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HOOD RIVER — In the Pacific Northwest where cultural diversity may be hard to come by, Local Rhoots and owner Sam Rodgers are trying to change that with food. Some may see cooking as a chore, but Rodgers sees cooking and food as an avenue to bridge cultural differences.
“Expanding people’s horizons through food is a way to give people an opportunity for appreciation of other cultures,” said Rodgers.
Her food delivery service is making that possible for anyone and everyone.
Local Rhoots was started in what is known as a “ghost kitchen” at Riverside Community Church in downtown Hood River. A “ghost kitchen” is a place where meals are prepared and then delivered out to the community, instead of customers dining-in. Riverside leased the kitchen to Rodgers in order to prepare their to-go meals, which would be delivered throughout Hood River County in partnership with Gorge Greens. For three and a half years the church served as homebase for the all-women staff.
Prior to her time at Riverside, Rodgers started a blog called “Eat Clean, Cook Dirty.” This was a space where she could share her own recipes and meal prep plans. The blog also opened the door to have conversations with other parents who struggle to feed themselves and their kids.
“Getting food on the table is hard,” said Rodgers. “Whether you’ve got both parents or a single parent in the family that is working full time outside the home, it sucks. It’s difficult.”
Eventually she began selling her prep plans and users would approach Rodgers and ask if she could prepare their weekly meals for them. The plans she devised included step-by-step instructions for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Rodgers admits she was hesitant at first.
“I told them: ‘Yeah, I don’t do that,’” said Rodgers. “I said no so much that I finally one day said yes.”
Her goal was to get five families signed up for four weeks. Much to her surprise, a total of 12 families signed up and she delivered 24 four-serving meal kits in the first week.
In July 2021, the space that was Monaghan’s Pancake House became home to Local Rhoots. Rodgers removed the booths, carpet and painted the walls a bright blue. A fresh start that started something she didn’t think would ever happen.
“I told myself, ‘Well, I guess that’s it. I guess I’m gonna close up shop,’” said Rodgers when COVID shut down many businesses in Hood River. “Not thinking at all that we were going to be considered a vital business.”
She soon realized this could be an opportunity to connect with the community. During the early stages of COVID, the City of Hood River asked Local Rhoots and a few other businesses to step in and help accommodate those who are less fortunate. Rodgers and her staff would care for their children during the day and then work from 6 p.m. to midnight cooking meals for the next day to be distributed at mobile home parks and other locations throughout Hood River. Rodgers even setup a Local Rhoots Summer Camp for the children of her employees due to the lack of childcare available.
Rogers buys most of her food from local farms when possible. She has teamed up with Flower to Flour, Columbia Mushroom Company, Oak Grove Farms, Gorge Grown and Gorge Green who delivers all of their prepared meals. According to her, some customers usually don’t care what meals they get as long as they are delivered to their doorstep.
“We’ve built a reputation on our product and quality of food, that they’re happy to be surprised,” said Rodgers.
Rodgers built that reputation on fresh food and serving that food in reusable packaging. Nearly 90% of their containers are reusable and helps keep costs low and their carbon footprint even smaller.
Local Rhoots has a plenty of menu options, whatever you are looking for. You can stop in and buy a single meal or subscribe to their weekly or monthly delivery service. They offer home delivery anywhere in Hood River County, Bingen, White Salmon, and out to Portland. Local Rhoots also offers a catering option for large events. Her most requested menu item is the noodle bar where they can create their own soup from various options of pastas, broths, veggies and protein.
Rodgers has big plans to expand her vision. The current kitchen at the southwest corner of Belmont and 13th Street will be headquarters until she can add locations around the Gorge where food will be shipped and customers can have a grab-and-go option available.
Until then, Rodgers is experimenting by hosting popup events where she invites local chefs and eateries to serve food in their homebase. Last Friday, April 8 Local Rhoots hosted a noodle popup for a Jewish themed restaurant. To find out more about prices and delivery options, visit their website LocalRhoots.com or check out their Instagram and Facebook. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/gorge-local---in-business-local-business-brings-homemade-food-to-your-door/article_5f6b5632-baa4-11ec-bfe8-8b7b3bcbdedd.html | 2022-04-13T11:30:52 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/gorge-local---in-business-local-business-brings-homemade-food-to-your-door/article_5f6b5632-baa4-11ec-bfe8-8b7b3bcbdedd.html |
State leaders visited Goldendale last week to celebrate the formal inauguration of the recently upgraded Goldendale Observatory at an April 7 ceremony.
Despite the observatory’s official opening to the public last April, COVID-19 impacted the ability of the partners involved in the project to put an event together until now. Drinks and refreshments were served as the audience gathered in the new observatory building.
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, 15th District State Sen. Jim Honeyford, and Washington State Parks Chair Mark Brown were among state and local leadership in attendance at Thursday’s ceremony.
Visitors to the observatory were invited to walk around the newly upgraded facility, which includes a much larger and more advanced learning center, increased seating capacity, and an upgraded telescope system.
“It is one of if not the largest, publicly accessible telescopes in the United States,” Inslee said.
Telescopes adorned the pathways surrounding the astronomic complex and visitors were also able to view a sunspot on the upgraded central telescope system in the observatory’s south dome.
Inslee spoke to the benefits that Washington’s state park system has brought to its residents.
“This is a perfect example of what our parks do because it brings literally the universe to Washingtonians,” Inslee said. “When I see families enjoying our parks, it just gives me a thrill.”
The original observatory, opened in 1973, housed a single telescope inside of a brick building. It was the brainchild of four amateur astronomers from Vancouver, Wash., who built a telescope and surveyed the southern portion of the state for a location to erect it, with funding from Clark College. It became a state park in the 1980s.
“When you look out through the telescope, you’re kind of seeing humanity. You’re seeing the infinite capability of humans, and the infinite creativity and innovation of the amateurs who built this telescope,” Inslee said. “When you look through the telescope, you get more of an impression at home than you do about space.”
Inslee related a story about from a few weeks ago when he spoke with a Richland High School graduate and astronaut Kayla Barron, who told Inslee that the most powerful impression space had on her was how thin the atmosphere is, like Earth is wrapped “in a little blue tissue paper … And when you see that, it makes you realize how precious and how fragile in some sense this beautiful planet is.”
Goldendale, known for its dark skies, was chosen for its location through the support of its city administration, Washington State Parks and Recreation Chair Mark Brown said. He also cited the work of Sen. Honeyford, as well as now Lt. Governor Denny Heck, as a driving force behind the effort to secure much of the funding for the building.
The upgrades to the facility cost nearly $6 million and was funded by the state legislature.
Goldendale Mayor Mike Cannon told the audience that he was thankful for the work done to the building and for the Washington State Parks System for administering the project.
“Washington state is a state with wonderful and very unique state parks, and we can be proud of every one of them,” Cannon said. “We’re especially Goldendale proud of this beautiful monument.”
He added that he hopes to see educational projects come to Goldendale to study using the telescope.
Washington State Parks Interpretive Manager Ryan Karlson said the observatory was modeled around theme that “we’re all made out of “star stuff.”
He pointed to displays of the periodic element around the auditorium at each of the audiences’ seats. Karlson said the displays, color labeled to mark which elements make up the human body, serve to bring home that point.
The Goldendale Observatory State Park is open Thursday through Sunday, April through September. Drop-ins are welcome for groups of five or fewer. Larger groups must provide advance notice online.
Admission is free during operation hours, and a Washington State Parks Discover Pass is required to park on-site. Visit goldendaleobservatory.com for more information. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/governor-honors-goldendale-observatory-opening/article_b2c8793a-bab9-11ec-83b6-47c90b190e4e.html | 2022-04-13T11:30:58 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/governor-honors-goldendale-observatory-opening/article_b2c8793a-bab9-11ec-83b6-47c90b190e4e.html |
Hood River New School, an independent 501c3 not-for-profit middle school serving adolescents from the Columbia River Gorge, has hired Todd Dierker to teach a dedicated fifth grade program.
“Todd’s passion for helping others grow and access new ways of thinking aligns with the New School’s mission to empower critical thinkers to approach the world with intellectual curiosity,” said a press release. “New School Board of Directors Executive Director Victoria Hubler, and Head of School Claire Gilchrist are confident that Todd will set the youngest New School students on a trajectory of academic excellence and help each student develop into their potential.”
Dierker will additionally join upper school staff in teaching math, electives, outdoor education, and community service projects to the entire student body beginning at the start of the 2022-2023 academic year.
The fifth-grade program will follow the New School academic model, providing an inquiry-based curriculum, hands-on and project-based learning, and focus heavily on STEAM learning, while ensuring middle school readiness, said a press release.
Dierker has “served in the U.S. Peace Corps twice, helped teach schools and villages in Thailand, taught science in the remote mountains of Lesotho, and over the last 12 years, worked for local non-profits while balancing raising his children,” said a press release. “He established broad community connections as he supported the local food system of the Gorge and facilitated equity workshops for partners in social services and health care.”
Tuition assistance is available to all students through the Flexible Tuition program. New School strives to keep tuition as low as possible and offers a flexible tuition program that aims to meet families where they are financially, supporting those families that would not otherwise be able to attend at full tuition. Learn more at www.hoodrivernewschool.org/tuition-and-financial-information.
The New School was founded in 2021 by a community of parents “excited to create a school that honors the critical growth and development window that occurs during adolescence — the transition between childhood and adulthood,” said a press release.
The mission of Hood River New School is to empower critical thinkers to approach the world with intellectual curiosity. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/hood-river-new-school-has-new-expanded-5th-grade-program/article_4dd7ee82-ba9d-11ec-8f41-67802f0fa200.html | 2022-04-13T11:31:05 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/hood-river-new-school-has-new-expanded-5th-grade-program/article_4dd7ee82-ba9d-11ec-8f41-67802f0fa200.html |
New bridge tolls will support operational upkeep, not port
HOOD RIVER — When the eventual new bridge connecting Hood River to Bingen is completed in 2031 — as scheduled — the Port of Hood River will be forced to find other sources of revenue.
Following construction of the new Hood River-White Salmon Interstate Bridge, all tolls collected will be invested back into the bridge for operational upkeep.
On April 5, port commissioners and staff held their annual spring planning work session where this year much of the talk centered around financial sustainability. The port operates the Hood River Marina, Ken Jernstedt Airfield and several undeveloped properties throughout the county.
According to projections for 2023, the bridge will bring in around $3.6 million in tolls, but those tolls will be restricted to bridge maintenance and operation, rather than port operations. Other options for revenue are the port’s commercial and industrial interests, which will generate a meager $460,000 compared to the bridge tolls.
The port owns and operates eight properties in Hood River County and has several smaller concession type structures it leases seasonally. They hope to develop or sell ownership of properties such as the Lower Mill in Odell and the Lot 1 site in downtown Hood River. Lot 1 is the largest remaining undeveloped site by the waterfront. Although the port has a plan for the light industrial zone, Lot 1 is lacking basic infrastructure — sewer, water and streets — necessary to accommodate commercial business.
“The port is now currently looking to assess its strategic options while it navigates a construction market that is more expensive than previous,” said Greg Hagbery, property development manager.
The port commission has been very ambitious in trying to upgrade facilities at the Ken Jernstedt Airfield. Commissioner Mike Fox wants to turn the “sleepy airfield” into a profitable venture.
Recently, the port completed an expansion project of the north apron to support construction of flexible commercial hangars. Plans were proposed for an Aviation Technology & Emergency Response Center, but cost projections were far too high at $7.4 million.
“We have to look at what the market is doing today,” said Commissioner Kristi Chapman. “And if we have to think about it differently, we must know what our options are.”
Due to Federal Aviation Administration policies, any revenue generated by the airport cannot be used to subsidize other projects. For example, if the airport brings in a net profit of $1 million, all of that money generated must be put back into airport operations.
“In order to make this a successful airport the first step is to get it self-sustaining,” said Hagbery.
The marina is managed by Darryl Stafford who says no major projects are on the horizon only because there are still a lot of unknowns with the bridge replacement project.
“We are kind of waiting to see how the replacement effort will affect port operations on the river,” said Stafford.
Boat owners who lease spaces in the marina will see their annual rates go up. Stafford says this increase is to try and build a reserve fund for the port in an effort to become “cash positive” and address any necessary dock repairs. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/hood-river-port-brainstorms-revenue-sources/article_72289a3e-bab6-11ec-925b-f760180516c5.html | 2022-04-13T11:31:11 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/hood-river-port-brainstorms-revenue-sources/article_72289a3e-bab6-11ec-925b-f760180516c5.html |
NORCOR, April 1-8
Assaults, harassment, menacing and domestic violence:
April 3 — Kristin Calica, 21, Warm Springs, harassment, criminal mischief I and misdemeanor disorderly conduct I.
April 4 — Jayne D. Juhlin, 36, Bingen, assault public safety officer, unlawful entry into a motor vehicle, criminal mischief III and resisting arrest.
April 5 — Teddy Wayne Parsons, 69, Lyle, harassment; released.
April 5 — Joshua Seferino Postema, 45, The Dalles, misdemeanor domestic assault IV.
April 8 — Keith Allan Hulbert, 34, The Dalles, harassment; released.
Controlled substance violations (non-DUII):
April 6 — Alex Michael Kemp, 30, The Dalles, unlawful possession and distribution of a controlled substance schedule II and tampering with physical evidence.
April 7 — Martin Joseph Hedewald, 59, Stevenson, unlawful distribution of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of methadone II and theft III; released.
Disorderly conduct, mischief, criminal trespass and vandalism:
April 1 — Cade Michael Boston, 24, Madras, criminal trespass I and II, interfere with a police officer and harassment.
April 5 — Wesley Lee Martens, 37, The Dalles, criminal trespass I and theft III.
April 6 — Cade Michael Boston, 24, Madras, disorderly conduct II and criminal trespass II.
April 7 — Kaitlynn Mae Morrissey, 28, Parkdale, criminal trespass II, theft III, failure to appear I and II, 11 probation violations, 10 counts unlawful entry into a motor vehicle, theft II and misdemeanor fraudulent use of a credit card.
Driving under the influence of intoxicants:
April 1 — Charles Allen Bartsma, 47, The Dalles, misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol, reckless driving and driving while suspended or revoked; released.
April 2 — Nathan Fletcher Floyd, 21, The Dalles, misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol; released.
April 2 — Adam Frederick Ekman, 34, The Dalles, misdemeanor driving under the influence of a controlled substance; released.
April 3 — Casey James Nolan, 24, The Dalles, misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol, attempt to elude police officer (vehicle offense) and criminal mischief II; released.
April 3 — Kenneth Harold Fox, 50, Alger, Mich., misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol and reckless driving; released.
April 4 — Erik Ruben Gutierrez, 28, Hood River, misdemeanor driving under the influence of a controlled substance; released.
April 4 — Jose Luis Sandoval-Delgado, 22, The Dalles, misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol and two counts failure to appear II; released.
April 4 — Thomas Joseph Davey, 59, The Dalles, misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol; released.
April 4 — Myrtle Lillie Suppah, 36, Portland, misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol and recklessly endangering another person; released.
April 5 — Tanner Sinclair Carrico, 45, The Dalles, misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol; released.
April 6 — Cody Hayes Shoaf, 35, Hood River, misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol; released.
April 6 — Antonio Casas Cardenas, 45, Portland, misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol; released.
April 7 — Michael Ray Bixel, 40, Eagle Creek, Ore., misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol, two counts menacing, unlawful possession/concealment of firearms and reckless driving.
Motor vehicle crashes, incidents, offenses and impounds:
April 5 — Michael Eric Blaine, 36, Sandy, Ore., reckless driving; released.
April 5 — Peter August Curry, 32, The Dalles, attempt to elude police officer (vehicle offense), attempt to elude police officer (foot), interference with a police officer, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, disorderly conduct II, three counts failure to appear I and four counts failure to appear II.
April 6 — Brandon Charles Parsons, 35, The Dalles, misdemeanor driving while suspended or revoked, felony felon in possession of a weapon, failure to appear II, unlawful possession of heroin I and unlawful distribution of heroin.
April 7 — Greg Elmer Owen, 63, Carson, failure to perform the duties of a driver with property damage (hit and run); released.
Outstanding warrants, parole, probation or terms violations:
April 1 — Jessica Lynn Muschaweck, 38, Parkdale, contempt of court (violation of a restraining order).
April 1 — Matthew Nicholas Kirby, 23, The Dalles, violation of a release agreement; released.
April 2 — Jordan Shawn Wheeler, 31, Cascade Locks, six counts failure to appear II, harassment and criminal mischief I.
April 2 — Julie Ann Scherf, 52, The Dalles, failure to appear II and false information to a police officer;
April 2 — Henry Russell Benson, homeless, 50, parole violation; released.
April 2 — Jorge Luis Sedano, 20, Parkdale, violation of a restraining order; released.
April 2 — Robert Scott Luthi, 55, Auburn, Calif., violation of a restraining order; released.
April 3 — Karina Nicole Childers, 30, The Dalles, failure to appear II; released.
April 3 — James Daniel Perez Hammond, 28, The Dalles, two counts contempt of court (violation of a restraining order), harassment and criminal trespass II.
April 4 — West Allen Trovtvet, 31, Corvallis, failure to appear II and a parole violation.
April 4 — James Newton Wortman, 57, Portland, failure to appear II; released.
April 4 — Terry Wayne Henderson, 64, The Dalles, three probation violations.
April 5 — Richard Frank Carstens, 40, Stevenson, three counts failure to appear I.
April 5 — Lorena Viveros Cruz, 29, The Dalles, two counts failure to appear I (violation of a release agreement) and two counts failure to appear II.
April 6 — Stephen James Pratt, 28, Madras, three counts failure to appear.
April 6 — Bill Joe Jim, 48, The Dalles, two counts failure to appear II; released.
April 7 — Danny Estel Burke, 52, Tacoma, three post prison supervision sanctions.
April 7 — Shana Marie Henry, 42, The Dalles, failure to appear II; released.
April 7 — David James Sendejas, 30, The Dalles, probation violation and escape III; released.
Sex offenses:
April 4 — Jakub Karl Carlson, 42, Vancouver, Wash., commercial sexual solicitation.
Theft, burglary or robbery:
April 1 — Scott Reilly Dunoven, 57, The Dalles, theft III and misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol; released.
April 2 — Jessica Tiffany Bivins, 38, The Dalles, theft I and carrying of concealed weapons; released.
April 3 — Kody Mitchell Eastman, 27, The Dalles, two counts robbery II and theft II.
April 6 — Savannah Gretamerilee Lawton, 28, no city listed, two counts theft II; released.
April 7 — Justine Danielle Logan, 29, The Dalles, theft III; released.
April 7 — Audrey D. Stearns, 53, Rufus, theft III; released.
Hood River Police, March 27 to April 2
Hood River Police Department responded to the following crimes, which resulted in arrests: Driving under the influence of intoxicants (one), drug law violation (one), failure to register as a sex offender (one), providing false information (one), restraining order violation (two), theft (one), trespass (three), unlawful use of a motor vehicle (one) and warrant (four).
Notable incidents
Five thefts reported: Three incidents of shoplifting and car prowls on two different vehicles at the same residence.
Four warrant arrests: Of those, two involved a male transient who had been trespassed from multiple locations (see incident below).
Three trespassing arrests: In one incident, a male transient was observed to be on a property he had previously been trespassed from. Officers contacted the male and issued him a criminal citation for trespass. The male understood he was not allowed on the property and expressed he did not care.
Three agency assists: In one incident, a domestic assault was reported to be taking place in a vehicle traveling eastbound on I-84 from Cascade Locks. The female passenger advised the male was not stopping to let her out of the vehicle. She also explained he was driving recklessly and at a high rate of speed. Deputies were attempting to catch up to the vehicle as it excited into the City of Hood River. Officers assisted in taking the male into custody.
Two restraining order violations: In one incident, a female was lodged at NORCOR on the charge of a restraining order violation after a sheriff’s deputy determined there was probable cause for arrest.
Officers responded to a call of a child playing at the Horizon School playground and that he was not a student there.
A report of possible child abuse was received. In the same incident, the alleged suspect was issued a citation for possession of heroin. This report has been referred to the detective for further investigation.
Hood River County Sheriff, March 25-31
Hood River County Sheriff’s Office responded to the following crimes, which resulted in arrests: Assault (one), elude (one), kidnapping (one), menacing (one), reckless driving (one), reckless endangering (one), and warrant (one).
Notable incidents
Two motor vehicle crashes: In one incident, injuries were reported following a two car crash on Highway 35 near Mt. Hood Meadow’s Access Road. One driver was transported via Life Flight to OHSU with serious injuries.
Several car prowls were reported in the Bell Court area of Hood River.
A search and rescue was initiated on March 26 on the west fork of the Hood River after two subjects jumped into the Hood River after their dog.
A male was arrested near Cascade Avenue and lodged at NORCOR for kidnapping I, domestic assault IV, domestic menacing, reckless driving, reckless endangering and attempt to elude.
The Dalles Police, April 1-7
The Dalles Police Department responded to the following crimes, which resulted in arrests: Assault (one), disorderly conduct (one), driving under the influence of intoxicants (two), driving uninsured (one), driving while suspended (one), driving without a license (one), disorderly conduct (one), elude (one), escape (one), false information to a police officer (one), harassment (three), improper use of the emergency communication system (one), interfering with a police officer (three), reckless driving (one), restraining order violation (two), robbery (one), theft (six), trespass (seven), unauthorized use of a motor vehicle (one) and warrant (18).
Notable incidents
Five motor vehicle crashes: All non-injury.
In one hit and run incident, a pickup truck hit one of the Salvation Army’s white donation bins behind the building on E. Third.
Twenty-three thefts: Money from a billfold, five catalytic converters, six vehicles (one was later recovered), tablet, theft by deception, four car prowls, tools from a garage, purse, mail, two shoplifting and a bicycle. In one incident, a male was lodged at NORCOR for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, elude, interfering with a police officer, disorderly conduct II and three Wasco County warrants following a report of a stolen vehicle and subsequent pursuit.
Three burglaries: Two homes and a business
The concession stand and one dug out was vandalized at Kramer Field April 1.
It was reported that a male had called 911 more than 21 times for non-emergency reasons; the male was cited for improper use of the emergency communication system. The male continued to call multiple times.
It was reported that Snapchat pictures and videos were being passed around at a school of a student making threats against another student. Officers contacted the juvenile in question.
An unknown person defecated on the front steps of St. Peter’s Landmark sometime between 2:40-3 p.m. on April 6.
Wasco County Sheriff, April 1-7
Wasco County Sheriff’s Department responded to the following crimes, which resulted in arrests: Driving under the influence of intoxicants (one), driving uninsured (one), failure to perform the duties of a driver (one), and warrant (one).
Notable incidents
Four thefts: Chainsaw from the back of a truck, car prowl, scam, and a gun.
One motor vehicle crash: A male was cited for driving under the influence of alcohol after a motor vehicle crash in the 3800 block of W. 10th. BAC registered .18%. The male was the single occupant of the vehicle and had to be extracted. Injuries were reported.
One hit and run.
Deputies attempted to counsel a juvenile in the Maupin area after it was reported he shot a child with an airsoft gun. The juvenile swore at deputies. Deputies spoke with the juvenile’s father.
Oregon State Police
On April 3 at approximately 8:22 am., an OSP trooper responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 282 and Summit Drive in Odell. A blue Subaru did not stop at a stop sign and crashed into a gray Toyota pickup truck at a high rate of speed. The operator of the Subaru, 22, had a dazed appearance, according to the trooper; she was not able to remember her own name and had difficulty answering simple questions. She was transported to Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital by medics. The trooper contacted the female at the hospital and observed several signs of impairment. She denied drinking alcohol or using drugs. The driver’s mental comprehension was severely affected and thus she was not able to perform Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, according to the trooper. She was placed under arrest for driving under the influence of controlled substances and reckless driving. A search warrant for her blood was granted and executed without incident. The driver was medically cleared and released to her mother. Hood River Sheriff’s Office and Oregon Department of Transportation assisted with the crash. The intersection was blocked until both vehicles were towed. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/police-reports-april-13-2022/article_e72e4a4c-baa5-11ec-9e8d-5f68235df9e6.html | 2022-04-13T11:31:17 | 0 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/police-reports-april-13-2022/article_e72e4a4c-baa5-11ec-9e8d-5f68235df9e6.html |
As the child advocacy center for the Columbia River Gorge region, SafeSpace is promoting National Child Abuse Prevention Month throughout April.
Nearly 700,000 children are abused in the U.S. each year. No group of children is immune. While both boys and girls are likely to experience neglect, sexual and physical abuse. Girls are four times more likely to experience sexual abuse.
Locally, SafeSpace Children’s Advocacy Center of the Gorge collaborates with law enforcement and child protective services to provide a safe and healing place for child victims to tell their stories of abuse.
Since 2009, SafeSpace has served over 800 children from its five-county service region: Hood River, Wasco, Gilliam, Wheeler, and Klickitat County.
SafeSpace provides a single point of contact for child abuse victims, offering trauma-informed care in a child friendly environment. Children are interviewed by a highly skilled Forensic Interviewer and a medical exam is conducted by doctors specializing in child abuse.
Children and families have the support of an advocate who connects them to needed support, including counseling.
In 2008, Prevent Child Abuse introduced the pinwheel as the national symbol for child abuse prevention.
It serves as a physical reminder of the healthy childhoods that we all want for our children.
The installation of pinwheels on the Hood River County Library lawn represents one of the over 800 children seen at SafeSpace for child abuse assessment.
In response to regional need for its services, SafeSpace is planning for growth.
In early 2021, the organization launched a capital campaign to create a permanent facility for the organization, and expand the services offered.
A new SafeSpace facility would double the organization’s capacity from 160 to 320 cases per year. \
Just recently, the State of Oregon announced it would invest $2 million in the project.
For more information about the mission and work of SafeSpace, visit www.safespacecac.org | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/safespace-promotes-national-child-abuse-prevention-month-photo-gallery/article_e2942ab6-ba95-11ec-af1a-5b3957b3d782.html | 2022-04-13T11:31:23 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/safespace-promotes-national-child-abuse-prevention-month-photo-gallery/article_e2942ab6-ba95-11ec-af1a-5b3957b3d782.html |
The Trail Blazers Foundation recently awarded 18 grants to schools throughout Oregon through its “Take it To The Court for Education” school grant program. A total of $125,000 will be distributed to schools throughout 14 different counties.
Area schools receiving grants were Condon Elementary School (Condon) for sports equipment for summer camps, Warm Springs K8 Academy (Warm Springs) for equipment for athletic programs, and Wy’east Middle School (Hood River) for its Willy Wonka theater project.
“We are very excited to continue the ‘Take it To The Court for Education’ program and directly support so many students, teachers and families,” said Annie Klug, Trail Blazers Foundation executive director. “From new athletic equipment to robotics programming, these grants will positively impact kids and families from underserved and marginalized communities throughout Rip City while helping build a better future for all.”
The grants will directly support a variety of academic, arts, athletic, and community programs and equipment. For more information, visit trailblazers.com/schoolgrants. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/schools-awarded-trail-blazer-foundation-grants/article_d8f314ca-baa6-11ec-b948-439b8838ceda.html | 2022-04-13T11:31:29 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/schools-awarded-trail-blazer-foundation-grants/article_d8f314ca-baa6-11ec-b948-439b8838ceda.html |
We’re in a technological revolution from smartphones to Roomba robot vacuum cleaners. But for us who have not grown up with all the advances in technology, it can be daunting. (My pocket calculator in high school was a slide rule.)
First, there’s all the unfamiliar terminology: Touchpad, mouse, router, browsers, phishing. And then there are the different computer operating systems: Apple, Google and Microsoft. And once you understand one thing, it is “improved” — and you must relearn it — again!
Because it’s so overwhelming many of you have decided not to dive in. But you have friends who are enjoying the swim and now you might want to learn more about how to purchase a computer, how to use Zoom to see and talk with your grandchildren or how to protect your personal information so you can bank online safely.
But where do you begin?
To assist older adults in utilizing the benefits of technology and avoid the dangers, GOBHI’s Older Adult Behavioral Health Initiative is partnering with Senior Planet, powered by Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP, to offer innovative classes designed for adults 60 and over. The lectures and courses will be led by trained instructors and held at the Mid-Columbia Senior Center.
The classes will begin with a series of five weekly lectures on Thursdays from 2-3:15 p.m.: “Smartphones” on April 14; “How to Choose a New Computer” on April 21; “Protecting Your Personal Information Online” on April 28; “All Things Zoom” on May 5; and “How to Spot Fake News” on May 12.
The weekly lectures will be followed by a five-week Chromebook Essentials course from 2-3:15 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting Tuesday, May 17.
This course will cover the essentials of how to use a Chromebook — a popular type of laptop that is great for beginners who just want to use the internet. (Thanks to Google in The Dalles for donating 10 Chromebooks for the class.) If you’re interested in any of the lectures or the Chromebook Essentials course, call 541-296-4788 or email Britta Willson at bwillson@gobhi.org.
If you can’t attend the classes, you can go online to the Senior Planet website to register for many of their virtual classes. And for technology questions, Senior Planet offers a Tech Hotline at 888-713-3495 between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m.
By using the Internet and other technologies, we can change the way we age. We can connect with friends, participate in art and movement classes, attend public meetings, and advocate for causes important to us. So dive on in. Just make sure you avoid the rocks!
•••
This week’s brain tease is more of a brain challenge. When I swim laps, which I enjoy but can be reaaaaally boring, I play this mental game you can try anytime, anywhere. I start by memorizing the seven days of the week in alphabetical order, then the first 10 digits in alphabetical order, and finally the 12 months of the year. I’m proud to say I can recite them all alphabetically — but unfortunately only when I’m swimming!
•••
The name of the police drama that aired on NBC from 1968 through 1975 and followed Los Angeles Police Department officers Pete Malloy and Jim Reed was Adam-12. I received correct answers from Rhonda Spies, Jess Birge, Rose Schulz, Lana Tepfer, Keith Clymer, and the winner of a quilt raffle ticket, Gary Van Orman, who in 1972 was an actor in an episode of Adam-12. And last week I missed Susan Ronning and Joyce Jennings.
This game of physical skill was a national phenomenon in the late ‘60s. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of “the game that ties you up in knots” played on a large plastic mat spread on the ground with six rows of large colored circles with a spinner telling you where to place your hand or foot? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or send it with the May 3, 1966, episode of the Tonight Show when actress Eva Gabor played the game with Johnny Carson.
•••
Well, it’s been another week, asking, “Now what?” Until we meet again, as I tell my kids, there is a reason we have two ears and only one mouth.
•••
“Clouds come floating into my life, no longer to carry rain or usher storm, but to add color to my sunset sky.” — Rabindranath Tagore
•••
Nutritious home-delivered and in-person meals are available at noon Monday through Friday unless otherwise noted.
Seniors of Mosier Valley (541-980-1157) — Mondays and Wednesdays; Hood River Valley Adult Center (541-386-2060); Sherman County Senior and Community Center (541-565-3191); The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels (541-298-8333).
For meal sites in Washington, call Klickitat County Senior Services: Goldendale office (509-773-3757) or the White Salmon office (509-493-3068); or Skamania County Senior Services (509-427-3990). | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/senior-news-technology-can-change-the-way-we-age/article_2240ff08-ba9c-11ec-971c-872d050f507d.html | 2022-04-13T11:31:35 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/senior-news-technology-can-change-the-way-we-age/article_2240ff08-ba9c-11ec-971c-872d050f507d.html |
The Dalles Marina Launch Ramp Restrooms will open for the season, and the Pumpout/Dump Station for boats located in the Transient Guest Moorage will be turned on, beginning Friday, April 15, according to a press release from the Port of The Dalles.
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Articles
- Obituary: William Justesen
- Obituary: David Conlee
- UPDATED: Search suspended for missing snowboarder on Mt. Hood
- Death notices and service announcements: April 6, 2022
- Obituary: Markham "Mark" Anderson
- Death notices and service announcements, April 13, 2022
- Obituary: Alvin Oswalt
- New officer joins TD police; Baska retires
- Obituary: Linda Valente
- Obituary: Susan Huntington | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/td-marina-facilities-reopen/article_dea7395e-baa7-11ec-b6f4-fb4b5fa4dc6d.html | 2022-04-13T11:31:41 | 0 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/td-marina-facilities-reopen/article_dea7395e-baa7-11ec-b6f4-fb4b5fa4dc6d.html |
The Dalles’ downtown has a new public restroom, located on the west side of the Wasco County Veteran Services Building, at 201 Federal St.
The restroom is accessible from the outside of the building, which means it is unaffected by the hours of Veteran Services and is available to the public 24 hours a day.
The Dalles resident Judy Merrill thanked the city at the last regular council meeting for their work in adding a public toilet to the downtown quarter. In particular, Merrill brought attention to the city’s maintenance team, Terry Harkrader and Jerry Johnson, who worked with the contractors on this project.
“I want to share my deep appreciation for the maintenance team, Jerry and Terry, for their work they did in designing and building our first public restroom in our downtown quarter,” Merill said.
Merill said she believed the addition of the restroom to be great timing, considering St. Vincent de Paul Ministry Building has recently removed the four porta-potties on their property.
“The timing could not be more perfect,” she said. “... The new public restroom is a big step forward for the city providing public restrooms in our downtown quarter.” | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/the-dalles-downtown-gets-new-public-bathroom/article_6e8a5e70-baa3-11ec-adca-8bd583403752.html | 2022-04-13T11:31:47 | 0 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/the-dalles-downtown-gets-new-public-bathroom/article_6e8a5e70-baa3-11ec-adca-8bd583403752.html |
The City of The Dalles has launched a new version of its website, effectively overhauling and streamlining www.thedalles.org.
The new website now has updated mobile functionality, as well as a new homepage that includes more accessibility for finding what you need. Agendas and minutes, applications and documents, and press releases and public notices can all be accessed from the home page. Payments can be made from the homepage as well.
Additionally, the new website also has a “How do I?” tab at the top of the home page. This tab has a list of actions one may need to do, such as applying for a city job, reserving Lewis and Clark Park, or finding city office hours and locations. Each action has a corresponding link that redirects to the appropriate page for completing the desired action. According to City Clerk Izetta Grossman, the “How do I?” page will be updated and added to as more questions arise.
The updated website also includes two new features: Report a Concern, and online form submission.
With Report a Concern, residents will be able to submit city-related concerns online. This is for things such as sewer issues, barking dogs, or potholes. There is also a tracking system to see if the issue has been addressed and what stage of the process the complaint is in.
For online form submission, almost all city applications and forms can now be found and filled out online. This also includes a tracking function that allows the user to see when the application or form is received, as well as who processed it.
The website team will continue to update the website as needed, according to Grossman. The team consists of Regulatory Manager Jill Hoyenga, Associate Planner Kaitlyn Cook, Police Chief Tom Worthy, and Grossman. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/the-dalles-introduces-refresh-for-city-website/article_07b032ec-baa3-11ec-a874-838a5db1be11.html | 2022-04-13T11:31:53 | 0 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/the-dalles-introduces-refresh-for-city-website/article_07b032ec-baa3-11ec-a874-838a5db1be11.html |
Did you know zombies hate Skittles? (Hint: It has something to do with math.)
If you’re a high school junior or senior, you’ll discover this important topic as well as “How Not to Kill Your Medical Patients When Using Math” and “Under Pressure,” as faculty from Columbia Gorge Community College presents Columbia Gorge Math Day Saturday, May 14, on The Dalles Campus.
Hands-on workshops will show how math is fun as well as a lifelong skill, according to a press release from CGCC.
Sessions will be presented by the college’s chemistry, nursing and electro-mechanical departments (that’s where you learn how to operate wind turbines and other stuff).Check-in starts at 9 a.m. on the third floor of Building 2 with drawing tickets, free t-shirt and pastries. Sessions follow at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Lunch break at noon features keynote speaker Leila Kaneda, a software engineer at Sightline Applications.
Math Day wraps up on the college quad at 1:45 p.m. with drawings for prizes such as a new graphing calculator; Visa gift cards for $25, $50 and $100; CGCC Bookstore swag bag and certificates for free continuing education classes.
This event is limited to 75 students. To attend, you must RSVP by visiting the college’s website, www.cgcc.edu.
For questions, email Pam Morse, CGCC math instructor, at pmorse@cgcc.edu. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/zombies-hate-skittles-learn-why-at-math-day/article_a9dee15e-baa7-11ec-9359-5befb63a0b1a.html | 2022-04-13T11:31:59 | 0 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/news/zombies-hate-skittles-learn-why-at-math-day/article_a9dee15e-baa7-11ec-9359-5befb63a0b1a.html |
Dr. Sherene D. Suchy (Suki to friends), a 1970 graduate from then Wy’east High School, passed on Feb. 19, 2022, in Canberra, Australia, after a miraculous and heroic 20-year battle for her life.
Sherene was born May 5, 1952, in Savannah, Ga., to Herschel L. and Lorene D. Johnson (longtime residents of Odell, both deceased). She was sister to Ronnie Johnson (Arkansas, deceased) and Angela Sors of Molalla, Ore.
Sherene held dual citizenship, U.S. and Australian. Though an adventure to move to Australia in her early 20s, she lived there most of her life. As a 4.0 student throughout high school, Sherene continued her education, working diligently to achieve her doctorate in social work. She authored many self-help books as well as developing and teaching courses at several universities in Australia.
Sherene’s life was full of travel, adventure love of books, music, walking, gardens, the fine arts, family and her many families and colleagues in her beloved Australia.
Sherene was a phenomenal sister and friend. She is survived by her sister, Angela, many nieces and nephews, plus great-great-nieces around the U.S. Sherene was also godmother to several friends’ children in Australia.
Private memorial will be held with family and friends. However, donations may be made to Doctors without Borders and the Cancer Foundation Australia, who provided her with so much support when she first became ill. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/obituaries/obituary-sherene-suchy/article_7a355d42-babc-11ec-a22c-272277fe03d5.html | 2022-04-13T11:32:05 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/obituaries/obituary-sherene-suchy/article_7a355d42-babc-11ec-a22c-272277fe03d5.html |
Vote for Leti
We have the opportunity this spring to elect a fresh new voice to the Hood River County Commission. I first met Leti several years ago when we served together on the board of our local Columbia Area Transportation District (CAT). Leti has now served on the CAT board for eight years, and she has been dedicated to bringing needed transportation services to residents in all corners of the county. She is also a great listener and wants to hear from people with all points of view to better understand their concerns and the problems they face. Then she comes up with creative and practical ways to address those concerns.
I know her talents will serve her (and us) well as a new county commissioner who will strive to make this place we call home an even better home for all of us.
I urge you to vote for Leti Valle Moretti.
Leanne Hogie, former CAT board chair
Hood River
Cleanup man
Rod Runyon for Wasco County Commissioner. He’s the man! Did you check him out along I-84 as the highway cleanup man?
Annadale Rooper
The Dalles
Vote Euwer
When I moved to the Gorge in 1986, I was fortunate to meet and become friends with Gene and Meg Euwer, Parkdale orchardists. They were both respectful and deeply committed to the land they farmed. Equally, they were committed to the people who came to the county in hopes of finding opportunities to better their lives and provide a future for their children.
The Euwers were among the first orchardists to welcome Hispanic workers and recognize the interdependence of orchardists and agricultural workers. While Gene pruned trees by committee, Meg often transported workers, spouses and children to medical and other needed appointments. Committed to a bi-cultural reality, the Euwers raised their daughters to be bi-lingual with a deep bi-cultural understanding and commitment.
One of their daughters, Jennifer, now an orchardist in her own right, is a candidate for chair of Hood River County Commissioners. When elected, she will bring to county leadership that same deep respect for the land and its people that her parents instilled in her.
While knowledge and respect for our county’s narrative is important, the chair of Hood River County Commissioners will need to see clearly the ever-changing circumstances of our future. I am confident Jennifer can and will provide that leadership .
Please join me in marking your ballot to elect Jennifer Euwer, chair of the Hood River County Commissioners.
Your vote for Jennifer will be a vote that will always make you proud.
Gary Young
Hood River
Weigh in now
Sad to see the homelessness counts rise significantly. (“Homeless count finds increases,” Columbia Gorge News, March 30, 2022). Right now Congress is working on appropriations for next year, so it is the perfect time to contact your representative. Tell them to weigh in with the appropriations committee, asking to raise funding levels for affordable housing and housing vouchers. The first will take time, but an increase in housing vouchers can help families more immediately, and both are needed.
In addition, the Child Tax Credit helped millions pay rent and buy food before it lapsed. Renewing the Child Tax Credit can help families remain in their homes, so ask your member of Congress to vote in favor of renewing the Child Tax Credit.
By speaking to our members of Congress we can help create the political will for action to bring an end to homelessness.
Willie Dickerson
Snohomish, Wash.
Support Runyon
If people who vote in next month’s election believe that Phil Brady is the answer, I believe they need some serious help with the question.
Phil Brady was a recent member of the board of directors at MCMC. As a member of that board he would have been instrumental in setting policy for that institution. Recently, more than a dozen doctors left MCMC, in part due to policies established while he was a member of the MCMC board. This comes directly from a doctor who recently left MCMC.
Again, in 2018 Brady was instrumental in placing a $235,000,000 bond measure before voters of our local school district, a bond that would have added more than $300 in annual property taxes to your budgets. (If you had a home with a $200,000 taxable value, the cost would have been more than $600 per year.)
My vote will go to Rod Runyon, a man of experience who has actually done the job for us in the past. Rod has proven time after time that he is fiscally responsible and that is what we need in a county commissioner.
Please vote for Rod Runyon — knowledgeable, dedicated, responsible.
C.L. Petersen
The Dalles
Brady endorsement
I am honored to endorse Phil Brady for Wasco County Commissioner.
Phil’s science background gives him the necessary skills for understanding and dealing with complex issues the county faces, from water and energy resources to community health. His background as a teacher gives him the skills to work effectively with people who have varied interests, and to understand the struggles that so many families in our community are facing.
As a former county commissioner, I know how critical it is for a commissioner to listen to the public with respect and the intention to learn from them. It’s also critical to take this knowledge and do something with it. Phil can and will do both. We need this kind of leadership for Wasco County.
Phil embraces values he learned from his father, Minor Brady: Work hard until the job is done, and treat people fairly. He lives these values every day, and for this reason, I am confident that Phil will dedicate himself to making life better for all of Wasco County’s residents. Phil Brady gets my vote for Wasco County Commissioner.
Dan Ericksen
The Dalles
Wealth disparity
Americans have egalitarian views about ideal income distribution. Typically, the top 20% should hold 30-40% of the wealth, the bottom 40% should hold 20-30% of the wealth. Most now believe that the bottom 40% have 8-10% of the wealth. In truth, the bottom 40% held a meager 0.3% of the wealth 20 years ago and were underwater by 10 years ago. The top 20% held 84-85% of the wealth 15 years ago and had increased their cut to 90% by the time of the Trump/GOP tax cuts. The top 1% saw their cut of the pie increase from 34-35% 10 years ago to more than 40% at the time of Trump’s election. During COVID, median family incomes fell nearly 3.2%. At the start of COVID restrictions, the combined wealth of the top 1% of Americans was $3 trillion. By the end of Trump’s presidency their combined wealth had grown to $4.8 trillion.
