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With a mix of music blasting through speakers, smoke from barbecues, plenty of cold beers and perfect baseball weather, the return of tailgating was just one of many things Chicago White Sox fans had to celebrate at Tuesday’s home opener at Guaranteed Rate Field.
“Today I’m celebrating being cancer-free!” said Kim Crouse, 36, a South Sider and White Sox fan for as long as she can remember.
Crouse was tailgating in Lot B with her cousin Khrystina Kulbida, 29, and her friends, Amy, 45, and Charlie Riske, 43. They were eating burgers, grilled potato packets and drinking beer.
“I wasn’t able to make it out to many games last year because I was undergoing treatment and you can’t be in the sun when you’re having chemo,” said Crouse, who said she still has 10 more rounds of radiation treatments to go.
Amy Riske, a former co-worker of Crouse, said she has been to every home opener with her husband since 2003. They began dating in 2001, and Charlie — a big fan of Hall of Famer Frank Thomas growing up — convinced her to switch from the Atlanta Braves to the White Sox. “He was totally worth changing teams,” she said.
Charlie Riske’s expectations for this season? “Undefeated,” he said without any hesitation. Crouse “want(s) them to go further into the playoffs.”
Kulbida — who was also born and raised on the South Side — “just want(s) them to stay healthy.”
Bernie DiMeo’s reason for celebration was a big one too: This was his 50th White Sox home opener in a row. “Hard to believe, but true,” he said.
It all began in college, said DiMeo, 73, of Rogers Park. At Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, he and his roommate, Rich Turek, 74, who was at Tuesday’s game with DiMeo tailgating in Lot A, were huge White Sox fans and began a competition to see who could go to the most home openers.
Turek began going to home openers in 1971 and DiMeo couldn’t go that year because he had classes. Their first home opener together was in 1972. However, after graduation, Turek landed a job that required business trips, and he broke his streak.
Turek said he has been to 40-something games but not in a row.
DiMeo fell in love with the White Sox as a child because of his father and uncle. “My uncle lived upstairs from us and (my dad and I) would watch all the games together and that’s how I became a Sox fan,” he said.
His son, Dan DiMeo, 34, made him a trophy for his 50th home opener and a patch inspired by the team’s 50th anniversary All-Star game in 1983.
“The first thing I wore when I was born was probably a White Sox onesie or something like that,” Dan DiMeo said.
“Absolutely,” Bernie DiMeo replied.
“I had a cap and a baseball in my crib and in the hospital from the first day. My first game was in the old Comiskey Park when I was 1 month old.”
During that first visit, Bernie DiMeo said he handed his newborn son to Greg Walker — a White Sox first baseman — who was more scared to catch a baby than a baseball.
In the past five decades, Bernie DiMeo said his favorite seasons were 2005 when they won the World Series because “we never saw it coming,” and 1983 because “they won the division by like 20 games and we could see it coming.”
But as far as memories go, he said, there are so many.
His favorite opening day? Just like the Riskes, the 2006 home opener when they were able to raise the World Series flag.
Bernie DiMeo is couching his expectations for this season.
“If you would have asked me a week ago, I would have said all the way,” he said. “But I am worried about these injuries; they keep piling up and every day we have more injuries. Top two pitchers are out, third base was out, top relievers out, right fielder is out … I think I may have to loosen up my arm and call Jerry Reinsdorf to see if I can pitch.”
Teddy Biancotti, 28, from Crown Point, Indiana, also tries to go to any opening game he can.
“The games are good but tailgating is where we have more fun,” he said. “I like the freedom and the cheaper beer,” said the lifelong White Sox fan who was wearing a team jersey, U.S. flag-themed glasses, and a Budweiser cowboy hat.
“(Tailgating is superior) because you get to spend time with your family and not worry about missing anything,” his fiancee, McKenzie Sallee, 27, said.
His love for the team was also generational, passed from his granddad and dad, who were also at the tailgate in Lot B. They were eating tacos, cheese crackers, shrimp, chicken wings, veggies, cookies, brownies, “beer, beer, beer… and jello shots.”
They traveled early in the morning from Indiana, but Sallee assured that if she posted an Instagram with her fiance at the Sox game, someone in her family would comment “Go Cubs!”
In between the cars’ tailgates, there were plenty of games to entertain the little ones as well as adults.
Tifanny Pillot’s family, a group of about a dozen, had the biggest game collection in Lot D: Besides the popular cornhole, they had tick-tack-toe and connect four.
Pillot, 32, said she has been a Sox fan all of her life “like any South Sider should be,” and this was her first home opener.
“Unfortunately, there’s a bit of rivalry with the Cubs and Sox in the family,” she said. But this Tuesday the family Pillot was at peace thanks to the power of tailgating games, hot dogs, burgers, pizza, veggie trays and alcoholic beverages.
Also in Lot D, the Family Gómez flooded a third of a parking row with salsa music and the aromas of chicken wings, ribs, sausages, Mexican arracheras and peppers on their grill.
This was José Gómez’s first home-opening tailgate, but he said he spent many others working in the kitchens of the ballpark as a cook from 1981 until 2019.
Gómez, 69, from San Lorenzo, Puerto Rico, said he cooked for ballplayers, reporters and team owners. “I am a big White Sox fan, and I’m also a big fan that they support me financially because they give me my retirement pension.”
Beatriz Gómez, 73, also from Puerto Rico, met José in Chicago thanks to family while he was working for the White Sox.
“Even though baseball is the biggest thing in Puerto Rico, I was never a ball fan until I met him and then I was able to bring our family to the stadium and do tailgates,” said Beatriz Gómez, a Vega Baja native who has lived in Chicago since 1964.
“And I would see them from that window while I was working,” José Gómez said pointing to a lateral window of the stadium and bursting into laughter.
He said opening days from the inside of the stadium were always special. “Everybody was nervous because there was a lot of pressure, but it was very nice working that day and feeling everybody’s rush.”
“Also, Magglio Ordóñez once saved me from being fired,” he remembered laughing. “I brought once my son to work when he was around 7 and he began playing in the field with the players. One of the coaches almost got him, but Ordóñez saved him from being caught.”
In 2005, he had to work during the final World Series game in Houston. Beatriz Gómez traveled for those games with her husband and she sighed as he recounted that memory.
“The last day there was a ton of food,” he said. “And the third game was super long, it lasted six hours until 1 a.m.”
“I enjoy my retirement, but I would love to be working. I really liked my job here,” José Goméz said. “¡Arriba los White Sox!”
The family’s expectations for this season? “High,” answered both in unison.
For starters, Tuesday’s opener met fans’ expectations and gave them one more reason to celebrate as the Sox beat the Mariners 3-2.
() | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/from-health-to-attendance-streaks-to-tailgating-fans-have-much-to-celebrate-at-white-sox-home-opener/ | 2022-04-13T14:11:47 | 0 | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/from-health-to-attendance-streaks-to-tailgating-fans-have-much-to-celebrate-at-white-sox-home-opener/ |
The Miami Heat still lack an opponent for their first-round NBA playoff series, but they now at least have a schedule.
The NBA early Wednesday released the dates for the Heat’s opening best-of-seven series, including initial games at FTX Arena on Sunday and Tuesday.
The only times included in the league’s initial release were that the Heat’s series opener will be Sunday at 1 p.m., with Game 4 of the series on the road to be a week from Sunday at 7 p.m.
The Heat will play the team the secures the No. 8 playoff berth in the Eastern Conference, which will be decided Friday.
The Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets and Cleveland Cavaliers remain in contention for that spot.
The Heat’s opening-round best-of-seven schedule:
Game 1: Sunday, 1 p.m. FTX Arena, TNT
Game 2: Tuesday, Time TBA, FTX Arena
Game 3: Friday, at No. 8, Time TBA, ESPN.
Game 4: Sun. April 24, at No. 8, 7 p.m. TNT
Game 5*: Tue. April 26, FTX Arena, Time TBA
Game 6*: Thu. April 28, at No. 8, Time TBA
Game 7*: Sat. April 30, FTX Arena, Time TBA, TNT
* — If necessary
(All games available in South Florida on Bally Sports Sun, except any picked up by ABC).
() | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/heats-first-two-playoff-games-to-be-sunday-tuesday-at-ftx-arena-full-schedule/ | 2022-04-13T14:11:53 | 0 | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/heats-first-two-playoff-games-to-be-sunday-tuesday-at-ftx-arena-full-schedule/ |
The South Florida Sun Sentinel continues its 10-part series looking at the top prospects in the upcoming NFL draft (April 28-30) with receivers. This is one of the deepest positions in the 2022 draft, but the caliber of the top-end receivers doesn’t match last year’s class, which was highlighted by Ja’Marr Chase, Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith. However, there could be quite a few third-day gems the Dolphins could select with either their late third-round pick or their fourth-round selection to develop for the future.
