event, including the food, fashion, music, and more.
“Partnering with Circle in my first-ever TV hosting role has been more fun than I could possibly imagine,” Cole said. “My goal has always been to encourage empowerment and inclusivity, values this amazing network is helping me spread through ‘Circle’s Ultimate Fan Fest.’ This show shines a spotlight on the locals who make epic festivals possible while bringing that community’s culture and lifestyle into the homes of country fans who can’t attend in person. Golfing with Darius Rucker and snuggling puppies with Lindsay Ell are just a couple of the amazing experiences I’ll get to share with the rest of the world. Nothing, however, tops getting to include my family in the story on my Grand Ole Opry debut on the network – a dream come true. I’m so excited to continue this partnership with Circle Network and bring the light of country music into as many homes as possible.”
Based in the heart of Music City, Circle has the unique ability to partner with musical artists and curate one-of-a-kind opportunities for them on the network, bringing intimate and entertaining moments with the artist into the homes of their biggest fans.
Through programs like “My Opry Debut,” Circle Network allows fans to connect with their favorite artists in ways they can’t anywhere else. “Circle’s Ultimate Fan Fest” is no exception. The new series will show her interacting with some of her famous friends and taking on unique experiences across the U.S., from trying different foods to performing on new stages.
“As a Nashville-based network, we’re always looking for ways to expand and bring country music to those outside of our city,” Circle Network’s general manager Drew Reifenberger said. “Partnering with festivals and artists is a great way to do this – we’re able to put some of the most exciting events and musicians into our original programming, giving viewers an all-access pass to the country music lifestyle. Julia brings such great energy to everything she does and is the perfect artist for our network to partner with on ‘Circle’s Ultimate Fan Fest’ and more.”
Follow Circle Network’s social media accounts for Cole’s live performance from Ole Red Nashville on Tuesday, March 14 at 8 p.m. ET. You can also see Julia perform live at the Grand Ole Opry Wednesday, March 15.
Cole’s episode of “My Opry Debut” airs Saturday, March 18 at 10 p.m. ET, where she will share an exclusive preview of “Circle’s Ultimate Fan Fest” with the viewers. The premiere of “Circle’s Ultimate Fan Fest” will then air on Thursday, April 13 at 10:30 p.m. ET. New episodes of “Circle’s Ultimate Fan Fest” will air every Thursday following the premiere at 10:30 p.m. ET.
Check your local listings or click here to see where you can watch Circle Network.
Gray Television is an investor in Circle Media.
Copyright 2023 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | 2023-03-13T21:37:28+00:00 | kxii.com | https://www.kxii.com/2023/03/13/circle-partners-with-singersongwriter-julia-cole-several-network-events/ |
Key Highlights:
- Cynata to collaborate with Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) in the Netherlands, in a new clinical trial in patients who have received a kidney transplant
- Trial to be funded by LUMC; Cynata will supply iPSC-derived Cymerus mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) at its cost to facilitate the trial and has full commercial rights
- There are approximately 130,000 kidney transplants around the world each year. Kidney transplantation is life-saving in patients with chronic renal failure and frees the patient from the need for dialysis.
- Currently, lifelong immune suppressive therapy is required in renal transplant patients to reduce the risk of rejection. This can lead to increased risk of infections and cancer and the main anti-rejection drugs are also directly toxic to the kidneys
- In previous clinical trials, mesenchymal stromal/stem cells have shown potential to enable the early withdrawal of anti-rejection drugs in renal transplant recipients without increased rejection and with preserved renal function
MELBOURNE, Australia, Nov. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cynata Therapeutics Limited (ASX: "CYP" or "Cynata"), a clinical-stage biotechnology company specialising in cell therapeutics, is delighted to announce that the LUMC is funding an important clinical trial to investigate Cynata's Cymerus™ MSCs as a treatment for renal graft rejection and to potentially reduce the requirement for anti-rejection drugs.
The clinical trial, entitled the "Safety and Efficacy of iPSC-derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Therapy in Renal Transplant Recipients - the Nereid Study", will be led by Prof. Ton Rabelink, Head of the Department of Internal Medicine of LUMC and will seek to recruit 10 patients who have undergone a renal transplant. The trial is expected to commence in 2023, pending receipt of customary and relevant regulatory, ethics and administrative approvals.
Dr Ross Macdonald, Cynata's Chief Executive Officer, said:
"This exciting new collaboration follows very promising clinical trial data with MSCs published by Professor Rabelink[1] and our own published pre-clinical data[2] in organ transplant rejection. The potential to enhance survival of transplanted donor organs while at the same time reducing or eliminating the need for damaging anti-rejection drugs would be a substantial breakthrough in transplantation medicine. We are delighted to be working with one of Europe's leading transplant centres and with Professor Rabelink and his team to conduct this important clinical trial."
Professor Rabelink said:
"There is an urgent need for more effective management of immune rejection of donor organs while preserving organ function and minimizing side effects of anti-rejection therapy. From this perspective, MSC therapy is of interest and our own clinical studies have provided strong support for MSC treatment to substantially advance the field of transplantation medicine. The consistency and potency of Cynata's unique iPSC-derived Cymerus MSCs make them an ideal candidate for this clinical trial."
Authorised for release by Dr Ross Macdonald, Managing Director & CEO
About the Clinical Trial
The clinical trial, entitled "Safety and Efficacy of iPSC-derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Therapy in Renal Transplant Recipients – the Nereid Study", is an open label, non-randomized, non-blinded, prospective, single centre clinical phase Ib study. It will be conducted in 10 renal allograft recipients, aged 18-75 years old. The principal investigator is Dr. HS Spijker, Department of Nephrology, LUMC. Following their transplant surgery, patients will receive a drug used to treat graft rejection and two doses of Cymerus MSCs 6 and 7 weeks after transplantation followed by withdrawal of anti-rejection medication. The primary end point is safety by assessing absence of acute rejection (absence of graft loss after 6 months) after withdrawal of anti-rejection medication. Other end points include assessment of renal function at 6 months and the incidence of opportunistic infections.
About Cynata Therapeutics (ASX: CYP)
Cynata Therapeutics Limited (ASX: CYP) is an Australian clinical-stage stem cell and regenerative medicine company focused on the development of therapies based on Cymerus™, a proprietary therapeutic stem cell platform technology. Cymerus™ overcomes the challenges of other production methods by using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and a precursor cell known as mesenchymoangioblast (MCA) to achieve economic manufacture of cell therapy products, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), at commercial scale without the limitation of multiple donors.
Cynata's lead product candidate CYP-001 met all clinical endpoints and demonstrated positive safety and efficacy data for the treatment of steroid-resistant acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) in a Phase 1 trial. Planning for a Phase 2 clinical trial in GvHD under a cleared US FDA IND is presently underway. Clinical trials of Cymerus products in osteoarthritis (Phase 3) and diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are currently ongoing. In addition, Cynata has demonstrated utility of its Cymerus technology in preclinical models of numerous diseases, including the clinical targets mentioned above, as well as critical limb ischaemia, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, heart attack, sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and cytokine release syndrome.
Cynata Therapeutics encourages all current investors to go paperless by registering their details with the designated registry service provider, Automic Group.
[1] Reinders et al: Autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cell therapy with early tacrolimus withdrawal: The randomized prospective, single-center, open-label TRITON study. Am J Transplant. 2021;21:3055–3065
[2] Khan et al: iPSC-derived MSC therapy induces immune tolerance and supports long-term graft survival in mouse orthotopic tracheal transplants. Stem Cell Research & Therapy (2019) 10:290
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SOURCE Cynata Therapeutics | 2022-11-04T10:34:39+00:00 | kcrg.com | https://www.kcrg.com/prnewswire/2022/11/04/lumc-fund-new-clinical-trial-cynatas-cymerus-mscs-kidney-transplantation/ |
Dennis P. Chillemi retires as LCRF's Executive Director, Aubrey Rhodes steps into role
NEW YORK, June 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF) announces today the retirement of its Executive Director, Dennis P. Chillemi, and the appointment of Aubrey Rhodes, currently LCRF's Senior Vice President of Strategy, as his successor, effective July 1, 2023.
Mr. Chillemi joined LCRF as its executive director in November 2018, following its merger with Free to Breathe, a lung cancer fundraising organization based in Madison, WI. During his tenure, LCRF successfully weathered the COVID-19 pandemic, thriving in an uncertain environment. Under his leadership, LCRF's research investment grew to its all-time high of over $2.4 million in a single grant cycle through research partnerships with industry and patient-led advocacy groups. Building on his vast experience in non-profit leadership from his years with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, as well as several volunteer leadership positions, Mr. Chillemi brought a culture of philanthropy and growth to LCRF. Mr. Chillemi plans to spend his time working with his wife Annie and daughter MaryKate on their family farm in New York's Hudson Valley and enjoying time with all seven of his children and his four grandchildren.
"We're grateful for Dennis's leadership and wish him well as he retires," remarked Reina Honts, chair of LCRF's board of directors. "He has set LCRF up to continue its growth trajectory, and his mentorship of Aubrey into the role of executive director will ensure continued success. Her deep knowledge of non-profit management and administration, along with her accomplishments leading LCRF's strategy, make her the right leader for the organization. Aubrey's commitment to forging strategic partnerships, ensuring that lung cancer patients are engaged in all areas of LCRF-funded research, and empowering volunteer leadership is evident in everything she does."
Ms. Rhodes joined Free to Breathe, a legacy organization of LCRF, in 2016 as its head of community engagement and outreach, and was elevated to LCRF's Senior Vice President, Strategy in 2021. In that role, Ms. Rhodes successfully led the organization in developing its first strategic plan, its research roadmap and partnered with Mr. Chillemi and the volunteer leadership of LCRF in identifying and hiring its first Chief Scientific Officer. Her prior experience with the ALS association in volunteer management, development, and fundraising, coupled with her strategic roles at LCRF, position her well for this new undertaking.
"I'm confident and excited to pass the baton to Aubrey," said Mr. Chillemi. "Her leadership and keen instincts over the years have demonstrated her skill as well as her commitment to the lung cancer community. LCRF is in good hands and will thrive under her leadership."
To learn more about LCRF, visit www.lcrf.org.
About the Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF)
The Lung Cancer Research Foundation® (LCRF) is the leading nonprofit organization focused on funding innovative, high-reward research with the potential to extend survival and improve quality of life for people with lung cancer. LCRF's mission is to improve lung cancer outcomes by funding research for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure of lung cancer. To date, LCRF has funded 409 research grants, totaling nearly $42 million, the highest amount provided by a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding lung cancer research. For more information, visit lcrf.org.
Contact:
Sheila Sullivan
Sr. Director, Marketing & Communications, LCRF
ssullivan@lcrf.org
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SOURCE Lung Cancer Research Foundation | 2023-06-27T14:39:15+00:00 | witn.com | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2023/06/27/lung-cancer-research-foundation-appoints-new-executive-director/ |
WASHINGTON (AP) — The House Jan. 6 committee has heard dramatic testimony from former White House aides and others about Donald Trump’s relentless efforts to overturn the 2020 election — and his encouragement of supporters who stormed the U.S. Capitol bent on achieving his goal. But the big question remains: Was any of it criminal?
Cassidy Hutchinson, an aide in Trump’s White House, added fresh urgency to the question Tuesday as she delivered explosive new testimony about Trump’s actions before and during the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection. She said Trump was informed that there were armed protesters at his morning rally before he stood onstage and told them to “fight like hell” at the Capitol. Then he argued with his security detail, she said, trying to go with the crowd.
Trump’s aides knew there could be legal consequences. Hutchinson said White House Counsel Pat Cipollone told her “we’re going to get charged with every crime imaginable” if Trump had gone to the Capitol that day as Congress was certifying President Joe Biden’s win. Cipollone said Trump could be exposing himself to obstruction of justice charges or defrauding the electoral count, she said.
The Justice Department has recently expanded its investigation into the Jan. 6 attack, targeting some of Trump’s allies in Washington and around the country who participated in his scheme to invalidate Biden’s victory. But prosecutors have not indicated whether they will bring a case against the former president.
A look at potential crimes, and what Congress and the Justice Department might do:
WHAT HAS THE EVIDENCE SHOWN?
Witnesses have testified that Trump was repeatedly advised by campaign aides and top government officials that he had lost the election to Biden and that his claims of widespread voter fraud were divorced from reality.
Yet he pressed ahead, shouting the false allegations that culminated in the riot at thepre Capitol.
Still in office, he leaned on the Justice Department to get government law enforcement officials to take up his cause. He pressured the states — asking Georgia’s secretary of state to “find” votes, for example — and Vice President Mike Pence, who was presiding over the joint session of Congress that day.
Hutchinson testified that Trump said he wanted metal detectors removed from the area near where he was delivering a speech on Jan. 6. He said it did not matter to him if the supporters, who were to head to the Capitol, were carrying weapons because they were not there to hurt him.
Trump took to his social media website on Tuesday to deny much of Hutchinson’s testimony, which was based on both her own interactions with Trump and information from others who talked to him that day.
WERE ANY CRIMES COMMITTED BY TRUMP?
He hasn’t been charged, but legal experts believe the testimony, presuming it can be corroborated, does give prosecutors avenues to pursue.
Federal law, for instance, makes it a crime to incite, organize, encourage or promote a riot like the one that enveloped the Capitol. But that’s a high bar for prosecutors to clear. Trump’s exhortation to “fight like hell” could be construed as a more general call to action. He was acquitted by the Senate of an incitement charge in his impeachment trial after the insurrection.
Still, a federal judge in February, in rejecting a request by Trump to toss out conspiracy lawsuits from Democratic lawmakers and two Capitol Police officers, said Trump’s words “plausibly” led to the riot. And Hutchinson’s first-hand account of hearing Trump complain about metal detectors suggested he was aware that some supporters were capable of violence but brushed it off.
A more likely option for prosecution, said Jimmy Gurule, a former federal prosecutor who is a Notre Dame law professor, would be to pursue a case that Trump conspired to defraud the United States through his wide-ranging efforts to overturn the election and to obstruct the congressional proceeding at which the results were to be certified.
That broad statute was cited by the House committee when it asserted in a March legal filing that it had evidence Trump had engaged in a “criminal conspiracy.”
“He was perpetuating the big lie. To what end? To remain in power and to prevent Biden from assuming the reins of the presidency,” Gurule said. “It was fraud on the American people.”
Some legal experts say it doesn’t matter if Trump believed the election was stolen or not. But others say much would depend on the president’s intent and state of mind and whether he supported activities he knew to be unlawful. Though witnesses have testified under oath about telling Trump he had lost, it would be hard to prove what he actually believed.
“I can confidently say that any serious felony-level federal crime that is going to be charged here is going to require proof beyond a reasonable doubt of criminal intent,” said Samuel Buell, a Duke University criminal law professor.
“Any argument that he doesn’t believe that he’s doing something that is against the law … is still an argument he can make and still something the prosecutor has to prove.”
WILL THE JUSTICE DEPARTMENT ACTUALLY BRING A CASE?
That’s anyone’s guess. The congressional hearings have produced eye-popping testimony, but the one-sided presentation of facts, with no opportunities for cross-examination of witnesses, is a far cry from the burden of proof and trial constraints in criminal prosecutions.
One of the more striking accounts from Hutchinson — that Trump, irate at being driven to the White House instead of the Capitol on Jan. 6, tried to grab at the steering wheel of his presidential vehicle — was something she heard second-hand, likely inadmissible before a jury.
There are clear signs prosecutors are moving beyond the rioters, serving subpoenas last week on multiple state Republican Party chairmen in examining a scheme by Trump allies to create slates of alternate, or fake, electors in an attempt to subvert the vote.
Attorney General Merrick Garland, a former federal appeals court judge and circumspect by nature, has pledged the Justice Department will hold accountable wrongdoers “at any level” — more than 800 people have been charged so far — but he has not said one way or another that he’s considering a case against Trump.
Some Democrats in Congress have been pressing Garland to act. The Jan. 6 committee itself could make a formal criminal referral based on its more than 1,000 interviews. The Justice Department wouldn’t have to act on such a referral, but it has been pressuring the panel to hand over its interview transcripts as it weighs making its own case.
A Justice Department spokesman declined to commennt.
There’s no legal bar to prosecuting Trump as a former president. Since he is no longer in office, Justice Department legal opinions that shielded him from criminal charges no longer apply.
But while it may be hard for the department to turn away from a case if the cumulative evidence is provable beyond a reasonable doubt, there are other factors to consider. No former president has ever been prosecuted by the Justice Department, and a criminal case against the already polarizing former president risks dividing the country even further.
Trump has also been laying the groundwork for another presidential run, and the department may want to avoid any perception that it is targeting a political adversary of Biden in the heat of an election.
“It will be,” Buell said, “one of the hardest issues that any U.S. attorney general has ever confronted.” | 2022-06-29T22:22:59+00:00 | seattletimes.com | https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/nation-politics/1-6-hearings-fuel-the-question-did-trump-commit-a-crime/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_all |
Wall Street pointed higher early Monday as markets gear up for another busy week of earnings and two inflation reports from the U.S. government, all while monitoring the regional banking crisis.
Futures for the Dow Jones Industrial Average and futures for the S&P 500 each rose about 0.2% before the bell.
Companies this earnings season have largely reported better-than-expected results, injecting some optimism into what’s been mostly gloomy economic outlook. Stubborn inflation, the war in Ukraine and the recent collapse of three regional banks have combined to paint a grim economic forecast, with many experts expecting a recession late this year or early next year.
Shares in PacWest Bancorp surged about 35% in premarket trading Monday, following Friday’s gain of more than 80%. PacWest shares lost nearly half their value last week before Friday’s turnaround as anxiety persists over the stability of smaller banks amid the Federal Reserve’s cranking up of interest rates. Shares of Western Alliance, which also got pummeled last week, rose more than 15% before the bell.
PacWest share are still about 75% lower than they were before the bank collapses began in mid-March. Western Alliance shares are off about 64% in the same period.
Meat producer Tyson Foods, owner of the Jimmy Dean and Ball Park brands, posted its first quarterly loss since the Great Recession and its shares tumbled more than 9% in premarket trading Monday.
Also this week, PayPal, Under Armour, Rivian, Wendy’s and The Walt Disney Co. are among the slew companies scheduled to report quarterly results.
On Wednesday, the government releases its monthly report on consumer inflation, followed Thursday by its report on inflation at the wholesale level. Both reports are closely monitored by analysts and investors, but more importantly by the Federal Reserve, which has been raising interest rates for more than a year to combat four-decade-high inflation.
A report Friday showed hiring accelerated across the economy by much more than expected last month. The government’s jobs report also showed workers won bigger pay raises than expected.
Such trends helped calm worries that a recession is looming, even as time grows short on reaching an agreement on the U.S. government debt ceiling, Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management said in a commentary.
“But anxiety is building early this time and shifted into high gear last week after Secretary Yellen warned that a default could occur as soon as June 1,” he said.
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Sunday that there are “no good options” for the United States to avoid an economic “calamity” if Congress fails to raise the nation’s borrowing limit of $31.381 trillion in the coming weeks.
The government would lack the funds to pay its obligations, she said in an interview on ABC’s “This Week,”
“And it’s widely agreed that financial and economic chaos would ensue,” Yellen said.
She did not rule out President Joe Biden bypassing lawmakers and acting on his own to try to avert a first-ever federal default. If the government can’t borrow money to keep paying its bills for an extended period, there could be millions of job losses, businesses left bankrupt, crashes piling up across financial markets and lasting economic pain.
The strong U.S. employment data added to worries that persisting high inflation may push the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates further, adding to pressure on an already slowing economy.
The Fed said Wednesday it wasn’t sure of its next move after raising its benchmark rate to a range of 5% to 5.25%, up from virtually zero early last year. Many traders expect the Fed to hold rates steady at its next meeting in June, which would be the first time that’s happened in more than a year.
High interest rates have already caused cracks in the U.S. banking system. Last week, regulators seized First Republic Bank, which became the third large U.S. bank failure to hit since March.
The industry’s turmoil has raised uncertainty, for if banks pull back on their lending, like rate increases that could further stifle the economy.
At midday in Europe, Germany’s DAX rose 0.2%, while the CAC 40 in Paris rose 0.3%. Markets in Britain were closed for a holiday.
On Monday in Tokyo, the Nikkei 225 shed 0.7% to 28,949.88.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index added 1.2% to 20,297.03 and the Shanghai Composite index surged 1.8% to 3,395.00. South Korea’s KOSPI climbed 0.5% to 2,513.21, while the S&P/ASX 200 gained 0.8% in Sydney to 7,276.50.
India’s Sensex gained 1.2% and Taiwan’s Taiex picked up 0.5%.
In other trading Monday, benchmark U.S. crude oil picked up $1.94 to $73.28 per barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. It jumped $2.78 on Friday to $71.34 per barrel.
Brent crude, the international pricing standard, added $1.83 to $77.13 per barrel.
The dollar rose to 135.16 Japanese yen from 134.88 yen. The euro climbed to $1.1036 from $1.1023.
Late Thursday, Apple was the latest company to post earnings that beat analyst forecasts. The most valuable stock on Wall Street rose nearly 5% Friday, helping to lift the S&P 500 1.8%. The Dow Jones industrials gained 1.7% and the Nasdaq composite index rallied 2.2%.
——
Kurtenbach reported from Bangkok; Ott reported from Silver Spring, Maryland. | 2023-05-08T12:59:53+00:00 | wjhl.com | https://www.wjhl.com/business/ap-business/stock-market-today-asian-shares-start-week-with-gains/ |
‘The Champagne of Beers’ leaves French producers frothing
By SAMUEL PETREQUIN
Associated Press
BRUSSELS (AP) — The guardians of Champagne will let no one take the name of the bubbly beverage in vain, not even a U.S. beer behemoth.
For years, Miller High Life has used the “Champagne of Beers” slogan. This week, that appropriation became impossible to swallow.
At the request of the trade body defending the interests of houses and growers of the northeastern French sparkling wine, Belgian customs crushed more than 2,000 cans of Miller High Life advertised as such.
The Comité Champagne asked for the destruction of a shipment of 2,352 cans on the grounds that the century-old motto used by the American brewery infringes the protected designation of origin “Champagne.”
The consignment was intercepted in the Belgian port of Antwerp in early February, a spokesperson at the Belgian Customs Administration said on Friday, and was destined for Germany.
Molson Coors Beverage Co., which owns the Miller High Life brand, does not currently export it to the EU, and Belgian customs declined to say who had ordered the beers.
The buyer in Germany “was informed and did not contest the decision,” the trade organization said in a statement.
Frederick Miller, a German immigrant to the US, founded the Miller Brewing Company in the 1850s. Miller High Life, its oldest brand, was launched as its flagship in 1903.
According to the Milwaukee-based brand’s website, the company started to use the “Champagne of Bottle Beers” nickname three years later. It was shortened to “The Champagne of Beers” in 1969. The beer has also been available in champagne-style 750-milliliter bottles during festive seasons.
“With its elegant, clear-glass bottle and crisp taste, Miller High Life has proudly worn the nickname ‘The Champagne of Beers’ for almost 120 years,” Molson Coors Beverage Co. said in a statement to The Associated Press.
No matter how popular the slogan is in the United States, it is incompatible with European Union rules which make clear that goods infringing a protected designation of origin can be treated as counterfeit.
The 27-nation bloc has a system of protected geographical designations created to guarantee the true origin and quality of artisanal food, wine and spirits, and protect them from imitation. That market is worth nearly 75 billion euros ($87 billion) annually — half of it in wines, according to a 2020 study by the EU’s executive arm.
Charles Goemaere, the managing director of the Comité Champagne, said the destruction of the beers “confirms the importance that the European Union attaches to designations of origin and rewards the determination of the Champagne producers to protect their designation.”
Molson Coors Beverage Co. said it “respects local restrictions” around the word Champagne.
“But we remain proud of Miller High Life, its nickname and its Milwaukee, Wisconsin provenance,” the company said. “We invite our friends in Europe to the U.S. any time to toast the High Life together.”
Belgian customs said the destruction of the cans was paid for by the Comité Champagne. According to their joint statement, it was carried out “with the utmost respect for environmental concerns by ensuring that the entire batch, both contents and container, was recycled in an environmentally responsible manner.”
___
Mark D. Carlson contributed from Brussels. | 2023-04-21T19:43:17+00:00 | krdo.com | https://krdo.com/news/ap-national-news/2023/04/21/the-champagne-of-beers-leaves-french-producers-frothing/ |
LAS VEGAS , Oct. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sparket's Social Betwork™ has signed a partnership agreement with Station Casinos LLC (the "Company"), a subsidiary of Red Rock Resorts, Inc. (NASDAQ: RRR) to license software that will be integrated into the Company's virtual casino STN Play app. The software integration will offer free-to-play live event wagering via Sparket's proprietary pool wagering system. Patrons can participate online through the STN Play app, by making virtual coin-based wagers on real life sporting events, esports, reality TV, and more.
"We're excited to partner with Sparket – they have an innovative new technology which approaches live event wagering in a way that will attract new users to our free-to-play product. For our STN Play product, we strive to keep our customers entertained by offering fun, compelling, and engaging content. Our partnership with Sparket will help us accomplish those goals via social live event wagering pools" said Tom Mikulich, SVP of Innovation at Station Casinos.
Aaron Basch, CEO of Sparket, said "This is a big moment for Sparket as we bring our product to market with one of the leading operators in the world. We've been hard at work building our robust Social Betwork™ platform and we're excited to bring new content to help our industry partners grow their business with free to play live event wagering."
Sparket's announcement follows previously announced deals with USBookmaking and Cahuilla Casino. In the past year, they've run contests for everything from traditional sports to reality TV, esports, and private golf clubs. They have also partnered with Wagr, a licensed sportsbook operator, to help drive user acquisition during football season. They recently achieved GLI-33 Sportsbook certification and announced a capital raise on StartEngine.
ABOUT SPARKET
Sparket's mission is to democratize event wagering through expanded content in traditional sports, esports, live events, and beyond via a community-based social platform. Their B2B Social Betwork™ software adds new content to help partners drive user acquisition and retention across broader audiences. It features self setting pari-mutuel odds that limit operator exposure and a proprietary system to crowdsource event data. Their offerings to partners include free-to-play contests, custom events, and real money wagering integrations. The product is fully customizable and can be white-labeled for any brand.
Contact
Aaron Basch
Co-Founder & CEO at Sparket
basch@betsparket.com
To learn more about Sparket follow us online www.betsparket.com, @betSparket on social:
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SOURCE Sparket | 2022-10-07T15:57:26+00:00 | live5news.com | https://www.live5news.com/prnewswire/2022/10/07/sparket-announces-partnership-with-station-casinos/ |
ATLANTA, July 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ty J. Young Wealth Management, one of Atlanta's largest financial advisory practices, has announced it has acquired Annuity Pros, LLC. The acquisition of the Gulf Breeze, FL based financial services firm marks Ty J. Young's 22nd acquisition in the past four years as part of its rapid nationwide expansion.
"It's our honor to have the opportunity to serve the clients of Annuity Pros, LLC," says CEO Ty Young. "The clients and management of Annuity Pros, LLC have the mindset, priorities, and goals that match those of Ty J. Young Wealth Management. It's a good fit."
Founded by financial industry veteran Warren R. Thompson in 2008, Annuity Pros, LLC specializes in providing retirement planning and fixed annuities to its clients across Florida with a focus on simplified retirement strategies that deliver a reasonable rate of return with safety of principal.
Ty J. Young Wealth Management is one of America's largest independent wealth management firms. Founded by Ty J. Young in 1998, the firm manages more than $1 billion in assets for more than 7,000 clients nationwide. They are recognized as a thought leader in investment management, retirement planning and insurance with Ty Young frequently being featured on CNBC, Forbes, Fox Business and more. Learn more about Ty J. Young Wealth Management at: https://www.tyjyoung.com/
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SOURCE Ty J. Young Wealth Management | 2022-07-14T21:54:48+00:00 | kwch.com | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2022/07/14/ty-j-young-wealth-management-acquires-annuity-pros-llc/ |
NPR's Steve Inskeep talks with a Forest Service fire lookout who's watching New Mexico's largest ever wildfire and grieving the landscape he knows and loves.
Copyright 2022 NPR
NPR's Steve Inskeep talks with a Forest Service fire lookout who's watching New Mexico's largest ever wildfire and grieving the landscape he knows and loves.
Copyright 2022 NPR | 2022-06-20T10:21:00+00:00 | wyomingpublicmedia.org | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-06-20/a-new-mexico-firewatcher-describes-watching-his-world-burn |
Water parks and pools around Milwaukee
MILWAUKEE - July 28 is National Water Park Day! Milwaukee With Kids founder Calie Herbst joins us with some of the best spots to cool off in the Milwaukee area.
MILWAUKEE - July 28 is National Water Park Day! Milwaukee With Kids founder Calie Herbst joins us with some of the best spots to cool off in the Milwaukee area. | 2023-07-27T17:54:02+00:00 | fox6now.com | https://www.fox6now.com/real-milwaukee/water-parks-and-pools-around-milwaukee |
No. 3 TCU upsets No. 2 Michigan 51-45 in wild CFP semifinal
GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — TCU’s wild ride has one more stop.
The Horned Frogs are headed to Sofi Stadium in Inglewood, California, about 10 miles from Hollywood, just about the perfect place to end a storybook season for the most improbable team to ever make the College Football Playoff.
Max Duggan accounted for four touchdowns, TCU returned two interceptions for scores and the third-ranked Horned Frogs withstood a frenetic second-half surge by No. 2 Michigan to win the Fiesta Bowl 51-45 on Saturday night.
TCU (13-1) will play either No. 1 Georgia or No. 4 Ohio State on Jan. 9 for the national championship.
