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SALT LAKE CITY, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lipocine Inc. (NASDAQ: LPCN), a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative products to treat metabolic and central nervous system ("CNS") disorders, today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2022 and provided a corporate update.
Second Quarter Highlights
- In June, Lipocine's commercial partner Halozyme launched TLANDO™ (testosterone undecanoate), an oral treatment indicated for testosterone replacement therapy in adult males for conditions associated with a deficiency or absence of endogenous testosterone (primary or hypogonadotropic hypogonadism).
- In July 2022, Lipocine held an End of Phase 2 meeting with the FDA for LPCN 1144 in NASH. The FDA recommends Lipocine conduct a phase 2 dose ranging study to identify the optimal dose prior to conducting a pivotal study. The FDA agreed to the proposed unique testosterone ester, testosterone dodecanoate, for future clinical studies.
- LPCN 1111: Technology transfer for our once-a-day testosterone product candidate was completed. Scale up and manufacturing of registration batches is ongoing.
- Lipocine continues to enroll subjects in a Phase 2 proof-of-concept study to evaluate the therapeutic potential of LPCN 1148 for the management of cirrhosis, with enrollment in the study expected to be complete in the second half of 2022.
- A type C meeting was held with the FDA to discuss the clinical development path of LPCN 1154, our candidate for postpartum depression ("PPD"). Based on feedback from the meeting, the company plans to initiate a multi-dose proof-of-concept study of LPCN 1154 in the second half of 2022.
- The FDA accepted the company's Investigational New Drug Application ("IND") for its neuroactive steroid ("NAS") candidate, LPCN 2101, as a potential treatment for adults with epilepsy. Lipocine plans to initiate a Phase 2 photosensitive epilepsy ("PSE") study to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of oral LPCN 2101 in women with epilepsy of childbearing age.
We continue to explore partnering LPCN 1111, LPCN 1144, LPCN 1107 and TLANDO™ ex-US to third parties.
Second Quarter Ended June 30, 2022 Financial Results
Lipocine reported a net loss of $2.6 million, or ($0.04) per diluted share for the quarter ended June 30, 2022, compared with a net loss of $6.8 million, or ($0.08) per diluted share, in the quarter ended June 30, 2021.
Revenues in the quarter ended June 30, 2022 were $0.5 million related to a non-refundable cash fee received from Antares for consideration of a 90-day extension to exercise its option to license LPCN 1111. Antares' option to license TLANDO XR expired on June 30, 2022 and was not exercised. There was no revenue in the comparable quarter of 2021.
Research and development expenses were $2.9 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2022, compared with $1.5 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2021. The increase in research and development expenses for the quarter ended June 30, 2022, was a result of an increase in contract research organization expense related to the Phase 2 POC study in male cirrhotic subjects with LPCN 1148, an increase in costs related to LPCN 1154 clinical studies, increases in personnel expenses, and an increase in costs related to LPCN 1111 scale up and LPCN 1107 expenses. These increases were offset by a decrease in contract research organization expenses and outside consulting costs related to the completion of the LiFT Phase 2 clinical study in NASH subjects in 2021, a decrease in costs associated with TLANDO, as well as a decrease in other R&D expenses.
General and administrative expenses were $1.1 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2022, compared with $1.5 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2021. The decrease in general and administrative expenses was primarily due to decreases in legal expenses and personnel costs. These decreases were offset by an increase in professional fees, an increase related to proxy solicitation and proxy distribution services, an increase in corporate insurance expenses, and an increase in other general and administrative expenses.
As of June 30, 2022, the company had $37.4 million of unrestricted cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities, compared to $46.6 million at December 31, 2021.
Six Months Ended June 30, 2022 Financial Results
Lipocine reported a net loss of $6.1 million, or ($0.07) per diluted share, for the six months ended June 30, 2022, compared with a net loss of $10.2 million, or ($0.12) per diluted share, in the six months ended June 30, 2021.
Revenues in the six months ended June 30, 2022 were $0.5 million related to a non-refundable cash fee received from Antares for consideration of a 90-day extension to exercise its option to license LPCN 1111, as described above. There was no revenue in the comparable period of 2021.
Research and development expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2022, were $4.8 million compared to $3.0 million for the comparable period in 2021. The increase in research and development expenses was due to an increase in contract research organization expense related to the Phase 2 POC study in male cirrhotic subjects with LPCN 1148, an increase in costs related to LPCN 1154 clinical studies, an increase related to LPCN 1111 scale up activities, a food effect study in LPCN 1107, and an increase in personnel expenses and other research and development costs. These increases were offset by a decrease in contract research organization expense and outside consulting costs related to the completion of our LPCN 1144 LiFT Phase 2 clinical study in NASH subjects in 2021, and a decrease in costs associated with TLANDO.
General and administrative expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2022 were $2.4 million compared to $3.1 million for the comparable period in 2021. The decrease in general and administrative expenses was primarily due to decreases in legal expenses, personnel costs, and other general and administrative expenses. These decreases were offset by an increase in professional fees, an increase related to proxy solicitation and proxy distribution services, an increase in various other consulting fees, and an increase in corporate insurance expenses.
About Lipocine
Lipocine is biopharmaceutical company leveraging its commercially validated proprietary technology to develop innovative products to treat metabolic and CNS disorders with high unmet medical need. Our candidates target diseases with potential for orphan drug designation, comprise endogenous actives for favorable benefit to risk profile, and represent enablement of patient friendly oral delivery options. Lipocine's clinical development pipeline includes: LPCN 1148, LPCN 1144, LPCN 1111, LPCN 1107 and oral neuroactive steroids including LPCN 1154 and LPCN 2101. TLANDO™, a novel oral prodrug of testosterone containing testosterone undecanoate, is approved by the FDA for conditions associated with a deficiency of endogenous testosterone, also known as hypogonadism, in adult males. LPCN 1148 is an oral prodrug of bioidentical testosterone targeted for the management of symptoms associated with liver cirrhosis. LPCN 1144, an oral prodrug of bioidentical testosterone, recently completed a Phase 2 clinical study demonstrating potential utility in the treatment of non-cirrhotic NASH. LPCN 1111, a novel oral prodrug of testosterone, originated and is being developed by Lipocine as a next-generation oral testosterone product with potential for once-daily dosing. In a phase 2 clinical evaluation when administered as once or twice daily, LPCN 1111 met primary and secondary endpoints. LPCN 1107 is potentially the first oral hydroxyprogesterone caproate product candidate indicated for the prevention of recurrent preterm birth and has been granted orphan drug designation by the FDA. Neuroactive steroids are currently being evaluated including LPCN 1154 for the potential treatment of postpartum depression and LPCN 2101 for the potential treatment of epilepsy. For more information, please visit www.lipocine.com.
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 and include statements that are not historical facts regarding Lipocine's product candidates and related clinical trials, the achievement of milestones within and completion of clinical trials, the timing and completion of regulatory reviews, outcomes of clinical trials of our product candidates, the potential uses and benefits of our product candidates, the timing and scope of clinical trials and studies, and our product development efforts. Investors are cautioned that all such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, the risks that the FDA will not approve any of our products, risks related to our products, expected product benefits not being realized, clinical and regulatory expectations and plans not being realized, new regulatory developments and requirements, risks related to the FDA approval process including the receipt of regulatory approvals, the results and timing of clinical trials, patient acceptance of Lipocine's products, the manufacturing and commercialization of Lipocine's products, and other risks detailed in Lipocine's filings with the SEC, including, without limitation, its Form 10-K and other reports on Forms 8-K and 10-Q, all of which can be obtained on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Lipocine assumes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements contained in this release, except as required by law.
*TLANDO® is a registered trademark assigned to Antares Pharma.
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SOURCE Lipocine Inc. | 2022-08-08T13:19:24+00:00 | mysuncoast.com | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/08/lipocine-announces-financial-results-second-quarter-ended-june-30-2022/ |
Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., said she was “filled with rage” on Tuesday, one day after a mass shooting on the campus of Michigan State University that left three students dead and five critically wounded.
Slotkin currently serves in Michigan’s 7th Congressional District. Before redistricting, she was the representative in the state’s 8th Congressional District, which included Oxford.
On Nov. 30, 2021, a mass shooter at Oxford High School killed four and injured seven.
“As a representative of Oxford, Michigan, I cannot believe that I'm here again doing this 15 months later,” Slotkin said. “I am filled with rage that we have to have another press conference to talk about our children being killed in their schools. And I would say that you either care about protecting kids or you don't. You either care about having an open and honest conversation about what is going on in our society, or you don't.”
In the days following the Oxford school shooting, she proposed the Safe Guns, Safe Kids Act, which would have required firearms on residential premises to be safely stored if a minor is reasonably likely to gain access without permission, and a minor obtains the firearm and uses it in a crime or causes injury or death to themselves or another individual, according to a summary of the bill.
The proposal was later incorporated into a broader House bill called the Protecting Our Kids Act. The legislation passed in the House with five Republicans joining all but two Democrats.
Although the legislation had the backing of the White House and several Republicans, it did not have support from the National Rifle Association. That bill did not get a vote in the Senate.
“H.R. 7910 includes several ‘safe storage’ mandates that would control how individual Americans keep firearms in their own homes. These provisions are in direct contravention to the U.S. Supreme Court decision in (District of Columbia v. Heller) that held mandatory storage provisions that prevent a law-abiding American from having ready access to a firearm for self-defense are unconstitutional,” the National Rifle Association said.
Responding to another mass shooting clearly frustrated the Michigan congressperson.
“Please don't tell me you care about the safety of children if you're not willing to have a conversation about keeping them safe in a place that should be a sanctuary,” she said. | 2023-02-14T17:38:41+00:00 | news5cleveland.com | https://www.news5cleveland.com/news/national/us-rep-filled-with-rage-after-2nd-school-shooting-in-district |
Breakthrough paper-based home compostable capsule offers another way to enjoy sustainably sourced high-quality coffee without compromise on a premium coffee experience. Retro-compatible with Nespresso Original machines, the new capsules pilot in France and Switzerland from spring 2023.
VEVEY, Switzerland, Nov. 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- For 30 years, Nespresso has been dedicated to bringing its consumers the ultimate coffee experience in a responsible way. Today, it renews that commitment by announcing a new range of paper-based home compostable capsules.
After three years of research and development, Nespresso has created a home compostable paper-based capsule that delivers the high-quality coffee for which the brand is known – with no compromise on the taste experience. Consumer demand for compostable packaging is increasing, and an estimated 45% of French people now home compost one or more types of biowastei.
Guillaume Le Cunff, Nespresso CEO, said: "Pushing the boundaries of fine coffee experiences is part of the Nespresso innovation, and since becoming a B Corp™ earlier this year, we're more committed than ever to widening the sustainable choices we offer our consumers. We are excited to announce our first ever paper-based home compostable capsule, which will complement our offering of aluminium capsules that are both recyclable and made using 80% recycled aluminium. This is about yet another sustainable choice, without compromising on quality."
Several aspects of the capsule feature proprietary technology, including the biopolymer lining inside the capsule which protects the coffee against oxidization.
Julia Lauricella, Head of Nestlé System Technology Center, said: "Our 40 years of experience in coffee systems allowed us, together with the Nestlé Institute of Packaging Sciences, to develop a home compostable paper-based capsule, retro-compatible with the Nespresso Original machines, that meets and exceeds the high expectations consumers have of Nespresso in terms of protecting the coffee's aromas and taste. We combined a high-precision paper pulp forming process with a biodegradable layer for protection against oxidation to preserve our coffee in transport, storage and during the high-pressure extraction in our machines."
Nespresso's coffee masters have also created four new blends, including an organic coffee, sourced through the Nespresso AAA Sustainable Quality™ Program, specifically crafted to act in perfect harmony with these new paper-based capsules.
Developed as an alternative for those who prefer and have access to a compost, the innovation will widen the sustainable choices already offered to Nespresso consumers through its aluminium capsules. Aluminium is infinitely recyclable and the capsules are made using 80% recycled aluminium. Today, Nespresso offers over 100,000 aluminum capsule recycling collection points in 70 countries, giving almost 90% of customers convenient access.
The product is certified for composting, both home and industrial, by TÜV Austria, an international certification body. In some countries, including France where Nespresso is piloting this range, these capsules are accepted in the public biowaste bin.
Huhtamaki, a global provider of sustainable packaging solutions, was one of the partners in the development of this new paper-based capsule.
Charles Héaulmé, Huhtamaki CEO, said: "We are delighted to partner with Nespresso on the home compostable paper-based capsule. Part of this breakthrough innovation is the result of combining paper pulp from wood fibre, a natural renewable material, compressing it to a coffee capsule using our high precision technology, creating another sustainable alternative for Nespresso lovers."
Nespresso is committed to raise awareness among consumers on how to compost their capsules, as well as advocating for the acceptability of these coffee capsules in the public biowaste/organic bin. In France, Nespresso initiated Union des Acteurs du Compostable (UAC), an interest group bringing together public bodies, companies, recycling operators, and NGOs to support the implementation of solutions to help producers of biowaste increasing the sorting of biowaste as well as to raising awareness amongst consumers about composting.
The new range will pilot initially in France and Switzerland on the Nespresso Original system. It will be further launched in several other European countries within a year.
NOTES TO EDITORS
About Nestlé Nespresso
Nestlé Nespresso SA is the pioneer and reference for highest-quality portioned coffee. The company works with more than 140,000 farmers in 18 countries through its AAA Sustainable Quality™ Program to embed sustainability practices on farms and the surrounding landscapes. Launched in 2003 in collaboration with the NGO Rainforest Alliance, the program helps to improve the yield and quality of harvests, ensuring a sustainable supply of high-quality coffee and improving livelihoods of farmers and their communities.
In 2022, Nespresso achieved B Corp™ certification - joining an international movement of 4,900 purpose-led businesses that meet B Corp's high standards of social and environmental responsibility and transparency.
Headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, Nespresso operates in 81 countries and has over 13'000 employees. In 2021, it operated a global retail network of 802 boutiques. For more information, visit the Nespresso corporate website: www.nestle-nespresso.com.
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SOURCE Nespresso | 2022-11-21T08:51:50+00:00 | wlbt.com | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2022/11/21/nespresso-pioneer-premium-single-serve-coffee-unveils-new-range-home-compostable-coffee-capsules/ |
School board in Missouri revokes anti-racism resolution issued after George Floyd killing
O’FALLON, Mo. (AP) - In the national reckoning that followed the police killing of George Floyd three years ago, about 2,000 protesters took to the streets in a St. Louis suburb and urged the mostly white Francis Howell School District to address racial discrimination. The school board responded with a resolution promising to do better.
Now the board, led by new conservative board members elected since last year, has revoked that anti-racism resolution and copies of it will be removed from school buildings.
The resolution passed in August 2020 “pledges to our learning community that we will speak firmly against any racism, discrimination, and senseless violence against people regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, immigration status, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or ability.
“We will promote racial healing, especially for our Black and brown students and families,” the resolution states. “We will no longer be silent.”
The board’s decision follows a trend that began with backlash against COVID-19 pandemic policies in places around the nation. School board elections have become intense political battlegrounds, with political action groups successfully electing candidates promising to take action against teachings on race and sexuality, remove books deemed offensive and stop transgender-inclusive sports teams.
The Francis Howell district is among Missouri’s largest, with 17,000 students, about 87% of whom are white. The vote, which came during an often contentious meeting Thursday, rescinded resolutions 75 days after “a majority of current Board of Education members were not signatories to the resolution or did not otherwise vote to adopt the resolution.”
While a few others also will be canceled, the anti-racism resolution was clearly the focus. Dozens of people opposed to its revocation packed the board meeting, many holding signs reading, “Forward, not backward.”
Kimberly Thompson, who is Black, attended Francis Howell schools in the 1970s and 1980s, and her two children graduated from the district. She described several instances of racism and urged the board to stand by its 2020 commitment.
“This resolution means hope to me, hope of a better Francis Howell School District,” Thompson said. “It means setting expectations for behavior for students and staff regardless of their personal opinions.”
The board’s vice president, Randy Cook, said phrases in the resolution such as “systemic racism” aren’t defined and mean different things to different people. Another board member, Jane Puszkar, said the resolution served no purpose.
“What has it really done,” she asked. “How effective has it really been?”
Since the resolution was adopted, the makeup of the board has flipped. Just two board members remain from 2020. Five new members elected in April 2022 and April 2023 had the backing of the conservative political action committee Francis Howell Families.
In 2021, the PAC described the anti-racism resolution as “woke activism” and drafted an alternative resolution to oppose “all acts of racial discrimination, including the act of promoting tenets of the racially-divisive Critical Race Theory, labels of white privilege, enforced equity of outcomes, identity politics, intersectionalism, and Marxism.”
Cook, who was elected in 2022 and sponsored the revocation, said there is no plan to adopt that alternative or any other.
“In my opinion, the school board doesn’t need to be in the business of dividing the community,” Cook said. “We just need to stick to the business of educating students here and stay out of the national politics.”
Many districts are dealing with debates over topics mislabeled as critical race theory. School administrators say the scholarly theory centered on the idea that racism is systemic in the nation’s institutions is not taught in K-12 schools.
Others assert that school systems are misspending money, perpetuating divisions and shaming white children by pursuing initiatives they view as critical race theory in disguise.
In 2021, the Ohio State Board of Education rescinded an anti-racism and equity resolution that also was adopted after Floyd was killed by a Minneapolis police officer in May 2020. It was replaced with a statement promoting academic excellence without respect to “race, ethnicity or creed.”
Racial issues remain especially sensitive in the St. Louis region, nine years after a police officer in Ferguson, Missouri, fatally shot 18-year-old Michael Brown during a street confrontation. Officer Darren Wilson was not charged and the shooting led to months of often violent protests, becoming a catalyst for the national Black Lives Matter movement.
Revoking the Francis Howell resolution “sets a precedent for what’s to come,” St. Charles County NAACP President Zebrina Looney warned.
“I think this is only the beginning for what this new board is set out to do,” Looney said.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-07-23T06:55:22+00:00 | atlantanewsfirst.com | https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2023/07/23/school-board-missouri-revokes-anti-racism-resolution-issued-after-george-floyd-killing/ |
EL PASO, Texas (Border Report) – Democrats and activists are expressing concern that Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s directive for state officers and National Guard troops to return unauthorized migrants to the border will incite violence.
The order is the latest instance of fearmongering for political gain using migrants as a prop, participants in a Wednesday teleconference sponsored by America’s Voice said.
“What he is doing is very dangerous,” said U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-Texas, saying Abbott is embracing and promoting extremism using state resources. “I am very concerned that communities like mine will see more acts of violence against immigrants, against Latinos, against residents of the border.”
Escobar represents most of El Paso, which on Aug. 3, 2019, was shocked by the allegedly racially motivated attack at a local Walmart that left 23 people dead. “Should there be any violence, I hope (Abbott) is held accountable,” she said.
The rhetoric puts in harm’s way not only migrants, but people of color as well, said Mario Carrillo, campaigns manager for America’s Voice, a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy nonprofit.
“This will undoubtedly lead to racial profiling of families that look a lot like mine,” said Carrillo, who was born in Mexico, was raised in Texas, and is married to a woman who was brought into the U.S. while in infancy without immigration documents. “This is only the latest stunt in a line of stunts that Gov. Abbott has launched against migrants as an attempt to distract Texans from his failure at keeping us safe but could be his most dangerous one yet.”
Border Report reached out to Abbott’s campaign office for comment and is awaiting a response.
Escobar said the use by Republicans like Abbott of the word “invasion” is tragic, given that many of the migrants coming across are mothers with children or people fleeing violence and persecution. “It is tragic to hear them call these human beings an invasion. It’s actually very sickening,” she said. “What they’re doing is jumping on a bandwagon they see as popular for electoral politics.”
Political experts have told Border Report that illegal immigration remains a hot-button issue in American politics and is one of the arguments – along with rising inflation and lingering COVID-19 issues – Republicans are pushing to recover the House and Senate in the mid-term elections.
But the rise in unauthorized migration is real and Democrats acknowledge it.
“The increase in migration year after year is not a new issue, it’s not a new situation,” Escobar said. “It is definitely increasing, there is no doubt about that.”
She added the situation at the border is “unsustainable” but said that is not the result of “open borders,” as the Republicans claim, but rather the failure of Congress to reform immigration laws.
“Asylum at the border has essentially been shut down. […] People shouldn’t be surprised we have more unauthorized migration if we shut down legal immigration paths” Escobar said.
The Democratic view of reform includes the legalization of unauthorized migrants already in the country and more legal pathways for people to come to the United States. Republicans led by U.S. Rep. Elvira Salazar, R-Florida, have filed a bill that includes legalization but requires employers to use E-Verify, a government database of who is eligible to work in the U.S.
Escobar said Republicans have blocked every recent attempt at immigration reform because “they like the status quo,” meaning the rise in illegal immigration and the humanitarian crisis at the Southwest border has become political ammo against President Joe Biden and Democrats. | 2022-07-13T21:09:25+00:00 | everythinglubbock.com | https://www.everythinglubbock.com/border-report/abbott-should-be-held-accountable-for-violence-against-migrants-advocates-say/ |
Las Vegas woman accused of killing own mother blamed earlier arrest on her good looks
A Las Vegas woman accused of murdering her own mother on Wednesday told police during a prior arrest in late August that they were only detaining her because they had never seen anyone "as good looking."
Hend Bustami, 28, is facing an open murder charge in Clark County for the Oct. 26 death of her mother in Las Vegas, and she is also charged with evading arrest in San Bernardino County, California, county records show.
Las Vegas police officers responded to reports of a person injured on June Flower Drive around 2:30 a.m. Wednesday and later determined that the victim, Bustami's mother, had been involved in a verbal dispute with her daughter before her death, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) said in a Wednesday press release.
California Highway Patrol located Bustami near Barstow, California, later that day. She will be charged with open murder and extradited back to Clark County, LVMPD said.
MASSACHUSETTS DELIVERY DRIVER PLEADS GUILTY TO 2016 STRANGULATION MURDER OF GOOGLE EMPLOYEE
On Aug. 31, Bustami was arrested for violating airport rules and failing to pay a Chili's restaurant tab at Harry Reid International Airport in Paradise, Nevada.
ACCUSED KILLER CLAIMS LANGUAGE BARRIER LED HIM TO GIVE DNA WITHOUT CONSENT
She told police that they were only arresting her because "they had never seen anyone as good looking," according to a police report obtained by Fox News Digital.
Police said at the time that the 28-year-old was "belligerent with officers, saying she was being harassed because cops [had] never seen anyone as pretty as her etc," the report states.
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Bustami, who had a warrant out for her arrest at the time, also said "she was going to spit on all [the officers] and that officers were perverts and were trying to rape her because they [had] never seen anyone as good-looking," according to the report.
The Clark County Coroner's Office is investigating how Bustami's mother died. | 2022-10-28T03:53:20+00:00 | fox10phoenix.com | https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/las-vegas-woman-accused-of-killing-own-mother-blamed-earlier-arrest-on-her-good-looks |
NEW YORK — The Choco Taco, a staple of the ice cream truck, is gone for good.
Frozen desserts brand Klondike confirmed on Twitter that the iconic treat was discontinued this month because of overwhelming demand for different Klondike products, CNN Business first reported.
The beloved taco-shaped dessert wrapped vanilla ice cream and chocolate fudge in a waffle cone taco shell, topped with milk chocolate and peanuts, turning the classic ice cream cone into a delicious portable package.
As the news broke, Twitter expressed dismay that the Choco Taco was no more. Others tore into the brand for the decision — some expressed doubt that this is what consumers really could have wanted.
"A necessary but unfortunate part of this process is that we sometimes must discontinue products, even a beloved item like Choco Taco," Klondike wrote in another reply.
Alexis Ohanian, the co-founder of Reddit, even offered to step in to make sure the Choco Taco lives on.
"Dear @Unilever — I'd like to buy the rights to your Choco Taco and keep it from melting away from future generations' childhoods," Ohanian wrote.
The Choco Taco was invented in 1983 by Alan Drazen, Eater reported in an extensive history of the dessert. It was originally sold via wholesalers to ice cream trucks before exploding in popularity and eventually ending up on grocery store shelves. At one point, Taco Bell even sold it in some restaurants.
You might still be able to find a Choco Taco as stores make their way through leftover inventory.
Will the Choco Taco be gone forever, or perhaps make temporary returns like other discontinued products with cult followings, like McDonalds' McRib or Taco Bell's Mexican Pizza? Stay tuned: Klondike offered a small glimmer of hope to fans in a Twitter reply, saying they're "working hard to find a way" to bring it back to ice cream trucks in the future. | 2022-07-26T07:00:07+00:00 | newscentermaine.com | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/nation-world/choco-taco-discontinued/507-5d92243e-d3e1-4b17-a463-b5944bbbdf06 |
Utah author of book on grieving death charged with murder
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — After her husband died last year, she wrote a children’s book on grief. Now she’s charged with his murder.
Kouri Richins was arrested on Monday in Utah and is accused in charging documents of poisoning her husband with a lethal dose of fentanyl at their home in Kamas, a small mountain town near Park City.
Prosecutors allege that Richins called authorities in the middle of the night in March 2022 to report that her husband, Eric Richins, was “cold to the touch.” The mother of three told officers that she had made her husband a mixed vodka drink to celebrate him selling a home and then went to soothe one of their children to sleep in their bedroom. She later returned and upon finding her husband unresponsive, called 911.
A medical examiner later found five times the lethal dosage of fentanyl in his system.
In addition to the murder charge, Richins also faces charges involving the alleged possession of GHB — a narcolepsy drug frequently used in recreational settings, including at dance clubs.
The charges — which are based on officers’ interactions with Richins that night and the account of an “unnamed acquaintance” who claims to have sold her the fentanyl — come two months after Richins appeared on local television to promote “Are you with me?” a picture book she wrote to help children cope after the death of a loved one.
For a segment entitled “Good Things Utah,” Richins called her husband’s death unexpected and described how it sent her and her three boys reeling. For children, she said, grieving was about “making sure that their spirit is always alive in your home.”
“It’s — you know — explaining to my kid just because he’s not present here with us physically, doesn’t mean his presence isn’t here with us,” she told the anchors, who commended her for being an amazing mother.
Richins’ attorney, Skye Lazaro, declined to comment on the charges.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-05-09T02:56:00+00:00 | wbrc.com | https://www.wbrc.com/2023/05/09/utah-author-book-grieving-death-charged-with-murder/ |
PITTSBURGH, Oct. 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Koppers Holdings Inc. (NYSE: KOP), an integrated global provider of treated wood products, wood treatment chemicals, and carbon compounds, today announced that it plans to release its financial results for the third quarter of 2022 before the market opens on Friday, November 4, 2022, and discuss its outlook on a conference call later that day at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Presentation materials will be available at least 15 minutes before the call on www.koppers.com in the Investor Relations section of the company's website.
Interested parties may access the live audio broadcast toll free by dialing 833-366-1128 in the United States and Canada, or 412-902-6774 for international, Conference ID number 10172445. Participants are requested to access the call at least five minutes before the scheduled start time to complete a brief registration. The conference call will be broadcast live on www.koppers.com and can also be accessed here.
An audio replay will be available approximately two hours after the completion of the call at 877-344-7529 for U.S. toll free, 855-669-9658 for Canada toll free, or 412-317-0088 for international, using replay access code 4463139. The recording will be available for replay through February 4, 2023.
About Koppers
Koppers, with corporate headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is an integrated global provider of treated wood products, wood treatment chemicals, and carbon compounds. Our products and services are used in a variety of niche applications in a diverse range of end markets, including the railroad, specialty chemical, utility, residential lumber, agriculture, aluminum, steel, rubber, and construction industries. We serve our customers through a comprehensive global manufacturing and distribution network, with facilities located in North America, South America, Australasia, and Europe. The stock of Koppers Holdings Inc. is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "KOP."
For more information, visit: www.koppers.com. Inquiries from the media should be directed to Ms. Jessica Franklin Black at BlackJF@koppers.com or 412-227-2025. Inquiries from the investment community should be directed to Ms. Quynh McGuire at McGuireQT@koppers.com or 412-227-2049.
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SOURCE Koppers | 2022-10-21T12:22:03+00:00 | kalb.com | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/10/21/koppers-holdings-inc-schedules-third-quarter-2022-conference-call/ |
Data Activation Platform Enables Organizations to Unlock the Value of their Data
SAN FRANCISCO, June 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Hightouch today announced that it has been named the 2022 Snowflake Marketplace Media, Entertainment & Advertising award winner by Snowflake, the Data Cloud company. This award was presented this week at Snowflake Summit 2022 'The World of Data Collaboration'.
Hightouch was recognized for the company's achievements in helping joint customers activate data in Snowflake's Data Cloud by sharing analytics insights with business tools. Hightouch makes it seamless for marketers to segment user audiences with first party data, and then activate them across marketing platforms and advertising networks.
"Hightouch has made it seamless to sync our data in the Snowflake Media Data Cloud with our various marketing platforms so we can optimize around our most successful customers," explains Adam Smith, Analytics Manager at Imperfect Foods. "With Hightouch, we can duplicate our audiences and send data to any destination of our choosing immediately."
"Until recently, companies built a central source of truth for their data in order to run analytics," explains Kashish Gupta, Co-CEO of Hightouch. "Hightouch helps companies activate their customer data through Snowflake's secure data sharing platform to personalize marketing campaigns across all channels."
"We are honored to announce Hightouch as Snowflake's Marketplace Media, Entertainment & Advertising award winner," said Kieran Kennedy, Head of Snowflake Marketplace. "Hightouch's data activation platform delivers deep value to the Snowflake ecosystem and we look forward to continuing to build upon our partnership to further empower joint media, advertising and entertainment customers."
Learn more about Hightouch and Snowflake for Data Activation.
Hightouch, a Powered by Snowflake Partner, is the world's leading Data Activation platform, syncing data from warehouses directly into SaaS tools. In November, Hightouch announced $40M in Series B financing at a $450 million valuation led by ICONIQ Capital, early investors in Snowflake. Hightouch's hundreds of customers range from fast-growing startups like Plaid, Betterment, Calendly, and Lucidchart to large enterprises like AXS, Nando's, and Autotrader. For more information, visit www.hightouch.io.
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SOURCE Hightouch | 2022-06-14T14:46:46+00:00 | kmvt.com | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2022/06/14/hightouch-named-snowflake-marketplace-partner-year-media-entertainment-amp-advertising/ |
A new international study estimates that from January 1, 2020, to May, 1, 2022, nearly 8 million kids age 18 and under lost a parent or primary caregiver to a pandemic-related cause. When the researchers included the deaths of secondary caregivers like grandparents or other older relatives, the number of kids affected rose to 10.5 million.
That's a big jump from the prior estimate of 5.2 million children who lost a parent or caregiver to COVID-19 from the start of the pandemic until Oct 31, 2021.
The findings are "heartbreaking and disturbing," says Susan Hillis, the main author of the new study, and a co-chair of the Global Reference Group on Children Affected by COVID-19 and Crisis, an international team that's been tracking the indirect toll of the pandemic on children.
Some nations are beginning to address these catastrophic losses with new programs that offer support to the bereaved families – although the U.S. lags in this effort.
Why have estimates gone up?
Asked why the numbers are far higher than previously thought, Hillis answers: "Part of the increases are because we just have more accurate death data on which to model our estimates. And of course, the other aspect of the increases is that deaths have continued."
The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, also found that the greatest numbers of kids affected by these losses were in Africa and Southeast Asia. India has seen the most suffering, with 3.5 million children grieving the loss of a parent or primary/secondary caregiver. However, Bolivia and Peru have the highest rates of kids affected, with 1 out of every 50 children in both countries losing caregivers during the pandemic.
These children face potentially devastating consequences. The emotional toll may be what people think of first but the impact hits many areas of a child's life.
"This enormous bereavement is an economic loss," explains Lorraine Sherr, a psychologist at the University College London, and a member of the Global Reference Group, who wasn't involved in the latest estimates.
That's especially true when the parent or primary caregiver who died was the main breadwinner in the family. A family's loss of income can put kids at a higher risk of food and housing insecurity.
If a child moves to a new community or family because of the death of a parent, "it's a separation," she says. "And then there's disengagement at school and then disengagement with friendships, with things previously that made them happy or helped them learn. So you have this kind of huge cascade of losses."
Bereavement is one of the top predictors of poor outcomes at school, says psychologist Julie Kaplow, executive vice president of trauma and grief programs at the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute.
Studies also point to the lasting mental and physical health impacts from losing a parent or caregiver.
"It increases the risk of mental health problems, suicide, prolonged grief complications, sexual exploitation and abuse, even physical abuse of children," says Hillis.
Finding ways to help bereaved children
Many countries and organizations are finally recognizing the urgent need to help children and families deal with this loss, says Sherr.
"Some efforts are being put in place, especially in South Africa, in Eswatini and Kenya and Botswana," says Joel-Pascal Ntwali N'konzi, a co-author of the new study and a researcher at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences in Kigali, Rwanda. In South Africa and Eswatini, 1 in 100 children have lost a parent or caregiver.
Sometimes the solution is in the form of cash aid.
Providing cash payments to such families can ensure that families can afford school fees in countries where education comes with a price tag. N'konzi and his co-authors are hopeful that other countries will join these efforts.
The World Bank is also looking into providing countries with funding for "cash plus care initiative," says Sherr.
"That means that you provide the family with a stipend or a small cash injection, but you twin that with care — some kind of social support services, linking to school and education."
