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DENVER (AP) — A Black man died after a police encounter in a Denver suburb in 2019 because he was injected with a powerful sedative after being forcibly restrained, according to an amended autopsy report publicly released Friday.
Despite the finding, the death of Elijah McClain, a 23-year-old massage therapist, was still listed as undetermined, not a homicide, the report shows. McClain was put in a neck hold and injected with ketamine after being stopped by police in Aurora for “being suspicious.” He was unarmed.
The original autopsy report that was written soon after his death in August 2019 did not reach a conclusion about how he died or what type of death is was, such as if it was natural, accidental or a homicide. That was a major reason why prosecutors initially decided not to pursue charges.
But a state grand jury last year indicted three officers and two paramedics on manslaughter and reckless homicide charges in McClain’s death after the case drew renewed attention following the killing of George Floyd in 2020. It became a rallying cry during the national reckoning over racism and police brutality.
The five accused have not yet entered pleas and their lawyers have not commented publicly on the charges.
The findings of the amended autopsy report, updated in July 2021, echo an opinion included in the grand jury indictment handed down about two months later from an unspecified pathologist who concluded McClain died of complications of being injected with ketamine, a sedative, while being violently subdued and restrained by law enforcement and emergency responders. It is not clear whether that pathologist is the same one, Dr. Stephen Cina, who updated the autopsy report.
In the updated report, Cina concluded that the ketamine dosage given to McClain, which was higher than recommended for someone his size, “was too much for this individual and it resulted in an overdose. even though his blood ketamine level was consistent with a ‘therapeutic’ blood concentration.”
He also said he could not rule out that metabolic changes in McClain’s blood due to exertion during his restraint contributed to his death, and that there was no evidence that injuries inflicted by police caused his death.
“I believe that Mr. McClain would most likely be alive but for the administration of ketamine,” said Cina, who noted that body camera footage shows McClain becoming “extremely sedated” within a few minutes of being given the drug.
Cina acknowledged that other reasonable pathologists with different experience and training may have labeled such a death, while in police custody, as a homicide or accident, but that he believes the appropriate classification is undetermined.
Qusair Mohamedbhai, attorney for McClain’s mother, Sheneen McClain, declined a request for comment.
The updated autopsy was released Friday under a court order in a lawsuit brought by Colorado Public Radio, joined by other media organizations including The Associated Press. Colorado Public Radio sued the coroner to release the report after learning it had been updated, arguing that it should be made available under the state’s public records law.
Coroner Monica Broncucia-Jordan said she could not release it because it contained confidential grand jury information and that releasing it would violate the oath she made not to share it when she obtained it last year.
But Adams County District Judge Kyle Seedorf ordered the coroner to release the updated report by Friday, and a Denver judge who oversees state grand jury proceedings, Christopher Baumann, ruled Thursday that grand jury information did not have be redacted from the updated report.
McClain’s death fueled renewed scrutiny about the use of the ketamine and led Colorado’s health department to issue a new rule limiting when emergency workers can use it.
Last year, the city of Aurora agreed to pay $15 million to settle a lawsuit brought by McClain’s parents. The lawsuit alleged the force officers used against McClain and his struggle to survive it dramatically increased the amount of lactic acid in his system, leading to his death, possibly along with the large dose of ketamine he was given.
An outside investigation commissioned by the city faulted the police probe into McClain’s arrest for not pressing for answers about how officers treated him. It found there was no evidence justifying officers’ decision to stop McClain, who had been reported as suspicious because he was wearing a ski mask as he walked down the street waving his hands. He was not accused of breaking any law.
Police reform activist Candice Bailey had mixed emotions about seeing the amended autopsy.
“I do believe that it does get us a step closer to anything that is a semblance of justice,” said Bailey, an activist in the city of Aurora who has led demonstrations over the death of McClain.
But Bailey added that she is “extremely saddened that there is a still controversy around whether or not the EMTs and officers should be held responsible for what they did, and as to whether or not this was actually murder.”
___
Associated Press reporter Jesse Bedayn contribute to this report. Bedayn is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. | 2022-09-23T22:44:04+00:00 | wwlp.com | https://www.wwlp.com/news/ap-national-news/ap-amended-autopsy-black-man-died-due-to-sedative-restraint/ |
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LOS ANGELES (AP) — The final buzzer sounded and the party was on at Pauley Pavilion.
Jaime Jaquez Jr. rushed into the student section, his shaggy damp hair stuck to his face, and started bobbing up and down. He and his teammates celebrated with the fans after No. 4 UCLA beat eighth-ranked Arizona 81-73 on Saturday night to complete a 17-0 record at home in the teams' regular-season finale.
“We did it, but at the same time we're not done,” Jaquez said. “Now we got to go into the next half. To me, it's like a whole new season.”
Jaquez had 22 points and 10 rebounds, Tyger Campbell added 21 points and David Singleton had 17, making a season-best five 3-pointers, for the Bruins (27-4, 18-2 Pac-12). They went undefeated at home for the first time since 2006-07 and have won 25 in a row at Pauley Pavilion in the nation’s longest active home winning streak.
UCLA had already clinched the Pac-12 regular-season title, winning by four games over the Wildcats.
“To be able to be Pac-12 champs, win the way we did on our home court, it’s like a script,” Jaquez said.
Jaquez dunked to push UCLA's lead to 68-54. The Wildcats (25-6, 14-6) weren't done yet, despite Ažuolas Tubelis playing with four fouls. He scored consecutive baskets and Kylan Boswell hit a 3-pointer to cut Arizona's deficit to seven points.
But the Bruins put an exclamation point on the victory with six straight points that had the raucous crowd of 13,659 on its feet. Jaquez scored four points in a row, chasing the ball as it rolled down the court, grabbing it and putting it in the basket for a 74-61 lead.
“Our crowd was a huge factor,” coach Mick Cronin said. “Imagine if it was like that every night how big of an assist it would be for our team.”
Tubelis scored 16 of his 24 points in the first half for the Wildcats and had 10 rebounds before fouling out in the closing seconds. Also fouling out were Pelle Larsson (10 points) and Kerr Kriisa (13 points).
“We got beat by a team that was just better today,” Wildcats coach Tommy Lloyd said. "They were a more physical team for over a longer period of time. In the second half, they came out strong and we just didn’t.”
The Bruins ran off eight straight points coming out of halftime to lead 48-37. Adem Bona's three-point play launched a 14-6 run that extended their lead to 64-50. Bona picked up his third and fourth fouls during that stretch, while Tubelis did the same for Arizona.
Arizona raced to a 15-4 lead to start the game with Tubelis scoring 10 points. The Bruins shot 1 of 11 while Bona picked up two quick fouls and sat down the rest of the half.
Down 23-14, the Bruins ran off 15 straight points to take their first lead and went ahead 29-23. Jaylen Clark scored seven points in a row and Singleton began and ended the spurt with 3-pointers.
“We hung in there,” Cronin said. “Our defense kept us around.”
Tubelis got called for his second foul late in the half before the Bruins led 40-37 at the break.
BIG PICTURE
Arizona: The Wildcats head into the postseason having lost three of six games. “We’re excited," Lloyd said. “I love tournament basketball.”
UCLA: The Bruins go into next week's Pac-12 Tournament as the top seed, having won their first regular-season league title since 2012-13. They carry the momentum of a 10-game winning streak into Las Vegas.
CLARK HURT
Clark didn't return after getting hurt. He later appeared on the bench wearing a boot on his right foot. He'll have an MRI on Sunday. “Obviously, it's a blow if he's out,” Cronin said.
SENIORS HONORED The Bruins honored five seniors before the game: Campbell, Jaquez, Kenneth Nwuba, Singleton and Russell Stong. Jaquez’s father, Jaime, lifted Cronin off the floor in a huge hug. “It's not hard,” Cronin joked about the height difference. Jaquez Jr. laughed at the sight, saying, “I did not expect that at all.” Stong got his first start in his 36th career game. Cronin started all the seniors against the Wildcats. Singleton and Stong are fifth-year seniors with no eligibility remaining when the season ends. GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY UCLA’s 1972-73 national championship team was celebrated on its 50th anniversary. Led by Bill Walton and Jamaal Wilkes, the Bruins went 30-0 under coach John Wooden on their way to winning the program’s ninth national championship and seventh in a row. Walton, Wilkes, Larry Farmer and Sven Nater were among the team members who gathered at midcourt during halftime.
UP NEXT
Top-seeded UCLA plays in the quarterfinals of the Pac-12 Tournament on Thursday in Las Vegas. No. 2 seed Arizona also plays Thursday.
___
AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball and https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://twitter.com/AP_Top25 | 2023-03-05T06:48:31+00:00 | expressnews.com | https://www.expressnews.com/sports/article/no-4-ucla-beats-no-8-arizona-81-73-goes-17-0-17820661.php |
The New York Times was pummeled by critics for saying Thursday's congressional hearing featuring Democratic presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. "raised thorny questions" about whether misinformation is protected speech.
Kennedy appeared before the Weaponization of the Federal Government House Select Subcommittee to discuss how both the Trump and Biden administrations made efforts to censor him during the COVID pandemic, with social media companies banning his accounts.
During the hearing, House Democrats tried unsuccessfully to remove Kennedy from the hearing, prompting him to say, "This is an attempt to censor a censorship hearing."
ROBERT F. KENNEDY JR. HOPES TO SIDESTEP MEDIA'S ‘COMIC BOOK CHARACTERIZATIONS’ OF HIM
The Times' coverage of the hostile exchanges on Capitol Hill seemed far more sympathetic to the stance being held by the Democratic lawmakers.
"Despite the theater, the hearing raised thorny questions about free speech in a democratic society: Is misinformation protected by the First Amendment? When is it appropriate for the federal government to seek to tamp down the spread of falsehood?" the Times' Sheryl Gay Stolberg wrote Thursday.
The line of questions printed by the Times drew intense backlash on social media.
"Misinformation is free speech," National Review contributor Pradheep J. Shanker simply answered.
RFK JR. OFF BIDEN FAMILY CORRUPTION ALLEGATIONS: WON'T BE A ‘SPEAR TIP TO MY CAMPAIGN’
"Even 10 years ago, journalists would be too embarrassed to say the US Govt has a role to play in censoring the internet to ‘tamp down’ on ‘falsehoods.’ Because online censorship is now so central to the liberal establishment, they don't realize how twisted it is to say this," independent journalist Glenn Greenwald reacted. "It's also staggering to see a NYT journalist muse that ‘misinformation’ isn't ‘protected by the 1st Amendment.’ The NYT spent 18 months telling Americans that Saddam had WMDs. This would mean there'd be no barrier to prosecute or sue the NYT for spreading that disinformation."
"Hard to believe mainstream media journalists are now openly expressing their ignorance of basic First Amendment principles because their political ideology has now made opposing free speech a key tenant of the party platform," Outkick writer Ian Miller tweeted.
"This would require a National Bureau of Checking Facts that produces an Official Version of the Truth," Wall Street Journal film critic Kyle Smith satirized.
"Yes, this paragraph appeared in @nytimes. Which appears to have completely, totally lost its way and forgotten the business it is in," Substack writer Alex Berenson tweeted.
"It is horrifying," conservative radio host Tony Katz replied.
DEMOCRATS TRY TO CENSOR, REMOVE RFK JR. AT HEARING ON CENSORSHIP
Versus Media Podcast host Stephen L. Miller used the Times' own reporting against the paper, sharing the infamous 2020 headline that read "Senator Tom Cotton Repeats Fringe Theory of Coronavirus Origins," which cast doubt in the Wuhan lab-leak theory in the early weeks of the pandemic.
"I don't know. Let's start here," Miller told the Times.
The Times did not immediately respond to Fox News' request for comment. | 2023-07-22T14:28:34+00:00 | foxbangor.com | https://www.foxbangor.com/news/national/nyt-panned-for-saying-rfk-jr-hearing-raised-thorny-questions-whether-misinformation-is-protected-speech/article_a67c5349-76a6-5ec5-8a4c-db23476b9605.html |
Thieves key on hack that leaves Hyundai, Kia cars vulnerable
DETROIT (AP) — Some Hyundai and Kia cars and SUVs are missing a “key” anti-theft device, and thieves know.
An insurance industry group says these cars are stolen at nearly twice the rate of the rest of the auto industry because their keys lack computer chips for theft “immobilizer” systems.
The thefts apparently started in the Milwaukee area two years ago and spread to multiple Midwest cities and as far away as Colorado and New Mexico after instructional videos appeared on social media.
The Highway Loss Data Institute, a unit of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, found that Hyundais and Kias without immobilizers had a vehicle theft claim rate of 2.18 per 1,000 insured vehicle years. The rest of the industry combined had a rate of 1.21. An insured vehicle year is equal to one vehicle insured for one year.
The institute, which issued its findings on Thursday, compared vehicles from the 2015 through 2019 model years. It studied vehicle theft claims from 2021.
Chip keys, which started to show up in the 1990s, communicate with another chip in the ignition switch. If they match, the engines will start. If they don’t match, a thief can’t start the engine.
Keys don’t have an immobilizer system in several lower-priced versions of vehicles from the two South Korean automakers such as the Kia Rio and Sportage and the Hyundai Accent, the institute said.
“Our earlier studies show that vehicle theft losses plunged after immobilizers were introduced,” said Matt Moore, senior vice president of the institute. “Unfortunately, Hyundai and Kia have lagged behind other automakers in making them standard equipment.”
In the 2015 model year, immobilizers were standard on 96% of other manufacturers’ models, the institute said. But they were standard on only 26% of Hyundai and Kia models. The carmakers haven’t explained their decision to not include immobilizers on some models.
Videos show thieves prying the ignition cover off the Hyundai and Kia vehicles, then using a screwdriver or USB cable to start them and drive away.
Last year in Milwaukee, 66% of the 10,476 stolen vehicles were Hyundais or Kias, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel newspaper. The number of thefts has slowed in the city so far this year. Through Sept. 12, 6,048 vehicles were taken, but 58% of them were Hyundais or Kias, Milwaukee police said Thursday.
One 17-year-old theft suspect in a viral video about Kia thefts was arrested after police used the video and an anonymous tip to track him down, the Journal Sentinel reported. He could face up to 22 years in prison.
Hyundai and Kia both conceded in statements that thieves are stealing some of their vehicles and said they meet federal safety standards. “It is unfortunate that criminals are using social media to target vehicles without engine immobilizers in a coordinated effort,” Kia said.
All 2022 Kias got immobilizers either at the start of or during the model year. Hyundai said all models produced after Nov. 1, 2021 have immobilizers as standard equipment.
Kia says it’s working to provide steering wheel locks at no cost to authorities in affected areas to deter thefts. Hyundai said it’s also providing the locks to police, and that in October, it will start selling a security kit that targets the thieves’ methods.
The institute’s Moore said the vulnerable Hyundais and Kias rank among the 20 most popular vehicles with thieves, a distinction normally reserved for high-powered or expensive vehicles, or pickup trucks. The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat had the highest rate of theft claims.
Many of the vulnerable Hyundais and Kias are often bought by lower-income people. “These are relatively inexpensive vehicles when purchased new,” Moore said. Owners of some of the models may have dropped comprehensive insurance to save money, and may have had to replace the cars on their own, he said.
To help prevent theft, owners should roll up windows, lock doors and take the key or fob with them, the National Insurance Crime Bureau says. They should park in well-lighted areas or a garage. If they have to park outdoors, owners should consider installing motion-sensor lights.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2022-09-22T12:02:08+00:00 | wnem.com | https://www.wnem.com/2022/09/22/thieves-key-hack-that-leaves-hyundai-kia-cars-vulnerable/ |
HIGHLIGHTS
- The phased expansion scenario will potentially position Sigma Lithium as the world's fourth largest lithium producer.
- Sigma Lithium is in construction of a greentech lithium processing plant integrated with its own lithium ore feedstock.
- The technical report projects results for an integrated, multi-stage approach to development of Phase 1 and Phase 2 production of Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium as follows:
- Sigma Lithium's integrated technical report encompasses just two initial production phases of the Grota do Cirilo Project (Phase 1 and Phase 2). Sigma Lithium continues to work on the remaining six former artisanal mines within its properties in order to prepare them for potential development.
- Expected to produce 270,000 tpa of Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium (36,700 tpa LCE).
- Estimates annual steady-state free cash flow of US$455 million over the 8 years of operation.
- After-tax NPV8% of US$2.6 billion, IRR of 571% over an 8-year operating life, and payback period of just 3 months.
- Average All-In Sustaining Costs projected to be US$459/t (cash production costs plus royalties and transportation costs CIF China)
- Expected to produce an additional 261,100 tpa of Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium (35,500 tpa LCE).
- Estimates annual steady-state free cash flow of US$342 million over the 12 years of operation.
- After-tax NPV8% of US$2.4 billion, IRR of 764% over a 12-year operating life, and payback period of just 2 months.
- Average All-In Sustaining Costs projected to be US$453/t (cash production costs plus royalties and transportation costs CIF China)
- Combined Phase 1 + Phase 2 has the potential to be one of the lowest-cost operations globally of Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium.
- Sigma Lithium is expected to produce the world's most environmentally responsible lithium:
- Grota do Cirilo is located in Brazil, a tier-1 metals and mining operating jurisdiction with existing complete infrastructure: transmission power lines, roads and ports.
VANCOUVER, BC, May 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SIGMA Lithium Corporation ("Sigma Lithium" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: SGML, TSXV: SGML), dedicated to powering the next generation of electric vehicles with environmentally sustainable and high-purity lithium, is pleased to announce the filing of its consolidated Phase 1 DFS and Phase 2 PFS Update of the NI 43-101 Technical Report (the "Consolidated Technical Report") for its 100% owned Grota do Cirilo Project (the "Project" or "Grota do Cirilo"). The Consolidated Technical Report incorporates the Phase 1 Feasibility Study and a Phase 2 Pre-Feasibility Study, and demonstrates robust combined economics, highlighted by a combined after-tax NPV8% of US$5.1 billion and combined after-tax IRR of 589%.
"With Phase 1 funded and in construction, we are delighted to share our progress on Phase 2 and the combined economics of this fully-integrated lithium project," says Ana Cabral-Gardner, Co-CEO and Co-Chairperson of Sigma Lithium. "We remain focused on delivering Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium for the electric vehicle supply chain, while continuing to focus on lifting the most vulnerable members of our local communities in Vale do Jequitinhonha, Brazil."
The Consolidated Technical Report considers a fully integrated and environmentally sustainable production of battery grade high purity lithium concentrate ("Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium"), with feedstock spodumene ore sourced from its Phase 1 and Phase 2 lithium deposits. The combined operation increases average run-rate production to 531,000 tpa of Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium. Additionally, Grota do Cirilo's operating life has been extended by more than 50% to 13 years with the addition of Phase 2 production from the initial eight years in the Phase 1 Feasibility Study.
The Consolidated Technical Report estimates US$76 million of additional capital expenditures to build a "second production line" to produce Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium in a Phase 2.
The key factors influencing the robust Consolidated Technical Report economics include:
- high average feed grades of 1.55% Li2O for Phase 1 and 1.37% Li2O for Phase 2; and
- The superior recovery rates achieved by the greentech plant in the dense media separation ("DMS") circuit of 65.0% for Phase 1 and 57.9% for Phase 2.
The Company expects to announce an updated mineral resource estimate in the second quarter of 2022, with the goal of determining the potential for a further production expansion ("Phase 3"). A Preliminary Economic Assessment on Phase 3 is expected to be completed at the end of the second quarter or early in the third quarter of 2022.
The Company has filed the Consolidated Technical Report and it is available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com), EDGAR (www.sec.gov) and the Company's corporate website. The Consolidated Technical Report is NI 43-101 compliant and was issued on May 25, 2022. The Consolidated Technical Report was prepared for Sigma Lithium by: Homero Delboni Jr., MAusIMM, Promon Engenharia; Marc-Antoine Laporte, P. Geo, SGS Canada Inc; Jarret Quinn, P. Eng., Primero Group Americas; Porfirio Cabaleiro Rodriguez, (MEng), FAIG, GE21 Consultoria Mineral; and Brian Talbot, FAusIMM, Rtek Pty Ltd.
The Grota do Cirilo Phase 1 and Phase 2 after-tax NPV8% and after-tax IRR of US$5.1 billion and 589% were calculated based on an average annual production run-rate of 531,000 tonnes of Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium and a 13-year operating life. A financial summary for the Project is included in Table 1 below, which demonstrates the robust economics for the production of Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium for the following concentrations of lithium oxide: 6.0%, 5.5% and 5.2%.
Table 1: Phase 1 & 2 Financial Summary
Table 2 below highlights the robust Phase 1 only standalone economics for the production of Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium for the following concentrations of lithium oxide: at 6.0%, 5.5% and 5.2%.
Table 2: Phase 1 Only Financial Summary
Table 3 below highlights the robust Phase 2 only standalone economics for the production of Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium for the following concentrations of lithium oxide: at 6.0%, 5.5% and 5.2%.
Table 3: Phase 2 Only Financial Summary
Grota do Cirilo's average revenue and operating costs per tonne of Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium are outlined in Table 4 below. The lithium prices forecasted are based on the Benchmark Mineral Intelligence curve of battery grade lithium hydroxide (LiOH) shown in Figure 1, with the price of the Battery Grade Sustainable lithium calculated based on a fixed percentage of 9% of the LiOH price. This is based on an average Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium price of US$3,159/t for 2022 to 2026, with a long-term Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium price of US$1,710/t from 2027 to 2035.
Table 4: Grota do Cirilo Integrated Estimated Revenue and Operating Costs
Given the relatively low capital intensity of the Project, the after-tax NPV8% shows low sensitivity to changes in capex, BRL/USD exchange rate and operating expenses. Grota do Cirilo's after-tax NPV8% is more sensitive to variations in Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium prices, as reflected in Figure 2 below.
In addition to the remaining US$111 million pre-production Phase 1 capex (which is already fully funded), the Consolidated Technical Report estimates US$76 million of additional capex to build a "second production line" to produce Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium process in a Phase 2. This Phase 2 expansion is expected to be constructed during the first year of production for Phase 1 at the Project, with Phase 2 production expected to commence in the second year of production.
The Phase 1 capex was estimated at a FEL3 level of engineering detail, whereby the engineering firms provided pricing quotations from qualified suppliers for all areas of construction (summarized in Table 5 below).
- This FEL3 quoting exercise was led by the procurement teams at Promon Engenharia Ltda., for infrastructure, services, buildings and bulk earthworks; Primero Group Ltd ("Primero") for crushing plant and DMS plant; and GE21 Consultoria Mineral ("GE21") for mining.
The pre-production Phase 2 capex to construct the "second production line" (including all direct and indirect costs and contingencies in each line item) is summarized in Table 5 below and was estimated with an accuracy of ±25%.
- Primero provided the estimates related to infrastructure, services, buildings, bulk earthworks, crushing and DMS. GE21 provided the estimates related to mining capex.
Table 5: Capex to Commercial Production
The operating cost estimate is based on an owner-operated model with contract mining. Table 6 below shows the anticipated average operating costs over the operating life.
Mining costs were estimated based on a quoted proposal from a large Brazilian mining contractor, selected after an extensive tender process by the Company and its mining consultant, GE21.
Grota do Cirilo Battery Grade Sustainable Lithium is forecasted to have very low All-in Sustaining Costs (CIF China) of US$455/t, mainly as a result of the following:
- high-grade and low impurities, as well as large crystal mineralization of the spodumene feed;
- high recoveries achieved in the green tech plant DMS;
- low overall processing costs of the DMS, resulting from its streamlined processing circuit (with less processing steps), therefore utilizing less electricity, water and chemical ingredients than a typical lithium flotation plant; and
- low local G&A costs in Brazil.
Grota do Cirilo's mining costs have decreased from the standalone Phase 1 operation partially as a result of a lower Phase 2 strip ratio (waste mined per ore mined) of 12.5 versus the Phase 1 strip ratio of 16.6.
Table 6: Grota do Cirilo Operating Cost Estimate
The mining and mineral reserve estimates in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Porfirio Cabaleiro Rodriguez P.Eng, Mining Engineer of GE21 Consultoria Mineral Brazil. Mr. Rodriguez is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and is independent of Sigma Lithium.
The technical and scientific information related to geology and mineral resource estimate in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Marc-Antoine Laporte P.Geo., M.Sc., of SGS Geological Services. Mr. Laporte is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and is independent of Sigma Lithium.
The financial information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Brian Talbot BSc Engineering (Chemical), FAusIMM. Mr. Talbot is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and is independent of Sigma Lithium.
The technical and scientific information related to DMS recoveries in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Jarrett Quinn, P.Eng., Primero Group Americas Inc. Mr. Quinn is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and is independent of Sigma Lithium.
Sigma Lithium (NASDAQ: SGML, TSXV: SGML) is a Canadian company dedicated to powering the next generation of electric vehicle batteries with environmentally sustainable and high-purity lithium.
Sigma Lithium is currently in construction at its wholly owned Grota do Cirilo Project in Brazil, which includes a state-of-the-art, green-tech processing plant that uses 100% renewable energy, 100% recycled water and 100% dry-stack tailings. The project also represents one of the largest and highest-grade hard rock lithium spodumene deposits in the Americas. Since inception, Sigma has devoted itself to strong ESG practices, from its ongoing support of local communities to its goal of achieving net zero by 2024. For more information about Sigma Lithium, visit https://www.sigmalithiumresources.com/
Sigma Lithium
This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation, including but not limited to statements relating to timing and costs related to the delivery of additional incremental production at varying grades, NPV, IRR and payback estimates, increase in after tax cash flow, expected strip ratios, potential to be among the lowest cost producers in the industry, production, operating and capital cost estimates (including sustaining costs and improvements in respect thereof), all estimates and assumptions relating to the economic analysis and financial summary including but not limited to revenue and production estimates, operating life, plant recoveries and feedstock estimates, lithium prices, mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates (including assumptions and estimates used in preparing the mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates), Phase 3 projections, economic development in the jurisdictions in which Sigma Lithium operates, the general business and operational outlook of the Company, and other forward-looking information. All statements that address future plans, activities, events, estimates, expectations or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur is forward-looking information, including statements regarding the potential development of mineral resources and mineral reserves which may or may not occur. Forward-looking information contained herein is based on certain assumptions regarding, among other things: general economic and political conditions; the stable and supportive legislative, regulatory and community environment in the jurisdictions where the Company operates; anticipated trends and effects in respect of the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic; the military conflict in Ukraine and related sanctions; demand for lithium, including that such demand is supported by growth in the electric vehicle market; the Company's market position and future financial and operating performance; the Company's estimates of mineral resources and mineral reserves, including whether mineral resources will ever be developed into mineral reserves; and the Company's ability to develop and achieve production at its mineral projects.
Although management believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that these assumptions and expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking information inherently involves and is subject to risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to that the Company may not develop its mineral projects into a commercial mining operation; the market prices for lithium may not remain at current levels; and the market for electric vehicles and other large format batteries currently has limited market share and no assurances can be given for the rate at which this market will develop, if at all, which could affect the success of the Company and its ability to develop lithium operations. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. For more information on the risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause our actual results to differ from current expectations, please refer to the current annual information form of the Company and other public filings available under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
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SOURCE Sigma Lithium Corporation | 2022-05-26T13:58:11+00:00 | wafb.com | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/05/26/sigma-lithium-announces-filing-technical-report-with-outstanding-economic-results-integrated-phase-1-amp-2-projected-production-after-tax-npv-us51-billion-amp-average-annual-free-cash-flow-us595-million-continues-evaluating-phase-3/ |
UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The U.N. General Assembly adopted a resolution Thursday accusing the Taliban of violating the human rights of Afghan women and girls, failing to establish a representative government, and plunging the country into “dire economic, humanitarian and social conditions.”
The resolution also pointed to persistent violence in the country since the Taliban takeover 15 months ago and the presence of terrorist groups such as al-Qaida and the Islamic State and their affiliates as well as the presence of “foreign terrorist fighters.”
Germany’s U.N. ambassador, Antje Leendertse, had hoped the 193-member General Assembly would approve the German-facilitated resolution by consensus.
But a vote was requested and it was adopted 116-0, with 10 countries abstaining — Russia, China, Belarus, Burundi, North Korea, Ethiopia, Guinea, Nicaragua, Pakistan and Zimbabwe. Sixty-seven countries did not vote.
General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, unlike Security Council resolutions, but they do reflect world opinion.
The adoption came the same day that the Taliban, which already banned girls from middle school and high school, prohibited women from using gyms and parks.
Before the vote, Leendertse told the assembly that since the Taliban came to power in August 2021 Afghanistan has seen “a massive economic contraction and humanitarian crisis” which has left half the population facing “critical levels of food insecurity.”
“We expect a harsh winter and levels of needs that we have not seen in the last decades with little prospect for economic recovery and reduction of poverty,” she warned.
Introducing the resolution, Leendertse told the assembly that the Taliban control the country but aren’t living up to their responsibility toward meeting the needs of the Afghan people.
“The resolution is a clear call to respect, protect and fulfill human rights, develop inclusive governance and fight terrorism,” she said. “It contains a clear message that without that, there cannot be business as usual and no pathway toward recognition.”
The resolution pledges continued U.N. support for the Afghan people “in order to rebuild a stable, secure and economically self-sufficient state, free of terrorism, narcotics, transnational organized crime, including trafficking in persons, and corruption, and to strengthen the foundations of a constitutional democracy as a responsible member of the international community.”
It calls for improved access for aid workers and recognizes the need to help address Afghanistan’s economic challenges, including efforts to restore the banking and financial systems and enabling Central Bank assets -- held mainly in the United States -- to be used to help the Afghan people.
The resolution expresses deep concern at human rights abuses against women and girls, including sexual violence, and calls on the Taliban to promote “full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women in all aspects of Afghan society.”
It condemns all attacks, reprisals and violence against journalists and media workers and calls for their perpetrators to be brought to justice.
The resolution reaffirms the assembly’s expectation that the Taliban will live up to its commitments to allow the safe departure of all Afghans and foreign nationals that want to leave the country. | 2022-11-11T02:53:00+00:00 | lmtonline.com | https://www.lmtonline.com/news/article/UN-Taliban-has-plunged-Afghanistan-into-dire-17575934.php |
Lightyear / June 17 / Local Theaters
To theaters and beyond! The new Disney Pixar movie "Lightyear" shows the origin story of everyone's favorite space ranger, Buzz Lightyear. The film blasts into a theater near you Friday.
Classic Yach Rendezvous / June 18-19 / Bell Harbor Marina
Treat dad and the whole family to some beautiful boats over Father's Day weekend. The Classic Yacht Association, Bell Harbor Rendezvous will have stunning classic motor yachts on display. This free event happens Saturday and Sunday at the Bell Harbor Marina in Seattle.
Howard Jones / June 17 / Tulalip Resort Casino
It's been almost four decades since Musician Howard Jones wrote the songs that made him an 80s radio staple. You can hear his hits plus some new songs too when he plays at the Tulalip Resort and Casino tomorrow night.
Fremont Solstice Parade / June 18 / Fremont
One of Seattle's most whimsical events is back. The 32nd annual Fremont Solstice Parade returns with human-powered floats, dancers, and of course, the naked cyclists. The parade happens Saturday afternoon in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood.
KING 5's Evening celebrates the Northwest. Contact us: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Email. | 2022-06-17T02:55:14+00:00 | king5.com | https://www.king5.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/evening/celebration-32nd-annual-fremont-solstice-parade-lightyear-howard-jones/281-77d350ff-8760-4659-9366-64e76de5c0c5 |
FELTHAM, England , March 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Nomad Foods Limited (NYSE: NOMD) today announced that Stefan Descheemaeker, Chief Executive Officer, and Anthony Bucalo, Head of Investor Relations, will participate in a fireside chat at the UBS Global Consumer and Retail Conference to be held in New York, NY on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 8:00 a.m. ET. An audio webcast of the fireside chat will be made available on Nomad Foods' website at http://www.nomadfoods.com.
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.
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SOURCE Nomad Foods Limited | 2023-03-09T22:46:51+00:00 | witn.com | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2023/03/09/nomad-foods-participate-fireside-chat-ubs-global-consumer-retail-conference-march-16-2023/ |
Insider: Colton Herta's loss of F1 shot shines light on FIA's imperfect Super License system
Colton Herta never wanted to be the center of the motorsports world’s latest political firestorm. The 22-year-old American driver just wanted to pursue his Formula 1 dreams, having already spent two of his formative years in Europe, flaming out on the junior formula ladder. Six years later, having all but given up hope, his father and manager, Bryan Herta, had nearly half of the F1 grid trying to get his cell phone number.
What changed? Colton Herta, arguably, projects no better a talent now than he did more than three years ago. Speaking strictly about black-and-white results, Herta just registered the worst full-time season of his IndyCar career (10th-place in points) with more finishes outside the top-10 than in it. And at 22, he’s reaching the older end of when F1 drivers tend to make their debut. In two or three short years, he’s said previously, he’d be seen as too old to be considered for a first shot.
What changed, you ask? One team – McLaren, in this case – took the opportunity to see what Herta could do in proper F1 machinery, instead of attempting to translate his results from an ultra-competitive IndyCar field. McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown laughed at the idea he’d ever share Herta’s actual testing data from his July outing at Portimao with other F1 teams, but he’s since fielded enough calls from fellow team principals and expects enough mechanics to gossip to know word of Herta’s legitimately crisp F1 speed and handling would make its rounds.
It’s why, in recent weeks, when Herta’s only previous F1 hope had been Michael Andretti’s failed attempt to buy a controlling interest of Alfa Romeo F1, and then to create an expansion team, his father has fielded outreach from Alpine and Alpha Tauri. Outside Sebastien Bourdais’s ill-fitted jump to Red Bull’s B Team after his four consecutive Champ Car titles 15 years ago, no American open-wheel racing driver has leapt – or, frankly, been given the opportunity – into F1 since Juan Pablo Montoya more than 20 years ago.
Whoever has or hasn’t come before Herta, Red Bull’s Christian Horner, Helmut Marko and Franz Tost, among others, have been trying to to clear a seat for Herta by shipping away one of just two drivers to score an F1 win for Alpha Tauri.
Herta weighing potential F1 jump:'It's a big question mark'
'I do think I'm fast enough':Herta details two-day F1 test with McLaren
Insider:How Herta became a budding international racing star — and America's Formula 1 hope
Brown, who currently has Herta under an F1 contract and is the lone team principal to know just how good he is, is actively spouting the young driver’s praise, knowing full well doing so may strip the talent from McLaren’s driver pool.
And yet, a series that has gone from 0 U.S. races to 3 in 11 years, including one owned by an American media company and which has seen a viral Netflix docuseries exponentially grow F1's American fan base, is prepared to let a poorly-crafted licensing system keep away its first legitimate American prospect in seven years.
After the FIA released a statement to Motorsport.com last weekend promising it wouldn’t be “pressured by any teams into decisions on matters such as Super License points” and that its new president Mohammed bin Sulayem would abide by the system’s “robust governance”, Marko, a senior advisor for Red Bull, told reporters Friday that Alpha Tauri had opted to shelve its pursuit of Herta, who currently stands eight points shy of the 40-point threshold needed to obtain a Super License.
“It’s a shame that people don’t realize what value an American driver, especially a guy like Colton Herta, would have for the booming American market, especially with three F1 races,” he said.
Part of that statement feeds into the narrative that the Hertas have pushed against in recent weeks – that Colton should receive clearance because he’s the best young American racing talent on the market and F1 should be bending over backwards to cater to its fast-growing American audience.
By no means does Herta want a free pass. Alpha Tauri’s requests in recent weeks for the FIA to take a hard look at its current Super License system have had nothing to do with strictly trying to fast-track an American driver into the fold for the sake of doing so – and everything to do with hoping to take advantage of a legitimately fast driver who brings something significant to market around.
Alpha Tauri hoped the ‘force majeure’ clause added in response to the pandemic might be able to be used to retroactively include Herta’s Indy Lights points that had previously been tossed because of the series’ small field. That request was doomed from the start but what it should’ve done for those in charge was shed enough light on the silliness that a driver with Herta’s resume is currently barred because of his resume.
At the moment, Herta has accumulated 32 of the requisite 40 Super License points necessary to be eligible for a seat in 2023. As eye-popping as Herta’s win (7) and pole (9) totals are to those who acutely understand IndyCar’s level of competition and depth of its field, those numbers mean nothing to the FIA. According to their system, thrown together nearly a decade ago in response to Toro Rosso (now Alpha Tauri) hiring a 17-year-old Max Verstappen with just 1 year of car racing experience, all that matters is Herta hasn’t strung together the proper season-long points finishes it deems necessary.
By that system, finishing 3rd in F3 is just as valuable and should be looked upon just as highly as 3rd in IndyCar. Beyond 3rd-place, the FIA actually awards more points for every position back to 10th for an F3 driver than it does one in IndyCar.
And through that system, this year’s Indy Lights champ Linus Lundqvist, who finished 3rd in Indy Lights in 2021 and 1st in the Formula Regional Americas championship in 2020, could now be hired by an F1 team, with his 43 Super License points. Herta cannot.
“It’s great for me, but it just shows how the system needs improving,” Lundqvist told reporters at Laguna Seca. “There’s no way in this world where I’m more qualified to be an F1 driver than Colton Herta. That’s not how it’s supposed to be.”
Added Ericsson, who raced five years in F1: “I understand you have rules for a reason. But the way IndyCar is undervalued in the F1 world is pretty ridiculous. To value IndyCar between F2 and F3, those are like kids racing pretty much. That’s what I’m more upset about. If you’re in the top-10 in the IndyCar championship, for me, you’re 100% qualified to drive in F1.
“Winning races here? No question you can race in F1.”
Those in F1 have tended to fall back on “the rules” and push against the idea Herta should be given an exemption without bringing any sort of proactive approaches to the table. Alfa Romeo and Haas team bosses Frederic Vasseur and Guenther Steiner said recently they’d be willing to see the points system amended. At the same time, Steiner, who may be in the market to hire a driver in the coming weeks, said Herta’s not on his radar strictly because of his Super License status.
Brown believes that the FIA, under bin Sulayem’s reign, is taking stock of everything he inherited as the new governing body president, but whether the Super License system actually gets touched remains to be seen.
“Half the field (in IndyCar) is F1-capable,” Brown said a week ago. “If someone who’s won a lot of IndyCar races isn’t eligible for a Super License, then I think we need to review the Super License system.”
I see the other side: What are rules if not for following? And governing bodies exist to prevent organizations from making decisions driven by money that wouldn’t be good for the sport. At some point, though, common sense has to prevail. The unfortunate part is this: The first American open-wheel driver in 15 years to to earn a second look, who a team actively wants to hire, may help bring about the proper change, but there’s no indication this opportunity will be around for Herta in a year to take advantage of.
If nothing changes, Herta could still finish top-3 in points in IndyCar in 2023 and earn himself a Super License, but who’s to say he’s going to have anywhere he can use it?
Alpha Tauri’s moves this offseason may set them up for the near-future, as McLaren has done and as Alpine likely will have done soon. At a time when Verstappen is closing in on the most dominant season the sport’s ever seen, the irony is a licensing system created in response to his hiring to make it tougher for teams to make outside-the-box hires may keep America’s best young racing talent from a dream he easily deserves.
“I don’t think it hurt to ask the question,” said Bryan Herta. “But I think it’s uncomfortable with people – team owners, other drivers – making comments specific to Colton. I don’t think he wants to go there as some kind of special case. I think he wants to take a chance at F1, and I believe he’s good enough to deserve that chance, but you also don’t want to go over there with an asterisk walking in.” | 2022-09-17T09:31:35+00:00 | indystar.com | https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/motor/2022/09/17/colton-herta-his-lost-f1-shot-means-super-license-system-must-change/69484813007/ |
KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) — A group of Ugandan activists launched a legal challenge Monday to controversial new legislation criminalizing some internet activity in the East African country.
Their petition to the constitutional court argues that the description of computer-related crimes in the bill enacted with President Yoweri Museveni’s signature last week violates the right to freedom of expression and criminalizes some digital work, including investigative journalism.
In presenting their petition at the court in the capital, Kampala, the petitioners were backed by silent protesters who carried multiple placards saying “This law is worth breaking.”
The legislation increased the restrictions introduced in a controversial 2011 law on the misuse of computers. The legislation, passed by the national assembly in September, was brought by a lawmaker who said it was necessary to deter those who hide behind computers to hurt others.
The new law proposes jail terms of up to seven years in some cases, including for offenses related to the transmission of information about a person without their consent, as well as the sharing or intercepting of information without authorization.
“Yes, we live in the digital space. But do you have the right to take my picture and use it for your interests?” Muhammad Nsereko, the lawmaker who brought the bill, told the AP by phone Monday.
Opponents of the law say it will stifle freedom of expression in a country where many of Museveni’s opponents — for years unable to stage street protests — often raise their concerns on Twitter and other online sites. Others say it will kill investigative journalism.
Critics range from the Committee to Protect Journalists to Amnesty International, which called the legislation “draconian.”
“This piece of legislation threatens the right to freedom of expression online, including the right to receive and impart information, on the pretext of outlawing unsolicited, false, malicious, hateful, and unwarranted information,” Amnesty International’s Muleya Mwananyanda said in a statement.
“It is designed to deliberately target critics of government and it will be used to silence dissent and prevent people from speaking out.”
While the law has useful provisions such as those protecting the right to privacy, including responsible coverage of children, “it introduces punitive penalties for anyone accused of so-called hate speech,” the statement added.
Museveni, 78, has held power in Uganda since 1986 and won re-election last year. Although he is popular among some Ugandans who praise him for restoring relative peace and economic stability, many of his opponents often describe his rule as authoritarian. | 2022-10-17T12:46:13+00:00 | wnct.com | https://www.wnct.com/news/international/ap-digital-activists-challenge-ugandas-harsh-new-internet-law/ |
WFO DALLAS / FT. WORTH Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Friday, November 4, 2022
_____
TORNADO WARNING
Severe Weather Statement
National Weather Service Fort Worth TX
520 PM CDT Fri Nov 4 2022
...THE TORNADO WARNING FOR SOUTHEASTERN HUNT AND NORTHWESTERN RAINS
COUNTIES IS CANCELLED...
The tornadic thunderstorm which prompted the warning has moved out
of the warned area. Therefore, the warning has been cancelled.
A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 800 PM CDT for north central
Texas.
...A TORNADO WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 530 PM CDT FOR CENTRAL
HOPKINS COUNTY...
At 519 PM CDT, a confirmed large and extremely dangerous tornado was
located near Cumby, or 8 miles southwest of Sulphur Springs, moving
northeast at 50 mph.
This is a PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION. TAKE COVER NOW!
HAZARD...Damaging tornado.
SOURCE...Weather spotters confirmed tornado still on ground.
IMPACT...You are in a life-threatening situation. Flying debris may
be deadly to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes
will be destroyed. Considerable damage to homes,
businesses, and vehicles is likely and complete destruction
is possible.
Locations impacted include...
Sulphur Springs, Cooper Lake State Park, Lake Sulphur Springs, Cooper
Lake, Martin Springs, New Birthright, Ridgeway and Peerless.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
To repeat, a large, extremely dangerous and potentially deadly
tornado is on the ground. To protect your life, TAKE COVER NOW! If
you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the
closest substantial shelter now! Get to an interior room on the
lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid windows.
The National Weather Service in Fort Worth has issued a
* Tornado Warning for...
Hopkins County in north central Texas...
* Until 545 PM CDT.
* At 522 PM CDT, a confirmed large and extremely dangerous tornado
was located near Sulphur Springs, moving northeast at 55 mph.
This is a PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION. TAKE COVER NOW!
HAZARD...Damaging tornado.
SOURCE...Weather spotters confirmed tornado. A confirmed
tornado was spotted heading for Sulphur Springs.
IMPACT...You are in a life-threatening situation. Flying debris
may be deadly to those caught without shelter. Mobile
homes will be destroyed. Considerable damage to homes,
businesses, and vehicles is likely and complete
destruction is possible.
* Locations impacted include...
Sulphur Springs, Cumby, Cooper Lake State Park, Lake Sulphur
Springs, Cooper Lake, Tira, Martin Springs, Weaver, New Birthright,
Ridgeway, Flora, Nelta, Dike and Peerless.
This includes Interstate 30 between mile markers 111 and 140.
tornado is on the ground. To protect your life, TAKE COVER NOW! Move
to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid
windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move
to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying
debris.
...A TORNADO WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 545 PM CDT FOR NORTH
CENTRAL FREESTONE AND SOUTHEASTERN NAVARRO COUNTIES...
At 524 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado
was located near Richland-Chambers Reservoir, or 18 miles east of
Corsicana, moving northeast at 45 mph.
HAZARD...Tornado.
SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation.
IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without
shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage
to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is
likely.
Richland-Chambers Reservoir and Eureka.
TAKE COVER NOW! If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a
vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter now! Get to an
interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid
windows.
* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...
Rockwall County in north central Texas...
Western Hunt County in north central Texas...
Eastern Collin County in north central Texas...
Northeastern Dallas County in north central Texas...
Southwestern Fannin County in north central Texas...
* Until 630 PM CDT.
* At 524 PM CDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line
extending from near Lucas to Sunnyvale, moving northeast at 55 mph.
HAZARD...65 mph wind gusts and penny size hail.
SOURCE...Radar indicated.
IMPACT...Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.
Dallas, Plano, Garland, Mesquite, McKinney, Richardson, Allen,
Rowlett, Wylie, Rockwall, Greenville, Balch Springs, Sachse,
Murphy, Royse City, Fairview, Heath, Princeton, Fate and Lucas.
This includes the following highways...
Interstate 20 between mile markers 480 and 482.
Interstate 30 between mile markers 58 and 100.
