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Russian authorities say three Ukrainian drones attacked Moscow in the early hours on Sunday, injuring one person and prompting a temporary closure for traffic of one of four airports around the Russian capital.
It was the fourth such attempt at a strike on the capital region this month and the third this week, fueling concerns about Moscow's vulnerability to attacks as Russia's war in Ukraine drags into its 18th month.
The Russian Defense Ministry referred to the incident as an "attempted terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime" and said three drones targeted the city. One was shot down in the surrounding Moscow region by air defense systems and two others were jammed. Those two crashed into the Moscow City business district in the capital.
Photos from the site of the crash showed the facade of a skyscraper damaged on one floor. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the attack "insignificantly damaged" the outsides of two buildings in the Moscow City district. A security guard was injured, Russia's state news agency Tass reported, citing emergency officials.
No flights went into or out of the Vnukovo airport on the southern outskirts of the city for about an hour, according to Tass, and the air space over Moscow and the outlying regions was temporarily closed for any aircraft. Those restrictions have since been lifted.
Moscow authorities have also closed a street for traffic near the site of the crash in the Moscow City area.
There was no immediate comment from Ukrainian officials, who rarely if ever take responsibility for attacks on Russian soil.
Russia's Defense Ministry reported shooting down a Ukrainian drone outside Moscow on Friday. Two more drones struck the Russian capital on Monday, one of them falling in the center of the city near the Defense Ministry's headquarters along the Moscow River about 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the Kremlin. The other drone hit an office building in southern Moscow, gutting several upper floors.
In another attack on July 4, the Russian military said four drones were downed by air defenses on the outskirts of Moscow and a fifth was jammed by electronic warfare means and forced down.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.knau.org/npr-news/npr-news/2023-07-29/a-drone-attack-on-moscow-briefly-shut-the-airport-and-injured-one | 2023-07-30T10:42:23 | 0 | https://www.knau.org/npr-news/npr-news/2023-07-29/a-drone-attack-on-moscow-briefly-shut-the-airport-and-injured-one |
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Saudi Arabia will host a Ukrainian-organized peace summit in early August seeking to find a way to start negotiations over Russia’s war on the country, an official said Saturday night. The kingdom and Kyiv did not immediately acknowledge the planned talks.
The summit will be held in the Red Sea port city of Jeddah, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity as no authorization had been given to publicly discuss the summit.
Those taking part in the summit will include Ukraine, as well as Brazil, India, South Africa and several other countries, the official said. A high-level official from U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration also is expected to attend, the official said. Planning for the event is being overseen by Kyiv and Russia is not invited, the official said.
Details regarding the summit, however, remain in flux and the official did not offer dates for the talks. The Wall Street Journal, which first reported on the summit, said the talks would take place Aug. 5 and 6 with some 30 countries attending, citing “diplomats involved in the discussion.”
Saudi officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press, nor did Ukraine’s Embassy in Riyadh. News of the summit comes after U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan visited the kingdom on Thursday.
The official who spoke to the AP said the summit would be the next step after talks that took place in Copenhagen in June.
Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the talks come as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in May attended an Arab League summit in Jeddah to press those nations to back Kyiv. Arab nations largely have remained neutral since Russia launched the war on Ukraine in February 2022, in part over their military and economic ties to Moscow.
Saudi Arabia also has maintained a close relationship with Russia as part of the OPEC+ group. The organization’s oil production cuts, even as Moscow’s war on Ukraine boosted energy prices, have angered Biden and American lawmakers.
But hosting such talks also help raise the profile of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has sought to reach a détente with Iran and push for a peace in the kingdom’s yearslong war in Yemen. However, ties also remain strained between Riyadh and the West over the 2018 killing and dismemberment of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul, which U.S. intelligence agencies assess that Prince Mohammed ordered.
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Madhani reported from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. | https://pix11.com/ap-international/ap-official-tells-ap-that-saudi-arabia-will-host-ukrainian-organized-peace-summit-in-august/ | 2023-07-30T10:42:25 | 1 | https://pix11.com/ap-international/ap-official-tells-ap-that-saudi-arabia-will-host-ukrainian-organized-peace-summit-in-august/ |
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Arkansas is temporarily blocked from enforcing a law that would have allowed criminal charges against librarians and booksellers for providing "harmful" materials to minors, a federal judge ruled Saturday.
U.S. District Judge Timothy L. Brooks issued a preliminary injunction against the law, which also would have created a new process to challenge library materials and request that they be relocated to areas not accessible by kids. The measure, signed by Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders earlier this year, was set to take effect Aug. 1.
A coalition that included the Central Arkansas Library System in Little Rock had challenged the law, saying fear of prosecution under the measure could prompt libraries and booksellers to no longer carry titles that could be challenged.
The judge also rejected a motion by the defendants, which include prosecuting attorneys for the state, seeking to dismiss the case.
The ACLU of Arkansas, which represents some of the plaintiffs, applauded the court's ruling, saying that the absence of a preliminary injunction would have jeopardized First Amendment rights.
"The question we had to ask was — do Arkansans still legally have access to reading materials? Luckily, the judicial system has once again defended our highly valued liberties," Holly Dickson, the executive director of the ACLU in Arkansas, said in a statement.
The lawsuit comes as lawmakers in an increasing number of conservative states are pushing for measures making it easier to ban or restrict access to books. The number of attempts to ban or restrict books across the U.S. last year was the highest in the 20 years the American Library Association has been tracking such efforts.
Laws restricting access to certain materials or making it easier to challenge them have been enacted in several other states, including Iowa, Indiana and Texas.
Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin said in an email Saturday that his office would be "reviewing the judge's opinion and will continue to vigorously defend the law."
The executive director of Central Arkansas Library System, Nate Coulter, said the judge's 49-page decision recognized the law as censorship, a violation of the Constitution and wrongly maligning librarians.
"As folks in southwest Arkansas say, this order is stout as horseradish!" he said in an email.
"I'm relieved that for now the dark cloud that was hanging over CALS' librarians has lifted," he added.
Cheryl Davis, general counsel for the Authors Guild, said the organization is "thrilled" about the decision. She said enforcing this law "is likely to limit the free speech rights of older minors, who are capable of reading and processing more complex reading materials than young children can."
The Arkansas lawsuit names the state's 28 local prosecutors as defendants, along with Crawford County in west Arkansas. A separate lawsuit is challenging the Crawford County library's decision to move children's books that included LGBTQ+ themes to a separate portion of the library.
The plaintiffs challenging Arkansas' restrictions also include the Fayetteville and Eureka Springs Carnegie public libraries, the American Booksellers Association and the Association of American Publishers.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.knau.org/npr-news/npr-news/2023-07-30/an-arkansas-judge-has-blocked-a-law-targetting-librarians-over-harmful-books | 2023-07-30T10:42:32 | 0 | https://www.knau.org/npr-news/npr-news/2023-07-30/an-arkansas-judge-has-blocked-a-law-targetting-librarians-over-harmful-books |
Three Ukrainian drones attacked Moscow in the early hours on Sunday, Russian authorities said, injuring one person and prompting a temporary closure of traffic in and out of one of four airports around the Russian capital.
It was the fourth such attempt at a strike on the capital region this month and the third this week, fueling concerns about Moscow’s vulnerability to attacks as Russia’s war in Ukraine drags into its 18th month.
The Russian Defense Ministry referred to the incident as an “attempted terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime” and said three drones targeted the city. One was shot down in the surrounding Moscow region by air defense systems and two others were jammed. Those two crashed into the Moscow City business district.
Photos from the site of the crash showed the facade of a skyscraper damaged on one floor. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the attack “insignificantly damaged” the outsides of two buildings in the Moscow City district. A security guard was injured, Russia’s state news agency Tass reported, citing emergency officials.
No flights went into or out of Vnukovo airport on the southern outskirts of the city for about an hour, according to Tass, and the airspace over Moscow and the outlying regions was temporarily closed to all aircraft. Those restrictions have since been lifted.
Moscow authorities have also closed a street to traffic near the site of the crash in the Moscow City area.
There was no immediate comment from Ukrainian officials, who rarely if ever take responsibility for attacks on Russian soil.
The attack follows a night of reported drone skirmishes between Russia and Ukraine. Moscow announced Sunday that it had foiled a Ukrainian attack on Russian-annexed Crimea, shooting down 16 drones and neutralizing eight more with an electronic jamming system. There were no casualties, officials said.
The Ukrainian air force reported that it had destroyed four Russian drones above the country’s Kherson and Dnipropetrovsk regions. Information on the attacks could not be independently verified.
Meanwhile, two people were killed and 20 wounded by a Russian missile strike late Saturday evening on the city of Sumy in northeast Ukraine. A four-story building belonging to a vocational college was hit, the Ukrainian Interior Ministry said. Local authorities said that dormitories and teaching buildings were damaged in the blast and the fire that followed.
Russia’s Defense Ministry reported shooting down a Ukrainian drone outside Moscow on Friday. Four days earlier, two drones struck the Russian capital, one of them falling in the center of the city near the Defense Ministry’s headquarters along the Moscow River about 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the Kremlin. The other drone hit an office building in southern Moscow, gutting several upper floors.
In another attack on July 4, the Russian military said four drones were downed by air defenses on the outskirts of Moscow and a fifth was jammed by electronic warfare means and forced down.
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Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine: https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | https://pix11.com/ap-international/ap-overnight-drone-attack-on-moscow-injures-1-prompts-temporary-airport-closure/ | 2023-07-30T10:42:32 | 0 | https://pix11.com/ap-international/ap-overnight-drone-attack-on-moscow-injures-1-prompts-temporary-airport-closure/ |
PHOENIX — A historic heat wave that has gripped the U.S. Southwest throughout July, blasting residents and baking surfaces like brick, is beginning to abate with the late arrival of monsoon rains.
Forecasters expect that by Monday, people in metro Phoenix will begin to see high temperatures fall under 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43.3 degrees Celsius) for the first time in a month.
But not on Saturday. The high temperature in the desert city with more than 1.6 million residents climbed past 110 F for the 30th straight day, the National Weather Service said. The previous record stretch of 110 F or above was for 18 days in 1974.
There are increased chances on Sunday of cooling monsoon thunderstorms. Though wet weather can also bring damaging winds, blowing dust and the chance of flash flooding, the weather service warned. Sudden rains running off hard-baked surfaces can quickly fill normally dry washes.
Already this week, the overnight low at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport fell under 90 F (32.2 C) for the first time in 16 days, finally giving residents some respite from the stifling heat once the sun goes down.
Temperatures also were expected to ease in Las Vegas, Albuquerque and even in Death Valley, California, where the weather service said the expected high of 122 F (50 C) on Saturday is forecast to lower to 113 F (45 C) by Tuesday — along with a slight chance of rain.
Also in California, triple-digit heat was expected in parts of the San Joaquin Valley from Saturday through Monday, according to the National Weather Service in Hanford, California.
Gusty, late-afternoon winds were expected Saturday and Sunday in Santa Barbara County, posing an elevated risk of fire weather, the weather service in Los Angeles said. Hot, dry weather was also expected across nearby valleys, lower mountains and desert areas.
In Riverside County, more than 1,300 people were ordered to evacuate their homes and another 1,400 were facing evacuation warnings as crews battled a wildfire that charred 3.2 square miles (8.3 square kilometers) in the community of Aguanga, about 60 miles (96 kilometers) northeast of San Diego, authorities said Saturday. One firefighter was reported to have been injured in the so-called Bonny Fire, which authorities said was about 5% contained.
The heat is impacting animals, as well. Police in the city of Burbank, California, found a bear cooling off in a Jacuzzi behind a home on Friday. Police released a video of the animal in a neighborhood about 10 miles (16 kilometers) north of Los Angeles near the Verdugo Mountains and warned residents to lock up food and garbage.
A downward trend in Southwest heat started Wednesday night, when Phoenix saw its first major monsoon storm since the traditional June 15 start of the thunderstorm season. While more than half of the greater Phoenix area saw no rainfall from that storm, some eastern suburbs were pummeled by high winds, swirling dust and localized downfalls of up to 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) of precipitation.
Storms gradually increasing in strength are expected over the weekend.
Scientists calculate that July will prove to be the hottest globally on record and perhaps the warmest human civilization has seen. The extreme heat is now hitting the eastern part of the U.S, as soaring temperatures moved from the Midwest into the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, where some places are seeing their warmest days so far this year.
The new heat records being set this summer are just some of the extreme weather being seen around the U.S. this month, such as flash floods in Pennsylvania and parts of the Northeast.
"Anyone can be at risk outside in this record heat," the fire department in Goodyear, a Phoenix suburb, warned residents on social media while offering ideas to stay safe.
For many people such as older adults, those with health issues and those without access to air conditioning, the heat can be dangerous or even deadly.
Maricopa County, the most populous in Arizona and home to Phoenix, reported this week that its public health department had confirmed 25 heat-associated deaths this year as of July 21, with 249 more under investigation.
Results from toxicological tests that can takes weeks or months after an autopsy is conducted could eventually result in many deaths listed as under investigation as heat associated being changed to confirmed.
Maricopa County confirmed 425 heat-associated deaths last year, and more than half of them occurred in July.
Elsewhere in Arizona next week, the agricultural desert community of Yuma is expecting highs ranging from 104 to 112 (40 C to 44.4 C) and Tucson is looking at highs ranging from 99 to 111 (37.2 C to 43.9 C).
The highs in Las Vegas are forecast to slip as low as 94 (34.4 C) next Tuesday after a long spell of highs above 110 (43.3 C). Death Valley, which hit 128 (53.3 C) in mid-July, will cool as well, though only to a still blistering hot 116 (46.7 C).
In New Mexico, the highs in Albuquerque next week are expected to be in the mid to high 90s (around 35 C), with party cloudy skies.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.knau.org/npr-news/npr-news/2023-07-30/the-historic-heatwave-that-has-hit-the-u-s-southwest-is-set-to-cool-a-little | 2023-07-30T10:42:39 | 1 | https://www.knau.org/npr-news/npr-news/2023-07-30/the-historic-heatwave-that-has-hit-the-u-s-southwest-is-set-to-cool-a-little |
PAVLIVKA, Ukraine (AP) — The summer winds carried the smell of burned grain across the southern Ukrainian steppe and away from the shards of three Russian cruise missiles that struck the unassuming metal hangars.
The agricultural company Ivushka applied for accreditation to export grain this year, but the strike in mid-July destroyed a large portion of the stock, days after Russia abandoned the grain deal that would have allowed the shipments across the Black Sea without fear of attack.
Men shirtless and barefoot, with blackened soles from ash, swept unburnt grain into piles and awaited the loader, whose driver deftly steered around twisted metal shrapnel, bits of missile and craters despite his shattered windshield.
They hoped to beat the next rain to rescue what was left of the crop. According to the Odesa Regional Prosecutor’s Office, Russia struck the facility July 21 with three Kalibr- and Onyx-class cruise missiles.
“We don’t have a clue why they did it,” explained Olha Romanova, the head of Ivushka. Romanova, who worked in the debris alongside the others, wore a red headscarf and an exhausted expression and was too frazzled to even estimate her losses.
She cannot comprehend why the Russians targeted Ivushka, as there are no nearby military facilities and the frontlines are far from the village in the Odesa region.
“They spent so much money on us,” she said, puzzled. The missiles that ruined the silos are worth millions of dollars — far more than the crop they destroyed.
But Ivushka wasn’t the only target in Odesa. The main port also was struck, leaving Black Sea shipping companies that relied upon the grain deal to keep them safe and food supplies flowing to the world at a standstill.
The Black Sea handled about 95% of Ukrainian grain exports before Russia’s invasion and the U.N.-brokered initiative allowed Ukraine to ship much of what farmers harvested in 2021 and 2022, said Joseph Glauber, senior research fellow at the International Food Policy Research Institute.
Ukraine, a major supplier of corn, wheat, barley and vegetable oil, shipped 32.9 million metric tons (36.2 million U.S. tons) of grain under the nearly yearlong deal designed to ease a global food crisis. It has been able to export an additional 2 million to 2.5 million metric tons (2.2 to 2.7 million U.S. tons) monthly by the Danube River, road and rail through Europe.
Those are now the only routes to ship grain, but have stirred divisions among nearby European countries and generated higher costs to be absorbed by Ukrainian farmers, said Glauber, former chief economist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Russian missiles strikes against the Danube port last Monday also raised questions about how much longer that route will remain viable.
That’s a disincentive to keep planting fields already threatened by missiles and strewn with explosive mines. Corn and wheat production in agriculture-dependent Ukraine is down nearly 40% this year from prewar levels, analysts say.
From the first of July last year until June 30 this year, Ukraine exported 68 million tons of grain, according to data from Mykola Horbachov, the president of the Ukrainian Grain Association. Ukrainian farmers shipped 11.2 million tons via railways, 5.5 million tons by road transport and around 18 million tons through Danube ports. Additionally, nearly half of the total exported grain, 33 million tons, was delivered through seaports under the Black Sea Grain Initiative.
Ihor Osmachko, the general director of Agroprosperis Group, was unsurprised by Russia’s withdrawal from the deal leading to its collapse. His company had never considered it a reliable or permanent solution during wartime.
He said Russians frequently stymied the deal, even while it was functioning, by delaying ship inspections until the cargos were sent back, leading to $30 million in losses for his company alone. Now, they are once again forced to pay to reroute 100,000 tons of grain trapped in ports that are no longer safe, Osmachko said.
“We have been preparing for this whole time,” Osmachko said. “We haven’t stopped. We are moving forward.”
Osmachko estimated around 80% to 90% of the approximately 3.2 million tons of grain Agroprosperis exported to China, Europe and African countries during the past year went through the grain corridor.
“The most significant problem today is the cost of logistics,” explained Mykola Horbachov, president of the Ukrainian Grain Association. Before the war, farmers paid approximately $20 to $25 per ton to transport grain to the Odesa ports. Now, logistics costs have tripled as they are forced to pay more than $100 to transport a single ton via alternative routes through the Danube port to Constanta, Romania.
“If we were to go on the Danube with the grain corridor closed, practically all our production would be unprofitable,” Osmachko said.
The Danube ports can’t handle the same volume as seaports. The most Agroprosperis has sent through this route is 75,000 tons per month, compared with a monthly average of 250,000 tons through Black Sea ports.
The Ukrainian harvest this year is the lowest in a decade, according to a July report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Horbachov said shipping costs to export around the world and uncertainty about the length of the war will last could quickly make new planting unprofitable for Ukrainian farmers.
Ukraine currently produces three times more grain than it consumes, while global prices will inevitably rise if the country’s exports decrease.
“I think you’re looking at a diminished Ukraine for at least the next couple of years and maybe longer,” said Glauber, the former U.S. agricultural official. “That’s something the rest of the world just needs to make up.”
The war from all sides poses risks for Agroprosperis.
In the Sumy region on the Russian border, farmers harvest their crops wearing body armor. Sometimes they must stop their combines in the middle of the wheat fields to pick up shrapnel from Russian projectiles.
“It can get tough at times,” Osmachko acknowledged. “But there are responsibilities — some have duties on the front. Some must grow food and ensure the country’s and world’s security.”
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Volodymyr Yurchuk in Lviv, Ukraine, and Courtney Bonnell in London contributed.
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Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | https://pix11.com/ap-international/ap-russian-missile-attacks-leave-few-options-for-ukrainian-farmers-looking-to-export-grain/ | 2023-07-30T10:42:39 | 0 | https://pix11.com/ap-international/ap-russian-missile-attacks-leave-few-options-for-ukrainian-farmers-looking-to-export-grain/ |
NEW YORK (AP) — Six straight days of 12-hour driving. Single digit paychecks. The complaints come from workers in vastly different industries: UPS delivery drivers and Hollywood actors and writers.
But they point to an underlying factor driving a surge of labor unrest: The cost to workers whose jobs have changed drastically as companies scramble to meet customer expectations for speed and convenience in industries transformed by technology.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated those changes, pushing retailers to shift online and intensifying the streaming competition among entertainment companies. Now, from the picket lines, workers are trying to give consumers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to produce a show that can be binged any time or get dog food delivered to their doorstep with a phone swipe.
Overworked and underpaid employees is an enduring complaint across industries — from delivery drivers to Starbucks baristas and airline pilots — where surges in consumer demand have collided with persistent labor shortages. Workers are pushing back against forced overtime, punishing schedules or company reliance on lower-paid, part-time or contract forces.
At issue for Hollywood screenwriters and actors staging their first simultaneous strikes in 40 years is the way streaming has upended entertainment economics, slashing pay and forcing showrunners to produce content faster with smaller teams.
“This seems to happen to many places when the tech companies come in. Who are we crushing? It doesn’t matter,” said Danielle Sanchez-Witzel, a screenwriter and showrunner on the negotiating team for the Writers Guild of America, whose members have been on strike since May. Earlier this month, the Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists joined the writers’ union on the picket line.
Actors and writers have long relied on residuals, or long-term payments, for reruns and other airings of films and televisions shows. But reruns aren’t a thing on streaming services, where series and films simply land and stay with no easy way, such as box office returns or ratings, to determine their popularity.
Consequently, whatever residuals streaming companies do pay often amount to a pittance, and screenwriters have been sharing tales of receiving single digit checks.
Adam Shapiro, an actor known for the Netflix hit “Never Have I Ever,” said many actors were initially content to accept lower pay for the plethora of roles that streaming suddenly offered. But the need for a more sustainable compensation model gained urgency when it became clear streaming is not a sideshow, but rather the future of the business, he said.
“Over the past 10 years, we realized: ‘Oh, that’s now how Hollywood works. Everything is streaming,’” Shapiro said during a recent union event.
Shapiro, who has been acting for 25 years, said he agreed to a contract offering 20% of his normal rate for “Never Have I Ever” because it seemed like “a great opportunity, and it’s going to be all over the world. And it was. It really was. Unfortunately, we’re all starting to realize that if we keep doing this we’re not going to be able to pay our bills.”
Then there’s the rising use of “mini rooms,” in which a handful of writers are hired to work only during pre-production, sometimes for a series that may take a year to be greenlit, or never get picked up at all.
Sanchez-Witzel, co-creator of the recently released Netflix series “Survival of the Thickest,” said television shows traditionally hire robust writing teams for the duration of production. But Netflix refused to allow her to keep her team of five writers past pre-production, forcing round-the-clock work on rewrites with just one other writer.
“It’s not sustainable and I’ll never do that again,” she said.
Sanchez-Witzel said she was struck by the similarities between her experience and those of UPS drivers, some of whom joined the WGA for protests as they threatened their own potentially crippling strike. UPS and the Teamsters last week reached a tentative contract staving off the strike.
Jeffrey Palmerino, a full-time UPS driver near Albany, New York, said forced overtime emerged as a top issue during the pandemic as drivers coped with a crush of orders on par with the holiday season. Drivers never knew what time they would get home or if they could count on two days off each week, while 14-hour days in trucks without air conditioning became the norm.
“It was basically like Christmas on steroids for two straight years. A lot of us were forced to work six days a week, and that is not any way to live your life,” said Palmerino, a Teamsters shop steward.
Along with pay raises and air conditioning, the Teamsters won concessions that Palmerino hopes will ease overwork. UPS agreed to end forced overtime on days off and eliminate a lower-paid category of drivers who work shifts that include weekends, converting them to full-time drivers. Union members have yet to ratify the deal.
The Teamsters and labor activists hailed the tentative deal as a game-changer that would pressure other companies facing labor unrest to raise their standards. But similar outcomes are far from certain in industries lacking the sheer economic indispensability of UPS or the clout of its 340,000-member union.
Efforts to organize at Starbucks and Amazon stalled as both companies aggressively fought against unionization.
Still, labor protests will likely gain momentum following the UPS contract, said Patricia Campos-Medina, executive director of the Worker Institute at the School of Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University, which released a report this year that found the number of labor strikes rose 52% in 2022.
“The whole idea that consumer convenience is above everything broke down during the pandemic. We started to think, ‘I’m at home ordering, but there is actually a worker who has to go the grocery store, who has to cook this for me so that I can be comfortable,’” Campos-Medina said.
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Associated Press video journalist Leslie Ambriz contributed from Los Angeles. | https://pix11.com/entertainment/ap-entertainment/ap-consumer-demand-for-speed-and-convenience-drives-labor-unrest-among-workers-in-hollywood-and-at-ups/ | 2023-07-30T10:42:46 | 1 | https://pix11.com/entertainment/ap-entertainment/ap-consumer-demand-for-speed-and-convenience-drives-labor-unrest-among-workers-in-hollywood-and-at-ups/ |
The House Republicans who craft the conference’s government funding bills are showing signs of frustration as hard-line conservatives pressure leadership for further cuts to spending that some worry could be too aggressive.
Some of the 12 Appropriations subcommittee chairs — the so-called cardinals — told reporters that they are struggling to see where those additional cuts could come from, as September’s shutdown deadline looms.
“I just don’t see the wisdom in trying to further cut to strengthen our hand. I don’t know how that strengthens our hand,” Rep. Steve Womack (R-Ark.), a House Appropriations subcommittee chairman, said of conservatives’ push to further cut the already-scaled-back spending bills.
“I do think it puts some of our members in a very difficult spot, particularly those in tough districts, because they’re going to be taking some votes that become problematic,” he added.
The House left Washington for a long summer recess Thursday after being forced to punt a bill to fund agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration.
Conservatives are dug in on their demand for steeper spending cuts, to the chagrin of moderates who are wary of slashing funding even more. The chamber has passed just one appropriations bill, funding military construction and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The internal divisions are gripping the party as time is running out: The House has just 12 days in September to move the remaining 11 appropriations measures and hash out their disagreements with the Senate, which is marking up its spending bills at higher levels, setting the scene for a hectic fall that could bring the U.S. to the brink of a shutdown.
Those dynamics are putting GOP appropriators in a bind, leaving them searching for ways to appease conservative requests without gutting their spending bills.
“We’ve done a lot of cuts, a lot of cuts,” House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Kay Granger (R-Texas) told The Hill this week. “And so if it’s cuts just for cut’s sake, I don’t agree with it. But if it’s something that we can do without, that’s fine.”
‘Not a lot of wiggle room left’
Republican appropriators in the House announced earlier this year that they would mark up their bills for fiscal 2024 at fiscal 2022 levels, as leaders sought to placate conservatives who thought the debt ceiling deal struck by President Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) earlier this year didn’t do enough to curb spending.
The Senate is crafting its bills more in line with the budget caps agreed to in the deal, but House Republicans are already fuming about a bipartisan deal in the upper chamber that would allow for more than $13 billion in additional emergency spending on top of those levels.
House GOP negotiators also said they would pursue clawing back more than $100 billion in old funding that was allocated for Democratic priorities without GOP support in the previous Congress.
While that move drew support from hard-line conservatives, the right flank was far from pleased when it heard appropriators planned to repurpose that old funding — known as rescissions — to plus-up the spending bills.
In a letter to McCarthy earlier this month, a group of hard-line conservatives called for all 12 appropriations bills to be in line with fiscal 2022 spending levels “without the use of reallocated rescissions to increase discretionary spending above that top-line.”
Otherwise, the 21 lawmakers threatened, they would vote against the measures. But that request could prove difficult for GOP appropriators to fulfill.
Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.), chairman of the panel that proposes funding for the Department of State and foreign operations, said that appropriators are already “dramatically reducing spending,” suggesting that there are not too many remaining areas to trim from.
“My bill is below the 2016 levels,” he said, later adding, “When you’re below the 2016 level — and we’re still confronting China — I think there’s not a lot of wiggle room left.”
“It’s a challenge, but I think we’ll get through it. I really do,” he added.
Rep. Mike Simpson (R-Idaho), who heads the subcommittee that oversees funding for the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Interior, scoffed at the idea of even steeper cuts to his bill.
“Then you just drop it on the floor and stomp on it. What else do you do with it?” he told reporters. “You can’t make logical cuts in there.”
Republicans appropriators are voicing optimism that the conference will be able to sort out its differences on spending, but some also hope their levels will stick — even though they include rescissions.
Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.) — whose panel handles funding for the Department of Energy, which is proposing offsetting billions of dollars in spending with clawbacks — said it would be “extremely difficult” to craft his bill without the rescinded funds.
“And given our priorities in my bill, national defense with the nuclear weapons portfolio, nuclear cleanup, Army Corps including, all the community-directed fundings, I feel good about my bill, and I hope my numbers hold,” he said.
“Because it’s gonna have to be in negotiations with the Senate and the White House as well,” he added.
Womack — whose subcommittee crafts funding for the IRS and the Treasury Department — said he doesn’t think “moving the goalposts on these numbers is helpful in strengthening our ability to negotiate with the Senate.”
August preparations for a busy September
Frustrations among appropriators are bubbling up as Congress inches closer to the fall, when lawmakers are facing a Sept. 30 deadline to approve funding or risk a government shutdown.
With time running out, some House lawmakers say conversations may continue over the long August recess to try to hash out remaining differences.
“We’ll have to see,” Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) said when asked about potential plans for talks between leaders and House Freedom Caucus members over the break. “I mean, we got a lot of work to do.”
“I think a lot of work [has] got to be done behind the scenes,” he said. “If not, you know, here — You gotta beg the question about whether we should be gone for six weeks. We should be getting our job done.”
Rep. Bob Good (R-Va.) echoed that sentiment, saying “I would think so” when asked if lawmakers will have conversations over the break.
Adding to the August workload, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) suggested earlier this week that bicameral negotiations could take place over the weeks-long recess as lawmakers stare down the shutdown deadline.
Not all Republicans, however, are viewing a shutdown as a risk.
During a House Freedom Caucus press conference this week, Good said “we should not fear a government shutdown,” claiming that “most of what we do up here is bad anyway; most of what we do up here hurts the American people.”
But that perspective does not jive with the view of McCarthy, who declared Thursday: “I don’t want the government to shut down.”
Multiple Republicans are ultimately expecting Congress to eventually pass what’s known as a continuing resolution (CR), or a measure that temporarily allows the government to be funded at the previous fiscal year’s levels, to prevent a lapse at the end of September.
But they also understand the task could be difficult in the GOP-led chamber, where Republicans aren’t happy about the idea of continuing funding at the current levels — which were last set when Democrats held control of Congress.
“I think there’s a very good chance that we’ll see a CR, but I know there’s a lot of work to get a CR done,” Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.), another appropriator, said Thursday, noting there are “a lot of members that don’t want CRs that are tired of them.”
But Aderholt suggested a CR could notch sufficient GOP backing if there’s a larger plan in sight that the party can support.
“The Speaker’s been very good about having a plan,” he said, adding, “I think that’s what he’s good at, and I’m optimistic that he can come up with something.”
Emily Brooks contributed. | https://pix11.com/hill-politics/frustration-emerges-among-gop-spending-cardinals-as-conservatives-push-for-cuts/ | 2023-07-30T10:42:53 | 1 | https://pix11.com/hill-politics/frustration-emerges-among-gop-spending-cardinals-as-conservatives-push-for-cuts/ |
NIAMEY, Niger (AP) — Thousands of supporters of the junta that took over Niger in a coup earlier this week marched through the streets of the capital, Niamey, on Sunday waving Russian flags, chanting the name of the Russian president and forcefully denouncing former colonial power France.
Russian mercenary group Wagner is already operating in neighboring Mali, and Russian President Vladimir Putin would like to expand his country’s influence in the region, but it is unclear yet whether the new junta leaders are going to move toward Moscow or stick with Niger’s Western partners.
Days after after mutinous soldiers ousted Niger’s democratically elected president, uncertainty is mounting about the country’s future and some are calling out the junta’s reasons for seizing control.
The mutineers said they overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum, who was elected two years ago in Niger’s first peaceful, democratic transfer of power since independence from France, because he wasn’t able to secure the nation from growing jihadi violence. But some analysts and Nigeriens say that’s just a pretext for a takeover that is more about internal power struggles than securing the nation.
“Everybody is wondering why this coup? That’s because no one was expecting it. We couldn’t expect a coup in Niger because there’s no social, political or security situation that would justify that the military take the power,” Prof. Amad Hassane Boubacar, who teaches at the University of Niamey, told The Associated Press.
He said Bazoum wanted to replace the head of the presidential guard, Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, who also goes by Omar and is now in charge of the country. Tchiani was loyal to Bazoum’s predecessor and that sparked the problems, Boubacar said. The AP cannot independently verify his assessment.
While Niger’s security situation is dire, it’s not as bad as neighboring Burkina Faso or Mali, which have also have been battling an Islamic insurgency linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group. Last year Niger was the only one of the three to see a decline in violence, according to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project.
Niger until now has been seen as the last reliable partner for the West in efforts to battle the jihadists in Africa’s Sahel region, where Russia and Western countries have vied for influence in the fight against extremism. France has 1,500 soldiers in the country who conduct joint operations with the Nigeriens, and the United States and other European countries have helped train the nation’s troops.
Some taking part in Sunday’s rally also warned regional bodies who have denounced the coup to stay away. “I would like also to say to the European Union, African Union and ECOWAS, please please stay out of our business,” said Oumar Barou Moussa who was at the demonstration.