The wealth disparity in the U.S. was very similar to the wealth disparity in both China and Russia and it is now by far the most extreme in the world. Wealth disparity in the U.S. is more than twice that of Canada, France and Great Britain, three times that of Finland. The organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (of which the U. S. is a member state), estimates that the wealth disparity is reducing economic growth by about 5% per year and that economic penalty of unfair taxation is growing. In short, in a fairer society we would all be better off, richer and poorer alike. It is not a zero sum game.
Tax cuts in America are popular in rural areas. However, taxes redistribute wealth from prosperous coastal cities to rural areas. Cutting taxes starves rural areas of services, leaving most rural residents desperate and eager to blame their problems on high taxes, immigrants, and people of color. So, if you are a rural resident, vote for candidates who promise to increase taxes — the money will mostly come from wealthy cites and will mostly benefit rural areas.
Michael Beug
Husum
High integrity
Local elections matter. They can have a bigger impact on our day-to-day lives than national elections.
That’s why we’ll be voting for Phil Brady for Wasco County Commissioner in the May election. Phil is not seeking a job — he’s seeking another opportunity to serve his community, something he has done his entire life. Having worked as a teacher for many years, Phil understands the struggles so many families face. His decision to run for county commissioner stems from his desire to do more to ease those struggles and help make life better for everyone in the county.
At a time when politics is so full of corruption and meanness, it’s refreshing to have a candidate that is the opposite — Phil Brady has the highest integrity and he’s a really nice guy, too. Phil will be a commissioner who listens to everyone, encourages everyone to participate in the process, and achieves solutions that will serve the best interests of our entire county.
At the end of April, all registered voters in Wasco County will get a ballot in the mail. If you aren’t registered to vote, you can register online at OregonVotes.gov until April 26. If you don’t receive a ballot in the mail shortly after April 27, contact the county clerk’s office at 541-506-2530.
Typically, far fewer people vote in primaries than general elections. But your vote in the primary is critical, because our next county commissioner will be chosen in this primary.
Please join us in choosing Phil Brady.
Karen and Steve Murray
The Dalles
Support for Brady
Phil Brady should be our next Wasco County Commissioner. I worked with Phil on the Watershed Council, and I found him to be a great listener, humble yet firm, willing to do whatever it takes to make positive progress, and a very creative thinker. His educational background, interest in and contributions to our community, and his willingness to respectfully listen to all points of view will assure that he will accomplish what needs to be done in our County. Please vote for Phil as Wasco County Commissioner.
Gary Wade
The Dalles | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/opinion/your-voice-april-13-2022/article_4b1cbb1a-baa6-11ec-ae7a-2f7b5ec73d2e.html | 2022-04-13T11:32:12 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/opinion/your-voice-april-13-2022/article_4b1cbb1a-baa6-11ec-ae7a-2f7b5ec73d2e.html |
Phil Brady
1) What makes you the best choice for Wasco County Commissioner, Position 3?
The experience that counts is personal knowledge of real people and the diversity of economic life in Wasco County. Being a classroom teacher has brought me up-close, often painful understanding of the problems real families face. I’m a believer in the power of groups to work together and have always been engaged in councils and committees ranging from watershed protection to school facilities to healthcare. Whether in a meeting or in public, I’ve earned a reputation for being a good listener and having the ability to address complicated social and technical issues in a way that is respectful and contributes fresh ideas.
2) Do you support Mid-Columbia Medical Center’s proposal for a new hospital/athletic field on county-owned property in The Dalles? Why or why not?
The new hospital campus and sports facilities are truly an endeavor that will be a game changer for the whole region. The sport complex has benefits for all ages, from pickle ball players to walkers to school and little league athletes. At the same time, moving an outdated and poorly located hospital will improve both healthcare and access to healthcare for everyone.
I am aware of concerns regarding pedestrian and bicycle access to the sports facility. I rode my bicycle to work at NORCOR every day for nine years and can attest that while the train crossing is easy, the two high speed intersections on Webber St. are difficult. Rather than think of this as a block, we should address the problem and build improved pedestrian access as part of the community’s ongoing goal of reconnecting to the Columbia River.
3) A lack of affordable housing is a community concern throughout the Gorge. What role do you believe Wasco County is able to play in finding solutions, and what solutions do you support?
The lack of affordable housing is both a family and economic issue. I’ve spoken with landlords who receive dozens of desperate requests when they place a unit on the market. And for renters and buyers, the high cost of housing consumes such a large share of their income that other priorities are curtailed.
The role of the county does not include direct means such as rent assistance, but the county can help in a couple long term ways. Occasionally, the county has properties that can be turned over to housing agencies to be developed for affordable housing and the current commissioners have done just this recently. A much larger effort would be to apply for a block grant that would channel state money through the county government directly to the local housing agency. This would be a big lift, but also make a big difference.
4) Homelessness is also a community concern in Wasco County. Is this a county issue, and if so what solutions do you support?
My experience teaching at NORCOR gave me appreciation for the connection between housing, mental health, and employment. It is very tempting to try to push the problem away, but no attempt to discourage houseless people from being part of our communities will address a deep rooted problem that happens everywhere. Instead, every community needs to do its part, and the county government needs to support both short and long term solutions. These can include policy changes such as code changes to allowing housing units on existing properties. Other approaches are treatment programs including the proposed Navigation Center. Experience with other programs such as this shows that people learn the habits that lead to stability best when they are in a structured, monitored environment. And the contained design and monitored arrangement of the proposed facility can make it fit into a neighborhood similar to housing for seniors or assisted living.
5) What do you see as the county’s greatest need/priority going forward?
In addition to housing, childcare is a critical family and economic issue. Wasco County is a childcare desert for infant and toddler care, and the cost of childcare is about as expensive as tuition at a state university. This results in parents not continuing their educations or not working which affects local businesses which can’t function without reliable employees.
Wasco County is fortunate to have dedicated and well trained emergency responders. But the reality of how the climate is changing requires us to keep up our preparedness and also choose policies and practices that will make us more resilient. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/phil-brady/article_a8d8eef0-baaa-11ec-9057-17da3a5e3abb.html | 2022-04-13T11:32:18 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/phil-brady/article_a8d8eef0-baaa-11ec-9057-17da3a5e3abb.html |
Rod Runyon
1 What makes you the best choice for Wasco County Commissioner, Position 3?
Experience. This position truly takes a non-partisan approach. Knowledge of how government should and could work started while in a 25 year financial services career. As a small business owner appointed four years on the City Planning Commission. Elected eight years Port of The Dalles Industrial Development Commission. After I retired, elected two terms to the Wasco County Commission. Chair four of those years. It’s important to lobby legislation on both sides of the aisle that affects our county. Voluntarily served the Association of Oregon Counties Executive Board as treasurer. Committees for Legislative, Human Resources, Transportation and even though a civilian, chosen chair of the Veterans Committee due to my record of local, regional and national advocacy. Served as chair of MC Housing, MCACC Community Action Council and executive board of Mid-Columbia Economic Development. Currently three years on The Dalles City Council. Keeping my skills sharp.
2. Do you support the Mid-Columbia Medical Center’s proposal for a new hospital/athletic field on County owned property in The Dalles? Why or Why not?
The ideas are related but separate. The sports complex concept and fields are projected to be on lands owned currently by Google. They have offered the land to the county as part of Google’s newest development. If that plan goes through then the MCMC conversation will begin in earnest. As stated MCMC is not the controlling factor in the puzzle. Regarding MCMC, I believe that a new facility is a demonstrated need and something worthy of continued discussions as a community. It addresses four of the communities greatest needs: mental health, develop housing at the current site, economic development and recreation lands. The facility we have is more than 50 years old and has out grown it’s footprint. Each project will be required to submit traffic plans and make traffic alterations. I am for the project but there are many questions ahead.
3. A lack of affordable housing is a community concern throughout the Gorge. What role do you believe Wasco County is able to play in finding solutions and what solutions do you support?
All communities in Wasco County have this struggle. Not long ago, multiple listing service had more than 200 homes on it. The same service in one recent week had only 20. The market drives prices. Less available product, an expanded need and the price rises. Affordability is a casualty. I served as Wasco County’s representative on the Mid-Columbia Housing Board for eight years, chair about half of that time, serving three Oregon counties and two Washington counties. Public-Private partnerships were a large part of our portfolio. Building and buying apartment complexes and homes during that time for those of lower income. Commissioners help by representing the people. Commissioners, if they so choose and I did, have the ear of state and federal representatives. It’s all about funding for the county or its cities as recipients. The county can help direct funds to form partnerships through different sources.
4. Homelessness is also a community concern in Wasco County. Is this a county issue and if so what solutions do you support?
Concerns of citizens within and outside the communities are always a county issue. Cities will take the lead. That doesn’t mean the county is totally on the sidelines. As former county representative on the Board of Mid Columbia Community Action Council and the chair, MCCAC is on the front lines. As the citizens representative I was involved in decisions that improved homelessness. Funds to reduce hunger. Giving folks a leg up is where it starts. As current city councilor eight pallet shelters came up. I asked the question, “How many of those shelters could go there?” (16), each with two beds. I proposed we should max it out. Through MCCAC management it progressed into a transitional facility. The proposed Navigation Center goes to another level. In the drawing board stage. The benefits could be immense. I also support vertical housing concepts where unused second floors could provide opportunity.
5. What do you see as the county’s greatest need /priority going forward?
Economic development after pandemic is at the top of the list. We have some ground to gain back. The same concepts mentioned in the questions above of working as a commissioner with our state legislators to move funds our way will and has improved what communities have to offer. I was honored to be asked to speak and help break ground on Maupin’s Civic Center. That project was tremendous and shows what can be done by reaching out and working together. As a past member of the executive board of MCEDD, that agency is a strong leader in organizing and orchestrating concepts that bring business and industry together. I look forward to that role again and leading when given the opportunity. Being willing to listen and take the time to work together to move ideas forward is a hallmark of my roles. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/rod-runyon/article_dce93ee8-baaa-11ec-b159-17a86cf0614a.html | 2022-04-13T11:32:24 | 0 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/rod-runyon/article_dce93ee8-baaa-11ec-b159-17a86cf0614a.html |
Ronald Rivers
1. What makes you the best choice for Hood River County Commission Chair?
I have been a Hood River County resident most of my life. My interests and time have always been devoted to the citizens of this county. I have served on the following boards: Middle Fork Irrigation District, Hood River Grower-Shipper Association, Hood River-Tsuruta Sister City Board (representing Hood River County), Pear Bureau Executive Board, Hood River County Commission chair for 12 years, Hood River County Board member assigned to NORCOR and am currently serving as chair on the County Budget committee. I have never been affiliated with a private or self-serving interest group. I am here for all the residents of Hood River County.
2. A lack of affordable housing is a community concern throughout the Gorge. What role do you believe Hood River County is able to play in finding solutions, and what solutions do you support?
Hood River County has been addressing affordable housing for many years. When I was chair of the commission in 2011, the BOC reached out to the public to sell property in the City of Hood River to initiate a housing project in Hood River. After four months of meetings with the public it was decided to sell the county property on Oak Street to fund the affordable housing project. Hood River Crossing was the result. We had 281 applicants for 42 units. There is still a definite need for affordable housing in Hood River County.
3. Homelessness is also a community concern in Hood River County. Is this a county issue, and if so what solutions do you support?
Homelessness is an issue for everyone in Hood River County. In Hood River County we have community services to assist with this problem, Mid-Columbia Community Action Council, Hood River Shelter Services and Helping Hands Against Violence to name a few. The best we can do as citizens of Hood River County is to support these organizations not only with our donations but also with our volunteer time.
4. What do you see as Hood River County’s greatest need/priority going foreward?
Hood River County’s greatest need/priority in the future is to attempt to meet the needs of all its citizens in a positive approach. From Cascade Locks to Parkdale, we are all Hood River County. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/ronald-rivers/article_958c2c10-baad-11ec-8e39-07afaad8d6d4.html | 2022-04-13T11:32:30 | 0 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/ronald-rivers/article_958c2c10-baad-11ec-8e39-07afaad8d6d4.html |
Scott Hege
1) What makes you the best choice for Wasco County Commissioner, Position 1?
My experience as an elected official in addition to directing a public entity (Port of The Dalles) as staff has provided me with a broad range of skills and experience needed to oversee the operation of an entity such as Wasco County. Additionally, my work and experience in the private sector brings operational elements where government should approach things like a business as opposed to a government. Wasco County needs to be an efficient and effective governmental entity and it has been my mission to ensure that is the case.
In my time as a commissioner for Wasco County I have been able to develop wide ranging relationships with organizations and entities that are critical to the operation of our county — local, state and federal. Being able to call another entity or government official in a time of need and have them respond with information and help with the situation is invaluable. Relationships at the commission level are key to being successful as a county.
2) Do you support Mid-Columbia Medical Center’s proposal for a new hospital/athletic field on county-owned property in The Dalles? Why or why not?
As the owner of the land on which Mid-Columbia Medical Center is considering developing a new medical complex, our only role in how and if the hospital proceeds is the terms by which we would lease the property to them for their project. Outside of that, Wasco County is not directly involved with their project — that’s important to understand. Personally I support high quality health care for our citizens and I believe that is what MCMC is working towards in this project and I wish them well in their mission.
Regarding the replacement/relocation of the athletic fields (Kramer Field), it is a requirement for a new facility to be developed before a new use on Kramer Field could be allowed. If it is not possible to develop a new athletic facility, Kramer Field will stay where it is until that is possible. I am supportive of a new and improved athletic complex for our citizens as long as we can do it with resources other than new taxes or funds that are required for essential services for our citizens.
3) A lack of affordable housing is a community concern throughout the Gorge. What role do you believe Wasco County is able to play in finding solutions, and what solutions do you support?
Affordable housing and housing availability in general is a significant concern for not only our county, but our state and our nation. There are no easy solutions that develop significant amounts of housing that are affordable to our citizens, so this issue is not going away anytime soon.
Wasco County plays numerous supporting roles in helping with this challenge. First, we support and participate in a number of agencies that directly work to deal with the shortage of and development of affordable housing directly. Mid-Columbia Housing Authority (MCHA) is a regional non-profit that focuses on all facets of supporting and developing housing for our region. Commissioners from our county as well as our neighboring counties work collaboratively in MCHA to address the needs of the region.
More directly and recently, we have worked with housing agencies such as MCHA to transfer appropriate foreclosed properties to the housing agency. When a property has potential to be redeveloped into affordable housing, the county can be asked to transfer those properties to another entity specifically for use in developing affordable housing. In the past year we developed a policy that identifies the process for doing this.
4) Homelessness is also a community concern in Wasco County. Is this a county issue, and if so what solutions do you support?
Homelessness is a county issue. While homelessness is most prevalent inside of city boundaries and in Wasco County’s case, primarily The Dalles, it does not mean that we are off the hook. We have and will continue to work on this multifaceted challenge that has increased in recent years. As with the affordable housing challenge, there is no easy solution to the issue of homelessness and they are connected in many ways.
Our support and participation in Mid-Columbia Community Action Council (MCCAC) is one of the more effective ways to work on addressing the homelessness issue. Our recent financial support of MCCHA’s efforts to develop a Navigation Center to positively address the challenges with homelessness with the goal of helping this group of citizens get back on their feet and into better housing and work situations. This work requires extensive collaboration with such entities as Center for Living, the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office and our district attorney’s office, all of which are part of the county in one way or another.
5) What do you see as the county’s greatest need/priority going forward?
The role of a county is to provide a myriad of services to the citizens of the county — roads, law enforcement, 911 services, emergency management, land use planning, local public and mental health, clerk recording, assessment and taxation, district attorney, to name a few. Our priority needs to be ensuring that we do an excellent job at providing all essential services to our citizens. It’s easy to get sidetracked and be pulled in many different directions, but if it takes away from our ability to provide essential services to our citizens, we need to ensure that we provide these services before considering adding to our plate. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/scott-hege/article_2e073366-baab-11ec-bf60-8f2e45a6b9c6.html | 2022-04-13T11:32:36 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/scott-hege/article_2e073366-baab-11ec-bf60-8f2e45a6b9c6.html |
Neticia Fanene was a three-sport The Dalles High athlete who went on to set volleyball records at the University of Oregon. Steve Sugg was a standout athlete and later head coach of six The Dalles state championship baseball teams.
They, and 10 others like them, are among the inductees of the 2022 class of The Dalles Booster Club sports hall of fame. The 12 inductees will be honored at a May 14 ceremony at The Dalles Civic Auditorium. Tickets go on sale this week.
Fanene and Sugg will be joined by Edwin Anghilante, Jeff Wood, Al Miller, Marv Marckman, John Lundell, Art Bull, Denny Peterson, Dan Schooler, Leeanna Carpenter Rosenbaum, and Donita Huskey Wilson. Schooler, Carpenter Rosenbaum, and Wilson are Wahtonka High graduates; the others are from The Dalles High.
This is the second class of the booster club’s hall of fame. The 2019 inductees were: Ken Dayley (1977 TDHS); John Dick (1936 TDHS); Ed Urness (1952 TDHS); Dave Jones (1955 TDHS); Terry Way (1966 WHS); Cindy Wacker Nehring (1974 TDHS); Ron Schmidt (1979 WHS); Jared Cornell (1995 TDHS); Mandi Fizt-Gustafson (2001 TDHS); Bill Hammel (1966 WHS); Kevin Kramer (1973 TDHS); Bill Lavelle (1979 WHS); Dennis Radford (1959 TDHS); and Maria North (2004 TDHS).
Davina Craig, president of The Dalles Booster Club, said the hall of fame committee continues to receive – and welcomes - suggestions for future classes. She said, with more than 100 years of athletes to review, there’s a good possibility the committee probably has missed someone who is deserving. They invite nominations, asking that submissions include the person’s name, year(s) of participation and accolades.
The booster club is a volunteer organization which encourages excellence for all students involved in athletic activities. The club provides resources and promotes parent and community involvement. More information on the club and the hall of fame banquet can be found at www.thedallesboosterclub.com.
Sugg and Fanene are two of the many examples of former The Dalles High athletes who returned to the community to work with a new generation of student athletes.
Sugg was an all-league baseball player for The Dalles in the early 1980s. After a two-sport (football, baseball) college career at Linfield he returned to the Gorge and starting teaching and coaching baseball.
In a 10-year span, Sugg helped coach The Dalles to six state baseball championships (1993, 1994, 1997, 1999, 2001 and 2002) and nine semifinal berths. He was also selected as the 2003 coach of the year by National High School Baseball Coaches Association. Sugg recently returned as head coach of the Riverhawk program.
Fanene was a school record setter in swimming, track, and volleyball at TDHS, where she was Neticia Enesi. She was the league’s player of the year in volleyball and a first-team, all-state selection. Her scholarship to the University of Oregon allowed her to set team records and become a third-team All-American before graduating with a sociology degree.
Fanene returned to the Gorge to start her career and has coached volleyball and track and field at TDHS. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/sports/booster-club-hall-of-fame-to-add-12-more-members/article_e9a32e1c-baa7-11ec-8400-fb0743a42dad.html | 2022-04-13T11:32:42 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/sports/booster-club-hall-of-fame-to-add-12-more-members/article_e9a32e1c-baa7-11ec-8400-fb0743a42dad.html |
In its first Class 5A Intermountain Conference tournament, The Dalles High Riverhawks boys golf team took third place in the six-team event April 4 at the challenging 18-hole Crooked River Ranch Golf Course in Terrebonne.
The Hawks, guided by Coach Dan Telles, shot a team score of 386, not far behind runner-up Redmond at 374. The host Crook County High Cowboys won the tourney with a score of 344. The Ridgeview Ravens were fourth (392), followed by the Hood River Valley High Eagles (420) and the Pendleton High Buckaroos (445). The Hawks have finished third or better in all four of their tournaments this season.
“That’s a great course and a fun course to play, but some holes are tricky,” said Telles. “On one hole you shoot over a canyon, so that’s pretty fun. The kids played well. Our No. 1-player (Joe Codding) got into trouble on the back nine, but the other kids all responded well. They backed him up, they supported him, and they bore down and played well. It was the only time this year that we didn’t count Joe’s score in the team score.”
The Dalles was led by junior Kenneth Miller, who shot 86 and finished tied for second overall with Beau Parker of Crook County. Palmer Smith of Crook County earned the medalist award with his first-place score of 76. The Dalles’ other top scores were by junior Keeler Lawson (96), senior Chase Sam (98), sophomore Connor Sam (106) and Codding (117).
Dale Nelzen of Redmond, took fourth at 87 and HRV’s Davis Kerr finished tied for fifth at 90. Dylan Bojanowski of Ridgeview also shot 90 for fifth place.
“The weather was crazy, with some rain, followed by some sunny weather and then there were some gusty winds, too,” said Telles. “We’re still in the hunt though and we have three more tournaments to go. Joe is going to bounce back. Miller shot a good 86 and Chase had a solid 98 and he’s improving so he’ll chop down his scores. Keeler struggled with putting and he knows he can cut off strokes if he improves his putting. He had five putts on one hole, so he knows that he has to work on putting.”
The Hawks played their fifth tourney Monday at the Golf Course at Birch Creek in Pendleton (results were after the printed edition deadline). The Hawks play their sixth tournament April 18 at 8:15 a.m. at the Meadow Lakes Golf Course in Prineville. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/sports/crooked-river-course-befuddles-td-boys-golfers/article_77f1862c-ba9f-11ec-bb62-1f7a21dcb529.html | 2022-04-13T11:32:48 | 0 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/sports/crooked-river-course-befuddles-td-boys-golfers/article_77f1862c-ba9f-11ec-bb62-1f7a21dcb529.html |
We’re down to the season-ending nitty-gritty time in bowling league action at Orchard Lanes, Hood River’s ten-pin palace up on the Heights. Three leagues remain and all are featuring dog fights for their championships.
The elite eight in the first round of the championship bracket matches in the Monday night Industrial league were completed last week. Here are the results: No. 1 seed Pat’s Pro Shop waxed no. 8 seed Kingpinz 22-3; no. 2 seed Collins Aerospace beat no. 7 seed OL’7-10 17-8; no. 6 seed Hood River Supply trounced no. 3 seed Jesse’s Team 22-3; and no. 5 seed wild Giant Studio crushed no. 4 seed Orchard Lanes 22-3.
In the first match, Patrick Olson and John Mayfield stepped up in Pat’s Pro Shop’s big win. Patrick shot a lofty 701 series and John contributed a nice 618 three gamer which was 103 pins over his average. It’s hard to beat action like that. Local bowling’s No. 1 guy, Jeff Miller, keyed Collins Aerospace win in the second match with a 695 series. OL’ 7-10’s dependable anchor man, Lynn Spellman, gave it his best, ending up with a spiffy 678 set but it just wasn’t enough to beat the high-flying Aerospace boys. You could classify the third match as a mild upset even though it was a dominating win for Hood River Supply, principally because of their fearless anchor man, Aaron Troxel and his thumbless pin busting power ball that stirred the sticks to the tune of a mighty fine 668 set. In the fourth match, Wild Giant Studio’s stars, who all reside in The Dalles, were simply too much for Orchard Lanes. Smooth Dustin Ticknor’s 652 and lanky Matt Hodges’ 639 paced their lopsided win.
Here are this week’s final four matches in the Industrial league: No. 1 seed Pat’s Pro Shop vs. no. 6 seed Hood River Supply and no. 2 seed Collins Aerospace against no. 5 seed Wild Giant Studio. What do you think — will we end up with a championship match between the top two seeds or will an underdog prevail? This will be fun to watch.
The seniors in the Wednesday afternoon Colts and Fillies league relish the aspect of getting together every week to socialize with their bowling buddies. They also like to stay active, and bowling is perfect for that. You know what they say, if you don’t use it, you will lose it! They claim they are not serious bowlers, but we think they are a little competitive too. There is one week left in their regular season and three teams still have a chance to take the second round. The Outsiders are leading with 38 wins, but powerhouse Go Granny Gone, and Jesse’s Team are just two back at 36 wins. This week is big because The Outsiders and the dynamo Go Granny Gone trios bowl each other in a pivotal match. If Go Granny Gone wins three games, they will be tied with The Outsiders at 39 wins each. However, in that case, if the intimidating Jesse’s threesome wins all four of their games, they would take the second half with 40 wins! As you can see, there are many possible outcomes, so to save our sanity, we won’t go into it further. We’ll report the results next week.
This will be a fun one too. Whoever takes the second round will earn the right to bowl for the league championship against Verna’s Team who took the first round.
The hot-shot Wednesday night Fraternal league finished its third-round last week and Electronic Assemblers took it going away. Congratulations to the Electronics Assemblers crew, Ron Ward, George Buck, and Bill Pullum. Taking the third round is important because by doing so, the Electronics Assemblers crew qualified for the league championship roll-off this week with The 3 Pendejos and 6th Street Bistro who took the first two rounds. These three teams are loaded with top notch bowlers. 200 average fireballer Stan Pratnicki anchors the 3 Pendejos squad. Gaudy 216 average Jeremy Bloom whose effortless style and big 205 average Bryan Mason make their 6th Street Bistro bunch hard to beat. The Assemblers are anchored by 206 average Bill Pullum who has long been one of the top players in town. Don’t be fooled by that 206 average, Bill has battled some injuries this season and we all know he’s easily 15 pins a game better than that.
These three hot teams will be joined in the roll-off by a wild-card team who won the most points but did not win a round. Incredibly, this isn’t set yet because the BB and MWB teams tied for this wild-card spot so they will have to have a roll-off match to determine the actual wild-card team. Both of these teams are also loaded with big-time bowlers. The BB boys are anchored by the aforementioned all-star Jeff Miller who is carrying a heady 220 average and his teammate Dustin Ticknor is carrying a 204 average. MWB is led by young Levi Phelps who has made quantum leaps in his bowling skills this season and is now carrying an awesome 214 average.
Isn’t this fun? Let’s go bowling, everybody!
HIGH LEAGUE GAMES AND SERIES LAST WEEK:
Monday night Industrial:
Patrick Olson: 254, 245, 701
Jeff Miller: 268, 695
Lynn Spellman: 246, 678
Aaron Troxel: 242, 668
Dustin Ticknor: 242, 652
John Mayfield: 258
Steve Byers: 240
Joey Sheirbon: 237
Woody Eskildsen: 235
Nancy Asai: 204
Wednesday afternoon senior Colts and Fillies:
Lynn Spellman: 216,205
Mike Sherrell: 215
Jesse Flores: 209
Len Allen: 201
Ken Kramer: 201
Wednesday night Fraternal:
Levi Phelps: 669
Jeremy Bloom: 237, 665
Bill Pullum: 660
Josh Worth: 654
George Buck: 268
Jeff Miller: 251
Rich Sabo: 236
Patrick Olson: 235 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/sports/keglers-corner-electronics-assemblers-is-in/article_b1102bba-ba9b-11ec-85e0-cf384d4f6487.html | 2022-04-13T11:32:54 | 0 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/sports/keglers-corner-electronics-assemblers-is-in/article_b1102bba-ba9b-11ec-85e0-cf384d4f6487.html |
The No. 5-ranked Dufur/South Wasco County High Rangers baseball team displayed its highly potent offense (12.6 runs per game average) while scoring a total of 34 runs in winning a doubleheader over the Stanfield/Echo High Tigers April 9 at Stanfield High School.
The undefeated Rangers (3-0 Special District 7, 9-0 overall) won 18-5 and 16-3 over the Tigers (0-4 SD7, 2-7).
The Rangers faced area rival Columbia High (0-3 league, 4-5 overall) of Washington’s Class 1A Trico League for the second time this season April 5 at home. Ranger pitchers Carson Smith, Brock LaFaver and Isaac Anthony combined for a no-hitter in a 10-0 win over the Bruins at home in a five-inning contest that was shortened via the 10-run mercy rule. The senior trio combined for a total of 10 strikeouts and two walks.
The Rangers scored two runs in the first inning, got three in the second and four in the third for a 9-0 advantage. Following a scoreless fourth, the Rangers added a run in the fifth for the final margin.
Anthony led the Ranger offense, as he was 2-for-2, with a double, home run and four RBI. LaFaver was 1-for-4, with an RBI, and senior Gabe Petroff batted 3-for-4 with a double. The Rangers had six hits.
The Rangers were seeking to win their 10th straight contest Tuesday at home versus the Sherman/Arlington/Condon/Wheeler Huskies (result was after the printed edition deadline).
The Huskies (0-2 SD7, 1-3) lost a doubleheader 11-1 and 10-0 to the No. 6-ranked Heppner/Ione High Mustangs (7-2) last Saturday. The Huskies’ next game is an 11 a.m. doubleheader Saturday versus Stanfield/Echo at Sherman High in Moro.
The Lyle/Wishram/Klickitat/Trout Lake High Cougars (0-5 SD7, 0-6 overall) dropped their fifth straight after losing a doubleheader 18-0 and 10-0 to the No. 14-ranked Weston-McEwen High TigerScots (3-0 SD7, 5-0) April 9 at Weston-McEwen High School in Athena. The Cougars play their next contest in an 11 a.m. doubleheader Saturday on the road vs. Grant/Union/Prairie City Prospectors (2-1 SD7, 5-4). | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/sports/ranger-baseball-remains-unbeaten-9-0/article_3b3f1388-baa5-11ec-bfba-3b51716b03ab.html | 2022-04-13T11:33:00 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/sports/ranger-baseball-remains-unbeaten-9-0/article_3b3f1388-baa5-11ec-bfba-3b51716b03ab.html |
The Dalles High Riverhawks girls golf team had a grueling schedule while competing in two Class 5A tournaments last week.
On April 5, The Dalles trio of sophomores Katelyn Vassar, Nellie Wilkinson, and junior Paige Compton combined for a score of 324 in an eight-team event at Prineville Golf and Country Club’s nine-hole course. Because the Riverhawks have just three players this year, they’re not eligible for a team score.
Wilkinson had a great performance, despite less-than-ideal weather conditions on a cold and windy day. She shot a personal-best 92 to take fifth place overall, out of 36 players. Vassar shot 111 and Compton shot 121.
The Redmond High Panthers took first place in team scoring with 419, followed by the Bend High Lava Bears (425), the Ridgeview High Ravens (425), the Crook County Cowgirls (432), the Pendleton High Buckaroos (454) and the Hood River Valley High Eagles (463).
The Eagles were led by Maysie Kern, who shot 99 and tied for seventh overall with Redmond’s Bayley Gustaveson. Julianna Moore was next at 113, followed by Sierra Lavoie (121) and Piper Lawson (130). Kristin Fox shot a non-counting score of 132 for HRV.
On April 7, the Hawks competed in seven-team event at Aspen Lakes Golf Club in Sisters on a warm and sunny day. The Hawks, guided by first-year Coach Nate Timmons, had a three-player score of 361.
“At Aspen Lakes, it was the longest and probably the most challenging course the girls will play all year,” said Timmons. “It was a great tournament for the girls to experience. The course throws some fun challenges at you and I’m proud of how they played.”
Vassar was the Hawks’ top player in Sisters, shooting 106, followed by Wilkinson at 112 and Compton at 143. The Summit High Storm won the tourney with a score of 357.
The Hawks played in their sixth event Monday at the Golf Club at Birch Creek in Pendleton (result was after the printed edition deadline). The Hawks will compete in their next tourney April 18 at Eagle Crest Resort Ridge Golf Course in Redmond. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/sports/riverhawk-girls-golfers-compete-in-two-tourneys/article_92a042a6-ba9f-11ec-b167-1b0914c97c57.html | 2022-04-13T11:33:05 | 1 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/sports/riverhawk-girls-golfers-compete-in-two-tourneys/article_92a042a6-ba9f-11ec-b167-1b0914c97c57.html |
A new shed at the Mt. View Grange is a Farm Tool Library, and the public is invited to join a grand opening celebration of the library at the Estes Avenue parking lot of the Mt. View Grange in White Salmon on Wednesday, April 20, from 4-6 p.m.
A project of Underwood Conservation District, the “library” of farm tools is for checkout and use by the community. It is designed to provide conservation-oriented tools, such as a wheel plow, broadfork, and no-till drill to farmers and gardeners.
In order to borrow tools, one must first become a member of the library. Tools are checked out online at www.ucdwa.org/farm-tool-library, where you can also view pictures of the tools in the inventory and see when they are available.
The library will initially have open hours on Fridays from noon to 2 p.m. Anyone interested in volunteering at library — there are a variety of odd jobs needed — can call UCD at 509-493-1936. Donations to the tool library must meet a specific set of criteria.
The library is planned to be useful to a wide variety of farm types, including small-scale, commercial operations in need of occasional specialized equipment, urban gardeners growing their own food and beginning or potential farmers exploring the feasibility of getting into agriculture.
The majority of tools are meant to be used on occasion, such as seasonal bed-preparation or site-establishment, or to enhance conservation practices for improved soil health, invasive weed management or pollinator habitat, said a press release.
For patrons borrowing the tools, the UCD staff will promote best-management practices, techniques, and incentives to conserve natural resources and increase farm viability.
“The Farm Tool Library is one of the most relevant, immediate ways to be of service to the beginning or small-scale agricultural community,” said UCD Manager Tova Tillinghast.
The April 20 open house includes a tool-sharpening workshop at 4 p.m. given by Del Medenbach, woodshop teacher at Columbia High School. Bring your hand gardening tools like shovels and hoes and get pointers as you sharpen. Files will be available or folks can bring their own.
“The Farm Tool Library is a great fit for the Mt. View Grange,” said Ruth Olin of the Mt. View Grange.
Today’s Mt. View Grange has a keen interest in living in harmony with our natural environment and the farm-to-food process, Olin said. Part of the Mt. View Grange Vision Statement is “to advocate for sustainable food systems that leave the planet better than we found it,” she said.
The Farm Tool Library is also a place to learn about good gardening practices like water conservation, habitat creation and soil health, said a press release.
“Farmer/gardeners are stewards of our environment, so it’s fitting that the Farm Tool Library opening falls close to Earth Day,” said a press release. “The Mt. View Grange has joined Columbia Gorge Climate Action Network’s Earth Month. CGCAN promotes Earth awareness activities throughout April (cgcan.org/calendar/2022-04).
Members of the Gorge Farmers Collective will also be attending the open house. The Gorge Farmer’s Collective runs an online farmers’ marketplace with selections of produce, flowers, meats, eggs, teas, breads, cheese, vinegars and other locally produced sundries.
Pickup sites are located throughout the Gorge, and the Mt. View Grange is White Salmon’s pick-up spot. The Gorge Farmer Collective’s mission is rooted in promoting and fostering local family farmers while providing customers with a diverse selection of foods sustainably grown in the Gorge. | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/whitesalmonenterprise/grand-opening-of-farm-tool-library-in-white-salmon/article_5ff818ca-baa8-11ec-9b90-7b79e19152f0.html | 2022-04-13T11:33:11 | 0 | https://www.columbiagorgenews.com/whitesalmonenterprise/grand-opening-of-farm-tool-library-in-white-salmon/article_5ff818ca-baa8-11ec-9b90-7b79e19152f0.html |
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – Spring is here and that’s prompting many to clean out their closets. But what do you do with those items? Instead of throwing them away, you can donate them to someone in need.
There are lots of area organizations that take donations and give them to people who are in need of items, free of charge.
The Mustard Seed Furniture Bank is one of them. Hoosiers are invited to bring all of their gently used items such as lamps, everyday dishes, countertop appliances, and more. Tina with the Mustard Seed Furniture Bank says without the public’s help and support by donating items, they would not have a mission.
“Our mission lies upon the generosity of the community to supply us with gently used items in good condition, so we can then turn that around and get it to families that are in need, that have experienced some type of crisis,” Tina said.
The Fort Wayne Community Schools Clothing is another option. This organization provides clothing to thousands of students each year.
Career Closet and Martha’s Closet are also available to donate to and receive from. Career Closet specifically provides people with work and interview attire. From suits to uniforms, to shoes and accessories, they have essentials for many workplaces.
Both organizations are through Lifehouse Church and are referral based. This means clients must be referred by am agency, school or church. Find the link to refer a client here.
The Mustard Seed Furniture Bank is also referral based, and there is a process to donating items. If you have small items to give, you can head to the Mustard Seed during regular business hours. If you are needing a large item picked up in the Allen or Dekalb Counties, you’ll need to plan ahead. | https://www.wane.com/news/spring-cleaning-you-can-donate-your-goods-to-someone-in-need/ | 2022-04-13T11:33:31 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/spring-cleaning-you-can-donate-your-goods-to-someone-in-need/ |
Judge upholds Florida's 24-hour wait period for abortion
Women will have to wait 24 hours before getting an abortion under a ruling by a Florida judge in a nearly seven-year battle over the waiting period.
Circuit Judge Angela Dempsey in Tallahassee tossed out a lawsuit filed on behalf of a Gainesville women’s clinic, saying other medical procedures have a similar waiting period and other important decisions like getting married, getting divorced and buying a gun have longer waiting periods.
“Twenty-four hours is the minimum time needed to sleep on such an important decision,” Judge Dempsey wrote.
The waiting period goes into effect once Dempsey signs one additional piece of paperwork.
Dempsey also added that exceptions for the life of a mother, documented cases of rape and incest, and victims of domestic violence and human traffic support the constitutionality of the law.
“Twenty-four hours is the minimum time needed to sleep on such an important decision,” Judge Dempsey wrote.
The waiting period goes into effect once Dempsey signs one additional piece of paperwork.
Dempsey also added that exceptions for the life of a mother, documented cases of rape and incest, and victims of domestic violence and human traffic support the constitutionality of the law.
The state Supreme Court quickly put the injunction back in place while the case continued.
Scripps Only Content 2022 | https://www.wflx.com/2022/04/13/judge-upholds-floridas-24-hour-wait-period-abortion/ | 2022-04-13T11:44:19 | 0 | https://www.wflx.com/2022/04/13/judge-upholds-floridas-24-hour-wait-period-abortion/ |
Online puppy scam duped animal lovers, Google claims in lawsuit
SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) - Google is going after an alleged fraudster they say is behind several online puppy-selling scams.
The tech giant is suing, saying the responsible party has been “perpetrating a puppy fraud scheme to exploit the COVID-19 pandemic for personal gain.”
The promise of purebred puppies had sweet pictures to match, but 20 sites were listed as fraudulent in a lawsuit filed Monday by google.
The tech company said a person in Africa used several Google services in an online puppy scam.
It claims people were sending hundreds of dollars in exchange for puppies that never arrived.
“The damage is actually two parts, the emotional and financial,” said Ahmed Banafa, a San Jose State University tech expert.
Banafa said for any animal lover, especially one in search of canine companionship, one look at a cute face could be enough to let your guard down.
Court documents said Google was tipped off by AARP, which had been contacted by a victim.
“Well, I mean, the statistic is out. Thirty-five percent of the online scam is actually, you know, a puppy scam. So that tells you how bad how bad it is,” Banafa said.
The Google suit points to a study that found puppy scams increased by 165% in the U.S. from January to October 2021, compared to the same period in 2019 before COVID-19 hit.
Such scams are a concern for the Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA.
“It’s disappointing that there are people out there taking advantage of, of individuals who want to add an animal to their home. And you know, and that’s really difficult for organizations such as ourselves because we have animals available for adoption,” said Buffy Martin-Tarbox of Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA.
But if you are browsing, experts say be aware that most illegitimate websites will try to avoid any real-time contact.
Fraudsters will talk about payment before the pet. And when it comes to making a purchase, use a method that will protect you.
“It’s good that the tech companies are taking notice of it and understanding that people can abuse the, you know, the excellence of their products and algorithms. Number two, now people know about it,” Banafa said.
Copyright 2022 KGO via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wflx.com/2022/04/13/online-puppy-scam-duped-animal-lovers-google-claims-lawsuit/ | 2022-04-13T11:44:25 | 1 | https://www.wflx.com/2022/04/13/online-puppy-scam-duped-animal-lovers-google-claims-lawsuit/ |
Tech company will implant payment chip into your hand
(CNN) - Instead of carrying your wallet in your back pocket or purse, a tech company wants you to carry it under your skin.
The British-Polish company, Walletmor, is selling microchips as alternative payment options.
This chip is about the size of a grain of rice, costs about $300 and does not come inside a credit card. Instead, it must be implanted in your body, preferably in your hand.
Once you activate it using a digital wallet app, Walletmor says you will be able to make purchases at most businesses around the world just by swiping your hand over a card reader.
Right now, the chips are only being sold to citizens of the United Kingdom, Switzerland and countries in the European Union.
According to Walletmor, almost 200 people already have the implants.
Walletmor suggests using a surgeon or one of its trusted specialists for the minor operation, but once the implant goes in, there are no refunds.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wflx.com/2022/04/13/tech-company-will-implant-payment-chip-into-your-hand/ | 2022-04-13T11:44:31 | 1 | https://www.wflx.com/2022/04/13/tech-company-will-implant-payment-chip-into-your-hand/ |
Teen student charged with sexual assault, attempted murder in alleged attack on his teacher
LAS VEGAS (KVVU/Gray News) - A judge on Tuesday set a competency hearing for a student accused of sexual assault and attempted murder of a Las Vegas teacher.
The teen has been identified as 16-year-old Jonathan Eluterio Martinez Garcia, KVVU reported.
According to Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson, Martinez Garcia faces 15 felony charges in connection with the incident. He was initially facing six felony charges. However, Wolfson confirmed Monday that an additional nine felony charges were added.
His charges range from kidnapping, sexual assault, robbery, attempted murder with the use of a deadly weapon or tear gas, battery by strangulation to commit sexual assault and more. He is being charged as an adult.
In court Tuesday, his lawyer requested that he be evaluated for competency, so a judge suspended a preliminary hearing until that evaluation. The competency hearing was set for May 6 at 8:30 a.m.
Bail for Martinez Garcia remains at $500,000, under the condition of high-electronic monitoring and no contact with the victim.
According to Las Vegas police, the incident occurred Thursday at Eldorado High School.
An investigation by the department’s Sexual Assault Section indicated that the teacher was in her classroom when a student entered to talk about his grades. At some point, police say, the teen suspect became violent and began punching the teacher. Police said he strangled her until she lost consciousness.
After that, authorities said the suspect fled the classroom after the attack, and the victim was later found by another school employee. Police were able to identify the suspect, and Clark County School District police officers took him into custody.
According to police, the teacher, who has not been identified, is still recovering.
Copyright 2022 KVVU via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wflx.com/2022/04/13/teen-student-charged-with-sexual-assault-attempted-murder-alleged-attack-his-teacher/ | 2022-04-13T11:44:37 | 0 | https://www.wflx.com/2022/04/13/teen-student-charged-with-sexual-assault-attempted-murder-alleged-attack-his-teacher/ |
Two residents from The Villages confessed to voter fraud charges after filing two ballots in the 2020 Presidential election, court records show.
Charles F. Barnes and Jay Ketcik pleaded guilty to casting more than one ballot in an election, a third-degree felony that could have resulted in a maximum five-year prison sentence.
