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TikTok star in Alabama grieving after son killed night before his birthday
MOBILE, Ala. (WALA/Gray News) - An Alabama mother and TikTok influencer is pleading for answers after her son was shot and killed Friday night in Prichard, Alabama, WALA reported.
“I have this hatred in my heart that I don’t recognize,” Ophelia Nichols said in a video. “Because I’ve never felt hate for anybody.”
Nichols runs a TikTok account under the name “shoelover99″ with 7 million followers.
“I have never asked y’all for anything, but I need your help with this,” she said. “He was just 18 years old. That’s the best part of somebody’s life, and I know they’re out there in my town. They’re out there.”
Randon Lee was shot at the Exxon on St. Stephens Road. He then drove across the street near the Energizer gas station, where he died from his injuries.
It is unclear what led to the shooting, but Nichols says investigators tell her that they are following leads.
“It’s hard because you’re putting all of your faith, hope and trust into these people and the police department, and you have to sit back and hope and pray that they do what needs to be done so that the person or people who did this to my baby child gets behind bars. You have no choice but to sit here and wait,” she said.
Now, she is using her platform to ask for help leading to an arrest.
“People talk. People talk, so I wanted that video to be seen because if the person who did this to my son could see what he did to our family. He took my son from me. My son,” Nichols said.
Lee would have been 19-years-old on Saturday.
“I spoke to him yesterday morning around 10 to tell him I had his money for his birthday. He was looking forward to it. Just hanging out with his friends and girlfriend. His family was his life,” Nichols said.
Nichols says her son was an organ donor and will live on even in death helping others.
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information can contact the Prichard Police Department at 251-452-7800 or the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office at 251-574-8633.
Copyright 2022 WALA via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | 2022-06-26T12:30:02+00:00 | wfsb.com | https://www.wfsb.com/2022/06/26/tiktok-star-alabama-grieving-after-son-killed-night-before-his-birthday/ |
Pot could cost the state millions: or could it?
BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) - Recreational marijuana is on the ballot this November, and Monday the state budget office determined it might cost the state money if passed. However, that’s not the whole picture.
Beginning in 2023, it’s estimated the measure would generate about three million dollars in revenue over the next four years, but the expenses would total nearly five million dollars. But since marijuana has never been legalized before, it’s difficult to say definitively if the state will make or lose money off the legalization of marijuana.
“Really, right now, there are a lot of things that may come into play, but nobody is sure at this time, with the number of variables, to be able to provide an actual fiscal impact number,” said Jason Wahl with the Division of Medical Marijuana.
One of the areas the state knows it would have to ramp up spending in response to legalized marijuana is in enforcement, like the staffing of the Highway Patrol. They anticipate they’d need more money for salaries and wages, training, drug screening devices, and a media and advertising campaign.
Copyright 2022 KFYR. All rights reserved. | 2022-09-13T00:57:29+00:00 | kfyrtv.com | https://www.kfyrtv.com/2022/09/12/pot-could-cost-state-millions-or-could-it/ |
Catalina State Park officials in Arizona believe powerful monsoon rains brought it down last month. Its trunk has splintered and its large arms are now sprawled on the ground.
Copyright 2022 NPR
Catalina State Park officials in Arizona believe powerful monsoon rains brought it down last month. Its trunk has splintered and its large arms are now sprawled on the ground.
Copyright 2022 NPR | 2022-09-08T12:32:27+00:00 | kunm.org | https://www.kunm.org/npr-news/npr-news/2022-09-08/a-200-year-old-saguaro-cactus-has-fallen-do-to-a-powerful-monsoon |
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Uganda next week will host a ministerial meeting on the outbreak of the Sudan strain of the Ebola virus which has no proven vaccine and has caused alarm in the East Africa region.
Acting director Ahmed Ogwell told journalists on Thursday the three countries that suffered the devastating West Africa outbreak of Ebola in 2014-16, Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia, also are invited to the Oct. 12 meeting.
The current Ebola outbreak in central Uganda has a 69% case fatality rate, which Ogwell called “very high,” and four health workers are among 10 people confirmed to have died of Ebola. There have been 43 confirmed cases. None have been in the capital, Kampala.
Ugandan scientists and their partners abroad are looking to deploy one of two possible vaccines against the Sudan strain of Ebola, the WHO representative to Uganda told reporters Thursday. But there are only 100 doses of the vaccine from the Sabin Vaccine Insitute, said Yonas Tegegn Woldemariam.
“These manufacturers are looking to produce more,” he said. “We do not have sufficient data to deploy it in a large (population) and the supply is not there. Currently the scientists are agreeing (on) scientific protocol for the study and as soon as the protocol is agreed … I think the vaccine will be imported into Uganda. Hopefully within less than a week.”
Immediate contacts of confirmed Ebola cases would be targeted in the study, he said.
Ogwell of the Africa CDC said health workers were exposed to Ebola at the beginning of the outbreak “when we did not know what we were dealing with,” and he dismissed the suggestion that the infections signaled the outbreak was getting out of hand.
He said more than 860 active contacts have been listed and at least 78% of them are being monitored, a situation that has almost doubled from a week ago.
The Africa CDC said it has procured 20,000 test kits that should arrive early next week for the region, and it will ship stockpiles of personal protective equipment next week.
A mobile lab set up at a hospital near the outbreak has reduced the turnaround time for test results to six hours, according to Woldemariam, who said the response of Ugandan health authorities is improving “every day.”
Ebola can be difficult to detect at first because fever is also a symptom of malaria. Ebola, which manifests as a viral hemorrhagic fever, is spread through contact with bodily fluids of an infected person or contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain and at times internal and external bleeding.
Uganda has had multiple Ebola outbreaks, including one in 2000 that killed more than 200 people.
Ebola first appeared in 1976 in two simultaneous outbreaks in South Sudan and Congo, where it occurred in a village near the Ebola River after which the disease is named.
___
This story has been corrected to say four health workers have died of the 10 confirmed deaths. | 2022-10-06T20:42:39+00:00 | wivb.com | https://www.wivb.com/news/world/ap-cdc-who-uganda-to-host-regional-meeting-as-ebola-spreads/ |
Impersonator went door-to-door checking gas meters in southwest valley neighborhood
LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) - An unexpected visitor for an unexpected service created confusion and unanswered questions for one southwest valley man Wednesday morning.
Ring video from one homeowner captured it all.
“I got a notification from my Ring camera saying somebody was on the side of my house,” said a resident who did not want to be identified. The video captured a man going house to house claiming to be a Southwest gas employee.
“Yeah, I am with the gas company and am here to check the gas meter,” said the man in the video.
“I told him, ‘Well I am not there,’” said the resident. “His response was, ‘Its okay, I can get a laser gun and check the meters later.’”
The resident said he felt that something was off, so he called the gas company.
“They told me, ‘No, they did not have anyone in our neighborhood doing that inspection,’” said the resident.
After explaining what the man in the Ring video was wearing, Southwest Gas confirmed that their employees don’t wear neon safety vests.
“They will have on, I believe, she said a company shirt,” said the resident.
He shared his thoughts about what he thought the man was trying to accomplish.
“He was casing,” said the resident. “To see who is home, who is not home. If you look at the video, that is kind of what I got.”
He said he is not concerned for his own safety but is worried about his elderly neighbors who live in the area. If someone shows up to your house to perform services, Southwest Gas says these are the steps to confirm their identity:
1. Ask for their identification badge.
2. Look at their uniform. Many Southwest Gas employees and contractors will wear company uniforms. Contractors may be wearing a hard hat or ball cap with the Southwest Gas contractor logo.
3. Look for their vehicle. The same logos may also be located on the contractor’s vehicle.
Customers can also confirm identity by calling Southwest Gas at 877-860-6020.
Copyright 2023 KVVU. All rights reserved. | 2023-06-30T01:36:28+00:00 | fox5vegas.com | https://www.fox5vegas.com/2023/06/30/impersonator-went-door-to-door-checking-gas-meters-southwest-valley-neighborhood/ |
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) — Graceful, gutsy and seemingly unfazed by the bright lights, 15-year-old Isabeau Levito decided to go for it in her free skate while reminding herself once more to just stay calm.
The teen star needed a near-flawless free skate to capture gold at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships after Bradie Tennell’s beautiful performance minutes earlier.
Levito accomplished just that, delivering a dazzling 149.55 score for a 223.33 total to win her first women’s national title Friday night.
“I was just very proud of myself for having collected myself and done the program that I needed to do,” Levito said. “Going into this event my entire goal truly for almost even both programs was to stay composed and really try to suppress my nerves as much as possible, to really not let little, minor, silly mistakes happen.”
The New Jersey skater drew a rousing standing ovation from an audience wowed by her poise under pressure on the big nationals stage. Afterward, she clasped the medal in her gloved right hand and made the rounds of congratulatory hellos, hugs and photos.
“I actually can’t even find the word to describe it right now,” Levito said.
Then, she smiled, scratched her chin and requested, “just give me a minute.”
Two-time U.S. champion Tennell scored a 139.36 in the free skate and finished second with a 213.12 total. She missed the entire 2021-22 season with foot and ankle injuries, so the comeback meant so much to her.
“I didn’t think I was going to be able to do this again,” Tennell said, calling this her most special nationals yet and noting she absolutely plans to go for it this next Olympic cycle.
“Skating at nationals again, I was giving myself a pep talk earlier in the mirror ‘cause that’s what I do,” she said. “I said to myself, ‘You dreamed of this for an entire year and now you’re here’ and I told myself I wanted to go out there and I wanted to soak up every moment and be present, and I did that.”
Levito elegantly landed her triple lutz-half loop-triple salchow sequence and other most difficult jumps while captivating the crowd as the final skater of the evening. She came into the free skate leading Tennell by just two-hundredths of a point following Thursday’s short program.
Amber Glenn finished third at 207.44. She delivered an impressive 138.48 free skate that moved her into the lead with the top three skaters from the short program remaining.
Starr Andrews, a fan favorite after she made her nationals debut on this San Jose ice five years ago at age 16, finished fourth at 188.24. She missed on her planned triple flip early in her routine and was visibly disappointed after a free skate that scored 119.27.
Her jaw dropped when the final score was announced.
“I’m honestly so happy that I got a medal today. After I finished the program I thought I messed it up because I popped twice and I never pop,” Andrews said. “In practice I rotate and fall. At least you’ll get the points. It’s better to rotate and fall than to pop it. … They said 188, I was like, ‘Uh, I’m second, there’s only two people left so that means I’m going to be fourth.’”
There’s certainly some nostalgia here for Andrews, who dazzled with a free skate set to her cover of Whitney Houston’s “One Moment in Time” in her senior nationals debut in 2018 at SAP Center. She was in third place entering Friday — just a hundredth of a point ahead of Glenn.
Glenn came into Friday fourth after her 68.96 in the short program. The 2021 U.S. silver medalist was forced to withdraw from last year’s event following a positive COVID-19 test.
Josephine Lee, making her senior nationals debut and sitting 11th after the short program, skated beautifully in the free skate event for a 132.08 and total score of 187.68. She beamed afterward when hearing her score on a night she delivered a triple flip-double axel-double toe loop sequence that certainly impressed the judges.
And reigning junior champion Clare Seo showed poise and promise at 16 as one of the young skaters to watch this quad.
Levito, the reigning junior world champion who took third place in her senior nationals debut last year, entered as the favorite to win her first U.S. title. She earned silver at both Grand Prix assignments and the Grand Prix Final last month.
It was a disappointing night for two-time national champion Gracie Gold. She delivered one of her best short programs of late to come into Friday’s free skate in fifth place only to miss out on attempting a couple of her planned triples. She won U.S. titles in 2014 and ’16.
Earlier Friday, another rising star teen shined. It was 18-year-old Ilia Malinin scoring a personal-best 110.36 in the men’s short program as he chases his first national title, leading second-place veteran Jason Brown by more than 10 points heading into Sunday’s free skate.
Malinin finished second to Olympic champion Nathan Chen — now a mentor offering support of the teen star — in his senior nationals debut last year but was passed over for the Olympic team in favor of the more experienced Brown.
This time, Brown appreciated skating after the youngster and feeling the crowd’s energy.
“I’m very surprised how I was able to pull that off, especially with the whole beginning of the season with all the short programs didn’t go as well,” Malinin said. “I think we took the time and effort to see all the bad things that I’d done, just to take it all in to sort of see what works best. We did a little bit of changing a bit of the program and I think that also helped with getting the performance.”
U.S. Figure Skating announced Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio, as the host for the 2024 nationals.
___
AP Sports: https://apnews.com/hub/sports and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2023-01-28T22:57:45+00:00 | localsyr.com | https://www.localsyr.com/sports/sports-news/ap-teen-isabeau-levito-wins-u-s-womens-figure-skating-title/ |
How to Watch the Stars vs. Kraken Game: Streaming & TV Channel Info for NHL Playoffs Second Round Game 7
Published: May. 15, 2023 at 1:12 PM CDT|Updated: 39 minutes ago
The Dallas Stars host the Seattle Kraken Monday in the final game of the NHL Playoffs Second Round, starting at 8:00 PM ET on ESPN, TVAS, and SportsNet. The series is knotted up at 3-3.
Catch over 1,000 out of market NHL games, plus original programming, with ESPN+ or the Disney Bundle. Click here to sign up!
You can watch the Stars look to beat the Kraken on ESPN, TVAS, and SportsNet.
Stars Live Stream, TV Channel and Game Info
- When: Monday, May 15, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET
- TV Channel: ESPN, TVAS, and SportsNet
- Live Stream: Watch this game on Fubo!
- Where: American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas
Watch live sports and more without cable on all your devices with a seven-day free trial to Fubo!
Stars vs Kraken Additional Info
Stars vs. Kraken Head-to-Head
Stars Stats & Trends
- The Stars have conceded 215 total goals (2.6 per game), the third-fewest in league play.
- The Stars' 281 total goals (3.4 per game) rank seventh in the league.
- In the past 10 games, the Stars are 6-3-1 (75.0% of possible points).
- On the defensive end, the Stars have given up 31 goals (3.1 per game) over those 10 matchups.
- They have averaged 3.6 goals per game (36 total) during that time.
Stars Key Players
Kraken Stats & Trends
- The Kraken's total of 252 goals allowed (3.1 per game) is 14th in the league.
- The Kraken are fourth in the league in scoring (289 goals, 3.5 per game).
- Over the past 10 contests, the Kraken have earned 80.0% of the possible points with a 6-4-0 record.
- Over on the defensive side, the Kraken have allowed three goals per game (30 total) in those 10 outings.
- They have totaled 34 goals over that time.
Kraken Key Players
© 2023 Data Skrive. All rights reserved. | 2023-05-15T21:55:57+00:00 | newschannel10.com | https://www.newschannel10.com/sports/betting/2023/05/15/stars-kraken-nhl-nhl-playoffs-second-round-game-7-live-stream-tv-5/ |
Negotiating Committee Addresses Members' Top Priorities; Local Union Leaders to Review Proposed Three-Year Agreement on June 16
WASHINGTON, May 31, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Teamsters National Automobile Transporters Industry Negotiating Committee (TNATINC) reached a tentative national carhaul agreement this evening. If ratified, the three-year agreement will provide wage increases, increases to maintain health and welfare, additional paid time off and work rule improvements.
Details of the tentative agreement will be announced after leaders from local unions meet June 16 in Washington to review the proposal, which is required by the IBT constitution. Members will report to work as normal.
"This agreement addresses our members' top priorities. We will release more information once the local union leaders have the opportunity to review it," said Avral Thompson, Teamsters Carhaul Division Director and TNATINC Co-Chair. "I want to thank the negotiating committee for their hard work and dedication throughout the bargaining process. We are proud of what we have accomplished. This agreement will improve wages and benefits and will serve as a national model to organize hundreds of new carhaulers nationwide."
The current National Master Automobile Transporters Agreement (NMATA), which was set to expire today, May 31, at midnight, will be extended until members vote on the tentative agreement. Increases applied to wages, rates, etc. will be retroactive to June 1, 2022.
The tentative agreement will be presented at a June 16 meeting in Washington where two representatives from each local union representing members in the carhaul industry will decide whether to approve the contract. If the tentative agreement is approved by the two-person committee, it will be sent to the Teamsters' General Executive Board. Upon recommendation by the General Executive Board, the agreement will be submitted for a democratic ratification vote by the membership.
The NMATA covers more than 3,000 members at 29 Teamster locals nationwide.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.2 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and "like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/teamsters.
Contact:
Daniel Moskowitz, (770) 262-4971
dmoskowitz@teamster.org
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters | 2022-06-01T01:21:37+00:00 | kalb.com | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/06/01/teamsters-reach-tentative-carhaul-agreement/ |
(STACKER) – Which do you like better, cats or dogs? If you chose dogs, you’re in the majority: 74% of adults said they prefer dogs, while only 41% of adults said the same about cats, according to a poll conducted by the Associated Press. That’s not to suggest dogs are inherently better than their feline friends. Evolutionarily speaking, cats have actually been more successful, with superior hunting skills enabling survival even when food is scarce. On the other hand, science suggests dogs are smarter than cats because their cerebral cortexes contain twice as many neurons.
There may never be a clear answer, but for the majority who prefer man’s best friend, Stacker has compiled a list of the top 35 dog breeds with the most timeless popularity. Using data from the American Kennel Club, we averaged each breed’s level of popularity in 1940 with its popularity in 2021. This analysis excluded any new breed introduced since 1940 and is based on data released on March 15, 2022, the most recent data available. Any ties were decided by the breed that ranked highest in 2021.
Different breeds have grown famous for various reasons, such as Welsh corgis, the Queen’s favorite dog breed, or Dalmatians, whose popularity skyrocketed when the 1996 film “101 Dalmatians” hit theaters.
Click through to find out if your favorite dog was just as beloved 80 years ago.
You may also like: Things to consider when adopting a pet
#35. Chow chows
– Average rank over time: 46.5
– 1940 rank: 13
– 2021 rank: 80
Originating in northern China, chow chows have thick double-coats and characteristic blue-black tongues. Martha Stewart is particularly fond of this breed and has owned a number of them.
#34. Brittanys
– Average rank: 45.5
– 1940 rank: 64
– 2021 rank: 27
Due to its fondness for humans and family-friendly disposition, Brittanys have become one of the most well-known dogs in the United States. Brittanys were originally bred as hunting dogs and known as Brittany Spaniels until 1982, when the word “spaniel” was dropped.
#33. Newfoundlands
– Average rank: 44.5
– 1940 rank: 44
– 2021 rank: 45
Newfoundlands are known for their large size, which is enhanced by their heavy double-coat. They are also characterized by their sweet and gentle personality. While they may seem like the perfect pet, one of the Newfoundlands’ less desirable traits is their tendency to drool.
#32. West Highland White Terriers
– Average rank: 44.5
– 1940 rank: 43
– 2021 rank: 46
Called Westie for short, the West Highland White Terrier descends from a group of terriers bred to seek out vermin. As a result, they may share ancestors with cairn terriers and Scottish terriers. Though they look like soft stuffed animals, their outer coat is actually wiry and coarse.
#31. Pugs
– Average rank: 44.5
– 1940 rank: 56
– 2021 rank: 33
Pugs are said to have originated in China and were once a prized possession of the Chinese royal family. Their popularity grew over the years, eventually reaching Europe and, after the Civil War, the United States. Pugs are recognized as canine clowns but don’t expect them to hunt, defend, or retrieve anything.
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#30. Siberian Huskies
– Average rank: 43
– 1940 rank: 67
– 2021 rank: 19
As their name hints, Siberian Huskies originated from Siberia. They were bred to have serious endurance and a thick coat to withstand severe winters. These wolf-like dogs have won the hearts of many pet owners with their high energy and extra friendly personality.
#29. Irish setters
– Average rank: 42.5
– 1940 rank: 14
– 2021 rank: 71
Characterized by their silky chestnut coats, Irish setters were originally bred to hunt birds. Although they love humans, their hunting instincts can make them a threat to smaller animals. They are active and energetic, so potential owners should be prepared to take them on lots of long walks or runs.
#28. Airedale terriers
– Average rank: 41
– 1940 rank: 20
– 2021 rank: 62
The largest of all terriers, Airedales typically weigh between 50 and 70 pounds. President Warren Harding’s terrier, Laddie Boy, was the first presidential pet to receive significant media attention.
#27. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers
– Average rank: 41
– 1940 rank: 34
– 2021 rank: 48
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever gets its name from the shallow estuary that’s surrounded by Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. In the 19th century, Chessies were used to hunt ducks in the Bay since their coat helps them repel water and stay warm.
#26. Saint Bernards
– Average rank: 39.5
– 1940 rank: 26
– 2021 rank: 53
Saint Bernards are extremely large dogs, typically weighing between 120 and 180 pounds. One Saint Bernard named Benedictine was said to have weighed more than 350 pounds. Though their size may be intimidating, Saint Bernards are a gentle, loving breed.
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#25. Dalmatians
– Average rank: 36.5
– 1940 rank: 24
– 2021 rank: 49
Dalmations have roots tracing back to Croatia and are named after the country’s Dalmatia region. Their original job was to guard horse-drawn carriages, including horse-drawn fire engines, which is why they’re associated with firefighters to this day.
#24. Yorkshire terriers
– Average rank: 36.5
– 1940 rank: 60
– 2021 rank: 13
The Yorkshire terrier is a fiery yet affectionate companion despite its small size. The “Yorkie,” one of the most popular toy dog breeds in the United States, has gained many lovers thanks to their devotion to their owners, exquisite appearance, and adaptability to urban living.
#23. Basset hounds
– Average rank: 35.5
– 1940 rank: 37
– 2021 rank: 34
Bred for hunting rabbits, the basset hound’s sense of smell is the second-sharpest of all breeds, bested only by the bloodhound. Basset hounds are descendants of French dogs. Their name is derived from the French word “bas,” which means low—a reference to their short stature.
#22. Scottish terriers
– Average rank: 31
– 1940 rank: 4
– 2021 rank: 58
This breed was developed in the Scottish Highlands and brought to the U.S. in 1883. Former President Franklin D. Roosevelt owned a Scottish terrier named Fala. She was said to have received her own fan mail, and now has her own statue next to Roosevelt’s memorial in Washington D.C.
#21. Pembroke Welsh corgis
– Average rank: 31
– 1940 rank: 51
– 2021 rank: 11
Corgis get their name from the Welsh word “cor ci,” which means “dwarf dog,” a feature evident in their short legs and long body. A large part of their popularity came from the fact that Pembroke Welsh corgis are the Queen’s favorite dog breed.
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#20. Shetland sheepdogs
– Average rank: 30.5
– 1940 rank: 33
– 2021 rank: 28
Also known as Shelties, Shetland sheepdogs were bred in the United Kingdom as herding dogs. These long-coated pups look similar to their collie relatives but are much smaller, weighing only about 20 pounds.
#19. Chihuahuas
– Average rank: 29.5
– 1940 rank: 22
– 2021 rank: 37
One of the smallest dog breeds, Chihuahuas typically weigh no more than 6 pounds. This breed has earned itself a lot of screen time, with roles in “Legally Blonde,” “Meet the Fockers,” “Beverly Hills Chihuahua,” and as Taco Bell’s former mascot, Gidget.
#18. Miniature schnauzers
– Average rank: 27
– 1940 rank: 36
– 2021 rank: 18
The most popular of the three schnauzer breeds, the miniature schnauzer was developed as a farm dog that could track down and kill vermin. The traditional appearance of these schnauzers includes “cropped” ears. This type of surgery is now illegal in some countries, and a few U.S. states have considered legislation to ban it.
#17. French bulldogs
– Average rank: 27
– 1940 rank: 52
– 2021 rank: 2
French bulldogs resemble little bulldogs with bat ears. Interestingly, French bulldogs were first bred in England before becoming famous in France. Although “Frenchies” are not service dogs, a French bulldog became a military hero in American history.
#16. German shorthaired pointers
– Average rank: 25
– 1940 rank: 41
– 2021 rank: 9
German shorthaired pointers were bred to be hunters and are still one of the most successful breeds in hunting competitions. Pointers often have a distinct speckled coat in white, black, or liver (a unique shade of brown).
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#15. Golden retrievers
– Average rank: 24.5
– 1940 rank: 46
– 2021 rank: 3
Golden retrievers were bred to be the perfect gundogs to help their owners, lords of the Scottish Highlands, to help them hunt geese. Their beautiful stature and coat, calm temperament, and friendly nature make golden retrievers popular as family dogs.
#14. Collies
– Average rank: 24
– 1940 rank: 10
– 2021 rank: 38
Collies are an athletic and loving breed. One of the most famous dogs of all time, Lassie, is a collie. She was portrayed by a dog named Pal in seven feature films, and in later iterations by Pal’s descendants.
#13. Pomeranians
– Average rank: 18
– 1940 rank: 12
– 2021 rank: 24
This breed combines a tiny figure with a big personality. Although they weigh no more than 7 pounds, Pomeranians can be possessive and behave aggressively toward those who threaten their space. As a result, they may not be ideal for families with young children.
#12. English Springer Spaniels
– Average rank: 17
– 1940 rank: 8
– 2021 rank: 26
English Springer Spaniels were bred as hunting dogs and are active, obedient pups. Springer spaniels have won six Best in Show awards at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the third-most of any breed.
#11. Great Danes
– Average rank: 16.5
– 1940 rank: 16
– 2021 rank: 17
Despite what their name suggests, the Great Dane was developed by the Germans. This breed often holds the record for the tallest living dog. At 7 feet and 4 inches, a Great Dane named Zeus held this title until his death in 2014.
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#10. Doberman pinschers
– Average rank: 15.5
– 1940 rank: 15
– 2021 rank: 16
This breed gets its name from Louis Dobermann of Apolda, Germany. Dobermann bred a dog who could protect him while he worked as a tax collector. Though their history may have stereotyped them as aggressive, Dobermans can be socialized to be loving, friendly dogs.
#9. Boxers
– Average rank: 15.5
– 1940 rank: 17
– 2021 rank: 14
The boxer’s ancestor is a German dog called the Bullenbeisser, which was used to hunt larger animals like deer and boar. Though they sprung from talented hunters, modern boxers make loving family dogs, as well as great service pets. This breed has also been very successful at the Westminster Dog Show, winning Best in Show four times.
#8. Cocker spaniels
– Average rank: 15
– 1940 rank: 1
– 2021 rank: 29
Cocker spaniels are the smallest breed in the sporting group, typically weighing no more than 30 pounds. They were developed to hunt birds, specifically the woodcock, which is where they get their name.
#7. Labrador Retrievers
– Average rank: 15
– 1940 rank: 29
– 2021 rank: 1
Despite their name, Labrador retrievers developed in Newfoundland, Canada, as opposed to Labrador, Canada. With coats generally in either yellow, chocolate, or black, Labs are an active breed that loves people and other animals.
#6. Poodles
– Average rank: 14
– 1940 rank: 23
– 2021 rank: 5
Poodles originated in Germany, where they were used to hunt ducks. Their name comes from the German word “pudelin,” which means “to splash in water.” Many 1950s American celebrities owned poodles, including Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and Lucille Ball.
You may also like: 5 cost-saving ways to keep your pets healthy—and happy
#5. Boston terriers
– Average rank: 13
– 1940 rank: 3
– 2021 rank: 23
Even though terrier is in their name, Boston terriers are part of the nonsporting group. The other half of their name makes more sense: They were developed in Boston and became the official state dog of Massachusetts in 1979.
#4. German shepherds
– Average rank: 11
– 1940 rank: 18
– 2021 rank: 4
These large, muscular dogs are easily trained, making them an excellent choice for police K9 units. The German shepherd was affected by the anti-German sentiment that was aroused in the early 20th century. In Britain, German shepherds were renamed Alsatians after World War I began.
#3. Bulldogs
– Average rank: 8.5
– 1940 rank: 11
– 2021 rank: 6
The bulldog’s name references its past, when it was used during bull-baiting in England. Considered a sport, bull-baiting involved a dog attempting to bring down tied-up bull. Due to their pups’ large heads, most bulldogs give birth through C-section.
#2. Dachshunds
– Average rank: 8
– 1940 rank: 6
– 2021 rank: 10
Known for having relatively short legs and a long body, the dachshund’s shape meant it could track scents easily, as well as fit into burrows. The first time the Olympics had a mascot was during the summer games of 1972 in Munich; the mascot selected was a dachshund named Waldi.
#1. Beagles
– Average rank: 4.5
– 1940 rank: 2
– 2021 rank: 7
Beagles were first brought to the United States after the Civil War, when they were used for hunting rabbits. Their long ears aided them in picking up subtle sounds, and their white-tipped tails helped keep them visible. Though he may not look like one, “Peanuts” character Snoopy is in fact a beagle.
You may also like: A history of presidential pets | 2022-08-13T14:59:22+00:00 | krqe.com | https://www.krqe.com/news/national/dog-breeds-with-the-most-timeless-popularity/ |
Arizona high school football Thursday roundup: Mountain Pointe runs over Desert Vista
There were 10 Arizona Interscholastic Association high school varsity football games played Thursday night. Here's a rundown of some of them.
Mountain Pointe runs over rival
Phoenix Mountain Pointe had three running backs — Jay'len Rushing, Christian Clark and Randle Parker — each run for more than 100 yards in a 63-35 rout of Ahwatukee-rival Desert Vista at Mountain Pointe.
It was the first game heralded sophomore offensive lineman Kaleb Jones was healthy, and coach Eric Lauer said about 37 plays were run behind him.
The touchdowns were spread out among the backs, as the Pride improved to 3-2 with five players becoming eligible to play the second half of the season next week after transferring from different schools.
"Rushing is just so physical when he runs," Lauer said. "He gets behind his pads.
"Randle Parker is like a shot. Rushing is a bruiser and he kind of creates his holes. And Clark has quick feet and is a combination of the two. They're getting to the point where they trade out touches for each other. They're doing that on their own. They feed off each other. One might be a little gassed, and the other will say, 'OK, I got you. I'll come in.' "
Mountain Pointe tied the overall series 13-13, while Desert Vista fell to 1-4 in its first season under head coach Nate Gill.
Mesa bounces back with a win
After losing to 4A Chandler Arizona College Prep 42-28 last week, Mesa bounced back to beat Phoenix Camelback 42-30 as receiver Tre' Brown had 100 receiving yards and returned a punt for a touchdown.
Quarterback Manny Pino had 191 passing yards and 100 rushing yards. He threw two TD passes, one to Brown. Mesa is now 2-3 with games coming up the next two weeks against Mesa-rivals Dobson and Westwood.
The Jackrabbits' final three games will also be winnable against North, Trevor Browne and Cibola.
"We're definitely excited about the next five games and hopefully make a good run, and have a shot at getting into the playoffs," coach Chad DeGrenier said.
For subscribers: Arizona high school football Week 7 schedule, picks
Sunnyslope QB Moga leads Vikings to above .500
Luke Moga threw four TD passes and ran for another to lead Phoenix Sunnyslope to a 42-14 rout of Glendale Ironwood that improved the Vikings to 3-2.
Sunnyslope had won its first two games, before losing its last two to Gilbert Higley and Tempe Corona del Sol.
"We had a great week of practice," coach Sam Jacobs said. "We had to refocus after a very tough first part of the season. Our QB Luke Moga was very efficient and accurate last night throwing.
"He got the ball to our playmakers, Dillon Dwiggins and Chris Castillo."
Defensively, the Vikings were led by James Cottrell, Gavin Mitchell and Deven Broady, Jacobs said.
Under the lights: The ultimate guide to Arizona high school football
Peoria wins 3rd straight with shutout of Sierra Linda
Peoria won its third game in a row, shutting out Phoenix Sierra Linda 21-0, as freshman Dominic Kramer made his first varsity start, passing for 120 yards and two TDs.
Peoria has been going running back by committee between Sebastian Carrillo and Isaiah Beckner after losing its starting tailback in the season-opening loss to Phoenix Arcadia.
Carrillo ran for 125 yards on 15 carries against Sierra Linda.
Peoria rallied on a Monday night game from 12 points in the final six minutes to beat American Leadership West Foothills 29-28. Four days later, the Panthers beat rival Raymond S. Kellis 21-17, during which they lost their starting quarterback, Josh Holiday, to a concussion.
Gabe Rodriguez has had seven sacks in four games for Peoria.
Peoria now gets ready for rival Cactus next week.
Game of Week: 5 storylines for Liberty-Saguaro football showdown
Campo Verde tops Gilbert
Gilbert Campo Verde improved to 3-1 after a 30-13 win over Gilbert, as the Coyotes ran for 377 yards, led by Athan Ferber's 195 yards and two TDs on 17 carries. Campo Verde (3-1) bounced back from its first loss, 42-29 to Mountain Pointe.
"Last week was rough, but the boys rallied around one another and came out more focused this week," coach Ryan Freeman said. "We need to continue to improve on limiting penalties and breaking our momentum within drives and within the game.
"We have a really strong group of seniors who have rallied around each other with the injuries that we have had to deal with this season."
The defense created five turnovers against Gilbert. Nate Gomez, Josh Faber, Jase Hudson and Hayden Jolly each intercepted a pass. Gavin Silene has spearheaded the defense at middle linebacker. He had 17 tackles, one for a loss, a caused fumble and a recovered fumble Thursday night.
To suggest human-interest story ideas and other news, reach Obert at richard.obert@arizonarepublic.com or 602-316-8827. Follow him on Twitter @azc_obert.
Support local journalism: Subscribe to azcentral.com today | 2022-09-30T22:44:18+00:00 | azcentral.com | https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/high-school/2022/09/30/arizona-high-school-football-thursday-roundup/8139297001/ |
NEW YORK (AP) — Alan Gilbert agreed Friday to a five-year contract extension as chief conductor of the Elbphilharmonie Orchestra in Hamburg, Germany, a deal that runs through the 2028-29 season.
The New Yorker, who turns 56 on Feb. 23, became the orchestra’s chief conductor the 2019-20 season.
Gilbert also is music director of the Royal Swedish Opera, conductor laureate of the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra and principal guest conductor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra.
Gilbert was music director of the New York Philharmonic from 2009-10 through 2016-17. He is a son of former New York Philharmonic violinists Yoko Takebe and Michael Gilbert. | 2023-02-17T19:46:51+00:00 | cbs4indy.com | https://cbs4indy.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-alan-gilbert-extends-contract-with-hamburg-orchestra-to-29/ |
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ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed Thursday that he plans to stand for reelection next year.
Erdogan, 68, made the announcement during a speech in the Aegean coastal city of Izmir, where he challenged the main opposition party’s leader, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, to announce the candidate who would challenge him on behalf of an alliance of opposition parties.
”(Recep) Tayyip Erdogan is the candidate of the People’s Alliance,” Erdogan said, referring to the between his Justice and Development Party and a nationalist party. “If you have the courage, declare your candidacy or the candidate of the alliance.”
Turkey is scheduled to hold presidential and parliamentary elections by June 2023 at the latest.
Erdogan has led the country for almost 20 years, first as prime minister and then as president. But support for him and the People’s Alliance has steadily declined amid high inflation and a cost of living crisis.
Kilicdaroglu led the opposition to victory in municipal elections in 2019, when its mayoral candidates ousted the ruling party from office in Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city, and in the capital, Ankara.
The alliance of opposition parties has yet to announce its presidential candidate, although Kilicdaroglu and the mayors of Ankara and Istanbul are viewed as top contenders. | 2022-06-09T15:29:22+00:00 | lmtonline.com | https://www.lmtonline.com/news/article/Turkey-s-Erdogan-says-he-will-run-for-reelection-17230353.php |
BROOKLYN, N.Y. , Dec. 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Williamsburg Therapy Group is excited to announce its new partnership with Nirvana, an insurance intelligence platform that automates insurance coverage checks, claims filing, and reimbursement tracking, so nothing gets in the way of reliable mental healthcare for patients at WTG.
The digital billing service will make it easier for patients at WTG to file out-of-network claims and ensure they get paid faster. On average, Nirvana-filed claims are adjudicated in less than three days.
Nirvana is currently used by many leading health insurance companies across the United States, including United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and more.
"We are thrilled to be able to finally offer our clients with out-of-network benefits a seamless path to reimbursement for their sessions at WTG. Our concierge reimbursement process, powered by Nirvana, will be a major asset to our practice and clientele," said Dr. Daniel Selling, CEO of Williamsburg Therapy Group.
In addition to enabling instant, automated coverage checks for enterprise clients, Nirvana provides reimbursement estimates and superbill filing to patients, which can amount to up to 30% of upfront costs being reimbursed.