Coming off a losing 2021 season and picked to finish seventh in the Big 12 in Sonny Dykes’ first year as coach, the Horned Frogs will try to win the program’s first national championship since 1938.
It took TCU six weeks to get ranked this season, and almost every step of the way their worthiness was doubted.
“At some point, you just kind of quit listening to what everybody says,” Dykes said.
Duggan and the Frogs will no doubt be underdogs in the title game — again. That didn’t matter much against Michigan (13-1) as they took it to the big, bad Big Ten champions and turned the Fiesta Bowl into circa-2010, Big 12-style scorefest.
“We heard all week how they were going to out-physical us,” TCU linebacker Dee Winters said.
It was the highest scoring Fiesta Bowl ever and the second-highest scoring CFP game behind Georgia’s 54-48 Rose Bowl victory against Oklahoma on Jan. 1, 2018.
Maybe it was fitting.
TCU, the little private school from Forth Worth, Texas, that was left out of the Big 12 when it first formed in the mid-1990s, became the first team from the conference to win a CFP game and will be the first to play for a national title since Texas in 2009.
This one was 34-16 after Dee Winters’ 29-yard pick-6 with 2:46 left in the third quarter. The Hypnotoads, a nickname borrowed for the animated TV show “Futurama,” and their purple-clad fans were drowning the Michigan fans, sensing the dream was still alive
Of course, nothing has come easy for these Frogs. During their unbeaten regular season, they won seven straight games by 10 points or fewer.
What followed was five touchdown drives — with a TCU turnover tucked in between — each taking less than a minute.
“The winner was football,” Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh said.
Roman Wilson’s 18-yard touchdown run on a reverse and a 2-point conversion pulled Michigan within 41-38 with 14:13 left in the fourth quarter.
Back came the Frogs, unleashing their best weapon. Future first-round draft pick Quentin Johnston took a short crosser from Duggan and turned it up the sideline for a 76-yard score that put the Frogs up 10.
Duggan threw for 225 yards and two interceptions and ran for 57. Johnston had six catches for 163 yards and Emari Demercado, picking up the slack for an injured Kendre Miller, ran for 150. All of that against a defense that ranked third in the nation coming in.
TCU finally got a stop on Michigan’s next possession and turned it into a 33-yard field goal by Griffin Kell to go up 51-38 with 10:02 left.
After the Frogs and Wolverines combined for 62 points in 20 second-half minutes, the pace was throttled back. But Michigan cut the lead to six with 3:14 left on J.J. McCarthy’s 5-yard TD pass to Wilson.
McCarthy was spectacular at times with 343 yards passing, 52 rushing and three touchdowns. He also made two killer mistakes, tossing pick-sixes in each half.
“Titanic effort. Phenomenal effort by J.J.,” Harbaugh said.
TCU couldn’t ice it and Michigan got one more shot, starting from its 25 with 52 seconds left — but couldn’t get a first down.
Before TCU could line up in victory formation, there was an officials’ review for targeting on the Frogs. What was another minute or so of drama in a season filled with stress for TCU?
The play was clean. Duggan, the Heisman Trophy runner-up, took one last snap and a knee and the exhausted Frogs rushed the field and celebrated under cloud of purple and white confetti.
The Frogs hopped out to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter, with safety Bud Clark making two of the biggest plays of the game. First, he chased down Michigan’s Donovan Edwards to prevent a long touchdown on the very first play from scrimmage.
TCU then used a goal line stand — stymieing a Philly Special-style fourth down play by Michigan — to keep the Wolverines off the board.
On Michigan’s next possession, Clark broke fast on a throw to the sideline by McCarthy and raced 41 yards with a pick-6 that put TCU up 7-0.
Duggan completed a long touchdown drive with a 1-yard plunge with 2:27 left in the first quarter and the Frogs were up 14-0 on touchdown-favorite Wolverines.
Michigan broke the ice with a field goal and then looked as if it had flipped the game back its way.
Rod Moore picked off a tipped pass at midfield by Duggan and McCarthy went deep to Roman Wilson on the next play for what appeared to be a 51-yard touchdown pass. A review overturned the call and set up Michigan inside the 1. No problem for a team with the nation’s best offensive line, right?
Michigan ran a quick hand off to fullback Kalel Mullings, who fumbled. TCU recovered, putting down another Michigan scoring threat.
THE TAKEAWAY
TCU: How the Frogs’ 3-3-5 defense, ostensibly built to counter spread offenses with speed, held up against Michigan’s power was the biggest Xs and Os question coming into the Fiesta Bowl.
The answer: Pretty good for a half. TCU had three sacks — all by Dylan Horton — among six tackles for loss in the first half as the Frogs took a 21-6 lead.
Michigan: Harbaugh’s Wolverines put up a better showing in their second straight CFP semifinal appearance, but will lament the missed opportunities. Their first three first-and-goal situations produced three points.
Michigan fell to 1-6 in bowl games under Harbaugh.
“Told my team: ‘You don’t quit. You don’t give up,” he said. “Really proud of the fight.”
UP NEXT
TCU: The Frogs are a combined 1-9-1 all-time against Georgia and Ohio State.
Michigan: The Wolverines open next season in the Big House against East Carolina.
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Follow Ralph D. Russo at https://twitter.com/ralphDrussoAP and listen at http://www.appodcasts.com
___
AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/college-football and https://twitter.com/ap_top25
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-01-01T02:52:36+00:00 | wbrc.com | https://www.wbrc.com/2023/01/01/no-3-tcu-upsets-no-2-michigan-51-45-wild-cfp-semifinal/ |
Updated May 21, 2022 at 9:46 PM ET
Tiger Woods withdrew from the PGA Championship on Saturday after posting his worst career score in the event.
He shot nine-over par 79 in the third round.
It marked the first time Woods has withdrawn from a major golf championship in his professional career.
"Tiger Woods has informed us that he is withdrawing from the 2022 PGA Championship," PGA of America President Jim Richerson said in a statement. "We admire Tiger's valiant effort to compete here at Southern Hills and wish him the best as he continues to recover from his injuries."
Woods has struggled after suffering a leg injury in a car accident last year. The PGA Championship was his second major golf event since the crash.
Woods managed one stroke under par for the first 36 holes in the second round of the tournament on Friday. After Saturday's round, he was 12-over par for the tournament and tied for last place.
The championship, set in Southern Hills in Tulsa, Okla., follows a poor showing at the Masters from the once-dominant golfer, who shot a career-worst before ending 47th at the tournament in Georgia last month.
Since his return to the pro golf arena, Woods, 46, has said he's grateful to be playing at all.
Woods has not said whether he will play in the U.S. Open in June but has said he plans to compete at the British Open in July.
Mito Pereira of Chile leads going into the fourth round of the PGA Championship on Sunday.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2022-05-25T02:36:32+00:00 | upr.org | https://www.upr.org/npr-news/npr-news/2022-05-21/tiger-woods-withdraws-from-the-pga-championship |
Dr. Seuss’ ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas!’ gets a sequel
BOSTON (AP) — Dr. Seuss fans might find their hearts growing three sizes this coming holiday season with the release of a sequel to the 1957 classic children’s book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!”
The new book picks up one year after the original, and like the first, teaches a valuable lesson about the true spirit of the holiday, Dr. Seuss Enterprises and Random House Children’s Books announced Thursday.
The sequel entitled “How the Grinch Lost Christmas!” is not based on a newly discovered manuscript by Seuss — whose real name was Theodor Geisel — but was written and illustrated by an author and artist with previous experience in the Dr. Seuss universe.
“One of the most asked questions we receive from Seuss fans of all ages is ‘What do you think happened to the Grinch after he stole Christmas?” said Alice Jonaitis, executive editor at Random House Children’s Books, in a statement.
The original Grinch book has sold nearly 10 million copies in North America alone and like other Seuss books has been translated into multiple languages. It was made into a 1966 animated TV special narrated by Boris Karloff, a 2000 live-action movie starring Jim Carrey and a computer-animated film in 2018 with Benedict Cumberbatch voicing the Grinch.
The new book, scheduled for release Sept. 5, is written by Alastair Heim and illustrated by Aristides Ruiz. Heim has written Seuss-themed books like “If I Ran Your School” and “I Am the Cat in the Hat.” Ruiz has illustrated the Cat in the Hat’s Learning Library books for more than two decades.
“All throughout writing the story, I couldn’t fully believe that I was actually getting to play in the amazing creative sandbox Dr. Seuss created all those decades ago,” Heim said in an email.
Working on the Grinch sequel was an awesome responsibility, Ruiz said via email.
“When I heard of the opportunity to be a part of this project, I jumped at the chance only to find that it was difficult and daunting to approach adding to or expanding such an esteemed and treasured part of the American Christmas canon,” he said.
In the original, the Grinch tries to ruin Christmas for the people of Who-ville by making off in the middle of the night with all the material trappings and sumptuous food of the holiday.
When the Whos gather to sing on Christmas morning, the Grinch realizes that the holiday is not about toys and feasting, but about joyously celebrating with family and neighbors and as Seuss wrote, the Grinch’s “heart grew three sizes that day.”
In the sequel, the Grinch wants to show how much he loves the holiday by winning Who-ville’s Christmas Crown with the most spectacular Christmas tree ever seen, according to Dr. Seuss Enterprises.
But when his plan goes awry, the Grinch turns into his old, cold-hearted self, until his friend Cindy-Lou Who, reminds him that Christmas is not all about winning.
Geisel, who died in 1991 at age 87, authored dozens of books, including “Green Eggs and Ham” and “The Cat in the Hat.”
Some of his work has been criticized in recent years because of racist imagery that in 2021 prompted Dr. Seuss Enterprises to cease publication of six books, including “And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street” and “If I Ran the Zoo.”
But his work remains popular. Forbes magazine ranked him eighth on a 2022 list of the highest-paid dead celebrities, with $32 million in earnings.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-02-24T16:46:39+00:00 | kswo.com | https://www.kswo.com/2023/02/24/dr-seuss-how-grinch-stole-christmas-gets-sequel/ |
WARSAW, Poland (AP) — The leader of Poland’s largest opposition party on Tuesday called on the country’s ruling party to fully clarify the facts surrounding an eight-year-old scandal involving the illegal recordings of top politicians and coal imports from Russia.
Donald Tusk said it has long been clear that Russia was involved in the episode, but that a parliamentary investigative commission was needed to determine the scale of Russian interference and to what extent any Poles collaborated with Russian intelligence services.
The wiretapping and publication of private conversations of leaders from the world of politics and business created a scandal in 2014 that damaged the standing of Tusk’s pro-European party, Civic Platform, and helped the ruling populist Law and Justice party win power the following year.
Tusk argued at a news conference in Warsaw that the affair cast a shadow over the current right-wing government because of an impression that it came to power with the help of Russian interference.
Addressing ruling party leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski, Tusk said: “Mr. Kaczynski, it is in the interest of Poland, of public opinion, but also in the interest of you and your party, that this disturbing ambiguity, this disturbing shadow hanging over your governments should not remain.”
“I am calling for the establishment of a parliamentary investigative committee so that no one in Poland can speculate that Law and Justice’s power was in fact installed by the Russian services,” Tusk said. “Today such guesses are valid.”
A Polish businessman, Marek Falenta, was convicted and sentenced to 2½ years in prison for organizing the illegal recordings in Warsaw restaurants, while two waiters were also convicted.
At the time of the recordings, Falenta owed millions of dollars to a Russian coal company linked to President Vladimir Putin. His business interests were hurt by plans by the Civic Platform-led government to block Russian coal imports.
The matter returned to public debate this week after Poland’s edition of Newsweek published a report citing the testimony a witness gave to Gdansk prosecutors in 2021. The witness, a former business partner of Falenta identified only as Marcin W., said in the testimony cited by Newsweek that the illegal recordings had been sold to Russian intelligence operatives before they were were published in Polish magazines starting in 2014.
After Law and Justice took power, Poland increased its imports of Russian coal, although blocked them this year in reaction to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The investigative journalist who wrote the article, Grzegorz Rzeczkowski, said that prosecutors in Poland were investigating the financial and business aspects of the case, but were “completely ignoring the espionage thread.”
Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro, who is also the prosecutor general, said that Tusk’s statements were untrue and that the the national prosecutor’s office would publish Marcin W.’s testimony on its website Wednesday.
“This disclosure is important and will lead to the conclusion that the prosecutor’s office is not acting in this case for political reasons, but is explaining the matter in a manner free from political motivations,” Ziobro said.
A day earlier Ziobro said that if Russian intelligence services had a role in the recordings, then it was ultimately compromising for Tusk, who governed Poland as prime minister from 2007-2014, because it shows that Poland’s own security services “were so weak that the Russians could act freely here.”
Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki accused Tusk of creating “completely false scenarios” in order to improve his own reputation.
Tusk argued at the news conference in Warsaw that Poland had become far too dependent on Russian coal imports in the early years of the Law and Justice government, a matter of consequence now as Poland faces a coal shortage amid a larger energy crisis. | 2022-10-19T11:28:45+00:00 | kxnet.com | https://www.kxnet.com/news/business-beat/ap-business/ap-tusk-calls-for-probe-into-russian-role-in-polish-wiretapping/ |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Elon Musk and Donald Trump share bestride-the-colossus egos, an incessant desire to be the center of attention and a platform to showcase their eccentricities and erraticism.
Both the Tesla CEO and the former president have used that platform, Twitter, as a sword and a shield — a soapbox to rouse the passions (and tap the pocketbooks) of tens of millions of followers and repulse the other side.
Trump weaponized Twitter before he was banned after the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Musk was a persistent Twitter poster, taunting stock market regulators and railing against his version of conformity in numerous tweets. Then he decided to buy the platform.
Now both face a reckoning this week brought on at least in part by their use of Twitter to advance their agendas and feed their outsize id.
Trump is confronted with a select congressional committee’s unanimous recommendation to the Justice Department on Monday that he be criminally prosecuted for his part in the Jan. 6 assault on the Capitol by supporters stirred to action that day by his public remarks, on and off social media.
Right behind that could come the release Tuesday of Trump tax returns, now in the hands of another House panel, that he has spent years fighting to keep private.
After firing about half the Twitter workforce and sowing chaos with impulsive and ever-changing policies, Musk essentially asked users whether he should fire himself. In an unscientific poll he set up, a majority of the 17.5 million respondents said he should step down as Twitter chief. No word yet whether he will honor the result as promised.
The tribulations of these two June babies, born 25 years and continents apart, may be unlike anything thrown at them before.
“The biggest thing they have in common is little experience with true failure, that is, failure with consequences,” said Eric Dezenhall, a consultant to companies beset by crisis.
“Even though Trump has failed multiple times, he’s always been protected by family money and amazing luck,” Dezenhall said. “While Musk is a genius, he’s had the good fortune to have built multiple businesses on government funding rather than in the bruising free market.
“Given their life experiences, how could these guys not feel invincible?”
Kindred spirits at least in part, Musk invited Trump back on Twitter shortly after he bought it. So far, Trump is sticking with his own platform, Truth Social, which has miniscule reach in comparison.
Musk’s invitation was a selective exercise of the right to free speech, as he also suspended a variety of mainstream journalists from Twitter and banned links to “prohibited” social media sites like Facebook, before relenting to some degree on both fronts.
Musk was until recently the world’s richest man, with the amount verified by the worth of his stock. Trump has often argued he should be considered among the wealthiest, though behind that claim was a mirage.
Both have operated from a sense that things begin and end by CEO fiat. But Musk has also built viable companies and genuine wealth, in contrast with Trump’s record of self-branding, fraught real estate deals and dubious enterprises regarding steaks, vodka or even his own real estate investor “university.”
Musk registers 120 million Twitter followers; Trump, a Republican, had 88 million when he was barred from the platform after the Jan. 6 insurrection. The site has vastly amplified both their voices, in a way that has benefited Musk’s businesses and Trump’s political career over the years, though at a cost to their reputations.
“A hater hellscape,” Musk called Twitter in 2017. But it also was a siren’s call to him.
“On Twitter, likes are rare & criticism is brutal,” he tweeted in 2018. “So hardcore.
“It’s great.”
On that platform, Musk comes across less as the visionary engineer who made electric vehicles hot, builds reusable rockets and cares deeply about climate change than as a petty settler of personal scores who can sink into right-wing conspiracy theories and misogyny.
A month ago, teasing Trump for holding out just after Twitter agreed to let him back in, Musk posted a depiction of a woman naked from the waist down, with the Twitter logo covering her genitals and Trump, as Jesus, looking on. “And lead us not into temptation,” said Musk’s post.
Both men have used Twitter to assail the mainstream media, spread misinformation, push the limits of what’s acceptable in social media and engage in provocations that can make it hard to look away.
But of the two, only Trump held the power of office. For all his spacecraft, Musk’s universe is much smaller. In the public-opinion influence game, it’s made up mostly of tweets and corporate policy about how to manage them.
Their politics don’t match — Musk’s right-wing and libertarian beliefs come with a devotion to controlling global warming, for example, and Trump’s don’t. Their personalities differ in some respects, too — Musk admits error and even apologizes on occasion; Trump doesn’t.
Their work ethic bears no resemblance to each other.
Trump, a 76-year-old from Queens in New York City, spends most of his time at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, after a presidency notable for ample time on the golf links. Musk, a 51-year-old native of South Africa who lived in Canada as a young man, is known for working insane hours, hands on, these days in Twitter’s San Francisco headquarters.
But as disrupters, they might as well be twins separated at birth.
“Both of these guys are free-stylers,” said Dezenhall. “There is never a plan, never a strategy, just a collection of on-the-fly tactics. This has worked out very well for them.
“It wouldn’t be the case for the rest of us.”
___
Associated Press writers Barbara Ortutay in San Francisco and Josh Boak in Baltimore contributed to this report. | 2022-12-20T22:24:52+00:00 | krqe.com | https://www.krqe.com/news/business/ap-elon-musk-and-donald-trump-2-disrupters-face-a-reckoning/ |
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A federal indictment accuses a California woman of stealing more than $1 million from her employer while working for a Minnesota property management company.
Mai Houa Xiong, 47, who now lives in Fresno, California, has been indicted by a grand jury in Minneapolis on charges of wire fraud, identity theft and filing false tax returns in connection with the scheme she allegedly ran for more than six years until August 2021, even after she was fired.
Xiong was arrested last week and awaits her next court hearing, which has not yet to be scheduled. Court records do not list an attorney for her or the company for whom she worked.
According to court documents, Xiong was hired as a financial manager for the company in May 2013 and “had little oversight and nearly unfettered access” to the bank accounts of the company's clients, which are Twin Cities homeowner associations, or HOAs.
The indictment said the money she allegedly stole came from fees the HOAs collected from residents to cover maintenance, construction and other costs.
Prosecutors said Xiong transferred money into her personal bank accounts and mislabeled the transactions as legitimate HOA expenses. She also made cash withdrawals directly from the HOAs’ accounts, even for a month after she was fired. | 2022-09-27T16:15:51+00:00 | lmtonline.com | https://www.lmtonline.com/news/article/Woman-accused-of-stealing-1-million-from-MN-17469961.php |
WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. (AP) — Nick Chubb established himself long ago as a special player, a stunning mix of speed, power and precision. A threat to score for the Browns every time he touches the football.
These days, Chubb is even more unusual among his peers.
He’s well paid.
With a trend of NFL teams devaluing their position, Chubb and a few fellow star running backs Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry and Christian McCaffrey — along with some young ones — took part in a Zoom call on Saturday night to discuss their options in a dwindling market for ball carriers.
“We’re definitely in a tough situation,” said Chubb, who is under contract through 2024 but has no guaranteed money next season. “Next year it could be me.”
Normally reserved and sometimes painfully quiet in interviews, Chubb opened up to reporters following Cleveland’s practice to discuss this growing trend of teams either underpaying or lowballing running backs.
This subject was near and dear to Chubb.
“There’s really nothing we can do,” he said Sunday following practice. “We’re kind of handcuffed with the situation. Our production hurts us the most. If we go out there and run for 2,000 yards with so many carries, the next year they’re going to say you’re probably worn down.
“That’s the biggest thing that I took from it (the call). It’s just tough. It hurts us just to go out there and do good. It hurts us at the end of the day.”
Unable to come to terms on a long-term contract from the New York Giants, Barkley threatened last week to sit out training camp in protest. The Giants offered the 26-year-old the $10 million franchise tender for running backs.
Josh Jacobs is in a similar situation with the Las Vegas Raiders and hasn’t signed his tender after failing to get a new deal.
Chubb, who rushed for a career-high 1,525 yards last season with 12 touchdowns, feels fortunate. He signed a three-year, $36 million deal in 2021 with Cleveland — the last running back to secure more than $10 million per season.
The four-time Pro Bowler understands the business side of the game, but that doesn’t offset seeing colleagues penalized.
“I got another year (under contract),” said Chubb, who has rushed for 6,341 yards in five seasons. “So I mean it’s easy for me to say it’s not a big deal, but next year it could be me in the same situation. But for right now, I do got one more year. I’m here. I’m all in. I’m ready to work with my guys.”
The Browns would expect nothing else.
Chubb is one of the team’s unquestioned leaders, a throwback of sorts due to his business-first demeanor and an unparalleled work ethic.
Not only do the Browns value Chubb, they see him as perhaps their most valuable offensive player with perhaps an even larger role this season.
“Nick’s a huge part of our offense, obviously, handing it to him, throwing it to him,” said coach Kevin Stefanski. “He’s been adept at both where we go as you evolve, and maybe different run types for him. We have very good empirical data on what he’s good at, and it’s tried and true.
“I don’t know if there’s limits to him as a player. He’s a schematic fit, really, in anything you do.”
Chubb said his representatives have not approached the Browns about another contract extension.
General manager Andrew Berry acknowledged the NFL’s evolution from a run-dominant sport to more passing has changed how teams allocate their finances. Chubb’s production made it a no-brainer to sign him for multiple years.
“When we made our decision at running back, we felt like we had a superstar who embodied everything that we wanted within the organization,” he said. “So we didn’t overthink it. It’s Nick Chubb, right?
“And so for us it was a pretty straightforward decision because those difference-makers are hard to find.”
Before training camp, Chubb posted a video on social media of him squatting 600 pounds. With spotters flanking him on both sides, Chubb powered up the weights as the bar bent across his broad shoulders.
The image made Berry both proud of Chubb and nervous.
“He’s a freak of nature,” Berry said.
NOTES: WR Amari Cooper left the field late in practice with an unspecified injury. Berry said Cooper had a “minor tweak” but provided no other details. Cooper underwent surgery to repair a core muscle in February. … Rookie OT Dawand Jones sat out with an illness. He was on the field for Saturday’s first workout at The Greenbrier Resort. … LBs Sione Takitaki (knee) and Anthony Walker Jr. (quadriceps) took part in individual drills before doing condition work to the side during the team portions.
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AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL | 2023-07-23T21:43:50+00:00 | wdtn.com | https://www.wdtn.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-browns-nick-chubb-among-several-star-running-backs-to-discuss-devalued-position-on-zoom-call/ |
VANNICOLA, Pansy "Pat"
Pansy "Pat" Vannicola, age 97, born in Cowden, IL, and long time resident Dayton, Ohio, passed away on Wednesday, January 11, 2023. She is preceded in death by her parents, David and Freda Pettyjohn; 5 brothers; and husband, Frank Vannicola in 1995. Pat retired from Joe's Pizza after 25 years of service. She traveled extensively with her husband, Frank and in her later years she did senior bus trips. One of her fondest trips was to Italy with Frank to visit relatives and numerous trips to Las Vegas. She enjoyed family, holiday gatherings and bargain hunting. Pat is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Tony (Maureen); daughters and son-in-laws, Theresa (Rex), Roberta (Fred); grandchildren, Nick (Erika), Kira, 2 other grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends, especially Kathy Loyd. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Pat's name. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11am on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 2300 S. Smithville Road, Dayton, Ohio. The family will receive friends from 10am until mass begins at 11am. Pat's final resting place will be at Dayton National Cemetery with her husband Frank. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.tobiasfh.com for the Vannicola family.
Funeral Home Information
Tobias Funeral Home - Belmont Chapel | 2023-01-15T07:40:01+00:00 | daytondailynews.com | https://www.daytondailynews.com/obituaries/vannicola-pansy/ID7LTSF4HZHGRBTS7VTEI2PP54/ |
A cancer diagnosis is scary. Some doctors say it’s time to rename low-grade prostate cancer to eliminate the alarming C-word.
Cancer cells develop in nearly all prostates as men age, and most prostate cancers are harmless. About 34,000 Americans die from prostate cancer annually, but treating the disease can lead to sexual dysfunction and incontinence.
Changing the name could lead more low-risk patients to skip unnecessary surgery and radiation.
“This is the least aggressive, wimpiest form of prostate cancer that is literally incapable of causing symptoms or spreading to other parts of the body,” said University of Chicago Medicine’s Dr. Scott Eggener, who is reviving a debate about how to explain the threat to worried patients.
The words “You have cancer” have a profound effect on patients, Eggener wrote Monday in Journal of Clinical Oncology. He and his co-authors say fear of the disease can cause some patients to overreact and opt for unneeded surgery or radiation.
Others agree. “If you reduce anxiety, you’ll reduce overtreatment,” said Dr. David Penson of Vanderbilt University. “The word ‘cancer,’ it puts an idea in their head: ‘I have to have this treated.’”
Diagnosis sometimes starts with a PSA blood test, which looks for high levels of a protein that may mean cancer but can also be caused by less serious prostate problems or even vigorous exercise.
When a patient has a suspicious test result, a doctor might recommend a biopsy, which involves taking samples of tissue from the prostate gland. Next, a pathologist looks under a microscope and scores the samples for how abnormal the cells look.
Often, doctors offer patients with the lowest score — Gleason 6 — a way to avoid surgery and radiation: active surveillance, which involves close monitoring but no immediate treatment.
In the U.S., about 60% of low-risk patients choose active surveillance. But they might still worry.
“I would be over the moon if people came up with a new name for Gleason 6 disease,” Penson said. “It will allow a lot of men to sleep better at night.”
But Dr. Joel Nelson of University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, said dropping the word “cancer” would “misinform patients by telling them there’s nothing wrong. There’s nothing wrong today, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have to keep track of what we’ve discovered.”
Name changes have happened previously in low-risk cancers of the bladder, cervix and thyroid. In breast cancer, there’s an ongoing debate about dropping “carcinoma” from DCIS, or ductal carcinoma in situ.
In prostate cancer, the 1960s-era Gleason ranking system has evolved, which is how 6 became the lowest score. Patients may assume it’s a medium score on a scale of 1 to 10. In fact, it’s the lowest on a scale of 6 to 10.
What to call it instead of cancer? Proposals include IDLE for indolent lesion of epithelial origin, or INERRT for indolent neoplasm rarely requiring treatment.
“I don’t really give a hoot what it’s called as long as it’s not called cancer,” Eggener said.
Steve Rienks, a 72-year-old civil engineer in Naperville, Illinois, was diagnosed with Gleason 6 prostate cancer in 2014. He chose active surveillance, and follow-up biopsies in 2017 and 2021 found no evidence of cancer.
Calling it something else would help patients make informed choices, Rienks said, but that’s not enough: Patients need to ask questions until they feel confident.
“It’s about understanding risk,” Rienks said. “I would encourage my fellow males to educate themselves and get additional medical opinions.”
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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. | 2022-04-19T05:21:27+00:00 | siouxlandproud.com | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/news/health/doctors-suggest-new-names-for-low-grade-prostate-cancer/ |
TORONTO, May 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Spin Master Corp. ("Spin Master" or the "Company") (TSX: TOY) (www.spinmaster.com), a leading global children's entertainment company, today announced its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2023. The Company's full Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") for the three months ended March 31, 2023 is available under the Company's profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) and posted on the Company's web site at www.spinmaster.com. All financial information is presented in United States dollars ("$", "dollars" and "US$") and has been rounded to the nearest hundred thousand, except per share amounts and where otherwise indicated.
"Our first quarter performance was ahead of expectations and reflects encouraging entertainment and digital games performance. We saw continued pressure from excess toy inventory at retail and retailer caution, alongside the return of historical seasonality for Toy Gross Product Sales," said Max Rangel, Spin Master's Global President & CEO. "As we continue to navigate the fluid environment, we remain confident in our strategy to reimagine everyday play, leveraging the power of our three creative centres to capture market share, deliver profitable growth and create long-term shareholder value. In 2023, we will bring breakthrough innovation to the toy aisle, alongside impressive launches within our core and licensed brand portfolios. Our investment in the creation of multi-platform content will be fully realized with the release of our most diverse entertainment slate to date, including the highly anticipated second PAW Patrol theatrical release and two new original series, which are expected to drive new licensing and merchandising opportunities. Finally, we will continue to expand our digital games ecosystem with several new digital games and gaming experiences designed to broaden our audience base, attracting kids of all ages and spawning new fans and player communities. Given our financial framework for value creation, the power of our three creative centres and our strong financial position, we are well-positioned to execute against our strategy, investing in innovation, geographic expansion and acquisitions to drive long-term profitable growth and maximize shareholder value."
"As expected, Toy Gross Product Sales in the first quarter of 2023 declined in comparison to 2022, amidst inventory clearance activities at retail arising from the carryover of inventory from Q4 2022 and challenging comps from movie-related launches in Q1 2022," said Mark Segal, Spin Master's Chief Financial Officer. "We expect retail inventory headwinds to be over by the end of the second quarter. An anticipated shift back to more normal toy seasonal revenue patterns supports our expectation of strong year-over-year revenue growth in the second half of 2023. Our financial discipline and effective cost management, and solid entertainment and digital games performance, enabled us to generate strong Adjusted EBITDA of over $30 million for the quarter. Over the last five years our three creative centres have generated close to a billion dollars in Free Cash Flow, enabling us to execute on multiple strategic M&A transactions, innovative IP-driven growth, geographic expansion and investment in content and digital games, as well as enhancing total shareholder returns through the introduction of a dividend and a share repurchase program."