According to the pre-trial intervention documents, the prosecution of Barnes, 64, and Ketcik, 63, will be deferred if they abide by a series of court-ordered requirements set by the office of Ocala-based State Attorney Bill Gladson. Court records show the men will avoid further punishment if they regularly meet with a supervising officer, complete 50 hours of community service and attend a 12-week adult civics class, among a handful of other requirements.
News 6-WKMG first reported the news.
In December, Ketcik, along with Joan Halstead and John Rider, who also reside in The Villages, was arrested on voter fraud charges for casting more than one vote during the 2020 election, according to police affidavits. Halstead, 71, and Rider, 61, are still awaiting trial. Both have pleaded not guilty.
That following month Barnes was arrested and taken to Sumter County Jail with similar charges.
State voter records show Barnes and Rider are not affiliated with a political party in Florida. Ketcik and Halstead are registered Republicans. It is unclear if they knew each other.
Before moving to The Villages, Barnes previously held an address in Connecticut, according to an arrest report.
Ketcik was accused of casting an absentee ballot in Michigan and voting by mail in Florida, an arrest report said. He turned himself in to be booked at the Sumter detention center Dec. 8.
Both men were released from jail after paying a $2,000 bond.
Florida election officials made 75 referrals to law enforcement agencies regarding potential fraud during the 2020 election, according to data from the Florida Secretary of State’s office.
arabines@orlandosentinel.com | https://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/breaking-news/os-ne-2020-election-voting-fraud-the-villages-pre-trial-intervention-20220413-ccfyv2u2ozdmrpxdc7ztboczym-story.html | 2022-04-13T11:49:55 | 1 | https://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/breaking-news/os-ne-2020-election-voting-fraud-the-villages-pre-trial-intervention-20220413-ccfyv2u2ozdmrpxdc7ztboczym-story.html |
Temperatures are rising to the mid-80s Wednesday with partly sunny skies, but rain returns to the forecast this Easter weekend.
The heat is looking to peak Wednesday at around 85 degrees in Orlando, according to the National Weather Service. That hot air won’t stick around too long, as it’s also predicted to drop to a low of 66 in the evening with skies remaining partly cloudy.
Starting Thursday, rain chances come into the forecast at 40%. Those odds will be sticking around every day into the weekend with Easter Sunday having the highest chance of rain at 50% during the day.
Between Thursday and Sunday, temperatures will range from the mid to upper 80s during the day, and drop into the high 60s at night.
Jpedersen@orlandosentinel.com | https://www.orlandosentinel.com/weather/os-ne-wednesday-heat-easter-weather-update-20220413-3hehg5rgend73j6zyfvd5mk35y-story.html | 2022-04-13T11:50:02 | 0 | https://www.orlandosentinel.com/weather/os-ne-wednesday-heat-easter-weather-update-20220413-3hehg5rgend73j6zyfvd5mk35y-story.html |
ALLEN COUNTY, Ind. (WANE) — The eastbound lanes of U. S. 30 are closed at County Line Road while Indiana State Police are investigating a crash.
The crash happened just after 6:45 a.m. Wednesday. Several first responders are on the scene. There has been no official word yet about how many vehicles were involved or if there are any injuries.
Police say the eastbound lanes of U.S. 30 will be closed for some time. The westbound lanes are moving slowly.
A WANE 15 crew is on scene gathering more information. | https://www.wane.com/news/u-s-30-crash-shuts-down-eastbound-lanes/ | 2022-04-13T11:51:15 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/u-s-30-crash-shuts-down-eastbound-lanes/ |
Online puppy scam duped animal lovers, Google claims in lawsuit
SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) - Google is going after an alleged fraudster they say is behind several online puppy-selling scams.
The tech giant is suing, saying the responsible party has been “perpetrating a puppy fraud scheme to exploit the COVID-19 pandemic for personal gain.”
The promise of purebred puppies had sweet pictures to match, but 20 sites were listed as fraudulent in a lawsuit filed Monday by google.
The tech company said a person in Africa used several Google services in an online puppy scam.
It claims people were sending hundreds of dollars in exchange for puppies that never arrived.
“The damage is actually two parts, the emotional and financial,” said Ahmed Banafa, a San Jose State University tech expert.
Banafa said for any animal lover, especially one in search of canine companionship, one look at a cute face could be enough to let your guard down.
Court documents said Google was tipped off by AARP, which had been contacted by a victim.
“Well, I mean, the statistic is out. Thirty-five percent of the online scam is actually, you know, a puppy scam. So that tells you how bad how bad it is,” Banafa said.
The Google suit points to a study that found puppy scams increased by 165% in the U.S. from January to October 2021, compared to the same period in 2019 before COVID-19 hit.
Such scams are a concern for the Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA.
“It’s disappointing that there are people out there taking advantage of, of individuals who want to add an animal to their home. And you know, and that’s really difficult for organizations such as ourselves because we have animals available for adoption,” said Buffy Martin-Tarbox of Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA.
But if you are browsing, experts say be aware that most illegitimate websites will try to avoid any real-time contact.
Fraudsters will talk about payment before the pet. And when it comes to making a purchase, use a method that will protect you.
“It’s good that the tech companies are taking notice of it and understanding that people can abuse the, you know, the excellence of their products and algorithms. Number two, now people know about it,” Banafa said.
Copyright 2022 KGO via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wnem.com/2022/04/13/online-puppy-scam-duped-animal-lovers-google-claims-lawsuit/ | 2022-04-13T11:54:55 | 0 | https://www.wnem.com/2022/04/13/online-puppy-scam-duped-animal-lovers-google-claims-lawsuit/ |
A hungry javelina in Arizona ended up going for a drive when it became trapped inside an empty car and bumped it into neutral. Deputies in Yavapai County responded to a call last week in Cornville, a community 10 miles south of Sedona, about a javelina stuck in a Subaru station wagon. Javelinas are pig-like animals that are native to desert environments.After speaking with the car's owner and other residents, they determined the car's hatchback had been left open overnight. The javelina jumped in to get to a bag of Cheetos. The hatch then closed, trapping the animal inside.Authorities say the javelina ripped off a portion of the dashboard and the inside of a door in an attempt to escape. The animal then managed to knock the car into neutral, causing it to roll down the driveway and across the street. The Subaru came to a rest, and the javelina was not injured.A deputy opened the hatch, and the javelina was able to run back into the wilderness.
CORNVILLE, Ariz. — A hungry javelina in Arizona ended up going for a drive when it became trapped inside an empty car and bumped it into neutral.
Deputies in Yavapai County responded to a call last week in Cornville, a community 10 miles south of Sedona, about a javelina stuck in a Subaru station wagon. Javelinas are pig-like animals that are native to desert environments.
After speaking with the car's owner and other residents, they determined the car's hatchback had been left open overnight.
The javelina jumped in to get to a bag of Cheetos. The hatch then closed, trapping the animal inside.
Authorities say the javelina ripped off a portion of the dashboard and the inside of a door in an attempt to escape.
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The animal then managed to knock the car into neutral, causing it to roll down the driveway and across the street. The Subaru came to a rest, and the javelina was not injured.
A deputy opened the hatch, and the javelina was able to run back into the wilderness. | https://www.koat.com/article/hungry-javelina-gets-stuck-in-car-goes-for-ride-in-arizona/39700699 | 2022-04-13T11:55:01 | 1 | https://www.koat.com/article/hungry-javelina-gets-stuck-in-car-goes-for-ride-in-arizona/39700699 |
Stormy Wednesday, cool down late week
SAGINAW, Mich. (WNEM) - We’re tracking yet another above average day for temperatures along with a cool down going towards the weekend.
Chances for rain and a few thunderstorms will also be on the table. Some could become strong to severe.
Winds will be on the stronger side going into late week.
Here’s the latest forecast!
Today & Tonight (Wednesday)
After a few storms earlier this morning, the chance for a few more showers or a t-storm will stay isolated for the morning hours. Most should get through most of the morning hours dry with partly to mostly cloudy skies.
Highs today will be the warmest this week reaching back in the 60s near 70 for many by later this afternoon.
Going into the afternoon and evening will be the greatest chance for any thunderstorm development. Damaging winds, heavy downpours, and hail will be the main hazards. The tornado threat is low, but not zero. Always have a way to get weather alerts on your devices
Winds today will mainly be from the south sustained around 10-15 mph. Gusts near 30+ with even higher gusts within any storm development possible.
Storm chances will continue into the evening and early overnight hours. Any rain is expected to end before daybreak Thursday AM.
Lows tonight will drop near 40.
Late Week
Despite a few lingering early morning showers Thursday, we expect a drying trend going into the later morning and afternoon hours with some sunshine possible!
Highs Thursday will be cooler as a cold front passes through; only reaching the low 50s.
Friday could have an isolated shower at worst. Highs near 50.
The holiday weekend is also trending mainly dry with some better chances for some more rays of sun! Highs will stay cooler in the 40s.
We may even have the chance for a few rain/snow showers next week as temperatures stay cooler in the 40s for highs.
Copyright 2022 WNEM. All rights reserved. | https://www.wnem.com/2022/04/13/stormy-wednesday-cool-down-late-week/ | 2022-04-13T11:55:03 | 1 | https://www.wnem.com/2022/04/13/stormy-wednesday-cool-down-late-week/ |
Tech company will implant payment chip into your hand
(CNN) - Instead of carrying your wallet in your back pocket or purse, a tech company wants you to carry it under your skin.
The British-Polish company, Walletmor, is selling microchips as alternative payment options.
This chip is about the size of a grain of rice, costs about $300 and does not come inside a credit card. Instead, it must be implanted in your body, preferably in your hand.
Once you activate it using a digital wallet app, Walletmor says you will be able to make purchases at most businesses around the world just by swiping your hand over a card reader.
Right now, the chips are only being sold to citizens of the United Kingdom, Switzerland and countries in the European Union.
According to Walletmor, almost 200 people already have the implants.
Walletmor suggests using a surgeon or one of its trusted specialists for the minor operation, but once the implant goes in, there are no refunds.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wnem.com/2022/04/13/tech-company-will-implant-payment-chip-into-your-hand/ | 2022-04-13T11:55:09 | 1 | https://www.wnem.com/2022/04/13/tech-company-will-implant-payment-chip-into-your-hand/ |
Japan, US hold navy drills off Koreas amid nuke test worry
U.S. and Japanese warships, led by the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, are conducting their joint naval exercise in waters between Japan and the Korean Peninsula for the first time in five years, in a show of their close military alliance amid growing speculation of North Korea's missile or nuclear testing later this week.
The U.S. 7th Fleet and Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force said Wednesday they conducted a joint naval exercise at the Sea of Japan on Tuesday and Wednesday. It was the first time the U.S. aircraft carrier held the exercise in the area since 2017 and is seen as an apparent attempt to deter North Korea's provocation.
Defense experts have warned that North Korea may launch another missile or even conduct a nuclear test as early as this week when Pyongyang marks the birth anniversary of its founding leader Kim Il Sung. Tension is rising in the region ahead of an annual joint military exercise between the United States and South Korea.
Japan has also stepped up joint military exercises with its closest ally, the United States, as well as regional partners in recent years amid rising concern over China’s increasingly assertive military actions in the regional seas.
Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters that the ongoing joint exercise is “aimed at strengthening military cooperation between Japan and the United States, and is not keeping in mind a specific country. … We will continue to strengthen deterrence and response capability of the Japan-U.S. alliance and to do utmost for the defense of our country."
Details of the exercise will be released by the Japanese Defense Ministry “when the situation allows a disclosure."
Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force said its destroyer JS Kongo and JS Inazuma, as well as Japanese F-2 fighters joined USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group “in order to strengthen the capability of Japan-US alliance for effective deterrence and response.”
“Our works contribute to the regional peace and stability,” the Japanese navy tweeted.
A Japanese Maritime Self-Defense official said they cannot provide specific dates and locations of the ongoing joint exercise until it’s finished.
Tension has risen in the area over North Korea's spate of missile tests this year, including its first intercontinental ballistic missile launch in more than four years.
Some experts say the North’s recent missile tests were meant to perfect its weapons technology, boost its leverage in future negotiations with the U.S. and secure stronger internal loyalty. They say North Korea could soon conduct another ICBM launch, a launch of a satellite-carrying rocket or a test of a nuclear device in coming weeks. | https://www.koat.com/article/japan-us-navy-drills-koreas-nuke-test-worry/39712581 | 2022-04-13T11:55:11 | 0 | https://www.koat.com/article/japan-us-navy-drills-koreas-nuke-test-worry/39712581 |
Teen student charged with sexual assault, attempted murder in alleged attack on his teacher
LAS VEGAS (KVVU/Gray News) - A judge on Tuesday set a competency hearing for a student accused of sexual assault and attempted murder of a Las Vegas teacher.
The teen has been identified as 16-year-old Jonathan Eluterio Martinez Garcia, KVVU reported.
According to Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson, Martinez Garcia faces 15 felony charges in connection with the incident. He was initially facing six felony charges. However, Wolfson confirmed Monday that an additional nine felony charges were added.
His charges range from kidnapping, sexual assault, robbery, attempted murder with the use of a deadly weapon or tear gas, battery by strangulation to commit sexual assault and more. He is being charged as an adult.
In court Tuesday, his lawyer requested that he be evaluated for competency, so a judge suspended a preliminary hearing until that evaluation. The competency hearing was set for May 6 at 8:30 a.m.
Bail for Martinez Garcia remains at $500,000, under the condition of high-electronic monitoring and no contact with the victim.
According to Las Vegas police, the incident occurred Thursday at Eldorado High School.
An investigation by the department’s Sexual Assault Section indicated that the teacher was in her classroom when a student entered to talk about his grades. At some point, police say, the teen suspect became violent and began punching the teacher. Police said he strangled her until she lost consciousness.
After that, authorities said the suspect fled the classroom after the attack, and the victim was later found by another school employee. Police were able to identify the suspect, and Clark County School District police officers took him into custody.
According to police, the teacher, who has not been identified, is still recovering.
Copyright 2022 KVVU via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wnem.com/2022/04/13/teen-student-charged-with-sexual-assault-attempted-murder-alleged-attack-his-teacher/ | 2022-04-13T11:55:16 | 1 | https://www.wnem.com/2022/04/13/teen-student-charged-with-sexual-assault-attempted-murder-alleged-attack-his-teacher/ |
when filing your taxes, the best approach is to be careful, thorough and digital market watch spoke to the I. R. S. Here's the most efficient way to get through this year's tax season and avoid tax hassles, late returns, an extra scrutiny. Don't file a paper return or ask for a paper check. Paper returns are more likely to contain errors. Either that a taxpayer made or that an I. R. S. Employee introduced while transferring the data from a paper return into the agency's computer system file electronically and request a direct deposit. Look for errors. Make sure there are discrepancies between the income you report and forms filed by your employer and financial institutions correct any error on W. Two or 10 99 forms before you file properly, report child tax credit and stimulus payments. And if you're missing any of this paperwork, know that you can create an account on the I. R. S. Site and view I. R. S. Records to find the correct figures.
A last-minute way to reduce your 2021 taxes right up until Tax Day
Updated: 5:13 AM MDT Apr 13, 2022
Last year may be history. But there may still be one thing you can do this week to reduce your 2021 tax bill (or bolster your refund), all while fattening your retirement savings.You have until Monday, April 18 -- the official federal tax-filing deadline -- to make a 2021 IRA contribution of up to $6,000 ($7,000 if you're 50 or older).If you put that money into a traditional IRA, your contribution may be fully or partially deductible, regardless of whether you itemize deductions on your federal tax return. A deduction for IRA contributions reduces your adjustable gross income, and therefore reduces your tax bill. If your AGI is $50,000, for example, a $5,000 deductible IRA contribution reduces it to $45,000.Limits on how much of a deduction you may takeYou can take a deduction for your full contribution if neither you nor your spouse are covered by a tax-advantaged retirement plan at work.But if your employer does provide a 401(k), for example, the amount of your IRA contribution that you are allowed to deduct will depend on your income.To be eligible for the full deduction your modified adjusted gross income must be $66,000 or less (or $105,000 or less if married filing jointly).You will only get a partial deduction, however, if your modified AGI was over $66,000 but below $76,000 (or over $105,000 but below $125,000 for married joint filers).Above those income levels, you may not deduct any of your traditional IRA contribution.By contrast, contributions to a Roth IRA are never deductible under any circumstances, but can be withdrawn in retirement tax-free.If your adjusted gross income is less than $66,000 and you make an IRA contribution -- either to a traditional IRA or to a Roth IRA, you also may be eligible for a Saver's Credit. That credit would reduce your tax bill or increase your refund dollar for dollar.Tax break or not, however, if you didn't save much for retirement during the calendar year, and are financially able to do so now, it's worth making that move. For most taxpayers, the federal tax return filing deadline is April 18, though it's a day later for residents of Maine and Massachusetts.If you do make an IRA contribution of any kind, make sure to tell the financial institution where your account is housed to designate it as a 2021 contribution. That institution will send both you and the IRS Form 5498 confirming your contribution by the end of May. So be sure to keep that document with your other 2021 tax records, said Misty Erickson, tax content specialist at the National Association of Tax Professionals.
Last year may be history. But there may still be one thing you can do this week to reduce your 2021 tax bill (or bolster your refund), all while fattening your retirement savings.
You have until Monday, April 18 -- the official federal tax-filing deadline -- to make a 2021 IRA contribution of up to $6,000 ($7,000 if you're 50 or older).
If you put that money into a traditional IRA, your contribution may be fully or partially deductible, regardless of whether you itemize deductions on your federal tax return.
A deduction for IRA contributions reduces your adjustable gross income, and therefore reduces your tax bill. If your AGI is $50,000, for example, a $5,000 deductible IRA contribution reduces it to $45,000.
Limits on how much of a deduction you may take
You can take a deduction for your full contribution if neither you nor your spouse are covered by a tax-advantaged retirement plan at work.
But if your employer does provide a 401(k), for example, the amount of your IRA contribution that you are allowed to deduct will depend on your income.
To be eligible for the full deduction your modified adjusted gross income must be $66,000 or less (or $105,000 or less if married filing jointly).
You will only get a partial deduction, however, if your modified AGI was over $66,000 but below $76,000 (or over $105,000 but below $125,000 for married joint filers).
Above those income levels, you may not deduct any of your traditional IRA contribution.
By contrast, contributions to a Roth IRA are never deductible under any circumstances, but can be withdrawn in retirement tax-free.
If your adjusted gross income is less than $66,000 and you make an IRA contribution -- either to a traditional IRA or to a Roth IRA, you also may be eligible for a Saver's Credit. That credit would reduce your tax bill or increase your refund dollar for dollar.
Tax break or not, however, if you didn't save much for retirement during the calendar year, and are financially able to do so now, it's worth making that move. For most taxpayers, the federal tax return filing deadline is April 18, though it's a day later for residents of Maine and Massachusetts.
If you do make an IRA contribution of any kind, make sure to tell the financial institution where your account is housed to designate it as a 2021 contribution. That institution will send both you and the IRS Form 5498 confirming your contribution by the end of May. So be sure to keep that document with your other 2021 tax records, said Misty Erickson, tax content specialist at the National Association of Tax Professionals. | https://www.koat.com/article/last-minute-way-to-reduce-your-2021-taxes-right-up-until-tax-day/39704173 | 2022-04-13T11:55:22 | 1 | https://www.koat.com/article/last-minute-way-to-reduce-your-2021-taxes-right-up-until-tax-day/39704173 |
San Francisco Giants' Alyssa Nakken makes MLB history as first woman to coach on the field
Alyssa Nakken was hard at work in the batting cage, just a few steps from the dugout, when suddenly the call came: The San Francisco Giants needed her to coach at first base.
She quickly pulled off her sweatshirt, grabbed her No. 92 jersey and found a bright orange batting helmet.
A few minutes later, Nakken made major league history as the first female coach on the field in a regular-season game when she took her spot Tuesday night in a 13-2 win over San Diego.
“I think we’re all inspirations doing everything that we do on a day-to-day basis and I think, yes, this carries a little bit more weight because of the visibility, obviously there’s a historical nature to it,” she said. “But again, this is my job.”
Nakken came in to coach first base for the Giants in the third inning after Antoan Richardson was ejected.
When she was announced as Richardson’s replacement, Nakken received a warm ovation from the crowd at Oracle Park, and a congratulatory handshake from Padres first baseman Eric Hosmer.
“Right now in this moment as I reflect back, I reflect back to somebody needed to go out, we needed a coach to coach first base, our first base coach got thrown out, I’ve been in training as a first base coach for the last few years and work alongside Antoan, so I stepped in to what I’ve been hired to do, is support this staff and this team,” Nakken said.
The baseball Hall of Fame was ready, too. Her helmet is already on its way to the shrine in Cooperstown, New York.
San Francisco manager Gabe Kapler said Nakken had “prepared for this moment” while working with Richardson and others.
“So it's not a foreign spot on the field for her. She does so many other things well that aren't seen,” he said. “So it's nice to see her kind of be right there in the spotlight and do it on the field.”
Nakken is an assistant coach who works heavily with baserunning and outfield defense. She watches games from an indoor batting cage near the steps to the dugout — and keeps a Giants jersey nearby, just in case she needs it.
And in an instant Tuesday night, she needed it.
The 31-year-old Nakken jogged onto the field four days after Rachel Balkovec became the first woman to manage a minor league affiliate of an Major League Baseball team. She guided the New York Yankees' Class A Tampa club to a win in her first game.
Nakken had previously coached the position in spring training and during part of a July 2020 exhibition game at Oakland against now-Padres manager Bob Melvin when he was skipper of the Athletics. She started at first again a night later against the A's in San Francisco as the teams prepared for the pandemic-delayed season.
“You feel a sense of pride to be out there,” Nakken said at the time. “Me personally, it’s the best place to watch a game, that’s for sure.”
The former Sacramento State softball star, whose blonde braid hung out from her orange protective helmet Tuesday, became the first female coach in the big leagues when she was hired for Kapler's staff in January 2020.
At Sacramento State from 2009-2012, Nakken was a three-time all-conference player at first base and four-time Academic All American. She went on to earn a master’s degree in sport management from the University of San Francisco in 2015 after interning with the Giants’ baseball operations department a year earlier.
From Day One with the Giants, Nakken embraced her role as an example for girls and women that they can do anything.
“It’s a big deal," she said. “I feel a great sense of responsibility and I feel it’s my job to honor those who have helped me to where I am.” | https://www.koat.com/article/san-francisco-giants-alyssa-nakken-first-woman-to-coach-on-field/39708707 | 2022-04-13T11:55:33 | 1 | https://www.koat.com/article/san-francisco-giants-alyssa-nakken-first-woman-to-coach-on-field/39708707 |
Nearly two dozen people injured after tornadoes touch down in Texas
At least 23 people were hurt Tuesday after tornadoes touched down in Bell County, Texas, according to officials.
Twelve of those injured were hospitalized, Bell County Judge David Blackburn said, adding that he believes everyone is accounted for.
Two confirmed tornadoes touched down in Bell County, which is the central region of the state, the Storm Prediction Center at the National Weather Service said.
On Tuesday, 911 calls reported a twister around 5:40 p.m. local time, Blackburn said. A tornado crossed the county line from neighboring Williamson County, traveling seven miles on the ground, he added.
The damages ranged from downed power lines and trees to buildings being flattened, reduced to rubble in many areas, Blackburn said.
"I think it popped up fairly quickly," Blackburn said. "The extent of damage is significant. At least at this time not to have any report of fatalities is in and of itself amazing."
Tuesday brought a double-threat storm system that delivered at least eight tornadoes mainly in Texas and Iowa as well as heavy snow to multiple states, including the Dakotas, Montana and Minnesota.
Video: Tornado in Gilmore City, Iowa
Parts of Dakotas and Montana were under blizzard warnings and forecasters warned of treacherous whiteout conditions on the roads.
Heavy snow shut down more than 500 miles of Interstate 94 between Montana and North Dakota.
A mountainous area near Pony, Montana, recorded 47 inches of snow in a 24-hour period, according to the NWS. Many other parts of the state were pounded by more than a foot of snow.
In North Dakota, more than a foot of snow was reported in several locations, including Grand Forks, and Rockford, according to NWS data.
"We do get blizzards in April, but one of this intensity is quite rare," Jeff Schild, meteorologist for the weather service office in Bismarck, told CNN early Tuesday. "The last one of note for this level of intensity was April 4-7 in 1997."
Severe weather threatens 97 million Wednesday
As the system moves eastward, it's producing a trio of threats -- damaging winds, tornadoes and large hail.
More than 97 million people are under some sort of severe weather alerts Wednesday, stretching from Texas and Louisiana up to Missouri and Illinois.
The most significant threats are expected across Memphis, Tennessee; Evansville, Indiana; Jonesboro. Pine Bluff, and Little Rock in Arkansas; Owensboro, Kentucky -- where more than 5 million people are under a moderate risk (level 4 of 5). These cities could see strong winds, tornadoes as well as large hail.
Overall, severe thunderstorms could impact a large portion of the lower and mid-Mississippi Valley into the Midwest as well as the lower Ohio Valley, the Storm Prediction Center said.
Elsewhere, parts of Montana, North Dakota and northern Minnesota could also see heavy snow Wednesday. The snow is expected to end Thursday, followed by extremely cold temperatures.
"Overnight lows will drop into the teens in western North Dakota, and with the strong winds, wind chills will be in the single digits above to below zero, quite chilly for mid April," the Bismarck weather service office said.
On Friday, high temperatures will possibly make it into the 20s, which is about 30 degrees below normal. The region could break low maximum temperature records. | https://www.koat.com/article/tornadoes-touch-down-in-texas-april-2022/39710055 | 2022-04-13T11:55:43 | 0 | https://www.koat.com/article/tornadoes-touch-down-in-texas-april-2022/39710055 |
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The chaotic subway attack involving a gunman opening fire on a train in New York City sent 29 people to the hospital with at least ten shot. Families around the country were checking in on loved ones in the area to ensure their safety.
A man from Richmond lives just blocks away from the subway station where the attack happened. Matt Koval described how he was jarred from his sleep by all of the chaos that ensued.
“Helicopters, sirens, everything else — it was crazy,” he said.
Koval said, when everything that was going on outside woke him up, he turned on his TV to see the breaking news and was alarmed. He took a walk to the subway station to see for himself.
“I’m infinitely curious and it is so close,” he said. “Getting all the text messages from people in Richmond and from afar, that was comforting and felt good.”
What doesn’t feel good, Koval said, is how easy it seemed someone could commit this crime.
“You have a better chance of getting arrested for jumping the turnstile than getting arrested for having a smoke bomb or gun on the train,” he said.
Dana Schrad with the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police said the first step in protecting yourself against something like this is remaining aware of your surroundings.
“If you see someone who looks out of place for some reason, trust your instincts, contact 9-1-1 and get yourself to a safe place,” Schrad said.
She offered three steps you should take if you find yourself confronted with mass violence on a train or anywhere else.
“First, run. Second, hide. Third, as a last resort, fight,” she said.
Despite this incident, Koval said he will continue to ride the subway.
Authorities recommend signing up for alerts from your local law enforcement agencies so you can stay informed in the unfortunate event of a situation like this. | https://www.wric.com/news/u-s-world/absolutely-frightening-richmond-man-living-in-nyc-describes-violent-subway-attack/ | 2022-04-13T11:56:06 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/news/u-s-world/absolutely-frightening-richmond-man-living-in-nyc-describes-violent-subway-attack/ |
Q: Ira, I know you didn’t want the Nets in the first round, but Cleveland looked good Tuesday night and didn’t even have their best player, Jarrett Allen. — Michael.
A: First, at this point, including what we saw on Tuesday night in the play-in in Brooklyn, I would say that Darius Garland is the Cavaliers’ best player. That’s not to say that Jarrett Allen isn’t impactful and can’t make a statement in Friday’s home play-in game for Cleveland. But there still is no guarantee that Cleveland makes it to the No. 8 seed to play the Heat in the first round. First, they would have to defeat the winner of Wednesday night’s Hawks-Hornets. And even in Cleveland, I would think Atlanta would have shot behind Trae Young. But, yes, to your point, the Cavaliers would present a challenge with both the height of Allen, Evan Mobley and Lauri Markkanen, as well as the guile of Garland. As it is, nothing is going to be easy in the Eastern Conference playoffs. But there still might be a easier challenges than having had to face Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.
Q: Ira, I agree with your article that playing Victor Oladipo in the playoffs is complicated. But I’m afraid that if he doesn’t get significant minutes, we will have wasted an entire year rehabbing him, only to lose him next year to another team. I understand that Erik Spoelstra wants to go with the players that got us here, but Oladipo is way too talented not to be in the regular nine-man playoff rotation. — Greg, Jacksonville.
A: Again, as I attempted to stress in my piece on Victor Oladipo’s latest breakout performance, it is not about fielding the best nine players, but the nine who mesh best. And the concern at this stage, the sole concern, has to be how to best get to the 16 victories required for a championship. You can’t go into the postseason lamenting the work put in with Victor to this stage, or what might happen in free agency. At this point, the only thing that should matter for everyone associated with the Heat is the here and now.
Q: I do not foresee our stars necessarily carrying the team, trying to do more than they typically do (which just leads to higher turnovers). That would throw off everything the team worked on and exhibited all year long. Changing the plan can often lead to failure. Not saying we don’t make adjustments throughout a playoff series, but changing our culture of sharing, providing opportunity, etc., is a recipe for disaster that could lead to a first-round exit and put a damper on all they have achieved this season. — Myles, Coconut Creek.
A: But the Heat rarely won with 11 or 12 components contributing in individual games during the regular season. The depth of the roster paid off over the long haul, with different players producing in different games. The playoffs are different. Each game is essential. And that means getting the most out of your most essential players. That doesn’t mean that a Max Strus or Gabe Vincent or Caleb Martin (or even a Victor Oladipo) can’t have their moments. It just means that Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro had better have plenty of moments.
() | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/ask-ira-has-play-in-round-created-an-easier-heat-postseason-path/ | 2022-04-13T12:09:33 | 1 | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/ask-ira-has-play-in-round-created-an-easier-heat-postseason-path/ |
Voluntary minicamp is next week. But before players head to Halas Hall, Brad Biggs answers your Chicago Bears questions weekly.
I know free agency signings don’t all happen in March and there’s plenty of time for the Bears to keep making additions. But given the lack of signings at offensive tackle, is that a vote of confidence from Ryan Poles to Teven Jenkins and Larry Borom to be reliable starters? — @petermartuneac
That is certainly one way to look at it. For the time being, it appears Jenkins or Borom projects to be the starting left tackle when the season opens. Of course, the Bears could make add a left tackle at any time. Duane Brown and Eric Fisher remain available on the open market. I am not necessarily suggesting the Bears will pursue one of those guys — or another available option. But it’s a possibility.
The Bears could also look to the draft but finding a Day 1 starter at left tackle in Round 2 could be a challenge. The team will hold its first voluntary minicamp April 19-21, and it could be a situation in which the front office and the coaching staff want to evaluate their options before considering a move. Stay tuned to what happens on the O-line because there could be more moves to come.
Do the Bears prioritize WR or OL in the draft? — @extendroquan
The short answer is yes. But I would remind folks that just because the team has, say, three pressing needs — and I would definitely add cornerback to that list — that should not mean the top three picks are those three positions. You often hear people talk about remaining true to their draft board with the idea being they select the highest-graded player available. Reality is a lot of times teams talk about staying true to their board but select the highest-graded player at the position they feel they most need help. Or sometimes they inflate grades for players at positions where they have need. I’m not saying the new regime will fall into this trap but it is something that happens often.
I had an interesting conversation with a general manager several years ago and he made an excellent point. Let’s say, for the sake of this conversation, the Bears are on the clock and they have a pressing need at wide receiver and offensive line but they draft a defensive end. That would not fill either of the greatest needs on the roster. But the GM made the point that two years down the road, no one is going to be focused on whether at the time of the draft the Bears filled one of the two biggest needs. At that point, the question would be did the Bears select a player that has been able to help them? If the defensive end is a player moving forward, it will be viewed as a good pick. If a wide receiver is drafted and he fizzles out in the first two years, it will be a poor pick.
The point is you can’t be so focused on the areas of need on the roster — and you can pick out a slew of positions where the Bears need help — that you overlook players with better grades that can help the franchise moving forward. I hope that makes sense and potentially explains why Ryan Poles’ first handful of picks might not necessarily be at the team’s greatest areas of need.
With Tavon Young now signed, does cornerback still remain a huge need? — @engherbanger
It sure ought to remain one of the positions of need for the Bears. They don’t have a starter opposite Jaylon Johnson unless they view Kindle Vildor or Thomas Graham Jr. as a possibility. Young is an experienced nickel cornerback but he’s had durability issues, so the Bears likely will want another option they feel good about in the slot unless Graham or Duke Shelley is a candidate to be the backup nickel.
Young is competitive and aggressive but he’s only 5-foot-9, so he’s not going to make a lot of plays on the ball. He does have experience as a blitzer, but at this point in his career and on a one-year contract, he’s a bridge player. This is one of the positions the Bears are thin on depth and high-caliber cornerbacks are very expensive in free agency. Between the draft and sifting through available veterans on the street, GM Ryan Poles needs to make some moves at cornerback.
How do you think Jaylon Johnson will fare in this scheme? Traditionally in this type of defense, you’re looking for a zone cover guy who will get his hands on the ball and make interceptions. Johnson has been excellent but I’m not sure his strengths match that. — @dawestley
Johnson has the physical traits to play all of the coverages coach Matt Eberflus and defensive coordinator Alan Williams want to play. Johnson can play Cover-2o and jam wide receivers and re-route them and also set the edge in the run game. He’s got the vision and awareness to be a quality zone cornerback and the physical ability to play press man. I wonder if the Bears will move him to the left side after playing him on the right side the last two seasons. Often times, defenses use their best cornerback on the left side and Johnson is clearly the best outside cornerback on the roster right now.
Any new updates on the Arlington Heights plan? — @aidanwahlert_
This is a slow-moving process and Chairman George McCaskey said the timeline for the Bears to close on the property is at the end of 2022 or in the first quarter of 2023. So, until the Bears own the land — they’re still doing due diligence on the project — there is a level of speculation involved. Here is a good primer on all of the relevant updates and questions regarding the team’s planned move to the Northwest suburbs.
While going through another rebuild is very disappointing, I appreciate your insight into the process. One thing I can’t understand is Ryan Poles not re-signing more of the team’s own free agents, several of whom the rest of the league appears to be really excited about. I get that it is a two-way street and that a player such as Allen Robinson probably wanted a new start elsewhere. What I don’t understand is James Daniels and Bilal Nichols who seemed to meet the criteria for the future being young, affordable and with upside. Is this a case of them also wanting a new start or a case of Poles just clearing out the old management’s players? — Scott S.
By my count, 18 players that finished last season with the Bears have signed elsewhere in free agency. They have re-signed two players that were unrestricted free agents (defensive back DeAndre Houston-Carson and long snapper Patrick Scales) and also brought back three exclusive-rights free agents (tight end Jesper Horsted and offensive linemen Sam Mustipher and Lachavious Simmons).
The Bears have signed 12 players that finished last season with other teams, including the recent additions of cornerback Tavon Young, linebacker Matt Adams and tight end Ryan Griffin.
I imagine you would probably feel a little differently about free agency had Poles signed a bigg name wide receiver or offensive lineman to mitigate the losses of Robinson (Los Angeles Rams) and Daniels (Pittsburgh Steelers) in free agency. It’s possible the team didn’t believe Nichols was an ideal fit for a 40 front. He headed to Las Vegas in free agency and the team has made some moves to shore up the front by signing Al-Quadin Muhammad and Justin Jones.
What we are looking at is a large group of players signed to short-term contracts, many of them for only one season, and the hope is that a handful emerge as more than just bridge players and can be starters that the Bears can build around. Certainly it will not be the case for most of them, but between wide receiver Byron Pringle, linebacker Nicholas Morrow, offensive lineman Lucas Patrick as well as Muhammad and Jones, I would expect a couple to emerge as solid contributors.
You’re going to see a lot of turnover next offseason with such a high number of players on one-year contracts. When the Bears kick off the 2023 season, the roster will look dramatically different than it did at the end of 2021. That is the goal and how the young players improve between now and then will go a long way toward determining how good the team is at that point.
Any reason the Bears aren’t looking at Tyrann Mathieu? — @wyld23
Mathieu remans a very good defensive back and he’s the kind of player the Bears should target when they are prepared to compete. He turns 30 next month and is no doubt seeking to be highly paid. Signing a player at his age at the outset of a total rebuild does not make sense to me. Add in the fact that the Bears have top money committed to one safety already in Eddie Jackson and it makes even less sense.
I’ve written many times before that having two highly paid safeties is hard to do and I think most would prefer to sink major investments in at cornerback or edge rushers when looking at a defense. Plus, I would imagine at this point in his career the three-time All-Pro is hoping to sign with a contender.
Any trade takers for Robert Quinn? — @ronaldvoigt4
This figures to be a situation in which GM Ryan Poles is able to pull off a deal shortly before the draft or the Bears wait to see if another team develops a pressing need in August or during the first two months of the season. I have to imagine — and this is just a hunch — that Poles wants to turn any assets on the roster that are not part of the long-term vision into additional draft capital. Quinn is coming off a fantastic season with 18½ sacks and in most years it would have been more than enough for him to be named the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year, an award that went to Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow.
Quinn turns 32 next month and he’s on the books this year with a base salary of $12.8 million and another $100,000 in the form of a workout bonus. All of the guaranteed money in his contract was tied up in the first two years, so that will make trading him — if the Bears go that route — easier.
I wonder if the Bears could get more in return if they wait for a contending team to have a need. In that scenario, some level of risk would be involved because Quinn will have to remain healthy. It would certainly make sense, when looking at what Poles has done so far, for the team to pursue a trade for Quinn at some point. When? Let’s wait and see.
Could the Bears select a running back late in the draft and move on from David Montgomery? — @robingo34407490
I’m not sure the Bears would get nearly what you think in return for Montgomery, who is set to earn $2.79 million this season in the final year of his contract. I would be a little surprised if the Bears invested a draft pick in a running back unless they identify a player they believe can be a real matchup piece in the passing game. They ought to be able to find a couple running backs to sign as undrafted rookie free agents that could push for a spot on the 53-man roster.
Is the Bears’ starting middle linebacker on the roster yet? If not, how do you see that position being filled? — @mike__chicago
I expect Nicholas Morrow or Roquan Smith to fill the middle and weak-side linebacker positions. The team hasn’t announced a decision on how they will be aligned yet. You can’t rule out the possibility in certain situations they would flip. Depth is still needed but right now linebacker is one position the Bears are in pretty good shape. | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/chicago-bears-qa-will-teven-jenkins-or-larry-borom-start-at-left-tackle-does-tavon-young-solve-the-cb-issue/ | 2022-04-13T12:09:39 | 0 | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/chicago-bears-qa-will-teven-jenkins-or-larry-borom-start-at-left-tackle-does-tavon-young-solve-the-cb-issue/ |
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, now in its seventh week, shows no sign of abating. Vladimir Putin’s army has abandoned its assault on Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, but is launching a new offensive in the country’s east. Ukraine’s allies, led by the United States and Britain, have stepped up their supplies of tanks and antiaircraft weapons.
But every war must end some day, whether in a victory for one side or a split-the-difference cease-fire. In Washington and other Western capitals, debate has begun over what terms Ukraine and its allies should seek for ending this one — or what goals they should hold out for.
At first glance, the question might appear simple: Ukraine and its allies want Putin to end the invasion and withdraw his troops. But the details get complicated quickly.
Some U.S. and European hawks see the unexpected success of Ukraine’s armed forces as a golden opportunity to cut Putin down to size and teach a lesson to other autocrats, beginning with China’s Xi Jinping.
“The Western objective must be to leave Russia profoundly weakened and militarily crippled … internally divided until the point that an aging autocrat falls from power,” Eliot A. Cohen of Johns Hopkins University, a former official in the George W. Bush administration, wrote recently.
But doves worry about threatening Putin’s survival in power to the point that he might consider using nuclear weapons. And some European leaders, led by French President Emmanuel Macron, have searched for a quick end to the war, if only to reduce the damage to their own economies.
In the middle, President Joe Biden and his aides have settled on what sounds like an elegant solution: endorse whatever outcome is acceptable to Ukraine.
“Our job is to support the Ukrainians,” Biden’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, said recently. “They will set the military objectives. They will set the objectives at the bargaining table. … We are not going to define the outcome of this for the Ukrainians. That is up for them to define and us to support them.”
The logic is straightforward: The Ukrainians are doing the fighting and suffering horrendous civilian casualties, so they’ve earned the right to decide what kind of settlement they’re willing to accept.
“As long as the Ukrainians are saying they want to keep fighting, we can’t tell them no,” argued Steven Pifer, a former U.S. ambassador to Kyiv.
Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, offered Putin terms for a cease-fire last month and included several concessions: He asked for a Russian withdrawal to the lines each army occupied before the Feb. 24 invasion, which would leave several chunks of Ukrainian territory in Russian hands. He said Ukraine would accept neutral status and give up its effort to become a member of NATO. In return, he said, Ukraine would need ironclad security guarantees to prevent another invasion.
Putin’s aides dismissed the offer as inadequate.
That was before the discovery of widespread atrocities against civilians by Russian troops north of Kyiv, which may have hardened Ukraine’s resolve to keep fighting. Zelenskyy has said he would submit the terms of any cease-fire to a referendum.
In any case, deferring to the Ukrainians on terms for ending the war is more complicated than it sounds because the likely terms will require active participation by the United States and its allies.
Take Zelenskyy’s demand for security guarantees. He wants a reliable, binding pledge that if Russia invades again, the United States and its allies will step in with the kind of sanctions and military aid they are supplying now, or more.
“Whether Russia agrees to a settlement or not, Ukraine is going to need security guarantees,” Ivo H. Daalder, a former U.S. ambassador to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, told me.
“There’s already an organization that does that, and it’s called NATO…. How is NATO going to say no to membership for Ukraine after all of this has happened?”
Another thorny issue will involve U.S. economic sanctions. In any talks over ending the war, Russia is certain to demand that sanctions be lifted. U.S. officials have said that sanctions relief will be up for discussion, but only after Russian troops are out of Ukraine.
“But that was before Bucha,” Daalder said. “The atrocities have made it much more difficult to contemplate lifting any sanctions.”
If a cease-fire takes hold, the United States will also be expected to play a leading role in helping Ukraine rebuild its armed forces, its economy and its shattered cities.
U.S. and allied support after the war will be just as important as it is now. Putin has invaded Ukraine three times since 2014; if his current offensive falls short, he can be expected to plan a fourth. One goal for U.S. policy should be to deter him from trying again.
The most damaging outcome for Putin would be a Ukraine that can regain its independence, defend its borders and show Russians that democracy can prosper in their part of the world. For anyone seeking to settle scores, that would be the best revenge. | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/doyle-mcmanus-the-u-s-has-a-big-stake-in-how-the-ukraine-war-ends-its-likely-to-pay-a-lot-of-the-cost/ | 2022-04-13T12:09:46 | 0 | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/doyle-mcmanus-the-u-s-has-a-big-stake-in-how-the-ukraine-war-ends-its-likely-to-pay-a-lot-of-the-cost/ |
Committing to play football for the Florida Gators might seem like a no-brainer for life-long Gators fan Tyree Patterson. The Eustis receiver, who was offered a scholarship by UF on Friday, indicated that it’s not that simple.