“It’s time for us to take our lives, to work for ourselves. It’s time for us to talk about our freedom and liberty. We need to stay together, we need to work together, we need to have our true independence,” he said.
Conflict experts say out of all the countries in the region, Niger has the most at stake if it turns away from the West, given the millions of dollars of military assistance the international community has poured in. On Saturday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the continued security and economic arrangements that Niger has with the U.S. hinged on the release of Bazoum — who remains under house arrest — and “the immediate restoration of the democratic order in Niger.”
France on Saturday suspended all development aid and other financial aid for Niger, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. “France demands an immediate return to constitutional order under President Mohamed Bazoum, who was elected by the Nigeriens,” it said.
The African Union has issued a 15-day ultimatum to the junta in Niger to reinstall the country’s democratically elected government. On Sunday, the West African regional bloc, known as ECOWAS, is holding an emergency summit in Abuja, Nigeria.
However, in a televised address Saturday, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Toumba, one of the soldiers who ousted Bazoum, accused the meeting of making a “plan of aggression” against Niger and said it would defend itself.
Niger experts say it’s too soon to know how things will play out.
“Tensions with the military are still ongoing. There could be another coup after this one, or a stronger intervention from ECOWAS, potentially military force, even if it is difficult to foresee how specifically that may happen and what form that may take,” said Tatiana Smirnova, a researcher at the Centre FrancoPaix in conflict resolution and peace missions.
“Many actors are also trying to negotiate, but the outcome is unclear,” she said.
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Associated Press reporter Angela Charlton in Paris contributed | https://pix11.com/news/ap-general/ap-as-regional-and-global-powers-decry-nigers-coup-the-countrys-future-remains-uncertain/ | 2023-07-30T10:42:59 | 0 | https://pix11.com/news/ap-general/ap-as-regional-and-global-powers-decry-nigers-coup-the-countrys-future-remains-uncertain/ |
LAS VEGAS (AP) — The fight itself didn’t match the hype, but Terence Crawford’s performance exceeded it.
He knocked down Errol Spence Jr. three times Saturday night before finally ending the fight at 2:32 of the ninth round on a technical knockout to cement himself as one of the greatest welterweights in history.
The fight, the most-anticipated boxing match in several years, made Crawford the first undisputed champion in the 147-pound division in the four-belt era that began in 2004.
Crawford (40-0, 31 knockouts) already owned the WBO belt, and took the WBC, WBA and IBF titles from Spence (28-1). Crawford also ran his KO streak to 11 matches, the second-longest active stretch.
Crawford, 35, has won titles at super lightweight and lightweight in addition to welterweight, capturing the latter after moving up in 2018. The Omaha, Nebraska, fighter became the first male boxer to become the undisputed champion in two divisions in the four-belt era.
“I only dreamed of being a world champion,” Crawford said. “I’m an over-achiever. Nobody believed in me when I was coming up, but I made everybody a believer. I want to thank Spence and his team because without him none of this would have been possible.”
A big fight night on the Strip still brings out the stars, with recording artist Andre 3000 of Outkast, NBA star Damian Lillard and Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones at T-Mobile Arena. They were among the celebrities that also included former boxing champions such as Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.
Eminem introduced Crawford and his song “Lose Yourself” played as he walked into the ring before a sellout crowd of 19,990 at T-Mobile Arena.
Spence was the aggressor early on, but Crawford sent him to the floor with a right hand with 20 seconds left in the second round. Then Crawford went after Spence, but time ran out before he could finish him off.
Crawford, a minus-154 favorite, according to FanDuel Sportsbook, then took control of the fight, landing several major blows, often on counters. But Crawford also picked his spots to go after Spence, his punching power taking a heavy toll.
“He was just better tonight,” Spence said. “I make no excuses. He was throwing a harder jab. He was timing with his jab, and he had his timing down on point.”
In the seventh round, Crawford knocked down Spence twice — with a short right at 1:02 and with another right with just a second left.
The fight was essentially over at that point, though Crawford backed off in the eighth round. He came roaring back in the ninth to end it for sure.
Crawford didn’t waste the chance to gloat afterward, directly responding to his critics.
“They said I wasn’t good enough and I couldn’t beat these welterweights,” Crawford said. “I just kept my head to the sky and kept praying to God that I would get the opportunity to show the world how great Terence Crawford is. Tonight, I believe I showed how great I am.”
Spence, however, said he would be up for a rematch, but wants to move up to the 154-pound division.
“We’ve got to do it again,” Spence said. “I would be a lot better.”
Crawford said he would have no problem moving up a weight class.
“I’m in the hurt business,” Crawford said. “Forty-seven is kind of hard for me, too. I was already talking about moving up in weight and challenging (champion Jermell) Charlo.”
The 33-year-old Spence, who lives in DeSoto, Texas, won the IBF title in 2017, claimed the WBC championship in 2019 and took the WBA championship last year.
In the co-main event, Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz (25-2-1) of Mexico beat Chicago resident Giovanni Cabrera (21-1) by split decision in a WBC and WBA lightweight match. Judges Benoit Roussel (114-113) and Don Trella (115-112) scored the fight in favor of Cruz, and Glenn Feldman gave Cabrera the fight by a 114-113 score. Cruz had a point deducted because of a head butt.
Also, Alexandro Santiago (28-3-5) of Mexico won the vacant WBC bantamweight title with a 115-113, 116-112, 116-12 decision over Nonito Donaire (42-8), who lives in Las Vegas.
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AP boxing: https://apnews.com/hub/boxing and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-crawford-unifies-welterweight-division-with-9th-round-tko-in-dominant-performance-over-spence/ | 2023-07-30T10:43:05 | 1 | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-crawford-unifies-welterweight-division-with-9th-round-tko-in-dominant-performance-over-spence/ |
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Justin Gaethje knocked out Dustin Poirier with a head kick one minute into the second round to win the main event lightweight bout at UFC 291 on Saturday night.
The third-ranked Gaethje (26-4) celebrated his victory by climbing to the top of the Octagon fence and doing a backflip off it. His perfectly timed headshot helped him avenge a loss to Poirier in 2018 when he suffered a fourth-round technical knockout via strikes.
“This chance at redemption was amazing,” Gaethje said. “It drove me to work harder to be ready.”
It was Gaethje’s 20th win by knockout or TKO and his seventh victory in his last nine fights. He also scored his first knockout win since UFC 249 in 2020.
“I was surprised by myself and how good I fought,” Gaethje said.
Second-ranked Poirier (29-8) entered the rematch between the two former interim lightweight champions as a minus-152 favorite according to FanDuel. He matched Gaethje blow for blow in the first round – earning a 10-9 advantage on two of three scorecards – before being quickly dispatched in the second.
The decisive high kick from one former champ caught the other by surprise because it wasn’t a move that he expected to see from Gaethje.
“I thought I had four more rounds,” Poirier said. “I didn’t know I had two more minutes.”
With the victory, Gaethje earned a BMF belt – the second UFC fighter to be awarded that belt.
Beating Poirier opens the door for Gaethje to have a potential title bout against the winner of Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira, who are set to square off at UFC 294 in October.
Gaethje’s BMF win over Poirier headlined five main card bouts.
Alex Pereira defeated Jan Blachowicz by split decision in a light heavyweight bout billed as the co-main event for his eighth win in his last nine fights.
Pereira (8-2), ranked second as a middleweight, made his debut in the light heavyweight division at UFC 291 after losing the middleweight title belt via knockout to Israel Adesanya at UFC 287 in April. Blachowicz (29-10-1) did not make the transition in weight class a smooth one for the former champion.
He weathered early takedowns in the first two rounds and rallied in the third round.
Derrick Lewis earned a record 14th knockout win over Marcos Rogerio de Lima just 33 seconds into the first round of the heavyweight bout. The No.10-ranked Lewis (27-11) scored an immediate takedown with a flying knee and pummeled 15th-ranked Rogerio de Lima (21-10-1) with repeated punches to score the early finish. He celebrated snapping a three-fight slide by stripping off his shorts and dancing around the Octagon.
“The win means a lot to me,” Lewis said. “I had a lot of pressure on me coming into this fight and I just wanted to prove to everyone I’m still one of the best fighters in the world.”
Bobby Green beat Tony Ferguson by submission via choke with six seconds left in the third round of the lightweight bout. Green (30-14-1) dominated the final two rounds to earn his second career submission, scoring takedowns in both rounds while raining repeated blows that left his opponent battered. He denied Ferguson (26-9) a shot at earning his first UFC victory since 2019, sending the 39-year-old fighter home with his sixth straight loss.
Kevin Holland made quick work of Michael Chiesa to win the welterweight bout. Holland (25-9) beat the 12th-ranked Chiesa — fighting for the first time following a two-year hiatus — by submission at 2:39 in the first round. He used his length and striking abilities to trap Chiesa (18-7) in a D’arce choke, forcing a quick tap out.
Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith, Jazz coach Will Hardy, and former Jazz stars Deron Williams and Karl Malone were among those in attendance at the second UFC pay-per-view event in 11 months in the Beehive State.
UFC reported a live gate of $6.5 million, breaking the previous venue record set at UFC 278 in August 2022. A sellout crowd of 18,467 was in attendance.
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AP sports: https://apnews.com/hub/sports and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-gaethje-knocks-out-poirier-in-second-round-to-win-ufc-291-lightweight-bout/ | 2023-07-30T10:43:11 | 0 | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-gaethje-knocks-out-poirier-in-second-round-to-win-ufc-291-lightweight-bout/ |
FUKUOKA, Japan (AP) — The American swim team has had a so-so meet at the world championships in Japan. Meanwhile, Australia and China have been pouring it on.
The American gold-medal count at the worlds is the lowest in at least two decades, although the overall medal count of gold, silver, and bronze, is similar to most years.
“Obviously, we’d like to win more gold medals and I think we will,” American coach Bob Bowman said going into Sunday’s final day.
The slight predicament for Bowman is that two of the swimmers he coaches at Arizona State University, Leon Marchand of France and Hungary’s Hubert Kos, have won four gold medals. Marchand has three, and he’s sure to be a star in next year’s Paris Olympics, and Kos has one.
That’s the same gold-medal total for the entire American team through seven of eight days — four gold. The average for the Americans over the last nine championships has been about 15 golds.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, two of the first three questions Bowman fielded were about Marchand and Kos, from French and Hungarian news outlets.
“If you look at swimming, every coach on the U.S. team is coaching a foreign swimmer, an international swimmer. There’s always that dynamic,” said Bowman, who has legendary status for helping Michael Phelps win 23 Olympic gold medals.”
Bowman was cautious about taking credit for Kos, who came to Arizona State late last year. He went from being a good individual medley swimmer to a world champion a few days ago in the 200-meter backstroke.
“I think it’s just the Bob Bowman effect,” said Kos, son of an American father and Hungarian mother. ”That’s as simple as it is.”
He said Bowman had a “magic” touch.“
Bowman played down his role.
“He (Kos) had an excellent coach at home for 10 years before me,” Bowman said. “He deserved the credit for this. I just helped a little bit at the end.”
Bowman compared Marchand to Phelps. But can he produce and endure the pressure, particularly with the Olympics in his home country.
“It remains to be seen what he can do next year. It’s going to be a lot of expectations,” Bowman said. “But I feel like he’s done a very good rehearsal this year and last year. They’ve been good preparations for what will happen next year and we’ll try to carry that over to Paris.”
Swimming is an individual sport, separate from team sports like soccer. It would be unthinkable for the coach of Real Madrid to be also coaching Barcelona players on the side. But it’s normal in swimming, and Bowman said he was “ethically” comfortable with it.
“I mean, the bottom line is I get paid to coach these guys at ASU,” he said. “I’m representing my country for the love of my country and happy to do that. I don’t think there’s an ethical question. It’s not a zero-sum. I’m not taking away from the U.S. guys.”
He said he was interested in coaching the Americans at next year’s Olympics, but suggested any decision was still pending.
“I don’t think we know yet,” he said. “I have to go through this week, get home, think about what the scenarios look (like) and then we’ll decide. I always want to do. But we’ll see how it goes.”
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AP sports: https://apnews.com/hub/sports and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-legendary-coach-bob-bowman-keeps-turning-out-winning-swimmers-and-not-just-americans/ | 2023-07-30T10:43:18 | 0 | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-legendary-coach-bob-bowman-keeps-turning-out-winning-swimmers-and-not-just-americans/ |
AUCKLAND, New Zealand (AP) — Megan Rapinoe is adjusting to her new role at the Women’s World Cup, even if it means she’s not on the field as much as she’d like to be.
The outspoken 38-year-old known for her eclectic hair colors and the iconic victory pose she struck at the 2019 World Cup is the oldest player on the team. She already announced that her fourth World Cup would be her last.
“Ultimately, we’re at the World Cup. This is where everybody wants to be, whether you’re playing 90 minutes, whether you’re a game changer, whatever,” she said Sunday. “I think it’s a lot similar to what I thought it would be — bringing all the experience that I can, all the experience that I have, and ultimately being ready whenever my number is called up.”
Rapinoe has played limited minutes so far, coming in as a substitute in the 3-0 victory over Vietnam in the tournament opener, which was her 200th career appearance for the team.
She was available but didn’t play in the disappointing 1-1 draw with the Netherlands on Thursday in Wellington. U.S. coach Vlatko Andonovski made just one substitution in the match, bringing in midfielder Rose Lavelle after the first half.
“I think all of us on the bench, it’s like we think we should be on the field as much as the players on the field believe that they should be on the field,” Rapinoe said. “Every player on the field that starts the game thinks that they should play 90 minutes, and every player who doesn’t, who is a sub, thinks that they should be on at some point.”
The United States has won the last two World Cups, but the players find themselves in a more precarious position as they chase an unprecedented third consecutive title. The Americans need at least a draw going into the final group match against Portugal on Tuesday at Eden Park in Auckland.
The Americans top Group E, even on points with the Netherlands, but hold the edge because of goal difference. Portugal, which beat Vietnam, could send the United States home early with a win over the Americans.
“We’re unsatisfied with the way we played, but we know there are areas that we can be better and I think there’s some really simple fixes we can do to put ourselves in a better position to have more joy on the ball, especially in the final third,” Rapinoe said. “I think everybody’s looking at this like `Let’s go.’”
At the 2019 World Cup in France, Rapinoe scored six goals over the course of the tournament, including a penalty in a 2-0 victory over the Netherlands in the final. She also finished with three assists and claimed both the Golden Boot and the Golden Ball for the best overall player.
Rapinoe, who is engaged to former WNBA star Sue Bird, has been a leader on and off the field.
She made headlines during the 2019 tournament when she said she wouldn’t visit the White House if the United States won. Her decision was based on her disdain for then-President Donald Trump, and the team did not go to the White House after winning its second World Cup.
And in the midst of a dispute with U.S. Soccer over equal pay with the men’s national team, Rapinoe helped the women hold firm on their position.
“I just think back to 2019 in particular. We didn’t really talk about it a lot as a group but we were like, `Well, we have to win. This is kind of like a must-win World Cup for us.’ And I think it did give us confidence,” she said. “It pressured us, but I think we also knew that we could handle it and it was almost a mandatory upping of our level to be able to match everything that we were saying off the field. I think in so many ways we were betting on ourselves.”
Rapinoe has won two Women’s World Cup titles and an Olympic gold medal with the United States. She also took home the Ballon d’Or and the Best FIFA Women’s Player awards — the game’s top individual honors — for her play in 2019.
As a fierce advocate for social justice issues, including gender equity and LGBTQ rights, she was awarded the nation’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, by President Joe Biden last year.
The team also won a new contract that pays the players the same as their male counterparts.
“I’ve always tried to use whatever platform we have, and this platform was built long before I got here. We just continue to add to to it, to grow the game, to make the world a better place, to use our voices, to advocate for more,” she said.
At this World Cup, she’s passing that legacy on to younger generation. Fourteen of the U.S. players are playing in their first World Cup. In 2019, Carli Lloyd was in a similar role of a player who was also something of a coach who led by example.
Rapinoe is doing that now.
“Still every day in training I’m like, `I’m gonna try to bust your ass,’ and that makes them better, that makes me better,” she said. “That makes the whole team better. So I think it’s been really rewarding. And I think ultimately, and I think that this gets lost, but I get to play in another World Cup.”
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AP Women’s World Cup: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-womens-world-cup and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-megan-rapinoe-adjusts-to-new-role-at-womens-world-cup-while-still-savoring-final-days-in-spotlight/ | 2023-07-30T10:43:25 | 0 | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-megan-rapinoe-adjusts-to-new-role-at-womens-world-cup-while-still-savoring-final-days-in-spotlight/ |
DUNEDIN, New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand outshot Switzerland and even moved goalkeeper Victoria Esson into an attack position several times, but failed to break a 0-0 tie Sunday in the Women’s World Cup and became the first host nation to be eliminated in group play in tournament history.
The Football Ferns are co-hosting the World Cup with Australia, which must win Monday against Canada to avoid its own early elimination.
Switzerland advanced to the round of 16. The Swiss also played to a scoreless draw against Norway, but won the group with the draw against New Zealand, coupled with the Norwegians’ simultaneous 6-0 rout of the Philippines.
New Zealand controlled the pace for long stretches of the match and had its chances to score, outshooting Switzerland 12-3. Jacqui Hand knocked a shot off the right post in the 24th minute.
All 25,947 seats at Forsyth Barr Stadiums were filled — the only one of Dunedin’s six tournament matches to sell out. The raucous crowd stomped and cheered all night, to no avail.
The tournament began July 20 with New Zealand upsetting Norway 1-0, but the Ferns failed to score from the 48th minute of that match through two more games. They lost their previous match 1-0 against the Philippines.
KEY MOMENTS
Esson moved into an offensive position several times in the last minutes of the match as New Zealand pressed for a winner. She managed a header off a corner kick but was off target.
WHY IT MATTERS
Switzerland becomes one of two teams from Group A to advance to the round of 16. It’s only the team’s second time in the knockout round — the first was in the Swiss’ only previous Women’s World Cup in 2015.
The New Zealanders’ failure to score put an end to their Women’s World Cup run.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
“Just gutted, I think. Obviously we talked and we were proud of ourselves and what we’ve been able to accomplish, but at the end of the day we wanted to get out of this group stage and we just didn’t. It’s just black and white. So, obviously gutted,” said New Zealand midfielder Malia Steinmetz of the elimination.
“We expected it to be really tough. New Zealand really tried everything they could, and I think we knew how to respond, especially defensively. We did a lot right,” said Inka Grings, Switzerland’s coach.
WHAT’S NEXT
Switzerland will play either Spain or Japan from Group C, pending a match between those teams on Monday to decide the top two places in that group.
New Zealand is done for the Women’s World Cup.
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Ellen McIntyre is a student in the John Curley Center for Sports Journalism at Penn State.
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AP Women’s World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-womens-world-cup and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-new-zealand-out-of-womens-world-cup-following-0-0-draw-with-switzerland-as-swiss-advance/ | 2023-07-30T10:43:32 | 1 | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-new-zealand-out-of-womens-world-cup-following-0-0-draw-with-switzerland-as-swiss-advance/ |
Who was Alabama's most uninhibited governor? | INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE
This week begins a four-part series of stories surrounding Alabama’s most legendary colorful governor, James E. “Big Jim” Folsom Sr.
Folsom was the epitome of unbridled candidness. Late in his second term, he had been on a weeklong trip to the Port City of Mobile with his buddies, but he had to come back to Montgomery to give a speech to the national convention of American Textile Manufacturers Association. It was a large and distinguished crowd of executives from all over the country and they were meeting in Alabama, so the governor was to give them his official welcoming speech.
While Folsom was vacationing in Mobile, someone in his office had written him a nice speech. Folsom had never seen the speech before getting up to address the audience. He started reading the speech and it sounded somewhat dry and full of statistics.
Folsom dutifully continued reading, “We want to welcome y’all to Alabama. Alabama is truly a textile state. We’ve got 200,000 people employed in the textile industry, and it means $40 million to our economy. We produce 4 million articles a week.” At that point, Folsom looked up from reading and said, “I’ll be doggone. I didn’t know that.”
An all-time favorite "Big Jim" story happened in the mid-1950s during his second term as governor, at the annual Southern Governors Conference. The assembled governors and other dignitaries were scheduled to be guests at a nearby U.S. Naval Station to witness an air show.
More:Who's to blame if Alabama loses Space Command? | INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE
Folsom had a reputation for enjoying libations. The governors were scheduled to gather at the waterfront at 6 a.m., and many doubted Folsom would make it at that hour since he would have partied most of the night before. That was indeed the case, but nevertheless he arrived at the pier on time. It was obvious that he had not slept, he was still wearing the same suit and tie, he was unshaven, and his hair was askew, but he was raring to go.
The governors, dignitaries and aides were motored in small boats out to a huge aircraft carrier, which then sailed 125 to 200 miles offshore for a state-of-the-art air show previously seen only by high-ranking naval officers and Cabinet members.
The sky was perfect, the sea was calm, it was a beautiful day. The crowd gathered on the flight deck. An admiral gave a glowing speech about the naval aviation and how important and accident-free it had become. The admiral introduced the pilot, and then some enlisted men went through the crowd handing out earmuff devices to protect the observers’ hearing from the sound of the jet. Folsom may have looked a little funnier than the rest of the governors in his earmuffs because of his size and dishevelment. He was 6 feet, 9 inches tall.
The airshow began. The jet got louder and louder as it whined down the airstrip and made a perfect takeoff. Then suddenly there was total silence. The jet flamed out, the engine quit running, the plane crashed into the water and was lost in the ocean.
There was complete bedlam aboard the carrier. Sirens went off, divers prepared to enter the water and emergency helicopters prepared for takeoff. Then miraculously word came that the pilot had bailed out of the plane before it sank and was not injured. He was shaken up and wet, but alive.
The crowd gave a rousing cheer of relief that the pilot’s life had been spared. By this time everyone had taken off their earmuffs except Folsom, who was still standing on the deck with his earmuffs on and his mouth wide open in amazement.
Folsom had been watching the scene in absolute astonishment. He could not believe his bloodshot eyes. Finally, he could contain himself no longer. Because he was still wearing his earmuffs, he did not realize how loud he was talking and in a voice, you could hear for miles, Folsom boomed, “Admiral, if that ain’t a show, I’ll kiss your ass.”
Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve can be reached at www.steveflowers.us. | https://www.tuscaloosanews.com/story/opinion/2023/07/30/big-jim-folsom-earned-a-colorful-reputation-inside-the-statehouse/70453563007/ | 2023-07-30T10:43:40 | 1 | https://www.tuscaloosanews.com/story/opinion/2023/07/30/big-jim-folsom-earned-a-colorful-reputation-inside-the-statehouse/70453563007/ |
Russian authorities say three Ukrainian drones attacked Moscow in the early hours on Sunday, injuring one person and prompting a temporary closure for traffic of one of four airports around the Russian capital.
It was the fourth such attempt at a strike on the capital region this month and the third this week, fueling concerns about Moscow's vulnerability to attacks as Russia's war in Ukraine drags into its 18th month.
The Russian Defense Ministry referred to the incident as an "attempted terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime" and said three drones targeted the city. One was shot down in the surrounding Moscow region by air defense systems and two others were jammed. Those two crashed into the Moscow City business district in the capital.
Photos from the site of the crash showed the facade of a skyscraper damaged on one floor. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the attack "insignificantly damaged" the outsides of two buildings in the Moscow City district. A security guard was injured, Russia's state news agency Tass reported, citing emergency officials.
No flights went into or out of the Vnukovo airport on the southern outskirts of the city for about an hour, according to Tass, and the air space over Moscow and the outlying regions was temporarily closed for any aircraft. Those restrictions have since been lifted.
Moscow authorities have also closed a street for traffic near the site of the crash in the Moscow City area.
There was no immediate comment from Ukrainian officials, who rarely if ever take responsibility for attacks on Russian soil.
Russia's Defense Ministry reported shooting down a Ukrainian drone outside Moscow on Friday. Two more drones struck the Russian capital on Monday, one of them falling in the center of the city near the Defense Ministry's headquarters along the Moscow River about 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the Kremlin. The other drone hit an office building in southern Moscow, gutting several upper floors.
In another attack on July 4, the Russian military said four drones were downed by air defenses on the outskirts of Moscow and a fifth was jammed by electronic warfare means and forced down.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.kanw.com/npr-news/2023-07-30/a-drone-attack-on-moscow-briefly-shut-the-airport-and-injured-one | 2023-07-30T10:43:40 | 1 | https://www.kanw.com/npr-news/2023-07-30/a-drone-attack-on-moscow-briefly-shut-the-airport-and-injured-one |
AUCKLAND, New Zealand (AP) — Sophie Roman Haug’s hat trick kick-started Norway’s dormant offense and sparked a 6-0 blowout win over the Philippines on Sunday that moved the Norwegians into to the knockout stage of the Women’s World Cup.
The Philippines’ debut run in the tournament came to an end as Norway scored early and often, netting three goals in the first 31 minutes.
Norway’s spot in the round of 16 was secured when Switzerland and New Zealand simultaneously played to a 0-0 draw and the Norwegians. Norway and New Zealand were tied in Group A but Norway advanced on goal differential. New Zealand became the first host country to be eliminated in the group stage in tournament history.
Before the game, Norway had not scored in three consecutive Women’s World Cup matches dating to the quarterfinals of the 2019 tournament.
But Roman Haug one-timed a ball into the net in the sixth minute, and scored again 11 minutes later. Caroline Graham Hansen added a long-distance shot in the 31st minute.
Roman Haug completed the hat trick in injury time.
In the second half, an Alicia Barker own goal in the 48th minute and Guro Reiten’s penalty kick in the 53rd minute extended Norway’s lead to 5-0. Filipina defender Sofia Harrison received a red card in the 67th minute for using excessive force, and the Philippines played the rest of the match a player down.
Eden Park was turned into a makeshift home match for the Philippines, as the Filipina fans screamed in unison any time the Philippines touched the ball, even as the deficit grew.
The Philippines were fresh off of a historic 1-0 win over co-host New Zealand that marked the first Women’s World Cup win for the debutantes.
KEY MOMENTS
Roman Haug got the Norwegians off to a hot start. The first of her two goals was a left-footed volley from inside the six-yard box in the sixth minute. Eleven minutes later, Roman Haug scored a header delivered by a Vilde Boe Risa cross. Roman Haug’s header flew over the reach of Philippines goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel.
Graham Hansen scored on a long-distance strike that curled into the bottom left corner in the 31st minute to give Norway its third goal of the half.
From that point on, Norway was in control.
WHY IT MATTERS
The win advances Norway to the knockout stage after the Norwegians found themselves in last place in Group A heading into the Philippines match.
The Norwegians had yet to score in 2023 before their six-goal eruption.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
“They showed some of their class today with their skill. They picked us apart and won a couple of battles in the air in the box early. We really released the pressure early and allowed them to, sort of, be a little more creative as the game went on,” Philippines head coach Alen Stajcic said.
“We’ve been talking quite a bit about having the first goal, then it will give us energy. We know in our attack, we are strong and have good combination play both on the right side and left side. Today was the day that, when we had the first one, we knew there could be more,” Norway head coach Hege Riise said.
__
WHAT’S NEXT
Norway will play either Japan or Spain in the round of 16 next Saturday, depending on the results of a game between those Group C teams on Monday.
The inaugural tournament run ends for the Philippines, who needed at least a draw to have a chance of moving on.
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Zach Allen is a student in the John Curley Center for Sports Journalism at Penn State.
—-
AP Women’s World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-womens-world-cup and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-norway-moves-into-the-knockout-round-at-womens-world-cup-with-6-0-rout-over-the-philippines/ | 2023-07-30T10:43:40 | 1 | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-norway-moves-into-the-knockout-round-at-womens-world-cup-with-6-0-rout-over-the-philippines/ |
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Arkansas is temporarily blocked from enforcing a law that would have allowed criminal charges against librarians and booksellers for providing "harmful" materials to minors, a federal judge ruled Saturday.
U.S. District Judge Timothy L. Brooks issued a preliminary injunction against the law, which also would have created a new process to challenge library materials and request that they be relocated to areas not accessible by kids. The measure, signed by Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders earlier this year, was set to take effect Aug. 1.
A coalition that included the Central Arkansas Library System in Little Rock had challenged the law, saying fear of prosecution under the measure could prompt libraries and booksellers to no longer carry titles that could be challenged.
The judge also rejected a motion by the defendants, which include prosecuting attorneys for the state, seeking to dismiss the case.
The ACLU of Arkansas, which represents some of the plaintiffs, applauded the court's ruling, saying that the absence of a preliminary injunction would have jeopardized First Amendment rights.
"The question we had to ask was — do Arkansans still legally have access to reading materials? Luckily, the judicial system has once again defended our highly valued liberties," Holly Dickson, the executive director of the ACLU in Arkansas, said in a statement.
The lawsuit comes as lawmakers in an increasing number of conservative states are pushing for measures making it easier to ban or restrict access to books. The number of attempts to ban or restrict books across the U.S. last year was the highest in the 20 years the American Library Association has been tracking such efforts.
Laws restricting access to certain materials or making it easier to challenge them have been enacted in several other states, including Iowa, Indiana and Texas.
Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin said in an email Saturday that his office would be "reviewing the judge's opinion and will continue to vigorously defend the law."
The executive director of Central Arkansas Library System, Nate Coulter, said the judge's 49-page decision recognized the law as censorship, a violation of the Constitution and wrongly maligning librarians.
"As folks in southwest Arkansas say, this order is stout as horseradish!" he said in an email.
"I'm relieved that for now the dark cloud that was hanging over CALS' librarians has lifted," he added.
Cheryl Davis, general counsel for the Authors Guild, said the organization is "thrilled" about the decision. She said enforcing this law "is likely to limit the free speech rights of older minors, who are capable of reading and processing more complex reading materials than young children can."
The Arkansas lawsuit names the state's 28 local prosecutors as defendants, along with Crawford County in west Arkansas. A separate lawsuit is challenging the Crawford County library's decision to move children's books that included LGBTQ+ themes to a separate portion of the library.
The plaintiffs challenging Arkansas' restrictions also include the Fayetteville and Eureka Springs Carnegie public libraries, the American Booksellers Association and the Association of American Publishers.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.kanw.com/npr-news/2023-07-30/an-arkansas-judge-has-blocked-a-law-targetting-librarians-over-harmful-books | 2023-07-30T10:43:46 | 1 | https://www.kanw.com/npr-news/2023-07-30/an-arkansas-judge-has-blocked-a-law-targetting-librarians-over-harmful-books |
The Texas Rangers agreed to acquire three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer in a blockbuster trade with the New York Mets on Saturday night, an all-in move for the surprise leaders in the AL West, a person with knowledge of the deal said.
The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the deal hasn’t been announced.
The Rangers will be adding the 39-year-old Scherzer with another former Mets pitcher with Cy Young credentials, two-time winner Jacob deGrom, sidelined by Tommy John elbow surgery, possibly all the way through the end of next season.
According to multiple reports, the deal nets New York one of the top Texas prospects in infielder Luisangel Acuña, the younger brother of Atlanta star Ronald Acuña Jr.
As part of the deal, Scherzer agreed to opt in on the final year of his contract in 2024 at $43 million, according to reports that also said the Mets were paying about $35 million of the remaining $58 million on the right-hander’s contract.
The Mets, one of baseball’s biggest disappointments, unloaded Scherzer two days after sending closer David Robertson to Miami for two minor leaguers.
New York began the season with the highest payroll in baseball at $353 million but started the day 17 games behind Atlanta in the NL East and 6 1/2 games back in the wild-card race.
The next question is what the Mets will do with Justin Verlander, another three-time Cy Young winner signed through next season. There should be plenty of suitors for the 40-year-old right-hander.
Texas has emerged from six consecutive losing seasons to lead the AL West all but one day in three-time World Series champion Bruce Bochy’s first season as manager.
The Rangers made the first notable move of this trading season by getting once-dominant closer Aroldis Chapman from Kansas City in June. Chapman has stayed in a setup role with Will Smith handling most of the closing duties.
Now Texas has bolstered the rotation knowing deGrom might be out until Scherzer’s contract expires at the end of next season.
The trade for Scherzer came on the same day the Rangers said they were again bumping back the next start for All-Star right-hander Nathan Eovaldi. Bochy said Eovaldi had a sore elbow, but the club doesn’t think it’s serious.
The Rangers added deGrom in the offseason on a $185 million, five-year contract, knowing there was risk in signing the oft-injured right-hander.
He lasted just six starts — all Texas wins — before elbow issues sidelined deGrom for a month. It took multiple MRIs to determine the extent of the damage to his elbow, and the Tommy John procedure in June was the second of his career. The other was in rookie ball with the Mets in 2010.
“I think we need to improve as a starting rotation,” Bochy said before the Rangers’ game at San Diego on Saturday night, as reports of the trade were circulating. “I think that’s fair to say.”
Scherzer (9-4) was leading the Mets in victories but had his highest ERA (4.01) since 2011 with Detroit. The eight-time All-Star started Friday at home against Washington, allowing one run in seven innings in a 5-1 New York victory.