These kinds of support programs would also connect bereaved families with grassroots organizations or nonprofits that can provide mental health care and psychological support to children and the surviving parent or caregivers.
Past research on children orphaned by the HIV-AIDS epidemic shows that such efforts can buffer the impact of the trauma on kids, says Sherr, who has done research on this topic.
"We looked at educational risk, things like missing school, dropping school year achievement," she explains. "We looked at emotional outcomes such as depression, stress, identity, anxiety, trauma. We also looked at positive outcomes like coping and resilience."
She says projects that included cash transfer plus connection to community-based supports and services improved these outcomes among grieving children.
However, there have been no federal efforts to address the crisis here in the United States, notes Rachel Kidman, a social epidemiologist who has studied the long-term impacts of the HIV-AIDS epidemic on children. The new study found that more than 250,000 American children had lost a parent or caregiver due to the pandemic as of May 1, 2022.
And yet, says Kidman, who was not involved in the new research: "I'm not seeing any concerted efforts or even a lead by the federal government" to address the needs of these children."
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2022-09-07T10:16:22+00:00 | wksu.org | https://www.wksu.org/npr-news/npr-news/2022-09-06/nearly-8-million-kids-lost-a-parent-or-primary-caregiver-to-the-pandemic |
HIGH POINT, N.C. (WGHP) — A GLAAD report released last month is shedding light on the fraught state of drag artist-led events in the United States, and North Carolina is at the front of the pack.
According to the report, North Carolina and Texas are tied for the highest number of drag events targeted by protests or threats in the country in 2022, the bulk of those threats coming in June, which is Pride Month, or between September and November when the report was published.
Of the 124 reported incidents, ten of them were in North Carolina with another ten in Texas. Illinois was the next highest with eight.
The report was based on news reporting of the events, so the numbers across the nation are likely higher if protests or threats were not reported, according to GLAAD.
At least two drag events have faced protest or cancelation in the month of December, which drives North Carolina’s number even higher. Salty Sistas in Sneads Ferry was targeted by Proud Boys over a holiday-themed drag brunch it had planned to hold Dec. 10.
Salty Sistas canceled their event after consulting with the FBI, WNCT reported.
A drag event held in Southern Pines on Dec. 3 was also the subject of protests and harassment, the organizers said, and as it went on at the Sunrise Theater, the lights went out due to the attack on two Duke Energy substations in Moore County that plunged thousands into darkness for days.
While no officials have confirmed any motivation or suspects for this attack, warrants have been obtained, and the attack left the already embattled LGBTQ community even more on edge due to social media activity. The Moore County attack came just days after the Department of Homeland Security warned of a potential increase in domestic terrorism, particularly targeting the LGBTQ+ community, Jewish community and vital infrastructure.
The events
- In June, protestors showed up to a Drag Queen Story Time at Bookmarks in Winston-Salem
- Proud Boys crashed a storytime at a Wilmington library
- A Pride Month event in Black Mountain drew protests
- A Hickory Drag Queen Story Hour was canceled during Pride Month, but WSOC-TV reported it was a staffing issue
- A Raleigh museum canceled a drag event after a backlash
- A Monroe restaurant came under fire for their drag brunch
- Apex Pride was almost forced to cancel Drag Queen Story Time due to threats
- A Charlotte congressional candidate attempted to get a Charlotte Drag Queen Story Hour canceled
- A Halloween-themed drag brunch was targeted by Proud Boys in Sanford
- Proud Boys showed up at a drag brunch at Umami Bistro in Raleigh
- Organizers changed age limits after backlash in Southern Pines, but went on with the show even after the lights went out
- Sneads Ferry canceled a drag event after backlash and intimidation
Other anti-LGBTQ+ North Carolina news
Aside from drag events being targeted, other aspects of the LGBTQ community’s public life have faced increased scrutiny and backlash.
The LGBTQ+ community makes up 7.1% of the adult population in the United States. By July 2022, over 240 anti-LGBTQ bills had been filed in states across the country. Many of these bills focus specifically on transgender people, particularly trans children in schools. While it’s hard to give an exact figure, it’s likely that there are significantly more bills regulating trans children’s ability to play K-12 sports than there are transgender children playing K-12 sports.
In North Carolina, a transgender woman resigned her position on the Asheville City Schools Board of Education after a man that reportedly represented the ADF repeatedly came to meetings to stoke controversy, wanting the focus of the board to remain on their duties and not on her as a person.
Grassroots groups have targeted books with LGBTQ+ content in schools. Gender Queer: A Memoir was removed from the Alamance-Burlington School System after the superintendent deemed it a “disruption to the learning environment.”
The now-defunct group Take Back Our Schools – GCS was the subject of pushback from the Greensboro LGBTQ community when students, staff and community members spoke at a Guilford County Schools board meeting, asking the school board for more help and support for LGBTQ students and staff, who had been targeted by Facebook posts on the TBOS page.
Books in Cabarrus County were also challenged by parents and Iredell County Schools took time in a school board meeting to discuss “furries” after false rumors swirled about students using litter boxes.
This is a common urban myth that has circulated across many states over the years and no one has ever found it to have any basis in reality, but one NBC reporter found a Colorado school that was stocking litter in the event of prolonged lockdowns.
Public officials in North Carolina have even been accused of promoting anti-LGBTQ rhetoric and idealogy, particularly Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson, who is the current frontrunner as the GOP’s candidate for the 2024 gubernatorial race. He came under fire for referring to LGBTQ+ people as “filth” during a church sermon in 2021, prompting local LGBTQ groups to demand resignation and people to protest. | 2022-12-16T16:25:19+00:00 | qcnews.com | https://www.qcnews.com/news/u-s/north-carolina/north-carolina-leads-nation-in-reported-drag-event-backlash-glaad-report/ |
Travelers are getting hit with delays at U.S. airports again early Wednesday, an ominous sign heading into the long July 4 holiday weekend, which is shaping up as the biggest test yet for airlines that are struggling to keep up with surging numbers of passengers.
As of early morning, more than 900 flights have been delayed in the U.S., according to FlightAware. Cancellations topped more than 670 flights.
Cancellations and delays were most severe along the East Coast early and were growing worse rapidly. Disruptions are expected to spread West.
The delays are being compounded by thunderstorms that raked the Northeast on Tuesday. At various times, the Federal Aviation Administration held up flights bound for LaGuardia Airport in New York and Reagan Washington National and Baltimore-Washington airports near the nation’s capital.
About 6,500 flights were delayed and about 1,900 were canceled on the East Coast on Tuesday. United Airlines, with a major hub in Newark, New Jersey, canceled about 500 flights or 18% of its schedule, and JetBlue canceled 16% of its flights, according to FlightAware.
Call it the storm before the storm.
Travel has picked up steadily every year since bottoming out during the pandemic and on Tuesday, the number of people flying neared 2.4 million, up 11% from last year on the same day, according to the Transportation Security Administration.
Travel is expected to peak on Thursday with more than 52,500 total flights, likely the biggest travel day of the holiday period.
People whose travel plans were disrupted took to social media to vent against the airlines. Some swore they would never fly again on whichever airline had done them wrong.
When their United flight in Newark was canceled Sunday night, Margo and Jason Osborne searched for other flights but couldn’t find one. Margo said a United agent wouldn’t let them retrieve their bags either – they would have to pick those up at their final destination, New Orleans — then “made me feel like an idiot” for leaving needed medical supplies in a checked bag.
They saw other people looking for unaccompanied minors and heard about stranded travelers who spent hours in line or slept at the airport.
“All these poor people are literally just sitting there at the mercy of a company who is not doing anything to help them,” Margo said in an interview. “There is zero customer service right now.”
The Osbornes rented a car — they felt lucky to snag one — and drove 10 hours through the night to Charlotte, North Carolina, to catch an American Airlines flight to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, close to home. Their luggage finally got to New Orleans on Tuesday.
If large numbers of passengers are stranded or delayed this weekend, expect federal officials and the airlines to blame each other for the mess.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, whose department includes the FAA, has been beating up on the airlines for more than a year. He has accused them of failing to live up to reasonable standards of customer service and suggested that they are scheduling more flights than they can handle.
The airlines are punching back.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby blamed a shortage of federal air traffic controllers for massive disruptions last weekend at its Newark hub.
“We estimate that over 150,000 customers on United alone were impacted this weekend because of FAA staffing issues and their ability to manage traffic,” Kirby wrote in a memo to employees Tuesday night.
United could be contributing to its struggles. The Association of Flight Attendants, which represents the airline’s cabin crews, said it complained about wait times of more than three hours for workers who called a crew scheduling center that had “limited telephone lines and personnel.” The union told flight attendants near the end of their shifts to tell supervisors and find a hotel room.
The FAA has admitted that it is understaffed at key facilities including one in the New York City region. It is training about 3,000 new air traffic controllers, but most of them won’t be ready anytime soon. Last week, the Transportation Department’s inspector general said in a report that the FAA has made only “limited efforts” to adequately staff critical air traffic control centers and lacks a plan to tackle the problem. | 2023-06-28T16:09:52+00:00 | wwlp.com | https://www.wwlp.com/news/national/widespread-flight-delays-expected-to-worsen-as-holiday-weekend-nears/ |
WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- This year's holiday season deserves to be a standout but how can home cooks and hosts easily add an elegant, upscale edge that will leave everyone raving?
Imported Cheese to the rescue! With more people eager to travel and taste the world; imported cheeses deliver that major holiday "wow" factor and flavor in party apps, cheese boards, main dishes, and yes, even desserts.
ILoveImportedCheese.com and @iloveimportedcheese are the ultimate resource for home cooks, holiday hosts, and cheese aficionados seeking recipes, serving tips, and a deeper knowledge of imported cheeses.
Featuring over 120 upscale, chef-tested recipes for everything from classic French Gougeres to Berry and Chevre Ice Cream; ILoveImportedCheese.com is your guide to the world of imported cheeses and how to enjoy them. Holiday hosting is made easier too with the site's array of cheese education and recipe videos, serving tips, and inspiring blog posts.
No more wondering which cheeses to buy or how to use them. For those seeking quick, detailed information about imported cheeses, the site boasts a convenient, information-packed, easily searchable database of over 200 imported cheese varieties from 31 countries and regions around the world! Search by cheese name, country, milk type, or texture and you'll find tasting notes, descriptions, and even suggested uses or pairings.
Whether you want to recreate a European classic dish to impress your guests, are seeking Instagram worthy cheese board inspiration, or are standing at your favorite cheese counter debating which cheeses to feature in your holiday menu; consider I Love Imported Cheese your go-to resource.
To learn more about imported cheeses and get free recipes, serving tips, educational videos and blog posts visit the website ILoveImportedCheese.com
For daily inspiration and to join a community of fellow cheese lovers follow the Instagram/Facebook accounts @iloveimportedcheese.
The website "I Love Imported Cheese" is hosted by The Cheese Importers Association of America (CIAA): a non-profit organization that serves its members, the world dairy community and - ultimately - the end consumer by helping to facilitate the efficient import of dairy products from around the world into the United States. For additional information about the organization, visit CIAA.org
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SOURCE Cheese Importers Association of America | 2022-11-04T14:14:03+00:00 | live5news.com | https://www.live5news.com/prnewswire/2022/11/04/your-ultimate-holiday-resource-will-have-you-saying-i-love-imported-cheese/ |
McDonald’s found liable for hot Chicken McNugget that fell from Happy Meal and burned girl
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — McDonald’s and a franchise holder are at fault after a hot Chicken McNugget from a Happy Meal fell on a little girl’s leg and caused second-degree burns, a jury in South Florida has found.
A second jury will determine how much McDonald’s USA and its franchise owner, Upchurch Foods, will pay the child and her mother, the South Florida SunSentinel reported.
Thursday’s decision was split, with jurors finding the franchise holder liable for negligence and failure to warn customers about the risk of hot food, and McDonald’s USA liable for failing to provide instructions for safe handling of the food. McDonald’s USA was not found to be negligent, and the jury dismissed the argument that the product was defective.
“This was an unfortunate incident, but we respectfully disagree with the verdict,” McDonald’s USA said in a statement. “Our customers should continue to rely on McDonald’s to follow policies and procedures for serving Chicken McNuggets safely.”
The jury heard two days of testimony and arguments about the 2019 episode that left the 4-year-old girl with a burned upper thigh before finding McDonald’s to blame.
Philana Holmes testified that she bought Happy Meals for her son and daughter at a drive-thru window at a McDonald’s in Tamarac, near Fort Lauderdale, the SunSentinel reported. She said she handed the food to her children, who were in the back seat.
After she drove away, her daughter started screaming. The mother testified she didn’t know what was wrong until she pulled over to help the girl, identified in court as Olivia, the newspaper reported. She saw the burn on the girl’s leg and took photos on her iPhone, which included audio clips of the child’s screams.
The sound of the girl’s screams were played in court.
The child, who is autistic, did not testify, the newspaper reported.
Lawyers for McDonald’s noted that the food had to be hot to avoid salmonella poisoning, and that the nuggets were not meant to be pressed between a seat belt and human flesh for more than two minutes.
The girl’s parents sued, saying that McDonald’s and the franchise owner failed to adequately train employees, failed to warn customers about the “dangerous” temperature of the food, and for cooking the food to a much higher temperature than necessary.
While both sides agreed the nugget caused the burns, the family’s lawyers argued the temperature was above 200 degrees (93 Celsius), while the defense said it was no more than 160 degrees (71 Celsius).
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-05-12T13:39:12+00:00 | wlox.com | https://www.wlox.com/2023/05/12/mcdonalds-found-liable-hot-chicken-mcnugget-that-fell-happy-meal-burned-girl/ |
The League of Women Voters of Vigo County, along with co-sponsors Vigo County Library, Terre Haute Tribune-Star, The Greater Terre Haute Branch of the NAACP and Vote Vigo, are conducting three candidate forums open to the public in upcoming weeks.
All forums will be conducted at the Vigo County Public Library.
On Tuesday, a candidate forum for Vigo County School Board candidates is scheduled.
The question and answer portion of the event will be from 6:30 to 8 p.m. followed by a meet and greet from 8 to 8:30 p.m.
The audience may ask questions by writing them down on the index cards that will be provided. All questions must be for all candidates and no one candidate is to be singled out.
A league member will then hand the question to the moderator to be read.
Any offensive questions, or remarks, will not be accepted.
“We request that no political apparel or buttons be worn at the forums. This is to maintain a neutral, unslanted atmosphere. A table will be provided for all candidates to have their campaign information displayed and available to the public,” said Carolyn Callecod, president of the League of Women Voters of Vigo County.
On Sept. 27, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., the sponsors will host a forum for county commissioner/county council candidates.
The next candidate forum, Oct. 4, is for state representative candidates. It will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
All candidate formats will be the same. | 2022-09-16T03:46:03+00:00 | tribstar.com | https://www.tribstar.com/news/local_news/three-candidate-forums-scheduled-at-vigo-county-public-library/article_5232de9a-711d-57fa-8663-8201c6394c8c.html |
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (AP) — Pat Robertson, a religious broadcaster who turned a tiny Virginia station into the global Christian Broadcasting Network, tried a run for president and helped make religion central to Republican Party politics in America through his Christian Coalition, has died. He was 93.
Robertson’s death Thursday was announced by his broadcasting network. No cause was given.
Robertson’s enterprises also included Regent University, an evangelical Christian school in Virginia Beach; the American Center for Law and Justice, which defends the First Amendment rights of religious people; and Operation Blessing, an international humanitarian organization.
But for more than a half-century, Robertson was a familiar presence in American living rooms, known for his “700 Club” television show, and in later years, his televised pronouncements of God’s judgment on America for everything from homosexuality to the teaching of evolution.
The money poured in as he solicited donations, his influence soared, and when he moved directly into politics by seeking the GOP presidential nomination in 1988, he brought a huge following with him.
Robertson pioneered a now-common strategy of courting Iowa’s network of evangelical Christian churches, and finished in second place in the Iowa caucuses, ahead of Vice President George H.W. Bush.
At the time, Jeffrey K. Hadden, a University of Virginia sociologist and a Robertson biographer, said Robertson’s masterstroke was insisting that three million followers across the U.S. sign petitions before he would decide to run. The tactic gave him an army.
″He asked people to pledge that they’d work for him, pray for him and give him money,” Hadden told The Associated Press in 1988. ″Political historians may view it as one of the most ingenious things a candidate ever did.″
Robertson later endorsed Bush, who won the presidency. Pursuit of Iowa’s evangelicals is now a ritual for Republican hopefuls, including those currently seeking the White House in 2024.
Robertson started the Christian Coalition in Chesapeake in 1989, saying it would further his campaign’s ideals. The coalition became a major force in Republican politics in the 1990s, mobilizing conservative voters through grass-roots activities.
By the time of his resignation as the coalition’s president in 2001 — Robertson said he wanted to concentrate on ministerial work — his impact on both religion and politics in the U.S. was “enormous,” according to John C. Green, an emeritus political science professor at The University of Akron.
Many followed the path Robertson cut in religious broadcasting, Green told the AP in 2021. In American politics, Robertson helped “cement the alliance between conservative Christians and the Republican Party.”
Marion Gordon “Pat” Robertson was born March 22, 1930, in Lexington, Virginia, to Absalom Willis Robertson and Gladys Churchill Robertson. His father served for 36 years as a U.S. Representative and U.S. Senator from Virginia.
After graduating from Washington and Lee University, he served as assistant adjutant of the 1st Marine Division in Korea.
He received a law degree from Yale University Law School, but failed the bar exam and chose not to pursue a law career.
Robertson met his wife, Adelia “Dede” Elmer, at Yale in 1952. He was a Southern Baptist, she was a Catholic, earning a master’s in nursing. Eighteen months later, they ran off to be married by a justice of the peace, knowing neither family would approve.
Robertson was interested in politics until he found religion, Dede Robertson told the AP in 1987. He stunned her by pouring out their liquor, tearing a nude print off the wall and declaring he had found the Lord.
They moved into a commune in New York City’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood because Robertson said God told him to sell all his possessions and minister to the poor. She was tempted to return home to Ohio, “but I realized that was not what the Lord would have me do … I had promised to stay, so I did,” she told the AP.
Robertson received a master’s in divinity from New York Theological Seminary in 1959, then drove south with his family to buy a bankrupt UHF television station in Portsmouth, Va. He said he had just $70 in his pocket, but soon found investors, and CBN went on the air on Oct. 1, 1961. Established as a tax-exempt religious nonprofit, CBN brought in hundreds of millions, disclosing $321 million in “ministry support” in 2022 alone.
One of Robertson’s innovations was to use the secular talk-show format on the network’s flagship show, the “700 Club,” which grew out of a telethon when Robertson asked 700 viewers for monthly $10 contributions. It was more suited to television than traditional revival meetings or church services, and gained a huge audience.
“Here’s a well-educated person having sophisticated conversations with a wide variety of guests on a wide variety of topics,” said Green, the University of Akron political science professor. “It was with a religious inflection to be sure. But it was an approach that took up everyday concerns.”
His guests eventually included several U.S. presidents — Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump.
At times, his on-air pronouncements drew criticism.
He claimed that the terrorist attacks that killed thousands of Americans on Sept. 11, 2001 were caused by God, angered by the federal courts, pornography, abortion rights and church-state separation. Talking again about 9-11 on his TV show a year later, Robertson described Islam as a violent religion that wants to “dominate” and “destroy,” prompting President George W. Bush to distance himself and say Islam is a peaceful and respectful religion.
He called for the assassination of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez in 2005. Later that year, he warned residents of a rural Pennsylvania town not to be surprised if disaster struck them because they voted out school board members who favored teaching “intelligent design” over evolution. And in 1998, he said Orlando, Florida, should beware of hurricanes after allowing the annual Gay Days event.
In 2014, he angered Kenyans when he warned that towels in Kenya could transmit AIDS. CBN issued a correction, saying Robertson “misspoke about the possibility of getting AIDS through towels.”
Robertson also could be unpredictable: In 2010, he called for ending mandatory prison sentences for marijuana possession convictions. Two years later, he said on the “700 Club” that marijuana should be legalized and treated like alcohol because the government’s war on drugs had failed.
Robertson condemned Democrats caught up in sex scandals, saying for example that President Bill Clinton turned the White House into a playpen for sexual freedom. But he helped solidify evangelical support for Donald Trump, dismissing the candidate’s sexually predatory comments about women as an attempt “to look like he’s macho.”
After Trump took office, Robertson interviewed the president at the White House. And CBN welcomed Trump advisers, such as Kellyanne Conway, as guests.
But after President Trump lost to Joe Biden in 2020, Robertson said Trump was living in an “alternate reality” and should “move on,” news outlets reported.
Robertson’s son, Gordon, succeeded him in December 2007 as chief executive of CBN, which is now based in Virginia Beach. Robertson remained chairman of the network and continued to appear on the “700 Club.”
Robertson stepped down as host of the show after half a century in 2021, with his son Gordon taking over the weekday show.
Robertson also was founder and chairman of International Family Entertainment Inc., parent of The Family Channel basic cable TV network. Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp. bought IFE in 1997.
Regent University, where classes began in Virginia Beach in 1978, now has more than 30,000 alumni, CBN said in a statement.
Robertson wrote 15 books, including “The Turning Tide” and “The New World Order.”
His wife Dede, who was a founding board member of CBN, died last year at the age of 94. The couple had four children, 14 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, CBN said in a statement. | 2023-06-08T13:54:53+00:00 | myfox8.com | https://myfox8.com/news/virginia/religious-broadcaster-pat-robertson-dead-at-93/ |
IAR Systems is proud to announce its new v3.10 of IAR Embedded Workbench, and IAR Build Tools for Renesas RH850, a world-leading device often used to create groundbreaking solutions in the next generation vehicles by the automotive industry globally.
UPPSALA, Sweden, July 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The growing complexity of automotive applications require real-time control without sacrificing performance. This can only be achieved with modern multi-core RH850 Automotive MCUs from Renesas. IAR Systems® is the only tool vendor to deliver development tools for the entire line-up of Renesas MCUs, and the latest releases strengthen the long-standing collaboration.
The IAR Embedded Workbench for RH850 and IAR Build Tools for RH850 have been upgraded to the latest technology platforms, including the latest C/C++ language (library support for the C++17 language standard), which will allow developers to build far more advanced code to handle more complex tasks.
Today's release also includes 64-bit IDE & Editor enhancements with Dark Mode, and cross-platform IAR Build Tools streamlined for automated build and test processes in frameworks built on Ubuntu, Red Hat, or Windows.
The release also provides developers with extensions for Visual Studio Code to meet increasing customer demand. The extensions are compatible with the latest versions of IAR Embedded Workbench, and IAR Build Tools for RH850, made available seamlessly at Visual Studio Code Marketplace.
The latest version of IAR Toolchain for RH850 supports all the latest Renesas RH850 high-performance and scalable automotive multicore MCUs.
"Our investments in Embedded Development Solutions for RH850 in the latest technology platforms will improve our joint customers' ability to innovate by simplifying the move to - and use of - high-performance multi-core MCUs", said Rafael Taubinger, Senior Product Marketing Manager at IAR Systems.
The IAR Toolchain provides exceptional design flexibility for embedded developers working with the extensive Renesas product portfolio. It also delivers outstanding performance and enables customers to easily switch between different architectures and choose the one best suited for a specific application while using the same development tools. The products from IAR Systems are proven to simplify the reuse of code, shorten time to market, and reduce design time and project cost while improving productivity, allowing developers to focus on accelerated innovation.
Since the beginning, IAR Systems and Renesas have had a profound and robust relationship based on trust, thought leadership, and a mutual passion for innovation and customer success. As a Renesas Alliance Partner, IAR Systems are committed to continuing to supply high-end tools for all Renesas MCUs, beyond the +4000 Renesas devices already supported.
Find more information about the new products at https://www.iar.com/products/architectures/renesas/iar-embedded-workbench-for-renesas-rh850/ and https://www.iar.com/products/architectures/renesas/iar-build-tools-for-rh850/
IAR Systems Contacts
Rafael Taubinger, Senior Product Marketing Manager, IAR Systems
Tel: +46 18 16 78 00 Email: rafael.taubinger@iar.com
Jesper Andersson - Rydåker, CMO, IAR Systems
Tel: +46 18 16 78 00 Email: jesper.andersson-rydaker@iar.com
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SOURCE IAR Systems | 2022-07-05T09:56:21+00:00 | kcrg.com | https://www.kcrg.com/prnewswire/2022/07/05/iar-systems-enable-innovation-automotive-providing-full-support-renesas-rh850/ |
TUGSA votes down tentative agreement with Temple University; strike continues
This story originally appeared on 6abc.
The Temple Graduate Union has voted down a tentative agreement offered by the university on Tuesday, according to Temple University Graduate Students’ Association (TUGSA).
TUGSA said over 92% of the voters rejected the agreement, with over 83% voter turnout.
The vote comes just days after TUGSA and the university said they reached the tentative agreement.
“The union has notified the University of the results and offered to return to bargaining as early as tomorrow, Wednesday morning. The strike will continue until a new Tentative Agreement is reached and accepted by TUGSA members,” TUGSA said in a news release.
The tentative agreement contained minimal raises and no healthcare coverage for dependents, TUGSA said. The proposed wage increases would bring the average grad worker stipend to around only $22,000 in the first year.
“Despite the university offering to reinstate benefits that it cut during the strike in this tentative agreement, the terms of this proposed contract still fail to meet our basic needs,” said TUGSA member Amanda Whitehead, a long-time instructor in the dance department. “These benefits should’ve never been cut in the first place.”
TUGSA has been negotiating with the administration for more than two weeks for higher wages, better benefits and improved working conditions.
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today. | 2023-02-22T03:54:28+00:00 | whyy.org | https://whyy.org/articles/tugsa-votes-down-tentative-agreement-with-temple-university-strike-continues/ |
(NEXSTAR) – Grizzly bears, a protected threatened species in the lower 48 states, haven’t been spotted in part of their natural territory in the Pacific Northwest since the late 1990s. Federal environmental officials are hoping to – again – launch efforts to restore their population.
Grizzly bears are primarily found throughout Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, the very northeastern corner of Washington, and into Canada. The bears used to cover a much larger territory, spanning through much of the western United States and Canada, central Mexico, and most of Alaska, according to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
Before 1800, as many as 50,000 grizzly bears were believed to live throughout 18 states from Washington south to Nevada and west to Minnesota and Texas. After the population dipped into the 700 and 800 range by 1975, the grizzly bear population has expanded to at least 1,900, FWS reports.
The population expansion is largely thanks to human efforts across six “recovery zones” deemed large enough and plentiful enough in resources to help the grizzly bear population recover. Those zones stretch through Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Canada.
Now, FWS and the National Park Service are hoping to restart efforts initially ended by the Department of Interior in 2020 to bring grizzly bears back to an area in which they haven’t been reported since 1996: the North Cascades of Washington state. (A grizzly was, however, photographed by a hiker in the Cascades in 2011).
Why are officials hoping to reintroduce a species eradicated from the region?
They’re a vital part of the ecosystem.
“Grizzly bears in the North Cascades ecosystem are considered a keystone species, playing an important role in biodiversity,” Andrew LaValle, a public affairs officer with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service tells Nexstar. “They are also notorious seed dispersers, spreading seeds both within and across elevations. They aerate the soil, giving new vegetation a chance to flourish.”
Grizzly bears will adapt their diets based on what is available in their environment, according to the FWS. They’ve been noted to eat more than 260 species of food, ranging from mammals or fish (dead or alive), insects, worms, and plants. Grizzlies have been known to eat human foods, garbage, grasses, berries, seeds, and fungi as well.
Though they are omnivores, feeding mostly on vegetation, grizzly bears have been known to attack livestock, causing concern among farmers. FWS and NPS addressed the concern, saying they anticipate the attacks on livestock would be small while the bear population is small – their plan hopes to bring the population in the North Cascades to 200.
“Using a U.S Department of Interior formula based on the number of grizzly bears and number
of cattle and sheep in the ecosystem, we could expect approximately three livestock
depredations per year (1 cow, 2 sheep) when the population of grizzly bears reaches 200,” the agencies write in an FAQ shared with their planning process. They go on to suggest “a variety of non-lethal and preventative deterrent options for reducing and avoiding conflicts,” like installing electric fences and storing foods.
LaValle notes that black bears already live in the area and that the same precautions taken around that species are effective around grizzlies.
Federal wildlife officials will also consider adding a special designation known as a 10(j) experimental population, which is used “for a group of plants or animals that will be reintroduced in an area that is geographically isolated from other populations of the species.” Under a 10(j) designation, the species is treated as threatened, meaning FWS can enact management programs and special regulations on the population.
For example, FWS explains that under the 10(j) rules laid out for the black-footed ferrets made “incidental harm to ferrets legal when it happens as a result of otherwise lawful activities including traditional management or land use.”
“A 10(j) experimental population designation,” according to LaValle, “would provide additional tools for reducing conflicts in the event that restoration does take place.”
Before any grizzly bears return to the North Cascades – at least with the help of NPS and FWS – multiple steps of the planning process need to unfold. Currently, the plan sits at step two of nine.
Part of the process is inviting the public to comment on the plan. Virtual public meetings are scheduled over the next three weeks. | 2022-11-26T16:07:45+00:00 | qcnews.com | https://www.qcnews.com/nexstar-media-wire/grizzly-bears-havent-been-in-this-national-park-since-1996-why-officials-want-them-back/ |
Breakthrough to Utilize its Expertise in Lab Development and Operations to Support Boulder's Burgeoning Yet Underserved Biotech Community
BOULDER, Colo., Aug. 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Breakthrough Properties, a leading global developer of life sciences real estate backed by a joint venture of Tishman Speyer and Bellco Capital, today announced it has acquired a 9.3-acre, four-building campus in Boulder, CO, which will be transformed into "Boulder 38 by Breakthrough" featuring 164,000-square-feet of office, lab and flex space.
Boulder 38 by Breakthrough is situated in the heart of the city within convenient proximity to local retail, restaurants and amenities, as well as large technology and life science campuses. Located at the intersection of 38th Street and Arapahoe, the property features easy access into and out of Boulder and is just one mile from Jennie Smoly Caruthers Biotechnology Building, a 400,000-square-foot research and teaching facility at the University of Colorado Boulder.
"We are excited to bring the Breakthrough platform to Boulder and contribute to the phenomenal growth of a thriving life science innovation market," said Daniel D'Orazi, EVP and Chief Investment Officer. "From our fully integrated design and development teams to our highly experienced lab operations platform, Breakthrough is uniquely positioned to provide best-in-class infrastructure and amenities to meet the intense and growing demand for high quality lab and office environments in this supply-constrained market."
Research conducted at the University of Colorado and the surrounding ecosystem has helped to foster a thriving regional bioscience hub. According to CBRE market report data, the Boulder life sciences market has maintained over one million square feet of active life science requirements over the past 18 months, and workspaces with elevated amenities is a desired feature of the companies located in the area.
"Boulder has succeeded in cultivating a unique ecosystem propelled by leading research and academic institutions, creative residents and premier outdoor recreational amenities," said Tishman Speyer Senior Managing Director Paul DeMartini. "We are excited by this opportunity to create a world-class research campus that will serve as a magnet for life science innovation and talent."
The acquisition and redevelopment of Boulder 38 is being capitalized by the Breakthrough Life Science Property Fund. The Fund, which held its final closing in April of this year, raised $3 billion in direct capital and co-investments to scale a global portfolio of best-in-class ecosystems for dynamic early-, mid-, and late-stage life science companies.
Since its founding just over three years ago, Breakthrough has assembled a pipeline of more than 4.6 million square feet of projects in various stages of construction and pre-development across the United States and Europe.
Boulder is the fourth new market that Breakthrough has entered during 2022. Breakthrough recently announced its acquisition of 2300 Market Street in Philadelphia's burgeoning Center City district, with plans to redevelop the site to support over 200,000 square feet of life science space. Breakthrough also recently completed its first acquisitions in the Oxford and Cambridge life science hubs in England.
Other notable Breakthrough projects include The 105 by Breakthrough in Boston, home to CRISPR Therapeutics' U.S. facility; the 10-acre Torrey View by Breakthrough campus, which will house global medical technology company BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company)'s expanded San Diego Reagent Innovation Center for its growing BD Biosciences, in San Diego; Trinity House in Oxford, England; and The Vitrum Building, located inside St. John's Innovation Park in Cambridge, England.
Breakthrough puts sustainability at the forefront of all of its initiatives with a particular emphasis on increasing energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions and providing healthy workspaces for users. The Company targets LEED Gold certification at its United States properties, as well as BREEAM Outstanding certification in all of its projects across the United Kingdom and EU markets.
About Breakthrough Properties (www.btprop.com)
Formed in 2019 as a joint venture between global real estate owner, developer and investor Tishman Speyer and biotechnology investment firm Bellco Capital, Breakthrough Properties is a life science real estate development company that leverages cross-sector collaboration to deliver environments that foster innovation and scientific breakthroughs. Breakthrough Properties' mission is to acquire, develop and operate the best life science properties in leading urban technology centers around the world and support scientific innovation across biotechnology, agriculture and nutrition. Breakthrough combines Tishman Speyer's decades of global real estate development experience with Bellco Capital's industry-making biotechnology entrepreneurship to reimagine environments where companies can create life-changing therapies for patients.