“I’m not really used to this process,” Patterson said. “I’m still trying to take the process slow and see how it goes.”
Patterson is the nephew of former Eustis and UCF standout Joe Burnett, who played in the NFL for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Patterson has yet to receive a UCF offer.
The recruiting process for the 6-foot-2, 182-pound Patterson has started slowly for a couple of reasons. He didn’t even play football after deciding to concentrate on basketball after his seventh-grade year. He’s also stuck in tiny Eustis, a Lake County school that does not receive much recruiting traffic.
“Me and my dad sat down after my 10th-grade year’s basketball season and he said he thought I should focus more on what I want to do in college, what I love the most,” Patterson said. “I chose football over basketball.”
It’s no surprise Patterson is opening the eyes of recruiters. He’s had two big seasons of football since returning to the game. In 18 games he has had 85 catches for 1,692 yards and 20 touchdowns and averages five catches for nearly 100 yards and a touchdown per game.
“I had a pretty good year my first year playing football,” Patterson said. “Then my junior year, that was like by breakout year, showing people I’m that person.”
The Gators’ offer is Patterson’s fourth Football Bowl Subdivision scholarship offer — with North Texas, UMass and Liberty — but by far the biggest.
His main recruiter at UF has been receivers coach Keary “KC” Colbert and he also received a call from first-year head coach Billy Napier on Friday night.
Colbert informed Patterson of the offer.
“It was on FaceTime when he told me and I was just smilin’ the whole time,” Patterson said. “It was kinda shocking because that’s my first big, big offer … so yeah, I was a little shocked and happy at the same time.”
He was happy to get a call from Napier as well.
“It was pretty good. He was just saying how they all love my game and they got a lot of things coming for me,” Patterson said. “He was saying I remind him of one of the players [Calvin Ridley] he coached when he as at Alabama. He said I was just bigger than him and he can’t wait to have me down there [in Gainesville].
“He said of all the receivers he coached, he had 16 go to the NFL. That’s what I’m trying to do.”
Eustis coach Frank Scott said Patterson has all the tools necessary,
“He’s only really played football for two years and it’s crazy how much he’s developed during that time,” Scott said. “He’s got a lot of upside and he’s going to do big things.”
This article originally appeared on OrlandoSentinel.com. Chris Hays covers high school football and college recruiting for the Orlando Sentinel. He can be reached at CHays@orlandosentinel.com.
() | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/gators-offer-eustis-wr-tyree-patterson-nephew-of-former-ucf-star-joe-burnett-2/ | 2022-04-13T12:09:52 | 0 | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/gators-offer-eustis-wr-tyree-patterson-nephew-of-former-ucf-star-joe-burnett-2/ |
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins was struck and killed by a dump truck early Saturday morning on I-595 near Fort Lauderdale airport, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
“Mr. Haskins was walking on a limited access facility Highway/expressway for unknown reasons,” FHP said in a statement. “He was attempting to cross the westbound lanes of Interstate 595 when there was oncoming traffic. Unfortunately, he collided with an oncoming dump truck.”
The accident was reported at 6:37 a.m., about 25 minutes before sunrise. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Florida Highway Patrol described the case as an “open traffic homicide investigation” and said no further information would be released until it was completed.
Haskins had been in South Florida as a guest of Steelers quarterback Mitch Trubisky, who owns a house just west of Boca Raton and had invited several players to his home for an offseason workout, according to the website Steelers Depot.
Haskins’ agent, Cedric Saunders, told ESPN about the quarterback’s death, and the Steelers released a statement extending their condolences.
“I am devastated and at a loss for words with the unfortunate passing of Dwayne Haskins,” Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said. “He quickly became part of our Steelers family upon his arrival in Pittsburgh and was one of our hardest workers, both on the field and in our community. Dwayne was a great teammate, but even more so a tremendous friend to so many. I am truly heartbroken.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Kalabrya, and his entire family during this difficult time.”
The 24-year-old Haskins was selected by Washington in the first round of the 2019 draft out of Ohio State. He started seven games as a rookie, going 2-5. He was 1-5 in six starts the next season for the team, then was released.
Washington coach Ron Rivera said he was “absolutely heartbroken” to learn of Haskins’ death.
“Dwayne was a talented young man who had a long life ahead of him,” Rivera said in a release. “This is a very sad time and I am honestly at a loss for words. I know I speak for the rest of our team in saying he will be sorely missed. Our entire team is sending our heartfelt condolences and thoughts and prayers to the Haskins family at this time.”
Ohio State posted a photo of Haskins on its Twitter feed. It read: “Leader. Legend. Forever a Buckeye.”
The Steelers gave Haskins a chance to resurrect his career in January 2021 when they signed him a month after being released by Washington. Humbled by the decision, Haskins stressed he was eager to work hard and absorb as much as he could from Ben Roethlisberger and Mason Rudolph. He made the roster as the third-stringer but only dressed once, serving as the backup in a tie with Detroit after Roethlisberger was placed into the COVID-19 protocol the night before the game.
“The world lost a great person today,” Steelers star T.J. Watt posted on Twitter. “When Dwayne first walked into the locker room I could tell he was an upbeat guy. He was always making people smile, never taking life for granted.”
Tomlin and general manager Kevin Colbert both praised Haskins for his improvement since joining the team, and the Steelers re-signed him to a one-year deal as a restricted free agent in March. He was expected to compete with Rudolph and Trubisky for a spot.
“We’re excited to see what Dwayne can provide, either from competition, or maybe he evolves as a starter,” Colbert said in January.
Haskins appeared to be working in South Florida this week with several teammates, including Trubisky and other skill position players, including running back Najee Harris and tight end Pat Freiermuth.
“Devastated,” Rudolph said on social media.
Information from The Associated Press contributed to this story. | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/nfl-qb-dwayne-haskins-killed-after-getting-hit-by-truck-on-i-595-near-fort-lauderdale-airport-2/ | 2022-04-13T12:09:58 | 1 | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/nfl-qb-dwayne-haskins-killed-after-getting-hit-by-truck-on-i-595-near-fort-lauderdale-airport-2/ |
After a quiet two weeks in free agency, the Ravens went back to checking boxes last weekend.
They needed a veteran inside linebacker, so they re-signed starter Josh Bynes to a one-year deal Friday. They needed an impact defensive lineman, so they re-signed starter Calais Campbell to a two-year deal Saturday. And because they need a lot more help elsewhere — and because they have 10 NFL draft picks to acquire it — general manager Eric DeCosta and Ravens officials went right back to studying prospects and finalizing their big board.
With the draft just two weeks away, the Ravens are close to knowing not only what roster holes to fill but also which prospects to target. Some positions, of course, require more help than others. Here’s how the Ravens’ needs stack up, from least urgent to most urgent.
11. Quarterback
The Ravens have a Pro Bowl player in Lamar Jackson and a more-than-competent backup in Tyler Huntley. Coach John Harbaugh didn’t even bother with any draft trickery during his appearance last week on “The Rich Eisen Show,” saying the Ravens won’t be drafting a quarterback in the first round. If they wanted to find Jackson’s eventual replacement this year, that’s where they’d have to start.
10. Wide receiver
Ravens director of player personnel Joe Hortiz joked with reporters after the team’s predraft news conference last week that one topic had gone conspicuously unremarked upon: wide receivers. But the Ravens, for the first time in years, don’t need to find a starting-level prospect in the draft. Former first-round picks Marquise “Hollywood” Brown and Rashod Bateman impressed last season, and there’s solid depth behind them.
If the Ravens do target a wide receiver, size should be a priority. Of the position’s most likely contributors, only the 6-foot-1 Bateman and 6-4 Miles Boykin are taller than 6 feet. If Boykin is released or traded in a cost-cutting move this offseason, the Ravens would lose their best perimeter blocker — an overlooked asset in an offense as run-centric as coordinator Greg Roman’s.
9. Safety
The Ravens ended a lot of speculation about their potential safety upgrades when they signed Marcus Williams to a five-year, $70 million contract last month. Williams should be a seamless fit in first-year coordinator Mike Macdonald’s defense. His arrival not only gives the team a center field ball hawk but also allows Chuck Clark to play more often as a box safety and amplifies Brandon Stephens’ versatility.
Now, would the Ravens pass on Notre Dame star Kyle Hamilton if he fell to No. 14 in the draft? Maybe not, but it depends on who else is available. And with Geno Stone, Ar’Darius Washington and Tony Jefferson all under contract, there’s a solid core in place behind the Ravens’ top three safeties.
8. Tight end
New Ravens tight ends coach George Godsey is stepping into a pretty nice gig. Mark Andrews led all NFL tight ends in receiving last year. Patrick Ricard is coming off a third straight Pro Bowl honor and his most well-rounded season yet. Josh Oliver made it through his first year in Baltimore healthy. Nick Boyle has the offseason to get his surgically repaired left knee back to game shape.
But if injuries get in the way again — Boyle played in just five games last season, and Ricard missed four of the Ravens’ final five losses — Roman might not have the personnel to play the kind of smashmouth style he wants. And unless Oliver takes a step forward, the Ravens could enter 2022 with just one dynamic downfield target at the position.
7. Interior offensive line
With a handful of solid, young options at left guard and Patrick Mekari expected to return to center, the Ravens should enter offseason workouts on relatively solid ground here. Kevin Zeitler is coming off a strong season at right guard. The battle on the left side will feature three recent mid-round draft picks: Ben Cleveland, Ben Powers and Tyre Phillips. And behind Mekari is Trystan Colon, a solid backup center.
Still, adding a versatile Day Two or Day Three interior lineman would make sense; Hortiz said last week that the Ravens have had the chance to work out guards at center during the predraft process. If the team can find a potential starting center later in the draft, Mekari could step in as the Ravens’ swing tackle. Considering the team’s injury situation out wide, he might be even more valuable there than in the middle.
6. Running back
There might not be a bigger gulf in the NFL between what the Ravens have at running back now and what they could have by the middle of the season. Move Week 1 up to May, and Ty’Son Williams might be starting again, backed up by a mix of unproven young players and well-traveled veterans. Move Week 1 back to October, and J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards could be fully recovered from knee surgery, both ready to return to their impressive 2020 form.
The Ravens will have to negotiate that uncertainty in the coming weeks. They’re reportedly interested in free agent Melvin Gordon, a two-time Pro Bowl selection who averaged 4.5 yards per carry last season for the Denver Broncos. And DeCosta said at the team’s predraft news conference that, considering the Ravens’ run-heavy tendencies, they would “certainly strike” if the “right guy” falls to them in the draft. It’s hard to imagine team officials using a premium pick on the position, but it’s just as hard to imagine them standing pat this month.
5. Inside linebacker
With Bynes re-signed and Patrick Queen returning for his third season as a starter, the Ravens have their top two inside linebackers back in Baltimore. But they’ll need more help, especially as they plan for the future.
Chris Board’s one-year deal with the Detroit Lions and Malik Harrison’s cross-training at outside linebacker has left Kristian Welch, primarily a special teams contributor, as the Ravens’ only other full-time inside linebacker. Even if the 32-year-old Bynes can recapture his 2021 form, the Ravens will have to start looking soon for a potential replacement. They could add a rookie in the draft, possibly as early as Day Two, or find cheap free-agent help available after it.
4. Defensive line
Defensive ends Campbell and Justin Madubuike and nose tackle Michael Pierce make up a solid starting front. It’s probably better than the Ravens’ front from their 2021 season opener, when Brandon Williams started at nose tackle against the Las Vegas Raiders.
But the group’s limitations are obvious. Campbell is coming off a 1 1/2-sack season, Madubuike has shown only flashes of his pass-rush potential, and Pierce was rarely asked to pressure the pocket during his first stint in Baltimore. Elsewhere on the depth chart, Derek Wolfe is recovering from offseason hip surgery, and Broderick Washington is still better known for stuffing the run. In a league where everyone wants their own Aaron Donald, the Ravens must find their own young, disruptive interior presence. Campbell and Wolfe’s uncertain futures should only hasten the Ravens’ search.
3. Offensive tackle
Morgan Moses’ arrival in Baltimore hasn’t kept mock drafts from linking the Ravens to tackle prospects like Northern Iowa’s Trevor Penning or Mississippi State’s Charles Cross, but it has changed the narrative at No. 14. The Ravens, finally, now have at least one healthy starting tackle. If their encouraging updates on Ronnie Stanley’s ankle and Ja’Wuan James’ Achilles tendon continue into the summer, they could have at least two or three.
Still, backup plans are necessary. Asked last week about the front office’s outlook on Stanley’s future as it prepares for the draft, DeCosta said the Ravens “try to protect ourselves as best as we can.” After all that Jackson endured last season, and with Mekari perhaps entrenched at center, that could mean spending a Day One or Day Two pick on a left tackle.
2. Cornerback
A year ago, the Ravens had maybe the NFL’s best cornerback situation. And now? “I think we’re definitely concerned,” DeCosta said last week. Of the team’s full-time corners, only rehabilitating stars Marlon Humphrey (pectoral) and Marcus Peters (knee) have started at least three games over the previous two seasons. “But again, until they come back,” DeCosta added, “it’s question marks.”
Stephens can line up anywhere in the secondary, and Humphrey’s experience in the slot is an asset. But after a disastrous season of pass defense, the Ravens still need to find at least one more starting corner before training camp opens. They could double-dip in the draft, rebuilding the depth that injuries depleted last year, and still be on the lookout for more help in the subsequent wave of free agency. There are just too many good passing attacks around the league, and too many question marks in Baltimore, for the Ravens to play it safe.
1. Edge rusher
In an ideal world for the Ravens, Odafe Oweh would enter training camp fully healthy after offseason shoulder surgery, while Tyus Bowser would be cleared by the season opener, having recovered from his Achilles tendon tear in just nine months. For veteran backup, they would have Daelin Hayes, finally healthy after an injury-marred rookie season, and Jaylon Ferguson, looking to bounce back after a largely anonymous third year.
So, yes, the Ravens’ edge rushers will need some injury luck. They will need some self-improvement. Most of all, though, after finishing 28th in sack rate and 24th in pressure rate last season, according to Pro Football Reference, they will need some new pass-rush juice. Za’Darius Smith would’ve helped, but the Ravens’ deal for him fell through in the first wave of free agency. The top edge rushers still available, including Jadeveon Clowney and Justin Houston, are only short-term solutions. That puts tremendous pressure on the Ravens to find an impact player with one of their first three picks in the draft.
() | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/ranking-the-ravens-needs-entering-the-nfl-draft-from-quarterback-to-cornerback-analysis/ | 2022-04-13T12:10:04 | 1 | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/ranking-the-ravens-needs-entering-the-nfl-draft-from-quarterback-to-cornerback-analysis/ |
It is a fact universally acknowledged that chocolate Easter bunnies taste best when you start by eating their ears.
It’s part of the whole chocolate-for-Easter thing, a longstanding tradition that no one seems to know how it began. My own personal guess, based on no specialized knowledge of the subject whatsoever, is that people eat chocolate for Easter because chocolate tastes good.
It’s as fine a reason as any, and better than most. Pretty much any reasoning involving chocolate is better than most.
This Easter, I resolved to make chocolate candies to give as Easter gifts to family, friends and loved ones, or just to serve at my own home.
I began with chocolate-covered orange peels. Whenever I have chocolate-covered candied orange peels, which isn’t nearly often enough, I think of my friend Skip.
Skip is a real-estate agent who showed me around Toledo, Ohio, when I first moved there. Before taking me to available houses, he stopped off at a local confectionary and bought a bag of chocolate-covered orange peels.
I knew then that we were going to be friends.
Chocolate-covered orange peels have always struck me as sophisticated and elegant, the kind of treat that only appeals to a refined palate. That is not what they are like at all in actuality — you should see Skip and me — but it is a pleasant thought when you are cramming them indelicately into your mouth.
What makes them so appealing is the intriguing contrast between the sweet chocolate and the faintly bitter peel. But you have to get the bitterness just right; you don’t want it overwhelming the chocolate.
If you cut a thin slice of peel, cutting shallow with a vegetable peeler to avoid any of the white pith, it is an easy matter. Just blanch the skin, boil it in sugar water and dry it in a bed of sugar. But some, including me, prefer a thicker piece of peel that includes the pith. In that case, you merely have to blanch it three times before continuing with the other steps.
I made it both ways, and with the peels of other citrus fruit, too: grapefruit, tangerines, lemons and limes. All were simply superb, and worthy of an Easter gift.
My most ambitious was next, malted crisp tart. This is a malted-milk tart that I wanted to make because I am particularly fond of those little malted milk ball eggs at Easter.
It has a lot of steps. Each one is easy, but you need to know going in that you are going to use every bowl you have in the house.
Step one is a brown sugar crust, an unusually delectable crust that also involves flour, malted milk powder (such as Ovaltine or Carnation), vanilla and a great deal of butter. Step two is caramelized Rice Krispies, which is both easier and more time-consuming than you would expect. Even so, it only takes about 10 minutes.
Step three is a rich milk chocolate ganache made all the more delicious by a little more malted milk powder. And step four is a malted diplomat cream, a delicate pastry cream with, yes, a little more malted milk powder.
You might think, with all the malted milk powder, that this tart would be like malted milk in a crust, but it is really much more subtle and multifaceted than that — even with crunchy malted milk balls strewn across the top.
My next treat was fussier, but sublime: chocolate orange truffles.
The chocolate part is actually white chocolate; you could use regular chocolate if you want to, but why would you want to? The orange part comes from both candied orange peel and a splash of orange liqueur, such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier (or triple sec, come to think of it, which would have been cheaper). And the truffle part comes from heavy cream and more white chocolate.
Like all chocolate truffles, they melt in your mouth. When making them, unfortunately, they also melt in your hands, so they take longer to set than you might expect. I put mine in the refrigerator overnight, and that did the trick.
Once you try one, and you taste that luxurious truffle wrapped in white chocolate with the graceful notes of orange, any memories of sticky chocolate on your fingers will fly away forever.
CANDIED ORANGE PEELS (THIN VERSION)
Yield: 8 servings
Recipe by Jacques Pepin
- 2 large navel oranges, or an equivalent amount of grapefruit, lemons, limes, tangerines or mandarins, or a combination
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar, divided, plus more if necessary
- 4 ounces chopped milk chocolate, semisweet or bittersweet chocolate
1. Use a vegetable peeler to peel wide, long strips of just the orange part of the orange skin (or the green part of the lime skin, etc.). Try to get as little of the bitter white pith as you can; if you have too much, you can carefully scrape some of it off with a sharp knife.
2. Set a small pan with at least 1 inch of water over high heat to boil. Spread 1 cup of sugar across a plate. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or nonstick foil.
3. Place the fruit peels in the boiling water for 15 seconds, and strain.
4. In a small pan, combine 3/4 cup sugar with 1/2 cup fresh water over high heat. Stir until dissolved and bring to a simmer. Add the fruit peels and boil until the entire surface of the liquid is covered with rapid, small bubbles, about 10 minutes.
5. Remove fruit peels with a fork and immediately place in the plate of sugar. Flip the peels over so both sides are covered with sugar. Press the peels down into the sugar so they are thoroughly saturated with it. Cover with more sugar, if necessary, and let sit 30 minutes. You can reserve the fruit-flavored syrup for cocktails, if you like.
6. Place a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water; do not let the bottom of the bowl touch the water. Add the chocolate and stir until melted. Dip half of each candied peel into the chocolate and place on prepared baking sheet to set.
7. Without chocolate, the candied peels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few weeks. With the chocolate, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1 week.
CANDIED ORANGE PEELS (THICK VERSION)
Yield 8 servings
Recipe by Jacques Pepin
- 2 large navel oranges, or an equivalent amount of grapefruit, lemons, limes, tangerines or mandarins, or a combination
- 3 1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided
- 8 ounces chopped milk chocolate, semisweet or bittersweet chocolate
1. Cut the fruit into quarters and peel the fruit, keeping the peels intact. Slice the peels into pieces about 1/8 inch wide. Set a small pan with at least 1 1/2 inches of water over high heat to boil. Spread 2 cups of sugar across a plate. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or nonstick foil.
2. Place the fruit peels in the boiling water for 30 seconds, and strain. Repeat twice more with fresh changes of water.
3. In a small pan, combine 1 1/2 cups of the sugar with 1 cup fresh water over high heat. Stir until dissolved and bring to a simmer. Add the fruit peels and boil until the entire surface of the liquid is covered with rapid, small bubbles, about 10 minutes.
4. Remove fruit peels with a fork and immediately place in the plate of sugar. Flip the peels over so both sides are covered with sugar. Press the peels down into the sugar so they are thoroughly saturated with it. Let sit 30 minutes. Discard the remaining sugar, but reserve the fruit-flavored syrup for cocktails, if you like.
5. Place a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water; do not let the bottom of the bowl touch the water. Add the chocolate and stir until melted. Remove from the heat. Working in batches, submerge a few pieces of the peel into the chocolate, remove with a fork and place on the prepared baking sheet to set.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1 week.
MALTED CRISP TART
Yield 8 to 12 servings
Recipe from “Baked Explorations” by Matt Lewis and Renato Poliafito
For the brown sugar crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon malted milk powder, such as plain (not chocolate) Ovaltine or Carnation
- 10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) butter, cut into cubes and chilled
- 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the caramelized crispies
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups crisped rice cereal, such as Rice Krispies
For the milk chocolate ganache
- 8 ounces good-quality milk chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons malted milk powder
For the malted diplomat cream
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons malted milk powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 5 ounces (1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons) heavy cream
For the tart assembly
- 1 cup crushed malted milk balls
- Malted milk balls, to garnish
- Caramelized crispies, to garnish
Note: The tart dough (unbaked) and the caramelized crispies can be made the day before you make the rest.
1. Make the brown sugar crust: Spray a napkin or paper towel with vegetable oil and use the napkin to apply the oil to the sides and bottom (and nooks and crannies) of the tart pan.
2. Place the flour, salt, malted milk powder, butter, sugar and vanilla in a food processor and pulse until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Scoop the crumb mixture into the prepared tart pan and use your hands to press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the tart pan. The crust should not look too thick.
4. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the tart pan in the freezer for 20 minutes.
5. Remove the tart pan from the freezer; place on a baking sheet and bake until the tart is golden brown, about 20 to 30 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.
6. Make the caramelized crispies: Line a half-sheet baking pan with a sheet of aluminum foil sprayed with vegetable oil.
7. In a medium saucepan over low heat, stir together 2 tablespoons water with the sugar and bring just to a very low boil for about 1 minute.
8. Add the crisped rice cereal and stir until the mixture is dry. Keep stirring until sugar begins to caramelize and the pan begins to smoke; this will take several minutes (any dried white sugar on the bottom of the pan will eventually melt). Fold the mixture over and over until all the crispies are coated with an amber layer of sugar. Once the crispies are completely coated, turn them out onto the sprayed foil and cool completely.
9. Breakup up the caramelized crispies into large chunky pieces and set aside.
10. Make the milk chocolate ganache: Place the milk chocolate in a medium-size heatproof bowl.
11. In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together the heavy cream and malt powder. Bring the mixture to a simmer (tiny bubbles will form around the edges of the cream; it should not be a rolling boil). Remove from the heat and pour over the milk chocolate. Let the mixture stand for 2 minutes. Starting in the center of the bowl and working your way out to the edges, whisk the chocolate ganache in a circle until completely smooth.
12. To begin assembling the tart: Gently pour the ganache into the cooled tart shell. Top with crushed malted milk balls and 1 cup caramelized crunchies. Very gently press the crushed malt balls and caramelized crunchies into the ganache. Refrigerate the tart while you make the malted diplomat cream.
13. Make the malted diplomat cream: Set a fine-mesh sieve over a medium bowl.
14. In a medium saucepan, bring the milk to a simmer and keep warm.
15. In a medium bowl, whisk the sugar, egg yolk, egg, cornstarch and malted milk powder together until the mixture is pale, about 1 minute.
16. Whisk half of the warm milk into the egg yolk mixture, then pour the mixture into the remaining milk in the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter and vanilla. Strain the pastry cream through the sieve and press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the cream to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate about 1 hour until chilled.
17. Remove the pastry cream from the refrigerator and whip until creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with a whisk (or use an electric mixer) until soft peaks form. Fold whipped cream into the pastry cream.
18. Finish assembling the tart: Remove the tart from the refrigerator and cover the milk chocolate malt layer with the malted diplomat cream. Garnish with a few whole malt balls and caramelized crispies. Refrigerate the tart to set up, about 30 minutes. The tart can be stored, tightly covered, in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
CHOCOLATE ORANGE TRUFFLES
Yield 24 servings
Recipe from “Chocolat” by Eric Lanlard
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 16 ounces white chocolate, chopped, divided
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 teaspoons orange liqueur, such as Cointreau, Grand Marnier or triple sec
- 1/4 cup candied orange peel, finely chopped, see note
- 2 ounces semisweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
Note: Candied orange peel is available online. If you want to make it yourself, peel an orange and slice the peel into strips 1/8 inch wide. Blanch peel in boiling water three times for 30 seconds each time, changing the water each time. Mix 3/4 cup granulated sugar with 1/2 cup water, and add peels. Bring to a boil and boil until rapid, small bubbles cover the entire surface of the liquid, about 10 minutes. Remove peels with a fork and immediately place in a plate of granulated sugar. Flip peels to cover both sides with sugar, and press peels into the sugar to completely saturate them. Let stand 30 minutes before chopping.
1. Make ganache by putting the cream into a small saucepan and heat to just below boiling point. Stir in half of the white chocolate (8 ounces) and the butter until smooth. Add the liqueur and orange peel, then transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate until firm. This may take several hours.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a teaspoon, scoop up small amounts of ganache, shape into balls with your hands and place on the baking sheet.
3. Melt the remaining 8 ounces white chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of barely simmering water, making sure the surface of the water does not touch the bowl. Let cool for a few minutes — do not skip this step or the chocolate will seize.
4. If the balls of ganache soften before you are ready to dip them in the melted white chocolate (step 5), place them in the refrigerator until firm or place them in the freezer for 10 minutes.
5. Using a fork, dip each ganache ball into the melted white chocolate, then return to the lined baking sheet. Return to the refrigerator until set.
6. Melt the semisweet chocolate as above and let cool for a few minutes. Spoon the melted semisweet chocolate into a small pastry bag fitted with a thin piping tip, or into a resealable plastic bag with a very small corner cut off. Pipe fine lines onto each truffle and let set. Store the truffles in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week. | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/recipes-make-your-own-chocolates-for-easter/ | 2022-04-13T12:10:10 | 0 | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/recipes-make-your-own-chocolates-for-easter/ |
Richard Pryor gets screentime in new HBO show 'Winning Time' thanks to actor Mike Epps
"Richard Pryor: Positive Influence."
This lovingly sarcastic chyron appears as stand-up Peoria legend Richard Pryor, played by Mike Epps, walks off the screen after inviting a Lakers player to a raunchy post-game party.
"Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty" is an HBO show about the "Showtime" era of the Los Angeles Lakers. The show is produced by Adam McKay and focuses mainly on basketball legends Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, played by Solomon Hughes, and Magic Johnson, played by Quincy Isaiah.
In Sunday's episode, "Memento Mori," Johnson is trying to decide which shoe company he wants to sign with. He's at a club with his team when Epps, as Pryor, appears to steal the show.
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"So you must be Magic Johnson, teeth that white!" he says.
Pryor riffs with the players. He teases Johnson's teammates that they're famous in the Black community. But Johnson and Pryor are on another level of fame.
"Me and Magic here, we dealing with white famous," Pryor said.
Pryor then pulls Johnson aside to chat about the nature of fame and what it's like to have your star on the rise.
"You know all this fame s--t ain't natural," he said. "That's the problem. We ain't born for it. And we ain't made for it. And definitely ain't ready for that s--t when it hit us. But you best believe everyone else is."
Pryor told him to "say presto" and that Earvin, Johnson's given name, is dead.
"He's gone," Pryor said. "That's the first cost of doing business with the white man."
As if on cue, Dr. Jerry Buss walks up and steals Johnson away to show him off.
Later in the episode, right before a game, Pryor makes another appearance with "Dr. Mike."
"Those is the Lakers, not the fakers!" he says, strolling down the hallway before the game. The quip of him as a "positive influence" marks his exit.
(Screen) playing in Peoria:7 movies that were set or filmed in the River City
Epps, an actor, comedian and producer, has been close to portraying Pryor for years. He was slated to play Pryor in a biopic directed by Lee Daniels, but the project never got off the ground.
In a 2015 interview with Larry King, Epps said he was "so honored to even be considered or chosen to play the greatest of all time."
In a conversation with rapper Jeezy last May, after the project had already fallen through, Epps said that he went down a "long road" with the Pryor biopic.
"It's just been a roller coaster, man, because nobody understood that it wasn't just me doing Richard Pryor," he said.
Epps said that he had constantly been in between the family and the production, and that Richard Pryor "loved people fighting" over him.
"I think that Richard Pryor has controlled his whole existence," he said. "Everything, even after his death. He was that kind of guy."
In an Instagram post, Epps said "it was an honor to play The Great Richard Pryor."
New episodes of "Winning Time" air Sunday nights at 9 p.m. | https://www.pjstar.com/story/entertainment/television/2022/04/13/peoria-comedian-richard-pryor-played-mike-epps-new-hbo-series/7291679001/ | 2022-04-13T12:15:25 | 0 | https://www.pjstar.com/story/entertainment/television/2022/04/13/peoria-comedian-richard-pryor-played-mike-epps-new-hbo-series/7291679001/ |
These 3 Peoria Rivermen won rings with rival Pensacola. Now they meet in the playoffs
PEORIA — Alex Hagaman and Jordan Ernst and Nick Neville each got a championship ring on their finger from the Pensacola Ice Flyers.
But their hearts belong to the Peoria Rivermen, and they are determined to get the same for the 40-year-old franchise that has waited 22 years for a title.
And of course, that journey to the Southern Professional Hockey League's President's Cup Finals begins with a first-round series against the same Pensacola team that is defending a title they helped them win last season.
"I just think it's pretty cool seeing them," said Hagaman, the only Peoria-born captain in the history of the Rivermen. "A few of us played there, enjoyed our time there.
"It will be fun to play them. We didn't play them during the season, so for us, it's kind of nice just to play a different team. It's not hard for us to get ready. You never forget the good times there, but every guy on both teams wants to win. Time to play some good games."
The back story
The Rivermen were among five teams that opted out of the 2020-21 SPHL season because of state COVID regulations that would have made it impossible to operate.
To keep their careers alive, Hagaman, winger Jordan Ernst, defenseman Nick Neville and winger Darren McCormick banded together and, with the blessing of Rivermen coach Jean-Guy Trudel, played a reduced league schedule with Pensacola.
The league preserved Peoria's rights to those players. Hagaman and Neville came back immediately this season, Ernst went to the ECHL and came down to join Peoria in March. McCormick went to the ECHL and stayed.
SPHL:Why the Rivermen made sure to bring back Peoria native Alec Hagaman
In December, while Hagaman was well on his way to a career season, Pensacola coach Rod Aldoff stopped by at Hagaman's home in Pekin and presented him and Neville with their rings. The Flyers were on their way through Peoria for a series at Quad City.
It closed the book on the players' Pensacola chapter, and reinforced why they came back to Peoria.
"My ultimate goal ever since I started here was to win a championship here," Hagaman said. "We have to start in round one. It's going to be two really good teams ready to get after each other."
Ancient history and the series ahead
There aren't many players left from Pensacola's title team. In fact, with Hagaman, Ernst and Neville, the Rivermen have more players from the Pensacola title team than the Flyers do.
Pensacola opens the best-of-3 series on Wednesday with only captain and left wing Brennan Blaszczak and right wing Frederic Letourneau from the 2020-21 group. The latter spent the entire season in the ECHL with Greenville and Idaho, for a combined five goals and nine assists in 41 games.
Blaszczak scored 31 goals this season, runnerup in the league to Peoria rookie Marcel Godbout's 33.
What happened in 2020-21 is ancient history for both sides.
There are far more Rivermen on this playoff roster who were on a first-place Peoria team that was a huge contender for a championship when the pandemic wiped out the 2019-20 season and the playoffs never happened.
Neville, Hagaman, Ernst, Baer, Mitch McPherson, Brandon Rumble and Eric Levine, were all left to wonder what might have been.
'Let the big dog eat':How this Peoria Rivermen star made his way back from the ECHL
It's been a minute since the Rivermen were together in postseason play. Not since the 2018-19 first-round series they dropped to Roanoke.
"I remember when we got shut down in (2019-20) when we had such a great team in Peoria, a really good shot at it," said Ernst, of a team that was 33-8-5 when the pandemic halted everything. "Now we're back with another opportunity."
Hagaman scored two goals and Ernst one in a two-game sweep by Pensacola of the best-of-3 title series against Macon last year.
They know the Rivermen are hoping they can do the same for them.
"For me, I came back to Peoria because this is where I rediscovered my love for the game when I first got here a few years ago," Ernst said. "A lot of happy memories for me here.
"This is what I came back to do, win a championship with the Rivermen."
What does the Rivermen coach think?
Rivermen coach Jean-Guy Trudel knows he has a wealth of scoring with five players who reached at least 20 goals this season. He also has two No. 1-caliber goaltenders.
So does pretty much everyone else.
"I think all eight teams in this playoff have a ton of skill and can win it," Trudel said. "A lot of talent came down from the ECHL."
Trudel's view of Pensacola? He says they are extremely fast, and that Peoria will have to avoid neutral zone turnovers — which he calls "Pee Wee tournament turnovers" — and find a way to break the man-to-man defensive style the Flyers play.
"Everyone wants to play in Pensacola, so they always have a good team," Trudel said. "We're going in as the least-hot team in the playoffs (finished the season on a 5-5 stretch). We have to focus and pick up our intensity and get to work."
More Rivermen:Who the Peoria Rivermen chose for their final playoff roster as SPHL pairings are set
SPHL playoffs: (3) Peoria vs (6) Pensacola
Best-of-3 first-round series
Game 1: Wednesday, Rivermen vs Pensacola, at Pelham Civic Center, Pelham, Ala, 7 p.m.
Game 2: Friday, Pensacola at Rivermen, Carver Arena, 7:15 p.m.
Game 3 (if needed): Saturday, Pensacola at Rivermen, Carver Arena, 7:15 p.m.
Listen: Live online via Rivermen Radio Network.
Watch: Live stream on SPHL Hockey TV.
Watch party: Game 1 shown at Bullpen Bar & Grill (3325 N. Dries Lane, Peoria), 7 p.m.
All-time series: Peoria 13-17-6.
Playoff meetings: Peoria L President's Cup Finals 3-0 to Pensacola, 2015-16.
Coaches: Rivermen, Jean-Guy Trudel, 9th yr (286-99-53. Pensacola, Rod Aldoff, 8th yr (211-129-48).
President's Cups: Peoria, none. Pensacola, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2021.
Offense: Rivermen 3.91 gpg (2nd). Pensacola 3.38 (6th).
Defense: Rivermen 2.25 gpg (2nd). Pensacola 2.93 (7th).
Power play: Rivermen 27.9% (1st). Pensacola 24.0% (2nd).
Penalty-kill: Rivermen 88.3% (1st). Pensacola 81.7% (7th).
More:SPHL regular-season final standings
How to get tickets
Rivermen first-round individual playoff tickets at Carver Arena are $21 for glass seating, $19 for premium sections, $13 for Pilot House locations and $12 for upper bowl seats.
Tickets can be purchased through the Rivermen team offices in person (open 8 a.m.-4 p.m.) or by calling the team at (309) 676-1040. They can also be purchased online via Ticketmaster with a direct link.
River Readings
Rivermen center Alec Baer ran away with the SPHL scoring title on 80 points in 53 games, including 26 goals and a league-high 54 assists. He is the ninth player in league history to reach 80 points in a single season, and the first to get there since Knoxville's Kevin Swider in 2011-12. ... Baer joins center Ben Blasko as Rivermen players who've won scoring titles in the SPHL. Blasko did it in 2018-19 with 19 goals, 49 assists in 55 games. ... Rivermen captain Alec Hagaman finished second in the league scoring race with 71 points in just 47 games. ... Peoria rookie Marcel Godbout finished fifth in points with 61 in 50 games, including a league-high 33 goals. It's the third-most goals by a rookie in SPHL history, matching Pee Dee's Daryl Moore in 2006-07. It's the sixth-most goals by a rookie in the 40-year history of the Rivermen franchise. ... Rivermen coach Jean-Guy Trudel's 286 career regular-season wins are second-most all-time by a coach in SPHL history. ... The last time the Rivermen won a playoff game was on April 27, 2018, when they beat Huntsville on the road, 3-2, in Game 2 of the SPHL President's Cup Finals. A first-round upset to Roanoke followed in 2018-19, then the pandemic-halted 2019-20 season, and the 2020-21 opt-out season. ... Pensacola beat the Rivermen for the 2015-16 President's Cup championship when it won Game 3 in Pensacola 5-4 on May 6, 2016, with a goal by Josh Cousineau with one-tenth of one second left in the game. ... The Rivermen are 6-6 all-time in Game 1 of an SPHL playoff series, including three overtime losses.
Dave Eminian is the Journal Star sports columnist, and covers Bradley men's basketball, the Rivermen and Chiefs. He writes the Cleve In The Eve sports column for pjstar.com. Reach him at 686-3206 or deminian@pjstar.com. Follow him on Twitter @icetimecleve. | https://www.pjstar.com/story/sports/nhl/rivermen/2022/04/13/peoria-rivermen-set-aside-pensacola-history-sphl-playoffs-begin/9530942002/ | 2022-04-13T12:15:43 | 1 | https://www.pjstar.com/story/sports/nhl/rivermen/2022/04/13/peoria-rivermen-set-aside-pensacola-history-sphl-playoffs-begin/9530942002/ |
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RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — A community hospital donated $5,000 to William Fox Elementary teachers Tuesday.
The HCA Virginia’s Henrico Doctors’ Hospital had hopes that the donation would go towards helping teachers replenish school supplies after the tragic fire that destroyed much of the building.
“As community partners, both Retreat and Fox are invested in the vibrancy, health, and wellbeing of our residents,” said Beth Matish, CEO of Retreat Doctors’ Hospital.
“We are pleased to be able to contribute $5,000 to Fox Elementary School teachers as they try to recover, build, and grow from such a heartbreak. Thank you, Principal Jacobs and everyone at Richmond Public Schools, for everything you are doing for our community.”
The Fox Elementary students are currently attending in-person learning temporarily at First Baptist Church.
The Richmond School Board estimated that $20 million will be needed to rebuild Fox. | https://www.wric.com/community/positively-richmond/community-hospital-donates-thousands-to-fox-elementary-teachers/ | 2022-04-13T12:20:31 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/community/positively-richmond/community-hospital-donates-thousands-to-fox-elementary-teachers/ |
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – Enhanced inspections of trucks crossing the border from Juarez to El Paso slowing the line as protestors block commercial lines completely at some ports of entry.
The new inspections, by the Texas Department of Public Safety, are part of a directive from Governor Greg Abbott, as part of an initiative to stop human trafficking and illegal activities.
“They’re checking everything, how the truck is, everything on the truck,” said truck driver Christian Sanchez after he went through the new inspections at the Bridge of the Americas on Tuesday.
On the Mexican side of the border trucks and people block the commercial lanes in protest of the long wait times in enhanced inspections are causing.
“No, they’re stopped, those are blocked and you can’t cross, just this bridge,” said Rogelio Perez Acuna a truck driver who passed through the Bridge of the Americas on Tuesday, as it was the only bridge open to commercial traffic throughout most of the day as protestors blocked the others.
University of Texas Economics Professor Tom Fullerton saying the back up of commercial trucks will have an impact on the economy.
“A lot of different parts of final products that are now getting delayed in terms of being able to be finished and we’ve observed in 2020 and 2021 what this has implied in terms of consumer electronics and automobiles, and this is just going to worsen an already bad situation,” said Fullerton.
Another economic expert, a professor at Texas A&M saying Americans will see an impact from the slow moving traffic at the ports of entry and the grocery store.
“They don’t know when this is going to resume so prices are going to react now when you look at grocery prices they’re already reacting, how long is this going to take, how long is this going to take to go back to normal that is also unknown,” said Luis A Ribera the Director for the Center for North American Studies at Texas A&M.
U.S. Customs and Border Protections calling for the Texas Government to remove the enhanced inspections.
“These unnecessary inspections are occurring when vehicles exit U.S. ports of entry within the El Paso and Laredo areas of operation after being comprehensively inspected and cleared to enter the United States by CBP. As a result, vehicles have been significantly delayed in exiting the federal inspection plaza, leading to traffic disruptions and critical impacts to an already-strained supply chain.”
Portion of the statement from U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Governor Greg Abbott visited El Paso on Monday, speaking about the end of Title 42 coming to an end on May 23. Which is a federal mandate that allowed for Border Patrol Agents to expel migrants arriving to the U.S. back to Mexico.
The same day as the governors visit is when protestors on the Mexican side started blocking commercial lanes at the Ysleta Port of Entry and then by Tuesday the Santa Teresa commercial lanes.
Santa Teresa commercial lanes did reopen Tuesday afternoon and hours of operation will be extended on Wednesday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
On Tuesday, Candidate for Texas Governor Beto O’rouke speaking about the impact of blocked ports across the Texas / U.S. Mexico Border.
“That is causing higher prices, higher inflation, it is worsening a supply chain problem that we already had in the united states,” said O’Rouke.
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For local and breaking news, sports, weather alerts, video and more, download the FREE KTSM 9 News App from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. | https://www.wric.com/news/economic-impact-of-commercial-truck-blockade-at-u-s-mexico-border/ | 2022-04-13T12:20:37 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/news/economic-impact-of-commercial-truck-blockade-at-u-s-mexico-border/ |
(The Hill) – President Biden formally announced a waiver on Tuesday that will allow the sale of fuel with higher ethanol content to be sold during the summer months, an action he said would help lower soaring gas prices.
Current regulations prevent the fuel from being sold between June and September due to concerns about its effect on smog and other forms of air pollution.
Advocates have said the regulations in question were written for fuels that are 10 percent ethanol rather than so-called E15, which is 15 percent ethanol.
Administration officials, announcing the decision Monday night, projected it would save the average family 10 cents a gallon, a figure Biden also cited in his remarks Tuesday afternoon.
“Home grown biofuels have a role to play right now … as we work to get prices under control and reduce the costs for families,” the president said in Iowa on Tuesday, during a speech at POET Bioprocessing in Menlo, next to a giant pile of cornmeal.
In his remarks, Biden emphasized the role of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in energy costs, blaming Russian President Vladimir Putin for the recent surge in energy prices.
“I’m doing everything within my power by executive orders to bring down the price and address the Putin price hike,” the president said.
“Your family budget, your ability to fill up your tank, none of it should hinge on whether a dictator declares war and commits genocide half a world away,” he said, also describing Putin’s actions as “genocide” for the first time.