With 210 career victories, Scherzer is third among active pitchers behind Verlander and Kansas City’s Zack Greinke.
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AP Sports Writer Bernie Wilson in San Diego contributed to this report.
___
AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-rangers-get-scherzer-from-mets-in-all-in-blockbuster-from-surprise-al-west-leaders/ | 2023-07-30T10:43:47 | 0 | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-rangers-get-scherzer-from-mets-in-all-in-blockbuster-from-surprise-al-west-leaders/ |
Cowboys Odds to Make Playoffs and Win Super Bowl
As of December 31 the Dallas Cowboys' odds of winning the Super Bowl, +1600, rank them sixth in the NFL.
Watch the Cowboys this season on Fubo!
Cowboys Super Bowl Odds
- Odds to Win the NFC East: +170
- Odds to Win the Super Bowl: +1600
Looking to place a futures bet on the Cowboys to win the Super Bowl this season? Head to BetMGM using our link and enter the bonus code "GNPLAY" for special offers!
Dallas Betting Insights
- Dallas compiled a 9-7-0 record against the spread last season.
- Last season, nine Cowboys games went over the point total.
- Dallas ranked 11th in total offense (354.9 yards per game) and 12th in total defense (330.2 yards allowed per game) last year.
- At home last year, the Cowboys were 8-1. Away, they were 4-4.
- Dallas posted eight wins as the favorite (in 11 games) and three wins as an underdog (five games).
- The Cowboys were 4-2 in the NFC East and 8-4 in the NFC overall.
Cowboys Impact Players
- Tony Pollard ran for 1,007 yards (62.9 per game) and nine touchdowns in 16 games last year.
- In addition, Pollard had 39 catches for 371 yards and three touchdowns.
- In 12 games, Dak Prescott passed for 2,860 yards (238.3 per game), with 23 touchdowns and 15 interceptions, and a completion percentage of 66.2%.
- On the ground, Prescott scored one touchdown and picked up 182 yards.
- In 17 games a season ago, CeeDee Lamb had 107 catches for 1,359 yards (79.9 per game) and nine touchdowns.
- In 13 games played for the Texans, Brandin Cooks had 57 receptions for 699 yards (53.8 per game) and three touchdowns.
- Micah Parsons had 65 tackles, 14.0 TFL, 13.5 sacks, and three passes defended last year.
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2023-24 Cowboys NFL Schedule
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© 2023 Data Skrive. All rights reserved. | https://www.kbtx.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/cowboys-nfl-playoffs-super-bowl-odds/ | 2023-07-30T10:43:48 | 1 | https://www.kbtx.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/cowboys-nfl-playoffs-super-bowl-odds/ |
CHENGDU, China , July 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from Xinhua:
On July 28, the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games officially commenced, captivating university athletes from various parts of the world with an opening ceremony that seamlessly blended historical and cultural elements with youthful passion.
The cultural performances showcased Chengdu's unique cultural features, with the "Sun and Immortal Birds" being a symbol of Chinese cultural heritage and a spiritual emblem. From the very first second of the countdown to the ignition, the presence of the "Sun and Immortal Birds" captivated the audience until the final moment of ignition. "Sunlight", serving as the core element, permeated the entire opening ceremony. Without the "Sun and Immortal Birds", the grand finale of igniting the flame would not have been possible. The countdown to the opening commenced amid the radiance of the "Sun and Immortal Birds," not only demonstrating the harmonious and inclusive spiritual character that the Chinese people have embraced since ancient times but also expressing best wishes for university students worldwide to shine as bright and warm as sunlight.
The opening ceremony combined the sense of technology with artistic beauty. During the entrance segment, colorful silk threads were projected onto the ground, creating a breathtaking display of traditional Chinese patterns formed by over 300 circular lines that adorned the entirety of the stadium's track. This symbolic imagery represents the aspirations of young athletes from around the world, as they embark on a glorious journey paved with the splendor of Shu embroidery. The guide signs held high by the ushers were made of Shu brocade, a renowned textile originating from the Chengdu region, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. Shu brocade stands as one of the four prestigious brocades of China. Meanwhile, Shu embroidery, one of the four famous embroideries in China, has a history of more than 3,000 years, originating from the Chengdu region. Both Shu embroidery and Shu brocade are hailed as treasures of the region.
In celebration of the 31st edition of FISU World University Games, 31 torchbearers were selected to light the flame tower. Among them, the illustrious Chengdu astronaut, Ye Guangfu, shone as a notable figure. Recognizing astronauts as the "closest beings to the sun," chief director Chen Weiya harnessed the brilliance of sunlight, transforming it into a dazzling blaze. After the 31 torchbearers jointly completed the ignition, the Sun and Immortal Birds radiated a stunning brilliance. They spiraled and ascended, igniting the 12 golden fireworks in the sky. Ultimately, they ignited the flame tower outside the stadium.
During the fireworks performance, the chief designer of the opening ceremony fireworks, Cai Canhuang, aptly named it "Golden Dreams." Golden fireworks illuminated the sky, accompanied by welcoming messages in both Chinese and English. As the flame tower of the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games was ignited, the fireworks displayed the U-shaped emblem of the Games and the English theme "Make Dreams Come True." The fireworks artfully portrayed the image of a golden hibiscus flower, representing the city flower of Chengdu. Beyond symbolizing youth and vitality, the hibiscus also embodies the values of openness and friendliness, expressing the theme of "flowers welcoming guests."
The Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games will feature a total of 18 sports events, and is scheduled to conclude on August 8. With athletes from 113 countries and regions, a staggering 6,500 athletes will compete across these 18 sports.
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Xinhua | https://www.weau.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/chengdu-2021-fisu-world-university-games-opening-ceremony-impresses-audiences-worldwide/ | 2023-07-30T10:43:49 | 0 | https://www.weau.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/chengdu-2021-fisu-world-university-games-opening-ceremony-impresses-audiences-worldwide/ |
SYDNEY (AP) — Some of the biggest names in soccer have yet to show up at the Women’s World Cup.
That’s literally been the case of Australian star Sam Kerr, who missed the first two games with a calf injury.
Kerr has recovered in time to play for Australia in a crucial final Group B game against Canada on Monday. The Matildas need to beat the Canadians to ensure they advance to the knockout round, and the Chelsea striker’s return to the lineup brings needed energy to the team.
“Mentally, it’s massive. It brings so much to our team and obviously also a lot to the opposition knowing that we have Sam available for this game,” Australia defender Ellie Carpenter said.
Kerr’s injury on the eve of Australia’s opening game against Ireland set the tone for a tournament that hasn’t been kind to some of its biggest stars. She was the face of co-host Australia’s preparations for the tournament, which is also being staged in New Zealand.
She dominated the covers of magazines across newsstands, while the autobiography she released late last year chronicled her rise to become arguably the best player in the women’s game right now. Kerr’s popularity transcends women’s soccer and she is considered a national icon.
So the disappointment was palpable when news broke about an hour before the opening match that Kerr was going to be sidelined at least two games in this tournament.
Kerr’s absence was felt in the 3-2 loss to Nigeria in Australia’s second game, a loss that put the Matildas in danger of elimination. It is not known what her role will be against Canada, but Australia needs Kerr to deliver in the final game of group play.
“I’m definitely going to be available, but how we decide to use that is not to be given to the opposition,” said Kerr.
The World Cup is supposed to be a showcase for the finest talent and biggest names, but injuries have always robbed the tournament of some its star players.
Norway forward Ada Hegerberg has had her playing time curtailed. Often referred to as “the Lionel Messi of women’s soccer,” Hederberg was part of a Norway’s 1-0 upset loss to New Zealand in the opening game of the World Cup.
It got worse for the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner when she suffered a groin injury in the warm-up ahead of Norway’s game against Switzerland, and she’s been ruled out of the final Group A game against the Philippines.
Keira Walsh of England suffered a knee injury against Denmark that will sidenline her for the Lionesses’ final Group D game against China. Described as irreplaceable, it is not known how much she will be able to play.
Even for some stars who have seen plenty of playing time, it has been difficult to make an impact.
American icon Alex Morgan has underwhelmed so far at her fourth World Cup, where she is hoping to help the United States to an unprecedented third consecutive title.
Morgan, the co-leading scorer at the last World Cup, has yet to score at this year’s event and missed a penalty in the 3-0 win against Vietnam. U.S. coach Vlatko Andonovski said Morgan was adapting to playing in a forward line with Sophia Smith and Trinity Rodman.
“I think it’s not hard to realize that Alex’s role is slightly different than the Alex that we’re used to maybe in the past,” Andonovski said. “She does set up the other two forwards a lot more. It’s not that she’s not capable of scoring goals or getting behind crosses, but we can also see her playing balls to Trinity and Soph, but also getting crosses for them as well.”
Morgan, at 34, is now one of the older players at the tournament.
Christine Sinclair of Canada is also searching for first goal of the tournament. Sinclair is highest scorer in international soccer — men or women — with 190 goals.
Like Morgan, she also missed a penalty, in a 0-0 draw with Nigeria that could still prove costly. She was benched for Canada’s second game against Ireland before coming in as a substitute at halftime as the gold medalist from the Tokyo Olympics logged a come-from-behind 2-1 win.
At 40 years old, Sinclair is having to accept a more limited role for Canada.
Brazil great Marta, at 37, has also been used sparingly in her sixth World Cup.
Her teammate, Debinha, who is also an iconic figure to Brazil fans, has been one of the standout players for her country so far. But she wasn’t able to stop a 2-1 loss to France on Saturday despite scoring in that match.
The gap appears to be closing in the women’s game, with underdogs proving more of a test for the more established nations. That’s one reason some of the big name stars have yet to impress in tournament.
One of the few standouts who has not disappointed so far has been Alexandra Popp, who scored twice in Germany’s 6-0 rout of Morocco.
Major tournaments are traditionally a mix of rising talents coming to the surface, while established stars have the chance to confirm their status among the greats.
Linda Caicedo of Colombia, Lauren James of England and Melchie Dumornay of Haiti have proven their worth as some of the brightest prospects in the game. But as the second round of games nears its completion, it feels like the tournament is still waiting for many of its big hitters to make an impact.
___
James Robson is at https://twitter.com/jamesalanrobson
___
More AP Women’s World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-womens-world-cup | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-some-of-soccers-biggest-stars-are-struggling-to-make-an-impact-at-the-womens-world-cup/ | 2023-07-30T10:43:54 | 0 | https://pix11.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-some-of-soccers-biggest-stars-are-struggling-to-make-an-impact-at-the-womens-world-cup/ |
How to Watch the WNBA on Sunday: TV Channel, Game Times and Odds
Today's WNBA slate has lots in store. Among those six games is the Minnesota Lynx taking on the Connecticut Sun.
Catch live WNBA games, plus tons of other sports and shows, with a free trial to Fubo!
Today's WNBA Games
The Connecticut Sun take on the Minnesota Lynx
The Lynx look to pull off an away win at the Sun on Sunday at 1:00 PM ET.
How to Watch
- TV Channel: CBS Sports Network
- Stream Live: Fubo (regional restrictions may apply)
- Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Records and Stats
- CON Record: 18-6
- MIN Record: 12-13
- CON Stats: 84.0 PPG (fifth in WNBA), 78.6 Opp. PPG (first)
- MIN Stats: 80.2 PPG (eighth in WNBA), 85.4 Opp. PPG (10th)
Players to Watch
- CON Key Player: Alyssa Thomas (14.5 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 8.0 APG)
- MIN Key Player: Kayla McBride (12.6 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 1.8 APG)
Vegas Odds and Betting Lines
- Spread: -11.5
- CON Odds to Win: -818
- MIN Odds to Win: +525
- Total: 159.5 points
The Atlanta Dream host the Washington Mystics
The Mystics travel to face the Dream on Sunday at 3:00 PM ET.
How to Watch
- TV Channel: Bally Sports
- Stream Live: Fubo (regional restrictions may apply)
- Game Time: 3:00 PM ET
Records and Stats
- ATL Record: 13-11
- WAS Record: 12-12
- ATL Stats: 85.0 PPG (fourth in WNBA), 85.1 Opp. PPG (ninth)
- WAS Stats: 81.1 PPG (seventh in WNBA), 80.3 Opp. PPG (third)
Players to Watch
- ATL Key Player: Rhyne Howard (18.2 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 3.4 APG)
- WAS Key Player: Brittney Sykes (14.1 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 3.6 APG)
Vegas Odds and Betting Lines
- Spread: -6.5
- ATL Odds to Win: -250
- WAS Odds to Win: +197
- Total: 164.5 points
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The Los Angeles Sparks take on the New York Liberty
The Liberty hit the road the Sparks on Sunday at 4:00 PM ET.
How to Watch
Records and Stats
- LAS Record: 9-15
- NYL Record: 18-6
- LAS Stats: 78.5 PPG (ninth in WNBA), 81.7 Opp. PPG (fourth)
- NYL Stats: 88.7 PPG (second in WNBA), 82.7 Opp. PPG (seventh)
Players to Watch
- LAS Key Player: Nneka Ogwumike (20.3 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 2.7 APG)
- NYL Key Player: Breanna Stewart (23.1 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 3.7 APG)
Vegas Odds and Betting Lines
- Spread: -9
- NYL Odds to Win: -503
- LAS Odds to Win: +373
- Total: 167 points
The Indiana Fever face the Seattle Storm
The Storm hope to pick up a road win at the Fever on Sunday at 4:00 PM ET.
How to Watch
Records and Stats
- IND Record: 6-18
- SEA Record: 5-19
- IND Stats: 81.4 PPG (sixth in WNBA), 85.7 Opp. PPG (11th)
- SEA Stats: 78.5 PPG (ninth in WNBA), 85.7 Opp. PPG (11th)
Players to Watch
- IND Key Player: Aliyah Boston (14.4 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 2.2 APG)
- SEA Key Player: Jewell Loyd (24.2 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 3.5 APG)
Vegas Odds and Betting Lines
- Spread: -3.5
- IND Odds to Win: -161
- SEA Odds to Win: +133
- Total: 164.5 points
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The Chicago Sky host the Phoenix Mercury
The Mercury go on the road to face the Sky on Sunday at 4:00 PM ET.
How to Watch
- TV Channel: ESPN3 and AZFamily
- Game Time: 4:00 PM ET
Records and Stats
- CHI Record: 9-15
- PHO Record: 6-17
- CHI Stats: 78.1 PPG (11th in WNBA), 82.5 Opp. PPG (sixth)
- PHO Stats: 75.8 PPG (12th in WNBA), 83.5 Opp. PPG (eighth)
Players to Watch
- CHI Key Player: Courtney Williams (9.2 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 6.0 APG)
- PHO Key Player: Brittney Griner (18.2 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 2.0 APG)
Vegas Odds and Betting Lines
- Spread: -7
- CHI Odds to Win: -285
- PHO Odds to Win: +228
- Total: 156 points
The Las Vegas Aces take on the Dallas Wings
The Wings hit the road the Aces on Sunday at 6:00 PM ET.
How to Watch
- TV Channel: CBS Sports Network
- Stream Live: Fubo (regional restrictions may apply)
- Game Time: 6:00 PM ET
Records and Stats
- LVA Record: 22-2
- DAL Record: 14-10
- LVA Stats: 94.1 PPG (first in WNBA), 78.7 Opp. PPG (second)
- DAL Stats: 86.0 PPG (third in WNBA), 81.7 Opp. PPG (fourth)
Players to Watch
- LVA Key Player: A'ja Wilson (20.8 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 2.0 APG)
- DAL Key Player: Satou Sabally (17.6 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 4.0 APG)
Vegas Odds and Betting Lines
- Spread: -10
- LVA Odds to Win: -653
- DAL Odds to Win: +462
- Total: 173.5 points
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© 2023 Data Skrive. All rights reserved. | https://www.kbtx.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/wnba-odds-how-to-watch/ | 2023-07-30T10:43:54 | 0 | https://www.kbtx.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/wnba-odds-how-to-watch/ |
Hot temperatures are predicted today. It looks like it will be a balmy 87 degrees. Today's forecasted low temperature is 64 degrees. We will see clear skies today. Today's UV index is high. Be careful outside, especially during late morning through mid-afternoon. If your shadow is shorter than you, seek shade and wear protective clothing and generously apply sunscreen on exposed skin. The area will see gentle winds today, with winds only reaching 10 miles per hour, coming from Southeast. This report is created automatically with weather data provided by TownNews.com. For more daily forecast information, visit bismarcktribune.com.
Here is today's weather outlook for Jul. 30, 2023 in Bismarck, ND
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The forecast is showing a hot day in Bismarck. Temperatures are projected to be a scorcher today with temperatures reaching a high of 92 thoug…
Hot temperatures are predicted today. Temperatures are projected to be a steamy day today with temperatures reaching a high of 92. Expect a dr…
The forecast is showing a hot day in Bismarck. Temperatures are projected to be a scorcher today with temperatures reaching a high of 95 thoug…
Hot temperatures are predicted today. It looks to reach a warm 82 degrees. Today's forecasted low temperature is 59 degrees. Expect periods of…
Bismarck folks should be prepared for high temperatures. Temperatures are projected to be a steamy day today with temperatures reaching a high… | https://bismarcktribune.com/weather/here-is-todays-weather-outlook-for-jul-30-2023-in-bismarck-nd/article_dfc1a475-8d36-5681-9f84-ad72a4dd0cbf.html | 2023-07-30T10:44:14 | 0 | https://bismarcktribune.com/weather/here-is-todays-weather-outlook-for-jul-30-2023-in-bismarck-nd/article_dfc1a475-8d36-5681-9f84-ad72a4dd0cbf.html |
Russian authorities say three Ukrainian drones attacked Moscow in the early hours on Sunday, injuring one person and prompting a temporary closure for traffic of one of four airports around the Russian capital.
It was the fourth such attempt at a strike on the capital region this month and the third this week, fueling concerns about Moscow's vulnerability to attacks as Russia's war in Ukraine drags into its 18th month.
The Russian Defense Ministry referred to the incident as an "attempted terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime" and said three drones targeted the city. One was shot down in the surrounding Moscow region by air defense systems and two others were jammed. Those two crashed into the Moscow City business district in the capital.
Photos from the site of the crash showed the facade of a skyscraper damaged on one floor. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the attack "insignificantly damaged" the outsides of two buildings in the Moscow City district. A security guard was injured, Russia's state news agency Tass reported, citing emergency officials.
No flights went into or out of the Vnukovo airport on the southern outskirts of the city for about an hour, according to Tass, and the air space over Moscow and the outlying regions was temporarily closed for any aircraft. Those restrictions have since been lifted.
Moscow authorities have also closed a street for traffic near the site of the crash in the Moscow City area.
There was no immediate comment from Ukrainian officials, who rarely if ever take responsibility for attacks on Russian soil.
Russia's Defense Ministry reported shooting down a Ukrainian drone outside Moscow on Friday. Two more drones struck the Russian capital on Monday, one of them falling in the center of the city near the Defense Ministry's headquarters along the Moscow River about 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the Kremlin. The other drone hit an office building in southern Moscow, gutting several upper floors.
In another attack on July 4, the Russian military said four drones were downed by air defenses on the outskirts of Moscow and a fifth was jammed by electronic warfare means and forced down.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.wboi.org/npr-news/2023-07-30/a-drone-attack-on-moscow-briefly-shut-the-airport-and-injured-one | 2023-07-30T10:45:37 | 1 | https://www.wboi.org/npr-news/2023-07-30/a-drone-attack-on-moscow-briefly-shut-the-airport-and-injured-one |
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Arkansas is temporarily blocked from enforcing a law that would have allowed criminal charges against librarians and booksellers for providing "harmful" materials to minors, a federal judge ruled Saturday.
U.S. District Judge Timothy L. Brooks issued a preliminary injunction against the law, which also would have created a new process to challenge library materials and request that they be relocated to areas not accessible by kids. The measure, signed by Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders earlier this year, was set to take effect Aug. 1.
A coalition that included the Central Arkansas Library System in Little Rock had challenged the law, saying fear of prosecution under the measure could prompt libraries and booksellers to no longer carry titles that could be challenged.
The judge also rejected a motion by the defendants, which include prosecuting attorneys for the state, seeking to dismiss the case.
The ACLU of Arkansas, which represents some of the plaintiffs, applauded the court's ruling, saying that the absence of a preliminary injunction would have jeopardized First Amendment rights.
"The question we had to ask was — do Arkansans still legally have access to reading materials? Luckily, the judicial system has once again defended our highly valued liberties," Holly Dickson, the executive director of the ACLU in Arkansas, said in a statement.
The lawsuit comes as lawmakers in an increasing number of conservative states are pushing for measures making it easier to ban or restrict access to books. The number of attempts to ban or restrict books across the U.S. last year was the highest in the 20 years the American Library Association has been tracking such efforts.
Laws restricting access to certain materials or making it easier to challenge them have been enacted in several other states, including Iowa, Indiana and Texas.
Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin said in an email Saturday that his office would be "reviewing the judge's opinion and will continue to vigorously defend the law."
The executive director of Central Arkansas Library System, Nate Coulter, said the judge's 49-page decision recognized the law as censorship, a violation of the Constitution and wrongly maligning librarians.
"As folks in southwest Arkansas say, this order is stout as horseradish!" he said in an email.
"I'm relieved that for now the dark cloud that was hanging over CALS' librarians has lifted," he added.
Cheryl Davis, general counsel for the Authors Guild, said the organization is "thrilled" about the decision. She said enforcing this law "is likely to limit the free speech rights of older minors, who are capable of reading and processing more complex reading materials than young children can."
The Arkansas lawsuit names the state's 28 local prosecutors as defendants, along with Crawford County in west Arkansas. A separate lawsuit is challenging the Crawford County library's decision to move children's books that included LGBTQ+ themes to a separate portion of the library.
The plaintiffs challenging Arkansas' restrictions also include the Fayetteville and Eureka Springs Carnegie public libraries, the American Booksellers Association and the Association of American Publishers.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.wboi.org/npr-news/2023-07-30/an-arkansas-judge-has-blocked-a-law-targetting-librarians-over-harmful-books | 2023-07-30T10:45:43 | 0 | https://www.wboi.org/npr-news/2023-07-30/an-arkansas-judge-has-blocked-a-law-targetting-librarians-over-harmful-books |
CHENGDU, China , July 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from Xinhua:
On July 28, the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games officially commenced, captivating university athletes from various parts of the world with an opening ceremony that seamlessly blended historical and cultural elements with youthful passion.
The cultural performances showcased Chengdu's unique cultural features, with the "Sun and Immortal Birds" being a symbol of Chinese cultural heritage and a spiritual emblem. From the very first second of the countdown to the ignition, the presence of the "Sun and Immortal Birds" captivated the audience until the final moment of ignition. "Sunlight", serving as the core element, permeated the entire opening ceremony. Without the "Sun and Immortal Birds", the grand finale of igniting the flame would not have been possible. The countdown to the opening commenced amid the radiance of the "Sun and Immortal Birds," not only demonstrating the harmonious and inclusive spiritual character that the Chinese people have embraced since ancient times but also expressing best wishes for university students worldwide to shine as bright and warm as sunlight.
The opening ceremony combined the sense of technology with artistic beauty. During the entrance segment, colorful silk threads were projected onto the ground, creating a breathtaking display of traditional Chinese patterns formed by over 300 circular lines that adorned the entirety of the stadium's track. This symbolic imagery represents the aspirations of young athletes from around the world, as they embark on a glorious journey paved with the splendor of Shu embroidery. The guide signs held high by the ushers were made of Shu brocade, a renowned textile originating from the Chengdu region, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. Shu brocade stands as one of the four prestigious brocades of China. Meanwhile, Shu embroidery, one of the four famous embroideries in China, has a history of more than 3,000 years, originating from the Chengdu region. Both Shu embroidery and Shu brocade are hailed as treasures of the region.
In celebration of the 31st edition of FISU World University Games, 31 torchbearers were selected to light the flame tower. Among them, the illustrious Chengdu astronaut, Ye Guangfu, shone as a notable figure. Recognizing astronauts as the "closest beings to the sun," chief director Chen Weiya harnessed the brilliance of sunlight, transforming it into a dazzling blaze. After the 31 torchbearers jointly completed the ignition, the Sun and Immortal Birds radiated a stunning brilliance. They spiraled and ascended, igniting the 12 golden fireworks in the sky. Ultimately, they ignited the flame tower outside the stadium.
During the fireworks performance, the chief designer of the opening ceremony fireworks, Cai Canhuang, aptly named it "Golden Dreams." Golden fireworks illuminated the sky, accompanied by welcoming messages in both Chinese and English. As the flame tower of the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games was ignited, the fireworks displayed the U-shaped emblem of the Games and the English theme "Make Dreams Come True." The fireworks artfully portrayed the image of a golden hibiscus flower, representing the city flower of Chengdu. Beyond symbolizing youth and vitality, the hibiscus also embodies the values of openness and friendliness, expressing the theme of "flowers welcoming guests."
The Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games will feature a total of 18 sports events, and is scheduled to conclude on August 8. With athletes from 113 countries and regions, a staggering 6,500 athletes will compete across these 18 sports.
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Xinhua | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/chengdu-2021-fisu-world-university-games-opening-ceremony-impresses-audiences-worldwide/ | 2023-07-30T10:46:18 | 1 | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/chengdu-2021-fisu-world-university-games-opening-ceremony-impresses-audiences-worldwide/ |
Bronny James plays piano in a video posted by his father, LeBron James, on Saturday, four days after the teenager went into cardiac arrest during a basketball workout at the University of Southern California.
The 18-year-old plays a brief melody in front of his family, smiles and gets up without speaking in the video posted on his father's Instagram account. The video doesn't indicate where or when it was shot.
“A man of many talents,” the Los Angeles Lakers superstar can be heard saying in the background as Bronny finishes playing with his two younger siblings looking on.
TMZ posted photos of Bronny out to dinner with his family, which it says were taken Friday night. They show the teenager with his father outside celebrity hot spot Giorgio Baldi in Santa Monica.
Wearing black pants and a zip-up hoodie, Bronny carried his phone while standing outside the Italian restaurant.
Bronny was released from the hospital on Thursday. He will continue to undergo tests to determine the cause of his cardiac arrest, which occurred Monday morning during a workout at USC’s Galen Center.
"We have our family together, safe and healthy, and we feel your love," LeBron wrote on social media Thursday. "Will have more to say when we’re ready but I wanted to tell everyone how much your support has meant to all of us!"
Bronny, whose full name is LeBron James Jr., committed to USC in May after the 6-foot-3 guard became one of the nation’s top prospects out of Sierra Canyon School in nearby Chatsworth.
TEGNA's Val Lick contributed to this report. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/nation-world/bronny-james-update-after-cardiac-arrest/507-3280e25d-0548-45c6-b647-40568b3c99ea | 2023-07-30T10:46:32 | 1 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/nation-world/bronny-james-update-after-cardiac-arrest/507-3280e25d-0548-45c6-b647-40568b3c99ea |
CHENGDU, China , July 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from Xinhua:
On July 28, the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games officially commenced, captivating university athletes from various parts of the world with an opening ceremony that seamlessly blended historical and cultural elements with youthful passion.
The cultural performances showcased Chengdu's unique cultural features, with the "Sun and Immortal Birds" being a symbol of Chinese cultural heritage and a spiritual emblem. From the very first second of the countdown to the ignition, the presence of the "Sun and Immortal Birds" captivated the audience until the final moment of ignition. "Sunlight", serving as the core element, permeated the entire opening ceremony. Without the "Sun and Immortal Birds", the grand finale of igniting the flame would not have been possible. The countdown to the opening commenced amid the radiance of the "Sun and Immortal Birds," not only demonstrating the harmonious and inclusive spiritual character that the Chinese people have embraced since ancient times but also expressing best wishes for university students worldwide to shine as bright and warm as sunlight.
The opening ceremony combined the sense of technology with artistic beauty. During the entrance segment, colorful silk threads were projected onto the ground, creating a breathtaking display of traditional Chinese patterns formed by over 300 circular lines that adorned the entirety of the stadium's track. This symbolic imagery represents the aspirations of young athletes from around the world, as they embark on a glorious journey paved with the splendor of Shu embroidery. The guide signs held high by the ushers were made of Shu brocade, a renowned textile originating from the Chengdu region, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. Shu brocade stands as one of the four prestigious brocades of China. Meanwhile, Shu embroidery, one of the four famous embroideries in China, has a history of more than 3,000 years, originating from the Chengdu region. Both Shu embroidery and Shu brocade are hailed as treasures of the region.
In celebration of the 31st edition of FISU World University Games, 31 torchbearers were selected to light the flame tower. Among them, the illustrious Chengdu astronaut, Ye Guangfu, shone as a notable figure. Recognizing astronauts as the "closest beings to the sun," chief director Chen Weiya harnessed the brilliance of sunlight, transforming it into a dazzling blaze. After the 31 torchbearers jointly completed the ignition, the Sun and Immortal Birds radiated a stunning brilliance. They spiraled and ascended, igniting the 12 golden fireworks in the sky. Ultimately, they ignited the flame tower outside the stadium.
During the fireworks performance, the chief designer of the opening ceremony fireworks, Cai Canhuang, aptly named it "Golden Dreams." Golden fireworks illuminated the sky, accompanied by welcoming messages in both Chinese and English. As the flame tower of the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games was ignited, the fireworks displayed the U-shaped emblem of the Games and the English theme "Make Dreams Come True." The fireworks artfully portrayed the image of a golden hibiscus flower, representing the city flower of Chengdu. Beyond symbolizing youth and vitality, the hibiscus also embodies the values of openness and friendliness, expressing the theme of "flowers welcoming guests."
The Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games will feature a total of 18 sports events, and is scheduled to conclude on August 8. With athletes from 113 countries and regions, a staggering 6,500 athletes will compete across these 18 sports.
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Xinhua | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/chengdu-2021-fisu-world-university-games-opening-ceremony-impresses-audiences-worldwide/ | 2023-07-30T10:48:01 | 0 | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/chengdu-2021-fisu-world-university-games-opening-ceremony-impresses-audiences-worldwide/ |
BEIRUT (AP) — Overnight clashes Sunday in Lebanon’s largest Palestinian refugee camp near the southern port city of Sidon left 1 dead and 6 others wounded, Palestinian officials said.
The clashes took place as Palestinian factions in Ein el-Hilweh cracked down on militant Islamist groups and fugitives seeking shelter in the camp’s overcrowded neighborhoods. In 2017, Palestinian factions engaged in almost a week of fierce clashes with a militant organization affiliated with the extremist Islamic State group.
The Palestinian officials, speaking to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity in line with regulations, said the clashes broke out after an unknown gunman tried to assassinate Islamist militant Mahmoud Khalil, killing a companion of his instead.
According to Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency, six people were wounded in the clashes, including two children.
Factions used assault rifles and rocket-propelled grenade launchers in the overcrowded camp, as ambulances zoomed through its narrow streets to take the wounded to the hospital.
The clashes have mostly stopped, though state media said there was still sporadic sniper fire.
Several residents fled the crossfire to nearby neighborhoods in the camp.
Ein el-Hilweh is notorious for its lawlessness and clashes are not uncommon. The U.N. says it is home to some 55,000 people.
It was established in 1948 to host Palestinians displaced by Israeli forces during the establishment of Israel. | https://www.wdtn.com/news/u-s-world/ap-international/ap-1-killed-6-wounded-in-overnight-clashes-in-crowded-palestinian-refugee-camp-in-lebanon/ | 2023-07-30T10:49:54 | 0 | https://www.wdtn.com/news/u-s-world/ap-international/ap-1-killed-6-wounded-in-overnight-clashes-in-crowded-palestinian-refugee-camp-in-lebanon/ |
BANGUI, Central African Republic (AP) — The Central African Republic went to the polls Sunday in a highly anticipated vote on a new constitution, which would remove presidential term limits.
President Faustin Archange Touadera wants to extend presidential terms from five to seven years and remove the previous two-term limit, enabling him to run again in 2025.
The new constitution would replace the one adopted at Touadera’s inauguration in 2016, when the country was in a civil war and 80% of it was not under state control. If the new constitution is passed, it could entrench the ruling party’s power indefinitely, analysts say.
“This referendum basically confirms the fears of authoritarian drift (in CAR),” said Enrica Picco, Central Africa project director with the International Crisis Group. The new constitution would weaken checks on the executive by opposition parties, closing the space for Central Africans to participate in democratic decision-making, she said.
The proposed changes also would lift requirements that executive decisions be debated by the legislative and permit Central Africans with dual nationalities to vote.
The mineral-rich but impoverished nation has faced intercommunal fighting since 2013, when predominantly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power and forced then-President Francois Bozize from office. Mostly Christian militias later fought back, also targeting civilians in the streets. The United Nations, which has a peacekeeping mission in the country, estimates the fighting had killed thousands and displaced over a million people, one fifth of the country’s population.
When Touadera won re-election in 2020, barely a third of Central Africans made it to the polls, largely due to threats of violence by rebel groups. Touadera’s government has relied on support from UN peacekeepers, soldiers from neighboring Rwanda and Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group to keep rebels out of the capital Bangui.