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SOURCE Breakthrough Properties | 2022-08-11T17:06:25+00:00 | live5news.com | https://www.live5news.com/prnewswire/2022/08/11/breakthrough-properties-enters-boulder-market-with-acquisition-development-boulder-38-by-breakthrough/ |
WASHINGTON, D.C., USA — Brittney Griner's appeal to President Joe Biden in a handwritten letter continued to garner reaction Tuesday after the WNBA All-Star acknowledged she feared never returning home and asked Biden not “ forget about me and the other American Detainees.”
Griner's letter was delivered through her representatives to the White House on Monday and officials say the president has read it. However Griner's wife, Cherelle, said Tuesday on a morning talk show that she hadn't heard from Biden.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was asked repeatedly about Griner on Tuesday during the regular briefing. She said Biden read the letter, but she did not detail his reaction.
“This is very personal to him.”
Jean-Pierre did not say whether there were plans for Biden to speak with Griner’s family, but did say that National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken both spoke to Griner’s wife recently.
Jean-Pierre said Biden wanted to get Griner and other Americans home.
“We are going to use every tool we possibly can to make that happen,” Jean-Pierre said.
Griner is in the midst of a trial in Russia that began last week after she was arrested on Feb. 17 on charges of possessing cannabis oil while returning to play for her Russian team. The trial will resume Thursday.
Fewer than 1% of defendants in Russian criminal cases are acquitted, and unlike in U.S. courts, acquittals can be overturned.
Griner’s representatives Monday shared a few excerpts from her letter to the president.
″…As I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey, or any accomplishments, I’m terrified I might be here forever,” Griner wrote.
“On the 4th of July, our family normally honors the service of those who fought for our freedom, including my father who is a Vietnam War Veteran,” the Phoenix Mercury center added. “It hurts thinking about how I usually celebrate this day because freedom means something completely different to me this year.”
Cherelle Griner was disappointed not to have any direct communication with the White House since the letter was delivered.
“I still have not heard from him and honestly, it’s very disheartening,” Cherelle Griner said on CBS Mornings.
Cherelle Griner said for Brittney to reach out directly to Biden is an indication of just how afraid her wife is about what's next.
“BG is probably the strongest person that I know. So she doesn’t say words like that lightly," Cherelle said. “That means she truly is terrified that she may never see us again. And you know I share those same sentiments. ... I’m sure she was like, ‘I’m gonna write him now because ... my family has tried and to no avail. So I’m going do it myself.'"
Griner pleaded with Biden in the letter to use his powers to ensure her return.
“Please do all you can to bring us home. I voted for the first time in 2020 and I voted for you. I believe in you. I still have so much good to do with my freedom that you can help restore,” Griner said "I miss my wife! I miss my family! I miss my teammates! It kills me to know they are suffering so much right now. I am grateful for whatever you can do at this moment to get me home.”
Griner has been able to have sporadic communications with family, friends and WNBA players through an email account her agent set up. The emails are printed out and delivered in bunches to Griner by her lawyer after they are vetted by Russian officials. Once the lawyers get back to their office, they’ll scan any responses from Griner and pass them back to the U.S. to send along.
She was supposed to have a phone call with her wife on their anniversary but it failed because of an “unfortunate mistake,” Biden administration officials.
Griner’s supporters have encouraged a prisoner swap like the one in April that brought home Marine veteran Trevor Reed in exchange for a Russian pilot convicted of drug trafficking conspiracy. The State Department in May designated her as wrongfully detained, moving her case under the supervision of its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs, effectively the government’s chief hostage negotiator.
Griner isn't the only American being wrongfully detained in Russia. Paul Whelan, a former Marine and security director is serving a 16-year sentence on an espionage conviction. | 2022-07-06T14:25:41+00:00 | newscentermaine.com | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/local/white-house-biden-has-read-brittney-griners-letter/75-527fe1cc-a1a6-4765-b85b-c9d77ccf7b59 |
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Lauren Pearl is giving new meaning to the term high-flying soprano.
Sure, her latest venture calls for her to sing up to a high C, but plenty of operatic heroines have to do that. What’s different in Pearl’s case is that she will be singing while scaling a 60-foot brick wall.
Pearl is performing the role of Louise in “Gould’s Wall,” a work that is receiving its world premiere at Toronto’s adventuresome Tapestry Opera beginning Aug. 4.
The opera is the brainchild of composer Brian Current, who regularly passes the wall on his way to work with students at the Glenn Gould School, which is housed in Toronto’s Royal Conservatory of Music. The brick facade is a remnant of a building that dates back to 1881, and it was preserved when the conservatory got a new, modern facility.
“That vertical space was just crying out for something to happen,” Current said. “With singers climbing on the walls, and the audience in the atrium looking up.”
He enlisted Liza Balkan, a performer, director and writer, who created a libretto that, as she said, tells “the story of a young artist, a woman, climbing the wall as a journey toward finding her own voice, the readiness to fly and soar.”
Along the way she encounters numerous characters who are harnessed to windows on the wall. Singing from below is Gould himself — the legendary pianist known for perfectionism who remains one of Canada’s most revered classical music figures nearly 40 years after his death.
“He is a presence in the building always,” Balkan said, and in the opera “he is there to support and also interrogate” the artist on her journey.
To play Louise, the company engaged Pearl, who was not a climber but had been training as an aerialist after, as she explained, “I fell in love with a circus performer.”
“I felt the story was very resonant and uplifting and inspiring,” Pearl said. “I thought immediately, I want to do that. But yeah, it’s daunting. It’s a high space.”
She has been practicing on the wall with the help of DangerBoy, a company whose website says it specializes in “stunts, rigging and special effects.” For the performances, Pearl will be securely fastened to a harness with a carabiner for extra protection.
Pearl said she found that singing while suspended from ropes and scaling a wall requires some adjustment in her vocal technique. ”There needs to be a line of energy through my entire body,” she said. “A greater awareness of tension and support.”
Current’s score, which runs about an hour, will be played by an orchestra consisting of five pianos along with an ensemble of brass, winds, strings and percussion.
The audience of just over 100 will be divided into sections, with prime seating on the atrium floor in reclining chairs angled to provide an easy view of the ascent.
“We thought at first of having people lie on mats,” Current said. “But our audience is largely people who aren’t 20.”
Other spectators will be on a balcony of the new building across from the wall. “Then you’re almost at the same level of the singers and also looking down and you can see the orchestra down below,” Current said.
Tom Comet, head rigger for DangerBoy, said the technical aspect of supporting Pearl’s climb is “pretty simple stuff. We’re pulling on a rope, we’re pulling some ropes through some pulleys, we’re redirecting that line.
“That said,” Comet added, “anytime we have human life in our hands … we need to be 100,000% sure that everything’s going to work as we anticipate.
“For me,” Comet said, “the coolest thing is that Lauren is actually belting out opera fearlessly while she’s suspended in the air, 40-50 feet up. It’s gonna be pretty incredible to experience.”
—-
Mike Silverman writes frequently about opera for The AP. He can be reached at mkslvrmn@gmail.com. | 2022-07-28T13:14:24+00:00 | sfgate.com | https://www.sfgate.com/entertainment/article/New-opera-has-soprano-scaling-the-heights-17334718.php |
(The Hill) – A measles outbreak in Ohio is raising concerns about the spread of the disease and how a decline in vaccination rates among children might be leading to additional outbreaks.
Eighty-five cases have been reported in Ohio as of Friday, mainly in Columbus and other parts of Franklin County, according to Columbus Public Health. Most of these cases were in unvaccinated children. Hospitalization was required for 34 of those who were infected.
It’s not the only recent measles outbreak in the country.
Minnesota experienced 22 cases last year in the Twin Cities area.
The outbreaks, which come amid a rise in anti-vaccine sentiment, are raising worries among health experts about whether lower vaccination rates will lead to further spread of diseases that can be safeguarded against by vaccines.
“With any of the vaccine preventable illnesses, we always worry about when there’s not enough herd immunity,” says physician Susan Koletar, director of the Division of Infectious Diseases at The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center.
Herd immunity occurs when enough people are immune through vaccination or natural infection to stop an illness from spreading. Measles is so contagious that immunization rates need to be at least 95 percent to eliminate the disease.
The Ohio outbreak began in October 2022, with the bulk of cases occurring in mid-November to early December. These community cases are thought to be linked to one of four travel-related measles cases, says physician Mysheika W. Roberts, who is the health commissioner for Columbus.
Although most of the cases are in unvaccinated children, six of the children had received their first of two doses of the combined measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Another twenty-four of the children were too young for any doses, according to the agency’s website.
The U.S. was declared measles-free in 2000, but travelers periodically bring in infections. People who visit countries where measles is endemic, meaning there is regular transmission in the population, can return to their home communities and seed a local outbreak.
“The mere fact that individuals who were not vaccinated, traveled to a measles endemic country and then were allowed to come back into the United States, where they likely instigated this outbreak is concerning to me as a public health professional,” says Roberts.
One of the potential reasons these measles outbreaks may be happening is that vaccine coverage rates fell during the pandemic.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that vaccination rates among kindergarteners are high, but coverage for the 2021-2022 school year dropped to 93 percent compared to 95 percent for the 2019-2020 school year.
The risk of contracting vaccine preventable diseases has been particularly heightened for children who are in low-income households or live in rural areas, as vaccine coverage decreased for those groups by 4 to 5 percent during the pandemic, according to the CDC.
That drop in childhood vaccinations in part stems from disruptions during the pandemic, as well as financial and logistical hurdles, the CDC reported. But rising vaccine hesitancy and the anti-vaccine movement have also contributed, and are a major factor driving recent measles outbreaks.
The U.S. saw its highest annual number of measles cases in recent history in 2019 with 1,274, most of which occurred in eight underimmunized communities, according to the CDC.
“We are living in a generation where most of the people who have hesitancy about the vaccines never experienced any of those diseases,” says Koletar. “And they never experienced any of those diseases because of widespread immunization practices.”
“I think many parents feel like since they don’t see measles in our community, that it is safe for them to not get their child vaccinated,” says Roberts.
She attributes some of the vaccine hesitancy to the circulation of misinformation. A debunked theory linking the MMR vaccine to autism is one example. Baseless concern driven by that theory may lead some parents to delay MMR vaccination until right before their child enters school, which could mean the child gets their first dose when they are about 4 years old instead of 12 months old.
The MMR vaccine has been around since the 1960s and is very, very effective, notes Roberts. “We didn’t get to eliminate measles without the MMR vaccine.”
The politicization of vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic has also fueled anti-vaccine attitudes, she says.
“The anti-vaxx [and] the vaccine hesitant community has probably grown as a result of this pandemic and spilled over from the COVID-19 hesitancy to all vaccine hesitancy,” Roberts notes.
Each family may be weighing their own personal risk and making decisions that way, says vaccine safety researcher Elyse Kharbanda. Willingness to get vaccinated may increase when transmission is high or there is recent memory of an outbreak, but once that goes away, vaccine acceptance may subside, she continues.
Amid the dropping vaccination rates, Koletar is concerned that there could be an uptick in other vaccine preventable diseases, like tetanus, rubella and chickenpox. Rubella can be harder to diagnose than measles and may go undetected at times, according to Koletar.
People in their late teens and adults who have neither had chickenpox nor been vaccinated against it can get really sick if they get chickenpox, she adds. “As a physician, those are frightening times, particularly if you have a young pregnant woman who gets chickenpox.”
For now, the situation looks positive in Ohio. The most recent measles case was detected on Dec. 24, which means if there are no new cases through Feb. 4 the outbreak may be declared officially over.
Looking ahead, there’s a need for more research into what interventions would help get more people in vaccine resistant communities to accept vaccines, according to Kharbanda.
Interventions like alerts and letters are “effective at promoting vaccination to families who intend to vaccinate their children and just got busy and forgot,” Kharbanda tells The Hill.
But “those types of simple interventions really don’t work with families and communities that are fearful and vaccine resistant,” she says. It takes time and good relationships with communities to understand what beliefs are perpetuating vaccine hesitancy and to gain trust, she adds. | 2023-01-16T15:29:48+00:00 | fox44news.com | https://www.fox44news.com/news/national-world-news/what-we-know-about-the-ohio-measles-outbreak/ |
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Latest on the Home Run Derby (all times local):
___ 7:45 p.m.
Washington's Juan Soto defeated Seattle's Julio Rodriguez 19-18 in the final to capture the Home Run Derby title at Dodger Stadium.
Soto, who was competing in the Derby for the second time, had nine homers in the final minute of regulation in the two-minute final. He added four more in bonus time, his clinching blast coming with 19 seconds remaining. He threw his bat way in the air after the deciding shot cleared the fence.
Soto, the fourth seed, is the second Nationals player to win the Derby. Bryce Harper won it in 2018 in Washington.
Soto earns a $1 million prize and another highlight on his resume as his time with Washington possibly nears an end. The Athletic reported over the weekend that Soto turned down a $440 million, 15-year contract to stay with the Nationals, and he could be traded by the end of the month.
___
7:30 p.m.
Washington’s Juan Soto advanced to the final with a 16-15 victory over St. Louis slugger and sentimental favorite Albert Pujols.
Soto, the fourth seed, hit a 405-foot shot with 31 seconds remaining in bonus time. He will face sixth seeded Julio Rodríguez of Seattle in the final.
The 42-year-old Pujols averaged 395 feet on his homers while 23-year-old Soto averaged 424 feet.
Soto is trying to become the second Nationals player to win the Derby. Bryce Harper won it in 2018 in Washington.
——
7:05 p.m.
Mariners rookie Julio Rodríguez spoiled Pete Alonso's bid to become the first player to win three straight Home Run Derbies by beating the Mets slugger 31-23 in the semifinals.
The 21-year-old Rodríguez hit 18 in the final minute of regulation and the 60 seconds of bonus time. His top blast was 450 feet and he averaged 410 feet.
Alonso had 18 during the three minutes of regulation time. Alonso had nine over 440 feet, including one that went 463, and averaged 427 feet.
Rodriguez will face either St. Louis’ Albert Pujols or Washington’s Juan Soto in the final.
___
6:45 p.m.
Eighth-seed Albert Pujols pulled off the biggest surprise of the first round, defeating No. 1 seed Kyle Schwarber in overtime.
Pujols had a total of 20 homers, including seven in the extra round. None of his drives went over 440 feet, but he did enough to advance with an average of 406 feet per homer.
Pujols, who played for the Dodgers part of last season, was the sentimental favorite among the players and fans. After the three-minute regulation session, Pujols was swarmed by cheering All-Stars along the third-base line.
“It is pretty awesome to see the young generation and all that talent. This is for you guys,” Pujols said after he was done. “It is pretty awesome to come back here one last time.”
Pujols, sure that Schwarber would top his regulation total of 13, told ESPN that he had already given away his batting gloves before having to retrieve them for OT.
It is the fifth straight time the top seed has been knocked off in the opening round.
Schwarber trailed by three going into the one-minute bonus time. He tied it with a 385-foot homer with 15 seconds remaining but couldn’t get another one over the fence to force a swing-off.
Schwarber had six in OT. The Phillies’ slugger had five go over 440 feet and averaged 419 feet.
___
6:20 p.m.
Washington’s Juan Soto did not need bonus time in his matchup against Cleveland’s Jose Ramirez. Soto’s final home run as time expired gave the fourth seed an 18-17 victory.
Soto, the Derby's No. 4 seed, established a quick pace with seven in the first minute. His 482-foot shot as time expired was the longest of the first three matchups. Soto established the Derby record with a 520-foot blast last year at Colorado.
Ramirez struggled to gain any consistency throughout his three minutes. He averaged 387 feet with a top blast of 421 feet.
____
6 p.m.
Two-time defending Home Run Derby champion Pete Alonso needed bonus time, but the New York Mets' slugger was able to keep alive his hopes of being the first player to three-peat with a 20-19 victory over Atlanta's Ronald Acuña Jr.
Alonso — the Derby's second seed — trailed by two going into bonus time, but he hit a 423-foot shot to center field with 31 seconds remaining to advance. He had seven go over 440 feet and averaged 429 feet per homer. He also had a 480-foot blast that bounced off the roof of the stands in left-center. Alonso had only five the first minute before warming up.
Acuña also only had five after the first minute. He averaged 408 feet per homer and only one that went over 440 feet — a 472-yard blast that also bounced off the roof in left field.
This is the second time Acuña has been eliminated by Alonso. The first was in the 2019 semifinals.
___ 5:40 p.m.
Seattle's Julio Rodríguez advanced to the second round of the All-Star Home Run Derby with a 32-23 win over Texas' Corey Seager.
The Mariners' rookie, who has not played at Dodger Stadium, was an underdog against Seager, who was with the Dodgers for seven seasons. He didn't seem fazed. With Seattle great and three-time Derby champion Ken Griffey Jr. snapping photos on the field, Rodriguez had 10 drives over 440 feet and hit 19 during the final two minutes of regulation.
Rodriguez's 32 homers averaged 420 feet, with his longest going for 463.
Seager had seven in the first minute but only six in the second to fall off the pace. His homers averaged 418 feet with the longest going for 451. He had three over 440 feet.
Seager has not advanced out of the opening round in either Derby appearance. He lost to Mark Trumbo while a rookie in 2016.
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5:10 p.m.
Ronald Acuña Jr. and the rest of the All-Star Home Run Derby field got a fiery welcome to the competition Monday.
All-Star organizers arrayed a series of fire-blasting devices around the stage where the eight participants stood during introductions, and they set off the flames after the introduction of each matchup. The flames were big and bright, and their heat could be felt even in the press box on the third level of Dodger Stadium, more than 200 feet away.
The players were perhaps a few dozen feet away, and they were clearly taken aback by the intense heat. Acuña and Seattle’s Julio Rodríguez reacted with fright when a huge burst went off behind them during another pair’s introduction.
When all eight competitors reached the stage, the organizers set off another huge burst of flames that sent Acuña taking two steps toward the edge of the stage away from the flames.
___
More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Credit: Mark J. Terrill
Credit: Mark J. Terrill
Credit: Jae C. Hong
Credit: Jae C. Hong
Credit: Mark J. Terrill
Credit: Mark J. Terrill
Credit: Jae C. Hong
Credit: Jae C. Hong
Credit: Mark J. Terrill
Credit: Mark J. Terrill
Credit: Mark J. Terrill
Credit: Mark J. Terrill
Credit: Mark J. Terrill
Credit: Mark J. Terrill | 2022-07-19T02:53:09+00:00 | springfieldnewssun.com | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/nation-world/hr-derby-julio-rodriguez-ends-alonsos-hopes-for-3-peat/BHFZC55EYFC67FJZDHVNOW47Z4/ |
Milk banks all across the country are hard at work getting donated breast milk out into the community.
“We process, test, and pasteurize that milk,” said Rebecca Heinrich, director of Mother’s Milk Bank at the Rocky Mountain Children’s Health Foundation. She said, “Ultimately the problem here is the formula recall has caused this spiraling cascade effect of shortages across the nation.”
Traditionally, a source of milk for hospitals and medically fragile babies, Heinrich says the bank is getting more interest from the border community.
“Donor human milk banks have never been intended as a substitute for formula. Really, the formula is a substitute for human milk. So this is a new situation for us,” she said.
The increase in demand has reportedly made things tight at milk banks across the nation. A Mother’s Milk Bank in Colorado is considered to be one of the largest in the nation.
“We try to run with a lean team, but also be extremely careful and safe with our processing,” Heinrich said.
“Increased staffing where possible,” Lindsay Groff, executive director of the Human Milk Banking Association of North America, said. “This demand has caused everyone to step up to the plate.”
The association accredits 30 non-profit milk banks in North America.
“Some milk banks, for instance, if they were processing milk three to four days a week, now they’re doing all five. Or they're adding extra shifts, they’re adding more staff, more volunteers, more people to answer the phones, more people to field emails,” she explained.
Each milk bank takes donations from approved candidates. The milk is processed, tested, pasteurized, and then packaged up for the community. But there are some challenges that could prevent this from being a solution for everyone during this formula shortage.
“There’s only so many lactating people in the world at any given point,” Heinrich said.
The small potential donor pool, along with a shelf life of just a year and the cost of around $4.50 an ounce, can create barriers.
“We do our best to make sure that we keep costs low. But, it is a significant cost that parents may not be expecting,” she said.
The milk bank she works at offers financial aid.
As families continue to look for food for their babies, Children’s Hospital experts recommend using safer options like milk banks, and not online exchanges for breast milk. That’s because milk from a bank goes through a rigorous safety process. Another option is to ask friends or family if they meet certain health qualifications. The experts at Children’s said to be sure that the donor doesn’t take medication or have any viruses that can be transmitted through breast milk.
“Ensuring donor milk is safe always takes time,” Groff said.
Heinrich said the banks will continue to do what they can for the community until this shortage ends.
“The more milk that we can pasteurize the more milk we’ll have available for the community,” she said. “We’re just taking it one day at a time right now.”
For more information on milk banks closest to you, or to learn how to donate, visit the Human Milk Banking Association of North America’s website. | 2022-05-27T08:24:25+00:00 | abc15.com | https://www.abc15.com/news/national/parents-look-to-milk-banks-as-alternative-to-formula-during-country-wide-shortage |
DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — The Islamic State group has issued a statement claiming responsibility for killing more than 35 people and wounding dozens in eastern Congo.
In the statement, posted Friday by Aamaq, the militants’ news agency, it said it killed “Christians” with guns and knives and destroyed their property in Mukondi village in North Kivu province. It also published a photo of the houses on fire.
The announcement comes after local authorities confirmed that at least 45 people were killed last week in several attacks on different villages by rebels from the Allied Democratic Forces, a militia with links to IS.
Conflict has been simmering in eastern Congo for decades as more than 120 armed groups fight for power, influence and resources, and some to protect their communities. The ADF has been largely active in North Kivu province but has recently extended its operations into neighboring Ituri province and to areas near the regional capital, Goma.
Efforts to stem the violence against ADF have yielded little. A nearly year-long joint operation by Uganda and Congo’s armies did not achieve the expected results of defeating or substantially weakening the group, said a report in December by a panel of U.N. experts. The ADF rebels are accused by the U.N. and rights groups of maiming, raping and abducting civilians, including children. Earlier this month the United States offered a reward of up to $5 million for information that could lead to the capture of the group’s leader, Seka Musa Baluku.
On Thursday, AP reporters saw bodies lowered into a mass grave in Mukondi. Community members shoveled dirt over the bodies against a backdrop of destroyed houses and said the government wasn’t doing enough to protect them.
“As you see in Mukondi, it is always the same. ADF, which is always ill-intentioned against the Congolese,” said Col. Charles Ehuta Omeonga, military administrator for Beni region. “We lost many of our brothers,” he said.
The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo has condemned the killings and is urging Congo’s authorities to investigate and bring those responsible to justice.
___
Associated Press reporter Maamoun Youssef contributed from Cairo. | 2023-03-11T13:16:51+00:00 | wearegreenbay.com | https://www.wearegreenbay.com/international/ap-international/is-group-says-it-killed-more-than-35-christians-in-congo/ |
Updated December 23, 2022 at 7:12 PM ET
Rapper Tory Lanez was convicted in his assault trial, two years after he shot rapper Megan Thee Stallion in the feet.
A Los Angeles jury on Friday found Lanez guilty on all three felony charges: assault with a semi-automatic firearm, possession of a concealed, unregistered firearm, negligent discharge of a firearm. He pleaded not guilty.
The Canadian rapper is facing up to 22 years in prison for the charges.
From conflicting testimonies to rescheduled hearings to the involvement of fan bases and even fellow musicians, the hip-hop scene has been divided over the case.
Here are key events that have led up to this moment.
April 23, 2020
Footage of Lanez and Stallion hanging out together — during the height of the pandemic when health officials asked people to social distance — is shared across social media.
July 12, 2020
Lanez is pulled over and arrested for carrying a concealed firearm in his vehicle. Stallion, who is present during the arrest, is taken to the hospital because of a foot injury.
In what TMZ reported was footage of the arrest, a person can be heard in the video saying, "Megan, are you OK?"
July 15, 2020
In a since-deleted Instagram post, Stallion says she suffered gunshot wounds the night of Lanez's arrest.
"On Sunday morning, I suffered gunshot wounds, as a result of a crime that was committed against me and done with the intention to physically harm me," Stallion wrote. "I was never arrested, the police officers drove me to the hospital where I underwent surgery to remove the bullets."
July 17, 2020
Stallion discusses the backlash she's received since revealing what happened.
"It might be funny to y'all on the internet and just another messy topic for you to talk about but this is my real life and I'm real life hurt and traumatized," Stallion wrote on Twitter.
Black women are so unprotected & we hold so many things in to protect the feelings of others w/o considering our own. It might be funny to y’all on the internet and just another messy topic for you to talk about but this is my real life and I’m real life hurt and traumatized.
— TINA SNOW (@theestallion) July 17, 2020
Aug. 20, 2020
Stallion publicly identified Lanez as the person who shot her.
"You shot me, and you got your publicist and your people going to these blogs, lying and s***," Stallion said on Instagram Live. "Stop lying. Why lie? I don't understand. I tried to keep the situation off the internet, but you're dragging it."
Sept. 25, 2020
Lanez — whose legal name is Daystar Peterson — releases DAYSTAR, an album packed with lyrics that assert his innocence and cast doubt on whether Stallion was shot.
"How the f*** you get shot in your foot, don't hit no bones or tendons?" Lanez raps on "Money Over Fallouts."
Oct. 4, 2020
Stallion's performance on Saturday Night Live includes references to the shooting. Rapping in front of a backdrop with the words "Protect Black Women," Stallion comments on racism, sexism and gun violence.
Oct. 8, 2020
The Los Angeles County district attorney's office charges Lanez with felony assault with a semiautomatic firearm.
"On July 12, the defendant and the 24-year-old victim got into an argument while riding in an SUV in the Hollywood Hills," prosecutors said in a news release. "The victim exited the vehicle and Peterson is accused of shooting several times at her feet and wounding her." (Stallion was actually 25 at the time.)
Lanez is also charged with carrying a loaded and unregistered firearm in a vehicle as well as "a gun allegation and that he personally inflicted great bodily injury," according to the release.
Oct. 13, 2020
A judge issues a protective order against Lanez, forbidding him from getting within 100 yards of Stallion.
"You have been served orally and the court is ordering your attorney to provide you with that protective order," Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Miguel Espinoza told Lanez, according to the New York Daily News.
In an op-ed for The New York Times published the same day, Stallion discusses the alleged assault by Lanez.
"I was recently the victim of an act of violence by a man," she writes. "After a party, I was shot twice as I walked away from him. We were not in a relationship. Truthfully, I was shocked that I ended up in that place."
Nov. 20, 2020
Stallion releases Good News, an album containing a track that references the case.
"Imagine n***** lyin' 'bout shootin' a real b****," Stallion raps on "Shots Fired." "Just to save face for rapper n***** you chill with."
July 25, 2021
Lanez violates the protective order after attending — and performing — at that year's Rolling Loud festival. Lanez performed alongside rapper DaBaby just moments after Stallion left the same stage.
As a result, a judge increased his bail from $190,000 to $250,000 the following month.
Dec. 14, 2021
During testimony at a preliminary hearing, Los Angeles Police Department detective Ryan Stogner revealed more details of the alleged assault.
Lanez allegedly yelled "dance, b****!" as he fired at Stallion, who he described as being "half in, half out" of the car.
"Megan immediately felt pain to her feet, observed blood, fell to the ground, and then crawled to an adjacent driveway of a residence. ... She described her injuries as bleeding profusely," Stogner said, according to Rolling Stone.
Feb. 23, 2022
A social media post falsely claims that a pre-trial hearing revealed that Lanez's DNA was nowhere to be found on the gun. The misinformation gains traction.
March 11, 2022
Lanez releases "Cap," which contains lyrics aimed at Pardison Fontaine, Stallion's boyfriend. The diss track's release follows a back-and-forth the two had on Twitter weeks earlier.
April 16, 2022
Stallion performs a song at Coachella with references to Lanez. Ahead of her performance, Stallion teased the new song — later released under the name "Plan B" — online.
I got this song that I recorded and every time I play it for a woman they start jumping and clapping 😂 I think I wanna perform it at Coachella for the first time before I actually drop it
— TINA SNOW (@theestallion) April 7, 2022
April 24, 2022
Stallion appears on CBS Mornings in her first televised interview directly addressing the shooting.
"He is standing up over the window shooting. And I didn't even want to move. I didn't want to move too quick," she said. "I don't know if he's going to shoot something that's, like, super important. I don't know if he could shoot me and kill me."
Aug. 12, 2022
Stallion drops the album Traumazine, which includes another song that references the shooting.
"I feel like Biggie, who shot you?" Stallion raps on "Who Me." "But everybody know who shot me, b****."
Sept. 18, 2022
Singer August Alsina claims that Lanez assaulted him. Alsina shared a photo of himself in an elevator, with blood on his face, detailing his exchange with Lanez.
"There was never a 'fight'!" Alsina writes in the lengthy post. "Simply an Assault. Dude has no real friends, and is on a crash out mission."
Sept. 23, 2022
Rapper DaBaby releases Baby on Baby 2, an album that features the song "Boogeyman," with lyrics referencing the incident.
"You play with me, that s*** was childish," DaBaby raps. "The day before she said that Tory Lanez shot her, I was f***** on Megan Thee Stallion."
Oct. 4, 2022
In an interview with the Off the Record podcast, Lanez acknowledges the trial and the decades of prison time he could face.
"Guys, I am actively facing 24 years next month," he said.
Oct. 26, 2022
Lanez is placed under house arrest until the trial begins. He's also ordered to wear an ankle monitor at all times. The decision is made citing another violation of Lanez's bail in which he allegedly attacked singer August Alsina.
Nov. 4, 2022
Rappers 21 Savage and Drake release a new album, Her Loss. It includes "Circo Loco," where Drake references the shooting and casts doubt on Stallion.
"This b**** lie 'bout getting shots, but she still a stallion," Drake raps. "She don't even get the joke but she still smiling."
Dec. 5, 2022
Jury selection for the trial begins in Los Angeles. Prosecutors also added a third felony charge, discharging a firearm with gross negligence, although it ultimately will not affect the length of imprisonment if Lanez is convicted.
Dec. 12, 2022
The trial officially begins with opening statements from both Los Angeles County prosecutors Kathy Ta and Alexander Bott, as well as defense attorney George Mgdesyan. The prosecution sets out to prove the shooting was motivated by Lanez being spurned by comments about his rap career. On the other hand, the defense argues that the case was one based on jealousy, saying his client was definitely not the shooter and asserted that "Nobody heard anyone say, 'Dance, b****!"
Three officers, one who responded to the crime scene and two who made the arrests, testified along with a detective. Through evidence and the officials' respective testimonies, it is established that there was gunshot residue found on both Peterson and Kelsey Harris.
Dec. 13, 2022
Stallion takes the stand as a witness for the prosecution and testified in detail about the night of the shooting. She recounts on record that Lanez tried to instigate a fight between herself and Kelsey Harris, her former assistant. Stallion also testifies she saw Lanez shoot at her.
Stallion also said she suffered from suicidal thoughts in the aftermath.
"I don't feel like I want to be on this earth," she testifies. "I wish he would have just shot and killed me, if I knew I would have to go through this torture."
Stallion also said that she and Lanez had an intimate but not exclusive relationship before the night of the shooting.
Dec. 15, 2022
While taking the stand, Harris testified that she did not see Lanez shoot Stallion and did not hear him say "dance, b****!"
The testimony is a major blowback for the prosecution because Harris previously told authorities that Lanez had also threatened her. In recanting her story, Harris further casted doubt that Lanez attacked Stallion.
The prosecution, which granted Harris immunity for her testimony, worked to convince jurors that the original testimony is the correct one. They asked her about whether Lanez had made bribes, sharing text messages between Harris and Stallion, and having Harris confirm that she herself did not shoot Stallion.
Dr. Lee Hurano, the surgeon who operated on Stallion in the same month as the attack, also provided testimony that Stallion was indeed shot. He showed X-rays that confirmed there are still "foreign metallic bodies" in her feet.
Dec. 16, 2022
After the continued hesitancy of Kelsey Harris' during her in-court testimony, and Defense attorney Mgdsesyan's insinuation that Harris was being coerced by the District Attorney's Office, the DDAs moved to have Harris' entire September 2022 interview admitted into evidence. In her 80-minute interview that was played in court for the jury and the public, Harris sounded more relaxed and sure of her recollection of the night, saying that Tory Lanez did attack both her and Megan.
Later in the day, two DNA experts (one from defense and one from prosecution) testified that Lanez's DNA was not found on the magazine of the gun found on the scene, but came back inconclusive for being found on the firearm itself.
Dec. 19, 2022
Kelsey's full lyrics to the song "Bussin Back" were admitted into evidence by the prosecution after Defense attorney Mgdsesyan attempted to recite a portion of the lyrics to Harris while she was testifying. The purpose of submitting the full lyrics was to show that the content was the song states that Harris was not the shooter.
In the afternoon session, EJ King (real name Eric Culberson) was called as a witness for the defense. As Megan's ex-stylist, EJ testified to what happened at the pool party; How intoxicated Megan, Kelsey and Tory were and how although he was intended to give them a ride home, Megan and Kelsey instead left once with Tory's driver then came back for Tory. EJ also testified that when Megan doesn't have security around, he knows she keeps tasers and mace to protect herself. When asked if he's ever seen Megan or Kelsey carry guns he answered, "Not that I recall."
Dec. 20, 2022
The defense called Sean Kelly, the 911 caller who witnessed a portion of the assault from his bedroom window. During his testimony, Kelly waffled back and forth about the sequences of events he witnessed, saying "I never saw a gun" and that both Tory and Kelsey were near the "muzzle flash."