Ohio State’s Garrett Wilson
Wilson is explosive at the line of scrimmage, and has the initial quickness to create separation in press coverage. He leaps and high-points the ball with ease and has the hand-eye coordination to track off-the-mark throws. What he needs to do is prove he’s a downfield receiver who can occupy a safety. If he can’t, then he’ll become a possession receiver and not an X receiver in the NFL.
Arkansas’ Treylon Burks
Burk’s size (6-3, 225), speed and physicality set him apart from most of the receivers in this draft because it allows him to impose his will against smaller cornerbacks. His game is similar to Titans receiver A.J. Brown, which indicates that he could become a dynamic slot receiver, and a gadget player as a rookie.
Alabama’s Jameson Williams
Williams used his one season at Alabama to prove he’s an explosive playmaker, a receiver who possesses both the run-after-catch ability to get extra yards, and the speed to take the top off a defense. The fact he tore his ACL in the national championship game this year means he could spend the first half of the 2022 season rehabbing and working to regain his speed.
Ohio State’s Chris Olave
The Buckeyes have been churning out route-running savants because of their position coach Brian Hartline, who spent most of his career in the NFL with the Dolphins, and Olave is the next Buckeye in line to become a Day 1 starter. Olave, who scored 35 touchdowns in his four seasons, is a smooth route runner who is excellent at adjusting to off-target throws.
USC’s Drake London
London is a multi-sport athlete who uses his basketball skill set to high-point balls. He’s big (6-foot-5), has strong hands and flashes excellent body control. Problem is, he’s not a refined route runner and needs to be coached up in the NFL. His film is hard to evaluate because he benefitted from a ton of free release playing in the Pac-12.
Best of the Rest
Penn State’s Jahan Dotson might be the most sure-handed receiver in this draft. He could develop into a true No. 1 playmaker in the right offense. Alabama’s John Metchie III is a catch-and-run threat who manufactures tough yardage. Georgia’s George Pickens, Purdue’s David Bell, North Dakota State’s Christian Watson, Miami’s Charleston Rambo, SMU’s Danny Gray and Reggie Roberson Jr. all have the talent to become NFL starters.
Class Grade: B+
Considering receiver is the deepest position in this watered-down 2022 draft class it’s hard to be critical of the talent available. Especially when we consider that receivers selected in the later rounds — if not undrafted — routinely thrive in the NFL. Often times it’s about finding the right fit for the offensive system, and this draft is filled options. There are speedsters who stretch the field. Slot receivers who have a knack for getting open, route-running specialist and big-body types. It all comes down to what a team is looking for.
Teams in need
This is the type of draft where a team might select a receiver even though they don’t need one because of how weak this draft class is overall. The Jets, Patriots, Packers, Bears, Browns, Colts, Falcons, Lions, Titans, 49ers, and Chiefs would benefit from taking one early. The Raiders, Cardinals, Commanders, Cowboys and Chargers might select one in the later rounds to supplement their already solid receiver units.
Dolphins’ focus
With Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Cedrick Wilson and Mike Gesicki (a tight end, who mostly served as a slot receiver the past three seasons) the Dolphins have enough frontline receivers on the roster. What the Dolphins lack is a youngster to develop because Preston Williams and Lynn Bowden Jr. have each had their development stalled for one reason or another. Adding another receiver to this unit could be beneficial, especially if he possesses some skills as a returner.
Previously addressed
Miami Dolphins’ NFL draft options: Quarterbacks
Miami Dolphins’ NFL draft options: Running backs
Miami Dolphins’ NFL draft options: Offensive linemen
Miami Dolphins’ NFL draft options: Tight ends
() | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/miami-dolphins-nfl-draft-options-receivers/ | 2022-04-13T14:11:56 | 0 | https://www.twincities.com/2022/04/13/miami-dolphins-nfl-draft-options-receivers/ |
Much to the delight of researchers, genealogists and history buffs, the 1950 United State Census was released on April 1 by the National Archives. By law, the records are sealed for 72 years for privacy purposes. The 1950 Census can be accessed on the website of the National Archives at https://1950census.archives.gov/. The newly released Census contains seven million records, a tremendous increase from 3.8 million records in the 1940 Census. This data, 1.65 terabytes in size, was immediately available to researchers for bulk download.
“Since 1790, census data have painted a vivid, vibrant portrait of America,” said Robert Santos the Director of the U.S. Census Bureau in a video shared when the Census was first made available online earlier in the month.
The 1950 Census was the first after World War II, and a new challenge posed to those who planned it was figuring out how to count the large number of military and government workers living overseas for the first time. For these, they specifically designed forms of population and the Department of Defense and State Department oversaw the enumerations of those stationed overseas.
“While the Decennial Census is constitutionally used to determine congressional apportionment to states, the completed forms can give us a unique peek into our nation’s past to the delight of historians, genealogists, and to all of us – the public,” Santos said later in the video. “So thanks to all those people who participated in the 1950 Census, we can follow the movement of people across the country and gain a glimpse into how they lived through the National Archives release.”
The Census asked 20 questions of those 14 and older with a new survey on residential financing. Researchers will be able to use the data to study and learn about how people lived in different parts of the United States at the time as well as identify any new patterns in populations that the records might bring to light. The Census is also an invaluable tool to those researching their family’s history. Not only can one find where their family lived at the time, but also about the communities in which they lived. Although the data is a long way from being fully transcribed, researchers can take advantage of new technology to locate an individual easier using a search engine with Optical Character Recognition. This feature searches for the name entered in the handwritten notes and displays the options it finds like other search engines.
The Itawamba County-Pratt Memorial Library has a number of resources available to help genealogists search not only the 1950 Census but also to use what is found to add depth to the initial findings.
“I am very excited about the release of the 1950 Census. I think of genealogy as one big puzzle. When new information is either released or just found, it helps people get closer to solving that puzzle. Here at the library, we have many resources that one can use to help put together their genealogical puzzle,” said library director Jeffrey Martin.
The Mississippi Room of the library has a wealth of information for local historians including books on the county’s early settlers, written histories and cemetery records, but Martin says their most popular research source is online.
“The most popular resource is the Ancestry.com database. In the past, it has only been available for use in the library building. With COVID-19 disrupting library service at some points, the service was made available to library patrons by using their library cards to sign in to the library’s website. This service is still available at present,” Martin said. “Library patrons can also use their cards to access the Heritage Quest database.”
However one uses the data included in the 1950 Census whether to understand their own family better or to study a larger number of people and demographics in a county, state or region, one can better understand how the U.S. lived and changed as the nation entered the first decade after World War II. | https://www.djournal.com/itawamba/news/census-release-offers-bounty-of-information-to-researchers/article_112e4c7a-5daa-5acf-b913-40eb16f7785b.html | 2022-04-13T14:14:07 | 1 | https://www.djournal.com/itawamba/news/census-release-offers-bounty-of-information-to-researchers/article_112e4c7a-5daa-5acf-b913-40eb16f7785b.html |
As the nation celebrates April as Community College Month, on behalf of Itawamba Community College, thank you for your continuing commitment to education, which prepares both youth and adults with the foundation to ensure a better future.
In some instances, that education is lifelong learning, because we are never too old to learn and experience new avenues. For some, it is the completion of a degree, which took many years to achieve. For others, it is an opportunity to transition to a better job and a more promising future. It could be that coveted high school equivalency certificate, which was delayed because life got in the way. And, for traditional high school students, it is the next step on a career pathway.
As Itawamba Community College joins with the other 1,042 two-year institutions of higher learning in commemorating Community College Month, it is a time to reflect…on our past and our future, especially the last two years. COVID-19 presented many challenges, but also significant learning experiences. Among those are that we can transition to virtual learning (almost overnight), work remotely and continue to provide the services for which ICC takes great pride. First and foremost, we make significant decisions with students always at the forefront of each. It is because of our exemplary ICC family and the contributions of each that we offer both face-to-face classes and remote learning options, student activities and in-person commencement celebrations, and we are back to normal!!