"We couldn't be more thrilled to partner on making therapy more affordable. Patients deserve to know what their insurance will cover, and we're proud to be able to help Williamsburg Therapy Group offer that to their communities," said Kelvin Chan, Co-Founder and President of Nirvana.
For more information about Williamsburg Therapy Group's new partnership with Nirvana click here.
Paul Clarke
Elkordy Global
paul@elkordyglobal.com
The Williamsburg Therapy Group is a collective of mental health doctors in Brooklyn, NYC, and Austin, TX. We assist businesses and individual members of each community we serve by providing therapy for individuals, couples, families, and children. We offer specialized psychotherapies designed to address anxiety, depression, addiction, and more.
Nirvana is an insurance intelligence platform that automates insurance coverage checks, claims filing, and reimbursement tracking, so nothing gets in the way of reliable care for both patients and practices.
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SOURCE Williamsburg Therapy Group | 2022-12-12T14:36:30+00:00 | kalb.com | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/12/12/williamsburg-therapy-group-announces-new-partnership-make-reimbursement-mental-healthcare-easier/ |
Julie Otsuka, Ed Yong win Carnegie Medals for Excellence
By HILLEL ITALIE
AP National Writer
NEW YORK (AP) — Julie Otsuka’s novel “The Swimmers,” in which a group of swimmers collectively narrate their daily routines and what happens when they’re disrupted, has won the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction. The $5,000 honor is presented by the American Library Association. Ed Yong’s “An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal the Hidden Realms Around Us” won the medal for nonfiction, which also comes with a $5,000 cash prize. The Carnegie Medals were established in 2012, with help from a grant from Carnegie Corporation of New York. Previous winners include James McBride, Doris Kearns Goodwin and Matthew Desmond. | 2023-01-30T00:54:09+00:00 | krdo.com | https://krdo.com/news/ap-national-news/2023/01/29/julie-otsuka-ed-yong-win-carnegie-medals-for-excellence/ |
Debt limit deal is in place, but budget deficit is still a multi-decade challenge for US government
WASHINGTON (AP) — Even with the new spending restraints in the debt limit deal that cut borrowing by $1.5 trillion, the U.S. government’s deficits are still on course to keep climbing to record levels over the next few decades.
The projections are a sign that the two-year truce between President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., might be only a pause before a far more wrenching set of showdowns over the federal budget. The Congressional Budget Office said Tuesday that the agreement would reduce spending by $1.3 trillion and interest payments by $188 billion over 10 years. But that sum is too modest to fully offset the growing costs of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid.
Both Biden and McCarthy ruled out any cuts to Social Security and Medicare, two programs that benefit older voters, before their teams even began their budget talks. That omission reflects the politics around two popular programs as Democrats and Republicans prepare for next year’s presidential election.
It also means the agreement finalized on Sunday keeps the risk of ever-escalating debt on the table, setting up the possibility of another bruising battle when the debt limit needs to be raised again in 2025.
“You should think of this as one step,” said Marc Goldwein, senior vice president at the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. “The question is, can they take the next step after that?”
Lawmakers know there are difficult choices ahead and that the only way through them likely involves some combination of deep spending cuts, broad tax hikes and major changes to the retirement income and health care programs that consume an ever-growing share of federal spending.
Mandatory spending — which includes Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid — already account for the majority of government spending. That category is equal in size to 14% of U.S. gross domestic product, and the CBO expects it will grow to 15.6% by 2023. By contrast, discretionary spending was 6.5% of gross domestic product last year and was already projected to fall to 6% within 10 years.
Goldwein said he’s optimistic that leaders in both parties will find ways to reduce the growth in spending for health care programs. Social Security will also face a reckoning as its trust fund will be unable to pay out full benefits within a decade.
But some budget experts saw the deal as more focused on optics than sustainability.
“This debt limit agreement is shaking out to be a political face-saving deal without much substance in terms of changing the U.S. debt trajectory,” said Romina Boccia, director of budget and entitlement policy at the libertarian Cato Institute.
The agreement, which still has to be approved by Congress, would hold discretionary spending essentially flat for the coming year, while allowing increases for military and veterans accounts. Spending growth would be capped at 1% for 2025, essentially a cut given the likely rate of inflation.
Some Democratic allies see the deal as problematic because it cedes ground to Republicans who want to use the debt limit fight as an opportunity to press their policy aims, despite the risk of a default.
“Looking forward, we must find a path to abolish the debt ceiling and end the absurd debt ceiling hostage-taking that Republicans engage in when they can use it as a bludgeon against a Democratic president,” said Sharon Parrott, president of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a liberal think tank.
Other economic analysts took issue with GOP suggestions that the U.S. was already hamstrung by debt, even though investors continue, for the moment, to buy Treasury notes. While total federal debt — including money the government owes itself — exceeds $31 trillion, the U.S. economy possesses more than $143 trillion worth of non-financial assets in a sign that the current debt loads are manageable.
“It is simply not true that the United States is broke and on the verge of a debt and deficit crisis,” said Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at the consultancy RSM U.S.
But even if there isn’t an immediate reckoning over debt, there is a long-term problem that the talks purposefully ignored. The president challenged Republicans to shield Social Security and Medicare from cuts at his State of the Union address in February. GOP lawmakers jeered him for suggesting they would dare to cut the programs, leading Biden to declare, “We’ve got unanimity.”
Biden specifically hailed the bipartisan agreement on Sunday for protecting Social Security and Medicare, while saying the agreement that must pass the House and Senate would prevent a possibly catastrophic default that could occur on June 5.
“This is a deal that’s good news,” the president said, “for the American people.”
Yet House members received a specific briefing in March indicating that entitlement programs would drive up the debt. CBO director Phillip Swagel gave a presentation showing that publicly held debt would more than double to 195% of gross domestic product in 2053. The key challenge is that an aging population means that programs for older people have costs that exceed tax revenues.
Swagel provided 17 policy options for reducing the debt, six of which were tax hikes that could raise trillions of dollars over 10 years. Tax increases have been a nonstarter with Republicans, while Democrats have generally shied away from reductions to benefits.
His slide deck included this warning: “The longer action is delayed, the larger the policy changes would need to be.”
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | 2023-05-31T00:55:25+00:00 | kaaltv.com | https://www.kaaltv.com/news/business-news/debt-limit-deal-is-in-place-but-budget-deficit-is-still-a-multi-decade-challenge-for-us-government/ |
HOLLIS, N.H. — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former President Donald Trump traded barbs on Tuesday as the two leading Republican White House candidates staged dueling events in the critical early voting state of New Hampshire.
Addressing a town hall in Hollis, DeSantis vowed to “actually” build the U.S.-Mexico border wall that Trump tried but failed to complete in his first term while pledging to tear down Washington's traditional power centers in ways that Trump fell short.
Speaking later at a Republican women's luncheon in the state capital of Concord, Trump countered that DeSantis was being forced to settle for second place in the primary and accused the governor of supporting cuts to Social Security, Medicare and other entitlement programs as a way to tame federal spending.
Beyond the rhetoric, the conflicting events demonstrated each candidate's evolving strategy. DeSantis took extensive audience questions — a trademark in New Hampshire politics that he eschewed during his previous visit to the state, drawing criticisms that he was stilted and overly scripted.
Trump, meanwhile, offered his traditional, free-wheeling speech for more than hour but didn't take questions. Reporters covering the event were confined to a pen, chaperoned to the bathroom and told they could not speak to attendees in the conference center ballroom or even in the hallways.
DeSantis, asked about people who had twice voted for Trump over his promises to “drain the swamp,” used his answer to draw some of his sharpest contrasts yet with the former president.
“He didn’t drain it. It’s worse today than it’s ever been,” DeSantis said. He added that such promises don’t go far enough because a subsequent president “can just refill it.”
“I want to break the swamp,” DeSantis said, pledging to take power out of the nation’s capital by instructing Cabinet agencies to halve the number of employees there.
Many leading Republicans remain fiercely loyal to Trump, but there is some evidence that the attacks against the former president are resonating. Speaking about Trump on Tuesday, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, a California Republican, said, “Can he win that election? Yeah, he can win that election.”
“The question is, is he the strongest to win the election?” McCarthy continued on CNBC’s “Squawk Box.” “I don’t know that answer.”
At his own event, Trump noted that DeSantis is “holding an event right now to compete with us.” Trump vowed to “drain the swamp once and for all” but used the slogan more to criticize President Joe Biden than the Florida governor.
“You can’t drain the swamp if you’re part of the swamp, and Joe Biden and other opponents, many of them, are all owned, controlled, bought and paid for, 100%,” Trump said.
The former president echoed DeSantis in promising that "this election will be the end of the world for the corrupt political class in our nation’s capital.”
DeSantis was also asked about the pro-Trump mob that overran the U.S. Capitol in January 2021, as Congress was meeting to certify Biden's 2020 victory, and responded, “If it’s about relitigating things that happened two or three years ago, we’re going to lose."
“I wasn’t anywhere near Washington that day. I had nothing to do with what happened that day. Obviously, I didn’t enjoy seeing. You know what happened. But we’ve got to go forward on this stuff,” DeSantis said. ”We cannot be looking backwards.”
That, too, contrasted with Trump, who repeated baseless claims Tuesday that he was denied a second term because the other side “cheated.” Numerous federal and local officials, a long list of courts, top former campaign staffers and even Trump's own attorney general have all said there is no evidence of the fraud he alleges.
The simultaneous visits by the candidates intensified the scrutiny of the role that New Hampshire, the first-in-the-nation GOP primary state, will play in deciding the next Republican presidential nominee. Much of the focus of the early primary has been on Iowa and South Carolina, where evangelical Christians are dominant.
Spending time in New Hampshire, by contrast, gives the candidates were testing their messages in front of a more libertarian-leaning electorate.
Trump’s first-place finish in New Hampshire’s 2016 Republican primary — after losing Iowa to Texas Sen. Ted Cruz — helped propel him to dominance in the party. But his Democratic rivals ended up winning the state in both the 2016 and 2020 general elections.
Before his speech, Trump announced that his New Hampshire team features 150-plus dedicated activists and organizers throughout the state’s 10 counties.
DeSantis’ campaign angered some members of the New Hampshire Federation of Republican Women by scheduling his town hall around the same time Trump was addressing the group's lunch gathering. It complained that DeSantis' event is “an attempt to steal focus from” its own lunch, and that other presidential candidates scheduled around it.
That didn't stop DeSantis from using his town hall to talk up the new immigration policy proposal he released Monday in South Texas, betting that the issue can energize GOP voters, even those who are 2,000 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border.
“We’re actually going to build the wall,” DeSantis said of Trump's failed pledges to do so. “A lot of politicians chirp. They make grandiose promises and then fail to deliver the actual results. The time for excuses is over. Now is the time to deliver results and finally get the job done."
DeSantis' immigration plan was the first major policy rollout of his campaign and calls for ending birthright citizenship, finishing the border wall and sending U.S. forces into Mexico to combat drug cartels. Many of those largely mirror Trump’s policies, while facing long odds since they'd require reversing legal precedents, approval from other countries or even amending the U.S. Constitution.
But the Florida governor also tailored his Tuesday message to New Hampshire, noting how tougher border security could eventually help limit the ravages of opioids, which have hit the state particularly hard, even as deaths from overdoses have climbed all over the country.
He promised the “most assertive” policy against drug cartels “any administration has ever had,” adding, ”We have to do it because it will save lives.”
DeSantis has tried to gain ground on Trump by questioning the former president's continued hold on the national party. At the town hall, the governor slammed the GOP's “culture of losing” under Trump and mentioned the “massive red wave” that many top Republicans predicted but that never materialized nationally in last year’s midterm elections.
“We had a red wave in Florida,” DeSantis said, noting he easily won reelection last fall. “But that’s because we delivered results in Florida.” | 2023-06-28T01:18:46+00:00 | wtsp.com | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/nation-world/trump-desantis-to-hold-dueling-campaign-events-in-new-hampshire/507-c1917df3-603e-4a01-9f3e-bad9ec188fa9 |
WASHINGTON (Nexstar) — A government watchdog office says 1,000 people have been charged with unemployment insurance fraud for claims filed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The labor department’s inspector general says there’s been more than $45 billion in potential unemployment insurance fraud since the pandemic hit.
Senator Rick Scott (D-Fla.) says the government is to blame and Drake Hagner, visiting professor at George Washington Law, agrees.
“The amount of fraud is definitely surprising,” Hagner said. “What we really have seen is that our state workforce agencies have been under-prepared to respond to a crisis of this kind.”
“You should be furious with your government,” Scott added.
Old computer systems mean unemployment offices cant easily detect fraud, like when claims are filed in multiple states or when they’re filed under the identity of someone who’s in prison or deceased.
The issues with stolen identities impacted low-income workers most because if they had their identities stolen, they were unable to easily fix the problem — many state unemployment systems aren’t compatible with mobile devices.
Scott recognizes the problem but says there are other issues to fix before dedicating dollars to updating computer systems, and Hagner says ultimately states will need federal funding to fix the unemployment systems to prevent future fraud.
“We should have been looking all along at who is taking advantage of the system,” Hagner said. | 2022-09-29T12:46:03+00:00 | cenlanow.com | https://www.cenlanow.com/washington-dc/labor-dept-watchdog-more-than-45b-in-insurance-fraud-claimed-during-pandemic/ |
Regional rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran announced on Friday they are restoring full diplomatic relations in a deal brokered by China, a move that could reduce tensions in the region and asserts China's growing influence in the Gulf.
The agreement paves the way for Saudi Arabia and Iran to reopen their embassies and diplomatic missions within the coming two months. It also revives accords on security cooperation and trade and investment.
Moreover, in their joint statement, the two countries affirmed their "respect for the sovereignty of states" and "non-interference in internal affairs of states," language underscoring Saudi Arabia's concerns about Iran's Revolutionary Guard, a shadowy force that oversees sectarian Shia militia proxies in the region.
The White House said the Saudis kept the U.S. informed of the talks and that it welcomes any moves that de-escalate tensions in the region.
This agreement comes seven years after ties between the regional heavyweights was ruptured when the Saudi embassy in Tehran was ransacked by Iranian protesters angry at a mass execution of 47 people in Saudi Arabia. Among those executed in 2016 was Saudi Shia cleric Nimr al-Nimr, a prominent figure who'd led protests against the government demanding greater rights for the large Shia minority in the Sunni Muslim-led kingdom.
What's the impact on regional security?
This agreement could reduce tensions that had spiked dramatically, culminating in a stunning missile and drone attack on Saudi Arabia's oil facilities in 2019. That attack led to the suspension of more than 5% of the world's daily crude oil production. The United States and Saudi Arabia accused Iran of sponsoring the attack — an allegation denied by Iran.
By 2021, Saudi Arabia and Iran began engaging in discreet lower-level direct talks, hosted by Iraq and later Oman. This agreement elevates that dialogue so that the two countries' foreign ministers can meet.
In Yemen, Saudi Arabia is seeking a permanent cease-fire and a way out of a yearslong war against the Iranian-backed Houthi militia there. The resumption of ties with Iran could reduce weapons shipments to the Houthis and help wind down the war in Yemen.
Improved ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran could additionally impact the long-running civil war in Syria. The Saudi kingdom has long supported Sunni groups battling against Syrian President Bashar Assad's government, which itself is supported by Iran and Russia. That war has ground to a stalemate in large parts of Syria as more Arab states look to reestablish ties with its regime.
The renewed relations could influence security and stability in Iraq and Lebanon as well, where Iranian-backed militias are active.
The agreement could also reduce sectarian tensions in parts of the Middle East and as far as South Asia. Iran and Saudi Arabia have been vying for leadership in the Muslim world since Iran's 1979 revolution, which elevated hard-line Shia clerics to power. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has curtailed the influence of ultraconservative Sunni clerics in favor of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's social reforms. Still, the kingdom has continued to execute Shia protesters allegedly found guilty of violence and maintains control of Islam's holiest site in Mecca, giving it religious sway.
What does it say about China's role?
China's role in this agreement emerged with the deal's announcement on Friday from Beijing following four days of talks between Iranian and Saudi officials there.
China was able to play this role because it has maintained ties with both countries and purchases oil from both OPEC member states, despite U.S. sanctions on Iran. Iran's president recently visited China.
China also has strong relations with Saudi Arabia as its top buyer of oil. Chinese President Xi Jinping was warmly received in the kingdom in December on a high-profile visit that showcased Beijing's ambitions to expand its influence in the Gulf, a region traditionally seen as a close U.S. security partner.
Yu Jie, a senior research fellow at Chatham House, a think tank in London, described the announcement as a major diplomatic win for China.
"Countries in the region do not want to choose between the two great powers," she added, referring to the growing rivalry between China and the U.S.
She said China was able to claim credit for the deal because of its "noninterference principle" in the Middle East. For example, China does not raise human rights concerns in conversations with Arab leaders.
How could this affect U.S. policy and interests in the Gulf?
Although President Biden has tried to revive Iran's tattered nuclear deal, the agreement has steadily unraveled since former President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew the U.S. from it.
Relations between Washington and Tehran have grown more strained in past months amid U.S. allegations that Iran is supplying Russia with drones for Moscow's war in Ukraine and following Iran's suppression of protests sparked by the death of a young Iranian woman in the custody of security forces last year. (Iran later acknowledged providing drones to Russia.)
A security meeting between U.S. and Gulf officials in the Saudi capital of Riyadh in recent weeks underscored shared concerns they have about the reach of Iran's missiles and drones, and its nuclear program.
Saudi Arabia maintains ties with Russia, but the kingdom's foreign minister recently visited Ukraine's capital of Kyiv and the kingdom pledged $400 million in humanitarian aid there.
The kingdom relies heavily on the U.S. for its defense and weaponry, despite strains in the bilateral relationship over human rights concerns in Saudi Arabia and long-running concerns among Gulf Arab states about the U.S. commitment to their security.
Shared concerns over Iran and a sense among Gulf Arab states that the U.S. is an unreliable security partner pushed countries like the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain to formalize ties with Israel. (Iran and Israel are enemies.) It's unclear how this Chinese-brokered agreement could impact the Biden administration's efforts to persuade Saudi Arabia to establish full ties with Israel.
White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said the U.S. continues to watch China "as they try to gain influence and footholds elsewhere around the world in their own selfish interests." But he said the administration welcomes the deal regardless of the impetus or who sat down at the table, particularly if this agreement can be sustained and lead to an end to the war in Yemen.
The resumption of ties with Iran is a sign that China's role in the region is growing, the U.S. remains an irreplaceable security partner for Gulf Arab states.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2023-03-10T20:40:42+00:00 | kpcc.org | https://www.kpcc.org/npr-news/2023-03-10/rivals-saudi-arabia-and-iran-restore-ties-with-chinas-help-heres-why-it-matters |
California’s Feinstein returns to Senate after monthslong absence
WASHINGTON (AP) — California Sen. Dianne Feinstein returned to the Senate on Wednesday after a two-and-a-half-month absence due to illness, giving majority Democrats a much-needed final vote as they seek to confirm President Joe Biden’s nominees and raise the nation’s debt ceiling in the coming weeks.
Looking noticeably thinner and frail, Feinstein is using a wheelchair to get around the Capitol as she continues to recover from a case of shingles. She missed the Senate’s first votes on Wednesday morning but arrived outside the Senate in a car for an afternoon vote, helped into the wheelchair by aides and greeted by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer with a handshake and affectionate pat on the back.
In a statement, Feinstein, 89, said she was continuing to recover from side effects of the shingles virus and would work a reduced schedule. While she had returned to Washington on Tuesday, she missed a vote on Tuesday evening and two votes on Wednesday morning before returning for the afternoon vote to confirm a Department of Education nominee.
“My doctors have advised me to work a lighter schedule as I return to the Senate,” Feinstein said in the statement. “I’m hopeful those issues will subside as I continue to recover.”
Feinstein’s return after 10 weeks away from the Senate gives Democrats a better cushion as they navigate their narrow 51-49 majority. She had asked Schumer to temporarily replace her on the Senate Judiciary Committee, where some of Biden’s judicial nominations have stalled without her tie-breaking vote. But Republicans blocked that request last month, giving Democrats few options to move those nominees – and important bills, like a potential debt package – unless she returned or resigned.
Still, it is unclear if Feinstein will be able to be present for every crucial vote. Her office said that while she was initially diagnosed with shingles on Feb. 26 and briefly hospitalized, she is still experiencing side effects like vision and balance impairments.
The illness came after Feinstein already had grown more frail in recent years, and has at times appeared confused or disoriented when talking to reporters in the Capitol. But she has defended her effectiveness.
In her statement, Feinstein said that the “most pressing” issue facing the Senate is to raise the debt ceiling and avoid default. “I also look forward to resuming my work on the Judiciary Committee considering the president’s judicial nominees,” she said.
Feinstein made the unusual request to be temporarily replaced on the panel after pressure from Democrats who are concerned about the judicial nominees and amid some calls for her resignation. Her office had not given a date for her return, creating a headache for Democrats who are hoping to use their majority to confirm as many of Biden’s judicial nominees as possible.
Republicans balked, saying they would not help Democrats confirm nominees who could not move without bipartisan support. Schumer declined to hold a vote on Feinstein’s request after it became clear it would not pass.
She had asked for the replacement after Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., called on her to resign from the Senate, saying it was “unacceptable” for her to miss votes to confirm judges who could be weighing in on abortion rights, a key Democratic priority.
Feinstein has gradually stepped back from several senior positions in recent years. In 2020, she said she would not serve as the top Democrat on the judiciary panel after criticism from liberals about her handling of Justice Amy Coney Barrett’s confirmation. Earlier this year, she said she would not serve as the Senate president pro tempore, or the most senior member of the majority party, even though she was in line to do so. The president pro tempore opens the Senate every day and holds other ceremonial duties.
The long-serving California senator has had a trailblazing political career and shattered gender barriers. She was the first woman to serve as president of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in the 1970s and the first female mayor of San Francisco. She ascended to that post after the November 1978 assassinations of then-Mayor George Moscone and City Supervisor Harvey Milk by a former supervisor, Dan White. Feinstein found Milk’s body.
In the Senate, she was the first woman to head the Senate Intelligence Committee and the first woman to serve as the Judiciary Committee’s top Democrat.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-05-10T20:56:22+00:00 | wsfa.com | https://www.wsfa.com/2023/05/10/californias-feinstein-returns-senate-after-monthslong-absence/ |
What are the top-rated skin beauty supplements?
If you’re looking for a way to take better care of your skin or think your diet could use a little extra boost, you may want to consider using a skin beauty supplement. These are packed with good-for-your-skin nutrients like collagen, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that work from the inside out to promote healthy skin.
They don’t require a prescription and are generally sold in the form of powders, pills and gummies. While your diet and lifestyle make all the difference, adding a supplement to your wellness routine is a great way to tackle specific concerns and improve the quality of your skin. Here are the 12 best skin beauty supplements on the market.
Best skin beauty supplements
Zint Pure Collagen Peptides Powder
Collagen is key when it comes to reducing the signs of aging, including wrinkles and dry skin. This hydrolyzed collagen powder helps boost collagen production to enhance skin elasticity and hydration. Sourced from non-GMO, grass-fed cows, this product is gluten-free and certified paleo and keto-friendly. It’s also unflavored and dissolves easily in both cool and warm beverages.
Sold by Amazon
Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin and Nails Gummies
These strawberry-flavored gummies from Nature’s Bounty provide a glowing blend of nutrients to strengthen your daily beauty routine. They’re formulated with a high dose of biotin along with vitamins C and E, which are all well known for their role in maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails. Plus, they’re easy to chew and taste delicious.
Sold by Amazon
The Beauty Chef Glow Inner Beauty Essential Powder
This glow-inducing supplement combines probiotics with potent antioxidants to keep your skin happy and balanced from within. It also contains niacinamide and vitamin C to stimulate collagen production and brighten the skin. All you need to do is blend this berry-flavored powder into your water, yogurt or smoothie daily for glowing skin and good gut health.
Goli Nutrition Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies
Many health experts and nutritionists advocate for the daily intake of apple cider vinegar to not only promote digestive health but also help clear the skin, thanks to its antibacterial and detoxifying properties. These gummies are delicious, organic, vegan, non-GMO, gelatin and gluten-free. They also contain vitamins B9 and B12 to help boost cell turnover and reduce skin inflammation.
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The Nue Co. Skin Hydrator Dietary Supplement
Hydration is vital to plump, clear, youthful skin. This beauty supplement from The Nue Co. makes it easy to give your skin all the hydration it needs with just one small capsule. Loaded with hyaluronic acid, collagen and aloe vera, it’s formulated to help repair the skin’s barrier to leave you with visibly smooth, dewy and hydrated skin.
Sold by Sephora
HUM Nutrition Daily Cleanse Clear Skin and Body Detox Supplement
If you’re dealing with pesky breakouts, this powerful formula works wonders to help clear acne. With algae, minerals and detoxifying herbs in each capsule, not only do these help combat acne-causing toxins, but they also help detoxify other internal organs like the kidneys and liver. It can take up to four to six weeks of using this supplement daily to see results.
Garden of Life mykind Organics: Collagen Builder
If you’re shopping for an organic skin supplement, this one from Garden of Life may just be what you’re looking for. Made using whole food ingredients like blended fruit and vegetables, these can help maintain your body’s keratin, collagen and elastin levels with their modest dose of vitamins A, C and E. They also include a significant amount of biotin and green tea extract.
Sold by Amazon
Moon Juice SuperBeauty Dietary Supplement
These tiny capsule supplements from Moon Juice pack a powerful anti-aging formula to help minimize the appearance of fine lines by promoting collagen renewal and skin elasticity. Glutathione, its hero ingredient, is known for its ability to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which in turn supports skin vitality and helps improve your overall complexion.
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Make getting your daily dose of greens easy with these dissolving tablets that are packed with eight vitamin-rich greens, including spinach, kale, wheatgrass, spirulina, aloe, chlorella, barley grass and blue-green algae. They also contain marine collagen, biotin and green tea, which are all known to play an integral part in keeping your skin radiant and plump, as well as hydrated.
Hum Nutrition Arctic Repair Fine Lines and Wrinkles Supplement
If wrinkles, fine lines and sagging skin are a concern, look to this unique blend of omegas and vitamins that can help replenish moisture, smooth out tone and texture and boost the skin’s elasticity. The star ingredient in this formula is lingonberry seed oil, a potent anti-aging ingredient that helps slow down skin aging while also improving your skin’s hydration levels.
Om Beauty Certified Organic Mushroom Powder
This is a great vegan option that uses a blend of mushroom varieties to promote glowing skin, lustrous hair and strong nails. Since it’s organic, non-GMO, kosher, gluten-free and paleo-friendly, it fits a wide variety of diets and is easy to incorporate into your daily wellness routine. Just add one teaspoon of the powder to your smoothie, coffee or tea daily for soft, supple skin.
Sold by Amazon
Goop GOOPGLOW Morning Skin Superpowder
Drink your way to glowing skin with this healthy dose of nutrients that includes vitamins C and E, CoQ10, grape-seed extracts, lutein and zeaxanthin. The formula not only helps stimulate collagen production but also protects against free radical damage and daily environmental stress. It comes conveniently packaged in single-dose stick packs, designed to be mixed with 8 ounces of water and taken daily.
Sold by Sephora
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | 2022-08-18T01:19:59+00:00 | fox44news.com | https://www.fox44news.com/reviews/br/health-wellness-br/supplements-br/12-best-skin-beauty-supplements/ |
EXTON, Pa., Oct. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (NYSE: WST), a global leader in innovative solutions for injectable drug administration, today announced that it will release third-quarter 2022 financial results before the market opens on Thursday, October 27, 2022, and will follow with a conference call to discuss the results and business expectations at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time.
The live audio-only webcast will be made available via the Company's Investor Relations website https://bit.ly/3cgSM9S or by clicking here.
To participate in the conference call by asking questions to Management, please register in advance at https://bit.ly/3eipdG3. Upon registration, all telephone participants will receive the dial-in number along with a unique PIN number that will be used to access the call.
Management will refer to a slide presentation during the call, which will be made available on the day of the call. To view the presentation, select "Presentations" in the "Investors" section of the Company's website.
A replay of the conference call and webcast will be available on the Company's website for 30 days.
About West
West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. is a leading provider of innovative, high-quality injectable solutions and services. As a trusted partner to established and emerging drug developers, West helps ensure the safe, effective containment and delivery of life-saving and life-enhancing medicines for patients. With approximately 10,000 team members across 50 sites worldwide, West helps support our customers by delivering over 45 billion components and devices each year.
Headquartered in Exton, Pennsylvania, and in business for nearly a century, West in its fiscal year 2021 generated over $2.83 billion in sales. West is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: WST) and is included on the Standard & Poor's 500 index. For more information, visit www.westpharma.com.
All trademarks and registered trademarks used in this release are the property of West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. or its subsidiaries, in the United States and other jurisdictions, unless otherwise noted.
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SOURCE West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. | 2022-10-13T10:49:11+00:00 | wsfa.com | https://www.wsfa.com/prnewswire/2022/10/13/west-host-third-quarter-2022-conference-call/ |
Volkswagen on Tuesday confirmed that it’s working on wireless electric car charging in its own patented coil and charging pad design with silicon-carbide materials, aimed partly toward daily garage use.
The project goes well beyond that, though—into charge rates that are currently on the speedy side of DC fast-charging territory.
According to Volkswagen, their original attempt was in the form of an early 6.6-kw prototype, which would perform at charge rates comparable to home Level 2 (240-volt) systems. But in early trials in conjunction with a silicon carbide inverter, the system has performed up to 120 kw with a prototype unit. VW has a future goal of upping the system to 300 kw.
So far, the commercialization of wireless charging has mostly looked toward home use. There are only a few high-power systems in use or development, and most of them are targeted toward use on larger commercial vehicles. One exception is a wireless charging taxi test in Norway from Momentum Dynamics (InductEV).
The U.S. development of this Volkswagen system is being done at VW’s Knoxville Innovation Hub, in conjunction with Oak Ridge National Lab (ORNL) and the University of Tennessee (UT). It takes advantage of the two academic institutions’ expertise with high-power wireless charging and power-electronics optimization, respectively.
In addition to the tease of future hands-free charging tech for its vehicles, VW boasted that materials work being done in conjunction with UT might help boost the driving range of future EVs. VW suggests it may be able to create a frame for EV battery packs that cuts weight by 60%, with the use of a 3D-printed resin-based structure. The material can offer durability and energy absorption beyond that of steel, according to VW.
VW also showed the possibility of using paper-based products (hot-pressed cellulose fiber reinforced thermoplastics) to replace plastics in some vehicle areas. Further, it revealed U.S.-based research with lightweight materials that might be put to use in “pickup beds and rugged components” for future products. In a process called “sizing,” it’s working to optimize the fiber-matrix-interface in sheet molding compound (SMC) processes for better durability. It kicked off that project by producing a lightweight version of a VW Atlas tailgate that saved 13 pounds (35%) versus metal.
This kind of dedicated design approach to weight savings is interrelated with the AI-based generative design approach that VW has dabbled with in U.S.-based concepts and research in the recent past—including its Type 20 Microbus Concept that the company’s U.S. arm developed while the ID.Buzz electric van was taking form in Germany.
Just as many of these advanced materials start with premium vehicles and supercars, don’t necessarily expect any of this tech—wireless charging included—to debut in VW’s most affordable EVs. But VW mentioned that these U.S. researchers work with all Volkswagen Group brands, including Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, Porsche, and VW, and the wireless charging especially may prove a great fit for an EV with enough padding built into the price tag sometime soon.
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- F-150 Lightning price cut, Cybertruck made, EU charging, Tesla and BYD in India: Today’s Car News | 2023-07-19T13:24:57+00:00 | wric.com | https://www.wric.com/automotive/internet-brands/vw-develops-ev-wireless-charging-shows-range-boosting-materials-research/ |
NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --
WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of common stock of Plug Power Inc. (NASDAQ: PLUG) between August 9, 2022 and March 1, 2023, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period") of the important June 12, 2023 lead plaintiff deadline.
SO WHAT: If you purchased Plug Power common stock during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Plug Power class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=1011 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than June 12, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
DETAILS OF THE CASE: The lawsuit alleges that, throughout the Class Period, defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts, about Plug's business and operations. Specifically, defendants misrepresented and/or failed to disclose that Plug was unable to effectively manage its supply chain and product manufacturing, resulting in reduced revenues and margins, increased inventory levels, and several large deals being delayed until at least 2023, among other issues. As a result, defendants' statements about Plug Power's business, operations, prospects, and ability to effectively manage its supply chain and production lacked a reasonable basis. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.
To join the Plug Power class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=1011 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.
No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Information:
Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
Fax: (212) 202-3827
lrosen@rosenlegal.com
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cases@rosenlegal.com
www.rosenlegal.com
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SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A. | 2023-06-01T09:59:46+00:00 | kwch.com | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2023/06/01/plug-final-deadline-rosen-top-ranked-global-counsel-encourages-plug-power-inc-investors-with-losses-secure-counsel-before-important-june-12-deadline-securities-class-action-plug/ |
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BOSTON (AP) — Anthony Santander hit a tiebreaking single in the ninth inning and also had a two-run homer, helping the Baltimore Orioles overcome a pair of six-run deficits to beat the Boston Red Sox 12-8 Friday night.
Baltimore trailed 8-2 before Jorge Mateo hit a three-run homer in the seventh inning and Austin Hays added a two-run shot in the eighth. The Orioles also capitalized on a throwing error by third baseman Rafael Devers for the tying run in the eighth.
“We’re just not giving at-bats away. When their pitchers are leaving stuff over the heart of the plate, we’re not missing it,” Hays said. “When they’re trying to get us to chase and they’re chasing strikeouts, we’re not chasing those pitches."
The Orioles have won 20 games this season and Friday's was the 11th comeback. Hays said the young lineup doesn't lack for confidence, and it showed as the Orioles rallied against a team that has been rolling through May and had scored 33 runs over its previous three games.
“We could be down 30-0 and we’re still staying positive, still staying in it,” Santander said through a translator.
Santander’s single against Matt Strahm (2-2) dropped just in front of sliding right fielder Jackie Bradley Jr., allowing Cedric Mullins to score. Mullins led off the inning with a single, then took third on Trey Mancini's single with a slick slide around Devers' attempted tag.
The Orioles piled on three more runs in the ninth, and Jorge Lopez didn't allow a runner in the bottom half. Baltimore's bullpen limited Boston to one hit after the fifth inning.
Boston fans booed as the Orioles celebrated. Baltimore outhit the Red Sox 15-14 to open the five-game series.
"These guys are grinders out there," said Baltimore starter Kyle Bradish, who lasted just 1 2/3 innings and left trailing 6-0. "We’re showing that we can hang with the best of them. I put us in a hole early and the bullpen picked me up, and then the bats came alive later in the game. ”
Santander also hit a two-run homer in the fourth, Baltimore’s first hit of the night. Santander’s eighth homer of the season accounted for the only runs allowed by Garrett Whitlock, who delivered six strong innings before Boston’s bullpen unraveled.
Cionel Perez (3-0) got the win with one pitch, a popup by Christian Arroyo that ended the eighth inning.
Xander Bogaerts hit a three-run homer during a four-run first inning for Boston, and the Red Sox scored two more in the second.
Trevor Story, who entered Friday with seven homers and 21 RBIs in his previous seven games, was the only Boston batter without a hit Friday. Story did reach base in the eighth when reliever Dillon Tate hit him in the helmet as he tried to duck out of the way. J.D. Martinez and Bogaerts were also plunked by high fastballs, but neither appeared injured.
WELCOME BACK PAPI
Former Red Sox slugger David Ortiz was back at Fenway Park for his first of two Hall of Fame inductions this summer. Ortiz headlined the Red Sox Hall of Fame class of 2020 in a ceremony that was delayed two years by the pandemic.
Ortiz will be enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame in July. He was joined in the 2020 Red Sox class by former Boston catcher Rich Gedman, former general manager Dan Duquette, the late Bill Dinneen and Manny Ramirez, who was not at the ceremony.
TRAINER’S ROOM
Orioles: IF prospect Jahmai Jones had Tommy John surgery Friday, a procedure that ended this season for Jones and possibly a chunk of 2023, manager Brandon Hyde said. Jones was batting .212 with two homers for Triple-A Norfolk before going on the IL earlier this month with inflammation in his right elbow.