For your protection get inside a sturdy structure and stay away from
_____
Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | 2022-11-04T22:57:05+00:00 | lmtonline.com | https://www.lmtonline.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-DALLAS-FT-WORTH-Warnings-Watches-and-17559831.php |
WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Officials from the SPCA said they found the remains of an unidentified dog in Luzerne County.
According to SPCA Humane Officer Vickie VanGorder, the remains of a dog were found near a creek by Stanton and New Frederick Streets in Wilkes-Barre.
Investigators said the body was found wrapped in a towel, then put in a garbage bag, wrapped in tape, and placed near the creek.
VanGorder tells Eyewitness News a nearby business may have a surveillance camera facing the area the remains were found.
Officials said they are waiting on a veterinarian to come in to perform the cause of death. The dog was identified as an older female possibly mixed with a chihuahua.
“Anyone who can help us with any leads can contact me directly at 570-825-4111 x 112,” VanGorder told Eyewitness News.
The SPCA said it may not be a case of animal cruelty, they said the owner may not have had the funds to cremate the dog. If that is the case, the SPCA asked the owner of the dog to call VanGorder at her extension.
This incident is being investigated by the SPCA and Wilkes-Barre City Police. | 2022-11-26T01:01:10+00:00 | pahomepage.com | https://www.pahomepage.com/news/dog-remains-found-near-wilkes-barre-creek/ |
Disability can be difficult to talk about sensitively because of how embedded ableism is in our language, biases and perceptions of disability.
Conversations about disability are slowly increasing, especially when it comes to ableist language and how disabled people are represented in the media.
Disability advocate Talila A. Lewis' working definition of ableism is a "system that places value on people's bodies and minds based on societally constructed ideas of normalcy, intelligence and excellence."
NPR spoke to Cara Reedy, the director and founder of the Disabled Journalists Association, and Rosemary McDonnell-Horita of LaVant Consulting, a disability-focused communications firm, about common ableist tropes, the importance of avoiding them and how to talk sensitively about disability.
Common tropes to avoid
Avoid inspirational narratives
Inspirational narratives of disability are directly tied to a term called "inspiration porn." Coined by activist Stella Young, inspiration porn is defined as "objectifying disabled people for the benefit of nondisabled people."
McDonnell-Horita said an example of inspiration porn is the viral videos that get spread around prom season of a high school football player asking a girl with Down syndrome to prom. Being asked to prom is something that almost everyone wants, she said. But videos of disabled people getting asked to prom get amplified because society perceives disabled people as pitiable and "unlovable." This is just one example of how inspiration porn degrades, exploits and others disabled people.
"It's really dangerous to have that be the trope because then it really limits and continues to infantilize disabled people and their potential," McDonnell-Horita said. "It's very patronizing, and it only continues to other disabled people, as if they don't deserve to have access to regular life milestones that other young people have."
Another example of inspiration porn is videos of disabled people standing up out of their wheelchair at a wedding. This directly ties into the "overcoming disability" narrative. Reedy points out that these tropes come back to disabilities being seen as a deficiency and that they serve to dehumanize disabled people.
"If the stakes are lower and the assumption is that you can't do anything, that you're not that smart and that you aren't supposed to achieve anything, [then] any time you achieve something, it becomes like a party. But what that does is it erases all of the disabled person's effort, all of the barriers they've had to overcome," Reedy said.
These tropes frame disabled people as being held back by their disability and imply that it's something that they have to overcome. McDonnell-Horita said that her disability identity isn't something she has had to overcome. Instead, she has had to overcome the shame she was taught to feel about herself as a disabled person, ignorant questions that people ask her and the systemic ableism that keeps disabled people out of certain spaces.
"It's not really necessarily my disability that I've had to overcome. It's the negative attitudes and stereotypes that come with being a disabled person. That is more exhausting," said McDonnell-Horita.
Reedy said that most of the time, it isn't a person's disability holding them back, but rather barriers such as inaccessibility and lack of accommodations. Reedy doesn't fault the general public for paying so much attention to these inspirational narratives, because they're constantly being perpetuated by films and TV and in journalism. But storytelling is a powerful tool in changing the narrative.
"If you're still writing stories about inspirational people and disability and not really digging into the barriers, then you're creating — and this is going to sound extreme, but — you're creating violence. You are perpetuating violence among a group of people, which, by the way, is a quarter of the American population," Reedy said.
Disability is not a monolith and shouldn't be treated as such
Within the disability community, there are several subcommunities that have a wide range of experiences and subcultures. Disability isn't a monolith, and it's important to acknowledge that not everyone has the same experiences.
"If you have interviewed and spoken to one disabled person, that's only one perspective in the whole community. So trying to even diversify the voices who are speaking about the disability community, I think, is really important," McDonnell-Horita said.
For example, McDonnell-Horita emphasized how person-first ("a woman with autism") versus identity-first ("an autistic woman") language preferences vary within subcultures and even from person to person. She points out how important it is to ask the person what their preferences are and to not make assumptions if you're ever unsure.
Aside from language preferences, disability identity is a journey that is very individualized. It's important to show the disabled experience from all sides.
For instance, many individuals within the disability community emphasize the harm in writing stories about disabled people that frame them as being pitiable, unhappy or bitter all the time due to their disability. The same is true, however, for stories that center disabled people as being saint-like and positive all the time.
McDonnell-Horita pointed out that as a disabled person, there are days when she is frustrated when her body doesn't cooperate with her. Similarly, she noted that many disabled people are also exhausted from experiencing two pandemics: living under a government and society that doesn't care whether disabled people live or die, as well as constantly fighting against their rights being taken away.
Framing disabled people as being one or other — either happy all the time or bitter all the time — only further perpetuates the idea that the community is a monolith. "It's not always pride," said McDonnell-Horita. "I think that there is this new wave of young people, and newly disabled people because of COVID, who are really trying to embrace all of the sides and the human aspect of being disabled."
The destructive nature of infantilization
McDonnell-Horita defines infantilization as a nondisabled person having more power than a disabled person and using that power against them to invalidate their thoughts, opinions or experiences. This can show up in numerous ways, such as indirectly speaking to a disabled person or assuming that the individual can't advocate or speak for themselves.
Reedy said that infantilization once again goes back to the constant perception that disabled people are less than. For example, Reedy said that as a dwarf, she has experienced situations in which people would raise their voice or speak to her as though she were a baby.
The infantilization in such language is harmful, as it leads to people not being able to make choices in their lives and the assumption that they shouldn't. For example, 1.3 million disabled adults are in conservatorships in the United States, according to the National Council on Disability. Additionally, 31 states plus Washington, D.C., have laws that allow the forced sterilization of disabled people.
"There's language that infantilizes, but there's also actions. The actions are the insidious part that the language is sort of covering for," said Reedy.
Best practices when talking about disability
Center disabled voices
Centering disabled voices is one of the best ways to avoid infantilization. Similar to how disabled people are spoken to indirectly in interpersonal settings because of infantilization, their voices are often excluded from articles and stories about disability issues.
Reedy said she has seen journalists interview the parents of disabled people, or nondisabled people in organizations, over actual disabled people. Nondisabled people have no lived experience of disability and don't understand it the way disabled people do. And often, with parents of disabled people, unless they're disabled themselves, their first encounter with disability is when they have a disabled child. Reedy isn't saying that parents of disabled people shouldn't have input, but that it is infantilizing to step over an entire community of disabled people and go to them first.
"They have no lived experience — they don't understand. And quite frankly, there is no way for you to completely understand how it is to live as a disabled person until you become disabled yourself. Because seeing it is very, very different from living it," Reedy said.
Recognize that disability is a culture and identity, not a problem
Disability is a cultural and social identity and should be recognized as such. But historically, disability has been seen through a medicalized lens.
The medical model is a biomedical perception of disability that supposes that disability may reduce one's quality of life and that aims to correct or diminish it through medical intervention.
"The medical model says that disabled people have to be fixed, or there's inherently something wrong with us, and there should be science and we should all aim to have a cure or live more 'normal,'" said McDonnell-Horita.
While some aspects of the medical model are relevant and important to some disabled people's lives, many critique the medical model as rooted in eugenics and anti-Blackness. It places expectations on what a perfect body looks like and emphasizes it as something that we should all be striving for.
Many disabled people subscribe to the social model of disability, which sees disability as the result of the interaction between people living with disabilities and an environment filled with physical, attitudinal, communication and social barriers. While it doesn't deny the reality that comes with living with a disability or the impact it has on an individual, it emphasizes the need for social change in order to accommodate disabled people.
"The social model says that a disability is not my inherent problem and that something isn't inherently wrong with me as a person. I think it's more of the community aspect and how you can have diversity in your culture, versus the medical [model] of, like, you have to be fixed, you have to blend in with the norm and this is how we're going to do that to fix you," said McDonnell-Horita.
The disability pride movement stemmed from the social model of disability, as it frames disability as a cultural identity and a natural part of human diversity. Disabled people have used pride to affirm the self-worth and agency of disabled individuals and as a tool for combating systemic ableism.
Do research beforehand
Awareness around ableist language has been shifting over the years. Reedy noted that the R-word isn't used as much as it was in the past, but that other words with ableist and eugenic origins, such as "moron" and "idiot," are embedded in our vocabulary and need to be omitted.
"Ableist language is so intertwined with our culture we don't even realize we're using it. Most people understand that if you're working on something, you're going to make mistakes, but you have to start. The refusal to even address it — that is the most harmful thing," said Reedy.
McDonnell-Horita said that unlearning ableism and omitting harmful words that are embedded in our language take practice and commitment; it's important for nondisabled people to be involved in this work. Resources such as the National Center on Disability and Journalism's Disability Language Style Guide and activist Lydia X. Z. Brown's glossary of ableist language are easily accessible online to help people in the learning and unlearning process.
"It takes the weight and the burden off of disabled people to have to do the work every day if we can have more people who understand why the language can be harmful and more people interrupting ableist conversations or even ableist thinking," said McDonnell-Horita.
Recognize intersectionality
Disability crosses every other community and marginalized identity group. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 4 Black people in the United States has a disability, while 1 in 10 Asian Americans has a disability.
Yet within disability rights spaces, the voices of white men with physical disabilities have been centered and uplifted the most historically. McDonnell-Horita said that this isn't representative of the diverse experiences within the community.
"When we talk about disability, it's important to not just think about those that are visible, but also nonvisible disabilities and those communities who have historically been marginalized and left out," said McDonnell-Horita.
It's important to recognize intersectionality, a term coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, which is an analytical framework for understanding how aspects of a person's social and political identities combine to create different modes of discrimination and privilege.
For example, Reedy said that she experiences the world as a Black dwarf woman and can't separate those identities when speaking about disability. In storytelling, she emphasizes how you can't talk about poverty without discussing how that impacts disabled people, especially communities with high disability rates such as Black, Indigenous, LGBTQ and transgender communities.
"When you're not talking about poverty and race and disability together, you're not telling the story, you're not digging in. Journalism in particular, we're supposed to be holding power to account. But if you're not checking all those boxes and figuring out how to tell all those stories mixed together, I don't know what you're doing," Reedy said.
Additional resources
Books
Disability Visibility anthology
Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to Be an Ally, by Emily Ladau
Videos
Stella Young: "I'm not your inspiration, thank you very much"
"War on the Weak: Eugenics in America"
"Disability Justice & Access-Centered Pedagogy in the Pandemic"
Podcasts
"Ed Roberts and the Independent Living Movement," from Stuff You Missed in History Class
The Disabled Standard (produced by former NPR intern Shruti Rajkumar)
Resource guides
The Asian Americans With Disabilities Initiative's Resource Guide
Hashtags
#DisabilityTooWhite
#DisabilityTwitter
#CripTheVote
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2022-08-08T15:05:13+00:00 | kpcc.org | https://www.kpcc.org/npr-news/2022-08-08/how-to-talk-about-disability-sensitively-and-avoid-ableist-tropes |
The U.S. Supreme Court sided with the Biden administration on Friday and will allow an abortion pill to remain on the market under its current Food and Drug Administration approval.
The court released its decision hours before its self-created 11:59 p.m. deadline.
The ruling overrides the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals' decision to keep mifepristone on the market with restrictions, including on mailing the drug.
With the Supreme Court's ruling, mailing of the drug will still be permitted.
This entire appeals process was due to a decision by a federal judge in Texas.
District Court Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk, who was appointed by former President Donald Trump, blocked the FDA’s approval of mifepristone following a lawsuit by an anti-abortion rights group. The group claims the FDA rushed the drug’s approval more than two decades ago and it poses health risks to those who use it.
The Justice Department, on behalf of the Biden administration, appealed the ruling to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and eventually to the Supreme Court.
Government lawyers have defended the Food and Drug Administration’s decision-making process, saying the agency followed all laws when approving the drug in 2000. They note that subsequent studies have proven the safety of the drug.
Mifepristone is typically prescribed with another medicine called misoprostol. The drugs were approved to end a pregnancy through 10 weeks of gestation.
This lawsuit is being heard at a time when abortion rights are being rolled back across the country. Following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022, numerous Republican-led states have restricted access to abortions. | 2023-04-22T00:32:41+00:00 | kgun9.com | https://www.kgun9.com/supreme-court-preserves-access-to-abortion-pill |
Russian general is believed to be detained in aftermath of Wagner mutiny, AP sources say
WASHINGTON (AP) — Gen. Sergei Surovikin, the deputy commander of the Russian group of forces fighting in Ukraine, is believed to have been detained days after mercenaries staged a revolt inside Russia, two people familiar with the matter told The Associated Press on Thursday, citing U.S. and Ukrainian intelligence assessments.
The people spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly.
It’s not clear whether Surovikin faces any charges or where he is being held, reflecting the opaque world of the Kremlin’s politics and uncertainty after the revolt.
But his reported detention comes days after Wagner Group mercenaries took over the military headquarters in the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don and were heading toward Moscow in what appears to have been an aborted insurrection.
Wagner head Yevgeny Prigozhin has spoken positively of Surovikin while criticizing the country’s military brass and suggested that he should be appointed the General Staff chief to replace Gen. Valery Gerasimov. The New York Times this week reported that U.S. officials believe Surovikin had advance knowledge of Prigozhin’s plan to stage the revolt.
The White House and the Kremlin declined to comment.
Surovikin, who has longtime links to Prigozhin, hasn’t been seen since the start of the rebellion when he posted a video urging an end to it.
A Russian military blogger, the Moscow Times, and the Financial Times reported that Surovikin, who is also the commander of the Russian air force, has been arrested.
There has been intense speculation that some top military officers may have colluded with Prigozhin and may now face punishment for the mutiny that briefly sent a virtually unchallenged march toward Moscow that Putin has labeled treason and a “stab in the back.”
Alexei Venediktov, former head of the Ekho Moskvy, a prominent independent radio station that was shut down by authorities after Moscow invaded Ukraine, said Surovikin and his close lieutenants haven’t been in contact with their families for three days, but stopped short of saying that he was detained.
Another prominent military messaging channel, Rybar, which is run by a former Defense Ministry press officer, reported a purge in the ranks was underway as authorities looked into allegations that some could have sided with Prigozhin.
Surovikin has been linked to Prigozhin since when both were active in Syria, where Russia has waged a military action since 2015 to shore up Syrian President Bashar Assad’s government and to help him reclaim territory after a devastating civil war.
While Prigozhin had unleashed expletive-ridden insults at Shoigu and chief of the General Staff Gen. Valery Gerasimov before last week’s mutiny in which he demanded their ouster, he has continually praised Surovikin and suggested naming him to replace Gerasimov. When the rebellion began, however, Surovikin recorded a video urging a halt to the mutiny.
Earlier this week, The New York Times reported that U.S. officials believed that Surovikin had advance knowledge about the mutiny. Asked about that report, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov shrugged it off as part of “speculations and gossip.”
On Thursday, Peskov refused to comment on whether Surovikin had been arrested.
Asked by the AP if the president still trusts Surovikin, he replied that Putin works with the defense minister and the chief of the General Staff and referred questions about officers to the Defense Ministry. He also referred all other questions about Surovikin and his status to the ministry.
As to whether Putin considers it necessary to dismiss military officials who had had links with Prigozhin, Peskov said “the issue isn’t my prerogative, and I have nothing to say on that.”
The bald, fierce-looking Surovikin, who was nicknamed “General Armageddon” by Western media for his brutal tactics in Syria and Ukraine, was credited with shoring up Russian defenses after Moscow’s retreat from broad areas of Ukrainian territory last fall amid a swift counteroffensive by Kyiv.
Named by Putin in the fall to lead Russian forces in Ukraine, Surovikin presided over the bombing campaign that targeted Ukraine’s power plants and other vital infrastructure but failed to knock out power supplies.
In January, Putin replaced him with Gerasimov, putting the General Staff chief in charge of the Russian battle in Ukraine. Surovikin was demoted to the position of Gerasimov’s deputy.
Gerasimov’s own fate also is unclear after the abortive mutiny. While Shoigu showed up at several events attended by Putin, Gerasimov was mysteriously absent.
If a purge is indeed underway, it could destabilize the military chain of command and erode troop morale amid the early stage of Ukraine’s latest counteroffensive and offer Kyiv a chance to reclaim more ground.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-06-29T17:59:35+00:00 | kalb.com | https://www.kalb.com/2023/06/29/russian-general-is-believed-be-detained-aftermath-wagner-mutiny-ap-sources-say/ |
SEPT. 1-11, 2022
NEW YORK, Aug. 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- For the 20th year, the annual Pay it Forward 9/11 campaign is encouraging individuals, companies, schools and houses of worship to unify during the 11 Days of Kindness & Unity campaign (Sept. 1-11) leading up to the anniversary of 9/11, a National Day of Service and Remembrance. Everyone may register their commitment on the website payitforward911.org and perform three random acts of kindness for strangers. Each act recognizes the life of a 9/11 victim and may inspire a ripple effect of kindness and unity.
Day 1 (Sept 1) acts of kindness include volunteers serving free Starbucks coffee to random strangers walking public sidewalks in New York City near Xavier Mission; donating 500 backpacks with school supplies to Brown Elementary students in Austin Tx.; and hundreds of Pre-K through 8th grade students at St. Matthew Elementary in Franklin, TN will document their acts of kindness during the 11 days. Other commitments are listed on payitforward911.org.
Created in Austin in 2002 to honor compassionate Canadians in Newfoundland and Labrador, Pay It Forward 9/11 was started by Kevin Tuerff, one of thousands of airline passengers from 90 countries stranded there on 9/11. After receiving free food, clothing and shelter from the good people of Gander, he created Pay It Forward 9/11 to honor those killed in the 9/11 attacks and express gratitude to the compassionate Newfoundlanders. The "11 Days of Kindness & Unity" campaign encourages acts of compassion anytime, and anywhere.
"After the 9/11 attacks, people all over the world used the words 'united we stand' and came together as one to help each other and support those in need," said founder Kevin Tuerff. "We invite everyone to register their commitment and share stories on social media to start the ripple effect and inspire others."
The 20th anniversary of Pay it Forward 9/11 is generously supported by the producers and writers of Come From Away musical, Dell Technologies, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Gallin & Son, and University Federal Credit Union (UFCU).
Learn more at http://payitforward911.org, the book Channel of Peace: Stranded in Gander on 9/11, or Facebook. Pay it Forward 9/11, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization registered in New York.
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SOURCE Pay It Forward 9/11 | 2022-08-22T14:54:37+00:00 | ksla.com | https://www.ksla.com/prnewswire/2022/08/22/20th-annual-pay-it-forward-911-inspires-random-acts-kindness-11-days-kindness-amp-unity/ |
The Razzies rescind nomination for young ‘Firestarter’ actress
Posted/updated on: January 25, 2023 at 1:08 pmThe Razzies have blown themselves a raspberry. The awards celebrating the year's worst in film got flamed online after adding young Firestarter remake actress Ryan Kiera Armstrong to its Worst Actress nominations on Monday.
In response, the organization has issued a mea culpa and rescinded the (dis)honor.
"Sometimes, you do things without thinking," said The Razzie Awards' John Wilson. "Then you are called out for it. Then you get it. It's why the Razzies were created in the first place."
"The recent valid criticism of the choice of 11-year-old Armstrong as a nominee for one of our awards brought our attention to how insensitive we've been in this instance. As a result, we have removed Armstrong's name from the Final Ballot that our members will cast next month."
Wilson added, "We also believe a public apology is owed Ms. Armstrong, and wish to say we regret any hurt she experienced as a result of our choices."
Wilson also said from now on, any performer under 18 will be ineligible for nomination for the Golden Raspberry Awards.
"We have never intended to bury anyone's career. It is why our Redeemer Award was created. We all make mistakes, very much us included," Wilson said. "Since our motto is 'Own Your Bad,' we realize that we ourselves must also live up to it."
Copyright © 2023, ABC Audio. All rights reserved. | 2023-01-25T19:27:05+00:00 | ktbb.com | https://ktbb.com/post/?p=1196996 |
HIGH SCHOOL
Southwood edges Fountain Central in tough test
Indy Star Sports
Indianapolis Star
Olive Oil isn't as slim as the win Southwood chalked up in tripping Fountain Central 63-57 on March 18 in Indiana boys high school basketball action.
In recent action on March 4, Fountain Central faced off against Rossville and Southwood took on Canterbury on March 4 at Southwood High School.
You're reading a news brief powered by ScoreStream, the world leader in fan-driven sports results and conversation. To see more game results from your favorite team, download the ScoreStream app and join over 10 million users nationwide who share the scores of their favorite teams with one another in real-time. | 2023-03-19T03:22:36+00:00 | indystar.com | https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/high-school/2023/03/18/southwood-edges-fountain-central-in-tough-test/70025220007/ |
MERIBEL, France (AP) — Practically the only person not asking Mikaela Shiffrin if this was the Beijing Olympics all over again was herself.
That’s because the American skier learned so much from that disappointing performance a year ago when she didn’t finish three of her five individual races and didn’t win a medal amid enormous expectations. She was able to quickly compartmentalize another DNF — “Did Not Finish” in skiing lingo — on Monday in the opening race of the world championships.
This time, Shiffrin straddled the third-to-last gate in the slalom portion of the combined race, ending what had appeared destined to be a gold-medal winning run.
“Everyone’s going to ask, ‘Oh is this Beijing again?’” she said. “I didn’t really think about that for myself, but more for the people asking.
“But I also said before coming into this world champs multiple times, I’m not afraid if it happens again,” Shiffrin added, her voice cracking with emotion. “What if I don’t finish every run like what happened last year? I survived and I’ve had some pretty amazing races this season. So I would take the season that I’ve had with no medals at the world championships. But I’m going to be pushing for medals because that’s what you do at world champs. … And I’m not afraid of the consequences as long as I have that mentality, which I had today. So, it’s good.”
It’s the same mentality Shiffrin has had all season, as she’s won 11 of her 23 World Cup races to put her well on her way to a fifth overall title — generally regarded as the most important prize in ski racing.
She won three races within six days two weeks ago to raise her career tally to 85 World Cup wins, breaking former teammate Lindsey Vonn’s women’s record of 82 and moving within one of the overall mark set by Ingemar Stenmark in the 1970s and 80s.
World championship races do not count toward World Cup wins. It’s the medals that skiers are after.
Having stood sixth and nearly a full second behind eventual gold medalist Federica Brignone after the super-G run, Shiffrin was charging to make up time in the slalom leg and was doing a great job at that until she lost control and stuck her right ski high in the air like an acrobat to regain her balance. The recovery, however, forced Shiffrin to place one ski on the wrong side of a red gate.
In a split second, she went from eyeing gold to being disqualified.
Seconds later, when she came to a stop in the finish area and realized what happened, Shiffrin dropped her mouth open incredulously. Then she rested on her ski poles and started analyzing what went wrong. Or better yet, what went right.
Because to be fair, this was an improvement from Beijing, where she often fell early in her runs and was nowhere near the form she’s in now.
“Of course, I’m disappointed not to finish and not to get a medal, but I’m also quite excited because I was skiing really well,” Shiffrin said as the Italian anthem played and Brignone was awarded the winner’s honors right behind her. “My mentality in the start for the slalom was to take all the risk, full-gas skiing top to bottom, push the whole way and take the risk that it might not work. I might ski off the course because slalom is like that — there’s no room for error.”
Grippier snow at the end of the Roc de Fer course — the slope used for the 1992 Albertville Olympics — tripped Shiffrin up.
“I saw that in inspection,” she said. “So I thought, ‘I have to be very strong with my position. I have to stay active, but I can’t take my foot off the gas. And this could be a section that’s tricky. It could be something that actually gets me if I take the full speed of the course.’ And in the end it did.”
The biggest positive takeaway was that she made up all of the time on Brignone before her mishap.
“I didn’t know if I could do that,” said Shiffrin, who didn’t finish a run of a technical race for the first time since the Olympics. “So I’m excited that I accomplished that.”
Now Shiffrin has a day to recover before racing again Wednesday in the super-G, an event she won’t be the outright favorite in. Then she’ll likely leave Meribel for several days to train elsewhere for her best events of giant slalom and slalom at the end of next week.
“I love how I’m skiing. I love the feeling I have every time I get on my skis, no matter what event,” Shiffrin said. “Unfortunately, you also have to face the side of the sport where it doesn’t work, you don’t finish and everyone’s disappointed — that’s the negative side or the sad side. But overall, it’s just been such an insane, amazing season and I feel like I don’t have to get motivated. I just keep it rolling and keep going with the skiing I have because it’s been the best I’ve ever done.”
___
Andrew Dampf is at https://twitter.com/AndrewDampf
___
More AP skiing: https://apnews.com/hub/skiing and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | 2023-02-06T22:42:54+00:00 | localsyr.com | https://www.localsyr.com/sports-news/ap-american-skier-shiffrin-fails-to-finish-first-race-at-worlds/ |
11-year-old with severe allergies impacted by formula shortage
O’FALLON, Ill. (KSDK) - An 11-year-old boy with severe allergies and his family are struggling to find the medical formula he needs due to the national baby formula shortage.
When Mackenzie Broyles pulls a box of Nutricia Neocate Splash from the pantry, it’s one of their last with the medical formula she needs for her 11-year-old son, Cash. She noticed she was running low, and that’s when she found out the national formula shortage was now hitting home.
Cash has eosinophilia, a condition that causes the disease-fighting white blood cells in his body to treat nearly all foods as a parasite or bacteria. The only foods he can tolerate are rice, potatoes, apples and Nutricia Neocate Splash.
The dietary requirement has been costing more every time his mom goes online for stock.
“It’s $567, and he would go through this in about five or six days,” Broyles said.
Like many parents, she turned to social media to see if anyone in her network had extra formula, finding a lot of willing kindness but no solutions.
“We’ve had I don’t know how many moms offer us breast milk. I don’t think they realized Cash was 11 when they offered that up,” Broyles said.
Neocate’s makers have an update on their website telling customers that “the Abbott formula recall in February led to a huge surge in demand for alternative amino acid-based formula, including our Neocate products.”
Broyles’ medical supplier told her that they have about 2,000 other customers in the St. Louis region in the same situation as her.
Ellyn Kodroff is the president of CURED, a foundation that’s donated $6 million for research on eosinophilic conditions, and now, they’re also trying to connect families with the formula they need.
“It is so difficult and so scary,” Kodroff said. “We knew right away there was going to be some kind of trouble. I don’t think we ever imagined that it was going to come to this.”
While the Broyles family searches for a solution, they turn to their faith, feeding their souls and hoping for a miracle. Unlike many of the infants affected by the shortage, Cash is expected to need his formula for years.
“We’re looking to God, and we’re trusting that God is going to provide for him right now because nobody else seems to know what to do,” Broyles said.
Broyles says she’s urging people in her network to contact Congress in hopes of passing the Medical Nutrition Equity Act, which would require health insurance companies to cover the medical formulas.
Copyright 2022 KSDK via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | 2022-05-18T10:36:16+00:00 | wlox.com | https://www.wlox.com/2022/05/18/11-year-old-with-severe-allergies-impacted-by-formula-shortage/ |
- Full Iomab-B SIERRA data set to be presented in late-breaker presentation at 5:00 PM EST on Saturday, February 18, 2023
- Company to host conference call and webcast on Saturday, February 18, 2023, at 6:00 PM EST
- SIERRA trial met primary endpoint with high statistical significance (p<0.0001)
- Company to host Iomab-B KOL event with Dr. Sergio Giralt of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center at 8:00 AM EST on February 28, 2023
NEW YORK, Jan. 12, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NYSE AMERICAN: ATNM) (Actinium or the Company), a leader in the development of targeted radiotherapies, today announced that data from its pivotal Phase 3 SIERRA trial of Iomab-B have been accepted as a late-breaker presentation at the Transplantation & Cellular Therapy (TCT) Tandem Meetings of the American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (ASTCT) and the Center for International Blood & Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR). TCT, the largest bone marrow transplant (BMT) focused medical conference globally, is being held February 15 – 19, 2023 at the World Center Marriott in Orlando, Florida.
TCT Late-Breaker Presentation Details:
Presentation Title: Efficacy and Safety Results of the SIERRA Trial: A Multicenter, Pivotal Phase 3 Study of Iomab-B Prior to Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Versus Conventional Care in Older Patients with Active, Relapsed or Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Date: Saturday, February 18, 2022
Time: 5:00 PM EST
Presenter: Dr. Boglarka Gyurkocza, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Location: World Center Marriot, Cypress 3
Actinium will host a conference call and webcast on Saturday, February 18, 2023 at 6:00 PM EST following the SIERRA late-breaker presentation at TCT. Additionally, Actinium will host a webcasted KOL event at 8:00 AM EST on Tuesday, February 28, 2023. Additional details will be announced in advance of these events and when available, they can be found on Actinium's investor relations page https://ir.actiniumpharma.com/presentations-webinars.
Iomab-B is a first-in-class targeted radiotherapy intended to improve patient access to potentially curative BMT by simultaneously and rapidly depleting blood cancer, immune and bone marrow stem cells that uniquely express CD45. Multiple studies have demonstrated increased survival in patients receiving BMT, however, an overwhelming majority of patients with blood cancers do not receive BMT as current approaches do not produce a remission, which is needed to advance to BMT, or are too toxic. Studied in over 400 patients, prior studies with Iomab-B have demonstrated nearly universal access to BMT, increased survival and tolerability in multiple clinical trials including the recently completed pivotal Phase 3 SIERRA trial in patients with active (leukemic blasts >5%), relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (r/r AML) age 55 and above. The SIERRA trial produced positive topline results, meeting its primary endpoint of durable Complete Remission (dCR) of 6 months with statistical significance (p<0.0001). Actinium intends to submit a Biologics License Application (BLA) seeking approval for Iomab-B to address patients age 55+ with r/r AML who cannot access BMT with currently available therapies. Iomab-B has been granted Orphan Drug Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and has patent protection into 2037.
The pivotal Phase 3 SIERRA (Study of Iomab-B in Elderly relapsed or refractory AML) is a 153-patient, randomized, multi-center clinical trial, studying Iomab-B compared to the control arm of physician's choice of salvage therapy. Control arm options included chemotherapies like cytarabine and daunorubicin and targeted agents such as a Bcl-2 inhibitor (Venetoclax), FLT3 inhibitors and IDH 1/2 inhibitors. The SIERRA control arm reflects real-world treatment of r/r AML patients with over 20 single agents or combination of agents as no standard of care exists for this patient population. Data from full patient enrollment presented at the Transplantation & Cellular Therapy Tandem Meetings in April 2022 showed that 100% of patients receiving Iomab-B accessed BMT and engrafted without delay. Iomab-B was also shown to be well tolerated given its targeted nature, consistent with its previous clinical data. The SIERRA trial enrolled patients at 24 leading transplant centers in the United States and Canada that perform over 30% of AML BMTs.
Developed at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, a pioneer in the field of BMT, Iomab-B is supported by data in six disease indications including leukemias, lymphomas and multiple myeloma, which afflict over 100,000 patients annually. Actinium intends to pursue additional indications for Iomab-B beyond AML. Actinium also intends to pursue international regulatory approvals independently and through partnerships. In April 2022, Actinium licensed the European, Middle East and North African commercial rights for Iomab-B to Immedica AB, a fully-fledged independent pharmaceutical company headquartered in Sweden. In exchange, Actinium received an upfront payment of $35 million USD with the potential for an additional $417 million USD in regulatory and sales milestones and mid-twenty percent royalties. Europe represents a commercial opportunity double the size of the United States by number of patients with AML receiving BMT. Iomab-B has been granted Orphan Drug Designation by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and has received positive Scientific Advice from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the EMA indicating that the Phase 3 SIERRA trial design, primary endpoint and planned statistical analysis are acceptable as the basis for a Marketing Authorization Application.
Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing targeted radiotherapies to deliver cancer-killing radiation with cellular level precision to treat patients with high unmet needs. Actinium's clinical pipeline is led by radiotherapies that are being applied to targeted conditioning, which is intended to selectively deplete a patient's disease or cancer cells and certain immune cells prior to a bone marrow transplant (BMT), gene therapy or adoptive cell therapy, such as CAR-T, to enable engraftment of these transplanted cells with minimal toxicities. Our lead product candidate, I-131 apamistamab (Iomab-B) has been studied in over four hundred patients, including the pivotal Phase 3 Study of Iomab-B in Elderly Relapsed or Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia (SIERRA) trial for BMT conditioning. Topline data from the SIERRA trial was positive with the study meeting its primary endpoint with a high statistical significance (p<0.0001). Iomab-ACT, low dose I-131 apamistamab, is being studied as a targeted conditioning agent in a Phase 1 study with a CD19 CAR T-cell Therapy with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center with NIH funding. Actimab-A, our second most advanced product candidate has been studied in approximately 150 patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia or AML, including in ongoing combination trials with the chemotherapy regimen CLAG-M and with venetoclax, a targeted therapy. Actimab-A or lintuzumab-Ac225 is an Actinium-225 based antibody radiation conjugate targeting CD33, a validated target in AML. Actinium is a pioneer and leader in the field of Actinium-225 alpha therapies with an industry leading technology platform comprising over 190 patents and patent applications including methods of producing the radioisotope AC-225. Our technology and expertise have enabled collaborative research partnerships with Astellas Pharma, Inc. for solid tumor theranostics, with AVEO Oncology Inc. to create an Actinium-225 HER3 targeting radiotherapy for solid tumors, and with EpicentRx, Inc. to create targeted radiotherapy combinations with their novel, clinical stage small molecule CD47-SIRPα inhibitor. More information is available on Actinium's website: https://www.actiniumpharma.com/.
This press release may contain projections or other "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe-harbor" provisions of the private securities litigation reform act of 1995 regarding future events or the future financial performance of the Company which the Company undertakes no obligation to update. These statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated or estimated future results, including the risks and uncertainties associated with preliminary study results varying from final results, estimates of potential markets for drugs under development, clinical trials, actions by the FDA and other governmental agencies, regulatory clearances, responses to regulatory matters, the market demand for and acceptance of Actinium's products and services, performance of clinical research organizations and other risks detailed from time to time in Actinium's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), including without limitation its most recent annual report on form 10-K, subsequent quarterly reports on Forms 10-Q and Forms 8-K, each as amended and supplemented from time to time.
Investors:
Hans Vitzthum
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
Hans@LifeSciAdvisors.com
(617) 430-7578
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SOURCE Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 2023-01-12T13:42:49+00:00 | kalb.com | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2023/01/12/actinium-announces-phase-3-iomab-b-sierra-data-accepted-late-breaker-presentation-transplantation-amp-cellular-therapy-tandem-meetings/ |
Medicare Advantage Plans Denied 2 Million Prior Authorization Requests in 2021, About 6% of Such Requests
Medicare Advantage plans denied two million prior authorization requests for health care services in whole or in part in 2021, or about six percent of the 35 million requests submitted on behalf of enrollees that year, a new KFF analysis finds.
Prior authorization is intended to ensure that health care services are medically necessary by requiring providers to obtain approval before a service or other benefit is covered. While prior authorization has long been used to contain spending and prevent people from receiving unnecessary or low-value services, there are some concerns that it may create barriers to receiving necessary care. (Traditional Medicare does not require prior authorization except for a limited set of services.)
The analysis also finds variations in both the volume of prior authorization requests and denial rates across insurers. In general, insurers with higher numbers of prior authorization requests denied a lower share of those requests. The variation across insurers likely reflects differences in the services subject to prior authorization and the frequency with which contracted providers are exempted from these requirements, as well as variations in the use of other tools to manage utilization by plan enrollees.
Only about 11 percent of denials of prior authorization requests were appealed, the analysis finds. However, of the appeals that were filed, the vast majority (82%) resulted in fully or partially overturning the initial denial.
The high rate of successful appeals raises questions about whether a larger share of the initial prior authorization requests should have been approved. Alternatively, it could reflect problems with documentation that were subsequently rectified during the appeal. In either case, medical care ordered by physicians or other practitioners ultimately deemed necessary by the insurers was potentially delayed by the prior authorization process.
As Medicare Advantage enrollment continues to grow, a better understanding of prior authorization will help inform how the policy affects the use of health care services and the quality of the care that beneficiaries receive. | 2023-02-03T03:33:22+00:00 | kff.org | https://www.kff.org/medicare/press-release/medicare-advantage-plans-denied-2-million-prior-authorization-requests-in-2021-about-6-of-such-requests/ |
Process Improvements Standardize Longstanding AAA Practices, and Revise Rules to Generate Further Efficiencies and Reflect Advances in Technology
NEW YORK, Sept. 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Arbitration Association-International Centre for Dispute Resolution® (AAA-ICDR®) announces that significant amendments have been made to the AAA Commercial Arbitration Rules and Mediation Procedures.
The updates to the arbitration rules, effective September 1, 2022, focus on process improvements in key areas, including technology, speed, economy, security, and privacy. The amended rules are the result of a two-year initiative by an internal AAA working group, with contributions from the AAA's case management and administrative groups, party surveys, and arbitrators, as well as the AAA-ICDR Council's Law and Practice and LLC Committees.
"The goals of our commercial arbitration rules—to ensure parties achieve a resolution to their disputes through an orderly, economical, and expeditious process—are the same as when these rules were first drafted 72 years ago," said Robert Matlin, Esq., Senior Vice President of the AAA's Commercial and Construction Divisions. "Our amended rules address the technology advancements which can make the arbitration process more streamlined and cost-effective—and standardize them, to continue to ensure the integrity, security, and confidentiality of our procedures."
The 2022 amendments to the AAA Commercial Arbitration Rules and Mediation Procedures ("the Rules") involve:
- Consolidation—The AAA has instituted its first-ever commercial rule to consolidate existing arbitrations or the joinder of additional parties.
- Confidentiality—The reinforcement of the longstanding requirements in the AAA Code of Ethics for Arbitrators, by including a commitment by AAA Staff and arbitrators to the confidentiality of arbitration in the Commercial Arbitration Rules.
- Conduct of Parties & Their Representatives—The AAA's expectations of civility and professionalism of all participants in arbitrations have been specifically incorporated into the Rules.
- Providing Arbitrators with the Authority to Interpret Awards—The AAA has drawn on the recently adopted ICDR article allowing the arbitrator to explain the award on a party's motion.
- Importance of Cybersecurity, Privacy & Data Protection—Reflecting the importance the AAA places on the safety and security of user and case information, the Rules recommend that the parties and the arbitrator discuss data protection during the preliminary hearing.
To read a more detailed explanation of the 2022 amendments to the AAA Commercial Arbitration Rules and Mediation Procedures, click here.
The not-for-profit American Arbitration Association® (AAA) is the leading provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services for parties in commercial disputes, having administered more than seven million ADR cases since its founding in 1926. With 29 offices in the United States, in addition to Singapore, the AAA provides organizations of all sizes in virtually every industry with ADR services and products. For more information, visit www.adr.org.
The International Centre for Dispute Resolution® (ICDR®) is the international division of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) and the largest international provider of dispute resolution services. Established in 1996, the ICDR serves parties from over 100 countries with multilingual staff experienced in international dispute resolution proceedings, and a roster of over 725 arbitrators and mediators. For more information, visit www.icdr.org.
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SOURCE American Arbitration Association-International Centre for Dispute Resolution | 2022-09-12T14:22:55+00:00 | wymt.com | https://www.wymt.com/prnewswire/2022/09/12/aaa-updates-commercial-arbitration-rules-amp-mediation-procedures-uphold-aaa-standards/ |
Seattle Seahawks vs. San Francisco 49ers picks, predictions: Who wins NFL Week 2 game?
The Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers play on Sunday in an NFL Week 2 game.
Which team will get the victory?
Check out these NFL Week 2 picks and predictions for the game, which can be seen at 1:05 p.m. MST on Fox.
The 49ers are an 8.5-point favorite in the game.
More:NFL Week 2 picks, predictions: Who wins each Week 2 NFL game?
The Arizona Republic: 49ers 24, Seahawks 14
Jeremy Cluff writes: "The 49ers losing to the Bears in Week 1 was one of the big surprises of the NFL's opening week of games. San Francisco should bounce back in Week 2 against the Seahawks."
Bookies.com: Take the under in Seahawks vs. 49ers game
Bill Speros writes: "The learning curve for Trey Lance should be a bit straighter this week against the projected pasties of the NFC West. He and the Niners got washed out in Chicago Sunday. Seattle coach Pete Carroll turns 71 Thursday and will be coming off a Monday nighter against Russell Wilson. If Lance struggles like he did in the Windy City rain, look for a shirtless Jimmy Garoppolo to come riding in on a white stallion to save the day."
More:NFL Week 2 odds: Point spreads, moneylines, over/under for Week 2 NFL schedule games
Draft Kings: Go with the Seahawks with the points vs. 49ers
David Fucillo writes: "The 49ers struggled mightily in the rain, were without George Kittle, and lost Elijah Mitchell to injury. They should be able to beat Seattle, but with both Kittle and Mitchell in question for Week 2, this could be a grinder of a game. This pick also comes in before we see what the Seahawks look like on Monday against the Broncos. If they’re abysmal, this line could move a decent amount during and after MNF. If you think the Seahawks are the side, there might be some value waiting to see if the line moves even just a little with Monday’s game and/or 49ers injury updates."
ESPN: 49ers have a 70.9% chance to win the game
The site's Football Power Index gives the Seahawks a 28.7% shot at picking up the victory.
More:NFL Week 2 schedule, television information: How to watch Week 2 NFL games
Pro Football Network: Take the 49ers against the spread against Seahawks
BJ Rudell writes: "If the 49ers lose this week, we’ll hear a lot of noise coming out of San Francisco. “Is Trey Lance ready?” I believe the team will step up big time at home against the beatable Seahawks, especially if George Kittle returns. Jeff Wilson Jr. is more than capable enough to handle RB duties in Elijah Mitchell’s absence, and the defense should be able to contain Geno Smith and Rashaad Penny more effectively than they did Justin Fields and the Chicago Bears’ middling backfield."
SB Nation: Don't worry about 49ers in Week 2 vs. Seahawks
Kyle Posey writes: "You all saw how many mistakes and miscues there were. I’d imagine the Niners come out ready to roll and will look to put it to Seattle. Plus, the Seahawks are an unknown. They’re trotting out new offensive linemen just as the 49ers did. The difference will be the defensive lines. It’s fair to assume Trey Lance and the offense will perform better under optimal conditions. We’ll see, but the sky isn’t falling based on the odds for next week."
More:NFL power rankings Week 2: Cardinals, Bengals, Patriots, Packers plummet after Week 1 losses
Reach Jeremy Cluff at jeremy.cluff@arizonarepublic.com. Follow him on Twitter @Jeremy_Cluff.
Support local journalism: Subscribe to azcentral.com today. | 2022-09-12T21:27:45+00:00 | azcentral.com | https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/nfl/2022/09/12/seattle-seahawks-san-francisco-niners-picks-predictions-nfl-week-2/10360710002/ |
STOCKHOLM (AP) — An employee of an animal park in southwestern Sweden was gored to death by an eland, Swedish media reported Monday.
The man, a foreign national, was taking the antelopes into stables after the park had closed, police spokesman Robert Loeffel told Swedish broadcaster SVT.
The goring happened late Sunday at the Oland Animal and Entertainment Park on the southwestern island of Oland. Police said the case is being considered a “workplace accident,” which is standard procedure.
It was not known precisely what happened inside the enclosure. The identity and citizenship of the deceased employee was not given.
The eland is the world’s largest antelope.
As of Monday, the park had closed for the season, according to its website. | 2022-08-29T10:03:16+00:00 | seattletimes.com | https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/world/man-gored-to-death-by-antelope-in-swedish-animal-park/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_all |
Trail Mix Run Benefiting Reach 4A Star Riding Academy Happening Next Month
Spring The smell of mud is in the air! It's hard to believe Casper saw an all-time record-breaking amount of snow last week as it's melting quick.
There's no telling what the rest of spring has in store weather-wise, but on May 20th the Trail Mix Run is taking place. The race begins at 8:00 a.m. at Mike Cedar Park.
Registration is open at Race Entry or people can register in person at Snap Fitness in Casper on May 19, 2023 from 3:30 p.m., to 5:30 p.m. You can also contact the director, Denise Murphy, through the Facebook page "TrailMixRun."
The race goes within the heart of the "Sunrise" and "Valley Hills" neighborhoods covering streets, sidewalks, alleys, and rock/dirt trails. There'll be about 500 pink flags along the courses -- "It would be very hard to get lost," says director Denise Murphy.
"We have a race for everyone! Walkers are welcome" says Murphy. There are three possible routes: two 3-miles (one is accessible to accomodate wheelchairs and strollers) and the other is a challenging 10-miler.
Not only does the local community show up for the race, but there will be people coming from out of state. "We just had a person sign up from North Dakota," Murphy said.
There is a ton of support and volunteers along the way with four water stations on the 10-mile route and one on the 3-mile. There will also be recovery food and drink provided by Ridley's, Sam's, and Franz Bakery at the finish line. After finishing, runners are welcome to hang out at Mike Cedar Park and cheer on everyone else as they finish.