“Now that there is peace … the time has come for us to take action,” said Fidel Gouandjika, a presidential advisor.
Opposition groups accuse the ruling party of making a draft of the new constitution publicly available too late for people to make informed decisions, less than three weeks before the referendum, said Picco.
Together with opposition parties they are calling on Central Africans to vote against the proposed constitution, or abstain from the referendum.
“Touadera wants to see himself as an emperor, and he wants to make our country what he wants, not what Central Africans want,” said former Prime Minister Nicolas Tiangaye. | https://www.wdtn.com/news/u-s-world/ap-international/ap-constitutional-referendum-to-remove-presidential-term-limits-divides-central-african-republic/ | 2023-07-30T10:50:00 | 0 | https://www.wdtn.com/news/u-s-world/ap-international/ap-constitutional-referendum-to-remove-presidential-term-limits-divides-central-african-republic/ |
THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — High winds blowing across the North Sea are delaying efforts to tow a burning cargo ship loaded with thousands of new cars to safety off the Dutch coast, the government said Sunday.
The Fremantle Highway was unlikely to be moved Sunday because of the southwesterly wind, according to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.
“The wind will continue to blow from the southwest for the next few days. The towing of the Fremantle Highway to the new temporary location may therefore still take several days to start,” the ministry said in an update Saturday night.
“The smoke from the fire and the wind direction mean that during the towing operation of the ship smoke is blowing over the tugboat,” it added.
Salvage crews on Saturday attached a second towing cable to the ship, which is transporting 3,783 new vehicles, including 498 electric vehicles, from the German port of Bremerhaven to Singapore. The salvage teams ultimately want to tow the stricken ship to a port but it is not yet clear where or when that will happen.
The ship has been burning since Tuesday. Firefighters decided not to douse the flames with water for fear of making the nearly 200-meters (219-yard) ship unstable as it floats close to North Sea shipping lanes and a world-renowned migratory bird habitat.
One crew member died and others were injured after the fire broke out. The crew was evacuated in the early hours of Wednesday.
The cause of the fire has not been determined. | https://www.wdtn.com/news/u-s-world/ap-international/ap-high-winds-stall-efforts-to-tow-a-burning-cargo-ship-packed-with-cars-off-northern-dutch-coast/ | 2023-07-30T10:50:06 | 1 | https://www.wdtn.com/news/u-s-world/ap-international/ap-high-winds-stall-efforts-to-tow-a-burning-cargo-ship-packed-with-cars-off-northern-dutch-coast/ |
Slightly less humid with plenty of sunshine today. A low chance of a stray shower or storm. Most areas stay dry. Humidity values improve and are more comfortable for the next several days.
TODAY: Partly to mostly sunny. A spotty shower or storm. High near 85.
TONIGHT: Clear skies, less humid. Low 60
MONDAY: Sunny and warm. High 82.
High pressure will give us a nice stretch of beautiful weather with highs in the 80s and lots of sunshine for several days. | https://www.wdtn.com/weather/daily-forecast/a-beautiful-day-is-shaping-up-but-is-there-a-fly-in-the-ointment/ | 2023-07-30T10:50:12 | 0 | https://www.wdtn.com/weather/daily-forecast/a-beautiful-day-is-shaping-up-but-is-there-a-fly-in-the-ointment/ |
Avani rai, left, and her sister, Disha rai, in Cloverleaf hall during the Mclean County 4-h Show.
CLAY JACKSON, THE PANTAGRAPH
Second gentleman Douglas Emhoff talks with 4-h member Avani rai; Joshua Williams, founder of Joshua's heart Foundation; and White house Policy adviser ambassador Susan rice at the White house Conference on hunger, nutrition and health.
Second gentleman Douglas Emhoff talks with 4-h member Avani rai; Joshua Williams, founder of Joshua's heart Foundation; and White house Policy adviser ambassador Susan rice at the White house Conference on hunger, nutrition and health. | https://pantagraph.com/article_c5759318-520c-5b0d-b2df-d2800a8a1a63.html | 2023-07-30T10:50:28 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/article_c5759318-520c-5b0d-b2df-d2800a8a1a63.html |
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Honoree: Jang Lee
Chief Financial Officer
Flow Finance
An experienced chief financial officer with a demonstrated history of working in the internet industry, Jang Lee is skilled in business planning, sales, management, business development, and analytics. He has worked in the financial world for over 25 years. He has worked for successful companies such as Western Office, The Black Tux, Hollar, Joymode, UpRound Partners, and now Flow Finance Inc., and began his career as an accountant and financial analyst.
Lee launched a fractional CFO consulting firm in 2020 (UpRound Partners). Upon starting the business he built a client list of over 25 companies, assisting them with financial models, cash planning, and raising debt and equity. He helped navigate several companies through the pandemic and raised over $100 million combined.
In early 2022, his firm was acquired by Flow Finance, where he currently serves as the company’s chief financial officer. Flow Finance is a financial services and technology company redefining what founders should expect from their accountants. Under Lee’s financial stewardship, the company provides best-in-class, personalized financial services combined with a data consolidation platform that empowers customers to go beyond their numbers to unlock actionable, strategic insights. Flow Finance is an end-to-end financial services and technology company redefining what founders should expect from their accountants. Within the last three years, he has worked with over 50 start-up companies within direct-to-consumer, SaaS, and consumer packaged goods at various stages. He has been able to assist with strategy and managing the finance function for these companies.
Throughout his career, Lee has grown as a professional and learned to take on particularly difficult or challenging projects. Overall, he has made a significant impact on Flow Finance’s growth and success since he joined the team. He continues to work successfully in the venture-backed start-up space despite current economic conditions and is driving stability into these businesses. | https://www.latimes.com/2023-c-suite-trends-updates-and-the-cfo-leadership-awards-recap/honoree-jang-lee | 2023-07-30T10:50:39 | 0 | https://www.latimes.com/2023-c-suite-trends-updates-and-the-cfo-leadership-awards-recap/honoree-jang-lee |
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Nominee: Andrew Guarni
Chief Financial Officer & EVP
Hoag
Andrew Guarni, as the CFO of Hoag, the leading hospital in Orange County, played a pivotal role in supporting healthcare workers and managing the hospital’s complex supply chain during the pandemic. His leadership ensured the safety and protection of Hoag’s employees and enabled the hospital to effectively serve patients.
His contributions extended beyond the hospital’s walls; he facilitated the distribution of personal protective equipment (PPE) to various organizations, including nonprofits, schools, and essential workers in the community. Despite the challenges faced by healthcare institutions nationwide, Guarni successfully managed Hoag’s financial health, positioning it for future growth. The hospital is expanding throughout Orange County, acquiring new practices, constructing new facilities, and investing in advanced technologies. His leadership has been instrumental in Hoag’s financial well-being and ongoing success. | https://www.latimes.com/2023-c-suite-trends-updates-and-the-cfo-leadership-awards-recap/nominee-andrew-guarni | 2023-07-30T10:50:45 | 0 | https://www.latimes.com/2023-c-suite-trends-updates-and-the-cfo-leadership-awards-recap/nominee-andrew-guarni |
JURCZAK, Gloria Joanne, 90, of Minonk, died Thursday, July 27, 2023. Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home, Minonk.
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Nominee: Shelley Athena Rose Mallchok
CFO & Vice President
Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund
Shelley Mallchok is the vice president of Finance/CFO at the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF) who oversees financial strategy, performance, reporting, investments, and retirement plans. With 15+ years of for-profit experience, she transitioned to the nonprofit sector for social impact.
Her achievements include increasing rental revenue by 30% through lease renegotiation and implementing financial procedures and reporting systems. Amid the pandemic, she efficiently transitioned the finance team to remote work using automation and cloud-based systems. Working closely with MALDEF’s leadership and advisors, Mallchok planned for short-term liquidity needs and protected the investment portfolio from market volatility. She ensured 100% occupancy by transitioning MPMC building tenants to remote work, enhancing MALDEF’s financial stability. Currently, she focuses on funding identification and overseeing a major capital system renovation at MALDEF’s national headquarters, the MPMC building. | https://www.latimes.com/2023-c-suite-trends-updates-and-the-cfo-leadership-awards-recap/nominee-shelley-athena-rose-mallchok | 2023-07-30T10:50:51 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/2023-c-suite-trends-updates-and-the-cfo-leadership-awards-recap/nominee-shelley-athena-rose-mallchok |
100 YEARS AGO
July 29, 1923: Members of the board of directors of the Rock Creek Fair Association voted to dispense with the annual meeting this year. Conditions do not seem conducive to holding the fair this year. Rock Creek has been in operation for nearly 50 years and has been one of the leading country fairs in Central Illinois.
75 YEARS AGO
July 29, 1948: Miss Mabel Thomas of LeRoy was named "Queen of Electricity" at the Corn Belt Electric Co-operative jubilee. Gov. Dwight H. Green, who crowned the queen, declared the 10-year record of the Corn Belt Electric co-operative is a dramatic story of success.
50 YEARS AGO
July 29, 1973: Hundreds of people lined the shores of Miller Park lagoon to watch a radio announcer drive a Volkswagen into the water to see if it would float. It did. In keeping with the political times, the announcer termed the car a "Waterbug."
25 YEARS AGO
July 29, 1998: A month ago today, a wild windstorm whipped through Central Illinois — uprooting trees, damaging homes and downing power lines. In McLean County, Illinois Power had to replace 35 electrical poles. Country Companies reported handling 5,525 storm-related claims totaling about $7 million; State Farm Insurance Cos. handled 2,443 claims and losses of $2.5 million.
Compiled by Pantagraph staff | https://pantagraph.com/how-time-flies/article_8a4e5f63-2261-59e1-87a6-2ed6d0db3be0.html | 2023-07-30T10:50:53 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/how-time-flies/article_8a4e5f63-2261-59e1-87a6-2ed6d0db3be0.html |
The House Republicans who craft the conference’s government funding bills are showing signs of frustration as hard-line conservatives pressure leadership for further cuts to spending that some worry could be too aggressive.
Some of the 12 Appropriations subcommittee chairs — the so-called cardinals — told reporters that they are struggling to see where those additional cuts could come from, as September’s shutdown deadline looms.
“I just don’t see the wisdom in trying to further cut to strengthen our hand. I don’t know how that strengthens our hand,” Rep. Steve Womack (R-Ark.), a House Appropriations subcommittee chairman, said of conservatives’ push to further cut the already-scaled-back spending bills.
“I do think it puts some of our members in a very difficult spot, particularly those in tough districts, because they’re going to be taking some votes that become problematic,” he added.
The House left Washington for a long summer recess Thursday after being forced to punt a bill to fund agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration.
Conservatives are dug in on their demand for steeper spending cuts, to the chagrin of moderates who are wary of slashing funding even more. The chamber has passed just one appropriations bill, funding military construction and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The internal divisions are gripping the party as time is running out: The House has just 12 days in September to move the remaining 11 appropriations measures and hash out their disagreements with the Senate, which is marking up its spending bills at higher levels, setting the scene for a hectic fall that could bring the U.S. to the brink of a shutdown.
Those dynamics are putting GOP appropriators in a bind, leaving them searching for ways to appease conservative requests without gutting their spending bills.
“We’ve done a lot of cuts, a lot of cuts,” House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Kay Granger (R-Texas) told The Hill this week. “And so if it’s cuts just for cut’s sake, I don’t agree with it. But if it’s something that we can do without, that’s fine.”
‘Not a lot of wiggle room left’
Republican appropriators in the House announced earlier this year that they would mark up their bills for fiscal 2024 at fiscal 2022 levels, as leaders sought to placate conservatives who thought the debt ceiling deal struck by President Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) earlier this year didn’t do enough to curb spending.
The Senate is crafting its bills more in line with the budget caps agreed to in the deal, but House Republicans are already fuming about a bipartisan deal in the upper chamber that would allow for more than $13 billion in additional emergency spending on top of those levels.
House GOP negotiators also said they would pursue clawing back more than $100 billion in old funding that was allocated for Democratic priorities without GOP support in the previous Congress.
While that move drew support from hard-line conservatives, the right flank was far from pleased when it heard appropriators planned to repurpose that old funding — known as rescissions — to plus-up the spending bills.
In a letter to McCarthy earlier this month, a group of hard-line conservatives called for all 12 appropriations bills to be in line with fiscal 2022 spending levels “without the use of reallocated rescissions to increase discretionary spending above that top-line.”
Otherwise, the 21 lawmakers threatened, they would vote against the measures. But that request could prove difficult for GOP appropriators to fulfill.
Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.), chairman of the panel that proposes funding for the Department of State and foreign operations, said that appropriators are already “dramatically reducing spending,” suggesting that there are not too many remaining areas to trim from.
“My bill is below the 2016 levels,” he said, later adding, “When you’re below the 2016 level — and we’re still confronting China — I think there’s not a lot of wiggle room left.”
“It’s a challenge, but I think we’ll get through it. I really do,” he added.
Rep. Mike Simpson (R-Idaho), who heads the subcommittee that oversees funding for the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Interior, scoffed at the idea of even steeper cuts to his bill.
“Then you just drop it on the floor and stomp on it. What else do you do with it?” he told reporters. “You can’t make logical cuts in there.”
Republicans appropriators are voicing optimism that the conference will be able to sort out its differences on spending, but some also hope their levels will stick — even though they include rescissions.
Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.) — whose panel handles funding for the Department of Energy, which is proposing offsetting billions of dollars in spending with clawbacks — said it would be “extremely difficult” to craft his bill without the rescinded funds.
“And given our priorities in my bill, national defense with the nuclear weapons portfolio, nuclear cleanup, Army Corps including, all the community-directed fundings, I feel good about my bill, and I hope my numbers hold,” he said.
“Because it’s gonna have to be in negotiations with the Senate and the White House as well,” he added.
Womack — whose subcommittee crafts funding for the IRS and the Treasury Department — said he doesn’t think “moving the goalposts on these numbers is helpful in strengthening our ability to negotiate with the Senate.”
August preparations for a busy September
Frustrations among appropriators are bubbling up as Congress inches closer to the fall, when lawmakers are facing a Sept. 30 deadline to approve funding or risk a government shutdown.
With time running out, some House lawmakers say conversations may continue over the long August recess to try to hash out remaining differences.
“We’ll have to see,” Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) said when asked about potential plans for talks between leaders and House Freedom Caucus members over the break. “I mean, we got a lot of work to do.”
“I think a lot of work [has] got to be done behind the scenes,” he said. “If not, you know, here — You gotta beg the question about whether we should be gone for six weeks. We should be getting our job done.”
Rep. Bob Good (R-Va.) echoed that sentiment, saying “I would think so” when asked if lawmakers will have conversations over the break.
Adding to the August workload, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) suggested earlier this week that bicameral negotiations could take place over the weeks-long recess as lawmakers stare down the shutdown deadline.
Not all Republicans, however, are viewing a shutdown as a risk.
During a House Freedom Caucus press conference this week, Good said “we should not fear a government shutdown,” claiming that “most of what we do up here is bad anyway; most of what we do up here hurts the American people.”
But that perspective does not jive with the view of McCarthy, who declared Thursday: “I don’t want the government to shut down.”
Multiple Republicans are ultimately expecting Congress to eventually pass what’s known as a continuing resolution (CR), or a measure that temporarily allows the government to be funded at the previous fiscal year’s levels, to prevent a lapse at the end of September.
But they also understand the task could be difficult in the GOP-led chamber, where Republicans aren’t happy about the idea of continuing funding at the current levels — which were last set when Democrats held control of Congress.
“I think there’s a very good chance that we’ll see a CR, but I know there’s a lot of work to get a CR done,” Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.), another appropriator, said Thursday, noting there are “a lot of members that don’t want CRs that are tired of them.”
But Aderholt suggested a CR could notch sufficient GOP backing if there’s a larger plan in sight that the party can support.
“The Speaker’s been very good about having a plan,” he said, adding, “I think that’s what he’s good at, and I’m optimistic that he can come up with something.”
Emily Brooks contributed. | https://www.ksn.com/hill-politics/frustration-emerges-among-gop-spending-cardinals-as-conservatives-push-for-cuts/ | 2023-07-30T10:50:54 | 0 | https://www.ksn.com/hill-politics/frustration-emerges-among-gop-spending-cardinals-as-conservatives-push-for-cuts/ |
Love at first sight ... and at 50 years
All Walt and Marian truly want is more of the same life they’ve been living together.
Walt & Marian Dearden
As Walt waited for his mother to finish her workday at Sears, Roebuck, and Co., a striking woman in a short skirt walked across the parking lot, got into a candy apple red Mustang, and zoomed down the Boulevard. Walt was smitten.
“Do you know any real tall blondes?” he asked his mother, a record clerk, on the drive back to their Roxborough home.
“Her name is Marian,” she told him. “She works in my department.”
Giddy with his good luck, Walt decided to pick his mom up from work again the following day. This time, he went inside, where several desks behind his mom sat Marian Whitbeck.
“I was too shy to speak to her,” Walt remembers of that October 1972 day. “I asked my mom to get her number for me.”
The request did not surprise Marian. The day before in the parking lot, she had noticed Walt and the friend who was with him noticing her. “They were grinning from ear to ear,” she said. “I was trying to figure out how to get into the car with them watching me and my short skirt. I got the door open just enough for me to get through and slid down the bucket seat.”
Marian decided to give the guy a chance. Walt called that night and that weekend, he took her to see the Eagles play the Rams. “The next week, we went to New York City and walked around there. And we just kept going out after that,” Marian said.
“For me, it was love at first sight,” said Walt.
It took Marian a little longer. “I knew after the second date,” she said. “It was his kindness. And even just food shopping, we had a good time.”
They had a lot of common ground to build on, said Walt. “We are both only children, we have the same personality, and we have the same views on everything.”
The engagement
Others also noticed how alike they were. Walt’s mother, Janice, often told the pair they were just like brother and sister — something they found hilarious.
“Well, brother ...” Marian jokingly began as they were entering a restaurant for dinner.
Walt interrupted. “Instead of brother, how about being my wife?”
Marian said yes to his spontaneous proposal, not quite two months after their first date. On Christmas Day, she unwrapped an engagement ring.
The wedding
Walt and Marian married on June 30, 1973, in a candlelight ceremony at United Methodist Church in Roxborough, which Walt attended growing up. The music, provided by an organist and vocalist, included the couple’s song, “We’ve Only Just Begun” by the Carpenters.
“The church was packed. It was hot and sticky. And it was wonderful,” said Marian, who grew up in Somerton.
A reception for 125 followed at the Collegeville Inn, where a band played music of the ‘60s and ‘70s. The couple honeymooned in Williamsburg, Va.
A busy first year
Marian, who is now 72, and Walt, now 77, moved into their first apartment — the second floor of a private home in Rockledge. Walt had been doing carpentry with his father, but a month after the wedding, he began training for the New Jersey State Police. He was away from home five days a week for eight weeks. Marian had her work, and on the weekends, “We had to make up for lost time,” she said.
Marian left the workforce when daughter Brooke was born in the summer of 1974. Walt worked mostly the 3-to-11 p.m. shift, which suited him. “We’d all be together for a good part of the day,” he said. The noon meal was the one they could all eat together, so Marian went all out, making chicken, meatloaf, or a casserole. The leftovers went into Walt’s lunchbox.
Building a home
When Brooke was 3, the couple purchased the land they still call home — 2.5 acres in Pleasant Valley, Bucks County. They hired a home builder, but Marian took on every project she could to save money — she did all the interior painting and raked all the stones out of the dirt that became the lawn, pool, and gardens.
A year and a half later, their second daughter, Whitney, was born.
The family traveled together to California and Hawaii, but most often, summer vacations took them somewhere on the eastern seaboard of the United States and Canada, and usually included an educational element.
“We went up to the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, and down to Washington, D.C., to the Smithsonian Institute,” said Marian. “We toured the White House when Reagan was president and we got to see him, which was wonderful.”
When the Deardens were home, their house was often kid central. “We’re so rural here, and all the kids nearby were the same age growing up,” Walt said. In the summer, they swung on the swing set or swam in the pool. In the winter, they built ice forts and snowmen. Walt and Marian welcomed everyone.
Growing together
Their kids are adults now. Brooke and her dog, Zoey, live at home. Whitney and her husband, William, live in Texas.
Walt retired after 21 years on the force, giving him and Marian more time to tend to their gardens. With the help of his rototiller, he grows a quarter acre of potatoes, onions, beets, squash, tomatoes, eggplant, and peppers. “I downsized a little bit,” he said. There’s still plenty to share with the neighbors. Marian grows flowers, including her prized cannas, whose tubers she has carefully stored each winter for 30 years, and generations of zinnias from the seeds she saves. “People will pull into our driveway and get out of their cars to take pictures of her flowers, which I see as a big compliment,” said Walt.
Marian’s mother, also named Marian, lived with the couple for four years so her daughter could care for her. For the past 14 years, Walt and Marian have spent winters in Boulder City, Nev., where they enjoy hiking through the red rock of Valley of Fire. In Boulder City, Marian enjoys a weekly breakfast with a group of like-minded Republican ladies. Often, they talk politics, but one day, the subject was Valentine’s Day. “I don’t need that,” Marian told the group. “Walt tells me every day that he loves me. What more can you want?”
What’s next
All Walt and Marian truly want is more of the same life they’ve been living together. “We’ve been married 50 years,” said Walt. “I don’t know where the time went.” | https://www.inquirer.com/life/walt-marian-dearden-bucks-county-sears-state-police-record-keeping-only-children-united-methodist-roxborough-republican-20230730.html | 2023-07-30T10:50:54 | 1 | https://www.inquirer.com/life/walt-marian-dearden-bucks-county-sears-state-police-record-keeping-only-children-united-methodist-roxborough-republican-20230730.html |
Lloyd Gock was struggling with depression.
His clothing company wasn’t doing well. Sometimes, he would think about ending his life. He went to a doctor and was prescribed medication. Nothing was working.
Then the 67-year-old Alhambra resident, who loves to dance salsa, merengue and bachata, started visiting Star Ballroom Dance Studio in Monterey Park and Lai Lai Ballroom in Alhambra. Being around people his age helped him find community. Over time, his mental health improved.
“Dancing helped me to get out of my depression,” he said. “I wanted to convey how dancing is so important to us as a community. As we get older, this is our only livelihood.”
The Star Ballroom Dance Studio, founded 30 years ago, is a fixture in the city where many seniors went to take classes and dance together on weekends.
But on the night of Jan. 21, his solace turned into a nightmare. Gock was attending a Lunar New Year celebration at Star Ballroom when gunman Huu Can Tran, 72, opened fire with a semiautomatic MAC-10 assault weapon. The partygoers, many of whom were doing a line dance near the entrance, at first thought the gunshots were celebratory fireworks.
Tran sprayed the room with bullets, reloaded, then started firing again. When he stopped, 10 people were dead and nine were injured. One victim later died at the hospital. The day after the shooting, Tran killed himself as police closed in on his van at a Torrance strip mall.
Six months later, the tragedy has left many survivors in the depths of depression and anxiety. But it also has brought fellow dancers together, forging new relationships. Some have joined in the fight for stronger gun control measures. Others have realized how much they need dancing in their lives.
Along the way, three survivors found their way back to the dance floor, determined not to let that horrific act of violence define them and destroy a community they had worked so hard to build.
But others are struggling to recover and have avoided dancing — or going out — altogether.
“They’re still very traumatized. Time helps to heal and it’s kind of fading away, but when they talk about it, it’s still like it was yesterday.”
— Lloyd Gock
Monterey Park was the 34th mass shooting of the year in the U.S. and one of three in California in about a week, according to the Gun Violence Archive, an independent research group that collects data from law enforcement, media, government and commercial sources. So far in 2023, there have been more than 400 across the country.
The repercussions of a mass shooting can be compared to dropping a pebble in water, said Erika Felix, a clinical psychology professor at UC Santa Barbara who has studied the impact of gun violence.
“You see the most disruption closest to the epicenter, but the effects of these kind of tragedies ripple outwards,” she said.
The shooting also touched “people who felt psychologically close. Maybe they attended or used to attend dance classes at the center. They might know somebody at the shooting, but they’re not immediately identified by the media the way family members would be or direct survivors,” Felix said.
Some in the community, Felix said, are able to “bounce back.” Others may turn to alcohol or other drugs to cope with isolation and anxiety.
“Some people understandably need a helping hand to be on the road to recovery,” she added.
Gock is still trying to bounce back. For the second time in his life, dancing is helping him recover.
He immigrated as a teenager from Hong Kong to San Francisco with his parents in the 1970s and attended high school there. Years later, he moved to Los Angeles and started his clothing company, Montana Jeans. He married and had two children but declined to talk about his family, except to say his depression was mainly fueled by business struggles.
On the night of the massacre, Gock and two friends dropped to the ground and hid under the tables in the ballroom. His dance partner threw her coat over his head and told him not to move. Another held up a table to block the bullets. All three survived, but the people in front of them were fatally shot.
“All of the people who died are our friends,” Gock said. “We see each other dancing all the time. It’s like a family. Something like this happening to us is unimaginable.”
Suicide prevention and crisis counseling resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, seek help from a professional and call 9-8-8. The United States’ first nationwide three-digit mental health crisis hotline 988 will connect callers with trained mental health counselors. Text “HOME” to 741741 in the U.S. and Canada to reach the Crisis Text Line.
In June, Gock flew to Washington, D.C., to advocate for gun control reform as part of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force panel chaired by Rep. Mike Thompson (D-St. Helena).
Gock implored lawmakers to implement a ban on large-capacity magazines and assault weapons, like the ones Tran used in his deadly rampage. He wants more funding for mental health services and stricter “red flag” laws, which allow states to take firearms and ammunition from people deemed dangerous to themselves or others.
“We need to educate our Asian American immigrant communities about red-flag laws in multiple languages — because English isn’t always the primary language for many of us — so that potential gunmen who are mentally unstable will be reported and their guns taken away from them,” Gock said to the panel.
Tran’s motive still hasn’t been determined, although Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna recently said the gunman sent a manifesto to law enforcement. Luna declined to discuss the information further, citing an ongoing FBI investigation.
As a journalist, I knew covering a mass shooting was a matter of when, not if. It never occurred to me that the first one I covered would take place in my community
Gock was numb in the days after the shooting. He could barely sleep, and when he did, kept having nightmares. He was afraid of the dark. He started seeing a therapist, who helped him open up about what happened. Eventually, the trauma became easier to bear.
Immediately after the shooting, he visited the Langley Community Center, which served as a resource center for victims, and finally let himself cry. There, he connected with other survivors and started a WeChat group with more than two dozen people.
Gock created a monthly support group for people affected by the shooting. Slowly, people began opening up about how they were struggling.
“I think part of the purpose of why I didn’t get shot, and maybe I didn’t die, is to do this,” he said. “At that time, I needed to get the group together. We’re all traumatized. And hopefully, we’ll go into recovery.”
Gock has tried to push for more financial support for those who weren’t wounded in the attack but were left emotionally scarred. He said that while a GoFundMe page raised more than $1 million for a victims fund, none of that money will go to the survivors without physical injuries.
“Slowly we are being forgotten,” he said. “A lot of people promised a lot of things, but nothing is coming true for us.”
“If you stop dancing, then the shooter got what he wanted, which is to terrorize us into not being able to dance.”
— Lloyd Gock
Almost right away, Gock went back to dancing at Lai Lai, where Brandon Tsay disarmed the gunman at his family’s dance studio and prevented further carnage. But the shooting still affected Gock’s routine.
Instead of dancing nearly every day, Gock now goes two or three times a week — and rarely at night. He and the other dancers often glance at the entrance and sit in the back of the room, next to an exit door.
“A lot of these people who were there that night, their whole body was covered in the blood from their best friends, and they had to go to the police station and stay there until 2 or 3 p.m. the next day,” Gock said.
“They’re still very traumatized. Time helps to heal and it’s kind of fading away, but when they talk about it, it’s still like it was yesterday.”
The show, airing on ‘L.A. Times Today’ on Spectrum News 1, explores the repercussions of the Jan. 21 shooting in Monterey Park and the ways members of the public have responded to the epidemic of gun violence in California.
For decades, the tightknit dance community in Monterey Park found refuge at Star Ballroom. After the studio opened in the 1990s, dance enthusiasts flocked to take lessons, attend parties under the glittering disco ball or belt out songs in the studio’s karaoke room.
Known as the “first suburban Chinatown,” Monterey Park became an enclave for immigrants from majority Asian countries. Star Ballroom gave the older generation a creative outlet and a way to connect with peers in their native tongue.
When President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris visited Monterey Park this year, Gock told them how important it was that his community come back stronger.
“If you stop dancing, then the shooter got what he wanted, which is to terrorize us into not being able to dance,” he said. “That was his whole main purpose. I was advocating for everyone to come back to dancing.”
As the gunshots were fired, Lowell Lou, a 76-year-old Alhambra resident, saw a man still standing while everyone else hid under the tables. Lou ran over and pulled him to the floor.
“I don’t even know his name or remember his face,” Lou said. “It happened so fast.”
Lou started dancing at Star Ballroom nearly two decades ago, after he emigrated from Hong Kong. He started taking ballroom lessons with a group of about 20 friends.
After the shooting, Lou also went back to dancing right away at the Elks Lodge in San Gabriel and the Joslyn Adult Center in Alhambra.
But he’s not completely recovered. Sometimes at night, he lies awake in bed, enduring flashbacks of the shooting. He’s waiting to get an appointment with a therapist — the first time he’s ever sought counseling.
“We are injured in terms of mental health,” he said. “Whatever you saw that night, you’ll never forget for the rest of your life.”
When he’s at a dance hall, Lou said some of his friends want to sit far from the entrance.
But fear and apprehension don’t mix well with dancing, he said.
“You have to be happy and relaxed and enjoy yourself while you dance.”
Hattie Peng and Jim Goodman met five years ago at the Pasadena Elks Lodge and have danced together since. At the time, Peng saw Goodman in the back of the room watching the dance floor. She asked if he wanted to dance.
Later, Goodman handed Peng his business card. Peng thought his last name was fake.
“I asked him, ‘Are you a good man?’ And he said, ‘Maybe,’” she said, and laughed.
The shooting that shattered so many lives instead created a lasting bond between the two.
As the bullets flew, Goodman, a retired police officer, pulled Peng to the floor and shielded her. A bullet pierced Goodman’s left foot and another struck his back — right where Peng’s heart would’ve been.
After the shooting stopped, Peng realized she was covered in blood.
“I was crying,” she said. “I saw the bullet through Jim’s foot. My first thought was, ‘Oh, my God. He can’t dance anymore.’”
Goodman spent nearly two weeks in the hospital, and Peng visited him every day. After he was released, Peng came over four to five times a week. His foot hasn’t fully healed, so he hasn’t been able to go out dancing.
“I always say he’s my hero. I owe him,” Peng said. “That’s why whenever he needs me, I’ll go to him. I’ll go shopping, buy food for him, cook for him, do laundry for him. Whatever he needs. But he’s a very independent man. That’s why he always encourages me to go back to my normal life. Go dancing.”
A list of crisis hotlines, low-fee and sliding scale counseling, support groups, and mindfulness and meditation services
Peng has started seeing a therapist and taking psychiatric medication. At first, she slept too much and couldn’t get out of bed. She gained weight. She went dancing but felt too traumatized and had to stop for more than a month.
In May, Peng returned to the dance floor — at the Elks Lodge in San Gabriel and at the Steinmetz Senior Center in Hacienda Heights. But she often catches herself looking at the entrance to make sure she isn’t too close to the door.
“I still need to dance,” she said. “The shooting cannot stop me.”
Still, Peng has changed. During her morning walks, she feels anxious if she sees a truck with tinted windows or anything else that appears out of place.
About a month ago, Peng danced with Goodman in his living room. She told him a friend had just learned the salsa.
“Jim just wanted to know that he still remembers the pattern,” she said.
Others, however, are not ready to go back to dancing.
Amy met Valentino Alvero about 20 minutes before Tran unloaded a stream of bullets into the crowd.
Alvero, a 68-year-old Filipino American, asked if she wanted to dance. Amy, who requested that her last name not be used, left her friends, Xiujuan Yu, 57, and Lilian Li, 63, sitting by the entrance.
As Amy and Alvero danced, she thought she heard firecrackers. Then, Alvero fell to the floor and pulled her down with him. As the gunman was reloading, she tried to stand back up. Alvero pulled her down again.
When the noise stopped, Amy tried shaking Alvero’s leg, but he didn’t move. After she left Star Ballroom, she tried calling Alvero’s number twice. When he didn’t pick up, she realized he was most likely dead.
She later found out that her friends Yu and Li had also been killed.
“If Valentino didn’t invite me [to dance], maybe I would’ve died too,” she said. “He saved me. He’s my hero. He was a really good person.”
That January night was the second time Amy had visited Star Ballroom. She hasn’t danced since. Since the shooting, she has had trouble eating, sleeping and going to work. She lost weight. She hasn’t spoken to a therapist or gone out much. She attended a few survivors meetings but prefers not to share.