Consolidated Financial Highlights for Q1 2023 as compared to the same period in 2022
- Revenue was $271.4 million, a decrease of 36.0% from $424.2 million. Constant Currency Revenue1 was $275.6 million, a decrease of 35.0%, from $424.2 million.
- Revenue declined by 46.9% in Toys and 7.0% in Digital Games, partially offset by a 69.4% increase in Entertainment.
- Operating Loss was $6.1 million compared to Operating Income of $61.7 million.
- Operating Margin1 was (2.2)% compared to 14.5%.
- Adjusted Operating Income1 was $12.7 million compared to $77.3 million.
- Adjusted Operating Margin1 was 4.7% compared to 18.2%.
- Adjusted EBITDA1 was $30.6 million compared to $95.7 million.
- Adjusted EBITDA Margin1 was 11.3% compared to 22.6%.
- Cash used in operating activities was $4.3 million compared to $62.9 million.
- Free Cash Flow1 was $(34.4) million compared to $(79.4) million.
- The Company repurchased and cancelled 241,500 subordinate voting shares during the quarter, through the Company's normal course issuer bid ("NCIB") program, for proceeds of $6.3 million. Subsequent to March 31, 2023, the Company repurchased 156,200 subordinate voting shares for cancellation at a cost of $4.2 million.
- On January 17, the Company acquired certain assets of 4D Brands International Inc. for total purchase consideration of $20.2 million. On February 2, the Company acquired the HEXBUG brand of toys from Innovation First International, Inc., for total purchase consideration of $15.5 million. The acquisitions are reported in the Activities, Games & Puzzles and Plush and Wheels & Action product categories within the Toys operating segment, respectively.
- Subsequent to the quarter end, the Company acquired certain intellectual property of Mondrian Blocks, a Hungarian company, for total purchase consideration of $3.0 million. The acquisition is expected to complement the Company's existing Games & Puzzles offering.
- Subsequent to March 31, 2023, the Company declared a quarterly dividend of 0.06 CAD per outstanding subordinate voting share and multiple voting share in respect of the second quarter of 2023, payable July 14, 2023.
Consolidated Financial Results as compared to the same period in 2022
Segmented Financial Results as compared to the same period in 2022
Toys Segment Results
The following table provides a summary of Toys segment operating results, for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022:
- Toy revenue decreased by $164.6 million or 46.9% to $186.3 million primarily driven by a decrease in Toy Gross Product Sales1.
- Toy Gross Product Sales1 declined by $181.2 million or 45.6%, to $216.3 million from $397.5 million. Constant Currency Toy Gross Product Sales1 declined by $177.8 million or 44.7% to $219.7 million, down from $397.5 million.
- The decline in Toy Gross Product Sales1 was a result of lower order volume, as customers focused on reducing their retail inventory levels carried forward from 2022. In comparison, Toy Gross Product Sales1 in Q1 2022 were supported by customers ordering earlier in the year and sales related to the launch of the DC Comics Batman movie and PAW Patrol: The Movie.
- Sales Allowances decreased by $16.6 million or 35.6% to $30.0 million. As a percentage of Toy Gross Product Sales1, Sales Allowances increased by 2.2% to 13.9% from 11.7%, primarily driven by geographic and customer mix.
- Operating Loss was $41.8 million compared to Operating Income of $41.4 million representing a variance of $83.2 million.
- Operating Margin was (22.4)% compared to 11.8%. The decline was due to lower Toy revenue relative to selling, general & administrative expenses and depreciation and amortization.
- Adjusted EBITDA Margin1 was (11.5)% compared to 16.8%. Adjusted EBITDA Margin1 declined primarily as a result of lower Operating Margin.
Entertainment Segment Results
The following table provides a summary of Entertainment segment operating results, for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022:
- Entertainment revenue increased by $15.4 million or 69.4% to $37.6 million, driven by higher distribution revenue and licensing and merchandising revenue primarily related to PAW Patrol and the newly launched Rubble & Crew. Constant Currency Entertainment Revenue1 increased by $15.4 million or 69.4% to $37.6 million, from $22.2 million.
- Operating Margin was 77.9% compared to 50.5%.
- Adjusted Operating Margin1 was 79.5% compared to 51.4%.
- Operating Margin and Adjusted Operating Margin1 increased primarily due to higher distribution revenue and licensing and merchandising revenue as well as lower costs due to fewer content deliveries in the current year.
Digital Games Segment Results
The following table provides a summary of Digital Games segment operating results, for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022:
- Digital Games revenue decreased by $3.6 million or 7.0% to $47.5 million primarily due to lower in-app revenue in Toca Life World. Constant Currency Digital Games Revenue1 decreased by $1.9 million or 3.7% to $49.2 million, down from $51.1 million.
- Operating Margin was 34.1% compared to 38.7%. Operating Margin decreased due to higher development costs related to the investment in future digital games. Adjusted Operating Margin1 was 40.0% compared to 42.3%. Adjusted Operating Margin1 decreased due to a decrease in Operating Margin partially offset by higher acquisition related deferred incentive compensation.
Liquidity and Capitalization
As at March 31, 2023, the Company had unutilized liquidity of $1,079.3 million, comprised of $569.3 million in Cash and cash equivalents and $510.0 million under the Company's credit facilities.
On March 10, 2023, the Company entered into an automatic share repurchase plan with its designated broker to effect the purchase of subordinate voting shares under the NCIB. The Company repurchased and cancelled 241,500 subordinate voting shares during the quarter for proceeds of $6.3 million.
Subsequent to the quarter, the Company repurchased 156,200 subordinate voting shares for cancellation at a cost of $4.2 million.
The weighted average basic and diluted shares outstanding as at March 31, 2023 were 103.0 million and 106.6 million, compared to 102.4 million and 105.5 million in the prior year.
The Company's Board of Directors declared a dividend of C$0.06 per outstanding subordinate voting share and multiple voting share, payable on July 14, 2023 to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 30, 2023. The dividend is designated to be an eligible dividend for purposes of section 89(1) of the Income Tax Act (Canada).
Outlook
The Company continues to expect 2023 Toy Gross Product Sales1 to be flat to slightly down compared to 2022.
The Company continues to expect 2023 Toy Gross Product Sales1 seasonality to return to historical averages of 30%-35% in the first half of the year.
The Company continues to expect 2023 Revenue, excluding PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie Distribution Revenue1 to be in line with 2022.
The Company continues to expect 2023 Adjusted EBITDA Margin, excluding PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie Distribution Revenue1 to be flat to slightly up compared to 2022.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this Press Release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the Securities Act (Ontario), and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the date on which the statements are made in this Press Release. The words "plans", "expects", "projected", "estimated", "forecasts", "anticipates", "indicative", "intend", "guidance", "outlook", "potential", "prospects", "seek", "strategy", "targets" or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain future conditions, actions, events or results "will", "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "can", or negative versions thereof, "be taken", "occur", "continue" or "be achieved", and other similar expressions, identify statements containing forward-looking information. Statements of forward-looking information in this Press Release include, without limitation, statements with respect to: the Company's outlook for 2023; future growth expectations in 2023 and beyond; the Company's dividend policy; drivers and trends for such growth and financial performance; the successful execution of its strategies for growth; the integration of and benefits from acquisitions; content and product pipeline and their impacts; financial position, cash flows, purchases under the NCIB, and financial performance; and the creation of long term shareholder value.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon management's perceptions of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as a number of specific factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management as of the date on which the statements are made in this Press Release, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies which could result in the forward-looking statements ultimately being incorrect. In addition to any factors and assumptions set forth above in this Press Release, the material factors and assumptions used to develop the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: the Company's dividend payments being subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors and dependent on a variety of factors and conditions existing from time to time; seasonality; ability of factories to manufacture products, including labour size and allocation, tooling, raw material and component availability, ability to shift between product mix, and customer acceptance of delayed delivery dates; the steps taken will create long term shareholder value; the expanded use of advanced technology, robotics and innovation the Company applies to its products will have a level of success consistent with its past experiences; the Company will continue to successfully secure broader licenses from third parties for major entertainment properties consistent with past practices; the expansion of sales and marketing offices in new markets will increase the sales of products in that territory; the Company will be able to successfully identify and integrate strategic acquisition and minority investment opportunities; the Company will be able to maintain its distribution capabilities; the Company will be able to leverage its global platform to grow sales from acquired brands; the Company will be able to recognize and capitalize on opportunities earlier than its competitors; the Company will be able to continue to build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships; the Company will maintain its status as a preferred collaborator; the culture and business structure of the Company will support its growth; the current business strategies of the Company will continue to be desirable on an international platform; the Company will be able to expand its portfolio of owned branded intellectual property and successfully license it to third parties; use of advanced technology and robotics in the Company's products will expand; access of entertainment content on mobile platforms will expand; fragmentation of the market will continue to create acquisition opportunities; the Company will be able to maintain its relationships with its employees, suppliers, retailers and license partners; the Company will continue to attract qualified personnel to support its development requirements; and the Company's key personnel will continue to be involved in the Company products and entertainment properties will be launched as scheduled and that the risk factors noted in this Press Release, collectively, do not have a material impact on the Company.
By its nature, forward-looking information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct, and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. Known and unknown risk factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information in this Press Release. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, and the factors discussed in the Company's disclosure materials, including the Annual or subsequent, most recent interim MD&A and the Company's most recent Annual Information Form, filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada and available under the Company's profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com). These risk factors are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors that could affect the Company and investors are cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's expectations and plans relating to the future. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law.
Conference call
Max Rangel, Global President and Chief Executive Officer and Mark Segal, Chief Financial Officer will host a conference call to discuss the audited financial results on Thursday, May 4, 2023 at 9:30 a.m. (ET).
The call-in numbers for participants are (647) 794-4605 or (877) 502-9276. A live webcast of the call will be accessible via Spin Master's website at: http://www.spinmaster.com/events.php. Following the call, both an audio recording and transcript of the call will be archived on the same website page for 12 months.
About Spin Master
Spin Master Corp. (TSX:TOY) is a leading global children's entertainment company, creating exceptional play experiences through its three creative centres: Toys, Entertainment and Digital Games. With distribution in over 100 countries, Spin Master is best known for award-winning brands PAW Patrol®, Bakugan®, Kinetic Sand®, Air Hogs®, Hatchimals®, Rubik's Cube® and GUND®, and is the global toy licensee for other popular properties. Spin Master Entertainment creates and produces compelling multiplatform content, through its in-house studio and partnerships with outside creators, including the preschool franchise PAW Patrol and numerous other original shows, short-form series and feature films. The Company has an established presence in digital games, anchored by the Toca Boca® and Sago Mini® brands, offering open-ended and creative game and educational play in digital environments. Through Spin Master Ventures, the Company makes minority investments globally in emerging companies and start-ups. With over 30 offices in close to 20 countries, Spin Master employs more than 2,000 team members globally. For more information visit spinmaster.com or follow-on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @spinmaster.
Spin Master Corp.
Condensed consolidated interim statements of financial position
Spin Master Corp.
Condensed consolidated interim statements of earnings and comprehensive income
Spin Master Corp.
Condensed consolidated interim statements of cash flows
Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Ratios
In addition to using financial measures prescribed under International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), references are made in this Press Release to the following terms, each of which is a non-GAAP financial measure:
- Toy Gross Product Sales
- Revenue, excluding PAW Patrol: The Movie Distribution Revenue
- Adjusted EBITDA, excluding PAW Patrol: The Movie Distribution Revenue
- Constant Currency Toy Gross Product Sales
- Constant Currency Digital Games Revenue
- Constant Currency Entertainment Revenue
- Revenue, excluding PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie Distribution Revenue
- Constant Currency Revenue
- Adjusted EBITDA
- Adjusted Operating (Loss) Income
- Adjusted Net Income (Loss)
- Free Cash Flow
Non-GAAP financial measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.
Additionally, references are made in this Press Release to the following terms, each of which is a non-GAAP financial ratio:
- Percentage change in Constant Currency Toy Gross Product Sales
- Percentage change in Constant Currency Digital Games Revenue
- Percentage change in Constant Currency Entertainment Revenue
- Percentage change in Constant Currency Revenue
- Adjusted EBITDA Margin
- Adjusted Operating Margin
- Adjusted Basic EPS
- Adjusted Diluted EPS
- Adjusted EBITDA Margin, excluding PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie Distribution Revenue
Non-GAAP financial ratios are ratios or percentages that are calculated using a Non-GAAP financial measure. Non-GAAP financial ratios do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.
Management believes the Non-GAAP financial measures and Non-GAAP financial ratios defined above are important supplemental measures of operating performance and highlight trends in the business. Management believes that these measures allow for assessment of the Company's operating performance and financial condition on a basis that is consistent and comparable between reporting periods. The Company believes that investors, lenders, securities analysts and other interested parties frequently use these Non-GAAP financial measures and Non-GAAP financial ratios in the evaluation of issuers.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Toy Gross Product Sales represent Toy revenues, excluding the impact of Sales Allowances. As Sales Allowances are generally not associated with individual products, the Company uses Toy Gross Product Sales to provide meaningful comparisons across product category and geographical results to highlight trends in Spin Master's business. For a reconciliation of Toy Gross Product Sales to Revenue, the closest IFRS measure, refer to the revenue tables for the three and three months ended March 31, 2023, as compared to the same period in 2022 in this Press Release.
Constant Currency Toy Gross Product Sales, Constant Currency Sales Allowances, Constant Currency Toy Revenue, Constant Currency Entertainment Revenue, Constant Currency Digital Games Revenue, and Constant Currency Revenue represent Toy Gross Product Sales, Sales Allowance, Toy revenue, Entertainment revenue, Digital Games revenue, and Revenue presented excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates, respectively. The current period and prior period results for entities reporting in currencies other than the US dollar are translated using consistent exchange rates, rather than using the actual exchange rate in effect during the respective periods. The difference between the current period and prior period results using the consistent exchange rates reflects the changes in the underlying performance results, excluding the impact from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. Management uses Constant Currency Toy Gross Product Sales, Constant Currency Sales Allowances, Constant Currency Toy Revenue, Constant Currency Entertainment Revenue, Constant Currency Digital Games Revenue, and Constant Currency Revenue to measure the underlying financial performance of the business on a consistent basis over time. Refer to the "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" section for a reconciliation of these metrics to Revenue, the closest IFRS measure.
Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as Net Income (Loss) before finance costs, income tax expense (recovery) and depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) excluding adjustments that do not necessarily reflect the Company's underlying financial performance. These adjustments include restructuring and other related costs, foreign exchange gains or losses, share based compensation expenses, acquisition related contingent consideration, impairment of intangible assets, impairment of goodwill, investment distribution income, loss on Minority interest and other investments, acquisition related deferred incentive compensation, net unrealized gain on investment, impairment of property, plant and equipment, legal settlement, transaction costs, gain on disposal of asset and bad debt recovery. Adjusted EBITDA is used by management as a measure of the Company's profitability. Refer to the "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" section below for a reconciliation of this metric to Operating Income (Loss), the closest IFRS measure.
Adjusted Operating (Loss) Income is calculated as Operating (Loss) Income excluding adjustments (as defined in Adjusted EBITDA). Adjusted Operating (Loss) Income is used by management as a measure of the Company's profitability. Refer to the "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" section below for a reconciliation of this metric to Operating Income (Loss), the closest IFRS measure.
Adjusted Net Income (Loss) is calculated as Net Income excluding adjustments (as defined in Adjusted EBITDA), the corresponding impact these items have on income tax expense. Management uses Adjusted Net Income (Loss) to measure the underlying financial performance of the business on a consistent basis over time. Refer to the "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" section below for a reconciliation of this metric to Operating Income (Loss), the closest IFRS measure.
Free Cash Flow is calculated as cash flows provided by/used in operating activities reduced by cash flows used in investing activities and adding back cash used for business acquisitions and investment in limited partnership and Minority interest, and other investments, net of investment distribution income. Management uses the Free Cash Flow metric to analyze the cash flows being generated by the Company's business. In the third quarter of 2021, the calculation of this metric was revised to include the impact of investment distribution income as Management believes this composition to be relevant to investors, lenders, securities analysts and other interested parties of the Company. Refer to the "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" section for a reconciliation of this metric to Cash flow from operating activities, the closest IFRS measure.
Revenue, excluding PAW Patrol: The Movie Distribution Revenue is calculated as revenue excluding distribution revenue of $26.0 million related to PAW Patrol: The Movie recognized in 2021. Revenue, excluding PAW Patrol: The Movie Distribution Revenue is used to measure the underlying financial performance of the business on a consistent basis over time. Refer to the "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" section for a reconciliation of this metric to Revenue, the closest IFRS measure.
Revenue, excluding PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie Distribution Revenue is calculated as revenue excluding distribution revenue related to PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie. Revenue, excluding PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie Distribution Revenue is used to measure the underlying financial performance of the business on a consistent basis over time.
Adjusted EBITDA, excluding PAW Patrol: The Movie Distribution Revenue is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA excluding distribution revenue of $26.0 million related to PAW Patrol: The Movie recognized in 2021. Adjusted EBITDA, excluding PAW Patrol: The Movie Distribution Revenue is used by management as a measure of the Company's profitability on a consistent basis over time. Refer to the "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" section below for a reconciliation of this metric to Net Income, the closest IFRS measure.
Adjusted EBITDA, excluding PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie Distribution Revenue is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA excluding distribution revenue related to PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie. Adjusted EBITDA, excluding PAW Patrol: The Movie Distribution Revenue is used by management as a measure of the Company's profitability on a consistent basis over time.
Non-GAAP Financial Ratios
Sales Allowances as a percentage of Toy Gross Product Sales is calculated by dividing Sales Allowances by Toy Gross Product Sales. Management uses Sales Allowance as a percentage of Toy Gross Product Sales to identify and compare the cost of doing business with individual retailers, different geographic markets and amongst various distribution channels.
Percentage change in Constant Currency Toy Gross Product Sales is calculated by dividing the change in Toy Gross Product Sales excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates by the Toy Gross Product Sales of the comparative period. Management uses Percentage change in Constant Currency Toy Gross Product Sales to measure the underlying financial performance of the business on a consistent basis over time excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
Percentage change in Constant Currency Sales Allowances is calculated by dividing the change in Sales Allowances excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates by the Sales Allowances of the comparative period. Management uses Percentage change in Constant Currency Sales Allowances to measure the underlying financial performance of the business on a consistent basis over time excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
Percentage change in Constant Currency Toy Revenue is calculated by dividing the change in Toy Revenue excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates by the Toy Revenue of the comparative period. Management uses Percentage change in Constant Currency Toy Revenue to measure the underlying financial performance of the business on a consistent basis over time excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
Percentage change in Constant Currency Entertainment Revenue is calculated by dividing the change in Entertainment revenue excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates by the Entertainment revenue of the comparative period. Management uses Percentage change in Constant Currency Entertainment Revenue to measure the underlying financial performance of the business on a consistent basis over time excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
Percentage change in Constant Currency Digital Games Revenue is calculated by dividing the change in Digital Games revenue excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates by the Digital Games revenue of the comparative period. Management uses Percentage change in Constant Currency Digital Games Revenue to measure the underlying financial performance of the business on a consistent basis over time excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
Percentage change in Constant Currency Revenue is calculated by dividing the change in Revenue excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates by the Revenue of the comparative period. Management uses Percentage change in Constant Currency Revenue to measure the underlying financial performance of the business on a consistent basis over time excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
Adjusted EBITDA Margin is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA divided by Revenue. Management uses Adjusted EBITDA Margin to evaluate the Company's performance compared to internal targets and to benchmark its performance against key competitors.
Adjusted Operating Margin is calculated as Adjusted Operating Income (Loss) divided by Revenue. Management uses Adjusted Operating Margin to evaluate the Company's performance compared to internal targets and to benchmark its performance against key competitors.
Adjusted Basic EPS is calculated by dividing Adjusted Net Income by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. Adjusted Diluted EPS is calculated by dividing Adjusted Net Income (Loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, assuming the conversion of all dilutive securities were exercised during the period. Management uses Adjusted Basic EPS and Adjusted Diluted EPS to measure the underlying financial performance of the business on a consistent basis over time.
Adjusted EBITDA Margin, excluding PAW Patrol: The Movie Distribution Revenue is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA excluding PAW Patrol: The Movie Distribution Revenue divided by Revenue, excluding PAW Patrol: The Movie Distribution Revenue. Management uses Adjusted EBITDA Margin excluding PAW Patrol: The Movie Distribution Revenue to evaluate the Company's performance compared to internal targets and to benchmark its performance against key competitors on a consistent basis over time.
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
The following table presents a reconciliation of Operating (Loss) Income to Adjusted Operating Income, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Income, and cash used in operating activities and investing activities to Free Cash Flow for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022:
The following tables present reconciliations of Revenue to Constant Currency Toy Gross Product Sales, Revenue to Constant Currency Digital Games revenue, Revenue to Constant Currency Entertainment Revenue, and Revenue to Constant Currency Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2023, and 2022:
The following tables present the composition of Percentage change in Constant Currency Toy Gross Product Sales, Percentage change in Constant Currency Digital Games Revenue, Percentage change in Constant Currency Entertainment Revenue, and Percentage change in Constant Currency Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022:
Segment Results
The Company's results from operations by reportable segment for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:
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SOURCE Spin Master Corp. | 2023-05-03T21:46:53+00:00 | wafb.com | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2023/05/03/spin-master-reports-q1-2023-financial-results/ |
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — WAND News has learned both Dennis Lab School campuses will be closed, and all staff removed from the buildings.
DPS61 released the following statement:
"Out of an abundance of caution, Decatur Public Schools is temporarily closing the two Dennis Lab School campuses while we further assess structural concerns with the two buildings. We continue to do our due diligence, as we take proactive steps to ensure the safety of students and staff at all DPS schools."
DPS61 School Board President Bill Clevenger told WAND News the board is awaiting reports from engineering professionals who will assess the buildings. The board will discuss both short-term and long-term options for students and staff at the June 13th meeting.
Clevenger said the board feels this is a community issue that will impact the entire neighborhood, in addition to staff and students.
WAND News will continue following this developing story.
Copyright 2023. WAND TV. All rights reserved. | 2023-06-01T04:33:58+00:00 | wandtv.com | https://www.wandtv.com/news/dennis-lab-schools-close-for-structural-concerns/article_261d9fa2-0021-11ee-8e4c-ab15b0f5a44d.html |
MIAMI (AP) — NFL free agent Odell Beckham Jr. was removed by police from an aircraft before takeoff at Miami International Airport after officials said he failed to respond to requests to buckle his seatbelt and appeared to be unconscious, police and airline officials said Sunday.
“Fearing that Mr. Beckham was seriously ill, and that his condition would worsen through the expected 5 hour flight, (flight crew members) called for police and fire rescue,” Miami Dade Police Officer Luis Sierra said in a statement following the 9:30 a.m. Sunday incident.
“As they tried to wake (Beckham) to fasten his seat belt, he appeared to be coming in and out of consciousness,” the statement said.
American Airlines representative Alfredo Garduno confirmed that flight 1228 to Los Angeles returned to the gate before takeoff “due to a customer failing to follow crew members’ instructions and refusing to fasten their seat belt.”
Carlos Gauna, a passenger in business class, said he recognized Beckham before boarding the flight and later used his cellphone camera to record him walking through the airport terminal with police. He said Beckham had been seated in first class.
“He just walked quietly. Police escorted him out,” Gauna said, adding that the flight was full and he heard “grumblings” among other passengers.
Gauna, a filmmaker, was returning home to Camarillo, California, near Los Angeles, after more than two weeks documenting sharks in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Brazil.
He said the aircraft was taxiing toward takeoff when the captain announced “a situation with a passenger” required a return to the terminal. Gauna said an ambulance arrived and paramedics boarded the aircraft and spoke with Beckham before police removed him.
The other passengers re-boarded and the flight departed later for Los Angeles, where Gauna spoke with The Associated Press
A Twitter post attributed to Beckham appeared to refer to the incident, saying, “Never in my life have I experienced what just happened to me,” and adding with a misspelling that he had “seen it alll.”
Police said Beckham “was escorted to the non-secure area of the terminal by the officers where he made other arrangements.”
Sierra did not immediately respond to questions about whether Beckham had been arrested or was cited for a criminal offense.
Beckham, 30, is a three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver who has been a free agent since helping the Los Angeles Rams win the Super Bowl last February. He caught a touchdown pass before tearing a knee ligament in that 23-20 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.
Beckham has been reported to be near a return to the league and the Dallas Cowboys have said they want to sign him.
Several other teams are expected to pursue Beckham, who had been at the center of controversy in previous stops with the New York Giants and Cleveland Browns. | 2022-11-28T19:38:15+00:00 | ourquadcities.com | https://www.ourquadcities.com/sports/ap-former-la-rams-star-odell-beckham-taken-off-plane-in-miami/ |
Biden to focus on hurricane victims in Florida, not politics
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden will visit hurricane-ravaged Florida with a pledge that federal, state and local governments will work as one to help rebuild homes, businesses and lives — putting politics on mute for now to focus on those in need.
Hurricane Ian has resulted in at least 84 people confirmed dead, including 75 in Florida, as hundreds of thousands of people wait for power to be restored. Biden planned to meet Wednesday with residents and small business owners in Fort Myers, Florida, and to thank government officials providing emergency aid and removing debris.
With the midterm elections just a month away, the crisis had the potential to bring together political rivals in common cause at least for a time. Ian’s 150 mph winds and punishing storm surge last week took out power for 2.6 million in Florida. Many in Florida are unable to access food and water.
Joining Biden in Florida will be two of his most prominent Republican critics: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Sen. Rick Scott, according to the White House and Scott’s spokesman. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre suggested Tuesday that it would be inappropriate for them to focus on political differences.
“There will be plenty of time, plenty of time, to discuss differences between the president and the governor — but now is not the time,” Jean-Pierre told reporters at a White House briefing. “When it comes to delivering and making sure that the people of Florida have what they need, especially after Hurricane Ian, we are one. We are working as one.”
Biden typically waits to visit the scene of a natural disaster, to ensure his presence and the fleet of vehicles that accompany him will not hinder the rescue efforts.
Before the storm hit, the president had intended to visit the Florida cities of Orlando and Fort Lauderdale last week, where he planned to stress his efforts to strengthen Social Security and Medicaid. Biden has accused Scott of wanting to end both programs by proposing that federal laws should expire every five years, although the Florida senator has said he wants to preserve the programs.
Biden and DeSantis have had a multitude of differences in recent years over how to fight COVID-19, immigration policy and more. In recent weeks, they tussled over the governor’s decision to put migrants on planes or buses to Democratic strongholds, a practice that Biden has called “reckless.”
The hurricane changed the purpose and tone of Biden’s first trip to Florida this year.
DeSantis confirmed Tuesday he’d be meeting with Biden in the hurricane zone and he praised the administration’s Federal Emergency Management Agency for declaring an emergency before Ian made landfall.
“That was huge because everyone was full steam ahead. They knew they had the ability to do it,” DeSantis said. “We appreciate it. I think FEMA’s worked very well with the state and local.”
The White House message of bipartisan unity marks a difference from Biden’s predecessor, Donald Trump, who at times threatened to withhold aid to Democratic officials who criticized him, including Govs. Gavin Newsom of California and Andrew Cuomo of New York. At other times, Trump appeared insensitive or clumsy in his response to people’s suffering.
Trump threatened to withhold federal money from California after wildfires, saying its state officials were to blame for the deadly conflagrations, tweeting in 2018: “Billions of dollars are given each year, with so many lives lost, all because of gross mismanagement of the forests. Remedy now, or no more Fed payments!”
Politicians’ responses to natural disasters have the power to make or break political careers.
As Florida’s governor for eight years, Jeb Bush maintained a steady response to a parade of hurricanes and was rewarded with sky-high approval ratings. President George W. Bush and Louisiana lawmakers’ more troubled response to Hurricane Katrina in 2005 still hangs over their legacies.
Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, the Republican who welcomed President Barack Obama to his state to survey Hurricane Sandy damage just days before the 2012 general election, said that during natural disasters “the best political strategy is to have no political strategy, to do your job.”
Christie ended up the target of some in his own party who believed that his warm welcome for Obama helped cement the Democrat’s reelection, but he has no regrets.
“At core this is what government is there for, it’s to protect the safety and the welfare of the people,” Christie said in an interview Tuesday. “The only thing that should be on the president’s mind, on Gov. DeSantis’s mind, on (Sen.) Marco Rubio’s mind is the turmoil and the tragedy that’s happened to people’s lives and how we can make it better.”
Christie noted that the comparisons to Sandy aren’t exact — Biden is two years away from being a candidate himself, and DeSantis is weeks, not days, from facing voters in his reelection bid. But Christie said any attempts to score political points would be admonished at the polls.
“Playing games is not what this is about,” Christie said. “This is a pretty transparent time and people will get it — that’s not what they want, and they’ll punish you for it.”
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Associated Press writers Zeke Miller and Seung Min Kim in Washington and Brendan Farrington in Tallahassee, Florida, contributed to this report.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2022-10-05T04:43:26+00:00 | kwch.com | https://www.kwch.com/2022/10/05/biden-focus-hurricane-victims-florida-not-politics/ |
At 6825 Mesa Ridge Parkway, Suite 150
FOUNTAIN, Colo., Jan. 16, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Orthopedic Rehabilitation Associates opened an outpatient clinic today at 6825 Mesa Ridge Parkway, Suite 150.