"In the warm years, it's a super fun party atmosphere in the park. In the cold or wet years, people are deservedly even more impressed with their accomplishments!"
Finisher prizes are available to those who participate in person on May 20, 2023 and all persons who register by April 29th will receive a hat.
Over the years Murphy served Reach 4A Star as the Board Secretary. "Since I also love fitness and running, I had the idea in 2011 to hold a 5k as a fundraiser for R4ASRA." She has been directing the race ever since. All profits are given to the Riding Academy. | 2023-04-11T22:54:51+00:00 | k2radio.com | https://k2radio.com/trail-mix-run-benefiting-reach-4a-star-riding-academy-happening-next-month/ |
Shuqualak mayor will serve on advisory committee for EPA
NOXUBEE COUNTY, Miss. (WCBI) – A local mayor will serve on an advisory committee for the Environmental Protection Agency.
Shuqualak Mayor Velma Jenkins is one of 34 leaders around the country selected to serve on the Local Government Advisory Committee.
The group is made up of representatives from across the country. They were chosen from more than 80 candidates.
The committee works on initiatives focused on climate security, infrastructure development, environmental justice, and other issues.
For 24/7 news and updates, follow us on Facebook and Twitter | 2023-01-17T04:25:13+00:00 | wcbi.com | https://www.wcbi.com/shuqualak-mayor-will-serve-on-advisory-committee-for-epa/ |
TEMPE, Ariz., July 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MaxorPlus has been named a Top Workplace for 2022 by The Arizona Top Workplaces for the second year in a row. Top Workplace winners are based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage, LLC. The anonymous survey uniquely measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to the success of any organization: including alignment, execution, and connection, just to name a few.
"Companies need to authentically represent their brand to job-seekers," said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. "The employee experience needs to be on the mission-critical list. Leaders who embrace a people-first culture will benefit greatly. By giving employees a voice and showcasing your authentic culture through employer branding, organizations can attract those job seekers who complement their culture. Culture drives performance."
"From the day we opened the Tempe office, we invested heavily in our people's satisfaction and success while building a strong culture. We understand the importance of employee recognition and how that relates to satisfaction; however, we also realize that building detailed career plans and helping our team members grow in their careers is equally important – we place significant focus on culture, recognition and career development. I'm thrilled to lead this incredible team, and we are honored to be recognized again as a Top Workplace," Mitch Mann, Vice President, Member Services.
The MaxorPlus Tempe office opened in 2019 and serves as an operational base for parent company Maxor National Pharmacy Services. The Member Services team is the largest group of employees based in the Tempe office, and they provide excellent service daily to members and clients, continuing Maxor's legacy of first-class care.
At MaxorPlus, we make pharmacy benefits work better for all…leading to lower costs, better health and increased satisfaction. Our solutions deliver improved outcomes to our clients and members by building stronger connections, creating personalized health experiences and providing award-winning service. You can be confident that you've chosen the best pharmacy benefits partner for your business and for your members. www.maxorplus.com
Making the world a better place to work together.™
Energage is a purpose-driven company that helps organizations turn employee feedback into useful business intelligence and credible employer recognition through Top Workplaces. Built on 14 years of culture research and the results from 23 million employees surveyed across more than 70,000 organizations, Energage delivers the most accurate competitive benchmark available. With access to a unique combination of patented analytic tools and expert guidance, Energage customers lead the competition with an engaged workforce and an opportunity to gain recognition for their people-first approach to culture. For more information or to nominate your organization, visit energage.com or topworkplaces.com.
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SOURCE MaxorPlus | 2022-07-18T14:41:30+00:00 | waff.com | https://www.waff.com/prnewswire/2022/07/18/maxorplus-named-top-workplace-second-year-row/ |
'It's been an adventure': Timeline Arcade opens window to retro gaming past
On a stormy, cold day in York City, Timeline Arcade's fluorescent rainbow lights and Donkey Kong mural were particularly inviting.
Families traded rain-pattered streets for a boisterous, bouncing gaming environment. Rock music blared on loudspeakers as kids scrambled to get their hands on the hundreds of shiny, bright arcade machines calling their names.
For 11 years, Timeline Arcade has provided a beacon of fun for families in York County.
Its owner, Brandon Spencer, opened the arcade on a whim after growing up playing Donkey Kong, Galaga and Pac-Man in the basement of his New Jersey home.
"It was a dream of mine to have an arcade," he said. "And I never thought it would actually happen."
As a young adult, Spencer's arcade ambitions were a mere pipe dream.
He previously managed a pest control company in Maryland — but decided after eight years he was fed up working for somebody else.
Thus, Spencer switched from squashing real bugs to conquering 8-bit versions behind the retro screens of games like "Centipede."
Spencer opened the first version of Timeline Arcade in the Hanover Mall, but found little success.
"We almost filed for bankruptcy because the mall was dying around us," he said.
From their first short-lived location at Hanover Mall, the arcade moved to Carlisle Street in downtown in Hanover before opening a second location in York City at 54 W. Market St.
Though the Carlisle Street location is now permanently closed, Spencer said he's hoping to reopen the spot in 2023.
"I just like seeing people gather again, like in the past, back in the '80s and '90s," Spencer said. "That's what people did before cell phones and living in front of a computer. People just get out and socialize."
As a video game connoisseur, Spencer has spent years fine tuning his collection of arcade machines.
He's bought machines down south in Florida, on the West Coast and way up north in Canada.
Since starting his business, Spencer's collection has grown from 30 games to more than 360.
"It's been an adventure throughout all these years and it continues to grow every month," he said, adding that Timeline Arcade typically gets two or three new games monthly.
Spencer aims to have something for everyone.
Rows of pinball machines are lined up opposite against classic games. In another corner, air hockey and pool tables dominate.
While children clamor around skee ball or "Whac a Mole," teenagers line up to play "Halo: Fireteam Raven" and "Guitar Hero."
Unlike traditional arcades that operate on quarters or bills stuffed into a machine, Timeline Arcade offers hourly rates in exchange for unlimited plays.
The first hour is $10 with each additional 30 minutes costing $5. Meanwhile, an all day pass is $25.
More:Is York County cutting ties with C-SAU, its controversial prison contractor?
More:'I was trying to figure out what happened,' suspect in Dante Mullinix's death told police
Like many local businesses, Timeline Arcade suffered during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"I had to close for a long time, and unfortunately that made it so I had to close down Hanover," Spencer said. "It was hard. We had to sell a lot of my games that I didn't want to sell to pay bills. We did get a little bit of loan, but it wasn't a lot; so it was a challenge."
Even after reopening, supply shortages on certain machine parts have made maintenance an ongoing hurdle.
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Despite the challenges, seeing a community form as a result of a shared love of video games makes it all worth it for Spencer.
Timeline Arcade additionally hosts birthday parties and ongoing tournaments for games like Mario Kart and Super Smash Bros.
"We have a lot of regulars from in town to Maryland to West Virginia to Jersey to Philly," he said. "The best part about it is people actually interacting." | 2022-12-20T17:30:59+00:00 | yorkdispatch.com | https://www.yorkdispatch.com/story/news/local/2022/12/20/its-been-an-adventure-timeline-arcade-opens-window-to-retro-gaming-past/69728754007/ |
”No man is rich unless he enriches others,” wrote railroad titan Andrew Carnegie in “The Gospel of Wealth.”
Essentially, corporations, companies and “the rich'' owe it to society to tend to their material needs — to bear the burden of responsibility — The Corporate Social Responsibility.
Never did I fathom in my 20 years of existence that I would mention Corporate Social Responsibility in the same breath as an “obese and distinctively frumpy lesbian” purple M&M.
Yet here we are.
On Jan. 23, M&M’s announced their famous spokes candies would be “indefinitely paused” and replaced with Maya Rudolph due to controversy surrounding their character lore.
Yes, character lore.
Apparently, the M&Ms have quite rich private lives, even rivaling (hopefully not) our own. Although they aren’t real, these inner lives have been marred in controversy, beginning with the green M&M.
In 2021, the green M&M had an outfit change, shocking indeed. She went from having hot heels to sensible sneakers to indicate she wouldn’t be sexualized. Apparently, a change had to occur for someone not be enticed by her feminine wiles.
Oh, and she came out as a lesbian too, hitting steady with the brown M&M letting the world know about their relationship via M&M’s official Twitter account.
The responses were just as … interesting.
While “opportunistic evil bitch” and somebody “you can’t get a drink with” did not come to mind while thinking about the changes to the green M&M, apparently the news thought otherwise.
Oh, and Orange is mentally ill and proud of it, Blue used to be romantically with Green, Red is secretly in love with Yellow who is his best friend and he is also secretly gay, and basically, just a lot of them are gay now.
Some people on Twitter were ecstatic with these changes, congratulating the candy on coming out, while others were furious about the candy coming out.
M&M addressed the controversy by letting the public know they now have "an updated tone of voice that is more inclusive, welcoming, and unifying, while remaining rooted in our signature jester wit and humor."
And just as the dust settled, we got a plus size, possibly non-binary, possibly transgender, possibly lesbian purple candy, which leads us to now.
The end? No.
The attempts at progressive moral representation and the reactions to this attempt are both incredibly pathetic.
In case people forgot, there are more important problems in the world than “inclusive” chocolate.
What you may be asking? Oh, I don’t know …
Maybe the child slavery accusations that Mars, the company that owns M&M’S, is facing!
Since the early 2000s Mars, Nestle and Hershey have been under intense scrutiny from both the government and the general public for their disgusting use of child labor. In fact, two-thirds of their cocoa is produced in West Africa, where 2 million children, ranging from 10 to 11 years old, have been reported to be farming the cocoa — an intense and rigorous process.
While Mars vowed to end child labor by 2005, M&M’s still cannot guarantee that all of their cocoa is not produced using child labor.
What is made as a joke on the internet and throughout American politics is, in reality, a tragedy. We as a society are not holding our corporations to their social responsibility and the M&M’S company is not fulfilling their obligation.
Instead, we have a company pandering to one-dimensional identity politics and using outrage and controversy to market its product even more.
As a matter of fact, many are beginning to speculate that with the Super Bowl around the corner, M&M’s might be using this entire situation to gain publicity for the event itself.
Although corporations are no strangers to committing less than Christ-like behavior, more than ever now we see a trend in corporations changing mascots or slapping rainbows to satisfy the public and mask their dubious motives.
And what’s worse is that people are either defending this behavior and foaming at the mouth for the apparent “progress” or throwing tantrums talking about how “sensitive” everyone is.
America is so obsessed with fighting a political war over the most trivial controversies in an attempt to masquerade as moral warriors rather than seriously reflecting on how we can solve genuine issues regarding our corporations and who they affect.
You are not “woke” for wanting a non-binary candy, and you are not “red-pilled” for getting upset over non-binary candy.
You are a moron.
While we can all continue ridiculing the M&M’s, we should use their stupidity to pay attention to what our corporations can do to fulfill their moral obligations rather than fight over who is more “based.”
Although corporate capitalism is greatly flawed, concepts such as Corporate Social Responsibility give us consumers the power to voice our opinions and help others.
When M&M’s released their statement regarding the controversy they were right about one thing: their jester humor. They are clowns masquerading as the “rich who enriches,” and we are clowns feeding into the circus of madness.
Lilia Elizondo is an English senior and opinion writer for The Battalion. | 2023-02-07T05:37:49+00:00 | thebatt.com | https://www.thebatt.com/opinion/opinion-gay-candy-or-child-slavery/article_bb17332a-a67b-11ed-ae8e-bb03d707cda3.html |
HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. (AP) — Aaron Estrada scored 27 points as Hofstra beat Towson 76-72 on Thursday night.
Estrada added eight rebounds for the Pride (16-8, 9-2 Colonial Athletic Association). Tyler Thomas scored 20 points while going 8 of 15 (4 for 8 from distance). Bryce Washington shot 4 for 6, including 4 for 5 from beyond the arc to finish with 12 points.
Nicolas Timberlake finished with 32 points for the Tigers (16-8, 8-3). Ryan Conway added eight points for Towson. Chris Biekeu also had seven points. The loss ended a six-game winning streak for the Tigers.
___
The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar. | 2023-02-03T03:01:32+00:00 | expressnews.com | https://www.expressnews.com/sports/article/estrada-scores-27-as-hofstra-defeats-towson-76-72-17760870.php |
New podcast miniseries is packed with little-known Barbie history Published July 16, 2023 at 5:06 PM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Listen • 14:08 NPRCo-hosts Antonia Cereijido and M.G. Lord at the World of Barbie exhibit in Santa Monica, CA. Copyright 2023 NPR | 2023-07-17T17:42:05+00:00 | nepm.org | https://www.nepm.org/2023-07-16/new-podcast-miniseries-is-packed-with-little-known-barbie-history |
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cadiz Inc. (NASDAQ: CDZI/CDZIP) ("Cadiz", the "Company") announced today that on September 13, 2022, the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California affirmed its tentative ruling in two cases filed against the US Department of the Interior ("Interior") and US Bureau of Land Management ("BLM") by the Center for Biological Diversity and National Parks Conservation Association ("plaintiffs") challenging the adequacy of the federal review of the two rights-of-ways issued to the Company in 2020 authorizing the conversion of the natural gas pipeline acquired from El Paso Natural Gas ("Northern Pipeline") to transport water over BLM-managed lands (approx. 58 miles of the 220 mile pipeline).
In its ruling, the Court granted Interior's motion for voluntary remand, sending the permits back to the BLM while the agency considers the scope of environmental review required to approve conversion of the pipeline to transport water over BLM lands. There is a status conference with the Court set for September 26, 2022.
The Executive Chair of the Company's Board of Directors, Susan Kennedy, made the following statement regarding the ruling:
Yesterday's ruling will have no impact on completion of the Cadiz Water Conservation and Storage Project and we do not expect additional environmental review by the BLM to cause significant delay. Cadiz' ownership of the pipeline is unaffected by the Court's ruling, and any additional environmental review required by the BLM to convert the pipeline to transport water will be done concurrently with the existing construction schedule.
Full environmental review of the Cadiz Water Conservation and Storage Project was completed in 2012 with a final ruling issued by the California Court of Appeal in 2016. California Courts have determined the Groundwater Management, Monitoring and Mitigation Plan adopted by San Bernardino County and reviewed under California Environmental Quality Act ensures that the Project will have no adverse environmental impacts. The Company has no concerns with additional environmental review and believes review can be conducted without impeding the construction timeline.
While permits for conversion of the Northern Pipeline are reviewed by federal agencies, the Company will continue with the conversion of the pipeline and development of the Project, including the construction of three new groundwater wells beginning in the 4th quarter of 2022. Construction of the three wells will start in early October and proceed through 1st quarter of 2023. With three new wells online, the Cadiz Ranch will have 10 wells in operation with total annual capacity of 25,000 acre-feet of water per year.
Founded in 1983, Cadiz Inc. (NASDAQ: CDZI) is a California business with more than 70 square miles of property, significant infrastructure, and water rights. The Company's mission is to deliver sustainable solutions to California's clean water challenges. The Cadiz Water Conservation and Storage Project is an innovative aquifer storage project that will create a new water supply for 400,000 people a year by conserving billions of gallons of renewable groundwater currently being lost to evaporation and salt contamination at Mojave Desert dry lakes. With state-of-the-art groundwater management technology, the Project will put conserved water to beneficial use and create a much-needed groundwater bank interconnecting California's existing water infrastructure. For more information, please visit the Company's website www.cadizinc.com or review the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENT: This release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, including statements related to the future operating and financial performance of the Company and the financing activities of the Company. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those reflected in the Company's forward-looking statements include the Company's ability to maximize value for Cadiz land and water resources, the Company's ability to obtain new financing as needed, the receipt of additional permits for the water project and other factors and considerations detailed in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings.
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SOURCE Cadiz Inc. | 2022-09-14T23:42:15+00:00 | waff.com | https://www.waff.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/cadiz-inc-issues-statement-federal-court-ruling-cases-challenging-conversion-former-oil-amp-gas-pipeline-transport-water/ |
EL PASO, Texas (Border Report) — A second woman has died from complications related to cosmetic surgery this month in Tijuana, Mexican media reported.
A 36-year-old woman died Wednesday after undergoing cosmetic surgery at the private Diagnosis Hospital, which had its license suspended and was under review, El Sol De Tijuana reported Friday.
Erwin Areizaga, head of Baja California’s Protection Against Health Risks Commission, said Dr. Alexsander Llamas, the hospital administrator, could not provide proof of license, which the commission has previously confiscated.
“Although the clinic has a license, the verification will continue in subsequent days to review in detail all aspects of the hospital, such as clinical records, maintenance logs of surgical equipment, in addition to documents that accredit medical personnel and of nursing,” the agency said in a news release.
It is unclear whether Llamas performed the surgery.
Areizaga said inspectors visited the establishment on Wednesday and that Llamas was the one who received them and took care of them as head of the clinic.
Areizaga then said prosecutors mentioned that they couldn’t find Llamas, but Areizaga referred any questions about the doctor’s whereabouts to the Baja California State Attorney General’s Office.
The wife of a Guatemalan diplomat died on July 4 after undergoing a cosmetic procedure in Tijuana.
On July 4, María José Chacón, 38, was rushed by ambulance to Tijuana’s Red Cross Hospital, where doctors said she died of organ failure following a cosmetic procedure on June 24 at Hospital Jerusalem.
She was the wife of Henry Giovanni Ortiz, the Guatemalan consul general in Denver.
The person who performed the cosmetic procedure on Chacon did not have a surgical license, Areizaga said.
“After the inspection, it was determined there was no medical accreditation for this person pretending to be a doctor at this establishment,” Areizaga said last week. “Investigators discovered the doctor responsible for the clinic had died earlier, and that’s why this institution did not have a license.”
According to the reports, Areizaga says staff at the Hospital Jerusalem ignored a state order to close but continued performing medical and surgical procedures. The facility reportedly was also running an illegal pharmacy on site.
He stated the hospital had been shut down and sealed off, but staff members allegedly removed seals on doors and admitted more patients.
Baja California Gov. Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda has said she will push a bill in the state congress to “avoid these types of charlatans.”
“All patients who seek a surgical procedure need to have assurances they will be cared for by first-level doctors in Baja California institutions,” the governor said. | 2022-07-30T01:54:40+00:00 | krqe.com | https://www.krqe.com/news/border-report/cosmetic-procedure-kills-2nd-woman-this-month-in-tijuana/ |
LOS ANGELES (AP) — A woman testified Monday that she unwittingly drove the man now charged with killing rapper Nipsey Hussle to and from the scene of the shooting, not accepting that he had fired the deadly shots despite seeing him load a gun moments before.
Bryannita Nicholson, 35, said that when she and Eric Holder, with whom she had been in a casual relationship (but not quite dating) for about five weeks, pulled into a South Los Angeles shopping center on March 31, 2019, she was surprised and gleeful to spot Hussle, whose music she loved.
“I said, ‘Ooh, there goes Nipsey, he fine,” Nicholson testified, “I want to take a picture with him.’”
The testimony from Nicholson, a key prosecution witness who is getting immunity in exchange, came on the fourth day of Holder’s trial. He is charged with first degree murder for the killing of the 33-year-old hip-hop artist who had just been nominated for Grammy for his major-label-debut album after years of underground acclaim.
Nicholson said she had not known that Hussle owned the shopping center that was home to his clothing store The Marathon and the Master Burger restaurant where Holder had told her to stop so he could get food.
Without telling her that he knew Hussle from growing up in the same neighborhood and having ties to the same street gang, Holder got out of the car and walked to Hussle while Nicholson was looking for parking.
“I just thought he was trying to beat me to go see him before I saw him,” Nicholson said.
When she joined Holder he was talking to Hussle, his voice raised to make his point but not seeming aggressive.
“Eric was asking Nipsey, ‘Did you tell somebody I snitched?’” Nicholson said.
She waited her turn then took a selfie with Hussle, possibly the final photo he ever appeared in. It was shown in court, with Nicholson smiling in sunglasses and Hussle, bearded with a white T-shirt and white headscarf, looking with a steely gaze at the camera from behind her.
“I was just excited, I was just happy, I just wanted to show my Facebook friends,” said Nicholson, who hurried back to the car and posted the picture.
Holder went into Master Burger, came out with chili fries, and told her to drive around the block. As she did that, he pulled out a black semi-automatic handgun, loaded its magazine, and attached it.
“I was like, ‘What are you doing?’ You put that away, you ain’t going to shoot nothing outside my car,” Nicholson testified. “He did put it away.”
Nicholson said that at Holder’s instruction, she pulled into an alley where he said he wanted to stop and eat. He took a few bites of his fries, and didn’t seem angry or upset. He told Nicholson not to go anywhere — he would be right back.
Nicholson said she thought he might be getting a shirt at Hussle’s store. But she soon heard gunshots, and saw an older man running.
She considered fleeing and started to move her car, but changed her mind, worried Holder may have been hurt.
Previous witnesses in the case testified that they saw Holder shoot Hussle at least 10 times, then kick him in the head before walking away.
On Monday, a prosecutor showed police body camera video of Hussle lying splayed out and still in the parking lot as his brother loudly counted and pressed on his chest, trying to revive him with CPR under the instruction of a 911 operator.
At Nicholson’s car, Holder soon appeared, “power-walking,” she said, and got in.
“I was like, ‘What happened?,’” Nicholson testified. “He said, ”You talk too much I ought to slap you. And he was just like, ‘Drive! Drive!'” she said.
Nicholson’s identity had been hidden during her 2019 testimony in front of a grand jury. On Monday her name was revealed as she told essentially the same story in open court, with Holder sitting nearby, mostly staring straight forward and giving no visible response.
Holder refused to talk as she drove him home to Long Beach on the day of the shooting, Nicholson said.
She would later learn on the local news that Hussle had been killed. On Facebook, friends were saying in comments under her Hussle picture and on their own page that Holder was the suspect.
“Did it start to occur to you at that moment that Eric might have done it?” Deputy District Attorney John McKinney asked.
“Yes,” Nicholson answered.
But when Holder called her that evening, he asked her to pick him up and she brought him back to the Los Angeles home.
Nicholson struggled to explain why she would do that after what she had learned before court adjourned for the day.
She resumes testifying on Tuesday.
___
Follow AP Entertainment Writer Andrew Dalton on Twitter: https://twitter.com/andyjamesdalton | 2022-06-21T03:47:17+00:00 | kdvr.com | https://kdvr.com/news/entertainment/ap-entertainment/woman-who-drove-man-who-killed-nipsey-hussle-testifies/ |
Facebook parent company Meta laying off 13% of employees
Facebook parent Meta is laying off 11,000 people, about 13% of its workforce, as it contends with faltering revenue and broader tech industry woes, CEO Mark Zuckerberg said in a letter to employees Wednesday.
The move comes just a week after widespread layoffs at Twitter under its new owner, billionaire Elon Musk.
Meta, like other social media companies, enjoyed a financial boost during the pandemic lockdown era because more people stayed home and scrolled on their phones and computers. But as the lockdowns ended and people started going outside again, revenue growth began to falter.
An economic slowdown and a grim outlook for online advertising — by far Meta’s biggest revenue source — have contributed to Meta's woes. This summer, Meta posted its first quarterly revenue decline in history, followed by another, bigger decline in the fall.
Some of the pain is company-specific, while some is tied to broader economic and technological forces.
Last week, Twitter laid off about half of its 7,500 employees, part of a chaotic overhaul as Musk took the helm. He tweeted that there was no choice but to cut the jobs “when the company is losing over $4M/day," though did not provide details about the losses.
Meta has worried investors by pouring over $10 billion a year into the “metaverse” as it shifts its focus away from social media. CEO Mark Zuckerberg predicts the metaverse, an immersive digital universe, will eventually replace smartphones as the primary way people use technology.
Meta and its advertisers are bracing for a potential recession. There’s also the challenge of Apple's privacy tools, which make it more difficult for social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Snap to track people without their consent and target ads to them.
Competition from TikTok is also an a growing threat as younger people flock to the video sharing app over Instagram, which Meta also owns. | 2022-11-09T12:44:14+00:00 | 4029tv.com | https://www.4029tv.com/article/mark-zuckerberg-meta-layoff-facebook/41909072 |
Chicago-based personal injury firm Power Rogers, LLP has been named to the latest edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers "Best Law Firms."
CHICAGO, Nov. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --Power Rogers, a nationally renowned Civil Trial Practice based in Chicago, has been selected to the 2023 U.S. News – Best Lawyers "Best Law Firms" list.
The firm earned the publication's most prestigious Metropolitan Tier 1 ranking in two categories:
- Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs.
- Mass Tort Litigation / Class Actions – Plaintiffs
The firm also received a Metropolitan Tier 2 ranking in Aviation Law.
"Best Law Firms" Rankings
U.S. News – Best Lawyers "Best Law Firms" recognizes the nation's most accomplished legal practices. Best Lawyers evaluates over 13,000 law firms and individual lawyers to compile its rankings and publishes the final "Best Law Firms" list each year in November.
To be eligible for inclusion, firms must have at least one attorney named in the current edition of The Best Lawyers in America®. Eligible firms are evaluated on multiple criteria of success, including expertise, professional references, verifiable results, and whether surveyed attorneys would refer important cases or clients to the firm.
Data collected from surveys and evaluations are used to compare firms within the same metropolitan area. Firms scored the highest by their peers earn the publication's most coveted Tier 1 ranking.
Chicago's Premier Personal Injury Practice
Power Rogers' latest selection among the "Best Law Firms" is a testament to decades of success.
Hailed among the nation's most accomplished personal injury practices, Power Rogers boasts an impressive track record, including:
- Over $5 billion in verdicts and settlements – roughly $1 billion more than its closest competitor since the year 2000.
- Record-setting results, including a $100 Million award for a single family and the largest medical malpractice verdict in Illinois history ($55.4 million).
- Named the "No. 1 Plaintiffs' Law Firm" in most dollars earned for our clients by Chicago Lawyer's Annual Settlement Survey 12 of the last 13 years.
Power Rogers owes its remarkable success to a talented team of trial lawyers. In addition to continued recognition in The Best Lawyers in America, the firm's attorneys hold prominent posts in organizations such as the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and the Inner Circle of Advocates. Most recently, the firm was appointed by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul to serve as Special Assistant Attorneys General in a civil lawsuit against Monsanto over the environmental and health effects associated with its production of polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs.
As a proven personal injury powerhouse, Power Rogers has recovered billions for clients in complex claims involving serious personal injury, wrongful death, trucking accidents, and medical malpractice. The firm is also known for its work representing victims of civil rights abuses and has recovered millions in high-profile settlements involving police misconduct, brutality, and officer-involved shootings.
For more information, visit: www.powerrogers.com.
Media Contact:
Kathryn Conway
kconway@powerrogers.com
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Power Rogers LLP | 2022-11-03T19:31:44+00:00 | wlbt.com | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2022/11/03/power-rogers-earns-chicago-tier-1-ranking-2023-best-law-firms/ |
Growing up as a Chinese American immigrant in New Jersey, Ran Wei Baker tried really hard to adapt to American culture. English is her second language, and she had to learn the language of her new country while maintaining her native Mandarin.
Even though Baker was only 6 years old when she immigrated to America, her parents instilled in her that she should know her mother tongue, taking her to libraries and Chinese book stores.
When Baker’s own daughter Lily was born in 2020, she wanted to set an example for her as her parents had. But as Baker was putting together a book collection, she was surprised at how few bilingual Chinese English books there were in the children’s market. The idea for the Boba Bear Bilingual board books came out of Baker’s frustration.
“To this day, exposing me to Chinese language and culture throughout my life has been the best gift my parents have given me,” Baker said. “I knew I wanted to give the gift of language and culture to (Lily) too.”
With the goal of making a positive impact on the Asian American community, Boba Bear Bilingual was created in 2022. Baker works the festival and library circuit to promote and sell her series of self-published children’s books. They come as single books, sets and even gift kits with stuffed plush to help children learn.
SEE MORE: Shame and stigma: Asian cultural issues preventing mental health care
Why Boba?
Boba is one of Baker’s favorite Asian drinks, with chewy tapioca balls. The tea-based drink also known as bubble tea originated in Taiwan in the 1980s and is now popular worldwide.
“I was pregnant with Lily, I loved drinking boba tea, and also growing up, a big part of my weekend routine with my parents was getting boba after Chinese school,” Baker said. “I love that it represents a fun beverage in Asian culture, but also reminds me of happy memories with my family.”
Boba Bear's mother is a panda bear, which represents Chinese culture, Baker explained. Boba is a light brown bear cub, representing a mix between her panda mother and dark brown bear father.
Boba Bear Bilingual books are written in English and Chinese. Chinese culture is immersed in the books. One such example is Boba Bear's Lunar New Year, the biggest holiday of the year for East Asians. There are also recordings of book readings on the website for families learning Mandarin Chinese.
It's important to learn about different cultures for children because it teaches them to be open-minded, Baker said. Through book readings and festivals, Baker met other Chinese American parents who are also trying to raise their kids bilingual.
“Boba Bear is in many ways my love letter to Lily,” Baker said. “I wanted to create relatable and engaging learning books that make reading a fun experience for both parents and children, in hopes that multicultural kids like Lily can find joy and take pride in seeing books on the shelves that celebrate their culture and language.”
Trending stories at Scrippsnews.com | 2023-05-16T19:47:33+00:00 | wrtv.com | https://www.wrtv.com/celebrating-bilingual-chinese-american-culture-through-literacy |
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — From fire departments to governments, from school districts to corporations, from local utilities to grassroots organizers around the world, Twitter at its best is a tool to get a message out quickly, efficiently, directly.
It’s also a constant risk-and-reward calculation.
A recent bombshell whistleblower report from Twitter’s former head of security alleges that the social media company has been negligently lax on cybersecurity and privacy protections for its users for years. While worrisome for anyone on Twitter, the revelations could be especially concerning for those who use it to reach constituencies, get news out about emergencies and for political dissidents and activists in the crosshairs of hackers or their own governments.
“We tend to look at these companies as large, well-resourced entities who know what they’re doing — but you realize that a lot of their actions are ad hoc and reactive, driven by crises,” said Prateek Waghre, policy director at the Internet Freedom Foundation, a digital rights nonprofit in India. “Essentially, they’re often held together by cello tape or chewing gum.”
Peiter “Mudge” Zatko, who served as Twitter’s security chief until he was fired early this year, filed the complaints last month with federal U.S. authorities, alleging that the company misled regulators about its poor cybersecurity defenses and its negligence in attempting to root out fake accounts that spread disinformation. Among Zatko’s most serious accusations is that Twitter violated the terms of a 2011 FTC settlement by falsely claiming that it had put stronger measures in place to protect the security and privacy of its users.
Waghre said the allegations in the complaint about India — that Twitter knowingly allowed the Indian government to place its agents on the company payroll where they had “direct unsupervised access to the company’s systems and user data” — were particularly worrisome. He also pointed to an incident earlier this month where a former Twitter employee was found guilty of passing along sensitive user data to royal family members in Saudi Arabia in exchange for bribes.
The consequences of privacy and security lapses can range from inconvenience and embarrassment — such as when an Indiana State Police account was hacked and tweeted “poo-poo head” earlier this year — to much worse. In October 2021, a Saudi humanitarian aid worker was sentenced to 20 years in prison because of an anonymous, satirical Twitter account that the kingdom says he ran. It’s possible that the case is linked with the men accused of spying on behalf of the kingdom while working at Twitter.
As an advocate for dissidents and others detained in Saudi Arabia, Bethany Al-Haidari has been concerned for years about Twitter’s user privacy safeguards. The new whistleblower allegations make her all the more worried.
“Given what we know about how social media is used around the world, that is incredibly problematic,” said Al-Haidari, who works for The Freedom Initiative, a U.S.-based human rights group. The possibility of hackers or governments exploiting the alleged cybersecurity lapses at Twitter to get users’ identities, private messages or other personal information “is quite disturbing to me,” she said.
Chinese-Australian artist and activist Badiucao, who regularly publishes art that criticizes the Chinese Communist Party, expressed concern about the whistleblower’s allegations, noting that many users provide their phone numbers and emails to Twitter.
“Once that personal information is leaked, it could be used to trace your identity,” he said. Badiucao said he regularly receives death threats and propaganda from what appears to be bot or spam accounts.
But the artist plans to keep using Twitter, saying it’s probably the best option Chinese-speaking activists and artists have for a “shelter for free speech.”
Twitter says the whistleblower claims present a “false narrative” about the company and its privacy and data security practices, and that the claims lack context. “Security and privacy have long been company-wide priorities at Twitter and will continue to be,” the company said in a statement.
Despite the heightened concerns sparked by Zatko’s claims, none of the groups The Associated Press spoke to this week plan to stop using Twitter. Security experts say while the whistleblower’s claims are alarming, there’s no reason for individual users to delete their accounts.
High-profile Twitter users and world governments may be at greater risk than average users, experts say. In 2020, for instance, Twitter suffered an embarrassing hack by a teenager who accessed the accounts of then-President Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Mike Bloomberg and a number of tech billionaires including Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Musk is currently embroiled in a battle with Twitter as he tries to back out of a $44 billion deal to buy the company.
Yet another security incident raised alarms for Jennifer Grygiel, a Syracuse University communications professor who follows Twitter closely. In 2017, a Twitter customer support worker deactivated then-President Donald Trump’s account for a few minutes during their last day on the job. While the account was restored quickly, Grygiel said, the incident showed how vulnerable Twitter was when it comes to governments, heads of state and military branches that use the platform.
“Am I surprised and shocked by the whistleblower’s allegations? I’m not,” said Trav Robertson, chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party, which uses Twitter to communicate with about 18,700 followers. But he argues that it’s especially important for people not to assume that “the constant attacks on our emails, our databases, our Twitter accounts, our Facebooks” are the new normal. “When we become desensitized to it, we fail to be proactive,” he said.
At the City of Denver’s fire department, public information officer JD Chism acknowledges concern over security issues. But the department has to weight that risk against the way Twitter has become integral to communicating emergencies to the public. The department’s Twitter feed hosts real-time updates on fires and consequent road closures and injuries, alongside retweets from other agencies warning of dangers such as flash floods.
For now, the department will keep using Twitter as it always has, Chism said, “It’s good for taking care of people, and that’s what we are here for.”
—
Associated Press Writers Krutika Pathi in New Delhi; Jesse Bedayn in Denver; Jennifer Peltz in New York; James Pollard in South Carolina; Zen Soo in Hong Kong; Margaret Stafford in Kansas City; Russ Bynum in Savannah, Georgia; Jay Reeves in Birmingham, Alabama; Amy Taxin in Orange County, California; Rebecca Santana in New Orleans; Jonathan Mattise in Nashville, Tennessee; and Michael Goldberg in Jackson, Mississippi, contributed to this story. | 2022-08-29T11:10:18+00:00 | cenlanow.com | https://www.cenlanow.com/technology/ap-technology/ap-tape-or-chewing-gum-twitters-lapses-echo-worldwide/ |
Updated April 21, 2023 at 3:48 PM ET
BuzzFeed is shutting down its Pulitzer Prize-winning news division as part of a 15% reduction in force across the company, BuzzFeed CEO and co-founder Jonah Peretti announced.
"While layoffs are occurring across nearly every division, we've determined that the company can no longer continue to fund BuzzFeed News as a standalone organization," Peretti wrote in the memo shared on Thursday via social media.
Today I was laid off while on maternity leave. Please keep me in your thoughts. Absolutely no words. Thanks buzzfeed.
— Alana M. Yzola (@AlanaMYzola) April 20, 2023
Peretti said he made the decision to "overinvest in BuzzFeed News because I love their work and mission so much." But this decision — in addition to a rough few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, tech recession and a decelerating digital advertising market — made it impossible to financially support the news division any further, he said.
Moving forward, BuzzFeed will "concentrate our news efforts in HuffPost, a brand that is profitable with a highly engaged, loyal audience that is less dependent on social platforms," Peretti said. HuffPost and BuzzFeed Dot Com will have a number of select roles opened for members of BuzzFeed News, he said.
Former BuzzFeed editor-in-chief, Ben Smith, discussed the early days of BuzzFeed News where he worked alongside Peretti on Morning Edition. Smith said that in the beginning, there was a mix of hard news, funny quizzes, and social media posts, which meant some media innovation. But with the 2016 United States election, this approach became toxic, and many people got "a little sick" of consuming news through Facebook and online algorithms.
When asked about the reasons for the closure of BuzzFeed's news division and the layoffs, he said that fewer people use social media platforms and that less news is being shared on these platforms.
"I think we all wound up feeling overwhelmed, feeling that news is being fed to us through algorithms, and, you know, sort of pander to in certain ways," he told NPR's Michel Martin.
When asked about how to improve and better serve public media, Smith, who now runs the global news startup Semafor from New York, was uncertain and did not predict a better alternative or provide a specific solution. But he added that "a lot of people are watching short videos, instead of going on social networks. They're consuming a lot of email. And they're going to events."
BuzzFeed is just the latest media company to announce major layoffs. In recent weeks, NPR cut around 100 people and announced plans to ax four podcasts. The Washington Post, owned by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, nixed its Sunday magazine and a handful of other newsroom jobs in January. Insider also announced this week it was laying off 10% of staff due to a decline in advertising revenue.
BuzzFeed said it reduced its New York real estate footprint last year, but that it will also be reducing its real estate in Los Angeles now, "from four buildings down to one, which saves millions in costs as well as mirrors our current hybrid state of work."
BuzzFeed News started in 2012 and grew to have more than 100 journalists across the world. The news division was a four-time Pulitzer Prize finalist. Its 2021 Pulitzer Prize award was for the company's international reporting in uncovering the Chinese government's mass detention of Muslims.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2023-04-21T20:41:50+00:00 | kcbx.org | https://www.kcbx.org/npr-top-news/npr-top-news/2023-04-20/buzzfeed-shutters-its-newsroom-as-the-company-undergoes-layoffs |
KYIV – Russia launched nighttime attacks on several cities in Ukraine, Ukrainian officials said Saturday as they and officials in Moscow blamed each other for the deaths of dozens of Ukrainian prisoners of war in a separatist-controlled area of the country's east.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross have a duty to react after shelling of a prison complex in Donetsk province killed the POWS.
“It was a deliberate Russian war crime, a deliberate mass murder of Ukrainian prisoners of war,” Zelenskyy said in a video address late Friday. “There should be a clear legal recognition of Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism.”
Both sides alleged the attack on the prison was premeditated and intended to silence the Ukrainian prisoners and to destroy evidence, including of possible atrocities.
Russia claimed Ukraine’s military used U.S.-supplied precision rocket launchers to target the prison in Olenivka, a settlement controlled by the Moscow-backed Donetsk People’s Republic.
Separatist authorities and Russian officials said the attack killed 53 Ukrainian POWs and wounded another 75.
The International Committee of the Red Cross, which has organized civilian evacuations in the war and worked to monitor the treatment of POWS held by Russia and Ukraine, said it has requested access to the prison “to determine the health and condition of all the people present on-site at the time of the attack.”
“Our priority right now is making sure that the wounded receive life-saving treatment and that the bodies of those who lost their lives are dealt with in a dignified manner,” the Red Cross said in a statement.
Elsewhere in eastern Ukraine, Russian rockets hit a school building in Kharkiv, the country's second-largest city, overnight, and another attack occurred about an hour later, Mayor Ihor Terekhov said Saturday. There were no immediate reports of injuries.
The bus station in the city of Sloviansk also was hit, according to Mayor Vadim Lyakh. Sloviansk is near the front line of fighting as Russian and separatist forces try to take full control of the Donetsk region, one of two eastern provinces that Russia has recognized as sovereign states.
In southern Ukraine, one person was killed and six injured in shelling that hit a residential area in Mykolaiv, a significant port city, the region's administration said Saturday on Facebook.
Friday's attack on the prison reportedly killed Ukrainian soldiers who were captured in May after the fall of Mariupol, another port city where troops famously held out against a monthslong Russian siege.
Moscow opened a probe into the attack, sending a team to the site from Russia’s Investigative Committee, the country’s main criminal investigation agency. The state RIA Novosti agency reported that fragments of U.S.-supplied precision High Mobility Artillery Rocket System rockets were found at the site.
The Ukrainian military denied making any rocket or artillery strikes in Olenivka, and it accused the Russians of shelling the prison to cover up the alleged torture and execution of Ukrainians there.
The Institute for the Study of War, a think tank based in Washington, said the competing claims and limited information prevented assigning responsibility for the attack but that the “available visual evidence appears to support the Ukrainian claim more than the Russian.”
___
Follow AP's coverage of the Russia-Ukraine war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | 2022-07-30T13:00:21+00:00 | clickorlando.com | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/world/2022/07/30/ukraine-says-russian-attacks-hit-kharkiv-mykolaiv/ |
Biden signs bill on COVID origins declassification
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden signed a bipartisan bill Monday that directs the federal government to declassify as much intelligence as possible about the origins of COVID-19 more than three years after the start of the pandemic.
The legislation, which passed both the House and Senate without dissent, directs the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to declassify intelligence related to China’s Wuhan Institute of Virology. It cites “potential links” between the research that was done there and the outbreak of COVID-19, which the World Health Organization declared a pandemic on March 11, 2020. The law allows for redactions to protect sensitive sources and methods.
U.S. intelligence agencies are divided over whether a lab leak or a spillover from animals is the likely source of the deadly virus. Experts say the true origin of the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed more than 1.1 million in the U.S. and millions more around the globe, may not be known for many years — if ever.
Biden, in a statement, said he was pleased to sign the legislation.
“My Administration will continue to review all classified information relating to COVID–19′s origins, including potential links to the Wuhan Institute of Virology,” he said. “In implementing this legislation, my Administration will declassify and share as much of that information as possible, consistent with my constitutional authority to protect against the disclosure of information that would harm national security.”
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-03-20T23:56:10+00:00 | atlantanewsfirst.com | https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2023/03/20/biden-signs-bill-covid-origins-declassification/ |
Car thefts in Pueblo rise 23% in 2022 from previous year
PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Pueblo Police Department is reminding car owners to never leave their car running and unattended as new data shows a spike in car theft in the city.
The department references data released by the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CAPTA). According to the PPD, the city had had 1,752 motor vehicle thefts reported which is a 23% increase compared to the 1,472 reported in 2021
Of those vehicle thefts, puffers accounted for 3%, which was a total of 58 vehicles.
According to the PPD, 1,186 of the stolen vehicles were recovered both in Pueblo and outside
of the city limits, which is a 47% recovery rate.
Police said 40%-50% of vehicle theft is due to "drive apathy," which includes leaving a vehicle running unattended - known as "puffing"- with keys in the ignition. PPD said leaving a vehicle running unattended in a vehicle without a remote start is illegal in Colorado.
Additionally, police said vehicle theft fuels crime sprees, and stolen vehicles are oftentimes used in other crimes.
The department shared some of the vehicles that are at a higher risk of being stolen:
- Chevrolet Silverado
- Kia Sportage
- Hyundai Sonata
- Kia Optima
- Hyundai Tucson
Read more on the motor vehicle thefts for 2022 in Colorado here. | 2023-01-13T22:15:04+00:00 | krdo.com | https://krdo.com/top-stories/2023/01/13/car-thefts-in-pueblo-rise-23-in-2022-from-previous-year/ |
A New Virtual 5G App, Cloud and Service
SINGAPORE and SAN JOSE, Calif., Feb. 22, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --Virtual Internet, the leader in Software 5G (Fifth Generation) Mobile Broadband technology announced it had competed work on a new version of Virtual 5G App and Global Virtual 5G Mobile Broadband service, both to be released Worldwide.
Virtual 5G is Software based 5G Mobile Broadband. 5G, Fifth Generation Mobile Broadband, is faster than existing networks, enables greater bandwidth, and improves Internet Services in both urban and rural areas. Virtual 5G was and is the only Software with the proven ability over millions of users, to bring 5G service to 2G, 3G, and 4G Mobile Devices over Cellular, Wi-Fi and Satellite and to supercharge the performance of native 5G mobile devices.
Virtual 5G was already the highest performing App of its kind; Virtual Internet has created a faster, better version of Virtual 5G, and an improved ecosystem of Apps that run over the Global Virtual 5G Network.
As part of the New Virtual 5G, we have enhanced the Virtual 5G engine, capable of speeds in excess of 1Gbps; 5G Mobile Broadband is defined as only 50 Mbits (Million) per second. A complete upgrade of a successful platform like Virtual 5G that already had many millions of downloads is extremely rare. There are times where there is a chance to make a huge leap forward without taking a step back; when that occurs, those opportunities need to be seized. As a result, Virtual 5G's platform now delivers better service, and is of greater value to users and partners alike.
The new Virtual 5G has incorporating emerging Internet technologies, with increased performance on Mobile Clients and Cloud Servers.
QUIC is being brought to billions of people; and Virtual 5G is leading a part of that. Virtual 5G has now been engineered to incorporate QUIC, a cutting-edge Internet technology.
QUIC is used in more than 50% of all connections from the Chrome web browser to Google's servers. In addition, Microsoft's Edge (from the open-source Chromium browser), Apple's Safari browser and Firefox browsers all support QUIC. As of 2022, more than 75% of Meta's (Facebook) internet traffic used QUIC. Most technology companies use QUIC by taking advantage of prebuilt QUIC supported Apps (e.g., Browsers), Servers and Services. Uber, which relies on its Mobile App, where both drivers and end users are mobile in countries worldwide with varying levels of connectivity, has seen the benefit of QUIC by leveraging QUIC for their Android App; Uber has used pre-packaged QUIC through the Cronet Library; a Chromium network stack available to Android apps as a library. Cronet handles requests of apps used by millions of people on a daily basis, such as YouTube, Google App, Google Photos, and Maps. As Uber has discovered, Cronet library at times fails to load for certain Android devices, showing QUIC is most valuable when implemented at the protocol level into a platform for Apps to run upon, which is what Virtual 5G has accomplished.