“I tried not to think about the incident, but it would show up in my mind, and I couldn’t stop it,” she said. “I would be frightened so severely. I could see the bloody scene and was so scared to relive the event. Once it showed up in my mind, I couldn’t sleep at all.”
For Gock, it was important that the most recent survivors meeting in June be limited to those who were in Star Ballroom that night. No media, therapists or anyone from the county attended. He wanted the survivors to continue the healing process.
And now, he’s noticed more people are coming back out to dance.
“What happened at Star really scared a lot of people,” he said. “They’re not ready to come out. Now, they’re coming out a little bit more, but people are still scared because that gun problem never went away.”
The stories shaping California
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You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times. | https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-07-30/monterey-park-shooting-survivors-find-healing-in-dance | 2023-07-30T10:50:57 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-07-30/monterey-park-shooting-survivors-find-healing-in-dance |
NORMAL — Former employees, friends and family members of the Illinois Soldiers' and Sailors' Children's School will host a reunion from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, at the Community Activity Center, 1110 Douglas St., Normal.
Attendees will have the opportunity to share stories, photos and scrapbooks, and roam the grounds of the place that once was home to thousands of children.
The Circle of Friendship at One Normal Plaza was dedicated in 2008 to honor the children who lived at the ISSCS from 1869 to 1979. The site is now home to the Bloom Community School.
Reservations for the reunion can be made by calling 309-275-1748. Reservations must be made by Aug. 26. Leave name and call back number.
Photos: Sheep, goat, beef and dairy Costume Show during the McLean County 4-H Show.
Contact Olivia Jacobs at 309-820-3352. Follow Olivia on Twitter: @olivia___jacobs | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/isscs-reunion-planned-for-sept-16-in-normal/article_19da00fc-2e2d-11ee-89e8-ff513c338410.html | 2023-07-30T10:50:59 | 0 | https://pantagraph.com/news/local/isscs-reunion-planned-for-sept-16-in-normal/article_19da00fc-2e2d-11ee-89e8-ff513c338410.html |
Philly’s sidewalk cafe vigilante | Morning Newsletter
And what is Mastriano campaigning for?
If you feel like Philly has been muggier than usual lately, you aren’t alone. It has definitely been steamier. But we’re promised nicer weather today, so enjoy this mostly sunny Sunday, with a high near 86.
Someone has been mass reporting allegedly illegal sidewalk cafes in Philly. Our lead story explores the anonymous user’s posts, their potential motivations and the community’s response.
— Paola Pérez (@pdesiperez, morningnewsletter@inquirer.com)
If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.
Someone under the username “FD22″ has gone on a reporting spree on Philly311.
Catch up quick: 311 is the city’s contact center for nonemergency inquiries. Through the portal, you can report abandoned cars, potholes or other street damage, problems with streetlights, traffic lights or road signs, and much more.
So who is FD22 targeting? Sidewalk cafes and other allegedly illegal outdoor structures used for dining.
Important context: Sidewalk cafes are not the same as streeteries, which take up parking space. But both require licenses and come with some restrictions.
A user on the internet forum Reddit compiled screenshots of recent instances of FD22′s bulk reports. Naturally, the post was followed by jokes about grabbing the pitchforks and finding the mysterious reporter.
Because FD22 is reporting anonymously, The Inquirer could not reach out for comment to ask about this new passion.
But what we do know is that on one day recently, FD22 submitted six complaints, photo evidence included. On another, they filed three complaints, all in the Italian Market. And two weeks ago, six more businesses were reported.
With little to no information on FD22, the community is left trying to guess their agenda. Is FD22 a local hero, or a villainous curmudgeon? The answer depends on what side of the sidewalk seating you’re on, but some people want FD22 to stop.
Continue reading about what some business owners are saying about the complaints.
What you should know today
For many children with rare, abnormal growths in their lymphatic ducts and blood vessels, the only treatment option had been debilitating, often unsuccessful surgery. But a new technique at CHOP that tests small amounts of DNA has yielded successful results for dozens of kids.
About 80 runners of all ages braved a sweaty Saturday morning to kick off the training season for the 2023 AACR Philadelphia Marathon along Kelly Drive. The race, now in its 30th year, will be held Nov. 19.
Police arrested a suspect in the stabbing of a man in the neck on a SEPTA Market-Frankford Line train Wednesday night, officials said, the latest incident in a recent surge of violent crime along Philadelphia’s public transportation system. An Inquirer analysis examines crime trends on SEPTA and what is being done to increase safety.
Troy M. Nicholson, 32, a popular six-year veteran of the Upper Merion Township Police Department, died after an emergency medical event during a family gathering. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
New Jersey regulators this month ordered a Camden nursing home to halt admissions after an air-conditioning failure caused the temperature in some patient rooms to reach 92 degrees — 10 degrees hotter than regulations allow.
As many as 450,000 people across the U.S. may be living with a rare, lifelong red meat allergy that’s caused by a tick bite, according to the CDC. The culprit, the lone star tick, has been reported in Pennsylvania for more than a decade.
Independent toy stores that survived the pandemic say they are doing better business than in pre-pandemic times, and it’s not just because of the recent hype around the Barbie movie.
🎤 Now I’m passing the microphone to political writer Chris Brennan.
It was a sweltering Sunday in July with one storm having just passed and plenty of dark clouds looming on the horizon.
Still, more than 70 people shelled out $10 and hauled beach chairs to a wet concrete slab in front of a covered stage in a public park for the event’s big draw: State Sen. Doug Mastriano.
The crowd — predominantly white and older than 50 — looked as if it had been recruited from the 2022 campaign trail, when Mastriano, a Franklin County Republican, waged his losing battle for governor.
And Mastriano’s 25-minute speech, delivered as usual in tandem with his wife, Rebbie, echoed the themes of that race.
Unsubstantiated suggestions of voter fraud. Complaints about precautions taken during the pandemic. “Indoctrination” in public schools. And, as always, most fervently, his disappointment in fellow Republicans for not supporting his campaign.
It rang as both a retrospective grievance tour and a future call to action.
Mastriano decried the Republican “establishment” while his wife told the crowd they had helped lay a foundation for a movement.
“It was not the result we wanted,” Mastriano told the crowd of the 2022 election. “But it’s the beginning of a movement here that has the power to change the course and trajectory of Pennsylvania. Is Pennsylvania worth saving?”
Mastriano is clearly stoking his base. But to what end?
Continue reading on why another run for governor is likely for Mastriano, as the state Republican establishment remains in the dark on what comes next.
❓Pop quiz❓
How did Brittany Tolliferreo of West Philly get retired NFL star Randy Moss to invest in her Chick-A-Boom chicken-and-waffle restaurants?
A) Tolliferreo posted a callout on social media looking for investments, and Moss responded.
B) Moss made a surprise appearance at Chick-A-Boom, and he loved the food.
C) Tolliferreo slid into Moss’ direct messages on Instagram after he liked one of her sponsored posts.
D) Tolliferreo sent Moss a persuasive PowerPoint with a business proposal via email.
Think you know? See if you got it right.
🧩 Unscramble the anagram 🧩
Hint: 📜 + ⚕️ + 🏛️. Bonus: This figure was mentioned in Outdoorsy this week.
AMBUSHER JINN
Email us if you know the answer. We’ll select a reader at random to shout out here. Cheers to Larry Isard who correctly guessed Friday’s answer: French toast bites.
Photo of the day
🎶 For today’s Sunday track, we’re listening to “Rakıya Su Katamam.” 🎶 Shoutout to Altın Gün, whose set blew me away last night at Union Transfer. They’re a funky, Turkish psychedelic rock band that I wish I discovered earlier.
👋🏽 Turns out the Regal King of Prussia is all booked up for “Oppenheimer” showings. I saw “Barbie” (and loved it!) but still need to catch the new “Indiana Jones” film. Besides the silver screen, let me know about any good movies you watched recently. Until next time. | https://www.inquirer.com/newsletters/morning/philly-vigilante-reports-sidewalk-cafes-311-20230730.html | 2023-07-30T10:51:00 | 1 | https://www.inquirer.com/newsletters/morning/philly-vigilante-reports-sidewalk-cafes-311-20230730.html |
L.A. looks to tighten rules for single-family homes in part of Santa Monica Mountains
The growth of megamansions in Bel-Air and other hillside L.A. neighborhoods sparked new city rules over the last decade aimed at stopping overdevelopment.
Now, the city is poised to crack down again on home-building in the hills, this time in the name of preserving wildlife habitats.
A proposed ordinance targets the Santa Monica Mountains between the 405 and 101 freeways, an iconic area crowded with celebrity compounds, modest ranches, public parks and curving roads.
The rules would make it harder to build mansions and additions, as well as bigger homes on steep hillsides. It would add regulations to limit development near open space, protect soil and trees, and consider the pathways of wildlife, such as deer, bobcats or mountain lions.
Supporters include Councilmembers Nithya Raman and Katy Yaroslavsky, who represent hillside areas; several neighborhood groups and environmental advocates.
Backers cite changing climate, the loss of animal species and the degradation of the hillsides. Wildfires and the recent landslide in Rolling Hills Estates are examples of why the city needs more scrutiny of hillside development, supporters say.
Opponents, who include real estate agents and some homeowners, predict the rules will hurt property values and argue that the hillsides are already built out. Actor and wellness executive Gwyneth Paltrow signed a form letter to the planning department last fall that said the ordinance “burdens homeowners with unnecessary development regulations.”
The ‘wealth defense industry’ — a network of accountants and consultants tasked with helping the rich stay rich — is responsible for homeowners avoiding L.A.’s ‘mansion tax.’
At the same time, some environmental advocates say the final version of the ordinance was watered down. An earlier requirement for wildlife-friendly fencing so deer could move between lots was scrapped, for instance, after homeowners complained about security.
The proposed law —called the wildlife ordinance — would apply to new homes, additions and major remodels. It passed a key City Hall committee last month and could be taken up by the full City Council before the end of the year.
Paul Edelman, deputy director of natural resources and planning at the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, described the ordinance as a compromise between the competing interests of homeowners, environmentalists and politicians. The conservancy consulted on the law.
It’s significant that wildlife and habitat would be considered by the planning department, Edelman said. “Before, the city had a blind eye to all of this,” he said.
Then-Councilmember Paul Koretz proposed the ordinance in 2014, envisioning rules that would allow a stretch of land on the side of a home for animals to pass.
The number of deer, in particular, has diminished in some hillside areas, pushed out by construction and traffic, according to environmental groups. A video showing L.A. firefighters helping a deer wedged in a fence illustrates the hazards faced by wildlife.
Other recent high-profile wildlife initiatives include a bridge for animals on the 101 Freeway in Agoura Hills and wildlife corridor rules in Ventura County that seek to concentrate development away from the habitat areas.
As Koretz’s ordinance evolved — it is now in its third version — the proposal incorporated other hillside construction elements being debated at the city’s planning department.
Under the proposed law, a new residence that is 6,000 square feet or larger would require additional review by the city’s planning department. Today, homes that are 17,500 square feet or larger spark such a review.
Planned development within 25 of open space would also need additional review.
The goal is for builders to work with city planners to site their homes, pools and garages in a way that is less harmful to the environment and animals.
The ordinance would also close loopholes in existing hillside construction regulations for single-family homes passed in recent years. It would no longer exempt, for instance, basement space toward the square footage of a property as part of an effort to limit hillside grading. The exemption prompted some homeowners to build massive basements, according to the city.
The proposed ordinance also states that no more than 50% of a lot can be covered by a building or other type of structure. The law counts tennis courts, pools and patios towards lot coverage. Exempt from that rule are R1- or R2-zoned lots.
In Laurel Canyon, the noise of machinery scraping the earth could be heard on a recent afternoon near Woodstock Road, where nightclub mogul and film producer Victor Drai is putting up a mansion.
Larger homes are now commonplace: The median new primary structure size in 2020 in the proposed wildlife ordinance area was 8,854 square feet, according to the city.
“We’re getting gigantic homes that displace habitat for wildlife,” said Jamie Hall, president of the Laurel Canyon Land Trust, who supports the ordinance. “There is really no regulation on the books that comprehensibly addresses wildlife and habitat.”
The area targeted for the wildlife ordinance totals about 23,000 acres. About 98% of the land parcels in the area are zoned for low-density residential uses, making up 21,000 acres of residential land, according to the planning department.
Environmentalists failed to win some protections for habitat in the ordinance. They wanted smaller homes — of 3,000 square foot or more — to trigger the planning review. Also, a provision to ban development near rivers, streams, lakes and wetlands was scrapped in the final version.
At a hearing last year on the ordinance, city environmental affairs officer Amanda Amaral urged city planning commissioners to add back in some of the wildlife-friendly provisions.
She told the commissioners that scientists estimate that 1 million species will go extinct in the next few decades.
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The city’s “biodiversity team believes that the revised ordinance has been diluted from its original draft as a result of the weakened requirements,” Amaral said.
At another hearing, an opponent of the proposal called council members “communists” and accused them of penalizing taxpayers. “Go work in Russia!” he said.
Alison MacCracken, a real estate agent, said the ordinance would hurt the property values of even modest-sized homes. She owns such a home in upper Bel-Air, she said, but the ordinance would limit how big an addition she could add because her lot is on a slope.
“These are very constrictive regulations on top of other development regulations,” said MacCracken.
Attorney Ben Reznik, who represents some opponents, including MacCracken, sent a letter last month to Planning, Land Use and Management Committee chair Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson and other city representatives that asked for a formal environmental analysis of the wildlife ordinance.
“The reality is, the city has been using wildlife as a mascot for a stricter hillside regulation ordinance, doing so by making it seem as if the ordinance regulates wildlife, when it does not,” Reznik wrote. “This is both misleading to the public, and a clear due process violation.”
Meanwhile, the ordinance is being closely watched in other parts of the city by those who see it as a tool to regulate hillside development.
Elva Yañez, board president of the preservation group Save Elephant Hill on the city’s Eastside, wants the ordinance expanded to all wildlife-rich areas.
“Given where we are at with the climate emergency,” Yañez said, “we should expand these types of policies when we can.”
The stories shaping California
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You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times. | https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-07-30/wildlife-corridor-ordinance | 2023-07-30T10:51:03 | 0 | https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-07-30/wildlife-corridor-ordinance |
Colorado River losing vast amounts of water due to warming climate, study finds
For much of the last 23 years, the Colorado River has been ravaged by unrelenting dryness, its reservoirs falling to their lowest levels since they were filled. New research shows that global warming is a major culprit, shrinking the river’s flow and robbing the region of a vast amount of water.
A team of scientists at UCLA estimated that from 2000 to 2021, rising temperatures led to the loss of about 32.5 million acre-feet of water in the Colorado River Basin, more than the entire storage capacity of Lake Mead, the country’s largest reservoir.
The scientists said that if it weren’t for the effects of climate change, the river’s reservoirs probably would not have declined to the point of triggering the first-ever government-declared shortage.
The river’s flow has decreased an estimated 10.3% because of higher temperatures, and the researchers warned that the water supply is set to shrink further as warming driven by the burning of fossil fuels continues to dry out the watershed.
“The long-term increase in temperature has had a large impact on this basin, and that’s what we quantified,” said Benjamin Bass, a water scientist at UCLA and the study’s lead author. “We’re going to continue to see reductions in runoff due to rising temperatures.”
Colorado River in Crisis is a series of stories, videos and podcasts in which Los Angeles Times journalists travel throughout the river’s watershed, from the headwaters in the Rocky Mountains to the river’s dry delta in Mexico.
Average temperatures in the Colorado River Basin have already risen about 2.7 degrees, according to the study, which was published in the journal Water Resources Research. The scientists estimated that for each additional 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit of warming, the river’s flow could shrink by about 7%.
The Colorado River provides water for cities, farmlands and tribal communities across seven states and northern Mexico. The river has long been overallocated, and its reservoirs have declined dramatically since 2000.
Storms this winter left the Rocky Mountains with one of the largest snowpacks in years, and the runoff has been boosting reservoir levels.
Still, Lake Mead remains depleted. The reservoir near Las Vegas — which stores water for Arizona, California, Nevada and Mexico — sits at 32% capacity.
The seven states that depend on the river have agreed on proposed plans to cut water use over the next three years, and the federal government in June initiated negotiations on long-term plans for dealing with shortages after 2026, when the existing interim rules expire.
The current system of dividing water among the states is based on the 1922 Colorado River Compact, which assumed a stable climate and overpromised what the river could provide. The negotiations on new long-term plans have brought calls for revamping the system to adapt to drier conditions and address the chronic gap between supply and demand.
“Going into the future, we may get some natural variability, wet or dry swings, but this study highlights that there’s been a decreasing trend in runoff,” Bass said. “In the long run, that’s likely to continue if greenhouse gas emissions are not reduced.”
Years ago, scientists said climate change would bring a Colorado River crisis. Their warnings, which largely went unheeded, are now playing out.
The study adds to a growing body of research detailing the toll the warming climate is taking on the Colorado River. Scientists have found that roughly half the decline in the river’s flow has been caused by higher temperatures, and that climate change is driving the aridification of the Southwest. In multiple studies, researchers have estimated that by mid-century, the river’s average flow could decline by 30% or 40%, or more, below the average of the past century.
Already, the river’s flow has shrunk about 20% since 2000 during a megadrought that scientists have described as the driest 22-year period in the American West in at least 1,200 years.
Bass and his colleagues at UCLA sought to build on previous research by analyzing how increasing carbon dioxide levels affect the amount of water that plants take in and release as water vapor, thereby influencing the amount of runoff that reaches the river and its tributaries. They examined climate data, stream gauge measurements and other records, and used a model to analyze changes in hydrology as well as the response of vegetation to rising CO2 levels between 1880 and 2021.
They estimated that warming-driven water losses began to appear in the watershed around 1980, initially with reductions of about 2.5% in runoff. In recent years, the estimated losses have reached about 10%.
The researchers pointed out that this Lake Mead-sized loss of water from 2000 to 2021 totaled more than 10 trillion gallons. That quantity of water, if spread across Los Angeles County’s 2.6 million acres, would be about 12 feet deep.
Bass said he was surprised to see how sensitive the Colorado River Basin is to warming compared to other watersheds in the western U.S. He called it “a wake-up call to the climate change impacts we are living today.”
Much of the river’s water originates as snow and rain in the Rocky Mountains. The scientists found that parts of the watershed that are usually snow-covered in winter have been losing water about twice as fast as areas that typically remain snowless.
“Basically, the most crucial part of the basin in terms of water supply is drying at a faster rate than the rest of the basin,” Bass said.
The Colorado River is approaching a breaking point, its over-tapped reservoirs dropping. Years of drying have taken a toll at the river’s source in the Rockies.
The authors focused on how warming has affected the river’s flow, saying the exceptional warmth since 2000 has compounded a decrease in precipitation “primarily driven by natural variability.” They didn’t evaluate how much of the decrease in precipitation might be driven by climate change, and suggested that’s an important area for additional research.
Jonathan Overpeck, a climate scientist at the University of Michigan who wasn’t involved in the study, said the research makes a valuable contribution by detailing the changes affecting the Colorado River.
“I’m just worried that the actual sensitivity is larger,” Overpeck said. “The effect of climate change on river flows may actually be larger than they’re estimating.”
If the declines in precipitation are being driven partly by climate change, which appears likely, the effects on the river could be more extreme in the coming decades, Overpeck said.
“Half of the flow of the Colorado River may be lost due to climate change by mid-century,” Overpeck said. “I think that would be a more prudent way to look at it. Because it’s well within the scientific understanding at this point, and you don’t want to assume that you have more water than you really do.”
As the federal government pushes states to reduce usage of dwindling Colorado River water, Imperial Valley farmers fear a “worst-case” scenario.
Overpeck said the research underscores the importance of stopping the burning of fossil fuels as quickly as possible, and also the need for the Southwest to curb overuse of the river’s water as well as groundwater. To adapt to the drying climate, Overpeck said, the region should come up with a “verifiable strategy for sustainable water use.”
He said that should include efforts to recycle water and use water more efficiently. He also pointed out that large quantities of water are being used to grow water-intensive crops like alfalfa, some of which is exported to feed cattle in other countries.
“It’s all about using water a lot more wisely, and using Colorado River water less,” Overpeck said.
Recent discussions among the region’s water management officials have focused largely on efforts to reduce water use with support from $1.2 billion in federal funds made available through the Inflation Reduction Act. Interior Department officials have said much of the reductions in water use will come by paying agricultural landowners, water districts, tribes and others to conserve water, helping to reduce the pressures on the limited supply in Lake Mead.
Meanwhile, environmental groups are urging the Interior Department and the Bureau of Reclamation to start putting solar panels atop thousands of miles of canals — including some that connect the Colorado to Southern California and Arizona. A coalition of groups, among them the Center for Biological Diversity and the Mojave Desert Land Trust, said in a letter to the agencies that installing solar systems over canals and aqueducts owned by the federal government could generate clean power for millions of homes while reducing the amount of water lost to evaporation.
They cited the negotiations aimed at cutting water use along the Colorado River, saying that despite this year’s wet winter, “much of the western United States remains in a long-term drought that is likely to worsen as climate change intensifies.” | https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2023-07-30/study-shows-how-warming-climate-is-sapping-the-colorado-river | 2023-07-30T10:51:09 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2023-07-30/study-shows-how-warming-climate-is-sapping-the-colorado-river |
Letters to the Editor: Will Israel’s top judges and lawmakers act as checks for each other?
To the editor: Israel’s Supreme Court has been solidly left-wing for three decades. Sitting judges have veto power concerning new appointees and have rejected candidates whose ideologies differ from their own.
In the absence of an Israeli constitution, the court has stricken laws considered “unreasonable” by the judges. Judges have also based their rulings on their perceived “intent” of parties to a contract, rather than on the document’s actual wording.
Current supporters of judicial reform have called the extended investigation and three-year corruption trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu an attempt to criminalize normal politicking, and an effort to suppress the voice of the people as expressed on election day. That it now seems the charges may be dismissed for lack of evidence certainly supports this position.
I hope all parties will work together to create a system in which the Knesset and the court can act as checks and balances for each other.
Toby F. Block, Atlanta, Ga.
..
To the editor: Letter writer Peter A. Brier ignores the fact that Article 80 of the United Nations Charter, an international treaty, which incorporates by reference the 1922 Palestine Mandate and the 1920 San Remo agreement, declares all of what is Israel to be the reconstituted homeland of the Jewish people. Thus, Israel is an ethnic democracy not a liberal democracy whose Jewish aspirations are embraced by the United Nations Charter and the U.N. members who are required to obey it.
Richard Sherman, Margate, Fla. | https://www.latimes.com/opinion/letters-to-the-editor/story/2023-07-30/letters-to-the-editor-israel-supreme-court-benjamin-netanyahu-trial-protests-knesset | 2023-07-30T10:51:15 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/opinion/letters-to-the-editor/story/2023-07-30/letters-to-the-editor-israel-supreme-court-benjamin-netanyahu-trial-protests-knesset |
Letters to the Editor: Florida and the GOP want to take us back to the 19th century
To the editor: I was wrong. I thought the Republicans were trying to take us back to the 1950s. But Gov. Ron DeSantis’ remarks about the possible benefits of slavery hark back to antebellum apologists who used “scientific” racism to justify slavery. Indeed, what Republicans really want to do is take us back to the early 19th Century.
Margaret Hamilton, Portland, Ore.
..
To the editor: When the Florida Board of Education put forth examples (in a list masterfully debunked by Michael Hiltzik) of how certain African Americans benefited from the skills they learned as slaves, they missed one of the most brilliant examples ever: Robert Smalls. As a slave he learned how to navigate a sizable ship into and out of Confederate Charleston Harbor… so that he could later dupe his owner in 1862 and navigate the ship (along with its supply of heavy artillery) quietly out of the harbor as a gift to Union forces. Oh, after stopping to pick up his family along the way.
Russ Woody, Studio City
..
To the editor: The words “slavery” and “benefits” should never be spoken in the same sentence. It’s abhorrent.
Marlene Bronson, Los Angeles
..
To the editor: Between DeSantis’ comment about Black people having “parlayed” their time as slaves into becoming blacksmiths, and the lack of any factual accuracy common to the examples cited by Florida education officials to support their new teaching standards, one can’t help but find the phrase “dumb as an anvil” most appropriate.
Ted Rosenblatt, Pacific Palisades | https://www.latimes.com/opinion/letters-to-the-editor/story/2023-07-30/ron-desantis-florida-slavery-history-teaching | 2023-07-30T10:51:22 | 0 | https://www.latimes.com/opinion/letters-to-the-editor/story/2023-07-30/ron-desantis-florida-slavery-history-teaching |
NIAMEY, Niger (AP) — Thousands of supporters of the junta that took over Niger in a coup earlier this week marched through the streets of the capital, Niamey, on Sunday waving Russian flags, chanting the name of the Russian president and forcefully denouncing former colonial power France.
Russian mercenary group Wagner is already operating in neighboring Mali, and Russian President Vladimir Putin would like to expand his country’s influence in the region, but it is unclear yet whether the new junta leaders are going to move toward Moscow or stick with Niger’s Western partners.
Days after after mutinous soldiers ousted Niger’s democratically elected president, uncertainty is mounting about the country’s future and some are calling out the junta’s reasons for seizing control.
The mutineers said they overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum, who was elected two years ago in Niger’s first peaceful, democratic transfer of power since independence from France, because he wasn’t able to secure the nation from growing jihadi violence. But some analysts and Nigeriens say that’s just a pretext for a takeover that is more about internal power struggles than securing the nation.
“Everybody is wondering why this coup? That’s because no one was expecting it. We couldn’t expect a coup in Niger because there’s no social, political or security situation that would justify that the military take the power,” Prof. Amad Hassane Boubacar, who teaches at the University of Niamey, told The Associated Press.
He said Bazoum wanted to replace the head of the presidential guard, Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, who also goes by Omar and is now in charge of the country. Tchiani was loyal to Bazoum’s predecessor and that sparked the problems, Boubacar said. The AP cannot independently verify his assessment.
While Niger’s security situation is dire, it’s not as bad as neighboring Burkina Faso or Mali, which have also have been battling an Islamic insurgency linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group. Last year Niger was the only one of the three to see a decline in violence, according to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project.
Niger until now has been seen as the last reliable partner for the West in efforts to battle the jihadists in Africa’s Sahel region, where Russia and Western countries have vied for influence in the fight against extremism. France has 1,500 soldiers in the country who conduct joint operations with the Nigeriens, and the United States and other European countries have helped train the nation’s troops.
Some taking part in Sunday’s rally also warned regional bodies who have denounced the coup to stay away. “I would like also to say to the European Union, African Union and ECOWAS, please please stay out of our business,” said Oumar Barou Moussa who was at the demonstration.
“It’s time for us to take our lives, to work for ourselves. It’s time for us to talk about our freedom and liberty. We need to stay together, we need to work together, we need to have our true independence,” he said.
Conflict experts say out of all the countries in the region, Niger has the most at stake if it turns away from the West, given the millions of dollars of military assistance the international community has poured in. On Saturday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the continued security and economic arrangements that Niger has with the U.S. hinged on the release of Bazoum — who remains under house arrest — and “the immediate restoration of the democratic order in Niger.”
France on Saturday suspended all development aid and other financial aid for Niger, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. “France demands an immediate return to constitutional order under President Mohamed Bazoum, who was elected by the Nigeriens,” it said.
The African Union has issued a 15-day ultimatum to the junta in Niger to reinstall the country’s democratically elected government. On Sunday, the West African regional bloc, known as ECOWAS, is holding an emergency summit in Abuja, Nigeria.
However, in a televised address Saturday, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Toumba, one of the soldiers who ousted Bazoum, accused the meeting of making a “plan of aggression” against Niger and said it would defend itself.
Niger experts say it’s too soon to know how things will play out.
“Tensions with the military are still ongoing. There could be another coup after this one, or a stronger intervention from ECOWAS, potentially military force, even if it is difficult to foresee how specifically that may happen and what form that may take,” said Tatiana Smirnova, a researcher at the Centre FrancoPaix in conflict resolution and peace missions.
“Many actors are also trying to negotiate, but the outcome is unclear,” she said.
___
Associated Press reporter Angela Charlton in Paris contributed | https://www.wivb.com/news/ap-as-regional-and-global-powers-decry-nigers-coup-the-countrys-future-remains-uncertain/ | 2023-07-30T10:51:23 | 1 | https://www.wivb.com/news/ap-as-regional-and-global-powers-decry-nigers-coup-the-countrys-future-remains-uncertain/ |
Letters to the Editor: The ‘X’-ing out of Twitter
To the editor: Virginia Heffernan’s X analysis regarding Elon Musk’s name change for Twitter brings up some interesting points.
In tune with Musk’s public shift to conspiracy-driven, right-wing vitriol, the X name change seems to be progressing toward something worse and more sinister like a twisted cross, which many writers and analysts associated with the pre-World War II Germany Christian movement.
Heffernan’s symbolic references don’t go there.
Jim Hoover, Huntington Beach
..
To the editor: Regarding Brian Merchant’s column on Elon Musk’s Twitter rebrand, all I can say is that Musk now has us all solving for “X.” It’s brilliant!
Jane Drucker, Studio City
..
To the editor: The word “tweet” is a verb meaning someone has posted something important. X’d sounds like someone has just posted something crossing out something stupid.
Richard Holmen, Trabuco Canyon | https://www.latimes.com/opinion/letters-to-the-editor/story/2023-07-30/twitter-x-elon-musk | 2023-07-30T10:51:28 | 0 | https://www.latimes.com/opinion/letters-to-the-editor/story/2023-07-30/twitter-x-elon-musk |
Column: Dying from the heat is not a political statement
This summer, my Instagram feed has been awash in gorgeous Italian sunsets, stunning Colorado mountain vistas and polar bears frolicking on ice in the Arctic Circle.
Now that our fears of COVID-19 have subsided, people of means are out there having fun.
But the headlines are alarming: This month looks to be the hottest ever on record for the entire planet. The seas off Florida are hot-tub hot. A powerful storm dumped as much as 9 inches of rain on Vermont, causing historic and catastrophic flooding.
Some news even seems like science fiction: Rising temperatures are causing the rapid melt of permafrost, which could unleash on the world ancient pathogens that have been frozen for millennia.
Because of the hotter climate, malaria-carrying mosquitoes, our apex predators, are moving to higher, once-cooler latitudes. By 2050, biologists predict, 50% of the world’s population may be at risk for mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and Zika.
There is no longer any serious debate about whether Earth is getting hotter. It is. The scientific consensus is that the increase in temperature is directly tied to the burning of fossil fuels. As a result, weather patterns are changing. If we do not change our consumption patterns, we are in for a world of hurt. And because the heat is already upon us, we also need to figure out how to adapt better.
The ‘Gish gallop’ is the rhetorical equivalent of music’s wall of sound — it drowns out facts and reason. Donald Trump and RFK Jr. excel at it.
A shocking example occurred in 2003, when unprecedentedly high temperatures in France caused 15,000 heat-related deaths. In central Paris, a thousand vulnerable people living in top-floor, garret apartments died because the city’s famous heat-absorbing zinc roofs turned their uninsulated homes into ovens.
In the last few years, in response to the growing recognition that health and heat are intertwined, several American cities, including Los Angeles, have created the position of “chief heat officer.”
There’s preliminary evidence that assigning categories and names to heat waves, like we already do with hurricanes, could help prevent deaths.
This year, the Los Angeles City Council voted unanimously to study whether all the city’s rental units should be required to have air conditioning. (They should.)
And yet, in some quarters, climate-change denialism continues to flourish.
Now that Rush Limbaugh, the country’s foremost climate-denying dinosaur, is gone, others have taken up his anti-science mantle and have continued his legacy of turning our global crisis into just one more partisan bicker fest.
With extremely hot days increasing due to climate change, we need more accurate weather forecasts for health and survival.
“Every summer, heat waves inevitably hit the U.S. and other parts of the world, causing climate alarmists and left-leaning media outlets to demand dramatic, disastrous changes to the global energy system,” wrote one conservative commentator on the Fox News website. “Unfortunately, this summer is no different.” (The same pundit, Justin Haskins, has also asserted that wildfires are not getting worse because of climate change. Many scientific studies say otherwise. Who you gonna believe? The guy who wrote a book called “Socialism Is Evil” or the entire climate science community? Anyway.)
I just got back from a vacation in Colorado, where the Rocky Mountains are full of dead brown pine trees thanks to a years-long bark beetle infestation linked to warmer temperatures. The dead trees, of course, are perfect fuel for wildfires, which don’t distinguish between socialists and free-marketeers as they consume the landscape and foul the skies.
If you want to get a handle on the dangers our increasingly warm world presents, I highly recommend climate journalist Jeff Goodell’s terrifying new book, “The Heat Will Kill You First.”
More than 100 degrees at night in Phoenix? All-time highs two years in a row in Rome? Readers are taking note of this climate change-fueled reality.