Biden appeared at the event alongside Cindy Axne (D-Iowa), who is among vulnerable Democrats in Congress in the impending midterm election cycle.
The speech represented the latest effort by the Biden administration to address growing concerns about inflation and heightened gas prices in particular.
Fuel prices, already spiking earlier this year, have ballooned further as Russia’s war in Ukraine has disrupted the global market. Gas prices averaged about $4.10 per gallon nationwide as of Tuesday, according to AAA.
Labor Department data released Tuesday showed consumer prices rose 1.2 percent in March and 8.5 percent over the past year.
Polls show the American public increasingly concerned about high consumer prices.
Biden on Tuesday highlighted other actions his administration has taken, including the largest-ever release from the U.S. strategic petroleum reserve he announced last month.
The president framed the waiver announced Tuesday as a “made in America” solution to the crisis, citing its potential to both support agricultural economies and reduce reliance on foreign oil.
“It gives you a choice at the pump — when you have a choice, you have competition, when you have competition, you get better prices,” he said. “This is an industry with a tremendous future.”
Biden also said increased use of such fuels was vital to achieving the administration’s goal of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by midcentury. Ethanol is made from corn and has been mixed into fuel as a way to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
“You simply can’t get to net-zero by 2050 without biofuels,” he said. | https://www.wric.com/news/politics/biden-pitches-new-action-to-lessen-gas-prices/ | 2022-04-13T12:20:43 | 0 | https://www.wric.com/news/politics/biden-pitches-new-action-to-lessen-gas-prices/ |
A day after watching a videotaped confession in which Anthony Todt described suffocating his wife and children, jurors will continue hearing state testimony in the accused killer’s trial this morning.
Todt is charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one count of animal cruelty in the killings of 42-year-old Megan Todt; the couple’s children Alek, 13, Tyler, 11, and Zoe, 4; and their dog Breezy.
Law enforcement found Todt living with the blanket-wrapped decomposing bodies in January 2020 at his family’s Celebration home on Reserve Place.
In the confession jurors saw Tuesday, Todt told detectives his wife, who was chronically ill, started watching videos that predicted an upcoming apocalypse and described how to reach “salvation,” which led to them plotting the killings of their kids.
He claimed in the video he killed his wife at her request after she stabbed and drugged herself, then in the weeks that followed tried to kill himself in a variety of ways, including overdosing on Benadryl and hanging himself, though he “chickened out” of using a knife.
Jurors on Tuesday also heard from several experts, including a medical examiner who said Megan Todt and her three children had been dead for “at least a couple weeks” before they were found by law enforcement.
Federal authorities and Osceola deputies were at the family’s Celebration home Jan. 13, 2020, to arrest Todt on insurance fraud charges related to his physical therapy business when they found the bodies of his family.
The victims had stab wounds and toxic amounts of Benadryl in their bodies, according to autopsy reports. Although he initially confessed to the killings, Todt has since blamed his wife for the slayings in jailhouse writings.
Testimony in the trial began Monday.
This is a developing story. Check back later for updates. | https://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/crime/os-ne-anthony-todt-florida-killings-trial-day-3-20220413-le2rai2mczdytjf443wbgpjtba-story.html | 2022-04-13T12:21:21 | 1 | https://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/crime/os-ne-anthony-todt-florida-killings-trial-day-3-20220413-le2rai2mczdytjf443wbgpjtba-story.html |
A 23-year-old Bronx woman sitting in her parked car Tuesday night died of a shot to the head when gunfire erupted, police say, noting she was an innocent bystander.
The victim, identified as Sally Ntim of Concourse, was parked at the corner of Sheridan Avenue and McClellan Street around 8:45 p.m. when someone started shooting. No information was available on the intended target or a possible suspect.
Ntim was pronounced dead at a hospital. Video posted to the Citizen app showed a heavy emergency response at the scene. No arrests have been made.
Ntim's death marks the second of an innocent bystander in the borough in less than two weeks. A 61-year-old grandmother was killed in the crossfire when a gunfight broke out as she headed home from work last Monday. Multiple arrests have been made. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/innocent-23-year-old-woman-shot-in-head-while-sitting-in-parked-car-dies-cops/3643824/ | 2022-04-13T12:25:34 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/innocent-23-year-old-woman-shot-in-head-while-sitting-in-parked-car-dies-cops/3643824/ |
An all-out manhunt continued Wednesday for the gunman who opened fire Tuesday onboard a Brooklyn subway, an apparently premeditated attack that injured at least 23 people, 10 of them by gunfire and some of them children, and once again interrupted New York City's rocky journey to post-pandemic normalcy.
Investigators were laser-focused on a man who rented a U-Haul van that may have been linked to the rush-hour violence. They stressed they weren't sure whether the man, Frank R. James, was responsible for the shooting. But they're examining social media videos in which the 62-year-old decried the United States as a racist place awash in violence and sometimes railed against the city’s mayor, Eric Adams.
“This nation was born in violence, it’s kept alive by violence or the threat thereof and it’s going to die a violent death. There’s nothing going to stop that,” James said in one video.
Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell called the posts “concerning" and officials tightened security for Adams as investigators turn their attention to the U-Haul van.
Cops believe the van found parked on Kings Highway in Gravesend Tuesday afternoon is linked to the shootings. It had a table, chairs and memory foam pillows inside, senior law enforcement sources said. The key and the credit card used to rent the van were both found at the Sunset Park station. That's what yielded James' name.
They say his physical description could match that of the subway shooter, who was said to be a Black man about 5 feet 5 inches tall and 170 pounds. He was wearing a gas mask and green construction vest, along with a construction helmet, when he tossed two smoke canisters on the floor of a northbound N car and opened fire.
Pictures: Multiple People Hurt in Brooklyn Subway Shooting
While the car filled with smoke, he fired at least 33 times, according to NYPD Chief of Detectives James Essig, striking 10 people. It's not clear how the shooter fled the scene. Cops were looking into reports he may have jumped onto the subway tracks and escaped through the tunnels, but all searches for him have come up empty.
James has ties to Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, according to police, and was said to have past criminal records in those states, as well as ties to New York, law enforcement sources said. As investigators search for him, they continue to meticulously comb through evidence and witness interviews for insight.
One rider's video, shot through a closed door between subway cars, shows a person in a hooded sweatshirt raising an arm and pointing at something as five bangs sound. In another video, smoke and people pour out of a subway car, some limping.
Greenish smoke spewed from the subway doors when the Manhattan-bound train stopped at the platform, according to officials. Throngs of panicked people were seen running, bleeding — in total, 23 were hurt, police said, most of them in the chaos.
“Someone call 911!” a person could be heard shouting.
Five of the gunshot victims were critically injured, with details on the nature of their wounds not immediately clear. No fatalities were reported.
More Coverage
One source close to the investigation says the gunman's weapon may have jammed, potentially preventing further tragedy.
The gun was recovered at the scene, as was a bag with smoke canisters and fireworks, along with a hatchet, a spray bottle of gasoline and a fuse — lending further credence to the theory of a premeditated attack on New York City transit riders.
Three extended magazines of ammunition were also recovered at the scene: one still in the handgun, one in a backpack and one under his subway seat. The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives completed an urgent trace to identify the gun’s manufacturer, seller and initial owner.
An MTA surveillance camera in the station wasn't working at the time of the shooting, three sources say. It's not clear why, but officials say there were “a lot of different options” from cameras elsewhere on the subway line to get a glimpse of the shooter.
More than a dozen victims who weren't hit by gunfire were injured in the crowd response to the chaos, Essig said, with injuries including smoke inhalation, panic attacks and falling. Some of the wounded were in the same train car as the suspect, while others were on the platform, authorities said.
All described a terrifying scene.
"You start seeing faces against the glass, and it's people, several women, banging against the glass, screaming," said Kenneth Foote-Smith, who was in the next subway car over. "
"I did see a gentleman who was shot in lower stomach, laying out the ground, being treated by three or four people — bystanders, not EMS," he added. "I wasn’t the one who was injured or shot. Those are the people I think about, who I can’t stop thinking about. The people I couldn’t help."
The injured were taken to at least three city hospitals, including NYU Langone, Maimonides Medical Center, NYP-Brooklyn Methodist and Kings County Hospital.
The youngest victims in the shooting, four children between 12 and 16 years old, were taken to Maimonides Medical Center, where they were visited by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul in the evening.
MAP: Here's Where the Subway Shooting Happened
Houari Benkada was one of the gunshot victims, telling CNN in an interview that she actually sat next to the shooter before smoke filled the car, sending people running. He said he was trying to shield a pregnant woman when he was hit.
"She said 'I'm pregnant with a baby,' I hugged her, then the bum rush continued, and that's when I got shot in the back of my knee," the 27-year-old said.
All of the victims are expected to survive. Trying to reach a loved one? Here's what to do.
The New York City Unified Victim Identification System (UVIS) was activated in response to the NYPD activity located near 36th Street and 4th Avenue in Brooklyn.
If you are concerned about the welfare of someone who may have been affected by the event and are unable to contact them, please call 311. From outside of NYC, you may call 212-639-9675.
Police are asking for tips from the public, videos in particular, that could help them track down the suspect, as well as the person of interest, James. Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.
A reward of $50,000 from police, the MTA and Transport Workers Union is being offered for information leading to an arrest and indictment of the shooter.
Sign up for our Breaking newsletter to get the most urgent news stories in your inbox. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/manhunt-for-brooklyn-subway-gunman-intensifies-as-mass-transit-shooting-rocks-nyc/3643506/ | 2022-04-13T12:25:53 | 0 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/manhunt-for-brooklyn-subway-gunman-intensifies-as-mass-transit-shooting-rocks-nyc/3643506/ |
The presidents of four countries on Russia's doorstep headed to Kyiv on Wednesday in a show of support for Ukraine, after Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to continue his bloody seven-week offensive until its “full completion.”
The presidents of Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia — all NATO countries that worry they may face Russian attack in the future if Ukraine falls — were due to meet the Ukrainian leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
In one of the most crucial battles of the war, Russia said more than 1,000 Ukrainian troops surrendered in the besieged port of Mariupol. The information could not be verified, and it's not clear how significant it would be, if true.
Russia invaded on Feb. 24 with the goal, according to Western officials, of taking Kyiv, toppling the government and installing a Moscow-friendly one. In the seven weeks since the ground advance stalled and Russian forces lost potentially thousands of fighters — and the war has forced millions of Ukrainians to flee, rattled the world economy, threatened global food supplies and shattered Europe's post-Cold War balance.
U.S. President Joe Biden on Tuesday called Russia's actions in Ukraine “a genocide” for the first time, saying “Putin is just trying to wipe out the idea of even being a Ukrainian.”
More Russia-Ukraine War Coverage
Zelenskyy applauded Biden's use of the word, saying “calling things by their names is essential to stand up to evil.”
"We are grateful for US assistance provided so far and we urgently need more heavy weapons to prevent further Russian atrocities,” he added in his tweet.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said the leaders headed to Ukraine on Wednesday had “a strong message of political support and military assistance.”
Nauseda, Estonian President Alar Karis, Poland’s Andrzej Duda and Egils Levits of Latvia also plan to discuss investigations into alleged Russian war crimes, including the massacre of civilians.
Putin has denied his troops committed atrocities, and on Tuesday insisted Russia “had no other choice” but to invade and that the offensive aimed to protect people in parts of eastern Ukraine and to “ensure Russia’s own security.” He vowed it would “continue until its full completion and the fulfillment of the tasks that have been set.”
He insisted Russia’s campaign was going as planned despite a major withdrawal and significant losses.
Thwarted in their push toward the capital, Russian troops are now gearing up for a major offensive in the eastern Donbas region, where Russian-allied separatists and Ukrainian forces have been fighting since 2014, and where Russia has recognized the separatists’ claims of independence. Military strategists say Moscow believes local support, logistics and the terrain in the region favor its larger, better-armed military, potentially allowing Russia to finally turn the tide in its favor.
Britain’s defense ministry said Wednesday that “an inability to cohere and coordinate military activity has hampered Russia’s invasion to date.” Western officials say Russia recently appointed a new top general for the war, Alexander Dvornikov, to try to get a grip on its campaign.
A key piece to that campaign is Mariupol, which lies in the Donbas and which the Russians have besieged and pummeled since nearly the start of the war. Pockets of the city appeared to be still under Ukraine’s control — but it's not clear how many forces are still defending it.
Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj.-Gen. Igor Konashenkov said 1,026 troops from the Ukrainian 36th Marine Brigade had surrendered in the city. It was unclear when the alleged surrenders occurred.
Ukrainian presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych did not comment on the allegation, but said in a post on Twitter that elements of the same brigade managed to link up with other Ukrainian forces in the city as a result of a “risky maneuver.”″
Zelenskyy adviser Mykhailo Podoliak said on Twitter that the city’s defenders were short of supplies but were “fighting under the bombs for each meter of the city. They make (Russia) pay an exorbitant price.”
Ukrainian forces in Mariupol have alleged that a drone dropped a poisonous substance on the city. The assertion by the Azov Regiment, a far-right group now part of the Ukrainian military, could not be independently verified. The regiment indicated there were no serious injuries.
Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar said Tuesday officials were investigating, and it was possible phosphorus munitions — which cause horrendous burns but are not classed as chemical weapons — had been used in Mariupol, which has been pummeled by weeks of Russian assaults.
Deliberately firing phosphorus munitions into an enclosed space to expose people to fumes could breach the Chemical Weapons Convention, said Marc-Michael Blum, a former laboratory head at the Netherlands-based Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.
Western officials warned that any use of chemical weapons by Russia would be a serious escalation of the already devastating war. Zelenskyy said that while experts try to determine what the substance might be, “The world must react now.”
In Washington, a senior U.S. defense official said the Biden administration was preparing another package of military aid for Ukraine to be announced in the coming days, possibly totaling $750 million. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss plans not yet publicly announced.
Biden used the word “genocide” about Russia's actions during a visit to Iowa. He said it would be up to lawyers to decide if Russia’s conduct met the international standard for genocide, but said “it sure seems that way to me.”
Neither he nor his administration announced new consequences for Russia or assistance to Ukraine following the assessment.
An investigation into war crimes is already underway in Ukraine, including into atrocities revealed after Moscow’s retreat from cities and towns around Kyiv.
Zelenskyy said evidence of “inhuman cruelty” toward women and children in Bucha and other suburbs of Kyiv continued to surface, including alleged rapes.
More than 720 people were killed in Kyiv suburbs that had been occupied by Russian troops and over 200 were considered missing, the Interior Ministry said early Wednesday.
In Bucha alone, Mayor Anatoliy Fedoruk said 403 bodies had been found and the toll could rise as minesweepers comb the area.
In the Chernihiv region, villagers said more than 300 people had been trapped for almost a month by the occupying Russian troops in the basement of a school and only allowed outside to go to the toilet or cook on open fires.
Valentyna Saroyan told The Associated Press she saw at least five people die in Yahidne, 140 kilometers (86 miles) north of Kyiv. In one of the rooms, the residents wrote the names of those who perished during the ordeal — the list counted 18 people.
Ukraine’s prosecutor general's office said Tuesday it was also looking into events in the Brovary district, which lies to the northeast of the capital. It said the bodies of six civilians were found with gunshot wounds in a basement in the village of Shevchenkove and Russian forces were believed to be responsible.
Prosecutors are also investigating allegations that Russian forces fired on a convoy of civilians trying to leave by car from the village of Peremoha in the Brovary district, killing four people including a 13-year-old boy. In another attack near Bucha, five people were killed including two children when a car was fired upon, prosecutors said.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said humanitarian corridors used to get people out of cities under Russian attack will not operate on Wednesday because of poor security.
Stashevskyi reported from Yahidne, Ukraine. Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report.
___
Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/national-international/polish-baltic-presidents-head-to-ukraine-to-meet-zelenskyy-show-of-support/3643702/ | 2022-04-13T12:26:00 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/national-international/polish-baltic-presidents-head-to-ukraine-to-meet-zelenskyy-show-of-support/3643702/ |
A powerful storm system is expected to sweep through the tri-state area Thursday afternoon, threatening to bring damaging straight-line winds and heavy rains.
At this point, the risk of severe weather is slight, but much could change over the course of the next 24 hours or so. Stay with Storm Team 4 for the latest.
Storms are expected to move west to east through the tri-state between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Lightning is considered likely, while damaging winds are possible. Tornadoes, large hail and flash flooding are not expected as of the latest forecast.
Check the latest weather alerts for your neighborhood here.
A stray, strong storm north and west of New York City is possible Wednesday ahead of the next threat, but any system that moves through won't be as widespread as the one that is anticipated to hit the region in a day. Thursday's weather will be mild, though.
The mercury could climb to 80 degrees in the city by afternoon, which would be the first time it hit that mark since September 2021.
Behind the front, Friday and Saturday will be mild, with temperatures in the mid-60s. Another cold front moves through Saturday afternoon, bringing showers followed by cooler-than-average temperatures from Easter Sunday through most of next week.
Track any approaching storms using our interactive radar below. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/weather/weather-stories/strong-storms-eye-nyc-area-thursday-temps-could-hit-80-for-1st-time-in-7-months/3643767/ | 2022-04-13T12:26:06 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/weather/weather-stories/strong-storms-eye-nyc-area-thursday-temps-could-hit-80-for-1st-time-in-7-months/3643767/ |
Mark Lane: This is the last year for FSA tests. Will the next one be better?
Ever since Gov. Jeb Bush instituted the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, or FCAT, in the 1990s, I cheered every time the state of Florida changed its testing program. This time has gotta be better, I always thought.
Each overhaul, each tweak and each change in emphasis I welcomed as a step away from high-stakes testing. But each time, once the reform actually reached the classroom level, I found I was mostly wrong.
True to form, I was delighted when Gov. Ron DeSantis last year called for dumping the Florida Standards Assessments, or FSA. (This is education and only the military has more acronyms and initialisms. More will follow.) Last month, he signed a bill into law to do just that. The Florida Assessment of Student Thinking, or FAST, will replace the FSA starting next year. The FAST is designed to measure the Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking, or BEST.
Local test results:Half of Volusia students failed reading or math assessments, state data show
More from Mark Lane:Testing, testing ... one, two, three, and here's the new test
The outgoing FSA was supposed to reform the FCAT 2.0 in 2014. The FCAT 2.0 was supposed to reform the FCAT in 2010. The FCAT, which was supposed to reform everything, went into effect in 1998. Quite a history.
And here, I admit my bias up front. I stumbled through school with a form of dyslexia that puzzled the adults around me, and I'm the father of a student with dyslexia who was at first barred from graduating high school because of her standardized test scores. (She went on to get a master's degree and works in the tech industry with a title important and advanced enough that I have no idea what she does, thank you very much.)
This biography makes me doubt that standardized testing works for all children. Maybe not for most. Standardized testing would work a whole lot better if only we could get more standardized students.
Dyslexia is a learning disability that affects reading and math and works differently in different people, which makes it hard to diagnose, especially in its milder forms. It's often associated with forms of ADHD. It occurs because a dyslexic person's brain processes text differently. Parts of the brain that normally handle language get bypassed and the job gets handed off to another part of the brain. Like a lot of workarounds, this is not ideal.
For kids like this, standardized testing is even more fraught than for students with more standard-issue neural workings. I sometimes wonder if I would be a high school graduate if I grew up under today's testing system. I rather doubt it.
Gov. Bush was fond of saying, "we test because we care." And when used right, testing is, of course, important. But when test scores are used to punish schools, students and teachers rather than help them, and when standardized testing becomes an end in itself rather than a teaching tool, testing becomes a problem and a huge family stressor. When standardized testing defines the whole rhythm of the classroom year, something has gone very wrong.
Will there be less testing?
Supporters of the new tests say that instead of one make-or-break test, the new system would have three testing rounds spaced through the year with a 75% reduction in testing time. Time that might be used to, oh, I don't know, maybe teach kids stuff. That would be good. Less testing, fewer surprises.
But now that educators are reading the finer print, it's starting to look like the third test of the series might end up being used very much like an annual big, high-stakes test. Teachers are concerned that the new tests will be required on top of other assessments. And there are still end-of-course tests, EOCs in ed-speak, in selected subjects apart from the FAST.
Each past testing tweak, do-over and new acronym had also promised to do something about the testing situation in Florida so it's easy to be cynical. Florida schools have been running on the test-factory model for such a long time that it will be hard for administrators and legislators to break out of that.
It will take at least two years before we'll know how this shakes out, so we'll see. Something that will give acronym composers lots of time to come up with the next batch.
Mark Lane is a News-Journal columnist. His email is mark.lane@news-jrnl.com. | https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/opinion/columns/2022/04/12/florida-ends-fsa-testing-2022-fast/7273940001/ | 2022-04-13T12:29:13 | 1 | https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/opinion/columns/2022/04/12/florida-ends-fsa-testing-2022-fast/7273940001/ |
HEY, WILLIE! Scottie Scheffler's closing 4-putt was weird way to end the Masters
HEY, WILLIE!
Forget winning his first major championship. I think Scottie Scheffler is the first golfer ever to 4-putt the last green and still win the tournament.
You’ve said Ben Hogan got the yips in his later years, but I never even heard of him doing that.
MARVIN
HEY, MARV!
I casually asked someone after the Masters, “what if Scottie suddenly has the yips from that?” It was met with a look of dismissal, but I’m not totally kidding.
Weirder things have happened, and trust me, you don’t mess with the yips, even casually.
Over the years, some guys have gotten a form of yips with the driver (Ian Baker-Finch), some have gotten the chip-yips (everyone you see putting from more than 2 feet off the green), but the most common and most god-awful are the putting yips.
Like the dreaded S-word (psst … shank), you’re not supposed to bring this stuff up in conversation, but I scoured our circulation data and Scottie isn’t a subscriber.
MASTERS ROUT:Scottie beams himself up into a Masterful golf stratosphere | KEN WILLIS
WHICH FINGER?:So, you wanna play Augusta National? Let's negotiate the terms | KEN WILLIS
HEY, WILLIE!
I often enjoy your spin on sports topics and your Scottie Scheffler column (April 12 N-J) was no exception. Some additives ...
I saw in Scheffler an extraordinary short-game execution. Long hole? Just bomb it — “'my up-and-down is running near 100%; nothing is a problem for me around the greens.”
Then there were approach shots — he hits a freaking straight ball right at the flag and drops it close, not once but multiple times.
Also, the hole-outs by Rory McElroy and Collin Morikawa on 18 were more than amazing, and for entertainment, the timing could not have been better.
TOM
HEY, TOM!
Scheffler’s work around the greens is phenomenal and, frankly, a bit unnerving. For whatever reason, you just don’t associate magical short-game wizardry with guys his size.
Maybe he should’ve used his wedge to putt out on the 18th!
HEY, WILLIE!
First, you didn’t tell us what you shot the time you got to play Augusta National. And now refuse to tell us just how many sandwiches and beers you had during your day as a “civilian” this year.
FRAN
AUGUSTA AS A FAN:The Masters as a "civilian" is quite fulfilling ... even without egg salad | KEN WILLIS
HEY, FRAN!
I had just as many sandwiches as I had putts on the ninth hole that day in 1990.
Beer count? As always, one. One at a time.
HEY, WILLIE!
It's amazing how the press is making such a fuss about a 40-plus-year-old golfer with some definite health issues.
What does all this make the other players look like? Chopped Liver?
There is no doubt that Tiger Woods was one of the very best, but that was in the past.
ROBERT
HEY, BOB!
If you’re right and Tiger has no more glory in reserve, it might be due to his putter as much as his leg and back. He actually 4-putted a hole during Saturday’s third round and struggled with putting consistency throughout the week.
No crime there, not at an age (46) when such things happen to everyone not named Ben Crenshaw or Jack Nicklaus (“Or Loren Roberts!” the nearest golf geek will scream).
Maybe that, too, traces back to his health issues. With a bum leg and fragile spine, the last thing you want to do is hunch over practice putts for the hours necessary to build a feeling of inevitability with 6-footers.
HEY, WILLIE!
Stop embarrassing yourself with all the Tiger talk.
MIKE
HEY, MIKE!
You got it. How ’bout that Garrick Higgo!
Meanwhile, the Great Golf Joke Tour rolls on . . .
HEY, WILLIE!
A golfer is sitting at the breakfast table with his wife, who's reading the News-Journal, and he starts thinking about his own mortality.
He can't seem to get it out of his head, so he asks his wife, "Hon, if I died do you think you might remarry?"
From behind the paper he hears, "Probably."
He thinks some more and asks, "Do you think you'd live in the same house?"
Same answer, "Probably."
"Sleep in the same bed?"
"Probably."
He gets pretty agitated and asks, "Well, you wouldn't let him play with my golf clubs, would you?"
She lowers the paper and replies, "Oh no, he's left-handed."
DAN
HEY, DAN!
Keep ’em coming, folks.
However, for a couple of you out there, nope, no way I can print the one about the woman being stung by a bee while leaving the first green.
Feel free to keep trying, though, because it’s funny every time.
— Reach Ken Willis at ken.willis@news-jrnl.com | https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/sports/columns/2022/04/13/schefflers-4-putt-finish-masters-new-one-hey-willie-yips-ben-hogan-nicklaus-tiger-woods-crenshaw/7288463001/ | 2022-04-13T12:29:19 | 0 | https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/sports/columns/2022/04/13/schefflers-4-putt-finish-masters-new-one-hey-willie-yips-ben-hogan-nicklaus-tiger-woods-crenshaw/7288463001/ |
If you’re in charge of dessert this Easter, Kylee’s Kitchen is here to the rescue.
It’s carrot cake monkey bread, and you can even make it with store-bought dough (or homemade, of course).
Hop into Kylee’s Kitchen with Kylee Scales for the recipe!
Carrot cake monkey bread with homemade dough
Yield: 10 servings
Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the dough
- 1 cup (240 grams) whole milk, lukewarm
- 2 eggs (100 grams), beaten, room temperature
- 4 1/2 cups (540 grams) bread flour
- 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (7 grams) instant yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons (9 grams) salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup (115 grams) Challenge unsalted butter, cut into small pieces, room temperature
- 1 1/2 c (200 grams) carrots, grated
For the coating
- 1/2 cup (115 grams) Challenge unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 orange, zested
For the filling
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple, drained but juice reserved for sauce and frosting
- 1/2 cup (65 grams) pecans, chopped
For the sauce
- 1/4 cup (57 grams) Challenge unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup reserved juice from can of crushed pineapple
- 1 cup (213 grams) brown sugar
For the frosting
- 4 ounces Challenge cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (57 grams) confectioner’s sugar
- 2 Tablespoons reserved juice from can of crushed pineapple
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
For the dough
- Combine milk and eggs in large mixing bowl. Add bread flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Knead everything together, using a mixer or by hand, to form a smooth ball of dough. Mix on first speed for 5 minutes to combine the ingredients, increase to second speed until dough develops and pulls away from sides of bowl. This may take up to 10 minutes. Dough will be sticky, but it should pull away from sides of bowl. If it doesn’t, add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Add half of butter on first speed and mix 2-3 minutes or until fully incorporated. Add remaining butter and mix on second speed 4-5 minutes until fully incorporated and dough “sheets” when window is pulled.
- Add carrots and mix until evenly distributed throughout dough.
- Place dough in oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let double in volume at room temperature, around 90 minutes to 2 hours.
- De-gas dough and transfer onto pastry mat or lightly floured surface.
For the coating and the filling
- Prepare bundt pan with nonstick spray. Set aside.
- Mix sugar and orange zest.
- Create assembly line with melted butter, sugar mixture, and bundt pan.
- Divide dough in half. Starting with first half, cut off small sections about 25 grams in size and shape into balls.
- Dip 1 ball in butter, then sugar mixture, then place in bundt pan. Repeat with remaining pieces from first half of dough.
- Mix pineapple and pecans and spread evenly over dough in bundt pan.
- Repeat dough assembly line with second half of dough until there is no more dough.
- Cover top of bundt pan with plastic wrap and rest for 20 minutes.
For the sauce
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Heat butter, pineapple juice and brown sugar until mixture comes to boil.
- Remove plastic wrap from bundt pan and pour sauce over dough.
- Transfer bundt pan into oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Or until golden brown on top. If top browns too quickly, cover with aluminum foil. Double check to see if dough is cooked through by testing with thermometer. Inside should register between 190 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove from oven and cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto serving platter.
For the frosting
- Beat together cream cheese with sugar, pineapple juice, and salt until smooth.
- Once monkey bread is cool, pipe frosting down sides of monkey bread.
- Serve monkey bread with any extra frosting for dipping.
Carrot cake monkey bread with store-bought dough
Yield: 10 servings
Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the rolls
- 24 frozen dinner rolls, thawed, or 2 (16 ounce) cans refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 orange, zested
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup (115 grams) Challenge unsalted butter, melted
For the filling
- 1 1/2 c (200 grams) carrots, grated
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple, drained but juice reserved for sauce and frosting
- 1/2 cup (65 grams) pecans, chopped
For the sauce
- 1/4 cup (57 grams) Challenge unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup reserved juice from can of crushed pineapple
- 1 cup (213 grams) brown sugar
For the frosting
- 4 ounces Challenge cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (57 grams) confectioner’s sugar
- 2 Tablespoons reserved juice from can of crushed pineapple
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
For the rolls
- Prepare bundt pan with nonstick spray. Set aside.
- Cut each roll or biscuit into 4 pieces and shape into ball.
- Mix sugar, orange zest, and spices.
- Create assembly line with melted butter, sugar mixture, and bundt pan.
- Dip 1 dough ball in butter, then sugar mixture, then place in bundt pan. Repeat with half of dough balls.
For the filling
- Mix carrots, pineapple and pecans and spread evenly over dough in bundt pan.
- Repeat dough assembly line with second half of dough balls.
For the sauce
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Heat butter, pineapple juice and brown sugar until mixture comes to boil.
- Pour sauce over dough in bundt pan.
- Transfer bundt pan into oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Or until golden brown on top. If top browns too quickly, cover with aluminum foil. Double check to see if dough is cooked through by testing with thermometer. Inside should register between 190 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove from oven and cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto serving platter.
For the frosting
- Beat together cream cheese with sugar, pineapple juice, and salt until smooth.
- Once monkey bread is cool, pipe frosting down sides of monkey bread.
- Serve monkey bread with any extra frosting for dipping. | https://fox59.com/morning-news/kylees-kitchen/kylees-kitchen-hop-into-easter-with-carrot-cake-monkey-bread/ | 2022-04-13T12:30:24 | 1 | https://fox59.com/morning-news/kylees-kitchen/kylees-kitchen-hop-into-easter-with-carrot-cake-monkey-bread/ |
INDIANAPOLIS – There’s a school on the far east side that’s inviting adults back to the classroom. The program is tailored to give people a second chance at a career.
It’s breaking down barriers that that can often limit opportunities. One of the biggest barriers of all, cost. This program is completely free, and it’s already helped over 100 adults here in Indy. And the organizers believe that directly impacts our city’s youth.
Alex Morales knows what it’s like to have a language or financial barrier.
“To me this is more than work,” he shared.
He overcame the challenges and now teaches other adults how to do the same. Morales is the regional executive director for PLA University, a workforce development program. All of the students are adults.
For Ezekiel Turner, he wants to be a role model for his kids, who are also students at Phalen Leadership Academy.
“I’m going back to class, and I keep telling them, that you learn every day, Turner said, “I am 40 years old and I’m trying to expand my horizon.
As an entrepreneur, Turner is learning how to get his business up and running. The classes are giving him direction and enlightening him on what it will take as he continues to create renewable solutions for the micro-mobility charging industry.
Classes include one on time management. The program connects adults with training and covers certifications needed to become a medical or dental assistant, an IT support specialist and more.
“Researching, finding the best researching tools for my industry, making my day more usable and not having wasted time,” said Turner, “And just looking into myself, to see if it’s something I want to do.”
When Angela Gonzales moved to the United States, she knew she wanted to be a nurse. But first she had to learn English.
“I am so happy for staying in Indianapolis and I had this community to help me,” said Gonzalez.
Morales added, “Once they have gotten to a level of conversational English that they feel confident, then they can do career training, then they move into our PLA University programming, and we get them working as well.”
A program that believes in investing in adults can directly impact our city’s youth.
“What we envision is a community that is lifted up, right? So that our children have a great environment at school, they have a great environment at home, and they have a great community as they walk to and from,” said Morales.
PLA University is currently accepting applications for its May class. Click here for more details. | https://fox59.com/news/choose-your-path-pla-university-offers-free-classes-to-adults-seeking-career-language-help/ | 2022-04-13T12:30:31 | 1 | https://fox59.com/news/choose-your-path-pla-university-offers-free-classes-to-adults-seeking-career-language-help/ |
INDIANAPOLIS — A driver was taken to the hospital after crashing into a utility pole on Keystone Avenue.
According to IMPD, a sedan struck the pole near the intersection of E. 57th Street and N. Keystone Avenue around 1:45 a.m. Wednesday.
Only one person, the driver, was in the car. The driver was taken to the hospital in critical condition.
The crash remains under investigation. | https://fox59.com/news/driver-in-critical-condition-after-crashing-into-pole-near-keystone-and-57th-st/ | 2022-04-13T12:30:37 | 0 | https://fox59.com/news/driver-in-critical-condition-after-crashing-into-pole-near-keystone-and-57th-st/ |
FISHERS, Ind. — IU Health is making a major investment in Fishers. The health care provider is pumping hundreds of millions of dollars into a giant expansion of their IU Health Saxony facility.
“We are investing to meet the needs of the community, and part of that investment includes a hospital advancement and some offsite ambulatory investment,” detailed Chad Dilley, COO of IU Health Saxony, “Fishers is the 6th largest city in Indiana, and the growth in Fishers is well documented.”
The project will increase the size of the facility by 50%. It will also add 235 jobs, which will double the work force. Once construction is complete, the hospital will be rebranded as IU Health Fishers.
The investment is a direct response to the growth of Fishers and the surrounding area. The city has increased by roughly 20,000 people since the original hospital was built 10 years ago. The new space will increase bed capacity and bring new areas of expertise.
“New services of obstetrics and gynecology, some expansion of ear, nose and throat, neurology and pulmonology,” listed Dilley.
“I think access to healthcare is critically important as you see rural communities and other places that are struggling to have that access,” said Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness. “It’s the opportunity. If someone is having a cardiac arrest, to be able to get them there, and get the services they need.”
IU Health is expected to break ground on the renovations later this year. The project is supposed to finish up in 2025. | https://fox59.com/news/iu-health-to-greatly-improve-fishers-facility-with-287-million-expansion/ | 2022-04-13T12:30:43 | 1 | https://fox59.com/news/iu-health-to-greatly-improve-fishers-facility-with-287-million-expansion/ |
(ABC4) – A woman made her way onto the Minnesota Timberwolves’ home court Tuesday night and attempted to glue her hand to the floor — to protest Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor’s factory egg farm.
The woman, Alicia Santurio, walked onto the court during the second quarter of the game and tried to glue herself to the floor under the basket, a press release from grassroots animal rights network Direct Action Everywhere (DxE) said.
Her shirt displayed the message, “GLEN TAYLOR ROASTS ANIMALS ALIVE.”
Photos erupted on social media shortly after the incident showing Santurio being escorted off of the court by security, leaving a glue stain behind on the court.
In a statement to ABC4, a spokesperson from DxE said, “Unfortunately, the superglue didn’t stick well enough to the floor, and Alicia was ripped off the floor by security.”
The protest was allegedly an attempt to bring awareness to a ‘mass killing’ that DxE claims happened at an Iowa farm owned by Taylor.
“There’s no symbolic thing going on, more of a means to create enough of a disturbance that will be notable and people will talk about in creating buzz,” said DxE press coordinator Matt Johnson.
Santurio was escorted out of the arena with a scrape to her hand, Johnson tells ABC4.
Santurio was issued the following trespass notice:
The Timberwolves issued a statement Tuesday night on Twitter regarding the incident saying:
“A fan disruption occurred during the second quarter of tonight’s game. We are in touch with Target Center Security to address the incident.”
Santurio was quickly given the nickname “GlueGirl” on social media following the incident.
On April 6, another activist, Carla Cabral, with DxE glued her left hand to a table, disrupting a hearing of the Assembly Agriculture Committee in Sacramento. | https://fox59.com/news/national-world/protestor-glues-hand-to-court-during-nba-game/ | 2022-04-13T12:30:49 | 0 | https://fox59.com/news/national-world/protestor-glues-hand-to-court-during-nba-game/ |
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Alyssa Nakken was hard at work in the batting cage, just a few steps from the dugout, when suddenly the call came: The San Francisco Giants needed her to coach at first base.
She quickly pulled off her sweatshirt, grabbed her No. 92 jersey and found a bright orange batting helmet.
A few minutes later, Nakken made major league history as the first female coach on the field in a regular-season game when she took her spot Tuesday night in a 13-2 win over San Diego.
“I think we’re all inspirations doing everything that we do on a day-to-day basis and I think, yes, this carries a little bit more weight because of the visibility, obviously there’s a historical nature to it,” she said. “But again, this is my job.”
Nakken came in to coach first base for the Giants in the third inning after Antoan Richardson was ejected.
When she was announced as Richardson’s replacement, Nakken received a warm ovation from the crowd at Oracle Park, and a congratulatory handshake from Padres first baseman Eric Hosmer.
“Right now in this moment as I reflect back, I reflect back to somebody needed to go out, we needed a coach to coach first base, our first base coach got thrown out, I’ve been in training as a first base coach for the last few years and work alongside Antoan, so I stepped in to what I’ve been hired to do, is support this staff and this team,” Nakken said.
The baseball Hall of Fame was ready, too. Her helmet is already on its way to the shrine in Cooperstown, New York.
San Francisco manager Gabe Kapler said Nakken had “prepared for this moment” while working with Richardson and others.
“So it’s not a foreign spot on the field for her. She does so many other things well that aren’t seen,” he said. “So it’s nice to see her kind of be right there in the spotlight and do it on the field.”
Nakken is an assistant coach who works heavily with baserunning and outfield defense. She watches games from an indoor batting cage near the steps to the dugout — and keeps a Giants jersey nearby, just in case she needs it.
And in an instant Tuesday night, she needed it.
The 31-year-old Nakken jogged onto the field four days after Rachel Balkovec became the first woman to manage a minor league affiliate of an Major League Baseball team. She guided the New York Yankees’ Class A Tampa club to a win in her first game.
Nakken had previously coached the position in spring training and during part of a July 2020 exhibition game at Oakland against now-Padres manager Bob Melvin when he was skipper of the Athletics. She started at first again a night later against the A’s in San Francisco as the teams prepared for the pandemic-delayed season.
“You feel a sense of pride to be out there,” Nakken said at the time. “Me personally, it’s the best place to watch a game, that’s for sure.”
The former Sacramento State softball star, whose blonde braid hung out from her orange protective helmet Tuesday, became the first female coach in the big leagues when she was hired for Kapler’s staff in January 2020.
At Sacramento State from 2009-2012, Nakken was a three-time all-conference player at first base and four-time Academic All American. She went on to earn a master’s degree in sport management from the University of San Francisco in 2015 after interning with the Giants’ baseball operations department a year earlier.
From Day One with the Giants, Nakken embraced her role as an example for girls and women that they can do anything.
“It’s a big deal,” she said. “I feel a great sense of responsibility and I feel it’s my job to honor those who have helped me to where I am.” | https://fox59.com/sports/photos-giants-alyssa-nakken-becomes-first-female-coach-on-major-league-baseball-field/ | 2022-04-13T12:30:55 | 0 | https://fox59.com/sports/photos-giants-alyssa-nakken-becomes-first-female-coach-on-major-league-baseball-field/ |
Off to a warm start this Wednesday morning and dry for now, as temperatures hold in the middle to upper 60s! We are tracking rain and a few storms possible by mid-morning and through the early afternoon, while temperatures hold steady but warm.
A stronger storm will be possible this afternoon with gusts, lightning and hail possible! These isolated storms will need to be monitored for rotation between 2 p.m. through 5 p.m., especially for counties west and south of Indianapolis.
The main threat of severe weather with damaging winds and a possible tornado will likely not arrive until around the evening rush hour (6 p.m.)! Of course, subject to change on timing but this is my current thinking. Be sure to check in with us often through the day via the “Weather Authority” app, online or on TV.
As the cold front clears overnight, cooler air will rush in overnight and bring rain and the severe threat to an end. A cooler shift gets underway for Easter weekend with plenty of dry time. | https://fox59.com/weather/severe-threat-remains-strongest-storms-to-arrive-by-this-evening/ | 2022-04-13T12:31:01 | 1 | https://fox59.com/weather/severe-threat-remains-strongest-storms-to-arrive-by-this-evening/ |
Looking at Alabama’s spring practice needs, the receivers get a healthy chunk of the outside attention.
Losing 74% of the receptions and 76% of the receiving yards is notable whether you have a returning Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback or not. The mid-spring transfer of fan favorite Agiye Hall only added to the interest stoked by Nick Saban’s February comments to a coaching clinic about young receivers not being ready for the moment in the national title game loss.
More Alabama football: Bryce Young: Transfer addition ‘really big’ for shorthanded Alabama offensive line
SEC offensive lineman transferring to Alabama
Central-Phenix four-star WR Karmello English narrows list to 5
Saban again challenged receivers after Saturday’s second spring scrimmage when noting there were too many drops from an offense he called “spotty.”
With returning targets like Traeshon Holden and Jacory Brooks back along with tight end Cameron Latu, Alabama added five signees at receiver while hitting the transfer portal. Georgia import Jermaine Burton has received positive reviews throughout the spring while Saban said he wanted more consistency from those around him.
Bryce Young, the aforementioned Heisman-winning QB, took a positive approach when assessing his receivers entering the 2 p.m. CT Saturday A-Day Game in Bryant-Denny Stadium.
“They’ve all been really hungry,” Young said. “That’s something we really appreciate here, is guys who come in ready to work, wanting to take every rep, wanting to get coached. Being able to receive coaching. It’s a complicated offense at first when you’ve just come from high school. There are going to be adjustments.
“There’s going to be guys running the wrong route or making a poor read on a route, whatever it may be. But what I love about this young group is, everything they do, they do full speed. When they mess up, there’s no finger pointing, there’s no blaming.”
Along with Burton, Alabama has signees Aaron Anderson and Kendrick Law enrolled for the spring learning the routine. Law earned strong reviews from Saban early in the spring for his combination of size, speed and route running.
Drops were an issue last season, even with projected first-round receiver Jameson Williams, and Saban said those errors need to be eliminated after Saturday’s scrimmage.
“I really think it’s all mental,” Young said. “We don’t have any guys who don’t have hands or aren’t able to catch. It’s all about — Coach Saban kind of talked to us about it (Monday), actually. It’s about focus and eliminating the mental errors and remaining sharp. Also, I feel like that’s a portion of the game, that’s the same as me having to improve on my reads and throws.”
Young also gets speedy sophomore JoJo Earle back at receiver after injuries limited him to 12 catches for 148 yards a year ago. Alabama also used running backs Jace McClellan (10 catches, 97 yards) and Roydell Williams (five catches, 57 yards) before losing both to ACL injuries last year.