Dec. 23, 2022
After the jury deliberated for two days, Tory Lanez is convicted on all three felony charges; assault with a semi-automatic firearm, possession of a concealed, unregistered firearm, negligent discharge of a firearm. He was taken into custody as soon as the verdict was read in court.
Sidney Madden, Gabby Bulgarelli and Sam Leeds all contributed to this reporting.
If you or someone you know may be considering suicide or is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For suicide prevention resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, click here.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2022-12-24T20:13:00+00:00 | wyomingpublicmedia.org | https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2022-12-05/the-timeline-of-events-in-the-tory-lanez-assault-case |
One Click Contracts for Creators among top applicants selected for Newchip's exclusive accelerator
OAKLAND, Calif., April 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Creators Legal, a fully integrated contract management system built for the creative industry, was accepted into Newchip's renowned global accelerator program. Designed to provide all the skills and tools seed-stage founders need to rapidly fund, build and scale their companies, past accelerator cohorts averaged more than 17.5 times the average funding amount. The equity-free, fully digital accelerator has helped over 2,500 founders from more than 110 countries and 250 cities raise over $2.2 billion in funding with an estimated portfolio of over $9 billion.
"Newchip evaluates a vast and diverse number of seed-stage companies from around the globe, selecting only a small percentage to be part of our Seed Accelerator program," says Andrew Ryan, CEO at Newchip. "This careful vetting process of both the business model and founder makes us an ideal partner for venture capital investors and other key stakeholders in early-stage startup financings who are looking for promising startups that are beginning to generate traction and revenue. Legal Tech companies like Creators Legal can scale quickly with proper funding and guidance. We are excited for Creators Legal and believe they will be well positioned to take advantage of our fast-expanding global ecosystem at Newchip."
Launched in September of 2021, Creators Legal is on a mission to serve the creative community with easy and affordable legal solutions without lawyers. Creators Legal is on a mission to simplify the legal process for content creators. Since launching the company has built a community of more than 3000 registered users, more than 1500 paid users and over 600 subscribers. They recently announced a partnership with Creator Camp and it's founders where they have joined the board of advisors of Creators Legal.
"Being part of the Newchip Accelerator, we are looking forward to continuing to learn and grow Creators Legal into the leading legal tech platform for creators", says Eric Farber, Founder and CEO of Creators Legal. "This accelerator has been instrumental in shaping hundreds of companies and this program can help shape Creators Legal into the future".
About Creators Legal
Creators Legal is the leading legal tech platform for content creators. Founded by Eric Farber & Phil Alberstat, two former entertainment lawyers and executives, it is designed specifically to provide legal solutions and tools for content creators. Creators Legal is an end-to-end contract management system for the creative industry. Launched in late 2021, it now has more than 1500 users with over 600 subscribers who have built more than 5000 contracts. The cost of legal services in the United States is out of reach for most creators with the average contract costing more than $6900 from start to finish. Creators Legal has saved its users tens of millions in legal fees. To learn more, visit https://CreatorsLegal.com
About Newchip
Newchip is an online, global startup accelerator led by a world-class team of entrepreneurs and investors. It was designed to provide founders with the tools needed to rapidly fund, build, and scale. Since its inception in 2019, the equity-free, remote accelerator has enabled over 2,500 startups from 50+ countries to raise over $2.2 billion in funding with an estimated $9B portfolio. It has three distinct six-month accelerator programs based on company stage: Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A. Its vast network of global investors, strategic partners, and mentors guide companies from team building and prototype development to securing high-profile VC investment, corporate partnerships, and everything in-between. To learn more, visit https://launch.newchip.com/.
Eric Farber
Creators Legal
415-902-4960
Eric@creatorslegal.com
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SOURCE Creators Legal | 2023-04-07T04:27:40+00:00 | kfyrtv.com | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2023/04/06/creators-legal-chosen-newchips-seed-stage-global-accelerator-program/ |
The Kitchen Shop has been offering Lansing residents kitchen and bath remodel and design services for over 50 years.
LANSING, Mich., Sept. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kitchen Shop, one of West Michigan's premier kitchen and bath retailers announces a pivot from the traditional store-front strategy to a more personalized, in-home selling approach. In an effort to best serve customers with their home remodeling projects, The Kitchen Shop of Lansing will provide in-home services to match consumer buying behavior while moving away from in-store sales. With this change in business operations, The Kitchen Shop of Lansing, located at 5320 S. Pennsylvania Ave. plans to close its doors on Friday, September 16th.
"After over 50 years of store operations in the Lansing market, we do not take this decision lightly. Years of deliberation and thorough research has brought us to this decision, and we are excited to announce our new strategy aimed at better servicing Lansing homeowners. Our Lansing location is an impressive studio, however, the large footprint is no longer necessary in today's remodeling landscape. By closing the doors to our Lansing location, we will be able to continue offering the same services to Lansing residents while expanding into other markets. Our parent company, WS Townsend has been offering design consultations in-home for over two years with great success, so we know this is the right direction to take," Said JW Townsend, CEO of The Kitchen Shop & WS Townsend Companies.
The Kitchen Shop's goal with this new direction is to make kitchen remodeling and bathroom renovation projects easy. Once an inquiry is received, The Kitchen Shop's client services team will call to schedule an in-home appointment. During the 90–120-minute consultation, the following can be expected:
- A discussion on what the needs and goals are for the remodeling project(s)
- An overview of The Kitchen Shop, the process, and the product(s)
- Review of physical samples to help visualize the final design
- An initial measure is taken to prepare an estimate
For more information on The Kitchen Shop's in-home design consultations, visit https://thekitchenshops.com.
The Kitchen Shop has been in business for over 50 years with locations in Lansing, Battle Creek, and Kalamazoo.
The Kitchen Shops are kitchen and bath design centers servicing homeowners, as well as home builders. For more information, visit https://thekitchenshops.com.
WS Townsend Companies, doing business as Michigan Kitchen Distributors ("MKD") has been in business for 72 years and is a second-generation family-owned and operated provider of kitchen bath remodeling solutions.
MKD is a full-service countertop provider, offering quartz, granite, solid surface, laminate countertops and more to Michigan, Northern Indiana, and Northern Ohio residents, as well as builders and dealers. In addition, MKD offers a variety of remodeling solutions for kitchens and bathrooms, including outdoor kitchens and cabinet refacing.
For more information, visit https://mkdkitchens.com.
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SOURCE The Kitchen Shop | 2022-09-02T12:58:06+00:00 | wbrc.com | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/09/02/kitchen-shop-pivots-lansing-store-front-strategy/ |
DENVER (KDVR) — Colorado joins a coalition of 22 other states in opposing a class-action settlement over contaminated drinking water.
3M faces more than 4,000 lawsuits from prosecutors across the country, for putting so-called “forever chemicals” in firefighting foams, which eventually contaminated water supplies.
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser joined “Colorado Point of View” this week and discussed the settlement.
3M PFAS settlement opposed by Colorado
It comes after public drinking water systems were contaminated with PFAS. The chemicals do not break down and have been linked to a variety of health problems, including liver and immune-system damage and some cancers.
3M agreed to pay at least $10.3 billion to settle the lawsuits. That money would go to water treatment, detection and additional testing.
But Attorney General Phil Weiser said the deal is bad, because it’s not clear how much money Colorado would get. He also said it shifts liability from 3M to local water suppliers.
Weiser said he needs more definition on the deal.
“We need to know what we’re getting. That’s a starting place. And then we need to make sure what we’re doing is truly comprehensive and is fair to everyone. So there are still going to be opportunities to work this through. We need to do it the right way,” Weiser said.
You can watch the full interview with Attorney General Phil Weiser on Colorado Point of View this Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and again Sunday at 7:30 a.m. on Channel 2. | 2023-07-28T01:13:15+00:00 | kdvr.com | https://kdvr.com/copov/colorado-pfas-3m-forever-chemicals-settlement/ |
Google has agreed to pay nearly $392 million in a settlement with 40 states over allegations that the company tracked people through their devices after location tracking had been turned off, a coalition of state prosecutors announced on Monday.
Authorities said, since at least 2014, Google broke consumer protection laws by misleading users about when it secretly recorded their movements. It then offered the surreptitiously harvested data to digital marketers to sell advertisements, the source of nearly all of Google's revenue.
"For years Google has prioritized profit over their users' privacy," said Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum, who led the probe along with Nebraska. "They have been crafty and deceptive."
Attorneys general say the payout is the largest-ever multistate privacy settlement.
Location data, often obtained by law enforcement in criminal investigations to identify suspects, is an important part of Google's advertising business. State investigators called it "the most sensitive and valuable personal information Google collects," noting that it helps target people with ads based on their vicinity.
As part of the deal, Google committed to a number of changes that will make the company's location-tracking practices more clear, including showing users more information when they turn location tracking on or off and providing a detailed rundown of the location data Google routinely collects on a webpage consumers can access.
A spokesman for Google said in a statement to NPR that the practices outlined by prosecutors are old and have since been revamped.
"Consistent with improvements we've made in recent years, we have settled this investigation which was based on outdated product policies that we changed years ago," said Google Spokesperson José Castañeda.
In a blog post following the settlement, Google said it now allows people to use Google Maps in so-called Incognito mode, preventing location data from being saved on someone's account.
The states' settlement over online privacy comes while lawmakers in Washington dither on passing a comprehensive data privacy legislation in the U.S.
Despite support from both parties for passing a national privacy law, Congress has failed to act, lagging behind data protection laws in Europe.
That has left individual states to pass their own online privacy protections. Five states, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Utah and Virginia, have enacted comprehensive consumer data privacy laws, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
State prosecutors used Monday's settlement to call on lawmakers in Washington to pass nationwide data protections.
"Until we have comprehensive privacy laws, companies will continue to compile large amounts of our personal data for marketing purposes with few controls," Oregon AG Rosenblum noted in a statement.
The state prosecutors said they launched the investigation after reporting by the Associated Press in 2018 revealed that many Google services on Android devices and iPhones kept saving users' location data even after location tracking had been turned off in privacy settings.
Last month, Google settled a lawsuit with authorities in Arizona for $85 million stemming from similar allegations that the tech giant deceptively deployed location tracking on phones in order to provide advertisers with data on consumers.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2022-11-14T21:00:23+00:00 | iowapublicradio.org | https://www.iowapublicradio.org/news-from-npr/news-from-npr/2022-11-14/google-pays-nearly-392-million-to-settle-sweeping-location-tracking-case |
WFO NEW YORK CITY Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Tuesday, September 13, 2022
_____
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING
Severe Weather Statement
National Weather Service New York NY
609 PM EDT Tue Sep 13 2022
...THE SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FOR CENTRAL FAIRFIELD AND
NORTHWESTERN NEW HAVEN COUNTIES IS CANCELLED...
The storm which prompted the warning has weakened below severe
limits, and no longer poses an immediate threat to life or property.
Therefore, the warning has been cancelled.
To report severe weather, contact your nearest law enforcement
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Upton NY.
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Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | 2022-09-13T22:39:47+00:00 | lmtonline.com | https://www.lmtonline.com/weather/article/CT-WFO-NEW-YORK-CITY-Warnings-Watches-and-17439650.php |
MEXICO CITY — Infamous drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero, who was behind the killing of a U.S. DEA agent in 1985, has been captured by Mexican forces nearly a decade after walking out of a Mexican prison and returning to drug trafficking, an official with Mexico's navy confirmed Friday.
The source was not authorized to speak publicly and agreed to confirm the action only if not quoted by name. No further details about the capture were immediately available.
Caro Quintero walked free in 2013 after 28 years in prison when a court overturned his 40-year sentence for the 1985 kidnapping and killing of U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena. The brutal murder marked a low point in U.S.-Mexico relations.
Caro Quintero, the former leader of the Guadalajara cartel, had since returned to drug trafficking and unleashed bloody turf battles in the northern Mexico border state of Sonora.
President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has maintained that he is not interested in detaining drug lords and prefers to avoid violence.
An appeals court overturned Caro Quintero's verdict, but the Supreme Court upheld the sentence. It was too late by then; Caro Quintero was spirited off in a waiting vehicle.
He was on the FBI's most wanted list, with a $20 million reward for his capture through the State Department's Narcotics Rewards Program. He was added to the FBI's top 10 most wanted list in 2018.
Caro Quintero was one of the primary suppliers of heroin, cocaine, and marijuana to the United States in the late 1970s. He blamed Camarena for a raid on a marijuana plantation in 1984. In 1985, Camarena was kidnapped in Guadalajara, allegedly on orders from Caro Quintero. His tortured body was found a month later.
The DEA did not immediately comment.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2022-07-15T22:20:10+00:00 | klcc.org | https://www.klcc.org/npr-news/2022-07-15/mexico-captures-an-infamous-drug-lord-who-killed-a-dea-agent |
PLEASANTON, Calif., Oct. 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc. (the "Company") (NYSE: SSD), an industry leader in engineered structural connectors and building solutions, announced today that it will report its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2022 on Monday, October 24, 2022 at 4:15 p.m. Eastern Time. Karen Colonias, Simpson's Chief Executive Officer, and Brian Magstadt, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, will host a conference call that same day at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The call will be broadcast live over the Internet hosted on the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at ir.simpsonmfg.com.
Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc.'s Third Quarter 2022 Conference Call Details
For those unable to participate during the live broadcast, a replay of the call will also be available beginning that same day at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday, November 7, 2022, by dialing (844) 512-2921 (U.S. and Canada) or (412) 317-6671 (International) and entering the conference ID: 13733303. The webcast will remain posted on the Investor Relations section of Simpson's website at ir.simpsonmfg.com for 90 days.
Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc., headquartered in Pleasanton, California, through its subsidiaries, including Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc., designs, engineers and is a leading manufacturer of wood construction products, including connectors, truss plates, fastening systems, fasteners and shear walls, and concrete construction products, including adhesives, specialty chemicals, mechanical anchors, powder actuated tools and reinforcing fiber materials. The Company primarily supplies its building product solutions to both the residential and commercial markets in North America and Europe. The Company's common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "SSD."
CONTACT:
Addo Investor Relations
investor.relations@strongtie.com
(310) 829-5400
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc. | 2022-10-10T14:07:02+00:00 | live5news.com | https://www.live5news.com/prnewswire/2022/10/10/simpson-manufacturing-co-inc-announce-third-quarter-2022-financial-results-monday-october-24th/ |
'Waste of federal money': Arizona is losing thousands of affordable rentals. Here's how
Jason Edwards planned to call Marana Apartments home for many more years.
In 2018, the single father moved into a modest three-bedroom unit there with his two children, Zoey and Dwight, and their dog, Buddy.
The two-story complex of roughly 80 units, which sits off Interstate 10 in the town of Marana about 20 miles northwest of Tucson, is right down the street from his children's schools, a public pool and a dog park.
Rents were affordable, too. The complex was subsidized low-income housing, and Edwards, who describes himself as partially disabled, was told it would stay that way for years to come.
But a provision in federal law has upended Edwards' plans. His family will likely be pushed out of the complex next year, when a new corporate owner is allowed to raise his rent.
"It's appalling that they're doing this to people," Edwards said.
Like all housing built under the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program, Marana Apartments was meant to remain affordable for at least 30 years. While most LIHTC complexes meet that requirement, federal law allows some properties subsidized by the tax credit program to be converted to market-rate housing in half that time.
In Arizona, this has meant the premature loss of thousands of affordable housing units.
As the country grapples with an affordable housing crisis, the "qualified contract" provision, which allows properties to exit the LIHTC program early, is quietly draining Arizona and other states of what was supposed to be long-term, government-subsidized affordable housing. Many affordable housing advocates say the provision is being used in unintended ways and has become a loophole for LIHTC property owners to exploit.
The Arizona Republic spent five months investigating the qualified contract provision by analyzing government data and apartment records and interviewing more than 50 people, including affordable housing experts, property owners and residents living in affected properties in the Phoenix, Tucson and Yuma areas. The reporting found:
- Since 2010, 70 Arizona properties have gone through the qualified contract process, costing the state more than 5,700 LIHTC housing units, according to Arizona Department of Housing records.
- The Arizona Department of Housing implemented a policy in 2010 that makes it nearly impossible to use the qualified contract provision for properties that received the tax credits that year or later. But it doesn't apply to properties that sought low-income housing tax credits before 2010, meaning the state could potentially lose up to 10,000 more LIHTC units in the next several years.
- Many of the property owners using the qualified contract process are investors that profit from raising rents at the expense of low-income tenants. Apartment owners are not required by law to tell tenants when a property is going through the process and will likely be converted to market rate, leaving some residents unaware that they could soon be pushed out.
- Some property owners that use the qualified contract process are affordable housing nonprofits that say they would have liked to keep the properties affordable but simply couldn't afford the upkeep of the aging buildings.
- Nationwide, more than 100,000 affordable units have likely been lost via the qualified contract process since 1990, according to National Low Income Housing Coalition estimates. Multiple attempts by federal lawmakers in recent years to repeal the qualified contract provision have failed.
Most of the more than 600 properties financed with low-income housing tax credits in Arizona have not gone through the qualified contract process. Yet affordable housing experts and advocates say the process undermines the LIHTC program, which the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development calls "the most important resource for creating affordable housing in the United States today."
While the qualified contract process is perfectly legal, losing thousands of affordable units because of it is a “waste of federal money,” said Robert Rozen, a national affordable housing expert and policy consultant who was the lead U.S. Senate staffer working on the LIHTC program when the qualified contract provision was created in 1989.
“It’s an abuse of the program," Rozen said.
Qualified contract process is lucrative business strategy
FSO Capital Partners, a private equity real estate firm based in Phoenix, purchased Marana Apartments for $4 million in July 2020 from the Tucson-based affordable housing nonprofit TMM Family Services Inc. The property began going through the qualified contract process three months later.
A representative of TMM said the organization was unaware that the property had gone through the qualified contract process and was being converted to market-rate rents.
The organization sold the property and two of its other LIHTC properties because it couldn't afford the necessary repairs to maintain them, said Steve Ponzo, chair of TMM's board of directors.
“Look, our mission is to provide low-income housing. ... We don't want to turn a property over where we know someone is going to immediately take it to market rent," Ponzo said. "But also, there's so much money that would have to go into these properties. And, unfortunately, low-income housing doesn’t pay the bills.”
FSO Capital Partners now estimates the property is worth $16.8 million, according to its website. That's more than four times what the company paid for the complex less than three years ago. The company is "focused on identifying and acquiring undervalued assets and driving operational excellence" and owns 14 properties in Arizona, its website said.
Per federal law, residents like Edwards who were already living at the property in October 2020 have until October 2024 before their rents can be increased to market rate.
But for new residents, the rent hikes have already begun. A three-bedroom apartment now rents for roughly $1,600, according to the Marana Apartments website. By comparison, the monthly rent for Edwards’ unit was $889 in 2020.
"Come experience newly renovated apartment homes at Marana," the complex's website said.
Marana Apartments opened in 2003. If it had remained in the LIHTC program for its full 30 years, it would have stayed affordable until at least 2033.
Edwards worries about his neighbors. Many of them work low-wage jobs, are senior citizens or people with disabilities on fixed incomes or, like him, have a federally funded housing voucher. Come 2024, many don’t know where they will go. There are no other LIHTC properties in Marana.
“They’re choosing to make money in one of the most unethical ways,” Edwards said of the property owners. “You’re making money by throwing the most vulnerable people onto the streets.”
FSO Capital Partners did not respond to multiple requests for comment.
How a decades-old policy is making affordable housing disappear
These are the basics of the qualified contract process:
A housing developer receives low-income housing tax credits and, in return, the property is supposed to be kept affordable for 30 years. But after 14 years, the property's owner can apply to exit the program.
The Arizona Department of Housing, which manages the LIHTC program in Arizona, then has a year to find a buyer that will keep the property affordable. It's a nearly impossible task. The sale price of the property is calculated using a formula in the federal tax code that prices many properties higher than their fair market values. Of the 70 properties that have gone through the qualified contract process in Arizona since 2010, the state did not find a buyer for any of them.
If no buyer is found, the property is released from the LIHTC program. The property owner must keep rents affordable for existing tenants for three more years but can start charging new residents higher rents immediately.
After three years, the entire property can be converted to market rate as long as there are no other affordability requirements tied to the property.
The qualified contract provision was put in place when the LIHTC program was revamped from a 15-year program to a 30-year program. There was concern that it could be hard to get investors to put up capital to build developments with the longer affordability requirement.
For more than 20 years, no one paid much attention to the provision. A 2012 HUD study found that only a small share of property owners exited the LIHTC program via the qualified contract provision.
But that has changed in recent years. Given the red-hot real estate market, the gap between affordable and market-rate rents has widened, and some LIHTC property owners have realized they can capitalize on it.
“Investors are sort of sharing this strategy with each other to help facilitate more and more investors to get out of the program early," said Sarah Saadian, senior vice president of public policy and field organizing at the National Low Income Housing Coalition, which advocates for eliminating the qualified contract provision. "Because they see it as a good way of making money, right?”
In less than three years, Marana Apartments and six other properties that FSO Capital Partners or one of its principals, Jeffrey Sherman, owns or manages — totaling about 450 units of affordable housing in Marana, Yuma, Thatcher and Wickenburg — have gone through the qualified contract process, according to property records and data from the Arizona Department of Housing.
In Arizona, more than a dozen other entities or individuals are taking advantage of the increased cash flow the qualified contract process can deliver. Several other investment firms, individual investors, affordable housing developers and nonprofit organizations — including some from out of state — own multiple properties that are currently going through the qualified contract process, property records and documents from the Arizona Department of Housing show.
At the end of 2021, Edwards started noticing changes around Marana Apartments. Workers gave the building a fresh coat of paint and repaved the parking lot. A notice from management about renovations mentioned lease renewals "at market rate," confusing some residents and sending them into a panic, multiple residents said.
The property manager gave Edwards incomplete and, at times, inaccurate information about the property's conversion to market rate, at one point telling him that all of the apartments would likely have to be remodeled and rents would increase in 2023, according to a recording of the conversation. Edwards began packing his family's belongings in boxes, preparing to move out.
Desperate for answers, Edwards contacted the town of Marana in March 2022. A town official told him what was happening. “After October 30, 2024, all of the rents can be charged at a market rate,” wrote Lisa Shafer, community and neighborhood services director, in an email.
Edwards also contacted the Arizona Department of Housing, which urged FSO Capital Partners to inform residents of their rights, emails show.
"To clarify, there is a 3-year protection ... for all currently in-place residents," the property manager wrote in a letter posted on residents' doors the following day.
Multiple residents said the letter was the first clarification they received about the situation. Many said they were relieved they still have some time before their rents dramatically increase but are stressed about finding somewhere else affordable to live before October 2024.
“Right now, I have no backup plans," said Jaymie Conrad, who works as a hairdresser and has lived in Marana Apartments with her daughter for almost a decade. "I’m just hoping and praying that between now and then I'll find something, or something will change — I don't know.”
Vince Reterstorf, who has lived in the complex for three years and frequents the senior center down the street, also will soon have to leave. The 76-year-old's retirement and Social Security benefits won't be enough to pay for the rent hike, he said.
“I’ve got to move out of here, and I have nowhere to go,” Reterstorf said.
Despite congressional efforts, the qualified contract provision lives on
Lawmakers and affordable housing advocates have for the past five years been pushing for the qualified contract provision to be abolished. So far, their efforts have been unsuccessful.
Members of Congress, primarily Democrats, have three times pushed legislation that would eliminate the provision for new LIHTC properties and adjust the qualified contract sale price to market rate for existing properties, which would likely discourage owners from going through the process.
The Save Affordable Housing Act of 2019 and the Decent, Affordable, Safe Housing for All Act of 2021 both stalled in committee. Language that would have repealed the provision was included in an early version of the Build Back Better Act but ultimately was removed.
The Decent, Affordable, Safe Housing for All Act was reintroduced in March.
"It really is an issue that requires a federal fix," said Jennifer Schwartz, director of tax and housing advocacy at the National Council of State Housing Agencies, which represents state housing finance authorities.
Arizona has taken steps to mitigate the issue. Most notably, in 2010, the Arizona Department of Housing began incentivizing applicants for the most substantial low-income housing tax credits to waive their right to the qualified contract process by awarding them extra points on their applications. Because that tax credit program is so competitive, the move has made it virtually impossible to receive the credits otherwise.
Developers of every Arizona property subsidized by the most valuable low-income housing tax credits since 2010 have waived their right to the qualified contract process, meaning those properties must stay affordable for the full 30 years.
But more than 150 properties received tax credits before 2010 and still have the ability to go through the qualified contract process, according to data from the state housing department. If they do, Arizona could lose thousands more affordable units.
“They’re not doing anything illegal, FSO or anybody who goes through this process,” Rozen said. “But they’re making a lot of money at the expense of low-income people.”
Send us your tips
The Arizona Republic is continuing to report on the qualified contract process. If you or someone you know has lived in a property that has gone through the qualified contract process, or if you have any other information to share, we want to hear from you.
Email reporter Juliette Rihl at jrihl@arizonarepublic.com. Send letters and documents to Juliette Rihl, The Arizona Republic, 200 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix, AZ 85004.
Juliette Rihl covers housing insecurity and homelessness for The Arizona Republic. She can be reached at jrihl@arizonarepublic.com or on Twitter @julietterihl.
Coverage of housing insecurity on azcentral.com and in The Arizona Republic is supported by a grant from the Arizona Community Foundation.
Arizona Republic reporters Catherine Reagor, Diannie Chavez and Kunle Falayi contributed reporting. | 2023-04-14T15:31:25+00:00 | azcentral.com | https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2023/04/14/qualified-contract-process-leads-arizona-to-lose-low-income-rentals/70086019007/ |
ATLANTA (AP) — A woman who said Herschel Walker paid for her 2009 abortion is the mother of one of his children, according to a new report Wednesday, undercutting the Georgia Republican Senate candidate's claims that he didn't know who she was.
The Daily Beast, which first reported Monday on the abortion, said it had agreed not to reveal details of the woman's identity to protect her privacy. But Walker, who has expressed support for a national abortion ban without exceptions, vehemently denied the story, calling the abortion allegation a “flat-out lie,” threatening a lawsuit against the outlet he has yet to file and saying he had no idea who the woman might be.
So on Wednesday night, The Daily Beast revealed that the woman — whom was not named — was so well known to Walker that, according to her, they conceived another child years after the abortion. She decided to continue on with the later pregnancy, though she noted that Walker, as he had during the earlier pregnancy, expressed that it wasn't a convenient time for him, the outlet reported.
The Daily Beast said the Walker campaign declined to comment on Wednesday's story. Walker is scheduled to make a public appearance Thursday morning in Wadley, Georgia, as part of his Unite Georgia Bus Stop tour across the state.
The latest reporting ensures that abortion will continue to be a central issue in the Georgia race, one of the most competitive Senate contests in the country.
It adds to a series of stories about the football legend's past that have shaken Walker's campaign. Walker has been accused of repeatedly threatening his ex-wife’s life, exaggerating claims of financial success and overstating his role in a for-profit program that is alleged to have preyed upon veterans and service members while defrauding the government.
Earlier this year, after a story by The Daily Beast, Walker acknowledged the existence of three children he had not previously talked about publicly.
The woman told The Daily Beast for Wednesday's story that Walker's denial of the abortion was somewhat surprising to her.
“Sure, I was stunned, but I guess it also doesn't shock me, that maybe there are just so many of us that he truly doesn't remember,” the woman said. “But then again, if he really forgot about it, that says something, too.”
In The Daily Beast report published late Monday, the news outlet said it reviewed a receipt showing her payment for the procedure, along with a get-well card from Walker and her bank deposit records showing the image of a $700 personal check from Walker dated five days after the abortion receipt.
During the Republican Senate primary, Walker openly backed a national ban on abortions with no exceptions for cases involving rape, incest or a woman’s health being at risk — particularly notable at a time when the 1973 Roe v. Wade Supreme Court precedent had been overturned and Democrats in Congress had been discussing codifying abortion rights into federal law.
“I’m for life,” Walker has said repeatedly as he campaigns. When asked about whether he’d allow for any exceptions, he has said there are “no excuses” for the procedure.
As the Republican nominee, Walker has sometimes sidestepped questions about his earlier support for a national abortion ban, a tacit nod to the fact that most voters, including many Republicans, want at least some legal access to abortion. | 2022-10-06T02:39:44+00:00 | expressnews.com | https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/Report-Mom-of-Walker-s-child-says-he-paid-for-17490094.php |
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Father arrested, charged in 4-month-old son’s death
TACOMA, Wash. (AP) - A Tacoma man arrested in the death of his 4-month-old son earlier this week was charged Friday with second-degree murder.
Samuel Kennedy, 23, was arrested Tuesday after a hospital social worker called Tacoma police about a child brought in with head trauma, KOMO reported.
Doctors said the boy’s injury was consistent with abusive head trauma and that the baby had recent similar injuries, according to probable cause documents from the Pierce County Prosecutor’s Office. The child died the following day.
Police said the child’s mother said the couple had three young children and that she had been at work on Tuesday.
Kennedy said he picked up his son because he was crying and eventually put him back in his rocker, but minutes later, the baby exhaled deeply, which caused concern, documents said. He then discovered his son wasn’t breathing, documents said.
Police said Kennedy initially denied dropping or shaking his son but after further investigation, was arrested, documents said. Police said he later admitted to shaking the baby after becoming frustrated.
The boy died of blunt force trauma to his head, according to the Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office. It wasn’t immediately known if Kennedy has a lawyer to comment on the case. His bail was set Friday at $1.5 million.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-02-26T06:20:05+00:00 | foxcarolina.com | https://www.foxcarolina.com/2023/02/26/father-arrested-charged-4-month-old-sons-death/ |
Sevilla, Celta among top-tier teams advancing in Copa
By TALES AZZONI
AP Sports Writer
MADRID (AP) — Struggling Sevilla goes into the World Cup break on a positive note after beating sixth-tier Velarde 2-0 to advance to the second round of the Copa del Rey. Tanguy Nianzou scored in the first half and Rafa Mir found the net in the 90th minute for Jorge Sampaoli’s team which sits in the relegation zone in the Spanish league. Sevilla had won only one of its last seven games in all competitions. It was eliminated in the group stage of the Champions League. | 2022-11-13T22:46:19+00:00 | kyma.com | https://kyma.com/news/ap-business/2022/11/13/sevilla-celta-among-top-tier-teams-advancing-in-copa-2/ |
Basil and Sundried Tomato flavors hit shelves this fall
LYNDHURST, N.J., Sept. 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Filippo Berio, one of the nation's top-selling olive oil and pesto brands, introduces two vegan pestos to its sizeable pesto lineup. The 155-year-old Italian brand has launched Basil and Sundried Tomato flavors that feature tofu as a replacement for cheese while retaining the brand's signature extra virgin olive oil, high-quality ingredients and authentic pesto flavor.
Plant-based and both dairy and gluten free, the two pestos are certified by The Vegan Society. With no heating or cooking required, the new products are convenient and highly versatile for any use, from spreading on sandwiches and pizzas to stirring into vegetables, pastas, grains, dips and more — further enhancing any dish's flavor.
As a leader in the global olive oil industry, Filippo Berio has long been a favorite of health-conscious consumers, who also reach for its variety of specialty wine vinegars, balsamic vinegars of Modena and glazes. This pesto product release further extends Filippo Berio's portfolio in the growing plant-based foods market, which is expected to reach $162 billion globally within the next decade, according to a 2021 report by Bloomberg Intelligence. The new Basil pesto and Sundried Tomato pesto expand the options for those looking for quality plant-based products without compromising on taste.
"After ongoing recipe development and countless blind taste tests comparing our Classic pesto and vegan recipes, we are thrilled to launch two flavorful and delicious vegan recipes that live up to the high quality standards of the Filippo Berio brand that consumers have come to know and trust. We are confident our new products will become mainstays for those who are vegan or otherwise looking for plant-based alternatives," said Dusan Kaljevic, deputy CEO of Filippo Berio USA.
This expansion into the vegan market is widely in response to the increasing number of consumers who are reducing their consumption of animal products for health and environmental benefits. Filippo Berio recognized this shift and, as a brand that's dedicated to sustainability, health, quality and flavor, wanted to provide the best-tasting option for this consumer segment.
Filippo Berio's vegan pestos are available now on Amazon and will be distributed in select retail locations this fall.
To sample Filippo Berio products and learn more about the brand's pestos, please visit filippoberio.com/products/pesto/.
About Filippo Berio:
The Filippo Berio brand has been committed to creating high-quality olive oil for more than 155 years. Founder Filippo Berio set forth exceptional standards of olive oil production that are still rigorously followed today, with each bottle sold bearing his signature as a seal of the finest olive oil and the brand's promise of quality. Filippo Berio's distinctive olive oils are complemented by a selection of pestos, vinegars, balsamic and glazes, all featuring the finest ingredients and high production standards. The brand is currently sold in more than 75 countries. In the United States, Filippo Berio is marketed by Filippo Berio USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Salov Group, based in Lucca, Italy. For more information, visit www.filippoberio.com.
Filippo Berio Media Contact:
Hannah Castle, 510-590-0195
FilippoBerio@finnpartners.com
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Filippo Berio | 2022-09-20T16:56:36+00:00 | kxii.com | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/20/filippo-berio-introduces-vegan-pesto/ |
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. will send Ukraine about $500 million in ammunition and equipment and spend more than $2 billion to buy an array of munitions, radar and new weapons to help Kyiv counter drones in the coming months, the Pentagon said Tuesday, as Ukrainian troops gear up for a spring offensive against Russian forces.