“If there is one idea in this book that might save your life,” writes Goodell, “it is this: the human body, like all living things, is a heat machine. Just being alive generates heat. But if your body gets too hot too fast — it doesn’t matter if that heat comes from the outside on a hot day or the inside from a raging fever — you are in big trouble.”
Heat is an invisible killer, and death from overheating is a peculiar thing.
Like going broke, to paraphrase Hemingway, it happens slowly, then all at once. And by the time the body starts shutting down, there is practically no way to stop it. No amount of water, no frigid ice baths, no medical intervention can help.
Significant investment to enhance community and health-system resilience can reduce the deaths associated with heat exposure.
This month, an experienced hiker in Death Valley seemed fine one minute when he was resting in the shade chatting with my colleagues, and was dead after collapsing a few hours later, likely from the heat.
In August 2021, a Northern California couple and their 1-year-old daughter died from heat exposure and dehydration during a day hike along the Merced River’s South Fork in the Sierra Nevada.
In June, a Las Vegas man who walked outside barefoot for a few minutes ended up in the hospital with third-degree burns on the soles of his feet.
“Burn centers in the Southwest are reporting a rise in injuries to people who touch hot door handles, walk barefoot on scorching surfaces or fall on sun-scorched pavement,” reported the Wall Street Journal this month.
Experiencing extreme temperatures should not be something to check off the bucket list. This is an ongoing, spiraling, unnatural human disaster caused by our own ongoing pollution of the atmosphere.
We all tend to be pretty ignorant about the effects of heat on our health, but Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbot enshrined his own ignorance in June when, during one of his state’s hottest summers, he signed a law repealing local regulations that require 10-minute water breaks every four hours for construction workers.
This, despite proof that mandatory water breaks for outdoor workers in some Texas cities had helped significantly decrease heat-related illness and death.
Imagine allowing people to die, and denying scientific reality along the way, just to prove a political point.
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You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times. | https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2023-07-30/heat-wave-climate-crisis-global-warming | 2023-07-30T10:51:34 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2023-07-30/heat-wave-climate-crisis-global-warming |
Triple-digits will continue into the new week across Texoma | 7/30 AM
LAWTON, Okla. (KSWO) - We saw triple-digit temperatures during the afternoon on Saturday, and these temperature trends will continue into Sunday and beyond this week. For the day today, we will see afternoon high temperatures in the middle 100s under a mix of clouds and sun. Southeasterly winds will be blowing between 5 to 10mph.
For tonight, we will be dipping down into the lower 70s under partly cloudy conditions. Winds will again blow from the southeast between 5 to 10mph.
Monday will offer up mostly cloudy skies as temperatures climb back into the middle 100s during the daytime. Southerly winds will accompany temperatures between 5 to 10mph.
The trend of triple-digit temperatures will continue into the remainder of the week as a ridge of high pressure continues to build across the region. This ridge will limit moisture availability and will keep us above average.
Ensure you are drinking plenty of water, taking restful breaks in shade or air-conditioning, wearing loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and are checking on loved ones. Never leave small children or pets unattended in a hot vehicle.
Have a great week, Texoma! Try to find some fun ways to beat this heat!
Copyright 2023 KSWO. All rights reserved. | https://www.kswo.com/2023/07/30/triple-digits-will-continue-into-new-week-across-texoma-730-am/ | 2023-07-30T10:51:39 | 0 | https://www.kswo.com/2023/07/30/triple-digits-will-continue-into-new-week-across-texoma-730-am/ |
My sister and I have called Westlake and Koreatown home our entire lives, but rising rent priced us out of our own community. Southern California’s high costs of living and limited homeowner support programs made it nearly impossible to find a better housing situation for our family.
Growing up in a predominately low-income immigrant community, we assumed living in an overcrowded apartment was the norm.
For more than 25 years, our family of four lived in a rent-controlled, cramped 450-square-foot studio with a walk-in closet and tiny bathroom. We converted the walk-in closet into a bedroom and our parents slept in a twin-sized bed right outside the kitchen. Our apartment was old, moldy and infested with roaches and hadn’t been renovated since we moved in — hence the rent being cheaper than the market rate for L.A. County.
As we got older, we realized that we had lived in two scenarios identified by health and other organizations as threatening housing instability: living doubled up, meaning when adults beyond a head of household and partner have to share a home, and then living crowded, where the number of residents exceeds the capacity of the space, often leading to poor physical and mental health. An L.A. Times analysis published last year found that Los Angeles was the most overcrowded city in America as of 2020.
More homes are overcrowded in L.A. than in any other large U.S. county, a Times analysis of census data found — a situation that has endured for three decades.
Right before COVID-19 hit, we held unstable minimum wage, temporary and stipend-based positions and struggled to pay rent. Then during the pandemic, we found it increasingly difficult to complete remote work and online school in our crowded living situation. As COVID cases subsided, we got our first full-time jobs and considered moving to a bigger place. But the cheapest apartments we looked at were at least half of our combined income.
We were torn. On the one hand, we had stayed far too long in an uncomfortable living situation. Seeing apartment complexes in our neighborhood be demolished and replaced by luxury high-rises also made us fear that it was just a matter of time before we would be evicted. On the other hand, we could not justify spending so much on rent, especially since a rule of thumb is to spend no more than a third of your income on housing. And since we had both been laid off during the pandemic, we feared becoming unemployed again in the future.
After crunching the numbers, we decided to pursue an option we previously considered out of reach: saving up to buy a home. Given the rising local costs of rent, in the long run we’d be better off buying. We also wanted to repay our parents for all the sacrifices they made to ensure we had a roof over our heads, and for their love and support. So we continued to live in our crowded apartment while aggressively saving up for a down payment and for an emergency fund because we feared going back to job instability.
As first-generation Latina home buyers, we did our best to navigate the process by combing through programs for buyers like us. Those didn’t end up helping.
Homelessness among Latinos has shot up in Los Angeles County while other demographic groups have seen a decline over the last two years.
The first program we tried was Bank of America’s Community Affordable Loan Solution, which among other benefits provides up to $15,000 in down payment assistance for first-time home buyers in L.A. and a handful of other cities to purchase in a community that is predominantly Black, Latino or both. But we were told we were ineligible for the program because our combined annual income just exceeded the maximum limit of $136,650. At the same time, we are considered low-income in L.A. County, suggesting the program’s cutoff is too strict to help everyone who needs it.
Next we considered applying for the California Dream for All Shared Appreciation Loan program, which provides a loan worth up to 20% of a home’s sale price. However, the program also requires borrowers to pay 20% of the home’s increase in value once it’s sold on top of paying back the original loan. We worried that borrowing this amount would ultimately hurt us by taking away a portion of our future equity. Then that consideration turned out to be moot: The program ran out of funds two weeks after launching, before we could even complete the preapproval process.
We also found significant problems with the equity of these programs. Although the Community Affordable Loan Solution is meant to support Black and Latino communities, which have historically low rates of homeownership, it does not require individuals to identify as Black or Latino to qualify. Similarly, though the California Dream for All program was meant in part to reduce racial wealth gaps in the state, CalMatters found that 65% of the initial recipients were white. Only 34% of beneficiaries identified as Latino and just 4% identified as Black. California’s longtime affirmative action ban restricts the agency’s ability to target funds for people of color.
Fortunately, we finally found a home for our family in a different part of Los Angeles. Looking back, we’re grateful that our relatively low-cost living situation allowed us to save. Even so, families should not have to live in cramped, small living spaces to afford rent — and tolerating these conditions should not be the only option renters have when trying to save up for a down payment.
Getting people off the streets and into temporary shelter isn’t the only answer to L.A.’s homelessness problem. We need more permanent housing solutions.
Moreover, since we were unsuccessful with first-time buyer programs, we felt compelled to make the risky decision to deplete our emergency fund to place a 3% down payment. Although that enabled us to buy our home, we aren’t sure what the future holds for us. We can’t say it was an easy process.
Federal and state officials should evaluate how first-time homebuyer programs are designed, rolled out and made available particularly to Black and Latino applicants. Providers should consider offering assistance on a sliding scale based on income level rather than using relatively low cutoffs. Other alternatives might be to create down-payment assistance grants rather than loans, or loans that do not accrue interest until a home buyer reaches a small portion of equity (such as 3%). Such approaches may help people get into homes sooner and obtain equity faster.
We hope to see better options for all low-income renters. Homeownership should not be this inaccessible, especially for people who are seeking to become the first in their families to buy a home and build generational wealth.
Jennifer Nazario is a systems administrator at a network of college-preparatory schools and a first-generation college graduate with a master’s degree in economics. Paula Nazario is an assistant director at UCLA and the first person in her family to go to college. She has a master’s degree in public policy.
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You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times. | https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2023-07-30/los-angeles-housing-costs-first-time-buyer-programs | 2023-07-30T10:51:40 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2023-07-30/los-angeles-housing-costs-first-time-buyer-programs |
BEARS CAMP: General manager Ryan Poles wouldn't put a limit on how high the Chicago Bears can climb coming off one of the worst seasons in franchise history. As training camp begins, he just sees a team looking as if it's ready to pick itself up after hitting the floor.
OBAMA ON TIKTOK: Staffers from the Kankakee Public Library joined former president Barack Obama last week in a TikTok video highlighting several books that have faced calls for censorship on the shelves of schools and libraries across the country.
CHAPPELLE LIVE: Comedian Dave Chappelle is coming to Chicago's United Center on Oct. 4 for the final date of a newly announced tour, titled "Dave Chappelle Live." | https://pantagraph.com/the-water-cooler/article_fbc75032-44e6-5f12-aef5-f97cb02129e6.html | 2023-07-30T10:51:42 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/the-water-cooler/article_fbc75032-44e6-5f12-aef5-f97cb02129e6.html |
CHENGDU, China , July 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from Xinhua:
On July 28, the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games officially commenced, captivating university athletes from various parts of the world with an opening ceremony that seamlessly blended historical and cultural elements with youthful passion.
The cultural performances showcased Chengdu's unique cultural features, with the "Sun and Immortal Birds" being a symbol of Chinese cultural heritage and a spiritual emblem. From the very first second of the countdown to the ignition, the presence of the "Sun and Immortal Birds" captivated the audience until the final moment of ignition. "Sunlight", serving as the core element, permeated the entire opening ceremony. Without the "Sun and Immortal Birds", the grand finale of igniting the flame would not have been possible. The countdown to the opening commenced amid the radiance of the "Sun and Immortal Birds," not only demonstrating the harmonious and inclusive spiritual character that the Chinese people have embraced since ancient times but also expressing best wishes for university students worldwide to shine as bright and warm as sunlight.
The opening ceremony combined the sense of technology with artistic beauty. During the entrance segment, colorful silk threads were projected onto the ground, creating a breathtaking display of traditional Chinese patterns formed by over 300 circular lines that adorned the entirety of the stadium's track. This symbolic imagery represents the aspirations of young athletes from around the world, as they embark on a glorious journey paved with the splendor of Shu embroidery. The guide signs held high by the ushers were made of Shu brocade, a renowned textile originating from the Chengdu region, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. Shu brocade stands as one of the four prestigious brocades of China. Meanwhile, Shu embroidery, one of the four famous embroideries in China, has a history of more than 3,000 years, originating from the Chengdu region. Both Shu embroidery and Shu brocade are hailed as treasures of the region.
In celebration of the 31st edition of FISU World University Games, 31 torchbearers were selected to light the flame tower. Among them, the illustrious Chengdu astronaut, Ye Guangfu, shone as a notable figure. Recognizing astronauts as the "closest beings to the sun," chief director Chen Weiya harnessed the brilliance of sunlight, transforming it into a dazzling blaze. After the 31 torchbearers jointly completed the ignition, the Sun and Immortal Birds radiated a stunning brilliance. They spiraled and ascended, igniting the 12 golden fireworks in the sky. Ultimately, they ignited the flame tower outside the stadium.
During the fireworks performance, the chief designer of the opening ceremony fireworks, Cai Canhuang, aptly named it "Golden Dreams." Golden fireworks illuminated the sky, accompanied by welcoming messages in both Chinese and English. As the flame tower of the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games was ignited, the fireworks displayed the U-shaped emblem of the Games and the English theme "Make Dreams Come True." The fireworks artfully portrayed the image of a golden hibiscus flower, representing the city flower of Chengdu. Beyond symbolizing youth and vitality, the hibiscus also embodies the values of openness and friendliness, expressing the theme of "flowers welcoming guests."
The Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games will feature a total of 18 sports events, and is scheduled to conclude on August 8. With athletes from 113 countries and regions, a staggering 6,500 athletes will compete across these 18 sports.
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SOURCE Xinhua | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/chengdu-2021-fisu-world-university-games-opening-ceremony-impresses-audiences-worldwide/ | 2023-07-30T10:51:45 | 1 | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/chengdu-2021-fisu-world-university-games-opening-ceremony-impresses-audiences-worldwide/ |
No. 11 - RSM US LLP
515 S. Flower St. 17th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 95
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 281
- Total number of employees: 326
Headquarters: Chicago
Year established: 1926
Offices firmwide: 82
Accounting services offered: Audit, Tax, Advisory, Business Management, M&A, Internal Audit, Estate Planning, Business Strategy Operations, Digital Transformation, Family Office Services, Financial Management, Global Business Services, Private Client Services, Risk, Fraud & Cybersecurity
Industries served: Entertainment, Financial, Healthcare, Hospitality, Legal, Manufacturing, Nonprofit, Real Estate, Retail, Tech, Asset Management, Automotive, Business Services, Capital Markets, Construction, Consumer Goods, Educational Institutions, Energy, Financial Institutions, Financial Services, Food & Beverage, Gaming, Government, Government Contracting, Insurance, Life Science
Top Local Executive: Leslie Stackpole, Partner and Los Angeles Office Leader | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-11-rsm-us-llp | 2023-07-30T10:51:46 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-11-rsm-us-llp |
Today's Question: A thunderstorm that rumbled across Central Illinois 60 years ago this spring ultimately made history in what way?
Today's answer: It was on the afternoon of April 9, 1953, in an office in Urbana where a new-fangled contraption called a radio detection and ranging device (later shortened to "radar") picked up the very first radar-recorded thunderstorm. And the rest is history. | https://pantagraph.com/todays-flick-fact/article_2bc699d3-102e-5de5-a27d-5acbc780123a.html | 2023-07-30T10:51:48 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/todays-flick-fact/article_2bc699d3-102e-5de5-a27d-5acbc780123a.html |
No. 13 - CohnReznick LLP
707 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 4950, Los Angeles, CA 90017
21600 Oxnard St. Suite 700, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 78
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 183
- Total number of employees: 208
Headquarters: New York
Year established: 1919
Offices firmwide: 29
Accounting services offered: Audit, Tax, Advisory, Business Management, M&A, Internal Audit, Estate Planning
Industries served: Entertainment, Financial, Healthcare, Hospitality, Legal, Manufacturing, Nonprofit, Real Estate, Retail, Tech
Top Local Executive: Kash Hussain, Office Managing Partner - Los Angeles / Woodland Hills | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-13-cohnreznick-llp | 2023-07-30T10:51:52 | 0 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-13-cohnreznick-llp |
CHENGDU, China, July 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- At the beginning of the grand opening ceremony of the 31st World University Games in Chengdu on Friday night, Jihao Youguo, a girl hailing from the mountainous Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Southwest China's Sichuan Province, led representatives of the 56 ethnic groups of China to sing "Beautiful National Flag" and "Ode to the Motherland."
Youguo firstly became known to the public in February 2018 when Chinese President Xi Jinping visited her family, a poverty-stricken household in Sanhe village, while on an inspection tour to learn about the progress of poverty eradication in the village.
To welcome Xi's visit at the family's dilapidated abode, the then 10-year-old Youguo sang the same song "Beautiful National Flag" and won the applause from Xi.
One year later, all the 29 Sanhe households, including Youguo's family, were relocated to a newly built tile-roofed and brick-walled building which includes a series of apartments measuring about 100 square meters each, thanks to the local poverty eradication program. Youguo said in 2019 that she wished President Xi would come back and visit her new spacious house.
Youguo's father told the media that they opened a grocery store in one extra room of their new house. The store spared the villagers' 30-minute trip to the township for grocery shopping. The store itself brought the family an income of 3,000 yuan ($419) a month, roughly covering the monthly expenses of their three kids attending a boarding school in Liangshan. Youguo's father also keeps some livestock and 30 beehives, making a total income of about 60,000 yuan a year.
Wang Liyuan, an organizer for the opening ceremony of the Chengdu Games, told media that they contacted the Liangshan education authorities and invited Youguo and five other children in the region to sing at the event. "The children are always smiling and enthusiastic, giving a true feeling of sincerity."
Dream of becoming music teacher
With the help of a private education service provider, Youguo, her sister and brother were enrolled into the Liangshan Xichang Tianli School in 2020. Thanks to a dedicated charity fund, they were able to attend the school tuition-free.
Zhang Tao, Youguo's lead teacher, told the Global Times that Youguo has developed good habits living in the school and has made great academic progress since her enrollment.
"She is humble, friendly and gets along well with her classmates. Her English has improved a lot since coming to the school. Her favorite subjects are standard Chinese, English and music," said Zhang.
Youguo is athletic and loves to take part in extra-curricular activities including singing, basketball and running. She is also the champion shot-putter of the school, Zhang said.
"Once during a talk after school, she told me that she dreamed of becoming a music teacher in the future," Zhang told the Global Times. "It's a great way to realize her potential. I encourage her to pursue her dream and give back to the community."
Regarding her progress at school, Youguo said that she has become more confident and open-minded. "I used to be nervous when singing on stage. But I've learned a lot from my classmates and I've grown confident," she said.
Part of big story
The experience of Youguo's family is part of the story of the country's historic achievement in poverty eradication.
Liangshan is home to the largest ethnic Yi community in China and is about 2,000 kilometers from Beijing. When President Xi visited Sanhe village in February 2018, it was one of the most destitute villages in Liangshan. Deep in the Daliang Mountains, local people lived in dark mud huts, suffering from limited transportation and low crop yields caused by the harsh natural conditions. Most villagers grew corn and potatoes for a living.
Given the difficulty of building roads in the mountainous area, the local government opted to relocate the villagers out of the mountain. By September 2020, 353,200 people from 74,400 households in Liangshan had been relocated and started their new lives in their new homes.
Local villagers also came up with innovative ways to improve their living. In Zhaojue county, where Sanhe village is located, locals developed plantations of strawberries. After a year of development, the plantation covered an area of 1,800 mu (120 hectares). Thanks to this new business, in a five-month period in 2019, more than 20,000 local workers were employed, each earning 9,000 yuan on average. From then on, some 165 modern plantations have mushroomed in Liangshan.
After years of national and local efforts, Liangshan witnessed the eradication of poverty, with more than 1.05 million people lifted out of absolute poverty and 11 counties and 2,072 villages removed from the list of impoverished areas.
Sanhe village has established a unique development model that combines breeding, plantation and rural tourism to increase the villagers' income. Currently, the villager's net income per capita has reached over 18,000 yuan, which is more than 10 times higher than the amount before the anti-poverty campaign, Sichuan Daily reported.
In February 2021, China announced victory in its fight against poverty, eradicating absolute poverty in the country.
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SOURCE Global Times | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/global-times-impoverished-mountain-village-global-center-stage/ | 2023-07-30T10:51:52 | 1 | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/global-times-impoverished-mountain-village-global-center-stage/ |
Hot temperatures are predicted today. The forecast calls for it to be a warm 83 degrees. Today's forecasted low temperature is 60 degrees. It should be a fairly cloudless day. The forecast is calling for clear skies. Today's UV index is high. Be careful outside, especially during late morning through mid-afternoon. If your shadow is shorter than you, seek shade and wear protective clothing and generously apply sunscreen on exposed skin. The Bloomington area should see a light breeze, with winds only reaching 12 miles per hour, coming from the North. This report is created automatically with weather data provided by TownNews.com. Stay in the know. Visit pantagraph.com for local news and weather.
Here is today's weather outlook for Jul. 30, 2023 in Bloomington, IL
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The forecast is showing a hot day in Bloomington. It looks to reach a warm 85 degrees. 63 degrees is today's low. Expect periods of sun and cl…
The Bloomington area can expect a very hot day. Temperatures are projected to be a steamy day today with temperatures reaching a high of 95 th…
Bloomington folks should be prepared for high temperatures. It looks to reach a warm 88 degrees. We'll see a low temperature of 65 degrees tod… | https://pantagraph.com/weather/here-is-todays-weather-outlook-for-jul-30-2023-in-bloomington-il/article_9951d33e-3a39-56d6-ab8a-af8c755d0e70.html | 2023-07-30T10:51:54 | 1 | https://pantagraph.com/weather/here-is-todays-weather-outlook-for-jul-30-2023-in-bloomington-il/article_9951d33e-3a39-56d6-ab8a-af8c755d0e70.html |
No. 15 - Baker Tilly
11150 Santa Monica Blvd. Suite 600, Los Angeles, CA 90025
6320 Canoga Ave. 17th Floor, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 54
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 179
- Total number of employees: 216
Headquarters: Chicago
Year established: 1931
Offices firmwide: 72
Accounting services offered: Audit, Tax, Advisory, Business Management
Industries served: Entertainment, Financial, Hospitality, Legal, Manufacturing, Nonprofit, Real Estate, Retail, Tech
Top Local Executive: Greg Zelenay, Managing Partner | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-15-baker-tilly | 2023-07-30T10:51:58 | 0 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-15-baker-tilly |
Slackline World Champion Jaan Roose pushes the limits: "Per metre walked, this line was my toughest ever"
DOHA, Qatar, July 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Globally renowned Red Bull athlete Jaan Roose has completed the world's longest LED-lit, single-building slackline to cross one of Qatar's newest and most iconic architectural landmarks.
The Estonian national and three-time Slackline World Champion defied the odds by achieving the walk, titled "Sparkline," at the first attempt, walking the distance between the scimitar-shaped, Iconic Towers that are owned by Katara Hospitality and that are home to Raffles and Fairmont Doha in Lusail City.
Covering a distance of over 150 meters, the Sparkline walk is not only the longest on a single building, but also Jaan's second-highest walk to date at an elevation of more than 185 meters on a line just 2.5cm wide.
Speaking on the new world record set, Roose commented:
"When I first saw the Iconic Towers, I knew this was a building that I had to walk. Anything worth achieving comes with its fair share of challenges, and I'm proud to complete this one. Per metre walked, this line was my toughest ever. As an athlete, I'm always looking to push myself further and defy the odds. In this case the heat and wind conditions added a different element that I needed to react to and manage spontaneously while I was on the slackline. The warm LED lights and their extra weight also changed how the line interacted with me and my bodyweight. It's like skateboarding on a big heavy tree trunk rather than a light board."
"The Iconic Towers are an incredible place to be completing this feat and mark a very special visit for my first time in Qatar," Roose added.
The Raffles Doha and Fairmont Doha are two luxury hotels that face each other in beautifully imposing structures shaped like scimitar swords. The towers are some of the latest to be added to Lusail City's expanding list of architectural marvels and create a distinct silhouette against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea. Featuring the world's tallest chandelier, the Fairmont Doha is a masterclass in design, while the suite-only Raffles Doha showcases a spell-binding entrance, a personal butler service and fine-dining delights by world-renowned chef, Enrico Crippa.
Managing Director of Raffles and Fairmont Doha, Christian Hirt, expressed his excitement about the event being hosted at the Iconic Towers, saying "Raffles and Fairmont Doha have always celebrated the extraordinary, and this event embodies that spirit. The project serves to underline our commitment to showcasing high-calibre talents that defy the impossible. As this daring athlete 'Sparklines' across our towers, we hope it captivates the world and inspires others to push their boundaries."
Katara Hospitality's leadership commented: "We are proud of this activation, working alongside Qatar Tourism and Red Bull, as it exemplifies Katara Hospitality's commitment to utilizing the Iconic Towers as a powerful asset to promote tourism and enhance the destination's appeal. Through this event, we aim to showcase the extraordinary capabilities of the Iconic Towers and position them as a symbol of Qatar's excellence in hospitality and entertainment."
Commenting on the project with Jaan Roose, Chief Operating Officer of Qatar Tourism, Berthold Trenkel, said: "Qatar has built a sporting legacy for itself and is now a true hub for international sporting events. We're delighted to support the exhilarating slackline walk event and champion renowned athletes. By fostering a culture of athleticism, we strive to create opportunities for athletes to showcase their skills and reach new heights in their athletic careers. In addition to its world-class sporting facilities, Qatar is home to a fresh and diverse suite of incredible hotels that make Qatar a global destination of choice for all travellers."
The Sparkline walk took place as part of an action-packed calendar of global events in Qatar. With several key sporting events expected to take place in 2023, including Qatar MotoGP, AFC Asian Cup, Qatar Formula 1 Grand Prix, and Geneva International Motor Show, visitors can expect extraordinary sporting experiences in Qatar all year round.
To know more about Jaan Roose, visit www.redbull.com
For imagery and video, please download via this link.
For media-related inquiries, please contact Qatar Tourism's Press Office on:
+974 3392 4466 | pressoffice@visitqatar.qa
For athlete-related media inquiries, please contact Red Bull Qatar:
About Qatar Tourism
Qatar Tourism's mission is to establish Qatar as a place where cultural authenticity meets modernity, and where people of the world come together to experience unique offerings in culture, sports, business and family entertainment, rooted in Service Excellence. Qatar Tourism will regulate and develop the tourism industry, encouraging investment from the private sector. It will set the national strategy for the tourism sector, reviewing it periodically and overseeing its implementation, with the aim of diversifying tourism offerings in the country and increasing visitor spend. Through our network of international offices in priority markets, and cutting-edge digital platforms, Qatar Tourism is expanding Qatar's presence globally and enhancing the tourism sector.
Web: www.visitqatar.qa
About Raffles
Founded in Singapore in 1887, Raffles Hotels & Resorts is where heritage meets modern hotelcraft. Raffles hotels, resorts, and residences are places where ideas are born, history is made and stories and legends are created. At landmark addresses around the world, Raffles' well-travelled guests and residents enjoy experiences that are culturally enriching, intellectually stimulating and always respectful of local communities, heritage and the environment. From one generation to the next, visitors arrive as guests, leave as friends, and return as family. Raffles can be found in key international locations including Singapore, Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Doha, Maldives, Udaipur, Phnom Penh, and Bali; with flagship openings upcoming in London, Boston and Macau. Progressively shaping the future of luxury hospitality as part of Accor, Raffles benefits from a world-class infrastructure and is a participating brand in the Group's lifestyle loyalty and guest recognition programme, ALL - Accor Live Limitless.
raffles.com | all.accor.com | group.accor.com
About Fairmont
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is where the intimate equally coexists with the infinite – an unrivalled portfolio of more than 90 extraordinary hotels where grand moments of life, heartfelt pleasures and personal milestones are celebrated and remembered long after any visit. Since 1907, Fairmont has created magnificent, meaningful and unforgettable hotels, rich with character and deeply connected to the history, culture and community of its destinations – places such as The Plaza in New York City, The Savoy in London, Fairmont San Francisco, Fairmont Banff Springs in Canada, Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, and Fairmont The Palm in Dubai. Famous for its engaging service, awe-inspiring public spaces, locally inspired cuisine, and iconic bars and lounges, Fairmont also takes great pride in its pioneering approach to hospitality and leadership in sustainability and responsible tourism practices. Fairmont is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,400 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL - Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.
fairmont.com | all.accor.com | group.accor.com
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SOURCE Raffles Doha and Fairmont Doha | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/record-set-qatar-worlds-longest-led-slackline-walk/ | 2023-07-30T10:51:59 | 1 | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/record-set-qatar-worlds-longest-led-slackline-walk/ |
No. 16 - CNM LLP
6320 Canoga Ave. Suite 150, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 46
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 70
- Total number of employees: 117
Headquarters: Los Angeles
Year established: 2003
Offices firmwide: 5
Accounting services offered: Audit, Advisory, M&A, Internal Audit, Business Transformation Services, Cybersecurity & Privacy Advisory, Data Analytics & Process Automation Services, Enterprise Risk Management, Public Company Readiness
Industries served: Entertainment, Financial, Healthcare, Hospitality, Legal, Manufacturing, Real Estate, Retail, Tech
Top Local Executive: Nathan Matthews, Founder & Executive Chair | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-16-cnm-llp | 2023-07-30T10:52:05 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-16-cnm-llp |
No. 18 - Crowe LLP
801 S. Figueroa St. Suite 1750, Los Angeles, CA 90017
21700 Oxnard St. Suite 1800, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 40
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 162
- Total number of employees: 178
Headquarters: Chicago
Year established: 1942
Offices firmwide: 40
Accounting services offered: Audit, Tax, Advisory, M&A, Internal Audit
Industries served: Financial, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Nonprofit, Real Estate, Retail, Tech
Top Local Executive: Mark S. Demos, Office Managing Partner | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-18-crowe-llp | 2023-07-30T10:52:11 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-18-crowe-llp |
No. 20 - PDM LLP
3460 Torrance Blvd. Suite 200, Torrance, CA 90503
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 33
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 40
- Total number of employees: 49
Headquarters: Torrance
Year established: 1988
Offices firmwide: 1
Accounting services offered: Audit, Tax, M&A, Estate Planning
Industries served: Hospitality, Manufacturing, Nonprofit, Real Estate, Retail,, Construction, Cannabis Related Businesses
Top Local Executive: Hank Parker, Executive Partner | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-20-pdm-llp | 2023-07-30T10:52:17 | 0 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-20-pdm-llp |
No. 22 - H&B (Hutchinson and Bloodgood LLP)
550 N. Brand Blvd. 14th Floor, Glendale, CA 91203
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 30
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 40
- Total number of employees: 55
Headquarters: N/A
Year established: 1922
Offices firmwide: 5
Accounting services offered: Audit, Tax, Advisory, Business Management, Internal Audit, Estate Planning, It Consulting, Cost Segregation
Industries served: Entertainment, Financial, Healthcare, Hospitality, Legal, Manufacturing, Nonprofit, Real Estate, Retail, Construction, Wholesale Distribution, Financial Services
Top Local Executive: Luba Kvitchko, Partner | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-22-h-b-hutchinson-and-bloodgood-llp | 2023-07-30T10:52:23 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-22-h-b-hutchinson-and-bloodgood-llp |
No. 23 - MGO CPA
2121 Avenue of the Stars Suite 2200, Los Angeles, CA 90067
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 24
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 96
- Total number of employees:
Headquarters: Walnut Creek
Year established: 1983
Offices firmwide: 15
Accounting services offered: Audit, Tax, Advisory, Business Management, M&A, Internal Audit, Estate Planning
Industries served: Entertainment, Financial, Healthcare, Hospitality, Legal, Manufacturing, Nonprofit, Real Estate, Retail, Tech, Cannabis, Tribal
Top Local Executive: Jerome Vermeulen, Partner | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-23-mgo-cpa | 2023-07-30T10:52:29 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-23-mgo-cpa |
THE HAGUE, Netherlands — (AP) — High winds blowing across the North Sea are delaying efforts to tow a burning cargo ship loaded with thousands of new cars to safety off the Dutch coast, the government said Sunday.
The Fremantle Highway was unlikely to be moved Sunday because of the southwesterly wind, according to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.
“The wind will continue to blow from the southwest for the next few days. The towing of the Fremantle Highway to the new temporary location may therefore still take several days to start,” the ministry said in an update Saturday night.
“The smoke from the fire and the wind direction mean that during the towing operation of the ship smoke is blowing over the tugboat,” it added.
Salvage crews on Saturday attached a second towing cable to the ship, which is transporting 3,783 new vehicles, including 498 electric vehicles, from the German port of Bremerhaven to Singapore. The salvage teams ultimately want to tow the stricken ship to a port but it is not yet clear where or when that will happen.
The ship has been burning since Tuesday. Firefighters decided not to douse the flames with water for fear of making the nearly 200-meters (219-yard) ship unstable as it floats close to North Sea shipping lanes and a world-renowned migratory bird habitat.
One crew member died and others were injured after the fire broke out. The crew was evacuated in the early hours of Wednesday.
The cause of the fire has not been determined.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://www.wpxi.com/news/high-winds-stall/75PUMTQSK7BBOTAUSRLKFXPOUU/ | 2023-07-30T10:52:31 | 0 | https://www.wpxi.com/news/high-winds-stall/75PUMTQSK7BBOTAUSRLKFXPOUU/ |
No. 24 - Kallman + Logan and Co. LLP
125 S. Barrington Place, Los Angeles, CA 90049
15206 Ventura Blvd. Suite 308, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 23
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 36
- Total number of employees: 42
Headquarters: Los Angeles
Year established: 1997
Offices firmwide: 2
Accounting services offered: Audit, Tax, Advisory, Business Management, M&A, Estate Planning, Litigation Support, Valuations, Trusts
Industries served: Entertainment, Manufacturing, Nonprofit, Real Estate
Top Local Executive: Frances Kallman, Managing Partner | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-24-kallman-logan-and-co-llp | 2023-07-30T10:52:36 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-24-kallman-logan-and-co-llp |
Switzerland won Group A with a 0-0 draw against New Zealand that knocked out the co-hosts thanks to Norway’s big win.