Georgia Tech transfer running back Jahmyr Gibbs is also known for his ability to catch passes from the backfield with 36 receptions for 470 yards a year ago with the Yellow Jackets.
So while Williams, John Metchie, Slade Bolden and Jahleel Billingsley are no longer in Tuscaloosa, Young knows there’s still talent around him in the passing game.
“I’m super confident,” Young said. “Again, spring is a time where you get that time, you get that chemistry down. I’ve been super lucky I have this group of guys that just want to work, want to get after it. We make mistakes. No one’s perfect. Again, spring ball is a time to kind of iron out the kinks, but after every practice, after every rep, we’re always talking, we’re always communicating. We’re always working to get on the same page.”
Michael Casagrande is a reporter for the Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @ByCasagrande or on Facebook. | https://www.al.com/alabamafootball/2022/04/how-bryce-young-views-young-alabama-wrs-dropped-passes.html | 2022-04-13T12:33:02 | 0 | https://www.al.com/alabamafootball/2022/04/how-bryce-young-views-young-alabama-wrs-dropped-passes.html |
If last season was the Year of the Tight End for Auburn, the Tigers hope to make 2022 the sequel.
Auburn saw the tight end position become a fixture of the offense during Bryan Harsin’s first season, with a considerably increased role in the passing game and just in terms of sheer usage from a formational standpoint. If spring practices were an indication of what’s to come in 2022, Auburn’s tight ends could be a fixture of the offense this fall.
Read more Auburn football: Projecting Auburn’s depth chart at the end of spring practice
What we learned about each position for Auburn during spring practice
Goodman: Future for Bryan Harsin depends on QB decision
“I think you saw part of that today,” tight end John Samuel Shenker said after A-Day. “We’re kind of all over the field, different routes and blocking things like that. I think that was a little bit of a show of what we have and what we can do…. And obviously moving forward, we hope to push that even more.”
Auburn’s spring game highlighted the tight ends, particularly in the passing game on a day when the rushing attack took a backseat. The Tigers’ tight ends were targeted 15 times on the afternoon and combined for 12 receptions for 138 yards and a touchdown during A-Day, when you include hybrid tight end/receiver Landen King’s 19-yard touchdown late in the fourth quarter.
The Tigers often fielded two tight ends throughout the day, and the second-team offense at times utilized three tight ends on the field at once — when accounting for King, who has been splitting his time between two positions and was split out wide on several occasions Saturday. They were also used some as H-backs in the run game.
“It kind of all came together, and it was a beautiful thing to see,” Shenker said. “And I think Coach (Brad) Bedell was pleased. I think all of us were pleased with today.”
It’s easy to understand why Auburn’s tight ends would be pleased with the showing on A-Day. Shenker, back for a sixth season after setting the program’s single-season record for receptions and yards by a tight end, had two catches for 34 yards while working with the first-team offense. Tyler Fromm caught three passes for 41 yards, all from Robby Ashford with the second-team offense. Luke Deal had a 2-yard reception from Holden Geriner that preceded King’s 19-yard touchdown, and Brandon Frazier caught five passes for 42 yards on the day, including four straight completions from Geriner in the fourth quarter.
“I like that group a ton just as far as their mentality, and I think Coach Bedell has done a great job,” Harsin said. “And when you have a guy like Coach Bedell, he played seven years in the NFL. So, he understands what it takes to be successful as a player. And how he coaches those guys and his mentality, I see that in that group.”
After a 2021 campaign in which Auburn’s tight ends saw their workload increase exponentially following years of being underutilized during Gus Malzahn’s coaching tenure, the focus this offseason has been on building off that success. Bedell is back for a second season with the room and has the luxury of coaching arguably the deepest position on the roster this year. The Tigers’ tight end group returned Shenker for a sixth season (and saw him focus solely on football this year without baseball in the picture) and brought back every other piece from last year’s group while also welcoming in freshman Micah Riley-Ducker.
That continuity and familiarity has been key to the group’s development this spring.
“The easiest thing is I know how they learn; they know how I coach,” Bedell said. “There’s not that feel-out mode, which is good. There wasn’t one when I got here, but it’s just a great understanding of how I coach and how I prepare and how I expect them to prepare. The expectations are always growing.”
As the expectations grow, so too does the position’s role within the offense. Like many of Auburn’s assistant coaches, Bedell spent part of the offseason poring over NFL film for ideas on how to incorporate more pro concepts into the tight end room. He created cutups of some of the best tight ends in the league — though he declined to name names out of fear of giving anything away — to create somewhat of a study guide for Auburn’s tight ends to reference as they continue their development.
The goal has been to show them what it takes to perform at the next level and encourage them to not “shy away” from working on every aspect necessary—from getting out of breaks on routes, blocking, learning how to take advantage of their length.
“Those guys know, from the run game to the movement to the pass game, those guys need to play well in order for us to be successful,” Harsin said. “So, they’ve taken that on themselves to be like, ‘We’re going to be the group every day that shows up and is consistent and we’re making plays and doing our job.’ And they’ve done that. You saw it today, but they’ve done it all through spring.
“So, we need them. They’re a big part of what we do in our offense. I think that showed up today. I’m not sure how many catches they all had, but you could see it on the field.”
Tom Green is an Auburn beat reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Tomas_Verde. | https://www.al.com/auburnfootball/2022/04/tight-ends-all-over-the-field-for-auburn-as-positions-role-grows-within-offense.html | 2022-04-13T12:33:08 | 1 | https://www.al.com/auburnfootball/2022/04/tight-ends-all-over-the-field-for-auburn-as-positions-role-grows-within-offense.html |
A record $8.3 billion education budget approved by lawmakers means potentially big raises for teachers – up to 21% – and more money to use for classroom supplies, typically an out-of-pocket expense for teachers who want to make sure students have the supplies they need.
Education budget bills are still awaiting Gov. Kay Ivey’s signature.
Teacher pay raises
Public school teachers whose salaries are based on the state minimum salary schedule will see more money in their paychecks. Teachers with one to nine years’ experience will get a pay raise of at least 4%, possibly more if they’re jumping up a step on the salary schedule. Those with nine years’ or more will get a higher percentage raise.
Public school employees received a 2% raise for the current school year.
The table below shows a few examples of the different sized raises, based on what a teacher with a Bachelor’s degree this year will make next year based on how many years the teacher has taught. Full salary schedules are included in the budget bill.
Retirement benefits improved
Teachers with fewer than nine years’ experience and all newly-hired teachers will now be able to retire after 30 years of teaching and be able to draw retirement pay. That puts them on par, but not entirely equal, with teachers hired before 2013 (who can retire after 25 years).
These two moves were deemed great news by those worried about an increasingly smaller pool of teacher candidates. Math, science, and special education teachers are getting harder and harder to find, particularly in rural and urban school districts, and some of those same areas are even having trouble finding elementary school teachers.
Lawmakers hope to keep teachers who may be considering retiring on board, which also should ease pressure on schools to hire new teachers.
Lawmakers put more money into the TEAMS program, which pays qualified math and science teachers on a higher pay scale. About 1,400 TEAMS contracts have been signed and another 1,000 are in the process, state education officials said.
More money for classroom teachers to buy student materials and supplies
Every classroom teacher will receive $900, up from $700, to spend on student supplies. That number has steadily increased from $300 per teacher in the 2013-14 school year to $422 per teacher in the 2018-19 school year to $700 per teacher during the current school year.
Funding for other classroom support remains the same as last year:
- Technology - $500
- Professional development - $100, and
- Library enhancement - $157.52
The per student textbook allowance stayed the same at $75 per student.
Read more: Ivey signs Alabama math coach law, considering Literacy Act reading retention delay
Substitute teacher pay went up
The state-funded daily pay for substitute teachers increased from $95 to $120, a move lawmakers said they hope will alleviate the problems schools have had getting substitute teachers to fill in during the past two years of the pandemic.
Schools can set their own pay level, and earlier this year several increased rates.
Huntsville City topped the list for daily substitute pay at $142.
New alternate route to become a teacher
State education officials and lawmakers have made multiple changes to the teacher certification process over the past few years, easing barriers, streamlining process, and extending emergency certification to bring more teachers into Alabama’s classrooms.
This newest law makes it possible for for-profit teacher preparation programs to operate in Alabama. For-profit teacher preparation programs operate in nine states and enroll larger and larger portions of the non-college-based teacher prep programs where they operate. And for-profit teacher prep programs typically cost less than traditional college-based programs.
Another change means those who want to teach but didn’t study the field in college who have completed all coursework and taught for a year can receive a professional teaching certificate.
Finally, the law extends the grade levels where teaching with an alternate certificate is allowed to all grades, kindergarten through 12th grade. Currently, alternate certificates are allowed only in grades six through 12.
Elementary teachers need to be careful about what they talk about with students
Lawmakers passed a law prohibiting kindergarten through fifth grade teachers from instructing or discussing gender identity or sexual orientation with their students if it is not age- or developmentally-appropriate. Alabama Superintendent Eric Mackey told AL.com that means teachers need to know how to put a quick end to any questions or topics that are taboo.
Teachers likely already have experience redirecting students’ attention or ending discussion on inappropriate topics, but Mackey said the state will develop some guidelines and training for teachers to better understand where that line is.
Teachers need to know when to disclose conversations about a child’s gender identity
The law contains a provision that prohibits teachers, principals, counselors, and nurses from encouraging or coercing students to withhold from their parent or legal guardian if the student perceives his or her gender as different from their biological sex.
An additional requirement states school personnel cannot withhold information from parents or guardians if their child questions their gender identity.
State Superintendent Eric Mackey told state board members in late March that teachers do not have to tell parents or guardians immediately if a student shares questions about gender identity or sexuality -- but if a teacher is asked, they cannot withhold that information.
Students cannot use a bathroom or locker room if it does not correspond to the sex assigned on their birth certificate.
Students in K-12 schools are prohibited from using a school bathroom or locker room that does not correspond to the sex assigned on their birth certificate. It will be up to teachers and other school staff to enforce the provision, and it’s unclear what disciplinary actions could be taken against students violating the provision.
Sponsors of the bill said they heard of students in schools using a bathroom that didn’t correspond with the gender assigned on their birth certificate. AL.com has been unable to confirm those allegations.
What didn’t pass:
Auxiliary teachers in K-3 classrooms
A bill to put an auxiliary teacher who would work under the direction of the classroom teacher in all kindergarten through third grade classrooms didn’t make it to the finish line. There’s $5.4 million in the education budget that lawmakers passed that would have begun by employing 150 auxiliary teachers in schools where 75% or more of students were at level 1 proficiency on the ACAP. When fully staffed by the 2030-31 school year, the cost was estimated at $531 million. | https://www.al.com/educationlab/2022/04/alabama-lawmakers-passed-teacher-substitute-pay-raises-certification-updates-whats-next.html | 2022-04-13T12:33:14 | 0 | https://www.al.com/educationlab/2022/04/alabama-lawmakers-passed-teacher-substitute-pay-raises-certification-updates-whats-next.html |
Alabama is expected to get about $1 billion dollars in federal money to repair the state’s aging water and sewer infrastructure, a gigantic investment in the state’s infrastructure, the likes of which hasn’t been seen in decades.
And it won’t nearly be enough to drag the state’s drinking water and wastewater systems into the 21st century.
Documents from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management show ADEM has already received more than $3 billion in applications from water systems around the state looking to deal with problems such as leaking collection lines, lead pipe replacements and upgrades to drinking water and wastewater treatment, collection and distribution systems.
“This is going to make a difference,” ADEM Director Lance LeFleur said in an interview. “It will make a difference to perhaps a million or more individuals in the state.”
The funding for the grants will come from two federal laws passed last year, the American Rescue Plan Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
However, LeFleur said the number of applications already received shows that not every system will be able to get what it wants.
“We’ve got about a billion dollars available over the next five years or so,” LeFleur said. “But our estimate as to how much is going to be requested will be $4 to $6 billion.”
“I don’t want to disappoint anybody, but some of those [projects] will go into the ‘needs’ category, and some will go into the ‘wants’ category.”
American Rescue Plan Act funds
The department already has $225 million in hand from the Rescue Plan, last year’s COVID-19 stimulus bill, and LeFleur said the Department is working now to begin funding projects that were applied for earlier this year.
“We’re hoping to have some announcements going out in April,” LeFleur said. “And if not April, then May.”
The Rescue Plan money is divided into three categories:
- $120 million will be awarded as grants to water and sewer systems for “emergency or high-needs projects,” ADEM said. Special consideration will be given to projects that improve access to water and sewer services in communities that lack funding to complete the projects on their own. Systems receiving these grants will not be required to provide local matching funds.
- Up to $100 million will be awarded to systems that may be required to provide local matching funds based on their ability to pay.
- Up to $5 million will go to fund demonstration sewer projects in the Black Belt, where local soil conditions and low population density make septic tanks and centralized sewer lines challenging.
The Black Belt is one of the poorest regions in the state, and many common septic systems don’t work there because the water does not seep into the ground quickly enough through the dense clay soil.
LeFleur said the Black Belt demonstration funding could go toward pilot, proof-of-concept projects for decentralized septic systems that are being developed and implemented by engineers from the University of South Alabama and others through the Consortium for Alabama Rural Water and Wastewater Management, a group of universities, government agencies and elected officials who are working on finding solutions for the Black Belt’s sewage issues.
Those systems link clusters of homes to a community treatment system that work as a hybrid between septic systems and a traditional, but much more expensive, wastewater treatment plant.
LeFleur said that the $5 million earmarked for the demonstration project will not be the only funding going toward addressing the Black Belt’s widespread sewage treatment issues.
“For many years, that problem has been there, the lack of a solution is primarily a lack of funding, not a lack of desire,” LeFleur said. “This $5 million that’s earmarked in the ARPA bill is by no means all the money that’s going to the Black Belt. That’s only to test out a couple of projects.”
LeFleur said ADEM is looking to build a “three-legged stool” approach to addressing sewage problems in the Black Belt.
First, the department can award grants to extend the existing centralized sewer lines to additional areas where that is cost-effective. Second, it can provide funding to build more of the smaller, hybrid systems if those prove effective. And third, ADEM can work with the Alabama Department of Public Health to find remedies for homes where the first two options are not feasible.
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds
In addition to the ARPA funds, LeFleur said the state expects to receive about $765 million in funding over the next five years through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to be set aside for drinking water and sewer improvements.
Those funds will also be allocated by ADEM through the existing state revolving fund, and LeFleur said ADEM expects the funds to be available by September or October.
LeFleur said that the money can help local utilities dealing with aging infrastructure and systems that were installed decades ago that need updates.
“A lot of the infrastructure that’s out there, not just in Alabama but throughout the nation, is getting to be 40, 50, 60 years old,” LeFleur said. “Back in the 1970s, when the Clean Water Act was passed, there was a big investment in infrastructure, both drinking water and clean water or sewer infrastructure.
“Over a period of 50 years, these systems are reaching their natural lifespan, and may need to be upgraded or replaced.”
LeFleur said one of the department’s primary goals is to select projects that will deliver returns for years to come.
“One of the big factors in all of this is to make sure that when this money is expended, that it improves sustainability, that we’re not going to be in the same position five years from now,” he said. “These are upgrades that are going to stand the test of time.”
Projects applied for
ADEM records show that as of April 2, it had received 538 project applications for federal funding across the state totaling $3.1 billion.
So far, the largest asks have come from the embattled Prichard Water and Sewer Board, which applied for a total of $333 million for four projects just weeks before the FBI raided the home of a Water Works Board manager Nia Bradley as part of an “all-encompassing probe” into the Water Works and the alleged mishandling of funds in amounts potentially reaching millions of dollars.
The Prichard Water Works Board did not respond to requests for an interview to discuss the request.
Aside from the Prichard projects, the largest applications were:
- Decatur Utilities applied for $62 million for wastewater system improvements
- The city of Selma and Selma Water Works Board applied for $47.8 million for its sewer system and wastewater treatment plants.
- The city of Clanton requested $46.2 million for three sewer projects
- The city of Dothan requested $41.3 million for “Trunk Line and Sewer basin rehab”
In the Birmingham area, the Birmingham Water Works Board so far has applied for $4 million in funding for lead service line repair, while the Jefferson County Commission has applied for a total of $36.3 million for 10 different sewer projects throughout the county.
In coastal Alabama, the Mobile Area Water and Sewer System applied for a total of $80.5 million for sewer projects, and $47.2 million for Master Plan projects and to identify lead and copper service lines.
The city of Mobile applied for $25 million in funding for “Rebuilding the Western Waterfront.”
Daphne Utilities applied for $23 million for “Various WRF and SS improvements,” while the Baldwin County Commission sought a total of $14.8 million for six different stormwater, drainage and streambank stabilization projects.
In north-central Alabama, Huntsville Utilities is seeking $5.6 million for drinking water system improvements.
The Madison Water and Wastewater Board is seeking $23.6 million for wastewater system improvements and $26.7 million for drinking water system improvements. | https://www.al.com/news/2022/04/alabama-set-to-receive-1-billion-from-feds-to-fix-water-systems-it-wont-be-enough.html | 2022-04-13T12:33:20 | 0 | https://www.al.com/news/2022/04/alabama-set-to-receive-1-billion-from-feds-to-fix-water-systems-it-wont-be-enough.html |
This week’s threat for severe weather will be an overnight one for many in Alabama.
Tornadoes, damaging winds, hail and heavy rain will all be possible with storms expected to move into west Alabama after dinnertime tonight and track eastward through the overnight hours, according to the National Weather Service.
The weather service urged Alabamians to have several ways to get severe weather warnings during the overnight hours.
NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center has outlined a Level 3 out of 5 -- or enhanced -- risk for severe weather for parts of west and north Alabama today. An enhanced risk means that numerous severe storms will be possible. (See the map at the top of this post.)
The enhanced risk area has been expanded a little to include more of Alabama in the latest update from the Storm Prediction Center.
A larger part of Alabama has a Level 2 or slight risk, which means that scattered severe storms will be possible.
Much of east and part of south Alabama has a Level 1 or marginal risk, which means that isolated severe storms will be possible.
Rain and a storm or two was moving across parts of the state on Wednesday morning, but the stronger storms aren’t expected to arrive until tonight.
Storms could reach west Alabama by 8 p.m., according to the weather service, and track eastward into Thursday morning.
Here’s the projected timing -- which could be faster or slower by an hour or two -- from the weather service:
The storms are expected to be the most intense in the western part of the state, according to forecasters. It is hoped that they will lose their punch as they travel eastward and into the night, though severe weather can’t be ruled out in east Alabama.
The storms are expected to be exiting southeast Alabama by Thursday morning, but there will be a lingering risk for isolated severe storms. Here’s Thursday’s severe weather outlook from the Storm Prediction Center:
While the threat for severe weather will end on Thursday, the chances of rain aren’t going anywhere. The front will stall somewhere over Alabama and linger for a while, keeping rain chances in the forecast through the weekend. | https://www.al.com/news/2022/04/enhanced-risk-for-severe-weather-again-tonight-in-alabama.html | 2022-04-13T12:33:26 | 0 | https://www.al.com/news/2022/04/enhanced-risk-for-severe-weather-again-tonight-in-alabama.html |
This is an opinion cartoon.
Teaching in Alabama just got trickier? You don’t say ...
State superintendent Eric Mackey has a problem calling Alabama’s ‘anti-transgender/gender identity/sexual orientation anti-discussion so-forth-and-what-not’ law the “Don’t Say Gay” law.
“I think it’s kind of a misnomer, in my opinion,” he said, “to call it ‘don’t say gay’ because it’s also don’t say straight.”
R E L A T E D: Alabama schools chief: Teachers could have to navigate ‘tricky conversations’ after new law - al.com
R E L A T E D: Anti-transgender laws: Alabama preys on its most vulnerable - al.com
R E L A T E D: Groups say they’ll sue to dismantle Alabama’s new anti-transgender laws - al.com
Brilliant! I reckon that’s why Supt. Mackey makes the big bucks.
Keep reading ...
Excerpts from Trish Powell Crain’s ‘tricky’ Al.com story:
Alabama’s teachers aren’t teaching elementary students about gender identity or sexual orientation, state superintendent Eric Mackey said, but likely will need guidance on how to cut off classroom discussion if it does happen because it is now prohibited by a new law.
That new law enacted and signed by Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey this week prohibits classroom instruction or discussion on gender identity or sexual orientation from grades K-5 that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate. That language was added to a bill that bans K-12 students from using bathrooms and school facilities inconsistent with biological sex.
“We don’t have any standards that discuss gender identity or sexuality in K-5,” Mackey said, “and so we don’t think [the law] has any impact on what we’re doing.”
The new law will take effect before the start of next school year, allowing some time for teachers to learn what can and cannot be discussed, he added.
Read more: Alabama Legislature passes surprise ‘Don’t Say Gay’ amendment, transgender bathroom restrictions
“I think it could create some tricky situations because let’s say, for whatever reason, it comes up in a classroom,” Mackey said. “A child says ‘I have two mommies,’ for example. If a teacher enters a discussion, or whether their personal belief might be pro- or anti-, that it doesn’t matter what your personal belief is. The law says they can’t introduce discussion on it.”
Another example Mackey shared is if a child wants to discuss a sermon the child heard where the preacher spoke against homosexuality.
“If the teacher engages in conversation with that child,” Mackey said, “they’re engaged in a classroom discussion. The teacher has violated the law. And that’s what I mean by tricky situations.”
To learn more about The Alabama Education Lab and receive notifications about stories and events, sign up for its newsletter, Ed Chat.
Related: Alabama GOP lawmakers are playing Witch Doctor with transgender kids - al.com
Related: Transgender youth: Just another GOP political football - al.com
Related: Transgender politics: Kay Ivey, Alabama GOP identify as ignorant bullies - al.com
Check out more cartoons and stuff by JD Crowe
Ketanji Brown Jackson: Finally, a Supreme role model for Black girls - al.com
Critical race theory: The GOP’s crutch and weapon - al.com
Poor Kay Ivey. She thinks Joe Biden is running for governor of Alabama - al.com
Election year? Invisible Kay Ivey is here ... somewhere - al.com
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JD Crowe is the cartoonist for Alabama Media Group and AL.com. He won the RFK Human Rights Award for Editorial Cartoons in 2020. In 2018, he was awarded the Rex Babin Memorial Award for local and state cartoons by the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists. Follow JD on Facebook, Twitter @Crowejam and Instagram @JDCrowepix. | https://www.al.com/news/2022/04/gender-identity-law-turns-alabama-classrooms-into-tricky-verbal-landmine-for-teachers.html | 2022-04-13T12:33:32 | 1 | https://www.al.com/news/2022/04/gender-identity-law-turns-alabama-classrooms-into-tricky-verbal-landmine-for-teachers.html |
The first full moon of spring will light up the night sky this weekend.
The April “Pink Moon” will peak at 1:55 p.m. CDT on Saturday, April 16th.
The moon will appear full for three days in total, however, from the morning of Friday, April 15 through early Monday on April 18th. And despite its name, the full moon won’t appear pink. Instead, it gets its name from the flower herb moss pink, also known as creeping phlox, that blooms each spring, LiveScience reported. The moon has other names as well, including the Sprouting Grass Moon, Egg Moon and Fish Moon.
Saturday’s moon is also a Pesach or Passover Moon. Pesach or Passover begins sundown on Friday, April 15th and ends on nightfall Saturday, April 23rd.
The last full moon was “Worm Moon” on March 18. The next full moon will be the “May Flower Moon,” and will be the first lunar eclipse since November. The eclipse will reach it peak a little after 11 p.m. CDT on May 16, giving the moon a red hue and the ominous-sounding nickname “Blood Moon.”
Meteor shower
The Lyrid meteor shower will peak on the night of Thursday, April 21 into the early hours of Friday, April 22. You can expect to see up to 15 Lyrids per hour and some could have impressive trains that are visible a few seconds after the meteors pass.
The best viewing time is between midnight and dawn. | https://www.al.com/news/2022/04/pink-moon-is-saturday-lyrid-meteor-shower-next-week-how-to-see-both.html | 2022-04-13T12:33:38 | 1 | https://www.al.com/news/2022/04/pink-moon-is-saturday-lyrid-meteor-shower-next-week-how-to-see-both.html |
Count Ed Orgeron among those who believe in Notre Dame football.
The former LSU coach, who met with the Irish and new coach Marcus Freeman and his staff, made a bold prediction.
“What a tremendous, tremendous university you have here,” Orgeron said. “What a great coach, and a great coaching staff you have. Some of the best players in the country are right here in this room. I don’t know when it’s going to happen, but this staff, this team is going to win it all, you’re going to pick up the trophy. I don’t know when it’s going to happen, I can’t tell you that. How bad you want it? You don’t have to wait for it. Why does somebody else need to be better than y’all?”
He even had some advice for Freeman, which Orgeron learned in his time at as head coach at Ole Miss where he was 10-25 from 2005-07.
“Don’t try to do everything. I tried to do everything at Ole Miss,” Orgeron said, per InsideNDSports. “You can’t do it. Hire your staff, believe in them, let them do it.
“Let the players know that you really care about them. Offense, defense, special teams — get close to all of them. And I see him doing that.”
Mark Heim is a sports reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. | https://www.al.com/sec/2022/04/ed-orgeron-to-notre-dame-team-this-team-is-going-to-win-it-all.html | 2022-04-13T12:33:45 | 1 | https://www.al.com/sec/2022/04/ed-orgeron-to-notre-dame-team-this-team-is-going-to-win-it-all.html |
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian told reporters that defensive lineman Moro Ojomo won’t be talking to reporters after the fifth-year senior made some candid remarks about the Longhorns’ culture last week.
Ojomo was talking about players keeping perspective on their careers and thinking big picture. He referenced the team’s youth and problems Texas has had in recent years:
“They’re 18- to 22-year-olds that want to chase women, want to chase money, want to chase alcohol and they don’t see the future,” Ojomo said of his younger teammates, per The Austin American Statesman. “They’re distracted by what’s in front of them. It’s such a hard thing, especially guys that haven’t been in a winning culture.
“They’re always talking about coming in here and changing stuff. It’s like ingrained. You’re uprooting, what? 10 years of s--- that’s just been let go.”
Sarkisian, the former Alabama offensive coordinator, told media Tuesday called one player speaking for the whole team “a little disheartening.” He added Ojomo’s intention were good but the forum he voiced his statements was not.
“He should not have done that in public,” Sarkisian said. “If you’re a family, you don’t go out and talk about family business. You take care of things internally. I think his intentions were right, but the delivery and the forum that he used was poor.”
Last year, in Sarkisian’s first at Texas, the Longhorns started 4-1 before losing six games in a row and finishing 5-7.
Mark Heim is a sports reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. | https://www.al.com/sec/2022/04/texas-dl-says-longhorns-want-to-chase-women-want-to-chase-money-want-to-chase-alcohol.html | 2022-04-13T12:33:51 | 1 | https://www.al.com/sec/2022/04/texas-dl-says-longhorns-want-to-chase-women-want-to-chase-money-want-to-chase-alcohol.html |
Wide receiver Jaylen Waddle did more than raise eyebrows during the run-up to last year’s NFL Draft when asked which Alabama quarterback he preferred – Tua Tagovailoa or Mac Jones.
“They was killing me about that,” Waddle remembered about the reaction to his answer when asked about his comments during an appearance on the latest episode of the “I Am Athlete” podcast.
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The three had been Alabama teammates. Tagovailoa left the Crimson Tide as the fifth player selected in the 2020 NFL Draft. Jones followed Tagovailoa as Alabama’s quarterback.
Jones left Alabama as the 15th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft after getting this endorsement from Waddle when the wide receiver was asked for a QB preference: “I like Mac Jones. Both are great quarterbacks. I love Mac. He was a guy I came in with from Day 1. We were on the third team together and worked our way up.”
On “I Am Athlete,” Waddle explained why he said that.
“I look at it like Tua’s already been drafted,” Waddle said. “If I can say something to help someone to get where Tua’s at, why wouldn’t I say it?”
RELATED: PATRIOTS OWNER ‘VERY HIGH’ ON MAC JONES
Waddle really got where Tagovailoa is, reconnecting with the quarterback on the Miami Dolphins, who selected the wide receiver with the sixth choice in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Waddle caught 104 passes for 1,015 yards and six touchdowns to break the NFL rookie record for receptions. He credited his college connection with Tagovailoa with helping him make a quick transition to the NFL.
“I think it made it easier that you already threw it with someone before,” Waddle said. “I feel like just the repetition, it’s kind of like riding a bike. You know how it’s going to come, you know what he’s thinking, so I feel like it is definitely easier. I think it’s an advantage for sure.”
RELATED: WHO’S THE FASTEST DOLPHIN: TYREEK HILL OR JAYLEN WADDLE?
Tagovailoa became the Dolphins’ starting quarterback in the seventh game of his rookie season. He started 12 games last season, when fractured ribs and a finger fracture cut into his playing time.
But the object of “Tanking for Tua” hasn’t produced a playoff trip yet for Miami, and not all Dolphins fans and media commenters see Tagovailoa as the team’s hoped-for answer. Waddle has an answer for the doubters.
“He’s very competitive is the only thing I’ll say about him,” Waddle said. “I don’t want to talk for him. I want him to talk for himself. I’m just going to say he’s very competitive, and I like him. He’s one of them guys. …
“I’m talking about coming in in the national championship second half, throwing the game-winning touchdown. Not everybody’s just going in there and doing that. He’s got the confidence to go in there and do that in the biggest game of his, probably, career at that point. Just look at a guy’s work, and you know that guy.
“For me, that’s one of my good friends, so when I hear people say this, that and the third, I’m like, ‘Come on. Come on, dog. Y’all tripping.’”
RELATED: MIAMI COACH REAFFIRMS DOLPHINS’ PECKING ORDER AT QUARTERBACK
Tagovailoa also had doubters within the club, it would seem, based on the Dolphins’ attempt to acquire quarterback Deshaun Watson from the Houston Texans at least season’s trade deadline.
After the season, Miami fired coach Brian Flores and replaced him with Mike McDaniel, the San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator. Flores filed a class-action lawsuit against the NFL, alleging racial discrimination in its teams’ hiring practices.
Waddle said he tries to keep his focus on the football field.
“I try to stay in the players’ lane,” Waddle said. “I try to let the higher-ups be the higher-ups, the coaches be the coaches. Let the players be the players. I try not to really, like, get into what’s going on up there or what they’re doing. At the end of the day, I’m going to go out there and play with the guys that’s in the locker room, not the coaches, not the higher-ups. I try to stay in the players’ lane. I trust in the organization like I trust in the coaches to do their job and do it as best they can.”
Waddle had caught 25 passes for 557 yards and four touchdowns in the Alabama’s first four games in 2020 before an ankle injury kept him sidelined until the CFP national championship game, when Waddle caught three passes for 34 yards in limited action during the Tide’s 52-24 victory over Ohio State.
In three seasons with Alabama, Waddle caught 106 passes for 1,999 yards and 17 touchdowns. Among players with at least 100 receptions, Waddle’s average of 18.9 yards per catch ranks second in school history to Ozzie Newsome’s 20.3.
During the podcast, Waddle was asked to provide his list of the top five wide receivers from Alabama. He started with Julio Jones, then added Calvin Ridley, Amari Cooper, DeVonta Smith and Jerry Jeudy.
FOR MORE OF AL.COM’S COVERAGE OF THE NFL, GO TO OUR NFL PAGE
Mark Inabinett is a sports reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter at @AMarkG1. | https://www.al.com/sports/2022/04/jaylen-waddle-to-tua-tagovailoas-doubters-yall-tripping.html | 2022-04-13T12:33:57 | 1 | https://www.al.com/sports/2022/04/jaylen-waddle-to-tua-tagovailoas-doubters-yall-tripping.html |
Biden: Russia war a ‘genocide,’ trying to ‘wipe out’ Ukraine
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — President Joe Biden said Russia’s war in Ukraine amounted to “genocide,” accusing President Vladimir Putin of trying to “wipe out the idea of even being a Ukrainian.”
“Yes, I called it genocide,” he told reporters in Iowa on Tuesday shortly before boarding Air Force One to return to Washington. “It’s become clearer and clearer that Putin is just trying to wipe out the idea of even being a Ukrainian.”
At an earlier event in Menlo, Iowa, addressing spiking energy prices resulting from the war, Biden had implied that he thought Putin was carrying out genocide against Ukraine, but offered no details. Neither he nor his administration announced new consequences for Russia or assistance to Ukraine following Biden’s public assessment.
WARNING: Images and videos used contains graphic content.
Biden’s comments drew praise from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who had encouraged Western leaders to use the term to describe Russia’s invasion of his country.
“True words of a true leader @POTUS,” he tweeted. “Calling things by their names is essential to stand up to evil. We are grateful for US assistance provided so far and we urgently need more heavy weapons to prevent further Russian atrocities.”
A United Nations treaty, to which the U.S. is a party, defines genocide as actions taken with the “intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group.”
Past American leaders often have dodged formally declaring bloody campaigns such as Russia’s in Ukraine as genocide, hesitating to trigger an obligation that under international convention requires signing countries to intervene once genocide is formally identified. That obligation was seen as blocking President Bill Clinton from declaring Rwandan Hutus’ killing of 800,000 ethnic Tutsis in 1994 as genocide, for example.
Biden said it would be up to lawyers to decide if Russia’s conduct met the international standard for genocide, as Ukrainian officials have claimed, but said “it sure seems that way to me.”
“More evidence is coming out literally of the horrible things that the Russians have done in Ukraine, and we’re only going to learn more and more about the devastation and let the lawyers decide internationally whether or not it qualifies,” he said.
Just last week Biden had he did not believe Russia’s actions amounted to genocide, just that they constituted “war crimes.”
During a trip to Europe last month, Biden faced controversy for a nine-word statement seemingly supporting regime change in Moscow, which would have represented a dramatic shift toward direct confrontation with another nuclear-armed country. “For God’s sake, this man cannot remain in power,” Biden said.
He clarified the comments days later, saying: “I was expressing the moral outrage that I felt toward this man. I wasn’t articulating a policy change.”
___
Miller reported from Washington. Associated Press writer Ellen Knickmeyer contributed to this report.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wistv.com/2022/04/13/biden-russia-war-genocide-trying-wipe-out-ukraine/ | 2022-04-13T12:35:45 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/2022/04/13/biden-russia-war-genocide-trying-wipe-out-ukraine/ |
Police hunt gunman who wounded 10 in Brooklyn subway attack
NEW YORK (AP) — Police continued to hunt Wednesday for the gunman who opened fire on a subway train in Brooklyn, an attack that left 10 people shot and once again interrupted New York City’s long journey to post-pandemic normalcy.
The search focused partly on a man who police say rented a van possibly connected to Tuesday’s violence.
Investigators stressed they weren’t sure whether the man, Frank R. James, was responsible for the shooting. But authorities were examining social media videos in which the 62-year-old decried the United States as a racist place awash in violence and sometimes railed against New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
“This nation was born in violence, it’s kept alive by violence or the threat thereof and it’s going to die a violent death. There’s nothing going to stop that,” James said in one video.
GRAPHIC WARNING: Videos in this story may contain disturbing content.
Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell called the posts “concerning” and officials tightened security for Adams, who was already isolating following a positive COVID-19 test Sunday.
Adams said Wednesday that investigators were zeroed in on finding James.
“We are going to continue to close the loop around him and bring him in, and continue the investigation into this horrific act against innocent New Yorkers,” the Democrat said on MSNBC.
The gunman sent off smoke grenades in a crowded subway car and then fired at least 33 shots with a 9 mm handgun, police said. Five gunshot victims were in critical condition but all 10 wounded in the shooting were expected to survive. At least a dozen others who escaped gunshot wounds were treated for smoke inhalation and other injuries.
One passenger, Jordan Javier, thought the first popping sound he heard was a book dropping. Then there was another pop. People started moving toward the front of the car, he said, and he realized there was smoke.
When the train pulled into the 36th Street station in the Sunset Park neighborhood, people ran out and were directed to another train across the platform. Passengers wept and prayed as they rode away from the scene, Javier said.
“I’m just grateful to be alive,” he said.
The shooter fled in the chaos, leaving behind the gun, extended magazines, a hatchet, detonated and undetonated smoke grenades, a black garbage can, a rolling cart, gasoline and the key to a U-Haul van.
That key led investigators to James, who has addresses in Philadelphia and Wisconsin, NYPD Chief of Detectives James Essig said. The van was later found, unoccupied, near a station where investigators determined the gunman had entered the subway system, Essig said.
Rambling, profanity-filled YouTube videos apparently posted by James, who is Black, are replete with violent language and bigoted comments, some against other Black people.
In one video, posted a day before the attack, he criticizes crime against Black people and says drastic action is needed.
“You got kids going in here now taking machine guns and mowing down innocent people,” James says. “It’s not going to get better until we make it better,” he said, adding that he thought things would only change if certain people were “stomped, kicked and tortured” out of their “comfort zone.”
Several videos mention New York’s subways.
A Feb. 20 video says the mayor and governor’s plan to address homelessness and safety in the subway system “is doomed for failure” and refers to himself as a “victim” of the city’s mental health programs. A Jan. 25 video criticizes Adams’ plan to end gun violence.
Adams said in a video statement that the city “will not allow New Yorkers to be terrorized, even by a single individual.”
___
Balsamo reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Beatrice Dupuy, Karen Matthews, Julie Walker, Deepti Hajela, Michelle L. Price and David Porter in New York contributed to this report, and Michael Kunzelman contributed from College Park, Maryland.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wistv.com/2022/04/13/police-hunt-gunman-who-wounded-10-brooklyn-subway-attack/ | 2022-04-13T12:35:53 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/2022/04/13/police-hunt-gunman-who-wounded-10-brooklyn-subway-attack/ |
Polish, Baltic presidents visit Ukraine in show of support
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — The presidents of four countries on Russia’s doorstep visited Ukraine on Wednesday in a show of support for the embattled country, after Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to continue his bloody offensive until its “full completion.”
The presidents of Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia — all NATO countries that worry they may face Russian attack in the future if Ukraine falls — were traveling by train to Kyiv to meet Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
In one of the most crucial battles of the war, Russia said more than 1,000 Ukrainian troops had surrendered in the besieged port of Mariupol, where Ukrainian forces have been holding out in pockets of the city. The information could not be verified.
Russia invaded on Feb. 24 with the goal, according to Western officials, of taking Kyiv, toppling the government and installing a Moscow-friendly one. In the seven weeks since, the ground advance stalled, Russia has lost potentially thousands of fighters — and the war has forced millions of Ukrainians to flee, rattled the world economy, threatened global food supplies and shattered Europe’s post-Cold War balance.
U.S. President Joe Biden on Tuesday called Russia’s actions in Ukraine “a genocide” for the first time, saying “Putin is just trying to wipe out the idea of even being a Ukrainian.”
Zelenskyy applauded Biden’s use of the word, saying “calling things by their names is essential to stand up to evil.”
“We are grateful for US assistance provided so far and we urgently need more heavy weapons to prevent further Russian atrocities,” he added in his tweet.
The European leaders visiting Ukraine planned to deliver “a strong message of political support and military assistance,” Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said.
Nauseda, Estonian President Alar Karis, Poland’s Andrzej Duda and Egils Levits of Latvia also planned to discuss investigations into alleged Russian war crimes, including the massacre of civilians.
WARNING: Images and videos used contains graphic content.
Putin has denied his troops committed atrocities, and on Tuesday insisted Russia “had no other choice” but to invade, saying the offensive aimed to protect people in parts of eastern Ukraine and to “ensure Russia’s own security.” He vowed it would “continue until its full completion and the fulfillment of the tasks that have been set.”
He insisted Russia’s campaign was going as planned despite a major withdrawal after its forces failed to take the capital and suffered significant losses.
Following those setbacks, Russian troops are now gearing up for a major offensive in the eastern Donbas region, where Russian-allied separatists and Ukrainian forces have been fighting since 2014, and where Russia has recognized the separatists’ claims of independence. Military strategists say Moscow believes local support, logistics and the terrain in the region favor its larger, better-armed military, potentially allowing Russia to finally turn the tide in its favor.
Britain’s defense ministry said Wednesday that “an inability to cohere and coordinate military activity has hampered Russia’s invasion to date.” Western officials say Russia recently appointed a new top general for the war, Alexander Dvornikov, to try to get a grip on its campaign.
A key piece to that campaign is Mariupol, which lies in the Donbas and which the Russians have besieged and pummeled since nearly the start of the war. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podoliak tweeted that the city’s defenders were short of supplies but were “fighting under the bombs for each meter of the city.”
Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj.-Gen. Igor Konashenkov said 1,026 troops from the Ukrainian 36th Marine Brigade had surrendered in the city. It was unclear when this occurred or how many forces were still defending Mariupol.
According to the BBC, Aiden Aslin, a British man fighting in the Ukrainian military in Mariupol, called his mother and a friend to say he and his comrades were out of food, ammunition and other supplies and would surrender.
Another Zelenskyy adviser Oleksiy Arestovych did not comment on the surrender claim, but said in a post on Twitter that elements of the same brigade managed to link up with other Ukrainian forces in the city as a result of a “risky maneuver.”
Ukraine is investigating a claim that a drone dropped a poisonous substance on the city. The assertion by the Azov Regiment, a far-right group now part of the Ukrainian military, could not be independently verified. The regiment indicated there were no serious injuries.
Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar said it was possible phosphorus munitions — which cause horrendous burns but are not classed as chemical weapons — had been used in Mariupol, which has been pummeled by weeks of Russian assaults.
Deliberately firing phosphorus munitions into an enclosed space to expose people to fumes could breach the Chemical Weapons Convention, said Marc-Michael Blum, a former laboratory head at the Netherlands-based Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.
Western officials warned that any use of chemical weapons by Russia would be a serious escalation of the already devastating war. Zelenskyy said that while experts try to determine what the substance might be, “The world must react now.”
In Washington, a senior U.S. defense official said the Biden administration was preparing another package of military aid for Ukraine to be announced in the coming days, possibly totaling $750 million. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss plans not yet publicly announced.
Biden used the word “genocide” about Russia’s actions during a visit to Iowa. He said it would be up to lawyers to decide if Russia’s conduct met the international standard for genocide, but said “it sure seems that way to me.”
Neither he nor his administration announced new consequences for Russia or assistance to Ukraine following the assessment.
An investigation into war crimes is already underway in Ukraine, including into atrocities revealed after Moscow’s retreat from cities and towns around Kyiv.
Zelenskyy said evidence of “inhuman cruelty” toward women and children in Bucha and other suburbs of Kyiv continued to surface, including alleged rapes.
More than 720 people were killed in Kyiv suburbs that had been occupied by Russian troops and over 200 were considered missing, the Interior Ministry said early Wednesday.
In Bucha alone, Mayor Anatoliy Fedoruk said 403 bodies had been found and the toll could rise as minesweepers comb the area.
Residents in Yahidne, a village near the northern city of Chernihiv, said Russian troops forced them to stay for almost a month in the basement of a school, only allowing them outside to go to the toilet, cook on open fires — and bury those who died in a mass grave.
In one of the rooms, the residents wrote the names of those who perished during the ordeal. The list counted 18 people.