Community colleges are a vital part of America’s postsecondary educational delivery system, serving almost half of the undergraduate students in the United States. Data from the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning shows that students who graduate from ICC and transfer to a university receive their degree with a grade point average above the state average and earn their college credentials with a higher GPA than students who begin their university studies their freshman year. ICC also ranks second in the state in producing more bachelor’s degrees than any other community college, 12 short of first place, which is held by an institution that doubles our enrollment. Community colleges, such as ICC, enable students to graduate or complete their studies with minimal or no debt. Since roughly 400,000 people in the state have an average student loan debt of $33,182 and monthly payment of $225, that is remarkable! The education, which ICC provides, goes beyond traditional bricks and mortar with the significant impact of online instruction and makes possible the attainment of a degree any time, any place, anywhere! The success of all our Itawamba Community College students is paramount.
Thank you for your significant role in enabling ICC to provide the best start for residents of our area and beyond to attain their dreams and goals. And, as always, thank you for being on the frontline to keep us engaged and involved with the latest news and how it impacts us as a community and our neighbors. You are the best!
Jay Allen, Ph.D.
President, Itawamba Community College | https://www.djournal.com/itawamba/opinion/thank-you-for-all-that-you-do/article_f026b93b-59e7-5980-9897-0c1924609a9a.html | 2022-04-13T14:14:13 | 0 | https://www.djournal.com/itawamba/opinion/thank-you-for-all-that-you-do/article_f026b93b-59e7-5980-9897-0c1924609a9a.html |
Amory's Kinzie Marchetti signed to play volleyball with Mississippi University for Women last Wednesday. Pictured sitting, from left: Kari Lowry, Kinzie Marchetti, Perry Lowry. Standing: Amory coach Shay Ashford.
Kinzie Marchetti becomes the second athlete this year for the Amory Lady Panthers’ volleyball team to continue her volleyball career as she signed with Mississippi University for Women last Wednesday morning.
Marchetti said that her desire to get a nursing degree and her love for volleyball led her to sign with the W.
“I’ve always wanted to get my BSN in nursing, plus I love volleyball, so the W just seemed like the perfect place for me,” Marchetti said. “I want to play the best that I can and even better than I have before, and I hope to make many new friendships along the way.”
In her senior year with the Lady Panthers, Marchetti averaged 2.2 aces per game and finished the season with a 93.3 service percentage.
Amory coach Shay Ashford called Marchetti the heart of Amory’s team last season, and she expects her to provide the W with a great overall effort.
“Kinzie (Marchetti) was the heart of our team and our defensive specialist,” she said. “She made sure everything was taken care of in the back row, and she navigated, coached and did everything that I asked her to do. The W is getting a great overall player in Kinzie. She’s a great athlete and a hard player because she’s determined to do any and everything that she can for her team.”
Marchetti will join her teammate Sasha Burdine, who signed with the W a few weeks ago, and she said that she is excited to continue playing with her.
“It’s very exciting to have someone that I’m used to playing with,” Marchetti said.
Ashford said that she hopes the chemistry that Marchetti and Burdine built as Lady Panthers can carry over to the collegiate level.
“To have two girls sign at the same school is huge,” Ashford said. “I’m proud of both of them, and I’m glad that they got the opportunity to go to the same school. Hopefully, the chemistry that they showed last season will carry over for years to come.”
Scattered thunderstorms...possibly severe during the afternoon hours. Damaging winds, large hail and possibly a tornado with some storms. High 83F. Winds S at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 60%..
Tonight
Thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Low 48F. SSW winds shifting to NNW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall possibly over one inch. | https://www.djournal.com/monroe/sports/amory-s-marchetti-signs-with-muw-volleyball/article_cc8b0dbb-8bb8-50db-b7a0-714c36a9dfec.html | 2022-04-13T14:14:19 | 0 | https://www.djournal.com/monroe/sports/amory-s-marchetti-signs-with-muw-volleyball/article_cc8b0dbb-8bb8-50db-b7a0-714c36a9dfec.html |
The Amory tennis team came out on top in its first-round playoff match, sweeping their competition in a 7-0 win over Rosa Fort last Monday.
“We were happy to get a first-round playoff win, and we have been working hard to continue our success into the next round,” Amory coach Amanda Eddings said.
They advanced again on Friday with a 4-3 win over Alcorn Central in the second round.
Christopher Hitt took a forfeit win in the boys’ singles match against Rosa Fort, while Earlie Garth and Jonathan Calderon also grabbed a forfeit win in boys’ doubles.
Kennedy Terry took over her singles match, walking away with a 6-0, 6-0 win over Rosa Fort’s Ricky Davis.
Amory’s girls’ doubles got a clean sweep over Rosa Fort on the day as well. Bailey Flynn and Karlee Capps picked up 6-0, 6-0 win, while Taylor Brown and Ashley Holloway also dominated their match to take a 6-0, 6-0 win.
In boys’ doubles, Clark Mason and Gabe VanYperen grabbed a 6-0, 6-0 win over Rosa Fort’s Tyler Dunn and Quten Washington, while Toby Adams and Rivers Nelson took a 6-0, 6-0 win in their mixed doubles match.
In their second-round matchup against Alcorn Central, Amory walked away with a 4-3 win on Friday.
Terry won her singles match 6-0, 6-0, while Hitt fell 6-4, 6-0 in the boys' singles match.
Both girls' doubles teams picked up wins for Amory. Flynn and Capps took a 6-0, 6-0 victory, while Brown and Holloway won in three sets 6-4, 6-2 and 6-0.
Amory split the boys' doubles match with Garth and Calderon falling 6-1, 7-5 and 6-4, while Mason and VanYperen won 7-5, 7-5. Amory also dropped the mixed doubles match with Adams and Nelson falling 7-6, 6-2.
Terry and Hitt will move on to individual state for girls’ and boys’ singles. Brown, Holloway, Flynn and Capps will also advance to state for girls’ doubles, while Mason and VanYperen advance in boys’ doubles.
Adams and Nelson will advance to compete in mixed doubles at state.
Aberdeen, Nettleton fall in first round
The Aberdeen tennis team suffered a 6-1 loss in their first-round matchup against Alcorn Central last Monday. Aberdeen also gave up two forfeit losses on the day due to injuries.
Karenea Hayes won her singles match against Alcorn Central’s Taylor Kennedy in three sets with a 7-5, 6-4 and 10-8 victory.
In boys’ doubles, Michael Walker and Matthew Thompson fell in their matchup 6-0, 6-1, while both Aberdeen girls’ doubles lost in their matches. Nadia Cox and Ambria Walters fell 6-1, 6-0 in their match, while Haley Fears and Kylie Daniels lost in three sets 6-1, 7-6 and 7-5.
De’quavion Shields and Tamiya Stewart dropped their mixed doubles match in a 6-2, 6-1 loss.
Participating in boys’ and girls’ singles for Aberdeen at individual state are Hayes and Christopher Holliday, while Amari Parks, Wallace Byars, Walker and Thompson will participate in boys’ doubles.
In girls’ doubles at state, Cox, Walters, Fears and Daniels will compete, while Shields and Stewart will compete in mixed doubles at state.
Nettleton’s tennis team fell 5-2 in their first-round playoff match against Winona last Monday.
Annalyn Housley won her girls' singles match 6-1, 6-0. In boys’ singles Eli Dodson took a 6-0, 6-1 loss against Winona’s Kirven McCrory.
Nettleton split their pair of boys’ doubles matches. Blake Williamson and Payne McDaniel won their matchup 6-0, 6-2, while Eli Holloway and Tate Hitchcock fell 7-5, 4-6, and 6-3.
Nettleton dropped both girls’ doubles matchups on the day. Jolie Kyle and Charlie York fell 6-1, 6-0, while Kylee Lewis and Laynie Dodson lost 6-2, 6-1.
Mylee Sullivan and Brady Williams also fell in the mixed doubles match 6-1, 6-0.
Participating at individual state for Nettleton will be Dodson and Housley in singles, Williamson and McDaniel in boys’ doubles and Sullivan and Williams in mixed doubles. | https://www.djournal.com/monroe/sports/amory-tennis-dominates-rosa-fort-in-first-round-tops-central-in-second-round/article_e54e9583-b4ed-5fca-a582-5a26c6f045c2.html | 2022-04-13T14:14:25 | 0 | https://www.djournal.com/monroe/sports/amory-tennis-dominates-rosa-fort-in-first-round-tops-central-in-second-round/article_e54e9583-b4ed-5fca-a582-5a26c6f045c2.html |
The Hamilton archery team was at their best at the MSHAA Class I State Championship as they finished the day placing third last Monday afternoon.