The game was not a thriller. The teams basically split possession 50-50 and there were just five combined shots on target. New Zealand had 12 shots overall knowing that it needed to do more than a draw to get to the knockout rounds.
Switzerland is through to the FIFA Women's World Cup Round of 16 🇨🇭
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 30, 2023
Rewatch La Nati claim the top spot in Group A in our 90' in 90" ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/8mk7xOSCxN
Switzerland entered the match with four points while New Zealand had three. Switzerland knew that it could win the group no matter what with a tie and was determined to get that result.
New Zealand was knocked out of the World Cup on goal difference. The co-hosts ended up with an even goal difference after a 1-0 win over Norway and a 1-0 loss to the Philippines. Norway’s goal difference ended up at +5 after its thrashing of the Philippines.
Norway 6, Philippines 0
Norway got the big win it needed against the Philippines as it routed the Philippines 6-0 to advance to the knockout rounds of the World Cup.
Norway entered Sunday’s match in last place in Group A with just a single point from two games. The onslaught began early for the Norwegians as Sophie Roman Haug scored twice in the first 17 minutes.
Another deep cross from the right and another Sophie Román Haug goal, this time from her head!
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 30, 2023
Norway is taking full command in Auckland 🇳🇴 pic.twitter.com/Ze61z00gi2
Caroline Graham Hansen added a goal from outside the box in the 31st minute and goals by Alicia Barker and Guro Reiten within the first 10 minutes of the second half made it clear that Norway was going to advance.
Just take a look at Graham Hansen's goal.
If you give Caroline Graham Hansen space, she will make you pay! 👏 pic.twitter.com/v3ge2tJQ2o
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 30, 2023
Roman Haug completed her hat trick five minutes into added time in the second half.
The loss ends Philippines’ first World Cup on a sour note. The country had a chance to advance with a draw and would have guaranteed a spot in the knockout rounds with a win thanks to a win over New Zealand earlier in the tournament. But Norway — one of the pre-tournament favorites — just proved to be too much.
Morocco 1, South Korea 0
Morocco became the latest country to snag its first-ever Women’s World Cup win with a surprise 1-0 win over South Korea early Sunday morning.
Morocco's goal came early as Ibtissam Jraïdi scored in the sixth minute as she became the first player to ever score for her country in the Women's World Cup.
A HISTORIC MOMENT FOR MOROCCO!
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 30, 2023
IBTISSAM JRAÏDI’S FIRST-HALF GOAL SECURES MOROCCO'S FIRST-EVER WIN AT A FIFA WOMEN'S WORLD CUP 🇲🇦 pic.twitter.com/mJAIJpmMQx
The Moroccans then held on from there as South Korea pushed forward. South Korea had 16 total shots and controlled the ball but couldn’t put a single one of those attempts on frame.
The victory gives Morocco a fighting chance of advancing out of Group H despite a -5 goal differential through two games after a 6-0 loss to Germany to open the World Cup. The exact scenario for Morocco’s advancement will be known after the conclusion of Germany’s game against Colombia. | https://www.wpxi.com/news/national/womens-world-cup-day/7LG7A6J7KWJYEXWTL4KBUST5VE/ | 2023-07-30T10:52:37 | 1 | https://www.wpxi.com/news/national/womens-world-cup-day/7LG7A6J7KWJYEXWTL4KBUST5VE/ |
THE HAGUE – High winds blowing across the North Sea are delaying efforts to tow a burning cargo ship loaded with thousands of new cars to safety off the Dutch coast, the government said Sunday.
The Fremantle Highway was unlikely to be moved Sunday because of the southwesterly wind, according to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.
“The wind will continue to blow from the southwest for the next few days. The towing of the Fremantle Highway to the new temporary location may therefore still take several days to start,” the ministry said in an update Saturday night.
“The smoke from the fire and the wind direction mean that during the towing operation of the ship smoke is blowing over the tugboat,” it added.
Salvage crews on Saturday attached a second towing cable to the ship, which is transporting 3,783 new vehicles, including 498 electric vehicles, from the German port of Bremerhaven to Singapore. The salvage teams ultimately want to tow the stricken ship to a port but it is not yet clear where or when that will happen.
The ship has been burning since Tuesday. Firefighters decided not to douse the flames with water for fear of making the nearly 200-meters (219-yard) ship unstable as it floats close to North Sea shipping lanes and a world-renowned migratory bird habitat.
One crew member died and others were injured after the fire broke out. The crew was evacuated in the early hours of Wednesday.
The cause of the fire has not been determined. | https://www.clickorlando.com/business/2023/07/30/high-winds-stall-efforts-to-tow-a-burning-cargo-ship-packed-with-cars-off-northern-dutch-coast/ | 2023-07-30T10:52:41 | 0 | https://www.clickorlando.com/business/2023/07/30/high-winds-stall-efforts-to-tow-a-burning-cargo-ship-packed-with-cars-off-northern-dutch-coast/ |
No. 25 - Withum
16830 Ventura Blvd. Suite 501, Encino, CA 91436
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 21
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 43
- Total number of employees: 54
Headquarters: Princeton, N.J.
Year established: 1974
Offices firmwide: 24
Accounting services offered: Audit, Tax, Advisory, M&A, Internal Audit, Estate Planning
Industries served: Entertainment, Financial, Healthcare, Hospitality, Legal, Manufacturing, Nonprofit, Real Estate, Retail, Tech, Please Visit Our Website For A Full List.
Top Local Executive: Christopher L. Passmore, Partner in Charge, Encino Office | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-25-withum | 2023-07-30T10:52:42 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-25-withum |
BEIRUT — (AP) — Overnight clashes Sunday in Lebanon's largest Palestinian refugee camp near the southern port city of Sidon left 1 dead and 6 others wounded, Palestinian officials said.
The clashes took place as Palestinian factions in Ein el-Hilweh cracked down on militant Islamist groups and fugitives seeking shelter in the camp's overcrowded neighborhoods. In 2017, Palestinian factions engaged in almost a week of fierce clashes with a militant organization affiliated with the extremist Islamic State group.
The Palestinian officials, speaking to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity in line with regulations, said the clashes broke out after an unknown gunman tried to assassinate Islamist militant Mahmoud Khalil, killing a companion of his instead.
According to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency, six people were wounded in the clashes, including two children.
Factions used assault rifles and rocket-propelled grenade launchers in the overcrowded camp, as ambulances zoomed through its narrow streets to take the wounded to the hospital.
The clashes have mostly stopped, though state media said there was still sporadic sniper fire.
Several residents fled the crossfire to nearby neighborhoods in the camp.
Ein el-Hilweh is notorious for its lawlessness and clashes are not uncommon. The U.N. says it is home to some 55,000 people.
It was established in 1948 to host Palestinians displaced by Israeli forces during the establishment of Israel.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://www.wpxi.com/news/world/1-killed-6-wounded/32UW322SNEN5NEBNQH34UNJFC4/ | 2023-07-30T10:52:44 | 1 | https://www.wpxi.com/news/world/1-killed-6-wounded/32UW322SNEN5NEBNQH34UNJFC4/ |
NIAMEY – Thousands of supporters of the junta that took over Niger in a coup earlier this week marched through the streets of the capital, Niamey, on Sunday waving Russian flags, chanting the name of the Russian president and forcefully denouncing former colonial power France.
Russian mercenary group Wagner is already operating in neighboring Mali, and Russian President Vladimir Putin would like to expand his country's influence in the region, but it is unclear yet whether the new junta leaders are going to move toward Moscow or stick with Niger's Western partners.
Days after after mutinous soldiers ousted Niger's democratically elected president, uncertainty is mounting about the country's future and some are calling out the junta's reasons for seizing control.
The mutineers said they overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum, who was elected two years ago in Niger’s first peaceful, democratic transfer of power since independence from France, because he wasn't able to secure the nation from growing jihadi violence. But some analysts and Nigeriens say that's just a pretext for a takeover that is more about internal power struggles than securing the nation.
“Everybody is wondering why this coup? That’s because no one was expecting it. We couldn’t expect a coup in Niger because there’s no social, political or security situation that would justify that the military take the power,” Prof. Amad Hassane Boubacar, who teaches at the University of Niamey, told The Associated Press.
He said Bazoum wanted to replace the head of the presidential guard, Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, who also goes by Omar and is now in charge of the country. Tchiani was loyal to Bazoum's predecessor and that sparked the problems, Boubacar said. The AP cannot independently verify his assessment.
While Niger's security situation is dire, it's not as bad as neighboring Burkina Faso or Mali, which have also have been battling an Islamic insurgency linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group. Last year Niger was the only one of the three to see a decline in violence, according to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project.
Niger until now has been seen as the last reliable partner for the West in efforts to battle the jihadists in Africa’s Sahel region, where Russia and Western countries have vied for influence in the fight against extremism. France has 1,500 soldiers in the country who conduct joint operations with the Nigeriens, and the United States and other European countries have helped train the nation’s troops.
Some taking part in Sunday's rally also warned regional bodies who have denounced the coup to stay away. “I would like also to say to the European Union, African Union and ECOWAS, please please stay out of our business,” said Oumar Barou Moussa who was at the demonstration.
“It’s time for us to take our lives, to work for ourselves. It’s time for us to talk about our freedom and liberty. We need to stay together, we need to work together, we need to have our true independence," he said.
Conflict experts say out of all the countries in the region, Niger has the most at stake if it turns away from the West, given the millions of dollars of military assistance the international community has poured in. On Saturday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the continued security and economic arrangements that Niger has with the U.S. hinged on the release of Bazoum — who remains under house arrest — and “the immediate restoration of the democratic order in Niger.”
France on Saturday suspended all development aid and other financial aid for Niger, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. “France demands an immediate return to constitutional order under President Mohamed Bazoum, who was elected by the Nigeriens,” it said.
The African Union has issued a 15-day ultimatum to the junta in Niger to reinstall the country’s democratically elected government. On Sunday, the West African regional bloc, known as ECOWAS, is holding an emergency summit in Abuja, Nigeria.
However, in a televised address Saturday, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Toumba, one of the soldiers who ousted Bazoum, accused the meeting of making a “plan of aggression” against Niger and said it would defend itself.
Niger experts say it's too soon to know how things will play out.
“Tensions with the military are still ongoing. There could be another coup after this one, or a stronger intervention from ECOWAS, potentially military force, even if it is difficult to foresee how specifically that may happen and what form that may take,” said Tatiana Smirnova, a researcher at the Centre FrancoPaix in conflict resolution and peace missions.
“Many actors are also trying to negotiate, but the outcome is unclear,” she said.
___
Associated Press reporter Angela Charlton in Paris contributed | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/world/2023/07/30/as-regional-and-global-powers-decry-nigers-coup-the-countrys-future-remains-uncertain/ | 2023-07-30T10:52:48 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/world/2023/07/30/as-regional-and-global-powers-decry-nigers-coup-the-countrys-future-remains-uncertain/ |
No. 27 - Gerber & Co LLP
1880 Century Park East Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA 90067
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 18
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 40
- Total number of employees: 11
Headquarters: Los Angeles
Year established: 1986
Offices firmwide: 2
Accounting services offered: Audit, Tax, Business Management, International Tax Planning & Compliance, Financial Planning
Industries served: Entertainment, Financial, Healthcare, Legal, Nonprofit, Real Estate
Top Local Executive: Selwyn Gerber, Founding Partner | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-27-gerber-co-llp | 2023-07-30T10:52:48 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-27-gerber-co-llp |
Saints Odds to Make Playoffs and Win Super Bowl
At +4000, the New Orleans Saints are No. 15 in the league in terms of Super Bowl-winning odds as of December 31.
Watch the Saints this season on Fubo!
Saints Super Bowl Odds
- Odds to Win the NFC South: +125
- Odds to Win the Super Bowl: +4000
Looking to place a futures bet on the Saints to win the Super Bowl this season? Head to BetMGM using our link and enter the bonus code "GNPLAY" for special offers!
New Orleans Betting Insights
- New Orleans covered six times in 17 chances against the spread last season.
- The Saints and their opponents combined to go over the point total six out of 17 times last season.
- On the defensive side of the ball, New Orleans was a top-five unit last season, ranking fifth-best by surrendering only 314.8 yards per game. It ranked 19th on offense (333.8 yards per game).
- The Saints posted four wins at home last season and three away.
- New Orleans picked up four wins as the favorite in six games last season, and was victorious twice (in 10 opportunities) as an underdog.
- In the NFC South the Saints won only two games (2-4), and in the conference as a whole they went 5-7.
Saints Impact Players
- Derek Carr passed for 3,522 yards (234.8 per game), completing 60.8% of his passes, with 24 touchdowns and 14 interceptions in 15 games with the Raiders last year.
- Jamaal Williams rushed for 1,066 yards (62.7 per game) and 17 touchdowns in 17 games for the Lions last season.
- Alvin Kamara ran for 897 yards (59.8 per game) and two touchdowns in 15 games a season ago.
- In the passing game, Taysom Hill scored two TDs, hauling in nine balls for 77 yards (4.8 per game).
- In 17 games last year, Demario Davis posted 6.5 sacks to go with 9.0 TFL, 109 tackles, and one interception.
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2023-24 Saints NFL Schedule
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© 2023 Data Skrive. All rights reserved. | https://www.kalb.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/saints-nfl-playoffs-super-bowl-odds/ | 2023-07-30T10:52:49 | 0 | https://www.kalb.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/saints-nfl-playoffs-super-bowl-odds/ |
Three Ukrainian drones attacked Moscow in the early hours on Sunday, Russian authorities said, injuring one person and prompting a temporary closure of traffic in and out of one of four airports around the Russian capital.
It was the fourth such attempt at a strike on the capital region this month and the third this week, fueling concerns about Moscow’s vulnerability to attacks as Russia's war in Ukraine drags into its 18th month.
The Russian Defense Ministry referred to the incident as an “attempted terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime" and said three drones targeted the city. One was shot down in the surrounding Moscow region by air defense systems and two others were jammed. Those two crashed into the Moscow City business district.
Photos from the site of the crash showed the facade of a skyscraper damaged on one floor. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the attack “insignificantly damaged” the outsides of two buildings in the Moscow City district. A security guard was injured, Russia's state news agency Tass reported, citing emergency officials.
No flights went into or out of Vnukovo airport on the southern outskirts of the city for about an hour, according to Tass, and the airspace over Moscow and the outlying regions was temporarily closed to all aircraft. Those restrictions have since been lifted.
Moscow authorities have also closed a street to traffic near the site of the crash in the Moscow City area.
There was no immediate comment from Ukrainian officials, who rarely if ever take responsibility for attacks on Russian soil.
The attack follows a night of reported drone skirmishes between Russia and Ukraine. Moscow announced Sunday that it had foiled a Ukrainian attack on Russian-annexed Crimea, shooting down 16 drones and neutralizing eight more with an electronic jamming system. There were no casualties, officials said.
The Ukrainian air force reported that it had destroyed four Russian drones above the country’s Kherson and Dnipropetrovsk regions. Information on the attacks could not be independently verified.
Meanwhile, two people were killed and 20 wounded by a Russian missile strike late Saturday evening on the city of Sumy in northeast Ukraine. A four-story building belonging to a vocational college was hit, the Ukrainian Interior Ministry said. Local authorities said that dormitories and teaching buildings were damaged in the blast and the fire that followed.
Russia's Defense Ministry reported shooting down a Ukrainian drone outside Moscow on Friday. Four days earlier, two drones struck the Russian capital, one of them falling in the center of the city near the Defense Ministry's headquarters along the Moscow River about 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the Kremlin. The other drone hit an office building in southern Moscow, gutting several upper floors.
In another attack on July 4, the Russian military said four drones were downed by air defenses on the outskirts of Moscow and a fifth was jammed by electronic warfare means and forced down.
___
Follow AP's coverage of the war in Ukraine: https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://www.wpxi.com/news/world/an-overnight-drone/X4DFIFNU2QAKBKEMLVU3O6VE4Y/ | 2023-07-30T10:52:51 | 0 | https://www.wpxi.com/news/world/an-overnight-drone/X4DFIFNU2QAKBKEMLVU3O6VE4Y/ |
BANGUI – The Central African Republic went to the polls Sunday in a highly anticipated vote on a new constitution, which would remove presidential term limits.
President Faustin Archange Touadera wants to extend presidential terms from five to seven years and remove the previous two-term limit, enabling him to run again in 2025.
The new constitution would replace the one adopted at Touadera’s inauguration in 2016, when the country was in a civil war and 80% of it was not under state control. If the new constitution is passed, it could entrench the ruling party’s power indefinitely, analysts say.
“This referendum basically confirms the fears of authoritarian drift (in CAR),” said Enrica Picco, Central Africa project director with the International Crisis Group. The new constitution would weaken checks on the executive by opposition parties, closing the space for Central Africans to participate in democratic decision-making, she said.
The proposed changes also would lift requirements that executive decisions be debated by the legislative and permit Central Africans with dual nationalities to vote.
The mineral-rich but impoverished nation has faced intercommunal fighting since 2013, when predominantly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power and forced then-President Francois Bozize from office. Mostly Christian militias later fought back, also targeting civilians in the streets. The United Nations, which has a peacekeeping mission in the country, estimates the fighting had killed thousands and displaced over a million people, one fifth of the country’s population.
When Touadera won re-election in 2020, barely a third of Central Africans made it to the polls, largely due to threats of violence by rebel groups. Touadera’s government has relied on support from UN peacekeepers, soldiers from neighboring Rwanda and Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group to keep rebels out of the capital Bangui.
“Now that there is peace … the time has come for us to take action,” said Fidel Gouandjika, a presidential advisor.
Opposition groups accuse the ruling party of making a draft of the new constitution publicly available too late for people to make informed decisions, less than three weeks before the referendum, said Picco.
Together with opposition parties they are calling on Central Africans to vote against the proposed constitution, or abstain from the referendum.
“Touadera wants to see himself as an emperor, and he wants to make our country what he wants, not what Central Africans want,” said former Prime Minister Nicolas Tiangaye. | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/world/2023/07/30/constitutional-referendum-to-remove-presidential-term-limits-divides-central-african-republic/ | 2023-07-30T10:52:54 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/news/world/2023/07/30/constitutional-referendum-to-remove-presidential-term-limits-divides-central-african-republic/ |
No. 28 - Duffy Kruspodin LLP
21600 W. Oxnard St. Suite 2000, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
9171 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 555, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 16
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 41
- Total number of employees: 68
Headquarters: Woodland Hills
Year established: 1990
Offices firmwide: 3
Accounting services offered: Audit, Tax, Advisory, Business Management, M&A, Estate Planning, Forensic Accounting, Valuation, Wealth Management
Industries served: Entertainment, Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, Nonprofit, Real Estate
Top Local Executive: Mark Kruspodin, Managing Partner | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-28-duffy-kruspodin-llp | 2023-07-30T10:52:54 | 0 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-28-duffy-kruspodin-llp |
How to Watch the WNBA on Sunday: TV Channel, Game Times and Odds
Today's WNBA slate has lots in store. Among those six games is the Minnesota Lynx taking on the Connecticut Sun.
Catch live WNBA games, plus tons of other sports and shows, with a free trial to Fubo!
Today's WNBA Games
The Connecticut Sun take on the Minnesota Lynx
The Lynx look to pull off an away win at the Sun on Sunday at 1:00 PM ET.
How to Watch
- TV Channel: CBS Sports Network
- Stream Live: Fubo (regional restrictions may apply)
- Game Time: 1:00 PM ET
Records and Stats
- CON Record: 18-6
- MIN Record: 12-13
- CON Stats: 84.0 PPG (fifth in WNBA), 78.6 Opp. PPG (first)
- MIN Stats: 80.2 PPG (eighth in WNBA), 85.4 Opp. PPG (10th)
Players to Watch
- CON Key Player: Alyssa Thomas (14.5 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 8.0 APG)
- MIN Key Player: Kayla McBride (12.6 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 1.8 APG)
Vegas Odds and Betting Lines
- Spread: -11.5
- CON Odds to Win: -818
- MIN Odds to Win: +525
- Total: 159.5 points
The Atlanta Dream host the Washington Mystics
The Mystics travel to face the Dream on Sunday at 3:00 PM ET.
How to Watch
- TV Channel: Bally Sports
- Stream Live: Fubo (regional restrictions may apply)
- Game Time: 3:00 PM ET
Records and Stats
- ATL Record: 13-11
- WAS Record: 12-12
- ATL Stats: 85.0 PPG (fourth in WNBA), 85.1 Opp. PPG (ninth)
- WAS Stats: 81.1 PPG (seventh in WNBA), 80.3 Opp. PPG (third)
Players to Watch
- ATL Key Player: Rhyne Howard (18.2 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 3.4 APG)
- WAS Key Player: Brittney Sykes (14.1 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 3.6 APG)
Vegas Odds and Betting Lines
- Spread: -6.5
- ATL Odds to Win: -250
- WAS Odds to Win: +197
- Total: 164.5 points
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The Los Angeles Sparks take on the New York Liberty
The Liberty hit the road the Sparks on Sunday at 4:00 PM ET.
How to Watch
Records and Stats
- LAS Record: 9-15
- NYL Record: 18-6
- LAS Stats: 78.5 PPG (ninth in WNBA), 81.7 Opp. PPG (fourth)
- NYL Stats: 88.7 PPG (second in WNBA), 82.7 Opp. PPG (seventh)
Players to Watch
- LAS Key Player: Nneka Ogwumike (20.3 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 2.7 APG)
- NYL Key Player: Breanna Stewart (23.1 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 3.7 APG)
Vegas Odds and Betting Lines
- Spread: -9
- NYL Odds to Win: -503
- LAS Odds to Win: +373
- Total: 167 points
The Indiana Fever face the Seattle Storm
The Storm hope to pick up a road win at the Fever on Sunday at 4:00 PM ET.
How to Watch
Records and Stats
- IND Record: 6-18
- SEA Record: 5-19
- IND Stats: 81.4 PPG (sixth in WNBA), 85.7 Opp. PPG (11th)
- SEA Stats: 78.5 PPG (ninth in WNBA), 85.7 Opp. PPG (11th)
Players to Watch
- IND Key Player: Aliyah Boston (14.4 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 2.2 APG)
- SEA Key Player: Jewell Loyd (24.2 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 3.5 APG)
Vegas Odds and Betting Lines
- Spread: -3.5
- IND Odds to Win: -161
- SEA Odds to Win: +133
- Total: 164.5 points
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The Chicago Sky host the Phoenix Mercury
The Mercury go on the road to face the Sky on Sunday at 4:00 PM ET.
How to Watch
- TV Channel: ESPN3 and AZFamily
- Game Time: 4:00 PM ET
Records and Stats
- CHI Record: 9-15
- PHO Record: 6-17
- CHI Stats: 78.1 PPG (11th in WNBA), 82.5 Opp. PPG (sixth)
- PHO Stats: 75.8 PPG (12th in WNBA), 83.5 Opp. PPG (eighth)
Players to Watch
- CHI Key Player: Courtney Williams (9.2 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 6.0 APG)
- PHO Key Player: Brittney Griner (18.2 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 2.0 APG)
Vegas Odds and Betting Lines
- Spread: -7
- CHI Odds to Win: -285
- PHO Odds to Win: +228
- Total: 156 points
The Las Vegas Aces take on the Dallas Wings
The Wings hit the road the Aces on Sunday at 6:00 PM ET.
How to Watch
- TV Channel: CBS Sports Network
- Stream Live: Fubo (regional restrictions may apply)
- Game Time: 6:00 PM ET
Records and Stats
- LVA Record: 22-2
- DAL Record: 14-10
- LVA Stats: 94.1 PPG (first in WNBA), 78.7 Opp. PPG (second)
- DAL Stats: 86.0 PPG (third in WNBA), 81.7 Opp. PPG (fourth)
Players to Watch
- LVA Key Player: A'ja Wilson (20.8 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 2.0 APG)
- DAL Key Player: Satou Sabally (17.6 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 4.0 APG)
Vegas Odds and Betting Lines
- Spread: -10
- LVA Odds to Win: -653
- DAL Odds to Win: +462
- Total: 173.5 points
See links for offer details, offers not available in all states and areas. Must be 21+ to gamble. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, contact 1-800-GAMBLER.
© 2023 Data Skrive. All rights reserved. | https://www.kalb.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/wnba-odds-how-to-watch/ | 2023-07-30T10:52:56 | 1 | https://www.kalb.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/wnba-odds-how-to-watch/ |
BANGUI, Central African Republic — (AP) — The Central African Republic went to the polls Sunday in a highly anticipated vote on a new constitution, which would remove presidential term limits.
President Faustin Archange Touadera wants to extend presidential terms from five to seven years and remove the previous two-term limit, enabling him to run again in 2025.
The new constitution would replace the one adopted at Touadera’s inauguration in 2016, when the country was in a civil war and 80% of it was not under state control. If the new constitution is passed, it could entrench the ruling party’s power indefinitely, analysts say.
“This referendum basically confirms the fears of authoritarian drift (in CAR),” said Enrica Picco, Central Africa project director with the International Crisis Group. The new constitution would weaken checks on the executive by opposition parties, closing the space for Central Africans to participate in democratic decision-making, she said.
The proposed changes also would lift requirements that executive decisions be debated by the legislative and permit Central Africans with dual nationalities to vote.
The mineral-rich but impoverished nation has faced intercommunal fighting since 2013, when predominantly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power and forced then-President Francois Bozize from office. Mostly Christian militias later fought back, also targeting civilians in the streets. The United Nations, which has a peacekeeping mission in the country, estimates the fighting had killed thousands and displaced over a million people, one fifth of the country’s population.
When Touadera won re-election in 2020, barely a third of Central Africans made it to the polls, largely due to threats of violence by rebel groups. Touadera’s government has relied on support from UN peacekeepers, soldiers from neighboring Rwanda and Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group to keep rebels out of the capital Bangui.
“Now that there is peace … the time has come for us to take action,” said Fidel Gouandjika, a presidential advisor.
Opposition groups accuse the ruling party of making a draft of the new constitution publicly available too late for people to make informed decisions, less than three weeks before the referendum, said Picco.
Together with opposition parties they are calling on Central Africans to vote against the proposed constitution, or abstain from the referendum.
“Touadera wants to see himself as an emperor, and he wants to make our country what he wants, not what Central Africans want,” said former Prime Minister Nicolas Tiangaye.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://www.wpxi.com/news/world/constitutional/FG6CDRMDTZ6R3P6CBXHHKFDW2Q/ | 2023-07-30T10:52:57 | 1 | https://www.wpxi.com/news/world/constitutional/FG6CDRMDTZ6R3P6CBXHHKFDW2Q/ |
No. 29 - Sobul, Primes & Schenkel
12100 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 1150, Los Angeles, CA 90025
15060 Ventura Blvd. Suite 400, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 12
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): NA
- Total number of employees: 37
Headquarters: Los Angeles
Year established: 1981
Offices firmwide: 2
Accounting services offered: Tax, Advisory, Business Management, M&A, Estate Planning
Industries served: Entertainment, Financial, Healthcare, Legal, Manufacturing, Real Estate, Retail, Tech, High Net Worth Individuals
Top Local Executive: Rick Schenkel, Managing Shareholder | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-29-sobul-primes-schenkel | 2023-07-30T10:53:00 | 1 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-29-sobul-primes-schenkel |
DUNEDIN – New Zealand outshot Switzerland and even moved goalkeeper Victoria Esson into an attack position several times, but failed to break a 0-0 tie Sunday in the Women’s World Cup and became the first host nation to be eliminated in group play in tournament history.
The Football Ferns are co-hosting the World Cup with Australia, which must win Monday against Canada to avoid its own early elimination.
Switzerland advanced to the round of 16. The Swiss also played to a scoreless draw against Norway, but won the group with the draw against New Zealand, coupled with the Norwegians' simultaneous 6-0 rout of the Philippines.
New Zealand controlled the pace for long stretches of the match and had its chances to score, outshooting Switzerland 12-3. Jacqui Hand knocked a shot off the right post in the 24th minute.
All 25,947 seats at Forsyth Barr Stadiums were filled — the only one of Dunedin’s six tournament matches to sell out. The raucous crowd stomped and cheered all night, to no avail.
The tournament began July 20 with New Zealand upsetting Norway 1-0, but the Ferns failed to score from the 48th minute of that match through two more games. They lost their previous match 1-0 against the Philippines.
KEY MOMENTS
Esson moved into an offensive position several times in the last minutes of the match as New Zealand pressed for a winner. She managed a header off a corner kick but was off target.
WHY IT MATTERS
Switzerland becomes one of two teams from Group A to advance to the round of 16. It’s only the team’s second time in the knockout round — the first was in the Swiss' only previous Women’s World Cup in 2015.
The New Zealanders’ failure to score put an end to their Women’s World Cup run.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
“Just gutted, I think. Obviously we talked and we were proud of ourselves and what we’ve been able to accomplish, but at the end of the day we wanted to get out of this group stage and we just didn’t. It’s just black and white. So, obviously gutted,” said New Zealand midfielder Malia Steinmetz of the elimination.
“We expected it to be really tough. New Zealand really tried everything they could, and I think we knew how to respond, especially defensively. We did a lot right," said Inka Grings, Switzerland's coach.
WHAT’S NEXT
Switzerland will play either Spain or Japan from Group C, pending a match between those teams on Monday to decide the top two places in that group.
New Zealand is done for the Women's World Cup.
__
Ellen McIntyre is a student in the John Curley Center for Sports Journalism at Penn State.
—-
AP Women’s World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-womens-world-cup and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://www.clickorlando.com/sports/2023/07/30/new-zealand-out-of-womens-world-cup-following-0-0-draw-with-switzerland-as-swiss-advance/ | 2023-07-30T10:53:00 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/sports/2023/07/30/new-zealand-out-of-womens-world-cup-following-0-0-draw-with-switzerland-as-swiss-advance/ |
CAIRO — (AP) — Palestinian factions were meeting Sunday in Egypt to discuss reconciliation efforts as violence in the occupied West Bank surged between Israel and Palestinian militants.
The main groups, Hamas and Fatah, have been split since 2007. With repeated reconciliation attempts having failed, expectations for the one-day meeting are low. According to the official Palestinian news agency Wafa, the gathering in the Egyptian city of el-Alamein on the Mediterranean Sea will discuss “ways to restore national unity and end the division."
The meeting comes amid soaring violence in the West Bank, where Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and his Fatah group are based and exert limited self-rule. Israel has been staging near-nightly raids in Palestinian areas of the territory in what it says is an attempt to stamp out militancy, especially in areas where Abbas' security forces have less of a foothold.
Those raids have led to some of the worst fighting in nearly two decades in the West Bank. Palestinians also say the Israeli raids undermine their own security forces and weaken their leadership.
The meeting in Egypt is chaired and initiated by Abbas, presents the aging and longtime Palestinian leader with a chance to portray an image of control and statesmanship to both Palestinians and the international community at a time when he is deeply unpopular at home and his room for maneuver is constrained by the Israeli incursions.
The meeting is being attended by other Palestinian leaders including Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas. the militant group which rules the Gaza Strip. Fatah and Hamas have been rivals since Hamas violently routed forces loyal to Abbas in Gaza in 2007, taking over the impoverished coastal enclave. Israel and Egypt have imposed a blockade on the territory.
For Hamas, joining the meeting is an opportunity to show Gazans that it is making an effort to mend the rift, even if nothing changes as a result.
Another key group playing a central role in the fighting with Israel, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, boycotted the gathering to protest the detentions by the Palestinian Authority of its members, according to the group's leader, Ziyad al-Nakhala.
Egypt has for years acted as a mediator to try to end the infighting between Palestinian factions. It also helped broker truces in multiple rounds of fighting between Israel and Hamas.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://www.wpxi.com/news/world/palestinian-factions/MJKX5SEPQDZHCTTFEWH2PDSTPA/ | 2023-07-30T10:53:04 | 1 | https://www.wpxi.com/news/world/palestinian-factions/MJKX5SEPQDZHCTTFEWH2PDSTPA/ |
ORLANDO, Fla. – Happy Sunday! It’ll be another hot and humid day with heat index values between 106°-110°. A heat advisory is in effect through the afternoon for East Central Florida.
There is also a Marginal Risk placed for Marion, Flagler and Northern Volusia Counties through today and tonight.
A few storms could get strong to severe producing heavy rain which may lead to localized street flooding, frequent lightning, strong wind gusts between 40-50 mph and a brief spin up possible.
Showers and storms are expected to fire up around 2 p.m lasting through midnight tonight.
Monday it’ll be another hot and humid day with highs in the middle 90s. Heat index values are expected to be in the triple digits. The rain coverage remains moderate to highs at 60% with showers and storms developing around noon. Heavy downpours are possible with stronger storms.