The clinic operates 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday and Wednesday; 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. To make an appointment, call 719-623-1110 or visit ora.urpt.com.
Part of the Upstream Rehabilitation family of clinical care, Orthopedic Rehabilitation Associates offers access to care within 24 hours and works with all insurance types.
The clinic offers in-clinic and telehealth options for outpatient orthopedic physical therapy, including manual therapy, injury prevention, return to performance, total joint replacement, concussion management and vestibular rehabilitation programs.
Clinic director Bria Livingston earned a bachelor's degree in exercise and sport science from the University of Tulsa and a doctor of physical therapy degree from Creighton University.
Livingston is certified in dry needling. Her clinical interests include vestibular rehabilitation, balance, sports injuries and chronic pain.
Orthopedic Rehabilitation Associates has eight clinics in the Colorado Springs region.
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SOURCE Upstream Rehabilitation | 2023-01-16T17:49:29+00:00 | wagmtv.com | https://www.wagmtv.com/prnewswire/2023/01/16/orthopedic-rehabilitation-associates-opens-outpatient-clinic-fountain-colo/ |
COLUMBUS, Miss., July 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- BankFirst Capital Corporation (OTCQX: BFCC) ("BankFirst" or the "Company") reported quarterly net income of $6.1 million, or $1.14 per share, for the second quarter of 2022, an increase of 36% compared to net income of $4.5 million, or $0.85 per share, for the first quarter of 2022, and an increase of 42% compared to net income of $4.3 million, or $0.81 per share, for the second quarter of 2021. The Company also reported net income of $10.6 million, or $1.99 per share, for six months ended June 30, 2022, an increase of 23% compared to net income of $8.6 million, or $1.62 per share for six months ended June 30, 2021.
2022 Second Quarter Highlights:
- Net income totaled $6.1 million, or $1.14 per share, in the second quarter of 2022 compared to $4.3 million, or $0.81 per share, for the second quarter of 2021.
- Total assets increased 21% to $2.2 billion at June 30, 2022 from $1.8 billion at June 30, 2021
- Total deposits increased 14% to $1.8 billion at June 30, 2022 from $1.6 billion at June 30, 2021
- The Company received a Bank Enterprise Award ("BEA") of $171 thousand through the Community Development Financial Institution ("CDFI") Fund in the second quarter of 2022.
- The Company received $2.3 million in Employee Retention Tax Credits for the 2021 tax period during the second quarter of 2022.
Recent Developments
- As previously disclosed, on April 26, 2022, the Company closed on its issuance of $175.0 million of senior perpetual noncumulative stock (the "Senior Preferred") to the U.S. Department of the Treasury ("Treasury") pursuant to the Emergency Capital Investment Program ("ECIP").
- On June 23, 2022, the Company announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement with Tate Financial Corporation ("Tate"), the parent company of Sycamore Bank, Senatobia, Mississippi ("Sycamore Bank"), pursuant to which the Company will acquire Tate and Sycamore Bank. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval from the shareholders of Tate and bank regulatory authorities.
- On June 21, 2022, the Bank expanded its presence in the State of Alabama by opening a loan production office in Birmingham, Alabama.
- On July 5, 2022, the Bank announced the opening of a fourth loan production office in the State of Mississippi located in Tupelo, Mississippi.
CEO Commentary
Moak Griffin, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and the Bank, stated, "We are pleased to report another strong quarter of earnings. During the second quarter of 2022, we expanded our footprint in the State of Alabama with the opening of a new loan production office in Birmingham. We are also pleased with our recent announcement of a fourth Mississippi loan production office to open in Tupelo. Finally, we are excited about our recent announcement that we have signed a definitive agreement providing for our acquisition of Tate and Sycamore Bank. We believe that the partnership with Tate and Sycamore Bank will allow BankFirst to continue its strategic plan by partnering with community banks with strong relationships in their local markets."
Mr. Griffin continued, "Our outlook remains positive for the future, as we have encouraging pipeline for loan growth in our expanded footprint, including our core markets and our loan production offices. We believe the Bank is well positioned to navigate the current rising rate environment, which is expected to continue in light of the uncertain inflationary outlook in the United States and our market area."
Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Total assets were $2.20 billion at June 30, 2022, compared to $2.02 billion at March 31, 2022 and $1.80 billion at June 30, 2021, an increase of 8% and 21%, respectively. The increase in total assets since June 30, 2021 was primarily due to organic loan and deposit growth, the acquisition of The Citizens Bank of Fayette, Fayette, Alabama ("Citizens") after the close of business on December 31, 2021, and the issuance of the Senior Preferred to Treasury pursuant to the ECIP. Total loans outstanding, net of the allowance for loan losses, as of June 30, 2022 totaled $1.22 billion, compared to $1.20 billion as of March 31, 2022 and $1.12 billion as of June 30, 2021, an increase of 1% and 8%, respectively. Net loans outstanding, excluding Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") loans, as of June 30, 2022 totaled $1.21 billion, compared to $1.19 billion as of March 31, 2022, an increase of 2%, and $1.05 billion as of June 30, 2021, an increase of 15%.
Non-interest-bearing deposits increased to $541.5 million as of June 30, 2022, compared to $494.5 million as of March 31, 2022, an increase of 10%, and $462.4 million as of June 30, 2021, an increase of 17%. Non-interest-bearing deposits represented 30% of total deposits as of June 30, 2022. Total deposits as of June 30, 2022 were $1.8 billion, compared to $1.8 billion as of March 31, 2022 and $1.6 billion as of June 30, 2021, an increase of 14% since June 30, 2021. Cost of funds as of June 30, 2022 was 0.24% compared to 0.25% as of March 31, 2022, and 0.31% as of June 30, 2021.
The ratio of loans to deposits was 69% as of June 30, 2022 compared to 68% as of March 31, 2022, and 72% as of June 30, 2021.
Net interest income was $15.1 million for the second quarter of 2022, a decrease of 1% compared to $15.3 million for the first quarter of 2022, and an increase of 17% compared to $12.9 million for the second quarter of 2021. Net interest margin decreased to 3.63% in the second quarter of 2022, compared to 3.75% in the first quarter of 2022 and 3.34% in the second quarter of 2021. Yield on earning assets decreased 14 basis points to 3.86% in the second quarter of 2022, compared to 4.00% during the first quarter of 2022 and 3.65% during the second quarter of 2021. Accretion of deferred PPP-related SBA fees of $1.2 million were recognized during the second quarter of 2022 upon the receipt of forgiveness payments from the SBA for PPP loans, which contributed 16 basis points of the overall net interest margin, compared to the recognition of $1.6 million of deferred PPP-related SBA fees during the first quarter of 2022, which contributed 61 basis points. Net interest margin, net of PPP-related SBA fees, increased in the second quarter of 2022 to 3.47% from 3.14% in the first quarter of 2022.
Noninterest income was $5.0 million for the second quarter of 2022, compared to $5.1 million for the first quarter of 2022, a decrease of 2%, and $5.6 million for the second quarter of 2021, a decrease of 11%. Mortgage banking revenue was $740 thousand in the second quarter of 2022, an increase of $58 thousand from $682 thousand in the first quarter of 2022, or 9%, and a decrease of $997 thousand from $1.7 million in the second quarter of 2021, or 57%. During the third quarter of 2021, the Bank implemented a Mortgage Purchase Program to maintain mortgage loans in-house. During the second quarter of 2022, the Bank purchased $2.9 million of the $36.9 million secondary market mortgages originated to hold in-house, compared to $56.9 million secondary market loans originated during the second quarter of 2021, none of which were held in-house. Gross mortgage fees during the second quarter of 2022 were $810 thousand compared to $1.7 million during the second quarter of 2021. In the second quarter of 2022, the Bank received a nonrecurring BEA of $171 thousand through the CDFI Fund.
As of June 30, 2022, tangible book value per share was $20.85. According to OTCQX, there were 280 trades of the Company's shares of common stock during the second quarter of 2022 for a total of 82,922 shares and for a total price of $2,349,087. The closing price of the Company's common stock quoted on OTCQX on June 30, 2022 was $28.40 per share. Based on this closing share price, the Company's market capitalization was $151.2 million as of June 30, 2022.
Credit Quality
The Company recorded a provision for credit losses of $150 thousand during the second quarter of 2022 compared to $150 thousand for the first quarter of 2022, and $144 thousand for the second quarter of 2021. Net loan charge-offs in the second quarter of 2022 were $2.1 million, compared to $7 thousand in the first quarter of 2022 and $265 thousand in the second quarter of 2021. The increase in the second quarter of 2022 is primarily due to a $1.9 million charge-off related to a single credit which was previously classified as impaired. As a result, the non-performing assets to total assets were 0.58% for the second quarter of 2022, a decrease of 14 basis points compared to 0.72% for the first quarter of 2022, and a decrease of 6 basis points compared to 0.63% for the second quarter of 2021. Annualized net charge-offs to average loans for the second quarter of 2022 were 0.17%, compared to 0.01% for the first quarter of 2022 and 0.01% for the second quarter of 2021. There is continued uncertainty in the forecasted economic conditions due to the rising interest rate environment and persistent high inflation levels, and additional provisions for loan losses may be necessary in future periods.
PPP Loans
The Bank participated in the PPP, a $943.0 billion low-interest business loan program funded by Treasury and administered by the SBA, which officially ended on May 31, 2021. The PPP provided U.S. government guarantees for lenders, as well as loan forgiveness incentives for borrowers that predominately utilize the loan proceeds to cover employee compensation-related business costs. The Bank participated in Rounds 1 and 2 of the PPP during 2020 and in Round 3 of the PPP in 2021 until its expiration on May 31, 2021. In 2020, during Rounds 1 and 2 of the PPP, the Bank originated 1,489 PPP loans totaling $115.6 million. Through June 30, 2022, the Bank has received loan forgiveness payments from the SBA totaling $115.6 million on PPP loans originated in Rounds 1 and 2 of the PPP. The Bank received approximately $4.4 million in fees (net of expenses) paid by the SBA on PPP loans originated in Rounds 1 and 2 of the PPP, from which we recognized $8 thousand as loan fee income during the second quarter of 2022, compared to $11 thousand as loan fee income for the first quarter of 2022, and compared to $275 thousand for the second quarter of 2021.
In 2021, during Round 3 of the PPP, the Bank originated an additional 1,382 PPP loans totaling $62.0 million. Through June 30, 2022, the Bank has received forgiveness payments from the SBA totaling $56.3 million on PPP loans originated in Round 3 of the PPP. The Bank received approximately $4.1 million in fees (net of expenses) paid by the SBA on PPP loans originated in Round 3 of the PPP, from which we recognized $250 thousand as loan fee income during the second quarter of 2022, $1.6 million as loan fee income during the first quarter of 2022, and compared to $50 thousand for the second quarter of 2021. The Bank expects to recognize the remainder of the deferred PPP-related SBA loan fees over the next several quarters.
Merger & Acquisition Activity
On June 23, 2022, BankFirst announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Tate Financial Corporation and Sycamore Bank, headquartered in Senatobia, Mississippi. On June 30, 2022, Sycamore Bank had total assets of $326.4 million, total loans of $155.8 million, and total deposits of $304.2 million. The acquisition of Tate will result in the Bank having 42 locations serving Mississippi and Alabama, with total assets of approximately $2.4 billion, gross loans of approximately $1.4 billion and total deposits of approximately $2.1 billion. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval from the shareholders of Tate and bank regulatory authorities.
Emergency Capital Investment Program
As previously disclosed, the Company closed on the issuance of $175.0 million of the Senior Preferred to Treasury pursuant to the ECIP on April 26, 2022. The ECIP investment from Treasury is intended to qualify as Tier 1 capital of the Company for regulatory capital purposes. The Senior Preferred issued to Treasury will pay non-cumulative dividends, payable quarterly in arrears on March 15, June 15, September 15 and December 15 of each year beginning on the first dividend payment date after the two-year anniversary of the date of issuance. The dividend rate to be paid on the Senior Preferred will adjust annually based on certain measurements of the Company's extensions of credit to minority, rural, and urban low-income and underserved communities and low- and moderate-income borrowers. The Company is entitled to redeem the Senior Preferred on or after the fifth anniversary of the issuance of the Senior Preferred, subject to approval by the Federal Reserve and in accordance with applicable regulatory capital regulations.
ABOUT BANKFIRST CAPITAL CORPORATION
BankFirst Capital Corporation (OTCQX: BFCC) is a registered bank holding company based in Columbus, Mississippi with approximately $2.2 billion in total assets as of June 30, 2022. BankFirst Financial Services, the Company's wholly-owned banking subsidiary, was founded in 1888 and is locally owned, controlled, and operated. The Company is headquartered in Columbus, Mississippi, and the Bank operates additional branch offices in Columbus, Flowood, Hattiesburg, Jackson, Louin, Macon, Madison, Newton, Starkville, and West Point, Mississippi; and Addison, Aliceville, Arley, Bear Creek, Carrollton, Curry, Double Springs, Fayette, Gordo, Haleyville, Northport, and Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The Bank also operates five loan production offices in Birmingham, Alabama as well as Biloxi, Brookhaven, Oxford, and Tupelo, Mississippi. BankFirst offers a wide variety of services for businesses and consumers. The Bank also offers internet banking, no-fee ATM access, checking, CD, and money market accounts, merchant services, mortgage loans, remote deposit capture, and more. For more information, visit www.bankfirstfs.com.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This press release contains, among other things, certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, without limitation, (i) statements regarding certain of the Company's goals and expectations with respect to future events that are subject to various risks and uncertainties, (ii) statements about the merger of Citizens with and into the Bank, (iii) statements about the proposed merger of Tate and Sycamore Bank with and into the Company and the Bank, respectively, and (iv) statements preceded by, followed by, or that include the words "may," "will," "could," "should," "expect," "plan," "project," "intend," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential," "pursuant," "target," "continue," and similar expressions. These statements are based upon the current belief and expectations of the Company's management team and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are subject to change based on various factors (many of which are beyond the Company's control). Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from management's projections, forecasts, estimates and expectations include, but are not limited to: the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic (including any current or future variant thereof), fluctuations in market rates of interest and loan and deposit pricing, the persistence of the inflationary environment in the United States and our market areas, adverse changes in the overall national economy as well as adverse economic conditions in our specific market areas, including as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, our ability to recognize the expected benefits and synergies of the Citizens acquisition, our ability to complete the proposed acquisition of Tate and Sycamore Bank, the maintenance and development of well-established and valued client relationships and referral source relationships, and acquisition or loss of key production personnel. These forward-looking statements are based on current information and/or management's good faith belief as to future events. Although the Company believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements are reasonable, any of the assumptions could prove to be inaccurate. Therefore, the Company can give no assurance that the results contemplated in the forward-looking statements will be realized. Due to these and other possible uncertainties and risks, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. The inclusion of this forward-looking information should not be construed as a representation by the Company or any person that the future events, plans or expectations contemplated by the Company will be achieved. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or any person acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above. The forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statements are made, except as required by law. All forward-looking statements, express or implied, included in the press release are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
The Company maintains an Internet web site at www.bankfirstfs.com/about-us/investors. The Company makes available, free of charge, on its web site the Company's annual reports, quarterly earnings reports, and other press releases. In addition, the OTC Markets Group maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding the Company (at www.otcmarkets.com/stock/BFCC/overview).
The Company routinely posts important information for investors on its web site (under www.bankfirstfs.com and, more specifically, under the Investor Relations tab at www.bankfirstfs.com/about-us/investors/). The Company intends to use its web site as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under the OTC Markets Group OTCQX Rules for U.S. Banks. Accordingly, investors should monitor the Company's web site, in addition to following the Company's press releases, OTC filings, public conference calls, presentations and webcasts.
The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, the Company's web site is not incorporated by reference into, and is not a part of, this press release.
Member FDIC
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SOURCE BankFirst Capital Corporation | 2022-07-28T13:14:25+00:00 | live5news.com | https://www.live5news.com/prnewswire/2022/07/28/bankfirst-capital-corporation-reports-second-quarter-2022-earnings-61-million/ |
WFO SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, October 10, 2022
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SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service San Joaquin Valley CA
323 PM PDT Mon Oct 10 2022
...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of eastern Kern County
through 400 PM PDT...
At 323 PM PDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 9
miles south of China Lake Acres, or 11 miles southwest of Ridgecrest.
This storm was nearly stationary.
HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph.
SOURCE...Radar indicated.
IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
unsecured objects.
This storm will remain over mainly rural areas of eastern Kern
County.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.
Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm.
Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe
shelter inside a building or vehicle.
This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio
stations and available television stations for additional information
and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.
LAT...LON 3552 11772 3544 11777 3546 11789 3559 11782
TIME...MOT...LOC 2223Z 124DEG 3KT 3551 11781
MAX HAIL SIZE...0.00 IN
MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH
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Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | 2022-10-10T23:36:26+00:00 | sfgate.com | https://www.sfgate.com/weather/article/CA-WFO-SAN-JOAQUIN-VALLEY-Warnings-Watches-and-17500119.php |
Largest Radiology Practice in the Washington, DC Area, Fairfax Radiology Performs Over 100,000 Mammograms a Year
NATIONAL HARBOR, Md., May 4, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fairfax Radiology announced today that it has selected Transpara breast AI from ScreenPoint Medical to assist its 18 dedicated breast radiologists with the reading of 2D and 3D mammography exams. Transpara provides even expert radiologists with an invaluable supplementary resource, equipping them with a 'second pair' of eyes. By augmenting the diagnostic process with this cutting-edge technology, radiologists can more effectively identify potential malignancies earlier. The announcement was made at the SBI Breast Imaging Symposium, May 4-7 in Maryland (ScreenPoint Medical Booth #407).
Fairfax Radiology Centers with almost 100 subspecialized radiologists, is home to the largest radiology practice in the Washington, DC area. The Breast Imaging Division at Fairfax Radiology consists of specially trained breast imagers who focus solely on detecting and diagnosing breast cancer. The practice's commitment to excellence in breast imaging has earned them a reputation as a leading provider of breast cancer screening and diagnostic services.
"We take immense pride in our team of highly skilled breast radiologists who are committed to delivering the very best care to our patients. In our ongoing pursuit of excellence, we conducted a rigorous analysis of Transpara's performance, testing the system on hundreds of cases. Our anticipation is that Transpara's breast AI will not only enhance operational efficiency but will also help identify suspicious areas at an earlier time point.
"It is our mission to provide quality care and support to our patients, and we are excited about the potential impact that integration of AI could have on enhancing our ability to detect breast cancer earlier, leading to improved patient outcomes," said Elise Berman, MD, Medical Director for Breast Imaging, Fairfax Radiology.
Transpara is FDA cleared and has European regulatory approval (CE Mark) for use with 2D and 3D Mammography images from multiple manufacturers. Used by leading centers throughout Europe and the U.S., Transpara has been used to analyze more than 4 million mammograms. Designed to work concurrently with radiologists, research shows that up to 45% of interval cancers can be found earlier using Transpara, while helping to reduce workload and optimize workflow.
CEO Mark Koeniguer said "We are very pleased to work with Fairfax Radiology to implement Transpara AI to improve early detection and support better care for women in the Washington, DC area."
About Screen Point Medical
Since its founding in 2014, ScreenPoint Medical's focus has been to translate cutting edge machine learning research into technology accessible by radiologists to improve screening workflow, decision confidence and cancer detection results. Transpara is trusted by radiologists globally because it has been developed by experts in machine learning and image analysis and updated with user feedback from world-renowned breast imagers.
ScreenPoint founders are two quantitative breast imaging analysis innovators - Professor Sir Michael Brady and Professor Nico Karssemeijer - which has also led to Transpara's robust testing and validation in a range of clinical and research environments. Numerous clinical studies show that Transpara's decision support capabilities may enhance the performance of an average radiologist in detecting early breast cancers and improve efficiency of breast cancer screening. Transpara is used in hundreds of clinics in 30 countries worldwide; the effectiveness of Transpara has now been endorsed by more peer-reviewed published research papers than any other breast AI solution.
Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2069108/Elise_Berman_MD_pink.jpg
Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1582198/ScreenPoint_Medical_Logo.jpg
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SOURCE ScreenPoint Medical | 2023-05-04T13:11:15+00:00 | kmvt.com | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2023/05/04/screenpoint-transpara-chosen-care-us-mid-atlantic-women/ |
Sophia Smith scores twice for US in 3-0 victory over Vietnam to open Women’s World Cup
AUCKLAND, New Zealand (AP) — Fresh-faced newcomer Sophia Smith teamed with captain Lindsey Horan to give the United States a balanced performance as the Americans breezed to another opening victory at the Women’s World Cup.
Smith scored twice and the two-time defending champions beat tournament first-timers Vietnam 3-0 Saturday for the Americans’ 12th straight victory in a World Cup match. Smith, who turns 23 next month and is playing in her first tournament, is the second-youngest U.S. women’s player to score multiple goals in a World Cup game.
Horan, the team’s co-captain with Alex Morgan, added a goal for the favored Americans, who have won four World Cups overall and are vying for an unprecedented three-peat in this year’s tournament.
“I love playing with Lindsey, she’s such a great player. She has such a good eye for things that a lot of players don’t see,” Smith said. “She understands my game. She understands the runs I’m making before I even make them.”
Vietnam drew comparisons to Thailand, the team the Americans routed 13-0 in in their 2019 World Cup opening game. But Vietnam was surprisingly resilient, kept the game closer than expected, and goalkeeper Tran Thi Kim Thanh stopped Morgan’s first-half penalty attempt.
Morgan was knocked to the field clutching her calf after trying for the rebound off her missed penalty, but she quickly returned. It was just her second penalty miss for the United States.
Smith, one of 14 Americans playing in their first World Cup, showed why she was named both U.S. Soccer’s Player of the Year and the National Women’s Soccer League MVP last year with her two first-half goals.
She scored when Morgan directed a pass from Horan to her in the 14th minute. Smith and Horan celebrated with a choreographed handshake after the goal.
Smith scored again in first-half stoppage time to make it 2-0 going into the break. The United States was at first flagged as offside before a video review confirmed the goal.
The U.S. team was infused with young talent including Smith and Trinity Rodman after settling for a disappointing bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics.
“They’re confident, they’ve been in pressure situations. Soph Smith, look what she did. She does that every single day in training so it’s no shock to me,” Horan said. “But it’s always great to have the first game to really calm everyone’s nerves and get the three points.”
Among the veterans, 38-year-old Megan Rapinoe made her 200th international appearance against Vietnam.
Rapinoe, who scored in the World Cup final in France and was named that tournament’s best player, did not start. She announced before the team left for New Zealand that this would be her last World Cup and she would retire from her professional team at the end of the season.
Rapinoe and midfielder Rose Lavelle, who were both limited by injuries in the run-up to the tournament, both came in as substitutes in the 63rd minute. Rapinoe sported bright blue hair.
“It feels old to reach that,” Rapinoe joked afterward. “My legs are like ‘You’ve earned it.’ It feels great, obviously, to have it be in a really meaningful game like a World Cup.”
The youngest player on the team, 18-year-old Alyssa Thompson, was also a second-half sub.
Horan scored into a wide-open net off a pass from Smith, who was rushed by the goalkeeper and deftly sent the ball back to her. Horan, who was recently engaged, kissed her ring in celebration.
There was early drama when Rodman, the daughter of former NBA great Dennis Rodman and one of the young newcomers on the team, appeared injured after falling hard on her back when she was tackled by defender Tran Thi Thu. Rapinoe warmed up on the sidelines and a stretcher was brought out on the field, but Rodman stood and returned to the match a few moments later.
Saturday’s game was the first meeting between the United States and Vietnam. The Vietnamese lost two exhibition matches ahead of the tournament and fell 9-0 to Spain in a closed-door tune-up match in Auckland last Friday.
Also in Group E are the Netherlands and Portugal, which meet Sunday in Dunedin. Portugal is also making its first World Cup appearance.
The group plays all of their matches in New Zealand, which is co-hosting the tournament with Australia. The United States plays the Netherlands in a 2019 final rematch on Thursday in Wellington.
Should the United States top the group, the team will head to Sydney for the round of 16.
Back home in the United States, a sign was erected on the North Lawn of the White House that said “Go Team USA! We are all behind you.”
___
AP Women’s World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-womens-world-cup and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-07-22T05:02:49+00:00 | foxcarolina.com | https://www.foxcarolina.com/2023/07/22/sophia-smith-scores-twice-us-3-0-victory-over-vietnam-open-womens-world-cup/ |
Jurassic jackpot: Family finds mammoth remains worth thousands
ELIM, Alaska (KTUU/CNN) - A family hiking in Alaska after devastating storms swept through the region last month has made a mammoth discovery.
The historic storm that slammed into western Alaska weeks ago impacted thousands, destroying property and upending lives. But that same storm revealed what was once covered.
Joseph Nassuk and his wife, Andrea, are from Elim, Alaska. The couple was looking for bones and artifacts two weeks ago when they hit the Jurassic jackpot.
“We were walking maybe about 35 yards apart. She [Andrea] yelled that she found a bone. I walked up to her, and it was over half her height. I got all excited,” Joseph Nassuk said.
He took a photo of Andrea Nassuk holding the bone up, showcasing just how large the bone was.
“As I was lifting it out of the mud, I thought to myself it’s kind of heavy,” Andrea Nassuk said. “I kept lifting it, I told my husband I found a huge bone, he asked if it was full, I looked at it, and I said, ‘Yes.’
The mammoth femur was about as large as the couple’s son.
Incredibly, Joseph Nassuk said this was his wife’s first time hiking, but the find wasn’t just beginner’s luck.
“We’ve found everything from toe bones, vertebrae, parts of skulls. We found another bone, but it was broken,” he said.
The mammoth bone isn’t even the most impressive find. Joseph said they also found a blue mammoth tusk.
“We walked across the bay after Merbok and found this 105-pound, 7-foot blue tusk,” he said.
The tusk is extremely rare. Only 2% of fossilized tusks are blue because of vivianite, an iron phosphate that’s not only rare but valuable.
“Depending on the state and wholeness, [it’s worth] somewhere upwards between $20,000 and $70,000,” Joseph Nassuk said.
The big blue find could bring some life-changing money.
“It’s a huge boost for us,” Andrea Nassuk said.
The couple has been married for four years with four kids. They said they could certainly use the money.
“We’re living in an apartment, and we’re hoping to build a house,” Joseph Nassuk said.
After the recent storms demolished some homes, Joseph and his family hope to use their mammoth find to help rebuild at least one home for themselves.
Copyright 2022 KTUU via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | 2022-10-11T22:50:28+00:00 | kxii.com | https://www.kxii.com/2022/10/11/jurassic-jackpot-family-finds-mammoth-remains-worth-thousands/ |
VATICAN CITY (AP) — The Vatican says Pope Francis, who was recently hospitalized for bronchitis, won’t preside over Good Friday’s late-night Way of the Cross event due to extremely cold weather in Rome.
It said that instead of presiding over the torch-lit procession at the Colosseum, Francis will watch from the hotel where he lives in the Vatican.
He will still attend the earlier Passion of the Lord celebration at St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican added. There, the cross will be unveiled before it goes to the Colosseum for the procession.
Francis, 86, was discharged from a Rome hospital on Saturday following treatment for bronchitis. The Vatican said at the time that he would carry out the complete Holy Week schedule, including the Way of the Cross procession and Easter Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square.
On Thursday, he presided over Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica and later washed and dried the feet of a dozen residents of a Rome juvenile prison in a ritual symbolizing humility. | 2023-04-07T15:30:34+00:00 | abqjournal.com | https://www.abqjournal.com/2588842/pope-francis-to-miss-way-of-the-cross-event-in-cold-rome.html |
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health advisers on Saturday recommended COVID-19 vaccines for infants, toddlers and preschoolers — the last group without the shots.
The advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention unanimously decided that coronavirus vaccines should be opened to children as young as 6 months. The final signoff was expected later in the day from CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky.
While the Food and Drug Administration OKs vaccines, it’s the CDC that decides who should get them.
The government has been gearing up for the start of the shots early next week, with millions of doses ordered for distribution to doctors, hospitals and community health clinics around the country.
Roughly 18 million kids will be eligible, but it remains to be seen how many will ultimately get the vaccines. Less than a third of children ages 5 to 11 have done so since vaccination opened up to them last November.
Here are some things to know:
What kinds are available?
Two brands — Pfizer and Moderna — got the green light Friday from the FDA. The vaccines use the same technology but are being offered at different dose sizes and number of shots for the youngest kids.
Pfizer’s vaccine is for 6 months through 4 years. The dose is one-tenth of the adult dose, and three shots are needed. The first two are given three weeks apart, and the last at least two months later.
Moderna’s is two shots, each a quarter of its adult dose, given about four weeks apart for kids 6 months through 5. The FDA also approved a third dose, at least a month after the second shot, for kids with immune conditions that make them more vulnerable to serious illness.
How well do they work?
In studies, vaccinated youngsters developed levels of virus-fighting antibodies as strong as young adults, suggesting that the kid-size doses protect against coronavirus infections.
However, exactly how well they work is hard to pin down, especially when it comes to the Pfizer vaccine.
Two doses of Moderna appeared to be only about 40% effective at preventing milder infections at a time when the omicron variant was causing most COVID-19 illnesses. Pfizer presented study information suggesting the company saw 80% with its three shots. But the Pfizer data was so limited — and based on such a small number of cases — that experts and federal officials say they don’t feel there is a reliable estimate yet.
Should my little one be vaccinated?
Yes, according to the CDC’s advisers. While COVID-19 has been the most dangerous for older adults, younger people, including children, can also get very sick.