“An old man died near me and then his wife died next,” said resident Valentyna Saroyan. “Then a man died who was lying there, then a woman sitting next to me. ... She died as well. Another old man looked so healthy, he was doing exercises, but then he was sitting and fell. That was it.”
Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said humanitarian corridors used to get people out of cities under Russian attack will not operate on Wednesday because of poor security.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials detained fugitive Ukrainian oligarch Viktor Medvedchuk, who is both the former leader of a pro-Russian opposition party and a close associate of Putin. Medvedchuk was under house arrest before the war began and disappeared shortly after hostilities broke out.
___
Stashevskyi reported from Yahidne, Ukraine. Associated Press writer Robert Burns in Washington, and AP journalists around the world contributed to this report.
___
Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wistv.com/2022/04/13/putin-vows-war-will-continue-russian-troops-mount-east/ | 2022-04-13T12:35:59 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/2022/04/13/putin-vows-war-will-continue-russian-troops-mount-east/ |
Tech company will implant payment chip into your hand
(CNN) - Instead of carrying your wallet in your back pocket or purse, a tech company wants you to carry it under your skin.
The British-Polish company, Walletmor, is selling microchips as alternative payment options.
This chip is about the size of a grain of rice, costs about $300 and does not come inside a credit card. Instead, it must be implanted in your body, preferably in your hand.
Once you activate it using a digital wallet app, Walletmor says you will be able to make purchases at most businesses around the world just by swiping your hand over a card reader.
Right now, the chips are only being sold to citizens of the United Kingdom, Switzerland and countries in the European Union.
According to Walletmor, almost 200 people already have the implants.
Walletmor suggests using a surgeon or one of its trusted specialists for the minor operation, but once the implant goes in, there are no refunds.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wistv.com/2022/04/13/tech-company-will-implant-payment-chip-into-your-hand/ | 2022-04-13T12:36:06 | 1 | https://www.wistv.com/2022/04/13/tech-company-will-implant-payment-chip-into-your-hand/ |
Teen student charged with sexual assault, attempted murder in alleged attack on his teacher
LAS VEGAS (KVVU/Gray News) - A judge on Tuesday set a competency hearing for a student accused of sexual assault and attempted murder of a Las Vegas teacher.
The teen has been identified as 16-year-old Jonathan Eluterio Martinez Garcia, KVVU reported.
According to Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson, Martinez Garcia faces 15 felony charges in connection with the incident. He was initially facing six felony charges. However, Wolfson confirmed Monday that an additional nine felony charges were added.
His charges range from kidnapping, sexual assault, robbery, attempted murder with the use of a deadly weapon or tear gas, battery by strangulation to commit sexual assault and more. He is being charged as an adult.
In court Tuesday, his lawyer requested that he be evaluated for competency, so a judge suspended a preliminary hearing until that evaluation. The competency hearing was set for May 6 at 8:30 a.m.
Bail for Martinez Garcia remains at $500,000, under the condition of high-electronic monitoring and no contact with the victim.
According to Las Vegas police, the incident occurred Thursday at Eldorado High School.
An investigation by the department’s Sexual Assault Section indicated that the teacher was in her classroom when a student entered to talk about his grades. At some point, police say, the teen suspect became violent and began punching the teacher. Police said he strangled her until she lost consciousness.
After that, authorities said the suspect fled the classroom after the attack, and the victim was later found by another school employee. Police were able to identify the suspect, and Clark County School District police officers took him into custody.
According to police, the teacher, who has not been identified, is still recovering.
Copyright 2022 KVVU via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wistv.com/2022/04/13/teen-student-charged-with-sexual-assault-attempted-murder-alleged-attack-his-teacher/ | 2022-04-13T12:36:12 | 1 | https://www.wistv.com/2022/04/13/teen-student-charged-with-sexual-assault-attempted-murder-alleged-attack-his-teacher/ |
GUANGZHOU, China, April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The 131st China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) has hosted a "Trade Bridge" virtual industry promotion event on April 11 in Guangzhou and Berlin for household appliances and toys.
An offline event was hosted at the same time in Berlin, which was attended by more than 150 guests from industry associations, exhibitors, buyers and corporate representatives.
Qiu Yuanling, economic and commercial counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Germany, spoke at the event and noted that 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Germany. 2021 saw the bilateral trade volume exceed 240 billion euros, and China has become Germany's largest trading partner for six consecutive years, China is also the second-largest export destination country and largest source of imports for Germany.
"The Canton Fair has continued to extend new functions and services. It is hoped that buyers in Germany will actively join talks and negotiations with fruitful results," said Qiu.
The Canton Fair has further improved and enhanced platform functions to support more convenient online negotiations, and optimized global network acceleration configuration to make visiting the platform more stable and smoother. The system has also added labels to quality companies and products to improve search accuracy so that buyers can quickly find exhibitors that they are interested in.
With authorization, exhibitors can also view buyer information and initiative instant communication actively, further improving trade matching via the virtual exhibition. The Canton Fair is organizing 50 "Trade Bridge" virtual promotions and 8 "Discover Canton Fair with Bee and Honey" activities online that will showcase China's foreign trade transformation and upgrading, promote brands and new products, as well as connect with top multinational corporations.
According to Xu Bing, Spokesperson of the Canton Fair and Deputy Director General of China Foreign Trade Centre, an average of 3,000 German buyers would attend the Fair each session, making positive contributions to the promotion of Sino-German economic and trade development.
During the promotion event, the Chenghai Toy Base in Shantou and Shunde Household Appliances Base in Foshan were introduced respectively. Chenghai has the world's largest manufacturing and export base for plastic and smart electronic toys, while Shunde is one of China's largest household appliance manufacturing and export bases.
Andreas Young, Vice President of BVMW (German Federal Association of Medium-Sized Enterprises), noted that as the world's largest and most important trade event, the Canton Fair has contributed positively to maintaining the stability of the global supply chain, as well as providing an excellent platform for German companies in international trade.
The 131st Canton Fair will be hosted from April 15 to 24 online. Over 2.93 million exhibiting items will be presented to global buyers through the virtual exhibition, including over 910,000 new products, 110,000 intelligent and smart products, 480,000 green low-carbon products and 240,000 products with proprietary intellectual property rights.
Visit https://www.cantonfair.org.cn/en-US/register/index#/foreign-email for more opportunities.
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SOURCE Canton Fair | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/131st-canton-fair-hosts-virtual-promotion-germany-household-appliances-toys/ | 2022-04-13T12:36:18 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/131st-canton-fair-hosts-virtual-promotion-germany-household-appliances-toys/ |
AUSTIN, Texas, April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- 1836 Property Management, Austin's premier property management company, is helping clients reach their real estate investment goals by educating investors on best practices and ensuring properties are occupied and generating revenue. The company recently announced a new integrated solution (REI Monitor) that collects specific rental property data and provides investors with the ability to evaluate their key performance indicators and track the success of their investment/s.
REI Monitor delivers the actual return-on-equity of an investment property in real-time. The tool collects data such as monthly rental income, maintenance expenses, vacancy percentages, debt servicing costs (principal and interest payments made to the property), property equity, and other property expenses (i.e. leasing fees, property management fees, taxes, etc). Investors can then monitor and establish benchmarks for normal ranges of ROI, vacancies, maintenance expenses and delinquent income. And, it allows users to create projections and set new goals.
The tool evaluates and produces a ROE percentage by using all of the actual investment property data and applying a simple formula: ((Appreciation + Principal Paydown + Cash Flow) / Total Equity) x 100. Monitoring an investment property in this way allows investors to analyze its performance as a whole picture, rather than using individual formulas, like CAP rates, that really only allow investors to analyze it from one perspective.
By using REI Monitor, investors can make better purchasing decisions, enable better risk vs leverage decisions, make logical vs emotional decisions, and focus on the big picture: reaching their financial goals and timelines.
Currently, the tool is free for 1836PM clients, however, interested investors can contact the company for a walk-through of the platform and to discuss partnership options. Additional features will be coming soon, which will enable clients to review their investment performance from even more angles.
A leader in the greater Austin, Texas real estate market, 1836 Property Management focuses on human-to-human collaboration so clients can locate properties that fit their investment goals, analyze returns and expenses, lease acquired properties, and maintain them under an all-in-one umbrella.
To learn more about 1836 Property Management, please visit 1836PropertyManagement.com. To learn more about REI Monitor, please visit 1836pm.com/rei-monitor.
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SOURCE 1836 Property Management | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/1836-property-management-unveils-innovative-tool-that-helps-real-estate-investors-monitor-health-success-their-investment-properties-rei-monitor/ | 2022-04-13T12:36:25 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/1836-property-management-unveils-innovative-tool-that-helps-real-estate-investors-monitor-health-success-their-investment-properties-rei-monitor/ |
MELISSA McCARTHY, KELLY CLARKSON, ELLE FANNING, SAVANNAH GUTHRIE & HODA KOTB, ELLEN K, KAITLYN DEVER, TAMRON HALL, MAID & POSE AMONG HONOREES
Live Awards Ceremony to Take Place on May 24 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel
Local and Student Award Winners to be Honored at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 22 in New York City
LOS ANGELES, April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announced the winners of the 47th Annual Gracie Awards which will return in-person on May 24, 2022 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. The event will honor some of the most talented women in television, radio and digital media, including Melissa McCarthy, Kelly Clarkson, Elle Fanning, Savannah Guthrie & Hoda Kotb, Kaitlyn Dever, Tamron Hall, Ellen K, Angie Martinez, Dana Cortez and more. The ceremony will also recognize entertainment and news programming that highlighted female-driven stories and culturally relevant topics, including 48 Hours, 60 Minutes, NBC Nightly News, The New York Times Presents, Pose and Maid.
"Throughout this past year we have seen a number of remarkable projects by and about inspirational women," said Becky Brooks, President, Alliance for Women in Media Foundation. "We are honored to shine a spotlight on these women, whose stories have driven cultural awareness, offered entertainment that has made us laugh, cry, and everything in between. This year, we will be returning to the Beverly Wilshire Hotel and are delighted to return to an in-person format so that we can properly celebrate together."
The Gracies celebrate exemplary talent and programming created by, for and about women in radio, television, and digital medias. Honorees are selected in national, local and student markets, including both commercial and non-commercial outlets in entertainment and news.
In the seventh consecutive year as Executive Producer of the Gracie Awards Gala, Vicangelo Bulluck will spotlight these prolific women in the industry who continue to inspire and support others, break down barriers, and lead by example in creating opportunity for future generations.
Sponsors of The Gracie Awards include Crown Media, CNN, Premiere, WWE, Meruelo Media, HBO, Audacy, TEGNA, Katz Media Group and NCTA - The Cable and Telecommunications Association
The complete winners list is below. Honorees are listed in alphabetical order within each category.
The complete winners list is below. Honorees are listed in alphabetical order within each category. To view the complete list of award recipients and honorable mentions, visit allwomeninmedia.org.
TELEVISION NATIONAL HONOREES
48 Hours: A Promise to Ahmaud (48 Hours & CBS News)
CBS News
Investigative Feature [TV - National]
48 Hours: What Happened to the Perfect Child? (48 Hours)
CBS News
Documentary- News [TV - National]
60 Minutes: Saving the Mountain Gorillas (60 Minutes)
ViacomCBS
Soft News Feature [TV - National]
Baby Roe Speaks (ABC News Prime)
ABC NEWS
Interview Feature [TV - National]
Beverly Chase (VICE on Showtime)
VICE Media (United States of America)
Showrunner Nonfiction- News [TV - National]
Custody Dispute (NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt)
NBC NEWS
News Feature Series [TV - National]
Elle Fanning (The Great)
Hulu
Actress in a Leading Role - Comedy or Musical [TV - National]
Friday Night Vibes
TBS
Special or Variety [TV - National]
Geeta Gandbhir, Samantha Knowles, Nadia Hallgren and Yoruba Richen (Black and Missing)
HBO/HBO Max
Director [TV - National]
Hind Hassan (VICE News)
VICE Media (United States of America)
Reporter/Correspondent [TV - National]
Home Sweet Home
Warner Bros. Unscripted Television & ARRAY Filmworks
Family Series [TV - National]
Honour
BritBox
Made for Television Movie [TV - National]
Jane Ferguson (PBS NewsHour)
PBS NewsHour
Reporter/Correspondent - Public Broadcast [TV - National]
Jen Flanz (The Daily Show with Trevor Noah)
Comedy Central
Showrunner Nonfiction- Latenight [TV - National]
Jillian Mercado (The L Word: Generation Q)
SHOWTIME
Actress in a Breakthrough Role- Drama [TV - National]
Kaitlyn Dever (Dopesick)
Hulu
Actress in a Leading Role - Made for TV Movie or Limited Series [TV - National]
The Kelly Clarkson Show
NBCUniversal Syndication Studios
Talk Show – Entertainment [TV - National]
Lana Parilla (Why Women Kill)
CBS Studios
Actress in a Supporting Role - Comedy or Musical [TV- National]
Linsey Davis (ABC News)
ABC NEWS
On-Air Talent - News Magazine [TV - National]
Mahlet Girma (Breast Cancer Awareness: The story of Mahlet Girma)
Voice of America
Non-English Program [TV - National]
Maid
Warner Bros. Television
Limited Series [TV - National]
Maria Taylor (NBC Sports and Olympics)
NBC Sports and Olympics
On-Air Talent - Sports [TV - National]
Marja-Lewis Ryan (The L Word: Generation Q)
SHOWTIME
Showrunner Fiction- Drama [TV - National]
Melanie Lynskey (Yellowjackets)
SHOWTIME
Actress in a Leading Role - Drama [TV - National]
Melissa McCarthy (Nine Perfect Strangers)
Hulu
Actress in a Supporting Role - Made for TV Movie or Limited Series [TV - National]
Michelle King (The Good Fight)
CBS Studios/King Size Productions
Producer- Entertainment [TV - National]
Nasim Pedrad (CHAD)
TBS
Actress in a Breakthrough Role- Comedy [TV - National]
Nida Manzoor (We Are Lady Parts)
Working Title Television, which is a part of Universal International Studios
Writer Scripted- Comedy [TV - National]
On Her Turf
Peacock/NBC Olympics
Sports Program [TV - National]
Pati Jinich (La Frontera with Pati Jinich)
PBS
Producer- Documentary /Unscripted / Non-Fiction [TV-National]
Making History
ESPN (United States of America)
GRAND AWARD Sports Feature [TV - National]
Pilar Perez (En sus zapatos)
ESPN Deportes & ESPN International
Non English Individual Achievement [TV - National]
Pose
FX
GRAND AWARD Drama [TV - National]
Pose
FX
Ensemble Cast [TV - National]
Savannah Guthrie & Hoda Kotb (TODAY)
TODAY/NBC News
On-Air Talent - News [TV - National]
Stories We Tell: The Fertility Secret
MSNBC Films, Cinemation Studios, NBC News Studios
Non-Fiction Entertainment [TV - National]
Suzan-Lori Parks (Genius: Aretha)
National Geographic
Producer- Entrtainment Limited Series
Tamron Hall (TAMRON HALL SHOW)
ABC News/ Disney
On-Air Talent - Entertainment [TV - National]
The New York Times Presents: Malfunction: The Dressing Down of Janet Jackson
FX
Documentary- Entertainment [TV - National]
The Rescue of Parwana
CNN
Hard News Feature [TV - National]
Tina Lifford (Queen Sugar)
OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network
Actress in a Supporting Role - Drama [TV - National]
Tonya Simpson (ABC News)
ABC NEWS
Producer- News [TV - National]
Trafficked With Mariana Van Zeller
National Geographic
News Magazine [TV - National]
U.S. Capitol Insurrection (TODAY)
TODAY/NBC News
News Program [TV - National]
Vanessa Roth (Impact with Gal Gadot)
National Geographic
Writer Unscripted [TV - National]
We Are Lady Parts
Working Title Television, which is a part of Universal International Studios
Comedy [TV - National]
Writing Team (The Walking Dead)
AMC Networks
Writer Scripted- Drama [TV - National]
Yvette Lee Bowser (Run the World)
STARZ
Showrunner Fiction- Comedy [TV - National]
RADIO NATIONAL HONOREES
A Look Back At 1992 LA And America Since Rodney King
WBUR
Documentary [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]
ABC Audio's Front & Center Spotlight: Carly Pearce
ABC News Radio
Special [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Commercial]
Alison Cook (The Doc Project)
Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)
Producer [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]
Allison Keyes (CBS News Weekend Roundup)
CBS News Radio
Weekend Host / Personality- News [ Radio - Nationally Syndicated Commercial ]
Cheri Preston (ABC News Radio)
ABC News Radio
Outstanding News Anchor [ Radio - Nationally Syndicated Commercial ]
Child Care Industry In Crisis (Karen Travers)
ABC News Radio
News Feature [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Commercial]
Dana Cortez (The Dana Cortez Show)
Skyview Networks
Host/Personality [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Commercial]
Ellen K (The Ellen K Weekend Show)
iHeartMedia
Weekend Host / Personality Entertainment [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Commercial]
Fall of Afghanistan
CBS News Radio
Crisis Coverage/Breaking News [Radio - National Syndicated Commercial]
Fordham Conversations - Attacks on Asian Americans and The Search for Solidarity
WFUV-FM
Public Affairs [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]
Jen Horn, Victoria Keelan, Jai Kershner (The DJV Show)
Doug Stephan Networks; The DJV Show
Co-host- Talk Radio [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Commercial]
Medha Gandhi (Elvis Duran and the Morning Show)
Premiere Networks/iHeartMedia
Co-host [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Commercial]
Melissa Harris-Perry (The Takeaway)
NYPR / WNYC Studios
Interview Feature [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]
NPR coverage of India's farmer protests
NPR
Crisis Coverage/Breaking News [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]
Rerouting: defying the given path, paving a new one - North Korean female defectors' journey
Radio Free Asia Korean Service
Non-English Program [Radio - National]
Rund Abdelfatah (Throughline)
NPR
Reporter / Correspondent / Host [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]
Smith Sisters Live
SiriusXM
Talk Show [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Commercial]
The Julia Show
Audacy
Interview Feature [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Commercial]
The World At Six (Margaret Evans)
Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)
News Feature [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]
Women in China
NPR
Series [Radio - Nationally Syndicated Non-Commercial]
DIGITAL MEDIA NATIONAL HONOREES
Amber Ferguson (Interabled Caregiving)
The Washington Post
Online Producer- Investigative [DM - National]
Because of Anita
Pineapple Street Studios and The Meteor
Podcast - Educational [DM - National]
Believe Her
Lemonada Media
Podcast - Investigative [ DM - National ]
Brooke Siffrinn and Aricia Skidmore-Williams (Even the Rich)
Wondery
Podcast Co-host/Ensemble [DM - National]
Clarissa Ward (Tug of War)
CNN Audio
Podcast Host - News [ DM - National ]
George Floyd: A Community Leader (Univision News Digital (online))
Univision News Digital
Website - News [DM - National]
History Refocused: Claudette Colvin
CNN Digital
Original Online Programming – Standalone Video [DM - National]
In Giro Con Fra
Lemonada Media
Non-English Program- Podcast [DM - National]
Inaccessible Cities
AJ Contrast, Al Jazeera Digital
Website - Information/Entertainment [DM - National]
Jemele Hill is Unbothered
Spotify
Podcast - Lifestyle Interview [DM - National]
Kim Cornett (NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt: Kids Edition)
NBC News
Online Producer- News [DM - National]
Ladies First: Black Women & Sex in Hip-Hop
MTV Entertainment Group, Paramount
Original Online Programming – Entertainment [DM - National]
Meredith Goldstein (Love Letters)
Boston Globe
Podcast Host - Entertainment [ DM - National ]
NPR: Teaching in the Pandemic
NPR
Blog [DM - National]
Patty Steele (The Deep 6)
Elvis Duran Group
Podcast - Lifestyle Limited Series [DM - National]
Perseverance with Abby, Lola and Diana Trujillo
Sesame Workshop
Non-English Program- Family Program [DM - National]
Savannah Sellers (NBC News Now)
NBC News Now
Online Video Host / Correspondent / Actress [DM - National]
SEEHER Multiplicity
Dotdash Meredith
Original Online Programming – Video Series [DM - National]
Stéphanie Fillion
La Presse/Radio-Canada (special contribution)
Non-English Individual Achievement [DM - National]
Stephanie McMahon (HEAVEN)
WWE
Online Producer- Sports [DM - National]
Suzie Liu (ABC News: The Dropout)
ABC NEWS
Podcast Producer [DM - National]
Teens in America
Washington Post
Original Online Programming – Standalone Audio [DM - National]
The Lead
Wondery & The Athletic
Podcast - Sports [DM - National]
The Turning: The Sisters Who Left
Rococo Punch & iHeartRadio
Podcast - Entertainment [DM - National]
Unlocking My Past & Finding A Connection to Slavery
NBC News Digital
Original Online Programming – News [DM - National]
We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle
Cadence13
Podcast - Lifestyle [DM - National]
TELEVISION LOCAL HONOREES
Claudia Orozco (Migración durante la pandemia)
Noticias Univisión San Diego
Non English Individual Achievement [TV - Local]
Deborah Horne (KIRO 7)
Cox Media Group
On-Air Talent [TV - Local]
Dress shopping in Mom's final days (KBTX News 3 at Ten)
KBTX
Soft News Feature [TV - Local]
Juneteenth: 1865-2021
KHOU 11
Documentary [TV - Local]
KSAT Explains: What You Need To Know About Protective Orders In Bexar County
KSAT
News Magazine [TV - Local]
Mary Fecteau (The 86th Annual Anisfield-Wolf Book Awards)
Ideastream Public Media
Director [TV - Local]
RACE LISTEN. LEARN. LIVE.
KSDK
News Program [TV - Local]
Senator Lauren Book, Chucha Barber, Claire VanSusteren, Michele Watson (Journey Home)
Chucha Barber Productions, Inc.
Producer - Scripted / Edited / Live [TV - Local]
Susan Moses (The Year of the Tiger Ladies)
WKYC / TEGNA
Sports Feature [TV - Local]
The Next 400: Digging Into The Tangled Roots of Black Hair Culture
WOIO-TV
News Magazine- Special [TV - Local]
The Power of Healing: Address the Mess
WKYC / TEGNA
Hard News Feature [TV - Local]
Bailed Out to Abuse (WAVE News)
Gray Television, Inc.
Investigative Feature [TV - Local]
RADIO LOCAL HONOREES
A Love Supreme
WUNC - North Carolina Public Radio
Special [Radio - Non-Commercial Local]
Allison Sherry ('I'll Fight For The Rest Of My Life': Elijah McClain's Mother Reflects On Two Years Since His Death)
Colorado Public Radio
Interview Feature [Radio - Non-Commercial Local]
Amanda Orlando (The WARM Morning Show with Jim and Amanda)
Cumulus Media
Co-host (Music DJ/ Personality) Medium [Radio - Local]
Andie Summers (The Andie Summers Show)
Beasley Media Group (United States of America)
Host Morning Drive- Major Market [Radio - Local]
Angelica Vale (Cali 93.9 Mornings)
Cali 93.9, KLLI-FM, Meruelo Media - Los Angeles
Non-English Individual Achievement [Radio - Local]
Angie Martinez (The Angie Martinez Show)
iHeartRadio
Host Non-Morning Drive (Music DJ/Personality) Major Market [Radio - Local]
Angie Perrin (Press Play with Madeleine Brand)
KCRW
Producer [Radio - Non-Commercial Local]
CBC Cree Radio: Winschgaoug and Eyou Dipajimoon
Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)
Non-English Program [Radio - Local]
Christine Nagy (Cubby and Christine in the Morning)
iHeartMedia (WLTW)
Co-host (Music DJ/Personality) Large/Major [Radio - Local]
Figgy Pudding Choir
KIRO Newsradio
Soft News Feature [Radio - Local]
Gold Star Moms
KIRO Newsradio
Public Service Announcement [Radio - Local]
Heather Hunter (O'Connor and Company)
WMAL
Producer- Talk [Radio - Local]
I Regret Becoming a Parent (Audacious)
Connecticut Public
Talk Show [Radio - Non-Commercial Local]
I'm Listening (KCBS Radio)
KCBS Radio (Audacy)
Public Affairs [Radio - Local]
International Women's Day (Valentine in the Morning)
iHeartMedia
Special [Radio - Local]
Janet Saidi (The Check-In)
KBIA
Host/Anchor [Radio - Non-Commercial Local]
Jeana Gondek (Jacksonville's Morning News)
Cox Media Group
Outstanding News Anchor [ Radio - Local]
Judi Franco (Dennis & Judi)
Townsaquare Media
Co-host (Talk/Personality) Small/Medium Market [Radio - Local]
Kelly Dzanaj (Kelly on 100.7 Star)
Audacy Pittsburgh
Host Non-Morning Drive (Music DJ/Personality) Medium Market [Radio - Local]
Lori Barghini & Julia Cobbs (The Lori & Julia Show)
myTalk 107.1 – KTMY-FM
Host Non-Morning Drive (Talk/Personality) Large/Major Market [Radio - Local]
Magic 106.7's "Exceptional Women" with Kyra Sedgwick
Audacy Boston
Interview Feature- Entertainment [Radio - Local]
MalaniKai (Word on the Street (95.5 WSB / WSB-AM WSBB-FM / Atlanta, GA))
Cox Media Group
Co-host (Talk/Personality) Large/Major [Radio - Local]
Many Troops Are Leaving The Military Prematurely Due To Sexual Harassment, Assault
Texas Public Radio
Hard News Feature- Non-Commercial [Radio - Local]
Mary Walter (Mary Walter WMAL Mornings On The Mall)
Cumulus Media
Interview Feature- News [Radio - Local]
Melissa "Mo" Wagner ("The Mo & StyckMan Show")
Audacy - WUSY-FM Chattanoonga, TN
Co-host (Music DJ/ Personality) Small [Radio - Local]
Michelle Durham (Family fights for teens in toxic relationships)
KYW Newsradio - Audacy
Hard News Feature [Radio - Local]
Rural Healthcare: The Other Texas Drought
Texas Tech Public Media, The Texas Newsroom, Texas Public Radio, PBS Frontline, American Public Media Research Lab
Documentary [Radio - Non-Commercial Local]
Saraya Wintersmith (Like Other Arab Americans in Politics, Boston's Essaibi George Faces Questions About Her Identity)
GBH News
Portrait/Biography [Radio - Non-Commercial Local]
Sharon Barnes-Waters (1010 WINS: The Black Experience)
1010 WINS
Producer- News [Radio - Local]
The Rita Cosby Show
WABC Radio
Talk Show [Radio - Local]
Tracy Dixon (KYGO Morning Show)
Bonneville International
Host - Morning Drive - Medium Market [Radio - Local]
Ways & Means Presents: The Arc of Justice - From Here to Equality
Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University / North Carolina Public Radio - WUNC
Series [Radio Non - Commercial Local]
TELEVISION STUDENT HONOREES
A Horse From Heaven
The University of Maryland
Soft News Feature [TV - Student]
Ashley Chase, Lauren Kraudy, Emma Davis, Alexandria Sorensen (Universe Live)
Brigham Young University School of Communications - Newsline
Producer [TV - Student]
Carly Wasserlein (Universe Live)
Brigham Young University School of Communications - Newsline
Director [TV - Student]
Church members respond to urging from the First Presidency to get the COVID-19 vaccine (Universe Live)
Brigham Young University School of Communications - Newsline
Hard News Feature [TV - Student]
Harlee Hunsaker (Universe Live)
Brigham Young University School of Communications - Newsline
On-Air Talent [TV - Student]
RADIO STUDENT HONOREES
Crystal Lucio-Bermudez (WRHU - Abortion Rights Feature)
WRHU FM Radio Hofstra University
Host/Personality [Radio - Student]
Emily White Music Biz Executive Inspires Next Generation of Female Industry Leaders (Music Biz Buzz )
WRHU FM Radio Hofstra University
Talk Show [Radio - Student]
Nassibah Beddredine (Youth Advocate For Inclusive Sex Education)
WUNC - North Carolina Public Radio
Interview Feature [Radio - Student]
Rachel Schnelle (Lavender a Tough Crop for 'Muggy' Missouri, But This Couple is Giving it a Go.)
KBIA
News Feature [Radio - Student]
About The Gracie Awards
The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (formerly known as The Foundation of American Women in Radio & Television) which supports and promotes educational programs, and scholarships to benefit the media, the public and allied fields. In addition to giving $20,000 a year away in scholarships to deserving female students, the Foundation also produces the nationally acclaimed recognition program - the Gracie Awards which honors exemplary programming created by, for and about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NCTA - The Cable and Telecommunications Association and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and the Gracie Awards please visit allwomeninmedia.org and follow on Twitter (@AllWomeninMedia), (#TheGracies), Instagram (@allwomeninmedia) and Facebook.
View original content:
SOURCE Alliance for Women in Media Foundation | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/47th-annual-gracie-awards-winners-announced-by-alliance-women-media-foundation/ | 2022-04-13T12:36:31 | 1 | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/47th-annual-gracie-awards-winners-announced-by-alliance-women-media-foundation/ |
4medica to offer health data quality assessments at discounted rate to Civitas members as part of shared service offering
MARINA DEL REY, Calif., April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- 4medica®, a leader in healthcare data quality and matching technology, today announced that it has partnered with Civitas Networks for Health, a member-driven organization dedicated to using health information exchange (HIE) and health data, to conduct comprehensive health data quality assessments. As part of a shared services agreement, 4medica will conduct health data quality assessments for Civitas members at a discounted rate. 4medica will host a Civitas members-only presentation today, Wednesday, April 13 at 2 p.m. ET, to provide details on the health data quality assessments and information sharing subscription service.
The 4medica Health Data Quality Assessment provides a comprehensive review of data quality and identifies duplication issues that are present in an organization's patient records. Excessive patient record duplication creates confusion for health information exchange, provider organizations, payers and laboratories. This can lead to patient identification errors, delays in treatment, unnecessary tests and procedures, misdiagnosis, and denial of claims. The result is an inefficient healthcare system that wastes billions of dollars, jeopardizes the health of patients, and contributes to the burnout of physician and support staff.
"Our partnership with 4medica will provide significant value to our member community," said Lisa Bari, CEO of Civitas Networks for Health. "The company's quality assessments can alert members to duplication issues in their patient health data that could be hindering patient identification and matching. Addressing these issues is an essential step to reducing the cost of care and improving outcomes."
Civitas Networks for Health counts more than one hundred regional and statewide health information exchanges (HIEs), regional health improvement collaboratives (RHICs), quality improvement organizations (QIOs), and more than 50 affiliated organizations as members. These entities currently reach approximately 95 percent of the United States population.
"HIEs and RHICs are essential to improving care coordination, quality, and outcomes," said Gregg Church, president of 4medica. "We're excited to partner with a mission-driven organization like Civitas that is catalyzing these stakeholders to transform care. The opportunity to help HIEs and RHICs improve their data quality through comprehensive assessments can significantly enhance patient identification throughout the continuum of care."
4medica's partnership with Civitas Networks for Health reinforces the company's renewed focus on healthcare data quality. To date, the duplication rates uncovered by 4medica's health data assessments range from between 10% to 30% depending on the organization. The company's end-to-end Health Data Quality Platform delivers a guaranteed 99% patient match rate, helping healthcare organizations normalize dirty data and improve patient safety.
About 4medica
Since 1998, 4medica® has been solving challenges around health data quality, enabling healthcare organizations to achieve real-time clinical interoperability. The company's Big Data Management and Clinical Data Exchange cloud solutions facilitate identity management and patient-centric data exchange to ensure the right data is captured at the right time, guaranteeing an unprecedented 1% patient record duplication rate. Perfect Order for Perfect Payment™ integrates end-to-end laboratory and radiology ordering through an online portal, EMR interoperability, and with superior quality of validated data to drive highly effective RCM performance. 4medica connects 40,000-plus medical professionals to hundreds of ACOs, HIEs, HINs, hospitals, health systems, laboratories, radiology imaging centers and payers nationwide. To learn more visit 4medica.com.
About Civitas Networks for Health
Civitas Networks for Health is a mission- and member-driven organization dedicated to using health information exchange, health data, and multi-stakeholder, cross-sector approaches to improve health. It was formed in October 2021 with the affiliation of the Strategic Health Information Exchange Collaborative (SHIEC) and the Network for Regional Healthcare Improvement (NRHI). Civitas Networks for Health counts more than one hundred regional and statewide health information exchanges (HIEs), regional health improvement collaboratives (RHICs), quality improvement organizations (QIOs), and all-payer claims databases (APCDs) as well as more than 50 affiliated organizations as members and reaches approximately 95 percent of the United States population. To learn more, please visit www.civitasforhealth.org.
Media contact:
Katlyn Nesvold
Amendola Communications
715-559-0046
Knesvold@acmarketingpr.com
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE 4medica | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/4medica-civitas-networks-health-partner-improve-data-quality/ | 2022-04-13T12:36:38 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/4medica-civitas-networks-health-partner-improve-data-quality/ |
Innovative virtual care provider is now available in 47 states and D.C. directly to consumers, providing personalized treatment plans to people with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes
9am.health also adds 7Wire Managing Director and Transcarent CEO Glen Tullman to the Board of Directors and will enter self-insured employer market to offer virtual diabetes care as a covered benefit
SAN DIEGO, April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- 9am.health, a fast-growing virtual diabetes clinic that delivers personalized, affordable, and compassionate care directly to consumers, today announced a $16 million Series A funding round, bringing its total funding to date to nearly $20 million. The latest round was co-led by 7Wire Ventures and Human Capital and included participation from new investors StartUp Health and Leaps by Bayer, and existing investors Define Ventures and Founders Fund.
9am.health offers easy, affordable, and kind care to people living with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Since launching last year, 9am.health has scaled quickly across 47 states and D.C., providing medical care, lab diagnostics, medications, and personalized treatment plans to patients across a variety of backgrounds and demographics.
Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes are two of the most prevalent chronic conditions in the U.S., collectively costing the nation hundreds of billions of dollars each year and creating thousands in medical expenses for individuals. Both populations are at significant risk of developing severe long-term health issues if their condition isn't managed. Studies also have shown that people with diabetes are at higher risk of developing serious Covid-19 illness.
"People want a new approach that fits with their busy lives, so 9am.health gives them a relationship-driven model that doesn't sacrifice quality for lower cost," said Frank Westermann, Co-founder and Co-CEO of 9am.health."Many on the 9am.health team, including myself and Co-CEO Anton Kittelberger, live with diabetes and know firsthand how challenging it is to prioritize your health when the healthcare system doesn't center around the patient. We're removing the barriers that people face and are surrounding them with empathetic care."
Founded by Frank Westermann, Anton Kittelberger, Paul Geevarghese, and Bernhard Schandl, 9am.health has rapidly expanded its services over the past few months. It now offers a comprehensive subscription-based service that includes access to at-home diagnostic lab tests, blood glucose monitoring kits and physician-prescribed medications for prediabetes, type 2 diabetes and commonly associated conditions – all delivered directly and discreetly to patients' homes. All members get personalized treatment plans that come with unlimited access to the 9am.health medical care team that can answer any patient need. 9am.health also provides non-members with at-home diabetes and prediabetes screenings at low costs.
"The 9am.health team has created a new consumer-directed and comprehensive diabetes experience that includes medications, devices, labs, and care, provided by people who understand diabetes, all in one place. The pandemic demonstrated that health consumers are hungry for a new healthcare system that is responsive to their needs, improves care, and does so affordably," said Glen Tullman, 7Wire Venture Managing Partner and CEO of Transcarent. "The 9am.health leadership team are entrepreneurs who are purpose-driven, passionate and are experienced in translating people's needs into great experiences, and I'm looking forward to working with the team on their continued expansion."
Tullman is a veteran healthcare executive and investor who is passionate about transforming diabetes care globally. Previously the head of Livongo (merged with Teladoc in 2020), he was familiar with the 9am.health leadership team's prior experience building mySugr, a highly successful diabetes management app that was acquired by Roche in 2017. Tullman will now join 9am.health's Board of Directors and will be instrumental in the company's vision and market strategy moving forward.
9am.health has aggressive plans to grow its DTC business this year while also expanding to support the self-insured employer market, offering employees access to its virtual diabetes care program as a covered benefit.
To help enable this expansion, 9am.health will use the new funding to grow its clinical and pharmacy services to include more medications and build out an ecosystem of medical device integrations and platform partners nationwide.
9am.health is a virtual diabetes clinic providing affordable medications, labs, and personalized, compassionate medical care for people living with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. Founded in 2021 by the management team behind mySugr, 9am.health is available directly to consumers through a low-cost monthly subscription that connects people with a care team of licensed providers, pharmacists, and nutritionists. Headquartered in San Diego, 9am.health is backed by 7Wire Ventures, Human Capital, Founders Fund, Define Ventures, Speedinvest, iSeed Ventures, and StartUp Health. For more information, please visit www.9am.health.
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SOURCE 9am.health Inc. | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/9amhealth-raises-16-million-series-build-comprehensive-virtual-diabetes-destination-nationwide/ | 2022-04-13T12:36:45 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/9amhealth-raises-16-million-series-build-comprehensive-virtual-diabetes-destination-nationwide/ |
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Akamai Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: AKAM), announced today that the company will hold a conference call for investors on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. ET. The call will include the company's first quarter 2022 financial results and may include forward-looking financial guidance from management. The call will also be broadcast live via the internet at Akamai's Investor Relations page.
The live dial-in information for the conference call is:
U.S. only: (844) 578-9671
International: (508) 637-5655
Conference ID: 1488119
In addition, a replay of the call will be available for two weeks following the conference by calling (855) 859-2056 (or (404) 537-3406 for international calls) and using Conference ID: 1488119. The archived webcast of this event may be accessed through the Akamai website.
About Akamai
Akamai powers and protects life online. Leading companies worldwide choose Akamai to build, deliver, and secure their digital experiences — helping billions of people live, work, and play every day. With the world's most distributed compute platform — from cloud to edge — we make it easy for customers to develop and run applications, while we keep experiences closer to users and threats farther away. Learn more about Akamai's security, compute, and delivery solutions at akamai.com and akamai.com/blog, or follow Akamai Technologies on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Contacts:
Gina Sorice
Media Relation
646-320-4107
gsorice@akamai.com
Tom Barth
Investor Relations
617-274-7130
tbarth@akamai.com
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Alio takes steps toward making better chronic care management a reality
BROOMFIELD, Colo., April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Alio Inc., announced it received FDA 510(k) clearance for its remote monitoring system intended for use by healthcare professionals to intermittently collect physiological data in home use settings. Collected physiological data includes skin temperature, auscultation sound data and heart rate.
Alio technology provides real-time, 24/7, noninvasive remote patient monitoring. By sharing clinical data, Alio makes it possible for caregivers and clinicians to enable better patient care. The Alio SmartPatch can potentially serve as a remote patient monitoring system for a number of conditions.
"Remote patient monitoring is by no means a new concept in the patient care landscape but advancements in the technology that's deployed have lagged behind," said Richard Neville, MD, Chairman of the Department of Surgery at Inova and Director of Inova Vascular Director of Inova Vascular. "Patients should be able to benefit from the latest innovations technology has to offer. The Alio clearance is a step in the right direction in terms of ushering in a new era of remote patient monitoring."
This is the first of several intended submissions for the company. Currently, Alio is undergoing clinical investigations to assess additional indications for use in remote patient monitoring of electrolytes, fluid management, and fistula status and specific patient populations such as chronic care patients with conditions such end stage kidney disease (ESKD), patients undergoing hemodialysis, and patients with heart failure and peripheral vascular disease.
At present, Alio's primary focus is the management of ESKD which is not just a technological challenge but one which continues to expand in scope - almost 150,000 new patients start dialysis each year in the USA and arguably more need dialysis treatment. In fact, The National Institutes of Health estimates that 9 out of 10 people in the US who have chronic kidney disease don't realize it.
Eric Hargan, former HHS Deputy Secretary commented on the relevance of the Alio 510(k) clearance in hemodialysis patients, "a lot of progress has been made in recent years to improve care for dialysis, such as CMS continuing to expand its reimbursement for remote patient monitoring technologies, and the CURES Act mandating dialysis patients be given access to Medicare Advantage plans. The tragic reality is that many patients may unnecessarily end up in the hospital, while we as a country spend $14 billion on dialysis-related hospitalizations, 65% of which are preventable. Alio is poised to make a significant impact in decreasing hospitalizations and improving dialysis patients' quality of life."
"Alio is driven by innovation. Since the founding of Alio, we have always known that remote patient monitoring with Alio can improve patient outcomes and increase the likelihood of a better quality of life at a lower cost to the healthcare system," said David Kuraguntla, Chief Executive Officer of Alio. "We are thrilled to have reached this important milestone as a company, it truly makes our vision feel even closer to reality."
About Alio
Alio Inc. is a medical technology company developing SmartPatch™ technology and using artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor multiple chronic indications, including end stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients undergoing hemodialysis. Alio is dedicated to the development of tools and products for monitoring multiple metrics and providing actionable clinical data for a variety of conditions to better target interventions for improved outcomes and reduced hospitalizations. The company's products include SmartPatch and its remote monitoring system, which provides clinical data based on continuous monitoring of multiple metrics. Alio has an experienced management team with extensive experience in medical technology and devices. Visit our website for more information: https://alio.ai/
Media Contact
David Kuraguntla
Chief Executive Officer
(855) 979-1600
media@alio.ai
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LITTLETON, Colo., April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Titan CEO and headline sponsor Wipfli LLP are pleased to announce Dani Kimlinger, Ph.D., CEO, MINES and Associates, as a 2022 Titan 100. The Titan 100 program recognizes Colorado's Top 100 CEOs & C-level executives. They are the area's most accomplished business leaders in their industry using criteria that include demonstrating exceptional leadership, vision, and passion. Collectively the 2022 Titan 100 and their companies employ more than 34,000 individuals and generate over $22 billion dollars in annual revenues. This year's honorees will be published in a limited-edition Titan 100 book and profiled exclusively online. They will be honored at an awards ceremony on June 2nd, 2022 and will be given the opportunity to interact and connect multiple times throughout the year with their fellow Titans.
"These passionate and driven Titans of industry exemplify the true definition of leadership. We honor them for their unwavering commitment to building their businesses, shaping our communities, and making Colorado a better place to work and live." says Jaime Zawmon, President of Titan CEO.
Dr. Kimlinger has served as MINES' CEO since January 2017. She currently sits on the National Board of Directors for the American Obesity Association, the Board of Directors for Self-Insured Institute of America Foundation, and United Labor Association of Nevada, is the State Director Elect for Colorado SHRM, and is on both the SIIA International and National Behavioral Consortium Thought Leadership Committees. In her time as CEO, Dr. Kimlinger's vision of increasing access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment has yielded great results including new digital and virtual service delivery, online digital intake platform releasing later in 2022, and the expansion of MINES specialty subnetworks to support first responders, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and other critical communities.
"I am humbled, honored, and have a heart full of gratitude to be recognized as a Titan 100 CEO for the second year. I learned last year how powerful it is to be part of the Titan 100. The networking, learning, and contagious passion of my fellow Titans helped me grow more in one year as a CEO than I could have imagined." says Dani Kimlinger, CEO of MINES.