“That was the best that we’ve shot all year, and we had a few kids shoot some of their best scores,” Hamilton coach Michael Williams said. “Hayden (Davis) shot a 294, which is the best he’s shot all year and just six points away from perfect. Katy Welch was one of our top female shooters with a 271, and Austin Escobar shot pretty well too. I’m very proud of the growth that everyone has shown throughout the year, and it was overall a pretty successful season.”
As a team, Hamilton shot one of their highest scores of the season at 3198 with senior Hayden Davis finishing as the top shooter in MSHAA Class I. Not only was Davis the top shooter in Class I, but he also finished with the second highest score in the state.
“Going in, I knew I hadn’t been shooting my best, so I tried doing something else, and it really helped me out over the last couple of practices,” Davis said. “The nerves got to me a little bit when I was watching other people shoot, but I tried to push through it. I shot a perfect score from the ten, and I did pretty well from the fifteen. I was in disbelief when I counted my score up. I’m a pretty competitive person, so when I saw that I fell to second, I was a little disappointed, but it’s still pretty cool to finish second in the state.”
Hatley’s archery team tied for sixth at state with a team score of 3215. Sara Davis was their top female shooter with a 277, while Jace Webb finished as the top male shooter with a 273.
“We hadn’t broken thirty-two hundred until state, so that was a big achievement,” Hatley coach Heather Hathcote said. “Sara (Davis) and Jace (Webb) both had really good days. Sara finished with her top score, and she was very excited and surprised by her score because she’d never shot that high. I knew the capability was always there, and I encouraged her to keep practicing and that’s when her scores started to improve.”
Hatley’s Kenzie Cooper shot a 270 at the state meet, and she was invited to the all-star shoot in Jackson after finishing 23rd in all high school girls at the north half tournament.
“Kenzie has been a pretty consistent archer since she was an eighth grader, so she’s got a lot of experience,” Hathcote said. “Another top female shooter that I’ve had is Katie Webb, and right now, she’s holding out the top spot for us on average for the year. This year, we had a strong group of female archers, and they’ve been our top shooters all year.”
Amory finished 14th with a team score of 3089 with Haley West being their top female shooter with a 279, while Harrison Moore was their top male shooter with a 276.
Smithville placed 17th at state with a team score of 2887. William Prewitt was their top male shooter with a 276, while Keigan Welch was the top female shooter with a 242. | https://www.djournal.com/monroe/sports/hamilton-archery-team-finishes-third-at-state-championship/article_a5894a23-bad5-5cc6-a438-25863c63e689.html | 2022-04-13T14:14:31 | 0 | https://www.djournal.com/monroe/sports/hamilton-archery-team-finishes-third-at-state-championship/article_a5894a23-bad5-5cc6-a438-25863c63e689.html |
HATLEY/AMORY – The Amory Panthers flexed their offensive firepower this week in their first division games in nearly a month, grabbing a sweep of Hatley with 17-1 and 16-0 victories.
The Panthers will face off with Nettleton this week to decide the division championship.
“We finally hit it, and we have had good batting practice sessions,” Amory coach Chris Pace said. “We went to Saltillo on Saturday and got beat 6-5, and we had four walks, four hit batters, two errors, so we gave them 10 freebies and outhit them 11-6. It was frustrating to see us go out and fight for two and them get it, but we hit it well tonight.”
In last Monday’s 17-1 win, Amory batted around in the top of the first and put up a 6-0 lead. Ethan Kimbrough started off the scoring by driving in a pair with his base hit after Reed Stanford singled and Walker Maranto reached on an error.
Kimbrough came in to score on a wild pitch, and Tyler Sledge added a sacrifice fly. Clayton Reese smacked an RBI single to right and score on another wild pitch to round out the Panthers’ scoring in the first.
The Tigers countered by getting the first two on and scoring their only run in the bottom of the first. Rob Ward drew a walk, and Tristan Hendrix doubled and Ward scored on an error in the outfield. Bo Rock struck out the side to keep the Panthers up 6-1.
Amory answered with another big inning in the second, adding seven more runs. Kimbrough smashed a two-run shot over the fence in right center, and Will McComb had an RBI single later in the inning. Maranto, Rock and Corbin Gillentine also had hits in the big inning.
Bryce Glenn had the big hit in the four-run third inning with his bases-clearing triple to center.
All nine Amory starters finished with a hit in the win with Kimbrough, Rock and Gillentine having multi-hit games.
“Ethan (Kimbrough) and Bryce (Glenn) both hit two baseballs very hard, and (Bo) Rock had two hard hits,” Pace said. “Corbin (Gillentine) is still swinging it well, and Clayton (Reese) is starting to swing it a little bit.”
Rock allowed just three baserunners with Hendrix getting the lone hit. He struck out eight on the night.
“Bo needed some work on the mound tonight, and he just threw 49 pitches,” Pace said.
Friday: Amory 16, Hatley 0
The Panthers finished off the sweep with big innings in the first and third.
Amory put up eight runs in the first with Reed Stanford leading off with a double and scoring on an error. Bo Rock singled and stole home to score a run, and Corbin Gillentine added an RBI single. Bryce Glenn hit a sacrifice fly, and Walker Maranto had the big hit of the inning in his second at-bat with a bases-clearing triple.
Gillentine added an RBI double for the only run in the second, but the Panthers exploded for seven more runs to finish off the win in the third.
Rock smashed a long three-run homer after Ethan Kimbrough hit an RBI single. Will McComb drew a bases-loaded walk for an RBI, and Stanford finished it off with a walkoff, two-run single.
Tyler Sledge picked up the win, allowing just one hit and one walk in three innings, while striking out seven. | https://www.djournal.com/monroe/sports/panthers-flex-their-might-in-division-sweep-of-hatley/article_8311bd76-9e32-59b0-a18e-0fdce2dfa513.html | 2022-04-13T14:14:38 | 0 | https://www.djournal.com/monroe/sports/panthers-flex-their-might-in-division-sweep-of-hatley/article_8311bd76-9e32-59b0-a18e-0fdce2dfa513.html |
Pontotoc archery coach Kyle Walker said he was deeply pleased about his team's performance.
"We ended up shooting our best two matches of the year in our last two matches, which is what you want," said Walker. Pontotoc shot 3186 at North Half on March 31, which secured their spot in the State competition. They shot 3180 at the State Championship. That was good enough for 8th place out of 39 teams. "We're really proud of our kids. They showed up at the end of the year when it really mattered." Elijah Wood shot a 289, which is tied for best in the county's history. At State, senior Anna Wilbanks shot 271. "This gives us a lot of confidence going into next year," said Walker. "Archery is a great sport for Pontotoc County, with all three schools competing, and we're proud of all our kids, North, South, and City," said Walker.
Coach Clint Young was equally proud of his team at North Pontotoc.
Recent results from North Pontotoc archery included: March 3, against Pontotoc City, at East Union: North 3205, East Union 3138, Pontotoc 3065, top male shooter for North was Cole Montgomery with 292 and top female was Leighann Briggs with 288; March 8, North Pontotoc at South Pontotoc, North 3236, South 3071, top male shooter for North was Dalton Umfress 289, top female shooter was Mia Harrison with 280. North was 5-1 in matches this season. North finished in the top 5 at North Half and 6th in state, both results are an improvement over last year, according to Young.
"We appreciate the seniors competing and I'm proud to have spent the year with them," said Young. "We had several archers finish in the top 100 at the qualifying match. We have a good core of archers returning next year and look forward to them making further strides to remain competitive in north Mississippi and return to the state championship. We also look forward to adding new athletes next year."
South Pontotoc Coach Christy Cowsert was pleased to report that her team shot the highest score of the season, 3076. Evan Yielding is an All-Star with a score of 288 at State.
Partly cloudy early followed by strong thunderstorms this afternoon. Storms could contain tornadoes. High 82F. Winds S at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 90%..
Tonight
Showers with the chance of some thunder this evening, then skies turning partly cloudy after midnight. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Low near 45F. SW winds shifting to NNW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall possibly over one inch. | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/archers-show-strong-at-state/article_560c9f58-ee82-5641-a22d-af7d023c980a.html | 2022-04-13T14:14:44 | 1 | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/archers-show-strong-at-state/article_560c9f58-ee82-5641-a22d-af7d023c980a.html |
Senior Chase Long hit a ton, but late innings errors and walks cost the South Pontotoc Cougars a division loss on the road at Ripley on April 5, 6-2.
Chase’s first inning homer was the farthest ball anybody in the press box had seen all year, but distance didn’t equal a win. His bomb to center was one of the few bright spots for the Cougars..