QUIC has been implemented at the protocol level by only the leading companies in the industry. In addition to Google, Microsoft has implemented its versions (MSQUIC), along with Facebook (Meta) (mvfst), Akamai Technologies (QUIC-GO). Now ADARA, the parent of Virtual Internet, has joined these companies by implementing its own version of QUIC; QUIC+, which has been enhanced with ADARA's Performance AI.
Virtual 5G delivers a VPN service for free, where VPN services often charge $200 annually. With Virtual 5G the traffic is multiply encrypted with both novel and standards-based encryption at the protocol levels. Virtual 5G's Global Network delivers both Performance and Security in a design that keeps all information about connections it carries private.
While QUIC aims to be nearly equivalent to TCP, but with much-reduced latency, there are limitations to both QUIC and TCP. Virtual Internet has engineered out those limitations. Virtual 5G integrates both advanced ADARA QUIC (QUIC+) and ADARA TCP (QuickStart+) and has engineered them to work together.
ADARA has merged an advanced implementation of both ADARA QUIC UDP (QUIC+) and ADARA TCP (QuickStart+) in the Virtual Internet platform; and deployed these in the Virtual 5G App and the Virtual 5G Global Network. ADARA QUIC+ features enhanced API's, Control Plane, Data Plane, Optimizations, and Congestion Control Algorithms, with future enhancements to make QUIC+ the most capable of all QUIC implementations.
QUIC can support multiple congestion control algorithms (CCA's); in 5G, the performance of a CCA can depend on the position of the 5G device since the position can determine the location of the bottleneck and the level of variability. Virtual 5G with QUIC offers a solution that works consistently across multiple scenarios and overcomes these and issues in use of QUIC in 5G Mobile Broadband.
ADARA and Virtual Internet support all these CCA versions of QUIC, as well as its own advanced CCA in QUIC+, along with the DLSP AI Engine and multiple architectural and operating improvements to QUIC and combined with Virtual Internet's 5G Mobile Broadband technology.
Verizon Digital Media Services started building QUIC across its entire content delivery network to improve the network performance for customers and Ericsson is experimenting with QUIC as a 5G signaling protocol; 3GPP is considering using QUIC for the 5G packet core (3GPP 29.893). While Native QUIC has issues (e.g., mixed traffic 4G-5G-4G handoff); 5G service architectures are examining and identifying gaps and improvements. Although QUIC presents challenges, it is here to stay.
Mobile subscribers may not understand QUIC or any other protocols; they will understand that the speed of Virtual 5G means their mobile device and Virtual Internet's Mobile Operator Partners have a faster network, making subscribers happier and lifetime users.
There are companies building networks exclusively from LEO Satellites; while QUIC zero handshaking and loss recovery strategies are beneficial in these space-based networks, native QUIC behaves poorly where there is a short-term disconnection during handover. ADARA QUIC+ with QuickStart+ and DLSP AI eliminates these issues making space-based networks both higher performing without sacrificing reliability during inevitable handoffs.
Virtual 5G's platform, already globally adopted, now delivers better service, and is of greater value to users and partners alike.
Virtual Internet is a metaverse company, incorporated in Singapore. Virtual Internet is building a new community of millions of users, connected through multiple networks. Virtual Internet has created and operates on its own Virtual 5G Global Overlay Network, which allows millions of other applications and services to be delivered over 5G Mobile Broadband Speeds using existing Cellular Radio, Wi-Fi, and SATCOM networks.
ADARA Networks, Inc. is acknowledged as one of the premier providers of SDN and Cloud Networking products. Virtual Internet Pte. Ltd, Singapore, is a wholly owned subsidiary of ADARA Networks.
CONTACT: pr@adaranetworks.com
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SOURCE Virtual Internet Pte. Ltd. | 2023-02-22T11:52:39+00:00 | live5news.com | https://www.live5news.com/prnewswire/2023/02/22/virtual-internet-announces-completion-new-virtual-5g/ |
DAYTON, OHIO (AP) — In the dim light of a clinic ultrasound room, Monica Eberhart reclines on an exam table as a nurse moves a probe across her belly. Waves of fetal cardiac activity ripple across the screen.
“The heartbeat,” the nurse says. “About 10 weeks and two days.”
Eberhart exhales. It’s good news. “That means I’m just under,” she says, raising her hands and crossing her fingers.
The 23-year-old mother of three is racing a political clock. When she learned she was pregnant again, she decided abortion was her best choice — even if it meant navigating a patchwork of state laws enacted since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.
Hours after the ruling in late June, Ohio imposed a ban on abortions once cardiac activity can be detected, at about six weeks of pregnancy. Since then, Women’s Med clinic in Dayton has been referring hundreds of patients like Eberhart to its sister facility of the same name in Indiana, 120 miles away. There, in-clinic abortions are allowed until 13 weeks and six days of pregnancy — for now. Indiana lawmakers recently approved a ban on almost all abortions, after weeks of debate in the Statehouse. The law takes effect Sept. 15.
At just over 10 weeks into her pregnancy, Eberhart will need to travel to Indianapolis for an abortion. It’s disruptive, an inconvenience — but she’s more than ready. With new state laws and court challenges popping up on what seems like a daily basis, she doesn’t want to wait any longer.
“I have to get it done, I can’t really wait. I’ve put everything on hold just to get this one thing handled,” Eberhart says. “I absolutely cannot afford another baby, whether that be financially or mentally.”
Women’s Med has performed few abortions in Ohio since the state ban was enacted; most women don’t learn they’re pregnant until after six weeks. The Dayton clinic, a two-story building that blends into its leafy suburban surroundings, has been in business for almost 40 years. Recent days have become increasingly chaotic, workers say.
They see desperate patients — a teenager who was raped, women with ectopic pregnancies, families unfamiliar with Ohio law. Some workers have left for more stable jobs. Those who remain say they’re determined to keep helping patients, even when it means sending them out of state.
“We are going to see as many people and do as much for these people as we can until we close down,’’ says Dr. Jeanne Corwin, who works at both clinics. She knows they’re likely to shutter next month. Until then, she focuses on preparing her Ohio patients to travel.
During Eberhart’s visit, she and Corwin sit in her office. States have various requirements on what patients must be told — procedure details, after-care instructions, birth control methods. But Indiana, Corwin explains, requires her to give what she derides as false information about fetal pain, and to discuss medical cremation. It is, she says, a bureaucratic process aimed at dissuading abortions.
Eberhart listens. Like most women at the clinic, she is undeterred.
The Indiana clinic can squeeze her in the next day, despite the influx of patients. The appointment gives her just enough time to meet Indiana’s requirement for an 18-hour waiting period after the in-person education and counseling session. Anti-abortion advocates hope some women will decide against the procedure in that window, but Eberhart knows what she wants.
A manager for a beauty supply store, she lives paycheck to paycheck, and she struggles with post-partum depression from the birth of her youngest. She relies on her parents to help care for all three kids — ages 4, 3 and 10 months.
“Love my kids to death, and they’re everything I would ever want in my life,” she says. “But if I, rationally speaking, could choose to do it over … no kids at 18. “Wait till I’m like 35. Wait till I have a whole house, a pension, a 401(k), a savings, three cars. Like, wait till you are financially able and stable.”
Her children are staying with her parents for a few days; Eberhart wants them to know nothing of her plans. That night, at her unusually quiet house, Eberhart plays video games and watches TV. She doesn’t feel scared or worried. Still, she struggles to sleep.
In the morning, the father, a friend who’s been supportive of Eberhart’s decision to seek an abortion, arrives to pick her up.
“I’m finally on my way,” she tells herself. She manages to nap during the 2.5-hour drive, hoping to stave off pregnancy-induced nausea.
They arrive about noon at the Indianapolis clinic — a low-slung, nondescript building in a modest neighborhood. As at the Ohio facility, anti-abortion demonstrators gather here nearly every day, and an armed security guard is posted at the door.
Opponents believe unrestricted abortions disregard human life and argue that strict limits or bans are needed to protect the unborn. For Eberhart, the demonstrators are a nonfactor in her decision. Adoption was never an option for her — she spent time in foster care herself and says she knows the system is overflowing with children. She wants to move forward with the abortion; then, as she’ll later say, “no more unplanned babies.”
Eberhart and a steady stream of other patients file into the clinic. They sit, some fidgeting on padded waiting-room chairs, staring at pastel walls and a droning soap opera on the TV. Each feels the urgency brought on by looming legislation.
There’s the nurse who got pregnant when her IUD failed. The 27-year-old is still breastfeeding her 5-month-old and recovering from ovarian-cyst surgery. She and her partner worry that another pregnancy is too dangerous. At 11 weeks pregnant, she, too, traveled from Ohio.
A retail worker in Louisville got a ride from a friend when her appointment was abruptly canceled over a new state ban there. Indiana’s waiting period means she’ll have to make the two-hour drive again, another day. The 27-year-old was on birth control when she got pregnant.
A factory worker from southern Indiana says her strict, Catholic father would disown her over an abortion. She’s certain she’s going to hell. But as a 28-year-old single mom, she knows she can’t raise another child.
A high school honor student got pregnant when her boyfriend’s condom broke. She told her mom, who revealed a secret she’d kept even from her husband — she had two abortions long ago, before marriage, when any notion that Roe v. Wade could be overturned seemed remote.
All these women — who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity, over fears that family and friends would learn of their abortion plans — will see Dr. Katie McHugh. She and the other staff in Indianapolis are performing twice as many abortions as they did before the Supreme Court ruling. In July, 474 patients had abortions there, compared with just over 200 in May. At least half come from other states.
McHugh sees more fear in her patients these days, and she tries to extend extra kindness. “There’s a sense of desperation,” she says. “They feel so lucky that they got in just under the wire.”
Depending on laws in patients’ home states, the clinic offers abortion by procedure or pills, with women taking two prescription medicines days apart. It’s the preferred and most common method to terminate pregnancy in the country, typically for women up to 70 days into pregnancy.
Eberhart is barely past that limit — but even if she qualified, she’d still need to have the more invasive medical procedure to empty her womb. The clinic won’t risk the legal liability of patients using the pills back home, in more restrictive states.
Over an hour after arrival, it’s time for Eberhart’s procedure. The doctor tells her, “I’m sorry you had to come all the way here, but we’re glad we can help.’’
Eberhart lies down on the exam table in a cramped procedure room and places her feet in the stirrups, a paper sheet covering her legs — much like an ordinary gynecological exam.
McHugh talks Eberhart through each step — feeling for the uterus, applying a numbing medication. Eberhart winces as she feels a pinch, then relaxes. She makes a bit of small talk, telling the doctor about her kids.
McHugh inserts a thin, hollow tube. It’s attached to larger tubing and a suctioning pump. McHugh uses it to remove the pregnancy.
The procedure is over in five minutes. Eberhart feels little pain. McHugh tells her to take care.
Eberhart moves to a recovery area, rests on a reclining chair and snacks on a small bag of chips.
“I’m generally in good spirts,” she says. “I knew what I signed up for.”
Over the next few days, she has minor cramps, some hormonal moodiness — but no regrets.
Mostly, she feels an overwhelming sense of relief — that she was able to find a clinic to give her the care she wanted, that the fast-closing window for abortion had remained open long enough.
“I just want to do what’s right for my body and my life,” she said.
___
Tanner reported from Indianapolis.
___
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | 2022-08-30T18:03:49+00:00 | seattletimes.com | https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/women-race-political-clock-cross-state-lines-for-abortions/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_all |
Human Factors Validation Study demonstrated that adolescents and adults could follow the instructions to correctly administer NaxSwab™ OTC in a simulated emergency environment
BETHESDA, Md., April 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pocket Naloxone Corp., a startup pharmaceutical company with the vision of enhancing naloxone delivery, announced results from a human factors validation study, using the intend-to-market packaging and labeling, demonstrated that laypersons of varied ages and reading comprehension levels and HCPs (healthcare professionals) were successfully able to administer its novel naloxone nasal swab NaxSwab™ in a simulated emergency rescue environment to potentially revive someone from an opioid overdose. The study enrolled sixty participants in four 15-member cohorts, pre-defined by the FDA, encompassing Naïve Passersby, Adult Patients and Lay Caregivers, Adolescents with ages 10-17 years and a mix of HCPs comprising paramedics, pharmacists and nurses.
The study was conducted by Eurofins Human Factors MD. Participants were asked to use the product in a home setting while exposed to stressors, to render aid to a manikin lying prone on the floor. They were not allowed to read the packaging or instructions ahead of time and at least about 30 percent of subjects in each non-HCP cohort had low literacy rates. Results showed that almost all (41 of 45) lay participants and all 15 HCP participants were able to administer an initial dose, call for emergency help, and administer a second dose when symptoms persisted or returned. Very few issues that could have impacted dosing were identified, all of which were observed in lay participants with 4th-8th grade reading levels. The FDA had requested that efforts be made to obtain an improved success rate relative to FDA's CONFER LCS study for the 'Call 911' step and with appropriate label enhancements, a 100% success rate was achieved in the company's current study.
Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that acts by blocking the effects of opioids at the opioid receptors. Clinical practitioners believe that faster naloxone absorption into the bloodstream could provide an advantage to help revive someone in the presence of highly potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Previously, the company reported that for the critical early exposure period, in the PK study, NaxSwab™ OTC was associated with a 10-fold higher naloxone exposure (i.e., AUC or area under the curve) at 2.5 minutes post dose and more than a 3-fold higher naloxone exposure at 5 minutes post dose compared to the 0.4 mg IM naloxone reference product. NaxSwab™ OTC was associated with a 74% higher naloxone exposure at 2.5 minutes post-dose and 19% higher naloxone exposure at 5 minutes post-dose compared to 4 mg naloxone spray.
"We noted the Advisory Committee's unanimous vote to approve OTC naloxone nasal spray in February of this year. It's critical to make naloxone more accessible to the community. Our company's mission has always been to develop a low-priced naloxone product to be truly affordable and accessible that at the same time demonstrates faster early absorption into the bloodstream to meet this moment with fentanyl and is easy to use," commented Ashanthi Mathai, CEO and Co-founder of Pocket Naloxone Corp. "To that point, we are pleased that our human factors validation study results show that our simple, ready-to-use naloxone nasal swab can be correctly administered by children and adults."
About Pocket Naloxone Corp.
Pocket Naloxone Corp.'s vision is to help in facilitating a world free of opioid overdose deaths and its mission is to meet the FDA's unprecedented call for an OTC naloxone product. The company's goal is to make its NaxSwab™ naloxone nasal swab available at a low, affordable cost once approved to be accessible regardless of insurance coverage and other factors. The company has other pipeline assets in development utilizing the same nasal swab applicator delivery platform. www.pocketnaloxone.com.
About Eurofins Human Factors MD
Eurofins Human Factors MD, LLC is one of the preeminent leaders in the human factors industry who have played a critical role in many successful regulatory submissions, several of which are emergency-use products. The company's mission is to help pharmaceutical and medical device companies develop products that are both usable and accessible by developing and executing upon rigorous human factors tests to ensure this is the case.
Media Contact:
Rebecca Hall
rebecca@tcmgroupinc.com
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SOURCE Pocket Naloxone Corp. | 2023-04-13T15:33:00+00:00 | wafb.com | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2023/04/13/naxswab-otc-novel-naloxone-nasal-swab-successfully-administered-by-children-adults-potentially-rescue-someone-an-opioid-overdose-study/ |
SAO PAULO (AP) — Federal police raided locations in several states Wednesday to crack down on a gang accused of plotting assassinations and kidnappings of public officials including a former judge who presided over Brazil’s biggest corruption case.
One of the suspects' targets was Sen. Sérgio Moro, who as a judge presided over the Carwash bribery and money laundering investigation that began in 2014, Justice Minister Flávio Dino told reporters in Sao Paulo. The suspects had rented out houses near Moro's home and office in Parana's capital, Curitiba, and had erected walls to create rooms that could be used for stowing hostages, he said.
Dino told reporters that authorities are investigating whether the criminals intended to kill or kidnap Moro. The operation was launched Wednesday because investigators determined the suspects were already setting up teams to execute their plans, he added.
Moro said on Twitter he had been targeted for retaliation by one of Brazil’s most notorious drug trafficking gangs, known as the First Capital Command. He thanked the police forces and said he would issue a statement later Wednesday.
From 2014 to 2018, Moro was the lead judge in the Carwash trials, which led to the arrest of prominent politicians including then former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who spent over a year in jail. Lula's conviction was later annulled. In 2019, Moro became former President Jair Bolsonaro’s Justice Minister, and quickly oversaw the transfer of the First Capital Command's leader and almost two dozen gang members to federal prison.
Moro left the government in April 2020 and secured a Senate seat in last year's general elections. Lula was also elected president.
Federal police last year investigated a plan by the First Capital Command to kidnap federal public servants, aiming to exchange them for the release of Marco Willians Camacho, the gang’s imprisoned leader, according to a report from online media UOL.
Federal Police said in their statement Wednesday that the criminals aimed to use their kidnapped hostages for extortion.
Wednesday's police operation entailed 120 agents carrying out 24 search and seizure warrants and 11 arrest warrants in the states of Sao Paulo, Parana, Mato Grosso do Sul and Rondonia, police said in a statement, which did not name the suspects nor their intended targets.
Dino told reporters that another target was a public prosecutor in Sao Paulo state’s organized crime unit. | 2023-03-22T16:46:10+00:00 | expressnews.com | https://www.expressnews.com/news/world/article/brazil-assassination-plot-targeted-in-massive-17853820.php |
FARMINGTON, Conn., July 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Otis Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: OTIS) Board of Directors today declared a quarterly dividend of $0.29 per share of Otis' common stock. The dividend will be payable on September 10, 2022, to shareholders of record at the close of business on August 19, 2022.
About Otis
Otis is the world's leading elevator and escalator manufacturing, installation and service company. We move 2 billion people a day and maintain more than 2.1 million customer units worldwide, the industry's largest Service portfolio. Headquartered in Connecticut, USA, Otis is 70,000 people strong, include 41,000 field professionals, all committed to meeting the diverse needs of our customers and passengers in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. To learn more, visit www.otis.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @OtisElevatorCo.
Cautionary Statement
This release includes statements related to anticipated earnings, cash flow and dividends that constitute "forward-looking statements" under the securities laws. All forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Past dividends provide no assurance as to future dividends. The payment and amount of future dividends could vary significantly from past amounts due to a number of risks and uncertainties. Risks and uncertainties include: (1) the effect of economic conditions in the industries and markets in which Otis and its businesses operate in the U.S. and globally and any changes therein, including financial market conditions, fluctuations in commodity prices, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates, levels of end market demand in construction, pandemic health issues (including COVID-19 and variants thereof and the ongoing economic recovery therefrom and their effects on, among other things, global supply, demand and distribution), natural disasters and the financial condition of Otis' customers and suppliers; (2) risks associated with indebtedness; (3) challenges in the development and production of new products and services; and (4) the effect of changes in laws and regulations and political conditions in countries in which we operate, including the effect of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and other factors beyond our control. The above list of factors is not exhaustive or necessarily in order of importance. For additional information on identifying factors that may cause actual results to vary from those stated in forward-looking statements, see the reports of Otis on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K filed with or furnished to the SEC from time to time. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and Otis assumes no obligation to update or revise such statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.
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SOURCE Otis Worldwide Corporation | 2022-07-28T20:59:45+00:00 | kwch.com | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2022/07/28/otis-declares-quarterly-dividend-029-per-share/ |
The World leader in Industrial LED Lighting Solutions Continues Partnership with WEA to Support Women-led Climate Resilience Projects
FARMINGDALE, N.J., June 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Dialight (LSE: DIA), the global leader in hazardous and industrial LED lighting innovation, today announced its continued support of the Women's Earth Alliance (WEA) climate resilience efforts with a $25,000 donation from the Dialight Foundation to support the 2022 Grassroots Accelerator program.
The Grassroots Accelerator program is designed to uplift frontline women's environmental and climate leadership so they can accelerate their initiatives, grow their visibility, and scale their impact.
The grant will be put towards action-driven training including participation in an online educational and community-building platform, group video calls, peer group and trainer mentorship, and a 4-day in-person workshop, called the "Collaboratory." Leaders will be equipped with a holistic set of practical skills in entrepreneurship, leadership, advocacy and environmental hands-on solutions, in addition to project development/management/scaling. From there, they will be able to design their own action plans and receive Accelerator grants to grow their high-impact environmental initiatives to meet the urgent needs of their regions as well as impact global sustainability goals.
"We are proud to continue our support of WEA, working alongside other clean and renewable energy companies to help advance the work of frontline women leaders", said Dialight Group Chief Executive and Chair of the Dialight Foundation Fariyal Khanbabi. "We're extremely passionate about decarbonizing the industrial world and ensuring that opportunities exist for women to thrive in a continuously-evolving industry. By empowering women leaders to protect the environment and strengthen their communities through grass-roots solutions, we can make a meaningful difference."
This is the second partnership for the Dialight Foundation and WEA. In 2021, The Dialight Foundation was the sole sponsor of WEA's COVID & Climate Resilience work in Tijuana, MX, which supported local, grassroots efforts that provide food, information, and support services to thousands of asylum seekers.
"We're extremely grateful for the Dialight Foundation and its support in continuing to advance women-led initiatives that strengthen our communities and climate resilience," said Melinda Kramer, Co-Director of the Women's Earth Alliance. "Women's leadership is a critical leverage point for increasing our collective climate resilience, yet women remain under-resourced and largely unsupported through their work to prevent environmental harm. As a global company, Dialight's commitment to supporting local communities by mobilizing on-the-ground resources has had a direct and measurable impact on the women and their families who need it most."
With the industrial world accounting for 1/3 of global carbon emissions, and as the world leader in industrial and hazardous LED lighting, Dialight regards the transition to net zero carbon as both an opportunity and obligation to help drive meaningful change in the industrial sector. For over 50 years Dialight has been solely focused on environmentally friendly LED technology, introducing market-leading innovations to ensure the safety and well-being of people working in harsh and hazardous industrial applications and continues to accelerate the industrial evolution to greener solutions through their cutting-edge technology.
To learn more about Dialight's legacy of sustainable LED innovation or the work of the Dialight Foundation, visit www.dialight.com.
Dialight is a global leader in improving sustainability, safety and operational efficiency for its customers by providing high-efficiency, long-lasting LED lighting technology for industrial applications. With millions of fixtures installed worldwide, Dialight's class-leading technology reduces energy use, cost and environmental impact for customers and is certified to a broad range of international standards. The company's operations are headquartered in the U.S., and it is listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange under the ticker DIA. Further information on Dialight and its products is available at www.dialight.com.
Women's Earth Alliance (WEA) is a 15-year global initiative that trains, resources and catalyzes grassroots women-led efforts to protect our environment and build healthy, safe, and just communities now and into the future.
Media Contact:
Gabrielle DePeitro
Next PR
gdepietro@nextpr.com
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SOURCE Dialight | 2022-06-16T13:48:16+00:00 | wlox.com | https://www.wlox.com/prnewswire/2022/06/16/dialight-foundation-sponsor-womens-earth-alliance-grassroots-accelerator-program/ |
After nearly a half-century of waiting, Archie Griffin’s club might just double in size this season.
The closest anyone has come was Oklahoma running back Billy Sims, who won in 1978 with 1,762 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns and was nearly as good the following year while piling up 1,506 yards and 22 scores. He finished a distant second to Southern California’s Charles White.
Jackson is one of a handful of Heisman winners to finish third the following season, a group that includes BYU’s Ty Detmer (who won in 1990), Oklahoma’s Jason White (2003), Southern California’s Matt Leinart (2004) and Florida’s Tim Tebow (2007).
Young, whose season begins Saturday when Alabama hosts Utah State, might be able to pull it off. For starters, the best way to get into the Heisman conversation is to begin the year there. Inertia is a powerful force, and Young surely will be discussed (and scrutinized) ad nauseam in the weeks to come.
The second-best way to become a fixture in Heisman talk is to be the quarterback on a good team. The Crimson Tide begins the season at No. 1, and the only times in the past six seasons that Nick Saban’s team has found itself outside the top five in the Associated Press rankings were the final three polls of the 2019 season.
There is a difference between being an oft-discussed player and actually collecting the hardware. And Young — who threw for 4,872 yards, 47 touchdowns and seven interceptions last season — has experience on that front.
A similar year might not be enough to produce the same result. And besides, after losing in last year’s College Football Playoff final, Young probably would trade a trophy case full of honors for a national championship. But why not walk away with both? It’s a subplot worth monitoring as the season unfolds.
It’s late early in Lincoln
Plenty of pixels have been allocated over the past week to the status of Nebraska Coach Scott Frost, whose Cornhuskers have become almost supernaturally adept at finding ways to lose close games. It’s unnecessary to do much more than state the obvious: A third-quarter onside kick backfired spectacularly, and Nebraska was run over by a more physical Northwestern team in Ireland.
After Saturday’s 31-28 loss, Nebraska has lost twice as many games (30) as it has won (15) under Frost. It is 5-21 in one-possession games under the former Huskers quarterback. It has rattled off five consecutive losing seasons (four under Frost), and Nebraska has the longest bowl drought in the Big Ten (none since 2016).
Frost is 0-4 against Iowa (and Ohio State, for that matter) and 0-3 against Wisconsin, none of which is all that startling. Yet he’s also 2-3 against Northwestern and 1-3 against both Minnesota and Purdue. The only Big Ten West team Nebraska isn’t below .500 against since 2018 is Illinois, and even then the Huskers are 2-2 (having lost the past two).
Every year, it seems one or two teams have their seasons implode before Labor Day. Nebraska might be on that list already. The Cornhuskers do get their next four at home, starting with North Dakota on Saturday. A visit from Oklahoma awaits Sept. 17, and no one will confuse it with the Game of the Century. But it might be Nebraska’s last, best chance to revive any hope that this could be a year of progress — or that Frost will still be on the job the next time the Huskers are anything more than mediocre.
Five with the most at stake
1. Notre Dame: It’s finally time for Marcus Freeman’s regular season debut as coach of the Fighting Irish. (He led the team during a Fiesta Bowl loss to Oklahoma State in January.) And what a debut it is: a trip to the Horseshoe (Notre Dame’s first since 1995) to face a likely playoff contender in No. 2 Ohio State. It’s an incredible opportunity, but a loss would leave the No. 5 Irish with no margin for error against a schedule that’s light on playoff threats beyond No. 4 Clemson (Nov. 5) and maybe No. 14 Southern California (Nov. 26).
2. Ohio State: The Buckeyes rate second because their schedule affords them a better chance to collect multiple high-end wins later in the season and quarterback CJ Stroud is back to run an offense that remains loaded despite the loss of some key wideouts. Second-ranked Ohio State could recover and make the playoff even with a stumble against Notre Dame, but it wouldn’t be a wise thing to do.
3. Utah: If there’s going to be a playoff contender in the Pac-12, the No. 7 Utes are the best bet. Unlike at Oregon and Southern California, there is continuity and stability in Utah’s program, which is fine and dandy for Pac-12 purposes. On a national scale, there probably isn’t much wiggle room, and that means the Utes need to go to Florida (in Gators coach Billy Napier’s debut) and come out of the muggy Swamp with a victory.
4. Oregon: New Ducks coach Dan Lanning opens his tenure against a program he has plenty of familiarity with — No. 3 Georgia. Lanning was the Bulldogs’ defensive coordinator last season, and he’ll be tasked with getting No. 11 Oregon back on top of the Pac-12. This game (to be played in Atlanta) offers the same sort of opportunity the Ducks exploited last season when they won at Ohio State in the season’s second week.
5. Arkansas: It has been a long, long while since the Razorbacks bandwagon was this full. No. 19 Arkansas is ranked in the preseason for the first time since 2015, but No. 23 Cincinnati comes to Fayetteville fresh off last year’s playoff appearance. The Bearcats had nine players selected in the NFL draft, but there’s a residue of success in Luke Fickell’s program. This probably isn’t going to be easy for the Hogs — though if it is, it will be rather impressive.
Heisman Watch
The preseason favorites can move into this feature as soon as they take the field. The stars of Week 0 have earned a moment in the sun.
1. QB Ryan Hilinski, Northwestern: Hilinski took apart Nebraska’s shoddy defense, completing 27 of 38 passes for 314 yards and two touchdowns in a 31-28 victory over the Cornhuskers in Dublin.
2. QB Mike Wright, Vanderbilt: The Commodores junior rushed for 163 yards and two touchdowns and threw for two more scores in a 63-10 throttling of Hawaii.
3. RB Chase Brown, Illinois: Coming off a 1,000-yard season, Brown rumbled for 151 yards and two touchdowns and tacked on a receiving score as the Illini hammered Wyoming, 38-6.
4. WR Ricky White, UNLV: The former Michigan State wideout made an impression in his Rebels debut, hauling in eight catches for 182 yards and two touchdowns to pace a 52-21 rout of Idaho State.
5. QB Drake Maye, North Carolina: The redshirt freshman opened the post-Sam Howell era in Chapel Hill with 294 yards and five touchdowns as the Tar Heels handled Florida A&M, 56-24. | 2022-09-02T10:10:03+00:00 | washingtonpost.com | https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2022/09/02/college-football-best-games-week-1/ |
ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia voters have cast more than 1 million ballots ahead of the Dec. 6 U.S. Senate runoff between Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock and Republican challenger Herschel Walker, with Warnock looking to juice an apparent Democratic head start in early voting with a visit Thursday from Barack Obama.
The former president will campaign with Warnock on the eve of the final day of early voting. The rally, which promises to be the largest event of Warnock’s four-week runoff blitz, underscores the two parties’ different approaches to early voting in the final contest of the 2022 election.
Democrats have employed an all-hands-on-deck push to bank as many votes as possible while Republicans, especially Walker, have taken a less aggressive approach that could leave the GOP nominee heavily dependent on runoff Election Day turnout.
“I think the turnout we’re seeing is good, and I want to encourage people to stick with it,” Warnock said as he campaigned this week, comparing voting to waiting in line at a popular Atlanta lunch spot. “The other day I went to the Slutty Vegan, and the line was wrapped around the block, and folks still waited and got their sandwiches,” he said. “I went and voted yesterday, and it was pretty painless.”
Walker, meanwhile, is expected to vote on the runoff’s Election Day, as he did in November for the midterms.
Warnock led Walker by about 37,000 votes out of almost 4 million cast in the general election but fell short of the majority required under Georgia law. That triggered a four-week runoff blitz, with a shorter early voting window than occurred during the first round.
Statewide early voting data, including some weekend and Thanksgiving weekdays in certain counties, shows higher overall turnout in the most heavily Democratic counties and congressional districts. Still, both parties are finding data to tout as they jockey for any advantage in the final contest of the 2022 midterm election cycle, and both campaigns agree generally that Warnock will lead among early voters, as he did in the first round, while Walker will have the advantage in Election Day ballots, as he did in November. The respective margins will determine the eventual winner.
TargetSmart, a Democratic data firm, analyzed the identities of the 830,000-plus voters who’d cast ballots by the end of Tuesday and concluded that Democrats have increased their advantage by 14 percentage points over what it was with six days to go before the Nov. 8 election. That analysis did not include the 240,000-plus additional ballots cast Wednesday.
Walker’s campaign manager, Scott Paradise, pushed back on notions of Democrats’ domination. He argued that their advantage comes only because it was heavily Democratic metro-area counties that held weekend early voting, while more Republican areas waited until the statewide mandatory early voting window that began Monday. Republicans had sued, unsuccessfully, in state court trying to block Saturday early voting for the runoff.
Paradise said a Walker campaign analysis found that nine of the 10 counties with the highest turnout Monday were counties Walker won in November with a combined 70% of the vote. He added that of the state’s most populous counties — those with more than 100,000 registered voters — it was two Republican strongholds, Hall and Forsyth, that posted the highest turnout percentages Monday. Paradise said those trends reflect high enthusiasm among Republicans.
Still, Republicans have catching up to do.
According to state voting data compiled by Ryan Anderson, an independent analyst in Atlanta, four of the state’s five Democratic-held congressional districts had already seen advance turnout through Tuesday of at least 43% of the total early vote for the November election, when every Georgia county had at least 17 days of early in-person voting. Just one of Georgia’s nine Republican-held congressional districts had eclipsed that 43% mark.
Warnock first won the seat as part of concurrent Senate runoffs on Jan. 5, 2021, when he and Jon Ossoff prevailed over Republican incumbents to give Democrats narrow control of the Senate for the start of President Joe Biden’s tenure. Warnock won a special election and now is seeking a full six-year term.
This time, Senate control is not in play: Democrats have already secured 50 seats and have Vice President Kamala Harris’ tiebreaking vote. That puts pressure on both Warnock’s and Walker’s campaigns to convince Georgia voters that it’s worth their time to cast a second ballot, even if the national stakes aren’t as high.
Warnock got about 70% of his overall first-round votes from advance voting; for Walker, it was about 58%. That translated to an advantage of more than 256,000 votes for Warnock. Walker answered with an Election Day advantage of more than 200,000.
The senator’s campaign, Democratic Party committees and aligned political action committees have tailored their voter turnout efforts toward early voting. Republicans have countered with their own wide-ranging push, including a direct-mail push from one super political action committee featuring Gov. Brian Kemp, who got 200,000 more votes than Walker to win a second term comfortably.
Yet Republicans are battling some internal party narratives, including from former President Donald Trump, that question some advance voting, especially mail-in ballots, pushing some Republicans toward an Election Day ballot. As recently as Tuesday, Trump declared on social media that “YOU CAN NEVER HAVE FAIR & FREE ELECTIONS WITH MAIL-IN BALLOTS – NEVER, NEVER NEVER. WON’T AND CAN’T HAPPEN!!!”
Walker himself does not mention early in-person voting or mail-in ballots at all as he urges his supporters to vote.
Democrats, meanwhile, see Obama as a key figure in repeating Warnock’s advance voting lead, because the former president remains intensely popular among core Democrats and has a solid standing among independents. | 2022-12-01T23:10:10+00:00 | cenlanow.com | https://www.cenlanow.com/politics/ap-politics/ap-obama-heads-to-ga-as-warnock-seeks-big-early-vote-advantage/ |
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — The U.S. has condemned the Taliban for ordering non-governmental groups in Afghanistan to stop employing women, saying the ban will disrupt vital and life-saving assistance to millions.
The Taliban takeover last year sent Afghanistan’s economy into a tailspin and transformed the country, driving millions into poverty and hunger. Foreign aid stopped almost overnight. Sanctions on Taliban rulers, a halt on bank transfers and frozen billions in Afghanistan’s currency reserves have already restricted access to global institutions and the outside money that supported the country’s aid-dependent economy before the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces.
“Women are central to humanitarian operations around the world," U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Saturday. "This decision could be devastating for the Afghan people.”
The NGO order came in a letter from Economy Minister Qari Din Mohammed Hanif. It said any organization found not complying with the order will have their operating license revoked in Afghanistan. It is the latest blow to female rights and freedoms since the Taliban seized power last year and follows sweeping restrictions on education, employment, clothing and travel.
The U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he was deeply disturbed by reports of the ban.
“The United Nations and its partners, including national and international non-governmental organizations, are helping more than 28 million Afghans who depend on humanitarian aid to survive,” he said in a statement.
Aid agencies and NGOs are expected to make a statement Sunday.
The Economy Ministry's edict comes days after the Taliban banned female students from attending universities across the country, triggering backlash overseas and demonstrations in major Afghan cities.
At around midnight Saturday in the western city of Herat, where earlier protesters were dispersed with water cannons, people opened their windows and chanted “Allahu Akbar (God is great)” in solidarity with female students.
In the southern city of Kandahar, also on Saturday, hundreds of male students boycotted their final semester exams at Mirwais Neeka University. One of them told The Associated Press that Taliban forces tried to break up the crowd as they left the exam hall.
“They tried to disperse us so we chanted slogans, then others joined in with the slogans,” said Akhbari, who only gave his last name. “We refused to move and the Taliban thought we were protesting. The Taliban started shooting their rifles into the air. I saw two guys being beaten, one of them to the head.”
A spokesman for the Kandahar provincial governor, Ataullah Zaid, denied there was a protest. There were some people who were pretending to be students and teachers, he said, but they were stopped by students and security forces. | 2022-12-25T08:49:01+00:00 | expressnews.com | https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/US-slams-Taliban-for-women-s-NGO-jobs-ban-in-17676560.php |
LOS ANGELES, July 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz announces that investors with substantial losses have opportunity to lead the securities fraud class action lawsuit against Yext, Inc. ("Yext" or the "Company") (NYSE: YEXT).
Class Period: March 4, 2021 – March 8, 2022
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: August 16, 2022
If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.
The complaint filed alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (1) Yext's revenue and earnings were significantly deteriorating because of, inter alia, poor sales execution and performance, as well as COVID-19 related disruptions; (2) accordingly, Yext was unlikely to meet consensus estimates for its full year ("FY") fiscal 2022 financial results and fiscal 2023 outlook; and (3) as a result, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.
Follow us for updates on Twitter: twitter.com/FRC_LAW.
To be a member of the class action you need not take any action at this time; you may retain counsel of your choice or take no action and remain an absent member of the class action. If you wish to learn more about this class action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to the pending class action lawsuit, please contact Frank R. Cruz, of The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz, 1999 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-914-5007, by email to info@frankcruzlaw.com, or visit our website at www.frankcruzlaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number, and number of shares purchased.
This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.
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SOURCE The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz, Los Angeles | 2022-07-26T18:33:07+00:00 | wbrc.com | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/07/26/yext-investors-have-opportunity-lead-yext-inc-securities-fraud-lawsuit/ |
Through their new partnership, Sands and Lee will highlight the developmental and leadership skills athletics can bring to young women, while promoting women's golf at the company's global resorts.
LAS VEGAS, June 29, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Las Vegas Sands (NYSE: LVS) today announced eight-time LPGA Tour champion Minjee Lee as the company's first female brand ambassador.
Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9165551-las-vegas-sands-minjee-lee-womens-sports-partnership/
Working together, Lee and Sands will showcase the success of female champions as role models for young athletes and young women, while promoting women's golf to a broader audience at the company's resorts and through its Sands Cares community engagement program. Lee's involvement with Sands will include inspirational talks and appearances at company events benefiting community partners, furthering its commitment to their missions.
"It's really important for global companies to support women in sports, especially women's golf," Lee said. "Our sport has grown tremendously, and a lot of work has been put into building its profile. It's great to have Sands recognize this momentum and step up to be part of our movement."
Currently ranked 5th in the Rolex Women's World Golf Rankings, Lee has won two major championships including the Amundi Evian Championship in 2021 and the 2022 U.S Women's Open. A native of Perth, Australia, she represented her home country in the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games and has established herself as the most consistent player in the world, spending more than 400 straight weeks inside the top 20 of the Women's World Golf Rankings. Lee and her brother Min Woo Lee, also a professional golfer, are the first brother-sister pair to win USGA junior championships.
"We're committed to empowering women, in particular young women, to compete on a level playing field with equal opportunities and the same visibility given to other sports," said Rob Goldstein, chairman and CEO. "Our goal is to showcase Minjee's success as inspiration for others to aim to their highest potential. As an Australian native of Korean heritage, we're especially excited to have her visit our Asia-Pacific properties, along with supporting initiatives in the United States."
About Sands (NYSE: LVS)
Sands is the world's preeminent developer and operator of world-class integrated resorts. Our iconic properties drive valuable leisure and business tourism and deliver significant economic benefits, sustained job creation, financial opportunities for local businesses and community investment to help make our host regions ideal places to live, work and visit.
Sands' portfolio of properties includes Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and The Venetian Macao, The Plaza and Four Seasons Hotel Macao, The Londoner Macao, The Parisian Macao and Sands Macao in Macao SAR, China, through majority ownership in Sands China Ltd.
Sands is dedicated to being a leader in corporate responsibility, anchored by the core tenets of serving people, planet and communities. Our ESG leadership has led to inclusion on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for World and North America. To learn more, visit www.sands.com.
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SOURCE Las Vegas Sands | 2023-06-29T22:17:45+00:00 | waff.com | https://www.waff.com/prnewswire/2023/06/29/lpga-tour-champion-minjee-lee-las-vegas-sands-join-forces-showcase-power-womens-sports/ |
The 2023 French Open Tennis championship begins this weekend.
The men’s draw will be a more open affair than usual: Reigning and 14-time champion Rafael Nadal is missing with an injury. On the women’s side, there are three clear favorites — the reigning Grand Slam champions Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina.
With a tense tournament ahead, the New York Times’ tennis correspondent Christopher Clarey joins host Scott Tong for a preview.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2023-05-26T18:41:14+00:00 | wbfo.org | https://www.wbfo.org/2023-05-26/french-open-begins-on-sunday-what-to-expect |
PHILADELPHIA — PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Nick Castellanos had three hits and three RBIs, Alec Bohm hit a go-ahead single in the eighth inning and the Philadelphia Phillies overcame an injury to Taijuan Walker to beat the Seattle Mariners 6-5 on Wednesday night.
J.T. Realmuto and Kyle Schwarber also drove in runs for the Phillies, who rebounded from a 5-2 second-inning deficit on a drizzly night. The defending National League champions, who lost their first four games, improved to 12-13 and with a win in Thursday's series finale can reach .500 for the first time this season.
J.P. Crawford hit a grand slam, doubled and singled for Seattle, and Julio Rodríguez also went deep.
Walker was removed after four innings and 68 pitches because of right forearm tightness. The 30-year-old right-hander, who spent his first four big league seasons with the Mariners from 2013-16, allowed five runs — all in the second — five hits and two walks. He signed a $72 million, four-year deal with the Phillies as a free agent.
Schwarber's RBI single in the third cut the deficit to 5-3, Castellanos hit a run-scoring single in the fourth and Realmuto singled in the tying run in the eighth against Justin Topa (0-2), who allowed hits to his first four batters. Realmuto had a hard-hit ball just under the glove of second baseman Kolten Wong, and Bohm followed by grounding a single into left.
Craig Kimbrel (1-0) struck out two in a perfect eighth for his first Phillies win. José Alvarado worked around Crawford's two-out double in the ninth, striking out Rodriguez on a full-count cutter for his fourth save.
Crawford, selected 16th overall by the Phillies in the 2013 amateur draft, hit his second career slam on a 92 mph fastball he drove into the Philadelphia bullpen in center. It was just the 28th home run in 547 career games for the sure-handed shortstop, sent to Seattle by the Phillies after the 2018 season in the trade that brought Philadelphia Jean Segura.
Rodriguez homered five pitches later.
Following a 20-minute rain delay at the start, Castellanos hit a two-run, opposite-field homer to right-center in the first off Logan Gilbert, whose start was pushed back due to discomfort in his pitching shoulder. An athletic trainer visited Gilbert on the mount in the third when Edmundo Sosa's liner caromed off the pitcher's lower left leg. Gilbert also exhaled in the fifth when he ended the inning by snaring Brandon Marsh's sharp liner to the mound.
Gilbert gave up four runs and seven hits in five innings.
POWER BAT
Castellanos has three homers and 16 RBIs in 25 games after hitting 13 homers with 62 RBIs last season as he started a $100 million, five-year deal.
POWER ARMS
Gilbert has 34 strikeouts and five walks through 27 2/3 innings. Alvarado has 22 strikeouts in 11 1/3 innings of relief and has allowed just one run.
STILL STREAKING
Seattle's Eugenio Suárez extended his on-base streak to a career-high 21 games with a third-inning single. Marsh also made it 21 straight games reaching base with an eighth-inning single.
TRAINER'S ROOM
Mariners: LHP Robbie Ray will have surgery to repair the flexor tendon in his pitching elbow and will miss the rest of the season. Ray, in the second season of a $115 million, five-year contract, was injured in his season debut against Cleveland on March 31.
Phillies: OF Bryce Harper (Tommy John surgery right elbow) took batting practice and ran the bases before the game and could return as a DH next month.
UP NEXT
Mariners RHP George Kirby (2-1, 3.57) opposes Phillies LHP Matt Strahm (1-2, 3.00) in the conclusion of the three-game set Thursday. | 2023-04-29T18:30:43+00:00 | king5.com | https://www.king5.com/article/sports/mlb/mariners/phils-overcome-deficit-to-beat-mariners-6-5/281-a7078465-ed46-4438-821a-828fa7cd3be7 |
KRDO’s Thursday Morning Pet of the Week
KRDO’s Pet of the Week, brought to you by the Humane Society and High Country Veterinary Hospital.
Medusa and Zeus are your KRDO pets of the week from Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region! They are 10-year-old black and white Siberian Huskies that came in as an owner surrender and now they’re looking for their new home.
These adorable huskies are siblings and have been together their entire lives so they will need to be adopted together. They are both housebroken and have sweet personalities.
Medusa and Zeus are on the independent side and like to explore the outdoors together. They both are talkative about their opinions and not afraid to let you know so they might not do best in an apartment setting.
Want to know more about Medusa and Zeus? Visit hsppr.org or visit in person at 610 Abbot Lane in Colorado Springs. Adoption hours are 11 am – 5 pm weekdays and 11:00 am – 4:30 pm. | 2022-12-01T14:17:23+00:00 | krdo.com | https://krdo.com/lifestyle/pet-of-the-week/2022/12/01/krdos-thursday-morning-pet-of-the-week-132/ |
LISTEN HERE
(Download Artwork Here)
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Emerging singer songwriter, Sadie Jean, whose first single "WYD Now?" went viral on TikTok and amassed over 200M+ streams on all platforms to date, topping multiple charts including #30 on the Global Viral Spotify charts, #23 on iTunes Top Songs, #27 on Spotify UK Weekly Viral Charts, today dropped her new single, "Locksmith." Co-written with Griff Clawson, Locksmith continues the "WYD Now?" story as Sadie explores her feelings as a young woman navigating through life and love.