Through the rest of the week, rain chances stay moderate to high. Highs are expected to be closer to normal in the lower 90s on Wednesday but still feeling in the triple digits. | https://www.clickorlando.com/weather/2023/07/30/a-few-storms-could-get-strong-to-severe-today/ | 2023-07-30T10:53:07 | 1 | https://www.clickorlando.com/weather/2023/07/30/a-few-storms-could-get-strong-to-severe-today/ |
No. 30 - Singer Burke Zimmer & Kogan LLP
6345 Balboa Blvd. Building 4, Suite 375, Encino, CA 91316
Headcount in Los Angeles County
- Total number of CPAs: 11
- Total number of accounting professionals (including CPAs): 27
- Total number of employees: 63
Headquarters: Encino
Year established: 1972
Offices firmwide: 1
Accounting services offered: Tax, Business Management, Estate Planning, Financial Consulting & Investment Management
Industries served: Entertainment, Financial, Healthcare, Legal, Nonprofit, Real Estate, Tech, In Addition To The Above Referenced Industries, Additional Segments Include Music, Sports, Digital Media, C-Suite Executives, Management/Production Companies, Etc.
Top Local Executive: Matthew Burke, Managing Partner | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-30-singer-burke-zimmer-kogan-llp | 2023-07-30T10:53:07 | 0 | https://www.latimes.com/top-accounting-firms-2023/no-30-singer-burke-zimmer-kogan-llp |
NIAMEY, Niger — (AP) — Thousands of supporters of the junta that took over Niger in a coup earlier this week marched through the streets of the capital, Niamey, on Sunday waving Russian flags, chanting the name of the Russian president and forcefully denouncing former colonial power France.
Russian mercenary group Wagner is already operating in neighboring Mali, and Russian President Vladimir Putin would like to expand his country's influence in the region, but it is unclear yet whether the new junta leaders are going to move toward Moscow or stick with Niger's Western partners.
Days after after mutinous soldiers ousted Niger's democratically elected president, uncertainty is mounting about the country's future and some are calling out the junta's reasons for seizing control.
The mutineers said they overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum, who was elected two years ago in Niger's first peaceful, democratic transfer of power since independence from France, because he wasn't able to secure the nation from growing jihadi violence. But some analysts and Nigeriens say that's just a pretext for a takeover that is more about internal power struggles than securing the nation.
“Everybody is wondering why this coup? That’s because no one was expecting it. We couldn’t expect a coup in Niger because there’s no social, political or security situation that would justify that the military take the power,” Prof. Amad Hassane Boubacar, who teaches at the University of Niamey, told The Associated Press.
He said Bazoum wanted to replace the head of the presidential guard, Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, who also goes by Omar and is now in charge of the country. Tchiani was loyal to Bazoum's predecessor and that sparked the problems, Boubacar said. The AP cannot independently verify his assessment.
While Niger's security situation is dire, it's not as bad as neighboring Burkina Faso or Mali, which have also have been battling an Islamic insurgency linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group. Last year Niger was the only one of the three to see a decline in violence, according to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project.
Niger until now has been seen as the last reliable partner for the West in efforts to battle the jihadists in Africa’s Sahel region, where Russia and Western countries have vied for influence in the fight against extremism. France has 1,500 soldiers in the country who conduct joint operations with the Nigeriens, and the United States and other European countries have helped train the nation’s troops.
Some taking part in Sunday's rally also warned regional bodies who have denounced the coup to stay away. “I would like also to say to the European Union, African Union and ECOWAS, please please stay out of our business,” said Oumar Barou Moussa who was at the demonstration.
“It’s time for us to take our lives, to work for ourselves. It’s time for us to talk about our freedom and liberty. We need to stay together, we need to work together, we need to have our true independence," he said.
Conflict experts say out of all the countries in the region, Niger has the most at stake if it turns away from the West, given the millions of dollars of military assistance the international community has poured in. On Saturday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the continued security and economic arrangements that Niger has with the U.S. hinged on the release of Bazoum — who remains under house arrest — and “the immediate restoration of the democratic order in Niger.”
France on Saturday suspended all development aid and other financial aid for Niger, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. “France demands an immediate return to constitutional order under President Mohamed Bazoum, who was elected by the Nigeriens,” it said.
The African Union has issued a 15-day ultimatum to the junta in Niger to reinstall the country’s democratically elected government. On Sunday, the West African regional bloc, known as ECOWAS, is holding an emergency summit in Abuja, Nigeria.
However, in a televised address Saturday, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Toumba, one of the soldiers who ousted Bazoum, accused the meeting of making a "plan of aggression" against Niger and said it would defend itself.
Niger experts say it's too soon to know how things will play out.
“Tensions with the military are still ongoing. There could be another coup after this one, or a stronger intervention from ECOWAS, potentially military force, even if it is difficult to foresee how specifically that may happen and what form that may take,” said Tatiana Smirnova, a researcher at the Centre FrancoPaix in conflict resolution and peace missions.
“Many actors are also trying to negotiate, but the outcome is unclear,” she said.
___
Associated Press reporter Angela Charlton in Paris contributed
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://www.wpxi.com/news/world/supporters-nigers/FMBBQNIM4RHXKCKEQLZHKHJ2DU/ | 2023-07-30T10:53:10 | 1 | https://www.wpxi.com/news/world/supporters-nigers/FMBBQNIM4RHXKCKEQLZHKHJ2DU/ |
DUNEDIN, New Zealand — (AP) — New Zealand outshot Switzerland and even moved goalkeeper Victoria Esson into an attack position several times, but failed to break a 0-0 tie Sunday in the Women's World Cup and became the first host nation to be eliminated in group play in tournament history.
The Football Ferns are co-hosting the World Cup with Australia, which must win Monday against Canada to avoid its own early elimination.
Switzerland advanced to the round of 16. The Swiss also played to a scoreless draw against Norway, but won the group with the draw against New Zealand, coupled with the Norwegians' simultaneous 6-0 rout of the Philippines.
New Zealand controlled the pace for long stretches of the match and had its chances to score, outshooting Switzerland 12-3. Jacqui Hand knocked a shot off the right post in the 24th minute.
All 25,947 seats at Forsyth Barr Stadiums were filled — the only one of Dunedin’s six tournament matches to sell out. The raucous crowd stomped and cheered all night, to no avail.
The tournament began July 20 with New Zealand upsetting Norway 1-0, but the Ferns failed to score from the 48th minute of that match through two more games. They lost their previous match 1-0 against the Philippines.
KEY MOMENTS
Esson moved into an offensive position several times in the last minutes of the match as New Zealand pressed for a winner. She managed a header off a corner kick but was off target.
WHY IT MATTERS
Switzerland becomes one of two teams from Group A to advance to the round of 16. It’s only the team’s second time in the knockout round — the first was in the Swiss' only previous Women’s World Cup in 2015.
The New Zealanders’ failure to score put an end to their Women’s World Cup run.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
“Just gutted, I think. Obviously we talked and we were proud of ourselves and what we’ve been able to accomplish, but at the end of the day we wanted to get out of this group stage and we just didn’t. It’s just black and white. So, obviously gutted,” said New Zealand midfielder Malia Steinmetz of the elimination.
“We expected it to be really tough. New Zealand really tried everything they could, and I think we knew how to respond, especially defensively. We did a lot right," said Inka Grings, Switzerland's coach.
WHAT’S NEXT
Switzerland will play either Spain or Japan from Group C, pending a match between those teams on Monday to decide the top two places in that group.
New Zealand is done for the Women's World Cup.
__
Ellen McIntyre is a student in the John Curley Center for Sports Journalism at Penn State.
—-
AP Women's World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-womens-world-cup and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://www.wpxi.com/sports/new-zealand-out/N7HWPWJIPWXYGODMKGNWTNCJP4/ | 2023-07-30T10:53:17 | 1 | https://www.wpxi.com/sports/new-zealand-out/N7HWPWJIPWXYGODMKGNWTNCJP4/ |
AUCKLAND, New Zealand — (AP) — Sophie Roman Haug's hat trick kick-started Norway's dormant offense and sparked a 6-0 blowout win over the Philippines on Sunday that moved the Norwegians into to the knockout stage of the Women's World Cup.
The Philippines’ debut run in the tournament came to an end as Norway scored early and often, netting three goals in the first 31 minutes.
Norway's spot in the round of 16 was secured when Switzerland and New Zealand simultaneously played to a 0-0 draw and the Norwegians. Norway and New Zealand were tied in Group A but Norway advanced on goal differential. New Zealand became the first host country to be eliminated in the group stage in tournament history.
Before the game, Norway had not scored in three consecutive Women’s World Cup matches dating to the quarterfinals of the 2019 tournament.
But Roman Haug one-timed a ball into the net in the sixth minute, and scored again 11 minutes later. Caroline Graham Hansen added a long-distance shot in the 31st minute.
Roman Haug completed the hat trick in injury time.
In the second half, an Alicia Barker own goal in the 48th minute and Guro Reiten’s penalty kick in the 53rd minute extended Norway’s lead to 5-0. Filipina defender Sofia Harrison received a red card in the 67th minute for using excessive force, and the Philippines played the rest of the match a player down.
Eden Park was turned into a makeshift home match for the Philippines, as the Filipina fans screamed in unison any time the Philippines touched the ball, even as the deficit grew.
The Philippines were fresh off of a historic 1-0 win over co-host New Zealand that marked the first Women’s World Cup win for the debutantes.
KEY MOMENTS
Roman Haug got the Norwegians off to a hot start. The first of her two goals was a left-footed volley from inside the six-yard box in the sixth minute. Eleven minutes later, Roman Haug scored a header delivered by a Vilde Boe Risa cross. Roman Haug’s header flew over the reach of Philippines goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel.
Graham Hansen scored on a long-distance strike that curled into the bottom left corner in the 31st minute to give Norway its third goal of the half.
From that point on, Norway was in control.
WHY IT MATTERS
The win advances Norway to the knockout stage after the Norwegians found themselves in last place in Group A heading into the Philippines match.
The Norwegians had yet to score in 2023 before their six-goal eruption.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
“They showed some of their class today with their skill. They picked us apart and won a couple of battles in the air in the box early. We really released the pressure early and allowed them to, sort of, be a little more creative as the game went on,” Philippines head coach Alen Stajcic said.
“We’ve been talking quite a bit about having the first goal, then it will give us energy. We know in our attack, we are strong and have good combination play both on the right side and left side. Today was the day that, when we had the first one, we knew there could be more,” Norway head coach Hege Riise said.
__
WHAT’S NEXT
Norway will play either Japan or Spain in the round of 16 next Saturday, depending on the results of a game between those Group C teams on Monday.
The inaugural tournament run ends for the Philippines, who needed at least a draw to have a chance of moving on.
__
Zach Allen is a student in the John Curley Center for Sports Journalism at Penn State.
—-
AP Women's World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-womens-world-cup and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://www.wpxi.com/sports/norway-moves-into/GII2UV3AUOAHF7MHNYHX7TT7XU/ | 2023-07-30T10:53:23 | 0 | https://www.wpxi.com/sports/norway-moves-into/GII2UV3AUOAHF7MHNYHX7TT7XU/ |
Alexei Popyrin vs. Stan Wawrinka: Prediction and Match Betting Odds | Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag
In the Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag final on Sunday, Alexei Popyrin meets Stan Wawrinka.
Wawrinka is favored (-200) to win the title versus Popyrin (+155).
Looking to place a bet on this or other tennis matches? Head over to BetMGM, the King of Sportsbooks, and sign up today with our link!
Alexei Popyrin vs. Stan Wawrinka Match Information
- Tournament: The Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag
- Round: Finals
- Date: Sunday, July 30
- Venue: Stadium Goran Ivanisevic in ITC Stella Maris
- Location: Umag, Croatia
- Court Surface: Clay
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Alexei Popyrin vs. Stan Wawrinka Prediction and Odds
Based on the moneyline in this match, Stan Wawrinka has a 66.7% chance to win.
Bet on tennis with BetMGM, the King of Sportsbooks!
Alexei Popyrin vs. Stan Wawrinka Trends and Insights
- In the semifinals on Saturday, Popyrin beat Matteo Arnaldi 6-7, 7-5, 6-3.
- Wawrinka was victorious 6-3, 6-4 versus Lorenzo Sonego in the semifinals on Saturday.
- Popyrin has played 47 matches over the past 12 months across all court surfaces, and 28.0 games per match (25.3 in best-of-three matches).
- On clay, Popyrin has played 16 matches over the past year, totaling 26.7 games per match (26.0 in best-of-three matches) while winning 51.5% of games.
- In the past year, Wawrinka has competed in 40 total matches (across all court surfaces), winning 51.1% of the games. He averages 27.3 games per match (24.6 in best-of-three matches) and 10.6 games per set.
- On clay, Wawrinka has played 11 matches and averaged 28.7 games per match (23.4 in best-of-three matches) and 10.9 games per set.
- Popyrin and Wawrinka have not matched up against each other since 2015.
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© 2023 Data Skrive. All rights reserved. | https://www.wistv.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/alexei-popyrin-vs-stan-wawrinka-tennis-prediction-betting-odds-plava-laguna-croatia-open-umag/ | 2023-07-30T10:54:43 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/alexei-popyrin-vs-stan-wawrinka-tennis-prediction-betting-odds-plava-laguna-croatia-open-umag/ |
Buying your kid that fancy new backpack to impress their friends on the first day of school will come at a price as inflation has driven up the cost of backpacks 25.6%, according to the retail data analytics website DataWeave.
Families stocking up on back-to-school supplies this year are expected to spend more than ever before. A national survey found families with children in elementary school through high school plan to shell out an average of $890.
This has local families looking for deals, such as Ohio’s Sales Tax Holiday.
The three-day holiday is set for the first Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of August each year. This year, that’s this coming weekend, Aug. 4 through Aug. 6. Tax-free items include school supplies and books that cost $20 or less per item and clothing at $75 or less per item.
State leaders are looking at extending it in future years, with some advocating it be two weeks long.
But shopping ahead for the first day of school this year is already in full swing. with more than half (55%) of consumers who are buying ahead of the new school year saying they had already started shopping as of early July, according to an annual survey released last week by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics.
That includes Crystal Houser, of Kettering, who said she starts shopping “at least a month” before school starts for her two children for everything from crayons, scissors and bookbags to new clothing and shoes. Houser, who stopped by Meijer on Tuesday, said she doesn’t factor the state’s sales tax holiday into her shopping plans.
“I go whenever I get the chance,” Houser said. “They have deals up until that time anyway. Most of everything I got today is on sale.”
New record spending
Shoppers for both K-12 and college supplies expect to spend record amounts due to rising costs, according to the NRF survey.
Families with children in elementary through high school plan to spend an average of $890 on school items, a new high, up from $864 in 2022, according to the survey. Total back-to-school spending is expected to reach a record $41.5 billion, up from $36.9 billion last year and an all-time high in the survey’s 20-year history.
The survey also found college students and their families plan to spend an average of $1,300, which was up. Total back-to-college spending is expected to reach a record $94 billion, up from $73.9 billion in 2022.
Sales tax holiday changes
The annual sales tax holiday weekend started in 2015 and the Ohio General Assembly made it permanent in 2018.
Legislators supported making it a two-week sales tax holiday in 2024, but a line item veto by Gov. Mike DeWine struck that from the state’s budget. DeWine wrote that he supports an expanded sales tax holiday, but instead of requiring it be two weeks long he wants the Tax Commissioner, state budget director and County Commissioners Association to study the potential impact on revenues before determining how long it should be.
Some shoppers were out before the tax holiday. Diana Bambic, of Dayton, who went shopping at Meijer in Kettering last Tuesday, said prices this year seemed to be about the same as last year.
“I try to buy them when they’re on sale either here and other locations,” Bambic said. “I haven’t really noticed too much of a difference.”
Bambic said the she doesn’t wait for sales tax holiday weekend to save money on back-to-school items, but rather purchases them while she can.
“I don’t know if it really makes too much of a difference on the items that I’m buying — smaller items,” she said.
Comparing retailers
The prices of back-to-school products have increased on average by 9.8% in 2023 compared to 2022, based on a DataWeave analysis of 1,200 products across Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Kroger. Price increases for backpacks marked the greatest change in price with a 25% increase, followed by office organization products at 16.8%, DataWeave said.
Kroger increased its prices by 12.1%, the highest among the retailers analyzed, followed by average price increases at Amazon (10.5%) and Walmart (5.8%).
“People are noticing higher prices,” said Katherine Cullen, NRF’s vice president of industry and consumer insights, during a back-to-school webinar Monday. “It’s not to say that inflation doesn’t continue to be on people’s minds. What has changed is how they are dealing with it.”
People are increasingly looking for price-saving deals, doing comparative shopping online to maximize value, Cullen said.
“They’re possibly even a little less brand- and store-loyal than they used to be because they want to find the best price for the items that they’re looking for,” she said.
Although they are shopping around, most consumers are not feeling completely pushed into discount channels, Cullen said.
“It’s an option for them that they’re going to use, but they haven’t returned to ... their behavior that we saw during the Great Recession when they were in a much different financial place,” she said.
Assistance for families
A resource available to help with the rising cost of school supplies is local organization Crayons to Classrooms, which is committed to securing and distributing essential school supplies at no cost to teachers of students in need.
It serves the Greater Dayton Region, including Clark, Darke, Greene, Miami, Montgomery, Preble, and Warren counties, accepting community donations and leveraging an array of supply chain partners to secure the supplies at significantly reduced costs.
Then, it distributes those items to teachers in its Dayton store, said Malena Jackson, Crayons to Classrooms’ marketing coordinator
“When it comes down to local people struggling to find the money for new school supplies or school supplies, we encourage people to figure out if their student’s school is on our list of eligibility,” Jackson said. “Some people don’t know that even if their school is not eligible to shop with us, they can volunteer and donate their hours to their child’s teacher, who can then come and shop with us and then have free supplies for that parent’s student.”
Ohio Sales Tax Holiday
WHEN: Friday, Aug. 4 to Sunday, Aug. 6
WHAT: Tax-free items include clothing at $75 or less per item and school supplies and books at $20 or less per item.
MORE INFO: View the full list of items on the Ohio Department of Taxation website: www.tinyurl.com/ohiotaxsales.
About the Author | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/inflation-driving-up-cost-of-back-to-school-items-leaving-local-families-looking-for-deals-assistance/EQBS4RYZRNHQVEDYSP4ZQEI6FI/ | 2023-07-30T10:54:49 | 1 | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/local/inflation-driving-up-cost-of-back-to-school-items-leaving-local-families-looking-for-deals-assistance/EQBS4RYZRNHQVEDYSP4ZQEI6FI/ |
How to Watch NASCAR, F1, IndyCar & More: Auto Racing Streaming Live - Sunday, July 30
Published: Jul. 30, 2023 at 6:36 AM EDT|Updated: 18 minutes ago
True auto racing fans know that there's no such thing as too many races. From the starting gun to the checkered flag, you want to see it all. Check out the article below to find out how to watch or live stream the Formula 1, Formula E, Motocross, NASCAR Cup Series, and NHRA Drag Racing action airing on Fubo on Sunday, July 30.
Watch even more auto racing coverage with ESPN+!
Auto Racing Streaming Live Today
Watch Formula 1: Belgium Grand Prix
- Series: Formula 1
- Game Time: 8:55 AM ET
- TV Channel: ESPN
- Live Stream: Watch on Fubo!
Watch Motocross: MXGP Finland - Race 1
- Series: Motocross
- Game Time: 9:00 AM ET
- TV Channel: CBS Sports Network
- Live Stream: Watch on Fubo!
Watch Formula E: Round 16: London - Race
- Series: Formula E
- Game Time: 11:30 AM ET
- TV Channel: CBS Sports Network
- Live Stream: Watch on Fubo!
Watch NASCAR Cup Series: Cook Out 400
- Series: NASCAR Cup Series
- Game Time: 3:00 PM ET
- TV Channel: USA Network
- Live Stream: Watch on Fubo!
Watch NHRA Drag Racing: DENSO Sonoma Nationals
- Series: NHRA Drag Racing
- Game Time: 4:00 PM ET
- TV Channel: FOX
- Live Stream: Watch on Fubo!
Make sure you're following along with racing action all year long on Fubo and ESPN+!
© 2023 Data Skrive. All rights reserved. | https://www.wistv.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/auto-racing-live-stream/ | 2023-07-30T10:54:49 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/auto-racing-live-stream/ |
BEIRUT (AP) — Overnight clashes Sunday in Lebanon's largest Palestinian refugee camp near the southern port city of Sidon left 1 dead and 6 others wounded, Palestinian officials said.
The clashes took place as Palestinian factions in Ein el-Hilweh cracked down on militant Islamist groups and fugitives seeking shelter in the camp's overcrowded neighborhoods. In 2017, Palestinian factions engaged in almost a week of fierce clashes with a militant organization affiliated with the extremist Islamic State group.
The Palestinian officials, speaking to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity in line with regulations, said the clashes broke out after an unknown gunman tried to assassinate Islamist militant Mahmoud Khalil, killing a companion of his instead.
According to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency, six people were wounded in the clashes, including two children.
Factions used assault rifles and rocket-propelled grenade launchers in the overcrowded camp, as ambulances zoomed through its narrow streets to take the wounded to the hospital.
The clashes have mostly stopped, though state media said there was still sporadic sniper fire.
Several residents fled the crossfire to nearby neighborhoods in the camp.
Ein el-Hilweh is notorious for its lawlessness and clashes are not uncommon. The U.N. says it is home to some 55,000 people.
It was established in 1948 to host Palestinians displaced by Israeli forces during the establishment of Israel. | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/nation-world/1-killed-6-wounded-in-overnight-clashes-in-crowded-palestinian-refugee-camp-in-lebanon/C63A3PFD5NHNPHQU6XFEW2U6IQ/ | 2023-07-30T10:54:55 | 1 | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/nation-world/1-killed-6-wounded-in-overnight-clashes-in-crowded-palestinian-refugee-camp-in-lebanon/C63A3PFD5NHNPHQU6XFEW2U6IQ/ |
Clara Burel vs. Elisabetta Cocciaretto: Prediction and Match Betting Odds | Ladies Open Lausanne
On Sunday, Clara Burel (No. 84 in the world) takes on Elisabetta Cocciaretto (No. 42) in the final of the Ladies Open Lausanne.
Cocciaretto is favored to win the tournament championship over Burel, with -150 odds compared to the underdog's +115.
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Clara Burel vs. Elisabetta Cocciaretto Match Information
- Tournament: The Ladies Open Lausanne
- Round: Finals
- Date: Sunday, July 30
- Venue: Tennis Club du Stade-Lausanne
- Location: Lausanne, Switzerland
- Court Surface: Clay
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Clara Burel vs. Elisabetta Cocciaretto Prediction and Odds
Based on the moneyline in this match, Elisabetta Cocciaretto has a 60.0% chance to win.
Bet on tennis with BetMGM, the King of Sportsbooks!
Clara Burel vs. Elisabetta Cocciaretto Trends and Insights
- Burel defeated Diane Parry 4-6, 7-6, 6-3 in the semifinals on Saturday.
- Cocciaretto came out on top 6-7, 7-6, 7-5 against Anna Bondar in the semifinals on Saturday.
- Through 28 matches over the past year (across all court surfaces), Burel has played 23.2 games per match and won 50.9% of them.
- Burel has played 11 matches on clay over the past year, and 22.7 games per match.
- In her 41 matches in the past year across all court surfaces, Cocciaretto is averaging 21.5 games per match while winning 52.1% of those games.
- On clay, Cocciaretto has played 13 matches and averaged 23.2 games per match and 9.7 games per set.
- Burel and Cocciaretto have played one time dating back to 2015, in the WTA 125K Bol, Croatia Women Singles 2022 quarterfinals. Cocciaretto claimed victory in that bout 6-2, 6-4.
- In terms of sets, Cocciaretto has won two against Burel (100.0%), while Burel has clinched zero.
- Cocciaretto has the edge in 18 total games against Burel, claiming 12 of them.
- In their one match against each other, Burel and Cocciaretto are averaging 18.0 games and 2.0 sets.
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© 2023 Data Skrive. All rights reserved. | https://www.wistv.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/clara-burel-vs-elisabetta-cocciaretto-tennis-prediction-betting-odds-ladies-open-lausanne/ | 2023-07-30T10:54:56 | 1 | https://www.wistv.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/clara-burel-vs-elisabetta-cocciaretto-tennis-prediction-betting-odds-ladies-open-lausanne/ |
Alexei Popyrin vs. Stan Wawrinka: Prediction and Match Betting Odds | Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag
In the Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag final on Sunday, Alexei Popyrin meets Stan Wawrinka.
Wawrinka is favored (-200) to win the title versus Popyrin (+155).
Looking to place a bet on this or other tennis matches? Head over to BetMGM, the King of Sportsbooks, and sign up today with our link!
Alexei Popyrin vs. Stan Wawrinka Match Information
- Tournament: The Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag
- Round: Finals
- Date: Sunday, July 30
- Venue: Stadium Goran Ivanisevic in ITC Stella Maris
- Location: Umag, Croatia
- Court Surface: Clay
Watch live tennis and many more sports and shows without cable on all your devices with a seven-day free trial to Fubo!
Alexei Popyrin vs. Stan Wawrinka Prediction and Odds
Based on the moneyline in this match, Stan Wawrinka has a 66.7% chance to win.
Bet on tennis with BetMGM, the King of Sportsbooks!
Alexei Popyrin vs. Stan Wawrinka Trends and Insights
- In the semifinals on Saturday, Popyrin beat Matteo Arnaldi 6-7, 7-5, 6-3.
- Wawrinka was victorious 6-3, 6-4 versus Lorenzo Sonego in the semifinals on Saturday.
- Popyrin has played 47 matches over the past 12 months across all court surfaces, and 28.0 games per match (25.3 in best-of-three matches).
- On clay, Popyrin has played 16 matches over the past year, totaling 26.7 games per match (26.0 in best-of-three matches) while winning 51.5% of games.
- In the past year, Wawrinka has competed in 40 total matches (across all court surfaces), winning 51.1% of the games. He averages 27.3 games per match (24.6 in best-of-three matches) and 10.6 games per set.
- On clay, Wawrinka has played 11 matches and averaged 28.7 games per match (23.4 in best-of-three matches) and 10.9 games per set.
- Popyrin and Wawrinka have not matched up against each other since 2015.
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© 2023 Data Skrive. All rights reserved. | https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/alexei-popyrin-vs-stan-wawrinka-tennis-prediction-betting-odds-plava-laguna-croatia-open-umag/ | 2023-07-30T10:54:57 | 1 | https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/sports/betting/2023/07/30/alexei-popyrin-vs-stan-wawrinka-tennis-prediction-betting-odds-plava-laguna-croatia-open-umag/ |
A large explosion at a fireworks warehouse in southern Thailand on Saturday killed at least ten people and wounded dozens, officials said.
The Narathiwat province's Public Relations Department also said that at least 118 people were hurt, and that residents of more than 200 households were affected. It said that officials believe there are still a number of people trapped under the debris waiting to be rescued.
Videos posted on social media from the site show a huge plume of smoke over the area and many damaged structures, cars and motorbikes, as well as streets covered with debris. Many of the houses and other buildings have collapsed roofs and walls.
The local public relations agency reported that the explosion caused damages in a radius of about 500 meters (1,640 feet). About 100 residences in the area were damaged, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.
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Sanan Pongaksorn, the provincial governor, told public broadcaster Thai PBS that the blast was likely ignited by construction work that was taking place in the warehouse, with sparks from metal welding causing the fireworks stored inside to catch fire and explode. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/national-international/a-large-explosion-at-a-fireworks-warehouse-in-thailand-kills-at-least-10-people-and-wounds-over-100/4548434/ | 2023-07-30T10:55:00 | 0 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/national-international/a-large-explosion-at-a-fireworks-warehouse-in-thailand-kills-at-least-10-people-and-wounds-over-100/4548434/ |
CHENGDU, China , July 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from Xinhua:
On July 28, the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games officially commenced, captivating university athletes from various parts of the world with an opening ceremony that seamlessly blended historical and cultural elements with youthful passion.
The cultural performances showcased Chengdu's unique cultural features, with the "Sun and Immortal Birds" being a symbol of Chinese cultural heritage and a spiritual emblem. From the very first second of the countdown to the ignition, the presence of the "Sun and Immortal Birds" captivated the audience until the final moment of ignition. "Sunlight", serving as the core element, permeated the entire opening ceremony. Without the "Sun and Immortal Birds", the grand finale of igniting the flame would not have been possible. The countdown to the opening commenced amid the radiance of the "Sun and Immortal Birds," not only demonstrating the harmonious and inclusive spiritual character that the Chinese people have embraced since ancient times but also expressing best wishes for university students worldwide to shine as bright and warm as sunlight.
The opening ceremony combined the sense of technology with artistic beauty. During the entrance segment, colorful silk threads were projected onto the ground, creating a breathtaking display of traditional Chinese patterns formed by over 300 circular lines that adorned the entirety of the stadium's track. This symbolic imagery represents the aspirations of young athletes from around the world, as they embark on a glorious journey paved with the splendor of Shu embroidery. The guide signs held high by the ushers were made of Shu brocade, a renowned textile originating from the Chengdu region, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. Shu brocade stands as one of the four prestigious brocades of China. Meanwhile, Shu embroidery, one of the four famous embroideries in China, has a history of more than 3,000 years, originating from the Chengdu region. Both Shu embroidery and Shu brocade are hailed as treasures of the region.
In celebration of the 31st edition of FISU World University Games, 31 torchbearers were selected to light the flame tower. Among them, the illustrious Chengdu astronaut, Ye Guangfu, shone as a notable figure. Recognizing astronauts as the "closest beings to the sun," chief director Chen Weiya harnessed the brilliance of sunlight, transforming it into a dazzling blaze. After the 31 torchbearers jointly completed the ignition, the Sun and Immortal Birds radiated a stunning brilliance. They spiraled and ascended, igniting the 12 golden fireworks in the sky. Ultimately, they ignited the flame tower outside the stadium.
During the fireworks performance, the chief designer of the opening ceremony fireworks, Cai Canhuang, aptly named it "Golden Dreams." Golden fireworks illuminated the sky, accompanied by welcoming messages in both Chinese and English. As the flame tower of the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games was ignited, the fireworks displayed the U-shaped emblem of the Games and the English theme "Make Dreams Come True." The fireworks artfully portrayed the image of a golden hibiscus flower, representing the city flower of Chengdu. Beyond symbolizing youth and vitality, the hibiscus also embodies the values of openness and friendliness, expressing the theme of "flowers welcoming guests."
The Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games will feature a total of 18 sports events, and is scheduled to conclude on August 8. With athletes from 113 countries and regions, a staggering 6,500 athletes will compete across these 18 sports.
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SOURCE Xinhua | https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/chengdu-2021-fisu-world-university-games-opening-ceremony-impresses-audiences-worldwide/ | 2023-07-30T10:55:00 | 0 | https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2023/07/30/chengdu-2021-fisu-world-university-games-opening-ceremony-impresses-audiences-worldwide/ |
BANGUI, Central African Republic (AP) — The Central African Republic went to the polls Sunday in a highly anticipated vote on a new constitution, which would remove presidential term limits.
President Faustin Archange Touadera wants to extend presidential terms from five to seven years and remove the previous two-term limit, enabling him to run again in 2025.
The new constitution would replace the one adopted at Touadera’s inauguration in 2016, when the country was in a civil war and 80% of it was not under state control. If the new constitution is passed, it could entrench the ruling party’s power indefinitely, analysts say.
“This referendum basically confirms the fears of authoritarian drift (in CAR),” said Enrica Picco, Central Africa project director with the International Crisis Group. The new constitution would weaken checks on the executive by opposition parties, closing the space for Central Africans to participate in democratic decision-making, she said.
The proposed changes also would lift requirements that executive decisions be debated by the legislative and permit Central Africans with dual nationalities to vote.
The mineral-rich but impoverished nation has faced intercommunal fighting since 2013, when predominantly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power and forced then-President Francois Bozize from office. Mostly Christian militias later fought back, also targeting civilians in the streets. The United Nations, which has a peacekeeping mission in the country, estimates the fighting had killed thousands and displaced over a million people, one fifth of the country’s population.
When Touadera won re-election in 2020, barely a third of Central Africans made it to the polls, largely due to threats of violence by rebel groups. Touadera’s government has relied on support from UN peacekeepers, soldiers from neighboring Rwanda and Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group to keep rebels out of the capital Bangui.
“Now that there is peace … the time has come for us to take action,” said Fidel Gouandjika, a presidential advisor.
Opposition groups accuse the ruling party of making a draft of the new constitution publicly available too late for people to make informed decisions, less than three weeks before the referendum, said Picco.
Together with opposition parties they are calling on Central Africans to vote against the proposed constitution, or abstain from the referendum.
“Touadera wants to see himself as an emperor, and he wants to make our country what he wants, not what Central Africans want,” said former Prime Minister Nicolas Tiangaye. | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/nation-world/constitutional-referendum-to-remove-presidential-term-limits-divides-central-african-republic/YYROJUGAY5HUFF3CR2DCCIFJVM/ | 2023-07-30T10:55:01 | 1 | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/nation-world/constitutional-referendum-to-remove-presidential-term-limits-divides-central-african-republic/YYROJUGAY5HUFF3CR2DCCIFJVM/ |