The aid to be taken from military stockpiles so it can be in the war zone quickly includes “ammunition for U.S.-provided HIMARS, air defense interceptors, and artillery rounds that Ukraine is using to defend itself,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. HIMARS are multiple rocket launchers.
The package includes at least two new weapons systems that are designed to counter drones — specifically the Iranian-made Shahed, which Tehran has provided to Russia and has been heavily used in attacks on Ukrainian cities.
The U.S., for the first time, will send nine 30mm gun trucks and an undisclosed amount of ammunition for them, and 10 mobile laser-guided rocket systems, also developed to counter drones.
The wide array of ammunition being sent from Pentagon stocks includes 155 mm artillery rounds for howitzers as Ukraine burns through the rounds fighting back against Russia’s ground invasion. The Pentagon does not provide the amounts of munitions in most cases.
The immediate assistance also includes anti-armor systems, small arms, heavy equipment transport vehicles, 61 fuel tankers and maintenance support, the Pentagon said in a statement.
A senior defense official said the focus is on helping Ukraine change the dynamic on the ground. Right now, the official said, the battle lines are relatively static and neither side has gained much territory. The official, who briefed Pentagon reporters on condition of anonymity to provide military details, said the U.S. wants to help Ukraine advance and hold its positions in the expected counteroffensive.
“We very much appreciate everything that the United States has done specifically in the last month to help our army prepare itself for the counteroffensive,” said Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, speaking at NATO headquarters in Brussels before a meeting with with Blinken. “The Biden administration has upheld its commitment to provide Ukraine with a lot of what we need and set an example to other allies.”
The $2.1 billion in longer-term aid, which is being provided under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, will buy missiles for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System, or NASAMS, as well as radar, additional satellite terminals and fuel tanker trucks, anti-armor rockets and bridging systems. It also will fund additional training for Ukraine’s forces.
The defense official said weapons already bought using the security assistance funding in previous packages are beginning to make their way to the battlefield. That is key because in some cases — such as with the 155 mm rounds — the Pentagon had been sending its own stocks, which are also needed for American troop training, and there is a finite supply. Now, the official said, the deliveries of 155 rounds Ukraine is getting include ammunition that was bought a number of months ago through the USAI program.
The new weapons and money come as Russia has continued to bombard Ukraine with long-range missiles and the hotly contested battle for the eastern city of Bakhmut drags on. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told The Associated Press in an exclusive interview that unless his country wins that fight, Russia could begin building international support for a deal that could require Ukraine to make unacceptable compromises.
Zelenskyy said if Moscow’s forces take Bakhmut, Russian President Vladimir Putin would “sell this victory to the West, to his society, to China, to Iran.”
The latest U.S. package, with its mix of short-term and long-term aid, involves a wide variety of ammunition from Pentagon stocks, 23 million rounds of small arms ammunition and 200,000 grenades, mortars, rockets and an array of precision guided munitions.
It brings the total amount of U.S. security assistance to Ukraine to more than $35.1 billion since Russia invaded in February 2022. Defense leaders testifying on Capitol Hill last week said the U.S. is prepared to support Ukraine for as long as needed.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has echoed that sentiment, saying the alliance’s foreign ministers meeting in Brussels were discussing how to step up support for Ukraine’s armed forces. “Our support is for the long haul,” he said before the meeting Tuesday.
The White House said last week that it has new evidence that Russia is looking again to North Korea for weapons as it also prepares for a spring offensive. Russia would provide Pyongyang with needed food and other commodities in return.
U.S. officials also are concerned that the president of Belarus has warned that Russian strategic nuclear weapons might be deployed in his country, along with part of Moscow’s tactical nuclear arsenal.
Putin has said he planned to place tactical nuclear weapons in neighboring Belarus. Those weapons are comparatively short-range and low-yield. Strategic nuclear weapons, such as missile-borne warheads, would be a greater threat.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, while talking up the possibility of nuclear weapons, has also called for a cease-fire in Ukraine. He said a truce must have no preconditions and all movement of troops and weapons must be halted.
Russia, however, has rejected a cease in fighting, claiming that Ukraine has refused to enter talks under pressure from its Western allies.
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Lee reported from Brussels. Associated Press writer Tara Copp contributed to this story from Washington. | 2023-04-05T03:52:53+00:00 | upmatters.com | https://www.upmatters.com/news/international/ap-international/officials-us-providing-ukraine-2-6-billion-in-military-aid/ |
Biden won’t veto Republican-led bill ending COVID emergency
By SEUNG MIN KIM and LISA MASCARO
Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden won’t veto a Republican-led measure to end the national COVID emergency. This comes despite the Biden administration having expressed strong objections to the bill earlier this year. With Senate passage late Wednesday, the measure heads to Biden’s desk, on an easy path to becoming law. It marks the second time in the new Congress that the Biden administration has signaled opposition to a Republican measure only, only to soften its stance. Just weeks ago, Biden stunned many fellow Democrats when he declined to veto a Republican-led bill to upend a new criminal code for the District of Columbia, allowing it to become law. | 2023-03-30T07:40:27+00:00 | kyma.com | https://kyma.com/news/ap-national/2023/03/29/biden-wont-veto-republican-led-bill-ending-covid-emergency/ |
Western New York projects that state officials say will promote environmentally friendly modes of travel and make it easier and safer to walk, bike or hike will get a $38.8 million boost from the state.
Locally, North Tonawanda will receive $1,050,000 to construct an extension to the Erie Canal Bike Path between Mayor's Park and the NT Botanical Gardens. In addition, the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority will receive $5 million for the purchase of Battery Electric Buses (BEB) to serve populations across Western New York.
The funding is a portion of $178.8 million in state funds awarded to 75 communities across the state for projects. More than two-thirds of the projects awarded will benefit Environmental Justice Communities, thereby helping to improve connectivity, air quality and bicycle and pedestrian access for the predominantly low-and-moderate-income families living in those areas.
"As demonstrated through the recently adopted State Budget and our historic capital plan, New York continues to make unprecedented investments so we can build back stronger than ever before," Gov. Kathy Hochul said. "We're investing in strategic initiatives across the state to improve quality of life, promote economic growth, and revitalize our communities. Most importantly, by advancing mobility alternatives, these awards will provide new opportunities and remove barriers for individuals in Environmental Justice Communities that have traditionally lacked adequate transportation access."
The funding, which provides up to 80 percent of total project costs, is made available through the Federal Highway Administration and administered by the New York State Department of Transportation.
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, "Governor Kathy Hochul is unwavering in her commitment to improving the lives of all New Yorkers, with targeted investments in every region of the state to promote all possible modes of transportation. With a strong focus on sidewalks, recreational opportunities, and pedestrian and bike access, these projects support the increased public demand in the post COVID-19 environment for more walkable and bikeable communities. Investments like these will pave the way towards a future in line with the Governor's vision, where our communities are more connected, our transportation networks are more accessible to everyone, and our carbon footprint is smaller."
"This significant investment, impacting 75 communities, is another strategic step in that process that supports more environmentally friendly modes of transportation that gets more people outdoors walking and biking to reduce our carbon footprints," said Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos. "Additionally, these funds directly improve the quality of life of people living in disadvantaged communities that are often forgetting when it comes to community transportation and revitalization.
Additional Western New York projects:
• $1,490,400 to the Town of Amherst to construct sidewalk and bicycle lane improvements to Carey Road from Paradise Park to Transit Road.
• $2,985,600 to the City of Buffalo for rehabilitation to the Scajaquada Trail from Main Street to Fillmore Avenue.
• $791,680 to the City of Buffalo for the continuation of the Forest Avenue Multi-Use Pathway.
• $2,354,887 to the Town of Evans for the construction of a segment of the Shoreline Trail along Lake Shore Road.
• $3,861,362 to Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority to construct bus stop canopies and pedestrian/bicycle infrastructure improvements along North Division Street in the City of Buffalo.
• $1,396,807 to the City of Olean to construct a shared use path along Olean Wayne Street.
• $1,600,000 to the Town of Orchard Park to construct approximately sidewalks and pedestrian crosswalks to improve safe routes to schools.
• $5,000,000 to NYS Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation to construct four pedestrian bridges in Genesee Valley Greenway State Park in Allegany County.
• $1,696,000 to the Town of Tonawanda to construct a Riverwalk multi-use pedestrian trial connecting River Road to Two Mile Creek Road.
• $3,448,028 to the Town of Clarence to construct sidewalk and pedestrian improvements from Main Street to Transit Road.
• $802,707 to the Village of Williamsville to construct sidewalk and curb ramps along Main Street.
• $5,000,000 to the Western New York Region to construct a diverging diamond interchange at the I-190 and Niagara Falls Boulevard intersections.
• $2,368,000 to the Western New York Region to construct a new through lane, approaches, traffic signal and pedestrian crossing at Route 33-Genesee Street at Harris Hill Intersection in the Town of Lancaster | 2022-06-24T06:58:27+00:00 | niagara-gazette.com | https://www.niagara-gazette.com/news/local_news/wny-projects-receive-portion-of-transportation-funding/article_36b21a93-7455-5ea4-9ae4-1aa65a2eb814.html |
Earlier this month, a fire started in Las Tusas, New Mexico, that burned almost 1,000 acres of land.
The blaze was a searing reminder of last year’s wildfire season. The Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak fire – the worst in New Mexico history – burned more than 300,000 acres, leaving a scar that could take decades to fully recover. Suppressing the fire cost hundreds of millions.
New Mexico is now in the midst of its fire season — a season that has become longer and more intense over the past years following long-term climate changes, including stronger, drier storms and an increase in vapor pressure deficit, a measurement that looks at how the air dries out vegetation.
But there’s some good news. This fire season is likely to be dampened, due to changing weather patterns in the state.
Andrew Church, a New Mexico-based meteorologist and resident fire weather and climate expert for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, said that the state is seeing opposite storm patterns to last spring, when several fires spiraled out of control throughout the state.
“You had three La Niña winters in a row, and then suddenly, we’re going to be in El Niño in the next few weeks,” Church said. “So there was a huge change.”
El Niño weather patterns bring more moisture and snow to New Mexico than La Niña, which brings drier and warmer temperatures – conditions that provide kindling for wildfires.
High winds and dry conditions are two of the biggest factors that can spark wildfires and whip them into a destructive frenzy; thus, a wetter winter and spring helps quell the fire season.
“We just had a meeting, a fire weather meeting here with the land agencies and the dispatch centers there,” Church said. “We’ve got fire behavior analysts and they were just discussing the moisture we have now. It’s going to limit a fire season … it’s a very good thing.”
Short-term relief, long-term trends
Church said over the next months, wildfire danger should creep north into other Southwestern states, which don’t see the same spring moisture that New Mexico does. Generally, Church said, New Mexico has an earlier fire season and rarely sees late summer wildfires.
But, despite the reprieve that New Mexico is expected to see this year, long-term trends have been prolonging and intensifying fire seasons throughout New Mexico and the Southwest. Over the past decade, storm systems have become more erratic in the state, Church said, with many storm systems coming in drier, with more intense winds — drying out vegetation that can fuel fires.
One of the factors that has turned New Mexico and other western states into a tinderbox is an increase in vapor pressure deficit, or VPD, an important metric in the study of wildfires.
“VPD is a measure of how effectively the air can dry out the plants and the vegetation that ultimately becomes fuel for wildfires,” said Kristina Dahl, a climate scientist with the Union for Concerned Scientists. “VPD tends to be high when it’s hot and dry out … and as VPD increases, so does the area burned by forest fires.”
Elevated VPD can dry out vegetation in forests — and levels have been rising, along with increased severity and length of fire season in Southwestern states. A group of researchers with the Union for Concerned Scientists published a peer-reviewed study last Tuesday in Environmental Research Letters relating VPD to an increase in burned areas in the western United States and southwestern Canada from 1986.
“There’s a very strong relationship between VPD and burned area,” Dahl, the principal researcher on the study, said. “It’s actually an exponential relationship – so very small changes, very small increases in VPD, cause very large increases in burned area.”
The link between rising VPD and an increase in burned areas has been studied before. But the new study goes further, tracing the roots of increased VPD to the 88 largest carbon emission producers.
When the weather is hot and dry, VPD increases. Over the past decades, as carbon emissions have pushed temperatures higher, VPD has correspondingly increased, Dahl said. The team of researchers calculated VPD using observational data from weather stations, and compared it to global mean temperature data from 28 different climate models compiled by the World Climate Research Programme’s Coupled Model Intercomparison Project, which compares a variety of different climate models for a more holistic look at the world’s climate. From there, the team used data tracked by public records pulled by researcher Richard Heede of the largest carbon polluters to determine how much they contributed to the rise in VPD.
The study found that emissions traced to the 88 largest carbon producers contributed 48% of the rise in VPD between 1901 and 2021. Other contributors included smaller companies as well as other factors including deforestation.
But the destruction of wildfires isn’t limited to burned areas. Church cautioned that although less area may burn this season, burn scar areas around the state are more susceptible to flooding due to monsoons. Although the monsoon season is predicted to be mild, Church said, just one thunderstorm in the wrong area can cause intense flood damage.
Although the state will likely see less thunderstorm days than last year, Church said, burn scar areas are most vulnerable in the second year.
“It just takes one storm, or a couple of storms, to wreak havoc on burn scars,” Church said. “Don’t let your guard down.” | 2023-05-23T00:58:56+00:00 | abqjournal.com | https://www.abqjournal.com/2600933/dont-let-your-guard-down-this-years-fire-season-may-be-mild-but-flooding-and-long-term-trends-are-still-a-danger.html |
ARCADE, N.Y. (WKBW) — Since 2018, 24-year-old Austin Wagner has raised more than $29,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Wagner, who is living with autism, sells cookies and raffle baskets that are donated by the community during the Arcade Winterfest to raise money.
The Ronald McDonald House of Western New York provides housing and help for families with children who are sick, and more than 500 families stay at the Buffalo House every year. The money goes towards its Access for All capital campaign — which helps make the house more wheelchair and handicap accessible.
Michelle, Austin's mom, says she couldn't be prouder of his generosity and how the community has shrouded her son with love.
"The community, the people I work with, friends and family, we couldn't do it without them," said Michelle.
The community says Austin is a pillar of the Arcade community and brings joy wherever he goes.
"Austin is a pretty iconic member of the community," said Harry Schatmeyer, the owner of the McDonald's in Arcade
In addition, the Ronald McDonald House is grateful for all Austin does.
"Austin is amazing, and the community of Arcade is amazing as well," said Marianne Hoover, Executive Director of the Ronald McDonald House of Western New York. | 2023-04-05T20:43:30+00:00 | wkbw.com | https://www.wkbw.com/news/local-news/arcade-man-has-raised-more-than-29-000-for-ronald-mcdonald-house-charities-since-2018 |
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A bison severely injured a Minnesota woman on Saturday in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the National Park Service said in a statement on Tuesday.
Park officials reported she was in serious but stable condition after suffering “significant injuries to her abdomen and foot.”
The woman was taken to a Fargo hospital after being transported by ambulance to a hospital in Dickinson, about 30 miles (48.28 kilometers) east of Painted Canyon, a colorful Badlands vista popular with motorists, where she was injured at a trailhead.
The attack is under investigation; exact details are unknown. Park Superintendent Angie Richman did not immediately respond to an email requesting information.
On Monday, a bison charged and gored a 47-year-old Phoenix woman in Yellowstone National Park. She sustained significant injuries to her chest and abdomen and was taken by helicopter to an Idaho Falls hospital.
Park officials reminded visitors that bison are large, powerful and wild, and can turn quickly and easily outrun people. Bulls can be aggressive during the rutting season from mid-July through August. Park regulations require visitors stay at least 25 yards (23 meters) away from large animals. | 2023-07-18T22:14:21+00:00 | springfieldnewssun.com | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/nation-world/bison-attack-visitors-in-north-dakota-and-wyoming-national-parks/6246G2IPZBFY7O3BTSRMIDHJ5I/ |
Demonstrates Commitment to Employees, Company Culture
COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sbarro, the leading QSR serving the impulse pizza occasion, has earned certification by Great Place to Work®, the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and leadership behaviors.
This certification recognizes the top companies to work for worldwide based on feedback provided by employees on more than 60 elements of their job experience. Highest scoring categories for Sbarro included: employee pride in the brand, belief that their work makes a difference, employee alignment with and trust in the leadership team, and diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
"Our certification as a Great Place to Work is a testament to our employees and their passion for our brand, our culture, our franchise partners and each other," said Rohan Shearer, Sbarro's Chief Administrative Officer and head of Human Resources. "We're honored to be one of the very few US based QSR brands to have obtained this recognition."
The core of Sbarro's culture is its "People Pledge," an employee engagement program that welcomes, develops, communicates with and cares for each member of the Sbarro family. The People Pledge has created a common language around employee connection and belonging that has led to Sbarro's industry leading management tenure.
"Great Place to Work Certification™ isn't something that comes easily – it takes ongoing dedication to the employee experience," said Sarah Lewis-Kulin, vice president of global recognition at Great Place to Work. "Earning this designation means that Sbarro is one of the best companies to work for in the country."
In 1956, Carmela "Mama" Sbarro and her family opened the doors to their Italian delicatessen in Brooklyn. Their slices of New York-style pizza were so popular that they soon opened a second location at the King's Plaza Mall in New York, focused solely on pizza. More than 65 years later, Sbarro is now the global leader in the impulse pizza category. Sbarro offers our XL Original New York pizza, handmade every day, with freshly prepared and stretched dough, hand-shredded 100% whole milk mozzarella cheese, and San Marzano-style tomatoes in a variety of venues. Our award-winning New York pizzas, strombolis and other offerings can be found in retail spaces such as malls, casinos, airports, universities, convenience stores and travel plazas. To order online, to find a location near you, or for franchising opportunities, visit Sbarro.com. Get social with us on @sbarro on Facebook and Twitter, and @sbarroofficial on Instagram.
Great Place to Work® Certification™ is the most definitive "employer-of-choice" recognition that companies aspire to achieve. It is the only recognition based entirely on what employees report about their workplace experience – specifically, how consistently they experience a high-trust workplace. Great Place to Work Certification is recognized worldwide by employees and employers alike and is the global benchmark for identifying and recognizing outstanding employee experience. Every year, more than 10,000 companies across 60 countries apply to get Great Place to Work-Certified.
Great Place to Work® is the global authority on workplace culture. Since 1992, they have surveyed more than 100 million employees worldwide and used those deep insights to define what makes a great workplace: trust. Their employee survey platform empowers leaders with the feedback, real-time reporting and insights they need to make data-driven people decisions. Everything they do is driven by the mission to build a better world by helping every organization become a great place to work For All™.
Media inquiries can be sent to
marketing@sbarro.com
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SOURCE SBARRO | 2022-07-21T19:39:38+00:00 | wafb.com | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/07/21/sbarro-earns-great-place-work-certification/ |
Apple is making the iPhone 14 in India as China headaches mount
Video above: See Apple's new iPhone 14
Apple has started making its new iPhone 14 in India, as the technology giant looks to diversify its supply chain away from China.
While the company manufactures the bulk of its products in China, it has decided to start producing its latest devices in India much earlier than with previous generations.
The company unveiled its new iPhone three weeks ago. The latest devices offer updated camera systems, a new interactive lock screen and on Pro models, much faster performance. The company also introduced new safety features, such as car-crash detection technology and an Emergency SOS tool.
"The new iPhone 14 lineup introduces groundbreaking new technologies and important safety capabilities. We're excited to be manufacturing iPhone 14 in India," the company said in a statement on Monday, confirming weeks of speculation.
Video below: Rossen Reports: This new iPhone trick will make you a pro at photo editing
Apple devices are manufactured in India by Taiwan's Foxconn, Wistron and Pegatron, but the company would typically start assembling models in the country only seven to eight months after launch, Tarun Pathak, a research director at Counterpoint, told CNN Business.
The announcement on Monday marks a big switch in its strategy and comes at a time when U.S. tech companies are looking for alternatives to China, where global supply chains have faced disruption due to rigid Covid-related lockdowns. There are also growing concerns about the risk of a greater rift between China and the United States over Taiwan.
Video below: Rossen Reports: New iOS messaging features you'll love
Analysts have been predicting that Apple would reduce its dependence on China for a while now. The Wall Street Journal reported earlier this year that the company was looking to boost production in countries such as Vietnam and India, citing China's strict Covid policy as one of the reasons.
"Apple wants to diversify and not put all its eggs in one basket," said Pathak, adding that the move is a "show of faith in India." | 2022-09-26T15:38:39+00:00 | wmur.com | https://www.wmur.com/article/apple-making-iphone-14-in-india-as-china-headaches-mount/41389017 |
Researchers monitored sleep duration of kindergarteners over four weeklong periods and had the children's teachers evaluate their transition into formal schooling, according to the study published this week in the journal Pediatrics. The teachers did not know how much each child slept over the course of the night.
"The more consistently children got 10+ hours of sleep during the night, the better the children's peer relationships, relationships with their teachers, overall academic performance, and sight recognition of words and letters," said lead study author Douglas Teti, distinguished professor and head of the department of human development and family studies at The Pennsylvania State University, via email.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine already suggests that kindergarten-aged kids get 10 to 13 hours of sleep -- but that is over the course of the day, and that includes naps.
But the results of the study challenge the guidance in that they showed that the biggest predictor of successful adjustment to school was regularly getting at least 10 hours of sleep over the course of the night, Teti said.
"This suggests that 'making up' for inadequate nighttime sleep by allowing one's child to nap during the day will not help children in their kindergarten transition. It is best to have that 10+ hours of sleep concentrated during the nighttime sleep period, and to try to make this as consistent as possible across nights," Teti said.
The methods of the study are strong and support what can be seen in clinical settings as well as broader pediatric research, said psychologist Ariel A. Williamson, a pediatric sleep expert in the department of child and adolescent psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and assistant professor of psychiatry and pediatrics at University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. Williamson was not involved in the study.
If you have a little one approaching kindergarten in the fall, now may be the time to start good sleep habits. Over the course of the year, it was the sleep habits of the time leading up to kindergarten that made the biggest difference, according to the study.
"The intervention should begin before kindergarten begins in September," Teti said. "Parents should do what they can to help their children get most if not all of their sleep on a regular basis during the children's nighttime sleep period."
Starting good sleep habits
The results of the study do not mean that preschool-aged or younger children should start weaning off naps, which are important during childhood, Teti said.
"For many young children, napping in the afternoon is developmentally typical; however, as the kindergarten transition approaches, families may wish to work on cutting daytime naps to consolidate sleep overnight," Williamson said.
If your child is transitioning into kindergarten, Teti suggests implementing a 9 p.m. or earlier bedtime and working toward having most of the child's sleep take place at night.
That may be hard for some families to uphold, especially when the adults have nonstandard work hours, he acknowledged. In those cases, Teti suggested leaning on other caregivers or family members for support.
In addition to sticking to that earlier bedtime, it can be helpful to avoid -- not eliminate -- use of screens, Teti said. Screens like TVs, video games and tablets should be completely eliminated at least 30 minutes before bedtime, however, he added.
It's also important to be involved in bedtime, making a routine that is consistent and prepares the child for bed, Teti said. That can mean taking a bath, reading books, talking quietly and creating a calming environment, he suggested.
That regular schedule has been shown to increase how long children sleep over the course of the night, Williamson said.
"Establishing a consistent bedtime routine ... could help to encourage a regular sleep schedule and promote optimal overnight sleep duration, especially in early childhood," she said.
The-CNN-Wire ™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | 2022-07-13T18:39:31+00:00 | abc30.com | https://abc30.com/kindergarten-bedtime-how-much-sleep-to-kids-need-back-school-2022-calculator-for/12049204/ |
TALLINN, Estonia (AP) — Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto on Monday became the first senior official from a European Union country to visit Belarus since the authoritarian Belarusian regime imposed a harsh crackdown on opposition in 2020.
His trip came as the EU is expected to consider a new package of sanctions against Belarus. The EU has slapped an array of sanctions on the country already, both for the repression that followed mass protests against the 2020 presidential election — widely seen as rigged — and for Belarus’ hosting Russian troops during the war in Ukraine.
Belarusian political analyst Valery Karbalevich said that as a result of the sanctions Minsk is experiencing “huge” difficulties with the export of potash fertilizers — a key source of revenue — and oil products.
“And the continuation of the war (in Ukraine) is tightening the economic knot around the neck of Belarus,” Karbalevich said. “The Belarusian authorities are doing their best to ease this pressure.”
Belarus has not deployed troops in Ukraine, but Russian soldiers based there have crossed the border into Ukraine’s north.
After the 2020 election that gave authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko a new term, massive protests broke out and persisted for weeks, the largest and most prolonged wave of unrest since Lukashenko came to power in 1994.
He unleashed a brutal crackdown on the protesters; more than 35,000 people were arrested and thousands were beaten by police. Among those arrested was human rights activist Ales Bialiatski, one of last year’s Nobel Peace Prize laurates. He is on trial and faces 12 years in prison if convicted.
Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who ran against Lukashenko in 2020 and left the country days after the election, condemned Szijjarto’s vist.
“At a time when a Nobel laureate is being tried, journalists are being tortured, Russian soldiers are being trained before going to fight in Ukraine, such actions are unacceptable,” she said.
In closing remarks at his closed-door trial, Bialiatski said Monday that Lukashenko made “a political decision to crush and destroy the civil society of Belarus,” according to the Viasna human rights center that he founded.
Bialiatski and two other Viasna figures are charged with tax evasion, smuggling and financing activities that undermine public order – charges linked to Viasna paying the legal fees of people it regards as political prisoners.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | 2023-02-13T19:00:20+00:00 | wtmj.com | https://wtmj.com/national/2023/02/13/hungary-fms-belarus-visit-1st-from-eu-country-since-2020/ |
Nikki Haley announces 2024 Republican presidential bid
Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina governor and ambassador to the United Nations under former President Donald Trump, has officially entered the 2024 presidential race.
On Tuesday, the 51-year-old Haley became the first Republican to officially challenge Trump for the GOP nomination — sharing a campaign video on social media.
Haley is the first in a long line of Republicans who are expected to launch 2024 campaigns in the coming months. Likely rivals include Sen. Tim Scott, a fellow South Carolinian and perhaps the most celebrated elected official in a state where Trump has already locked up endorsements from the governor and its senior senator, Lindsey Graham. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former Vice President Mike Pence could also be formidable foes should they run, as widely expected.
President Joe Biden has said he intends to seek reelection in 2024, stalling any jostling for the Democratic nomination.
Haley has regularly boasted about her track record of defying political expectations, saying, "I’ve never lost an election, and I’m not going to start now."
If elected, Haley would be the nation’s first female president and the first U.S. president of Indian descent.
FILE - Nikki Haley visits "Hannity" at Fox News Channel Studios on Jan. 20, 2023, in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images)
The daughter of Indian immigrants, Haley grew up enduring racist taunts in a small South Carolina town and has long referenced that impact on her personal and political arc.
"I was the proud daughter of Indian immigrants — not Black, not white. I was different," she says in the presidential campaign video.
"My mom would always say your job is not to focus on the differences but the similarities, and my parents reminded me and my siblings every day how blessed we were to live in America," Haley adds in the video.
She was an accountant when she launched her first bid for public office, defeating the longest-serving member of the South Carolina House in 2004. Three terms later and with little statewide recognition, Haley mounted a long-shot campaign for governor against a large field of experienced politicians.
She racked up a number of high-profile endorsements, including from the sitting South Carolina governor, Mark Sanford, and former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, a tea party darling.
With her 2010 victory, Haley became South Carolina’s first female and minority governor — and the nation’s youngest at 38. She earned a speaking slot at the 2012 Republican National Convention and gave the GOP response to President Barack Obama’s State of the Union in 2016.
"Republicans have lost the popular vote in seven out of the last eight presidential elections. That has to change," Haley said in the video announcement announcing her candidacy for president.
Haley added that Biden's record is "abysmal." She accused those in Washington of failing Americans, vowing to "rediscover fiscal responsibility, secure our border, and strengthen our country, our pride, and our purpose."
The Associated Press contributed to this story. | 2023-02-14T16:12:02+00:00 | fox9.com | https://www.fox9.com/news/nikki-haley-2024-republican-presidential-bid |
CLEVELAND (AP) — Mary Lamar had been searching for a job that was a good fit.
She worked for a time as a nursing assistant but found it boring. A stint as a shipyard welder ended because she could no longer bear the winter cold. Then Lamar had what she described as a “rift” in her life. That rift led her to plead guilty to robbery in 2019 and to serve time in prison.
Now Lamar, who lives in Cleveland, operates a stamping press, churning out thousands of specialty metal washers each day at Talan Products, a local manufacturer.
“I’ve always been mechanically inclined,” she said. “My mom told me I should have been an engineer.’’
Lamar got her job through a program developed by business and community leaders — with help from philanthropy — to match people of color, women, and formerly incarcerated people with manufacturing jobs.
Manufacturers in Cleveland and other cities, including Buffalo, Chicago, and Milwaukee, are dealing with a retiring workforce that’s left thousands of jobs unfilled. Nationally, the industry’s job gap is projected to hit 2 million by 2030, according to the National Association of Manufacturers. The Cleveland region has an estimated 10,000 manufacturing job openings.
By diversifying their job ranks, Cleveland-area manufacturers also hope to improve communities left behind as plants closed or moved to the suburbs. And now with $5 million in federal stimulus money, they expect to help create thousands of new manufacturing jobs over the next few years.
Philanthropy is investing millions of dollars in the Manufacturing Advocacy & Growth Network, a Cleveland nonprofit consulting group that’s leading the hiring push. The nonprofit offers adult training and high-school internships. The Cleveland Foundation has given $2.5 million as a capital building grant to the nonprofit and to help it set up the internships.
A dozen other foundations contributed about $4 million of the $18.5 million to help build the nonprofit’s new headquarters and training center. It opened in October in one of Cleveland’s poorest neighborhoods. The remainder of the funding came from state and local governments, companies, and individuals.
Giving from foundations and nonprofits groups has leveraged millions of dollars in public funds, said Ethan Karp, CEO of the manufacturing nonprofit.
“You can see this unique role of philanthropy,” he said. “Without it, there would be no (manufacturing) partnership, and none of those government monies would have come earlier.”
The nonprofit has helped manufacturers here hire several hundred employees and interns in recent years. While that’s not nearly enough to ease the job crunch, a major expansion is underway with plans to train and hire about 3,000 workers by 2025 using the federal stimulus money. The plan is to quickly expand the number of job trainees and high school internships.
“Single companies cannot provide holistic community solutions,” Karp said. “You need civic engagement, and you need companies working together. The role we play is to bring those companies together with the trainers, with the transportation companies, with local governments, and with the social-service organizations.”
MANUFACTURING JOB CRUNCH
Manufacturing remains an economic pillar in Northeast Ohio, despite a half century of plant closings and layoffs. The industry still employs more than 270,000 workers in a 21-county region, but it struggles to find enough workers. Most job openings are entry-level, but others are in engineering, computing, and data analysis.
A national emphasis on college over vocational education has squeezed the pipeline of talent to the industry, which many still perceive as a dark and dirty business, even with the rise of automation and technology. Meanwhile, some communities in large manufacturing cities have little access or exposure to the industry even as they experience higher rates of unemployment and underemployment.
“It’s hard to imagine a life that you have no visibility of or no access to,” Karp said. “There’s a lot of untapped potential that doesn’t even know a career in manufacturing exists. It’s an issue for them, but it’s also an issue for manufacturing as well that they’re not getting the best talent that they could.”
Lamar learned about the Access to Manufacturing Careers training program while she was living in a halfway house after her release from prison. The program, launched three years ago, pays trainees $14 an hour as they learn the fundamentals. Lamar is among 113 of the program graduates who have gotten manufacturing jobs, according to the nonprofit.
Another program supported by the Cleveland Foundation is the manufacturing nonprofit’s high-school internship program, Early College, Early Career. Students like high-school senior Kyren Lewis divide time between school and training. Lewis works at Lincoln Electric, a welding-equipment manufacturer. He’s among 29 students, including five women, enrolled in the paid internship program.
Students attend weekly classes at the new center that prepare them for entry-level manufacturing jobs, while also working part time at area companies. Over all, 92 students have graduated from the program since 2017, with 80% receiving job offers.
Training in manufacturing lifts the job skills of Clevelanders, builds wealth, and makes the city’s work force more attractive to business, said Bishara Addison, director of job preparation for the Fund for Our Economic Future, an alliance of funders that contributed to the new center and helps fund the manufacturing nonprofit’s operations.
Manufacturing job-training programs in the disadvantaged communities around the country should see a boost under the Biden administration, which is overseeing large investments in roads and bridges, semiconductor production, and clean energy, said Michelle Burris of the Century Foundation, a progressive think tank.
MIDWESTERN SUCCESS
Some programs are already seeing success. Chicago’s nonprofit Jane Addams Resource Corporation has placed 274 people in manufacturing jobs since 2017. Their training included welding, 3-D printing and computer-controlled machining. The nonprofit has expanded its job training program to Baltimore and Rhode Island.
Like the Cleveland nonprofit, the Chicago program offers supporting services, such as a job coach and emergency cash assistance before and after trainees are hired by manufacturers.
“We focus on long-term outcomes for our clients,” said Danielle Hoske, director of development and communications for Jane Addams. “We want to really build a life of financial stability and security.”