With lyrical inspiration coming from old Coldplay and production inspiration from Kings of Leon and early 2000s pop radio, Locksmith showcases brutally soft and soulful songwriting and highlights her stunning vocals.
"Experiencing a love that never goes away is so weird, beautiful and sad. I wrote Locksmith to give myself a very specific kind of closure I was looking for. It's by far my favorite song of mine right now," said Sadie Jean. "Writing it felt genuinely magical, every lyric is exactly what it's supposed to be. It's so anthemic, sonically inspired by early Coldplay and The Script. I hope I can give my listeners the same cathartic experience writing this song gave me."
With just one song release under her belt, Sadie Jean sold out Constellation Room in Santa Ana, CA, Mercury Lounge in New York City as well as her first international headline show on Oct. 3 at the Grace in London.
For more information on Sadie Jean, please visit https://www.sadiejean.com/.
ABOUT SADIE JEAN
Sadie Jean is an emerging singer-songwriter based in New York City and Los Angeles with a knack for creating music that blends honest and intimate lyrics with infectious pop melodies, guaranteeing a captivating and emotional listening experience. Deriving influence from Joni Mitchell, Taylor Swift, and Phoebe Bridgers, Sadie gravitates towards confessional songwriting building on her own experiences. It is her relatable yet detailed lyrics that captivate and draw in wide audiences.
Born with an intrinsic sense of melody making and songwriting, Sadie had long cultivated her musical style before her debut single, "WYD Now?" went viral on TikTok and garnered 200M+ streams on all platforms to date. With just one song release under her belt, Sadie sold out Constellation Room in Santa Ana, CA, Mercury Lounge in New York City, as well as her first international headline at The Grace in London. Her second single, "Locksmith" is set for release on October 7, 2022.
Follow Sadie Jean on Social:
YouTube | TikTok | Instagram | Facebook
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SOURCE Sadie Jean | 2022-10-07T13:45:16+00:00 | ksla.com | https://www.ksla.com/prnewswire/2022/10/07/sadie-jean-drops-highly-anticipated-new-single-locksmith/ |
The program is free and open to individuals and organizations with expertise in building 3D geospatial applications on the Cesium Platform.
PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- 3D geospatial software company Cesium has announced a new Certified Developer Program to recognize the expertise of developers who build on the platform and connect them with those who want to build innovative 3D geospatial metaverse applications.
The program is free and open to both individuals and organizations. Benefits include official credentials, a liaison to provide support, share roadmap updates and collect feedback, as well access to commercial Cesium products and content. Certified developers will be featured on Cesium's website and connected to those in the community with 3D geospatial development needs.
"The Cesium community has grown through the tremendous support of our developer community," said Shehzan Mohammed, Director of 3D Ecosystems and Engineering at Cesium. "Through this program, we want to enable developers and customers to connect and continue building top-tier 3D geospatial applications using Cesium."
- Inaugural members of the program include:
- Air Force Research Lab
- Botts Innovative Research, Inc.
- Camptocamp
- Gaia3D
- Pelican Mapping
- SimCentric Technologies
- Terria
- V2i Realtime
Visit https://cesium.com/learn/certifications to learn more or apply.
Cesium is the open 3D geospatial platform for the metaverse. Cesium created 3D Tiles, the open standard for streaming massive 3D geospatial data. With offerings like the open source Cesium for Unreal plugin, we're empowering creators to build digitized worlds with real-world data at scale.
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SOURCE Cesium | 2022-10-11T12:35:07+00:00 | mysuncoast.com | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/10/11/cesium-launches-developer-certification-program/ |
2 busloads of migrants dropped off near VP Harris’ residence
WASHINGTON (AP) — Two buses of migrants from the U.S.-Mexico border were dropped off near Vice President Kamala Harris’ home in residential Washington on Thursday morning in the bitter political battle over the Biden administration’s immigration policies.
It wasn’t immediately clear which Republican leader had sent them. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has been busing migrants out of Texas to cities with Democratic mayors as part of a political strategy this year because he claims there are too many arrivals over the border to his state. Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey also has adopted this policy, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis also got in on the act recently. It was first dreamed up by former President Donald Trump.
About two dozen men and women stood outside the U.S. Naval Observatory at dawn, clutching clear plastic bags of their belongings brought with them over the border, before moving to a nearby church. Harris’ office had no immediate comment.
After migrants seeking asylum cross the U.S.-Mexico border, they spend time in a U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility along the border until they are generally released into the U.S. to wait out their cases. Republicans say Biden’s policies encourage migrants to vanish into the U.S.; Democrats argue the Trump-era policy of forcing migrants to wait out their asylum cases in Mexico was inhumane.
DeSantis flew two planes of immigrants to Martha’s Vineyard on Wednesday. And last week, Abbott sent about 75 migrants to Chicago.
District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser declared a public emergency last week over the continued arrival of buses of migrants. The district earlier requested National Guard assistance to help stem a “growing humanitarian crisis” prompted by the arrival of thousands of migrants, but the Pentagon rejected the request.
___
Follow the AP’s coverage on immigration at https://apnews.com/hub/immigration.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2022-09-15T14:49:35+00:00 | kalb.com | https://www.kalb.com/2022/09/15/2-busloads-migrants-dropped-off-near-vp-harris-residence/ |
HOUSTON, May 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- World class sports nutrition brand JNX Sports has taken its range to the next level with the introduction of its first BCAA product, The Jinx!
Refreshing before or after a workout, The Jinx! offers an immunity boosting vitamin stack and an advanced amino matrix that packs a punch when it comes to enhanced training, faster muscle recovery and better results.
JNX Sport's International Marketing Manager Jane Macdonald says, "Our gift is your curse. With a family of supplements that allow our customers to push their bodies harder, faster and longer, JNX Sports leaves you with no excuse not to go all out, all day, every day."
"Our customers want to see progress. Taking The Jinx! before and after a workout is going to maximise their results and help them get the most out of every rep, so they can hit their next goal sooner."
"We're about providing our customers with innovative products that push them beyond the limits of normal."
"Strength isn't just about muscle mass. It's about stamina and motivation to power through the challenges of every day, in and out of the gym. We see our customers pushing themselves beyond their limits every day, and our products are helping them get there.
We call it powering the transformation."
Sounds supernatural, and it is. "Our products are for people who want more. More energy, more stamina, more results. They want to go beyond their human potential and make the most out of their day. The Jinx! is one more way to help them do that."
The Jinx! is stackable with other products in the JNX Sports range, that already have a cult-like following. Pair it with The Curse!, The Shadow!, The Omen! or The Ripper! to really take your work out and recovery to the next level.
"Our customers asked for more, and we're giving it to them. More hydration, more stamina, more progress, and no excuses."
The Jinx! is available now with key online retailers nationwide.
To arrange media interviews, contact Jane Macdonald at jane@jnxsports.com.
About JNX Sports: JNX Sports is a sports nutrition brand offering a range of products and apparel that unleash and transform their customers to reach beyond mere mortal abilities. A little bit dark and lot superhuman, JNX Sports disrupts the industry with innovative products, global distribution and unworldly flavours. JNX Sports products can be found in select global retailers in over 60 countries. For more information visit jnxsports.com or join The Tribe! on Instagram and Facebook.
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SOURCE Cobra Labs dba JNX Sports | 2022-05-25T20:11:51+00:00 | wcjb.com | https://www.wcjb.com/prnewswire/2022/05/25/training-recovery-reach-superhuman-levels-with-release-latest-electrolyte-recovery-drinks-jinx-hydra-bcaa/ |
LONDON (AP) — The European Union’s sweeping set of beefed-up cryptocurrency rules got final approval from member states Tuesday, giving the 27-nation bloc a global lead in regulating the freewheeling sector.
The European Council adopted the package of rules — known as Markets in Crypto Assets, or MiCA — in the final step of the bloc’s legislative process. European Parliament lawmakers endorsed the rules in April, and they’re expected to start taking effect in phases starting in July 2024.
The tighter European scrutiny follows a spate of high profile crypto scandals including the collapse of trading firm FTX and the implosion of the TerraUSD stablecoin.
The rules are aimed at improving transparency and combating money laundering and will cover stablecoins — which are usually tied to a hard currency or a commodity like gold that make them less volatile than normal cryptocurrencies.
Other digital tokens as well as bitcoin-related services such as trading platforms and digital wallets are also subject to the rules, but not bitcoin itself.
“Recent events have confirmed the urgent need for imposing rules which will better protect Europeans who have invested in these assets, and prevent the misuse of crypto industry for the purposes of money laundering and financing of terrorism,” said Swedish Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson, whose country holds the rotating presidency of the European Council.
Under MiCA, which has been in the works since 2020, crypto companies will need approval to operate in the EU and be held liable if they lose investors’ assets. Authorities will compile a public list of “noncompliant” companies.
The rules, aimed at maintaining financial stability, include provisions to combat market manipulation and insider dealing. Companies issuing or trading crypto assets will have to disclose information on the risks, costs and charges that consumers face.
Major crypto companies will have to reveal how much energy they use. The massive amount of energy used in bitcoin mining to create new coins has stoked concern about crypto’s carbon footbprint.
The U.S. has made little progress in stepping up oversight of cryptocurrencies and digital assets, while the U.K. is considering feedback on proposed crypto regulations that it outlined last year.
Some European countries, like Germany, already have basic crypto regulations. | 2023-05-16T22:04:09+00:00 | wivb.com | https://www.wivb.com/news/business/crypto-rules-get-final-approval-to-make-europe-a-global-leader-on-regulation/ |
Firefighters contain abandoned structure fire, grassfire
LAWTON, Okla. (KSWO) - Firefighters from the Lawton Fire Department and Flower Mound Volunteer Fire Department were called to a structure fire on Friday which grew into a small grassfire.
It happened around 2:45 p.m. near the intersection of SE Flower Mound Road and Lee Blvd.
When crews arrived they found a large fire burning near two homes.
Neighbors tell our crew on scene that they believe a fire pit may have caused an ember to get into an abandoned trailer which started the fire along with a nearby wood pile.
Our crew says any structure which may have been present appeared to have burned to the ground but firefighters were able to contain it to the one area and some grass beyond the initial fire.
No injuries were reported.
Copyright 2022 KSWO. All rights reserved. | 2022-12-23T22:59:37+00:00 | kswo.com | https://www.kswo.com/2022/12/23/firefighters-contain-abandoned-structure-fire-grassfire/ |
Kevin Spacey trial witness claims sexual abuse by actor
NEW YORK (AP) — The first witness at a civil trial in which Kevin Spacey is accused of making a sexual advance on a 14-year-old boy in the mid-1980s testified Friday that Spacey made a similar move on him years earlier.
Andrew Holtzman was called to testify by lawyers for actor Anthony Rapp, who is seeking $40 million in damages for the psychological injuries he says he sustained as a result of an encounter with Spacey after a party in 1986.
Rapp, 50, began testifying Friday, but the jury was sent to lunch after several minutes in which Rapp provided biographical information about himself. Rapp’s claims, first made publicly in 2017, were the first among others that largely shut down Spacey’s career after multiple claims of inappropriate touching or sexual advances.
At the time, Spacey was starring in Netflix’s political thriller “House of Cards.” He’s also known for his role in the 1999 film “American Beauty,” which won him an Academy Award.
As a teenager, Rapp acted in films including “Adventures in Babysitting.” He was later part of the original Broadway cast of “Rent,” and is now a regular on “Star Trek: Discovery” on television.
During opening statements Thursday, Rapp’s lawyers told the Manhattan federal court jury that they will prove that Spacey picked up Rapp, placed him on a bed in his apartment and climbed on top of him before Rapp wriggled away and fled the apartment. At the time, Spacey was 26.
Holtzman, now 68, testified that he was working in his office at the New York Shakespeare Festival in the summer of 1981 when Spacey entered and sat at a spare desk used by actors and others who worked for the company of seven theaters.
Holtzman said Spacey didn’t say anything when he entered the office in a windbreaker, “tight blue jeans,” and carrying a leather shoulder bag, but he recalled knowing him because he’d seen his picture in the program for a play, “Henry IV,” in which Spacey was performing at the time.
As he finished a telephone call, Holtzman stood up at his desk and a sexually aroused Spacey walked over to him, lifted him up by the crotch and put him on the desk, Holtzman recalled.
“What are you doing? Get off of me!” he said he told Spacey.
“I could feel his erection on my body,” Holtzman said.
After a few more minutes, Spacey got off him, grabbed his windbreaker and bag and stormed from the office, Holtzman said.
“He was angry,” he said.
On cross examination, a lawyer for Spacey, 63, showed Holtzman six pages of a program for “Henry IV” and Holtzman said he did not see Spacey’s photograph.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2022-10-07T18:25:20+00:00 | kcbd.com | https://www.kcbd.com/2022/10/07/kevin-spacey-trial-witness-claims-sexual-abuse-by-actor/ |
New law will open door for relief poisoned at Camp Lejeune
COLUMBIA, S.C., Aug. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Americans of all stripes cheered today as the United States Senate finally passed the long-awaited Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act in a bipartisan 86 - 11 vote which not only expanded health care and disability benefits to millions of veterans exposed to toxic burn pits, but also clears the way for the potentially hundreds of thousands of Americans exposed to toxic water at Camp Lejeune from 1953-1987.
"Today the United States Senate stepped forward to take responsibility for the countless men, women and children poisoned at Camp Lejeune," said Pete Strom, founder of The Strom Law Firm. "It's an important step, it's a moral vote and it's long overdue."
Today's vote sends the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, included in the PACT Act, to President Joe Biden's desk where, if signed, it will reopen the claim period for an additional two years so anyone impacted by the toxic water can seek medical and compensatory damages.
The PACT Act has drawn particular attention when Republican opposition blocked the bill from passage last week sparking a national backlash and outcry.
"Potentially hundreds of thousands of Americans are suffering from everything from Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and liver toxicity to infertility and dementia because of the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune," said Bakari Sellers, an attorney with Strom Law Firm. "That's not just the Marines. It's their families, their children, school teachers, contractors and more. They didn't deserve this and now we have the chance to make it right."
Click HERE for more information about the Camp Lejeune water contamination and its health impacts.
View original content:
SOURCE Strom Law Firm | 2022-08-03T02:49:57+00:00 | wafb.com | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/08/03/attorneys-cheer-pact-act-passage/ |
How U.S. states have banned, limited or protected abortion
(AP) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday overturned Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that had provided a constitutional right to abortion. The ruling is expected to lead to abortion bans in roughly half the states. In anticipation of the decision, several states led by Democrats have taken steps to protect abortion access.
The decision also sets up the potential for legal fights between the states over whether providers and those who help women obtain abortions can be sued or prosecuted. Here is an overview of abortion legislation and the expected impact of the court’s decision in every state.
WARNING: Video may contain graphic content.
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ALABAMA
Political control: Alabama has a Republican-controlled legislature and a Republican governor who want to ban or restrict access to abortions.
Background: In 2019, Alabama lawmakers approved what was then the most stringent abortion ban in the country, making it a felony to perform an abortion at any stage of pregnancy with no exceptions for pregnancies resulting from rape or incest. The only exception would be when the woman’s health was at serious risk. A federal judge issued an injunction, under the precedent of Roe v. Wade, blocking the state from enforcing the law. In 2018, voters agreed to amend the Alabama Constitution to say the state recognizes the “rights of unborn children” and “does not protect the right to an abortion or require the funding of abortion.”
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, nothing will change immediately, but the stage would be set for a court fight and access to abortion could be curtailed. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, a vocal critic of Roe, has said his office would move to dissolve the injunction blocking enforcement of the 2019 abortion ban. Marshall said the state would also move to lift other injunctions that blocked previous attempts to implement abortion restrictions, including a ban on abortion clinics near schools and a ban on the most common method for second trimester abortions.
What’s next: Some Republican lawmakers have said they would like to see the state replace the 2019 ban with a slightly less stringent bill that would allow exceptions in cases of rape or incest. Proponents said the 2019 ban was deliberately strict in the hopes of sparking a court challenge to Roe.
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ALASKA
Political control: Republicans currently hold a majority of seats in the state Legislature, but the House is controlled by a bipartisan coalition composed largely of Democrats. Fifty-nine of the Legislature’s 60 seats are up for election this year. Gov. Mike Dunleavy, a Republican who believes life begins at conception, is seeking reelection.
Background: The Alaska Supreme Court has interpreted the right to privacy in the state constitution as encompassing abortion rights.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: A decision either way by the U.S. Supreme Court is not expected to immediately affect abortion rights in Alaska, given the existing precedent in the state.
What’s next: Voters in the fall will be asked if they want to hold a constitutional convention, a question that comes up every 10 years. Many conservatives who want to overhaul how judges are selected and do away with the interpretation that the constitution’s right to privacy clause allows for abortion rights see an opportunity in pushing for a convention. Recent efforts to advance a constitutional amendment through the Legislature have been unsuccessful.
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ARIZONA
Political control: Both legislative chambers are controlled by Republicans, who regularly pass abortion restrictions that for the past eight sessions have been quickly signed by Republican Gov. Doug Ducey, an abortion opponent.
Background: Arizona law allows abortion through about 22 weeks, but the Legislature passed a 15-week abortion ban in March mirroring the Mississippi law currently being contested before the U.S. Supreme Court. It will take effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns, which is expected in late June. Current restrictions include bans on abortions because of gender and a 2021 law that makes it a felony for a doctor to terminate a pregnancy because the child has a survivable genetic abnormality. Arizona also has a pre-statehood law still on the books that would ban all abortions, although it has not been enforced since Roe was decided.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court upholds the Mississippi law, the new 15-week ban would take effect as planned. If it overturns Roe, Ducey has argued in media interviews that the law he signed in late March takes precedence over the total ban that remains on the books. But the law he signed specifically says it does not overrule the total abortion ban in place for more than 100 years. Ducey is term-limited and leaves office in January.
What’s next: Abortion-rights supporters in Arizona have launched a long-shot bid to enshrine the right to abortion in the state constitution. Rolled out weeks after the draft U.S. Supreme Court decision showing Roe could be overturned was leaked, backers must collect more than 356,000 signatures by July 7 to get the initiative on the November ballot. Voters would then be able to decide.
Arizona interactive summary: Arizona passed a 15-week abortion ban in March mirroring the Mississippi law that
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ARKANSAS
Political control: Arkansas’ legislature is controlled by Republicans who have supported dozens of abortion bans and restrictions in recent years. Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson also has supported bans on abortion with some exceptions. He’s term-limited and leaves office in January. Republican nominee Sarah Sanders, press secretary to former President Donald Trump, is widely favored in the November election to succeed him.
Background: Arkansas law currently bans most abortions 20 weeks into a woman’s pregnancy, with exceptions for rape, incest and the life of the mother. The state has several other bans that have been struck down or blocked by the courts in recent years, including an outright abortion ban enacted last year that doesn’t include rape or incest exceptions. That ban has been blocked by a federal judge, and the state has appealed the ruling.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, the state would ban abortion under a “trigger law” it enacted in 2019 that conditions a ban on such a ruling. That ban, along with the outright ban that’s been blocked by a federal judge in the state, only allows exceptions to protect the life of the mother in a medical emergency. Hutchinson has said he thinks bans should include rape and incest exceptions, but he has not called on the Legislature to add those to either of the bans.
What’s next: Arkansas’ “trigger” law banning nearly all abortions in the state takes effect if the attorney general certifies that the U.S. Supreme Court has overturned Roe v. Wade. The only exception in that ban is to protect the life of the mother in a medical emergency. The Legislature isn’t scheduled to meet until January, but Hutchinson is considering calling a special session to take up tax relief proposals. The Republican governor has not said he plans to include any legislation related to abortion on the agenda for that session.
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CALIFORNIA
Political control: Democrats who support access to abortion control all statewide elected offices and have large majorities in the state Legislature.
Background: California outlawed abortion in 1850, except when the life of the mother was in danger. The law changed in 1967 to include abortions in the case of rape, incest or if a woman’s mental health were in danger. In 1969, the California Supreme Court declared the state’s original abortion law to be unconstitutional but left the 1967 law in place. In 1972 – one year before the Roe v. Wade decision at the U.S. Supreme Court -- California voters added a “right to privacy” to the state constitution. Since then, the state Supreme Court has interpreted that “right to privacy” as a right to access abortion, allow minors to get an abortion without their parents’ permission and use public funding for abortions in the state’s Medicaid program. California now requires private health insurance plans to cover abortions and does not allow them to charge things such as co-pays or deductibles for the procedure.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Abortion will still be legal in California prior to the viability of a fetus. Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom has vowed to make California a sanctuary for women who live in other states where abortion could be outlawed or severely restricted. It’s unknown how many women would come to California for abortions should Roe v. Wade be overturned, but the number is expected to be significant.
What’s next: The state Legislature is considering 13 bills that would strengthen or expand access to abortion. The bills are based on a report from the Future of Abortion Council, which Newsom formed last year to study reproductive rights in California. They include proposals that would help pay for women from other states to come to California for abortions, ban enforcement of out-of-state civil judgments on California abortion providers and volunteers, and increase the number of people who can offer abortions by authorizing some nurse practitioners to perform the procedure without the supervision of a doctor. Lawmakers also plan to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot in November that would explicitly guarantee the right to an abortion and contraceptives.
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COLORADO
Political control: The Democrats who control the Colorado Legislature support access to abortion, as does the state’s Democratic governor.
Background: A 1967 state law legalized abortion up to 16 weeks of pregnancy. Abortion has been accessible ever since, despite repeated legislative attempts and ballot initiatives to restrict or abolish the procedure. Colorado voters have consistently rejected such initiatives, the latest in 2020 that would have banned abortion during the third trimester of pregnancy. In 2022, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed a law placing the right to abortion in state statute. The law guarantees access to reproductive care before and after pregnancy and bans local governments from imposing their own restrictions. It also declares that fertilized eggs, embryos and fetuses have no independent rights. Abortion rights advocates plan a 2024 ballot initiative to add abortion rights to the state constitution and repeal a 1980s constitutional amendment that bans public funding for abortion.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: The decision won’t have any immediate impact on Colorado law -- but providers are preparing for a surge of out-of-state patients in case Roe is overturned. Democratic House Majority Leader Daneya Esgar says lawmakers must consider how to invest in a health care workforce to ensure Colorado has the capacity to meet that anticipated demand. Colorado’s health department reports there were 11,580 abortions in the state in 2021; of those 14% were for non-residents. More than 900 of those non-residents were from Texas, Wyoming and Nebraska.
What’s next: It’s impossible to predict how many more patients from states surrounding Colorado will potentially seek care if Roe v. Wade is overturned. But the Texas law could induce more people to come. Oklahoma now has an early pregnancy abortion ban; Utah and Wyoming have trigger laws banning abortion if Roe is overturned; the Kansas Constitution protects abortion rights, but Republican lawmakers placed on an August primary ballot an initiative to overturn it.
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CONNECTICUT
Political control: Democrats who control the Connecticut General Assembly support access to abortion, as does the state’s Democratic governor.
Background: Connecticut passed a law in 1990 giving women the legal right to abortion. Having passed with strong bipartisan support, it was lauded at the time for being a rare compromise between abortion rights advocates and opponents. It affirmed a woman’s unqualified right to an abortion “prior to viability of the fetus,” as well as later-term abortions “necessary to preserve the life and health of the pregnant woman.” It also repealed state laws predating Roe v. Wade that had made it a felony to have an abortion or to perform one and required that patients under 16 receive counseling about their options. This year, Gov. Ned Lamont signed legislation to protect medical providers and patients from out-of-state legal actions. The same law allows advanced practice registered nurses, nurse-midwives or physician assistants to perform aspiration abortions in the first 12 weeks of a pregnancy.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, a Democrat, has vowed to challenge any attempt to nullify Connecticut’s abortion rights law. “Let’s not mince words. They will come for us,” Tong warned abortion rights supporters during a recent news conference. “We will fight that effort tooth-and-nail. Any court, any place, Connecticut will be there and will fight.” The state is already involved in major abortion cases across the country. And while Connecticut is surrounded by mostly pro-abortion states, it’s still bracing for out-of-state patients seeking abortions if Roe is overturned.
What’s next: Connecticut’s new law protecting abortion providers from other states’ bans takes effect on July 1. It creates a legal cause of action for providers and others sued in another state, enabling them to recover certain legal costs. It also limits the governor’s discretion to extradite someone accused of performing an abortion, as well as participation by Connecticut courts and agencies in those lawsuits. There’s discussion of possibly amending the state’s constitution to enshrine the right to abortion, making it more difficult to overturn, but that would be a multi-year process.
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DELAWARE
Political control: Democrats control the governor’s office and both chambers of the legislature in Delaware and have taken several steps to ensure access to abortion.
Background: In 2017, Delaware became the first state following the election of President Donald Trump to codify the right to an abortion. A bill signed by Gov. John Carney, a Catholic, guarantees the unfettered right to an abortion before a fetus is deemed “viable.” The law defines viability as the point in a pregnancy when, in a physician’s “good faith medical judgment,” there is a reasonable likelihood that the fetus can survive outside the uterus without the application of extraordinary medical measures. The law also allows abortion after fetal viability if, in a doctor’s “good faith medical judgment,” abortion is necessary for the protection of the woman’s life or health, or if there is a reasonable likelihood that the fetus cannot survive without extraordinary medical measures. The law eliminated existing code restrictions on abortions, much of which had already been declared unenforceable by Delaware’s attorney general in 1973 following the Supreme Court rulings in Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton. In April of this year, Carney signed a bill allowing physician assistants and advanced practice registered nurses to prescribe abortion-inducing medications including mifepristone and misoprostol.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: “In Delaware, the privacy protections of Roe v. Wade are codified in state law, guaranteeing residents have access to legal abortion services even if Roe were to be undone at the federal level,” Democratic lawmakers noted earlier this month in unveiling legislation further broadening access to abortions. The bill, which is likely to pass before the end of June, allows physician assistants, certified nurse practitioners and nurse midwifes to perform abortions before viability. It also includes various legal protections for abortion providers and patients, including out-of-state residents receiving abortions in Delaware. Those provisions include protections from civil actions in other states relating to the termination of a pregnancy, and protecting individuals from extradition to other states for criminal charges related to terminating a pregnancy.
What’s next: According to state health officials, 2,042 abortions were performed in Delaware in 2019, with 1,765 involving Delaware residents and 277 involving nonresidents. Delaware is not likely to see a huge influx of women traveling from out of state to get abortions if Roe v. Wade is overturned, given that neighboring Maryland and New Jersey also have liberal abortion-access laws. In neighboring Pennsylvania, where Republicans control both chambers of the Legislature, future abortion access could hinge on the outcome of this year’s gubernatorial contest.
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DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Political control: The local government in the nation’s capital is completely controlled by Democrats, with a Democratic mayor and the D.C. Council split between Democrats and nominal independent politicians, who are all, invariably, Democrats.
Background: Abortion is legal in the District of Columbia at all stages of pregnancy, a status that was upheld in the 1971 Supreme Court case United States v. Vuitch. However, the U.S. Congress has oversight power over D.C. laws and Congress has already banned the city from using local funds to pay for abortions for women on Medicaid.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Elected officials in Washington, D.C., fear Congress could move to restrict abortion access, particularly if Republicans recapture the House of Representatives in midterm elections later this year. President Joe Biden could theoretically veto such a move, but that protection is subject to political calculations and is not guaranteed.
What’s next: Local officials have pledged defiance against any sort of Congressional move to restrict local abortion access. The D.C. Council is considering legislation that would declare Washington D.C. a “sanctuary city” for those coming to Washington from states where abortion is banned. According to federal data, most of the women getting abortions in Washington, D.C., already are coming from out of state. Those numbers could increase, particularly if new Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin moves to restrict abortion access in neighboring Virginia.
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FLORIDA
Political control: Republicans control both chambers of the Florida Legislature and this year passed a ban on abortions after 15 weeks, which was signed into law by the state’s Republican governor.
Background: Abortion was legal in Florida until the 24th week of pregnancy, though lawmakers have been tightening access in recent years with bills requiring a one-day waiting period and requiring parents of a pregnant minor to be notified before an abortion can be provided. This year, in anticipation of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling eroding or overturning Roe v. Wade, the Legislature passed a ban on abortions after the 15th week, except to save the mother’s life, prevent serious injury or if the fetus has a fatal abnormality. It does not allow for exemptions in cases where pregnancies were caused by rape or incest. Gov. Ron DeSantis called the legislation “the most significant protections for life that have been enacted in this state in a generation.”
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, that will place Florida’s 15-week ban on firm legal ground, at least under federal law. However, the legislation is already being challenged in state court on arguments that it violates a guarantee of the right to privacy under the state constitution.
What’s next: Florida’s 15-week ban goes into effect on July 1, and by then a U.S. Supreme Court decision is expected on a similar Mississippi ban after 15 weeks. However, the state constitutional challenge of the legislation will likely still be pending. Though only about 2% of Florida’s abortions take place after 15th week, abortion rights advocates have expressed concern over declining access to the procedure not only for Floridians but for residents from nearby Southern states where restrictions have historically been stricter than in Florida.
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GEORGIA
Political control: Georgia has a Republican legislature and governor who have supported abortion restrictions, but all are up for election this November. Republicans are likely to retain legislative control, but there’s a possibility a Democrat could become governor.
Background: Georgia lawmakers in 2019 passed a law by one vote that would ban most abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy, when fetal cardiac activity can be detected. The measure is unlike other “heartbeat” bills in that it also contains language designating a fetus as a person for certain state-law purposes such as income tax deductions and child support. The measure is on hold right now before the U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals awaiting a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court in the Mississippi case.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: The 11th Circuit is likely to allow the six-week ban to take effect relatively quickly, having already heard oral arguments in the case, although there could be fresh legal challenges. That would ban the large majority of abortions that currently take place in Georgia – about 87% according to providers. The change could happen in the middle of tightly contested races in Georgia for governor and U.S. Senate. Democratic U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock and challenger for governor Stacey Abrams say they want to secure abortion rights. Republican Senate challenger Herschel Walker and incumbent Republican Gov. Brian Kemp support restrictions.
What’s next: Some Republican lawmakers and candidates want Georgia to go further and ban abortion entirely, but Kemp is unlikely to call a special session before this November’s general election. Lawmakers are likely to consider further action when they return for their annual session in January. The Legislature or courts will have to sort out whether the provisions designating a fetus as a person are workable.
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HAWAII
Political control: Hawaii’s governor is a Democrat and Democrats control more than 90% of the seats in both the state House and Senate.
Background: Hawaii legalized abortion in 1970, when it became the first state in the nation to allow the procedure at a woman’s request. The state allows abortion until a fetus would be viable outside the womb. After that, it’s legal if a patient’s life or health is in danger. For many years, only licensed physicians could perform the procedure. Last year, the state enacted a law allowing advanced practice care nurses to carry out in-clinic abortions during the first trimester. This helps women on more rural islands who have been flying to Honolulu to obtain abortions because of doctor shortages in their communities. The law allows the nurses to prescribe medication to end a pregnancy and to perform aspiration abortion, a type of minor surgery during which a vacuum is used to empty a woman’s uterus.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Existing Hawaii law would allow abortions if the Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade and allows states to determine their own abortion regulations. Even so, Gary Yamashiroya, a spokesperson for the state attorney general’s office, said the attorney general is carefully considering measures Hawaii might take to protect and strengthen reproductive rights if Roe ends. “No matter the outcome, our state remains committed to reproductive freedom and choice,” he said in an emailed statement.
What’s next: Political support for abortion rights is strong. Anti-abortion bills are rarely heard at the state Legislature. When they have been, they haven’t made it out of committee. Gov. David Ige issued a statement supporting abortion rights when the Supreme Court’s draft opinion overturning Roe leaked. “No matter what the Supreme Court decides, I will fight to ensure a woman’s right to choose in the State of Hawaii,” he said. The Hawaii State Commission on the Status of Women earlier this month said 72% of the state Senate and 53% of state House members signed a pledge supporting abortion rights.
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IDAHO
Political control: Republicans hold super-majorities in the House and Senate and oppose access to abortion, as does the state’s Republican governor.
Background: Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling, Idaho passed a law generally allowing abortions in the first and second trimester up to viability at about 23 to 24 weeks. The law allows abortions after viability only to protect the mother’s life or in cases of nonviable fetuses. This year, lawmakers passed a Texas-style ban prohibiting abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy and authorizing family members to sue medical providers for performing an abortion. That law is on hold following a challenge by Planned Parenthood. The Idaho Supreme Court is scheduled to hear arguments in August.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, it will trigger a 2020 Idaho law banning all abortions except in cases of reported rape or incest, or to protect the mother’s life. That law would take effect 30 days after the decision. Under the law, the person performing the abortion could face a felony prosecution punishable by up to five years in prison. In cases of rape or incest, the law requires pregnant women to file a police report and provide a copy of the report to the provider prior to an abortion. If the Idaho Supreme Court upholds the state’s Texas-style abortion ban and Roe v. Wade is tossed aside, a medical provider who performs an abortion in Idaho could face a lawsuit and criminal charges.
What’s Next: Pregnant women seeking abortions will have to travel out of state; the nearest abortion providers would be in Washington, Oregon, Nevada and Colorado. Planned Parenthood is renting space in the town of Ontario on the Idaho-Oregon border and says it’s preparing for an influx of patients seeking abortions. Some Republican lawmakers in Idaho might propose new legislation in January to outlaw abortion pills and emergency contraception.
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ILLINOIS
Political control: Illinois is overwhelmingly Democratic with laws providing greater access to abortion than most states. Democrats hold veto-proof supermajorities in the House and Senate, and the Democratic first-term governor seeking reelection this year, J.B. Pritzker, has promoted peaceful street protests to protect the constitutional right to an abortion.
Background: Abortion is legal in Illinois and can only be restricted after the point of viability, when a fetus is considered able to survive outside the womb. Medical science determines viability at 24 to 26 weeks, but the Illinois law does not specify a timeframe, saying a medical professional can determine viability in each case. Abortions are also allowed after viability to protect the patient’s life or health.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Nothing the court does would affect the ability to have an abortion in Illinois. After the Roe v. Wade decision in 1973, the Illinois Abortion Act of 1975 legalized the procedure but enacted a “trigger law” that would reinstate the ban if Roe were overturned. That trigger law was repealed in 2017 in legislation that also required Medicaid and state employees’ group health insurance to cover abortions. The 2019 Reproductive Health Act replaced the 1975 law, large parts of which were never enforced because they were found to be unconstitutional.
What’s next: Like other states providing access to abortions, Illinois has seen a steady influx of patients crossing the state line for abortions in recent months and those numbers are expected to increase.The state could see an additional 20,000 to 30,000 patients seeking abortions in the first year if Roe is reversed, said Brigid Leahy, vice president of public policy for Planned Parenthood of Illinois.
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INDIANA
Political control: Indiana has a Republican-dominated Legislature and a Republican governor in favor of restricting abortion access.
Background: Abortion in Indiana is legal up to about 20 weeks, with some provisions for medical emergencies. Before an abortion, patients must undergo an 18-hour waiting period. Medical providers must tell patients about the risks involved in abortion and must say the fetus can feel pain around 20 weeks, which is disputed. Providers must report complications related to abortion; failure to report can result in a misdemeanor, 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Federal courts have blocked several restrictions in Indiana, including an attempt to ban a common second-trimester abortion procedure and a law that would have required doctors to tell pregnant women about a disputed treatment to potentially stop a drug-induced abortion.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: No immediate change would take effect in Indiana if Roe v. Wade is overturned or if the U.S. Supreme Court supports Mississippi’s 15-week ban. But legislators unwilling to wait until the 2023 session could ask Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb to call a special session this summer to start modifying the state’s abortion laws.
What’s next: Shortly after the Supreme Court’s draft decision was leaked, Republican lawmakers said they would not make any moves to change Indiana’s abortion laws until the court releases its official decision. Some have expressed interest in adopting a law that bans abortions at the point when a medical practitioner can discern a fetal heartbeat. That’s usually around six weeks, when many women don’t even know they are pregnant.
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IOWA
Political control: Iowa’s legislature is controlled by Republicans who want to ban or restrict abortion access and a Republican governor who agrees and is up for reelection this year.
Background: Iowa allows most abortions until the 20th week of pregnancy, when they’re banned except to save a patient’s life or prevent a substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function. In 2018, the state Supreme Court declared access to abortion a “fundamental” right under the state constitution, granting stronger protections to abortion rights than the U.S. Constitution. The state’s high court, now with a conservative majority, overturned that decision June 17, thus allowing a state law requiring a 24-hour waiting period to go into effect immediately. That requirement is being challenged in district court.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, nothing will change immediately in Iowa. The GOP-controlled Legislature has been working to get an amendment on the ballot in 2024 that would declare the state constitution does not grant a right to abortion, but if the high court ruling shifts power back to state government as expected, Iowa lawmakers could ban abortion without completing that lengthy process.
What’s next: Now that the Iowa Supreme Court has struck down its 2018 ruling, the state Legislature can convene a special session this summer and pass abortion restrictions. Republicans could still move to get the constitutional amendment on a public ballot in 2024.
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KANSAS
Political control: Kansas has a legislature controlled by Republicans who want to ban or restrict access to abortions but a Democratic governor who supports access and is up for re-election this year.
Background: Under current law, Kansas does not ban most abortions until the 22nd week of pregnancy, when they’re allowed only to save a patient’s life or to prevent “a substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function.” The state Supreme Court in 2019 declared that access to abortion is a “fundamental” right under the state constitution, granting stronger protections to abortion rights than the U.S. Constitution does currently. State law, however, doesn’t allow providers to dispense abortion medications through telemedicine consultations.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, nothing will change immediately in Kansas, and that will be true even if the court merely upholds Mississippi’s ban at 15 weeks without explicitly overturning Roe. The state Supreme Court blocked enforcement of a 2015 legislative ban on a common second-trimester procedure, and abortion opponents fear a host of other rules could fall to legal challenges in the near future. The GOP-controlled Legislature responded by putting a constitutional amendment on the ballot during the Aug. 2 primary, when turnout is expected to be much lower than in a general election and will likely see a higher proportion of Republicans voting. The amendment would declare that the state constitution does not grant a right to abortion. It would allow lawmakers to restrict abortion as much as the federal courts will allow -- and to ban it if Roe is overturned.
What’s next: If voters approve the amendment, the Legislature would still have to approve the new restrictions, and lawmakers are out of session until January 2023. They can call themselves into special session with two-thirds majorities, but they’re likely to wait until after voters decide in the November general election whether to give Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly a second term.
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KENTUCKY
Political control: Republicans have a supermajority in the Kentucky Legislature and have been restricting abortion rights since the 2016 election over the vetoes of Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear, who supports abortion rights and will seek a second term in 2023.
Background: Kentucky bans abortions after 20 weeks, but all abortion services were temporarily halted in April after the legislature imposed new restrictions and reporting requirements on the state’s two abortion clinics. The clinics, both in Louisville, said they suspended abortions because state officials hadn’t written guidelines on how to comply with the new law. Noncompliance could result in stiff fines, felony penalties and revocation of physician and facility licenses. Abortions resumed after a federal judge temporarily blocked key parts of the law, including a provision banning abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, abortion services in Kentucky would immediately become illegal under a “trigger law” enacted in 2019. The measure contains a narrow exception allowing abortion to prevent the death or permanent injury of a pregnant woman. Kentuckians will be able to vote this November on a proposed amendment declaring there is no right to an abortion in the state constitution.
What’s next: Abortion-rights activists say the suspension of abortion services in April foreshadowed what would happen in Kentucky and other Republican-leaning states if Roe v. Wade is overturned. It likely would end several legal challenges pending against other Kentucky abortion laws including a 2018 measure that abortion-rights supporters say would effectively ban a standard abortion method in the second trimester of pregnancy. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in March that Kentucky’s Republican attorney general, Daniel Cameron, can defend the measure that was struck down by lower courts.
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LOUISIANA
Political control: Louisiana’s legislature is controlled by Republicans who want to ban or restrict abortion access. Its Democratic and Catholic governor also opposes abortions, though he supports exceptions for victims of rape or incest.
Background: Voters approved a constitutional amendment in 2020 stating that “a right to abortion and the funding of abortion shall not be found in the Louisiana Constitution.” Of the about 2 million people who voted, 62% approved the amendment. Abortion is legal in Louisiana through the 19th week of pregnancy. After that, it is legal only if the fetus would die anyway or if continuing the pregnancy would threaten the mother’s life or health. An ultrasound and counseling are required at least 24 hours before the procedure. For medication abortion, a doctor must prescribe the drug in person; telemedicine prescriptions are not allowed.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: The legislature has sent Gov. John Bel Edwards a bill that would criminalize nearly all abortions if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v Wade or upholds Mississippi’s 15-week ban. Penalties for those who perform abortions would be mandatory: up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $10,000 to $100,000. He is expected to sign.
What’s next? Edwards also has a bill that would require the doctor to certify that a drug used for abortion was being prescribed for another medical reason. The bill would make it illegal to deliver abortion medication to a state resident “by mail-order, courier, or as a result of a sale made via the internet.”
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MAINE
Political control: Both chambers of the Maine Legislature, which has adjourned, are controlled by Democrats. Democratic Gov. Janet Mills has vowed to protect the right to an abortion, saying she will “fight with everything I have to protect reproductive rights.”
Background: A Republican governor in 1993 signed a Maine law affirming the right to abortion before a fetus is viable. After that, abortion is only allowed if the life or health of the mother is at risk, or if the pregnancy is no longer viable. In 2019, lawmakers eliminated a physician-only rule and Mills signed it into law, allowing nurse practitioners, physician assistants and other medical professionals to perform abortions.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, nothing will change in Maine, and that will be true even if the court merely upholds Mississippi’s ban at 15 weeks without explicitly overturning Roe. Any attempt to restrict abortions when lawmakers reconvene next year would face fierce pushback. Abortion providers, meanwhile, said there could be an influx of patients seeking abortions from states that outlaw the procedure.
What’s next: Any major changes are unlikely unless former Gov. Paul LePage, a Republican, unseats Mills and Republicans take control of both chambers of the Legislature in November. LePage, a Catholic who opposes abortion rights, has said it’s up to lawmakers to address the abortion issue as they see fit.
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MARYLAND
Political control: Maryland’s legislature is controlled by Democrats who expanded abortion access this year by ending a restriction that only physicians can provide them and requiring most insurance plans to cover abortion care without cost. The legislature overrode Republican Gov. Larry Hogan’s veto of the bill in April.
Background: The right to abortion is protected in Maryland law. The state approved legislation in 1991 to protect abortion rights if the Supreme Court should ever restrict access. Voters approved the right in 1992 with 62% of the vote. Maryland law prohibits restrictions on abortion prior to viability. Maryland does not have a gestational limit. After viability, clinicians make the determination, based on clinical standard of care.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, nothing will change immediately in Maryland law, and that will be true even if the court merely upholds Mississippi’s ban at 15 weeks without explicitly overturning Roe.
What’s next: Maryland’s new law that will enable nurse practitioners, nurse midwives and physician assistants to provide abortions with training is set to take effect July 1. However, $3.5 million in state funding to provide training isn’t mandated until fiscal year 2024. Hogan, who is term limited, has indicated he will not approve the money sooner. Some nurse practitioners, nurse midwives and physician assistants already have received training on medication abortion and will be able to provide those services starting next month.
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MASSACHUSETTS
Political control: The Democrats who control the Massachusetts Legislature support access to abortion, as does the state’s Republican governor, although they differ on specific policies.
Background: Massachusetts once had a contentious relationship with abortion, in part due to the powerful influence of the Catholic Church, which opposes abortion. In recent years, that influence has waned and Massachusetts has become a strong supporter of abortion rights. In 2018, in anticipation of a conservative tilt on the U.S. Supreme Court, the state removed an 1845 abortion ban from its books that was not enforced. Two years later, Democratic state lawmakers clashed with Republican Gov. Charlie Baker -- who says he supports abortion rights -- over an effort to codify abortion rights into state law, allow abortions after 24 weeks of pregnancy in cases where the child would not survive after birth, and lower from 18 to 16 the age at which women could seek an abortion without consent from a parent or guardian. Lawmakers passed the bill -- dubbed the Roe Act -- over Baker’s veto.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Baker has vowed to fight to keep abortion legal in Massachusetts, but it is his last year in office. Both Democratic candidates for governor -- state Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz and Attorney General Maura Healey -- support abortion rights. Republican candidate Geoff Diehl said he believes in “the need to protect human life wherever and whenever possible.” Fellow GOP candidate Chris Doughty said he would “not seek any changes to our state’s abortion laws.”
What’s next: Absent new federal abortion laws, there’s little chance Massachusetts will restrict abortion rights. As of 2017, there were 47 facilities providing abortion in Massachusetts, 19 of those were clinics, according to the Guttmacher Institute, which supports abortion rights. If Roe v. Wade is overturned, it’s unclear how many people would travel there from states that ban or restrict abortion. The state Senate has proposed additional money to help maintain access to abortion services, including barring providers and patients from being extradited to other states to face abortion-related lawsuits.
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MICHIGAN
Political control: Both chambers of Michigan’s legislature are controlled by Republicans who want to ban or restrict abortion access, but the state’s Democratic governor supports access.
Background: A dormant 1931 law bans nearly all abortions in Michigan but it hasn’t been enforced since Roe v. Wade. The law made it a felony to use an instrument or administer any substance with the intent to abort a fetus unless necessary to preserve the woman’s life. It has no exceptions in cases of rape and incest. Anticipating that Roe could be overturned, Planned Parenthood of Michigan filed a lawsuit challenging Michigan’s ban. A state judge suspended the law in May, saying it violates the state’s constitution. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Attorney General Dana Nessel, both Democrats, hailed the decision.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: The injunction granted in the Planned Parenthood case ensured that abortion would not immediately become illegal if the U.S. Supreme Court cut down Roe. Planned Parenthood of Michigan and other supporters hope the injunction indicates abortion rights in the state will be preserved. But in a statement to The Associated Press, Nessel’s office said “given the ongoing lawsuits, we cannot speculate what the state of abortion rights will be in Michigan” if Roe is overturned.