Hospitalizations surged during the omicron wave. Since the start of the pandemic, about 480 children under age 5 are counted among the nation’s more than 1 million COVID-19 deaths, federal data shows.
“It is worth vaccinating, even though the number of deaths are relatively rare, because these deaths are preventable through vaccination,” said Dr. Matthew Daley, a Kaiser Permanente Colorado researcher who sits on the advisory committee.
Which vaccine should my child get?
Either one, says Dr. Peter Marks, the FDA’s vaccine chief.
“Whatever vaccine your health care provider, pediatrician has, that’s what I would give my child,’’ Marks said Friday.
The doses haven’t been tested against each other, so experts say there’s no way to tell if one is better.
One consideration: It takes roughly three months to complete the Pfizer three-shot series, but just one month for Moderna’s two shots. So families eager to get children protected quickly might want Moderna.
Who’s giving the shots?
Pediatricians, other primary care physicians and children’s hospitals are planning to provide the vaccines. Limited drugstores will offer them for at least some of the under-5 group.
U.S. officials expect most shots to take place at pediatricians’ offices. Many parents may be more comfortable getting the vaccine for their kids at their regular doctor, White House COVID-19 coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha said. He predicted the pace of vaccination to be far slower than it was for older populations.
“We’re going see vaccinations ramp up over weeks and even potentially over a couple of months,” Jha said.
Can children get other vaccines at the same time?
It’s common for little kids to get more than one vaccine during a doctor’s visit.
In studies of the Moderna and Pfizer shots in infants and toddlers, other vaccinations were not given at the same time, so there is no data on potential side effects when that happens.
But problems have not been identified in older children or adults when COVID-19 shots and other vaccinations were given together, and the CDC is advising that it’s safe for younger children as well.
What if my child recently had COVID-19?
About three-quarters of children of all ages are estimated to have been infected at some point. For older ages, the CDC has recommended vaccination anyway to lower the chances of reinfection.
Experts have noted re-infections among previously infected people and say the highest levels of protection occur in those who were both vaccinated and previously infected.
The CDC has said people may consider waiting about three months after an infection to be vaccinated.
AP reporter Zeke Miller in Washington contributed. | 2022-06-18T19:17:47+00:00 | ourquadcities.com | https://www.ourquadcities.com/news/national-news/cdc-officially-recommends-covid-19-shots-for-children-under-5-heres-what-to-know/ |
Fidelis New Energy and Aalborg Portland are pleased to announce that they have signed a letter of intent enabling the cement producer to potentially supply more than 400,000 tons of CO2 to the Norne Carbon Storage Hub in Aalborg through a direct pipeline connection by 2030. Norne is Denmark's first large-scale facility for handling captured CO2 in Aalborg and was announced by Fidelis at the Port of Aalborg on May 15, 2023.
COPENHAGEN, Denmark and AALBORG, Denmark, June 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Aalborg Portland and Fidelis New Energy (Fidelis) have entered into a letter of intent for safe and permanent storage of Aalborg Portland's CO2 emissions utilizing Fidelis' recently announced Norne Carbon Storage Hub (Norne) in Aalborg. This agreement is a milestone accomplishment for the decarbonization of cement production, making Aalborg Portland an industry leader in carbon impact and further demonstrating Denmark's commitment to being a global leader in decarbonizing hard to abate industries.
"We are thrilled to be able to provide a safe and cost-effective decarbonization solution for Aalborg Portland, Denmark's only cement producer", said Ulrik Weuder, Managing Director of Fidelis New Energy Europe.
"Norne enables the safe and environmentally friendly, decarbonization of key segments of the Danish and European economies while enabling global competitiveness for key industries. This announcement with Aalborg Portland is an important milestone for the decarbonization of Denmark. We look forward to working with Aalborg Portland as they take additional steps to decarbonized cement production", added Bengt Jarlsjo, Co-Founder, President, and Chief Operating Officer at Fidelis.
Potential of more than 400.000 tons of CO2
Aalborg Portland is expected to capture at least 400,000 tons of CO2 per year from their facility in Aalborg by 2030, and in accordance with the letter of intent, the captured CO2 will be transported through a direct pipeline connection and permanently stored by Norne. Aalborg Portland has long been committed to the sustainable production of cement, pursuing renewable fuels and advanced production technologies and methods to reduce the climate impact of cement production. Now the company is taking another important step in its ambitions to produce cement with a lower CO2 footprint.
"We have been closely following Fidelis' plans for the construction of Denmark's first large-scale CO2 handling facility in Aalborg with great interest. CO2 capture plays a key role in Aalborg Portland's transition process, where we aim to capture a minimum of 400,000 tons of CO2 per year by 2030, but we also aim even higher. Fidelis' facility is planned to be established just a few kilometers from Aalborg Portland, and therefore, this letter of intent makes a lot of sense", says Michael Lundgaard Thomsen, CCO of Aalborg Portland.
On 15 May 2023, Fidelis announced the Norne Carbon Storage Hub, an onshore CO2 storage network in Denmark for CO2 storage with plants in both Aalborg and Kalundborg. In this regard, Fidelis and Port of Aalborg entered into an agreement on the establishment of Denmark's first plant for handling captured CO2. The plant will be located at the East Port of Aalborg close to Aalborg Portland, and from 2026 it is expected to receive up to 4 million tons of greenhouse gases annually with the possibility of doubling capacity in the future.
"It is fantastic that Fidelis and Aalborg Portland are joining forces on CO2 capture and storage in Aalborg. This underlines the fact that we are on our way to becoming a pioneering area for dealing with captured CO2 on European soil. We have the leading research environments through Aalborg University and a business community with representatives of the entire value chain - from capture, to storage and not least utilization of CO2 to the green energy sources of the future", says Kristian Thulesen Dahl, CEO of Port of Aalborg.
Fidelis and Port of Aalborg also expect that up to 200 ships a year will come to Aalborg with imported CO2 from emission sources at home and abroad.
For further information, please contact:
- Ulrik Dan Weuder, Managing Director, Fidelis New Energy Europe, +45 51 50 06 42 and ulrik@fidelisinfra.com
- Aalborg Portland's press service, Esben Lind, +45 25 14 58 16 and esben.lind@aalborgportland.com
About Fidelis New Energy
Fidelis New Energy is an energy transition company driving decarbonization through investments in renewable fuels, low or negative carbon intensity products, and carbon capture and storage in Europe and the United States of America.
The Fidelis approach builds upon our proprietary ESG centric RACER™ framework where we collaborate with a diverse set of industry experts to select attractive markets and projects, then work collaboratively and iteratively to improve environmental and financial performance by utilizing proven technologies from leading global providers.
Fidelis New Energy is headquartered in Houston, Texas with offices in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Copenhagen, Denmark. Fidelis also has a portfolio of patent pending technologies providing climate benefits through the innovative integration of proven technologies. To learn more about these technologies, including CO2PowerGrow™ and Fidelis please visit http://www.fidelisnewenergy.com/.
About Norne Carbon Storage Hub
Norne Carbon Storage Hub ("Norne"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fidelis New Energy, consists of two reception facility sites in Denmark – one at the Port of Aalborg and one at the Port of Kalundborg. Norne is progressing the CO2 pipelines and storage facilities to safely and permanently store the CO2. Norne will receive and store CO2 from both Danish and European CO2 emitters in need of CO2 storage. The Norne hub will deliver significant climate impact by enabling CO2 emitters to permanently store their emissions.
For more information, visit www.norneccs.com.
About Aalborg Portland A/S
Aalborg Portland is Denmark's only and one of the world's leading producers of cement and cement products. Aalborg Portland has a strong focus on sustainability, innovation and customer needs and aims with its 2030 roadmap to lift Danish cement production to be among the cements in the world with the lowest CO2 footprint.
About Port of Aalborg A/S
Port of Aalborg is North Jutland's largest logistics hub focusing on the realization of Aalborg Municipality's business and sustainability strategies. We work intensively to support sustainable business development and have our eyes on both the water and land sides, where our surrounding business park has been designated as Aalborg's future growth zone. The Port of Aalborg A/S Group comprises 7 subsidiaries and approx. 110 employees. Read more at www.portofaalborg.dk.
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SOURCE Fidelis New Energy, LLC; Aalborg Portland | 2023-06-08T13:59:02+00:00 | kwch.com | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2023/06/08/aalborg-portland-fidelis-new-energy-enter-into-letter-intent-onshore-co2-storage/ |
Announcement at NADA Show 2023 represents a game-changing development for the re-imagined VUE platform
DALLAS, Jan. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In an industry-disrupting move, Dominion DMS today announced that its VUE Core DMS platform will be offered to franchised automotive dealerships at $0 initially and per month. That is an average savings of $6,500 per month per store.
The slashed pricing was among several developments announced by Dominion DMS at NADA Show 2023, going on through Sunday in Dallas, TX. The re-imagined offering is the most customizable DMS on the market, with infinite flexibility so that dealers choose the vendors they prefer. Dealers can integrate only the applications best suited to their specific needs.
VUE Core DMS includes the modules dealers need—sales, service, parts, accounting, and OEM communications—in an easy-to-learn yet powerful and simple-to-use interface. Dealers customize their system by selecting the third-party applications they want to build the best technology suite for their dealership, with no limitations. Dominion DMS allows applications from any provider to integrate into VUE through its secure, industry-leading APIs.
"Dealers have been asking for a next-generation DMS approach that is as dynamic as their business," said Sharon Kitzman, President of Dominion DMS. "That's why we built VUE to transform the core of the dealership software experience from frustratingly cumbersome to remarkably convenient and cost-effective."
"The new pricing structure, including an unheard-of $0 initial and monthly fee for VUE Core DMS, is unique in our industry," added Kitzman. "With the many challenges they face, we want to give dealers freedom and flexibility to create the custom software solution their business needs."
Other developments included:
- Ground-up redesign: The platform has been completely re-imagined for today's most critical dealership needs.
- Cloud-native: VUE is the first DMS built in the cloud and leverages the reliable and secure Microsoft Azure architecture.
- Bring-your-own-device: VUE Core DMS is an intuitive, web-based solution connecting through laptops, PCs, and tablets without a VPN.
- Customizable: Dealers only choose the tools they want, eliminating the need and cost of unnecessary applications.
Dealers visiting NADA Show 2023 may stop by Booth 4255 to get a live demonstration and to be among the first to sign up for the newly re-imagined VUE. Learn more at https://www.dominiondms.com/NADA2023/
About Dominion DMS:
Dominion DMS partners with franchised automotive dealers to offer modern solutions in an ever-evolving landscape. VUE by Dominion DMS is a cloud-native dealer management system that gives dealers the digital security, flexibility, and efficiency to meet today's rapidly changing market. VUE enables dealers to deliver seamless customer interactions, reduce costs and protect their business. Through its robust suite of certified SecureVUE APIs, VUE provides technology partners with the access and workflows they need to satisfy our common customers, the dealers. Consider Dominion DMS today. For more information, visit our website, and like us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
CONTACT:
Scott Smith
scott.smith2@dominiondms.com
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SOURCE Dominion DMS | 2023-01-27T15:27:28+00:00 | kswo.com | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2023/01/27/dominion-dms-offer-its-core-dms-platform-dealers-0month/ |
COLUMBUS, Ohio, and SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 16, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sermonix Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Quantum Leap Healthcare Collaborative™ today announced that Sermonix's investigational next-generation targeted endocrine therapy, lasofoxifene, will be evaluated in a new study arm of the ongoing I-SPY endocrine program sponsored by Quantum Leap. This portion of the study targets patients with newly diagnosed estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) invasive cancer.
The arm is part of the I-SPY 2 Endocrine Optimization Platform (EOP), which is focused on patients with clinically high risk (stage 2/3) estrogen receptor positive (ER+)/HER2- breast cancer, but molecularly low risk (MammaPrint low risk signature). These patients often have substantial risk for recurrence that occurs later (after five years), and thus are in great need of novel agents that are more tolerable and more effective treatments than the current standard of care.
Quantum Leap opened the EOP program in 2021 to specifically address the need for better options for this subset of patients, and to find an early endpoint to measure success of therapy. I-SPY 2 had previously only focused on women with high clinical and molecular risk where complete pathologic response is highly predictive of treatment efficacy.
"Sermonix is delighted to be a part of the truly groundbreaking I-SPY 2 clinical trial, working alongside such esteemed researchers to investigate an area of unmet medical need," said Dr. David Portman, founder and chief executive officer of Sermonix. "To date, we have successfully identified activity from lasofoxifene, and will soon be initiating a Phase 3 registrational trial. It is exciting to be included in I-SPY and potentially generate additional data that could confirm activity of lasofoxifene in early-stage adjuvant settings as well as support differentiated quality-of-life outcomes."
EOP is a sub-study within the main I-SPY-2 clinical trial utilizing neoadjuvant endocrine therapy in patients whose tumors are predicted to be sensitive to endocrine therapy but for whom chemotherapy is expected to provide little or no benefit. Lasofoxifene will be evaluated along with other investigational agents in separate study arms as part of the platform trial.
"Lasofoxifene is a novel endocrine treatment that has demonstrated activity in patients with heavily pre-treated ER+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer, including patients harboring tumors with ESR1 mutations," said Dr. Laura Esserman of the University of California San Francisco, founder and leader of the I-SPY Program. "This agent is very well tolerated and thus would be a true advancement for the significant percentage of breast cancer patients who struggle or fail to complete the recommended five years of aromatase inhibitor (AI) therapy."
Dr. Jo Chien, the EOP study's principal investigator, added: "Lasofoxifene is reported to promote vaginal and sexual health benefits, which are known and challenging side effects of AIs. Should lasofoxifene prove more efficacious and better tolerated than AIs in the neoadjuvant setting, this could have broad implications for both the survival and quality of life for women in the metastatic and early-stage adjuvant settings. Using the I-SPY model, we can accelerate the development of new cancer treatments and target new and innovative treatments to the patients who will benefit most, and we are eager to see data from lasofoxifene-treated subjects in this trial."
In two successfully completed Phase 2 studies (ELAINE-1 and ELAINE-2), lasofoxifene was found to be safe and well tolerated and demonstrated compelling anti-tumor activity, both as monotherapy (ELAINE-1) and in combination with abemaciclib (ELAINE-2). Of particular note, Sermonix shared a case study from ELAINE-1 detailing the first ever known finding of a durable complete response that could be characterized as complete clinical remission in a metastatic estrogen receptor-positive (ER+)/HER2- breast cancer patient with an ESR1 mutation after prior CDK4/6 inhibitor treatment upon participation in any single-agent hormonally based therapy. Additionally, lasofoxifene-treated patients in ELAINE-2 demonstrated mean progression-free survival over 13 months. Full results from the ELAINE-1 and ELAINE-2, which provide strong support for a Phase 3 combination study in 2023, were presented at ESMO 2022 and ASCO 2022, respectively.
Sermonix will supply lasofoxifene and provide financial support to Quantum Leap for this study. Quantum Leap is sponsor of the I SPY program, which includes 30 open sites and at least 10 more expected to be added in the first quarter of 2023. All I SPY sites have the EOP program open.
About Lasofoxifene
Lasofoxifene is an investigational novel endocrine therapy in clinical development which has demonstrated robust target engagement as an ESR1 antagonist in the breast particularly in the presence of ESR1 mutations. Lasofoxifene has demonstrated anti-tumor activity as monotherapy and in combination with abemaciclib in phase 2 studies and has unique tissue selectivity distinguishing it from other current and investigational endocrine therapies with beneficial effects seen on vagina and bone in previous clinical studies. Lasofoxifene, which Sermonix licensed globally from Ligand Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:LGND), has been studied in previous comprehensive Phase 1-3 non-oncology clinical trials in more than 15,000 postmenopausal women worldwide. Lasofoxifene's bioavailability and activity in mutations of the estrogen receptor could potentially hold promise for patients who have acquired endocrine resistance due to ESR1 mutations, a common finding in the metastatic setting and an area of high unmet medical need. Lasofoxifene's novel activity in ESR1 mutations was discovered at Duke University and Sermonix has exclusive rights to develop and commercialize the product in this area. Lasofoxifene, a novel targeted and tissue selective oral endocrine therapy could, if approved, play a critical role in the precision medicine treatment of advanced ER+ breast cancer.
About Sermonix
Sermonix Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a privately held biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of female-specific oncology products and is currently undertaking two Phase 2 clinical studies of lasofoxifene, its lead investigational drug. The Sermonix management team, led by founder Dr. David Portman, has significant experience in all stages of the drug development, regulatory and commercialization processes. Paul Plourde, M.D., vice president of oncology clinical development, has many decades of experience at AstraZeneca in the breast cancer drug development arena. Barry Komm, Ph.D., chief scientific officer, is recognized for his expertise in nuclear receptor biology. Miriam Portman, M.D., is co-founder and chief operating officer, with expertise in clinical trial conduct and patient recruitment. Elizabeth Attias, M.M.Sc., Sc.D., chief strategy and development officer, has extensive experience in pharmaceutical drug commercialization. Simon Jenkins, Ph.D., Vice President of Operations, has over 30 years of experience in global drug development leadership. Sermonix non-executive chairman of the board is Anthony Wild, Ph.D., former President of both Parke-Davis Pharmaceuticals and Warner-Lambert's Pharmaceutical Division. Learn more at SermonixPharma.com.
About Quantum Leap Healthcare Collaborative
Quantum Leap Healthcare Collaborative is a 501c(3) charitable organization established in 2005 as a collaboration between medical researchers at University of California, San Francisco and Silicon Valley entrepreneurs. Our mission is to integrate care and research, and to foster high-impact trials with embedded clinical processes and systems technology and improved data management, greater access to clinical trial matching, and greater benefit to patients, providers, and researchers. Our goal is to improve and save lives. Quantum Leap provides operational, financial, and regulatory oversight to I-SPY. For more information, visit https://www.quantumleaphealth.org/.
About the I-SPY TRIALs
The I-SPY TRIAL (Investigation of Serial studies to Predict Your Therapeutic Response with Imaging And moLecular analysis 2) (I-SPY 2 TRIAL) was designed to rapidly screen promising experimental treatments and identify those most effective in specific patient subgroups based on molecular characteristics (biomarker signatures). The trial is a unique collaborative effort by a consortium that includes the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), industry, patient advocates, philanthropic sponsors, and clinicians from 30 major U.S. cancer research centers. Under the terms of the collaboration agreement, Quantum Leap Healthcare Collaborative is the trial sponsor and manages all study operations. For more information, visit www.ispytrials.org.
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SOURCE Quantum Leap Healthcare Collaborative | 2023-02-16T14:41:53+00:00 | wcjb.com | https://www.wcjb.com/prnewswire/2023/02/16/sermonix-pharmaceuticals-quantum-leap-healthcare-announce-new-study-arm-evaluate-lasofoxifene-ongoing-i-spy-2-clinical-trial/ |
The body of a 2-year-old boy was discovered Friday in the jaws of an alligator in a tragic end to a search for the toddler after his mother was found stabbed to death, according to authorities in St. Petersburg, Florida.
The boy’s father, Thomas Mosley, 21, was booked into Pinellas County jail Friday on two counts of first-degree murder, according to police, who did not release details about a motive.
Mosley’s son, Taylen, had been missing since Thursday, after his mother, Pashun Jeffery, 20, was found dead in her apartment around 2:30 p.m., police said on Facebook.
An Amber Alert was issued for the toddler.
An investigation led police officers to Dell Holmes Park, where they found an alligator with “an object” in its mouth, St. Petersburg Police Chief Anthony Holloway said at a news conference Friday night.
Detectives shot and killed the alligator. It dropped what was in its mouth, which was later identified as Taylen’s body, Holloway said.
“We didn’t want to find him this way,” Holloway said. “But at least we can bring some closure to that family.”
The boy’s cause of death has yet to be released.
Holloway said Jeffery was stabbed “multiple times” at the Lincoln Shores apartment complex, which is about 13 miles north of Dell Holmes Park.
Mosley had gone to a hospital Friday with cuts on his hands and arms, Holloway said. He was refusing to speak with detectives, Holloway said. It was unclear if Mosley had a lawyer.
Family members had gathered at Jeffery’s apartment Wednesday to celebrate Mosley’s 21st birthday, according to an affidavit obtained by The Tampa Bay Times.
Jeffery worked at a nearby CVS and had been living at the apartment for about a month. When her family could not reach her Thursday for a daily FaceTime call, they went to her apartment and saw blood outside on the sidewalk.
The family alerted managers of the apartment complex, who entered the apartment and found “a very violent crime scene,” according to the affidavit.
Taylen was described as “a sweet and happy toddler” in a GoFundMe post written by Jeffery’s family.
During Jeffery’s work breaks, the family said, she regularly used FaceTime to talk to Taylen. When Taylen could grab a cellphone from a family member, he would pretend to call his mother.
“To see them together and their love for each other was a blessing,” the family said. “We will remember their love and will keep them in our hearts.” | 2023-04-02T23:17:07+00:00 | seattletimes.com | https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/body-of-a-missing-2-year-old-boy-is-found-in-an-alligators-jaws-police-say/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_all |
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Air raid sirens sounded on a South Korean island and residents there evacuated to underground shelters after North Korea fired about a dozen missiles Wednesday, at least one of them in its direction and landing near the rivals’ tense sea border. South Korea quickly responded by performing its own missile tests in the same border area.
The launches came hours after North Korea threatened to use nuclear weapons to get the U.S. and South Korea to "pay the most horrible price in history" in protest of the ongoing South Korean-U.S. military drills that it views as an invasion rehearsal. The White House maintained that the United States has no hostile intent toward North Korea and vowed to work with allies to curb North Korea's nuclear ambitions.
The North’s barrage of missile tests also came as world attention was focused on South Korea following a weekend Halloween tragedy that saw more than 150 people killed in a crowd surge in Seoul in what was the country’s largest disaster in years.
South Korea’s military said North Korea launched more than 10 missiles of various kinds off its eastern and western coasts on Wednesday.
One of the missiles was flying toward South Korea’s Ulleung island before it eventually landed 167 kilometers (104 miles) northwest of the island. South Korea’s military subsequently issued an air raid alert on the island, according to the South’s Joint Chiefs of Staff. South Korean media published photos showing island residents moving to underground shelters.
Hours later on Wednesday, South Korea’s military said it lifted the air raid alert on the island.
That missile landed 26 kilometers (16 miles) away from the rivals’ sea border. It landed in international waters but far south of the two countries’ border, off the east coast of South Korea. South Korea’s military said it was the first time a North Korean missile had landed so close to the sea border since the countries’ division in 1948.
“This is very unprecedented and we will never tolerate it,” South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement.
In 2010, North Korea shelled a frontline South Korean island off the peninsula's western coast, killing four people. But the weapons used were artillery rockets, not ballistic missiles whose launches or tests are banned by multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions.
Later Wednesday, South Korean fighter jets launched three air-to-surface, precision-guided missiles near the eastern sea border to show its determination to get tough on North Korean provocations. South Korea’s military said the missiles landed in international waters at the same distance of 26 kilometers (16 miles) north of the sea border as the North Korean missile fell earlier Wednesday.
It said it maintains a readiness to win “an overwhelming victory” against North Korea in potential clashes.
“North Korea firing missiles in a way that sets off air raid sirens appears intended to threaten South Koreans to pressure their government to change policy,” said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul. “North Korea’s expanding military capabilities and tests are worrisome, but offering concessions about alliance cooperation or nuclear recognition would make matters worse.”
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff earlier identified three of the North Korean weapons launched as “short-range ballistic missiles” fired from the North’s eastern coastal town of Wonsan, including the one that landed near the sea border.
North Korean short-range weapons are designed to strike key facilities in South Korea, including U.S. military bases there.
In an emergency meeting with top security officials, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol ordered officials to take swift unspecified steps to make North Korea face consequences for its provocation. He said he would consider the North Korean missile’s landing near the border “a virtual violation of (our) territorial waters.”
During the emergency South Korean meeting, “participants lamented the provocations committed during our national mourning period and pointed out that this clearly showed the nature of the North Korean government,” according to South Korea’s presidential office.
Earlier Wednesday, Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada told reporters that at least two ballistic missiles fired by North Korea showed a possibly “irregular” trajectory. This suggests the missiles are the North’s highly maneuverable, nuclear-capable KN-23 missile, which was modeled on Russia’s Iskander missile.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida called North Korea’s continuing missile tests “absolutely impermissible.”
Analyst Cheong Seong-Chang at the private Sejong Institute in South Korea said that the danger of armed clashes between the Koreas off their western or eastern coasts is increasing. He said South Korea needs to make “proportional responses” to North Korean provocations, not “overwhelming responses,” to prevent tensions from spiraling out of control and possibly leading the North to use its tactical nuclear weapons.
Animosities on the Korean Peninsula have been running high in recent months, with North Korea testing a string of nuclear-capable missiles and adopting a law authorizing the preemptive use of its nuclear weapons in a broad range of situations. Some experts still doubt North Korea would use nuclear weapons first in the face of U.S. and South Korean forces.
North Korea has argued its recent weapons tests were meant to issue a warning to Washington and Seoul over their series of joint military drills that it views as an invasion rehearsal, including this week's exercises involving about 240 warplanes.
In a statement released early Wednesday, Pak Jong Chon, a secretary of the ruling Workers’ Party who is considered a close confidant of leader Kim Jong Un, called the so-called Vigilant Storm air force drills “aggressive and provocative.”
“If the U.S. and South Korea attempt to use armed forces against (North Korea) without any fear, the special means of the (North’s) armed forces will carry out their strategic mission without delay,” Pak said, in an apparent reference to his country’s nuclear weapons.
“The U.S. and South Korea will have to face a terrible case and pay the most horrible price in history,” he said.
U.S. and South Korean officials have steadfastly said their drills are defensive in nature and that they have no intentions of attacking North Korea.
“We reject the notion that they serve as any sort of provocation. We have made clear that we have no hostile intent towards (North Korea) and call on them to engage in serious and sustained diplomacy,” White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said late Tuesday.
North Korea “continues to not respond. At the same time, we will continue to work closely with our allies and partners to limit the North’s ability to advance its unlawful weapons programs and threaten regional stability,” Watson said.
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Associated Press writers Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo and Aamer Madhani in Washington, D.C. contributed to this report.
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Credit: Uncredited | 2022-11-02T07:31:12+00:00 | daytondailynews.com | https://www.daytondailynews.com/nation-world/2-koreas-exchange-missile-tests-near-tense-sea-border/HAKLIYXR2FDM7OKEX57FOLRRVE/ |
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Ohio Democrat Tim Ryan cruised his way to his party's nomination for an open Senate seat Tuesday and will now take on the winner of one of the most contentious and closely watched Republican primaries in the nation.
And Ohio’s Republican Gov. Mike DeWine has secured his party’s nomination for a second term, despite fierce backlash from conservatives over the COVID-19 shutdowns and mandates he imposed during the early months of the pandemic.
Author and venture capitalist JD Vance is seen as the GOP frontrunner in the race to replace retiring Sen. Rob Portman after receiving former President Donald Trump's late-stage support, capping a bitter and expensive contest that, at one point, saw two candidates nearly come to blows on a debate stage. The race is seen as a critical early test of Trump's endorsement power as the midterm primary season kicks into high gear.
Ryan was heavily favored to win his three-way Democratic primary against progressive Morgan Harper, a former consumer protection attorney, and Columbus activist and tech exec Traci Johnson. But he is expected to face an uphill battle this fall in a state that was once a political bellwether but voted for Trump twice by an 8-point margin.
Ryan, a 10-term Democratic congressman who ran a failed bid for president in 2020, has tried to distance himself from the national Democratic Party ahead of what is expected to be a brutal November for Democrats. Campaigning in sweatshirts and baseball caps, he has fashioned himself as a blue-collar crusader fighting for working families.
“He’s passionate about fighting for the people of Ohio,” said Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, who leads the Democrats’ Senate campaign arm. “The only person that Republican candidate(s) seem to care about is Donald Trump and whether or not Donald Trump will endorse them.”
While DeWine is widely known in Ohio after a 40-year political career, he faced lingering anger from conservatives after taking an early and aggressive stand against the virus, mandating masks, imposing restrictions on movement and mass gatherings, and becoming the first governor of any party to shut down schools.
DeWine’s three opponents — former U.S. Rep. Jim Renacci, former state Rep. Ron Hood and farmer Joe Blystone — all tapped into that anger, but appear to have split the far-right vote. Still, DeWine didn’t take any chances and poured millions into advertising during the race’s final weeks.
On the Democratic side, Nan Whaley, the former mayor of Dayton, is vying to become Ohio’s first woman elected governor in her race against ex-Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley. Whaley has the support of U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, a popular household name and the state’s top Democrat. Cranley has the backing of feminist icon Gloria Steinem.
Also in Ohio, Trump-backed Secretary of State Frank LaRose won his party’s nomination for another term, beating conservative challenger John Adams, who questioned the results of the 2020 presidential election. LaRose will face Democrat Chelsea Clark, a suburban Cincinnati City Council member and businesswoman, in November’s general election.
Meanwhile, in Indiana, more than a dozen state House members are trying to hold off Republican primary challengers who want to push the Legislature further to the right.
Tuesday marks the first multistate contest of the 2022 campaign and comes the day after the leak of a draft U.S. Supreme Court opinion that suggests the court could be poised to overturn the 1973 landmark Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide. Such a decision could have a dramatic impact on the course of the midterms, when control of Congress, governors' mansions and key elections offices are at stake.
The primaries also serve as a clarifying test of Trump’s influence in his party. A Vance victory will likely embolden Trump to keep asserting himself in primary campaigns ahead of another potential presidential run. A setback, however, would raise questions about whether GOP voters are seeking a new direction, especially in a state he won twice by margins of 8 percentage points.