Jackson Rodgers got an RBI single to start the Cougars in the first.
South starter Hunter Bagwell made a heads-up play and got a runner caught in a run-down between second and third. He got the out to help himself out of the bottom of the third inning, holding the score to a 2-2 tie.
Long turned in a good performance with the glove as well, gunning down a runner attempting to steal second in the bottom of the fourth inning. Eli Holloway made a nifty catch on a sinking liner to left-field.
Long crushed a leadoff double to start the sixth, then Ashton Goggins hit one right on the screws but directly at the third baseman.
Bagwell pitched 4 ⅓ innings allowing six runs on six hits and fanning four.
Ripley’s Cooper Davis allowed two runs on seven hits.
Partly cloudy early followed by strong thunderstorms this afternoon. Storms could contain tornadoes. High 82F. Winds S at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 90%..
Tonight
Showers with the chance of some thunder this evening, then skies turning partly cloudy after midnight. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Low near 45F. SW winds shifting to NNW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall possibly over one inch. | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/cougars-fall-to-ripley/article_e7faa3a5-a417-5ec2-b231-ce4c75aec6a9.html | 2022-04-13T14:14:50 | 0 | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/cougars-fall-to-ripley/article_e7faa3a5-a417-5ec2-b231-ce4c75aec6a9.html |
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The Lady Vikings hosted the South Pontotoc Lady Cougars on Thursday night for their senior night game honoring senior Lady Vikings Kathryn Smith, Brooke McBrayer, Abby Waldron, and Madelien Woodson. The Viking and Cougar families came together to rally their support behind senior Abby Waldron and her family as her dad Clifton, who is battling lung cancer, threw the first pitch to kick off the game.
The Lady Cougars faced off hitting against Kat Smith, with Rebekah Pilcher knocking one out of the park on the second at bat of the night, putting the Lady Cougars with an early 0-1 lead. The score remained unchanged until the top of the third, when Lady Cougar Madison Holcomb sent one sailing to left field for a double, eventually making her way home after a hit from Sydney Brazil. The Lady Vikings were able to make a move in the bottom of the fourth, tying the score at 2-2, after a single from Brooke McBrayer brought Emma Burk home. The Lady Cougars were not going down without a fight, immediately re-extending their lead in the top of the fifth. Holcomb kept her eye on the ball taking a walk to start the inning, followed by a bunt and single for Pilcher. Brazil was back up next, returning her hit straight to Smith, and an error at first allowed Holcomb and Annabelle Matthews to make it home putting the Lady Cougars up 2-4. The Lady Vikings kicked it into high gear in the bottom of the fifth, with Lexi Walker getting things started with a double to center. Lacie Simmons kept the momentum rolling, returning her hit to the pitcher for a single before #1 Burk sent one sailing to center left to earn herself a double and bring home both teammates to re-tie the score at 4-4. Emma Burk made her way the rest of the way around after a strong hit from #15 McBrayer to put the Lady Vikings in their first lead of the night 5-4. The Lady Cougars put up an additional four runs in the top of the fifth with scores from Abby Carlisle, and Holcomb, leaving the Lady Cougars with a 5-8 lead through the sixth and into the bottom of the seventh. McBrayer was up for the Lady Vikings when she slammed a triple to right field bringing home Burk to put the Lady Vikings within one run. A single from Smith brought McBrayer home to tie the score at 8-8. The Lady Cougars managed to shut down the Lady Vikings leading to an extra inning of play. #21 Holcomb started off at second for the Lady Cougars, leaving the bases loaded after a single from Pilcher and a walk for Brazil. Hailey Rackley showed out with a hard double to right bringing home her remaining two teammates, propelling the Lady Cougars’ lead to 8-11 before the Lady Vikings took their final at bat. The Lady Vikings had Kameron Thomas on second to start, who was able to advance courtesy of her teammate Simmons and a little luck to make it safely home. Unfortunately for the Lady Vikings, they were not able to replicate the seventh, leaving the Lady Cougars on top with a 9-11 victory. | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/lady-cougars-top-north/article_e2dd580f-6f7a-5740-82e2-4c596ca3fff3.html | 2022-04-13T14:15:02 | 0 | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/lady-cougars-top-north/article_e2dd580f-6f7a-5740-82e2-4c596ca3fff3.html |
ECRU- Houston edged past North Pontotoc 4-0 on the road on March 29 in a matchup that featured good pitching and defense on both sides.
The Lady Hilltoppers’ Makinzi Moore led off the top of the 3rd with a single. After two straight outs, Blakely Gill drove a two-run homer over the left field wall.
North Pontotoc catcher Lexie Walker doubled to the right field wall to open the bottom of the frame. Kam Thomas drew a walk with two down to keep the inning alive, but the Lady Vikings ultimately came up empty. Houston got runners to second and third in the 4th, but Lady Viking pitcher Kathryn Smith got Moore to line out to Thomas at shortstop to end the threat.
Madi Coltharp walked and Lacie Simmons reached on an error in the bottom of the 4th, but the Lady Vikings stranded two for the second straight inning. Smith continued to keep it close, inducing an inning-ending groundout from the Lady Toppers’ Jenna Smith with two runners on in the 5th. After walking, North’s Emma Burk got into scoring position with one out in the bottom of the 5th after an errant pick off attempt, but again the Lady Vikings could not come up with a two-out hit.
An error allowed Heather Blakely to reach in the Houston 6th. She advanced to third and looked to have scored on a ground ball from Moore, but it was ruled a dead ball due to initially hitting within the batter’s box. Smith again escaped unscathed by getting Moore to ground out. The Lady Vikings had another scoring chance in the bottom half of the frame. Abby Waldron drove a double into the left field corner with one down. North caught a tough break when line drive from Coltharp was snagged on a great diving catch by Blakely in center field, and the inning ended with Houston still holding a slim 2-0 edge.
The Lady Toppers took advantage of the missed opportunities and added to their lead in the top of the 7th. Chloe Farr led off with a single and later scored on a passed ball after Houston had loaded the bases. Smith drove in Sydney Bean, who tossed a 4-hit shutout in the circle, on a fielder’s choice ground ball to make it 4-0.
“We have struggled to put all three aspects of the game together- pitching, defense and offense- but we are so close,” said North Pontotoc coach Dana Rhea. “We have got to find that consistency. It wouldn’t surprise me for this team to figure it out though. We’ve got some talented kids, and they are really working hard. We’ve just got to come together as a team a little bit better and get going in the same direction.” | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/lady-vikings-drop-hard-fought-game-to-houston/article_1e3fae79-bce7-57af-8b07-b68cb44deb0e.html | 2022-04-13T14:15:08 | 1 | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/lady-vikings-drop-hard-fought-game-to-houston/article_1e3fae79-bce7-57af-8b07-b68cb44deb0e.html |
PONTOTOC- The Pontotoc Lady Warriors came away with a hard-fought 6-4 victory over rival North Pontotoc last Monday..
North struck first in the contest, plating a pair of runs in the opening inning. Abby Waldron drew a walk, and Madi Coltharp drove her home with a two-out double. Kam Thomas then brought in Coltharp with an RBI single.
Brooke McBrayer had an infield single and Waldron lined a base hit for the Lady Vikings in the top of the 3rd. A sacrifice bunt from Kathryn Smith moved them both into scoring position with one out, but Pontotoc pitcher Averi Bridgman got a pop out and strikeout to keep the North lead at 2-0.
Pontotoc (16-4, 7-1 Division 2-4A) had stranded two runners in the 2nd, but they broke through in the bottom of the 3rd. Ella Hill smacked a single down the third base line, advancing to second on a sacrifice bunt from Allie Beckley. Hill advanced to third and then scored on passed balls to get the Lady Warriors on the board. Joryie McKnight doubled to right center, and Addison Owen singled on a line drive deep into the 5-hole. Sadie Stegall was then intentionally walked to load the bases. Channing Lane then drove a fly ball to right field that was dropped, allowing two runs to score and putting PHS up 3-2.
Bridgman again got out of a two-on, one-out jam in the top of the 4th. At the plate, Bridgman reached on an error in the bottom half of the frame, and Beckley later singled with two outs to keep the inning alive. Courtesy runner Morgan Pennington and Beckley came home on an infield single from McKnight. Owen followed with a single that drove in McKnight and extended the Pontotoc lead to 6-2.
North Pontotoc continued to battle. Waldron led off the 5th with a single, advanced to second on a passed ball, and scored on another RBI base hit by Thomas. The Lady Vikings could not get anything else, however, as Thomas was stranded at second.