What’s next: Whitmer also filed suit asking the state’s Supreme Court to declare the 91-year-old law unconstitutional. It has not acted yet. Michigan abortion rights supporters hope to put the issue on ballots this fall. Their proposed constitutional amendment would affirm the right to make pregnancy-related decisions without interference, including about abortion and other reproductive services such as birth control. The Reproductive Freedom for All committee needs to collect about 425,000 valid voter signatures by July 11 to make the November ballot. The measure would become law if voters approved it. The issue also is expected to shape statewide elections -- Whitmer and Nessel are both up for reelection in the fall -- and legislative races.
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MINNESOTA
Political control: The Minnesota Legislature is divided; Anti-abortion Republicans control the Senate and Democrats have the House, but the majorities are slim in both chambers, so control will be up for grabs in the November elections. Most legislative Democrats support abortion rights. Democratic Gov. Tim Walz has said “no abortion ban will ever become law” while he’s governor. But he faces a challenge this year from Republican Scott Jensen, who opposes abortion rights.
Background: Abortion is legal in Minnesota up to the point of fetal viability, around the 24th week of pregnancy. The state has some restrictions, including a 24-hour waiting period with state-mandated counseling, both parents generally must be notified prior to a minor getting an abortion, and only physicians can perform abortions.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Nothing will change immediately in Minnesota if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade because the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled in 1995 that the state constitution protects abortion rights. If Republicans take control of both chambers, they could put a constitutional amendment on the ballot as soon as 2024 to reverse that ruling, but it’s not clear yet if they would take that path. Minnesota governors can’t block constitutional amendments with vetoes. But amendments are hard to enact because they require the backing of most of the citizens voting in that election, not just those voting on the amendment. Leaving the ballot blank counts as a “no.”
What’s next: Providers are preparing for a surge in women coming from other states to get abortions if Roe v. Wade is overturned. Sarah Stoesz, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood North Central States, said her organization has been “fortifying” its delivery systems, including telemedicine. Dr. Sarah Traxler, the group’s medical director, has said demand in Minnesota is expected to rise by up to 25%.
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MISSISSIPPI
Political control: Republican Gov. Tate Reeves and leaders of the Republican-controlled Mississippi Legislature have been working for years to chip away at abortion access.
Background: Mississippi law bans most abortions at 20 weeks. The state tried to enact a law in 2018 to ban most abortions after 15 weeks. This law is the basis for the case now at the Supreme Court, which could reshape abortion rights nationwide. A federal district judge blocked Mississippi’s 15-week law from taking effect, and an appeals court agreed. The Supreme Court heard arguments in December, and the Mississippi attorney general’s office argued justices should overturn Roe v. Wade, the court’s 1973 ruling that legalized abortion nationwide. Mississippi has one abortion clinic, and it stops offering abortions at 16 weeks. Reeves was lieutenant governor in 2018, when Mississippi tried to enact the 15-week ban, and in 2019, when the state tried to enact a six-week ban. Mississippi law does not allow providers to dispense abortion medications through telemedicine consultations.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Mississippi’s only abortion clinic, Jackson Women’s Health Organization, would close within weeks if the Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade. Mississippi enacted a law in 2007 that would prohibit most abortions if Roe v. Wade is overturned. Abortions would still be allowed if the woman’s life is endangered by the pregnancy or if the pregnancy was caused by a rape that was reported to law enforcement. Any person who knowingly performs or attempts to induce an abortion, except the pregnant woman, could be punished by up to 10 years in prison.
What’s next: If the Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, the 2007 Mississippi law says the state attorney general must publish a notice in a state administrative bulletin. The state’s ban on most abortions would take effect 10 days after that publication.
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MISSOURI
Political control: Both GOP Gov. Mike Parson and the Republican-led Legislature support laws against abortion.
Background: Missouri law allows abortions up until 22 weeks of pregnancy. But the GOP-led Legislature passed an abortion ban in 2019, hoping that the 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling would later be tossed out. Under the 2019 law, abortions would only be allowed to save the life of the mother and would not be allowed in cases of rape or incest. Performing an illegal abortion would be a felony punishable by 5 to 15 years in prison.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: The 2019 abortion ban would kick in if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade. The attorney general, the governor or the Legislature would need to issue an official notice if Roe is overturned for the 2019 law to take effect. The GOP-led Legislature is out of session for the year, but Parson and the attorney general have said they’ll take quick action if Roe falls.
What’s next: If the abortion ban takes effect, many Missouri patients seeking abortions likely will travel to neighboring states, including Illinois and Kansas. A new Illinois logistics center near St. Louis helps women from out of state find travel, lodging and childcare if they need help getting to the area for an abortion, and it connects them with funding sources. The Kansas Supreme Court in 2019 declared that access to abortion is a “fundamental” right under the state constitution, granting stronger protections to abortion rights than the U.S. Constitution does. Even without the ban in Missouri, the number of Missouri patients seeking abortions in Kansas has gone up in recent years, increasing about 8% from 2020 to 2021.
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MONTANA
Political control: The Republicans who control the Montana Legislature and Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte want to limit access to abortion.
Background: Abortion used to be legal in Montana up until viability, or about 24 weeks of pregnancy, but the state Legislature passed a bill in 2020 to reduce that to 20 weeks, arguing that is when the fetus can feel pain. That law, along with one that requires chemical abortions to be done with in-person medical supervision, are being challenged in court. A state judge temporarily blocked enforcement in October 2021 while the challenges move through the courts. The state has asked the Montana Supreme Court to vacate that injunction and overturn a 1999 Montana Supreme Court opinion that found the state’s constitutional right to privacy guarantees a woman’s access to abortion care.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: The effect of overturning Roe v. Wade is unclear in Montana because of the unresolved legal challenges to the 2021 legislation. Montana does not have an abortion ban that would be triggered if Roe v. Wade is overturned, but the Legislature could seek to further restrict access in the next session.
What’s next: The Montana Supreme Court will issue a decision on the preliminary injunction. The Montana Legislature also passed a referendum to ask voters this November whether they support a state law to require abortion providers to give lifesaving treatment to a fetus that is born alive after a botched abortion. Opponents argue federal law already offers those protections.
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NEBRASKA
Political control: Nebraska has an officially nonpartisan legislature with a Republican majority, but not a super-majority that would let the party unilaterally pass an abortion ban. Democrats appear to have enough votes to block such a bill, but just one defector could swing the vote. Nebraska’s Republican governor vehemently opposes abortion.
Background: Nebraska allows most abortions until the 22nd week of pregnancy, although a few small towns have voted to outlaw the procedure within their borders. The state requires doctors to be physically present when patients take the first of two drugs that are used in medication abortions. Lawmakers have rejected attempts to allow abortion medications to be administered remotely, which would provide easier abortion access in rural areas.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: A ruling that lets states set their own abortion laws would trigger an immediate push by Nebraska conservatives to ban the procedure, but it’s not clear whether they could do it this year. Unlike other conservative states, Nebraska doesn’t have a law that would automatically outlaw abortion if the court overturns Roe v. Wade. Gov. Pete Ricketts and other top Republicans have said they’ll seek a special legislative session, but it’s not clear whether they have enough votes to pass anything.
What’s next: If Ricketts calls a special session, attention will likely shift to state Sen. Justin Wayne, an Omaha Democrat who has declined to specify where he stands on abortion. Wayne was notably absent from a vote on the issue this year; his support would give Republicans the super-majority they need to enact a ban. He has struck deals with senators from both parties in the past. If a proposed abortion ban fails during a special session or if no special session is called, the issue will likely become a factor in the November election.
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NEVADA
Political control: Nevada’s governor and state attorney general are Democrats who are up for reelection this year. Democrats control the state Senate and Assembly.
Background: Nevada voters enshrined the right to abortion in the state constitution in 1990. The law says a pregnancy can be terminated during the first 24 weeks, and after that to preserve the life or health of the pregnant person. It would take another statewide vote to change or repeal the law. Most Republican candidates for Congress, governor, state attorney general and other statewide posts say they oppose abortions.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: “Here in Nevada, overturning Roe would not be felt immediately,” state Attorney General Aaron Ford said in a position paper released after the draft U.S. Supreme Court opinion became public. Ford noted that a federal ban on abortion would supersede state law and said it would be naive not to recognize that some people want to ban abortions or make them more difficult to obtain. But he said his office will fight “attacks on abortion rights, rights to birth control access and rights for LGTBQ people.” Gov. Steve Sisolak promised in a statement to “continue to protect reproductive freedom.”
What’s next: Anti-abortion advocates are not expected to focus on trying to repeal Nevada’s abortion law. But they will seek laws affecting waiting periods, mandatory counseling or requiring parental notification or consent. Melissa Clement, executive director of Nevada Right to Life, said she believes there is strong support for parental involvement.
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NEW HAMPSHIRE
Political control: New Hampshire has a Republican governor and the GOP controls the 424-member Legislature. All face reelection this fall.
Background: Any abortion restrictions New Hampshire had on the books before Roe v. Wade were not enforced after the landmark 1973 ruling, and they were repealed altogether in 1997. The state had no restrictions until January, when a ban on abortion after 24 weeks of pregnancy was enacted. In June, an exemption was added for cases in which the fetus has been diagnosed with “abnormalities incompatible with life.” Anticipating the Supreme Court action, Democrats this year tried unsuccessfully to enshrine abortion rights into state law and the state constitution. Gov. Chris Sununu calls himself pro-choice and says he is committed to upholding Roe v. Wade, but he also has boasted “I’ve done more on the pro-life issue than anyone.”
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, nothing will change immediately in New Hampshire. The Legislature won’t return until fall, when there will be a one-day session to take up vetoed bills, and it would take a two-thirds majority vote to introduce new legislation then.
What’s next: The majority leader of the New Hampshire House has said the public should not expect Republicans in the Legislature to further tighten state abortion laws. But anti-abortion lawmakers who have filed bills in the past are expected to try again.
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NEW JERSEY
Political control: Democrats control both houses of the state Legislature and the governorship. Gov. Phil Murphy started his second consecutive term this year.
Background: To pre-empt a possible Supreme Court ruling striking down Roe v. Wade, Murphy ran for reelection on the promise that he would sign legislation to enshrine abortion rights into state law, and he fulfilled that promise in January. The measure also guaranteed the right to contraception and the right to carry a pregnancy to term. It stopped short of requiring insurance coverage for abortions, something advocates had sought. Instead, it authorizes the state Banking and Insurance Department to study the issue and possibly adopt regulations if a need is discovered. Under Murphy’s predecessor, Republican Chris Christie, state funds to women’s clinics, including Planned Parenthood, were slashed. Murphy restored those and has been a strong supporter of abortion rights. New Jersey doesn’t have any significant restrictions on abortion, such as parental consent or a mandatory waiting period.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Officials, including the governor, have said the end of Roe would not lead to any rollback of abortion services in the state. “Instead of hoping for the best, we prepared ourselves for the worst,” Murphy said in May, addressing reports of a leaked draft of a Supreme Court ruling
What’s next: Murphy has proposed a host of new abortion-related measures, but the Legislature has not taken them up yet. One aims to let a wider range of medical providers perform the most common type of abortion. Another would create a fund so advanced practice registered nurses, physician’s assistants and certified nurse midwives can provide abortion services. The source and amount of funding wasn’t defined. Another proposed measure would mandate that insurance providers cover abortions without cost-sharing or out-of-pocket expenses.
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NEW MEXICO
Political control: The Democrats who control the New Mexico Legislature support access to abortion, as does the state’s Democratic governor. Several conservative Democratic state senators who voted against the repeal of the abortion ban in 2019 were ousted from office in 2020 by more socially progressive primary challengers.
Background: Abortion has been legal in New Mexico since the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1973 ruling in Roe v. Wade. In 2021, state lawmakers repealed a dormant 1969 statute that outlawed most abortion procedures as felonies, thus ensuring access to abortion if the federal court rolls back guarantees. Albuquerque is home to one of only a few independent clinics in the country that perform abortions in the third trimester without conditions. An abortion clinic in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, is just a mile from the state line with Texas and caters to patients from El Paso, western Texas and Arizona.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: There will be no immediate change in New Mexico if the high court overturns Roe v. Wade. It is unclear if Democratic lawmakers will pursue additional guarantees to abortion access when the Legislature meets again in January. Possible avenues of legislative reform include enshrining abortion rights in the state constitution, which requires approval by statewide referendum. Abortion rights activists say the state’s equal rights amendment could be harnessed to guide more public funding for abortion-related programs.
What’s next: The state can expect to continue to see a steady influx of people seeking abortions from neighboring states with more restrictive abortion laws. It already hosts patients from Texas and Oklahoma where among the strictest abortion bans in the country were introduced this year.
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NEW YORK
Political control: The Democrats who control the New York Legislature support access to abortion, as does the state’s Democratic governor.
Background: Abortion has been legal in New York state since a 1970 law was passed by the Republican-controlled Legislature and signed by Republican Gov. Nelson A. Rockefeller. The law allows abortions within the first 24 weeks of pregnancy or to preserve the mother’s life. The 2019 Reproductive Health Act removed abortion from the state’s criminal code, codified Roe v. Wade and allowed abortions after 24 weeks if a fetus isn’t viable or to protect the mother’s life or health. Lawmakers have passed laws extending legal protections for people seeking and providing abortions in New York.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Roe V. Wade protections are enshrined in state law. New York is planning to give abortion providers $35 million this year to expand services and boost security in anticipation of an influx of out-of-state people seeking abortions once any ruling comes down. It’s unclear how many more people from neighboring states could travel to New York to receive abortion care. New York had 252 facilities providing abortions as of 2017, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research organization that supports abortion rights.
What’s next: Planned Parenthood and civil liberty groups are urging lawmakers to start the process of passing a constitutional amendment protecting access to abortion care in case a future Legislature repeals the state law.
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NORTH CAROLINA
Political control: Republicans hold majorities in the state House and Senate, but the party lacks the margins to defeat a veto by Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, a strong abortion-rights supporter. Since 2017, Cooper has vetoed a “born-alive” abortion measure and a bill prohibiting abortion based on race or a Down syndrome diagnosis. He can’t seek reelection in 2024 due to term limits.
Background: A 1973 North Carolina law that banned most abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy is currently unenforceable after federal judges struck it down as unconstitutional in 2019 and 2021. Instead, abortions can be performed until fetal viability. A state law approved in 2015 provides for post-viability abortions only in a “medical emergency,” which means the woman would die or face a “serious risk” of substantial and irreversible physical impairment without the procedure.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, the 20-week ban could be restored. Legal experts say formal action would have to be taken to dismiss the earlier court rulings striking it down. State Attorney General Josh Stein is a Democrat and abortion rights supporter. Republican lawmakers could try to force action themselves.
What’s next: Republican General Assembly leaders have low expectations of additional abortion restrictions coming during the soon-to-end legislative session, meaning a likely intensification of electoral efforts to gain the five additional seats the GOP needs to reach veto-proof margins come 2023. Cooper and other Democrats already are making abortion rights a key campaign pitch. Abortion politics are also expected to figure in two state Supreme Court seat elections in November. Republicans would gain a majority on the court if they win at least one of them.
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NORTH DAKOTA
Political control: North Dakota has a legislature dominated by Republicans who want to ban abortion, and the GOP governor wants to see Roe v. Wade wiped off the books in favor of state’s rights.
Background: The state has passed some of the nation’s strictest abortion laws, including one that would have banned abortions once a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which can happen before a woman knows she is pregnant. The law never took effect because the state’s lone abortion clinic successfully challenged it in court. One failed Republican proposal would have charged abortion providers with murder with a maximum sentence of life in prison.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, North Dakota has a trigger law that would shut down the state’s sole abortion clinic in Fargo after 30 days. That 2007 state law makes it a felony to perform an abortion unless necessary to prevent the pregnant woman’s death or in cases of rape or incest. Violators could be punished with a five-year prison sentence and a $10,000 fine.
What’s next: The owner and operator of the Red River Women’s Clinic in Fargo said she would explore all legal options to ensure abortion services are available in North Dakota. Should that fail, clinic leader Tammi Kromenaker plans to move across the river to Moorhead, Minnesota, where abortion has not been outlawed. Planned Parenthood says it can provide abortions in Moorhead until Kromenaker gets up and running.
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OHIO
Political control: The Ohio Legislature is controlled by Republicans who support restricting or banning abortions, and the Republican governor backs those efforts. He is up for reelection this year against a former mayor who supports abortion rights.
Background: Under current law, Ohio does not ban most abortions until the 22nd week of pregnancy; after that they’re allowed only to save a patient’s life or when their health is seriously compromised. But the state imposes a host of other restrictions, including parental consent for minors, a required ultrasound, and in-person counseling followed by a 24-hour waiting period. Abortions are prohibited for the reason of a fetal Down syndrome diagnosis. Ohio also limits the public funding of abortions to cases of rape, incest or endangerment of the patient’s life. It limits public employees’ abortion-related insurance coverage and coverage through health plans offered in the Affordable Care Act health exchange to those same scenarios. Clinics providing abortions must comply with a host of regulations.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, nothing will change immediately in Ohio. Two trigger bills are on hold in the Legislature, but a key legislative leader has said he anticipates needing to write new legislation after the decision is reversed that more carefully reflects the actual ruling. That all but certainly would not happen until lawmakers return to the capital after the November election. Quicker action could take place in the courts, where several Ohio laws restricting abortions have been temporarily blocked. That includes a ban on most abortions at the first detectable fetal heartbeat, as early as six weeks into pregnancy, which is likely to be unblocked and become effective if Roe is reversed.
What’s next: It is not clear what will happen next in Ohio. Activists are considering how to help Ohioans get abortions elsewhere. They may also mount a statewide ballot initiative that would embed the right to an abortion in the state constitution, though that could not happen before next year. Abortion opponents are weighing strategies for imposing a statewide abortion ban if Roe is overturned.
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OKLAHOMA
Political control: Republicans in Oklahoma have a supermajority in both chambers of the Legislature and a Republican governor up for reelection this year who has vowed to sign “every pro-life legislation that came across my desk.”
Background: Abortion services were halted in Oklahoma in May after Gov. Kevin Stitt signed a bill that prohibits all abortions with few exceptions. The ban is enforced by civil lawsuits rather than criminal prosecution. Republican lawmakers have been pushing to restrict abortion in the state for decades, passing 81 different restrictions since Roe v. Wade was decided in 1973, according to the Guttmacher Institute.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: A ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court would have little practical effect given that abortions are no longer being provided in Oklahoma. However, because several Oklahoma abortion laws still are facing legal challenges in lower courts, it’s possible that the abortion bans in place could be temporarily lifted. Oklahoma also has a “trigger law” that would outlaw abortion immediately if Roe or Planned Parenthood v. Casey were overturned.
What’s next: Given the fierce opposition to abortion from the governor and Legislature, Oklahoma will continue to prohibit the practice if states are given the option to do so. Meanwhile, abortion providers who had been operating in the state are taking steps to help patients seek abortions out of state, including coordinating funding for these women and developing a referral network of therapists to help address complications before or after a woman receives an abortion.
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OREGON
Political control: The Democrats who control the Oregon Legislature support access to abortion, as does the state’s Democratic governor.
Background: The Oregon Legislature passed a bill legalizing abortion in 1969. In 2017, Gov. Kate Brown signed into law a bill expanding health care coverage for reproductive services, including abortions, to thousands of Oregonians, regardless of income, citizenship status or gender identity. Oregon does not have any major abortion restrictions and it is legal at all stages of pregnancy.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: The Guttmacher Institute has estimated that Oregon would experience a 234% increase in women coming from out of state, especially from Idaho, if the high court overturns Roe v. Wade. In March, Oregon lawmakers approved $15 million to expand abortion availability and pay for abortions and support services such as travel and lodgings for residents and out-of-state patients.
What’s next: Brown said after the draft Supreme Court decision was leaked that access to abortion is a fundamental right and that she will fight to ensure access to abortion continues to be protected by state law in Oregon. Democratic state lawmakers recently formed the Reproductive Health and Access to Care Work Group of providers, clinics, community organizations and legislators that will make recommendations for the 2023 legislative session and beyond. Recommendations may include proposals to protect, strengthen, and expand equitable access to all forms of reproductive care.
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PENNSYLVANIA
Political control: Republicans who control the Pennsylvania Legislature are hostile to abortion rights, but the state’s Democratic governor is a strong supporter and has vetoed three GOP-penned bills in five years that would have added restrictions beyond the state’s 24-week limit. The race for governor this year could tilt that balance.
Background: Abortion is legal in Pennsylvania under decades of state law, including a 1989 law that was challenged all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. That produced the landmark Planned Parenthood v. Casey ruling that affirmed the high court’s 1973 decision in Roe v. Wade that legalized abortion nationwide, but also allowed states to put certain limits on abortion access.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Gov. Tom Wolf has vowed to protect access to abortion for the remainder of his time in office, through January. Running to replace him is the state’s Democratic attorney general, Josh Shapiro, who supports abortion rights, and Republican state Sen. Doug Mastriano, who has said he supports banning abortion altogether, with no exceptions. The Legislature is expected to remain in Republican hands next year.
What’s next: Legislation to outlaw abortion after the detection of a fetal heartbeat -- which can happen at six weeks, before many women even know they are pregnant -- has passed a House committee and is awaiting a floor vote. The state Supreme Court is considering a lawsuit filed by Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers aiming to overturn a 1982 law that bans the use of state dollars for abortion, except in cases of rape, incest or to save the life of the mother. In response, Republican lawmakers are advancing a proposed amendment that would declare there is no constitutional right to an abortion in Pennsylvania or to public funding for an abortion.
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RHODE ISLAND
Political control: The Democrats who control Rhode Island’s General Assembly support access to abortion, as does the Democratic governor.
Background: Rhode Island’s governor signed legislation in 2019 to enshrine abortion protections in case the U.S. Supreme Court overturned its 1973 decision in Roe v. Wade. The law says the state will not restrict the right to an abortion prior to fetal viability or after if necessary to protect the health or life of the pregnant woman. It repealed older laws deemed unconstitutional by the courts. The Rhode Island Supreme Court upheld the 2019 law in May, just two days after the Supreme Court draft opinion was leaked suggesting that a majority of the justices were prepared to overturn Roe. Abortion opponents had argued the law violates the state constitution. In 2020, there were 2,611 abortions in Rhode Island, according to the state health department.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Rhode Island’s attorney general believes the 2019 Reproductive Privacy Act will continue to protect access to abortion if Roe is overturned. Planned Parenthood Votes! Rhode Island also said abortion will remain legal regardless of the decision because the right was codified in state law.
What’s next: It’s possible Rhode Island may need to act to protect abortion access for non-resident patients, but that cannot be debated in the legislature until next year’s legislative session. Lawmakers may consider requests for abortion coverage to be added to Rhode Island’s Medicaid program and insurance coverage for state employees.
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SOUTH CAROLINA
Political control: South Carolina has a Republican governor, and its General Assembly is dominated by the GOP. However, the party doesn’t quite have the two-thirds majority in either chamber needed to overcome procedural hurdles or a veto if a Democrat wins the 2022 gubernatorial election.
Background: In 2021, South Carolina passed the “Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act” that requires doctors to use an ultrasound to try to detect a fetal heartbeat if they think a pregnant woman is at least eight weeks along. If they find a heartbeat, they can only perform an abortion if the woman’s life is in danger, or if the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest. The law is currently tied up in a federal lawsuit.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, the 2021 law likely will go into effect. If the court’s ruling is less expansive, then the state’s current ban on abortion after the 20th week of pregnancy will remain while the 2021 law continues through the federal court system.
What’s next: The South Carolina General Assembly’s regular session ended in May, but Republican leaders agreed they could return for a special session to take up more restrictive abortion bills if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade. Some Republicans in the Legislature have opposed a complete abortion ban, especially without exceptions for victims of rape and incest.
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SOUTH DAKOTA
Political control: Republicans hold super-majorities in both Statehouse chambers. Republican Gov. Kristi Noem is up for reelection this year and has been an ardent opponent of abortion rights.
Background: Under current law, South Dakota bans abortions after the 22nd week of pregnancy. The state has only one clinic that regularly provides abortions, a Planned Parenthood facility in Sioux Falls. The legislature has worked over the years to make it more difficult for women to get abortions, passing mandatory waiting periods and requiring them to review and sign paperwork that discourages them from ending their pregnancies.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, South Dakota has a trigger law that would immediately ban abortions except if the life of the pregnant woman is at risk.
What’s next: Noem has said she plans to call a special session to craft laws for the new legal landscape if Roe v. Wade is overturned. She hasn’t commented on specific legislation, but lawmakers have floated proposals that would make it more difficult for women to seek an abortion out of state. However, South Dakota voters rejected outright bans in 2006 and 2008, and abortion rights advocates are preparing for a similar referendum on abortion access. An outright ban on abortions could eventually be challenged through a citizen-initiated ballot measure.
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TENNESSEE
Political control: Tennessee has a Republican governor who is consistently vocal about his opposition to abortion. The GOP holds a supermajority in the state legislature and has steadily chipped away at abortion access.
Background: In 2020, Tennessee passed a law banning most abortions when the fetal heartbeat can be detected at about six weeks, before many women know they’re pregnant. The measure has never been enforced because it was promptly blocked by a federal court. Tennessee voters approved an amendment in 2014 declaring that the state’s constitution doesn’t protect or secure the right to abortion or require the funding of an abortion, and empowering state lawmakers to “enact, amend, or repeal statutes regarding abortion.” State law also doesn’t allow providers to dispense abortion medications through telemedicine consultations. There are six abortion providers in Tennessee.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, a so-called trigger law will go into effect that bans all abortions in Tennessee except when necessary to prevent death or “serious risk of substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function.” Doctors could be charged with a felony for providing an abortion under this law, which would take effect 30 days after the Supreme Court’s decision is announced.
What’s next: It’s unclear if the trigger law conflicts with the 2020 law banning most abortions at about six weeks. The state’s attorney general, a Republican, has not publicly weighed in. Meanwhile, Republicans are expected to continue to have supermajority control after this year’s midterm elections. Reproductive rights activists say they will direct patients seeking abortion to clinics in Illinois if Roe v. Wade is overturned, or to Florida, which would ban abortions at 15 weeks. North Carolina and Virginia could also be options for women in eastern Tennessee.
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TEXAS
Political control: The GOP has commanding majorities in the Texas Legislature and has controlled every statewide office for nearly 30 years. Republican Gov. Greg Abbott is up for reelection in November and is favored to win a third term.
Background: Texas has given the nation a preview of the landscape of abortion access if Roe v. Wade is overturned. A new Texas law banning most abortions after about six weeks — before many women know they are pregnant — took effect in September and makes no exceptions in cases of rape or incest. Because of how Republicans wrote the law, which is enforceable only through lawsuits filed by private citizens against doctors or anyone who helps a woman obtain an abortion, Texas has essentially outmaneuvered decades of Supreme Court precedent governing a women’s constitutional right to an abortion. State data shows the number of abortions performed in Texas’ roughly two dozen clinics fell by half in the five months after the law came into effect compared to the same period a year earlier.
Effect of the Supreme Court ruling: Texas had more than 40 abortion clinics in 2012 before a decade of Republicans chipping away at abortion access began forcing providers to close. If Roe v. Wade is overturned, Texas would ban virtually all abortions 30 days after the ruling. Abortions would only be allowed when the patient’s life is in danger or if they are at risk of “substantial impairment of a major bodily function.”
What’s next: Many Texas women have already traveled out of state for abortions since the law took effect, but they would likely have to travel much farther if Roe v. Wade is overturned as more states outlaw abortion. Some Republican lawmakers also want to punish companies that help their Texas-based employees get abortions elsewhere, although it’s unclear how much support that idea will have when the Legislature returns in 2023.
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UTAH
Political control: Utah is deeply conservative and the Legislature is controlled by a Republican supermajority.
Background: The state has been restricting abortion for years, including a ban after 18 weeks passed in 2019 that’s now blocked in court. The following year, lawmakers passed a “trigger law” that would outlaw nearly all abortions if Roe v. Wade was overturned.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: Utah has a law designed to go into effect if Roe v. Wade is overturned that would ban nearly all abortions. It would be enforceable after the legislative general counsel certifies the ruling to lawmakers. It does have narrow exceptions for rape and incest if those crimes are reported to law enforcement, and for serious risk to the life or health of the mother, as well as confirmed lethal birth defects. If the U.S. Supreme Court decides to uphold the Mississippi law banning abortions after 15 weeks, Utah’s 18-week ban could go into effect.
What’s next: If the Supreme Court tosses out Roe, Utah law makes performing an abortion a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. While it’s aimed primarily at providers, lawmakers have acknowledged that a woman who self-administers an abortion, including through medication, could potentially face charges.
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VERMONT
Political control: The Vermont Legislature is controlled by Democrats, but Republican Gov. Phil Scott is a firm supporter of abortion rights.
Background: Vermont has a 2019 law guaranteeing the right to an abortion and voters will consider a proposal in November to amend the state constitution to protect abortion rights. Also in 2019, the Vermont Legislature began the process of amending the constitution to protect abortion rights, known as the Reproductive Liberty Amendment or Proposition 5. Vermont’s proposed amendment does not contain the word “abortion.” Proponents say that’s because it’s not meant to authorize only abortion but also would guarantee other reproductive rights such as the right to get pregnant or access birth control. Opponents say vague wording could have unintended consequences that could play out for years. Lawmakers approved the proposed amendment in February, leading the way for a statewide vote.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, nothing will change immediately in Vermont.
What’s next: Vermont voters will cast ballots in November to decide if the state will amend its constitution to protect abortion rights.
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VIRGINIA
Political control: Virginia has a Republican governor who says he would support new state-level restrictions on abortion and a divided General Assembly. Republicans control the state House and Democrats lead the state Senate.
Background: In recent years, when Democrats were in full control of state government, lawmakers rolled back abortion restrictions. They ended strict building code requirements on facilities where abortions are performed and did away with requirements that a patient seeking an abortion undergo a 24-hour waiting period and ultrasound. Advocates said the changes would make Virginia a haven for abortion access in the South. Republican victories in the November elections shook up the state’s political landscape, but Senate Democrats defeated several measures that would have limited abortion access during the 2022 legislative session.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: There will be no immediate change to abortion laws in Virginia if Roe v. Wade is overturned. Some abortion providers expect to see an uptick in patients seeking care in Virginia from neighboring states with “trigger laws” that would ban abortion.
What’s next: The future of abortion access is Virginia is murky. Gov. Glenn Youngkin has indicated he would support an abortion ban around 20 weeks of a pregnancy, though he generally supports exceptions in cases of rape, incest or to save a mother’s life. He has not specified how he would proceed if Roe v. Wade is overturned. Senate Democrats say they intend to continue blocking attempts to roll back abortion access, though they control the chamber by the narrowest possible margin and have one caucus member who personally opposes abortion and says he is open to new restrictions. Republicans also have a narrow hold on the House, with several moderate members. Every seat in the General Assembly will be on the ballot in 2023.
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WASHINGTON
Political control: The Democrats who control the Washington Legislature support access to abortion, as does the state’s Democratic governor.
Background: Abortion has been legal in Washington state since a 1970 statewide ballot referendum. Another ballot measure approved by voters in 1991 declared a woman’s right to choose physician-performed abortion prior to fetal viability and further expanded and protected access to abortion in the state if Roe v. Wade was overturned. And in 2018, the Legislature passed a measure that would require Washington insurers offering maternity care to also cover elective abortions and contraception. Earlier this year, Gov. Jay Inslee signed a measure that grants specific statutory authorization for physician assistants, advanced registered nurse practitioners and other providers acting within their scope of practice to perform abortions. Supporters say the move is designed to help meet the demand from the potential influx of out-of-state patients. That same measure also prohibits legal action by Washington state against people seeking an abortion and those who aid them.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: The state “will use every available tool to protect and preserve Washingtonians’ fundamental right to choose, and protect the rights of anyone who wants to come here to access reproductive health care,” said Attorney General Bob Ferguson, a Democrat. Data from the Washington state Department of Health from 2020 shows that of the 16,909 abortions performed in the state that year, 852 involved non-residents. The majority of those people came from neighboring states such as Idaho and Oregon.
What’s next: It’s impossible to predict how many more non-resident patients will potentially seek care in Washington if Roe v. Wade is overturned, but the increase will likely be in the thousands, said Jennifer Allen, CEO of Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates.The state has more than 30 in-person abortion clinics, though the vast majority are in western Washington along the Interstate 5 corridor.
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WEST VIRGINIA
Political control: West Virginia has a legislature controlled by Republicans who want to ban or restrict access to abortions. Gov. Jim Justice, a Republican, opposes abortion access and has signed two anti-abortion laws since taking office in 2017.
Background: West Virginia currently bans abortion after the 20th week of pregnancy unless a patient’s life is in danger, or they face “substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function.” Patients seeking abortions must wait 24 hours after undergoing legislatively mandated counseling designed to discourage abortions. A minor who wants an abortion must obtain parental permission. The use of telemedicine to administer a medication abortion is outlawed. The state also bars patients from getting abortions because they believe their child will be born with a disability. The House of Delegates this year passed a 15-week abortion ban like the Mississippi law under review by the U.S. Supreme Court, but it died in the Senate.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: It’s unclear what the effect the overturning of Roe v. Wade would have on abortion access in West Virginia. The state has had a law banning abortion on the books since 1848; Under that law, providers who perform abortions can face felony charges and three to 10 years in prison, unless the abortion is conducted to save a patient’s life. In 2018, West Virginia voters approved a constitutional amendment to declare patients do not have the right to abortion and banning state funding for abortions.
What’s next: West Virginia lawmakers could introduce new legislation restricting abortion access when they return to the Capitol in January, but they could return sooner if called into a special session. West Virginia only has one clinic that performs abortions. Women’s Health Center of West Virginia Executive Director Katie Quinonez said if abortion access is outlawed, the clinic will continue to provide reproductive care, such as birth control and STI diagnosis and treatment. She said the clinic will help women travel to other states for abortions through its abortion fund.
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WISCONSIN
Political control: Wisconsin has a legislature controlled by Republicans who want to ban or restrict access to abortions but a Democratic governor who supports access and is up for reelection this year.
Background: Wisconsin allows most abortions until the 22nd week of pregnancy to save the health or life of the mother. A woman seeking an abortion must meet with a counselor and doctor before obtaining an abortion and wait at least 24 hours before having it done. Anyone under age 18 must have an adult relative over age 25 with them to obtain an abortion.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade, it is presumed that a state law passed in 1849 making an abortion a felony offense would go into effect. However, Wisconsin’s Democratic attorney general argues that the law is so old that it’s unenforceable. The language allows a woman to legally destroy her own fetus or embryo and grants immunity if an abortion is needed to save a woman’s life and is performed at a hospital. Another state law, passed in 1985, prohibits abortions performed after a fetus reaches viability -- when it could survive outside the womb -- conflicting with the 1849 ban.
What’s next: Republican lawmakers are expected to attempt to clarify the 1849 law to ensure there is a ban in place if Roe v. Wade is overturned, even as that issue is fought in the courts. However, lawmakers’ efforts would be stymied if Democratic Gov. Tony Evers wins reelection. Wisconsin’s Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos has said he supports an exception in cases of rape and that a ruling on Roe could force lawmakers to consider other related reproductive issues such as contraception. Other Republicans will push for more restrictive abortion laws.
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WYOMING
Political control: Wyoming has one of the most Republican legislatures in the U.S. and a long tradition of libertarian-type if not always social or religious conservatism. That may be changing. In March, Republican Gov. Mark Gordon signed into law a bill that would ban abortion in nearly all instances should the Supreme Court overturn Roe v. Wade.
Background: Current Wyoming law allows abortions up to when a fetus might be able to survive on its own outside its mother’s body. The law does not specify when that happens, but it is generally considered to be at around 23 weeks into pregnancy. Wyoming currently doesn’t allow abortions after then except to protect the mother from substantial risk to her life or health. Wyoming Republicans have traditionally taken a hands-off approach to abortion but have proven more willing to limit the practice lately. The number of Democrats in the Legislature has dwindled from 26 in 2010 to just nine out of 90 total seats now. A 2021 law requires physicians to provide lifesaving care to any aborted fetus born alive.
Effect of Supreme Court ruling: The new state law that would ban abortion if Roe were overturned only provides exceptions in cases of rape or incest or to protect the mother’s life or health, not including psychological conditions. Though Wyoming has no abortion clinics, abortions still occur. Ninety-eight took place in Wyoming in 2021, according to state officials.
What’s next: A planned women’s health clinic in Casper that would be the only one offering abortions in the state was on track to open in mid-June but an arson fire May 25 delayed those plans by around six months. Police continue to look for a suspect in the arson investigation, and have offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
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Associated Press statehouse reporters from across the U.S. contributed.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2022-06-24T15:47:48+00:00 | wlox.com | https://www.wlox.com/2022/06/24/how-us-states-have-banned-limited-or-protected-abortion/ |
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DUBLIN (AP) — Holding up his family history as an example, President Joe Biden on Thursday told lawmakers in a packed parliament building that the story of Irish immigrants setting sail for the U.S. is at the very heart of “what binds Ireland and America together.”
“Like so many countries around the world, though perhaps more than most, the United States was shaped by Ireland,” Biden said in address to a joint sitting of the Oireachtas in Leinster House. “And the values we share remain to this day the core of the historic partnership between our people and our governments.”
Biden stressed the importance of economic ties, a Fearghaíl,united front on the war in Ukraine and a shared urgency to manage climate change. Biden addressed parliament as part of his four-day trip to Ireland and Northern Ireland, where he also met with political leaders and took a whirlwind tour of his ancestral homeland.
Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl, speaker of the Dail, parliament’s lower chamber, told Biden that Ireland has benefitted “immensely” from American investment, and noted that it goes both ways — Ireland is the ninth-largest source of foreign direct investment in the U.S.
“Long may this bilateral investment continue,” Ó Fearghaíl said to cheers. He welcomed Biden “home” as he introduced him. Biden was the fourth U.S. president to address the Irish parliament, after John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton.
For Biden, Ireland has been the backdrop for discussion about his favorite themes, like dignity, “possibilities,” democracy — and poetry. He addressed parliament on what would have been the 84th birthday of his favorite poet, Seamus Heaney. Ó Fearghaíl gave Biden a signed copy of Heaney’s poems, and Heaney’s widow was present for the speech, watching as Biden quoted “The Cure at Troy.”
The president spoke with poetic flourishes about how the two nations could “dream together over horizons we can’t see.” He talked about visiting County Louth this week, gazing out at the sea from the stone balcony of Carlingford Castle, which would have been the last Irish landmark that Owen Finnegan, Biden’s maternal great-great-grandfather, saw before sailing for New York in 1849.
“These stories are at the very heart of what binds Ireland and America together,” he said. “They speak to a history, defined by our dreams.”
The 80-year-old Biden also reflected on his age, something he rarely does publicly. He said was “at the end of my career, not the beginning.” He told the Irish lawmakers “you can see how old I am,” saying he comes to the job more experienced than any other president in American history.
“It doesn’t make me better or worse, but it gives me few excuses,” he said. Biden is expected to run for reelection, and would be 82 were he to start a second term.
Earlier Thursday, Biden met with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Ireland’s prime minister, praising the nation for its humanitarian work welcoming Ukrainian refugees. Ireland has hosted nearly 80,000 refugees from Ukraine following Russia’s invasion, and it has been staunchly supportive of U.S.-led efforts on the war. Biden said he was impressed by Ireland’s commitment.
“I think our values are the same,” Biden told Varadkar. “And I think our concerns are the same. So I’m really looking forward to continuing to work with you.”
Biden also met with with Irish President Michael D. Higgins at his grand Dublin residence. The two octogenarian leaders clasped hands and laughed as they walked inside along a red carpet. Biden signed the guest book with a writerly missive for Ireland’s poet-president: “As the Irish saying goes, your feet will bring you where your heart is. It’s an honor to return.”
Biden helped shovel dirt around a freshly planted Irish oak, not far from one planted years earlier by then-President Barack Obama. He also rang the Peace Bell, unveiled in 2008 to mark the 10th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of violence in Northern Ireland. Biden clanged the bell four times, including one “for all my Irish ancestors, and a fourth one for peace.”
Then he thanked Higgins, who turns 82 next week.
“I’m feeling great, and I’m learning a lot,” Biden said at Higgins’ estate. “I know it sounds silly, but there’s many Irish-Americans, like my relatives, who’ve never come back here.”
Varadkar and Biden also exchanged toasts at a dinner banquet at Dublin Castle.
Biden opened the trip earlier this week in Belfast, Northern Ireland, where he marked the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement that ended years of sectarian violence. The U.S.-brokered deal brought peace to a region of the United Kingdom where “the Troubles” left some 3,600 people dead in bombings and other attacks.
Addressing parliament Thursday, Biden said the United Kingdom “should be working closer” with Ireland to support Northern Ireland. His reminder of the importance of maintaining a quarter century of peace in Northern Ireland was likely to irk some British Conservatives and Northern Ireland unionists, who are suspicious of U.S. interference.
Biden arrived in the Republic of Ireland on Wednesday, a day after he landed in Northern Ireland. Crowds lined five-deep and waited for eight hours to catch a glimpse of Biden in County Louth, where his mother’s family is from. In the town of Carlingford, the Democratic president toured a castle, gazing out over the sea where his ancestors sailed toward America.
From inside a packed old pub with a sticky wooden floor, Biden acknowledged that his ancestors emigrated to the United States to escape famine, but he added, “When you’re here, you wonder why anyone would ever want to leave.”
The president was elated by the dive into his Irish heritage, which he often cites as a driving force in his public and private life. According to the Irish Family History Centre, Biden “is among the most ‘Irish’ of all U.S. Presidents.” Ten of his 16 great-great-grandparents were from the Emerald Isle.
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Associated Press writer Jill Lawless in London contributed to this report. | 2023-04-14T10:03:15+00:00 | qcnews.com | https://www.qcnews.com/news/world-news/biden-to-stress-shared-ties-in-address-to-irish-parliament/ |
BEIRUT (AP) — Lebanon’s public prosecutor Monday summoned the country’s embattled central bank governor for questioning following an international arrest warrant issued against him in France over corruption charges, judicial officials said.
Riad Salameh is to answer the summons later this week, although no specific date was given.
France, Germany and Luxembourg are investigating Salameh and his associates over myriad alleged financial crimes, including illicit enrichment and laundering of $330 million. A French investigative judge on May 16 issued an international arrest warrant, or Interpol red notice, for the 72-year-old Salameh after he failed to show up in Paris for questioning.
Officials in Beirut said that Public Prosecutor Ghassan Oueidat will formally ask France to hand over the governor’s case files to decide on future measures against Salameh.
Asked whether it is possible to hand the former governor over to France, the officials — who spoke on condition of anonymity — said Lebanon does not hand its citizens to foreign countries and the case will be overseen in Lebanon. They added that once Oueidat receives the case files from France, he will decide whether Salameh should face justice in Lebanon or elsewhere.
In 2020, the Lebanese prosecution received two Interpol red notices for tycoon Carlos Ghosn, who faced financial misconduct charges in Japan. Ghosn remains in Lebanon.
Salameh has repeatedly denied all corruption allegations, saying he made his wealth from his years working as an investment banker at Merrill Lynch, inherited properties, and investments. He said he would only resign if convicted of a crime. He also said last week he plans to appeal the Interpol red notice.
The officials said French authorities have set May 31, as the day to question Salameh’s brother, Raja, in France and the governor’s close associate Marianne Hoayek on June 13.
Reports have circulated that the Lebanese central bank had hired Forry Associates Ltd., a brokerage firm owned by Raja, to handle government bond sales from which the firm received $330 million in commissions.
Riad Salameh, a Lebanese-French citizen, has held his post for almost 30 years, but says he intends to step down after his current term ends in July.
The three European governments in March 2022 froze over $130 million in assets linked to the probe. During a visit to Lebanon in March, the European delegation questioned Salameh about the Lebanese central bank’s assets and investments outside the country, a Paris apartment — which the governor owns — and his brother’s brokerage firm.
Once hailed as the guardian of Lebanon’s financial stability, Salameh since has been heavily blamed for Lebanon’s financial meltdown. Many say he precipitated the economic crisis, which has plunged three-quarters of Lebanon’s population of 6 million into poverty. | 2023-05-22T16:27:17+00:00 | seattletimes.com | https://www.seattletimes.com/business/lebanese-prosecutor-summons-central-bank-chief-following-interpol-warrant-over-corruption-charges/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_all |
DAVIS, Calif. (AP) — A 21-year-old who was a student at the University of California, Davis, until last week was arrested on accusations of fatally stabbing two people and wounding another in attacks that terrified the quiet college community, police said Thursday.
Carlos Dominguez was taken into custody Wednesday after 15 people called in reports of a person who matched the description of the suspect near a city park where he is accused of stabbing the second victim to death, said Davis Police Chief Darren Pytel.
Pytel did not disclose a motive for the stabbings, which took place over a span of days starting with the discovery of the first body April 27, and said it was unclear if Dominguez knew the victims. Those killed were a 50-year-old homeless man well loved in the community and a 20-year-old UC Davis student. A homeless woman attacked in her tent Monday night is recovering.
“He was out wandering a neighborhood where the second homicide had occurred. He had a large knife in a backpack, wearing the same clothes from the third stabbing,” Pytel told a news conference, explaining the circumstances of Dominguez’s arrest. “That’s highly unusual and unique.”
The multiple stabbings over the course of less than a week shattered the town’s sense of safety. Some businesses closed early and college students said they were too frightened even to attend daytime classes on campus.