Red Sox: LHP Chris Sale (rib stress fracture) threw three bullpen sessions this week and could throw a simulated game or batting practice as early as next week, manager Alex Cora said. Cora said Sale could possibly start a minor-league rehab assignment in early June.
UP NEXT
RHP Nathan Eovaldi (1-2, 4.10 ERA) is scheduled to start the opener for the Red Sox in a doubleheader Saturday. Hyde said he would likely go with RHP Jordan Lyles (3-4, 4.10) in the opener and come up with a spot starter to throw the first few innings in the nightcap. Boston planned to call-up RHP Josh Winckowski to start the evening game in his major league debut.
___
More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2022-05-28T04:53:03+00:00 | ourmidland.com | https://www.ourmidland.com/sports/article/O-s-erase-6-run-deficit-vs-Red-Sox-bullpen-win-17204795.php |
Lewis Capaldi cancels tour to adjust to impact of Tourette syndrome
LONDON (AP) — Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi said Tuesday that he’s taking a break from touring for the foreseeable future as he seeks to adjust to the impact of Tourette syndrome.
His announcement follows his Saturday performance at the Glastonbury Festival where he appeared to lose his voice and the crowd carried him through his songs.
“First of all, thank you to Glastonbury for having me, for singing along when I needed it and for all the amazing messages afterwards,” he said in a statement.
“The fact that this probably won’t come as a surprise doesn’t make it any easier to write, but I’m very sorry to let you know I’m going to be taking a break from touring for the foreseeable future,” he added.
Tourette syndrome is a neurological disorder that causes individuals to make involuntary sounds and movements, often referred to as tics. Capaldi revealed last September that he had been diagnosed with the condition.
Capaldi, 26, was due to perform in Zurich, Switzerland on Wednesday. His current tour, which would include venues in Australia, South Korea and Iceland among others, was due to climax In the United Arab Emirates on Oct. 7.
In his statement, Capaldi said he was “still learning to adjust to the impact of my Tourette’s and on Saturday it became obvious that I need to spend much more time getting my mental and physical health in order, so I can keep doing everything I love for a long time to come.”
In an interview with The Associated Press in April following the release of a Netflix documentary about the Grammy-nominated star, Capaldi said he was happy to have had his symptoms diagnosed. At the time, he said he was trying “not to learn too much” about Tourette’s because it would often make his condition feel even worse.
The documentary, entitled “How I’m Feeling Now,” shows the fear and anxiety that plagued Capaldi as he returned home to Scotland and tried to write new songs during the pandemic.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-06-27T17:43:28+00:00 | wymt.com | https://www.wymt.com/2023/06/27/lewis-capaldi-cancels-tour-adjust-impact-tourette-syndrome/ |
LONDON, Nov. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- On 26 October 2022, Cross Ocean Partners ("Cross Ocean"), a leading global credit investment manager with $6.2 billion of AUM, [i] completed Bosphorus CLO VII ("CLO VII"), the seventh CLO from the Bosphorus team and the first under Cross Ocean's management.
Cross Ocean acquired the Bosphorus European CLO platform, its three CLOs and five-person team from Commerzbank in December 2021. The transaction established Cross Ocean's footprint in the European CLO market, further deepening Cross Ocean's presence in the European credit space. Concurrent to the acquisition of the platform, Cross Ocean closed on a €130 million risk retention fund, alongside a strategic investor, to help fund the issuance of future Cross Ocean CLOs and enable the business to grow successfully. Since the team, led by London-based Guy Beeston, joined Cross Ocean, it has hired two new members and been fully integrated into the wider Cross Ocean business.
Graham Goldsmith and Steve Zander, co-CIOs of Cross Ocean, commented: "We are very happy to have welcomed Guy and his team to Cross Ocean. The team's ability to issue CLOs in the current market environment is a testament to their track record and experience. We are committed to building a best-in-class global credit manager and view the strategy as being highly complementary to our existing credit business."
Guy Beeston, Senior Portfolio Manager and Head of European CLOs for Cross Ocean, commented: "This transaction marks an exciting new step for the team as we look to scale up our capacity to issue new CLOs at Cross Ocean. Leveraging our collective relationships and resources will help catalyse the CLO business and be accretive to Cross Ocean's ability to deliver attractive risk adjusted returns for its investors and partners."
Deutsche Bank acted as arranger for the transaction. Cross Ocean was advised on CLO VII by Milbank LLP and Arthur Cox. It was advised on the acquisition of the Bosphorus platform by Macfarlanes LLP.
Cross Ocean Partners is a global credit investment manager with $6.2 billion of AUM and 67 employees across three offices (Greenwich (CT), London and Dublin), led by Graham Goldsmith, CEO and co-CIO, and Steve Zander, Head of Europe and co-CIO. It has three principal investment strategies: special situations credit, senior credit and CLOs. The firm was established in 2015 and is majority owned by its partners with a minority stake owned by the Trident VI Funds managed by Stone Point Capital LLC, a private equity manager focused on financial services with approximately $45 billion of AUM.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Email: info@crossoceanpartners.com
Tel (UK): +44 207 6536200 / Tel (US): +1 203 340 7850
[i] Estimated as of 30 September 2022. AUM defined as Gross Asset Value by Cross Ocean which equates to "NAV before carried interest" for funds in their harvest periods and "NAV before carried interest plus undrawn investor commitments" for funds within their investment periods. Numbers are subject to rounding.
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SOURCE Cross Ocean Partners | 2022-11-01T22:36:14+00:00 | kcrg.com | https://www.kcrg.com/prnewswire/2022/11/01/cross-ocean-partners-launches-its-first-clo-post-acquisition-bosphorus-european-clo-platform-commerzbank/ |
A 19-year-old died in a Colorado jail cell after taking a “fatal drug cocktail” prescribed to him by medical staff a few months before he was scheduled to be released, according to a federal lawsuit filed in his death.
Oscar Canas died on April 18, 2021, in the Garfield County jail while serving a one-year sentence for misdemeanor drug possession. He left behind a 2-year-old daughter and an 11-month-old son, according to the lawsuit filed last month against the county.
The nurse practitioner working in the jail, Joanna Kluender, prescribed Canas the antipsychotic medication olanzapine two months into his incarceration for symptoms of the anxiety and insomnia he was experiencing during his jail stay. Seven months after he entered the jail, Kluender prescribed Canas with Suboxone — a medication used to treat opiate addiction.
But Canas was not addicted to opioids, the lawsuit states. Canas told jail staff when he was admitted that he wanted treatment for methamphetamine use, and that while he had sporadically used heroin in the past, he had not used it recently nor was he addicted to it.
“Even though he was already on a high dosage of olanzapine — known to be dangerous combined with Suboxone — jail staff mixed the drugs in dangerously high dosages and without following standard safety protocols, in deliberate indifference to the deadly risks to Mr. Canas,” the lawsuit states.
The jail medical staff failed to properly introduce Suboxone to Canas’s body and failed to monitor his vital signs as he started the new drug, especially since the mixture of Suboxone and olanzapine can be fatal, the lawsuit states. Garfield County contracts with the Denver-based company Correctional Health Partners LLC for its health care services.
Canas died after taking his second daily dose of Suboxone. A toxicology screen after his death found no substances besides “high concentrations” of the two prescribed medications in his body. The medical examiner found drug intoxication to be the cause of death and labeled the death an accident.
The jail deputies working that night failed to properly check on Canas and did not enter his cell until he was already unresponsive, the lawsuit states. Canas had been placed in a cell without a cellmate.
Deputies working that night “failed to check Mr. Canas for signs of life, failed to ensure he was breathing, failed to attempt to speak with him, failed to ask other staff to check on Mr. Canas, failed to inform medical staff of concerns, and failed to take any other action to ensure Mr. Canas was not suffering harm under her watch,” the lawsuit states.
A spokesman for the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office declined an interview request for this story, citing the ongoing litigation. Correctional Health Partners LLC did not respond to a request for comment.
State licensing records show Kluender, the nurse practitioner, is still licensed to practice in Colorado. There are no public orders of discipline on her license.
Sign up to get crime news sent straight to your inbox each day. | 2023-05-10T13:13:25+00:00 | denverpost.com | https://www.denverpost.com/2023/05/10/oscar-canas-jail-drug-death-garfield-county/ |
Charlie Lockwood, whose career has spanned more than a decade as an arts administrator and public folklorist, will become the executive director of the Museum of International Folk Art in late June.
The announcement was made Tuesday by the state Department of Cultural Affairs.
The museum has 28 curators, educators and others responsible for protecting and presenting its collection, located on Museum Hill.
“I am deeply honored to be named Executive Director of Museum of International Folk Art,” Lockwood said in a news release. “Since its founding, MOIFA has demonstrated the unique power of folk and traditional art to connect people from diverse geographies, perspectives, and cultures. I am thrilled for the opportunity to collaborate with the museum’s exemplary team and partners, and to dedicate my energy to one of the premier institutions of Santa Fe and the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs.”
Lockwood holds an MA in Ethnomusicology from the University of California-Santa Barbara, where he played the oud with the UCSB Middle East Ensemble and did research with the Mardi Gras Indians of New Orleans. As the executive director of Texas Folklife, the National Endowment for the Arts state-designated folklife program of Texas, he oversaw a variety of flagship public programs and initiatives, including an archival preservation project to organize, digitize and ultimately disseminate the organization’s archival holdings dating from 1984.
He also has headed programs focusing on the intersections of folk and traditional arts and health, including a military veterans folklore and storytelling initiative with support from the National Endowment for the Arts.
“Charlie’s leadership skills, along with his expertise in folklore and ethnomusicology and years of demonstrated success in building coalitions with diverse communities, will come as a great benefit to Museum of International Folk Art,” said Debra Garcia y Griego, Cabinet secretary for the Department of Cultural Affairs. “He has a deep understanding of the field and will serve as a wonderful ambassador of the museum to visitors and collaborators from across New Mexico and throughout the world.” | 2023-05-16T21:28:06+00:00 | santafenewmexican.com | https://www.santafenewmexican.com/news/local_news/lockwood-named-director-of-international-folk-art-museum/article_d1aa865a-f405-11ed-8fec-2b53a1888199.html |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Two leading figures for the PGA Tour have agreed to testify next week before a Senate panel reviewing the tour’s surprise agreement with the Saudi backers of LIV Golf.
The panel will have to wait to hear from LIV CEO Greg Norman and Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the governor of the Saudi Arabian national wealth fund behind the rival circuit.
The Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations said Ron Price, the PGA Tour’s chief operating officer, and board member Jimmy Dunne have agreed to appear July 11.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., who chairs the panel, and ranking member Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., said Norman and Al-Rumayyan cited scheduling conflicts as to why they would not be able to appear.
LIV Golf is playing outside London this week. Its next tournament is not until early August.
“We appreciate the PGA Tour working with us and look forward to a robust, thoughtful exchange with both Ron Price and Jimmy Dunne on July 11, focusing on the details and background of this deal and what it means for this cherished American institution,” Blumenthal and Johnson said in a joint statement.
They said they regret Al-Rumayyan and Norman’s schedules will keep them from the hearing because “they have valuable information to share about the operations of the Public Investment Fund, the future of LIV Golf, and Saudi Arabia’s plans to invest in golf and other sports.”
“Consistent with our subcommittee’s practice, we look forward to working with both witnesses to find a mutually agreeable date for them to appear in the very near future,” they said.
PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan stepped away with a “medical situation” on June 13 and turned over day-to-day operations to Price and Tyler Dennis, the president of the PGA Tour.
The New York Times said LIV instead offered Gary Davidson, who is acting chief operating officer of LIV. It cited a person familiar with LIV’s thinking as saying Davidson was more involved in the league’s day-to-day operations and the ramifications of the deal.
Norman was not involved in the seven weeks of negotiations that led to the framework agreement, in which the PIF, PGA Tour and European tour would pool commercial businesses and rights in a separate for-profit company.
Neither was Price. The only people involved in the deal were Al-Rumayyan, Monahan and PGA Tour board members Dunne and Ed Herlihy.
The title of the hearing is, “The PGA-LIV Deal: Implications for the Future of Golf and Saudi Arabia’s Influence in the United States.”
Blumenthal had said the panel wants to find out what went into the agreement.
“Americans deserve to know what the structure and governance of this new entity will be,” Blumenthal said last week in asking for the hearing. “Major actors in the deal are best positioned to provide this information, and they owe Congress — and the American people — answers in a public setting.”
___
AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2023-07-03T19:29:58+00:00 | wnct.com | https://www.wnct.com/sports/ap-pga-tour-is-sending-2-executives-to-a-senate-hearing-as-liv-cites-conflicts/ |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Chair Jerome Powell indicated that the Federal Reserve will likely forgo an increase in its benchmark interest rate when it meets in June for the first time since it began raising its key rate 14 months ago to fight high inflation.
In signaling so, Powell provided some clarity about the Fed’s likely next policy move after a cacophony of speeches this week by central bank officials had clouded the picture.
“Having come this far, we can afford to look at the data and the evolving outlook and make careful assessments,” Powell said, referring to the Fed’s 10 straight rate hikes.
Uvalde families dig in for new test of gun industry protections
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Families in Uvalde, Texas, are digging in for a new test of legal protections for the gun industry as they mark one year since the Robb Elementary School shooting. Both the U.S. government and gun manufacturers in recent years have reached large settlements following some of the nation’s worst mass shootings.
“Mainly what we are looking for is some sort of justice,” said Christina Zamora, the mother of Mayah Zamora who was shot and wounded that day.
Gun control supporters say other cases have created roadmaps for victims and relatives to sue. But high hurdles remain for lawsuits to succeed. Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee signed a bill this week that further shields gun manufacturers, which are already largely protected from lawsuits under federal laws. | 2023-05-20T19:41:21+00:00 | bostonherald.com | https://www.bostonherald.com/2023/05/20/ticker-jerome-powell-hints-at-a-pause-in-rate-hikes/ |
Leading employee experience platform receives the highest vendor Net Emotional Footprint score in the "Champion" category and is noted for its trustworthiness and unique features
AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- LumApps, a leading Employee Experience Platform, today announced that it has been named a Champion in the 2022 Digital Workplace Emotional Footprint Award from SoftwareReviews, a division of IT research and advisory firm Info-Tech Research Group.
LumApps took home first place, earning a score of 98 out of 100, with "trustworthy" and "unique features" receiving perfect marks from reviewers.
"This recognition highlights our ongoing commitment to meeting or exceeding our customers' expectations," said Josue Moens, VP of Customer Success at LumApps. "The importance of employee experience platforms continues to increase with the shift to remote and hybrid work. Comms, HR and IT leaders need innovative solutions to ensure their employees have the resources and information they need to be engaged and productive. This feedback validates our technology is making an impact on many important levels."
The Emotional Footprint report illustrates customers' experience with software vendors. The Net Emotional Footprint of a vendor is a result of aggregated emotional response ratings in the areas of service, negotiation, product impact, conflict resolution as well as strategy and innovation, creating a powerful indicator of overall user feeling toward a vendor and its product from the software users' point of view. Emotional Footprint Champions are selected based exclusively on feedback provided by their users via SoftwareReviews' comprehensive online survey. The survey measures user satisfaction across 27 elements of the provider relationship, resulting in the Net Emotional Footprint score. This score represents the overall user sentiment, a powerful indicator of the user feeling toward the provider and the product.
Visit SoftwareReviews to learn more about the Digital Workplace Emotional Footprint Awards. The full report can be found here.
For more on LumApps, visit: www.lumapps.com.
SoftwareReviews is the most in-depth source of buyer data and insights for the enterprise software market. By collecting customer experience data from IT and business professionals, the SoftwareReviews methodology produces detailed and authentic insights into the experience of evaluating and purchasing enterprise software.
LumApps is a cloud-native Employee Experience Platform launched in 2015. Integrated with Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 collaborative suites, LumApps intelligently connects employees to the information and business applications they need to be productive, engaged, and empowered. Whether in the office or in the field, on desktop or mobile app and in any language, LumApps enables knowledge management and best practices sharing across communities. LumApps also automates HR processes and orchestrates personalized journeys for key phases in the employee life cycle, such as onboarding, interviews with managers and more.
With over 300 employees in 7 offices on 3 continents, LumApps serves some of the biggest companies in the world, such as Airbus, Air Liquide, Electronic Arts, Galeries Lafayette, Japan Airlines, Publicis Sapient, Stellantis, The Economist, Valeo, and Veolia, and has over 4 million users worldwide.
Andrea LePain
eMedia Junction
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SOURCE LumApps | 2022-08-03T16:34:04+00:00 | wcjb.com | https://www.wcjb.com/prnewswire/2022/08/03/lumapps-lands-1st-place-softwarereviews-2022-digital-workplace-emotional-footprint-awards/ |
Top Player Prop Bets for 76ers vs. Nets NBA Playoffs Game 2 on April 17, 2023
Those looking to place a player prop wager can find odds for Joel Embiid, Mikal Bridges and others in the Philadelphia 76ers-Brooklyn Nets matchup at Wells Fargo Center on Monday at 7:30 PM ET.
Bet on this matchup or its props with BetMGM, the King of Sportsbooks!
76ers vs. Nets Game Info
- Date: Monday, April 17, 2023
- Time: 7:30 PM ET
- How to Watch on TV: TNT, NBCS-PH, and YES
- Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Venue: Wells Fargo Center
NBA Props Today: Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid Props
- Embiid has put up 33.1 points per game during the 2022-23 season, 0.6 points more than Monday's points prop total.
- Embiid's per-game rebound average -- 10.2 -- is 0.3 fewer than his prop bet over/under in Monday's game (10.5).
- Embiid's year-long assist average -- 4.2 per game -- is 0.7 higher than Monday's assist prop bet total (3.5).
- Embiid has averaged one made three-pointer per game, 0.5 more than his over/under in Monday's game (0.5).
Check out the latest odds and place your bets on player props with BetMGM Sportsbook.
James Harden Props
- James Harden is posting 21 points per game, 0.5 more than Monday's over/under.
- He has collected 6.1 rebounds per game, 0.6 higher than his prop bet on Monday.
- Harden averages 10.7 assists, 0.2 more than Monday's prop bet (10.5).
- He drains 2.8 three-pointers per game, 0.3 more than his over/under on Monday (2.5).
Tobias Harris Props
- Tobias Harris' 14.7 points per game are 1.2 points more than Monday's over/under.
- Harris averages 0.2 more rebounds than his over/under on Monday (which is 5.5).
- Harris averages 2.5 assists, the same as Monday's over/under.
- Harris has knocked down 1.7 three-pointers per game, which is more than his over/under on Monday (1.5).
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NBA Props Today: Brooklyn Nets
Mikal Bridges Props
- The 26.5-point over/under for Bridges on Monday is 6.4 higher than his scoring average.
- Bridges has grabbed 4.4 boards per game, which is less than his prop bet in Monday's game (4.5).
- Bridges' assist average -- 3.3 -- is higher than Monday's assist prop bet (2.5).
- Bridges averages two made three-pointers, which is less than his over/under on Monday (2.5).
Put your picks to the test and bet on 76ers vs. Nets player props with BetMGM Sportsbook.
Spencer Dinwiddie Props
- Spencer Dinwiddie's 17.3 points per game average is 0.8 points higher than Monday's over/under.
- Dinwiddie's year-long assist average -- 6.5 per game -- is 2.0 assists lower than Monday's assist over/under (8.5).
- Dinwiddie has connected on 2.3 three pointers per game, 0.8 more than his over/under in Monday's game (1.5).
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© 2023 Data Skrive. All rights reserved. | 2023-04-17T14:58:12+00:00 | wymt.com | https://www.wymt.com/sports/betting/2023/04/17/76ers-vs-nets-nba-playoffs-game-2-player-prop-bets/ |
Searchers use drones to look for missing Texas boy
EVERMAN, Texas (WFAA) - Searchers in Texas are again looking for a missing 6-year-old boy in Everman, located in the north-central part of the state, over the weekend.
They used drones to look overhead and searched on the ground after examining new information in the boy’s disappearance.
Noel Rodriguez-Alvarez went missing last month, and family members say they haven’t seen the child since last November.
Authorities presume Noel is dead and are looking for his mother and stepfather.
Both flew to India with six other children days before news of noel’s disappearance became public.
Saturday’s search in Everman started in the morning with a new group of people than previously.
“We don’t have the resources that they have,” said Chief Craig Spencer of Everman Police Department
Spencer said Texas Search and Rescue, or TEXSAR, joined the search Saturday.
Spencer’s team paused their searches for about a week to analyze and collect more data while also reducing the area of the search for Noel.
“Rather than casting a big, fish net and missing a bunch, we wanted to make sure that we’re very targeted with our searches,” he said.
That’s where TEXSAR comes into the picture.
Because of the greenery, TEXSAR’s drones and the equipment’s heat-detecting tools are needed to help provide a different view.
“Some of the search area is very thick and heavy with brush and mesquite,” Spencer said. “That often times makes it pretty difficult for the searchers on the ground to really get deep in there and take a look.”
TEXSAR also brought human remains detection canines as well as boats.
“We want to make sure that our crews are well-rested,” Spencer said. “We want to make sure we’re not missing anything because in a case like this where there’s already a significant lack of physical evidence, we just can’t afford to miss anything on it.”
Spencer said investigators are done searching for the weekend, and even if they haven’t found Noel yet, these new volunteers and this new equipment will continue to be helpful moving forward.
“Today’s going to be a win for us regardless of what comes out of this because even if we don’t locate any evidence supporting the location of Noel, obviously we are going to know where he’s not, and it’s going to lead our investigation in a different path going forward,” Spencer said.
Copyright 2023 WFAA via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | 2023-04-24T12:32:05+00:00 | wlbt.com | https://www.wlbt.com/2023/04/24/searchers-use-drones-look-missing-texas-boy/ |
When the Women's World Cup kicks off in Australia and New Zealand on Thursday, it'll be the first time the women's cup is hosted in two countries — with a newly expanded field of 32 teams.
Here's what to know as the world's best pursue the biggest title in women's soccer.
The U.S. is again ranked number one in the world, but it's a team in flux
The U.S. will be looking to snag their third straight World Cup title — and its fifth overall.
The U.S. women's national team (USWNT) has held the number one spot in FIFA's rankings for years, and is the odds-on favorite to win once again. But this year's tournament is considered fairly wide open, with several teams having a decent shot at the title.
Indeed, the U.S. has had an interesting pattern of late: winning the World Cup, but losing at the Olympics. The USWNT won the World Cup in 2015, then failed to medal at the 2016 Olympics. They won the 2019 World Cup, then took home the bronze at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
This time around, the U.S. squad is, on average, less experienced at the international level than it has been at previous tournaments. Several veterans whose experience had been counted on were left off the roster due to injuries, including Becky Sauerbrunn, Mallory Swanson, Samantha Mewis and Christen Press.
The U.S. is in Group E, and will face Vietnam, the Netherlands and Portugal. The team will play the entire group stage in New Zealand.
Several USWNT veterans are returning for the World Cup — and it's Rapinoe's last
Nine players on this year's U.S. roster were part of the 2019 champion team – including Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan and Julie Ertz.
Rapinoe announced this month that she will retire at the end of the NWSL season, making this her fourth and final World Cup.
The 2019 tournament in France is when Rapinoe, a forward, became a household name. In France, she won the Golden Boot for most goals and the Golden Ball for best player, all while sparring with then-President Trump.
Nine on this year's roster were part of the victorious 2019 squad, and just five were on the team when it took home the trophy in 2015. At 38, Rapinoe is the squad's oldest member. (Her hair color this time? A nice frosty blue.) Forward Alyssa Thompson, 18, is its youngest.
The team will be led by captains Alex Morgan, 34, a forward who has already won two World Cups, and Lindsey Horan, 29, a midfielder who was a key part of the team's 2019 victory.
Australia and New Zealand are hosting, making for early mornings — and winter
Australia and New Zealand are cohosting the tournament, so if you want to catch the tournament's kickoff, you'd better set an alarm.
The first match is New Zealand vs. Norway at noon in Auckland — which is 3 a.m. ET. That's followed by Australia vs. Ireland at 8 p.m. in Sydney — which is 6 a.m. ET.
This marks the first time the Women's World Cup will be held in the southern hemisphere. That means that, while much of the U.S. has been sweating through a very hot summer, this Cup will be the first to be played in the winter.
New Zealand's weather could be an interesting factor in matches held there — snow closed highways in parts of the South Island earlier this month. Chilly temperatures and wind are likely, so expect to see players in tights, and puffy coats on the sidelines.
U.S.'s World Cup rookies are poised to make a big impression
"You want to have this broad range of experience in players on the roster at a World Cup," said U.S. defender Kelley O'Hara, who played in her first World Cup in 2011. "You want to have some experienced players. You want to have some players that are coming up for the first time."
That's the case for 14 members of the U.S. squad. Among those likely to make a big impact are forwards Trinity Rodman and Sophia Smith.
Rodman, 21, is the second-youngest player on the roster. She scored two goals in a tune-up against Wales, the USWNT's final match before the tournament begins. Smith, 22, was U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year in 2022. You'll see her haunting a new Nike ad.
The team's newest members might be crucial, as Rapinoe recovers from a calf injury and midfielder Rose Lavelle from a knee injury.
Eight countries will play in their first Women's World Cup
This year, the number of teams vying for the cup has expanded from 24 to 32.
With those extra slots, eight teams are making their first appearance at the tournament: the Philippines, Ireland, Zambia, Haiti, Vietnam, Portugal, Panama and Morocco.
One country to watch is Zambia, which also hasn't played in a men's World Cup. Led by star forward Barbra Banda, the Copper Queens upset number-two ranked Germany 3-2 in a friendly earlier this month, with Banda scoring twice.
But Zambia is in a tough group that includes Japan and highly ranked Spain, so be sure to catch them in the group stage.
Brazil looks to get a cup for Marta
Marta is one of the world's best known soccer players, and has been named world player of the year six times. But a World Cup title has eluded her, and at 37, this may be her last shot at it. She's on the squad but recovering from a knee injury, and the team's manager – former USWNT coach Pia Sundhage – says Marta may start the tournament on the bench.
Her teammate, midfielder Kerolin, says the team wants to do what Argentina's men's side did for Lionel Messi – bring home the trophy to seal a legend's career.
"What they did for Lionel Messi, we want to do it for Marta," Kerolin said on a podcast last month, as The Associated Press reports. "She deserves it for who she is."
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2023-07-19T19:20:19+00:00 | kcbx.org | https://www.kcbx.org/npr-top-news/npr-top-news/2023-07-19/5-storylines-to-watch-as-the-womens-world-cup-kicks-off |
Eight people were charged Tuesday in the death of a Michigan prison inmate who lost 50 pounds over two weeks and died of dehydration while being restrained in 2019.
The death of Jonathan Lancaster at the Alger prison in the Upper Peninsula was a “preventable tragedy that played out over days,” Attorney General Dana Nessel said.
Two prison officials at the time, Scott Sprader and Benny Mercier, and four nurses were charged with involuntary manslaughter, following an investigation by state police. Two prison officers face charges of misconduct.
Lancaster, 38, was in prison for robbery and gun crimes in the Detroit area. He had a history of mental illness and showed symptoms while at Alger, including paranoia, anxiety, loss of appetite and insomnia, according to a wrongful-death lawsuit filed by his sister.
Lancaster was in restraints in a special cell when he died.
He “received no emergency medical attention until after his death,” despite excessive weight loss and the prison’s knowledge that he was deteriorating, the attorney general’s office said.
Lancaster’s family reached a $2.6 million settlement in 2021 after suing prison health staff and private contractors.
Hannah Fielstra, an attorney who represented the family, welcomed the criminal charges.
“The official cause of death was severe dehydration,” Fielstra told The Associated Press. “I do believe these state actors need to be held accountable. He continually asked for medical treatment. We had alleged that prison officials ignored these requests and portrayed him as manipulative and attention-seeking.”
It was not immediately known whether Sprader or Mercier had attorneys who could comment on the charges. They no longer work for the state.
Six people were fired and several more were disciplined after Lancaster’s death, the state Corrections Department said.
“The department also referred the matter to Michigan State Police for their review and cooperated with the subsequent criminal investigation,” spokesman Kyle Kaminski said.
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Follow Ed White at http://twitter.com/edwritez | 2023-06-21T14:11:37+00:00 | pahomepage.com | https://www.pahomepage.com/news/national/8-people-charged-in-death-of-mentally-ill-michigan-prison-inmate/ |
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) – Some elves are helping out Santa ahead of Christmas.
It’s just like Santa’s workshop in this classroom at Southeast Tech.
Mechatronics students and their instructor are hard at work getting toys ready for kids at Lifescape.
“What we do, we take small, battery operated electric toys that have an on/off switch and we are going to modify it and add a remote port so they can hook an external switch to it,” mechatronics instructor Bryan Cox said.
“I always wanted to work with my hands but it’s more technical,” student Dawson Sechser said.
Students are taking the skills they’ve learned in class and applying that knowledge to take apart the toy.
“They’ve learned the soldering skills and then the trouble shooting skills to find out where the switch is and how it works so that we can rewire it so it ties into what they’ve done, a lot of their first year classes they learned a lot of basic electronics,” Cox said.
Originally the bubble blower was activated by an on/off button, now simply by pushing down this switch that is now attached to the toy, it will turn on.
“Children with special needs, if they can operate a button in any kind of way, maybe it’s an oversized button they push or even like a chin switch, we can even hook it up so if they breathe it will be operated that way so that they can turn this toy on and interact and play with it,” Cox said.
The toys will be ready by Christmas Day. And now more holiday cheer will be spread thanks to this partnership.
“It’s easy to find toys that you like but if you can’t play with them I’m sure it’s a bit of a bummer, so it’s nice to modify them so kids can play with them,” Sechser said.
Cox said in the past, students have worked with Lifescape to modify power wheel type cars for kids, by adding things like supports, straps, and relocating the on and off button. He says that’s a little bit more of an in depth project. | 2022-12-09T00:01:15+00:00 | keloland.com | https://www.keloland.com/news/local-news/students-modify-toys-for-kids-at-lifescape/ |
The time has come — or will come, in 2035 — to abandon the leap second.
So voted the member states of the international treaty governing science and measurement standards, at a meeting in Versailles, France, on Friday. The nearly unanimous vote on what was known as Resolution D was met with relief and jubilation from the world’s metrologists, some of whom have been pressing for a solution to the leap second problem for decades.
“Unbelievable,” Patrizia Tavella, director of the time department of the International Bureau of Weights and Measures, known from its French name as BIPM and based outside Paris, wrote in a WhatsApp message shortly after the vote. “More than 20 years of discussion and now a great agreement.” She added that she was “moved to tears.”
The United States was a firm supporter of the resolution. “It feels like a historic day,” said Elizabeth Donley, chief of the time and frequency division of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, or NIST, in Boulder, Colorado. “And I wish I was there. There’s probably a lot of celebrating being done in style.”
The leap second has caused trouble since its inception 50 years ago. It was devised as a way to align the international atomic time scale, in use since 1967 and derived from the vibration of cesium atoms, with the slightly slower time that Earth keeps as it rotates. In effect, whenever atomic time is one second ahead, it stops for a second to allow Earth to catch up. Ten leap seconds were inserted into the atomic time scale when the fudge was unveiled in 1972. Twenty-seven more have been added since.
Those extra seconds were tricky to insert in 1972; today, the technical issues are gnarly. For one, it’s hard to predict exactly when the next leap second will be needed, so computing networks cannot prepare for orderly, regular insertions. Different networks have developed their own, uncoordinated methods of incorporating the extra second.
Moreover, modern global computing systems have become more tightly intertwined and more reliant on hyperprecise timing, sometimes to the billionth of a second. Adding the extra second heightens the risk that those systems, which are responsible for telecommunication networks, energy transmission, financial transactions and other vital enterprises, will crash or fail to synchronize.
As a result, unofficial time systems have slowly begun to displace the world’s official international time, Coordinated Universal Time, or UTC. Eliminating the leap second is seen as a way of preserving adherence to UTC by making it a continuous time scale rather than one that is episodically interrupted.
“The most important issue is the preservation of the concept that time is an international quantity,” said Judah Levine, a physicist at NIST. He called the Versailles decision “an incredible step forward.”
Russia voted against the resolution; Belarus abstained. Russia has long sought to delay abandonment of the leap second because its GLONASS global navigational satellite system incorporates the extra seconds, unlike other systems such as GPS, which is operated by the United States. With Russia’s concerns in mind, the leap second is not scheduled to be dropped until 2035, although it could happen sooner.
Resolution D calls for UTC to go uninterrupted by leap seconds from 2035 until at least 2135 and for metrologists to eventually figure out how to reconcile the atomic and astronomical time scales with fewer headaches. The international time standard would be severed from time as told by the heavens for generations to come.
But rejoining those two time scales was imperative, said Rev. Pavel Gabor, an astrophysicist and the vice director of the Vatican Observatory Research Group in Tucson, Arizona. He said that atomic timekeeping was just one example of how the world was becoming incomprehensible to the average person and that scientists had a responsibility to help people feel in control of their lives.
“I think sensitivity to this mistrust of elites, mistrust of experts, mistrust of science and institutions, that’s something that’s a very real problem in today’s world,” he said. “And let’s not contribute to it.”
Steps remain in the elimination of the leap second. Although BIPM is responsible for universal time, the International Telecommunication Union, or ITU, is responsible for transmitting it. The ITU’s World Radiocommunication Conference in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, will also vote on the issue next year. Felicitas Arias, the former director of the time department at BIPM and now a visiting astronomer at the Paris Observatory, said that negotiations between the two organizations convinced her that the ITU will support the Versailles vote.
“Now we see really closer the moment to have continuous time,” she said, applauding the vote Friday. “And this is something we have been dreaming about for a long, long time.” | 2022-11-23T16:01:05+00:00 | seattletimes.com | https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/its-official-the-leap-second-will-be-retired-a-decade-from-now/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_all |
What is the mourning dove so sad about? I hope it’s not the comments I made about it in my column last week on unreasonable antipathies. I described the mourning dove as “stupid,” “fearful” and “chubby.”
“I love mourning doves,” she wrote. “I find their cooing comforting and it reminds me of my childhood in Transylvania, where I also used to hear them. I like the way they make eye contact with me outside my sunroom in Arlington. We check each other out.”
Michael Kirkland of Chevy Chase, Md., also appreciates mourning doves. They serve an important role in his backyard’s literal pecking order.
“Mourning doves are strictly ground feeders who sit beneath the sunflower seed and finch food feeders for any seeds that fall to the ground,” Michael wrote. “I supplement their diet by tossing cracked corn on the patio twice a day. They are among my most grateful diners!”
Michael noted that the bird’s name comes from the sad sound it makes while communicating, a sound the Cornell Lab of Ornithology says a dove creates by puffing up its throat but not opening its beak. (Cornell’s All About Birds website points out another reason mourning doves may be sad: They are the most frequently hunted species in North America.)
That signature hoo-hoo is not the only sound the birds make. “Doves’ wings whistle when they fly — up to 60 mph in the open field!” wrote Michael. The sound you hear from a startled dove taking flight comes from the wings, not the mouth.
Jim Showalter also thinks my antipathy may be misplaced. “Doves are survivors,” he wrote. “From a design point of view, they work. I grew up being told their calls, on a moody afternoon, made them the ‘rain birds,’ i.e., predictors of a storm.”
When they walk, mourning doves may seem awkward, Jim wrote, “but if you see them as they fly, they are lovely.”
Many different birds frequent the area around Beth Hughitt’s Luray, Va., home: eagles, hummingbirds, orioles, bluebirds, blue jays, goldfinches, swallows, all kinds of woodpeckers — and mourning doves.
“There’s a fun fact about mourning doves that I thought I’d share with you in case it might help you appreciate them just a tiny little bit more,” Beth wrote. “I agree with you that mourning doves seem like waddly, kind of stupid and timid birds. And those first two characteristics are pretty much true — they move in an ungainly way (like me from ages 13-17) and they don’t strike many people as high on the bird intelligence list. But fearful? Oh, think again!”
Beth and her husband put out quite the banquet for visiting birds: high-quality seed, dried mealworms, and both shelled and unshelled peanuts. “It’s pretty much an expensive pile of delicious food that our entitled birds are expecting to be replenished every morning,” she wrote.
Smaller birds defer to bigger birds, scooting off the feeding bench when jays or mockingbirds come in for a landing. But the mourning dove retreats for no bird.