North chipped away at the Lady Warrior lead. Lexie Walker led off the top of the 6th with a single, and Emma Burk was subsequently hit by a pitch to put two on with nobody out. After Bridgman recorded the next two outs, Waldron doubled to score courtesy runner Anslee Rhea and cut the deficit to 6-4. However, Bridgman ended the inning with a strikeout to keep the 2-run lead entact.
The Lady Warriors put two on with no outs in the bottom of the 6th when Kelsy Spears reached on an error and Bridgman singled. An infield fly rule out and double play ended the frame, but Addison Owen entered in the circle in the top of 7th and allowed a lone two-out baserunner before getting a ground out to end it.
“Averi (Bridgman) came up with some big pitches in big situations, causing them to leave runners in scoring position multiple times,” said Pontotoc coach Michael Wildmon. “Our defense came up with big play after big play the entire night. They (North) battled at the plate and found ways to score. I thought it was a good game, and thankfully we were able to come out on top.” | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/lady-warriors-edge-past-north/article_ac6dcc55-47dd-5b3e-b6f3-0b7856702b44.html | 2022-04-13T14:15:14 | 0 | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/lady-warriors-edge-past-north/article_ac6dcc55-47dd-5b3e-b6f3-0b7856702b44.html |
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I’ve been newspapering across four states for 47 years or so.
Over that time I’ve heard all kinds of stories, from sidesplitting funny to the blackest tragedies.
I thought you’d enjoy this “think and grin” special, which happened a long long time ago, in a galaxy…well, you know the rest of the phrase…
***
This story came from someone of impeccable character, who swears it is true.
Some years ago a superintendent drove his truck to a basketball game at his home high school. He parked it and went inside to oversee the game.
Superintendents are sometimes the first ones at a game, and sometimes the last to leave.
This was one of those superintendents, and this was one of those nights.
The game was played, finally ended. The superintendent speaks to everyone as they leave. "Hi, hello, how are you. I hope you’re doing fine."
Finally he is the last person on the property. He comes out into the deserted night. He walks toward the empty parking lot.
His truck is among all the vehicles that aren't there in the lot.
He is stunned. He looks as high and low as you can look in an empty parking lot.
They say theft is the most sincere form of flattery; he supposes someone must have really admired his truck.
The superintendent goes back inside the school building, calls the Highway Patrol, reports that his truck has been stolen.
Directly a patrolman comes out to the school. The officer fills out a report, sympathizes, says there is a lot of it going around nowadays, finishes up.
The patrolman offers the superintendent a ride back to the superintendent's house. Unhorsed, the superintendent takes him up on the offer.
As they pull in sight of the house, there, sitting on the property, is the superintendent's truck.
And if a truck could have laughed, that one would have been braying. Ever how many horsepower the truck had, all of those horses would have been giving him the, well, horselaugh.
Red-faced, the superintendent shoots out of the patrol car like a bat out of a searchlight. The shirt tail doesn't stick to his back as he hotfoots it into the house. Inside the house is his wife.
She doesn't understand why a patrolman has brought her husband home. She doesn't understand why her husband is so glad to see his truck.
Very soon, she fully and completely understands.
When the racket from her husband dies down, she explains that someone dropped her off at the game to borrow his truck. She picked it up, drove off, didn't tell him.
The superintendent explains the whole thing to the patrolman.
The patrolman is about to drive off. He tells the superintendent, who's hot enough to fry an egg on his forehead, that there's nothing to be embarrassed about.
This sworn officer of the law, of course, is lying. The superintendent knows he is lying.
What's more, the officer knows the superintendent knows he is lying.
The truth of the matter is that there's plenty to be embarrassed about, and the patrolman will soon make sure there will be more.
Another truth of the matter is that the officer can't wait to get out of there, to begin spreading his tale.
The superintendent knows both these truths. The officer undoubtedly knows the superintendent knows.
The only thing which could delay this officer from telling this tale as soon as possible is an ax murder, committed in the officer's sight.
In the officer's mind, he is already polishing this tale to tell every lawman he will see for coffee this week. He will tell his wife, which will put the story on the powdervine.
Soon the whole county will know, and the story will draw good-hearted laughter the way good tales told on prominent people always do.
The superintendent knows all this, knows he has created a legacy of laughter which may well outlive him.
Soon, he will laugh about it too. He knows if you can laugh, you can last.
But he's not laughing yet.
Staring at his wife, he tells the officer: "Don't leave yet. You may have to investigate a homicide."
My source swears the superintendent wasn't smiling when he spoke... | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/superintendent-left-high-and-dry-after-game/article_49d4cea6-9f7e-5c20-a4ad-de72fc384735.html | 2022-04-13T14:15:26 | 1 | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/superintendent-left-high-and-dry-after-game/article_49d4cea6-9f7e-5c20-a4ad-de72fc384735.html |
NEW ALBANY- The Pontotoc Warriors (19-6) just could not find any offense against New Albany on Friday night, falling 5-0 to the Bulldogs on the road.
New Albany pitcher Ethan Conlee had a strong outing and put the clamps on the Warrior bats, scattering 3 hits in 6.2 innings and fanning 10 batters.
After an opening out in the bottom of the 1st inning, the Bulldogs loaded the bases when Micah Reed, Jacob Brooks and Conlee drew walks. Cole Roberts then grounded out to bring home Reed. With runners on second and third, John Stacks lined a two-run single to left center to make it 3-0.
Pontotoc starter Jon Robert Carnes then settled down and retired the side in order for the next two innings, including striking out the side in the 3rd. Brice Deaton doubled for Pontotoc in the 4th, but he was thrown out advancing to third. Carnes followed by driving a double to right, but Conlee got a strikeout to escape the inning unscathed.
Mistakes helped New Albany extend their lead in the bottom of the 4th. Roberts hit a grounder and reached on an error to lead off the inning. He advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt and to third on a throw to first for a dropped third strike. Josh Paul drew a walk to keep the inning alive for the Bulldogs. Paul stole second, and another error allowed Roberts to race home. Silas McKinney then singled, and the third PHS error of the inning during the ensuing at-bat made it 5-0 when Paul scored from third.
Braxton Whiteside and Jabari Farr drew walks with two down in the 5th. PHS could not break onto the scoreboard, however. In the top of the 6th Carnes reached on a dropped third strike and Riley Caygle walked, but the Warriors stranded two once again. Brooks relieved Conlee on the mound with two outs in the final inning and retired his only batter to end the game.
Carnes finished 2-3 at the plate for Pontotoc. Carnes worked the entire game on the mound as well, only allowing two hits. However, Warrior errors and solid execution of small ball for the Bulldogs allowed them to plate 5 runs, two unearned.
In the first game of the series last Monday night, the Warriors only managed two hits in a 6-0 home loss to New Albany. After starting 7-1 in Division 2-4A play, PHS now stands at 7-3 with a final division series against South Pontotoc coming up this week.
On Saturday the Warriors bounced back with a 6-3 home victory over Mooreville, cranking out 12 hits. Deaton finished 3-4 and Carnes 2-4 in the win.
Partly cloudy early followed by strong thunderstorms this afternoon. Storms could contain tornadoes. High 82F. Winds S at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 90%..
Tonight
Showers with the chance of some thunder this evening, then skies turning partly cloudy after midnight. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Low near 45F. SW winds shifting to NNW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall possibly over one inch. | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/warriors-shut-out-by-bulldogs/article_fd46f0d2-09f1-5549-b8c2-658195e2c0ca.html | 2022-04-13T14:15:27 | 0 | https://www.djournal.com/pontotoc/warriors-shut-out-by-bulldogs/article_fd46f0d2-09f1-5549-b8c2-658195e2c0ca.html |
Couponing: Waste of time or smart side hustle?
Gas prices are through the roof. Food and toiletry prices have skyrocketed. Many hard-working people are struggling and are looking for part-time jobs and side hustles to make ends meet. But there's a tried and true method that smart shoppers have used for decades to make their dollars stretch a little further.
Couponing may be a smart way to put extra money into your budget.
Couponing's Backstory
Clipping and using coupons have been around for decades. Newspapers, magazines, and other printed publications once included coupons that consumers could "clip" and use at the grocery or other stores. The original coupon was published in 1887 as a marketing ploy. Asa Candler, who owned the patent for Coca-Cola, sent out thousands of coupons for a free sample of the new carbonated beverage and headache cure.