At the Northland Workforce Training Center in Buffalo, nearly 900 students have earned certificates or associate degrees in manufacturing and energy-related industries. About 85% of its graduates are hired and earn an average salary of $40,000, according to information provided by the center.
In Milwaukee and across Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Regional Training Partnership is a network of manufacturers, construction companies, and unions that provide training and apprenticeships. Hundreds of young adults, women and people of color have landed jobs with an average salary of $48,500, according to the network’s website.
“Companies need people, and they’re willing to do more than they normally would to look in places they haven’t looked before,” Karp said. “There’s a beautiful confluence of having the right outcomes in terms of tackling racial and economic disparities and achieving good business outcomes.”
Lamar says she appreciates the training that helped her land her job, and she plans to stick with this job.
“Coming from where I came from, I had no clue of how to run a press,” Lamar said. “I was a welder with very little experience in machining. So being able to learn and accomplish a lot of stuff that has to do with the press, that was the greatest fulfillment.”
____
This article was provided to The Associated Press by the Chronicle of Philanthropy. Reporting for this article is part of a Chronicle of Philanthropy fellowship with local news organizations and was underwritten by a Lilly Endowment grant to enhance public understanding of philanthropy. The Land is solely responsible for the content in this article. The AP and the Chronicle receive support from the Lilly Endowment for coverage of philanthropy and nonprofits. For all of AP’s philanthropy coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/philanthropy. | 2023-05-20T11:03:42+00:00 | wnct.com | https://www.wnct.com/news/business/ap-business/ap-philanthropy-helps-boost-manufacturing-in-areas-with-high-job-vacancies/ |
NEW YORK — Many of his colleagues had already left for the night, but as Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., stepped out onto the Capitol steps Wednesday, he had business left to do: heckling Republicans.
“Have some dignity!” he yelled toward first-term Rep. George Santos, R-N.Y., who is fighting federal fraud charges, and to a sea of TV cameras waiting below.
“Listen, no more QAnon, no more MAGA, no more debt ceiling nonsense,” he said as he pivoted to another confrontation, this time with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., who stood nearby.
The theatrical back-and-forth ended as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y. and member of the left-wing “Squad,” gave a slight tug on Bowman’s arm, repeating, “She ain’t worth it, bro” — but not before a handful of lawmakers whipped out cellphone cameras to capture the soon-to-be viral spat.
In this hyperpartisan era, the country has no shortage of politicians willing to savage one another from across a hearing room or on social media. But Bowman, a media-savvy democratic socialist from the Bronx, has rapidly made a name for himself this spring by going where most of them have not: up to his opponents’ actual faces.
Bowman’s platform includes far-reaching left-wing policies that split his party. Still, his style — “middle school principal energy,” he calls it — appears to have captured the id of even more moderate Democrats and has fueled party speculation about his ambition.
A video in which an AR-15-owning House Republican from Kentucky tells Bowman, 47, to “calm down” as they argue over how to stop gun violence has already been viewed more than 7 million times. A friendlier confrontation, with a conservative House colleague, spawned a full CNN debate.
“I don’t mean any harm,” Bowman said in an interview. “I ain’t trying to hurt nobody. But we’ve got to take America to the next level, and we are not moving with urgency.”
The approach also carries risks, especially for a Black man, some of which came into sharp relief Thursday. That is when Greene, a combative Georgian with a history of spouting conspiracy theories and directly confronting her own political opponents, said that she had felt threatened by Bowman, even though video showed her smiling as they sparred.
Greene said that Bowman had called her a white supremacist, an insult she claimed was “equal to” someone “calling a person of color the N-word.”
She then said that the congressman’s “physical mannerisms are aggressive” and accused him of leading a “mob” targeting her when they both appeared outside a Manhattan courthouse where former President Donald Trump was being arraigned — an apparent reference to a crowd that consisted largely of members of the news media.
“I’m very concerned about Jamaal Bowman,” Greene said, “and he’s someone that people should watch.”
The comments left Bowman outraged, if not quite surprised.
“There’s a history of this, from Mike Brown to Emmett Till to any Black man who is passionate, outspoken, intelligent, trying to stand their ground being confronted with violence,” Bowman said. “Her words today were violent and might induce violence if they get into the wrong ears.”
The exchange underscored how much is at stake in an approach that scholars of political rhetoric called a sharp departure from how members of Congress, and Black politicians more broadly, have married policy and style for generations.
Michael Eric Dyson, a professor of African American studies at Vanderbilt University, said that Bowman was part of a younger generation of Black politicians who have been shaped by hip-hop culture and who bring “unvarnished gutbucket speech to bear on American politics,” with no desire to coddle those who disagree with them.
“He’s not concerned about moderating his speech or modulating his voice to please, to protect or to somehow placate the dominant white ear or culture,” Dyson said. “He ain’t doing it.”
Bowman, who spent years as a teacher and administrator, won his Bronx and Westchester County seat in 2020, defeating a more moderate three-decade incumbent in a Democratic primary.
He ran on a platform that included a wealth tax on the rich, national rent control, sweeping climate policies with a federal jobs guarantee, shifting money from police departments to social services, and a single-payer health care system.
But during his first term in Washington, Bowman mostly kept his head down and proved to be a reliable ally of House leaders. His tenure started just before the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol and played out as Congress struggled to move past the coronavirus pandemic.
That began to change this spring, after Bowman won reelection by a wide margin and as Ocasio-Cortez has pulled back from some of the fights she helped steer as a new member of Congress.
He said he had begun a series of “passionate engagements” with Republican colleagues because he felt politicians often sounded “like the Charlie Brown” teacher in the “Peanuts” television specials whose words were rendered as incomprehensible sounds.
“I’m not a career politician. I’m not a millionaire. I’m not a businessman,” Bowman said. “I’m an educator, and I engage differently, I guess, than what the institution is used to.”
Bowman, an avid user of TikTok, made waves this spring when he became the first and, for a time, the only lawmaker to defend the app, which is owned by a Chinese company, as President Joe Biden and national security hawks threatened to ban it from operating in the United States.
Other progressives soon joined him in arguing that the push was rooted in “xenophobic anti-China rhetoric.”
A spirited back-and-forth on the Capitol steps with Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., with whom he liked to talk sports, led CNN to stage a debate between the two Black men on race and education policy.
“CNN aired two different Black men from two different parties for, like, 30 minutes in an intellectual conversation about our democracy,” Bowman said.
All of the attention has fueled speculation that Bowman is contemplating a primary challenge against Mayor Eric Adams of New York City, a moderate Democrat whose policing and social services policies he has sharply criticized. Bowman denied that he was gearing up for a run.
“No, no, no, I’m chilling. I’m good, man,” he said. “I love being in Congress.”
Bowman said that he had no real relationship with Greene when he approached her after just such a vote Wednesday but that he had been conscious of the effect his presence could have. “I’m not stupid,” he said.
The exchange was pointed but tame. “Do something about guns!” he said. “Invest in education.”
“Impeach Biden,” Greene shot back as she twisted the exchange back toward issues like immigration, blaming Democrats for the influx of migrants crossing the southern border. She shook a fist at one point, but the scrum appeared to break up amicably.
After Greene’s comments Thursday, Bowman accused her of recklessly using “a bullhorn to white nationalists.”
Nick Dyer, a spokesperson for Greene, rejected Bowman’s complaint, saying it was Greene who faced constant death threats.
“Mr. Bowman doesn’t need to play victim,” he said. “He needs to recognize his targeting of Congresswoman Greene will encourage this violence.” | 2023-05-19T23:45:53+00:00 | seattletimes.com | https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/nation-politics/jamaal-bowman-finds-his-voice-some-republicans-dont-like-the-sound/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_nation-world |
(WXIN) – Walmart hopes to entice customers to its Walmart+ service by adding some free streaming.
The retailer will soon be offering a Paramount+ subscription to Walmart+ members at no additional charge.
The new benefit will be available starting next month, Walmart announced. Members will be subscribed to the Paramount+ Essential tier, which is the service’s ad-supported version.
The company’s Walmart+ service currently offers free shipping with no minimum order, free same-day grocery delivery from local Walmart locations and fuel discounts, among other benefits. But Walmart is apparently aiming to grow its subscriber base as it tries to compete with Amazon, whose Prime subscription boasts a number of consumer benefits, including Prime Video.
Walmart+ currently costs $12.95 a month, or $98 per year. A subscription to the Paramount+ Essential tier typically goes for $4.99 a month, or about $60 a year.
Paramount+ began its life in the streaming world as CBS All Access. The service was rebranded under the Paramount banner in March 2021. The platform offers CBS and Paramount content, including Paramount Movies, select sports, several “Star Trek” shows and more.
Paramount+ is also home to original content and recent theatrical releases such as “The Lost City,” “Sonic the Hedgehog 2” and “Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins.” | 2022-08-16T16:19:04+00:00 | wboy.com | https://www.wboy.com/news/national/walmart-adds-free-paramount-streaming-for-subscribers/ |
By Diane Daily
With the cost of most groceries going up, it’s not surprising that the annual Fourth of July barbecue is going to cost more this year.
The Indiana Farm Bureau is out with its annual market basket survey that shows the cost of a summer cookout for 10 is up 13-percent. We’ll be paying more than 64-dollars when we go through the checkout, thanks to higher prices for ground beef, hamburger buns, chicken, side salads and ice cream.
But the news isn’t all bad. According to the Farm Bureau’s survey, Indiana residents are still paying 8-percent less than the national average.
A state policy designed to make solar power more popular in Indiana will expire tomorrow.
The Indianapolis Star is reporting today that, once that deadline passes, Hoosiers won’t be eligible to take part in what’s known as net metering when they install solar panels on their roofs.
Net metering is a utility rate structure that makes the switch to solar more economical, giving homeowners credits for the excess energy that’s generated.
A routine drainage project has led to a rare discovery at the French Lick Resort in West Baden.
Workers at the resort found the once popular Neptune Spring near the old train station on the east side of the property. The long-buried spring was available to guests starting in 1892 and was in use for over a decade.
According to historians, the spring was most likely abandoned because of flooding.
At 5:00 this afternoon, the Bloomington Preservation Commission will be meeting in the McCloskey Room at City Hall.
And at the Monroe County Fair tonight, the Three Bar Jay Rodeo will get underway at 7:00 in the Grandstand. The Fair runs through this Sunday with the annual demolition derby coming up Saturday night. | 2022-07-01T16:27:12+00:00 | wgclradio.com | https://www.wgclradio.com/top-story/wgcl-news-the-annual-fourth-of-july-barbecue-is-going-to-cost-more-this-year/ |
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) _ BigCommerce Holdings, Inc. (BIGC) on Thursday reported a loss of $39.6 million in its second quarter.
The Austin, Texas-based company said it had a loss of 54 cents per share. Losses, adjusted for costs related to mergers and acquisitions and stock option expense, came to 19 cents per share.
The results surpassed Wall Street expectations. The average estimate of 10 analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research was for a loss of 24 cents per share.
The company posted revenue of $68.2 million in the period, also exceeding Street forecasts. Ten analysts surveyed by Zacks expected $66.2 million.
For the current quarter ending in October, BigCommerce said it expects revenue in the range of $68.3 million to $71.2 million.
The company expects full-year revenue in the range of $277 million to $282.9 million.
BigCommerce shares have dropped 48% since the beginning of the year. In the final minutes of trading on Thursday, shares hit $18.35, a fall of 73% in the last 12 months.
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This story was generated by Automated Insights (http://automatedinsights.com/ap) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on BIGC at https://www.zacks.com/ap/BIGC | 2022-08-04T22:39:20+00:00 | lmtonline.com | https://www.lmtonline.com/business/article/BigCommerce-Q2-Earnings-Snapshot-17352553.php |
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Coughing and sneezing, echoing just about everywhere. Allergies are tougher to manage this year, and doctors say there are several factors.
“It’s just horrible,” said William Brittendall, Wichitan.
Many are reaching for the tissues or allergy meds right now.
“Lot of stuffy nose, lot of runny nose, my eyes feel like they have sand in it just really bad,” said Brittendall.
Assistant Professor and Dr. Tessa Rohrberg with the University of Kansas (KU) Family & Community Medicine said each year, allergies get worse.
“I don’t know if I’ve seen it quite like this before,” said Dr. Rhorberg.
The swing in temperatures between day and night, rain, and humidity are all contributing factors.
“In addition to the normal spring plants and grasses growing, there are perhaps more molds, different mushrooms, and things like that are coming up all over,” said Dr. Rohrberg.
At the same time, summer colds are also popping up.
“I have seen some cases of strep throat that are a little bit perhaps atypical for this time of year,” said Dr. Rohrberg.
To fight allergies and other illnesses, Dr. Rohrberg said to wash your hands, stay hydrated, and get some rest.
If symptoms persist, she recommends you call your doctor.
She said she has not seen an increase in the flu or COVID-19.
Dr. Rohrberg expects allergy symptoms to start to go away as temperatures get hotter. | 2023-05-25T12:31:47+00:00 | ksn.com | https://www.ksn.com/news/local/swing-in-temps-rain-humidity-all-contributing-to-stronger-allergy-season/ |
There have been more than 100 crashes involving motorcycles this year in Montgomery County, causing officials to urge caution on the roadways.
There were 223 motorcycle fatalities in the state last year, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. In 2017, there were 157 motorcycle fatalities, and in 2018 there 144. There have been 105 motorcycle fatalities in Ohio so far this year, the OSHP reported. Three of those were in Montgomery County.
There have been 6,661 crashes and 32 fatal crashes in Montgomery County overall.
Both motorcyclists and those who drive other vehicles have a responsibility for limiting injuries and deaths that result from motorcycle crashes, OSHP Staff Lt. Geoff Freeman said. He said driving at safe speeds, wearing safety equipment and looking both ways twice help prevent crashes.
“The goal is for everybody to get to where they are going safely,” he said.
Freeman said the local highway patrol continues to see drivers speeding excessively on area roads. He said it’s not uncommon for both motorcyclists and other drivers to be traveling at speeds 20 mphmore than the speed limit.
“I know you get these high-powered sports bikes, and I’m not saying everybody, but some people like to drive those fast,” Freeman said. “Drive the speed limit.
“I was in my regular car (recently) and there was a motorcycle going real fast cutting in and out of traffic. The problem is when somebody else tries to change lanes or needs to stop, if you’re on a motorcycle the result 90% of the time isn’t going to be good.”
Freeman and Fermin Heras, a local motorcycle instructor, said wearing a helmet and protective clothing are also good ideas. No one expects to be in crash, they said, but taking safety precautions can prevent serious injuries.
Heras said motorcyclists should consider continuing their education and going through training even if they are experienced.
“Education never finishes. I don’t know anybody who says they know everything about motorcycles. You keep learning by experience. It’s like driving a car,” he said. “Unfortunately with motorcycles, when you get too comfortable, you start not paying attention to the more significant details.”
Both men also stressed using caution even at a green light. Freeman said people are in a hurry, but being in a crash will delay a person longer than taking the time to check for oncoming traffic two times.
Heras also said that people should be on the lookout specifically for motorcycles.
“Motorcycles are very small (compared to a car) and our brains have been trained to look for big vehicles, not for a motorcycle,” Heras said. “Sometimes it’s better for car drivers to spend a little more time and look both ways and pay attention because a motorcycle can come in every direction. There are big motorcycles, but they can also be smaller and thinner.”
Motorcycle fatalities by year in Ohio
2017: 157
2018: 144
2019: 160
2020: 212
2021: 223
2022 YTD: 105
Source: Ohio State Highway Patrol
About the Author | 2022-08-16T08:15:57+00:00 | daytondailynews.com | https://www.daytondailynews.com/crime/more-than-100-motorcycle-crashes-recorded-in-montgomery-county-so-far-this-year/7OMI2QQN3VFDLNIWTTKE64OBBI/ |
CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — Two men were arrested in Citrus County on Friday in connection to a string of burglaries that happened at local churches and storage facilities throughout the county, the sheriff's office said in a news release.
Deputies say 68-year-old Steven Rodrick and Henry Hudson, 54, of Homosassa admitted to theft and informed officials of where the stolen property was located.
Detectives were able to identify Rodrick and Hudson through surveillance video, according to the news release.
The men reportedly took various items like lawnmowers and air compressors from Good Shepard Lutheran Church in Hernando; the equipment had a total value of about $13,000.
During the investigation, detectives say they also found an additional property that had been reported as stolen back in June of this year from the Gulf to Lake Church in Crystal River.
Rodrick was charged with two counts of burglary to a structure and three counts of grand theft. Hudson was charged with one count of burglary to a structure, two counts of grand theft, as well as a violation of probation.
"A burglary can happen to anyone at any time," Sheriff Mike Prendergast said in a statement. "I am proud of our detectives and analysts who nimbly worked together to solve and put a stop to these crimes."
The sheriff's office says if you are the victim of burglary or theft, security systems and cameras increase the likelihood of developing leads to solving the case.
Anyone with information about stolen property or other crime is asked to call the sheriff's office at 352-249-2790 or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-ANY-TIPS. | 2022-10-19T14:42:41+00:00 | wtsp.com | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/citruscounty/men-arrested-church-burglaries/67-ed8a1bdf-7019-4116-8f50-6b7a7fd70d62 |
Baltimore Sun staff writers pick every game of the NFL season. Here’s who they have winning in Week 16:
Jacksonville Jaguars at New York Jets (Thursday, 8:15 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer (138-83-2 overall, 10-6 last week): Jets
Childs Walker (147-74-2 overall, 11-5 last week): Jaguars
Ryan McFadden (133-88-2 overall, 13-3 last week): Jaguars
Mike Preston (129-92-2 overall, 10-6 last week): Jaguars
Buffalo Bills at Chicago Bears (Saturday, 1 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Bills
Childs Walker: Bills
Ryan McFadden: Bills
Mike Preston: Bills
Cincinnati Bengals at New England Patriots (Saturday, 1 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Patriots
Childs Walker: Bengals
Ryan McFadden: Bengals
Mike Preston: Bengals
Detroit Lions at Carolina Panthers (Saturday, 1 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Lions
Childs Walker: Lions
Ryan McFadden: Lions
Mike Preston: Lions
Houston Texans at Tennessee Titans (Saturday, 1 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Texans
Childs Walker: Titans
Ryan McFadden: Titans
Mike Preston: Titans
New Orleans Saints at Cleveland Browns (Saturday, 1 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Saints
Childs Walker: Browns
Ryan McFadden: Browns
Mike Preston: Browns
New York Giants at Minnesota Vikings (Saturday, 1 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Vikings
Childs Walker: Vikings
Ryan McFadden: Vikings
Mike Preston: Vikings
Seattle Seahawks at Kansas City Chiefs (Saturday, 1 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Chiefs
Childs Walker: Chiefs
Ryan McFadden: Chiefs
Mike Preston: Chiefs
Washington Commanders at San Francisco 49ers (Saturday, 4:05 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: 49ers
Childs Walker: 49ers
Ryan McFadden: 49ers
Mike Preston: 49ers
Philadelphia Eagles at Dallas Cowboys (Saturday, 4:25 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Cowboys
Childs Walker: Cowboys
Ryan McFadden: Eagles
Mike Preston: Eagles
Las Vegas Raiders at Pittsburgh Steelers (Saturday, 8:15 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Raiders
Childs Walker: Steelers
Ryan McFadden: Steelers
Mike Preston: Steelers
Green Bay Packers at Miami Dolphins (Sunday, 1 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Dolphins
Childs Walker: Dolphins
Ryan McFadden: Dolphins
Mike Preston: Dolphins
Denver Broncos at Los Angeles Rams (Sunday, 4:30 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Broncos
Childs Walker: Broncos
Ryan McFadden: Rams
Mike Preston: Rams
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Arizona Cardinals (Sunday, 8:20 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Buccaneers
Childs Walker: Buccaneers
Ryan McFadden: Buccaneers
Mike Preston: Buccaneers
Los Angeles Chargers at Indianapolis Colts (Monday, 8:15 p.m.)
Jonas Shaffer: Chargers
Childs Walker: Chargers
Ryan McFadden: Chargers
Mike Preston: Chargers
()
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BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday evening's drawing of the Louisiana Lottery's "Pick 5" game were:
5-3-7-7-6
(five, three, seven, seven, six)
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday evening's drawing of the Louisiana Lottery's "Pick 5" game were:
5-3-7-7-6
(five, three, seven, seven, six) | 2023-01-28T04:42:26+00:00 | sfgate.com | https://www.sfgate.com/lottery/article/winning-numbers-drawn-in-pick-5-game-17747753.php |
JAKARTA, Indonesia, July 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Gold and GemStone Mining, Inc. (OTC: GGSM); "the Company"), a leader in chartering to the World-Famous Mentawai Island and Beyond, Posts Positive Revenues poised for further growth as world travel to Indonesia opens for business.
The Company is highlighting significant achievements solidifying its strong foundation for growth in the coming year.
"We are very pleased with the performance of the Company through the pandemic." stated Volha Zvalinskaya, GGSM, President. "We continue to build a solid base of recurring revenue by issuing Visas, accommodations, and charter boat services into the World class surfing area of the Mentawai Islands. This is due to Company's CEO and CFO, Rudi Khelces, team hard work and determination to offer Clients charters to uncrowded beaches, marine and remote high-quality surfing waves, and providing an unforgettable experience."
Key Highlights April 30, 2022, Quarterly report, Company's Net income increased 43.29% to $2,320,641 from $1,619,530 in the April 30, 2021 Quarterly report, and assets grew to $5,201,804, an increase of 1452% compared to April 30, 2021.
GGSM anticipates further growth ahead with the world reopening as travelers chase the full excitement/exhilaration of the charter services and leisure boating vacation experience, immersing themselves in warm-weather remote uncrowded activities to beaches and marine and high-quality surfing. The GGSM management team is reviewing new opportunities and strategic partnerships while growing a proven business model for continued long-term growth and profitability.
ABOUT GGSM CORPORATION
GGSM is a publicly-traded company, engaged in the charter boat business in the Mentawai Islands and Beyond. The Kuda Laut's charter vessel is a Mentawai Surf Charter vessel to the World-Famous Mentawai Islands. The Kuda Laut has been chartering to the Mentawai, Telos, Nias, and Banyak Islands for over 25 seasons. From the Lagundri Bay in Nias, the Hinakos, the Bay of Plenty in the Banyaks, the Telos long rights, and the famous waves in the Mentawai, such as Rifles. No Kandui, Ebay, etc., in the Playground, to telescopes, Bintang, Lances Right.
SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT
This press release contains forward-looking statements that can be identified by terminology such as "believes," "expects," "potential," "plans," "suggests," "may," "should," "could," "intends," or similar expressions. Many forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from any future results implied by such statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, our ability to continue to enhance our products and systems to address industry changes, our ability to expand our customer base and retain existing customers, our ability to effectively compete in our market segment, the lack of public information on our Company, our ability to raise sufficient capital to fund our business, operations, our ability to continue as a going concern, and a limited public market for our common stock, among other risks. Many factors are difficult to predict accurately and are generally beyond the Company's control. Forward-looking statements speak only as to the date they are made, and we do not undertake to update forward-looking statements to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statements are made.
For More Information, visit https://ggsmglobal.com
Gold and Gemstone Mining, Inc., Investor Relations
- Website: https://ggsmglobal.com
- Email: ir@ggsmglobal.com
View original content:
SOURCE Gold and Gemstone Mining, Inc. | 2022-07-28T14:48:47+00:00 | live5news.com | https://www.live5news.com/prnewswire/2022/07/28/gold-gemstone-mining-inc-announced-first-quarterly-report-2022/ |
AVON, Ind. — Several central Indiana law enforcement agencies are warning parents and their children about the dangers of fentanyl.
It’s all part of the DEA’s “One Pill Can Kill” campaign. The Avon Police Department is just one of many agencies trying to take a stand and raise awareness about fentanyl.
“If we can prevent even one life from being taken from these drugs, that’s our responsibility, and that’s our passion,” said Avon Police Deputy Chief of Investigations Brian Nugent.
As law enforcement across the state try to crack down on fentanyl, there is a growing concern about who might get their hands on it. Just this year, two Avon high school students lost their lives to an overdose.
“We’re seeing families suffer terrible loss of their children,” Nugent said. “And we’re trying to do everything we can to stop that.”
That’s why Nugent said his department wants to engage the community.
“Right now we’re really just trying to get parents to understand these pills are out here,” he said. “They are out in our community. There are pills that may look at face value to be legitimate.”
The DEA reports six out of 10 fake prescription pills seized in 2022 were laced with fentanyl.
“It’s about 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine,” said Dr. Derrick Oaxaca, an Emergency Medicine Physician with Ascension St. Vincent.
A tiny amount can be lethal, but medical experts say the danger does not stop there.
“To make things even worse, fentanyl acts pretty quick,” Oaxaca said. “So you have a lot of people that suffer from Opioid Use Disorder that use fentanyl that don’t have time to respond or react to the effect.”
Avon police say the “One Pill Can Kill” campaign is about getting ahead of the problem.
“The biggest issue we want to stress to parents is have the courage to have these discussions with their children,” Nugent said.
The department has even brought the topic to local schools. Nugent said Avon Police plan to keep engaging with schools as well as local mental health and addiction specialists.
Parents can learn more about fentanyl here on the DEA’s website. | 2023-05-25T05:08:00+00:00 | cbs4indy.com | https://cbs4indy.com/indiana-news/avon-police-trying-to-raise-awareness-with-dea-one-pill-can-kill-campaign/ |
WASHINGTON (AP) — House leaders say the impact of a hack of health insurance marketplace used by members of Congress “could be extraordinary,” exposing sensitive personal data of lawmakers, their employees and families.
DC Health Link, which runs the exchange, said an unspecified number of customers were affected and it was notifying them and working with law enforcement to quantify the damage. It said it was offering identity theft service to those affected and extending credit monitoring to all customers.
Some 11,000 of the exchange’s more than 100,000 participants work in the House and Senate or are relatives.
In a letter to the exchange’s director posted on Twitter, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said the breach “significantly increase the risk that Members, staff and their families will experience identity theft, financial crimes, and physical threats.”
They said the FBI had informed them that it was able to purchase the stolen data on the dark web, where it was offered for sale for an unspecified amount Monday on a hacker forum popular with cybercriminals.
The FBI said in a brief statement Wednesday evening it said it was aware of the incident and was assisting.
In the letter, McCarthy and Jeffries said “the individuals selling the information appear unaware of the high-level sensitivity of the confidential information in their possession, and its relation to Members of Congress” but that would change as media reports publicized the breach.
They said the FBI had not yet determined the extent of the breach but that thousands of House members, employees and their families have enrolled in health insurance through DC Health Link since 2014. “The size and scope of impacted House customers could be extraordinary.”
It was not clear whether and how the FBI could guarantee that copies of the stolen data are not circulating in the cybercrime underworld.
In the sale offer, a broker on the online crime forum claimed to have records on 170,000 DC Health Link customers and said they were stolen Monday. Reached on Wednesday via encrypted chat, the broker said they were acting on behalf of a seller known as “thekilob.”
By Thursday, the offer and sample stolen data posted to the forum had been removed. The data listed Social Security numbers, addresses, names of employers, phone numbers, emails and addresses for a dozen DC Link participants. The AP reached one by phone on Wednesday evening.
“Oh my God,” the man said when informed the information was public. All 12 people listed work for the same company or are family members.
In an email to all Senate email account holders on Wednesday, the sergeant at arms recommended that anyone registered on the health insurance exchange freeze their credit to prevent identity theft.
An email sent out by the office of the Chief Administrative Office of the House on behalf of McCarthy and Jeffries called the breach “egregious” and urged members to use credit and identity theft monitoring resources.
In an emailed statement on Wednesday, Rep. Joe Morelle of New York said House leadership was informed by Capitol Police that DC Health Link “suffered an extraordinarily large data breach of enrollee information” that posed a “great risk” to members, employees and their family members. He said the FBI was still determining the “cause, size, and scope of the data breach.”
The hack follows several recent breaches affecting U.S. agencies. Hackers broke into a U.S. Marshals Service computer system and activated ransomware on Feb. 17 after stealing personally identifiable data about agency employees and targets of investigations.
An FBI computer system was recently breached at the bureau’s New York field office, CNN reported in mid-February. Asked about that intrusion, the FBI issued a statement calling it “an isolated incident that has been contained.” It declined further comment, including when it occurred and whether ransomware was involved.
There was no indication the DC Health breach was ransomware-related.
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Bajak reported from Boston. | 2023-03-09T17:14:10+00:00 | keloland.com | https://www.keloland.com/news/technology/ap-technology/health-data-breach-hitting-congress-could-be-extraordinary/ |
Nolan Jones Player Prop Bets: Rockies vs. Diamondbacks - May 29
Published: May. 29, 2023 at 4:24 AM CDT|Updated: 2 hours ago
On Monday, Nolan Jones (coming off going 1-for-4) and the Colorado Rockies face the Arizona Diamondbacks, whose starting pitcher will be Ryne Nelson. First pitch is at 4:10 PM ET.
He had a one-hit showing in his most recent game (1-for-4) against the Mets.
Nolan Jones Game Info & Props vs. the Diamondbacks
- Game Day: Monday, May 29, 2023
- Game Time: 4:10 PM ET
- Stadium: Chase Field
- Live Stream: Watch this game on Fubo!
- Diamondbacks Starter: Ryne Nelson
- TV Channel: MLB Network
- Hits Prop: Over/under 0.5 hits (Over odds: -154)
- Home Runs Prop: Over/under 0.5 home runs (Over odds: +475)
- RBI Prop: Over/under 0.5 RBI (Over odds: +195)
- Runs Prop: Over/under 0.5 runs (Over odds: +140)
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Read More About This Game
Nolan Jones At The Plate (2022)
- Jones hit .244 with five doubles, two home runs and eight walks.
- Jones got a hit in 42.9% of his 28 games last year, with at least two hits in 25.0% of those contests.
- Logging a plate appearance in 28 games a season ago, he hit two homers.
- Jones drove in a run in six games last season out of 28 (21.4%), including multiple RBIs in 10.7% of those games (three times) and three or more RBIs on three occasions..
- He scored a run in six of 28 games last year (21.4%), including three multi-run games (10.7%).
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Nolan Jones Home/Away Batting Splits (2022)
Diamondbacks Pitching Rankings (2022)
- The Diamondbacks pitching staff was 24th in the league last season with a collective 7.7 strikeouts per nine innings.
- The Diamondbacks had the 23rd-ranked team ERA across all league pitching staffs (4.26).
- Diamondbacks pitchers combined to surrender 191 total home runs at a rate of 1.2 per game (fifth-most in baseball).
- Nelson makes the start for the Diamondbacks, his 11th of the season. He is 1-2 with a 5.02 ERA and 36 strikeouts in 52 2/3 innings pitched.
- His most recent appearance was on Tuesday against the Philadelphia Phillies, when the right-hander went six innings, surrendering one earned run while giving up three hits.
- The 25-year-old has put up an ERA of 5.02, with 6.2 strikeouts per nine innings, in 10 games this season. Opponents are hitting .281 against him.
© 2023 Data Skrive. All rights reserved. | 2023-05-29T11:06:54+00:00 | kwch.com | https://www.kwch.com/sports/betting/2023/05/29/nolan-jones-mlb-player-prop-bets/ |
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
© 2022 Good Karma Brands Milwaukee, LLC. | 2022-10-10T20:55:13+00:00 | wtmj.com | https://wtmj.com/sports/2022/10/10/ap-top-sports-news-at-318-p-m-edt-5/ |
Viral photo: Coal miner takes son to Blue-White Game in Pikeville
Published: Oct. 24, 2022 at 11:57 AM EDT|Updated: 10 minutes ago
PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WYMT) - A picture from this weekend’s University of Kentucky Blue-White Game in Pikeville is going viral.
In the photo, it shows a coal miner coming straight from work to the game at the Appalachian Wireless Arena on Saturday.
It caught the attention of UK Head Basketball Coach John Calipari, who posted it on his Facebook page Monday morning.
In the post, Coach Cal shared his family’s beginnings in the coal industry and said he would provide VIP tickets to the man and his son at a home game at Rupp Arena.
How awesome is that?
Copyright 2022 WYMT. All rights reserved. | 2022-10-24T16:08:28+00:00 | wymt.com | https://www.wymt.com/2022/10/24/viral-photo-coal-miner-takes-son-blue-white-game-pikeville/ |
SEATTLE, Jan. 20, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Washington Poison Center and Seattle Children's invite Washington state elementary students to participate in the 17th Annual Poison Prevention Poster Contest. This year's theme is "Where is Mr. Yuk Stuck?"
The annual Poison Prevention Poster Contest asks students in grades kindergarten through 6th to show in poster-format how Mr. Yuk and the Washington Poison Center help keep people safe from harmful substances. The winning artwork will be transformed into the Washington Poison Center's poster and other campaign materials for National Poison Prevention Week, March 19-25, 2023.
Since 2006, more than 3,000 elementary students have submitted artwork illustrating ways to remain safe from poisonous and toxic substances. "We greatly value the time and effort students and teachers spend working on the poster contest, learning about the poison center, and shining a spotlight on poison safety," commented Dr. Scott Phillips, the Washington Poison Center's Executive and Medical Director. "Encouraging young students to participate in poison prevention awareness is more important than ever, with ongoing poison risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and its repercussions. Our annual Poison Prevention Poster Contest is one way we can engage students and their communities, and ensure they know who to call, 24/7/365, when they need help."