Dani Kimlinger will be honored at the Titan 100 awards on June 2nd, 2022 at Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum located in Denver, CO. Wings Over the Rockies is located on the former grounds of Lowry Air Force Base. The museum is housed in the historic Hangar No. 1, built in 1939, and features dozens of historic airplanes, space vehicles, and interactive exhibits. This unique cocktail-style awards event will gather 100 Titans of Industry for an evening unlike anything that exists in the Colorado business community.
"On behalf of all the partners and associates at Wipfli we congratulate all the Titan 100 winners. It's an honor to recognize this diverse group of leaders in the Colorado business community. We appreciate the lasting impact each leader has made, and continues to make, in building organizations of significance both here in Colorado and abroad. Your ingenuity and creativity have set you apart, and the honor of being seen as an industry Titan is richly deserved," says Pete Aden Partner at Wipfli.
This year, in addition to celebrating 100 Titans of Industry, Titan CEO and Wipfli will be presenting the Titan 100 Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor has been awarded to only twelve Titan 100 honorees as part of this inaugural commemoration.
Titan award recipients are allowed to make the Titan 100 list up to three years, with each year getting progressively more difficult. To make it to the Hall of Fame, Titans must complete on-camera interviews and answer a series of questions where they do not know what will be asked in front of a live judging committee.
The Titan 100 Hall of Fame are a class of elite entrepreneurs that have consistently shown over the past three years their ability to demonstrate the characteristics of a Titan who is a pillar of our community.
CONTACT: Nic Mckane + njmckane@minesandassociates.com
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LONDON, UK, April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - APR Energy Ltd. ("APR Energy"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Atlas Corp. ("Atlas") (NYSE: ATCO), announced today that it has extended its previously announced 12-month gas generation contract in Brazil to a 226 MW 44-month contract. The extension furthers APR Energy's growth strategy of providing longer-term energy capacity solutions.
"Extending this contract demonstrates our customer's confidence in APR Energy's consistent operational excellence. APR Energy is developing a track record of meeting the growing demand for deploying proven and highly reliable gas turbines on long-term contracts. By extending this contract, APR is securing longer-term, predictable cash flow and optimizing its turbine utilization," said Ben Church, CEO, APR Energy.
APR Energy has deployed short- and long-term power projects in 35 markets around the world over the past 15 years. This is APR Energy's first project in Brazil.
About APR Energy
APR Energy provides rapidly deployable power and long-term generation solutions to governments, utilities, and industries around the world. For more information visit aprenergy.com.
About Atlas
Atlas is a leading global asset management company, differentiated by its position as a best-in-class owner and operator with a focus on disciplined capital deployment to create sustainable shareholder value. We target long-term, risk-adjusted returns across high-quality infrastructure assets in the maritime sector, energy sector and other infrastructure verticals. For more information visit atlascorporation.com
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SOURCE Atlas Corp. | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/apr-energy-extends-gas-generation-contract-brazil/ | 2022-04-13T12:37:10 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/apr-energy-extends-gas-generation-contract-brazil/ |
VANCOUVER, BC, April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Atmofizer Technologies Inc. (the "Company" or "Atmofizer") (CSE: ATMO) (Frankfurt: J3K) (OTCQB: ATMFF) announces today that it has opened its own internal research and development lab for HVAC system innovation in Toronto, Ontario, Canada where it will test its nanoparticle agglomeration technology for use in residential and commercial grade ventilation systems. The Company's HVAC experimental model will be tested against different filter regimes and real-world scenarios to measure improved air quality and reduced economic and environmental costs. Atmofizer's agglomeration technology is intended to improve air quality and filtration performance, while reducing energy consumption and total operating costs for owners.
"Independent third-party test results have shown our patented agglomeration technology is decreasing the particle counts in the ultrafine nanoscopic range of 0.017 microns to .122 microns by 44% at a rate of 1.4 liters per minute", said Whit Pepper, President, and Chief Commercial Officer of the Company. "That is significant, as it demonstrates our agglomeration technology is working to increase particle sizes, which increases the ability to neutralize these harmful particles with UV light and/or capture them in conventional air filters. For the operators of HVAC systems in homes, schools, commercial buildings, and at industrial sites, our initial testing supports the hypothesis that by making particles larger, we can make HVAC systems operate more effectively and efficiently by enabling customers to use a lower-rated MERV grade air filter, which are less expensive, and to use less air pressure, which can result in lower energy costs and less stress on ventilation system components, thereby reducing service and replacement costs and extending the life of the system. Increasing filter life and reducing hazardous properties of the particles being collected on those filters also reduces waste and exposure – so coupled with lower energy costs, we believe that can have a positive effect on the environment."
"Nanoparticles are very dangerous; they are so small that they can enter the human bloodstream directly through the lungs – and often prove to be the most elusive airborne matter for filters and sanitation devices to mitigate. So, while the industry seems to have reached its limitations trying to catch and kill the small particles, we are making those particles bigger so that conventional filters and UV systems can perform better against what we believe health science shows are the most hazardous," said Pepper.
"We have delivered nearly 2,000 ultrafine particle agglomeration engines over the last few months, to device manufacturers in both Europe and Asia, so we are getting a lot more data, and we continue to be encouraged by the scientific data as well as the anecdotal observations of our customers. We're hearing a lot about how bad odors go away; those sorts of comments can be challenging to quantify, as smell can be subjective, but we are working on a scale to capture that and transform customer experiences into something measurable. We're seeing increased interest from the maritime industry to put these in yachts and cruise ships. We expect to see an Atmofizer-equipped device go into a corporate jet next month. Our customers are serving as some great R&D advocates!" said Pepper.
"Most air quality meters used by consumer and commercial operators measures PM 2.5 to PM 10; those sensors are relatively low-cost (as low as under $100) and widely available. The issue with relying on those is the fact those sensors do not detect the nano-scale particulate matter (PM), which typically is the most hazardous to human health. It's like having a radar that only detects big bombers, but not the thousands of missiles being shot at you. It's a false sense of security, and we focus on solving that by making those particles bigger and more vulnerable to being filtered and neutralized," said Pepper.
"I came from a commercial background, rather than a scientific one, and I did not know what a nanoparticle even was – and much less why I should care. Once I learned a little about why particle size matters, it became so obvious why the filtration paradigm needed to change; everyone feels too comfortably focused on the wrong things. Sure, I watched what I ate and drank and wore a mask when I was told I was supposed to, but I never really understood how airborne viruses could elude filters and masks, why a mask might do or not do this and that, and that I literally needed to become more aware of what I breathed into my lungs, which is hard because you can't see or sense some of the worst hazards in the air. The coronavirus pandemic brought that to light, but ultrafine pollution and smoke, not to mention all the other nano-scale airborne viruses and bacteria, kill way more people every year than COVID-19. One of the most obvious things I realized was I would wear a mask onboard a well-filtered aircraft and yet I would go change the air filters and stick my head close to the contaminated, filthy filter media with concentrated particles clumped on it that broke loose into the air when I pulled the filter out of its bracket, mask-less without a second thought – very bad idea! Crazy, right? But I bet you 99% of the people out there do the same thing," said Pepper.
"From Main Street to Wall Street, people are generally unaware of the realities of poor air quality. When someone tells me the filters are enough or that making particles bigger doesn't work or make sense, we walk them through our data. In my experience, and this is just my personal experience as a newcomer to the industry, the only people I have encountered who question the benefits of ultrafine particle agglomeration are those who are profiting from perpetuating the myths that avoid addressing the impact of ignoring the health consequences nanoparticles pose to all living things and how the old way of addressing them stops short of being adequate. Atmofizer is disrupting the industry by turning the old way of doing things on its head, and we intend to share our story with the world."
Atmofizer's consumer and industrial solutions are based on its patent-protected and patent pending technology for ultrafine particle agglomeration and neutralization. This capability creates a revolutionary and more efficient method for addressing the wide range of dangerous nano-scale particles, viruses and bacteria that are too small to be effectively managed by conventional HEPA filters and ultraviolet lights. Atmofizer plans to disrupt the air treatment industry by improving air safety and purification efficiency while lowering customers' operational costs.
Atmofizing air refers to the process of using ultrasonic acoustic waves to agglomerate (cluster together) small particles into a larger target that is then radiated by ultraviolet light to neutralize their harmful properties, making the air you breath less hazardous to your health. Using units that atmofize air in tandem with HEPA filters can make the HEPA filters work more efficiently, enable the use of a less-powerful filter and result in a cleaner and longer-lasting filter that reduces operating costs and is less of a health hazard to clean or replace.
Atmofizer is applying its proprietary technology in consumer and industrial air purification products currently manufactured under the Atmofizer brand, as well as in retail and commercial devices produced by other companies that integrate Atmofizer technology into their own products under license. Atmofizer's owned and licensed product lines include wearable, portable and mobile use for personal air treatment, as well as larger systems to handle higher air volumes for commercial, industrial, institutional and residential applications.
This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by words or phrases such as "may", "will", "expect", "likely", "should", "would", "plan", "anticipate", "intend", "potential", "proposed", "estimate", "believe" or the negative of these terms, or other similar words, expressions and grammatical variations thereof, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" happen, or by discussions of strategy. The forward-looking information contained herein includes, without limitation, the effectiveness of the Company's technology to improve air quality and reduce customers' energy and operating costs, and the business and strategic plans of the Company.
By their nature, forward-looking information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. A variety of factors, including known and unknown risks, many of which are beyond our control, could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information in this press release including, without limitation: the Company's ability to comply with all applicable laws and governmental regulations relating to its commercial products; the ability of the Company to protect its intellectual property; impacts to the business and operations of the Company due to the COVID-19 pandemic; conflict in eastern Europe; the Company having a limited operating history; the ability of the Company to access capital to meet future financing needs; the Company's reliance on management and key personnel; competition; changes in consumer trends; foreign currency fluctuations; and general economic, market or business conditions.
Additional risk factors can also be found in the Company's continuous disclosure documents, which have been filed on SEDAR and can be accessed at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this press release and is based on the beliefs, estimates, expectations and opinions of management on the date such forward-looking information is made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.
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SOURCE Axcelis Technologies, Inc.
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SOURCE Axcelis Technologies, Inc.
The above press release was provided courtesy of PRNewswire. The views, opinions and statements in the press release are not endorsed by Gray Media Group nor do they necessarily state or reflect those of Gray Media Group, Inc. | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/axcelis-announces-timing-availability-first-quarter-2022-results-conference-call/ | 2022-04-13T12:37:27 | 1 | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/axcelis-announces-timing-availability-first-quarter-2022-results-conference-call/ |
Q4 Net Sales of $2,051M; Comparable Sales of (12)% Impacted by Ongoing Supply Chain and Inventory Availability Challenges
Q4 GAAP Gross Margin of 28.3%; Adjusted Gross Margin of 28.8% including 360bps of Higher than Expected, Escalating Supply Chain Costs
Excluding Supply Chain Cost Increases, Q4 Adjusted Gross Margin of 32.4%
Second Year of Transformation to Continue in Fiscal 2022
UNION, N.J., April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bed Bath & Beyond Inc. (Nasdaq: BBBY) today reported financial results for the fourth quarter of Fiscal 2021 ended February 26, 2022.
Mark Tritton, Bed Bath & Beyond's President and CEO said, "We are disappointed that our sales and gross margin performance does not reflect our team's hard work and execution against both strategic and transformation efforts in 2021. Macroeconomic factors, such as the disruption of the global supply chain, the Omicron variant, as well as the geopolitical turbulence weighing on consumer confidence, have uncovered more vulnerabilities than we could have foreseen at this stage of our transformation, as we completely rebuild the foundation of our business."
"The lack of available inventory to sell proved to be a continuing impediment to sales through the remainder of the fourth quarter and into the early part of fiscal 2022. Specifically, despite our overall inventory levels, product in transit, not available for sale or held at port remained abnormally high, particularly in key items. We estimate an impact of approximately $175 million to our fourth quarter sales, or a high-single digit deficit, as a result of a lack of in-stock availability in our Bed Bath banner. Positive product-related margin expansion associated with our Owned Brands, pricing and promo optimization were offset by escalating supply chain costs. "
"Encouragingly, buybuy BABY delivered its sales goal for the quarter which led to $1.4 billion in sales for the full year, growing double digit, at an estimated mid-single digit adjusted EBITDA margin. Our buybuy BABY and Harmon banners demonstrate our ability to achieve stabilization and growth when there is strength in the face of macroeconomic factors given its domestic supply chain, as well as different key product demand such as apparel and gear versus our Bed Bath banner."
"Fiscal 2021 was a year of rebuilding in the face of substantial industry and operational headwinds during the first year of our transformation. While our operational execution may have thwarted our near-term efforts, our focus also remains on our long-term strategy and transformation. The extraordinary circumstances we face today, burdened by the lingering effects of our previous infrastructure, have continued to impact our near-term visibility and performance. As we progress through 2022, the investments we are making in our supply chain and technological foundation are designed to greatly improve our proficiencies, enabling us to overcome the types of challenges we are facing currently. The core tenets of our strategy are sound, and we will improve our operational deficits by learning from our experiences and leveraging the strength of our dedicated teams to renew our business for long-term growth," concluded Mr. Tritton.
Q4 Highlights
- Net Sales of $2,051M declined (22)%, reflecting a (8)% decline related to a planned reduction from non-core banner divestitures and a Core1 Sales decline of (14)%
- Comparable3 Sales decline of (12)% versus Q4 2020 and a decline of (8)% versus Q4 2019
- Inventory availability challenges had an estimated impact of $175 million, or high-single digit, impact to Net Sales in the quarter driven by the Bed Bath & Beyond banner
- buybuy BABY Comparable Sales of positive low-single digits fueled by mid-teens growth in stores
- GAAP Gross Margin of 28.3%; Adjusted2 Gross Margin of 28.8%
- Cash Flow from Operations of approximately $0.3 billion and Free Cash Flow of $0.2 billion
- Completion of $1 Billion share repurchase program ahead of Fiscal 2023 plans, reflecting $230 million of repurchases in Q4 2021 and $40 million in March 2022
- Company continues to demonstrate strong liquidity with cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and investments of $0.5 billion in the fiscal 2021 fourth quarter and Total Liquidity4 of approximately $1.4 billion
Fiscal 2021 Fourth Quarter Results (ending February 26, 2022)
Net sales of $2,051 billion declined (22)%, reflecting a Core1 banner sales decline of (14)% and an (8)% decline related to a planned reduction from non-core banner divestitures.
- Core1 sales performance versus last year were primarily driven by a decrease in Bed Bath & Beyond banner sales.
Comparable3 Sales decreased (12)% compared to the prior year period and (8)% compared to the fiscal 2019 fourth quarter. By channel, Comparable3 Sales declined (8)% in Stores and (18)% in Digital versus the fiscal 2020 fourth quarter.
- Comparable3 Sales reflects an estimated 2% impact from fleet optimization activity when compared to the fiscal 2020 fourth quarter.
Bed Bath & Beyond banner Comparable3 Sales decreased (15)% compared to the prior year period and decreased (9)% compared to the fiscal 2019 fourth quarter. Results exclude the Company's previously announced store fleet optimization program, which began in the second half of the prior fiscal year.
- Comparable3 Sales in key destination categories, which include Bedding, Bath, Kitchen Food Prep, Indoor Decor and Home Organization, declined (17)% compared to the 2020 fiscal fourth quarter and (5)% compared to the 2019 fiscal fourth quarter. These categories represented approximately two-thirds of total Bed Bath & Beyond banner sales in the fiscal 2021 fourth quarter.
The buybuy BABY banner delivered positive growth with Comparable Sales increasing in the low-single digits compared to the fiscal 2020 fourth quarter, driven by double-digit growth in stores and a mid-single digit decline in digital.
GAAP Gross Margin was 28.3% for the quarter. Excluding special items, Adjusted2 Gross Margin was 28.8%, reflecting a 360 basis point negative impact from transient supply chain headwinds and a 40 basis point decrease in merchandise margins compared to last year. Freight and shipping costs included unexpected, higher than anticipated inflation of 170 basis points, first-time port-related fees of 100 basis points, and warehouse-related inventory adjustments of 90 basis points as year finalized. Excluding the aforementioned supply chain cost escalations, Q4 Adjusted2 Gross Margin of 32.4%
SG&A expense on both a GAAP and Adjusted2 basis remain at lower levels compared to the prior year period, primarily due to cost reductions including divestitures of non-core assets and lower rent and occupancy expenses on a lower store base. SG&A Margin for the quarter increased on a GAAP and Adjusted2 basis versus last year due to lower Net Sales.
Adjusted2 EBITDA for the period was ($30) million reflecting lower Net Sales and lower Adjusted2 Gross Margin.
Net Loss per diluted share of ($1.79) for the quarter reflected approximately $0.87 of special items for the quarter. Excluding special items, Adjusted2 Net Loss per diluted share was ($0.92). Special items during the fourth quarter included restructuring and transformation initiative charges such as costs associated with the Company's transformation initiatives, including store closures related to the Company's fleet optimization. Adjusted2 Net Loss per diluted share also reflects a current and deferred income tax benefit on the Company's Adjusted2 Pre-Tax Loss.
During the quarter, the Company generated positive operating cash flow of approximately $0.3 billion. Free Cash Flow5 was approximately $0.2 billion as a result of $0.1 billion of planned capital expenditures in connection with store remodels, supply chain and information technology systems.
The Company returned approximately $230 million in capital to shareholders through share repurchases in the fiscal 2021 fourth quarter and approximately $40 million during March 2022, bringing its share repurchase program to completion. As initially announced in November 2021, the Company announced plans to accelerate its $1 billion three-year share repurchase program from fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2023.
Cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and investments totaled approximately $0.5 billion in the fiscal 2021 fourth quarter. Total Liquidity4 was healthy at approximately $1.4 billion as of fiscal 2021 fourth quarter, including the Company's asset based revolving credit facility which remains untapped.
Fiscal 2022 Outlook Commentary
At this time, the Company is providing the following outlook parameters for fiscal 2022:
- Sequential Comparable3 Sales improvement to occur in the second half of fiscal 2022 versus the first half of fiscal 2022 based on anticipated improvement in supply chain conditions
- Adjusted² Gross Margin to expand modestly versus last year based on improvement in the second half of fiscal 2022
- Adjusted2 SG&A expense approximately flat to last year; $100 million optimization plan aims to offset inflation as previously announced
- Higher Adjusted2 EBITDA versus last year for the second half of fiscal 2022 based on the aforementioned Comparable3 Sales and Adjusted² Gross Margin commentary
The Company will provide further commentary and context for its fiscal 2022 outlook during its conference call as well as in its investor presentation available on the investor relations section of the Company's website at http://bedbathandbeyond.gcs-web.com/investor-relations.
Fiscal 2021 Fourth Quarter Conference Call and Investor Presentation
Bed Bath & Beyond Inc.'s fiscal 2021 fourth quarter conference call with analysts and investors will be held today at 8:15am EDT and may be accessed by dialing 1-404-400-0571, or if international, 1-866-374-5140, using conference ID number 64632327#. A live audio webcast of the conference call, along with the earnings press release, investor presentation and supplemental financial disclosures, will also be available on the investor relations section of the Company's website at http://bedbathandbeyond.gcs-web.com/investor-relations. The webcast will be available for replay after the call for a period of at least one year.
The Company has also made available an Investor Presentation on the investor relations section of the Company's website at http://bedbathandbeyond.gcs-web.com/events-and-presentations.
About the Company
Bed Bath & Beyond Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") is an omnichannel retailer that makes it easy for our customers to feel at home. The Company sells a wide assortment of merchandise in the Home, Baby, Beauty and Wellness markets. Additionally, the Company is a partner in a joint venture which operates retail stores in Mexico under the name Bed Bath & Beyond.
The Company operates websites at bedbathandbeyond.com, bedbathandbeyond.ca, buybuybaby.com, buybuybaby.ca, harmondiscount.com, facevalues.com, and decorist.com. As of November 27, 2021, the Company had a total of 995 stores, including 809 Bed Bath & Beyond stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Canada, 133 buybuy BABY stores and 53 stores under the names Harmon, Harmon Face Values or Face Values. During the fiscal 2021 fourth quarter, the Company opened two stores including one Bed Bath & Beyond store and one buybuy BABY store. Additionally during the fiscal 2021 fourth quarter, the Company closed 5 stores including 4 Bed Bath & Beyond stores and one Harmon store. The joint venture to which the Company is a partner operates 10 stores in Mexico under the name Bed Bath & Beyond.
Non-GAAP Information
This press release contains certain non-GAAP information, including adjusted earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA"), adjusted EBITDA margin, adjusted gross margin, adjusted SG&A, adjusted net earnings per diluted share, and free cash flow. Non-GAAP information is intended to provide visibility into the Company's core operations and excludes special items, including non-cash impairment charges related to certain store-level assets and tradenames, loss on sale of businesses, loss on the extinguishment of debt, charges recorded in connection with the restructuring and transformation initiatives, which includes accelerated markdowns and inventory reserves related to the planned assortment transition to Owned Brands and costs associated with store closures related to the Company's fleet optimization and the income tax impact of these items. The Company's definition and calculation of non-GAAP measures may differ from that of other companies. Non-GAAP financial measures should be viewed in addition to, and not as an alternative for, the Company's reported GAAP financial results. For a reconciliation to the most directly comparable US GAAP measures and certain information relating to the Company's use of Non-GAAP financial measures, see "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21 E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 including, but not limited to, the Company's progress and anticipated progress towards its long-term objectives, as well as more generally the status of its future liquidity and financial condition and its outlook for the Company's 2021 fourth quarter and its 2021 fiscal year. Many of these forward-looking statements can be identified by use of words such as may, will, expect, anticipate, approximate, estimate, assume, continue, model, project, plan, goal, preliminary, and similar words and phrases, although the absence of those words does not necessarily mean that statements are not forward-looking. The Company's actual results and future financial condition may differ materially from those expressed in any such forward-looking statements as a result of many factors. Such factors include, without limitation: general economic conditions including the housing market, a challenging overall macroeconomic environment and related changes in the retailing environment; risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and the governmental responses to it, including its impacts across the Company's businesses on demand and operations, as well as on the operations of the Company's suppliers and other business partners, and the effectiveness of the Company's actions taken in response to these risks; consumer preferences, spending habits and adoption of new technologies; demographics and other macroeconomic factors that may impact the level of spending for the types of merchandise sold by the Company; civil disturbances and terrorist acts; unusual weather patterns and natural disasters; competition from existing and potential competitors across all channels; pricing pressures; liquidity; the ability to achieve anticipated cost savings, and to not exceed anticipated costs, associated with organizational changes and investments, including the Company's strategic restructuring program and store network optimization strategies; the ability to attract and retain qualified employees in all areas of the organization; the cost of labor, merchandise, logistical costs and other costs and expenses; potential supply chain disruption due to trade restrictions or otherwise, and other factors such as natural disasters, pandemics, including the COVID-19 pandemic, political instability, labor disturbances, product recalls, financial or operational instability of suppliers or carriers, and other items; the ability to find suitable locations at acceptable occupancy costs and other terms to support the Company's plans for new stores; the ability to establish and profitably maintain the appropriate mix of digital and physical presence in the markets it serves; the ability to assess and implement technologies in support of the Company's development of its omnichannel capabilities; the ability to effectively and timely adjust the Company's plans in the face of the rapidly changing retail and economic environment, including in response to the COVID-19 pandemic; uncertainty in financial markets; volatility in the price of the Company's common stock and its effect, and the effect of other factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, on the Company's capital allocation strategy; risks associated with the ability to achieve a successful outcome for the Company's business concepts and to otherwise achieve its business strategies; the impact of intangible asset and other impairments; disruptions to the Company's information technology systems, including but not limited to security breaches of systems protecting consumer and employee information or other types of cybercrimes or cybersecurity attacks; reputational risk arising from challenges to the Company's or a third party product or service supplier's compliance with various laws, regulations or standards, including those related to labor, health, safety, privacy or the environment; reputational risk arising from third-party merchandise or service vendor performance in direct home delivery or assembly of product for customers; changes to statutory, regulatory and legal requirements, including without limitation proposed changes affecting international trade; changes to, or new, tax laws or interpretation of existing tax laws; new, or developments in existing, litigation, claims or assessments; changes to, or new, accounting standards; and foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. Except as required by law, the Company does not undertake any obligation to update its forward-looking statements.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
The following table reconciles non-GAAP financial measures presented in this press release or that may be presented on the Company's fourth quarter conference call with analysts and investors. The Company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide management, analysts, investors and other users of the Company's financial information with meaningful supplemental information regarding the performance of the Company's business. These non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered superior to, but in addition to other financial measures prepared by the Company in accordance with GAAP, including comparisons of year-to-year results. The Company's method of determining these non-GAAP financial measures may be different from other companies' methods and, therefore, may not be comparable to those used by other companies. As such, the Company does not recommend the sole use of these non-GAAP measure to assess its financial and earnings performance. For reasons noted above, the Company is presenting certain non-GAAP financial measures for its fiscal 2021 fourth quarter. In order for investors to be able to more readily compare the Company's performance across periods, the Company has included comparable reconciliations for the 2020 period in the reconciliation tables below. The Company is not providing a reconciliation of its guidance with respect to Adjusted EBITDA because the Company is unable to provide this reconciliation without unreasonable effort due to the uncertainty and inherent difficulty of predicting the occurrence, the financial impact, and the periods in which the adjustments may be recognized. For the same reasons, the Company is unable to address the probable significance of the unavailable information, which could be material to future results.
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SOURCE Bed Bath & Beyond | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/bed-bath-amp-beyond-inc-reports-fiscal-2021-fourth-quarter-results-ending-february-26th-2022/ | 2022-04-13T12:37:34 | 1 | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/bed-bath-amp-beyond-inc-reports-fiscal-2021-fourth-quarter-results-ending-february-26th-2022/ |
The research will be focused on developing new treatments for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
REHOVOT, Israel, April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Biomica Ltd. (Biomica), an emerging biopharmaceutical company developing innovative microbiome-based therapeutics and a subsidiary of Evogene Ltd. (NASDAQ: EVGN) (TASE: EVGN), reported today that it signed a collaboration agreement with the Sheba Medical Center (Sheba) in Tel Aviv, Israel, a hospital ranked by Newsweek magazine as one of the top 10 globally of 2022[1].
In the framework of the joint work, Biomica and Sheba's Microbiome Innovation Center, headed by Dr. Yael Haberman, will conduct deep sequencing and high-resolution microbiome analysis of samples obtained from patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This analysis will enable the identification of potential profiles, biomarkers and therapeutic entities in order to gain a deeper understanding of the human microbiome in IBD patients. Based on the new findings that are expected to come out of these joint studies, Biomica's goal is to expand its expertise in this field, furthering its ability to develop new therapeutics, supporting unmet medical needs and bringing better IBD patient care.
IBD includes conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, which are chronic, debilitating, non-infectious, inflammatory diseases of the digestive tract. However, despite the recent introduction of new modalities and therapeutics, many patients do not respond well, and others' response may diminish over time[2]. The global IBD treatment market size has been valued at USD 19.2 billion in 2020[3].
Dr. Yael Haberman at The Sheba Medical Center, stated: "I am very much looking forward to our collaboration with Biomica, a pioneer in the IBD space and a developer of novel therapeutics based on the human microbiome. I believe our work together has great potential and I hope will lead to improved outcomes for sufferers of IBD."
Dr. Elran Haber, Biomica Chief Executive Officer, stated: "I am very excited today with the launch of this joint research effort between one of the world's leading hospitals, Sheba Medical Center, and Biomica. Our goal is that the findings from this study will be highly complementary to Biomica's previous work on IBD, and advance our ability to identify and utilize specific entities in the microbiome, providing improved therapeutics for this devastating disease. We see great potential in this collaboration with Dr. Haberman and I hope this will pave the path for additional joint studies focusing on improving patients' care in IBD."
As was previously announced in November 2021, Biomica reported positive pre-clinical results in its IBD program following the evaluation of its product candidate BMC333, in a DSS-induced colitis model. These results demonstrated BMC333's ability to significantly reduce intestinal tissue damage resulting from inflammation. Biomica expects to begin the scale-up development processes of BMC333 during 2022, in preparation for the production of an initial clinical batch.
About BMC333:
BMC333 Live Bacterial Products (LBPs), an optimized combination of four of the strains originally present in BMC321 and BMC322. All are rationally-designed consortia designed to restore diversity and specific functionality to a microbial community with individually selected, cultured bacteria.
BMC333 is comprised of bacterial strains selected for their multiple desired functions to achieve maximal functional activity with only 4 bacterial strains. These LBP's are aimed to result in robust immune modulation through several underlying and complementary modes of action.
About Sheba Medical Center:
The largest and most comprehensive medical center in the Middle East, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer is generating global impact through its medical care, research and healthcare transformation. Sheba's City of Health boasts an acute-care hospital, rehabilitation hospital, research and innovation hubs, medical simulation center and center for disaster response on one comprehensive campus in the center of Israel. A university teaching hospital affiliated with the Sackler School of Medicine at Tel-Aviv University, Sheba is shaping the future of healthcare, educating the next generation of care providers. Sheba serves as a true hospital without borders, welcoming patients and healthcare professionals from all over the world and consistently providing the highest-level medical care to all in need. Sheba has been ranked a Top 10 hospital in the world by Newsweek three years in a row (2019, 2020, 2021).
About Biomica Ltd.:
Biomica is an emerging biopharmaceutical company developing innovative microbiome-based therapeutics utilizing a dedicated Computational Predictive Biology platform (CPB), licensed from Evogene. Biomica aims to identify and characterize disease-related microbiome entities and to develop novel therapeutics based on these understandings. The company is focused on the development of therapies for antibiotic resistant bacteria, immuno-oncology, and microbiome-related gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Biomica is a subsidiary of Evogene Ltd. (NASDAQ: EVGN, TASE: EVGN). For more information, please visit www.biomicamed.com.
About Evogene Ltd.:
Evogene (NASDAQ: EVGN, TASE: EVGN) is a computational biology company aiming to revolutionize the development of life-science based products by utilizing cutting edge technologies to increase probability of success while reducing development time and cost. Evogene established three unique technological engines - MicroBoost AI, ChemPass AI and GeneRator AI – leveraging Big Data and Artificial Intelligence and incorporating deep multidisciplinary understanding in life sciences. Each technological engine is focused on the discovery and development of products based on one of the following core components: microbes (MicroBoost AI), small molecules (ChemPass AI), and genetic elements (GeneRator AI). Evogene uses its technological engines to develop products through subsidiaries and with strategic partners. Currently, Evogene's main subsidiaries utilize the technological engines to develop human microbiome-based therapeutics by Biomica Ltd., medical cannabis products by Canonic Ltd., ag-chemicals by AgPlenus and ag-biologicals by Lavie Bio Ltd. For more information, please visit: www.evogene.com.
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" relating to future events. These statements may be identified by words such as "may", "could", "expects", "intends", "anticipates", "plans", "believes", "scheduled", "estimates" or words of similar meaning. For example, Biomica and Evogene are using forward-looking statements in this press release when they discuss the potential benefits from the collaboration with Sheba, the potential efficacy and benefits of BMC 333 in the treatment of IBD and the expectation for Biomica to begin the scale-up and manufacturing processes of BMC333 in 2022, in preparation for the production of an initial clinical batch. Such statements are based on current expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions, describe opinions about future events, involve certain risks and uncertainties which are difficult to predict and are not guarantees of future performance. Therefore, actual future results, performance or achievements of Evogene and its subsidiaries may differ materially from what is expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors, many of which are beyond the control of Evogene and its subsidiaries, including, without limitation, those risk factors contained in Evogene's reports filed with the applicable securities authorities. Evogene and its subsidiaries disclaim any obligation or commitment to update these forward-looking statements to reflect future events or developments or changes in expectations, estimates, projections.
Contact:
Kenny Green
GK Investor Relations
E: evogene@gkir.com
T: +1 212 378 8040
[1] Newsweek 2022. Source: https://www.newsweek.com/worlds-best-hospitals-2022
[2] Mayoclink. Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/digestive-diseases/news/managing-refractory-ibd/mac-20430383
[3] Grandview Research. Source: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/inflammatory-bowel-disease-ibd-treatment-market#:~:text=Report%20Overview,4.4%25%20from%202018%20to%202026
Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1015458/Biomica_Logo.jpg
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SOURCE Biomica Ltd. | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/biomica-announces-agreement-with-sheba-medical-center-joint-microbiome-clinical-research/ | 2022-04-13T12:37:44 | 1 | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/biomica-announces-agreement-with-sheba-medical-center-joint-microbiome-clinical-research/ |
TOKYO, April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- KLab Inc., a leader in online mobile games, announced that its hit 3D action game Bleach: Brave Souls, currently available on smartphones, PC, and PlayStation 4, will host the "Bleach: Brave Souls" Spring Bankai Live 2022 from 8 pm on Thursday, April 26 (UTC+9). See the original press release (https://www.klab.com/en/press/release/2022/0413/bleach_brave_souls_spring_bankai.html) for more information.
This special live broadcast will feature Azusa Sekine, from the Japanese idol group Up Up Girls (Kakko Kari); and an impressive display of talent from the Bleach anime series including Masakazu Morita, the voice actor for Ichigo Kurosaki; and Ryotaro Okiayu, the voice actor for Byakuya Kuchiki. In addition to the familiar special guests, the cast will be joined by Noriaki Sugiyama, the voice actor for Uryu Ishida; and Tetsu Inada, the voice actor for Sajin Komamura.
Viewers can look forward to a Brave Souls filled program including the Brave Souls Quiz, Co-Op Challenge between the special guests and players, and new information about the game. There will also be special campaigns on the official Brave Souls Twitter (@bleachbrs_en) so be sure to check them out for a chance to win great prizes.
Bleach: Brave Souls Spring Bankai Live 2022 Overview
Livestream Schedule
Starts at 8:00 pm on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 (UTC+9)
Spring Bankai Live 2022 Webpage:
https://www.bleach-bravesouls.com/en/news/220426/
Bankai Livestream URLs
YouTube Live:
(EN) https://youtu.be/jYGin0_7O2c
(JP) https://youtu.be/EXWfpZFcQvM
Twitter Live:
(EN) https://twitter.com/bleachbrs_en
(JP) https://twitter.com/Bleach_BS
Facebook Live (EN Only): https://www.facebook.com/BleachBS.en/
EN: Japanese audio with English commentary.
JP: Japanese audio only.
Overview of Bleach: Brave Souls
Download here
App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/app/id1003168863
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.klab.bleach
Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1201240/BLEACH_Brave_Souls
PlayStation Store: https://store.playstation.com/concept/10002097
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SOURCE KLab Inc. | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/bleach-brave-souls-spring-bankai-live-2022-tuesday-april-26/ | 2022-04-13T12:37:50 | 1 | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/bleach-brave-souls-spring-bankai-live-2022-tuesday-april-26/ |
Iconic Brand Was The First Product Of Its Kind To Receive U.S. Food And Drug Administration Approval In 2002 For Aesthetic Use And Is Honoring This Milestone By Celebrating Its Loyal Patients And Providers
IRVINE, Calif., April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company (NYSE: ABBV), announces the celebration of a milestone moment for BOTOX® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA). April 15, 2022, will mark 20 years since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved the product to temporarily improve the look of moderate to severe glabellar lines, located between your eyebrows.1 It was the first product of its kind and has since received two additional aesthetic indications – in 2013 and 2017 – making BOTOX® Cosmetic the first and only neurotoxin that is FDA-approved for adults to temporarily improve the look of moderate to severe lines in three areas; frown lines, crow's feet and forehead lines.2-5
"It has been remarkable to see how BOTOX® Cosmetic has evolved in 20 years, one scientific study at a time that showcases the clinical significance of this treatment," said Dr. Jean Carruthers, MD, FRCSC, FRC (Poth). "BOTOX® Cosmetic has not only changed the trajectory of my career but also the way the medical aesthetics community practices and teaches. By any account, two decades is a long time, however in medicine it is just the beginning, and I look forward to the next big milestone for BOTOX® Cosmetic."
"This celebration is about reflecting on the people who helped make BOTOX® Cosmetic a household name," said Carrie Strom, Senior Vice President, AbbVie, and President, Global Allergan Aesthetics. "We celebrate our customers, our colleagues and all the patients who have been a part of our success. We remain dedicated to BOTOX® Cosmetic, the first product of its kind on the market. We are passionate about continuing to drive this market forward and our experienced team is working closely with healthcare providers to ensure we are delivering meaningful innovations that the market needs with our commitment to ongoing research."
BOTOX® Cosmetic is bringing its celebration to the public with its first-ever Art Installation which will be on a cross-country tour. Visitors can immerse themselves in a highly visual, interactive experience that takes them on a celebratory journey of self-affirmation. The installation will be unveiled in New York City on Friday, April 22nd at 9 am ET and will be open to the public until Saturday, April 23rd before traveling to Chicago from Friday, May 6th to Sunday, May 8th and finally, Los Angeles from Friday, May 20th to Sunday, May 22nd. Starting on May 30th for eight weeks, a version of the installation will be featured at Resorts World in Las Vegas. Anyone who visits the Art Installation will be eligible to receive an exclusive BOTOX® Cosmetic offer powered by Allē®, Allergan Aesthetics' loyalty platform, while supplies last. Terms and conditions apply.
Additionally, to spotlight the people behind the product, the celebration will feature a documentary style video highlighting real patients and providers of BOTOX® Cosmetic – helping to paint a colorful picture of how and why people continue to see BOTOX® Cosmetic as a treatment for someone like them. Starting April 15th, watch the video at www.botoxcosmetic20thcelebration.com and @BotoxCosmetic on social.
To take the celebration nationwide, exclusive BOTOX® Cosmetic offerings will be available to both new and loyal BOTOX® Cosmetic patients starting in April. These offerings include a chance to win a trip for two to see Resort World's new Allē Lounge on 66, in addition to tickets to a concert. Register for the chance to win between April 15th and April 29th by visiting www.botoxcosmetic20thcelebration.com and following the steps on the site. This is a limited time offer. Terms and conditions apply.
Allergan Aesthetics, the makers of BOTOX® Cosmetic, is the exclusive aesthetics partner of Resorts World Las Vegas and will have exclusive branding rights to the property's 66th floor lounge, now known as Allē Lounge on 66, and Resorts World Theatre's meet-and-greet space, Allē Backstage. This is the first official partnership with an entitlement of this kind at Resorts World Las Vegas since its June 2021 grand opening, and Allergan Aesthetics' first-ever branding of a specific area at a major resort and live entertainment venue. The partnership is the first of its kind across the aesthetics industry.
Visit https://alle.com/ to join Allē, Allergan Aesthetics' loyalty program, which is required to attend the BOTOX® Cosmetic Art Installation and to participate in the limited-time sweepstakes and gift card offering. Terms and conditions apply. Follow us on Instagram @botoxcosmetic and @alle, in addition to using the hashtag #20yearsofbotoxcosmetic.
BOTOX® COSMETIC IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
BOTOX® Cosmetic may cause serious side effects that can be life threatening. Get medical help right away if you have any of these problems any time (hours to weeks) after injection of BOTOX® Cosmetic:
- Problems swallowing, speaking, or breathing, due to weakening of associated muscles, can be severe and result in loss of life. You are at the highest risk if these problems are pre-existing before injection. Swallowing problems may last for several months.
- Spread of toxin effects. The effect of botulinum toxin may affect areas away from the injection site and cause serious symptoms including: loss of strength and all-over muscle weakness, double vision, blurred vision and drooping eyelids, hoarseness or change or loss of voice, trouble saying words clearly, loss of bladder control, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.
BOTOX® Cosmetic dosing units are not the same as, or comparable to, any other botulinum toxin product.
There has not been a confirmed serious case of spread of toxin effect when BOTOX® Cosmetic has been used at the recommended dose to treat frown lines, crow's feet lines, and/or forehead lines.
BOTOX® Cosmetic may cause loss of strength or general muscle weakness, vision problems, or dizziness within hours to weeks of taking BOTOX® Cosmetic. If this happens, do not drive a car, operate machinery, or do other dangerous activities.
Serious and/or immediate allergic reactions have been reported. They include: itching, rash, red itchy welts, wheezing, asthma symptoms, or dizziness or feeling faint. Get medical help right away if you are wheezing or have asthma symptoms, or if you become dizzy or faint.
Do not receive BOTOX® Cosmetic if you: are allergic to any of the ingredients in BOTOX® Cosmetic (see Medication Guide for ingredients); had an allergic reaction to any other botulinum toxin product such as Myobloc® (rimabotulinumtoxinB), Dysport® (abobotulinumtoxinA), or Xeomin® (incobotulinumtoxinA); have a skin infection at the planned injection site.
Tell your doctor about all your muscle or nerve conditions, such as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease, myasthenia gravis, or Lambert-Eaton syndrome, as you may be at increased risk of serious side effects including difficulty swallowing and difficulty breathing from typical doses of BOTOX® Cosmetic.
Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including: plans to have surgery; had surgery on your face; have trouble raising your eyebrows; drooping eyelids; any other abnormal facial change; are pregnant or plan to become pregnant (it is not known if BOTOX® Cosmetic can harm your unborn baby); are breast-feeding or plan to (it is not known if BOTOX® Cosmetic passes into breast milk).
Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Using BOTOX® Cosmetic with certain other medicines may cause serious side effects. Do not start any new medicines until you have told your doctor that you have received BOTOX® Cosmetic in the past.
Tell your doctor if you have received any other botulinum toxin product in the last 4 months; have received injections of botulinum toxin such as Myobloc®, Dysport®, or Xeomin® in the past (tell your doctor exactly which product you received); have recently received an antibiotic by injection; take muscle relaxants; take an allergy or cold medicine; take a sleep medicine; take aspirin-like products or blood thinners.
Other side effects of BOTOX® Cosmetic include: dry mouth; discomfort or pain at the injection site; tiredness; headache; neck pain; and eye problems: double vision, blurred vision, decreased eyesight, drooping eyelids and eyebrows, swelling of your eyelids and dry eyes.
APPROVED USES
BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles and used to temporarily improve the look of moderate to severe forehead lines, crow's feet lines, and frown lines between the eyebrows in adults.
For more information refer to the Medication Guide or talk with your doctor.
To report a side effect, please call Allergan at 1-800-678-1605.
Please see BOTOX® Cosmetic full Product Information including Boxed Warning and Medication Guide.
About Allergan Aesthetics
Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company, develops, manufactures, and markets a portfolio of leading aesthetics brands and products. Their aesthetics portfolio includes facial injectables, body contouring, plastics, skin care, and more. Their goal is to consistently provide customers worldwide with innovation, education, exceptional service, and a commitment to excellence, all with a personal touch.
About AbbVie
AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas: immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, virology, women's health and gastroenterology, in addition to products and services across its Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.
References:
- Data on File. AbbVie. FDA Product Approval Information, 2019.
- BOTOX® Cosmetic Prescribing Information, July 2020.
- Dysport® Prescribing Information, 2020.
- Xeomin® Prescribing Information, 2020.
- Jeuveau® Prescribing Information, 2020.
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