“A murderer is off the streets, and our families will sleep easier tonight,” Davis Mayor Will Arnold said at the news conference.
It wasn’t immediately clear if Dominguez had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.
UC Davis officials said in a statement that Dominguez was a third-year student majoring in biological sciences until April 25, “when he was separated for academic reasons.”
He enrolled at UC Davis in fall 2020 and previously attended Laney College, a community college in Oakland, California.
Davis is a small city about 70 miles (112 kilometers) northeast of San Francisco and 15 miles (24 kilometers) west of Sacramento. There are roughly 67,000 residents in the city in addition to more than 13,000 students who live on the UC Davis campus.
The first death was reported Thursday when officers found David Henry Breaux in downtown’s Central Park, hunched over a bench where he often sat or slept. The second victim, Karim Abou Najm, was found Saturday night at Sycamore Park with multiple stab wounds.
The stabbings all occurred within a mile of campus. On Thursday, police were searching a residence near campus, where Dominguez lived with housemates.
Pytel said police started receiving calls Wednesday afternoon about a person who matched the description of the suspect. Officers discovered a “large fixed blade knife” in his backpack and took him in for more questioning with his consent.
Dominguez was booked into Yolo County Jail early Thursday on a weapons violation related to the knife but was not arrested on two counts of homicide and one count of attempted homicide until shortly before Thursday’s news conference.
Pytel said they were zeroing in on the suspect based on other evidence, “but the tips certainly expedited finding him and an arrest, there’s no doubt about that.”
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This story has been updated to correct that the suspect was taken into custody Wednesday. | 2023-05-05T11:37:33+00:00 | wate.com | https://www.wate.com/news/national/ap-us-news/former-california-college-student-arrested-in-3-stabbings/ |
SAN JOSE — Tristan Begg was an anthropology student at UC Santa Cruz and a Beethoven fanatic when he volunteered as a docent at San Jose State University’s Beethoven center in the summer of 2009.
He would pull out the drawer holding a lock of hair and tell visitors, “This is real” and that it once was on the head of the greatest composer who ever lived, the one whose music changed Begg’s life when he heard the first notes of Moonlight Sonata on Christmas morning at age 17.
“It was instantaneous. I was astounded. I’ve never heard anything like it,” he said. “It was an instant sort of obsession.”
Now, 14 years later, Begg, a Ph.D student at the University of Cambridge, is the lead author on a genome research study that debunked the story he once told. The hair is a fake.
The findings, published this week in the journal Current Biology, revealed new insights about the life and death of Ludwig van Beethoven. Five other locks of hair were authenticated, including another one recently acquired by San Jose State. Just not the one Begg had proudly shown visitors more than a decade ago.
“The project was a very sobering experience in learning not to trust your gut,” Begg said in a phone interview Thursday from England, describing his disappointment over the lost link to the lock — and why he has started listening to the Ghostbusters theme instead of his favorite symphonies. “Just go on the data, and it’s much less fun that way.”
Indeed, the genetic data proved, the hair that was supposed to belong to Beethoven’s famous tousled mop actually came from an unidentified woman with Jewish heritage.
The imposter — named the “Hiller Lock” for the man who ostensibly was first to acquire it — is now relegated to a vault at San Jose State.
And Russell Martin, the author of “Beethoven’s Hair,” which focused on the San Jose State specimen and was translated into 19 languages, may have to update his 2000 tome.
It was the second time a piece of the Beethoven collection at San Jose State University has been unmasked: Fragments of a skull believed to belong to Beethoven were discredited in 2016.
The items were kept on the fifth floor of San Jose State’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library in the Ira F. Brilliant Center for Beethoven Studies, which houses the largest collection of Beethoven materials outside of Europe.
William Meredith, the first director of the Beethoven Center, acquired the “Hiller Lock” in 1994 when it came up for auction at Sotheby’s in London — one of numerous supposed locks of Beethoven’s hair snipped from the composer’s head by friends in his dying days as a remembrance.
Ferdinand Hiller was an aspiring musician and just 15 when he clipped the maestro’s hair the day after his death. Hiller gave it to his son, Paul, who in 1911 supposedly transferred it to a new reliquary.
In the early 1990s, there was no accurate DNA testing on locks of hair, and although there were gaps in the hair’s provenance, four San Jose State donors, including the late Ira Brilliant and Dr. Alfred Guevara in Texas, purchased it for $7,300.
“They said, ‘We have got to figure out everything we can from the lock of hair,’ ” Meredith said. “They’re not just viewing it as a relic, but what does it tell us about Beethoven’s life?”
They tried collecting a DNA sample from it in 1999 but were unable to, so the Hiller Lock remained on display, and in the years that followed, Begg — the young volunteer — and others continued to show it to visitors.
In 2014, Begg was a grad student studying geometric morphometrics at the University of Tubingen in Germany looking for a research project. As a student in the Ancient DNA department, he came up with a plan.
“This is my craziest idea yet,” he told his adviser. “But I used to volunteer at this Beethoven center, and maybe we can sequence his locks of hair.”
The idea wasn’t so crazy after all, his adviser said, so Begg flew home to San Jose, where he grew up and graduated from Lynbrook High. He met with Meredith at the Flames restaurant next to the library, and the research began.
Through auctions and private sales, Meredith and the researchers acquired or borrowed seven more hair samples. And several hairs from the Hiller Lock were put under the microscope.
Begg did much of the lab work himself in the German university’s cleanroom, blaring Beethoven, as the hair samples dissolved in solution. A strong feeling of communion washed over him — working with hair samples he was certain were Beethoven’s, absorbing the music he created more than two centuries ago.
“I thought it was him. Shows you what I know,” Begg said. “So that sort of ruins the poetry.”
The first lab results came back in 2016 — but they were sworn to secrecy until the research project was complete.
San Jose State, meanwhile, quietly took the lock off display. Meredith came up with a theory.
“Once we found out that this was a Jewish woman, I thought, I bet something happened to it, and Paul Hiller took some hair from his wife, who was an opera singer named Sophie Lion, and replaced the Beethoven hair with her hair and put it in there and then wrote a new inscription,” Meredith said, “and the whole thing was all sealed up, and it stayed that way.”
He can’t be sure, but Meredith doesn’t consider it a con.
The Hillers “never tried to sell it. They never gave it to one of their sons,” he said. “I think that they were frankly embarrassed that something had happened to it and that it would look like they had been careless with something that’s precious. So I think that was the reason for the substitution.”
Meredith said the Hiller lock might come out again on display to tell its own story. Just exactly who the lock belongs to remains a mystery. It’s one that Begg will not pursue.
At age 32, he is looking for a job in archeology and trying to muster the courage to listen to his favorite composer again.
“When I get back to Beethoven, that’s going to be a very, very, very private thing, probably a very emotional thing,” Begg said. “And I haven’t done that yet.”
He’s proud of his work and hopes that if Beethoven is “looking down on us, he knows which locks of hair are real and which ones are not. So I would think, hope, he’s a little bit more at peace.” | 2023-03-25T04:28:30+00:00 | santacruzsentinel.com | https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2023/03/24/beethovens-hair-how-a-san-jose-state-museum-docent-turned-genetic-researcher-debunked-a-famous-relic/ |
The Republican chairwoman of the House Education and the Workforce Committee says higher education has “never been held in such low esteem as it is now,” providing an opening as she pushes for legislation.
Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-Va.) told Inside Higher Ed in an interview published Thursday that now is “exactly the right time” for Congress to pass a reauthorization of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which President Lyndon Johnson signed into law to provide resources to colleges and universities and financial aid to students to attend institutions of higher education.
“The reason I think we can do it this year is because higher ed has never been held in such low esteem as it is now,” Foxx said. “In the past, we had members who were a little shy about doing it, because their presidents of their universities would come to them and say, ‘No, no, no, you can’t bother us,’ and they would be intimidated by them. But I don’t think that’s going to be the case this year.”
The law is meant to be reauthorized every five years, but it it most recently received reauthorization in 2008.
Foxx said now is the right time for the reauthorization to advance after years of efforts failing in Congress because the coronavirus pandemic highlighted the gaps that exist in higher education and lowered public opinion about it.
Foxx’s comments come as education has taken center stage in the culture wars, ushered in by parental pushback to pandemic closures and mask mandates.
Multiple Republican governors have taken action in recent years to curtail education diversity initiatives and limit the teaching of critical race theory and LGBTQ issues.
Foxx said she hopes to work with colleagues on both the “far right” and “far left.”
She said she has spoken to Education Secretary Miguel Cardona but differs greatly on education policy with the Biden administration.
“I get along with them fine, but their worldview is so different from the worldview of the majority of the people in this country that it’s really difficult to understand where they’re coming from,” Foxx said. | 2023-03-09T23:46:46+00:00 | kxnet.com | https://www.kxnet.com/hill-politics/gop-education-chair-higher-ed-has-never-been-held-in-such-low-esteem-as-it-is-now/ |
WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA's CAPSTONE spacecraft has completed final maneuvers to place it in its target orbit around the Moon, refining its path in the orbit it arrived to last week.
The spacecraft now is in the operational phase of its pathfinding mission, during which it will test an orbit key to future Artemis missions and demonstrate new technologies for spacecraft operating near the Moon.
"NASA's partnership with Advanced Space on CAPSTONE is enabling NASA to gain critical, additional capabilities at a lower cost," said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. "CAPSTONE is part of our new era of human exploration at the Moon, testing the unique orbit planned for the Gateway lunar space station."
CAPSTONE – short for Cislunar Autonomous Positioning System Technology Operations and Navigation Experiment – is a technology demonstration, designed to prove the reliability of new capabilities so that they can be used in future missions. CAPSTONE is the first spacecraft to fly in a near-rectilinear halo orbit (NRHO) and the first CubeSat to operate at the Moon. This orbit is the same planned for Gateway, an upcoming Moon-orbiting space station that will support NASA's Artemis missions. CAPSTONE will gather data on this orbit for at least six months to support Gateway's operational planning.
"Missions like CAPSTONE allow us to reduce risk for future spacecraft, giving us a chance to test our understanding and demonstrate technologies we intend to use in the future," said Jim Reuter, associate administrator for NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate. "Partnering with innovative U.S. companies, including several small businesses, on CAPSTONE has given us the chance to forge new ground, merging commercial interests with NASA's goals."
CAPSTONE took a four-month journey from launch to orbit – overcoming challenges related to communications and propulsion along the way – and performed an initial orbit insertion maneuver on Nov. 13. In the following days, the CAPSTONE mission operations team, led by Advanced Space of Westminster, Colorado, analyzed data from the spacecraft to confirm it was in the expected orbit and carried out two clean-up maneuvers to refine its track.
In addition to studying this unique orbit, CAPSTONE's mission also includes two technology demonstrations that could be used by future spacecraft. The Cislunar Autonomous Positioning System, or CAPS, is a navigational software developed by Advanced Space that would allow spacecraft operating near the Moon to determine their position in space without relying exclusively on tracking from Earth. CAPSTONE will demonstrate this technology by communicating directly with NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, which has been in orbit around the Moon since 2009. CAPSTONE will also demonstrate one-way ranging using a chip-scale atomic clock, which could allow spacecraft to determine their position in space without the need for a dedicated downlink to ground stations.
"We have been working to this point since we started the company over 11 years ago. Getting into this orbit at the Moon validates so much hard work and grit by the combined CAPSTONE mission operations team," said Bradley Cheetham, principal investigator for CAPSTONE and chief executive officer of Advanced Space. "The capabilities we have demonstrated and the technologies still to be matured will support future missions for decades to come."
CAPSTONE launched June 28, 2022, aboard a Rocket Lab Electron rocket from Mahia, New Zealand. After launch, a Photon upper stage raised CAPSTONE's orbit and injected the spacecraft into its ballistic lunar transfer, a long but fuel-efficient trajectory that carried the spacecraft to the Moon over the course of more than four months.
CAPSTONE is commercially owned and operated by Advanced Space. It represents an innovative collaboration between NASA and industry to provide rapid results and feedback to inform future exploration and science missions. The spacecraft was designed and built by Terran Orbital. Operations are performed jointly by teams at Advanced Space and Terran Orbital. The mission is also supported by Stellar Exploration, Space Dynamics Laboratory, Orion Space Solutions, Tethers Unlimited, Inc., and Morehead State University.
NASA's Small Spacecraft Technology program within the agency's Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) funds the demonstration mission. The program is based at NASA's Ames Research Center in California's Silicon Valley. The development of CAPSTONE's navigation technology is supported by NASA's Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) program, also within STMD. The Artemis Campaign Development Division within NASA's Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate funded the launch and supports mission operations.
Learn more about CAPSTONE at:
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SOURCE NASA | 2022-11-21T22:33:34+00:00 | kwch.com | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2022/11/21/capstone-forges-new-path-nasas-future-artemis-moon-missions/ |
First minister of Scotland resigns By Willem Marx Published February 15, 2023 at 3:01 PM MST Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Listen • 3:14 After eight years, Nicola Sturgeon has unexpectedly resigned as the first minister of Scotland. Her shock departure could mark a new chapter in the Scottish fight for independence. Copyright 2023 NPR | 2023-02-15T23:00:51+00:00 | upr.org | https://www.upr.org/2023-02-15/first-minister-of-scotland-resigns |
WASHINGTON (Nexstar) — On Sunday, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will travel to Uvalde, Texas, to grieve with the community that lost 21 lives in the horrific elementary school shooting.
The president is also pushing for solutions aimed at keeping communities and children safer in the future.
In a Tweet earlier this week, Biden said that after the federal assault weapons ban expired, mass shootings in this country tripled.
But for any gun legislation to be passed, the president’s party must convince Senate Republicans, who for years have blocked gun control bills.
Democrats on Capitol Hill are angry after the shooting in Uvalde and they’re pushing back against Republicans who say the solution to school shootings is to harden schools with armed guards or school officials.
“No, putting more armed adults in schools is not the answer,” said Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) “If more guns was the answer, the United States of America would be the safest measure in the world.”
Reports indicate that the shooter entered Robb Elementary School through an unlocked door and was in there for up to an hour, executing students and teachers before he was stopped by armed officers on the scene.
“To our Senate Republican colleagues, how is this acceptable?” Padilla asked. “How are you not outraged?”
Democrats say more gun safety measures like universal background checks, assault weapons bans, high-capacity magazine bans and red flag laws are a big part of the solution.
“Our goal and our hope and our belief is that we can find that common ground,” said Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn).
Murphy of Connecticut is leading the negotiations with Republicans. However, following the shooting at the Texas elementary school, Republicans have focused on the issue of mental health and providing resources for schools to identify students who could turn into threats.
“Get them help, intervention,” suggested Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa.
“This is not an excuse to infringe on the second amendment rights of law-abiding citizens,” said Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX).
Majority Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer says he won’t allow negotiations to be dragged out indefinitely. Instead, he’s giving Republicans and Democrats two weeks two negotiate, and then he plans to force a vote on the Senate floor on a gun reform bill. | 2022-05-28T02:09:38+00:00 | krqe.com | https://www.krqe.com/news/national/biden-to-visit-texas-elementary-school-in-wake-of-shooting-as-congress-mulls-gun-control/ |
Work has begun in earnest for the 2022 Chicago Bears season with organized team activities underway this week at Halas Hall. Brad Biggs opens the weekly Bears mailbag to find questions about Justin Fields, wide receiver options and the possibility of joint practices this summer.
If you had to do your best to spin the Bears offseason positively for Justin Fields, how would you do so? — @theryanheckman
The first place you start is Fields has a year of experience with 10 starts under his belt. It doesn’t matter that he was in a system with coaches he no longer plays for. He understands the difference between college and the NFL now, the intricacies of reading defenses, preparing with a game plan and studying film. All of that is beneficial and should aid him in Year 2, when none of that will be new to him.
What is new is the coaching staff, led by offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, and the playbook. The hope is Getsy and quarterbacks coach Andrew Janocko can help unlock Fields’ immense physical talent and allow him to operate more efficiently out of the pocket. Fields proved last season he can be a magician extending plays, both running the ball and buying more time to make deep throws downfield. Now he has to raise his level of play in the pocket when the ball has to come out on time and on target.
The wide zone running scheme has benefited other quarterbacks around the league, and the Bears hope that will be the case with Fields. There are valid questions about the offensive line, the skill-position talent and more, but if Fields can take significant steps forward, his play can ease some of those concerns. His performance this season will heavily dictate what happens next offseason and shape expectations for the organization.
What is the likelihood the Bears add another veteran WR before camp? — @connor_riecks18
They signed a pair of veteran wide receivers — Tajae Sharpe and Dante Pettis — to one-year contracts May 12. Those names probably don’t move the needle for you because they haven’t had a lot of production the past few seasons. But wide receivers coach Tyke Tolbert spent time with Pettis with the New York Giants, and Janocko was the Minnesota Vikings wide receivers coach in 2020 when Sharpe was with them.
If you’re asking about an available veteran such as Odell Beckham Jr., Cole Beasley or Will Fuller, that seems less likely. I wouldn’t rule it out, but it looks more and more like the Bears want to see how they can develop existing players on the roster — such as Byron Pringle, Equanimeous St. Brown and third-round pick Velus Jones — behind Darnell Mooney. I doubt they are scouring the market for an upgrade over Pringle. They signed him with the idea he could develop into a No. 2 or No. 3 receiver now that he will have more opportunities being out of Kansas City.
While much has been made about the Bears drafting a series of offensive linemen, they haven’t had a first-round offensive lineman in several years. What is the success rate of starting offensive linemen not drafted in the first round for the Bears? — @babydocdave
Since 2017, the Bears have used two first-round picks on quarterbacks and were without first-round selections in 2019, 2020 and 2022. The only other first-round pick in that span was linebacker Roquan Smith in 2018. Since 2000, the Bears used first-round picks on offensive linemen Kyle Long (2013), Gabe Carimi (2011), Chris Williams (2008) and Marc Colombo (2002).
We’ll have to see how 2021 draft picks Larry Borom and Teven Jenkins pan out this season as they have clear paths to win starting jobs. Cody Whitehair was a second-round pick in 2016 and has been a mainstay on the line since then. James Daniels was a second-round pick in 2018 and was solid when healthy. Before that, you have to go back to Phil Emery’s seventh-round home run in 2014 with left tackle Charles Leno.
With the Bears taking four offensive linemen in the fifth round or later this year, an absolute best-case scenario is that two of them pan out as starters down the road. It still would be a win if one of them is a solid starter in the future. It’s way too early to speculate who could pan out and where.
Out of all the wide receiver signings, which do you think will have the biggest impact for Justin Fields’ development? — @whitesquirrl11
Some might view it differently, but I believe a quarterback has a greater influence in helping develop a wide receiver than the other way around. If the quarterback is struggling to read defenses, understand coverages and process after the snap, I don’t care how dynamic the wide receiver is, he won’t have a huge impact week in and week out. The Bears don’t have the quality or depth at wide receiver that they ultimately want to achieve. That’s not news to anyone. They know they need to continue to develop the position, and that can be said about multiple groups on the roster.
Will the Bears have joint practices with another team during preseason? — Larry S., Elburn
That’s unlikely this summer but not because the Bears don’t have interest. Joint practices are difficult to schedule, and to a large degree teams are at the mercy of the NFL’s preseason slate.
“I don’t think we are,” coach Matt Eberflus said Tuesday when asked about the possibility. “I’m in a conversation with one of (the preseason opponents) right now and that might come up. I’m not going to say their name, but we could potentially do one. But I don’t foresee it happening right now.”
The Bears open the preseason Aug. 13 at Soldier Field against the Kansas City Chiefs and then play on the road Aug. 18 against the Seattle Seahawks and Aug. 27 against the Cleveland Browns. The quick turnaround from playing the Chiefs to flying to Seattle would make joint practices with the Seahawks difficult if not impossible to schedule. Typically teams want to have joint practices in the first or second week of the preseason. That leads me to believe the greatest chance is that Eberflus has talked with the Chiefs about the possibility.
Twenty-three teams participated in joint practices last summer, including the Bears but not the Chiefs. Chiefs coach Andy Reid has said he’s not a fan of joint practices in part because the preseason schedule was reduced from four to three games. The Seahawks also did not participate in joint practices in 2021. The Browns already have one practice partner lined up for this summer in the Philadelphia Eagles.
Is there a strong wide receiver free-agent class next year? The Bears will have money to spend. — @bigrafael76
It’s really early to start wondering about who will hit the open market in March 2023. A lot of players could be re-signed before then, and some could even be traded and signed by a new team. The franchise tag could be a factor. Deebo Samuel, Terry McLaurin and DK Metcalf top the list right now. After that, I don’t know if there is a receiver who would command the kind of huge contract I believe you are referencing.
Diontae Johnson, Jarvis Landry, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Hunter Renfow, Allen Lazard, Deonte Harris, Jamison Crowder, Mecole Hardman, D.J. Chark, Nelson Agholor, Jakobi Meyers, Marvin Jones and Cam Sims are among the receivers entering the final year of their contracts. You can add the Bears’ Byron Pringle and Equanimeous St. Brown to that list too. With any luck, they will play really well this season and the Bears will be motivated to retain them.
As I have written previously, what really would be great for the Bears is if they can find a top-flight wide receiver in the draft and take advantage of having that player on a cost-controlled rookie contract.
Does the new regime actually believe that this roster as currently constructed can compete for the division? Or is part of the master plan to be at the bottom of the league (where most project them) to get that higher draft pick? — @lastcalllesko
When referring to the roster, you have to understand nothing about it is static. I expect GM Ryan Poles and his staff to continually overhaul the roster with moves, and that process won’t end when the regular season begins. Before that point, they could be particularly active when teams cut down to the 53-man roster by making multiple waiver claims or even a trade.
As far as competing for the NFC North title, who thinks that’s realistic in Year 1 of a new regime with the Bears coming off a 6-11 season with one of the oldest rosters in the league? Poles has been busy clearing salary-cap issues for the future. The Bears did not have a first-round draft pick this year and are installing a new offense for a talented second-year quarterback who had a rookie season full of struggles. That makes an instant turnaround with a new staff difficult.
Will Eberflus believe the Bears can battle every week with a chance to win? Absolutely. Is the plan to tank? No. The Bears want to develop the young players on the roster. If a handful of inexperienced players blossoms in 2022, that would put them in a better position for success in 2023 than absolutely stinking for one of the top draft picks. It’s wise to consider all of the factors in play for Poles, Eberflus and Bears fans when looking ahead to this season.
How has the offensive line been set up this week? Curious if they still have Larry Borom at left tackle and Teven Jenkins at right tackle. — @widdison21
That’s how they were lined up Tuesday, and my best guess is the Bears will open training camp with that configuration. But they have two more weeks of OTAs and a minicamp to sort through options. The coaching staff won’t make any determinations for Week 1 until training camp and the preseason.
“Right now, it’s still way too early,” offensive line coach Chris Morgan said Tuesday. “It’s May. We’re not even in pads yet. Right now, we’re refining techniques, we’re introducing schemes, everything is fluid. Just moving guys around, that kind of deal, and more technical right now.
“I definitely did (pre-draft work on) both guys when they came out (last year), and a lot of the positives you see now. Both those guys are working really hard. They’re coming along. They want to win. They’re willing to do whatever. It’s been a nice surprise so far.”
Sign Akiem Hicks for one year at $7 million. Whatcha think? — @robinrichie2
If a team was willing to pay Hicks $7 million for this season, he probably already would have a contract elsewhere. Perhaps he will wind up getting that kind of money or can achieve that level with incentives. I doubt the Bears would entertain the idea of re-signing the 32-year-old. | 2022-05-19T12:40:35+00:00 | twincities.com | https://www.twincities.com/2022/05/19/chicago-bears-qa-how-do-the-offseason-moves-help-justin-fields-future-who-are-the-top-free-agent-receivers-in-2023/ |
STEVENS POINT, Wis. (AP) — Bernhard Langer won the U.S. Senior Open on Sunday at SentryWorld to break the PGA Tour Champions’ career victory record.
Pushing his record as the oldest winner on the 50-and-over tour to 65 years, 10 months, 5 days, the German star broke a tie with Hale Irwin for the victory mark with No. 46.
“I have my mother that’s going to be 100 on August 4th, so I think I have good genes,” Langer said. “Hopefully, I’ll be around a few more years.”
Seven strokes ahead on the back nine, Langer bogeyed the final three holes for 1-under 70 and a two-stroke victory over home-state favorite Steve Stricker on the tree-lined course with thick rough.
“Never thought it would happen at a U.S. Senior Open, but I’m very thrilled that the record of 46 wins happened this week,” Langer said. “It’s certainly one of the greatest tournaments we ever compete in, and to beat this field, where everybody was here, especially Stricker and (Jerry) Kelly on their home grounds, is a very special feeling.”
Langer finished at 7-under 277, with only eight players breaking par for the week. He shattered the tournament age record set by Allen Doyle in 2006 at Prairie Dunes at 57 years, 11 months, 14 days.
“There are a lot more aches and pains than 10 years ago,” Langer said. “I still enjoy the game. If I play like I did this week, I’m going to keep playing. There have been the odd week when I thought, `What were you doing out here? Go home and play with the grandkids.’”
The two-time Masters champion has a record 13 victories since turning 60 and holds the top five spots on the oldest- winners list. He has multiple victories in 11 straight seasons and 14 overall.
Also the 2010 U.S. Senior Open winner at Sahalee outside Seattle, Langer extended his record for senior major victories to 12. He won the Chubb Classic in Florida in February to tie Irwin.
Stricker — from Madison, 100 miles to the south — birdied three of the last five holes for a 69.
“It gives all of us hope, I guess, that are out here still playing that we can continue to play as good as he’s played for such a long time,” Stricker said about Langer. “It’s really impressive. I knew he wasn’t going to back off today.”
Stricker won the first two senior majors of the year and took his hometown Madison event three weeks ago for his fourth Champions victory of the season.
“It seemed like I had a poor nine holes in there every day, and that just ended up costing me the tournament,” Stricker said.
Kelly, also from Madison, was third at 4 under after a 71.
“I was way too amped up,” Kelly said. “I was trying to be settled and calm, but I was talking more than I have all week. I was moving a little bit faster than I have all week.”
Two shots ahead of Kelly entering the round, Langer birdied the first two holes for the second straight day.
Langer added a birdie on No. 5, then rounded from a bogey on No. 6 with birdie on No. 7. He opened the back nine with a birdie on the 10th, parred the next five and closed with the three straight bogeys.
“It was not easy,” said Langer, who earned a spot next year in the U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2. “My age probably showed up toward the end.”
Brett Quigley (66) and Rob Labritz (69) tied for fourth at 2 under. Two-time U.S. Open champion Retief Goosen (71), Steven Alker (65) and Dicky Pride (69) were 1 under.
“The rough was difficult and, as many fairways as I missed, I think I did OK,” Goosen said. “I was like a cow out there just eating cabbage the whole time.”
Langer, paired with Goosen the first two rounds, sacrificed distance for accuracy to stay out of the rough.
“I think that’s one of the reasons I did so well. I didn’t hit it in the rough very often,” Langer said. “Took many 3-woods off the tees at times, but then I had to hit 3-wood into the green or a very long club. But I’d rather do that than hit driver and wedge it out from the rough.”
___
AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf and https://twitter.com/AP_Sport | 2023-07-03T16:32:31+00:00 | wnct.com | https://www.wnct.com/sports/golf/ap-65-year-old-bernhard-langer-wins-the-us-senior-open-to-break-the-champions-victory-record/ |
- Closes $7.5 Million Second Tranche Investment from DaVita
- $30 Million in Total Capital Raised This Quarter
- Receives Additional Feedback from FDA on its IND Application
WIXOM, Mich., June 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Rockwell Medical, Inc. (Nasdaq: RMTI), a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to transforming the treatment of iron deficiency and anemia management and improving outcomes for patients, today provided an update on its recent capital raise and a clinical update on safety enhancements to its planned Phase 2 clinical trial of Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate (FPC) in home infusion patients.
On June 16, 2022 Rockwell Medical closed the second $7.5 million tranche of the previously announced DaVita, Inc (NYSE:DVA) stock purchase agreement under which DaVita agreed to purchase up to $15 million in convertible preferred stock in two tranches. This investment, in addition to the recently announced $15 million financing, brings the total gross amount raised by Rockwell this quarter to $30 million. There were no commissions paid on either investment.
"This capital, when combined with the initiatives we completed earlier this year, will extend our cash runway meaningfully, during which time we will continue advancing our Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate (FPC) development programs and improving our dialysis business," said Russell Skibsted, Executive Vice President, CFO and CBO. "We plan to restructure and grow our dialysis business to generate improved gross margins and cash flow. On the development side, with the rapidly growing trend toward medical care at home, we are preparing to conduct our Phase 2 clinical trial of FPC in home infusion patients, a population with a significant unmet burden from iron deficiency anemia, pending submission of additional CMC microbial data in support of FDA clearance to begin this trial."
Due to the fact that the eventual commercial presentation of FPC) for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia and maintenance of hemoglobin in patients receiving infusion therapy in the home setting, a single dose sterile unit, is still in development, the planned Phase 2 proof of concept study design requires that three units of the existing FDA-approved IV product be compounded into a single unit for each patient dose. Because of this necessary step, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requested that Rockwell perform a microbial challenge study, a standard study testing the potential for microbial growth. Successful completion of this study will add an additional layer of safety for clinical trial patients.
"We are pleased to provide the FDA with the additional data requested and fully support the generation of any data that will further assure the safety of the patients that will participate in our study," said Marc Hoffman, M.D., Chief Medical Officer of Rockwell Medical. "We continue to make progress toward clearance of our IND. We believe the requested microbial challenge study will have minimal impact on our proposed Phase 2 program timeline or cost as the tests will be conducted in parallel with the clinical study start-up activities."
Home infusion therapy is a rapidly growing segment of home healthcare. Many patients receiving home infusion therapy have diseases that are associated with a high rate of iron deficiency and anemia, and current treatment options are not well suited for use in the home setting.
Rockwell Medical is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company developing and commercializing its next-generation parenteral iron technology platform, Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate (FPC), which has the potential to lead transformative treatments for iron deficiency in multiple disease states, reduce healthcare costs and improve patients' lives. The Company has two FDA-approved therapies indicated for patients undergoing hemodialysis, which are the first two products developed from the FPC platform. Rockwell Medical is also advancing its FPC platform by developing FPC for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia in patients outside of dialysis, who are receiving intravenous medications in the home infusion setting. In addition, Rockwell Medical is one of two major suppliers of life-saving hemodialysis concentrate products to kidney dialysis clinics in the United States. For more information, visit www.RockwellMed.com.
Home health is an area of medicine experiencing significant growth – a trend that will likely continue over the next decade due to an aging US population, the need to control costs, the desire to improve patient outcomes, and the convenience of home healthcare. Home infusion therapy, an important part of some home care regimens, allows patients with diseases requiring regular infusions of intravenous medications to be treated in the comfort of their home and has been proven to be a cost-effective, safe, and efficacious alternative to inpatient care for a variety of therapies and disease states, both acute and chronic. Treating IDA as part of an existing home infusion regimen more effectively, calls for an innovative approach. Rockwell Medical is developing a technology to manage iron in the home infusion setting. Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate (FPC) is Rockwell's novel next-generation parenteral iron is anticipated to enter a Phase II study for the treatment of IDA in the home infusion setting in 2022.
Certain statements in this press release may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Words such as, "may," "might," "will," "should," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "continue," "could," "can," "would," "develop," "plan," "potential," "predict," "forecast," "project," "intend," "look forward to," "remain confident" or the negative of these terms, and similar expressions, or statements regarding intent, belief, or current expectations, are forward looking statements. There can be no assurance that Rockwell Medical will be able to, among other things, receive FDA clearance for its planned clinical trial of FPC in home infusion patients or the timing of any such approval, have sufficient capital to complete a trial in home infusion patients, or maintain timing for planned clinical trials and regulatory filings. While Rockwell Medical believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on any such forward-looking statements, which are based on information available to us on the date of this release. These forward-looking statements are based upon current estimates and assumptions and are subject to various risks and uncertainties (including, without limitation, those set forth in Rockwell Medical's SEC filings), many of which are beyond our control and subject to change. Actual results could be materially different. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to those risks more fully discussed in the "Risk Factors" section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021, as such description may be amended or updated in any future reports we file with the SEC. Rockwell Medical expressly disclaims any obligation to update our forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law.
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SOURCE Rockwell Medical, Inc. | 2022-06-22T21:36:23+00:00 | wafb.com | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/rockwell-medical-provides-corporate-clinical-update/ |
The Department of Justice (DOJ) said Thursday that it has received a temporary court order blocking two firearms companies from selling a device that officials say converts AR-15-style rifles into machine guns.
The DOJ said in a release that the federal government filed a civil complaint last week against the companies, Rare Breed Triggers LLC and Rare Breed Firearms LLC, along with their operators, Lawrence DeMonico and Kevin Maxwell, alleging that they have unlawfully sold FRT-15 devices, which are intended to convert the rifles into machine guns.
The DOJ said the defendants have conspired to defraud the United States and committed mail and wire fraud. The release states the manufacture, sale and possession of machine guns is illegal under the National Firearms Act of 1934 and the Gun Control Act of 1968.
U.S. District Judge Nina Morrison granted a temporary restraining order on Wednesday, according to the release.
“The Justice Department will continue to do everything in its power to protect the American people from gun violence and to hold accountable those that flood our communities with illegal guns,” Attorney General Merrick Garland said.
Steven Dettelbach, the director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), said Congress decided decades ago that machine guns are illegal but that the defendants are believed to be “flouting the law” despite being warned repeatedly.
“Machine guns are unlawful because they pose a threat to the public and they are increasingly a risk to law enforcement,” he said.
The release states that the defendants allegedly sold thousands of FRT-15s to the public and misled their consumers about the device’s legality.
Morrison said in her ruling that there is probable cause to believe that the defendants’ conduct is “ongoing and imminent,” making the order necessary. She also said probable cause exists that they did not register the devices to conceal their sale from the ATF.
The release states that the DOJ’s action is part of the Civil Initiative to Reduce Gun Violence from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York. It was created last year to have local, state and federal officials work with community stakeholders to address the “root causes” of gun-related crime.
“These defendants are believed to have earned millions at the expense of the public’s safety and are alleged to have conspired to undermine these very federal laws which are intended to keep the public safe,” said ATF special agent-in-charge John DeVito.
The Hill has reached out to Rare Breed Triggers and Rare Breed Firearms for comment. | 2023-01-27T16:49:53+00:00 | fox59.com | https://fox59.com/hill-politics/doj-obtains-court-order-blocking-sales-of-machine-gun-conversion-devices/ |
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VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis urged world leaders Wednesday to use reason and not arms to resolve differences, evoking memories of the 1960s Cold War between Washington and Moscow, .
At his weekly audience in St. Peter’s Square, Francis noted that Tuesday marked the 60th anniversary of the issuance of a Cold War-era encyclical by Pope John XXIII.
The “Pacem in Terris” encyclical, intended for both the Catholic Church and the world at large, was issued several months after the Cuban missile crisis, which had fueled fears of nuclear war between the United States and what was then the Soviet Union.
Francis recalled the world then as “full of tensions between two opposing blocs in the so-called Cold War” and said his predecessor’s message, which encouraged peace efforts, “is very current today.”
The encyclical “opened horizons in which you could speak of peace, construct peace,'' Francis told thousands of faithful gathered in the square. He called the document issued April 11, 1963 ”a real blessing, like a serene break in the midst of dark clouds."
He cited a passage from the encyclical that reads: “Relations between political communities, like those between individual human beings, should be regulated not by resorting to the force of arms, but by the light of reason, that is, in truth, justice and operative solidarity.”
Francis then urged “the faithful and men and women of good will to read” the 60-year-old document.
"I pray that the heads of nations let themselves be inspired (by the encyclical) in their plans and decisions,'' Francis said.
He did not name any national leaders, nor did he cite any current geopolitical tensions, such as between Washington and Moscow over Ukraine or Washington and Beijing over Taiwan.
But as has done repeatedly in public remarks since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Francis referred to the war, saying, “Let's pray for all those who are suffering in Ukraine.” | 2023-04-12T16:18:51+00:00 | lmtonline.com | https://www.lmtonline.com/news/world/article/pope-evokes-cold-war-replay-says-leaders-should-17892620.php |
WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) — One person was sent to the hospital after multiple units responded to a stabbing.
Around 8:43 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022, Wichita Falls police and AMR responded to the intersection of 900 block of Humphreys Street about reports of an assault with a weapon.
Investigators say a male was stabbed once and was taken to the hospital by a personal vehicle.
Police arrested a woman in connection with the stabbing and charged with aggravated assault. Police say she may face more charges. | 2022-11-02T05:46:15+00:00 | texomashomepage.com | https://www.texomashomepage.com/news/local-news/one-hospitalized-after-stabbing-in-wichita-falls/ |
KNOW Beauty Partners with Leading Skincare Lab to Debut the 'Glacial Bay Clay Mask,' a Dream for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin and the Secret Behind Vanessa's Flawless Complexion
LOS ANGELES, March 15, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today actress, singer, and entrepreneur Vanessa Hudgens announced that she is relaunching KNOW Beauty with the debut of a new detoxifying clay face mask, available now in the KNOW Beauty online store with fast, free delivery offered exclusively to Prime members with Buy with Prime, and in the Amazon U.S. store at amazon.com/knowbeauty.
KNOW Beauty's Glacial Bay Clay Mask is a wash off clay mask made with mineral-infused colloidal clay that has been sustainably harvested from an active glacier in British Columbia. Designed for those with oily or acne-prone skin yet gentle enough for all skin types, this purifying facial mask draws out impurities, tightens pores, and evens out skin tone without over drying. This is the first of several planned products that will center KNOW Beauty around simple, effective, and elegant solutions to real skin problems, rather than yet another multi-step routine.
"For me, taking care of my skin is a form of self-love and meditation, and the Glacial Bay Clay Mask is a huge part of my personal routine," said Vanessa Hudgens. "I'm so excited to work with Amazon to relaunch KNOW Beauty and connect with a new group of customers who are also passionate about finding solutions to help them look and feel even more beautiful."
Vanessa worked on formulation with Mary Berry, CEO and Founder of Cosmos Labs, who has developed over a thousand beauty products and specializes in premium skincare, body care, and haircare. The two spent nine months working closely together to develop the new clay face mask. From the development of the new formulas to personally testing every iteration of the new face mask, Vanessa made sure that KNOW Beauty offered the best experience.
"We settled on Canadian colloidal clay as our hero ingredient—a truly unique, not often seen form of clay that has powerful natural healing properties. It's gentle on the skin and draws out impurities without leaving skin tight and dry after," said Mary Berry. "Supporting ingredients like lactic acid gently support skin cell turnover, while giant sea kelp locks in moisture and improves skin texture."
The Glacial Bay Clay Mask is 100 percent cruelty-free and vegan, with certification from PETA's Cruelty Free and Vegan Program, made in the U.S. to limit its carbon footprint, and created without phthalates, sulfates, parabens, and other irritants.
"We're so pleased that KNOW Beauty is working with us not only as the exclusive retailer carrying the Glacial Bay Clay Mask, but also that they are using Buy with Prime to offer this product from their own website with a seamless checkout and fast delivery experience trusted by millions," said Melis del Rey, director of beauty at Amazon. "Amazon Beauty strives to help customers to discover and experience an unlimited world of premium and everyday beauty products with the click of a button, and are excited for customers to try the latest from this incredible brand."
Buy with Prime allows U.S.-based Prime members to shop directly from participating online stores using the Prime shopping benefits they love and trust–including fast, free delivery, a seamless check out experience, and easy returns. When Prime members shop with participating online stores, they'll see the Prime logo and delivery promise on eligible products, which signals the item is available for free delivery—shipped as fast as next day—with easy returns.
The Glacial Bay Clay Mask retails for $35 and is now available to shop in the KNOW Beauty online store, with fast, free delivery offered exclusively to Prime members with Buy with Prime, and in the Amazon U.S. store at amazon.com/knowbeauty.
LINK TO DOWNLOAD PRESS ASSETS: HERE
Social Handles:
Instagram @knowbeauty
TikTok @knowbeauty
About KNOW Beauty:
Vanessa Hudgens knows that beauty comes from looking within and loving your skin unconditionally. Together with one of the industry's leading formulators, KNOW Beauty provides face masks formulated with the highest quality ingredients to support your skin's unique needs. Designed to fit seamlessly into any skincare routine and formulated and proven for all skin tones and types including sensitive skin.
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SOURCE KNOW Beauty | 2023-03-15T15:05:31+00:00 | wlbt.com | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2023/03/15/vanessa-hudgens-relaunches-know-beauty-with-mineral-rich-detoxifying-clay-mask/ |
Kharkiv was attacked but did not fall to the Russians. Thousands of residents fled, but one street artist — called the "Ukrainian Banksy" — remained and continued his work.
Copyright 2023 NPR
Kharkiv was attacked but did not fall to the Russians. Thousands of residents fled, but one street artist — called the "Ukrainian Banksy" — remained and continued his work.
Copyright 2023 NPR | 2023-03-25T22:01:03+00:00 | kvpr.org | https://www.kvpr.org/2023-03-25/the-ukrainian-banksy-has-remained-in-kharkiv-despite-russian-attacks |
WASHINGTON, D.C. (WGHP) – Sen. Thom Tillis is saying his bipartisan group has settled on an amendment to the federal Respect for Marriage Act that would codify the right of same-sex and interracial couples to marry as long as that is legal in a given state.
Tillis, North Carolina’s senior Republican Senator, had been working on this concept with Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-Arizona), he said in a release.
The amendment to the Respect for Marriage Act is narrow, but the release says it would accomplish two primary goals:
- Require the federal government to recognize a marriage between two individuals if the marriage was valid in the state where it was performed.
- Guarantee that valid marriages between two individuals are given full faith and credit, regardless of the couple’s sex, race, ethnicity or national origin, but the bill would not require a state to issue a marriage license contrary to state law.
The bill passed the House with bipartisan support in July, and Tillis said at the time he “probably” would support the bill.
The amendment that Tillis and his colleagues developed would protect religious liberty under the Constitution and would not require nonprofit religious organizations to perform marriages for people who don’t meet their standards, the release said.
It also specifies that this bill can’t be used to deny rights and would not affect a church or religious group’s nonprofit status.
The bill “affirms that couples, including same-sex and interracial couples, deserve the dignity, stability, and ongoing protection of marriage.” It does not legalize polygamy.
“The Respect for Marriage Act is a needed step to provide millions of loving couples in same-sex and interracial marriages the certainty that they will continue to enjoy the freedoms, rights, and responsibilities afforded to all other marriages,” the group of senators said in a statement. “Through bipartisan collaboration, we’ve crafted commonsense language to confirm that this legislation fully respects and protects Americans’ religious liberties and diverse beliefs, while leaving intact the core mission of the legislation to protect marriage equality.
“We look forward to this legislation coming to the floor and are confident that this amendment has helped earn the broad, bipartisan support needed to pass our commonsense legislation into law.”
The bill requires the support of 10 GOP senators to avoid a filibuster. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has said he would bring up the bill “in coming weeks,” CNN reported. A social media comment by The News & Observer in Raleigh said the vote could happen as soon as Wednesday. The group has said it believes it has those votes.
When the bill passed the House, the Republicans who represent North Carolina were not among its 47 GOP supporters. That includes the five Republicans who represent – or will represent – the 14 counties of the Piedmont Triad: 5th District Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-Banner Elk), 8th District Rep. Richard Hudson (R-Moore County) and 10th District Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-Statesville).
Only Rep. Dan Bishop (R-Charlotte), elected last week to represent the 8th Congressional District that includes Davidson and Montgomery counties, addressed that vote, calling the bill “an attack on Americans who hold the view that marriage is between one man and one woman.”
13th District Rep. Ted Budd (R-Advance), who last week was elected to join Tillis in the Senate as the successor for retiring Sen. Richard Burr, voted against the bill, too.
Budd is developing his staff and structure for the new role, and his spokesperson did not respond immediately to questions about Tillis’ amendment.
Neither did the staff of Rep. Kathy Manning (D-Greensboro), who was re-elected to represent the 6th District, which includes Guilford Rockingham counties and some of Caswell and Forsyth counties.
Manning had supported the bill in the House, as did all Democrats. | 2022-11-14T23:34:41+00:00 | myfox8.com | https://myfox8.com/your-local-election-hq/sen-tillis-amendment-deal-reached-to-codify-same-sex-interracial-marriage/ |
Welcome to the NPR series where we spotlight the people and things making headlines — and the stories behind them.
The nine-year-old epitomizes the idea of working smarter, not harder.
Who is she? A cunning kid with some resilient vocal chords.
Diar DeRozan is the daughter of Chicago Bulls player DeMar DeRozan, and while she isn't officially on the team, the tinier DeRozan had an outsized impact on her dad's team reaching a stunning comeback victory of 105-109 over the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday.
DeMar spent the first nine years of his career as a Raptor, and as a result, Diar had requested to skip school and come along for the mems.
Turns out, she had a contribution to make.
What's the big deal? How did Diar lead the bulls to victory? Simple. Strategic screams.
The Bulls were trailing by as much as 19 points at one point in the NBA Play-in tournament game.
As it went into free throws, Diar utilized her eagle-like projection abilities to shriek when the Raptors were about to shoot.
And it seems like she was definitely on to something. The Raptors missed 18 out of 36 free throws as the home team, and allowed for the Bulls to make their comeback victory.
According to ESPN, it was the Raptors' worst free throw performance of the season, and the most misses in an elimination game since 1969.
What are people saying?
DeMar on his daughter's winning strategy:
I kept hearing something during the game and it was on a free throw, somebody missed and I was like, "Damn, that's my daughter screaming?" I was just making sure she was all right, though.
My daughter called me the other day when she was getting out of school and she just said, 'Dad, can I come to the Toronto game?'