The Washington Poison Center is pleased to partner with Seattle Children's for a second year on promoting the poster contest and providing online poison safety curriculum for elementary-aged students. Regarding this partnership, Isabell Sakamoto, Suicide and Injury Prevention Program Manager at Seattle Children's stated, "We appreciate the Washington Poison Center hosting this 17th Annual Poison Prevention Poster Contest, as well as engagement from schools, families, and students to help spread awareness and information about ways to keep communities safe from harmful substances. We look forward to seeing the artwork that students submit this year!"
Poison Prevention Poster Contest Schedule
- Contest Kick Off: January 17, 2023
- Last day to submit: February 10, 2023
- Winner announced: March 14, 2023
- National Poison Prevention Week: March 19 – 25, 2023
The winner will receive a class party and special classroom visit from Mr. Yuk, a Samsung Galaxy tablet, a visit with their local state legislators, and their artwork included in a poster and media packages for organizations across Washington state.
Click here for rules and additional contest information. Email mryuk@wapc.org with any questions.
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SOURCE Washington Poison Center | 2023-01-20T16:51:08+00:00 | wlbt.com | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2023/01/20/washington-poison-center-amp-seattle-childrens-launch-17th-annual-poison-prevention-poster-contest-washington-state-elementary-students/ |
Wheat for May rose 5 cents at $7.0475 a bushel; May corn was up 3.25 cents at $6.5050 a bushel, May oats was off 3.25 cents at $3.76 a bushel; while May soybeans gained 9.50 cents at $14.7725 a bushel.
Beef was mixed and pork was lower on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Apr. live cattle was up .87 cent at $1.6582 a pound; Mar. cattle was off .27 cent at $1.9145 a pound; while Apr. lean hogs fell .98 cent at $.7677 a pound. | 2023-03-29T21:01:24+00:00 | expressnews.com | https://www.expressnews.com/business/article/grains-mostly-higher-livestock-mixed-17867425.php |
Microsoft's chief software engineer blogged about it. Raymond Chen says a specific frequency, like the one in "Rhythm Nation," makes Windows XP hard drives go black.
Copyright 2022 NPR
Microsoft's chief software engineer blogged about it. Raymond Chen says a specific frequency, like the one in "Rhythm Nation," makes Windows XP hard drives go black.
Copyright 2022 NPR | 2022-08-24T10:34:49+00:00 | kunm.org | https://www.kunm.org/2022-08-24/janet-jacksons-1989-classic-rhythm-nation-can-make-some-laptops-crash |
CHICAGO, Nov. 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cboe Global Markets, Inc. (Cboe: CBOE), a leading provider of global market infrastructure and tradable products, announced today that Ed Tilly, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, will present at the Goldman Sachs 2022 U.S. Financial Services Conference in New York City on Wednesday, December 7 at 11:20 a.m. ET.
The live webcast and replay of the presentation will be accessible at www.cboe.com in the Investor Relations section, under Events and Presentations. The archived webcast is expected to be available within an hour of the presentation.
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-C
CBOE-OE
Cboe® and Cboe Global Markets® are registered trademarks of Cboe Global Markets, Inc. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.
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SOURCE Cboe Global Markets, Inc. | 2022-11-28T22:08:29+00:00 | kwch.com | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2022/11/28/cboe-global-markets-present-goldman-sachs-2022-us-financial-services-conference-wednesday-december-7/ |
The U.S. Supreme Court used an obscure legal idea to justify delaying the redrawing of Alabama’s congressional voting map in 2022. It allowed illegally-drawn voting districts to be used.
NPR’s Hansi Lo Wang reports.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2023-07-21T19:42:46+00:00 | nprillinois.org | https://www.nprillinois.org/2023-07-21/alabama-considers-redrawn-congressional-voting-map |
ELON, N.C. (AP) — Matthew McKay threw three touchdown passes, kicker Skyler Davis set a pair of school records, and Elon defeated Delaware 27-7 on Saturday.
McKay's touchdown passes of 19 yards to Chandler Brayboy, 11 yards to Bryson Daughtry and six yards to Malik Griffin all capped long scoring drives for the Phoenix. McKay completed 14 of 21 passes for 142 yards.
Davis kicked a school-record 53-yard field goal and became Elon's all-time scoring leader with 285 points. Jalen Hampton had 136 yards rushing for the Phoenix.
No. 11 FCS Delaware scored on the first possession of the game when Nolan Henderson passed to Braden Brose for 12 yards but the Blue Hens (6-2, 3-2 Colonial) did not score again, managing just 265 yards of total offense.
The Phoenix (6-3, 4-2) had 321 yards of offense and got a boost from three takeaways without a turnover of their own.
___
More AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/college-football and https://twitter.com/ap_top25. Sign up for the AP’s college football newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/mrxhe6f2 | 2022-10-29T23:25:29+00:00 | sfgate.com | https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/McKay-s-3-touchdown-passes-lead-Elon-past-17544042.php |
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California lawmakers blocked two big environmental bills Thursday, one that would have ramped up the state’s emissions targets and another that would have made oil companies liable for the health problems of people who live close to oil wells.
They are among the hundreds of bills that did not survive the Legislature’s suspense file, a mysterious process where lawmakers decide — with no explanation — which bills will get a chance to become law later this year and which ones should not move forward.
Last year, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law that bans drilling new oil wells within 3,200 feet of sensitive areas like homes and schools. But the law hasn’t taken effect because the oil industry qualified a referendum on the 2024 ballot asking voters to overturn it.
That referendum angered environmental and health advocates. They decided if the oil industry wanted to block that law, then they would try to pass another law to let people who got sick from living too close to wells to sue the oil companies responsible for them. The bill, authored by Sen. Lena Gonzalez, would have required oil companies to pay up to $1 million to people who have cancer or other health problems associated with the well.
“Today, we missed a key opportunity to advance legislation that would hold polluters accountable and prevent further harm to families who are just trying to stay healthy and have a better quality of life,” Gonzalez said in a statement.
The Senate Appropriations Committee stopped the bill from getting a vote by the full Senate, meaning it is not likely to become law this year. Jamie Court, president of the advocacy group Consumer Watchdog, blamed committee chair Sen. Anthony Portantino, a Democrat from Burbank who is also running for Congress.
“A bill like this should get a hearing by the full Senate and not be shoved in a drawer by one politician when we have millions of people living within a half mile of oil wells whose lives and health are at threat every damn day,” Court said.
Portantino’s office did not respond to an email seeking comment about why the bill was held.
Kara Greene, a spokesperson for the Western States Petroleum Association, which opposed the bill, said it would have been unfair to oil and gas companies and done more harm than good.
“The billions of dollars and the fiscal mess that this bill would have caused to the State and local governments from their own liabilities, the fiscal responsibility of inherited wells, and the cost to the court system, would be substantial,” Greene said in a statement.
State Sen. Henry Stern, a Malibu Democrat, introduced another bill this year that would have required the state to reduce its planet-warming emissions to 55% below the 1990 level by the end of 2030. The state has already set out to reduce those emissions by 40% by that same deadline.
California is also aiming to achieve carbon neutrality, meaning the state will remove as many carbon emissions as it releases, by 2045. The state Air Resources Board has approved rules to limit pollution from cars, trucks, lawn mowers and trains.
Bills that were held in the Senate and Assembly appropriations committees are not likely to pass this year, with a June 2 deadline looming for legislation to advance from one chamber.
Other bills that failed included a plan to allow people who struggling with suicidal thoughts to voluntarily register themselves on a “do not sell” list for firearms, and a proposal to ban people under 21 years old from using mobile phones, even hands-free, while driving. A bill that would require the Department of Justice to investigate all police’s use-of-force incidents that resulted in the death of civilians also didn’t make it through Thursday, nor did legislation that would have expanded access to mental health treatment for inmates.
Some proposals, including legislation to create a mental health hotline for California State University system students and a bill to stock government bathrooms with free menstrual products, were designated as two-year bills, meaning that they won’t be voted on before January.
Once bills are voted on in the Senate or Assembly, those that passed will move on to the other chamber. The Legislature has until mid-September to pass bills, then Newsom has about a month to reject them or sign them into law.
___
Associated Press writers Adam Beam and Trân Nguyễn contributed.
___
Sophie Austin is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Austin on Twitter: @sophieadanna | 2023-05-18T23:45:08+00:00 | fox44news.com | https://www.fox44news.com/news/business-news/ap-california-lawmakers-block-bill-allowing-people-to-sue-oil-companies-over-health-problems/ |
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Heavy snow and rain pounded California and other parts of the West on Friday in the nation’s latest winter storm, while tens of thousands of people in Michigan suffered in freezing temperatures days after one of the worst ice storms in decades caused widespread power outages.
Days of winter storms blacked out nearly 1 million homes and businesses from coast to coast, closed major roads, caused pileups on highways and snarled air travel. More than 460 flights were canceled and more than 7,400 were delayed Friday across the U.S., according to FlightAware.com.
In California, the National Weather Service warned of cold, snowy and rainy weather lasting through Saturday and issued flash flood warnings through 10 p.m. Friday for Los Angeles, its suburbs and a portion of Ventura County, a region that is home to about 6 million people.
Cellphones buzzed Friday afternoon with an emergency alert that warned: “This is a dangerous and life-threatening situation. Do not attempt to travel unless you are fleeing an area subject to flooding.”
Some places in the flash flood warning zone could see up to 10 inches (23 centimeters) of rain, the weather service said.
Authorities warned that heavy rainfall could cause debris flow in some areas burned by wildfires in recent years. Evacuation warnings were issued for some areas, with residents urged to be ready to flee at a moment’s notice.
Blizzard warnings were posted in the Sierra Nevada and Southern California mountain ranges, where as much as 5 feet (1.5 meters) of snow was expected. Temperatures could drop far below normal in the region, posing a special risk to homeless people.
“Simply put, this will be a historic event for the amount of snow over the higher peaks and lower elevation snow,” according to the regional weather office.
Interstate 5, the West Coast’s major north-south highway, was closed south of the Oregon border as snow fell to the floor of the Sacramento Valley. A high mountain pass north of Los Angeles also was closed for hours before finally reopening late Friday, although traffic was creeping along with a police escort.
In Michigan, hundreds of thousands of people remained without power Friday after a storm earlier this week coated power lines, utility poles and branches with ice as thick as three-quarters of an inch (1.9 centimeters). Gov. Gretchen Whitmer called Friday for more accountability on restoration efforts by the state’s two largest utilities.
Annemarie Rogers had been without power for a day and a half in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan. She sent two kids to stay with relatives and put extra blankets on the bed to try to keep warm.
“It’s kind of miserable,” she said. “We do have a gas fireplace that’s keeping us warm in one room. There’s some heat generating from the furnace, but with no electricity to the blower, it’s not circulating well.”
At one point, more than 820,000 customers in Michigan were in the dark. By Friday, that was down to under 600,000, most in the state’s populous southeastern corner around Detroit. But promises of power restoration by Sunday, when low temperatures were expected to climb back above zero (minus 18 Celsius), were of little consolation.
“That’s four days without power in such weather,” said Apurva Gokhale, of Walled Lake, Michigan. “It’s unthinkable.”
Tom Rankin said he and his wife were unable to reach his 100-year-old mother-in-law Friday morning by phone. The couple drove to her home in Bloomfield Township, Michigan, to find her in bed “with a whole lot of blankets,” Rankin said, adding they helped her to their car, planning to ride out the outage at another relative’s home.
“We’ve not had an ice storm in the last 50 years that has impacted our infrastructure like this,” said Trevor Lauer, president of Detroit-based DTE Electric.
At least three people have died in the storms. A Michigan firefighter died Wednesday after coming in contact with a downed power line, while in Rochester, Minnesota, a pedestrian died after being hit by a city-operated snowplow. Authorities in Portland, Oregon, said a person died of hyperthermia.
Much of Portland was shut down with icy roads not expected to thaw until Saturday after the city’s second-heaviest snowfall on record this week — nearly 11 inches (28 centimeters).
Tim Varner sat huddled with blankets in a Portland storefront doorway that shielded him from some of the wind, ice and snow. Local officials opened six overnight shelters but the 57-year-old, who has been homeless for two decades, said it was too hard to push a shopping cart containing his belongings to get to one.
“It’s impossible,” he said. “The snow gets built up on the wheels of your cart, and then you find slippery spots and can’t get no traction. So you’re stuck.”
In Northern California, snow piled up across Santa Cruz County as roads closed and motorists were forced to abandon their cars.
Not all were dismayed by the winter weather. In the San Francisco Bay Area, hundreds of people drove up to 2,500-foot (760-meter) Mount Tamalpais to play in the snow — a rarity in the area.
San Francisco resident Shankar Krishnan woke up at 4 a.m. and headed out hoping to see snow for the first time in a long time.
“It feels awesome. It’s like the trees are all frosty. There’s snow on the ground. There’s snow coming down from the sky,” Krishnan said. “It’s beautiful out here.”
Some schools in Nevada and northern Arizona were closed, and a Major League Soccer season-opening game in Southern California was postponed.
The storm has added to major precipitation from December and January “atmospheric rivers” that improved California’s drought outlook, but authorities who allocate water to farms, cities and industries remain cautious because of a recent history of abrupt changes in hydrologic conditions. ___
This story has been updated to correct the number of flights canceled and delayed across the U.S. A previous story used global figures instead of U.S. figures.
___
Taxin reported from Orange County, California, and White from Detroit. Contributing to this report were Associated Press journalists Haven Daley in California, Claire Rush in Oregon, Corey Williams in Michigan, Scott Sonner in Nevada, Margaret Stafford in Missouri and Sarah Brumfeld in Washington, along with many other AP journalists around the country. | 2023-02-25T03:47:23+00:00 | cbs4indy.com | https://cbs4indy.com/news/national-world/ap-us-news/ap-california-could-face-floods-blizzards-from-huge-us-storm/ |
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Mark Ronson is showing off his Barbies.
Scattered throughout his studio, the executive producer of the “Barbie” soundtrack — and a musical polymath known for his work with artists like Amy Winehouse and Lady Gaga — has a few “leftovers” scattered across the room. One doll is placed in a permanent split, stretched across a Moog synthesizer. Another is styled to look like primatologist Jane Goodall.
“I went to Toys R Us and I couldn’t find a single Ken,” he laughs. Fittingly, “that’s the theme of the movie.” Mattel HQ did end up sending over a few; the Ken that remains in Ronson’s studio is, appropriately, shirtless.
Finding the sound of “Barbie,” poised to become one of 2023’s biggest blockbusters, required careful consideration and research for a film with such a rich visual palette. In the end, he produced a stacked soundtrack that included Lizzo, Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa (who also acts in the movie) and more.
But it started with a simple text message.
The music supervisor on the project, George Drakoulias, shot Ronson a quick, “Barbie?” Ronson read the script and was in. He also scored “Barbie” with collaborator Andrew Wyatt. Ronson is no stranger to working on music for film, but executive producing a soundtrack album and scoring an entire movie, let alone, a movie of this size, was new territory. “It was a lot of learning on the job,” he says.
The soundtrack assignment began with two tracks: a pop song for a big dance number and an ’80s power ballad for Ken (name a genre with more “self-aware, bombastic silliness,” as Ronson calls it).
The former came first. Ronson came up with a chorus and beat — a detour from his first, far too obvious plan on writing “’80s, sugar-y pop,” and instead landing on a “groovy, melodic thing … with some toughness,” perfect for Dua Lipa. It became “Dance the Night,” the Lipa track featured in the film’s main trailer.
The Ken song came about differently. For the most part, Ronson works on instrumentals: When he wrote “Shallow” with Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper for “A Star Is Born,” for example, he only contributed lyrics to fill in gaps — the “surface, don’t hurt us,” line, as he recalls. But for the song that would become Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken,” Ronson couldn’t shake the lyric: “I’m just Ken, anywhere else I’d be a 10.”
So he sent director Greta Gerwig a demo with a few lines — including a deliciously mouthy lyric about “blonde fragility.” She sent it to Gosling, who plays Ken in the film, and knew immediately he needed to sing it. What could have soundtracked any scene in the film became its own musical moment.
Early on, Gerwig used the Bee Gees and ’70s discos as a reference point for Ronson.
“You know the Chicago (Disco Demolition) thing, where everyone burned their disco records, “Saturday Night Fever” had reached its apex and the poor Bee Gees were like, ‘All we wanted to do was make people dance! What did we do wrong?’” says Ronson. “That’s ‘Barbie.’”
If anything, that idea is more of a thematic one than a sonic guideline. The mood board was vast, and also included “Dolly Parton, Olivia Newton John, ‘Nine to Five,’” Ronson explains.
It speaks to why the “Barbie” soundtrack spans pop genres, including a reggaeton track courtesy Karol G, “Watati,” bubblegum K-pop from girl group Fifty Fifty featuring Kaliii in “Barbie Dreams,” and the falsetto-led piano ballad “What Was I Made For?” by Billie Eilish.
For Atlantic Records, who released the soundtrack, collaboration and diversity was key.
“All of these artists were brought in early on to do screenings with Mark, Greta, and the filmmakers. They would see scenes they were going to write their music to,” says Brandon Davis, executive vice president and co-head of pop A&R at the label. “Each of these artists wrote lyrics about the specific ways Barbie was important to them.”
Ronson echoes the sentiment.
“Karol G was like, ‘I’m here because I love Barbie. I wasn’t expecting this incredible film. This is awesome,’” he says. “And HAIM had this encyclopedic knowledge. The only VHS they were allowed in the ’90s, when they were kids, was this one Barbie thing. They knew every song.”
Others were tasked with a prompt: Lizzo’s “Pink”, which ends with a voiceover from Helen Mirren, was inspired by the lead Barbie, played by Margot Robbie, living through her perfect day. And because the film is a comedy with real-world complications, humor informed a lot of the songwriting: It’s in Dominic Fike’s “Hey Blondie” as well as the many samples of Charli XCX’s “Speed Drive.”
“(Soundtracks) are an area where we cracked the code and figured out how to make it work in a way where we support our partners creatively,” says Kevin Weaver, president of Atlantic Records West Coast, citing Atlantic’s work on other major soundtracks like from the “Fast & Furious” franchise, “The Fault in Our Stars,” and “ The Greatest Showman,” which produced massive hits like Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth’s “See You Again,” Charli XCX’s “Boom Clap,” and “This Is Me,” respectively.
But unlike those films, part of the acquisition process for “Barbie” required a trip to the doll factory, where Atlantic executives got to witness the doll-making process from inception to completion. (Davis and Weaver are both producers on the soundtrack.)
When working with legendary intellectual property, a soundtrack comes with some risks. Do you bring back Aqua’s 1997 hit “Barbie Girl,” or do you reimagine it? Surely Nicki Minaj must be featured — her fans are called Barbz.
“I remember — no offense — that I had a song on the “Ghostbusters” remake and I think six of the 12 songs were reinterpretations of Ray Parker Jr.(’s “Ghostbusters” theme),” says Ronson. “It all dovetailed into the single we have with Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice,” he continued, referencing the reworking of “Barbie Girl.”
“I’ve never really executive produced something before,” Ronson says. “I love this film. We had an amazing partner in Atlantic Records.”
“And then doing the score, but it was a lot of learning on the job. It was still a job that I’ve never really done before. … It’s fun to show people different scenes and getting them to dream big.” | 2023-07-18T11:02:43+00:00 | qcnews.com | https://www.qcnews.com/entertainment/ap-how-the-barbie-soundtrack-came-together-according-to-mastermind-mark-ronson/ |
TV audience for World Series Game 3 on Fox down 2.7%
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The Philadelphia Phillies’ 7-0 win over Houston in Game 3 of the World Series was seen by 11,162,000 viewers on Fox, down 2.7% from last year’s third game.
Atlanta’s 2-0 victory over the Astros last season was seen by 11,469,000. That game was on a Friday night, while this year’s Game 3 was on a Tuesday.
This year’s audience was up 34% from the 8,339,000 for the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 6-2 win over Tampa Bay in 2020, the lowest-rated World Series.
Including Fox Deportes and Fox’s streaming platforms, this year’s Game 3 was viewed by 11,373,000. The game, which began at 8:05 p.m. EDT and ended at 11:13 p.m., drew a 29.1 rating and 56 share in Philadelphia and a 21.9/47 in Houston.
Game 3 was postponed by rain on Monday night.
The first three games this year averaged 11,179,000 viewers on Fox, up 2% from the three-game average of 10,964,000 last year and an increase of 25% from the three-game average of 8,977,000 in 2020.
The rating is the percentage of television households tuned in to a broadcast. The share is the percentage viewing a telecast among those households with TVs on at the time.
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AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2022-11-03T00:52:55+00:00 | localnews8.com | https://localnews8.com/news/ap-national/2022/11/02/tv-audience-for-world-series-game-3-on-fox-down-2-7/ |
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Adrian Olivo's 36-yard field goal as time expired lifted North Carolina Central to a 22-20 victory over Tennessee Tech in a non-league regular season finale on Saturday.
Tennessee Tech (4-7) took a 20-19 lead on Jeremiah Oatsvall's 1-yard run with 2:43 remaining in the fourth quarter. The Golden Eagles' two-point conversion try was no good.
North Carolina Central (9-2) started at its own 28-yard line on what would be the game's final drive. The Eagles made four first downs — converting once on fourth down — and reached the Tennessee Tech 19-yard line. With time running out, Olivo made his third field goal of the game.
Latrell Collier had 130 yards rushing for North Carolina Central, the MEAC co-champion. Howard defeated Morgan State 35-6 on Saturday to tie the Eagles for the conference title, but North Carolina Central owns the tiebreaker.
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More AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/college-football and https://twitter.com/ap_top25. Sign up for the AP’s college football newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/mrxhe6f2 | 2022-11-20T04:50:09+00:00 | expressnews.com | https://www.expressnews.com/sports/article/Olivo-s-field-goal-as-time-expires-saves-day-for-17598431.php |
BEIJING, Sept. 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from China.org.cn on Chongqing's mountain fire and the greatness of the ordinary people:
This video you see was filmed just several days ago in Chongqing, China.
The red captures the blazing forest mountain fires, while the light blue emanates from the headlamps of all those walking towards the fire.
Chongqing, a metropolis in south-west China, is aptly dubbed the "mountain city". So much of the city is built on the mountains that it's hard to distinguish between the two. The scorching heat in late August set alight mountain fires across multiple spots in Chongqing. Some of the fires lasted for days, and in order to prevent them from rampaging to residential areas, fire fighters immediately got down to business.
The mountains, home to dense forests and perilous slopes, render them virtually impassable to automobiles. In such case, motorcycles are the most ideal option for carrying goods and personnel to the frontline. On hearing this, motorcycle dealers, motorcycle lovers, or even delivery drivers lined up to volunteer. Ding Yuncong, a fresh college graduate who claims himself to be "a lazy heat-fearing" guy, joined the volunteers without the slightest hesitation. Lacking a luggage rack on his motorbike, Ding carried all the goods on his shoulder. 25-year-old female rider Wu Puhui is an experienced motorcyclist. She rode up the mountain several dozen times every day, carrying more than 40 kilos of goods. The red bow she tied on her helmet adds a vivid spectacle to the dusty mountain paths. After a few days of volunteering, many motorbikes were worn out and needed repair. The owners, who have always cherished their motorbikes, did not say a single word of complaint.
While the motorcyclists kept the lifeblood of supplies running, many others did not sit around idly. Francis Stonier, an associate professor at Southwest University, responded quickly when he learned that experienced chainsaw users were needed. Together with other volunteers, he assembled 50 chainsaws on short notice. He said Chongqing is also his home. A restaurant owner in Chongqing provided food for frontline firefighters, and when preparing the food, she kept telling her staff to "pack more meat" for them. Firefighters who went downhill after fighting the flames took a rest at a villager's courtyard, and some were so tired that they fell asleep on the ground. The 95-year-old owner felt great sympathy and cooked porridge for them. She said: "I just want to feed these kids." Helping with fire-fighting, patrolling, creating fire breaks, transporting supplies, coordinating, logistical support… People despite their age, gender or origin, devoted themselves to these challenging tasks. They are all just ordinary people. But in the face of devouring fires, the love and selflessness that come from within has made every ordinary person a hero.
All the mountain fires in Chongqing have now been put out. In the wake of this disaster, locals are planning to plant new trees to rejuvenate the mountains in Chongqing next spring.
China Mosaic
http://www.china.org.cn/video/node_7230027.htm
Walking towards fire Everyday citizens, also heroes
http://www.china.org.cn/video/2022-09/05/content_78405464.htm
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SOURCE China.org.cn | 2022-09-05T13:19:23+00:00 | kcrg.com | https://www.kcrg.com/prnewswire/2022/09/05/walking-towards-fire-everyday-citizens-also-heroes/ |
(NEXSTAR) – Supply chain struggles have been apparent for the last few years. They have caused empty shelves, shipping delays, and, even shopping limits. Will it get any better in the new year?
Based on the current data, it’s hard to say.
Around this time last year, dozens of container ships were waiting off the coast of California to unload cargo at the U.S.’s two largest ports in Los Angeles and Long Beach. If you couldn’t find the item you were looking for in-store (likely because it was trapped on a container ship), you may have decided to order it online. That put an even greater demand on importers, leading to more backorders.
Now, there aren’t dozens of cargo ships waiting to unload. Stores have fewer backorders and more overstock. Many COVID-related restrictions have been lifted. Global supply chain pressure has increased since September, but at a much slower rate than we experienced in 2020 and much of 2021, data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York shows.
“We are in a very different place than we were,” Phil Levy, chief economist at the supply chain consultancy Flexport, told the Associated Press. “If you ask, how long does it take to move stuff, there has been notable improvement. If you measure it by how long would it take to get a cargo from Asia to a destination port, dramatically better.”
Many retailers are still dealing with an abundance of inventory they need to clear out as well. That could, for some, slow the influx of new inventory.
Some experts believe another unfortunate economic struggle, inflation, is helping to ease the pressure on supply chains. With less available spending money, Americans aren’t seeking out goods in such high demand, allowing supply chains to rebound.
Speaking with Bloomberg, Heath Zarin, founder and CEO of EV Cargo, says he believes 2023 will start with the “economic softness or weakness” we’re experiencing now. This may then “manifest itself in supply chains that are working better” but with less demand.
For some commodities, like poultry and eggs, the supply chain problem wasn’t all human-caused. Instead, a widespread avian flu outbreak put a strain on the industry as thousands of birds were killed to prevent the further spread of the virus. Experts expect the flu to wane into the new year, likely allowing that sector to recover.
Even if the supply chain is better than we have experienced since the start of the pandemic, some industry experts say it could take another year before it stabilizes. In a survey conducted in May and June, most supply chain executives said they “don’t expect a return to a more normal supply chain until the first half of 2024 or beyond.” Far less, 22%, say they expect a return to normal in the second half of 2023.
Other factors like a potential rail strike, geopolitical tensions, and downward shifts in demand, could, according to Forbes, still cause supply chain challenges in 2023 as well.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. | 2022-12-30T16:36:49+00:00 | wearegreenbay.com | https://www.wearegreenbay.com/news/national/will-the-supply-chain-troubles-get-any-better-in-2023/ |
Catlin Salt Fork recorded a big victory over Urbana University 79-31 in an Illinois boys basketball matchup.
Last season, Catlin Salt Fork and Urbana University faced off on Feb. 19, 2022 at Catlin Salt Fork High School. For more, click here.
In recent action on Feb. 11, Catlin Salt Fork faced off against New Berlin . For results, click here. Urbana University took on Forsyth Decatur Christian on Feb. 7 at Forsyth Decatur Christian. Click here for a recap.
You're reading a news brief powered by ScoreStream, a world leader in fan-driven sports results and conversation. Help us collect and deliver more game results from your favorite teams and players by downloading the ScoreStream app. Nearly a million users nationwide share team scores and player performance stats with this convenient free app. | 2023-02-19T05:13:06+00:00 | pantagraph.com | https://pantagraph.com/sports/high-school/basketball/boys/zoom-catlin-salt-fork-leaves-urbana-university-in-its-wake-79-31/article_d7c9f33f-d6d8-5be1-9956-d234f12a681e.html |
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, reminds investors of a class action lawsuit against Enochian Biosciences, Inc. ("Enochian" or "the Company") (NASDAQ: ENOB) for violations of §§10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Investors who purchased the Company's securities between January 17, 2018 and June 27, 2022, inclusive (the ''Class Period''), are encouraged to contact the firm before September 26, 2022.
If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.
We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com, or by email at bschall@schallfirm.com.
The class, in this case, has not yet been certified, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member.
The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Enochian co-founder Serhat Gumrukcu was not a licensed physician and did not hold a verifiable college degree of any type. The Company's science and technology, credited to Gumrukcu, were not likely to be legitimate. The Company overstated the commercial viability of its product pipeline. The Company's senior executives were aware of Gumrukcu's history including fraud. Based on these facts, the Company's public statements were false and materially misleading throughout the class period. When the market learned the truth about Enochian, investors suffered damages.
Join the case to recover your losses.
The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.
This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.
CONTACT:
The Schall Law Firm
Brian Schall, Esq.,
www.schallfirm.com
Office: 310-301-3335
info@schallfirm.com
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SOURCE The Schall Law Firm | 2022-09-26T16:10:59+00:00 | wymt.com | https://www.wymt.com/prnewswire/2022/09/26/final-deadline-alert-schall-law-firm-encourages-investors-enochian-biosciences-inc-with-losses-100000-contact-firm/ |
CAMILLUS, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — Ahead of the busy winter break and spring break travel season, the U.S. Department of State has issued a “do not travel” warning for parts of Mexico.
In the department’s most recent update, it issued a “do not travel” warning for six states because of an increased risk of crime and kidnapping, mainly related to drug cartel activity. The six states with a “do not travel” warning are Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas.
The State Department advises tourists to “reconsider travel” to seven more states: Baja California, Chihuahua, Durango, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos and Sonora.
If you are traveling to Cancun, Cozumel, or the Rivera Maya, all three popular destinations and tourist areas, the government urges you to “exercise increased caution.”
“There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state, which include tourist areas in: Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya,” says the State Department. “However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.”
Deanna Taylor, a senior travel advisor for AAA, has been a travel agent for 30 years. She said she has never had someone not return to Mexico because of a bad experience. She said that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be aware of your surroundings.
“You certainly wouldn’t want to be wandering off resorts in unfamiliar areas especially late at night,” said Taylor. She also advised against carrying a lot of cash on your person.
The State Department has more safety tips and precautions for all of Mexico’s states and tourist destinations. Click here to see all the department’s warnings. | 2023-02-19T20:48:51+00:00 | ktalnews.com | https://www.ktalnews.com/news/u-s-world/which-parts-of-mexico-are-on-the-do-not-travel-list/ |
Take Amtrak for a summer escape to visit the world premiere of the exhibition's global tour at the Franklin Institute
PHILADELPHIA, July 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- This summer, Amtrak passengers can celebrate the magic in Philadelphia at Harry Potter: The Exhibition, at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia. Open now through Sept. 18, this experience is one of the most comprehensive touring exhibitions ever presented about the Wizarding World. Amtrak will transport customers to Philadelphia where they can experience Harry Potter: The Exhibition and the18,000-square-foot space featuring 21 celebratory galleries, including the Great Hall, Hogwarts Castle, Hagrid's Hut, Hogwarts Houses and Newt's Case.
"We are thrilled to announce Amtrak as the official travel partner of Harry Potter: The Exhibition at the Franklin Institute," said Tom Zaller, President and CEO of Imagine Exhibitions. "Amtrak will provide guests of the Exhibition a wonderful way to easily get to the experience any day of the week."
"Amtrak is proud to serve as an official transportation partner for Harry Potter: The Exhibition at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia," said Amtrak Assistant Vice President National Advertising & Brand Management, Darlene Abubakar. "By taking Amtrak, families can travel to the Exhibition without dealing with the hassles of driving, expensive gas prices and parking. Remember to book early for the best Amtrak fares."
William H Gray III 30th Street Station (PHL) is serviced by ten Amtrak train routes with destinations as far south as Florida, as far north as Vermont and as far west as Chicago. Amtrak trains deliver travelers right to the heart of the action and within a mile of the station are numerous Philadelphia attractions, including the Franklin Institute.
Amtrak Saver Fares offer low prices on the Northeast Regional, select Keystone Service and select Pennsylvanian service trains. Book travel early to get the best prices and save on convenient downtown-to-downtown service. Amtrak is also the more sustainable way to travel and is 46% more energy efficient than traveling by car and 34% more energy efficient than domestic air travel on a per-passenger-mile basis.
WIZARDING WORLD and all related trademarks, characters, names, and indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s22)
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SOURCE Amtrak | 2022-07-13T13:39:30+00:00 | wsfa.com | https://www.wsfa.com/prnewswire/2022/07/13/amtrak-guests-can-now-celebrate-magic-harry-potter-exhibition-philadelphia/ |
Multiyear Agreement Names Pure Life® the Exclusive Unflavored Still Water of 51 AEG Presents Music Venues and Events Across the U.S.
LOS ANGELES , Dec. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- AEG Presents, a global leader in concert promotion and artist development, has launched a first-of-its-kind partnership with Pure Life® Purified Water (Pure Life®), one of the nation's leading bottled water brands.* The multiyear agreement, brokered by AEG Global Partnerships, makes Pure Life® the exclusive unflavored still water of AEG Presents' owned or operated assets including 21 music festivals and events and 30 venues located across major U.S. markets including Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Dallas, Atlanta, Philadelphia and Las Vegas amongst many others.