“The lowly mourning dove, who by all accounts would be expected to tuck and run if a sparrow even looked at him funny, will sit there comfortably plopped on his pile of primo seed and Will.Not.Be.Moved.Until.He’s.Good.And.Ready,” Beth wrote. “We’ve watched all of the bigger birds with much scarier-looking pointy beaks try to move in on the feeder when a mourning dove is there. And even though it’s technically a two-seater bench, when a mourning dove is already plopped, there is no second seat.”
The dove defends its place on the feeder with something Beth calls the kung-fu wing slap. It’s a quick fwap! of the wing that smacks any bird that dares to get too close.
“That innocent-looking mourning dove can slap the bajeebers out of a bigger bird so fast that you can’t even really see what just happened,” Beth wrote.
And this, Beth said, makes the mourning dove more fearsome than fearful.
A wrong note
In my Monday column, I misplaced the original location of Chuck Levin’s Washington Music Center, the Wheaton music store. It was on H Street NE, not NW.
Tomorrow: In praise of the lowly Argus C3 camera. | 2022-05-09T16:57:25+00:00 | washingtonpost.com | https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2022/05/09/mourning-dove-bird/ |
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Inflation continued to ease in December as data released Thursday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicated the Consumer Price Index is continuing to decline.
For the 12-month period ending in December, the Consumer Price Index was 6.5%, which is down from a peak of 9.1% in the summer. Month over month, the CPI actually declined .1% in December as energy costs fell.
November to December 2022 marked the first time the CPI actually declined month over month since April to May 2020.
The price of food remains elevated as overall food costs went up .3% from November to December, ending the year at 10.4%. Eggs alone jumped over 11 percent in December and ended the year being 59.9% more expensive from the end of 2022 compared to the beginning.
Many commodities, such as apparel and recreation goods, have dropped in price in recent months.
The Consumer Price Index increased .9% in the last half of 2022, compared to 5.2% at the start of 2022.
The drop in inflation comes amid rising interest rates. The Consumer Price Index is down from 8.2% just three months ago and a high of 9.1% in June.
The Federal Reserve said its goal is to reduce inflation to around 2%. While the Federal Reserve raised interest rates numerous times in 2022, it’s unclear whether the Fed will continue with rate hikes. | 2023-01-12T15:18:45+00:00 | wsfltv.com | https://www.wsfltv.com/news/national/inflation-continues-to-ease-as-energy-prices-fall |
Tioga offensive lineman Hayden Christman commits to Louisiana Tech
Published: Jun. 24, 2022 at 10:57 PM CDT|Updated: 7 minutes ago
TIOGA, La. (KALB) - The 6-foot-7, highly recruited offensive lineman Hayden Christman from Tioga High School committed to further his football career at Louisiana Tech University.
He has received many college offers to play football from the University of Louisiana Monroe, Tulane University and McNeese State University, but the Bulldogs were a perfect fit.
Christman is looking to finish his final season with Indians strong before heading to Ruston as Bulldog.
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Copyright 2022 KALB. All rights reserved. | 2022-06-25T04:06:25+00:00 | kalb.com | https://www.kalb.com/2022/06/25/tioga-offensive-lineman-hayden-christman-commits-louisiana-tech/ |
Former President Trump announced his entry into the 2024 race for the White House Tuesday at his Mar-a-Lago resort.
Trump made the announcement from Mar-a-Lago, his private estate and club in Palm Beach, Fla., just a week after the midterm elections denied Republicans the “red wave” they had long anticipated.
Read the full story and updated coverage here.
Watch live in the video above. | 2022-11-16T04:18:16+00:00 | siouxlandproud.com | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/news/politics/watch-live-trump-delivers-special-announcement-at-his-mar-a-lago-resort/ |
LAKEWAY, Texas, Jan. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Financial Gravity Companies, Inc. (OTCQB: FGCO), today announced the filing of a Form 15 with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). The Company filed the Form 15 with the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), to terminate the registration of its common stock under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act and to suspend its reporting obligations under Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act. The Company is eligible to suspend its reporting obligations because it has fewer than 300 holders of record of its common stock and less than ten million dollars in assets.
Scott Winters, Chief Executive Officer, commented on the announcement with the following statement: "The Company's decision to deregister was made after careful consideration of the advantages and disadvantages of being a public full reporting company and the increasing expense of compliance with the many SEC related requirements. This decision should result in a benefit to the Company's shareholders by reducing expenses and permitting management to focus its energies on operating and growing the company."
Upon filing the Form 15, the Company's obligation to file periodic and current reports with the SEC, including Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K, was immediately suspended. The Company's duty to file other reports with the SEC will be terminated 90 days after filing of the Form 15. Despite the termination of registration, the Company plans to continue to disclose its financial statements on a quarterly and annual basis through the OTC Markets reporting service. The Company anticipates that its common stock will be quoted on the OTC Markets marketplace in the Pink Sheets, so long as market makers demonstrate an interest in trading the Company's common stock.
About Financial Gravity Companies, Inc.
Financial Gravity Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the "Company") are located in Lakeway Texas. Operations are conducted through wholly owned subsidiaries. Company supports investment advisors and provides tax professionals with a turnkey family office charter. Company helps the tax professionals evolve from the commoditized business of tax compliance to a Family Office Director that runs and manages their own multi-family office. Family Office Directors are able to leverage the Financial Gravity systems, technology, proprietary resources, and deep domain expertise to bring an elevated and holistic financial service experience to their clients that spans proactive tax planning, retirement and estate planning, wealth management, and risk mitigation. The Company has the following active subsidiaries through which it operates its business: Tax Master Network supports over 300 CPA and Enrolled Agent professionals, training them to add crucial tax planning services to support clients. Financial Gravity Asset Management, Inc., is a registered investment advisor with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and provides asset management services to individuals and businesses. FGAM had in excess of $130,000,000 in assets under management as of September 30, 2022. Financial Gravity Enhanced Markets, LLC is an insurance marketing organization and provides insurance products and services to insurance agents or agencies. Financial Gravity Family Office Services, LLC is an RIA that offers financial planning, and wealth management services to clients through investment advisors. Financial Gravity Investment Services, LLC ("FGIS") is an Office of Supervisory Jurisdiction that is affiliated with Kingswood U.S., a broker dealer. Forta Financial Group, Inc. has discontinued its broker/dealer and RIA operations.
Safe Harbor Statement: Statements made in this release concerning the Company's or management's intentions, expectations, or predictions about future results or events are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements reflect management's current expectations or beliefs and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to vary from stated expectations, which variations could be material and adverse. Factors that could produce such a variation include, but are not limited to, the following: the inherent unreliability of earnings, revenue and cash flow predictions due to numerous factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control; developments in the demand for the Company's products and services; relationships with the Company's customers and advisors; the mix of and margins on the services provided; the impact of governmental laws, regulations, and orders, including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic caused by the coronavirus; and competitive factors. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the time made, and we assume no obligation to publicly update any such statements. Additional information concerning these and other factors that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from the Company's current expectations and reports previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 20, 2022.
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SOURCE Financial Gravity Companies, Inc. | 2023-01-27T19:56:56+00:00 | wlbt.com | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2023/01/27/financial-gravity-companies-inc/ |
Post-sex pill seen as new tool to fight rising STD rates
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health officials released data Tuesday showing how chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis cases have been accelerating, but doctors are hoping an old drug will help fight the sexually transmitted infections.
Experts believe STDs have been rising because of declining condom use, inadequate sex education and reduced testing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Millions of Americans are infected each year. Rates are highest in men who have sex with men, and among Black and Hispanic Americans and Native Americans.
“Sexually transmitted infections are an enormous, low-priority public health problem. And they’ve been a low-priority problem for decades, in spite of the fact that they are the most commonly reported kind of infectious disease,” said Dr. John M. Douglas Jr., a retired health official who lectures at the Colorado School of Public Health.
To try to turn the tide, many doctors see promise in doxycycline, a cheap antibiotic that has been sold for more than 50 years.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is drafting recommendations for using it as a kind of morning-after pill for preventing STDs, said Dr. Leandro Mena, director of the agency’s STD prevention division.
The drug is already used to treat a range of infections. A study published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine showed its potential to prevent sexually transmitted infections.
In the study, about 500 gay men, bisexual men and transgender women in Seattle and San Francisco with previous STD infections took one doxycycline pill within 72 hours of unprotected sex. Those who took the pills were about 90% less likely to get chlamydia, about 80% less likely to get syphilis, and more than 50% less likely to get gonorrhea compared with people who did not take the pills after sex, the researchers found.
The study was led by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco and built on a similar French study that saw promise in the idea.
“We do need new approaches, new innovations” to help bring sexually transmitted infections under control, said Dr. Philip Andrew Chan, who is consulting with the CDC on the doxycycline recommendations.
Mena, of the CDC, said there is no sign the STD trend is slowing.
Mississippi had the highest rate of gonorrhea cases, according to 2021 CDC data released Tuesday. Alaska saw a sharp increase in its chlamydia case rate that allowed it to overtake Mississippi at the top of that list. South Dakota had the highest rate of early-stage syphilis.
And Arizona had the tragic distinction of having the highest rate of cases in which infected moms pass syphilis on to their babies, potentially leading to death of the child or health problems like deafness and blindness.
Using an antibiotic to prevent these kinds of infections won’t “be a magic bullet. but it will be another tool,” said Chan, who teaches at Brown University and is chief medical officer of Open Door Health, a health center for gay, lesbian and transgender patients in Providence, Rhode Island.
Experts noted the CDC will have many factors to weigh as it develops the recommendations.
Among them: The drug can cause side effects like stomach problems and rashes after sun exposure. Some research has found it ineffective in heterosexual women. And widespread use of doxycycline as a preventive measure could contribute to mutations that make bacteria impervious to the drug, as has happened with antibiotics before.
Nevertheless, the San Francisco Department of Public Health in October became the first U.S. health department to issue guidance about doxycycline as an infection-prevention measure. And some other clinics have been been recommending the antibiotic to patients who may be at higher risk.
Derrick Woods-Morrow, a 33-year-old artist and an assistant professor at the Rhode Island School of Design, is an early adopter. Woods-Morrow, said he isn’t a fan of condoms — they can break and sometimes people slip them off during sex. But he wants to stay healthy.
About a decade ago, he started taking an anti-viral medication before sex to protect himself from HIV infection. Five years ago, a doctor told him about research into whether doxycycline might protect people from other diseases.
“I thought it was probably in my best interest to protect myself, and my partners as well,” he said. He said it’s been a positive experience and that he hasn’t tested positive for chlamydia, gonorrhea or syphilis while using it.
“I feel like it’s a tool to sort of take back the sexual freedoms that someone may have lost and to really enjoy sex and interactions with people with a piece of mind,” he said.
___
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-04-11T17:13:14+00:00 | wbrc.com | https://www.wbrc.com/2023/04/11/post-sex-pill-seen-new-tool-fight-rising-std-rates/ |
Brett Favre says he’s ‘unjustly smeared’ in welfare case
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Retired NFL quarterback Brett Favre says he is being treated unfairly in news coverage of a Mississippi welfare scandal, including about payments he received to help fund a pet project of his — a volleyball arena at the university he attended and where his daughter was playing the sport.
“I have been unjustly smeared in the media,” Favre said in a statement to Fox News Digital, which was published Tuesday. “I have done nothing wrong, and it is past time to set the record straight.
“No one ever told me, and I did not know, that funds designated for welfare recipients were going to the University or me,” Favre said. “I tried to help my alma mater USM, a public Mississippi state university, raise funds for a wellness center. My goal was and always will be to improve the athletic facilities at my university.”
It is one of the few public statements Favre has made about Mississippi’s largest-ever public corruption case involving the misspending of tens of millions of dollars in welfare money that was intended to help some of the poorest people in one of the poorest states in the U.S.
Favre is not facing criminal charges. He is among more than three dozen people or companies being sued by the Mississippi Department of Human Services.
Mississippi Auditor Shad White, a Republican who has investigated the welfare misspending, took exception with Favre’s new statement. White pointed to text messages between Favre and other people about the volleyball arena, recently disclosed in the civil lawsuit.
“Obviously, Mr. Favre knew that he was being paid in government funds, based on the texts,” White told The Associated Press on Tuesday. “He knew that those funds were coming from the Department of Human Services. He’s obviously acknowledged that he needed to repay those funds, too.”
The lawsuit was filed in May and says the defendants “squandered” more than $20 million from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families anti-poverty program.
Favre has repaid $1.1 million he received for speaking fees from the Mississippi Community Education Center, a nonprofit group that spent TANF money with approval from the Department of Human Services. But, White said Tuesday that Favre still owes $228,000 in interest.
In October 2021, Favre and White engaged in a social media spat about White saying Favre had accepted the $1.1 million but had failed to show up for speaking engagements.
“Of course the money was returned because I would never knowingly take funds meant to help our neighbors in need, but for Shad White to continue to push out this lie that the money was for no-show events is something I cannot stay silent about,” Favre wrote.
White said Tuesday that Favre has repeatedly made “confusing” statements about the payment for speaking.
“The contract that justified the payment to him for $1.1 million required him to show up and give speeches, and he didn’t give the speeches,” White said. “If he’s arguing that that contract is a sham, he can’t be paid $1.1 million on a nonexistent contract. He still has to pay the money back.”
The director of the nonprofit, Nancy New, pleaded guilty in April to charges of misspending welfare money, as did her son Zachary New, who helped run the center. They await sentencing and have agreed to testify against others.
In a Sept. 12 court filing in the civil lawsuit, an attorney for the Mississippi Community Education Center released several text messages about $5 million in welfare money that went toward the volleyball facility. The messages were between Nancy New and Favre, between Favre and former Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant and between Bryant and New. The messages were from 2017 to 2019, when the Republican Bryant was still governor.
That court filing said the nonprofit center agreed to pay Favre $1.1 million “for a few radio spots” to help fund the volleyball arena, which was also being called a campus wellness center. Favre had agreed to lead fundraising efforts to build the facility on the Hattiesburg campus.
According to court documents, Favre texted New on Aug. 3, 2017, about the payment to him for speaking: “If you were to pay me is there anyway the media can find out where it came from and how much?”
New responded: “No, we never have had that information publicized. I understand you being uneasy about that though. Let’s see what happens on Monday with the conversation with some of the folks at Southern. Maybe it will click with them. Hopefully.”
Favre replied: “Ok thanks.”
The next day, New texted Favre: “Wow, just got off the phone with Phil Bryant! He is on board with us! We will get this done!”
Favre played football at the University of Southern Mississippi before going to the NFL in 1991. His daughter began playing on the school’s volleyball team in 2017.
Favre said in the statement to Fox News on Tuesday that state agencies provided money to Mississippi Community Education Center, which then gave money to the University of Southern Mississippi “all with the full knowledge and approval of other State agencies,” including the board that governs Mississippi’s eight public universities, the governor’s office and the attorney general’s office.
News outlets have previously reported involvement by the state college board, the governor’s office and the attorney general’s office in approval of money for the volleyball arena.
“I was told that the legal work to ensure that these funds could be accepted by the university was done by State attorneys and State employees,” Favre said.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2022-10-11T22:54:45+00:00 | wlox.com | https://www.wlox.com/2022/10/11/brett-favre-says-hes-unjustly-smeared-welfare-case/ |
Cerner's lab information systems selected to help Labcorp streamline operations and enhance patient experiences for a leading health system
KANSAS CITY, Mo., Nov. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Oracle Cerner and Labcorp, a leading global life sciences company, have formed a new relationship to streamline lab operations for one of the nation's leading nonprofit Catholic health systems. Labcorp purchased select assets of the health system's outreach laboratory business and will manage its hospital-based laboratories in 10 states. Cerner's laboratory information system (LIS) will help Labcorp centralize operations and streamline processes within the hospital-based labs to enhance patient care and improve lab efficiency.
With this strategic Cerner collaboration, Labcorp will be able to build and expand upon the labs' existing technologies to standardize and optimize workflows for better efficiency in the labs as well as support information sharing across the health system.
"The ability to easily manage workflow and testing information is imperative to providing the high level of service that customers expect from Labcorp," said Carl Warner, senior vice president of information technology, Labcorp. "With its well-established reputation and health technology, Oracle Cerner supports our goal of helping patients and physicians make better health decisions."
Up to 80% of all diagnostic decisions are informed by lab test results. Cerner's holistic suite of laboratory solutions support complex needs across a laboratory operation including clinical, anatomic pathology, molecular diagnosis, and laboratory outreach. Focused on optimizing the workflow of the laboratory, Cerner's lab solutions help minimize manual technology interactions with auto-verification and automatic reporting.
"Oracle Cerner has a long history of developing innovative solutions to support even the most complex lab operations," said Travis Dalton, general manager, Oracle Health. "Together with Labcorp, our solutions will help reduce manual steps in the labs to make information sharing easier across the health system, leading to faster diagnostic decisions that can improve patient care."
Oracle Cerner's health technologies connect people and information systems at thousands of contracted provider facilities worldwide dedicated to creating smarter and better care for individuals and communities. Recognized globally for innovation, Oracle Cerner assists clinicians in making care decisions and assists organizations in managing the health of their populations. The company also offers a connected clinical and financial ecosystem to help manage day-to-day revenue functions, as well as a wide range of services to support clinical, financial, and operational needs, focused on people. For more information, visit Cerner.com, Oracle Cerner Perspectives, connect on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter or join the discussion on Oracle Cerner's podcast Perspectives on Health & Tech.
Labcorp is a leading global life sciences company that provides vital information to help doctors, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, researchers, and patients make clear and confident decisions. Through our unparalleled diagnostics and drug development capabilities, we provide insights and accelerate innovations to improve health and improve lives. With over 75,000 employees, we serve clients in more than 100 countries. Labcorp (NYSE: LH) reported revenue of $16 billion in FY2021. Learn more about us at www.Labcorp.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @Labcorp.
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SOURCE Oracle Cerner | 2022-11-14T15:35:20+00:00 | kswo.com | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2022/11/14/oracle-cerner-technology-manage-hospital-labs-10-states/ |
Badgr to become "Canvas Badges" tool, with new "Canvas Credentials" offering more advanced functionality as paid service
SALT LAKE CITY, April 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Instructure Holdings, Inc. (Instructure) (NYSE: INST) today announced it has completed the acquisition of partner Concentric Sky, the makers of Badgr. Currently the default micro-credentialing tool within Canvas LMS, Badgr will be rebranded as "Canvas Badges" as it joins the Instructure Learning Platform. Canvas LMS customers can also upgrade to Badgr Pro's advanced suite of tools in new "Canvas Credentials," offering unlimited badging, leaderboards, analytics and personalized pathway progress visualizations. The deal underscores Instructure's commitment to building the education industry's most integrated teaching and learning platform to support lifelong learning.
"We know colleges and universities are seeking innovative new ways to support non-traditional learners and that those students want greater agency to demonstrate skills and achievements to potential employers," said Steve Daly, CEO of Instructure. "With Badgr, the Concentric Sky team has developed the gold standard for verifiable, skill-aligned micro-credentials, fast becoming the currency between learning outcomes and employment opportunities. This deal enables us to continue to expand the Instructure Learning Platform to support the evolving needs of all types of educational institutions and the diverse student populations they serve."
According to Instructure's 2021 State of Student Success and Engagement in Higher Education survey, preparing students for post-graduate careers is the #1 concern, however, administrators and students agree that this is where institutions struggle most. 84% of respondents defined student success as work/career readiness, a rise from 78% in 2020. Skills-based learning also emerged as a priority, with 70% of respondents saying that having definable skills is more important than course titles or a degree.
Whether as part of K12, a traditional undergraduate program or non-traditional programs like certificates and boot camps, Canvas Credentials allows schools to seamlessly award badges that verify and track academic achievements, including competency-based education (CBE). Canvas Credentials is the leading credentialing platform with stackable learning pathways and shareable learner records. By incorporating Canvas Credentials' stackable digital credentialing technology, Instructure empowers schools to help students navigate personalized learning journeys and enables them to carry proof of their academic achievements and skills development throughout their life.
Founded in 2005, Concentric Sky has grown to nearly 90 employees and serves millions of users by providing recognition from over 25,000 issuing organizations in 160 countries. Concentric Sky has been a long-time contributor to the field of open technology standards, joining forces with the MacArthur Foundation to lead the development of Open Badges 2.0 in 2015 and co-founding the Open Skills Network in 2020.
"From day one we've been focused on helping learning organizations connect people to opportunities and delivering a more equitable future by changing the way the world recognizes achievement," said Wayne Skipper, founder and CEO of Concentric Sky. "The power of the Instructure Learning Platform is its commitment to openness and equity, and our two companies share a fundamental belief in the importance of open technology standards for advancing equity in education. Instructure has demonstrated a strong desire to carry that work forward and I feel confident that together we can accelerate our mission to advance learning at every level."
The Instructure Learning Platform is an open, reliable, and extensible learning ecosystem enabling a digital learning environment for educators, students, and institutions. The platform is made up of several key pillars—such as learning management, assessment, and analytics—that work together to enrich, support, and connect every aspect of teaching and learning. Canvas Badges and Canvas Credentials will be vital parts of the learning management pillar, which also includes Canvas LMS. As part of Instructure's deep commitment to openness, Canvas LMS will continue to support the seamless integration of other third-party credential management and badging solutions.
Instructure (NYSE: INST) is an education technology company dedicated to elevating student success, amplifying the power of teaching, and inspiring everyone to learn together. Today the Instructure Learning Platform supports more than 30 million educators and learners around the world. Learn more at www.instructure.com.
This press release contains "forward-looking" statements, which are subject to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding the acquisition of Concentric Sky and its impact upon Instructure. These statements are not guarantees of future performance, but are based on management's expectations as of the date of this press release and assumptions that are inherently subject to uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements include the risk factors described in the Instructure's initial public offering prospectus filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on July 23, 2021, and other documents filed with the SEC and could cause actual results to vary from expectations. All information provided in this press release is as of the date hereof and Instructure undertakes no duty to update this information except as required by law.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Brian Watkins
Corporate Communications
Instructure
801-610-9722
brian.watkins@instructure.com
INVESTOR CONTACT:
Denise Garcia
Alex Liloia
Hayflower Partners
646-918-4041
Investors@Instructure.com
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SOURCE Instructure Holdings, Inc. | 2022-04-14T10:35:22+00:00 | live5news.com | https://www.live5news.com/prnewswire/2022/04/14/instructure-acquires-concentric-sky-makers-badgr-adding-stackable-digital-credentialing-technology-instructure-learning-platform/ |
DETROIT (AP) — Traffic crashes in the U.S. cost society $340 billion in one year, or just over $1,000 for each of the country’s 328 million people, according to a study by safety regulators.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said it studied crashes in calendar year 2019 that killed an estimated 36,500 people, injured 4.5 million and damaged 23 million vehicles.
“This report drives home just how devastating traffic crashes are for families, and the economic burden they place on society,” Ann Carlson, acting administrator of the agency, said in a statement Tuesday.
With fatal crashes rising dramatically in 2021, the Transportation Department began pushing a “safe systems approach” to reduce crashes. It includes safer roads, behavior, vehicles and speeds, as well as better after-crash care.
In the report, researchers examined several NHTSA databases as well as crashes not reported to police that were gathered through consumer surveys, NHTSA’s statement said.
The cost of the crashes amounted to 1.6% of the $21.4 trillion gross domestic product in 2019, the agency said.
People not directly involved in crashes pay for roughly 75% of all crash costs through insurance premiums, taxes, lost time from road congestion, excess fuel consumption and environmental impacts, the study found.
The study also calculated that from 1975 to 2019, seat belt use saved 404,000 lives and prevented $17.8 trillion in societal harm, NHTSA said.
Nearly 43,000 people were killed on U.S. roads in 2021, the highest number in 16 years as Americans returned to the roads. The 10.5% jump over 2020 numbers was the largest percentage increase since NHTSA began its fatality data collection system in 1975.
Estimates for the first nine months of last year show that crash deaths dropped 0.2% compared with the same period of 2021. But the government says the number is still unacceptably high.
In an effort to reduce the deaths, the federal government is sending $5 billion in aid to cities and localities to slow vehicles, carve out bike paths and nudge commuters to public transit. | 2023-01-11T04:30:35+00:00 | wcia.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/business/ap-business/ap-us-study-one-year-of-road-crashes-cost-society-340-billion/ |
"Think Brita filter, but a thousand times better." That’s what engineering professor Dr. Madjid Mohseni of the University of British Columbia said about a new water treatment that reduces forever chemicals from drinking water.
PFAS (per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of chemicals that are present in a wide array of common consumer products, from toilet paper to clothing. PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" because they don't break down in the environment or in our bodies.
Studies have linked exposure to PFAS to adverse health effects. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says investigations into how exposure to PFAS can be harmful are still being conducted. The CDC notes that PFAS are in food and the environment, making it unlikely to eliminate exposure entirely.
To rid water of forever chemicals, Mohseni’s team created an adsorbing material capable of trapping and holding all the PFAS present in the water supply, the University of British Columbia said. The PFAS are later destroyed using special electrochemical and photochemical techniques, the university said.
"Our adsorbing media captures up to 99% of PFAS particles and can also be regenerated and potentially reused," he said. "This means that when we scrub off the PFAS from these materials, we do not end up with more highly toxic solid waste that will be another major environmental challenge."
SEE MORE: EPA to limit toxic 'forever chemicals' in drinking water
According to the Environmental Protection Agency,PFAS can be found in drinking water. But the EPA said it's unknown how to effectively rid drinking water of forever chemicals.
The University of British Columbia study isn’t the only attempt to use filters to eliminate PFAS from water. Last year, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences spotlighted CycloPure, Inc’s filters,which can rid up to 65 gallons (700 single-use water bottles) of PFAS with one filter.
Trending stories at Scrippsnews.com | 2023-05-01T21:32:12+00:00 | wsfltv.com | https://www.wsfltv.com/scientists-claim-filter-can-eliminate-forever-chemicals-from-water |
481, Joe Burrow, CIN vs. ATL 10/23 (34-42, 3 TD)
469, Tua Tagovailoa, MIA at BAL 9/18 (36-50, 6 TD)
460, Kirk Cousins, MIN vs. IND 12/17 (OT) (34-54, 4 TD)
446, Patrick Mahomes, KC vs. TEN 11/6 (OT) (43-68, 1 TD)
432, Tom Brady, TB vs. CAR 1/1 (34-45, 3 TD)
425, Kirk Cousins, MIN at DET 12/11 (31-41, 2 TD)
424, Josh Allen, BUF vs. PIT 10/9 (20-31, 4 TD)
423, Patrick Mahomes, KC at SF 10/23 (25-34, 3 TD)
400, Josh Allen, BUF at MIA 9/25 (42-63, 2 TD)
389, Matt Ryan, IND vs. JAC 10/16 (42-58, 3 TD)
385, Tom Brady, TB vs. KC 10/2 (39-52, 3 TD)
382, Tua Tagovailoa, MIA at DET 10/30 (29-36, 3 TD)
382, Mac Jones, NE at MIN 11/24 (28-39, 2 TD)
380, Jalen Hurts, PHI vs. TEN 12/4 (29-39, 3 TD)
378, Jared Goff, DET vs. SEA 10/2 (26-39, 4 TD)
375, Joe Burrow, CIN at NE 12/24 (40-52, 3 TD)
369, Mike White, NYJ at MIN 12/4 (31-57, 0 TD)
368, Trevor Lawrence, JAC at TEN 12/11 (30-42, 3 TD)
367, Geno Smith, SEA at LAR 12/4 (28-39, 3 TD)
367, Justin Herbert, LAC vs. MIA 12/11 (39-51, 1 TD)
365, Jarrett Stidham, LAS vs. SF 1/1 (OT) (23-34, 3 TD)
361, Andy Dalton, NO at ARI 10/20 (30-47, 4 TD)
360, Patrick Mahomes, KC at ARI 9/11 (30-39, 5 TD)
359, Carson Wentz, WAS vs. TEN 10/9 (25-38, 2 TD)
357, Kirk Cousins, MIN at BUF 11/13 (OT) (30-50, 1 TD)
356, Matt Ryan, IND vs. TEN 10/2 (27-37, 2 TD)
355, Joe Burrow, CIN at PIT 11/20 (24-39, 4 TD)
355, Gardner Minshew, PHI at DAL 12/24 (24-40, 2 TD)
355, Zach Wilson, NYJ vs. NE 10/30 (20-41, 2 TD)
355, Jared Goff, DET at CAR 12/24 (25-42, 3 TD)
353, Jameis Winston, NO at CAR 9/25 (25-41, 1 TD)
352, Patrick Mahomes, KC at DEN 12/11 (28-42, 3 TD)
352, Matt Ryan, IND at HOU 9/11 (OT) (32-50, 1 TD)
351, Tom Brady, TB vs. ATL 10/9 (35-52, 1 TD)
347, Dak Prescott, DAL vs. PHI 12/24 (27-35, 3 TD)
341, Sam Darnold, CAR at TB 1/1 (23-37, 3 TD)
341, Daniel Jones, NYG vs. DET 11/20 (27-44, 1 TD)
340, Jalen Hurts, PHI at WAS 9/25 (22-35, 3 TD)
340, Justin Herbert, LAC at HOU 10/2 (27-39, 2 TD)
340, Jared Goff, DET vs. JAC 12/4 (31-41, 2 TD)
340, Russell Wilson, DEN at SEA 9/12 (29-42, 1 TD)
338, Patrick Mahomes, KC vs. BUF 10/16 (25-40, 2 TD)
338, Joe Burrow, CIN vs. PIT 9/11 (OT) (33-53, 2 TD)
337, Carson Wentz, WAS at DET 9/18 (30-46, 3 TD)
336, Patrick Mahomes, KC at HOU 12/18 (OT) (36-41, 2 TD)
335, Justin Herbert, LAC at LAS 12/4 (28-47, 1 TD)
334, Daniel Jones, NYG at MIN 12/24 (30-42, 1 TD)
334, Justin Herbert, LAC at KC 9/15 (33-48, 3 TD)
333, Ryan Tannehill, TEN at GB 11/17 (22-27, 2 TD)
333, Jalen Hurts, PHI vs. MIN 9/19 (26-31, 1 TD)
331, Patrick Mahomes, KC vs. JAC 11/13 (26-35, 4 TD)
330, Jared Goff, DET vs. MIN 12/11 (27-39, 3 TD)
330, Josh Allen, BUF vs. MIN 11/13 (OT) (29-43, 1 TD)
329, Patrick Mahomes, KC at LAC 11/20 (20-34, 3 TD)
329, Teddy Bridgewater, MIA vs. MIN 10/16 (23-34, 2 TD)
329, Josh Allen, BUF at KC 10/16 (27-40, 3 TD)
328, Geno Smith, SEA vs. LAS 11/27 (OT) (27-37, 2 TD)
328, Patrick Mahomes, KC vs. DEN 1/1 (29-42, 3 TD)
327, Kenny Pickett, PIT at BUF 10/9 (34-52, 0 TD)
326, Kyler Murray, ARI at MIN 10/30 (31-44, 3 TD)
325, Geno Smith, SEA vs. ATL 9/25 (32-44, 2 TD)
325, Tom Brady, TB vs. BAL 10/27 (26-44, 1 TD)
324, Jacoby Brissett, CLE at BUF 11/20 (28-41, 3 TD)
321, Mac Jones, NE vs. BAL 9/25 (22-32, 0 TD)
321, Trevor Lawrence, JAC vs. BAL 11/27 (29-37, 3 TD)
321, Jared Goff, DET vs. MIA 10/30 (27-37, 1 TD)
320, Geno Smith, SEA at DET 10/2 (23-30, 2 TD)
320, Patrick Mahomes, KC vs. LAR 11/27 (27-42, 1 TD)
319, Davis Mills, HOU at NYG 11/13 (22-37, 1 TD)
318, Lamar Jackson, BAL vs. MIA 9/18 (21-29, 3 TD)
318, Trevor Lawrence, JAC vs. DAL 12/18 (OT) (27-42, 4 TD)
317, Zach Wilson, NYJ vs. DET 12/18 (18-35, 2 TD)
317, PJ Walker, CAR at ATL 10/30 (OT) (19-36, 1 TD)
317, Josh Allen, BUF vs. TEN 9/19 (26-38, 4 TD)
315, Mike White, NYJ vs. CHI 11/27 (22-28, 3 TD)
315, Jalen Hurts, PHI at CHI 12/18 (22-37, 0 TD)
314, Kyler Murray, ARI vs. LAR 9/25 (37-58, 0 TD)
313, Carson Wentz, WAS vs. JAC 9/11 (27-41, 4 TD)
313, Justin Herbert, LAC vs. TEN 12/18 (28-42, 0 TD)
312, Tom Brady, TB vs. CIN 12/18 (30-44, 3 TD)
310, Tua Tagovailoa, MIA vs. GB 12/25 (16-25, 1 TD)
310, Trevor Lawrence, JAC vs. NYG 10/23 (22-43, 0 TD)
309, Bailey Zappe, NE at CLE 10/16 (24-34, 2 TD)
309, Joe Flacco, NYJ vs. BAL 9/11 (37-59, 1 TD)
308, Matthew Stafford, LAR vs. DAL 10/9 (28-42, 1 TD)
307, Derek Carr, LAS at DEN 11/20 (OT) (23-37, 2 TD)
307, Joe Flacco, NYJ at CLE 9/18 (26-44, 4 TD)
304, Josh Allen, BUF vs. MIA 12/17 (25-40, 4 TD)
303, Jimmy Garoppolo, SF vs. KC 10/23 (25-37, 2 TD)
303, Derek Carr, LAS at TEN 9/25 (26-44, 2 TD)
302, Tua Tagovailoa, MIA at CHI 11/6 (21-30, 3 TD)
302, Davis Mills, HOU at LAS 10/23 (28-41, 2 TD)
300, Joe Burrow, CIN at NO 10/16 (28-37, 3 TD) | 2023-01-10T15:50:34+00:00 | sfgate.com | https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/NFL-Top-Performers-Passing-17707352.php |
Maya Hawke Desperately Wants a Steve and Robin ‘Stranger Things’ Spin-Off With Joe Keery
Stranger Things actress Maya Hawke is excited to see what lies ahead for her character, Robin Buckley. But mostly she really wants to do a spin-off with co-star Joe Keery.
In a new interview with Rolling Stone, Hawke shared she's open to the possibility of a spin-off show featuring Robin and Keery's lovable jock-turned-babysitter Steve Harrington.
As for what she envisions for Robin and Steve, a coming-of-age story set in New York, where the pair party at clubs and "figure their s--t out," would be perfect.
"Normally I wouldn't really be a proponent of a spin-off, but if I got to do it with Joe Keery, I would do anything. He's so funny and wonderful and smart, and he's got great boundaries. He's an excellent coworker, and I would do anything with him," Hawke said.
Hawke explained she's never been too invested in the romantic relationships of the characters on Stranger Things because the series' focus is all about the power of friendship.
"There's such an over-emphasis in media that we consume about romantic love, and it being the ultimate destination that we're all supposed to arrive at. Find this one perfect person and then everything's good and the story's over," she said. "Part of me would ship it way more if the story wasn't ending, but there's something about our female heroes always getting endings — which is them finding the right guy — that I'm super over."
Hawke's career has skyrocketed since appearing in the hit Netflix series. The actress is currently starring in another Netflix project, Do Revenge, which features Riverdale actress Camila Mendes. The films hits streaming Friday (Sept. 16).
Hawke's sophomore studio album, Moss, is out Sept. 23. | 2022-09-19T20:23:17+00:00 | q961.com | https://q961.com/maya-hawke-wants-a-steve-and-robin-stranger-things-spin-off/ |
New Research, Representing 33,000 Plan Sponsor Clients, Highlights Insights and Retirement Plan Trends
BALTIMORE, June 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- T. Rowe Price released today findings from its latest Defined Contribution Consultant Research Study. In partnership with Schaus Group, T. Rowe Price surveyed 32 defined contribution (DC) consultants and advisory firms—that provide services to more than 33,000 plan sponsor clients and report nearly $7.2 trillion in assets under advisement—to look at marketplace trends and factors driving plan sponsor decisions.
"The retirement ecosystem is changing rapidly, and we find the consulting and advisory community evolving their businesses to address both obstacles and new opportunities", said Michael Davis, Head of Defined Contribution plan specialists, and former Deputy Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor. "This survey combines insights from across the DC platform at T. Rowe Price with survey data provided by the consultant and advisor community. The Schaus Group was a great partner in bringing together this research, which provides new perspectives on how consultants and advisors are working alongside their plan sponsor clients to help participants prepare for retirement and seek broader financial well-being."