Avid couponer Amy D. started couponing in the ‘80s. "My dad let me use coupons when we went grocery shopping and added the savings to my allowance. I quickly realized that $5, $10, or $15 in coupons could help me double my spending money. From there, I was hooked!"
Not Your Mom's Couponing
If you're horrified at the idea of carrying a stack of coupons around the store, put that thought out of your mind. Today's couponing is less about scissors and more about smartphone apps. Many stores and brands offer electronic coupons that are easily downloaded onto consumers' store cards with a simple tap.
Heather L., another long-time coupon fan, explains. "I download a store's app and look at their coupons. If I see one that I want to use, I tap ‘clip coupon' and that coupon is automatically added to my store card. When I check out and the cashier scans my card, the coupons are automatically deducted." Today's couponing does not require digging around for your coupons or waiting 10 minutes while the cashier scans them into the register, one at a time.
Is Couponing Worth the Time?
If you're busy with work and family, using coupons may seem like a waste of time. Amy, however, sees a big return on her investment. "I usually spend an hour a month clipping coupons. Before I go to the store or out to dinner, I go online, see if there are coupons I can use, and save them to my phone. It takes about five minutes."
Amy's grocery store savings average $60 on a $250 bill. She shops twice a month, which ends up being a sweet hourly rate of $120.
Heather spends about two hours a month couponing. She looks for coupons on groceries, household essentials, and coupons that provide a certain percentage off at department stores. "I save $25-$30 a week on groceries for my family. When I add what I save at department stores, I probably save $125-$150 a month."
A little less than Amy's, Heather's savings equates to $75 an hour.
Looking at couponing over a year, Amy saved $1440, and Heather saved $1500 or more.
What Is the Biggest Couponing "Coup" They Have Had?
Certain types of stores are gold mines for couponers. Home improvement centers are where Amy saw the most bang for her buck. Her biggest couponing score happened when she and her husband were building their house. "The lighting company had a coupon out that offered 20% off. We ended up saving over $200 just by using that coupon. My husband and I took the savings and had a great dinner and nice bottle of wine to celebrate."
Department stores are Heather's favorite way to save. "Kohl's has one of the best coupon policies. You can stack coupons and use Kohl's cash together. Doing that, I once got a $225 Shark vacuum cleaner for $85."
How Can You Start Using Coupons?
The fastest way to start saving is to download the apps of the stores you shop at most often. Before you go shopping, cruise around on the app to see if any coupons match your shopping list.
Don't forget to check your favorite restaurants, too. Amy is a big fan of restaurant deals. "Several restaurants offer two-for-one savings or $10 off a $50 tab. If I'm going out anyway, I may as well use a coupon and save a few dollars."
What to Do with the Savings?
If you trim $150 off your monthly budget, you can use that cash in lots of different ways, like:
- Paying off a credit card
- Invest in a stock
- Treating yourself to a nice dinner out
- Save it for a weekend away
- Get a massage
- Buy a new outfit
Some coupon fans use their savings to have some breathing room in their budgets or get on a more secure financial footing. Others use it to enjoy a guilt-free splurge. Still others, like Heather, are happy simply saving money. "I don't specifically earmark my couponing money. I just enjoy the savings in our day-to-day expenses." | https://www.koat.com/article/couponing/39712801 | 2022-04-13T14:18:30 | 1 | https://www.koat.com/article/couponing/39712801 |
COVID-19 cases trend up again in the US, driven by the growth of BA.2
COVID-19 case numbers have begun to edge up in the United States, and nearly all of them are caused by the omicron subvariant BA.2.
According to the latest estimates from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, BA.2 caused 86% of new COVID-19 cases nationwide last week.
In some ways, this feels like a familiar place. Cases are going up again. At least one major city is reinstating its mask mandate. Broadway shows have canceled some performances.
But there continue to be reasons for optimism.
Despite BA.2's near-complete takeover from two other circulating omicron subvariants, BA.1 and BA 1.1, U.S. hospitalizations are at record low levels, and they continue to drop. Deaths also continue to fall.
Even though those numbers tend to lag behind case counts, the U.S. hasn't seen a steep increase in infections. Whether that's likely to happen is still an open question.
Even Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, doesn't know what BA.2 will do. As a nation, transmission has to get down to a level that's "low enough that it doesn't disrupt our population or the economy, our daily economic, workplace and social lives, which means it has to be low enough that it isn't a serious threat to the health of the nation," he says. He doesn't know if we're out of the woods.
"We are certainly seeing the beginning of a surge of new infections," Fauci said. "It depends on how high we go up in the surge, and it depends on whether the surge is associated with an increase in severe disease.
"I can't say where we are right now, because we're transitioning," he said.
Cases rising regionally
Across the nation, COVID-19 cases have ticked up 24% from where they were two weeks ago, and the US is now averaging about 38,000 cases a day. This is a jump from last week, probably because Florida recently reported a two-week backlog. Even so, it's one of the lowest daily rates since July.
State by state, however, the picture is more mixed. Cases are rising in 25 states, falling in 16 and holding steady in nine others.
Cases are rising fastest in the Northeast, the region of the U.S. that has the most BA.2 transmission.
On Monday, Philadelphia became the first major U.S. city to announce a return to indoor mask requirements. Cases have climbed 50% there over the past 10 days, pushing the city over the threshold that triggers the mask mandates.
"I suspect that this wave will be smaller than the one we saw in January," Dr. Cheryl Bettigole, Philadelphia's public health commissioner, said Monday.
"But if we wait to find out and to put our masks back on, we'll have lost our chance to stop the wave."
Several universities, including Johns Hopkins, American, George Washington and Georgetown, have also reinstated indoor masking.
New York City had been reconsidering its mask requirements for preschoolers, but with cases rising in the city, Mayor Eric Adams recently said masks would continue to be required for the youngest children, who had higher rates of hospitalizations during omicron than in previous waves.
Beyond case counts, which may be a less reliable pandemic metric because testing numbers have dropped, coronavirus levels in wastewater are telling a largely reassuring story.
Wastewater monitoring is considered a reliable warning of what's on the way. U.S. numbers are trending up slightly but are still at one of the lowest levels seen since July, according to Biobot Analytics, a company that analyzes wastewater samples from across the country.
Different countries, different stories
The situation with BA.2 here appears to be a departure from the one seen in the U.K. and Europe.
According to the variant-tracking website Covariants.org, the Netherlands was near the peak of its BA.2 wave when the subvariant reached 83% of infections there in the second week of March. Switzerland was also close to its BA.2 peak when the subvariant reached 80% of infections in mid-March. After falling for weeks, cases in the U.K. had doubled from a low point on Feb. 25 and would soon reach the height of the BA.2 wave when the subvariant was causing 88% of cases there between March 7 and March 21.
The BA.2 experience in the U.S. looks a lot more like what happened in South Africa. In the second and third weeks of February, when BA.2 was responsible for about 88% of transmission there, cases made a slight bump up but then continued to fall over the month of March.
"I've been cautiously optimistic about BA.2 because of the trends that it's not been as exponential a rise in cases, like we saw when omicron first emerged," said Pavitra Roychoudhury, who studies the spread of infectious diseases at the University of Washington's School of Medicine.
She said the tidal wave of omicron that hit the U.S. over the winter has left a lot of immunity in its wake. We're also more vaccinated and boosted as a country than we've ever been -- though health officials say we could do a lot better on boosters.
Some are heeding that warning. The pace of vaccination has roughly doubled over the past two weeks as more people seek out second boosters.
An average of about 502,000 vaccine doses have been administered each day over the past week, according to CDC data. That's up from about 219,000 doses a day on March 29, when the CDC and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized a second booster shot for people 50 and older, though the CDC isn't specifically counting second boosters.
"That might be explaining our somewhat more optimistic outlook compared to places like the U.K., where there was a significant surge and it was associated with BA.2," Roychoudhury said.
BA.2 in the UK
Overall during the pandemic, health officials have pointed to the U.K. as a harbinger of things to come in the U.S., but that kind of extrapolation may be getting harder to do as the populations develop different types and degrees of immunity.
After a wave of cases caused by omicron's BA.1 subvariant that peaked in January and then fell, the U.K. saw a second increase in cases and hospitalizations with BA.2. That wave peaked in late March, and since then, cases have been on a steep decline.
Adam Kucharski, an epidemiologist at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine who tracks infectious disease outbreaks, believes that the BA.2 wave in the U.K. was at least partly due to the timing of its booster campaign.
The U.K. began offering booster shots, or third vaccine doses, in mid-September, just a few days before the U.S. did. But more people got them: In the U.K., 68% of people over the age of 12 who are eligible for a booster dose have gotten one; in the U.S., that number is just 45%, according to the CDC.