This is the first time Pure Life® has partnered with multiple music venues, festivals and live events at this scale. It is also one of the largest multiasset deals of its kind with a single brand to date across AEG Presents assets.
As the exclusive partner, Pure Life® is available for fans to enjoy at concession stands across all assets included in the deal. Additionally, all Pure Life® bottles sold across AEG Presents assets are made of 100 percent recycled PET (rPET) plastic, excluding label and cap. All Pure Life® water bottles sold at AEG Presents concessions include rPET sustainability messaging on the product labels to help raise awareness and encourage recycling amongst fans.
"We are excited to partner with AEG Presents to deliver our water to concertgoers across the country," said Meagan Pirog, Pure Life® Brand Manager. "This partnership furthers our goal of providing hydration solutions to all families, whether it is the one you're born into or the one you choose."
Pure Life® goes through a multistep quality process and is enhanced with minerals, offering a refreshing taste. Pure Life® bottled water also offers a number of hydration options and is committed to helping families live healthy, active lifestyles.
"Pure Life® is a true category leader and best-in-class brand when it comes to water; we are proud to be welcoming them into our AEG Presents family of partners," said Andrew Klein, Managing Director, AEG Global Partnerships. "They share our commitment to excellence and will surely keep our fans hydrated at our venues and festivals across the country."
*IRI Total US Multi Outlet + Conv, Vol Sales, Latest 52 weeks ending 9.18.22
In addition, Pure Life® has a long-standing history of initiatives that support veterans as well as families in need. Pure Life® is proud to partner with FitOps Foundation and The University of Health & Performance, organizations dedicated to supporting Veterans in living a life of purpose after their military service. These organizations provide educational support, research, and entrepreneurship opportunities to Veterans and active-duty military seeking careers in health and wellness. In addition, Pure Life® works closely with Baby2Baby, an organization that provides essentials to families in need across the country. Pure Life® brand's disaster partners include the American Red Cross, Convey of Hope, Feeding America, Americares, and Gleanings for the Hungry through which the brand regularly donates water to those in need.
Pure Life® is purified water that goes through a rigorous quality process to ensure a refreshing taste with every sip. It is enhanced with a blend of minerals for a crisp taste and has been a hydration solution for families for the last 20 years. Pure Life® is proud to give back through partnerships with FitOps Foundation and the University of Health & Performance to support veterans, and supports families in need through work with Baby2Baby. Find out more at www.purelifewater.com
Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, AEG is the world's leading sports and live entertainment company. The company operates in the following business segments: Facilities, which through its affiliation with ASM Global, owns, manages or consults with more than 300 preeminent arenas, stadiums, convention centers and performing arts venues around the world; Music through AEG Presents, which is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performances, including producing and promoting global and regional concert tours, music and special events and world-renowned festivals such as the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival; Real Estate, which develops world-class venues, as well as major sports and entertainment districts like Crypto.com Arena and L.A. LIVE, Mercedes Platz in Berlin and The O2 in London; Sports, as the world's largest operator of high-profile sporting events and sports franchises including the LA Kings, LA Galaxy and Eisbären Berlin; and Global Partnerships, which oversees worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships including naming rights, premium seating and other strategic partnerships. Through its worldwide network of venues, portfolio of powerful sports and music brands and its integrated entertainment districts, AEG entertains more than 160 million guests annually. More information about AEG can be found at: www.aegworldwide.com
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SOURCE BlueTriton Brands | 2022-12-01T18:14:43+00:00 | waff.com | https://www.waff.com/prnewswire/2022/12/01/aeg-presents-pure-life-purified-water-partner-across-leading-music-venues-events/ |
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) — Health officials say the federal government is doing what it can to control the spread of monkeypox throughout the U.S.
U.S health officials told Senators, Wednesday, the U.S seems to be containing the world’s largest monkeypox outbreak.
“Over 22,000 cases and one confirmed death in the United States,” CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said.
Walensky says officials are still responding aggressively to the spread of the disease.
“[We will] use our entire toolkit, including vaccination, testing and education about risk to informed behavior change,” Walensky said.
Dr. Anthony Fauci says globally, monkeypox is still mostly affecting men who have sex with men.
“However, anyone exposed to the circulating virus can get infected with monkeypox regardless of their age, gender identity, or sexual orientation,” Fauci said.
Both Democrats and Republicans say they want to make sure the federal government is doing everything to help those at risk.
“How are you working with state and local partners to make sure we reach everyone who’s at risk for infection?” Sen. Bob Casey (D/PA) asked.
“We need to do more and more outreach. We learned that we need trusted messengers, we need community-based organizations,” Walensky said.
However, Sen. Richard Burr (R/N.C.) says he’s disappointed that the administration has held back vaccines, in case of a smallpox outbreak.
“We know that we have 13 to 15 million gay men in this country,” Burr said. “You’ve got a population that’s a little bit questioning whether you’re doing everything to help them.”
CDC officials say they will continue outreach to communities at risk and educate medical professionals on monkeypox, to spread awareness. | 2022-09-14T23:50:08+00:00 | wboy.com | https://www.wboy.com/news/washington-dc/health-officials-give-update-on-federal-response-to-monkeypox/ |
Olympic champion Caster Semenya wins appeal against testosterone rules at human rights court
STRASBOURG, France (AP) - Double Olympic champion runner Caster Semenya won an appeal against track and field’s testosterone rules on Tuesday when the European Court of Human Rights ruled she had been discriminated against.
The ruling could force sport’s highest court to re-examine the regulations that force Semenya and other female athletes to artificially reduce naturally high testosterone levels in order to compete at top meets such as the Olympics and world champinships.
The Strasbourg-based rights court ruled in Semenya’s favor by a 4-3 majority of judges.
The court also ruled the South African runner was denied an “effective remedy” against that discrimination when the Court of Arbitration for Sport and Switzerland’s supreme court denied her two previous appeals against the rules.
It was not immediately clear if the ruling would force an immediate rollback of the rules and if the 32-year-old Semenya would be allowed to compete at next year’s Olympics in Paris.
She was the 2012 and 2016 Olympic champion in the 800 meters but has been barred from running in that event since 2019 by the testosterone rules and did not defend her title at the Tokyo Olympics.
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AP Sports: https://apnews.com/sports and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-07-11T08:55:49+00:00 | kcrg.com | https://www.kcrg.com/2023/07/11/runner-caster-semenya-wins-human-rights-court-appeal-over-track-fields-testosterone-rules/ |
The rock staircase climbed up from the sand, flanked by chaparral and sagebrush. As the red sandstone steepened into nearly a 30-degree pitch, the terrain appeared brittle, like the inside of a Butterfinger. This was no candy bar.
A 2024 Jeep Wrangler Willys skittered on a loose rock, the wheels pulled left, the guides shouted, and the driver arrested its slide. But it was stuck. Backing down would’ve been too tricky. Turn the wheel right up slope, and it would’ve rolled over; turn left and it’d dive 20 feet into the sand, led by the new steel bumper and a factory-installed Warn winch.
Good thing for the guides and their recovery Rubicons. Better thing that Jeep fitted the available Warn winch and its 8,000-pound capacity on all the test vehicles. In what took maybe five minutes, the team unspooled the power winch from the recovery Rubicon, connected it to the tow hook on the driver’s side of the stranded Jeep, yanked the nose, and pulled it into a course correction. It was so fluid it could’ve felt staged, if not for the mortification of the driver.
With dozens of drivers, and skill levels ranging from expert to noobs, the $3,495 Rubicon accessory proved its worth on more than one occasion. This area of deep sand, slick sandstone, and improbably cartoonish rock formations is popular terrain for Wranglers, and serves as the proving grounds for much of Jeep’s validations.
Sand Hollow State Park, in southwestern Utah, could be a kind of Moab-lite, temptingly simple if you know where to go but deceptively challenging overall. It was just the place to test the redesigned 2024 Jeep Wrangler that has some simple updates that make a big difference.
2024 Jeep Wrangler: New seven-slot grille
Jeep hasn’t strayed too far from what makes this icon of automotive icons so iconic. Ten wheel designs, ten body color choices, two-door and four-door options, four different convertible rooftops only knock on the Pandora’s box of Wrangler customization. The major change to the exterior is a shorter seven-slot grille with different color trim rings to signify the grades. It’s stouter, but the grille bars have more texture that enables more engine cooling lost due to the shorter slots. All of this is in service of fitting the available Warn winch, and in Rubicon X models, a steel bumper.
Lurking behind that grille is one of four engine options, unchanged from last year except for the discontinuation of the turbodiesel. The base 285-hp 3.6-liter V-6 comes with a 6-speed manual with long throws and gappy gear spacing, but most buyers will opt for the $2,500 8-speed automatic that feels more at home in the modern Wrangler.
The 2.0-liter turbo-4 is more potent. It makes 270 hp and 295 lb-ft, the latter of which peaks at 3,000 rpm, much sooner than the V-6 and its 260 lb-ft at 4,800 rpm. It’s a quieter, quicker, better daily driver, and worth the $2,500 upcharge over the V-6 with the 8-speed.
More Wrangler buyers are opting to pair that turbo-4 with a motor-generator as well as a traction motor integrated into the 8-speed automatic in the 4xe plug-in hybrid model. Jeep said the Wrangler 4xe accounted for 38% of sales in the first quarter of 2023, and it’s expecting that number to increase to 50% by next year. That’s crucial for a brand experimenting with an electric Wrangler and struggling to meet CAFE requirements.
It’s not just a numbers game. Fed by a 17.3-kwh battery pack, the 100-kw traction motor partners with the turbo-4 to generate 375 hp and 470 lb-ft. Not only is it more powerful than the turbodiesel, it’s the best daily driver, quick and light off the line, quiet and smooth with its transitions. With 22 miles of all-electric range, it’s the model I’d recommend to many Wrangler fans who overlook its off-road ability in favor of its topless convertibility. It starts at a lower entry point this year in the $51,790 Sport S. The 2024 Wrangler costs about $700 more than last year’s model, ranging from $33,690 for the base Sport to $89,390 for the Rubicon 392.
The 4xe offsets the thirst of the Wrangler Rubicon 392. Its 6.4-liter V-8 makes 470 hp and 470 lb-ft on its way to a 0-60 mph of 4.5 seconds, though the top-heavy beast feels more thrilling than that. Open up the exhaust baffles, and it sounds and moves like it’ll conquer anything on-road, off-road, and in between. Jeep tweaks the steering hydraulics in the 392, so not only does the wheel feel heftier in the hands, there’s also more feedback than in other models from the otherwise loose recirculating-ball steering, especially compared to the 4xe.
2024 Jeep Wrangler: About that full-float rear axle
The biggest mechanical difference for 2024 bolts into the rear, and it’s also exclusive to Rubicon models. The Rubicon upgrades from a Dana 44 axle on other models to a Dana 44 HD full-float rear axle often used in commercial trucking applications. Essentially, it allows increased towing capacity, more structural rigidity, and a simplified process of replacing a wheel or axle shaft if you find real trouble on the trail.
The perfectly capable semi-float rear axle on other Wranglers both carries the load of the Jeep and handles the rotational force of the torque to the rear wheels. The design of the full-float axle splits those duties, so the axle tube bears the load, and the axle shaft transfers torque to the tires.
“It’s unique in the way the wheel hub attaches to the axle,” Pete Milosavlevski, chief engineer for the Wrangler, explained. “There’s an extra bearing that allows us to attach the wheel hub directly to the axle tube.”
The extra stability allowed Jeep to increase the 2024 Wrangler Rubicon’s towing capacity to 5,000 pounds, but only with the 2.0-liter turbo-4 or the V-6. Other models with the semi-float rear axle remain at a 3,500-pound capacity, while two-door models are rated at 2,000 pounds.
We tested the V-6 with the 8-speed hooked up to a 4,300-pound Airstream camper on a 96-degree desert day around Sand Hollow reservoir. It was well balanced and with no trailer sag on the rear axle, the great silver turkey planted on its steel platter. The V-6 strained uphill at 55 mph, with the 8-speed automatic keeping the engine above 5,000 rpm. It wasn’t for long, and it wasn’t that unusual for such a weight and such an engine. I couldn’t help but wonder how the discontinued turbodiesel and its 442 lb-ft of torque would perform, or the 4xe or Rubicon 392. Jeep did not get SAE validation for the higher towing figure with those engines, due in part to the weight balance with a massive V-8 up front, as well as the roughly 700 pounds of extra weight due to the 4xe powertrains.
On milder ascents such as on-ramps, it kept much calmer in the 3,000-4,000 rpm range. In either case, the V-6 didn’t feel overmatched by the hefty load, it just required more patience.
Milosavlevski doubted an occasional Wrangler driver like me would notice the increased rigidity when driving unladen.
“Behind the wheel you’re not really going to feel it unless you’re trailering,” he said. “It gives you a sense of security and confidence because the structure is doing its job, and the axle shaft is focused on running the torque to the wheels.”
I wouldn’t have noticed without a back-to-back demo of the two towing capacities. But getting blasted by a convoy of semis on the single lane highway worried me, as normal. After the initial wave of air, the Wrangler and its load remained steady and without sway, so I imagine my anxiety would lessen over time.
The aluminum alloy turkey was about a half-foot wider on either side than the Wrangler, so dual side mirrors for towing would’ve been helpful, as would the available trailer camera lacking on our tester. The brake controller is a Mopar accessory that needs to be installed at the dealer, but Rubicons come with the trailer tow package with a 7-pin connector and Class II hitch. The max tow package costs extra.
2024 Jeep Wrangler: Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen
The last big development for the 2024 Wrangler is the addition of a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and several available camera angles. It stretches horizontally across the compass-oriented dash, which is still flanked by circular vents and grab bars on the pillars. It’s well integrated with classic Jeep dash elements, such as another grab bar in front of the passenger, and traditional hard dials for fan speed, volume, and tuning below the touchscreen.
A vertical menu bar keeps the toggling simple, and off-road features such as pitch and roll have much brighter, larger displays. A new Trails Offroad app has 62 Jeep trails across the country baked in, and another 3,000 available for an annual subscription fee of $39.99. It can also record your route and add breadcrumbs, or way points, to help track where you went to save it or share it with others. You need navigation, however, which relies on TomTom mapping instead of Google, even though Uconnect runs on Google’s operating system.
The large touchscreen is modern and classic Jeep at the same time, without overwhelming the dash. The same could be said for the rest of the updates to the 2024 Jeep Wrangler. They let it do even more Wrangler things, while still being a classic.
That it can now tow more than the Ford Bronco and its 4,500-pound capacity is incidental. “Competition is good but all of these improvements were in the works anyway,” Milosavlevski responded. “We’re always looking to refine and up our game because the customer wanted it.”
One of those improvements is a factory-installed Warn winch that can save a precarious off-roader the terror of falling down one of nature’s staircases.
Jeep paid for lodging and airfare for Motor Authority to present this firsthand report.
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- 2024 BMW X1 M35i revealed with 312 hp, $50,895 price tag | 2023-07-01T03:26:06+00:00 | ktalnews.com | https://www.ktalnews.com/automotive/internet-brands/review-2024-jeep-wrangler-tows-more-recovers-better/ |
(The Hill) – The more infectious BA.5 omicron subvariant now makes up almost 80 percent of new COVID-19 cases in the U.S., as case rates continue to trend upward.
About 78 percent of coronavirus cases in the U.S. are caused by the BA.5 subvariant, according to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The rise of BA.5 has spurred concerns over its enhanced ability to evade protection given by vaccines and prior infections from other variants. Currently available vaccines are still believed to be effective in reducing the risk of hospitalizations and deaths from BA.5, but the shot’s ability to prevent infection is thought to be less potent against this subvariant.
President Biden, 79, on Thursday announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19 for the first time. He is fully vaccinated with two additional booster doses.
BA.5 became the dominant subvariant in the U.S. earlier this month, surpassing BA.2.12.1. The BA.4 omicron subvariant is the second most prevalent with 12.8 percent of cases originating from the pathogen, while the BA.2.12.1 subvariant now accounts for only 8.6 percent.
As BA.5 has grown in prevalence, the rate of COVID-19 infections has steadily begun to rise again. The case rate had stagnated for several weeks, with the seven-day moving average for daily cases hovering around 100,000 for much of June.
This metric began to trend up beginning in July and now stands at about 126,000.
While vaccine makers like Pizer and Moderna say they are working on an updated vaccine that specifically targets BA.5, some health experts say that a new subvariant could be dominant by the time the updated dose is ready.
This has led calls to fund the development of the next generation fo COVID-19 vaccines, including a possible “pan-coronavirus” vaccine that would be “variant proof.”
“It’s essential that we get more resources, or we’re not going to meet the challenge that’s inevitable,” Anthony Fauci, President Biden’s chief medical adviser, said earlier this week.
“We need the next generation of vaccines, particularly mucosally administered vaccines that would do much better.” | 2022-07-21T17:42:20+00:00 | cenlanow.com | https://www.cenlanow.com/national/ba-5-now-makes-up-nearly-80-percent-of-new-covid-cases-cdc/ |
These Two NIL Disruptors Are Poised to Supercharge Brands and Athletes
ATLANTA, Feb. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- BrinxTV, the pioneering platform founded by 6x Emmy Award Winner and Host/Creator of ESPN Sport Science, John Brenkus, has solidified their partnership with Icon Source to create a powerhouse in the world of NIL (name, image, likeness). This investment is the first of many to come from BrinxTV, the next generation of sports and entertainment programming.
Icon Source, the Denver based company founded by Chase Garrett, connects brands with collegiate and professional athletes looking for all types of NIL marketing and endorsement opportunities. Icon Source is the leading platform having facilitated millions of dollars in thousands of deals between its more than 15,000 athletes and brand users.
Initially, BrinxTV and Icon Source inked a deal to procure sponsorships for "The NIL House"- the BrinxTV produced show that has become the most watched daily sports program in the country. With BrinxTV's investment in Icon Source, the combined forces create an entity that stretches far beyond the one program. The relationship enables Icon Source to actively sell brand deals across the entire BrinxTV network, which includes shows from sports superstars like Marcellus Wiley, Lavar Arrington, in addition to Hall of Famers Champ Bailey and Ray Lewis. Icon Source has a built in media outlet that amplifies their brand partners and respective athletes through BrinxTV.
"Brands are trying to figure a way to get the most out of the athletes they partner with," said Icon Source CEO Chase Garrett. "The NIL House and the entire BrinxTV network offers greater access and value to the rising and current stars of NIL than anywhere else. Plain and simple, BrinxTV hosts more premiere NIL programming than any other platform and they are a perfect match to help accelerate our growth."
Brenkus adds, "Icon Source has built the best platform in the world to facilitate NIL deals by cutting out unnecessary parts of the old school endorsement process while inviting more participants to enter the space. BrinxTV's investment into Icon Source is a clear signal to the market that the traditional flow of brand dollars in the NIL space has officially been disrupted. With recent success bringing brands like Caktus AI, BeOne Sports, Solari, and Varchas Premium Spirits into partnership with BrinxTV, the potential is enormous."
For more information:
info@brinx.tv
Info@iconsource.com
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SOURCE BrinxTV | 2023-02-08T14:02:33+00:00 | live5news.com | https://www.live5news.com/prnewswire/2023/02/08/brinxtv-acquires-stake-icon-source-creates-nil-brand-content-powerhouse/ |
Unseasonably hot and humid conditions has warranted the issuance of a Heat Advisory across all of Central Texas for both Saturday and Sunday. High temperatures will reach or surpass 100 degrees for most of the region, with heat indices reaching 105 or greater during the peak heating hours of the afternoon. Remember to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in the shade or in an air conditioned building, protect the elderly and the young, and keep pets off hot pavement while walking them.
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STOCKHOLM, April 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SHL Healthcare AB, a leading manufacturer for patient slings, alternating pressure mattresses & medical soft goods, has just announced the establishment of its first production facility factory in Europe. With approximately 5,000 sqm of manufacturing space, this new facility was chosen to be strategically located in Sophia, Bulgaria to offer our customers further flexibilities for lead times, logistics and production.
"This is an excellent opportunity for SHL Healthcare as we advance into the next chapter and increase our offerings in MedTech manufacturing on a global scale. By investing in expanded operations to tactical regions, we not only increase our manufacturing capacities but also demonstrate to customers our commitment in providing alternative production solutions for premium MedTech products and manufacturing services," says Erik Bolmgren, CEO of SHL Healthcare AB.
To ensure transparent insight and full control over operations, the new factory site in Bulgaria has been fully acquired by SHL Healthcare AB and is to be managed by its subsidiary SHL Healthcare Bulgaria EAD.
"I'm very excited to be part of this new expansion with SHL Healthcare. I hope to apply the 30+ years of experiences I've accumulated in the textile and MedTech industry to build a solid foundation for us here in Europe. Our plan is to kick off with production for non-medical products in 2022 while working in parallel to ramp up for medical products starting end of 2022 and to further accelerate in 2023. It's vital we take time to properly plan and implement all relevant quality systems and certifications." shared Patrik Axelsson, interim General Manager, SHL Healthcare Bulgaria EAD.
About SHL Healthcare
SHL Healthcare is a global leader in MedTech manufacturing that offers a range of premium contract manufacturing capabilities such as CNC Sewing, CNC Fabric Cutting, RF/HF Welding, Product Testing, Assembly and more. Some examples of MedTech products SHL Healthcare manufactures include medical patient slings, alternating pressure mattresses, pumps and medical soft goods.
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SHL Healthcare AB establishes new 5,000 sqm production facility in Sophia, Bulgaria.
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SOURCE SHL Healthcare AB | 2022-04-29T08:13:02+00:00 | live5news.com | https://www.live5news.com/prnewswire/2022/04/29/shl-healthcare-ab-establishes-new-manufacturing-facility-europe/ |
WFO LAKE CHARLES Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, June 20, 2022
_____
AIR QUALITY ALERT
Air Quality Alert Message
Relayed by National Weather Service Lake Charles LA
710 PM CDT Sun Jun 19 2022
...AIR QUALITY ALERT IN EFFECT FROM 7 AM TO 6 PM CDT MONDAY...
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is forecasting a Code
Orange Air Quality Alert, from 7 AM to 6 PM CDT Monday.
The Air Quality Index indicates that Ground Level Ozone will be at
the Orange level, which means members of sensitive groups may
experience health effects. The general public is not likely to be
affected.
More information about current air quality is available at the T C E
Q website www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/monops.
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Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | 2022-06-20T01:11:44+00:00 | sfgate.com | https://www.sfgate.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-LAKE-CHARLES-Warnings-Watches-and-17252483.php |
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iran announced Monday that the country’s supreme leader has pardoned more than 22,000 people arrested in the recent anti-government protests that swept the Islamic Republic. There was no immediate independent confirmation of the mass release.
The statement by Iran’s judiciary head Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejehi offered for the first time a glimpse of the full scope of the government’s crackdown that followed the demonstrations over the September death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who had been detained by the country’s morality police.
It also suggests that Iran’s theocracy now feels secure enough to admit the scale of the unrest, which represented one of the most-serious challenges to the establishment since the aftermath of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Tens of thousands also were detained in the purges that followed the revolution.
However, anger still remains in the country as it struggles through the collapse of the nation’s currency, the rial, economic woes, and uncertainty over its ties to the wider world after the collapse of Tehran’s 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.
The state-run IRNA news agency quoted Ejehi as announcing the figure Monday. Iranian state media had previously suggested Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei could pardon that many people swept up in the demonstrations, ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, when the pious fast from dawn to dusk. Ramadan starts later next week.
Ejehi said a total of 82,656 prisoners and those facing charges had been pardoned. Of those, some 22,628 had been arrested amid the demonstrations, he said. Those pardoned had not committed theft or violent crimes, he added. His comments suggest that the true total of those detained in the demonstrations is even greater.
In February, Iran had acknowledged “tens of thousands” had been detained in the protests. Monday’s acknowledgment from Ejehi offered an even higher than what activists had previously cited. However, there’s been no mass release of prisoners documented in recent days by Iranian media reports or activists.
More than 19,700 people have been arrested during the protests, according to Human Rights Activists in Iran, a group that’s been tracking the crackdown. At least 530 people have been killed as authorities violently suppressed demonstrations, the group said. Iran has not offered a death toll for months.
“From day one there was no transparent accounting of who was arrested and imprisoned — before or after the mass protests these past months — which is why there’s no way to verify how many are being released now,” said Jasmin Ramsey, the deputy director of the U.S.-based Center for Human Rights in Iran.
“We also know that more than five months after the death of … Mahsa Amini in state custody, not a single Iranian official has been held accountable for the mass killings of street protesters, nor the arbitrary imprisonments of tens of thousands.”
The judiciary’s announcement also came ahead of next week’s celebration of Nowruz, the Persian New Year. On Tuesday, some in Iran also mark nearly 4,000-year-old Persian tradition known as the Festival of Fire that’s linked to the Zoroastrian religion. Hard-liners discourage such celebrations, viewing them as pagan holdovers.
There had been calls for anti-government protests around both events. While mass demonstrations have cooled in recent weeks, nightly chants against Iran’s theocracy can still be heard in some neighborhoods of Iran’s capital, Tehran.
The announcement followed a major development last week, when Iran and Saudi Arabia said on Friday that with China’s mediation, they agreed to reestablish diplomatic ties and reopen embassies after a seven-year freeze in relations. That agreement could help aid an end to the yearslong war in Yemen, which sees a Saudi-led coalition battle the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels who hold its capital, Sanaa. It has also helped boost the rial in recent days against the dollar.
Meanwhile, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko visited Tehran and met Monday with his Iranian counterpart, Ebrahim Raisi. Iran has been supplying the bomb-carrying drones that Russia now uses in its war on Ukraine. Lukashenko, the authoritarian leader of Belarus, remains close to Russia, which used Belarusian territory to launch Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.
Lukashenko said his country and Iran would sign an unspecified set of deals valued at $100 million.
Iran “opposes external pressure, attempts to impose someone else’s will,” Lukashenko said, addressing his hosts. “And how, in spite of everything, you develop modern technologies and nuclear energy. And, as we decided today with the president of Iran, we can be very useful to each other if we truly unite our efforts.”
___
Follow Jon Gambrell on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jongambrellAP. | 2023-03-14T02:21:40+00:00 | kfor.com | https://kfor.com/news/ap-top-headlines/iran-judiciary-head-22000-arrested-in-protests-pardoned/ |
Man dies in golf cart after being struck by tractor-trailer, authorities say
HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WMBF/Gray News) - Authorities in South Carolina say a person is dead after a tractor-trailer and a golf cart crashed.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the crash occurred Friday afternoon on Highway 19 near the Conway area.
Authorities said the driver of the golf cart was attempting to drive east on Adrian Highway to cross Highway 19 when a tractor-trailer struck the cart.
The driver of the golf cart died at the scene, the highway patrol said. The driver was identified by the Horry County coroner’s office as 47-year-old Jason Cook.
Authorities did not immediately identify the driver of the tractor-trailer but said that person was uninjured.
Roads were closed at the scene of the crash for about three hours.
Copyright 2023 WMBF via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | 2023-07-08T22:17:00+00:00 | foxcarolina.com | https://www.foxcarolina.com/2023/07/08/man-dies-golf-cart-after-being-struck-by-tractor-trailer-authorities-say/ |
After weeks of weather delays, Santa Barbara city officials say repairs are underway at the Alameda Park Bandstand, one of Santa Barbara’s oldest public entertainment venues.
The project, led by the Parks and Recreation Department, will allow the landmark to return to community use as a place for free public concerts, just as it did 135 years ago.
“There is nothing better than seeing a historic structure being used and loved,” Nicole Hernandez, the city of Santa Barbara’s architectural historian, said in a press release. “The Bandstand, with all its intricate details, is a beautiful and unique structure, and this project will let the space be a part of the modern era while connecting people with the past.”
The repair project includes the replacement of the structure’s roof, ceiling, and floor and repairs to stair treads and guardrails. Seismic and waterproofing improvements will also be made to extend the longevity of the repairs.
The Bandstand will be repainted to match the existing colors once structural repairs are complete. No changes will be made to the structure's unique Folk Victorian craftsmanship and architectural details.
Repairs are expected to be completed this spring, pending weather conditions. The project is funded by a $216,118 Community Development Block Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and $110,979 from the city’s general fund.
Last restored in 1981, the designated city landmark was built in 1888, after residents petitioned for its creation. More information about the project can be found at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/BandstandRepair.
Efforts to restore another historic outdoor venue, the Band Shell at Plaza del Mar, is expected to begin later this year. | 2023-03-29T20:44:14+00:00 | ksby.com | https://www.ksby.com/news/local-news/alameda-park-bandstand-repairs-underway |
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court ruled Wednesday for a man on Arizona’s death row who wants a new sentencing hearing because jurors in his case were wrongly told that the only way to ensure he would never walk free was to sentence him to death.
The 5-4 decision written by Justice Sonia Sotomayor likely means that John Montenegro Cruz will get a new penalty phase of his trial where it is made clear to jurors that he is ineligible for parole if he is sentenced to life in prison, instead of death.
“I am so gratified by the Court’s decision today. What Arizona has been doing in implementing the death penalty is patently unconstitutional and wrong, and I’m glad to see the Court call them out,” Cruz’s lawyer Neal Katyal said in a statement.
The case is important not only for Cruz, but also for other Arizona death row inmates. Arizona currently has approximately 100 people on its death row and the decision could affect about 30 of them with pending cases.
Cruz had argued that the jury should have been informed he would be ineligible for parole if spared from death and given a life sentence. A judge rejected that request and the state said Cruz failed to make the precise requests he needed to under Supreme Court precedent.
At least one juror has said that had she known that a “life sentence without parole” was an alternative to death, she “would have voted for that option.”
Cruz was convicted of the 2003 murder of a Tucson police officer, Patrick Hardesty. Hardesty and another officer were investigating a hit-and-run accident that led them to Cruz, who attempted to flee and shot Hardesty five times.
A 1994 Supreme Court case, Simmons v. South Carolina, says that in certain death penalty cases, jurors must be told that choosing a life sentence means life without the possibility of parole. That’s required when prosecutors argue that the defendant will pose a threat to society in the future.
Arizona courts refused to apply the decision. In a 2016 case, Lynch v. Arizona, the Supreme Court told Arizona directly that it needed to comply with Simmons. Cruz argued Arizona has continued to defy the high court.
The case is Cruz v. Arizona, 21-846. | 2023-02-23T01:08:24+00:00 | wwlp.com | https://www.wwlp.com/news/political-news/ap-politics/ap-supreme-court-rules-for-arizona-inmate-in-death-penalty-case/ |
The NBA will have labor peace for years to come.
The league and its players came to an agreement early Saturday on a new seven-year collective bargaining agreement, the NBA announced. It is still pending ratification, though that process is almost certainly no more than a formality.
The deal will begin this summer and will last at least through the 2028-29 season. Either side can opt out then; otherwise, it will last through 2029-30.
Among the details, per a person familiar with the negotiations who spoke to The Associated Press: the in-season tournament that Commissioner Adam Silver has wanted for years will become reality, and players will have to appear in at least 65 games in order to be eligible for the top individual awards such as Most Valuable Player. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because neither the league nor the National Basketball Players Association released specifics publicly.
Another new part of the CBA will be a second luxury tax level that, when reached, will keep teams from using their midlevel exception to sign players. That was a clear compromise, given how some teams wanted the so-called “upper spending limit” that would have essentially installed an absolute ceiling on what can be spent each season and help balance the playing field between the teams that are willing to pay enormous tax bills and those who aren't.
Not in the CBA is a change to the policy that would allow high school players to enter the NBA draft. It was discussed and has been an agenda item for months, but it won't be changing anytime soon — probably not for at least the term of the next CBA.
“We also appreciate that there is a lot of benefit to really having veterans who can bring those 18-year-olds along,” NBPA executive director Tamika Tremaglio said in February during an NBPA news conference at All-Star weekend. “And so, certainly anything that we would even consider, to be quite honest, would have to include a component that would allow veterans to be a part of it as well.”
Silver said Wednesday, at the conclusion of a two-day Board of Governors meeting, that he was hopeful of getting a deal done by the weekend. He also said there had been no consideration — at least on the league’s part — of pushing the opt-out date back for a third time.
The current CBA, which took effect July 1, 2017, came with a mutual option for either the NBA or the NBPA to opt out after six seasons — June 30 of this year. The sides originally had a Dec. 15 deadline to announce an intention to exercise the opt-out, then pushed it back to Feb. 8, then to Friday.
The league and the union continued talking after the midnight opt-out deadline passed, and a deal was announced nearly three hours later.
The agreement doesn’t end the process, though it's obviously a huge step forward.
The owners will have to vote on what the negotiators have hammered out, and the players will have to vote to approve the deal as well. Then comes the actual writing of the document — the most recent CBA checked in at around 600 pages containing nearly 5,000 paragraphs and 200,000 words. Much of it will be the same; much of it will need revising.
___
AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2023-04-01T07:59:23+00:00 | ksat.com | https://www.ksat.com/sports/2023/04/01/ap-source-nba-players-reach-deal-for-a-new-labor-agreement/ |
Oklahoma residents can go fishing without a license this weekend.
The state's Wildlife Conservation Department said the weekend is designed to give Oklahomans a chance to try out the sport without having to register for a state fishing license.
The department said those wanting to hit the water should still check their area's regulations for local requirements before breaking out their poles and tackle boxes. | 2022-06-05T21:26:57+00:00 | newson6.com | https://www.newson6.com/story/629cd059f9cbe007280489a9/free-fishing-days-happening-this-weekend |
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