Survey results revealed key themes, including greater insight into Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) adoption, support for the continued evolution of target date investments and retirement income solutions, and growing interest in financial wellness programs, especially in response to the COVID pandemic.
While there is broad interest in ESG, the majority of consultants report plan sponsors are looking for further clarity on the Department of Labor (DOL) proposed guidelines before making ESG investments a part of DC plan investment options. With respect to implementation of ESG, 40% of study respondents indicated preference for actively-managed ESG investment strategies; only 10% said passive ESG investment strategies were preferable. Additionally, respondents indicated that more detailed ESG screening, reporting, and monitoring should be provided by investment providers.
With respect to target date solutions, consultants strongly support an increased focus on Collective Investment Trust (CIT) based target dates and the pursuit of blend solutions that deliver the benefits of both active and passive investment management. Of note, these cost containment trends received greater support than simply increasing the use of passive investment management.
When looking at features that could strengthen the trend of participants remaining in their DC plans postretirement, lower cost for comparable investments versus a rollover IRA, flexibility in drawing down assets, and investment solutions that generate income were ranked highest.
Consultants also report simple systematic withdrawal capabilities as the most appealing retirement income solution despite limitations. However, multi-asset investment solutions—managed accounts with income planning features and target date investments with embedded managed payout features—follow closely behind.
Addressing greater financial wellness, 76% of consultants report that plan sponsors signaled greater interest in emergency savings, and 60% report greater interest in debt management. In contrast, most respondents reported fewer than 25% of their plan sponsor clients currently offer emergency savings programs. More positively, 83% of plan consultants expect this figure to increase in the next three to five years.
Additionally, consultants are seeing plan sponsors evaluate investment managers' diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) baseline reports to satisfy basic due diligence. However, further integration of DE&I information into plan and investment decisions may require evolution, as only 31% of plan sponsors are using DE&I information to actively drive decisions on new investment options.
"We are pleased to have released this new iteration of the Defined Contribution Consultant Research Study with T. Rowe Price," said Stacy Schaus, founder and CEO of Schaus Group. "This study allows the industry to delve deeper into critical topics and themes in the retirement market and spotlight important views from consultants and advisory firms that have capacity to shape how employer sponsored retirement plans might adapt from here."
The Defined Contribution Research Study was conducted at the end of 2021 during the continued coronavirus pandemic. The executive summary is available here.
The 2021 Defined Contribution Research Study was conducted by T. Rowe price in partnership with Schaus Group. The study population includes 32 defined contribution consulting surveyed from September 20, 2021, through November 8, 2021. You may visit troweprice.com/dcio and refer to the 2021 Defined Contribution Research Study material for highlights from this study. Participating firms also received a custom report comparing their firm's responses to the aggregate responses. For questions, please contact your T. Rowe price representative.
Founded in 1937, T. Rowe Price (NASDAQ-GS: TROW) is an independent global asset management company with $1.42 trillion in assets under management as of April 30, 2022. The organization is focused on delivering investment excellence and retirement services for institutional and individual investors. Our strategic investing approach, driven by independent thinking and guided by rigorous research, helps clients feel confident in pursuing financial goals. troweprice.com, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook.
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SOURCE T. Rowe Price Group, Inc. | 2022-06-02T16:57:52+00:00 | wlbt.com | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2022/06/02/t-rowe-price-releases-latest-defined-contribution-consultant-research-study/ |
Smart home devices can improve your daily life and make many tasks easier. Still, some may worry that the technology is too challenging to set up or use. Luckily, there is a variety of accessible smart home devices. We interviewed our tech expert, Jaime Vazquez, to learn more about accessible smart home devices.
According to Vazquez, “Most smart technology is designed to be accessible to anyone. If you have an older loved one that you hope will enjoy the benefits of smart tech but aren’t sure how they’ll feel about adopting the technology, there are several products that are designed to be user-friendly for them.”
In this article: Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen), Ring Video Doorbell and Sideclick Universal Remote Attachment for Roku
Voice commands
When buying a smart home device, it’s important to consider how well the voice commands work. These commands are ideal for those with difficulty using touchscreens and physical buttons. If they are already familiar with Amazon Alexa, it’s best to purchase an Alexa-compatible device, such as an Amazon Echo. You’ll want to consider a Nest device if they regularly use Google Assistant.
Many smart home devices have apps that let you control them using voice commands on your phone. These ensure that the user doesn’t have to be in the same room as their smart device to use it.
Safety features
Nowadays, many smart home devices can help keep you safe. Some have built-in smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and temperature alerts. You can often program them to alert family members if danger is detected.
Video doorbells allow people to see who is at their door before answering it. If they feel uncomfortable, they can alert a family member or the police. There is also a range of smart devices that can detect the sound of broken glass or when a door or window is opened.
Large screens
Smart speakers with large built-in screens are generally easier to use and control. Most have video calling features that are great for keeping in contact with friends and family. Additionally, many can be used as digital photo frames to display pictures of precious memories throughout the day.
Loud speakers
It’s best to buy a smart speaker that gets loud enough to hear with ease. Many newer smart home devices can be heard even when you’re in a different room. Speakers like the Echo Studio and Echo 4th-Gen can be connected to other smart speakers, letting you create a multi-room audio experience that makes them even easier to use.
Integration
In the near future, Matter and Thread technologies will make it easier for smart home devices to communicate with each other. However, in the meantime, it’s important to buy devices that integrate with others. Alexa and Google Home products have the broadest range of compatible products. For example, Alexa can pair with a wide range of smart lights, video doorbells, smart thermostats and other handy devices that make life easier.
When you buy smart home products that integrate seamlessly, you can control all devices from your phone or with a singular smart speaker; this eliminates the need for multiple smart home hubs and ensures you can use the home’s smart devices without hassle.
Best smart home devices with accessibility features
This features a large screen that’s perfect for video calls with loved ones. The speaker can get relatively loud. It is available in black and white. It adds an extra layer of privacy with its microphone-off button and camera cover.
Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
This sizeable device is ideal for video calls and streaming your favorite shows. It resembles a picture frame and is excellent for displaying pictures. You can purchase it with or without a remote.
Sold by Amazon
This easy-to-use smart speaker is loud and can be paired with other speakers for a richer sound. It can be used as an intercom to talk to family members in other rooms. The sound is top-notch, and the Alexa voice commands are intuitive.
Sold by Amazon
It is compact, but the sound is surprisingly great. The setup process is straightforward. It’s an excellent choice for listening to music, podcasts and audiobooks.
Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
This lets you talk to guests from the comfort and safety of another room, making it an excellent choice for those who can’t reach the door immediately. You can use it alongside an Echo Show to see who is at your door.
Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
This is both a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector. You can share access with family members, so they’re alerted when something goes wrong. It tests itself automatically and displays a bright green light if it still has power.
Sold by Home Depot
According to our tech expert, this is one of the easiest streaming devices to operate. Many said the setup process was straightforward. The picture is crystal clear, and the device responds to commands quickly.
Sold by Amazon
Sideclick Universal Remote Attachment for Roku
This handy device turns your Roku remote into a universal remote control. It isn’t bulky and lets you control your TV, Bluray player and Roku.
Sold by Amazon
This is an ideal way to keep up with your belongings. There are numerous attachments you can use to put on your pet’s collar. It is compact and features an understated design.
Sold by Amazon
This features a smart camera that adjusts automatically, so you won’t have to worry about manually altering the settings. It is designed to work with a variety of Facebook apps, making it an excellent choice for fans of social media.
Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | 2023-03-03T21:40:19+00:00 | ktalnews.com | https://www.ktalnews.com/reviews/br/electronics-br/smart-home-br/best-smart-home-devices-for-older-users-according-to-a-tech-expert/ |
Chinese automaker Dongfeng has launched a production model with in-wheel motors from supplier Protean Electric.
In press releases, Protean claims the Dongfeng Fengshen E70 is the “world’s first fully homologated passenger car” equipped with two ProteanDrive in-wheel motors. A conventional inboard motor drives the front wheels, while the in-wheel motors power the rear wheels, enabling all-wheel drive. Each rear in-wheel motor produces 104 hp and 922 lb-ft of torque.
According to Protean, Dongfeng has found that this configuration is lighter than a conventional all-wheel-drive EV setup. The companies also claim a 50% increase in storage space, a 0-62 mph time 42% quicker, and 18% higher cornering speeds thanks to the torque-vectoring capability of the in-wheel motors. Protean also claims increased efficiency, and 83 fewer parts than a comparable inboard motor setup.
The initial batch of Dongfeng Fengshen E70 sedans are undergoing “fleet trials” in China, according to Protean. Dongfeng has also unveiled a second model with in-wheel motors, the Voyah Zhuiguang, a luxury sedan from the company’s Voyah brand.
There’s been a lot of interest in in-wheel motors but relatively low-volume use so far. Lightyear claimed its 0 had the most efficient production powertrain in the world but it’s already scrapped production. The Lordstown Endurance also used them, but production of that vehicle has stalled as well. That leaves Aptera, which also plans to use in-wheel motors for its three-wheeler—although it will be an autocycle, not a passenger vehicle.
That said, mass-produced in-wheel motors for cars have been on the horizon for some time. And perhaps racing tech—and the threat of the a newcomer from China—will help get them there.
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- Why Mexico builds many US-bound EVs but buys few of them | 2023-03-23T15:57:18+00:00 | wwlp.com | https://www.wwlp.com/automotive/internet-brands/dongfeng-claims-worlds-first-passenger-cars-with-in-wheel-motors/ |
Advanced identity verification technology and know your customer offerings provide seamless verification process for Twisto customers and ensures compliance
NEW YORK, June 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Veriff, a global identity verification provider, today announced its partnership with Twiso, A Zip Company, a buy now, pay later (BNPL) business, to provide identity verification (IDV) services for online merchants. With this partnership, Veriff expedites the IDV process for Twisto customers, while ensuring compliance with know your customer (KYC) regulations.
Veriff's AI-powered identity verification technology is now available through Twisto's platform, enabling consumers to quickly and seamlessly verify their identities. Veriff provides best-in-class KYC verification with its video-first technology and offers an extra layer of protection for users through location verification.
"The BNPL payments market is highly regulated, and as a business in this space we need to ensure that we comply with KYC and anti-money laundering (AML) regulations which require us to verify the identity of our customers," said Pavel Prucek, Head of Product at Twisto, A Zip Company. "The biggest challenge we faced was balancing the tradeoff between the customer friction and the reliability of data we gather in the IDV process. Veriff enables a seamless and quick IDV flow that also provides the customer data and information we need to ensure compliance."
Since integrating Veriff's technology, Twisto has experienced a customer conversion rate increase of almost 15 percentage points. The BNPL platform has also almost fully eliminated verification application returns due to Veriff's streamlined IDV process and ability to identify and flag low-quality or incomplete pictures submitted to the verification process.
"The last two years spurred a dramatic evolution within the financial services and online payments industry, resulting in a rise in stringent regulations to address growing fintech fraud rates," said Raul Liive, Head of Product at Veriff. "It's never been more critical for payments companies to remain a few steps ahead of these fraudsters while maintaining regulatory compliance. We're thrilled to partner with Twisto to ease the verification and compliance process for them and their customers."
More about Twisto
Twisto introduces a smart solution for payments and shopping. In 2013, it was the first to bring BNPL (buy now pay later) services into the Czech Republic. With Twisto Pay, people can defer the payment for their online shopping for 30 days with a single click, without registration and for free. Registered Twisto users have the possibility to pay with virtual or physical Twisto cards (run by Mastercard), pay with their smartphones through Apple Pay or Google Pay, settle their invoices by taking a picture with Twisto Snap or to split a bill between friends with Twisto Split. And they can defer payments for their shopping for up to 45 days. Twisto also enables them to divide the payment into installments with immediate approval or shop and pay in three without any fees. In 2018, Twisto successfully entered the Polish market. In 2021, the Australian fintech leader Zip acquired Twisto, which has become a key part of its European strategy. www.twisto.cz, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram
About Veriff
Veriff is a global online identity verification company that enables organizations to build trust with their customers through intelligent, accurate, and automated online IDV. With the largest document specimen database on the market, Veriff's intelligent decision engine can analyze thousands of technological and behavioral variables in seconds, matching people to more than 10,200 government-issued IDs from over 190 countries. Founded in 2015, Veriff serves a global portfolio of organizations across financial services, crypto, gaming and mobility sectors. Veriff's clients include Blockchain, Bolt, Deel, Starship, Trustpilot, Uphold, Wise and others. Veriff employs over 500 people from 56 different nationalities in the U.S., UK, Spain and Estonia. www.veriff.com.
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SOURCE Veriff | 2022-06-29T10:19:06+00:00 | wafb.com | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/06/29/veriff-identity-verification-solutions-now-available-twistos-buy-now-pay-later-clients/ |
AP source: Watson willing to accept 8-game suspension, fine
(AP) - Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson would accept an eight-game suspension and $5 million fine to avoid missing the entire season, a person familiar with his defense told The Associated Press on Thursday.
Watson, who is facing a potential year-long ban for sexual misconduct, would agree to a lesser penalty in a settlement, said the person who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the case.
The biggest question is whether the NFL would make this compromise.
A settlement has always been possible, but it’s not clear if the sides are in active discussions.
The league is seeking a minimum suspension of 17 games, a significant fine over $5 million and wants Watson to be required to undergo evaluation and treatment as determined by medical experts before he could be reinstated.
An independent arbitrator suspended Watson, accused of lewd sexual behavior during massage appointments with two dozen women while he played for the Houston Texans, six games for violating the league’s personal conduct policy on Aug. 1.
The league felt the punishment wasn’t enough and appealed retired federal judge Sue L. Robinson’s ruling two days later.
Asked Tuesday at the owner’s meetings why the appeal was filed, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said: “Because we’ve seen the evidence.”
“She (Robinson) was very clear about the evidence. She reinforced the evidence, that there was multiple violations here and they were egregious, and that it was predatory behavior,” Goodell added.
“Those were always things we felt was really important for us to address and in a way that’s responsible.”
Watson’s case now rests with Peter C. Harvey, a former New Jersey Attorney General appointed last week by Goodell to handle the league’s appeal. Harvey’s decision could come at any time.
Harvey’s decision “will be binding,” per the collective bargaining agreement. However, the NFL Players Association could try to challenge his ruling in federal court. A settlement would avoid that.
Meanwhile, Watson is scheduled to make his debut for the Browns on Friday night in their exhibition opener at Jacksonville. The three-time Pro Bowler has continued to practice during his high-profile case, which has brought renewed criticism of the league’s handling of player discipline.
The Browns, who have spent years looking for a franchise QB, traded three first-round draft picks to Houston in March for Watson and then signed him to a five-year, $230 million contract.
Cleveland’s plan all along has been to play Jacoby Brissett, who has made 37 career starts, while Watson serves a suspension. However, that could change if Watson is out much longer or for the entire 2022 season.
One possible option for the Browns could be Jimmy Garoppolo, who has been supplanted as San Francisco’s starter by Trey Lance and is expected to be either traded or waived this month by the 49ers.
___
More AP NFL coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2022-08-11T22:49:38+00:00 | kfyrtv.com | https://www.kfyrtv.com/2022/08/11/ap-source-watson-willing-accept-8-game-suspension-fine/ |
MODESTO, Calif., June 20, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- E. & J. Gallo Winery (Gallo) announced today that it has purchased the Hahn Family Wines portfolio, complementing Gallo's existing Central Coast offerings. The strategic investment includes the Smith & Hook, Hahn, and Hahn SLH brands.
"For over forty years, the Hahn family and their incredible team have produced expressive terroir-driven, quality wines from the Santa Lucia Highlands, Arroyo Seco, Paso Robles and throughout the Central Coast. We are honored to welcome their brands into our portfolio," said Steve Carlotti, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Commercial Brands at Gallo. "This acquisition reinforces Gallo's strategy for continued growth while supporting our goal of delivering superior quality at great value to our consumers across all usage occasions."
"I am pleased to transition our Hahn Family Wines portfolio to the E. & J. Gallo Winery. Not only do we share similar family values, but both organizations are deeply committed to creating a sustainable future," said Thomas Duhameau, President of Hahn Family Wines. "I am confident the Hahn family's Central Coast wine legacy is in the best hands with the Gallo family."
The Hahn Family Wines portfolio includes Smith & Hook, which has long stood for spirited, layered, and luscious Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux red blends from Paso Robles and the Central Coast. It also includes Hahn wines which are rooted in the terroir of Monterey County and offer a fresh, approachable style in an array of varietals, and the Hahn SLH wines which showcase the character of the Santa Lucia Highlands.
Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. The transaction excludes the Hahn family's vineyard assets. Zepponi & Company served as the exclusive financial advisor to Hahn Family Wines.
About E. & J. Gallo Winery
Founded in 1933 by brothers Ernest and Julio Gallo, E. & J. Gallo Winery is a family-owned company and global wine and spirits industry leader. The hallmark of E. & J. Gallo Winery is their lasting commitment to sustainability and quality, and consistently providing wine and spirits for every occasion. Gallo's range of offerings includes Apothic, Barefoot Wine, Black Box, J Vineyards and Winery, La Marca Prosecco, Orin Swift, New Amsterdam Vodka, RumChata, High Noon, along with partnerships with esteemed family-owned brands such as Allegrini, Argiano, The Dalmore, Don Fulano, and Gruppo Montenegro. Learn more at: www.gallo.com.
CONTACT: Caroline Shaw caroline.shaw@ejgallo.com
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SOURCE E. & J. Gallo Winery | 2023-06-20T19:06:20+00:00 | kcrg.com | https://www.kcrg.com/prnewswire/2023/06/20/e-amp-j-gallo-expands-its-premium-wine-portfolio-with-acquisition-hahn-family-wines-collection-brands/ |
- Registration is now open for Creatd's upcoming Investor Day presentation on July 21st, 2022.
- Registrants may sign up to access the event virtually, or sign up for the possibility to attend in-person.
- The Company recommends rapid in-person registration as seats are limited.
NEW YORK, July 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Creatd, Inc. (Nasdaq CM: CRTD) ("Creatd" or the "Company"), today announced further details surrounding its upcoming Investor Day, to take place on July 21, 2022 at approximately 4:00 PM EST. The Investor Day will include a presentation from management followed by a Q&A session.
Attendees may elect to join virtually, as well as request to be selected to receive an invitation to join the event in-person at Creatd's New York City headquarters.
To register for Creatd's Investor Day please visit: https://creatd.com/investor-day-2022 and fill in the requested details. Those interested in attending the event may sign up to access the presentation virtually, or apply for an invitation to attend the event in-person. Attendance in-person will be granted on a select basis based on spot availability.
About Creatd
Creatd, Inc. (Nasdaq CM: CRTD) is a company dedicated to unlocking creativity for creators, brands, and consumers. We accomplish this through Creatd's four business pillars: Creatd Labs, Creatd Partners, Creatd Ventures, and Creatd Studios.
Creatd: https://creatd.com;
Creatd IR: https://investors.creatd.com;
Vocal Platform: https://vocal.media;
Investor Relations Contact: ir@creatd.com
Forward-Looking Statements
Any statements that are not historical facts and that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, indicated through the use of words or phrases such as "will likely result," "are expected to," "will continue," "is anticipated," "estimated," "intends," "plans," "believes" and "projects") may be forward-looking and may involve estimates and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. We caution that the factors described herein could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements we make and that investors should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Further, any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of such factors. Further, we cannot assess the impact of each such factor on our results of operations or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. This press release is qualified in its entirety by the cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in our Securities and Exchange Commission filings.
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SOURCE Creatd, Inc. | 2022-07-11T19:08:54+00:00 | wagmtv.com | https://www.wagmtv.com/prnewswire/2022/07/11/creatd-is-pleased-open-registration-july-21st-investor-day-offers-opportunity-attend-person-nyc-office/ |
- Leading senior care franchise caregivers help loved ones and their families beat the heat -
ROSEVILLE, Calif., June 1, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The expert caregivers at Always Best Care Senior Services, one of the leading senior care franchise systems in the United States, know the summer months are a time for families to be extra-vigilant about keeping their older loved ones safe at home. Adults 65 and older are more vulnerable to heat and dehydration, making it important to check in on them often or hire an in-home caregiver to assist with daily visits and monitoring.
"Always Best Care is expanding across the country as the senior population grows and more families are looking for that extra support to help take care of their loved ones," said Jake Brown, President and CEO of Always Best Care. "In the last few years, we have seen a surge of new offices open in states such as North Carolina, Georgia, Texas, Washington and Hawaii, to name a few. Going into these summer months, we know there will be an increased demand for our caregiving teams to help their clients beat the heat and stay safe at home."
A few senior-related facts and tips to keep in mind this summer:
- Adults over 65 often do not adjust as well to sudden changes in temperature and are more prone to heat stress.
- They are also more likely to have a chronic medical condition that changes normal body responses to heat, and they often take prescription medicines that impair the body's ability to regulate its temperature or that inhibit perspiration.
- Seniors are especially vulnerable to becoming dehydrated in hot weather. By the time they feel thirsty, they might be already experiencing the effects of mild dehydration.
- Check on aging loved ones regularly throughout the summer. Make sure their home is cool enough to be comfortable and encourage them to drink plenty of water and limit their exposure to direct sunlight.
- During the intense heat waves, seniors should have a visitor at least once per day to ensure that they're safe and healthy. In-home caregivers from Always Best Care provide this type of companionship and can assist with developing a safety plan. They are also able to give medication reminders, encourage drinking plenty of water and ensure they are receiving plenty of electrolytes.
"In-home caregivers can be a wonderful resource for helping seniors reduce their risk of becoming dehydrated," said Sheila Davis, senior vice president of area operations for Always Best Care. "In addition to regular reminders to keep drinking throughout the day, they can assist with meal planning and preparation so that there are foods with high water content, electrolytes, and potassium readily available for meals and snacks. They can also pay attention for signs of potential dehydration and encourage more water intake or seek medical care. Always Best Care caregivers are trained to observe and report any changes in behavior."
Always Best Care also provides its clients with a free telephone reassurance program called Always In Touch, which offers complimentary daily check-ins or weekly socialization calls.
Always Best Care is one of the nation's leading providers of non-medical in-home care and assisted living referral services, with skilled home health care in limited markets. The company delivers its services through an international network of more than 225 independently owned and operated franchise territories throughout the United States and Canada. By working with case managers, social workers, discharge planners, doctors, and families, Always Best Care franchise owners provide affordable, comprehensive solutions that can be specifically matched to meet a client's particular physical or social needs.
For more information on available territories and franchising with Always Best Care, contact Sean Hart at rshart@abc-seniors.com, call 916-545-2786 or visit www.alwaysbestcare.com/franchising.
About Always Best Care
Founded in 1996, Always Best Care Senior Services is based on the belief that having the right people for the right level of care means peace of mind for the client and family. Always Best Care has been assisting seniors with a wide range of conditions and personal needs for over 25 years and currently provides thousands of hours of care every year. Franchise opportunities are available to individuals interested in leveraging the company's clear strategy and proven track record for delivering affordable, dependable service to seniors in their local areas.
For more information regarding Always Best Care's solutions, visit www.alwaysbestcare.com.
CONTACT:
Nicole Hunnicutt
Fish Consulting
404-558-4108
nhunnicutt@fish-consulting.com
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SOURCE Always Best Care | 2023-06-01T16:33:38+00:00 | witn.com | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2023/06/01/always-best-care-shares-tips-keep-seniors-safe-this-summer/ |
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) – The suspect in the assault of Paul Pelosi, the husband of Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi, was formally charged with assault and attempted kidnapping in federal court Monday.
David DePape, 42, of Richmond, Calif., was arrested by the San Francisco Police Department early Friday, according to a press release from the office of United States Attorney Stephanie M. Hinds of the Northern District of California.
“The complaint charges DePape with one count of assault of an immediate family member of a United States official with the intent to retaliate against the official on account of the performance of official duties, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison,” the press release states. “DePape is also charged with one count of attempted kidnapping of a United States official on account of the performance of official duties, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.”
The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, and attached is an affidavit from FBI Special Agent Stephanie Minor.
“According to the complaint, minutes after the 911 call, two police officers responded to the Pelosi residence where they encountered Paul Pelosi and DePape struggling over a hammer,” the press release continues. “Officers told the men to drop the hammer, and DePape allegedly gained control of the hammer and swung it, striking Pelosi in the head. Officers immediately restrained DePape, while Pelosi appeared to be unconscious on the ground. As set forth in the complaint, once DePape was restrained, officers secured a roll of tape, white rope, a second hammer, a pair of rubber and cloth gloves, and zip ties from the crime scene, where officers also observed a broken glass door to the back porch.”
DePape told police of his plans to hold Speaker Pelosi hostage to “talk to her” and viewed her “as the “leader of the pack” of lies told by the Democratic Party, the eight-page complaint says.
“If she were to tell DePape the ‘truth,’ he would let her go and if she ’lied,’ he was going to break “her kneecaps,” the complaint alleges.
“By breaking Nancy’s kneecaps, she would then have to be wheeled into Congress, which would show other members of Congress there were consequences to actions,” it says.
The announcement of the federal charges came as San Francisco’s district attorney was set to announce state criminal charges as well.
It was not immediately clear whether DePape had an attorney who could speak on his behalf. Family described DePape as estranged, and he was known by some in San Francisco as a pro-nudity activist who appeared to embrace a range of conspiracy theories.
The federal complaint said he has lived for the past two years in a garage at a residence in Richmond, California.
Paul Pelosi remains hospitalized in San Francisco after undergoing surgery for a fractured skull and other injuries. Speaker Pelosi, who was in Washington, D.C., at the time of the attack, returned swiftly to California. Unlike presidents, congressional leaders have security protection for themselves, but not their families.
In the ambulance to the hospital, Paul Pelosi told police he had never seen DePape before, the complaint said.
The attack was an unsettling echo of the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol, when rioters trying to overturn Joe Biden’s election defeat of Donald Trump stormed the halls eerily calling “Where’s Nancy?” The zip ties were another similarity to Jan. 6 when rioters were seen with the ties in the Capitol.
San Francisco’s district attorney, Brooke Jenkins, strongly rejected conspiracy theories about the attack, confirming the assailant was targeting the Democratic leader when he broke into the couple’s home.
“At the time that the suspect had entered the Pelosi home that he was in fact, looking for Ms. Pelosi,” Jenkins told reporters late Sunday in San Francisco.
“We have nothing to suggest that these two men knew each other prior to this incident,” she said.
The district attorney’s remarks came as the attack on the husband of the House speaker was being mocked and dismissed in conservative, far-right social media, even among some Republican leaders. San Francisco’s police chief has also said the attack was targeted at Nancy Pelosi.
Elon Musk over the weekend tweeted, then deleted, a fringe website’s far-flung conspiracy theories to his millions of followers, as his purchase of Twitter has raised concerns that the social media platform would no longer seek to limit misinformation and hate speech.
In the toxic political climate, a week before the midterm elections, tensions are high with record security threats against lawmakers and other officials.
The incident sparked fresh security concerns for lawmakers and other elected officials before the midterms.
With nearly 10,000 threats against members of Congress in the last year, U.S. Capitol Police have advised lawmakers to take precautions. Chief Tom Manger, who leads the U.S. Capitol Police, has said the threat from lone-wolf attackers has been growing and the most significant threat the force is facing is the historically high number of threats against lawmakers, thousands more than just a few years before.
The beating of the speaker’s husband follows other attacks and threats. This summer, a man carrying a gun, a knife and zip ties was arrested near Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s house in Maryland after threatening to kill the justice. In 2017, Republican Rep. Steve Scalise was seriously injured when a Bernie Sanders supporter opened fire on Republicans at a congressional baseball game practice.
Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., was among those making light of the attack on Paul Pelosi, tweeting out a joke about a Halloween costume of the incident.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. | 2022-11-01T01:29:58+00:00 | wate.com | https://www.wate.com/news/national-world/suspect-david-depape-formally-charged-in-pelosi-assault/ |
They zoom instead of boom. They flash instead of flare. They assemble into shapes so sophisticated — a swimming whale, a spinning globe, a marching robot — that traditional pyrotechnics can seem a little lackluster in comparison.
Maybe most importantly, the drones being employed by more and more cities for Fourth of July celebrations don't leave behind a blanket of smoke at a time when America's air quality is already at its worst in decades.
As they've blazed at historic levels for weeks, Canadian wildfires have sent air pollutants drifting across the U.S., choking cities in the Northeast and Midwest. The Southwest, too, has seen days of smoky skies because of wildfires in Colorado, Arizona and other states, sparked by days of extreme heat and decades of drought.
As of Monday morning, at least half of all states had an air quality rating of moderate or worse, posing risks to those with sensitive respiratory conditions. Concern over exacerbating those conditions caused cities like Montreal to call off their annual fireworks competition, a part of Canada Day celebrations over the weekend.
With America's Fourth of July holiday on the horizon, some U.S. cities also are looking to play it safe, canceling their celebrations or swapping their flashy fireworks displays with innovative alternatives.
Salt Lake City, Utah is also offering a drone display for the first time this year.
Laser light shows are scheduled in Flagstaff, Ariz. and Aspen, Colo..
Three Missouri towns — Bunceton, Boonville and Rosebud — are canceling or postponing their fireworks shows entirely.
Air pollution increases by over 40% on July 4th, research shows
The celebration in Boulder, Colo, will include 140 drones forming patriotic symbols over the University of Colorado's Folsom Field. Dan Kingdom, whose company, WK Real Estate, is helps organize and fund the annual Independence Day celebration, said there were several reasons for making the switch.
The company that normally provides their fireworks went out of business amid the pandemic, and finding a supplier for professional-grade pyrotechnics proved difficult after years of supply chain issues. Plus, the city is still recovering from the highly destructive Marshall Fire, and its occupants are sensitive to wildfire risks.
Trying something new has been met with mixed reaction from the community but, as Kingdom says, the turn away from fireworks, "is considered by many to be the way of the future."
Air quality may be another reason for that perception.
"Around the world, we've seen consistently that, during times when fireworks usage is really high, we have really bad air quality," said Pallavi Pant, the head of global health at the Health Effects Institute. "And at this moment, there's concern in some places that we have wildfire impacts, and then on top of that, we're going to add fireworks."
During average years, July 4th brings a sizable 42% increase in the level of fine particulate pollutants (also known as PM 2.5) across the U.S., putting it in line with some wildfire events.
And while that pollution typically dissipates quickly — usually around noon on July 5th — the concentration can be high enough to aggravate symptoms for those with respiratory issues.
What's worse, one study found that concentrations of harmful air pollutants following July 4th fireworks were two times higher in communities with lower socioeconomic status, which often have higher rates of respiratory ailments in the first place, according to a California-based study published in the Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
Breathing in smoke of any kind can be damaging, but fireworks smoke comes with its own particular risks.
The same ingredients that lend the displays their vivid colors contain metallic particles, including lead and copper, that can linger in the air and surrounding environment after a holiday.
"These are particles we really don't want to be inhaling in any case," Pant said.
Wearing an N95 mask can help, but Pant suggests that those who are the most vulnerable to adverse health effects — children, the elderly, pregnant women and anyone with lung or heart disease — may want to stay away from sparklers, Piccolo Petes or any other kind of close-up smoke encounter.
It's not just air quality at risk on July 4
Cities making the swap to high-tech shows say there's plenty of other reasons someone may want to avoid traditional fireworks.
"They're so much more inclusive to everyone," said Lynze Twede, an events manager for Salt Lake City Public Lands, in an interview with local news outlet Fox 13.
Fireworks can be harmful to "folks who suffer from PTSD or families who have dogs," she said, adding: "Salt Lake City has more households with dogs than we do with kids."
The Southern California cities of La Jolla and Ocean Beach also cited animals as a key driver behind their switch to a July Fourth drone show: A 2017 lawsuit claimed that local sea lion pups were bothered by the booming sounds.
There's also the risk of starting actual fires with annual fireworks shows — a reason Flagstaff cited in making the shift to an annual laser display.
"It is also important to have a yearly celebration that we can all anticipate and rely upon, without the disappointment that comes from frequent cancellation of fireworks," said City Manager Greg Clifton in a press release.
An estimated 12,264 fires were started by fireworks displays in 2021, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Those added up to an estimated $59 million in direct property damage.
But data also shows that much of the wildfire risk comes not from grand public displays, but from the small-scale shows set off on streets and sidewalks.
Consumer-grade fireworks usage spiked across the U.S. in recent years, especially during the height of pandemic lockdowns, when people looked for ways to celebrate life's milestones in their own backyards.
It may be too early to tell how the burgeoning trend in alternatives at the city level may trickle down to smaller shows and consumers, but price is a limiting factor: those high-tech displays are expensive.
The company Hire UAV Pro, which has conducted drone shows for events like Coachella, says $10,000 is the starting minimum price for a show, with higher costs for longer or more complex displays.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2023-07-03T20:17:57+00:00 | wbfo.org | https://www.wbfo.org/2023-07-03/fireworks-can-make-bad-air-quality-even-worse-for-some-cities-the-answer-is-drones |
CORAL GABLES, Fla. (AP) _ Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. (FDP) on Wednesday reported first-quarter profit of $25.8 million.
The Coral Gables, Florida-based company said it had net income of 54 cents per share. Earnings, adjusted for non-recurring costs, were 55 cents per share.
The food producer posted revenue of $1.14 billion in the period.
_____
This story was generated by Automated Insights (http://automatedinsights.com/ap) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on FDP at https://www.zacks.com/ap/FDP | 2022-05-04T12:09:14+00:00 | seattlepi.com | https://www.seattlepi.com/business/article/Del-Monte-Q1-Earnings-Snapshot-17146635.php |
SACRAMENTO (AP) _ The winning numbers in Sunday evening's drawing of the California Lottery's "Daily 4" game were:
9-3-3-0
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(nine, three, three, zero)
¶ Ticket-holders with all four winning numbers in the order given win the top prize. Lesser amounts are also awarded to ticket-holders with other varying combinations of the winning numbers. | 2022-12-26T03:27:01+00:00 | seattlepi.com | https://www.seattlepi.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Daily-4-game-17677392.php |
CLEVELAND, Texas (AP) — Authorities in Texas were stymied for a fourth day Tuesday in their search for a man accused of opening fire at his neighbors’ home and killing five people.
The hunt for 38-year-old Francisco Oropeza began Friday after he fled from the scene of the deadly shooting in the rural town of Cleveland, about 45 miles (72.42 kilometer) north of Houston.
The shooting happened after Oropeza’s neighbors asked him to stop firing off rounds in his yard because a baby was trying to sleep. The baby’s mother and 9-year-old brother were among the five people killed, who were all originally from Honduras.
Here are some things to know about the case:
WHAT IS THE LATEST ON THE MANHUNT?
An FBI agent acknowledged Monday that authorities have little to go on in the widening search for Oropeza.
More than 250 law enforcement officers from multiple agencies, including the U.S. Marshals, are taking part in the manhunt, which has come up empty despite additional manpower, scent-tracking dogs, drones and $80,000 in reward money being offered.
On Monday, a heavy presence of police converged in Montgomery County after a possible sighting, but the sheriff’s office later said Oropeza wasn’t among the people who were questioned.
WHO IS OROPEZA?
Oropeza is a Mexican national who has been deported four times, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Oropeza was deported in March 2009, September of that same year, January of 2012 and most recently in July 2016.
The FBI in Houston tweeted Sunday that it was referring to the suspect as Oropesa, not Oropeza, to “better reflect his identity in law enforcement systems.” His family lists their name as Oropeza on a sign outside their yard, as well as in public records.
WHAT HAPPENED THE NIGHT OF THE SHOOTING?
Neighbors frequently fire guns in the rural community to unwind. But Wilson Garcia said his baby was struggling to sleep through it, so he and two other people asked Oropeza to move his shooting farther away from their home.
After Oropeza rejected the request, the family repeatedly called law enforcement, Garcia recalled Sunday.
He said while waiting for help to arrive, Oropeza ran toward him and reloaded. Garcia’s house was packed with 15 people, several of them friends who had been there to join Garcia’s wife on a church retreat.
Garcia’s 25-year-old wife, Sonia Argentina Guzman, and 9-year-old son, Daniel Enrique Laso, were killed, along with Diana Velazquez Alvarado, 21; Julisa Molina Rivera, 31; and Jose Jonathan Casarez, 18. Two of the victims were shot while shielding Garcia’s baby and 2-year-old daughter.
WHAT ARE THE ISSUES WITH IMMIGRATION?
Republican Gov. Greg Abbott has faced criticism for drawing attention to the victims’ immigration status.