At the Strongsville library in suburban Cleveland, 84-year-old George Clark said he voted for Vance based on Trump's endorsement.
“I know he’s had some bad press, but I know he’s a conservative and I always vote for conservatives.” Clark said.
But Joanne Mondak, 71, said she voted for state Sen. Matt Dolan, the only major candidate who did not aggressively court Trump. The rest of the field, she said, are “nutcakes" who are “too much Trump."
Trump reminded Ohio voters Tuesday his stake in the race.
Calling into a Columbus radio show, Trump praised all the candidates seeking the GOP nomination, but said he chose to endorse Vance despite his past Trump criticism because he believes he is best positioned to win the seat in November.
Vance had been trailing in the polls until the former president backed the “Hillbilly Elegy” author and one-time Trump critic in a contest that revolved largely around him. While the timing of Trump’s endorsement — less than three weeks before Election Day and as early voting was already underway — may have dulled its impact, it was a major blow to former Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel, Cleveland investment banker Mike Gibbons and former Ohio Republican Party Chair Jane Timken, who had all gone to elaborate lengths to court Trump and his voters.
The race will also go down as the most expensive in state history, with more than $66 million in TV and radio spending alone, according to the Columbus-based Medium Buying firm.
Buoyed by historical trends and Democratic President Joe Biden's deep unpopularity, Republicans are optimistic about retaking the House and Senate come November. A new president's party almost always loses in seats in subsequent midterm elections and Republicans hope soaring inflation, high energy prices and lingering frustrations over the country's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic will further boost their prospects.
Democrats, meanwhile, are banking the GOP — with Trump’s help — will elect candidates so extreme they prove unelectable come November. A Supreme Court decision on abortion could also galvanize traditional Democratic voters.
“By all rights, history tells us that the Democrats are going to lose control of the House,” said Dale Butland, a Democratic strategist in Ohio. “By all rights, we should lose control of the Senate, too. However, the only thing that could save us is if the Republicans nominate a bunch of far-right crazies that are unacceptable in a general election.”
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Colvin reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Patrick Orsagas in Columbus, Steve Peoples in New York and Mark Gillispie in Strongsville, Ohio, contributed to this report.
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Follow AP for full coverage of the midterms at https://apnews.com/hub/2022-midterm-elections and on Twitter, https://twitter.com/ap_politics
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Credit: David Dermer | 2022-05-04T00:39:14+00:00 | springfieldnewssun.com | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/nation-world/election-2022-ohio-gov-dewine-wins-gop-nod-for-second-term/VP4BFCOHGJFKLNGST7OAVBD5H4/ |
African continent finally to receive 1st mpox vaccines
By EVELYNE MUSAMBI
Associated Press
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Africa’s top public health body says the continent is set to receive its first batch of mpox vaccines as a donation from South Korea.
The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Thursday the 50,000 doses will be used first for health workers and people living in the hardest-hit areas. No timing was given for the doses’ arrival.
The continent this year has recorded 202 deaths from mpox — formerly known as monkeypox — with a fatality rate of 19.3% across 13 countries. And yet African health authorities for months have pursued vaccines mostly in vain as major outbreaks were reported in rich, Western countries for the first time.
Acting CDC director Ahmed Ogwell noted 51 new mpox cases in Congo in the past week and said Ghana and Nigeria are the other most affected countries. | 2022-12-01T14:17:35+00:00 | krdo.com | https://krdo.com/news/2022/12/01/african-continent-finally-to-receive-1st-mpox-vaccines/ |
WHL
All Times Local
Eastern Conference
Central Division
East Division
Western Conference
B.C. Division
U.S. Division
Note: x - clinched playoff berth; y - clinched division; Two points for a team winning in overtime or shootout; the team losing in overtime or shootout receives one which is registered in the OTL or SOL columns.
Tuesday's results
Brandon 4 Prince Albert 3
Winnipeg 3 Medicine Hat 1
Kamloops 3 Seattle 2 (SO)
Wednesday's results
Saskatoon 5 Swift Current 3
Edmonton 3 Regina 2
Brandon 2 Medicine Hat 0
Red Deer 2 Lethbridge 1
Prince George 6 Kelowna 2
Kamloops 7 Everett 1
Friday's results
Moose Jaw 4 Swift Current 3 (SO)
Saskatoon 6 Prince Albert 2
Winnipeg 5 Edmonton 4 (OT)
Lethbridge 5 Regina 4 (OT)
Calgary 4 Red Deer 3 (OT)
Kamloops 6 Everett 3
Kelowna 4 Vancouver 3 (SO)
Prince George 8 Victoria 3
Portland 5 Spokane 2
Seattle 6 Tri-City 3
Saturday's results
Red Deer at Calgary, 2 p.m.
Swift Current at Moose Jaw, 7 p.m.
Edmonton at Brandon, 7 p.m.
Regina at Medicine Hat, 7 p.m.
Prince George at Victoria, 6:05 p.m.
Portland at Tri-City, 6:05 p.m.
Everett at Seattle, 6:05 p.m.
Vancouver at Kamloops, 7 p.m.
Kelowna at Spokane, 7:05 p.m.
Sunday's games
Prince Albert at Saskatoon, 4 p.m.
Brandon at Winnipeg, 5:05 p.m.
Prince George at Vancouver, 4 p.m.
Kelowna at Tri-City, 4:05 p.m.
Spokane at Everett, 4:05 p.m.
Tuesday's games
Winnipeg at Prince Albert, 7 p.m.
Spokane at Portland, 7 p.m.
Wednesday's games
Saskatoon at Swift Current, 7 p.m.
Brandon at Regina, 7 p.m.
Lethbridge at Calgary, 7 p.m.
Kelowna at Prince George, 7 p.m.
Victoria at Kamloops, 7 p.m. | 2023-03-11T08:11:05+00:00 | ourmidland.com | https://www.ourmidland.com/news/article/hko-whl-standings-17833306.php |
LAS VEGAS (AP) — There is no roster of players. No schedule for games, either. USA Basketball hasn’t even qualified for next year’s World Cup yet, and probably won’t be able to clinch one of the 32 spots in that field until November at the earliest.
The countdown is on anyway.
Thursday marks exactly one year until the beginning of the next men’s Basketball World Cup, with the first games set to be played on Aug. 25, 2023 at the event that will be hosted by Indonesia, Japan and the Philippines. It’s not the Olympics and won’t get the same attention, yet is a major priority for the Americans especially since the U.S. finished seventh — the senior national team’s worst showing ever at a major international event — at the most recent World Cup in China three years ago.
“Humility is a powerful tool,” USA Basketball CEO Jim Tooley said when asked what the Americans took away from that finish in China. “And, you know, it doesn’t hurt to have that and be reminded of it. Not that we’ve been arrogant or disrespectful to our opponents, but it’s just a reminder that we’ve got to keep working and not take it for granted.”
That work resumes on Thursday in Las Vegas. The Americans, using a roster filled by players who will likely spend the coming season either playing internationally or in the G League, play host to Uruguay to open the second round of World Cup qualifying.
A win Thursday moves the U.S. closer to qualifying, and a sweep of this two-game window — the Americans play at Colombia on Monday — would likely put them on the brink of clinching a spot. After this window, the next round of qualifying games is in November.
None of the players who will be in uniform on Thursday — names like David Stockton, Mac McClung and Langston Galloway — were there when the Americans finished seventh at the last World Cup. They won’t be there with the Americans at the next World Cup, either; those roster spots will be offered to big-name NBA players. But they are the ones tasked with doing the actual qualifying and giving the Americans a chance to erase the disappointment over finishing seventh.
“You never want to feel like you need it,” said Sean Ford, the U.S. men’s national team director. “But if you don’t learn from it, you’re really going to take a back seat a little bit. We learned a lot. We’re learning a lot because the NBA game has changed over the last seven or eight years, too. There’s much more shotmaking. It’s just unbelievable, incredible the amount of 3-point shots that are taken, the freedom of movement, the flow of the game. But the international game has stayed the physical way.”
Steve Kerr has mastered coaching one of those styles. Now, he’ll have to master the other one.
Kerr’s Golden State Warriors, the reigning NBA champions — with four titles in the past eight seasons — are the epitome of what Ford talks about when discussing the evolution of the pro game, relying on 3-pointers, movement and spacing to win. Kerr is very familiar with how the international game is different since he was with the U.S. as an assistant under then-coach Gregg Popovich for both of the last two major tournaments; the seventh-place showing in China, then the gold medal at the Tokyo Games last summer.
It was a logical progression for Kerr to take over for Popovich. And the tasks in 2023 and 2024 have been on his mind for some time now, as evidenced by him making a recruiting pitch to Stephen Curry on the night the Warriors won this past season’s NBA title.
“He’s missing an Olympic gold medal and I think he really has to focus on being on the 2024 Olympic Team,” Kerr said that night in Boston, as the Warriors were celebrating. “That’s the last thing for his career. Sorry, I couldn’t resist.”
Jokes aside, this is serious business for the U.S. A win in qualifying games, or clinching a spot in the World Cup, won’t generate much attention. Losses, or failure to qualify, would. Getting the Americans into the World Cup is a task that has largely fallen on the shoulders of Jim Boylen, who will coach the U.S. again in these next two games; he’s gone 5-1 in three qualifying windows to this point.
“We have a responsibility,” Boylen said. “A great responsibility, to play as hard as we can, to play the right way, and the reason we have to do that is because the big team has got to qualify. That’s our job.”
Kerr has been resting quite a bit this summer. He’s spent some time overseas, getting plenty of downtime with his family, preparing for the challenge of once again leading the Warriors through the grind of defending a championship.
USA Basketball is hoping he doesn’t get so much relaxation next summer. Or the one after that, since the World Cup will serve as the primary qualifier for the Paris Olympics.
“When an opportunity like this comes along, you don’t stop and say, ‘I wonder what my legacy will be.’ You say, ‘I can’t wait to dive in with the players and the coaches,’ and you go for it,” Kerr said. “When all the dust settles, you keep going forward. Hopefully, we will put together a great team and a great effort and we’ll see how we do.”
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More AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2022-08-24T18:37:32+00:00 | seattlepi.com | https://www.seattlepi.com/sports/article/A-year-away-USA-Basketball-ramps-up-World-Cup-17395246.php |
Lionel Messi is back in supreme form, just in time for the World Cup.
With 12 goals in his last 10 games for his club and his country, the Argentina forward is delivering his best run of performances since joining Paris Saint-Germain after an emotional departure from Barcelona in the offseason of 2021.
The stats speak for themselves: Seven goals in the French league, more than he had in his entire first season at PSG; four goals in four games in the Champions League; nine goals in his last three games for Argentina, including all five in a rout of Estonia in June.
His latest — in PSG’s 4-3 win over Troyes on Saturday — was just classic Messi.
Drifting deeper and away from defenders as his teammates passed the ball around, Messi somehow created space for himself outside the penalty area.
Looking over his shoulder before the ball arrived at his feet, he knew he had time to take one touch then nudge it forward before unleashing a fierce, low drive from 25 meters (yards) into the corner. Messi celebrated with a big fist pump.
It’s not just the sheer weight of goals or even assists — he has a competition-high nine in the French league and three more in the Champions League — that is reviving memories of Messi in his Barcelona prime.
It’s the style he is doing it in. And with a smile on his face, too.
Messi is enjoying his soccer again, having recently acknowledged that last season — his first in France — was “bad” while he adapted to a new club after 21 years at Barcelona and all the emotions that came with leaving his home of two decades.
“I arrived with a different mindset,” Messi said in September about his return to PSG ahead of this season, “more adapted to the club, to the locker room, to the game, to my teammates.”
The World Cup certainly focuses the mind. Especially when, as is surely the case with Messi, it’s your last one and it’s the tournament that, to some, could define your legacy.
The 35-year-old Messi is also in a good place with Argentina, the focal point of a well-balanced team assembled by coach Lionel Scaloni that has gone 35 games without defeat. That run takes in a title-winning campaign in last year’s Copa America — Argentina’s first major title in 28 years — and a 3-0 victory over Italy in the Finalissima on June 1.
Messi didn’t score that day against Italy at Wembley Stadium but he ran the game. A few days later, he produced that five-goal showing against Estonia.
It was a sign Messi was back.
RASHFORD’S HOPE
Marcus Rashford hasn’t played for England since last year’s European Championship final against Italy, when he came on as a late substitute and was one of three players to fail to score in a penalty-shootout loss.
Could his next appearance for his country be at the World Cup?
Rashford is making a late run at the squad after regaining his full fitness and confidence under recently hired manager Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, and scoring in his last two games. His most recent goal was the winner against West Ham in the Premier League on Sunday and it came in front of England coach Gareth Southgate, who was at Old Trafford to watch the match.
After the game, Rashford said he has regained his motivation after struggling last season because of off-the-field reasons.
“Too often last season, I wasn’t in the right head space for games,” Rashford said.
Rashford’s bid to get back in the England squad might have been helped by an injury to Bukayo Saka, a competitor for one of the spots on the wing on either side of striker Harry Kane. Saka was forced off with an unspecified injury in the first half of Arsenal’s 5-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Sunday.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said Saka received a “bad kick” but remained hopeful of making the World Cup.
NEUER’S RETURN
Fears that Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer may miss the World Cup with a shoulder injury have been eased by Bayern Munich coach Julian Nagelsmann.
The 35-year-old Neuer hasn’t played in any of Bayern’s last six games and also is set to miss Tuesday’s match against Inter Milan in the Champions League.
However, Nagelsmann said Neuer “had no issues during and after training” on Monday and is hoping to play against Hertha Berlin in the German league on Saturday.
Neuer is Germany’s captain.
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AP World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/world-cup and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
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Steve Douglas is at https://twitter.com/sdouglas80 | 2022-10-31T18:06:37+00:00 | wearegreenbay.com | https://www.wearegreenbay.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-world-cup-watch-messi-back-in-supreme-form-ahead-of-qatar/ |
CHICAGO, July 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cboe Global Markets, Inc. (Cboe: CBOE), a leading provider of global market infrastructure and tradable products, today reported June monthly trading volume statistics across its global business lines and provided guidance for selected revenue per contract/net revenue capture metrics for the second quarter of 2022.
The data sheet "Cboe Global Markets Monthly Volume & RPC/Net Revenue Capture Report" contains an overview of certain June trading statistics and market share by business segment, volume in select index products, and RPC/net capture, which is reported on a one-month lag, across business lines.
June and Second-Quarter 2022 Trading Volume Highlights
U.S. Options
- S&P 500 Index (SPX) options set a new monthly ADV record of 2.3 million contracts, surpassing the previous record of 2.2 million in May 2022. Total volume for the month reached nearly 48 million contracts.
- SPX Weeklys Tuesday- and Thursday-expiring options continued their strong debut, with approximately 5.1 million Tuesdays options and 4.4 million Thursdays options traded in June.
- Cboe opened its new trading floor in Chicago on June 6.
European Equities and Derivatives
- Cboe Europe Equities had an overall market share of 23.5 percent in June, the highest month since August 2018.
- Cboe BIDS Europe, Cboe's European block trading platform, had a 33 percent share of the LIS (large-in-scale) market, making it the largest platform of its type (Source: big xyt).
- Cboe Europe Derivatives (CEDX) traded 1,872 contracts during June, up from 1,475 during May.
Second-Quarter 2022 RPC/Net Revenue Capture Guidance
The projected RPC/net capture metrics for the second quarter of 2022 are estimated, preliminary and may change. There can be no assurance that our final RPC for the three months ended June 30, 2022, will not differ materially from these projections.
The above represents average revenue per contract (RPC) or net capture based on a three-month rolling average. For Options and Futures, the average RPC represents total net transaction fees recognized for the period divided by total contracts traded during the period for options exchanges: BZX Options, Cboe Options, C2 Options and EDGX Options; futures include contracts traded on Cboe Futures Exchange, LLC (CFE). For U.S. Equities – On-Exchange, "net capture per 100 touched shares" refers to transaction fees less liquidity payments and routing and clearing costs divided by the product of one-hundredth ADV of touched shares on BZX, BYX, EDGX and EDGA and the number of trading days for the period. For U.S. Equities – Off-Exchange, "net capture per 100 touched shares" refers to transaction fees less OMS/EMS costs and clearing costs divided by the product of one-hundredth ADV of touched shares on BIDS Trading and the number of trading days for the period. For Canadian Equities, "net capture per 10,000 touched shares" refers to transaction fees divided by the product of one-ten thousandth ADV of shares for MATCHNow and the number of trading days for the period (does not include NEO). For European Equities, "net capture per matched notional value" refers to transaction fees less liquidity payments in British pounds divided by the product of ADNV in British pounds of shares matched on Cboe Europe Equities and the number of trading days. For EuroCCP, "Fee per Trade Cleared" refers to clearing fees divided by number of non-interoperable trades cleared and "Net Fee per Settlement" refers to settlement fees less direct costs incurred to settle divided by the number of settlements executed after netting. For Australian Equities, "net capture per matched notional value" refers to transaction fees less liquidity payments in Australian Dollars divided by the product of ADNV in Australian Dollars of shares matched on Chi-X Australia and the number of trading days. For Japanese Equities, "net capture per matched notional value" refers to transaction fees less liquidity payments in Japanese Yen divided by the product of ADNV in Japanese Yen of shares matched on Chi-X Japan and the number of trading days. For Global FX, "net capture per one million dollars traded" refers to transaction fees less liquidity payments, if any, divided by the Spot and SEF products of one-thousandth of ADNV traded on the Cboe FX markets and the number of trading days, divided by two, which represents the buyer and seller that are both charged on the transaction. Average transaction fees per contract can be affected by various factors, including exchange fee rates, volume-based discounts and transaction mix by contract type and product type.
About Cboe Global Markets, Inc.
Cboe Global Markets (Cboe: CBOE), a leading provider of market infrastructure and tradable products, delivers cutting-edge trading, clearing and investment solutions to market participants around the world. The company is committed to operating a trusted, inclusive global marketplace, providing leading products, technology and data solutions that enable participants to define a sustainable financial future. Cboe provides trading solutions and products in multiple asset classes, including equities, derivatives, FX and digital assets, across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more, visit www.cboe.com.
CBOE-V
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We do not undertake, and we expressly disclaim, any duty to update any forward-looking statement whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.
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SOURCE Cboe Global Markets, Inc. | 2022-07-06T21:25:06+00:00 | kcbd.com | https://www.kcbd.com/prnewswire/2022/07/06/cboe-global-markets-reports-trading-volume-june-2022/ |
Opens the door to vast opportunities for diverse applications of intelligent collaborative robots in light industry
DETROIT, June 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- DOBOT, one of the world-leading manufacturers of intelligent robots, has announced the product launch of the CR3L Collaborative Robot. DOBOT will present a rich collection of robots at the Automate Show 2022, held from June 6-9, 2022, in Detroit, with the "Creating Robot Automation of the Future" theme.
The DOBOT CR3L is an ultra-long cobot with a reach of 1700 mm, being increased by 11.5% in comparison to the previous version of the DOBOT CR Series, e.g. CR10, which had the max reach of 1525 mm. The robotic body of the CR3L enables performing in small spaces, perfect for applications requiring extended reach for robots, such as loading and unloading, sorting, and wide-range inspection of small parts in consumer electronics and semiconductor industries.
Along with the DOBOT CR3L robotic arm, there are six different versions of the DOBOT CR Collaborative Robot Series products with diverse payload types: 3kg, 5kg, 7kg, 10kg, 12kg, and 16kg. The DOBOT CR Series robots provide affordable automated solutions for rich industrial sets that cover a wide range of scenarios, such as automotive, consumer electronics, semiconductor, food, garment, hardware, plastic, and chemical, operating in loading and unloading, handling, gluing, testing, screwing and packaging applications.
DOBOT will showcase the CR Collaborative Robot Series at the Automate Show 2022. At the DOBOT booth, visitors will enjoy the high-efficient performance of the CR5 and its rich choice of applications, including screwdriving and the safe use of DOBOT SafeSkin. It is designed with pre-collision sensing technology to ensure high production efficiency and provide the collaborative robots with human-machine cooperation safety solutions, such as non-contact proximity perception and collision prevention. At the same time, it is an excellent opportunity to capture the interaction of the CR10 cobot in palletizing, the M1 Pro SCARA collaborative robot in loading & unloading, and the MG400 desktop robot in gluing and SIM card feeding.
Visitors will easily find DOBOT at Booth 1649.
About DOBOT
Founded in 2015 in China, DOBOT is a world-leading intelligent robotic arm provider for manufacturing, commerce, engineering, and higher education, etc.. DOBOT values innovations with over 686 patents. Today, DOBOT's products are exported to more than 100 countries with a cumulative shipment of 55,000 units.
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SOURCE DOBOT | 2022-06-07T16:14:48+00:00 | mysuncoast.com | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/07/dobot-launches-collaborative-robot-cr3l-automate-2022-detroit-with-increased-max-reach-by-115/ |
(NEXSTAR) – The Department of Transportation has proposed a new package of rules that would make it easier for Americans to get their money back when things go wrong in air travel.
DOT says it has received “a flood” of complaints from travelers who have had their plans disrupted by COVID-19 and pandemic-related fallout, and lost money due to non-refundable ticket purchases.
The new rule would give people the right to a cash refund – not a voucher – “if airlines cancel or significantly change their flights.”
“Significant changes” is defined by the DOT as:
- Anything that affects departure or arrival times by three hours (or more) on domestic flights and six hours (or more) on international flights
- A change to which airport your flight departs from or arrives at
- A change to the number of connections in your itinerary
- If your aircraft type changes and “it causes a significant downgrade in the air travel experience or amenities available onboard the flight”
Under the new rule, you’ll also be eligible for a voucher if you cancel your flight for pandemic-related reasons. Those reasons can include:
- New government travel restrictions
- Closed borders
- Situations in which passengers are advised not to travel for their health or the health of others
These vouchers should not have an expiration date, the DOT says.
“When Americans buy an airline ticket, they should get to their destination safely, reliably, and affordably,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in the DOT announcement. “This new proposed rule would protect the rights of travelers and help ensure they get the timely refunds they deserve from the airlines.”
The rule, proposed on August 3, is open for public comment for 90 days. After the public comment period ends, the proposal may be modified before the final rule is adopted and take effect.
Lawmakers also introduced a bill Monday that would codify the proposed DOT rule. The Cash Refunds for Flight Cancellations Act goes even further than the DOT proposal by giving travelers the option to get a cash refund as long as they cancel their flight 48 hours before departure, the Hill reported. | 2022-08-12T18:09:36+00:00 | kdvr.com | https://kdvr.com/news/new-dot-rule-could-make-air-travel-less-hellish-how-it-could-help-you/ |
SEGUIN, Texas, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Alamo Group Inc. (NYSE: ALG) announced today that its Board of Directors has declared its quarterly cash dividend of $0.18 per share, payable Aug 1, 2022 to shareholders of record at the close of business on July 18, 2022.
About Alamo Group
Alamo Group is a leader in the design, manufacture, distribution and service of high quality equipment for vegetation management, infrastructure maintenance and other applications. Our products include truck and tractor mounted mowing and other vegetation maintenance equipment, street sweepers, snow removal equipment, excavators, vacuum trucks, other industrial equipment, agricultural implements, forestry equipment and related after-market parts and services. The Company, founded in 1969, has approximately 4,300 employees and operates 29 plants in North America, Europe, Australia and Brazil as of March 31, 2022. The corporate offices of Alamo Group Inc. are located in Seguin, Texas.
Forward Looking Statements
This release contains forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause the Company's actual results in future periods to differ materially from forecasted results. Among those factors which could cause actual results to differ materially are the following: overall market demand, continuing impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic including more significant supply chain disruptions, reductions in customer demand, sales and profitability declines, operational disruptions, full or partial facility closures, and other similar impacts, geopolitical risks, including effects of the war in Ukraine, inflation, competition, weather, seasonality, currency-related issues, and other risk factors listed from time to time in the Company's SEC reports. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update the information contained herein, which speaks only as of this date.
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SOURCE Alamo Group Inc. | 2022-07-01T20:27:45+00:00 | wagmtv.com | https://www.wagmtv.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/alamo-group-inc-declares-regular-quarterly-dividend/ |
Jeannette Mae Henry Brady, 93, of Lancaster went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, at Calvary Homes. Born on April 12, 1929, in Scranton, PA, she was the daughter of the late Norman E. and Hannah Ord Sutton Henry.
Growing up in Scranton, she graduated from Technical High School and then went on to Bible Institute of PA in Philadelphia where she met her beloved husband, Stew. Married to H. Stewart Brady in 1952, they celebrated 70 wonderful years together this past June 14th.
She and Stew loved and served the Lord together in various ministries: HiBA in Brooklyn and Johnstown, then at Hilltop Ranch in Maryland (a teenage camp that was part of Morning Cheer Inc.). After 18 years there, they relocated to Lancaster where she worked at Lancaster Bible College for 18 years as a secretary for executive leadership.
She was a member of Calvary Church, Lancaster for the past 46 years. Garage sales, traveling in their van and family vacations as well as other family times were fun pastimes she enjoyed. Jeannette leaves her family with a legacy of love for them and serving her Lord.
She will be lovingly missed by her husband and their 5 children: Carol Hurter (Cliff), Paul (Connie), David, Daniel (partner Brian) and Lynda Leas (Mike). Blessed by 14 grandchildren, 4 step-grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren with 2 more on the way and 4 step-great-grandchildren. Brothers Robert and George Sutton predeceased her as well as granddaughter, Amy Brady.
A time of greeting the family will be held at Calvary Homes in Fellowship Hall, 502 Elizabeth Drive, Lancaster, PA on Saturday, October 29, 2022 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. with a service to follow at 11:00 a.m. She will be laid to rest in Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Calvary Homes for the wonderful care they provided to her especially the past 3 years in Health Care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her memory may be sent to the Benevolent Fund at Calvary Homes, 502 Elizabeth Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601.
Please visit Jeannette's Memorial Page at | 2022-10-23T05:08:31+00:00 | lancasteronline.com | https://lancasteronline.com/obituaries/jeannette-mae-henry-brady/article_22cdb052-1ef7-52e6-995c-be907a246c46.html |
Amazon Workers in Palmdale, Calif., First in the Nation to Organize
WASHINGTON, April 24, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In a historic first, Amazon drivers and dispatchers in Palmdale, Calif., have joined the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and reached a strong tentative agreement containing a multitude of workplace improvements.
"Amazon workers are joining the Teamsters to demand more from this company, including good wages, safe working conditions, and respect," said Randy Korgan, Teamsters Amazon Division Director and Teamsters Joint Council 42 Director of Organizing. "The Teamsters are coordinating nationwide with Amazon workers, allies committed to holding this corporation accountable, and our union's 1.2 million members to make sure Amazon provides the benefits and protections that working people deserve."
"Amazon delivery drivers at DAX8 have made history by organizing their union with Teamsters Local 396 to demand dignity and respect at work," said Victor Mineros, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 396. "I commend these workers for their courage to take on this greedy multibillion-dollar corporation. We are confident this will lead other Amazon workers nationwide to organize with the Teamsters."
The 84 workers won neutrality and voluntary union recognition to join Local 396 in Los Angeles. Local 396 and Joint Council 42 negotiated a tentative agreement with Amazon's Delivery Service Partner (DSP), Battle-Tested Strategies, on behalf of the new members.
The agreement, which will be voted on by the members in the coming weeks, includes immediate pay increases, substantial hourly raises in the fall, provisions that hold Amazon accountable on health and safety standards, a grievance procedure, and other benefits. Full details of the agreement will be available upon ratification by the members.
Amazon workers marched on Amazon in Palmdale on April 24 to call on the company to respect their right to a union and work with their DSP to honor the conditions of the agreement.
"We want fair pay and safe jobs, to be able to provide food for our families. We want to know we will make it home to our families at night after delivering Amazon packages in the extreme heat," said Rajpal Singh, an Amazon driver in Palmdale. "We organized with the Teamsters to change our working conditions for the better."
Singh and his coworkers have been calling on Amazon to provide a livable wage and reliable work environment, particularly concerning extreme heat conditions. The workers collectively petitioned Amazon on their demands for a safe workplace during the pandemic.
"We deliver in an Amazon van, wearing an Amazon uniform, but when we petition Amazon, they ignore us. We have a mass of support, we are a union, and now they need to listen," Singh said.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.2 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and "like" us on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.
Contact:
Kara Deniz, (202) 497-6610
kdeniz@teamster.org
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SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters | 2023-04-24T19:16:52+00:00 | newschannel10.com | https://www.newschannel10.com/prnewswire/2023/04/24/amazon-drivers-join-teamsters-union-reach-agreement-historic-victory/ |
HELSINKI (AP) — The three Baltic states have strongly condemned comments by China’s envoy to France, who appeared to suggest in a recent French television interview that former Soviet republics aren’t sovereign nations.
The foreign ministers of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania in separate announcements late Saturday deemed statements by Lu Shaye, China’s ambassador to France, as unacceptable.
In a recent interview with the French news channel LCI, he was asked if he thought that the Crimean Peninsula belongs to Ukraine. Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, a move that most of the world denounced as illegal.
“That depends … on how one perceives this problem,” the envoy told the broadcaster. “There’s the history. Crimea was at the beginning Russian, no? It was (Soviet leader Nikita) Khrushchev who gave Crimea to Ukraine in the era of the Soviet Union.”
When the channel’s presenter noted that according to international law, Crimea is part of Ukraine, the Chinese ambassador drew a parallel to the former Soviet republics — including the three Baltic nations — that broke free after the USSR collapsed in 1991.
“With regards to international law, even these ex-Soviet Union countries, they do not, they do not have the status — how to say it? — that’s effective in international law, because there is no international agreement to solidify their status as a sovereign country,” he said.