I remember her going to all the Toronto games when she was a kid and I almost said no because she's in school back home. But she kept asking. She was just adamant about coming to support and I said, "All right, you can miss one day of school and come to a game." I'm glad I did. I owe her some money for sure.
And this was Diar's game-winning contribution:
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAH!"
Want more sports? Listen to Consider This on how women's college basketball is having a moment.
So, what now?
The Bulls will advance to play The Miami Heat on Friday. That's all the sports analysis you're ever going to get from me.
BUT they won't have their MVP with them. DeRozan says she's "got to go back to school."
Learn more:
Michael Jordan's 'Last Dance' sneakers sell for a record-breaking $2.2 million
Global warming could be juicing baseball home runs, study finds
NBA coach Gregg Popovich criticizes lawmakers over gun control
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2023-04-13T21:58:42+00:00 | kgou.org | https://www.kgou.org/sports/2023-04-13/this-9-year-old-girl-helped-lead-the-bulls-to-a-screaming-comeback-win-literally |
At least 1 Cleveland Browns player robbed at gunpoint, police say
CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO/Gray News) - Cleveland police are investigating after at least one Cleveland Browns player was robbed at gunpoint downtown.
According to the police report, Browns player Greg Newsome II told police he left Rumor Bar & Lounge on W. 6th Street with another person around 2:15 a.m. Monday and drove to the Filter Bar and Lounge on W. Superior Avenue.
Newsome stated he parked his 2022 Ram truck in the parking lot next to Filter and went into the bar.
Newsome told police when they went back to the truck around 3:30 a.m., six masked men jumped out of an unknown car and robbed them at gunpoint.
Before driving off in Newsome’s truck, the suspects also stole some jewelry he was wearing.
Newsome stated nobody was injured.
A person who spoke to the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter said a second player was also robbed at gunpoint in the incident, tackle Perrion Winfrey.
The Browns opened mandatory minicamp on Tuesday.
Cleveland police are also investigating the theft of a Cleveland Browns player’s vehicle from the parking garage at The May in the 200 block of Euclid Ave.
Officers responded to the garage around 8 a.m. Sunday when the owners realized their vehicles were gone. One of the vehicles, a 2023 Dodge Durango Hellcat, belongs to a Cleveland Browns player.
According to the police report, security video showed suspects driving into the garage around 4:50 a.m., taking a parking ticket and driving around the garage.
Once the suspects saw the Hellcat, they broke into the vehicle and drove away in it. Before leaving the garage, the suspects also stole a Dodge Challenger. according to the police report.
Police said there are no arrests in either incident.
Newsome posted Monday night about the incident, saying “It’s a cruel world we live in” on Twitter.
Copyright 2023 WOIO via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report. | 2023-06-06T16:47:01+00:00 | waff.com | https://www.waff.com/2023/06/06/least-1-cleveland-browns-player-robbed-gunpoint-police-say/ |
Playful shrieks and emphatic splashes charged the atmosphere recently at Nay Aug Park’s gorge. Dozens of revelers, including small children, sat on the rocks overlooking the treacherous falls or swam in Roaring Brook, while others in sandals or barefoot walked along the narrow precipice.
Rocky, dangerous and officially forbidden, the gorge lures scofflaw swimmers seeking a cool dip and dash of adventure.
As the number of outdoor public swimming areas dwindles and forecasters anticipate a scorching summer, officials fear more people could be lured to dangerous swimming areas like the gorge.
“If somebody goes there on a regularly hot day, and now we have more of those regularly hot days … they’re going to frequent that spot more,” Scranton Fire Chief John Judge said. “Which is obviously a problem for us.”
Long-range forecasts predict an unseasonably hot summer this year, with a good chance for above-normal temperatures, said Michael Kistner, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Binghamton forecast office.
In Lackawanna County, the gorge, the Step Falls, both in Scranton, and the Dunmore Reservoir are popular illegal swimming spots for thrill-seekers but challenging for first responders.
While the waters look inviting, many don’t understand its depth and currents, suffering neck or leg injuries. The wet and slick terrain can lead to slips, trips and falls. The water can also be cold.
“It’s extremely dangerous for our crews to work there,” Judge said.
Bill White, president of Dive Rescue Specialists of Scott Twp., said the heavy equipment makes rescues particularly challenging.
“It’s just a very unsafe place to swim,” he said. “It consumes a lot of our resources.”
Rescues have taken up to four hours to complete, White said, depending on the location, with first responders carrying up to 100 pounds of equipment.
In Scranton, they take up to half a shift, involving as many as 18 firefighters, along with police and emergency medical services personnel, Judge said.
Dunmore Fire Chief Chris DeNaples said rescues take a tremendous amount of specialty resources. They also divert resources, making them unavailable during other incidents, County Emergency Management Director Thomas Taylor said.
Anticipating rescues
Seven water rescues were called in to Lackawanna County 911 dispatchers in 2022, Taylor said. Scranton firefighters rescued six people from the gorge last year, Judge said. The last fatality in the gorge happened in 2020, when a 23-year-old New Jersey man drowned.
Anticipating calls, firefighters visited the gorge this spring to familiarize themselves with it and cleared spots for easy access of emergency personnel and equipment. So far this year, several people called for help but were able to get themselves out, Judge said. White foresees Dive Rescue Specialists will get several calls this year.
While the Scranton Police Department does a good job watching the gorge and enforcing trespassing laws, Judge said, people need to know the dangers.
‘Taking a risk’
Despite the danger, gorge swimmers weren’t deterred on Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer and outdoor swimming.
“Why not?” 15-year old Rocquel Williams asked. “We’re taking a risk.”
The Middletown, New Jersey resident visited the gorge with her sisters, Shay Goss, 22, and Seasons Johnson, 11. Goss first visited in 2019, and on Memorial Day, brought her younger sisters for their first time. While the water was cold and the rocks slippery, they said the scenic spot was worth the two-hour drive.
Kevin Keating, of Philadelphia, and his girlfriend, Carly Belles, of Berwick, dipped their feet in the water, finding it safer than jumping in.
“It was probably fine,” Keating, 21, said.
The out-of-town visitors, who discovered the gorge through social media and friends, found the gorge’s scenery appealing.
“It’s beautiful,” Goss said.
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‘Hard to find’
The newspaper found just seven outdoor public swimming areas in Lackawanna County, serving a population of around 216,000. Comparatively, Erie County, with a population of about 266,000, has nine.
The lack of options surprised Marywood University student Trey Watson, who spent Memorial Day at the Covington Park lake with his friend, Claire Cituk.
“It was hard to find some,” he said.
Scranton has three city-owned pools: Connell Park, Weston Park and Weston Field. The other locations — McDade Park pool in Scranton, the Merli-Sarnoski Park lake in Fell Twp., the Covington Park lake in Covington Twp. and the Aylesworth Park lake in Archbald — are run by Lackawanna County.
The closure of the pool complex at Lackawanna State Park this year removed a popular swimming option.
The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources decided not to open the pool and splash pad at the park in North Abington Twp. to replace the pool lining with advanced plaster. The pool and splash pad opened in 2016.
Park Manager Robert Barrese said the enhancements will make the pool more durable and easier to maintain. He expects repairs to be completed ahead of the 2024 swimming season.
Scranton officials have debated what to do with the Nay Aug Park pool complex, last open in 2019. Both pools are filled. The public has called for a new pool on the site.
Parks and Recreation Director Art Moran predicts the loss of the Nay Aug and Lackawanna State Park pools, and hot weather could bring more traffic to the county’s existing swimming spots.
“I’m expecting a huge turnout,” he said.
Moran anticipates overflow crowds at the McDade Park pool, which has a capacity of 120 people. The pool’s location is ideal for West Scranton, which doesn’t have a public swimming spot, and nearby Taylor, Old Forge and South Abington Twp., he said.
The pool is being renovated and a splash pad installed. Moran expects the pool to open in mid-July and the splash pad to be ready by mid-June. Crews have also poured sand on the beaches at the lakes.
Antonella Trapote and her 6-year-old daughter, Natasha, love that Covington Park’s lake is near their Spring Brook Twp. home, but there are few options closer to home. The nearest swimming spots are more than 10 miles away in Scranton or at Lackawanna State Park, Trapote said. They’ve traveled outside the county to Tobyhanna State Park or Gouldsboro State Park for swimming.
“There’s nowhere, really,” she said.
‘Difficult to run’
Swimming areas can be hard to maintain, Barrese said.
“Public pools are difficult to run as they’re very maintenance- and labor-intensive,” he said. “A lot of work goes into keeping it clean.”
Hiring and keeping lifeguards is also a challenge. It can be difficult for lifeguards to get certified or recertified, Barrese said.
A lack of lifeguards forced park officials to close the pool for the season in mid-July last year. It is typically open from Memorial Day weekend to the Tuesday after Labor Day.
Between 20,000 and 22,000 visitors come to the pool complex during a typical season, Barrese said.
Outdoor swimming areas are particularly beneficial for those on a fixed budget, Gary Drapek, president and CEO of United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties, said.
“This is especially important in neighborhoods of low- and moderate-income families who do not have the chance or financial ability to travel elsewhere,” he said.
They are also a safe place for kids to hang out, Drapek said.
“It’s sad that over the years a number of community pools have closed due to funding or difficulty in recruiting lifeguards and other pool attendants,” he said.
Scott Gassenmeyer, Scranton’s newly appointed parks and recreation manager, wants to ensure the city’s three pools open safely.
“They’re the cornerstone of their communities,” he said.
Even with the city’s sanctioned pools and area lakes where swimming is permitted, swimming spots like the Nay Aug Gorge will still draw illicit dippers.
“Wake up in the morning and we know that the sun’s (going to) be out, it’s going to be in the 80s and 90s, there’s going to be people that are going to be up there swimming, and they’re going to be walking on those dangerous rocks and edges up there and swimming in those spots,” Judge said. “We’re keenly aware of that fact, and we do as much as we can to prepare for it.” | 2023-06-11T04:54:15+00:00 | thetimes-tribune.com | https://www.thetimes-tribune.com/news/fewer-public-swimming-pools-lakes-in-lackawanna-county-could-cause-more-visits-to-deadly-swimming/article_1e2676ff-8d09-53f4-b8c2-4b40e2f984b0.html |
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — As rampantly rising fuel costs continue to hit wallets in the United States, prices have finally started to drop.
The average U.S. price of regular-grade gasoline fell by 4 cents per gallon in the past two weeks to $5.05 for regular grade, it was reported Sunday. It was the first drop in nine weeks and came with a drop in oil prices amid deepening global inflation fears, industry analyst Trilby Lundberg said.
“As lower gasoline prices make their way through distribution to retail, consumers will likely see further declines in coming days,” Lundberg said.
The average price at the pump as of Friday was still nearly $2 higher than it was one year ago.
In June 2021 gas averaged $3.07 per gallon nationally.
“Crude prices have dropped this week amid broad market concern regarding the potential for economic growth to slow or stall due to rising interest rates and inflation,” AAA reported. “A lower economic growth rate than expected could cause crude demand to decline, leading prices to follow suit.”
As of Thursday, AAA said the largest price decreases in the nation were in Washington, D.C.; Florida; Indiana; Maryland; South Carolina; Wisconsin; Ohio; Michigan; Kentucky and Texas. The price decreases for those areas were:
Nationwide, the highest average price for regular-grade gas was in the San Francisco Bay Area, at $6.39 per gallon. The lowest average was in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, at $4.39 per gallon.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. | 2022-06-27T01:04:01+00:00 | wboy.com | https://www.wboy.com/news/national/these-states-saw-the-biggest-gas-price-drops/ |
Munn Sets Sights on Continued Growth and International Expansion
Link to Press Materials and Assets
HOUSTON, Aug. 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Jurassic Quest, a leading family edutainment company and producer of North America's largest touring dinosaur property, welcomes Jeff Munn as Chief Executive Officer.
Uniquely poised to usher the company's continued growth and global expansion, Munn spent over three decades of his live events career with the Harlem Globetrotters where he served in various executive capacities, most recently as Executive Vice President and General Manager. He was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the enterprise, including strategic planning, budgeting, operations, global logistics, content development, domestic and international booking, sales and marketing, merchandising, partnerships, licensing, talent acquisition, as well as driving brand revitalization efforts as the organization pursued opportunities for growth and monetization across a wide variety of platforms. Prior to that, Munn led the organization as Chief Operating Officer for 15 years, leading global tour operations and international expansion initiatives.
With more than 5 million visits since it was founded in 2013, Jurassic Quest has a legacy of bringing thrilling and educational dinosaur encounters to families across the country, and became the first in the space to pivot to a drive thru iteration during 2020-2021 as a response to the pandemic and event venue closures. Jurassic Quest has since returned to its traditional indoor format and has expanded to concurrently operate three touring shows to accommodate demand for the largest and most realistic dinosaur experience on the continent. Munn joins Jurassic Quest as the company recently completed its second successful tour of Western Canada and will be at the helm for the first tour of Eastern Canada in November. Munn will oversee domestic and international operations, as well as growth opportunities, and work alongside veteran teams to mount a best-in-class experience for families and dinosaur fans everywhere.
"It is a sincere privilege to join the amazing team at Jurassic Quest as we all strive to continue delivering quality experiences to families around the world," said Munn.
Jurassic Quest is a subsidiary of Family Quest Holdings and was acquired in 2019 by L2 Capital Partners, a private equity firm based in Devon, Pennsylvania. Bob Levine, founder and Managing Partner of L2 Capital adds, "we are thrilled to have Jeff join Family Quest and bring his unique background and experience to lead its growth. Jeff has repeatedly demonstrated the ability to expand entertainment properties globally and domestically, while remaining focused on delivering a consistent high quality guest and team experience. We are confident that under his leadership, Family Quest will enhance its position as the leading producer of family edutainment."
Jurassic Quest is the largest and most realistic dinosaur exhibition in North America. Since 2013, Jurassic Quest has been touring epic dinosaur experiences treating millions of people across North America to an as-close-as-you-can-get look at the giants that ruled the Earth and sea millions of years ago. Developed with leading paleontologists, each dinosaur has been painstakingly replicated in every detail including the most realistic likenesses, movement and sound. Whether their prehistoric counterpart had skin that was scaly, feathers or fur, Jurassic Quest has spared no expense in bringing the dinosaurs to life. Jurassic Quest sold more than one million tickets in 2019, and hosted more than 2.5 million fans at its Jurassic Quest Drive Thru beginning in 2020. Jurassic Quest now operates three touring versions of its classic indoor event, welcoming fans in 41 states and four provinces in the U.S. and Canada over the past year. For more information and tickets visit www.jurassicquest.com.
L2 Capital Partners (www.L2Capital.net) is a boutique lower middle market private equity firm that specializes in making controlling investments in a diverse range of family and founder-built companies with demonstrated market leadership and unlocked potential for growth. L2's impressive track record over the last nine years includes top quartile returns for its portfolio of business service and consumer product companies with enterprise values up to $65 million. L2 Capital adds value by partnering closely with company leadership to meet their strategic and financial goals by providing intimate operational support including a proprietary breakthrough growth framework in addition to access to resources and technology gained over 40 years of principal investing experience.
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SOURCE Jurassic Quest Inc | 2022-08-17T20:57:43+00:00 | kfyrtv.com | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/17/jeff-munn-joins-jurassic-quest-ceo-shepherd-north-americas-largest-dinosaur-enterprise/ |
Hajj pilgrimage starts in Saudi Arabia, with 2 million expected after lifting of COVID measures
MINA, Saudi Arabia (AP) — Some 2 million Muslim pilgrims officially began the annual Hajj pilgrimage on Monday, making their way out of Mecca after circling Islam’s holiest site, the Kaaba, and converging on a vast tent camp in the nearby desert for a day and night of prayer.
One of the largest religious gatherings in the world has returned to full capacity this year for the first time since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic three years ago.
The pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam, and all Muslims are required to make the five-day Hajj at least once in their lives if they are physically and financially able to do it.
For pilgrims, it is a deeply moving spiritual experience that absolves sins, brings them closer to God and unites the world’s more than 1.8 billion Muslims. Some spend years saving up money and waiting for a permit to embark on the journey.
The rituals during Hajj largely commemorate the Quran’s accounts of Ibrahim, his son Ismail and Ismail’s mother Hajar.
Pilgrims have been doing the ritual circuit around the Kaaba since arriving in Mecca over recent days. As the last ones performed it Monday, the pilgrims made their way by foot or by bus to Mina, where they will camp in one of the largest tent cities in the world. They will pray throughout the day and night before traveling on Tuesday to Mount Arafat, where the Prophet Muhammad is said to have delivered his final sermon.
Mina is vast and open, with little respite from the desert heat and blazing sun. Soldiers sprayed pilgrims with water to cool them down.
Egyptian businessman Yehya Al-Ghanam said he was at a loss for words to describe his feelings upon arriving at Mina.
“Tears will fall from my eyes out of joy and happiness,” he said. “I do not sleep. I have not slept for 15 days, only an hour a day,” overwhelmed by the magnitude of the emotions surrounding his pilgrimage.
After Arafat, pilgrims collect pebbles from a site known as Muzdalifa to be used in the symbolic stoning of pillars representing the devil back in Mina. The final three days of the Hajj coincide with the festive Eid al-Adha holiday, when Muslims around the world slaughter livestock and distribute the meat to the poor.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | 2023-06-26T12:49:50+00:00 | newschannel6now.com | https://www.newschannel6now.com/2023/06/26/hajj-pilgrimage-starts-saudi-arabia-with-2-million-expected-after-lifting-covid-measures/ |
First-gen iPhone sells at auction for almost 380 times its original price
A first-generation iPhone sold at auction Sunday for $190,373, almost 380 times its original price of $499 when the groundbreaking device went for sale in 2007.
LCG Auctions, which hosted the sale, said the 4GB iPhone model was 20 times rarer than the 8GB model released at the same time for $599. That's largely because the 4GB model was discontinued two months after launch given customer preference for the larger memory size.
“A new bar was set Sunday night,” said Mark Montero, the founder of LCG Auctions. "We are thrilled to be a part of this fantastic record breaking sale.”
It is the third original iPhone to sell for record prices at auction in the past year. An 8GB model sold for $63,356 in February and another 8GB model fetched $39,340 in October 2022. All were factory sealed in their original packaging.
The iPhone is one of the world's most successful electronic products and helped make Apple the first publicly held company with a $3 trillion market value. The Cupertino, California company reached that milestone 16 years after the first iPhones were sold. | 2023-07-18T22:33:27+00:00 | detroitnews.com | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/nation/2023/07/18/first-gen-iphone-sells-at-auction-for-almost-380-times-its-original-price/70428102007/ |
Updated April 13, 2023 at 3:56 PM ET
The Biden administration has announced a plan to expand access to Affordable Care Act and Medicaid coverage for DACA recipients. The change would treat DACA recipients more like other groups with temporary legal status.
The Department of Health and Human Services will propose an amended definition of "lawful presence" to include recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, the White House said on Thursday.
"We recognize that every day counts, and we expect to get this done by the end of the month," the White House said in a statement. The proposed rule would allow DACA recipients to apply for coverage in the health insurance marketplace and through their state Medicaid agency.
Advocacy groups commended the Biden administration for the move.
"It's the right thing to do and reflects President Biden's continued recognition of DACA recipients' dignity and contributions to our nation," Maribel Hernández Rivera, an American Civil Liberties Union deputy national political director, said in a statement.
DACA, created in 2012 by the Obama administration, allows roughly 600,000 immigrants who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children to live and work in the country. The program doesn't lead to permanent status, and the Biden administration has called on Congress to create a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients.
DACA recipients are already eligible to apply for some health services in the U.S., including emergency Medicaid, which pays for emergency medical treatment for people who meet their state's Medicaid eligibility requirements but not citizenship and immigration status requirements.
This announcement comes as the DACA program itself is in legal jeopardy — a federal judge has ruled that it is illegal and paused new applications. Existing recipients are still protected while the ruling is appealed.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | 2023-04-13T21:30:13+00:00 | knkx.org | https://www.knkx.org/2023-04-13/biden-moves-to-expand-daca-recipients-access-to-government-funded-health-insurance |
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The investigation into the shooting by a homeowner of Ralph Yarl, a Black teenager who went to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers, includes questions about whether it was racially motivated, authorities in Kansas City said.
Police are quickly preparing evidence for prosecutors in Thursday’s shooting, Chief Stacey Graves said Sunday at a news conference at police headquarters.
“I want everyone to know that I am listening,” Graves said, “and I understand the concern we are receiving from the community.”
The Kansas City Star reported that the 16-year-old victim, identified online by family members as Yarl, was hospitalized Thursday night after he was shot while trying to pick up his younger twin brothers from a friend’s house. Police said he went to the wrong house and was shot there.
Officials would not confirm the number of times the homeowner shot the victim or where his injuries were. Police initially said Yarl was stable but had a life-threatening injury. His current condition has not been released, other than that he is stable.
Police have not identified the shooter or his race, though civil rights attorney Ben Crump told The Star the shooter appears to be white. Information that officials have now does not point to the shooting being racially motivated, but Graves said that aspect also remains under investigation.
Investigators also will consider whether or not the suspect was protected by “Stand Your Ground” laws, Graves said.
Yarl was meant to pick up his brothers from a friend’s house on 115th Terrace. He ended up ringing the doorbell at a home on 115th Street, Faith Spoonmore, the teen’s aunt, wrote online.
A man opened the door, saw Yarl and shot him in the head. When Yarl fell to the ground, the man shot him again. Yarl got up and ran from the property, but he had to ask at three different homes before someone helped him, Spoonmore wrote.
Kansas City police officers said they responded around 10 p.m.
Graves said Sunday that the homeowner was taken into custody Thursday and placed on a 24-hour hold. While searching the scene for evidence, detectives found the firearm used. Law enforcement released the suspect pending further investigation after consulting with the Clay County prosecutor’s office.
Missouri law allows a person to be held up to 24 hours for a felony investigation. At that point, the person must be released or arrested and formally charged. In order to arrest someone, law enforcement needs a formal victim statement, forensic evidence and other information for a case file to be completed, Graves said.
Because of the teen’s injuries, Graves said, police haven’t been able to get a victim statement.
Mayor Quinton Lucas, who attended the news conference, said police understand the community’s concern that the shooting could be racially motivated. Some members of the police department attended Sunday’s protest in the neighborhood where the shooting took place to listen to community concerns, he said.
“This is not something that has been dismissed, marginalized or diminished in any way. This is something that is getting the full attention of the Kansas City Police Department,” Lucas said.
Crump told The Star on Sunday that the family has retained his Florida-based law firm.
“You can’t just shoot people without having justification when somebody comes knocking on your door and knocking on your door is not justification,” Crump said. “This guy should be charged.”
Crump has represented families in several high-profile cases, including those of Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown, as well as Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd.
Crump said the homeowner initially shot the teen in the head and then a second time after the boy fell to the ground. The family also has retained Lee Merritt, a Texas-based civil rights attorney who previously represented the family of Cameron Lamb, who was fatally shot by Kansas City police detective Eric DeValkenaere in 2019.
Crump said that judging by what he was told by the teen’s family, the shooter is white.
“It is inescapable not to acknowledge the racial dynamics at play,” he said.
Even though Yarl “is doing well physically, he has a long road ahead mentally and emotionally,” Spoonmore wrote in a GoFundMe she started to raise money for Yarl’s medical bills and other expenses. | 2023-04-17T14:48:53+00:00 | fox44news.com | https://www.fox44news.com/news/national-world-news/kansas-city-police-probe-of-teens-shooting-moving-quickly/ |
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Police in Tennessee said Tuesday that a body found during an exhaustive search lasting more than three days is a woman who was abducted and forced into an SUV during an early morning jog near the University of Memphis.
Memphis police said on Twitter that investigators identified the body of Eliza Fletcher, 34, a school teacher and granddaughter of a prominent Memphis businessman.
The body was found Monday after a series of searches over the Labor Day weekend for the woman who was kidnapped at about 4 a.m. Friday, police said. A man approached her and forced her into an SUV after a brief struggle, police said. Fletcher was reported missing when she did not return home from her regular morning jog.
A man charged with especially aggravated kidnapping and tampering with evidence in the nationally-publicized case had an arraignment on Tuesday. U.S. Marshals arrested Cleotha Abston, 38, on Saturday after police detected his DNA on a pair of sandals found near to where Eliza Fletcher was last seen, according to an arrest affidavit.
Abston will now also be facing a charges of first-degree murder and first-degree murder in perpetration of kidnapping, Memphis police said in a tweet Tuesday morning.
Relatives of Fletcher and more than 20 media members were in the courtroom Tuesday morning for the arraignment, which was Abston’s first appearance before a judge on charges of kidnapping, tampering with evidence, theft, identity theft, and fraudulent use of a credit card. Abston was issued a $510,000 bond. Abston said he could not afford bond and he could not afford a lawyer. General Sessions Judge Louis Montesi appointed a public defender to represent Abston.
Police also linked the vehicle they believe was used in the kidnapping to a person at a home where Abston was staying.
Late Monday, police tweeted that a body had been found in a Memphis neighborhood but that the identity of that person and the cause of death was unconfirmed. A large police presence was reported in the area where authorities reported finding the body just after 5 p.m. Memphis police had searched several locations with dogs, ATVs and a helicopter throughout the long weekend.
Fletcher is the granddaughter of the late Joseph Orgill III, a Memphis hardware businessman and philanthropist. The family has released a video statement asking for help in finding Fletcher and offered a $50,000 reward for information in the case.
The case is the latest that reinforces the fears of many female athletes when it comes to working out alone, at night or in secluded places. Crime statistics show these types of attacks are exceedingly rare. Women out for a run face much greater dangers from traffic. But the fear they inspire is real, as are smaller-scale episodes of harassment or assaults on women, even in well-populated areas.
Abston previously kidnapped a prominent Memphis attorney in 2000, the Commercial Appeal reported. When he was just 16 years old, Abston forced Kemper Durand into the trunk of his own car at gunpoint. After several hours, Abston took Durand out and forced him to drive to a Mapco gas station to withdraw money from an ATM. At the station, an armed Memphis Housing Authority guard walked in and Durand yelled for help. Abston ran away but was found and arrested. He pleaded guilty in 2001 to especially aggravated kidnapping and aggravated robbery, according to court records. He received a 24-year sentence.
Durand, in a victim impact statement, wrote, “I was extremely lucky that I was able to escape from the custody of Cleotha Abston. … It is quite likely that I would have been killed had I not escaped,” the Commercial Appeal reported.
Durand died in 2013, seven years before Abston would be released in November 2020 at age 36. In the two years since his release, there were no further documented charges against Abston in Shelby County prior to his Saturday arrest, the Commercial Appeal reported.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. | 2022-09-06T17:05:29+00:00 | wsvn.com | https://wsvn.com/news/us-world/memphis-police-id-body-of-abducted-jogger-eliza-fletcher/ |
NEWARK, Del., Feb. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ILC Dover LP ("ILC Dover" or the "Company"), specializing in innovative single-use solutions for biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical processing, announced it is now offering platinum-cured silicone tubing to expand its growing liquid handling portfolio. Used for a variety of applications throughout the biomanufacturing process including upstream, downstream and fill & finish, ILC Dover's platinum-cured silicone tubing is designed and validated for the high quality, purity, and performance requirements of biopharmaceutical fluid transfer processes.
ILC Dover offers a comprehensive and integrated solution portfolio to support customers' unique needs in powder and liquid handling. The addition of platinum-cured silicone tubing enhances the Company's single-use liquid handling portfolio to better serve its biopharmaceutical customers worldwide.
"As an integrated solutions provider to companies of all sizes across the globe, ILC Dover is ready to offer this critical component with superior performance and assurance of supply," said Corey Walker, CEO of ILC Dover. "This new offering represents how we continue to grow and meet demand, while remaining focused on providing broader and more comprehensive workflow solutions within the biopharmaceutical, cell & gene therapy, and related life sciences end markets."
The Company's platinum-cured silicone tubing offers unparalleled benefits to customers – improving performance, saving time, lowering risks, and reducing cost. It is available in several standard sizes and is manufactured under an ISO 13485-2016 quality management system and is FDA registered.
To learn more about ILC Dover's platinum-cured silicone tubing offerings, please visit https://ilcdover.com/products/platinum-cured-silicone-tubing or contact your local sales representative.
About ILC Dover
ILC Dover is a world-leader in the innovative design and production of solutions for biopharmaceutical, pharmaceutical, medical device markets as well as a leading supplier for the (aero)space industries. Our customers will attest to our relentless dedication to high value products, advanced technology, and responsive service, as our visionary solutions have improved efficiency while safeguarding people, product, and infrastructure in hazardous conditions through flexible protective solutions since 1947. For more information on ILC Dover, please visit www.ilcdover.com.
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SOURCE ILC Dover | 2023-02-28T15:44:59+00:00 | kwtx.com | https://www.kwtx.com/prnewswire/2023/02/28/ilc-dover-adds-platinum-cured-silicone-tubing-expanding-liquid-handling-portfolio-biotherapeutics-markets/ |
Patients, families and caregivers treated to a day at the ballpark as kids receive their own My Special Aflac Duck®
WASHINGTON, June 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Highlighting its ongoing commitment to children and families facing sickle cell disease, Aflac, the No. 1 provider of supplemental health insurance in the U.S.1, today announced that the company has made a $100,000 contribution to Children's National Hospital to be used for research and treatment of sickle cell. Aflac also welcomed children with sickle cell disease and their families to an exciting day of baseball at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., as the hometown Washington Nationals took on the Philadelphia Phillies.
"At any time, more than 100,000 American families — most of which are African American — are impacted by sickle cell disease, which is an inherited and often stigmatized condition that frequently causes painful episodes and can even cause shortened lifespans," Aflac Senior Vice President of Federal Relations Bradley Knox said. "Aflac's contribution will help Children's National Hospital conduct groundbreaking research that we hope will someday lead to a universal cure for this terrible disease, with which 1 out of 365 African Americans are born. We are pleased to provide a day at the ballpark to celebrate the children, families and caregivers who manage the impact of sickle cell disease every day."
"We are honored for Aflac's partnership to ensure Children's National can provide expert care and groundbreaking research to support children and their families who are battling sickle cell disease across the greater Washington, DC metro region," said Julie Butler, Vice President of Children's National Hospital Foundation. "Their generous gift to our research program will help us develop and implement treatments that are both innovative and family focused. We are grateful for Aflac's support financially, and for creating wonderful memories for our families such as the Nationals game on World Sickle Cell Day!"
Children attending the ballgame also received their very own My Special Aflac Duck®, a robotic duck that has helped nearly 16,000 children cope with their cancer or sickle cell diagnosis and treatments. My Special Aflac Ducks are provided to children free of charge. Children and caregivers use the ducks for medical play to help kids better understand their treatments and communicate their feelings, which is sometimes difficult for children.
The My Special Aflac Duck program was created in 2018 for children with cancer. After 18 months of research involving patients, families and caregivers, Aflac expanded the program by developing accessories specifically designed to address challenges associated with sickle cell.
"Families facing sickle cell disease often feel forgotten, as funding for and awareness about the disease are far less than similar inherited conditions," Knox said. "Expanding our My Special Aflac Duck program and providing funding for research and treatment enhancements at a prestigious hospital like Children's National is our way of saying, 'you have not been forgotten and we are here by your side.'"
Since 1995, Aflac has donated more than $160 million to the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, which also houses the most prolific sickle cell treatment facility in America.
ABOUT AFLAC INCORPORATED
Aflac Incorporated (NYSE: AFL) is a Fortune 500 company helping provide protection to more than 50 million people through its subsidiaries in Japan and the U.S., paying cash fast when policyholders get sick or injured. For more than six decades, insurance policies of Aflac Incorporated's subsidiaries have given policyholders the opportunity to focus on recovery, not financial stress. In the U.S., Aflac is the number one provider supplemental health insurance products1. Aflac Life Insurance Japan is the leading provider of medical and cancer insurance in Japan, where it insures 1 in 4 households. In 2021, Aflac Incorporated was proud to be included as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere for the 16th consecutive year. Also in 2021, the company was included in the Dow Jones Sustainability North America Index and became a signatory of the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI). In 2022, Aflac Incorporated was included on Fortune's list of World's Most Admired Companies for the 21st time and Bloomberg's Gender-Equality Index for the third consecutive year. To find out how to get help with expenses health insurance doesn't cover, get to know us at aflac.com or aflac.com/español. Investors may learn more about Aflac Incorporated and its commitment to ESG and social responsibility at investors.aflac.com under "Sustainability."
1 LIMRA 2021 US Supplemental Health Insurance Total Market Report
Media contact: Jon Sullivan, 706-763-4813 or jsullivan@aflac.com
Analyst and investor contact: David A. Young, 706-596-3264, 800-235-2667 or dyoung@aflac.com
SOURCE Aflac | 2022-06-20T01:06:32+00:00 | wlbt.com | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2022/06/19/aflac-commemorates-world-sickle-cell-awareness-day-with-100000-donation-childrens-national-hospital-research-treatment-enhancements/ |
CEDAR FALLS — The Cedar Falls volleyball team beat the Waterloo West Wahawks, 3-0, in the consolation championship of the Cedar Falls Varsity Invitational, Thursday.
The Tigers, who climbed to No. 1 in the latest IAGHSAU Class 5A rankings, fell in their opening match to Class 4A No. 1 Marion, 3-1.
According to Cedar Falls head coach Matt Johnson, the Wolves played a motivated style of volleyball which he said stunned his team early.
“They are physical, but also they love to come out and play,” Johnson said. “I was at Charles City for 10 years. You love to come out and play against big schools with a chip on your shoulder and they did. I thought the first 10 or 15 points we looked a little stunned.”
With the Tigers trailing 12-7 in the first set, Johnson called a timeout to settle his players, but Cedar Falls did not manage to dig out of its early hole and lost, 25-17.
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After losing the first set, Johnson said he thought his team found their footing in the match.
“I thought we settled down and grew into the match,” Johnson said. “We responded pretty well after that kind of terrible start.”
True to Johnson’s words, the Tigers leapt out to a lead in the second set and forced Marion to spend a timeout as the Wolves trailed 8-5.
Out of the timeout, Cedar Falls continued to maintain its lead and won, 25-23, on a Devon Van Dyke kill.
Ultimately, the Tigers lost sets three and four to lose the match, 3-1, and set a matchup against Waterloo West in the consolation championship of the tournament.
While the Tigers took on Marion, West battled against Prairie on the auxiliary court at Cedar Falls High School.
Welcoming back senior outside hitter Sahara Williams, who recently won a gold medal playing in the FIBA Women’s U18 World Cup in Hungary, the Wahawks dropped the opening set 25-22.
West bounced back to win in the second set, 25-22, but dropped the third and fourth sets 26-24 and 25-19.
With an impromptu metro battle set, the Cedar Falls Tigers controlled the first two sets from start to finish with wins of 25-19 and 25-16.
However, the Wahawks took a commanding, 21-17 lead late in the third set. Despite the deficit, Cedar Falls rallied back and reeled off five unanswered points to take back the lead, 22-21.
After West tied the game 22-22, Cedar Falls sophomore Kya Bradfield gave her team the serve and the lead with a momentum-swinging kill.
Bradfield followed up her important kill with a block to set up match point which the Tigers capitalized on to sweep the Wahawks, 3-0.
According to Johnson, he saw his team display some toughness in the win over the Wahawks.
“It is tough to play the match we did against Marion and come back and play a West team that is really high energy,” Johnson said. “They gave us a really good shot tonight. It was fun.”
Bradfield described the sweep and the success which the 7-2 Tigers have experienced thus far as very exciting.
“We have really good chemistry on our team,” Bradfield said. “We are playing great so far…We fought strong and just wanted to finish it off. [We did] not want to give up any sets.”
Johnson described the sophomore as someone who surprised the Cedar Falls coaches with her play and will continue improving.
“We were a little worried about that second middle position before the year,” Johnson said. “But, she settled down and got into it. I thought tonight was her best match, but she is also a kid that is going to have a lot of best matches.”
For West, Williams starred in her return to the volleyball court, leading the Wahawks with 14 kills in the match against Cedar Falls.
Although her strong stat line would suggest otherwise, Williams said she is still living in the moment of winning a gold medal and felt her focus had not fully shifted yet.
“It was hard,” Williams said. “In the first game, I definitely struggled trying to switch mentalities. The games are complete opposites…I struggled a little bit, but I adjusted well after the first game.” | 2022-09-02T05:18:51+00:00 | wcfcourier.com | https://wcfcourier.com/sports/high-school/cf_tigers/cedar-falls-waterloo-west-face-off-in-cf-tourney/article_22884b4a-9900-56a5-b564-cbf6a6e739b6.html |
Which cat toy is best?
Cats are playful animals and need a range of toys to live their best nine lives. If you’re a new cat parent or your feline friend’s current toys have fallen out of favor, you might be wondering which cat toys are best.
With many toys available, it’s tough to decide which to buy. Learning more about the types on offer and their features can help you decide. The Pawzone Automatic Electric Cat Teaser is an excellent choice for cats who love to chase and pounce.
What to know before you buy a cat toy
Solo play vs. interactive play
You can group cat toys into two broad categories: toys for solo play and those designed for interactive play with humans.
Toys cats can play with alone include small toys for batting around, larger toys they can wrestle with and automatic toys that have parts that move either electronically or due to natural forces.
Toys you can use to play with your cat include a cat wand and chasers and basically anything you can move around the floor.
It’s good to have an assortment of both, so your cat has the option to play alone, but you can also play with your cat to promote bonding.
Types of cat toys
It’s nice for your cat to have a range of toys for different types of play. As any cat lover knows, all felines have their own personalities, likes and dislikes, so some will have strong preferences for certain types of toys and completely ignore others. Try a variety of these common toy types until you know what your cat likes.
- Kickers are large plush toys that cats can pounce on and wrestle. They’re so called because you’ll often see cats rolled around with their front paws clasped around one end and their back legs kicking at the other end.
- Cat wands and cat chasers are sticks with a ribbon or string dangling off them. The idea is for you to move the ribbon around on the floor or just above your cat’s head for them to pounce on and jump at. You can also buy automatic chasers that move string around electronically or feature rotating balls on a track for your cat to chase.
- Mice, balls and other small toys are designed for cats to bat around, while puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys keep their brains engaged while hunting for treats.
What to look for in a quality cat toy
Catnip-infused
If your cat is among the majority affected by catnip, they’ll get a kick out of catnip-infused toys. It may encourage them to play with toys they might otherwise ignore.
Variety packs
Some toys for cats are sold in variety packs with a selection of different toys. This is a great place to start if you aren’t sure what your cat likes.
Textures
Cats can be drawn to particular textures, such as rough, fluffy or crinkly. Look for toys that offer different textures for your feline friend to explore.
How much you can expect to spend on a cat toy
Inexpensive cat toys, such as small mice and balls, can cost less than $1 apiece, while elaborate electronic toys cost as much as $20-$30.
Cat toy FAQ
Do cats need toys?
A. Playing acts as an outlet for cats’ natural predatory instincts, provides mental stimulation, exercise and helps relieve boredom, so your cat must have a selection of toys. Ideally, they should have some toys they can play with alone and others you can use to play games with them.
Can you play with your cat too much?
A. Just like humans, cats aren’t always in the mood for fun and games and they can get bored with games after a while. Take cues from your cats and let them be when they’ve had enough. While some cats will happily play for hours if they’re in the right mood, others are happy with a quick 5 minutes of play and then they want to do their own thing. If you’re playing with your cat or trying to start a play session and they walk away or appear stressed or agitated, stop what you’re doing and let them relax. For most cats, three or four 10-minute play sessions spaced throughout the day is enough.
What are the best cat toys to buy?
Top cat toy
Pawzone Automatic Electric Cat Teaser
What you need to know: With a rotating butterfly to chase and pounce on, this is perfect for cats with a high prey drive.
What you’ll love: It keeps your cat entertained with little input from you, so it’s a good option for when you’re too busy to play. It has a ball element in the base in addition to the rotating butterfly. The ribbon tail is appealing to cats.
What you should consider: You shouldn’t leave it on for more than 10-15 minutes or your cat may overexert itself.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top cat toy for the money
What you need to know: This pack of six mini catnip mice offers excellent value for money.
What you’ll love: These mice are well-made and safety tested. With six in a pack, there are plenty of spare options if some go missing. They’re filled with catnip, so they’re great for cats who react to it.
What you should consider: Some batches seem to contain less potent catnip.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
What you need to know: The one level with a spinning ball keeps cats entertained, especially those that love pouncing and chasing.
What you’ll love: It’s sturdy and stable, so cats can bat at and pounce on the ball without damaging it. In the center is a space for catnip to keep them interested.
What you should consider: Some cats get bored with it quickly, so consider whether it seems like something yours would enjoy.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2023 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | 2023-02-15T17:17:30+00:00 | wjhl.com | https://www.wjhl.com/reviews/br/pets-br/toys-br/best-cat-toy/ |
Delivering 10X More Key Storage, 3X Greater Transaction Processing Performance for Improved Total Cost of Ownership
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Marvell (NASDAQ: MRVL) today unveiled its LiquidSecurity 2 (LS2) hardware security module (HSM) adapter, the industry's most advanced solution for enabling encryption, key management, authentication and other HSM services in the cloud. LS2 is a converged security platform for payment, privacy compliance, and general purpose applications, and is powered by a cloud-optimized Marvell OCTEON® data processing unit (DPU), proven at scale across the world's largest hyperscale clouds. The new Marvell HSM adapter offers the industry's highest performing cryptographic acceleration and processing, including hardware-secured storage of up to one million keys for AES, RSA and ECC encryption algorithms, and 45 partitions for robust multi-tenant use cases.
As enterprises migrate from on-premises to private- or multi-cloud environments, the industry-leading Marvell LiquidSecurity platform empowers cloud service providers and large enterprises to create HSM-as-a-service clouds. Marvell's HSM adapters have the latest FIPS-certified security boundary, designed for the most demanding applications deployed at cloud-scale while offering best-in-class cost, performance and energy efficiency for both public and private clouds.
"Today, LiquidSecurity empowers the world's largest clouds to build HSM-as-a-service, with unprecedented performance, securing billions of transactions per month," said Raghib Hussain, President of Products and Technologies at Marvell. "The new LS2 will improve the performance and economics for hyperscalers while expanding the total available market by making it easier for enterprises and governments to secure their applications in public, private and hybrid clouds. The global datasphere will be a more secure place when all encryption keys are stored in hardware."
Marvell has been leading the effort to transform HSMs into cloud-based devices since 2015. HSMs are the backbone for performing key management, cryptographic functions and authentication for banks, ATM networks, media companies and other service providers. In the U.S. alone, the value of credit and debit card transactions is expected to rise from $8 trillion to $12.9 trillion by 2025. Virtually all of the 468 billion plus credit card transactions that occur annually around the world rely on HSMs. Most HSMs, however, are on-premises devices managed by an in-house team of experts or third-party support organizations. Training, deployment and ongoing management of encryption systems also remain critical barriers to broader adoption of on-premise HSM-based encryption across enterprises.
Marvell's LiquidSecurity product line leverages the performance of the company's cloud-optimized OCTEON® DPU family. Combining leading technologies with Marvell's expertise in software and systems development, the company delivers HSM functionality in a PCIe card, helping users to reduce the cost, rack space, and overhead inherent in traditional HSMs, while simultaneously increasing performance to maximize the flexibility and use cases. This enables cloud and SaaS providers to deploy HSMs to deliver new services or enhance existing ones at a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) than any other alternative. Instead of buying and managing private, on-prem HSMs, more retailers, banks and other organizations can move up to the highest level of security by procuring HSM services on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Today, LS2 hardware can be certified and updated in the field to support new algorithms and variants, such as post-quantum cryptography, providing cryptographic agility and future-proofing the HSM against new vulnerabilities. Key capabilities of the Marvell LS2 HSM include:
- Highest-Performance: Up to 100,000 ECC operations per second
- Scalability and Flexibility: Up to 1 million keys and 45 partitions
- Lowest TCO: Lowest cost per key stored, per partition (performance per dollar and performance per watt)
- Comprehensive SDK: API-first design for greater flexibility and rapid deployment
- Multiple Models, Form Factors and Capabilities: Supports a wide range of use cases across market verticals and multi-cloud deployments
- Extensive Compliance Roadmap: FIPS 140-31, CC, eIDAS, PCI PTS HSM 4.0
- Reliability: High availability, load balancing, and fault tolerance
"HSM-as-a-service will play an important role in the cloud-based economy," said Michela Menting, Digital Security Research Director at ABI Research. "Marvell is at the forefront of enhancing the HSM experience for customers and owners by championing a converged, cloud-adapted solution that is expanding the usefulness and pervasiveness of encryption services. The development of cloud-based HSMs will be one of security's more impactful trends in the years to come."
For more information, visit the LiquidSecurity 2 HSM solutions page.
1Pending/anticipated certification.
To deliver the data infrastructure technology that connects the world, we're building solutions on the most powerful foundation: our partnerships with our customers. Trusted by the world's leading technology companies for over 25 years, we move, store, process and secure the world's data with semiconductor solutions designed for our customers' current needs and future ambitions. Through a process of deep collaboration and transparency, we're ultimately changing the way tomorrow's enterprise, cloud, automotive, and carrier architectures transform—for the better.
Marvell and the M logo are trademarks of Marvell or its affiliates. Please visit www.marvell.com for a complete list of Marvell trademarks. Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.
For more information, contact:
Kim Markle
pr@marvell.com
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SOURCE Marvell | 2022-09-14T10:47:41+00:00 | newschannel10.com | https://www.newschannel10.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/marvell-launches-liquidsecurity-2-module-empower-best-in-class-hsm-as-a-service-multi-cloud-era/ |
The Malawi leader said a new campaign to fight corruption starts now and will run for 20 weeks. Dr Chakwera called on Parliament to look into laws …
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