Abbott offered a $50,000 reward over the weekend for any tips that might lead to the gunman’s arrest, and while doing so, he described the victims as “illegal immigrants” — a potentially false statement that his office walked back and apologized for on Monday.
Critics accused Abbott, who has made immigration reform a signature issue in Texas, of injecting politics into the tragic shooting.
“We’ve since learned that at least one of the victims may have been in the United States legally,” Abbott spokesperson Renae Eze said in a statement. “We regret if the information was incorrect and detracted from the important goal of finding and arresting the criminal.”
Eze said information provided by federal officials after the shooting indicated that the suspect and victims were in the country illegally. Her statement did not address why Abbott mentioned their status and she did not immediately respond to questions about the criticism. | 2023-05-03T00:32:32+00:00 | kdvr.com | https://kdvr.com/news/nationalworld-news/ap-us-news/manhunt-for-suspect-in-texas-mass-shooting-what-to-know/ |
NEW YORK, Sept. 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- InvestorsObserver issues critical PriceWatch Alerts for AGRI, CDTX, PLTR, AAOI, and ESTE.
To see how InvestorsObserver's proprietary scoring system rates these stocks, view the InvestorsObserver's PriceWatch Alert by selecting the corresponding link.
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- AAOI: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?symbol=AAOI&prnumber=092120222
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SOURCE InvestorsObserver | 2022-09-21T14:43:38+00:00 | kcrg.com | https://www.kcrg.com/prnewswire/2022/09/21/thinking-about-buying-stock-agriforce-growing-systems-cidara-therapeutics-palantir-technologies-applied-optoelectronics-or-earthstone-energy/ |
McLENNAN COUNTY, Texas (KWKT) – April 19, 2023 marks 30 years since the end of a 51-day standoff between Branch Davidians and agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives and the Federal Bureau of Investigation outside Waco, Texas.
David Koresh, also known as Vernon Howell, and his followers imprisoned themselves in the Mount Carmel complex on Feb. 28, 1993 after a deadly ATF raid. Four federal agents were killed, and 14 other agents were wounded. Federal law enforcement agencies camped outside, attempting to lure them out as people around the world watched.
The complex was the headquarters for the Davidians, who had split off from the Seventh-day Adventists decades earlier.
During the 25th anniversary of the events, in 2018, former Waco cult member Marc Breault was interviewed by FOX News about his experiences with David Koresh – and how he was able to escape from the events.
“Koresh and I were at odds,” Breault told FOX News. “So he was going to head to Texas. He ordered me to come to Texas to receive my punishment because I was opposing him. So I packed my bags and everybody assumed I was going to Texas to do what Koresh had ordered me to do, but I never showed up. Eventually, I went to Australia. So in the end, Elizabeth [Marc’s wife] being in Australia worked out because I had a place to go.”
Breault believed he was lucky. Many of Koresh’s followers weren’t as fortunate.
“That’s why a lot of people who were in Mount Carmel had trouble escaping. A lot of people don’t realize that in 1991 his [Koresh’s] wife Rachel wanted to leave. But she couldn’t because Mount Carmel wasn’t easy for her to get out.”
Breault would never find out what kind of punishment his former friend had in store for him. As of 2018, he and his wife still reside in Australia where they have “an ordinary life,” according to FOX News.
“The people who were in there, they were good people who got misguided and lost their way, being used by David Koresh who was a master manipulator of people,” Elizabeth Baranyai, Marc’s wife, told FOX News. “But underneath all of that, they were good people. That’s the real tragedy of the story. That good people can be so badly used. But it was difficult to stand up to him. Those people sitting in those Bible studies day in and day out for hours at a time, I don’t know why they couldn’t see it.”
“It was hard to stand up, but people ultimately gave him his power,” Breault said.
This siege began on Feb. 28, 1993, and lasted until April 19, 1993 – when FBI agents started a gas attack. Hours later, flames could be seen coming from the compound. Only a handful of people escaped the fire.
Two dozen teens and children were included among those killed, according to FOX News. A 2000 report by a former senior official appointed by the attorney general noted that the exact number couldn’t be stated because of the “extensive burning” and “commingling of the bodies.” At least 20 people, including Koresh, died of gunshot wounds.
For years, there have been arguments over whether authorities or the Branch Davidians started the blaze. While the FBI maintains that the followers ignited the fires, some survivors blamed federal agents. Investigators concluded that the Davidians shot themselves or each other as the fire broke out.
All that remains now are a few mobile homes, a small church and a row of trees which were planted as a memorial to those who died.
McLennan County Sheriff Parnell McNamara previously told FOX 44 News that the morning of the initial ATF raid his life and the lives of many others would never be the same.
“Course, nobody dreamed that it was going to turn out like that,” says Sheriff McNamara. “It’s something that took place that, I don’t know if any of us will ever totally get over it. I know I won’t.”
He, along with other U.S. Marshals, members of the Sheriff’s Office, Waco Police, ATF Agents, DEA Agents, IRS Agents and DPS Narcotics were at the second command post waiting for the all clear.
“We were just kind of laughing and talking. Then, all of the sudden an ATF car drives up right to us and said, ‘We are in a terrible shootout, we got people shot, maybe dead,’” said Sheriff McNamara. “You could hear the big stuff, boom boom.”
McNamara said all they could do was listen to the pleas for help and listen to a battle they couldn’t join.
“As a police officer you’re trained to go to the sound of firing, always go back up another officer. Let’s go, we have a hundred guys here, you know? They got a fight going on and they said, ‘No, everybody’s got to stay here,'” said Sheriff McNamara.
He went on to tell FOX 44 News that the biggest lie ever told about it all is that the federal government set the fire. He says Koresh and other Branch Davidians set the fire – to make Koresh’s prediction that he would die by fire and be resurrected come true.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives held a ceremony in Waco in 2013 in conjunction with the 20th anniversary of the events. The organization honored agents Conway LeBleu, Todd McKeehan, Robert John Williams and Steven Willis – who died in the 1993 raid. The ceremony was closed to the public and media out of respect for family members.
ATF spokeswoman Franceska Perot says the ATF made several changes after the raid. Part of why the organization held events like the 2013 ceremony was to remind younger agents about the importance and the dangers of their jobs.
In total, 86 people died – four ATF agents and 82 Davidians. The incident remains one of the most controversial incidents of law enforcement action in American history, according to FOX News. Some saw the raid as an unwarranted government intrusion into personal and religious freedoms.
The field is now called “The Branch,” and it’s closed off with a gate that has “Private Property” signs on it. | 2023-04-19T18:40:27+00:00 | upmatters.com | https://www.upmatters.com/news/national/sheriff-reflects-on-waco-sieges-anniversary-wont-ever-totally-get-over-it/ |
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We've placed cookies on your device to improve your browsing experience. They're safe and don't contain sensitive information. | 2022-08-19T21:47:41+00:00 | tj.news | https://tj.news/telegraph-journal/101946580 |
Paul Bettany explores being art star Andy Warhol on Broadway
By MARK KENNEDY
AP Entertainment Writer
NEW YORK (AP) — Paul Bettany has long been an admirer of art superstar Andy Warhol from a distance, like an art lover wandering a favorite gallery. Now he finds himself on Broadway eight times a week underneath a white Warhol wig, wearing glasses and making the very art onstage that he long admired. Bettany stars in “The Collaboration,” Anthony McCarten’s fictional account about the real period in 1984 when Warhol was compelled to work with new sensation and potential rival of the New York art world, Jean-Michel Basquiat. Bettany has been a fan of both artists and hopes audiences think about each man in a different way. | 2022-12-21T19:21:20+00:00 | localnews8.com | https://localnews8.com/news/ap-national/2022/12/21/paul-bettany-explores-being-art-star-andy-warhol-on-broadway/ |
Of 26 jails across New Mexico, five were recently found to have staff vacancy rates above 50%.
In order to cope, one of them – Otero County Detention Center, which is half staffed with 32 employees – has started transporting inmates to other facilities, including one in Texas 160 miles away.
Otero County Attorney R.B. Nichols said the jail’s correctional officer vacancy rate reached a critical point two weeks ago when there were not enough officers to walk the floor among the inmates.
That led the administration to request help from other facilities. Five agreed to house more than 100 inmates between them.
Those facilities include the Otero County Prison Facility (60 miles from Otero County Detention Center); the Lincoln County Detention Center (62 miles away); the Doña Ana County Detention Center (66 miles away); the Luna County Detention Center (132 miles away); and the Hudspeth County Jail in Sierra Blanca, Texas (166 miles away).
The jail tried to keep inmates who are going to trial soon in Otero County, Nichols said. But inmates at other facilities have missed hearings, including ones held remotely.
“There was some kind of confusion on where they were and what the responsibilities were of the facilities that took them on,” said Nichols. “There were a lot of logistics that come with it – it’s not ideal. We’re working through those difficulties trying to do the best we can.”
Dayna Jones, Otero County’s supervising attorney with the Law Offices of the Public Defender, said the change has sparked confusion among her colleagues, their clients and clients’ family members, who were given no warning that people would be moved.
Jones said the phones at her office are blowing up with people asking how they can contact their incarcerated relatives or how they can put money in their accounts. The move has also proven challenging for attorneys.
“We can’t get hold of a lot of our clients,” Jones said. “Luna County Detention Center in particular has actually failed to produce our clients for several of their hearings in the past week. Things that are very important to people’s lives and to the administration of the legal system just aren’t even occurring because they’ve been shipped to other places without the infrastructure in place to actually keep the process going and to allow them to communicate with us.”
Officials with the Luna County Detention Center did not respond to calls from the Journal.
Scot Key, the 12th Judicial District Attorney, said understaffing at the jail is a major concern but – as with many of the issues with the pandemic – his office is learning to adapt.
“There is serious understaffing currently in law enforcement, education, nursing, and now we learn with corrections, both on the state level and at the county level,” he wrote in a statement.
Staffing crunches are widespread
While the Otero County Detention Center is the only jail that has had to take such drastic steps, the staffing situation has become dire in many other facilities around the state.
New Mexico Counties, an organization that represents counties in the state, found that in May 2021 nearly all the statewide detention positions across the state were filled. A year later, 40% of the positions were vacant.
Joining the Otero County Detention Center with vacancy rates of more than 50% are jails in Bernalillo, Chaves and Curry counties, as well as the Bernalillo County juvenile detention center. Grace Philips, general counsel at New Mexico Counties, said the situation is unprecedented.
“We’ve had facilities in the past, on occasion, that have had staffing issues,” she said. “But … this extreme vacancy level and so widespread is not something that we’ve seen before.”
As of Aug. 1, 14 of the county jails had staff vacancy rates above 20%.
“I think the problem with having high vacancy rates in a jail is it becomes much harder to recruit anybody because they’re concerned about working in an understaffed secure facility,” Philips said. “I think it’s a problem that contributes to itself.”
She added that New Mexico is not alone in seeing high vacancy rates among correctional officers, and detention centers are not alone in facing a staffing crunch as many places – from police departments to restaurants to grocery stores – are understaffed.
In Otero County, both the District Attorney’s Office and the Public Defender’s Office report not having the employees they need.
‘A problem of over incarceration’
To entice applicants and get current correctional officers to stay, the Otero County Commission recently approved raises at the jail.
Nichols said the hourly rate went from about $15 to $19 and the county is also offering $1.20 an hour extra in hazard pay for the next six months, as well as new hire bonuses and referral bonuses. He said that, since then, there have been three new applicants.
But Bennett Baur, chief public defender, speculated that, as more jails try to boost staffing by raising pay and offering bonuses, they’re going to be pulling from the same pool of applicants.
“I don’t know that they’re going to increase the number of people … interested in working in corrections,” Baur said. “The fact that it’s statewide really shows that it’s not a problem of understaffing, but it’s a problem of over incarceration.”
Most people in jail are awaiting trial, facing a probation violation or failed to appear at court hearings.
The public defender’s office has been trying to keep people out of jail for years by addressing “de-felonization of drug possession” in the state Legislature, Baur said.
However, District Attorney Key said bail reform over the past several years has made it “very hard to keep deserving people in jail.”
“I would say that … if one finds himself or herself in jail these days, you have to have exhibited such dangerousness and flight behaviors that, even with bail reform, you deserve to be in jail,” he said. | 2022-08-20T04:39:35+00:00 | abqjournal.com | https://www.abqjournal.com/2525936/five-jails-statewide-are-less-than-50-staffed-ex-an-otero-county-fa.html |
Josh Ritter never goes too long without making something. Since releasing his last full-length album in 2019, he kept busy painting and publishing his second novel. He's the kind of person who seems endlessly compelled to create, so it might surprise you to hear that there have been times when he worried he would lose that creative impulse. It also might surprise you to hear the music on his just released new album, Spectral Lines — a sonically adventurous album that sees him flexing his creative muscle and experimenting with field recordings and seamless transitions between songs.
The album is dedicated to Josh's mother, who passed away in March of 2021. In this session, you'll hear about the stories behind the songs. Plus, you'll hear Josh perform a few of those songs live.
Copyright 2023 XPN | 2023-04-28T14:51:37+00:00 | iowapublicradio.org | https://www.iowapublicradio.org/2023-04-28/josh-ritter-flexes-his-creative-muscles-on-spectral-lines |
Senate negotiators are racing to finalize an agreement on a narrow set of gun control proposals with a goal of finishing their work before the week's end.
Members of a bipartisan group of senators on Tuesday shuttled between negotiations, party briefings and White House conversations under intense political pressure to get a deal.
Negotiators have narrowed their talks to a slim set of proposals to address school safety and set standards for safe gun storage while providing some federal support for mental health programs and incentives for states to create so-called red flag laws to remove guns from potentially dangerous owners. The talks also included some possible expansions to federal background checks for younger people seeking to buy guns.
The talks played out behind closed-doors on Capitol Hill while families and victims of gun violence testified in public hearings about the damage guns wreaked on their lives.
Garnell Whitfield Jr., the son of Ruth Whitfield, who was killed by a gunman last month in the mass shooting at a grocery store in Buffalo, N.Y., was among family members who began a two-day stretch of testimony and appearances on Capitol Hill. As lawmakers talked, he pleaded for them to do more than stand idly by as gun violence ruins lives.
"My mother's life mattered," Whitfield told members of the Senate Judiciary Committee. "You are actions here today would tell us how much it matters to you."
As Whitefield spoke, Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., one of the lead negotiators for Democrats, traveled to the White House to brief President Biden on their progress. Murphy later told reporters that his goal was to keep Biden in the loop but lawmakers themselves are in control of the negotiations.
"He's giving us the space to negotiate the deal but we obviously need the president's support and signature," Murphy said. "We don't have an agreement, we don't have anything to present to our colleagues or the White House. Yet."
Earlier in the day, Murphy told ABC's The View that there is support among members for raising the legal age for purchasing semiautomatic weapons to 21, though he is "sober-minded" about the challenges of reaching a bipartisan deal.
"We are trying to figure out if there is something we can do with this population that is 18 to 21, that tends to be the profile of a mass shooter, to make sure there is the ability to find out if there are any red flags or warning signs before they get their hands on a weapon," Murphy said.
Also on Tuesday, lawmakers gathered on the National Mall and called for gun reform beside a memorial of flowers commemorating the 45,000 lives lost to gun violence each year.
And actor Matthew McConaughey, a native of Uvalde, Texas, where a shooter killed 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school two weeks ago, made an emotional call for Congress to act on guns at the White House daily news briefing.
"We are in a window of opportunity right now that we have not been in before. A window where it seems like real change, real change can happen," McConaughey said. "I'm here today in the hopes of applying what energy, reason and passion that I have into trying to turn this moment into a reality."
Schumer expects an agreement by the end of the week
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer told reporters on Tuesday that Murphy expects to come to an agreement with Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas by the end of the week "and I expect to give him that time."
"I have a lot of faith in Senator Murphy and the other Democrats who are negotiating. I don't think that they would bring us a deal that has no teeth," Schumer said.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell told reporters that he hopes Murphy and Cornyn come up with a measure that tackles mental health and school safety, but it's too soon to speculate how many GOP senators would be on board with what they propose.
Biden, himself, has issued a high bar for what he wants to see pass out of Congress, including a ban on assault weapons, a ban on high-capacity magazines, background checks, red flag laws, and a repeal of the immunity that protects gun manufacturers from legal liability if their weapons are used in violence.
In the Senate, lawmakers are beginning to negotiate some of the ideas that Biden laid out, like incentives for states to implement their own red flag laws.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., told reporters grant money for red flag laws is intended to encourage states to pass the legislation and to give them the tools and funding they need to actually implement the laws once they are on the books. Blumenthal said even states that already have red flag laws, like New York, need more resources to make sure the programs do an effective job of getting guns out of the hands of people who should not have them.
"The law in New York probably was not implemented as effectively as it should be because they didn't invest in it," Blumenthal said. "So the money is important not just as an incentive but as an implementing enabler."
Lawmakers are also attempting to reach a deal on changes to the National Instant Background Check system, known as NICS. One proposal is to include previously sealed juvenile criminal records in the overall vetting process. Some lawmakers say that could help ensure the system has a better picture of a young would-be gun buyer. Aides say adding juvenile information is a way of addressing concerns about the minimum age for purchasing weapons without actually changing the requirements.
Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, one of the Republican negotiators, said that information is already included in background checks in South Carolina but he would not say if he supports adding the measure to any federal legislation.
Lawmakers are still working on the details of how to fund the programs in the bill and whether Republicans will require the money to be offset with cuts to spending on other programs.
Conversations continue on the House side
The House Oversight and Reform Committee will hold a hearing on Wednesday morning to "examine the gun violence epidemic in the United States" featuring two panels of witnesses from Uvalde and Buffalo.
Slated to speak before the lawmakers are Zeneta Everhart, mother of a survivor of the Buffalo shooting. Also on the list are Felix and Kimberly Rubio, parents of Lexi Rubio — a 10-year-old killed in the Robb Elementary mass shooting in Uvalde — and Miah Cerrillo, a fourth-grade student at Robb Elementary who survived the attack.
The hearing will also feature testimony from New York City Mayor Eric Adams and National Education Association President Becky Pringle.
The hearing comes after members of the House advanced their own gun reform bill, H.R. 7910, out of the Judiciary Committee last week as Biden addressed the nation in a prime-time speech calling for bills to be passed.
The bill, dubbed the Protecting Our Kids Act, and a second bill, the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act, which would nationalize red flag laws, were also being debated by the House Rules Committee Tuesday afternoon.
The full House could vote as early as this week on the bills, according to a letter sent on Friday to members by House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer. The prospect of those measures making any headway in the Senate are bleak.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2022-06-08T03:24:52+00:00 | mainepublic.org | https://www.mainepublic.org/npr-news/npr-news/2022-06-07/senate-gun-law-negotiators-working-toward-a-deal-by-the-end-of-the-week |
FELTHAM, England, Nov. 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Nomad Foods Limited ("Nomad Foods" or the "Company") announces that it has closed on the issuance of both a USD 700 million term loan bearing interest at a rate per annum equal to the SOFR rate plus 3.75% and a EUR 130 million term loan bearing interest at a rate per annum equal to EURIBOR plus 3.5%, both due 2029 (collectively the "Term Loans").
The net proceeds of the Term Loans were used to repay the Company's existing USD 960 million principal term loan due in 2024, and for transaction expenses and general corporate purposes. Concurrent to these transactions, the Company closed out its existing cross currency interest rate swaps associated with repaid loans and added new 5-year cross currency and interest rate swaps for the new Term Loans.
Samy Zekhout, Chief Financial Officer of Nomad Foods, stated, "We are pleased to have now closed our refinancing on market leading terms within our rating category, reflecting the defensiveness of our business model and strength of our cash flows. These transactions have materially extended our average debt maturities, while the associated hedging delivers certainty on our interest charge over the next five years. With financing secured until 2028/2029 and planned continued strong free cash flows in the years to come, we are well positioned to leverage our capital allocation to maximize shareholder value."
The Term Loans will be guaranteed and secured on a senior basis by the Company and certain of its subsidiaries.
About Nomad Foods
Nomad Foods (NYSE: NOMD) is Europe's leading frozen food company. The Company's portfolio of iconic brands, which includes Birds Eye, Findus, iglo, Ledo and Frikom, have been a part of consumers' meals for generations, standing for great tasting food that is convenient, high quality and nutritious. Nomad Foods is headquartered in the United Kingdom. Additional information may be found at www.nomadfoods.com.
Enquiries
Investor Relations Contact
Anthony Bucalo
Nomad Foods Limited
+1-914-907-8724
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" that are based on estimates and assumptions and are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are all statements other than statements of historical fact or statements in the present tense, and can be identified by words such as "targets", "aims", "aspires", "assumes" "believes", "estimates", "anticipates", "expects", "intends", "hopes", "may", "would", "should", "could", "will", "plans", "predict" and "potential", as well as the negatives of these terms and other words of similar meaning. Such forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding the Company's present and future business strategies and the environment in which it will operate, which may prove not to be accurate. The forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, expectations regarding the Company's anticipated borrowing needs and associated costs, the Company's anticipated cash flows and the Company's ability to leverage its capital allocation to maximize shareholder value. The Company cautions that these forward-looking statements are not guarantees and that actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. Undue reliance should, therefore, not be placed on such forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement apply only as at the date of this announcement and are not intended to give any assurance as to future results.
This press release constitutes a public disclosure of inside information by Nomad Foods Limited under Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (16 April 2014) and Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2016/1055 (10 June 2016). The person responsible for making this release on behalf of Nomad Foods Limited is Samy Zekhout, Chief Financial Officer.
This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in the United States or in any jurisdiction in which, or to any persons to whom, such offering, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.
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SOURCE Nomad Foods Limited | 2022-11-11T01:28:03+00:00 | newschannel10.com | https://www.newschannel10.com/prnewswire/2022/11/10/nomad-foods-announces-closing-term-loans/ |
NPR's Michel Martin talks to reporter and former BuzzFeed News editor Ben Smith about the development that BuzzFeed is shutting down its Pulitzer-winning news division as the company lays off staff.
Copyright 2023 NPR
NPR's Michel Martin talks to reporter and former BuzzFeed News editor Ben Smith about the development that BuzzFeed is shutting down its Pulitzer-winning news division as the company lays off staff.
Copyright 2023 NPR | 2023-04-21T10:05:40+00:00 | nepm.org | https://www.nepm.org/2023-04-21/buzzfeed-news-is-shutting-down-as-part-of-company-wide-layoffs |
NEW YORK, Jan. 20, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Singularity Future Technology Ltd. f/k/a Sino-Global Shipping America Ltd. ("Singularity" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: SGLY). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.
The investigation concerns whether Singularity and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.
On May 5, 2022, Hindenburg Research ("Hindenburg") published a report about Singularity entitled "Singularity Future Technology: This Nasdaq-Listed Company's CEO Is A Fugitive, On The Run For Allegedly Operating A Massive Ponzi Scheme." The Hindenburg report alleged, among other things, that "Singularity's CEO, Yang Jie, is a fugitive on the run from Chinese authorities for running an alleged $300 million Ponzi scheme that lured in over 20,000 victims" and "fled to the U.S. while at least 28 other individuals involved in the case were sentenced to prison terms ranging from 6 months to 15 years." The Hindenburg report further alleged that "Singularity's massive [cryptocurrency] mining rig deal appears to be a brazen undisclosed related party deal" and that "[w]e see little evidence that Singularity's 'proprietary' crypto mining rigs ever existed in the first place. The photos and descriptions of Singularity's miners match precisely with another brand called KOI Miner."
On this news, Singularity's stock price fell $1.95 per share, or 28.89%, to close at $4.80 per share on May 5, 2022.
Then, on October 7, 2022, post-market, Singularity issued a press release "announc[ing] . . . that on October 3, 2022, it received a notice (the 'Notice') from the Listing Qualifications Department of The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC ('Nasdaq') advising that the Company's securities would be subject to delisting unless the Company timely requests a hearing before a Nasdaq Hearings Panel (the 'Panel'). Accordingly, the Company intends to timely request a hearing before the Panel. The hearing request will stay any delisting or suspension action through October 25, 2022. Pursuant to the Nasdaq Listing Rules, in connection with the hearing request, the Company will request that the automatic stay be extended through the conclusion of the hearings process and the expiration of any additional extension period granted by the Panel following the hearing."
On this news, Singularity's stock price fell $0.27 per share, or 11.79%, to close at $2.29 per share on October 10, 2022.
Finally, on November 16, 2022, Singularity disclosed that the "[t]he Company has received subpoenas from the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York and the United States Securities and Exchange Commission" related to the allegations in the Hindenburg report.
On this news, Singularity's stock price fell $0.48 per share, or 22.97%, to close at $2.09 per share on November 16, 2022.
The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles London, and Paris is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com.
CONTACT:
Robert S. Willoughby
Pomerantz LLP
rswilloughby@pomlaw.com
888-476-6529 ext. 7980
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SOURCE Pomerantz LLP | 2023-01-20T06:56:53+00:00 | kwch.com | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2023/01/20/shareholder-alert-pomerantz-law-firm-investigates-claims-behalf-investors-singularity-future-technology-ltd-fka-sino-global-shipping-america-ltd-sgly/ |
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — LSU gymnast Olivia Dunne’s endorsement of an artificial intelligence essay-writing product is raising questions about whether college athletic programs should provide clearer ethical guidelines for athletes earning money from name, image and likeness contracts.
“It does seem problematic to have people sort of promoting plagiarism,” said John Basl, a philosophy professor at Northeastern University in Boston who specializes in AI and data ethics, and who also is a faculty affiliate of Harvard’s Berkman-Klein Center for Internet and Society.
“It does seem like something colleges should teach students not to do,” Basl added.
Dunne’s endorsement of a Caktus.AI product appeared recently in the form of a 10-second video post on social media sites including TikTok and YouTube.
Dunne does not speak in the video, but a written quotation representing her thinking states: “Need to get my creativity flowing for an essay due at midnight.”
The video then shows Dunne on her laptop as a program takes a few key words about why gymnastics is “the hardest sport” and almost instantaneously produces numerous paragraphs of text on the subject.
It closes with Dunne delivering an emphatic “thumbs up” gesture.
LSU declined to comment on Dunne’s post, but did provide a written statement urging that students use caution with such technologies — and warning that they can be sanctioned for misusing it.
“Technology, including AI, can foster learning and creativity. At LSU, our professors and students are empowered to use technology for learning and pursuing the highest standards of academic integrity,” the LSU statement read. “However, using AI to produce work that a student then represents as one’s own could result in a charge of academic misconduct.”
While Basl agreed with LSU’s statement, he also said he could foresee colleges increasingly frowning on athletes promoting new technologies in ways which neglect to emphasize the importance of using such products responsibly.
In the case of Dunne’s post, Basl said, “The implicature of the 10 seconds is: Here’s an easy-peasy way to write an essay.”
“It’s almost like if a student said, ‘I get drunk and get home using my Tesla’s autopilot,’ or something like that,” Basl continued. “So, it would be appropriate for LSU to say it would not approve of its athletes endorsing the unethical use of these tools.”
Jake Kasper, assistant director for Michigan State’s office of student support and accountability, said it’s a mistake for educators or schools to look at AI and say, “This is horrific.’ I think there’s things that we need to consider when it comes to artificial intelligence, is how can it be a tool for learning.”
“I would question whether or not artificial intelligence is the best product to endorse, because there is a concern — from institutions of higher education, there’s a concern that artificial intelligence will hinder the ability to learn, to grow, to develop as human beings,” Kasper added. “I’m not saying that student-athletes endorsing it is saying, ‘Don’t learn.’ So there’s obviously a lot more to discuss and uncover there.”
Dunne’s social media following numbers around 7 million on TikTok and more than 3 million on Instagram. The 20-year-old from Hillsdale, New Jersey, is believed to have the largest social media audience of any NCAA athlete. Her NIL endorsement contracts, while not public, are estimated by multiple analysts who track such deals to be worth more than $3 million.
While Dunne was a 2021 WCGA All-American on uneven bars and has highlighted her gymnastics performances on social media, her success and fame as an influencer has begun to eclipse that of her athletic career.
During a meet at Utah earlier this season, a loud, charged-up throng of mostly young men showed up and called constantly for Dunne, who was not competing at the time because of an injury. Video from the scene, which some fellow competitors and other witnesses found unseemly, was widely viewed online. Dunne responded by posting a request on her social media accounts that fans be respectful of the other gymnasts at her meets.
LSU, meanwhile, arranged for additional security for Dunne at subsequent events.
LSU deferred interview requests for Dunne to her marketing agent, Ginger Chan of William Morris-Endeavor (WME). Through Chan, Dunne declined to speak with The Associated Press.
Dunne recently returned to competition at Alabama, scoring 9.825 on an uneven bars routine in which she stuck the landing. The performance helped LSU win the meet.
Dunne was not on the U.S. national squad at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and is not expected to contend for a spot at the 2024 Games in Paris. She is a junior at LSU, meaning she could choose to compete again next season. | 2023-03-10T12:07:00+00:00 | pahomepage.com | https://www.pahomepage.com/news/gymnast-dunnes-ai-spot-raises-questions-about-nil-ethics/ |
A Passaic County man who held police in a standoff last year after threatening and lunging at a victim with a knife pleaded guilty Wednesday to assault and weapons charges, authorities said.
Michael Wierciszewski, 25, was arrested Nov. 24, 2021, after police responded to a home in the area of Jackson Street and Whistler Place in Wanaque.
Inside the home, police found a Century Arms assault rifle with a modified stock that allowed a silencer to fit, along with a pipe bomb, according to Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes.
Valdes said Wierciszewski pleaded guilty Wednesday to second-degree possession of an assault rifle, third-degree possession of a destructive device, and third-degree aggravated assault.
In a plea agreement, prosecutors have recommended Wierciszewski be sentenced to five years in state prison.
Court and jail records did not list an attorney for Wierciszewski. Sentencing is set for Jan. 25, 2023.
Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook. | 2022-12-21T20:05:38+00:00 | nj.com | https://www.nj.com/passaic-county/2022/12/nj-man-who-had-assault-rifle-pipe-bomb-during-standoff-pleads-guilty.html |
Need medical treatment this year and want to nail down your out-of-pocket costs before you walk into the doctor’s office? There’s a new tool for that, at least for insured patients.
As of Jan. 1, health insurers and employers that offer health plans must provide online calculators for patients to get detailed estimates of what they will owe — taking into account deductibles and copayments — for a range of services and drugs.
It’s the latest effort in an ongoing movement to make prices and upfront cost comparisons possible in a business known for its opaqueness.
Insurers must make the cost information available for 500 nonemergency services considered “shoppable,” meaning patients generally have time to consider their options. The federal requirement stems from the Transparency in Coverage rule finalized in 2020.
Patients first log on to the cost estimator on a website offered through their insurer or, for some, their employer. Next, they can search for the care they need by billing code, which many patients may not have; or by a general description, like “repair of knee joint,” or “MRI of abdomen.” They also can enter a hospital’s or physician’s name or the dosage amount of a drug for which they are seeking price information.
Not all drugs or services will be available in the first year of the tools’ rollout, but the required 500-item list covers a wide swath of medical services, from acne surgery to X-rays.
Once the information is entered, the calculators are supposed to produce real-time estimates of a patient’s out-of-pocket cost.
Starting in 2024, the requirement on insurers expands to include all drugs and services.
These estimator-tool requirements come on top of other price information disclosures that became effective during the past two years, which require hospitals and insurers to publicly post their prices, including those negotiated between them, along with the cost for cash-paying or uninsured patients.
Still, some hospitals have not fully complied with this 2021 disclosure directive and the insurer data released in July is so voluminous that even researchers are finding it cumbersome to download and analyze.
The price estimator tools may help fill that gap.
The new estimates are personalized, computing how much of an annual deductible patients still owe and the out-of-pocket limit that applies to their coverage. The amount the insurer would pay if the service were out of network also must be shown. Patients can request to have the information delivered on paper, if they prefer that to online.
Insurers or employers who fail to provide the tool can face penalty fines of at least $100 a day for each person affected, a significant incentive to comply — if enforced.
And there are caveats: Consumers using the tools must be enrolled in the respective health plan, and there’s no guarantee the final cost will be exactly as shown.
That’s because “unforeseen factors during the course of treatment, which may involve additional services or providers, can result in higher actual cost sharing liability,” federal regulators wrote in outlining the rules.
Insurers will not be held liable for incorrect estimates.
Because the cost estimates may well vary from the final price, either because the procedure was more complex than initially expected, or was handled by a different provider at the last minute, one risk is that “I might get a bill for $4,000 and I’m going to be upset because you told me $3,000,” said Gerard Anderson, a professor of health policy and management and of international health at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health.
Many insurers offered versions of cost-estimator tools before, but small percentages of enrollees actually used them, studies have shown.
Federal regulators defended the requirement for estimator tools, writing that even though many insurers had provided them, the new rule sets specific parameters that may be more detailed than earlier versions.
In outlining the final rule, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services pointed out that some previous calculators “on the market only offer wide-range estimates or average estimates of pricing that use historical claims data” and did not always include information about how much the patient had accumulated toward an annual deductible or out-of-pocket limit.
The agency says such price disclosure will help people comparison-shop and may ultimately help slow rising medical costs.
But that isn’t a given.
“CMS has a lot of people who believe this will make a significant impact, but they also have a long time frame,” said David Brueggeman, director of commercial health at the consulting firm Guidehouse.
In the short term, results may be harder to see.
“Most patients are not moving en masse to use these tools,” said Dr. Ateev Mehrotra, a professor of health care policy at Harvard Medical School.
There are many reasons, he said, including little financial incentive if they face the same dollar copayment whether they go to a very expensive facility or a less expensive one. A better way to get patients to switch to lower-cost providers, he said, is to create pricing tiers, rewarding patients who seek the most cost-effective providers with lower copayments.
U.S. States That Spend the Most on Health and Hospitals
U.S. States That Spend the Most on Health and Hospitals
Health and hospital spending accounts for nearly 10 percent of state and local government budgets
Health and hospital spending per capita is up over 50 percent
Vermont and Utah saw the largest increases in health and hospital spending over the past decade
15. Indiana
14. Virginia
13. Michigan
12. Texas
11. California
10. Utah
9. Iowa
8. Washington
7. Missouri
6. Kansas
5. Mississippi
4. Alabama
3. North Carolina
2. Wyoming
1. South Carolina
Kaiser Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at Kaiser Family Foundation. KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation.
As of Jan. 1, health insurers and employers that offer health plans must provide online calculators for patients to get detailed estimates of what they will owe for a range of services and drugs. | 2023-01-11T18:09:26+00:00 | wcfcourier.com | https://wcfcourier.com/news/national/want-a-clue-on-health-care-costs-in-advance-new-tools-take-a-crack-at/article_21199cf3-3d64-52e1-aa65-97076acc92fd.html |
NEW YORK -- Less than 24 hours after his historic Sweet 16 performance, Kansas State guard Markquis Nowell said his injured ankle is 85% to 90% healthy. And he left zero doubt about his status for Saturday's Elite Eight game against Florida Atlantic.
"It's good," Nowell said. "It will probably be [better] tomorrow."
Nowell said that he was able to move around at practice on Friday.
"It was a scare," Nowell said. "I tweaked it a little bit, but it feels good now. Just been icing it, elevating it, stuff you do with a rolled ankle."
Nowell had one of the greatest individual performances in NCAA tournament history in Thursday's 98-93 overtime win over Michigan State, setting a tournament record with 19 assists while also contributing 20 points and 5 steals.
Much of that performance came after Nowell suffered a seemingly serious ankle injury early in the second half. He was on the floor for several minutes and needed to be helped off the floor by two Kansas State staffers.
After sitting at the end of the bench and getting his ankle retaped, Nowell checked himself back into the game two minutes later and propelled the Wildcats to a win.
The 5-foot-8 Harlem native woke up Friday morning to his face on the cover of his hometown paper, the New York Post, which declared him the "King of New York." He received messages from a half-dozen current and former NBA stars, including Trae Young, Donovan Mitchell and Carmelo Anthony.
But Nowell is looking toward Saturday's game.
"Just keep focusing on things that's important. Going 1-0. Like we've been preaching the whole season," Nowell said. "We had a great performance yesterday, celebrated last night and now today is the time to flip over the page and focus on Florida Atlantic. ... We just gotta focus and lock in like we've been doing after games."
FAU is aware that Nowell is the No. 1 item on its scouting report. However, as Owls coach Dusty May pointed out, the goal is to choose your battles and slow Nowell down -- not eliminate him completely.