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis tweeted that “If anyone is still wondering why the Baltic States don’t trust China to ‘broker peace in Ukraine,’ here’s a Chinese ambassador arguing that Crimea is Russian and our countries’ borders have no legal basis.”
His Estonian counterpart, Margus Tsahkna, said Chinese ambassador’s comments were “false and a misinterpretation of history,” while Latvian Foreign Minister Edgar Rinkevics said that the statements were “completely unacceptable.”
Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius would each summon China’s ambassador or representative for an explanation of the envoy’s comments, the three Baltic countries said. European Union and NATO members Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania regained their independence in 1991 amid the fall of the Soviet Union after nearly five decades of Moscow’s rule.
In a separate statement, France’s Foreign Ministry expressed concern about the ambassador’s comments about ex-Soviet states and said: “It’s for China to say whether these comments reflect its position, which we hope is not the case.”
The French ministry said these countries gained independence “after decades of oppression” and that in the specific case of Ukraine, “the entirety of the international community, including China,” recognized its borders, including Crimea, when it declared independence in 1991.
President Vladimir Putin of Russia, which is China’s ally, has said several times that he doesn’t recognize the sovereignty of Ukraine. The Kremlin also has made clear that it perceives the independence of the Baltic states and their active role in NATO and the EU as threats to Russia’s security.
___
John Leicester contributed to this report from Paris. | 2023-04-23T13:50:53+00:00 | wnct.com | https://www.wnct.com/news/business/ap-business/baltics-condemn-china-envoys-stance-on-ex-soviet-nations/ |
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —
At least three people have been found dead, and at least five others are thought to be injured, police in Missouri said while investigating two shootings with multiple victims in the same area of Kansas City early Sunday morning.
Officers were called to the intersection of 57th Street and Prospect Avenue just after 4:30 a.m. where they found three shooting victims — two men and one women — dead in a parking lot and in the street, Kansas City Police Department spokesperson Jake Becchina said in an email.
Police were told that five other shooting victims with injuries that were not life-threatening arrived at various hospitals by private vehicles or ambulance, Becchina said, adding: “Preliminary information indicates there was a large gathering of people in a parking lot at the intersection when the victims were shot.”
An initial investigation by police indicates the gathering took place outside an auto mechanic shop, where police have been called to before, KSHB-TV reported.
“My condolences to the families of three people killed in a shooting this morning at an apparent after-hours gathering near 57 and Prospect. If the business knew persons would be present, without security, selling alcohol, and thwarting our laws, that business should be closed,” Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas posted on Twitter.
There was no immediate information about any arrests being made, KSHB-TV reported. Police also responded to a nearby shooting on Prospect Avenue near 31st Street around 3 a.m. and said critical injuries were suffered, though they did not say how many people were injured. | 2023-06-25T19:31:24+00:00 | ourquadcities.com | https://www.ourquadcities.com/news/ap-top-headlines/at-least-three-dead-and-five-injured-at-early-morning-shootings-in-kansas-city-missouri/ |
WICHITA, Kan., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fast-casual restaurant concept, Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers®, announced today the launch of its new Steakburger Stacker and Reese's® Creamy Peanut Butter Shake & Reese's® Crunchy Peanut Butter Concrete. The limited-time offers are available to order starting April 19 through June 20 at participating Freddy's locations nationwide via drive-thru, in-restaurant dining, and pickup or delivery through the Freddy's mobile app and at https://freddys.com.
The cooked-to-order Steakburger Stacker comes with three sizzling steakburger patties, American and White Cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles and homemade Freddy's Fry Sauce.
"The Steakburger Stacker features a delicious combination of toppings that makes for a delightful experience in every bite," said Erin Walter, VP of Brand Marketing. "It's the perfect choice if you're looking for a meal to pair with one of our new Reese's® frozen custard treats."
Freddy's Reese's® Creamy Peanut Butter Shake and Reese's® Crunchy Peanut Butter Concrete are both made with freshly churned vanilla frozen custard, Reese's® Peanut Butter cups and Reese's® peanut butter sauce, all topped with whipped cream. The shake has added milk so guests can enjoy the dessert through a straw. The concrete is blended with chopped peanuts and is a thicker treat that needs to be eaten with a spoon. It is also topped with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts.
"We've created two new dessert options for guests to choose how they would like to enjoy their Reese's® – as a Creamy Shake or a Crunchy Concrete," said Walter. "Peanut butter lovers are sure to find Reese's® one-of-a-kind peanut butter blended with Freddy's rich and smooth frozen custard an irresistible treat that incorporates the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors."
About Freddy's
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers® is a leading fast-casual franchise concept with more than 460 locations across 36 states nationwide. Founded in Wichita, Kansas, in 2002, the brand offers a unique combination of cooked-to-order steakburgers, all-beef hot dogs, shoestring fries and other savory items along with freshly churned frozen custard treats. Known for operating the Freddy's Way, Guests experience genuine hospitality and food prepared fresh with premium ingredients. This signature approach has fueled Freddy's ongoing growth throughout the U.S. and garnered national recognition from industry-leading rankings, including being named No. 1 on Forbes Best Franchises to Buy and No. 59 on Entrepreneur's Franchise 500. For more on Freddy's, visit the Newsroom and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For more information about development opportunities, visit https://freddysfranchising.com/.
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SOURCE Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers | 2023-04-18T17:08:15+00:00 | kxii.com | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2023/04/18/freddys-introduces-its-new-steakburger-stacker-reeses-creamy-peanut-butter-shake-amp-reeses-crunchy-peanut-butter-concrete-limited-time/ |
A former MGM Springfield employee suing the casino said it can do more to create a diverse workforce.
In her lawsuit, Chelan Brown alleges she was retaliated against, and eventually fired, after calling into question why casino officials were allegedly submitting false diversity hiring numbers to state gambling regulators.
During a press conference Thursday outside Springfield District Court and across the street from the casino, Brown said she understands MGM Springfield is a large employer that can provide job opportunities to the region.
"Regardless of what the outcome may be with my lawsuit, I'm encouraging the community partners I've worked with, officials and others to come to the table with MGM to figure out how to ensure that women workers and vendors of color are provided access to the opportunities that MGM holds," she said.
Brown said she believes in the new leadership at the casino, including president Chris Kelley, but still hopes the company will be held accountable.
"I am encouraged by the new MGM Springfield leadership team. However, some of those who failed me and others in high ranking roles at MGM still remain and need to be held accountable," she said. "It is not enough to repair the discrimination or harassment, broken promises and duress that I endured."
MGM Springfield cited company policy in not commenting on the lawsuit. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has said it is looking into the matter.
Brown's brother-in-law and Springfield Ward 4 City Councilor Malo Brown attended the press conference and said residents are still awaiting the promises made by MGM Springfield before its opening in 2018.
"The lack of respect and transparency that MGM has had for the Black and brown community, to me, it's unacceptable and they can do better," he said. "MGM owes the city of Springfield answers. The people of Springfield want to know...Open up these books and let us see."
Brown's attorney, Dan Kelly, said the company used her and her family as the "public face" during its campaign to become a casino. He said Brown initially believed in MGM Springfield's plan for the city's future.
"Chelan is interested in MGM really coming to the table with the community and living up to their diversity promises. That's really the cornerstone of what this is about," he said. | 2022-12-15T20:41:54+00:00 | nepm.org | https://www.nepm.org/regional-news/2022-12-15/as-her-lawsuit-against-mgm-springfield-moves-forward-chelan-brown-encouraged-by-new-leadership |
WIMBLEDON, England (AP) — It says a lot about Novak Djokovic that a two-sets-to-none hole at Wimbledon on a day he was hardly at his best likely left no one thinking the ultimate outcome was a forgone conclusion.
A lot about his pre-eminence at the All England Club in recent years. A lot about his history of overcoming that sort of deficit. A lot about his ability to adjust, to adapt, to right himself quickly. A lot about what might happen if — or, rather, when — he got back into the match and it eventually went to a fifth set.
And so it was that Djokovic spotted 10th-seeded Jannik Sinner of Italy that huge lead Tuesday, then worked his way all the way back to pull away and win 5-7, 2-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 at Centre Court, earning an 11th semifinal berth at Wimbledon with his 26th consecutive victory at the grass-court Grand Slam tournament.
Among men, only Roger Federer, with 13, has made more semifinal appearances at the place. Among men, only Federer, with eight, has won more championships than the seven that Djokovic would reach by lifting the trophy Sunday for what would be a fourth year in a row.
Djokovic collected his seventh career comeback in a match he trailed by two sets — he last did it in the French Open final against Stefanos Tsitsipas last year — and improved to 37-10 in five-setters. That includes a 10-1 mark in matches that go the distance at Wimbledon, including nine straight victories; the lone loss came way back in 2006.
In the semifinals on Friday, the top-seeded Djokovic, a 35-year-old from Serbia, will meet either No. 9 Cameron Norrie of Britain or unseeded David Goffin of Belgium. The men’s quarterfinals Wednesday: No. 2 Rafael Nadal of Spain vs. No. 11 Taylor Fritz of the U.S., and Nick Kyrgios of Australia vs. Cristian Garin of Cile.
The first player into the women’s semifinals was 103rd-ranked Tatjana Maria, who defeated Jule Niemeier 4-6, 6-2, 7-5 in an all-German matchup. Maria is 34, making her only the sixth woman at least that old to get this far at Wimbledon in the professional era, which began in 1968.
The others? It’s quite a list: Martina Navratilova, Billie Jean King, Chris Evert, Serena Williams and Venus Williams.
This is Maria’s 35th Grand Slam tournament; she only once previously had even made it as far as the third round.
She’ll take on No. 3 Ons Jabeur of Tunisia or Marie Bouzkova of the Czech Republic for a spot in Saturday’s final. The other women’s quarterfinals: 2019 champion Simona Halep of Romania vs. No. 20 Amanda Anisimova of the U.S., and No. 17 Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan vs. Ajla Tomljanovic of Australia.
Of the women’s quarterfinalists, only Halep owns a major title (she has two).
___
More AP Wimbledon coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/wimbledon and https://apnews.com/hub/tennis and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2022-07-05T16:53:19+00:00 | seattletimes.com | https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/at-34-maria-reaches-wimbledon-semifinals-for-1st-time/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_all |
Police say Lowe's robbery preceded Telshor shooting. Here’s what we know ahead of scheduled news conference
Note: This story was updated at 1:39 p.m. Thursday, July 28, after Las Cruces police detailed the shooting near Frenger Park.
LAS CRUCES – One man sits in jail and a shooting suspect has yet to be arrested as police and city officials plan to host a news conference to address questions about two unrelated shootings that have rattled residents.
The first shooting left a 17-year-old boy critically injured. Police said the shooing happened about 4 p.m. Wednesday near the intersection of E. Park Drive and Branson Avenue, just east of Frenger Park.
In a news release sent about 1:30 p.m. Thursday, police say the boy was meeting with other young men near the park when there was an altercation. A suspect pulled a gun and shot the boy, police said. The boy was transported to University Medical Center of El Paso. He is listed in critical condition.
Police believe the suspect may have fled the area in a white sport utility vehicle. Las Cruces police are asking for witnesses to come forward and help identify the suspect. Anyone with information should call police at 575-526-0795. Tips can also be provided anonymously by calling Las Cruces Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or through the Las Cruces Crime Stoppers app, “P3 TIPS.”
Telshor shooting
The second shooting occurred around 8 p.m. near the former Wing Daddy’s on Telshor Boulevard and Sundown Road. Police on Wednesday night described it as a shootout, but provided few other details.
According to an affidavit LCPD Det. Jesse Gonzales filed, the incident began at the Lowe's Home Improvement on North Main Street.
Gonzales wrote in an affidavit that two men, 25-year-old Myles Luciano and 25-year-old Joshua Lopez, tried to shoplift merchandise. Gonzales cited two store employees and a customer who said they watched the two men shoplift an air conditioner unit and then threaten people in the store with a gun.
According to Gonzales, an assistant manager spotted the two men as they tried to leave with an AC unit. Then, an assistant manager and another employee confronted Luciano and Lopez as they attempted to leave.
Luciano then pulled out what Gonzales described as a black handgun and pointed it at the manager and employee before leaving. Gonzales said store security cameras recorded that part of the incident.
Gonzales does not say how Luciano ended up at the Telshor Boulevard and Sundown road intersection, but jail records show that police detained Luciano there.
Luciano is charged with three felony counts of aggravated assault, felony shoplifting, conspiracy to commit a fourth-degree felony and misdemeanor charges of failure to pay fines and failure to appear.
After his arrest, Luciano said the gun was a fake. He told another detective it was a BB gun.
Lopez’s fate is unclear. Gonzales did not say if police also detained Lopez, if he left the area before Luciano was arrested or if Lopez was injured or killed in the shooting.
A witness whose office overlooks Telshor near Wing Daddy’s told the Sun-News she heard the incident. The woman did not want to be named but said she heard a loud crash around 8 p.m. She described it as the sound of metal slamming into metal. As she got up to look out her window to see the impact, she assumed the incident was an innocuous traffic collision. Then, a half-dozen gunshots rang out.
The woman said she ducked for cover. Then, she ran deeper into her office as bullets continued to fly outside. In all, she said the exchange lasted a minute or two.
LCPD Chief Miguel Dominguez will host a news conference at 2 p.m. Thursday at city hall. The conference will be live streamed on the city’s YouTube page and the city’s website.
Keep reading:
- Las Cruces Public Schools, police assure public on school security
- Outage south of Las Cruces affects 4,100 El Paso Electric customers
- Has New Mexico's relentless focus on DWI missed bigger problem of addiction?
Justin Garcia is a public safety reporter for the Las Cruces Sun-News. He can be reached at JEGarcia@lcsun-news.com. | 2022-07-28T20:53:08+00:00 | lcsun-news.com | https://www.lcsun-news.com/story/news/local/2022/07/28/police-say-lowes-robbery-preceded-telshor-shooting/65385783007/ |
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Ships searching in wind-whipped waters between South Korea and Japan have picked up at least 14 of the 22 crew members from a cargo ship that sank early Wednesday.
South Korean officials said nine of them remain unconscious, but they did not immediately confirm any deaths. They said the crew members would be airlifted to Japan for treatment.
South Korean and Japanese coast guard vessels and aircraft as well as two commercial cargo ships were continuing to search for the eight missing crew members but the efforts were being slowed by strong winds and waves, South Korean officials said.
The Japanese coast guard confirmed the rescue of at least 13 crew members and said five of them – all Chinese nationals – were still alive.
The 6,551-ton Jin Tian sank about three and a half hours after it sent a distress call at around 11:15 p.m. Tuesday in Japan’s exclusive economic zone, Japanese coast guard spokesperson Shinya Kitahara said.
The vessel, which was Hong Kong registered and carrying lumber, sank about 160 kilometers (100 miles) southwest of Nagasaki, Japan, and about 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of South Korea’s Jeju island.
The captain last communicated with the coast guard through a satellite phone around 2:41 a.m., saying crew members would abandon the ship, minutes before it sank, Jeju island coast guard officials said.
Six crew members were picked up by South Korean coast guard vessels, while a cargo ship picked up five and Japanese aircraft picked up three, according to Jeju’s coast guard.
According to South Korean and Japanese officials, 14 crew members are Chinese and eight are from Myanmar. According to maritime transport websites, the vessel left Malaysia’s Port Klang on Dec. 3 and was headed for South Korea’s Incheon port.
The ship is owned by Long Bright Shipping Limited, a Hong Kong-registered company that is a subsidiary of Shenzhen Shekou Shipping Transportation Co., Ltd., according to a July 2022 filing made by the parent company to China’s National Equities Exchange and Quotations. The filing says the Jin Tian was used as collateral for a loan that was later repaid.
Calls to a number listed for Shenzhen Shekou Shipping Transportation in mainland China went unanswered on Wednesday during the weeklong Lunar New Year holiday.
South Korean officials didn’t immediately say whether the nine who were unconscious were likely to survive their injuries if they weren’t already dead. They said the five other crew members who were rescued were either conscious when found or regained consciousness after being rescued.
Kitahara said the cause of the ship’s sinking was not immediately known and there were no signs that it collided with another vessel. He said the arrivals of Japanese patrol boats and aircraft were delayed by difficult weather following the sinking.
Officials at Jeju’s coast guard say a strong wind warning was issued for the area earlier on Wednesday but was later lifted. Winds were blowing at around 16 meters (yards) per second in the area as of 7 a.m., creating waves that were 3 to 4 meters (yards) high.
The Japanese coast guard said the water in the area remained rough and its temperature was around 14 degrees Celsius.
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Yamaguchi reported from Tokyo. AP writer Zen Soo in Singapore contributed to the report. | 2023-01-25T16:17:52+00:00 | texomashomepage.com | https://www.texomashomepage.com/news/ap-ship-sinks-between-s-korea-and-japan-11-found-unconscious/ |
(The Hill) – One of the worst national security leaks in U.S. history may have begun with classified documents on Russia’s war in Ukraine and other issues spreading across fringe social media sites and messaging rooms for gamers.
The leak, which is being investigated by the Justice Department and Pentagon, was first reported last week by The New York Times.
Yet the earliest documents were spreading across servers on Discord, a messaging platform popular with gamers, for at least a little over a month, even though they are only now being investigated by the Justice Department and Pentagon.
Here’s how the documents appeared to have spread.
A ‘Wow Mao’ chatroom
Photographs of dozens of pages of the documents were shared on Feb. 28 and March 2 on Discord to a server called “Wow Mao,” The Washington Post reported.
The “Wow Mao” Discord server, seemingly named after a YouTuber’s account, may not have been the first Discord channel where the documents spread, however.
Members of a separate Discord community told Bellingcat, an investigative journalism group, the images were among a larger set of photos of documents posted to a since-deleted server on Discord dating back to January, wrote Aric Toler, Bellingcat’s director of research and training.
Bellingcat was not able to independently verify claims of those earlier documents.
The jump to Minecraft
After the photos were shared to the Wow Mao server, some of them were shared on another server about the popular video game Minecraft, Toler said.
Ten documents were posted in the server about Minecraft maps, which had a larger community following than the Wow Mao server.
In response to a “brief spat” with another person in the Minecraft chatroom, one user replied “here, have some leaked documents” and attached the 10 documents about Ukraine, some of which had the “Top Secret” markings, according to the Bellingcat.
From the Minecraft server, a handful of posts migrated over to 4chan and Telegram — and then “all hell breaks loose,” Toler said.
The images shared on a pro-Russian Telegram channel on Wednesday came after a user on 4chan posted seemingly similar but mostly different documents, according to Bellingcat.
For example, in one common image on the two posts is a map with statistics that include the cumulative number of Russian and Ukrainian soldiers killed in action.
While the image is identical, the posts show different numbers killed in action. The image shared on 4chan showed more Russian losses than Ukraine, and the image shared on Telegram showed the reverse.
Toler said the second image, with the higher Ukrainian killed in action numbers posted on Telegram, appeared to have been manipulated.
How are platforms responding to the leak?
The breach, and reported manipulation of at least one of the images, is raising concerns about how information is being circulated online.
Steven Ward, a resident privacy and security fellow for R Street’s Cybersecurity and Emerging Threats team, said the leaking of classified intelligence documents is concerning but “we should be cautious of the leaked documents’ authenticity.”
“In the last few years, dark underground communities like 4chan and Telegram have garnered more attention, expanding their reach and making them a viable option for distributing information to a larger audience,” Ward said in an email.
A Discord spokesperson said they are cooperating with law enforcement in regard to the “apparent breach of classified material.”
“As this remains an active investigation, we cannot provide further comment at this time,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson added that when Discord is “made aware of content that violates our policies, our Safety team investigates and takes the appropriate action, including banning users, shutting down servers, and engaging with law enforcement.”
Discord is not the only platform where the information is spreading. Images are now circulating on much more mainstream social media platforms, such as Twitter.
It’s not clear if Twitter has plans to try to bar the spread of the images. Twitter CEO Elon Musk, who bought the platform in the fall, seemed to sarcastically brush off the idea in a tweet last week.
“Yeah, you can totally delete things from the Internet – that works perfectly and doesn’t draw attention to whatever you were trying to hide at all,” Musk tweeted.
The scale of the exposure has yet to be determined. Also unclear is whether any government worked to share the documents or manipulate them.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. | 2023-04-11T01:57:43+00:00 | pix11.com | https://pix11.com/news/us-world-news/how-classified-us-documents-quickly-spread-from-gamer-chat-rooms-to-the-rest-of-the-internet/ |
- 3X Grammy Winner, Mental Health Advocate puts his Talent to Work to Help People on their Journey to Wholistic Wellbeing -
BELLEVUE, Wash., June 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- RoundGlass, a global Wholistic Wellbeing company dedicated to empowering people on their personal wellness journey, has tapped music megastar, Jerry Wonda to provide a series of innovative, immersive, and effective meditation pieces. The new material will be available via RoundGlass's Music for Wellbeing channel on the RoundGlass Living App.
Jerry Wonda has created six original "longform" meditation pieces for the channel, as well as a video where he shares how meditation helps him find balance and focus. The compositions will have visuals to deepen the experience. The compositions draw sounds from all over the world, Jerry notes, "These pieces are not traditional meditation music. They awaken the soul and invigorate the mind."
Jerry is no stranger to the value of Wholistic Wellbeing and meditation, "For years I've been involved with programs that advocate for mental and emotional wellness, both for musicians and young people," he said. "I was really happy when RoundGlass approached me to work on this project. Their mission to inspire people to embrace Wholistic Wellbeing, creating a happier, healthier, and more joyful world for all, by working towards improving distinct aspects of their lives is so important. And the fact, that anyone with a phone can access the tools they need through the RoundGlass Living app is remarkable."
RoundGlass founder, Sunny Singh commented, "We are so glad to join forces with Jerry Wonda. Not only is Jerry a musical force of the first order, but he is also an example and an advocate for Wholistic Wellbeing in his own life. As a multiple Grammy Winner and a Member of the Board of Governors of the Grammys, Jerry understands fully the stresses and pressures today's music industry imposes on artists," Sunny commented. "He incorporates meditation in his work and literally makes room for it in his studio where he has dedicated spaces for quiet meditation," he added.
Jerry Wonda's meditation music will be available next month on the RoundGlass Music for Wellbeing channel.
Follow RoundGlass:
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LinkedIn
Press Contact: pr.usa@roundglass.com
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE RoundGlass LLC | 2022-06-29T17:41:03+00:00 | kcbd.com | https://www.kcbd.com/prnewswire/2022/06/29/roundglass-grammy-award-winning-producer-jerry-wonda-team-up-enhance-meditation-experience-wellbeing-seekers/ |
Momentum at N.C. Red Cross Facilities Continues
CARY, N.C., April 11, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Workers at the American Red Cross in Cary voted unanimously to join Teamsters Local 391. This is the fourth organizing victory at a Red Cross facility in North Carolina in the last month. This cohort joins three units of Red Cross Durham workers who also recently voted to join Local 391.
"We are happy to welcome another group of Red Cross workers to the Teamsters family here in North Carolina," said Moses Darden, Lead Organizer at Local 391. "This latest organizing victory is part of a growing movement of Red Cross workers in the Carolinas who are rising up and demanding fair treatment and job protections. We look forward to helping these workers get the contract they deserve."
"My coworkers and I could not be more excited to join Local 391," said Amy Starks, Collections Specialist at Red Cross' Cary facility. "We know that the Teamsters will always advocate for and support Red Cross workers like us. We're ready to fight for the contract we deserve!"
These workers join more than 1,700 other Red Cross workers who are represented by the Teamsters.
Chartered in 1938, Teamsters Local 391 represents thousands of workers in North Carolina throughout a wide variety of industries. For more information go to teamsterslocal391.org/.
Contact:
Matt McQuaid, (202) 624-6877
mmcquaid@teamster.org
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Teamsters Local 391 | 2023-04-11T19:36:16+00:00 | waff.com | https://www.waff.com/prnewswire/2023/04/11/nc-red-cross-workers-unanimously-vote-join-teamsters/ |
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (AP) — A third person has died after being injured in a stampede after a weekend concert by the rapper GloRilla in western New York, police said Thursday.
Aisha Stephens, 35, of Syracuse was the only person who remained hospitalized following a Sunday evening performance by the Memphis, Tennessee, rap star and Finesse2tymes at the Rochester Main Street Armory. She died Wednesday night.
Two other women, Rhondesia Belton, 33, of Buffalo and Brandy Miller, 35, of Rochester, also died and several people were injured after being caught up in a crush of concertgoers who surged toward the exits after the show.
Police said the stampede may have been triggered by unfounded fears of gunfire.
The city refused to renew the venue’s entertainment license on Wednesday, effectively shutting it down while criminal and regulatory investigations are underway, said Patrick Beath, the city’s deputy corporation counsel. In addition to a police investigation, he said fire and code enforcement authorities are inspecting the building and reviewing photos and video from the concert to determine if there were any violations.
The armory’s owner has not responded to numerous emailed requests for comment.
The main arena in the fortress-like armory has a capacity of about 5,000 people, city officials said.
As the concert ended Sunday, people exiting the venue just after 11 p.m. began to surge dangerously after hearing what they believed to be gunshots, city officials have said. Police found no evidence of gunfire.
Crowd surges at large events have turned deadly before, including one at a 2021 concert by rapper Travis Scott in which 10 people died. | 2023-03-10T03:44:23+00:00 | kfor.com | https://kfor.com/news/national/ap-us-news/rochester-concert-stampede-claims-third-victim-venue-closed/ |
(KFDX/KJTL) — The “Tom, Mark, and Travis Show” is making a comeback in 2023.
Blink-182, one of the most commercially successful pop-punk bands of all time, announced on Tuesday that singer, guitarist, and founding member Tom DeLonge is reunited with the band ahead of a new single set to be released on Friday, October 14.
The band also announced on Tuesday an upcoming world tour that will begin in March 2023 and teased a new album, all with DeLonge involved.
DeLonge and fellow vocalist and bassist Mark Hoppus founded Blink-182 in 1992 in Southern California, along with their original drummer, Scott Raynor. Raynor was replaced in 1998 by Travis Barker, solidifying what became their most well-known and successful lineup.
DeLonge, Hoppus and Barker recorded three albums together before the band went on an “indefinite hiatus” in 2005, in part due to DeLonge’s desire to spend more time with his family. They reunited for several years after a performance at the 2009 Grammy Awards, but DeLonge again left the band in 2014.
DeLonge was replaced by Matt Skiba of The Alkaline Trio in 2015. Skiba sang and played guitar on two studio albums for Blink-182, 2016’s “California” and 2019’s “Nine.” He does not appear to be among the lineup for Blink-182’s upcoming tour, according to the band’s website.
Tickets for Blink-182’s worldwide reunion tour go on sale on Monday, October 17, 2022, beginning at 10 a.m. local time. | 2022-10-11T17:23:59+00:00 | siouxlandproud.com | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/news/national-news/blink-182-reunites-with-tom-delonge-for-new-music-world-tour/ |
Thousands of Sudanese have fled north from fighting in their home country into Egypt. Now they have to struggle to find their way in a country facing its own problems.
Copyright 2023 NPR
Thousands of Sudanese have fled north from fighting in their home country into Egypt. Now they have to struggle to find their way in a country facing its own problems.
Copyright 2023 NPR | 2023-06-10T13:28:06+00:00 | nepm.org | https://www.nepm.org/national-world-news/national-world-news/2023-06-10/hundreds-of-thousands-of-sudanese-refugees-face-an-uncertain-future-in-egypt |
Kevin Willard believed his new Maryland team would get off to a good start.
But this has been a bit more than even Willard expected early in his tenure after a successful run at Seton Hall.
“I didn’t envision this,” Willard said. “I’m not going to lie.”
The Terrapins (8-0, 1-0 Big Ten) made the week’s biggest jump in Monday’s latest AP Top 25 by rising nine spots to No. 13. That marks the program’s highest ranking since pushing into the top 10 during the 2019-20 season, and it comes with the Terps preparing for a stretch that could build even more momentum.
First comes Tuesday’s trip to Wisconsin in Big Ten play, followed by a matchup with seventh-ranked Tennessee in New York on Sunday in one of the marquee games on this week’s Top 25 schedule.
Maryland opened Big Ten play by beating No. 17 Illinois on Friday night.
The Terrapins currently rank 12th nationally in KenPom’s adjusted offensive efficiency by averaging 114.5 points per 100 possessions, their highest output since 2016 (116.2). The Terps also rank 34th in adjusted defensive efficiency by allowing 93.3 points allowed per 100 possessions, a healthy improvement from last year’s 17-loss season (99.3).
After this week, the Terrapins have another test ahead by hosting No. 19 UCLA.
“We still have a long way to go obviously,” Willard said after the Illinois win. “But I think everyone got a glimpse of how hard these guys have worked, the attitude they’ve had and what this program is not only about now, but what it’s going to be about in the future. So it’s really cool to be 8-0.”
TOP-TIER TESTS
Houston remained firmly in place at No. 1 in the latest AP Top 25 poll. The Cougars are set for two straight weekends of big tests, starting Saturday against No. 8 Alabama at home.
Houston (8-0) is No. 2 nationally in KenPom’s adjusted defensive efficiency (83.9) while ranking in the top 20 in offense. The Cougars first host North Florida on Tuesday before facing the Crimson Tide, who cracked the top 10 for the first time this season Monday.
A week later, Houston visits No. 3 Virginia.
If the Cougars win those, their first stay at No. 1 since the “Phi Slama Jama” days in the 1980s could be a lengthy one.
RANKED VS RANKED
There are two other matchups of AP Top 25 teams on the schedule this week. The first comes Tuesday when No. 2 Texas — which already has wins against No. 18 Gonzaga and No. 21 Creighton — meets No. 17 Illinois in New York for the Jimmy V Classic.