"You don't shut him down," May said. "You try to make him score inefficiently. You try to challenge every pass, every passing lane with anticipation, with our athleticism. But you don't stop a guy like that, you just hope to make him inefficient on that particular night.
"You have to pick your poison. ... Because when you have the range, the midrange, the floaters to the rim, the passing to the left and right hand, he has no holes in his game and he's going to find a solution to whatever coverage you're in."
FAU players said it's imperative to be cognizant of Nowell's teammates and not allow him to rack up easy assists to wide-open cutters -- as Nowell did against Michigan State.
"On-ball pressure is a big key, and also the help-side defense and making sure that the rest of the defenders see their man and don't get backdoor cut and different things that just give him an opportunity to find open people," junior guard Bryan Greenlee said. "I believe with our switching defense and how attentive we are to being disciplined, we can do a good job of containing him."
FAU has experience against high-level playmaking guards, facing Memphis' Kendric Davis in the first round of the NCAA tournament and UAB's Jelly Walker in conference play.
Nowell, who is averaging 21.3 points, 14.0 assists and 3.7 steals in three NCAA tournament games, will be a different test.
"They're a very good team that you have to worry about," Nowell said. "I'm not overlooking them because I've seen what they did to people in this tournament.
"But Kendric Davis and Jelly Walker is them. I'm Markquis." | 2023-03-25T00:09:48+00:00 | espn.com | https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/35935959/kansas-state-markquis-nowell-ready-ankle-scare |
Flagman dies after race car hits him
NORWAY TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WLUC/Gray News) – A veteran flagman died Friday night after a race car hit him at Norway Speedway in Michigan.
The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office said 65-year-old Greg Maas died at the speedway around 9:15 p.m.
The sheriff’s office said it responded to reports of a race car hitting a flagman at the speedway near the entrance to the pit area.
In a column posted on the Norway Speedway website, Dickinson County Racing Association President John Ostermann described Maas as “a fixture, a pillar, an icon of Norway Speedway for 34 years.”
“We will race this Friday night in Greg’s honor. And yes, I can assure you that’s what Greg would want. Rest in peace my friend,” Ostermann wrote.
The crash is still under investigation.
Copyright 2022 WLUC via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | 2022-06-01T16:56:26+00:00 | kxii.com | https://www.kxii.com/2022/06/01/flagman-dies-after-race-car-hits-him/ |
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Law-abiding marijuana enthusiasts could find themselves in a bit of a predicament following voter approval of a recreational cannabis initiative in Missouri.
Though it soon will become legal for adults to possess and ingest cannabis, it could take a couple more months before they can legally buy it.
Maryland residents will have to wait even longer — until the middle of next year — before a recreational marijuana measure approved this past week can take effect.
With the addition of Maryland and Missouri, 21 states have legalized recreational marijuana for adults over the past decade — even though it remains illegal under federal law.
Marijuana advocates are pressing forward with similar efforts elsewhere, undeterred by defeats last week in Arkansas, North Dakota and South Dakota.
Efforts to legalize psychedelic drugs for personal use also appear likely to spread, after supporters poured millions of dollars into a Colorado measure that won approval.
Here's a look at what's next in the effort to reshape state drug laws.
MISSOURI AND MARYLAND
Recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older will become legal in Missouri on Dec. 8. That’s the same day the state’s existing medical marijuana businesses can apply for licenses to grow, manufacture, transport and sell cannabis for recreational purposes.
But there won't be any immediate deals — at least not legally.
The newly approved constitutional amendment gives the state health department until Feb. 6 to consider applications. Though officials could act more quickly, the department doesn’t expect to approve recreational cannabis licenses until February, said the department's communications director, Lisa Cox.
In the meantime, people potentially could get free marijuana from those with medical cards or turn to the black market.
“No one needs to say how or where they acquired their cannabis in order for it to be legal,” said Dan Viets, Missouri coordinator for the drug policy group NORML.
Maryland’s new constitutional amendment legalizes the possession and use of marijuana for adults 21 and older effective July 1, and directs the General Assembly to come up with laws regulating it.
In the meantime, a law set to be in place from Jan. 1 through June 30 makes the possession of a personal supply of marijuana — defined as up to 1.5 ounces — a civil offense with a fine of up to $100.
Both states also have provisions to gradually expunge some past marijuana offenses for people.
OKLAHOMA AND BEYOND
The next vote on legalizing recreational marijuana for adults will occur in Oklahoma. Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt set a March election after a delay in counting initiative signatures and legal challenges prevented the measure from appearing on the November ballot.
Oklahoma already has one of the nation's most robust medical marijuana programs, with about 2,500 licensed dispensaries. About 380,000 people, nearly 10% of all residents, have state-issued medical cards allowing them to buy, grow and consume marijuana.
After Oklahoma, Ohio could vote next on cannabis legalization. A group that originally sought to get a measure on the November ballot reached a legal settlement with legislative leaders that could allow supporters to submit petition signatures for a 2023 vote.
After Democratic victories in last week's legislative and gubernatorial elections, Minnesota could be poised to legalize recreational marijuana next year without needing to go to voters. Legislative approval of recreational marijuana also could be pursued next year in Democratic-led Hawaii, said Matthew Schweich, deputy director of the Marijuana Policy Project, a nonprofit advocacy group based in Washington, D.C.
New citizen-led ballot initiatives are possible in Florida, Idaho, Nebraska, Wyoming and the three states where ballot measures recently failed.
This year was "probably the worst election cycle for cannabis reform since the first ones passed in 2012, but there’s still a belief that we can go win more states in 2024,” said Schweich, who ran this year's campaign in South Dakota.
Marijuana legalization campaigns raised about $24 million in the five states where they were on the ballot, according to pre-election finance reports. The vast majority of that was in Arkansas and Missouri, where more than 85% of contributions came from donors associated with medical marijuana licensees, according to an Associated Press analysis.
In Arkansas, some marijuana advocates opposed the initiative because it benefitted the existing industry while lacking provisions for people to grow their own cannabis and expunge past marijuana convictions. But advocates hope to return to voters in two years with a revised plan.
“I think the people still truly want to see this," said Eddie Armstrong, chairman of the group that campaigned for the Arkansas initiative.
PSYCHEDELIC DRUGS
Voters in Colorado made it the second state, behind Oregon, to legalize psychedelic mushrooms for personal use by people 21 and older.
Though the hallucinogenic drug remains illegal under federal law and won't be sold in Colorado stores, it will be available for use under supervision at state-regulated “healing centers.” Residents also will be able to grow psychedelic mushrooms at home and use them without civil or criminal penalties.
The initiative won't take effect until 2024. By then, similar legalization efforts already may have spread to other states.
The Colorado measure is “at the forefront of a new trend,” said Mandy Zoch, who tracks ballot measures at the National Conference of State Legislatures. "I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw more measures relating to things like psilocybin and other psychedelic drugs in the future.”
Legislatures in several states, including California and New Jersey, are likely to consider psychedelic drug measures in 2023, said Graham Boyd, executive director of the drug policy group New Approach.
After spending more than $4 million on the Colorado initiative, New Approach expects donors concerned about veterans and mental health issues to step forward with more money for future initiatives.
“I think that we are at the beginning of a very hopeful period of expanding options for dealing with mental health. That’s what this is all about,” Boyd said.
___
Associated Press writers Andrew DeMillo in Little Rock, Ark., and Brian Witte in Annapolis, Md., contributed to this report. | 2022-11-15T01:16:05+00:00 | denver7.com | https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/after-election-marijuana-advocates-look-to-next-states |
How to see the 50,000-year comet
While it might sound like a pulp-fiction hero, the green comet is an actual celestial body visible from Earth for the first time in over 50,000 years. If you know where to look and have the right equipment (such as binoculars or a telescope) over the upcoming week, you just might be able to catch a glimpse of this nighttime wonder.
In this article: Celestron NexStar 102SLT Computerized Telescope, Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Binoculars and Celestron SkyMaster 25X70 Binoculars.
What is a comet?
Comets are, more or less, frozen chunks of planetary debris that scientists believe have been around since the formation of our solar system. They’re usually less than 10 miles across and are made of materials such as dust, rocks and frozen gasses. Typically, these celestial bodies can be found far beyond Pluto in either the Kuiper Belt or the Oort Cloud (a theoretical location that has yet to be proven).
Scientists also believe that the gravitational force of a planet or star can pull the much smaller comet out of its home in the Kuiper Belt or Oort Cloud and tug it toward the sun. On its journey, a comet passes close enough to Earth so it may be seen briefly before heading back out to where it came from (or meeting a fiery demise in the sun).
What is the green comet’s actual name?
The green comet is just a catchy nickname the media has given this celestial body. Its actual name is a bit more boring: Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF). The “C” indicates this comet is classified as a non-periodic comet, meaning it won’t appear again for over 200 years (if ever). The “2022 E3” lets you know it was discovered in the first half of March, along with three other comets in that two-week period. And, “ZTF” simply identifies the Zwicky Transient Facility, the facility that discovered the comet.
Why does this comet look green in photographs?
The frozen part of the comet is called the nucleus. As it gets closer to the sun, the ice heats up and turns into gas, creating an enormous cloud around the nucleus. This dusty cloud is called the coma. The coma of this news-making comet is made of a relatively rare type of carbon called diatomic carbon. Diatomic carbon gas is green, which gives C/2022 E3 (ZTF) its unearthly hue.
The best way to see C/2022 E3 (ZTF)
If you aren’t familiar with the night sky, the best thing you can do is get a stargazing app, such as Stellarium, which is a free, open-source planetarium for your mobile device (or computer). If this is the route you take to learn about where to look, make sure you’re using an updated version of the app that includes C/2022 E3 (ZTF).
If you want to try it on your own and you know your constellations, in the evening, face north-northeast and look up. The comet will change positions a little each night, so you’ll have to set your gaze accordingly. As January ends and February begins, the comet will pass Ursa Minor and move into Camelopardalis. However, the longer you wait, the brighter the moon will become and the harder it will be to find C/2022 E3 (ZTF). To have the best chance of seeing this comet, go out on a clear night, get as far away from the city as possible and use a quality pair of astronomical binoculars or a telescope.
Now for the bad news. The green comet is probably not going to appear to be very green when you find it. The photos you’ve been seeing are a product of long-exposure astrophotography. To the naked or even assisted eye, the green comet will be more of a dull, glowing, but colorless smudge in the sky. However, since this is the first time the comet has passed by in 50,000 years, it’s worth hunting for.
What you need to view C/2022 E3 (ZTF)
Celestron NexStar 102SLT Computerized Telescope
If you think stargazing might be more than a one-time fascination, this computerized telescope comes with a database of over 40,000 objects. It can not only locate an object with extreme accuracy, this model is capable of tracking it as well.
Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
National Geographic 70 Computerized Refractor Telescope
This automatic telescope has a wide-field lens and a red dot viewfinder to make it easier to locate objects. The compact size makes it great for travel and the simple operation makes it suitable for beginning astronomers.
Sold by Kohl’s
Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Binoculars
These quality binoculars are specifically designed to deliver crisp images with excellent color fidelity and light transmission. The adjustable eyecups twist for comfortable viewing, while the rubber exterior provides a secure grip.
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Celestron SkyMaster 25X70 Binoculars
The SkyMaster binoculars are manufactured to provide maximum image brightness in long-range, low-light conditions, making them ideal for astronomical viewing.
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Allkeys 16×55 HD Monocular Telescope
If you aren’t sure if stargazing is going to be for you but you still want to have a quality experience, consider this entry-level monocular telescope. It comes with everything you need to get started, including a tripod and a cell phone holder.
Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | 2023-01-28T14:14:20+00:00 | everythinglubbock.com | https://www.everythinglubbock.com/reviews/br/sports-fitness-br/recreational-sports-br/as-a-rare-green-comet-gets-closer-to-earth-get-the-best-view-with-these-tips/ |
William Byron overcame a spin early in the second stage that knocked him back a lap, and then was in the right position when weather took control at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
Byron won the rain-shortened NASCAR race at Atlanta on Sunday night for his series-leading fourth victory of the season. It was the second win in Atlanta in the last two years for Byron, who took the NASCAR points lead.
Byron said it was "kind of pins and needles" after his crew made changes to his No. 24 Hendricks Motorsports Chevrolet that had been damaged by the spin.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM
"When I spun, I was like here we go," Byron said. "... It was not good at that moment. We lost a lap, changed tires."
The threat of rain affected strategy as drivers fought to move toward the front of the field before weather delayed or ended the race.
On lap 185, with 75 laps to go, NASCAR ordered cars to pit road due to rain and the possibility of lightning. Cars were covered while officials waited to see if the rain ended.
Only six minutes later, fans were warned of severe weather within eight miles of the track and were encouraged to leave the stadium immediately, and NASCAR called the race soon after that announcement.
"I 1,000% agree with erring on the side of caution," said Kyle Bush, who finished fifth.
Daniel Suarez, looking for his first win of 2023, was second. AJ Allmendinger was third, followed by Michael McDowell.
NASCAR'S BUBBA WALLACE TAKES AIM AT THOSE UNWILLING TO CHANGE AS SPORT UPS INCLUSIVENESS, WELCOMING EFFORTS
Suarez said he had "a little bit of mixed feelings" about NASCAR's decision to end the race.
"I wish we had one more shot to get ahead and then it could rain all it wants," Suarez said with a laugh.
The race became official after 130 laps. After that, the weather watch factored heavily into race strategy.
"We knew the rain was coming," McDowell said. "We wanted to give ourselves the best chance to win the race."
Kevin Harvick, a three-time Atlanta winner, had a spin with 89 laps remaining. Harvick was able to drive to pit road without a caution, but the spin all but ended his hopes of a win in his final Atlanta race.
The increased threat of rain placed an increased emphasis on drivers to compete for top spots in the second stage, perhaps contributing to two wrecks that knocked out Ross Chastain, Kyle Larson and Austin Hill.
Denny Hamlin and Alex Bowman were involved in another crash late in the second stage, leaving Brad Keselowski and Ryan Blaney at the front of the field. The stage ended under caution.
SHANE VAN GISBERGEN'S NASCAR MOVE COULD COME IN 2024, RECEIVES SUPPORT FROM SUPERCARS BOSS
Despite the stage win, Keselowski was left with a big decision as he talked with his crew about the threat of rain and the possibility of staying on the track. He chose to pit for fuel, saying he had no real choice.
"No, we had 12 to 14 laps left of fuel and that was not enough and we ended up running 15 laps or so," Keselowski said. "I think we made the right call. We just needed the rain to be 10 minutes earlier or 10 minutes later."
A collision between Bubba Wallace and Ryan Preece caused another caution early in the final stage, leaving Byron in the lead, ahead of Suarez.
POLE-WINNER ALMIROLA 18TH
Aric Almirola, who won the pole, led the first 39 laps before being passed by Joey Logano for the first time. Blaney held off Larson to win the first stage. Almirola finished 18th.
Chase Elliott, still looking for his first win of the season, finished 13th. Elliott won for the first time at his Atlanta home track in the 2022 summer race.
SHANE VAN GISBERGEN CAPTURES HISTORIC FIRST WIN ON CHICAGO STREET COURSE IN HIS DEBUT
HARVICK'S 29 RETURNS TO AMS
Harvick's first NASCAR win came on March 12, 2001, at Atlanta Motor Speedway in a No. 29 Chevrolet originally built for Dale Earnhardt Sr. before Earnhardt died in a crash at the Daytona 500 weeks earlier.
The 29 returned to AMS, this time driven by grand marshal Richard Childress, 77, who was the team owner for Harvick in 2001. With Harvick's No. 4 Ford driving beside him, Childress led the field around the track to the green flag for Sunday night's race. Childress held up three fingers in a tribute to Earnhardt after entering pit road, just as Harvick did after winning in 2001. Some fans answered Childress with their own three-finger Earnhardt tribute.
"I couldn’t be more excited about seeing it lead the field to the green and I know how excited Richard is," Harvick said Saturday. "I’m excited as well but Richard has been super excited to drive it and that makes me happy, too."
BELL SENT TO BACK OF FIELD
Chris Sherwood, the car chief for Christopher Bell's No. 20 Toyota, was ejected before the race and Bell had to start at the back of the field at 36th due to unapproved adjustments to the car Sunday afternoon. It wasn't much of a blow to Bell's chances; he qualified 34th in the 37-car field.
Bell charged through the field to finish the first stage sixth, but finished 23rd.
UP NEXT
The NASCAR Cup Series moves to New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon next Sunday. | 2023-07-10T22:43:10+00:00 | foxbangor.com | https://www.foxbangor.com/sports/national-sports/william-byron-wins-rain-shortened-nascar-race-in-atlanta-for-series-leading-fourth-victory-of/article_0386a212-6561-5cd8-a1fc-2f51fee4ee32.html |
Oregon became the first state in the nation to decriminalize possession of all types of drugs when voters approved Measure 110 with 58% of the vote in November 2020. Measure 110 didn't just decriminalize drugs, it also pledged to support addiction and recovery services, partially funded through cannabis taxes.
Latest results from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health show Oregon as the second-most addicted state in the nation, with about 20% of teens and adults reporting they had a problem with drugs or alcohol in 2020, the year Oregon voters approved Measure 110. The survey also ranked Oregon last in access to addiction treatment in the self-reported survey — about 18% of respondents said they were unable to get treated, about half the national rate. The Oregon Health Authority recorded 472 overdose deaths in 2020 and 745 in 2021, a 63% increase — largely driven by an increase in usage of fentanyl, while stimulant-related deaths such as meth also steadily increased.
Critics of Measure 110 have called the law a failure that hamstrings law enforcement, encourages drug use and too hastily decriminalized drugs before support services were in place. Hope Smiley-McDonald, a sociologist who led studies measuring the impacts of Measure 110 told Willamette Week that law enforcement representatives they interviewed would often draw a direct line between Measure 110 and increases in crime, but that data she reviewed puts crime trends in line with regional trends.
"We're really not seeing any change in Portland's calls for service initiated by the public after Measure 110 was enacted. It's pretty surprising to see that Portland mirrors its sister cities because there is a perception that, after Measure 110, crimes have increased and the public is no longer as supportive as in 2020," Smiley-McDonald told Willamette Week.
Though there's no way to track exactly how much Measure 110's popularity wavered, a Data for Progress poll found the law is about as popular as it was in 2020 out of a sample of 1,051 people. Funds were meant to be distributed at the beginning of 2022 but were delayed after the Measure 110 Oversite and Accountability Council struggled to create a complicated grant process. In June the Council agreed on the selected applicants who would receive funds and money started flowing across the state over the following couple months.
"It's been the worst procurement process I've ever seen in 40 years of my career," said Rick Treleaven, executive director of Best Care Treatment Services, which received the largest grant in Deschutes County.Treleaven said the 20-person oversite council lacked experience in running large treatment programs, managing procurement processes and grant writing. The Oregon Health Authority had to lend about 130 staff members to take over the application process. Outgoing OHA Director Patrick Allen told the Senate Judiciary and Ballot Measure 110 Committee that the agency underestimated the complexity of implementing the program, along with challenges from COVID-19 and staff shortages. With resources finally getting into service providers' hands, there's more optimism about the program but concerns remain over the next round of funding in 2023.
"Broad strokes, I think the result was OK. Certainly, Best Care did well in the process, but it really needs to be overhauled dramatically," Treleaven said.
Measure 110's programs in Deschutes County
The state considered designating over 335 entities as "Behavioral Health Resource Networks" to provide specified services related to substance use disorders. Nonprofits, private businesses, local governments, federally recognized tribes and urban Indian health programs were all eligible to apply. In Deschutes County six organizations are BHRN grantees: Best Care Treatment Services, Boulder Care, Ideal Option, Healing Reins Therapeutic Riding Center, Rimrock Trails Treatment Services and Deschutes County Health Services Behavioral Health Division.
"Broadly speaking, the BHRNs are supposed to do two core things. One is stand up regional 24/7 drop-in opportunities for people struggling with addiction, to encounter people with lived experience, engage in support, and be engaged in recovery if they're willing to do that," said Janice Garceau, Deschutes County's Health Services director. "Then other kinds of services are things like substance use disorder, expanded treatment options, housing options, harm reduction services, other kinds of peer support services."
Best Care is taking the lead as the county's 24/7 drop-in services with the engagement center, where people can drop in and get connected to services. Services run the gamut from medication supported recovery treatment, access to the overdose reversing drug naloxone, employment counseling, housing vouchers and supplies for people experiencing homelessness.
"We've been doing this in a smaller scale, so we have some experience with it. And this funding has allowed us to take this all to scale," Treleaven said.
"Treatments at scale" typically involve a broader outreach and engagement for people with serious drug and alcohol problems. Treleaven described it as all carrot and no stick rather than the criminalization and jailing of people just for substance abuse.
"We are setting up this outreach and engagement system that develops relationships that bring people into treatment on a more voluntary basis," he said.
Best Care is the only BHRN in Deschutes County that offers housing services and supported employment, two of seven metrics the state is using to allocate funding. While all six BHRNs have low-barrier substance use treatment services, some are a bit more niche. Deschutes County Health Services is the only BHRN with an emphasis on harm reduction in the county.
Harm reduction includes efforts like overdose prevention, syringe exchanges, testing for communicable disease and introducing treatment options. Since the rise of fentanyl, Deschutes County Health Services harm reduction program has had to nearly double the amount of naloxone used to reverse an overdose. In 2020 it took an average of 1.7 doses to reverse an overdose, but this year it's risen to almost three.
"We've watched the influx of fentanyl in the community and the impact it's had, the impact of the COVID crisis on people just having higher rates of overdose events and really struggling with isolation and with addiction," Garceau, Deschutes County's Health Services director, said. "I think we'll reach more people and prevent more people from dying as a result of their addiction and living long enough to maybe get into recovery."
Deschutes County's also added peer support positions and outreach coordinators for those experiencing homelessness and youth struggling with addiction. Peer support specialists act as mentors, and usually have their own lived experience recovering from addiction.
Ideal Option hired a peer support specialist with its funds, and in 2023 will start working in the Deschutes County Jail to offer treatment to inmates. Boulder Care, a telehealth addiction recovery specialist, is funded to expand treatment in Deschutes County. Healing Reins Therapeutic Riding Center got funding to do non-traditional equine therapy — usually for people further down the road in recovery. And Rimrock Trails Treatment Center is expanding services to youth with addiction struggles in Deschutes County.
"What Measure 110 ideally is trying to do is set up a system of outreach and engagement and harm reduction into that population of people who have serious drug and alcohol problems," Treleaven said.
The Future of Measure 110
BHRN started getting funds in the summer, and organizations got about 40% of the funds they're set to receive right off the bat. Remaining funds will trickle down to organizations quarterly until 2025 when organizations must re-apply for continued funding. Legislators haven't decided what amount of money will be allocated for the next round of funding and will have to figure that out in future legislative sessions. Though Measure 110 is at times fraught politically— two candidates in Oregon's close gubernatorial race vowed to end the program —organizations working in recovery hope the public gives services time to make an impact before deeming the measure a failure.
"Most organizations, smart businesses, you don't start making the changes or doing the things that you're going to do or acquiring employees until you have the money. We're four months into this. People are still trying to fill positions," said Josh Lair, community outreach coordinator at Ideal Option. "I think that if the communities give us a little bit of time to start to show, then we're going to see an impact. The numbers will be able to prove that what we're doing, what we've asked for this money to do, what the voters, by voting yes, to Measure 110, what their vote is really going to do."
Expectations for what this program could do are high. If successful it could provide a model for treating addiction medically rather than criminally. Tera Hurst, executive director of the Health Justice Recovery Alliance, who sat on Measure 110's oversite committee, called it the, "First step in providing the communities most traumatized by the war on drugs with the tools they need to heal," during a media briefing in September. The end result could mean fewer overdose deaths, fewer crimes to support habits to addictive drugs, fewer children in the foster care system and fewer people in jails.
"The outcomes that we're looking for, I think, in this social experiment, would be these questions," Treleaven said. "I would hope to see the number of people with serious substance abuse disorders who are engaged goes up, number of overdoses going down, the rate of drug related crime going down, the number of people entering and staying in treatment going up and I would hope also for a decrease in the number of child abuse cases. Those would be sort of the data points, broadly speaking, that we as citizens should be looking at to judge whether it's working or not." | 2022-12-01T03:00:59+00:00 | bendsource.com | https://www.bendsource.com/bend/measure-110-four-months-in/Content?oid=18181427 |
WIMBLEDON, England (AP) — It’s where Serena Williams, Roger Federer, Martina Navratilova, Pete Sampras and Steffi Graf reigned. Rod Laver, Billie Jean King and Althea Gibson before that. And Bill Tilden, Helen Wills Moody, Don Budge and Suzanne Lenglen before that.
It’s been called the cathedral of tennis and the site of the most famous patch of grass in the world.
Centre Court at the current Church Road location of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club opened 100 years ago, in 1922, and that centenary is being celebrated at Wimbledon on Sunday — which, in and of itself, is a special occasion, because it marks the debut of scheduled play on the fortnight’s middle Sunday, which traditionally has been a day of rest at the grass-court Grand Slam tournament.
There is a sign on the side of the chair umpire’s stand with the words “Centre Court” and “100.” A unique version of the ever-popular tournament towel for the occasion. A series of votes via Wimbledon.com let fans choose their favorite moments from the arena’s history.
The structure has been updated and improved over time, with new cushioned green seats this year, for example, and, most famously, the installation of a retractable roof ahead of the 2009 tournament. The capacity has grown from 9,989 seats and “standing accommodation” 3,600 when first opened, to today’s 14,974 seats.
What does not seem to have changed is the reverence with which players regard the place.
That sentiment was expressed this way by seven-time Wimbledon champion Sampras after he earned what would be his last match win at Centre Court — or anywhere at the All England Club — by beating Martin Lee of Britain 6-3, 7-6 (1), 6-3 on June 24, 2002: “You step out on Centre Court, it’s like Mecca out there. The U.S. Open, French Open, those are great events, but Centre Court at Wimbledon, there’s something very special whenever you step out there. I feel like I kind of came back home today.”
Some find it all a bit daunting. Some, of course, never get to play there. Some say they’ve gone inside to look around before the tournament begins, just to see it.
Here are the thoughts or recollections about Centre Court from some players of the past and present:
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“For me, that was the first experience seeing Princess Kate. She was sitting in the Royal Box, and I could not NOT see her. She’s super beautiful. And I also remember I saw Tom Cruise. It all was a bit overwhelming.” — Karolina Pliskova of the Czech Republic, runner-up to Ash Barty in last year’s Wimbledon final.
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“When I would walk on Centre Court (for) a final, there would be like a hush — a hush of reverence, a tingling of excitement — of something that was just going to explode any minute. Sure enough, the crowds would explode. You think about all the former champions, the ghosts and spirits that played on that Centre Court. I do that only at Wimbledon. I don’t do that really at any other Grand Slam.” — Three-time Wimbledon champion Chris Evert.
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“I’d imagine that it’s probably a magical place. I don’t want to go in there until I play on the court.” — Tommy Paul of the United States, who faces Cam Norrie of Britain in the fourth round Sunday at No 1 Court.
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“I was like, ‘Wow.’ I was 16. More than half my life ago. I was impressed by the elegance.” — Mihaela Buzarnescu, a 34-year-old from Romania, who visited Centre Court when she was playing in the Wimbledon junior tournament, and first played there on Thursday.
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“They know the game, so there’s this incredible silence, followed by this great roar. I mean, that happens at all stadiums; there’s something even more so there. There’s no seat that’s bad there.” — Three-time Wimbledon champion John McEnroe on entering the arena.
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“The walk to the court is definitely the most nerve-racking, because you see the members’ enclosure. It’s a very beautiful area. They have, I don’t know if they’re guards or whatever, they’re standing in front of Centre Court, looking straight. I didn’t expect that the first time when I came in. I remember being like, ‘Wow!’ You kind of want to take a picture of it. Obviously you can’t.” — Coco Gauff, who played in, and won, her first match there at age 15 in 2019.
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More AP Wimbledon coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/wimbledon and https://apnews.com/hub/tennis and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2022-07-03T01:25:36+00:00 | pix11.com | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/wimbledon-marks-players-recall-centre-courts-100-years/ |
SAN DIEGO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Zef Scientific, Inc. along with partner e-MSion, Inc., announce a collaboration to develop novel applications using electron capture dissociation (ECD) technology using Thermo Fisher Scientific's popular Q Exactive™ UHMR Orbitrap LCMS system.
Mass spectrometry (MS) based protein characterization has grown into an essential technology in basic biological research as well as drug discovery and development. Pioneered by e-MSion, ECD enables complimentary innovative top-down, middle-down, and native workflows for the comprehensive characterization of protein sequence, posttranslational modifications, and higher-order structure.
At the Barnett Institute, Dr. Alexander Ivanov's research group focuses on the development of microscale liquid phase separation and mass spectrometry (MS) based proteomic technologies for solving challenging biomedical problems.
Dr. Ivanov states: "Partnering with ZefSci and adding ECD technology provides exciting new capabilities for our lab providing more comprehensive characterization of proteins and isoforms, modifications, sequence/charge variants, and large protein complexes in their native non-denatured state."
Rick Carberry, Business Development and Marketing Director at ZefSci, elaborates: "We are delighted to work with Alex and the Barnett Institute who have a long history of developing and applying novel separation and mass spec-based approaches to characterizing biological molecules."
About Zef Scientific, Inc. ZefSci is an engineering company focused solely on providing multivendor LCMS maintenance and service and setting a new standard in analytical instrument repair. More information about ZefSci is available at www.zefsci.com
About E-MSion, Inc. e-MSion, Inc. aims to advance proteomics research by improving the accessibility of electron-based fragmentation in mass spectrometry. They are the first to make ECD technically feasible on instruments that are in the low- to mid-price range. www.e-MSion.com.
About Barnett Institute at Northeastern University. The Barnett Institute is a center of excellence in the development and application of technologies for biopharmaceutical characterization and proteomics and systems biology. With more than 50 scientists and an $8 million endowment, the Institute is recognized internationally as one of the premier centers for cutting-edge research and advanced training in analytical chemistry for biomedical applications. https://cos.northeastern.edu/barnett/.
Q Exactive™ is a registered trademark of Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.
E-MSion is now part of Agilent
Media Contact Information:
Rick Carberry
781 635-9985
rick@zefsci.com
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Zef Scientific, Inc. | 2023-05-08T14:28:45+00:00 | witn.com | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2023/05/08/zefsci-northeastern-universities-barnett-institute-partner-apply-electron-capture-dissociation-ecd-technology-lcms-based-protein-characterization/ |
NEW YORK (AP) — In a highly unusual move that rattled Hollywood, Warner Bros. axed the “Batgirl” film planned for HBO Max, opting to shelve the $90 million film as the reorganized studio revamps its approach to streaming and DC Comics films.
The studio ultimately decided the nearly completed “Batgirl” didn’t merit either a streaming debut or a theatrical release. Warner Bros. instead is choosing to entirely write off the film starring “In the Heights” star Leslie Grace as Batgirl and co-starring Michael Keaton (returning as Batman), J.K. Simmons and Brendan Fraser. It was directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah. Production wrapped in April.
Warner Bros.’ decision, one without any obvious parallel in recent Hollywood history, sent shockwaves through the industry. When a movie doesn’t meet a studio’s expectations, it’s typically sold off or dumped quietly with little fanfare. “Batgirl,” greenlit before WarnerMedia’s merger with Discovery Inc., will instead simply not see the light of day.
“The decision to not release Batgirl reflects our leadership’s strategic shift as it relates to the DC universe and HBO Max,” a Warner Bros. spokesperson said in a statement, adding that Grace is “an incredibly talented actor and this decision is not a reflection of her performance.”
The filmmakers learned of the studio’s decision shortly before the story broke late Tuesday. An early cut of “Batgirl” had recently undergone one test screening. And while its scores weren’t good, poor test results haven’t been infrequent for Warner Bros.′ DC releases nor has post-production drama. Zack Snyder’s “Justice League” was recut and reshot by Joss Whedon before a fan campaign led to the eventual HBO Max release of an edit by Snyder. The badly received 2016 “Suicide Squad” was followed by James Gunn’s similarly titled 2021 relaunch “The Suicide Squad.”
“We are saddened and shocked by the news. We still can’t believe it,” El Arbi and Fallah said in a statement Wednesday. “As directors, it is critical that our work be shown to audiences, and while the film was far from finished, we wish that fans all over the world would have had the opportunity to see and embrace the final film themselves. Maybe one day they will insha’Allah (if God wills).”
The directors signed their statement, posted on Instagram, “Batgirl For Life.”
Under new Warner Bros. Discovery chief executive David Zaslav, Warner Bros. is shifting its strategy on film releases and trimming costs. Under previous chief executive Jason Kilar and partly as a pandemic response, the studio implemented day-and-date releases in 2021, opening films simultaneously in theaters and on HBO Max. Other films, like “Batgirl,” were produced solely for HBO Max.
This year, Warner Bros. has returned to exclusive theatrical windows for at least 45 days before sending movies to HBO Max. While “Batgirl” isn’t as pricey as many superhero films, which typically cost $150-200 million to make, it’s a bigger budget movie for an HBO Max title. Zaslav has maintained larger budgeted movies are best served by a theatrical rollout. But marketing a movie like “Batgirl” for that kind of release would require tens of millions more. Warner Bros. Discovery is set to report second-quarter earnings Thursday.
Warner Bros. also shelved “Scoob!: Holiday Haunt,” an almost-completed sequel to 2020’s “Scoob!” Producer and writer Tony Cervone confirmed wrote in an Instagram post that “the movie is practically finished and turned out beautifully. I am beyond heartbroken.”
The “Batgirl” cancellation comes as Warner Bros. is trying to revamp its DC Films operations. While “The Batman” earlier this year performed well with $770.8 million in ticket sales, Warners’ DC releases have been erratic and plagued by controversy. “The Flash,” scheduled for release next June, stars Ezra Miller who has been arrested twice this year in Hawaii, in a disorderly conduct case and on suspicion of assault.
Warner Bros. is hoping to reorganize and reset its DC pipeline — going bigger, not smaller with its rival Marvel. The more modestly scaled, streaming-only “Batgirl” didn’t suit those plans.
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For more AP entertainment news, go to https://apnews.com/hub/entertainment | 2022-08-03T23:10:22+00:00 | texomashomepage.com | https://www.texomashomepage.com/entertainment-news/warner-bros-axes-batgirl-wont-release-90m-hbo-max-film/ |
POWELL — Wyoming still has a chance to be the first state to have an official stablecoin in the cryptocurrency financial sector.
Last Friday, Gov. Mark Gordon allowed the Wyoming Stable Token Act to become law without his signature. He said that after vetoing a similar bill following last year’s legislative session, the sponsors worked to resolve many of his concerns. “Nevertheless, I continue to harbor some reservations about the potential impact this program may have on Wyoming’s hard fought reputation as a thoughtful and strong leader in the world of digital assets,” Gordon said in a letter to Secretary of State Chuck Gray.
He said he recognized that the success of a Wyoming stable token could be a great achievement that could “nurture Wyoming’s reputation as a leader in the digital asset world.”
The new legislation will develop a board composed of the governor or the governor’s designee, the state auditor or the auditor’s designee, the treasurer or the treasurer’s designee and not more than four subject matter experts in virtual currency and financial technology appointed by a majority vote of the members of the board.
Gordon said that less thought was given to the detailed implementation of the program than to the imagined prospects of success.
“First and foremost, there was no overall plan (a “business plan” for lack of a better term) or, if a plan exists, it did not appear to have been used to guide the legislators in crafting the legislation,” he wrote. “Even more concerning, is that this legislation does not require such a plan before an expensive director is hired.”
He is also concerned the $500,000 appropriation contained in the bill “may not be enough” to set the plan in action.
Gordon said it remains unclear whether a robust market exists for Wyoming stablecoin, particularly considering recent developments.
“Nevertheless, despite these concerns, enough improvements have been made to the legislation that I have decided to allow the Stable Token Act to become law without my signature,” he wrote.
The token, which has yet to be named, would be backed by 1 for 1 investments in United States treasury bills and held in trust by the state, with hopes of earning interest from the investments.
The entire cryptocurrency segment is currently worth close to $1.15 trillion, with stable tokens and coins being used to buy and invest in tokens and platforms and serve as a store of value.
The bill first passed through the state Senate by a 20-11 vote. Sen. Dan Laursen (R-Powell) voted against the bill while Sen. Tim French, R-Powell, voted for the bill.
It then passed through the House by a 36-25-1 vote before proceeding to the governor’s desk, with Rep. Sandy Newsome, R-Cody, voting for the bill and Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams, R-Cody, voting no.
About 22% of Americans held at least one cryptocurrency asset in 2022, a 5% increase over the previous year. The popularity of digital cryptocurrency has grown in recent years as access to crypto has become easier.
The asset is still incredibly volatile, and in 2022 rising interest rates caused selloffs in bitcoin, as skittish investors offloaded what is a risky investment.
In 2022, former President Donald Trump issued a set of non-fungible tokens (blockchain-based tokens that represent a unique asset like a piece of art, digital content, or media often referred to as NFTs). About 45,000 were sold for $99 each and now have a price floor of about $780 each — or about $34 million for the entire collection.
Stablecoins or tokens are used to buy cryptocurrency assets. Profits from the sale of the Wyoming token would be used to increase funding to the school foundation program account. | 2023-03-23T11:23:31+00:00 | wyomingnews.com | https://www.wyomingnews.com/laramieboomerang/news/wyoming-stable-token-act-passes-without-governor-s-signature/article_93796610-c8fb-11ed-8e28-2f7cdd1adad5.html |
ARI SHAPIRO, HOST:
Bills to ban gender-affirming medical care for transgender youth are quickly moving through state legislatures. Already this year, five such bans have been signed into law. They prohibit treatments such as puberty blockers or cross-sex hormones, care that dozens of major U.S. medical groups have endorsed as time tested and medically necessary. NPR's Melissa Block has been tracking these bills. Hi, Melissa.
MELISSA BLOCK, BYLINE: Hey, Ari.
SHAPIRO: We spoke with you on the program two weeks ago, and since then, two more Republican governors have signed bans on gender-affirming care for minors. Bring us up to speed.
BLOCK: Yeah, those two governors, Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves and Bill Lee in Tennessee. These medical care bans are coming from red states; so along with those two, also Arkansas, Alabama, Utah and South Dakota, as well as Florida. There are also some restrictions in Arizona.
SHAPIRO: And apart from those states, how many others are considering similar bans?
BLOCK: Yeah, it's really a moving target. LGBTQ advocates say they are tracking more than 100 medical care bills in about 30 states. And these bills are moving really quickly. Let's focus for a second on Kentucky. A gender-affirming care ban there was fast-tracked out of committee late last week, sent out onto the House floor for a vote. And I want to take a few minutes to give you a flavor of the debate there because it's an example of what's playing out around the country. First, here's the bill co-sponsor, Republican Nancy Tate.
(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)
NANCY TATE: Mr. Speaker, I urge this honorable body to support House Bill 470 to protect our most vulnerable - our children - from this process that is unproven and dangerous.
BLOCK: And supporters of the bill claim that gender-affirming care causes irreparable harm. In the end, there were just two Republicans speaking in support of the bill; more than a dozen Democratic legislators speaking in opposition. And let's listen to some of them. First, here's Representative Josie Raymond, who said the bill tramples on the rights of doctors and parents.
(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)
JOSIE RAYMOND: It says, we know better than someone who is told by their child, when that child is 3 and 4 and 5 and 6 and 7 and 8 and 9 and 10, that that child feels different. And when that child at 11 is suicidal because they can't live the way that feels right for them, don't worry, Republican legislators in Kentucky know better.
(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)
PAMELA STEVENSON: I was born at night, but not last night.
BLOCK: And this is Democrat Pamela Stevenson.
(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)
STEVENSON: As I recall, a couple of months ago, you were saying the government can't tell me to wear a cloth mask to prevent a global pandemic. And now you're saying the government can tell a mother and the father what to do with their kid and they don't have any right to opt out. Stop it.
BLOCK: And one last voice - this is Democrat Daniel Grossberg.
(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)
DANIEL GROSSBERG: To those young people who are struggling today, I am sorry. There are those of us here today who are fighting for you, but we will not win. But I need you to know that we see you. We hear you. And we love you. And we know that you are perfect just the way you are.
SHAPIRO: Wow. Well, we heard him say that we will not win. How did the Kentucky House vote?
BLOCK: Well, the ban passed overwhelmingly, 75-22. So now it heads to the state Senate, which is also overwhelmingly Republican. The governor of Kentucky, Andy Beshear, is a Democrat. He has said, I can't support anything that would cost the life of one of our Kentucky teens. If he does veto, though, the legislature has plenty of votes to override that.
SHAPIRO: We've been talking about bans on medical care for transgender youth, and other states have proposals that would go even farther. Tell us about those.
BLOCK: Yeah, a number of states would ban gender-affirming care up to age 21 or 25, and other states would restrict care across the board for all ages. So Oklahoma, for example, has a bill that would effectively ban care for trans people of any age. It would prohibit any facility that gets any public funds from offering care to minors or adults, and it would bar insurance companies from covering that care. So this wave of legislation, Ari, that ostensibly started with the goal of protecting children has now grown much broader and much more far-reaching.
SHAPIRO: NPR's Melissa Block, thank you.
BLOCK: You're welcome. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR. | 2023-03-08T03:41:11+00:00 | kunm.org | https://www.kunm.org/npr-news/npr-news/2023-03-07/bans-on-medical-care-for-trans-youth-are-moving-quickly-through-state-legislatures |
Bishop Thomas K. Gorman Catholic School has been recognized by the Newman Guide for its excellence in Catholic education.
Bishop Gorman, a Catholic school under the leadership of Bishop Joseph Strickland, the Chancellor and Bishop of the Diocese of Tyler, is one of only five K through 12 schools in the United States recognized for this destination.
According to the Cardinal Newman Society, the Newman Guide recognizes K through 12 schools that are committed to upholding the standards of faithful Catholic education. A school recognized in The Newman Guide strives for the very best of Catholic education.
By affirming its commitment to the established standards, a Newman Guide School stands as an exemplar of faithful Catholic education for other schools nationwide.”
Bishop Thomas K. Gorman Catholic School is a Catholic, liberal arts college preparatory school in the Diocese of Tyler, Texas that serves students in grades 6 through 12. The vision of Bishop Thomas K. Gorman Catholic School is to prepare and form future saints and missionaries, and its mission is to graduate young men and women of well-formed Catholic Christian character, virtue, holiness and living faith who serve every segment of civil and ecclesial society with excellence.
The Eucharist lies at the heart of Bishop Gorman Catholic School, as the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass remains the centerpiece of all that it does.
“It is a blessing and an honor that Bishop Gorman has been included in this new initiative by the Cardinal Newman Society,” said Bishop Strickland. “The Society ‘recognizes model institutions that refuse to compromise their Catholic mission’ and in doing so has become a significant element of ensuring that the beautiful truth of our Catholic faith is shared with new generations. Congratulations to the entire Bishop Gorman family for being included in this important program.”
In 2017, Bishop Strickland promulgated and released an Apostolic Constitution on Teaching when he established the St. Philip Institute in the Diocese of Tyler.
This document and the work of the Institute have not only transformed the philosophy of catechesis and evangelization within the Diocese of Tyler, but they have also drawn the interest and attention of educators, catechists and formators from around the world with their challenge to return to the authentic teaching of the Catholic faith in every aspect of life, including and within Catholic schools.
Catholic education exists to put students in touch with the source of all Truth and Beauty, who is the living Trinitarian God, revealed in Jesus Christ.
The “…gradual formation of conscience in fundamental, permanent virtues” (Catholic School on the Threshold of the Third Millennium) is at the heart of Catholic education.
Bishop Gorman Catholic School seeks to accomplish this through the cultivation of a genuine Catholic culture and community among the faculty, staff and students. It is demonstrated by the leaders of the school, in word and deed, and encouraged through the structural and relational way of life that they establish in the educational community.
The leadership of Bishop Gorman Catholic School is founded upon a sacred trust requiring both knowledge of - and fidelity to - the fullness of Catholic teaching. These kinds of leaders will teach, live, and promote a virtue based educational philosophy and lead the entire Catholic educational community, faculty, staff and students, to the source of all virtue and excellence, Jesus Christ.
“This recognition is truly an honor and is the fruit of the work of many people. The faculty, staff and students strive daily in their unique ways to live our mission to form saints and missionaries,” said John Kimec, who was appointed principal of the school one year ago.
To learn more about Bishop Gorman Catholic School, visit www.bishopgorman.net. | 2023-05-28T11:16:08+00:00 | tylerpaper.com | https://tylerpaper.com/news/bishop-thomas-k-gorman-catholic-school-recognized-by-the-newman-guide/article_a4f6c6f2-fa61-11ed-8db6-d3fb864e3c0e.html |
Woman testifies that she too was sexually attacked by Trump
NEW YORK (AP) — A woman who says Donald Trump silently molested her on an airliner in the late 1970s testified Tuesday in support of the writer who alleges that a flirtatious 1996 encounter with the future president ended in a violent sexual attack.
Jessica Leeds, 81, of Asheville, North Carolina, said Trump accosted her with what seemed like “40 zillion hands.” She joined other witnesses who supported the testimony of E. Jean Carroll, a longtime advice columnist who publicly aired her claims against Trump in 2019, when she published a memoir. Trump has repeatedly denied the claims, saying Carroll lied to sell books and disparage him.
The witnesses were meant to support Carroll’s testimony over three days ending Monday that Trump raped her in the dressing room of a luxury department store in midtown Manhattan.
Lisa Birnbach, a longtime friend of Carroll, testified that an emotional and hyperventilating Carroll telephoned her minutes after her encounter with Trump to report what occurred. She said she told Carroll that Carroll had been raped and urged her to go to the police, but Carroll refused, leading them to argue before Birnbach agreed never to speak of it again.
Leeds said she was in her late 30s and working in sales when she was invited by a flight attendant aboard a daytime flight from Dallas or Atlanta to New York to sit in the only empty aisle seat in the first-class cabin.
“The gentleman sitting by the window introduced himself as Donald Trump,” she said.
Conversation between the pair was mostly forgettable, Leeds recalled, as they ate a nice meal, before “all of a sudden Trump decided to kiss me and grope me.”
“There was no conversation. It was like out of the blue. It was like a tussle. He was trying to kiss me, trying to pull me towards him. He was grabbing my breasts. It was like he had 40 zillion hands. It was like a tussling match between the two of us,” she recalled.
Leeds said the standoff ended when she realized no aircraft employees were coming to the rescue and Trump seemed to get more aggressive.
“It was when he started putting his hand up my skirt that gave me strength. I managed to wriggle out of my seat and storm back to my seat in coach. I don’t think there was a word or a sound made by either one of us,” she recalled.
Asked to describe how long the encounter took, Leeds said “it seemed like forever, but it probably was just a few seconds.”
When the plane landed, Leeds recalled, she remained on the plane until everyone else had left to avoid running into Trump again.
The Associated Press typically does not name people who say they have been sexually assaulted unless they come forward publicly, as Carroll and Leeds have done.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-05-02T18:37:31+00:00 | wbrc.com | https://www.wbrc.com/2023/05/02/trump-accusers-friend-says-e-jean-carroll-is-telling-truth/ |
BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) – The Baton Rouge Police Department is investigating after a 21-year-old was found shot to death inside her vehicle on Government Street Friday morning.
LSU confirmed that the woman killed in this shooting was student Allison Rice, 21, of Geismar. She was a senior studying marketing at the university.
Police said the shooting took place in the 1500 block of Government Street. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 225-344-7867.
LSU released a statement after learning about her passing:
“The LSU community is saddened to hear of senior Allison Rice being killed overnight. Her family and friends are in our thoughts, and we encourage anyone who may have more information about this crime to contact Baton Rouge Police.
Any of her friends and classmates that would like to speak with someone about this or needs help processing this loss can contact the Mental Health Service in the Student Health Center (225-578-8774).”
Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome released the following statement:
“My heart goes out to the family, loved ones, and classmates of Allison Rice, a young LSU student who had her entire life ahead of her. This senseless violence is completely unacceptable and Baton Rouge Police officers are thoroughly investigating to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Our university community is an essential part of the fabric of Baton Rouge. It is of the utmost importance as we welcome students from across our state and the nation that we create a safe environment. I am coordinating a meeting with LSU and Southern University’s Presidents, BRCC Chancellor, Student Government, BRPD and East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s office to discuss safety for all of our college students in Baton Rouge.
I urge anyone with information about this senseless crime to please contact Baton Rouge Police Department or Greater Baton Rouge Crime Stoppers.”
Rice’s workplace, The Shed BBQ, said:
“We are beyond saddened by the tragic and senseless loss of one of our own. Allie, you will be so missed. May God bring your family and all who knew you comfort in this terrible time. Rest in peace, sweet girl. We love you.”
Dutchtown High Cheerleading shared:
“Our most heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Allie Rice, former DTHS Cheerleader. She will live on forever in our hearts. Allie was a very caring, thoughtful and kind young woman who will be greatly missed.” | 2022-09-21T04:21:29+00:00 | ktalnews.com | https://www.ktalnews.com/news/crime/lsu-student-killed-in-friday-morning-shooting-on-government-street/ |
One of the favorites going into the 2023 Women's World Cup is England, at +350 to win the tournament and -2500 to win its group.
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England: Last World Cup Performance
Ellen White led his team at the 2019 World Cup, scoring six goals. And four years ago the team got one goal from Jill Scott.
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Not all offers available in all states, please visit DraftKings for the latest promotions for your area. Must be 21+ to gamble, please wager responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, contact 1-800-GAMBLER. | 2023-07-11T14:07:58+00:00 | wlbt.com | https://www.wlbt.com/sports/betting/2023/07/01/england-womens-world-cup-odds/ |
New holiday mural on display in downtown Greenville
Published: Dec. 8, 2022 at 10:45 PM EST|Updated: 34 minutes ago
GREENVILLE, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - A new holiday mural is on display in downtown Greenville!
Artist Matteo Miles spent more than 25 hours working on the mural that can be seen in the Camperdown Plaza.
The mural is in the theme of a gingerbread trail and features several historic elements throughout the city, plus a tribute to Greenville’s food scene.
“Locals and visitors alike make your sweet memories here. Go around and eat, and look at the artwork. Especially when I see this one it just brings so much joy for me to have people see my art,” said Miles.
The mural will stay up until January.
Copyright 2022 WHNS. All rights reserved. | 2022-12-09T04:21:26+00:00 | foxcarolina.com | https://www.foxcarolina.com/2022/12/09/new-holiday-mural-display-downtown-greenville/ |
HAHNVILLE, La. (AP) — A 28-year-old woman who enrolled at a Louisiana high school and posed as a 17-year-old student to learn English has been arrested along with her mother, authorities said Wednesday.
Martha Jessenia Gutierrez Serrano and her mother, Marta Elizabeth Serrano Alvarado, 46, both of Boutte, were arrested Tuesday, the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office said in a news release. Each are charged with a one count of injuring public records.
Serrano Alvarado used a fake passport and birth certificate from Honduras to register and enroll her daughter at Hahnville High School for the 2022-2023 school year, the sheriff’s office said.
Sheriff Greg Champagne, at a news conference Wednesday, said Gutierrez Serrano told investigators she enrolled in school to learn the English language.
“She wanted to learn English. She wanted to become proficient in the English language,” Champagne said.
“There was no nefarious reason behind this,” he said, adding that the falsifying of government documents to do this was just “bad judgment.”
Champagne noted there were other avenues the women could have taken, including enrolling in ESL or GED programs. “Certainly that is a much better option than falsifying records,” he said.
The sheriff said Gutierrez Serrano did not participate in any extracurricular activities and had no disciplinary issues while attending school.
“There is no current evidence of any other criminal activity or inappropriate conduct” by either woman, he said.
Four days after the school year ended on May 25, an internal investigation began after the St. Charles Parish School System received a tip that a female student at Hahnville High School believed to be 17 may actually have been in her mid-20s, the sheriff’s office said.
It was unknown if either woman has an attorney who could comment on the arrests.
“The school system will enhance processes to determine the authenticity of enrollment documents for current and future students as well as modify policy and procedures as warranted,” the school system said in a statement late Tuesday, The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate reported. “As this is an ongoing investigation conducted by the Sheriff’s Office, no further information or specifics may be shared at this time.”
This is not the first time this year that an adult has been accused of posing as a U.S. high school student. In January, a 29-year-old woman was charged with using false documents to enroll in a New Jersey high school and attend classes over a four-day period. A judge in May allowed her to enter a pretrial intervention program. | 2023-06-15T02:46:47+00:00 | localsyr.com | https://www.localsyr.com/strange-news/ap-strange-news/28-year-old-woman-accused-of-posing-as-louisiana-high-school-student/ |
Which hunting bows are best?
There are many different types of bows, so deciding which bow is best for hunting can be challenging, especially for beginners. Things like stability, material, draw weight and draw length are all factors when choosing a hunting bow.
Besides that, there are different types of hunting bows, such as the recurve bow and compound bow. If you’re a beginner looking for a good, compound hunting bow, check out the Bear Archery Cruzer G2 Adult Compound Bow.
What to know before you buy a hunting bow
Types of bows
Two of the most common types of hunting bows are the compound bow and the recurve bow.
- Compound bows: Used in hunting and target practice, compound bows offer a lot more power than most recurve bows. They also have an easier draw and increased aim accuracy. Some compound bows come with a riser, which is the core foundation of the bow where accessories like sights and stabilizers are positioned. These bows also have limbs that flex when the user pulls the drawstring. Compound bows are more rigid and energy efficient than other hunting bows.
- Recurve bows: Recurve bows are highly popular with beginner archers for their fast shooting, accuracy and stability. They have minimal to no handshock, so they don’t hurt the user’s hand. Recurve bows come with fewer features than compound bows, which may make them easier to use.
- Other bows: Crossbows are popular for modern archery and target practice, but they can be used in hunting, too. Some people consider longbows hunting bows, but most people use them for archery instead.
Material
Compound bows are usually made from a combination of aluminum, carbon fiber and fiberglass. A carbon fiber riser, which is the middle part of the bow, is usually stronger than an aluminum riser. Aluminum, however, may be lighter.
The bow’s limbs are often made from composite materials or fiberglass. They may be laminated with various materials or layers to add to the strength and durability of the bow.
Recurve bows, on the other hand, may consist of maple, hickory, bamboo or another type of wood. Maple and hickory are among the strongest options.
As for bowstrings, most bowstrings are made from synthetic materials such as:
- BCY 452X, a common, stable bowstring that offers a lot of speed when shooting.
- BCY D97, a more economical and more common option for recurve bowstrings that helps absorb the shock of a finished draw.
- BCY 8125, which is considered the fastest bowstring, but may stretch in high temperatures.
Feet per second (FPS)
Feet per second refers to the speed of an arrow once shot. Several factors play into calculating the FPS, such as draw weight, draw length, weather patterns and the weight of the arrows.
Most modern compound bows have between 270 and 340 feet per second, which is enough to take down bigger game like deer. Recurve bows can also be measured with FPS, but they may offer less speed than compound bows with an average of 150 to 200 FPS.
Depending on the type of game, arrows and general conditions, anything above 270 FPS is considered enough for hunting deer or similar game.
State regulations
Each state has its own requirements when it comes to using a hunting bow. Some states have a maximum draw weight, for example. Others may allow a bow to have certain mechanisms like automatically loaded arrows, while others don’t. Check with your state’s guidelines before purchasing and using a hunting bow to hunt game.
What to look for in a quality hunting bow
Bow length and height
The bow length is the measurement from the topmost to the bottommost part of the limb. This measurement is usually taken when the bow is unstrung. It’s important in determining how forgiving the bow is when used. In most cases, the longer the measurement, the more stable the bow. For example, a bow length of 35 inches is more forgiving than a bow length of 28 inches.
Bow height is the distance between the bow grip and the bowstring. This is also known as the bow’s brace height. Hunting bows that are between 6 and 7 inches long are best for beginners or those who want to fire arrows at a higher velocity. The main downside of a shorter brace height is that the bowstring may slap or hit the archer’s arm.
Draw length
The draw length is the distance from the throat of the grip to the nock point, plus an additional inch and three quarters.
To determine your ideal draw length, stand straight against a wall and stretch out your arms horizontally. Then, have someone measure the distance from your middle fingers. Subtract 15 from this measurement and divide it by two to get the draw length.
The average draw length is 30 inches. This doesn’t mean the archer must pull it back exactly 30 inches though. Rather, it’s best to choose a draw length that feels right.
Draw weight
Draw weight refers to the number of pounds needed to pull back and hold a fully drawn bow. When a person says they shoot a 60-pound bow, for instance, they’re referring to the draw weight.
The draw weight is important for several reasons. For one, it influences the speed in which a bow can fire an arrow. For another, certain draw weights are needed to effectively hunt and kill certain game. When hunting deer, for example, you may need a 40-pound draw weight or above.
A bow technician may be able to adjust the draw weight if it’s unmanageable. Another option is to build up strength by doing certain exercises like push-up or band lateral raises.
Cams
Some compound bounds have cams, which allow for the transfer of energy into the limbs of the bow. Cams also manipulate the draw weight and release of an arrow. Depending on their shape, they can influence the ease at which an archer fully draws an arrow.
Single and dual cams are the most common types of cams. Single cams allow for a bow to shoot with more precision and reduced noise. However, the potential for over-drawing an arrow is higher. Dual cams are better for competitive shooters and prevent over-drawing, but they are often less accurate.
For beginners, it may be better to start off with a single cam to help improve accuracy and precision.
Handling and grip
When handling a bow, it’s important to properly grip it to avoid injury or missing a shot. The grip should be comfortable for your hand. Most grips are made from plastic, wood, rubber or certain types of metal. Some customizable grips offer additional flexibility.
Arrow weight
When it comes to hunting, arrow weight is another thing to consider. Lightweight arrows are faster than heavier ones and are ideal for long-distance shooting. They may be louder than heavy arrows, however.
Medium-weight or heavier arrows are usually better for hunting game, since they can better penetrate vital organs.
- Light arrows weigh around 350 grains
- Heavy arrows weigh 600+ grains
- Medium-weight arrows weigh 400 to 500 grains
Sound
Every hunting bow makes sound when in use. A bow that’s too noisy can scare away any game, so it’s important to properly tune it to keep the noise to a minimum. Beginner archers also tend to make more noise when shooting, due to a lack of practice and proper form. Higher-end bows are the quietest option, but a sound dampener or string silencer can also help cut back on sound.
How much you can expect to spend on a hunting bow
The average hunting bow that comes with a few arrows and quiver will cost between $500-$800. Hunting bows for beginners may cost only a few hundred dollars, while higher-end models can be $1,000 or more.
Hunting bow FAQ
What accessories do I need for my hunting bow?
A. Along with the bow itself, make sure you have a good set of arrows, hunting clothes, boots and a first-aid kit in case of injury. Other optional accessories include a different grip or sight, stabilizers and string silencers.
Where can I adjust and tune my hunting bow?
A: Archery shops and ranges can adjust or tune a bow for you. You can also practice tuning it by following an online tutorial. Some beginner hunting bows come with a guide on routine maintenance and care for the bow.
What’s the best hunting bow to buy?
Top hunting bow
What you need to know: This midrange hunting bow is customizable based on the user’s style and skill, which makes it ideal for beginners.
What you’ll love: With an adjustable 12- to 30-inch draw length and maximum draw weight of 70 pounds, this bow is ideal for hunting medium and larger game.
What you should consider: Some upgrades and accessories are not included.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon or Dick’s Sporting Goods
Top hunting bow for the money
GlassHarrier Compound Bow and Arrow for Adults and Teens
What you need to know: This is a great option for all skills levels.
What you’ll love: This hunting bow offers 320 FPS, a stabilizer and replacement strings and cables. It fires fast and has a draw weight of 70 pounds, is 100% adjustable for adults, youth and teens, is made in the U.S. and comes with various accessories.
What you should consider: There are higher-end hunting bows out there, though at a higher price point.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Diamond Archery Infinite Edge Pro Bow
What you need to know: With an adjustable draw weight from five to 70 pounds, this hunting bow is great for those that want to tune their archery skills for maximum accuracy.
What you’ll love: Along with a seamless draw and integral stabilizer, this bow is perfectly balanced and offers a steady shot. It also has several replaceable or upgradable components for ultimate customization.
What you should consider: This bow is best for beginners, rather than professional hunters. It could have a better sight.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | 2022-06-26T16:50:53+00:00 | cbs4indy.com | https://cbs4indy.com/reviews/br/camping-outdoors-br/hunting-br/best-hunting-bow/ |
RICKETTS, Jack Thomas
Age 89, of Springfield, passed away at home, with his family by his side on Monday, August 29, 2022. He was born on November 1, 1932, in Springfield, the son of the late Walter and Dorothy (Myers) Ricketts. Jack served his country in the United States Army, fighting on the front line and also a driver in the Korean War. He began working at A & J Market in his early twenties and soon knew everyone in the Oakcrest neighborhood. Even in his later years, he was thrilled to meet again people from the old neighborhood who still remembered him giving them ice cream with a good report card. While he continued working at A & J Market into his forties, he began working at City of Springfield and eventually retired from the city after 26 years. He was an avid woodworker and was a craft show vendor who sold the numerous crafts that he made. Traveling was a priority for Jack and Sandy. They enjoyed their trip to Jamaica every February for 25 years, while also attending many cruises until his wife became ill. He attended the Bowlusville/New Beginnings United Methodist Church where he gained many friends. No matter where Jack went, he always knew someone and never met a stranger. Everyone who knew him adored him and his legacy of living life to its fullest will forever continue in the lives he touched. In addition to his parents, Jack is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Phyllis "Sandy" Ricketts; and siblings, Connie Chaffin, Sue Reames, Walter Leroy Ricketts and Peggy June Ricketts. He is survived by his loving children, Mike (Susan) Ricketts of Cincinnati, Mark (Vikki) Ricketts of Springfield and Dottie Finney of Springfield; sister, Barb DeWell of Springfield; grandchildren, Camela (Andy) Wirick, Mark Thomas (Rachel) Ricketts, Tyler Ricketts, and twin granddaughters, Lauren and Hannah Finney "his Princesses"; three step-grandchildren, Donald (Nicole) Cottrell, Brooklyn (Steve) Radlowski and Natalie (Lonnie) Walker; ten great-grandchildren; best buddy for over 65 years, Ron Bradley; and numerous nieces and nephews. Viewing will be held on Friday, September 9, 2022, from 5-7p.m. at Jackson Lytle & Lewis Life Celebration Center. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2022, at 11a.m. at New Beginnings United Methodist Church, 5065 Old Mechanicsburg Rd., Springfield, OH 45503 with Pastor Craig Grammer officiating. He will be laid to rest at Ferncliff Cemetery following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the New Beginnings UMC or to Hospice of Dayton in honor of Jack. Condolences may be expressed to his family by visiting www.jacksonlytle.com. | 2022-09-04T05:33:43+00:00 | daytondailynews.com | https://www.daytondailynews.com/obituaries/ricketts-jack/RS5QEQ6VHZBPPNRRNU3DY727XA/ |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Public tours of the White House will return to a full operating schedule next month, after nearly a year and a half of disruptions due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Free tours of the executive mansion were suspended when President Joe Biden took office, as officials tightened virus protocols in line with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They resumed on a limited basis, being held only Friday and Saturday mornings, on April 15, and will return to their normal schedule from Tuesday through Saturday, excluding federal holidays, beginning on July 19.
The White House said Monday it will “continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation with guidance based on recommendations from the CDC, and other public health officials and medical experts, and reserves the right to adjust availability of the public tours as necessary to adhere to the latest health guidance.”
It added that, within 10 days prior to going on a tour, anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19, has had any virus symptoms, or been in close contact with someone who is suspected of having the virus “should stay home.”
Face masks will also be made available for visitors who want them, though use will be optional.
Tours had been canceled for months by then-President Donald Trump at the onset of the pandemic but resumed in September 2020 as he tried to project normalcy, prompting a new suspension when the Biden administration began.
Other White House events, including the Easter Egg Roll in April, have resumed this year after a two-year hiatus. | 2022-06-28T17:32:51+00:00 | pahomepage.com | https://www.pahomepage.com/news/politics/white-house-to-resume-its-full-tour-schedule-next-month/ |
NEW YORK, Aug. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Attention Kiromic BioPharma, Inc. ("Kiromic") (NASDAQ: KRBP) shareholders:
The Law Offices of Vincent Wong announce that a class action lawsuit has commenced on behalf of investors. This lawsuit is on behalf of a class consisting of persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired: (a) Kiromic common stock issued in connection with the Company's public offering that closed on July 2, 2021 and/or (b) Kiromic common stock between June 25, 2021 and August 13, 2021, both dates inclusive.
If you suffered a loss on your investment in Kiromic, contact us about potential recovery by using the link below. There is no cost or obligation to you.
ABOUT THE ACTION: The complaint alleges that the registration statement and prospectus issued in connection with the Company's public offering that closed on July 2, 2021 (the "Offering Documents") failed to disclose that the Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") had, prior to the filing of these documents, imposed a clinical hold on the Company's Investigational New Drug ("IND") applications for its two new drug candidates. Given that the offering closed on July 2, 2021, more than thirty (30) days after the Company submitted the IND applications for its two immunotherapy product candidates, investors were assured that no clinical hold had been issued and clinical trials would commence.
DEADLINE: October 4, 2022
Aggrieved Kiromic investors only have until October 4, 2022 to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. You are not required to act as a lead plaintiff in order to share in any recovery.
Vincent Wong, Esq. is an experienced attorney who has represented investors in securities litigations involving financial fraud and violations of shareholder rights. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
Vincent Wong, Esq.
39 East Broadway
Suite 304
New York, NY 10002
Tel. 212.425.1140
E-Mail: vw@wongesq.com
View original content:
SOURCE The Law Offices of Vincent Wong | 2022-08-15T11:02:17+00:00 | wsfa.com | https://www.wsfa.com/prnewswire/2022/08/15/class-action-alert-law-offices-vincent-wong-remind-kiromic-investors-lead-plaintiff-deadline-october-4-2022/ |
Orchestrated in part by the first lady, President Biden hosted French President Emmanuel Macron and several hundred other guests at the White House Thursday evening for his first state dinner as commander in chief.
State dinners honoring foreign leaders are a White House tradition dating back to the 1800s, the first of which welcomed King Kalakaua of Hawaii, hosted by President Ulysses S. Grant on Dec. 22, 1874. The occasion is a show of hospitality to some of the most powerful people and a sign of friendship, attended by U.S. and foreign officials, as well as actors, musicians and other stars.
Biden's dinner extends an olive branch to Macron after the United States torpedoed a nuclear submarine deal between France — America's oldest ally — and Australia last summer. The two leaders have spent the past few days discussing shared interests, culminating in a glamorous black tie event Thursday evening.
A look at the guest list
More than 300 additional guests made their way to the White House for Biden's party. Among them were members of the French and American elite, including business magnates, movie stars, TV personalities, musical artists, dozens of state and federal officials, military leaders and even a Medal of Honor recipient.
Some notable star attendees included actor Kurt Russell and actress Jennifer Garner, R&B singer John Legend — who played at Biden's 2021 inauguration, comedian and TV host Stephen Colbert.
From the government, attendees included Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, along with senators, representatives, governors, mayors and other officials.
House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy and his wife joined Biden and the Democrats for dinner.
And representing America's military were Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Medal of Honor recipient Army Cpt. Florent Groberg.
Grammy-award winning singer and songwriter Jon Batiste performed for Biden, Macron and guests after dinner concluded.
"We're thrilled to have him perform at the White House for the first state dinner of the Biden-Harris administration," said Vanessa Valdivia, spokesperson for first lady Jill Biden.
Dinner with a red, white and blue theme
The first lady said her red, white and blue design for Thursday's dinner was inspired by shared colors and values between France and the U.S.: liberty, democracy, equality and fellowship.
Tables set on the South Lawn of the White House displayed red roses, blue delphiniums and white irises, "...Which are the symbols of our nation's capital and of France — their intricate petals reflecting the interwoven history of our nations," the first lady said in a statement Wednesday.
As for the meal itself, the White House spared no expense. Lobsters were brought in from Maine and there was beef with shallot marmalade, prepared by White House Executive Chef Cris Comerford.
And for dessert, White House Executive Pastry Chef Susie Morrison presented the guests with orange chiffon cake, roasted pears topped off with crème fraiche ice cream, The Associated Press reported.
What the world leaders wore
Both presidents Biden and Macron sported classic black tuxedos for the evening, while their wives seized the opportunity to sport something more in tune with the event's color scheme. According to Vogue, Jill Biden wore a navy gown by Oscar de la Renta hanging off her shoulder neckline. It had long sleeves and a botanical lace pattern.
As for Brigitte Macron, she donned a white turtleneck dress with silver detailing at the waist and neckline.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2022-12-02T10:19:00+00:00 | mtpr.org | https://www.mtpr.org/2022-12-02/celebs-and-dignitaries-meet-at-the-white-house-for-bidens-state-dinner |
This is not a piece I was dying to write. It’s about death. The great equalizer. The reason I bring up the subject today is that I read a piece recently that scientists are looking seriously at ways to keep us alive forever. No more wakes. No more inflated obituaries. No more people saying nice things to the family about us they really didn’t mean. No more squabbling over who gets what in the estate.
Some deep-pocketed moguls seem to think there might be some big bucks in the effort. Big bucks, as in an estimated $610 billion by 2025. According to my abacus, that’s 2 1/2 years from now. This tells me that we must be worth more alive than dead. Sorry about that, estate planners.
Heavy hitters like Paul Thiel, co-founder of Pay Pal, and Jess Bezos, Amazon’s chairman, plus whoever is running Google these days are all funding initiatives to figure out a way to keep us — and them, I would assume — from kicking the bucket. The ideas range from “rejuvenating cells” to “hacking” the little boogers in order to “recode” them. If some nerdy kid locked away in his bedroom can hack my computer, how hard can hacking a cell be?
At a recent conference at the London Institute for Mathematical Sciences, which I was unable to attend because it occurred the same week I had scheduled to rearrange my sock drawer, director Thomas Fink told a Washington Post reporter that life could be engineered to live longer if we could figure out why we age in the first place. Scientists agree that all organisms degrade over time and eventually break down. That is probably why my knees ache.
Forrest Sheldon, an associate at the institute said he thinks that “if the aging process is a mechanism inside the cell controlled by a transcription program, we might be able to influence it.” I’ll take his word for it because I have no idea what he is talking about.
This isn’t the only effort at trying to figure out a way to help us achieve immortality, which I will say modestly that I think I have already managed to do, thanks to my witty and thought-provoking columns. (Pause for applause.)
There is cryonics where they freeze your body, hoping to figure out how to thaw you out, which seems still to be a bit of a problem. And then there is something called “mind-loading,” which involves scanning the brain accurately enough to copy it to a computer in digital form. The computer would then supposedly be able to experience feelings and have a conscience. What it would not be able to do is write witty and thought-provoking columns which, by the way, doesn’t require a conscience.
Searching for eternal life on this earth is nothing new. It has been going on for eons and to no avail. Remember Ponce de Leon who came to Florida supposedly looking for the Fountain of Youth? All he found was water that smells like rotten eggs and a tourism industry.
The big question that must be asked is do you really want to live forever? That means if you can, so can a nutcase like Vladimir Putin. And that little fat guy with the bad haircut who runs North Korea. And the Supreme Whoever in Iran who hates Israel and won’t let women ride bicycles. Not to mention the woke crowd, cancel culturists and robocallers.
On the other hand, I would have humor-impaired wingnuts on both ends of the political spectrum to gig into all eternity as well as more tut-tut special interest groups than a yard dog has fleas, assuring me of an endless supply of witty and thought-provoking columns and further immortality. Not to mention a bunch of cranky emails.
I could paint forever and eat banana pudding forever and avoid broccoli forever, hoping the stuff couldn’t get its cells hacked and might disappear forever. I could bleed Red-and-Black and never run dry and watch You-Know-Where Institute of Technology win three games a year into perpetuity.
Alas, scientists admit all of this is a long way off and might not even happen — not the three wins a year for YKWIT, that’s a given — I’m talking about staying alive forever. Evidently, hacking rejuvenated cells isn’t as easy as it sounds. Rats.
I guess I will just forget all the science talk and get back to churning out witty and thought-provoking columns. After all, there is more than one way to be immortal. | 2022-05-15T22:22:51+00:00 | albanyherald.com | https://www.albanyherald.com/opinion/dick-yarbrough-taking-the-easy-route-to-immortality/article_c363a4ce-d3e4-11ec-81f9-a72b7a4d4271.html |
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