The other comes Saturday when No. 10 Arizona meets No. 14 Indiana in Las Vegas on Saturday.
STARTING OVER
North Carolina started the year at No. 1. The Tar Heels start this week as only the sixth team to go from that preseason top spot to unranked since at least the 1961-62 season.
UNC (5-4) has lost four straight and has a hobbled big man in Armando Bacot, who was the double-double machine at the heart of last year’s unexpected run to the NCAA championship game. The good news for the Tar Heels is they have multiple days to regroup before hosting Georgia Tech on Saturday in Atlantic Coast Conference play.
WATCH LIST
Iowa (6-1) has a shot to climb into the AP Top 25 for the second time this season.
The Hawkeyes, the leading vote-getter among unranked teams in Monday’s latest poll, face No. 15 Duke in New York during the Jimmy V Classic on Tuesday. They spent one week at No. 25 in mid-November in the poll.
The second-leading vote-getter among unranked teams was College of Charleston (8-1), which visits Presbyterian on Tuesday and hosts North Greenville on Sunday.
___
AP Sports Writer Noah Trister in College Park, Maryland, contributed to this report.
___
Follow Aaron Beard on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/aaronbeardap
___
AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball and https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://twitter.com/AP_Top25 | 2022-12-07T03:46:14+00:00 | kfor.com | https://kfor.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-no-13-maryland-off-to-fast-start-with-marquee-games-ahead/ |
Which guinea pig toys are best?
Guinea pigs love to play, and the right toys will help keep them from boredom. Pet stores often have hundreds of toys in various sizes or colors, so it’s essential to know what to look for in a quality guinea pig toy.
Your guinea pig is smart, so toys like the Kaytee Nut Knot Nibbler, which provides both mental and physical stimulation, are the top choice for your pet guinea pig.
What to know before you buy guinea pig toys
They are social
Guinea pigs are naturally social creatures, so they are prone to boredom and loneliness. That’s why it’s recommended to have a pair of guinea pigs or spend a lot of quality time with your piggie. They will play with a variety of toys and even show off by throwing them around. Toys help keep your pet entertained when you aren’t around to play with them.
They can learn tricks
Like a dog, your guinea pig can learn to perform a few tricks, and having some toys around can help. Your pet can push around a small ball or a small car and even learn to jump through toy hoops. It just takes patience, the right toy, and the best treats for rewards.
Maintain your toys
As your pet uses their favorite toy, it gets worn down and dirty. Be sure to inspect the toys frequently to make sure they are still safe for your pet to use. A great time to inspect and clean your guinea pig toys is during cage cleaning time.
No hamster balls or wheels
Guinea pigs don’t need balls or wheels to stay in shape, and they prefer to have the space to run wild. Even wheels and balls marketed for guinea pigs aren’t the best choice for them, and it all comes down to their longer spine. Think of how a hamster looks in a ball or wheel, and then imagine your guinea pig’s longer body in that same position. The prolonged “U” shape these toys force your piggie into can possibly injure your pet.
What to look for in quality guinea pig toys
Made for chewing
Toys that are safe for chewing keep your guinea pig occupied and help your pet stay healthy. Guinea pigs have two long incisors on both their upper and bottom jaws, as well as four teeth in the back of their mouths. Their teeth never stop growing and are prone to plaque and dental diseases like elongated teeth. Natural materials like twigs or wood are perfect examples of what to look for in a chew toy.
Allows them to hide
Guinea pigs love to feel safe, and not having a place to hide can cause them stress. Some items combine both hiding and chewing, making for a great toy that your piggie can use to satisfy their urge to nibble and hide.
Safety factor
Your piggie pet will chew just about anything that gets put into their cage. Never give your guinea pig anything you don’t want them to destroy. A great guinea pig toy isn’t made with harmful materials like paint, plastics, certain metals, glue, and staples. Also, make sure any hideaway toys are large enough for your guinea pig, so they don’t get stuck.
How much you can expect to spend on guinea pig toys
Depending on the size of your guinea pig toy, they can be inexpensive, costing as little as $5. They can also go up to $30 for much larger toys.
Guinea pig toys FAQ
What kinds of wood are safe for guinea pig toys?
A. Wood types that are safe for guinea pigs are aspen, basswood, poplar, and white pine. Avoid any soft, aromatic woods like cedar, eucalyptus, and redwood.
Can guinea pigs play with children’s wooden blocks?
A. While children’s wooden blocks are typically made of materials that are safe for children, they may not be for your pet. If the blocks are plain, natural wood with no sealants and dyes, they can be considered safe for your pet.
What’s the best guinea pig toy to buy?
Top guinea pig toy
What you need to know: This is a fun, interactive toy that encourages your pet to chew and play at the same time.
What you’ll love: The toy features all-natural wood dyed with safe food coloring. It satisfies the instinct your pet has to both gnaw and chew.
What you should consider: The smaller pieces of wood that hold this toy together may cause a choking hazard as the toy wears down.
Where to buy: Sold by Chewy and Amazon
Top guinea pig toy for the money
eCOTRITION Snak Shak Guinea Pig Activity Log
What you need to know: This 3-in-1 activity log provides a chew toy, treat, and hideout for your guinea pig.
What you’ll love: The entire log is made of edible alfalfa and honey and it’s realistically designed as a wooden log to hide inside. It helps satisfy all the natural instincts your guinea pig has to chew and hide.
What you should consider: It’s a larger item that can crowd your cage. Your pet can also soil inside the log, which can be difficult to clean.
Where to buy: Sold by Chewy and Amazon
Worth checking out
Wheeky Treat Ball Toy for Guinea Pigs
What you need to know: The Wheeky treat ball is an interactive toy that dispenses treats when your pet pushes it or rolls on it.
What you’ll love: The opening is fully adjustable, allowing you to use a variety of treats, kibble, and vegetables as a reward. This is a great toy to stimulate your pet’s natural instinct to forage.
What you should consider: Your guinea pig may get bored with this toy if they can’t dispense the treats.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | 2022-06-30T13:43:04+00:00 | wdtn.com | https://www.wdtn.com/reviews/br/pets-br/toys-br/best-guinea-pig-toys/ |
MACOMB TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A 140-mile walk from Macomb Township to the Grand Rapids area aims to raise money and awareness for firefighters battling cancer.
According to Neighbors United, cancer was the leading cause of death for firefighters in 2019.
Neighbors United, a nonprofit that raises money for those in need, will host the 4th Annual #WalkForTheRed140 fundraiser that will take place September 8 through September 11.
23 people have been nominated already.
The nonprofit says ten of those firefighters have already passed away from their battle, but it hopes to keep their legacy alive.
Neighbors United’s goal is to reach $115,000 in donations that will go directly to the nominated firefighters and their families.
The nonprofit says it is off to a strong start, raising $60,000 toward the walk, through bottle drives and other fundraising opportunities.
To help the nonprofit reach its $115,000 goal, you can donate through the Neighbors United Facebook page or through its website. | 2022-08-15T05:17:57+00:00 | fox17online.com | https://www.fox17online.com/news/local-news/140-mile-walk-to-west-michigan-aims-to-support-firefighters-battling-cancer |
South Carolina is in the midst of a major skid, going 2-7 in its last three SEC series and dealing with a few issues heading into the last games of the regular season.
One of the issues has been the offense with injuries and slumps weighting the lineup down over the course of this three-series losing streak.
So what are the issues and what’s next for the offense?
The offense as a whole
For the purposes of this exercise, we’ll focus on just the last three SEC series and some of the ailments in that nine-game stretch.
Over the last nine league games, South Carolina has scored just 33 runs (3.7 per game) and has walked 40 times (4.4 per game) and struck out 96 times (10.7 per game).
They’ve picked up 67 total hits: 48 singles, 11 doubles, no triples and eight home runs with three sac flies to boot. That all adds up to a .231/.341/.352 slash line with the offense striking out 2.4 times as much as it walks.
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The batting average on balls in play (BABIP) is .312, which isn’t great by most stretches for a college baseball team. So not only are the Gamecocks struggling to hit for average, the on-base percentage and slugging have dramatically dipped.
Through the first 17 SEC games, where the Gamecocks were 13-4, they had a slash line of .269/.407/.531 with a 1.8 strikeout-to-walk ratio and a BABIP of .335.
So those productive numbers are down and the Gamecocks just aren’t getting on base at a good enough clip to justify the almost 11 strikeouts per game.
That’s not a great recipe for a team built around getting on base and driving in those runs with extra-base hits.YouTube page!]
South Carolina isn’t grinding out at-bats the same way it was early in SEC play. Through the first 17 league games, Gamecock batters were seeing 4.2 pitches per every plate appearance with 2.5 of those being strikes.
Over the last nine games, batters are seeing 4.1 pitches on average with 2.5 of those strikes.
Situational hitting
This is where the Gamecocks have really struggled, largely because of empty at-bats and missed chances with men on and men in scoring position.
South Carolina is slashing .221/.323/.338 with runners on base over this nine-game stretch with 39 of its 136 at-bats resulting in a strikeout. That’s 28.7% of at-bats when men are on ending without the ball being put in play.
The numbers get a little bit better average-wise with runners in scoring position at .228/.289/.392. The Gamecocks, though, are striking out at an insanely high clip with a runner at second base or better. South Carolina’s had 79 at-bats with RISP the last three weekends with 23 strikeouts, which is 29.1% of at-bats. That’s slightly higher than with runners on but with only 79 at-bats with a man in scoring position, those strikeouts become even more critical. South Carolina is averaging 8.8 at-bats with RISP during this stretch.
South Carolina with two outs is hitting .245/.362/.378 with 30 strikeouts and 15 walks.
Leadoff conundrum
It’s been a revolving door at leadoff spot through most of the season but Dylan Brewer had some productive weeks hitting at the top of the lineup. South Carolina switched it up the last week with not a ton of great results.
Michael Braswell shifted up and ultimately went 1-for-12 with a walk and five strikeouts at Arkansas. He did hit into a few tough-luck outs as well. Brewer went 1-for-11 with two walks and four strikeouts while seeing his 22-game on base streak snapped.
Before Tuesday’s game, the numbers tended to favor Brewer as the leadoff man over Braswell. In 41 at-bats in the leadoff spot he’s hitting .293/.463/.317 with a 1.3 K/BB ratio and a .440 BABIP. When he’s not hitting leadoff he’s hitting .247/.398/.539 with a 1.6 K/BB ratio and a .302 BABIP.
Braswell, on the other hand, is hitting .264/.379/.391 with a 1.4 K/BB ratio and a .341 BABIP when he’s not hitting leadoff. In the leadoff spot he’s hitting 3-for-17 with one walk and six strikeouts. All three of his hits are singles.
Brewer hit leadoff against Charlotte and went 1-for-2 with a two-run homer, walked three times and struck out once. Braswell hit in the six-hole and had a hit in three at-bats with two walks and no strikeouts.
What’s next
The big thing is getting on base and hitting for power. South Carolina doesn’t have to hit for a high average to be effective, but it has to get back to what its identity is and was for the first 40 games of the season that helped the Gamecocks build a national seed resume.
If hitting for power isn’t there – which it hasn’t been – then the Gamecocks have to string hits together and they just aren’t right now. Getting experienced hitters like Braylen Wimmer, Talmadge LeCroy and Will McGillis back into the fold and timed up should help.
One of the biggest holes right now has been Ethan Petry, who is struggling over this three-week stretch.
In his last nine SEC games, he’s 6-for-35 with six walks, 13 strikeouts and four RBIs. His last home run in SEC play came in the second game against Florida on April 21.
Getting him going and getting length back into the lineup should help the Gamecocks. To what degree is still unknown and could be a big factor in if South Carolina is hosting or not come June.
South Carolina showed some progress Tuesday night with three home runs and nine runs while walking 10 times. The .432 on-base percentage was the best since the North Florida game three games ago.
The Gamecocks nonetheless lost their final midweek game, falling to Charlotte, 11-9, at Founders Park. | 2023-05-17T21:30:39+00:00 | thetandd.com | https://thetandd.com/sports/baseball/college/carolina-baseball-offensive-difficulties-plaguing-gamecocks/article_46276aac-f4ce-11ed-84d7-57352b2bea78.html |
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (KFOR) – Get ready to show off some holiday spirit today as, RIVERSPORT is bringing back an Oklahoma City family favorite – Holiday River Parade!
This years Braum’s event takes place in the Boathouse District and will feature water skiing elves, holiday-themed boats sparkling on the Oklahoma River, and fireworks.
The boats that enter will compete in decorating contests with placements for first, second and third place.
This year Braums will be honoring the event originator Mike McAuliffe who passed away in 2020.
The parade is 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 3. Admission is free; parking is $10. | 2022-12-03T20:07:13+00:00 | kfor.com | https://kfor.com/news/okc-boathouse-district-prepares-the-lights-for-the-holiday-river-parade/ |
CINCINNATI (WOWK) – Bob Huggins, the West Virginia University head men’s basketball coach, used a homophobic slur on a Cincinnati sports radio show on Monday.
West Virginia’s athletic department called Huggins’ comments “offensive” and said it was reviewing the matter.
During a call to Cincinnati radio station WLW, Huggins, a former longtime coach at Cincinnati, was asked about the transfer portal and whether he had a chance of landing a player from Xavier, a Jesuit school and the Bearcats’ crosstown rival.
“Catholics don’t do that,” Huggins said. “I tell you what, any school that can throw rubber penises on the floor and then say they didn’t do it, by God they can get away with anything.
“It was the Crosstown Shootout. What it was, was all those (expletive), those Catholic (expletive), I think.”
You can listen to the audio, posted by Awful Announcing on Twitter, by clicking here.
Bob Huggins released a statement through the WVU Men’s Basketball Twitter page.
Earlier today on a Cincinnati radio program, I was asked about the rivalry between my former employer, the University of Cincinnati, and its crosstown rival, Xavier University. During the conversation, I used a completely insensitive and abhorrent phrase that there is simply no excuse for — and I won’t try to make one here. I deeply apologize to the individuals I have offended, as well as to the Xavier University community, the University of Cincinnati and West Virginia University. As I have shared with my players over my 40 years of coaching, there are consequences for our words and actions, and I will fully accept any coming my way. I am ashamed and embarrassed and heartbroken for those I have hurt. I must do better, and I will.
Bob Huggins, West Virginia University head men’s basketball coach
West Virginia University released the following statement:
Coach Huggins’ remarks today on a Cincinnati radio show were insensitive, offensive and do not represent our University values. Coach Huggins has since apologized. West Virginia University does not condone the use of such language and takes such actions very seriously. The situation is under review and will be addressed by the University and its athletics department.
West Virginia University
The audio is from 700WLW, a Cincinnati-based talk radio station.
Huggins spent 16 seasons at Cincinnati before being fired in 2005 in a power struggle with the school’s president as well as the aftermath of a 2004 drunken driving arrest. After spending one season at Kansas State, Huggins took his dream job at West Virginia, his alma mater, in 2007.
Huggins was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame last year.
MLB announcer apologizes for on-air slur
The clip surfaced just days after Oakland Athletics announcer Glen Kuiper said a slur while announcing the A’s matchup against the Kansas City Royals on Friday.
“I could not be more sorry and horrified by what I said. I hope you will accept my sincerest apologies,” Kuiper said in a statement to Nexstar’s KRON.
The A’s later issued a statement, calling the language used by Kuiper “unacceptable.”
“The Oakland Athletics do not condone such language,” the team said. “We are working to address the situation.”
Kuiper has been calling A’s games in the Bay Area for about 20 years. He is the younger brother of former major leaguer and Giants announcer Duane Kuiper.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. | 2023-05-09T01:12:35+00:00 | siouxlandproud.com | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/news/national-news/west-virginia-basketball-coach-bob-huggins-uses-homophobic-slur-on-radio/ |
President Ryan Ross announces new leadership roles in strategic changes to Revolutionize Luxury Experiences
DALLAS, Jan. 16, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Neiman Marcus Group (NMG) announces Nabil Aliffi joining the company as Chief Brand Officer and Stefanie Tsen Ward's promotion to Chief Retail Officer. Both are newly created roles that report to Ryan Ross, President of Neiman Marcus Brand, who joined the company in August.
The roles accelerate NMG's growth strategy to Revolutionize Luxury Experiences. They join the Neiman Marcus brand leadership team responsible for guiding the expression of the brand and transforming the customer experience.
"Neiman Marcus is the leading integrated luxury retailer in the U.S., recently achieving tremendous transformation," said Ryan Ross. "These strategic roles will further define the magic of the iconic brand by driving areas that directly impact our customer and fuel our growth."
Nabil will ignite the unique expression of the retailer and its 2,000+ brand partners through extraordinary omni-channel experiences found only at Neiman Marcus. As the creative force for the brand, he will elevate its customer touchpoints and bring a cohesive voice. This team will draw inspiration from Neiman Marcus' rich history while driving innovation, strengthening the legacy retailer's positioning.
Previously Global Chief Creative Officer of Soho House & Co, Nabil was responsible for leading the creative vision, services and digital membership offering. He also held leadership positions at Selfridges and Urban Outfitters after co-founding Vulture Magazine.
"Nabil is a creative visionary who brings a unique perspective in making Neiman Marcus a luxury lifestyle destination," Ryan Ross continued. "He knows our customer and how to create a platform for loyal engagement across channels."
Stefanie Tsen Ward, Chief Retail Officer, is responsible for activating the extraordinary across the brand's 36 stores, partnering closely with Nabil to bring our brand vision and experience to life. She will continue to accelerate the company's integrated retail strategy, enabling 3,500+ selling associates to offer the unparalleled customer service the brand is known for.
She has meaningfully innovated the customer experience throughout her tenure at Neiman Marcus, which began in 2018 following successful omni-channel leadership at various retailers. Her leadership contributed to 70 percent of NMG stores in FY22 reaching their highest revenue in over a decade.
"Stefanie was instrumental in leading the development of our remote selling capabilities, powered by our proprietary CONNECT technology," Ryan Ross explained. "She creates unequivocal, customer-centric retail experiences and inspires our selling associates to engage in new and innovative ways."
These appointments are made as the company continues to make strategic investments across key areas of the business including technology, stores and supply chain to drive the integrated retail model. The luxury retailer has committed to making a $200 million strategic investment in stores over three years. The retail transformation will create unique brand experiences throughout stores, add new spaces for style advisors to inspire customers and provide entertaining food and beverage concepts that make Neiman Marcus a lifestyle destination for the true luxury customer. The retailer is also elevating its digital experience, including significant updates made recently to the Neiman Marcus app.
Today's announcement marks the next step in Ryan's goal of driving profitable and sustainable financial performance while Making Life Extraordinary for Neiman Marcus' luxury customers, brand partners and associates.
Neiman Marcus is a Dallas-based luxury retailer, providing customers access to exclusive and emerging brands, anticipatory service, and unique experiences since 1907. Each day, Neiman Marcus connects with customers worldwide while delighting them with exceptional experiences across a 37-store presence in the U.S., the largest U.S. e-commerce luxury platform, and industry-leading remote selling and personalization technology. From delectable dining and indulgent beauty services to bespoke experiences and exclusive products, there is something for everyone. To keep up with the latest news and events at Neiman Marcus, visit neimanmarcus.com or follow the brand on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.
Neiman Marcus Group is a relationship business that leads with love in everything we do for our customers, associates, brand partners, and communities. Our legacy of innovating and our culture of Belonging guide our roadmap for Revolutionizing Luxury Experiences. As one of the largest multi-brand luxury retailers in the U.S., with the world's most desirable brand partners, we're delivering exceptional products and intelligent services, enabled by our investments in data and technology. Through the expertise of our 10,000+ associates, we deliver and scale a personalized luxury experience across our three channels of in-store, eCommerce, and remote selling. Our NMG|Way culture, powered by our people, combines individual talents into a collective strength to make life extraordinary. Our flagship brands include Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman. For more information, visit neimanmarcusgroup.com.
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SOURCE Neiman Marcus Group | 2023-01-16T23:30:11+00:00 | witn.com | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2023/01/16/neiman-marcus-appoints-chief-brand-officer-chief-retail-officer/ |
SAN MATEO, Calif., July 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The popularity of secondhand electronic devices is steadily growing and B-Stock Solutions is proud to announce key strategic partnerships designed to ensure that the highest quality secondhand devices are made available to its customers and ultimately to the end-consumer.
B-Stock is the world's largest B2B recommerce marketplace. Billions of returned and overstock items are resold every year on B-Stock, thanks to its unparalleled liquidity, streamlined processes, and vast recommerce expertise and insights. The world's leading brands and retailers trust B-Stock in their recommerce operations, resulting in superior financial outcomes, material gains in velocity and efficiency, and furthering the industry's sustainability efforts.
B-Stock has recently partnered with Blackbelt Defence, FutureDial, The Item Compatibility Engine (ICE), NSYS, Phoenix Innovations, Phonecheck, and Securaze. These partners are industry leaders in triage and data clearing services for consumer electronics, computing, and mobile devices.
"This is just another way that B-Stock provides value to our customers. By bringing partners like these to the table, B-Stock users have an advantage in the marketplace and increase their access to product," said B-Stock CEO Marcus Shen.
By teaming up with these experts, B-Stock provides buyers and sellers access to improved inventory processing capabilities through best-in-class solutions, competitive rates, and streamlined onboarding. Services include but are not limited to:
- Certified erasure and diagnostics solutions for phones, tablets, and computers.
- Cutting-edge robotics hardware and services to assist and automate processing functions.
- Device intelligence and tracking solutions.
"At B-Stock, we are dedicated to providing the most reliable and efficient solution for managing excess inventory. We're excited to be working with the best in the industry to bring our customers the highest level of expertise and service," said B-Stock VP Mobility Sean Cleland.
About B-Stock:
As the world's largest B2B recommerce marketplace for surplus merchandise, B-Stock has a well established presence in the secondary market. From the top-ten U.S. retailers to entrepreneurs looking to fill their shelves, businesses around the world use our platform to sell and buy returned and unsold inventory. B-Stock gives buyers a simple way to acquire great merchandise while helping sellers improve operational efficiency, recovery rates, and cycle time.
Follow the B-Stock journey! Our experts share asset recovery analysis, resale value and depreciation trends in mobile, and more.
Media Contact:
ayele@elkordyglobal.com
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SOURCE B-Stock | 2023-07-06T16:31:30+00:00 | kalb.com | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2023/07/06/b-stock-announces-key-partnerships-enhance-electronic-mobile-triage-data-clearing/ |
(The Hill) – The Justice Department on Monday told a federal judge that releasing the law enforcement affidavit used to obtain a search warrant for former President Trump’s home would jeopardize an ongoing investigation.
Federal prosecutors submitted a court filing opposing any efforts to unseal the document laying out probable cause for the search. The filing came just days after they agreed to release a copy of the warrant itself as well as a receipt listing the materials that were seized during the search of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate.
“The affidavit supporting the search warrant presents a very different set of considerations,” the filing reads. “There remain compelling reasons, including to protect the integrity of an ongoing law enforcement investigation that implicates national security, that support keeping the affidavit sealed.”
Prosecutors typically submit affidavits from law enforcement officials when seeking a judge’s authorization for a search warrant. These documents are meant to provide an overview of evidence collected during an investigation that would support the probable cause needed to obtain a warrant under the Fourth Amendment.
The court filing submitted Monday — which was signed by Jay Bratt, the head of the DOJ’s counterintelligence office, and Juan Antonio Gonzalez, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida — argued that disclosing the affidavit used to secure the Mar-a-Lago warrant would cause “significant and irreparable damage to this ongoing criminal investigation.”
“As the Court is aware from its review of the affidavit, it contains, among other critically important and detailed investigative facts: highly sensitive information about witnesses, including witnesses interviewed by the government; specific investigative techniques; and information required by law to be kept under seal pursuant to Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 6(e),” the DOJ officials wrote, citing a rule governing grand jury secrecy.
They argued that revealing sensitive information about the investigation could also affect law enforcement’s ability to secure cooperation from potential witnesses and risk revealing identifying details about any witnesses who are already working with investigators.
“This is not merely a hypothetical concern, given the widely reported threats made against law enforcement personnel in the wake of the August 8 search,” reads a footnote in the filing.
Several news organizations had submitted motions in court to unseal material used in the warrant application, most of which were filed prior to the warrant’s release on Friday. The Justice Department on Monday asked that a federal magistrate judge decide the matter without convening a hearing. | 2022-08-15T22:51:19+00:00 | ksn.com | https://www.ksn.com/hill-politics/doj-says-unsealing-trump-warrant-affidavit-would-jeopardize-investigation/ |
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Sports | 2023-04-28T00:59:17+00:00 | nbcchicago.com | https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/sports/2023-womens-world-cup-biggest-threats-for-uswnt/3128977/ |
EAST LANSING, Mich. — On Monday, Feb. 13, students on Michigan State's campus endured a nightmare when a gunman opened fire shooting and killing three students and critically injuring five.
As the community found ways to heal, one student, Joseph Roy (or his artist name J Roy), used song creation as therapy.
Roy told me where he was that night, in his apartment, about to go out to the MSU Union. But something inside him said to stay home.
“Gratefully, I was here," said Roy. "I was in my apartment, and I was supposed to be on campus because I had an org meeting at around like maybe 7 or 8 o’clock, and after, we were supposed to go out around like near the Union actually, but I don’t know, something told me to stay home.”
That something may have saved his life.
While he was home, he received the heart-stopping alert.
"It was kinda hard to really wrap my head around it. Took maybe like a couple of minutes, and then, I started thinking about everybody that I know that was on campus, how I could have been on campus, who is on campus, who isn’t on campus, how are my friends,” he said.
The thoughts raced through his mind.
After the tragedy, Roy battled with himself on if he should write a song or not. That's when he received a call from his mom.
"My mom calls from the house, and she's like, 'you need to make a song for your school,'" Roy said.
That's exactly what he did. On Feb. 18, "I Believe" was released.
Roy not only knew that the song would be powerful for healing but also a great way to honor the victims. Included in the song are the three victims who died that night, Arielle Anderson, Alexandria Verner and Brian Fraser, which is all spoken one by one through a sustained chord.
“Its a very emotional thing because that can literally be anyone. And they were there for the same reasons I would be in class. They were there just to go to school. They were just there doing what they were supposed to do, what their parents sent them to do. So it's just only right to, whenever I hear their names, just to take a moment of silence," Roy said. "It's kind of hard to say their names. I haven't said their names since then.”
Roy wants the community to heal and keep believing that everything will be okay. | 2023-03-12T13:10:49+00:00 | fox17online.com | https://www.fox17online.com/news/msu-shooting/michigan-state-student-creates-song-titled-i-believe-to-help-heal-community-after-tragedy |
Two rare, unknown Rembrandt portraits worth millions discovered in private collection
Lianne Kolirin, CNN
A pair of unknown and “exceptionally rare” portraits by Rembrandt have been discovered in a private collection in the UK.
The intimate paintings of relatives of the Dutch master are now expected to sell for between £5 million and £8 million ($6.25 million-$10 million) at auction.
Signed and dated 1635, the pictures are of an elderly husband and wife who were related to Rembrandt by marriage.
Measuring just under 8 inches high, the paintings depict wealthy plumber Jan Willemsz van der Pluym and his wife Jaapgen Carels, who were from a prominent family in the Dutch city of Leiden.
Their son Dominicus van der Pluym was married to Rembrandt’s cousin Cornelia van Suytbroec. The couple had one child, Karel van der Pluym, who is thought to have trained with Rembrandt and included the artist’s only surviving heir, Titus, in his will.
In 1635, the year the portraits were painted, the subjects acquired a garden next to that of Rembrandt’s mother in Leiden.
Experts at Christie’s auction house, which is handling the sale, say in a press release that the portraits have a “remarkable, virtually unbroken line of provenance.”
The artworks stayed within the sitters’ family until 1760, a year after the death of the couple’s great-grandson, Marten ten Hove. They then traveled to Warsaw, to the private collection of Count Vincent Potocki, before briefly entering the collection of Baron d’Ivry in Paris in 1820 and then James Murray, 1st Baron Glenlyon.
In June 1824, Murray put the artworks up for sale with Christie’s, where their listing described them as “Rembrandt — very spirited and finely colored.”
Since that sale, the paintings remained in Britain in the same family’s private collection and were unknown to experts. The current owners have not been named.
Henry Pettifer, international deputy chair of Old Master paintings at Christie’s, told CNN in a telephone interview that the discovery was made a couple of years ago, as part of a “routine valuation to look at the contents of a house.”
“The pictures were immediately of terrific interest,” he said, adding that the owners were also taken by surprise.
“I don’t think they had looked into it,” he said. “They didn’t have expectations for the paintings.”
Pettifer told CNN he had been “incredibly excited” to see the paintings, but “at that stage I didn’t jump to any conclusions.”
Details of the earlier sale at Christie’s in 1824 set the process rolling, followed by a long period of research at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, where the portraits were investigated and underwent scientific analysis.
“What’s extraordinary is that the paintings were completely unknown. They had never appeared in any of the Rembrandt literature of the 19th or 20h century, so they were completely unknown,” said Pettifer.
The identities of the sitters were only confirmed by researchers at the Rijksmuseum.
The “small, very intimate, very spontaneous” nature of the paintings indicated a close relationship with the artist, Pettifer told CNN.
“They are not grand, formal commissioned paintings,” he said. “I think they are the smallest portraits that he painted that we know of.”
The pictures are set to go on show in New York and Amsterdam next month, before returning to London for a pre-sale exhibition and the auction on July 6.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2023 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved. | 2023-05-15T15:44:11+00:00 | localnews8.com | https://localnews8.com/news/2023/05/15/two-rare-unknown-rembrandt-portraits-worth-millions-discovered-in-private-collection/ |
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