Many people in the U.K. who got a booster in September or October still had high antibody protection when omicron arrived.
Antibodies are the first line of defense in an infection. They act quickly to contain the spread of a virus through the body. Antibodies are highest in the first few months after vaccination and decline over time. But even after they've dropped off, the body retains its immune memory to vaccines and can gear up quickly to make more if it's infected.
Omicron was identified in late November, when many in the U.K. were still within the window of highest protection from their booster doses.
"I think we were fortunate that the boosters, in the short term at least, provided quite a lot of protection," Kucharski said.
People who had recent boosters had such good immunity that even if they got infected with BA.1, they might not have known it because their symptoms were so mild. It was likely that they weren't contributing to transmission, Kucharski thinks, so boosters did a good job of holding down omicron's rampant spread through the U.K. over the winter.
Fast-forward three months, however, and many people who'd gotten boosters as recommended were six months past their shots. Studies show that antibody levels decline four or five months after the third dose, so their protection against infection was probably much lower just as BA.2 arrived on the scene.
And now, Kucharski says, with BA.2, even the boosted group began getting "mild, mild symptoms or enough to detect that and test positive" and be counted as a case.
As immunity waned, BA.2 crept in
Whether the U.S. will see a fresh wave of cases from BA.2 will depend a lot on two things, Kucharski said: the current level of immunity in the population and our behavior.
About half of those who are eligible for a booster dose in the U.S. have had one, and millions more were infected by omicron, giving an estimated nearly 95% of Americans some degree of protection against the coronavirus, according to the CDC.
But for those who have lost their immunity over time because protection from their original two-dose vaccinations have waned or because they were infected a year or more ago with an older variant, the virus might find a way to spread.
"I think if BA.2 can find susceptibility, that will translate into growth in cases," Kucharski said.
But he stresses that a lot will depend on what Americans do right now.
"I think the question is what happens in the meantime, if actually booster campaigns and other things line up, then that might offset [the subvariant]. But I think based on what we're seeing a lot of countries in Europe, if there's susceptibility, either because people haven't had a booster or they had it a while ago, then that can translate into growing epidemic," he said. | https://www.koat.com/article/covid-19-cases-trend-up-again-in-the-us/39706400 | 2022-04-13T14:18:40 | 1 | https://www.koat.com/article/covid-19-cases-trend-up-again-in-the-us/39706400 |
One dead, one injured in Albuquerque shooting
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One dead, one injured in Albuquerque shooting
Albuquerque Police are investigating a shooting that killed one and injured other person. Police say two people were shot at a gas station parking lot near Tramway and Copper. Two people were taken to the hospital. One person later died from their injuries. Homicide detectives are now investigating.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —
Albuquerque Police are investigating a shooting that killed one and injured other person.
Police say two people were shot at a gas station parking lot near Tramway and Copper. Two people were taken to the hospital. One person later died from their injuries.
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Homicide detectives are now investigating. | https://www.koat.com/article/one-dead-one-injured-in-albuquerque-shooting/39713438 | 2022-04-13T14:18:50 | 1 | https://www.koat.com/article/one-dead-one-injured-in-albuquerque-shooting/39713438 |
One injured in shooting involving Albuquerque Police
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One injured in shooting involving Albuquerque Police
Albuquerque Police are investigating after officers shot and injured a man suspected of driving a stolen car on Tuesday night. Police say officers were notified of a stolen vehicle near Central and Pennsylvania. Officers followed the car to the Motel 6 near Central and Tramway. As officers were trying to take the driver into custody at least one officer fired their weapon, injuring the suspect. The suspect is in critical condition at the hospital. Police Chief Harold Medina says the suspect had several outstanding warrants for arrest. The officers involved in the shooting are on administrative leave as the investigation is ongoing.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —
Albuquerque Police are investigating after officers shot and injured a man suspected of driving a stolen car on Tuesday night.
Police say officers were notified of a stolen vehicle near Central and Pennsylvania. Officers followed the car to the Motel 6 near Central and Tramway. As officers were trying to take the driver into custody at least one officer fired their weapon, injuring the suspect. The suspect is in critical condition at the hospital.
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Police Chief Harold Medina says the suspect had several outstanding warrants for arrest.
The officers involved in the shooting are on administrative leave as the investigation is ongoing. | https://www.koat.com/article/one-injured-in-shooting-involving-albuquerque-police/39713872 | 2022-04-13T14:19:00 | 1 | https://www.koat.com/article/one-injured-in-shooting-involving-albuquerque-police/39713872 |
Police find 2 dead kids in Miami apartment; mother arrested
Published: Apr. 13, 2022 at 7:58 AM CDT|Updated: 13 minutes ago
MIAMI (AP) — Police in Miami arrested a 41-year-old woman in the deaths of her two children, aged 3 and 5, after officers responded to repeated hang-up 911 calls from her apartment where they found their tied-up bodies.
Police say Odette Lysse Joassaint told officers “Come get them, I don’t want them anymore” when they arrived at the apartment Tuesday night.
The officers said they found the 3-year-old boy and 5-year-old girl on a bed, where their arms, legs and neck were tied up.
They tried to resuscitate the children until a Miami Fire Rescue crew arrived and pronounced them dead.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.1011now.com/2022/04/13/2-children-found-dead-miami-after-911-hang-up-calls/ | 2022-04-13T14:27:11 | 1 | https://www.1011now.com/2022/04/13/2-children-found-dead-miami-after-911-hang-up-calls/ |
Nebraskans released after 105 days in Taliban custody
Anees Kahlil back home in Gretna with family
OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - While the world is currently focused on Ukraine, many from the metro are still working to help refugees from Taliban control in Afghanistan.
The Human First Coalition, founded by Omaha’s Safi Rauf and led by several family members, continues to take great risks to secure safety for families and individuals left behind.
Rauf and his oldest brother Anees paid a huge price for that risk, spending three and a half months in Taliban custody.
“It was not an arrest, it was a kidnapping,” Anees Kahlil said.
On December 18, the Nebraska brothers were taken by the Taliban. They were doing humanitarian work, and according to Anees, they were following the law set down by the Taliban, and working with their approval. They were told by their captors it was a “misunderstanding”, something that was never explained to the brothers.
“The minute they took us to the detention facility, I said, that’s it, it’s the end of our lives.”
Anees, 44, and his younger brother Safi were thrown into eight by eight rooms where cold winter water seeped through the walls and they slept on the floor without mattresses.
Months passed and they tried hunger strikes to force the Taliban to release them.
“Safi was tortured,” Anees said. “I could hear them from a distance, 11 people were beating him and I was dragged from his room to a different room with five people, they hit me they dragged me. (But) we never gave up.”
His family back in Nebraska didn’t either. Working with the U.S. State Department, Anees’ wife Mariam traveled with his parents from the U.S. to Afghanistan in mid-March. They were granted fifteen minutes to see him that first time, but the tears made it difficult to speak.
”All I could see, I will never forget, when he was looking at me, he didn’t talk to us or anything,” Mariam said. “He was just looking at us, and his tears would just drop.”
After months of negotiations and 105 days in Taliban custody, the U.S. secured their release April 1.
President Joe Biden spoke with the brothers on the phone, calling them heroes for their humanitarian work.
“They did a great job bringing them home,” Mariam said. “It was the best surprise of our life.”
Now home in Gretna, Anees must overcome PTSD as well as the physical wounds he suffered.
And as wife Mariam, daughter Iman, son Sahil, and toddler Ayaan help him heal, they also know that as soon as he can, Anees will resume his work with the Human First Coalition helping refugees in Afghanistan and elsewhere.
”We sacrificed a lot and we will keep working,” Kahlil said. “Nobody’s gonna stop us.”
Copyright 2022 WOWT. All rights reserved. | https://www.1011now.com/2022/04/13/nebraskans-released-after-105-days-taliban-custody/ | 2022-04-13T14:27:17 | 1 | https://www.1011now.com/2022/04/13/nebraskans-released-after-105-days-taliban-custody/ |
Rates of certain STDs increased in 2020, CDC data shows
(CNN) - Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that rates of sexually-transmitted diseases in the United States dropped early in the pandemic, but increased by the end of 2020.
The data was published Tuesday in the 2020 STD Surveillance Report.
By the end of the year, gonorrhea rates had risen 10%. Rates of syphilis were up 7%.
Those numbers included increased rates of disease among newborns, called congenital syphilis. It went up 15% from 2019, representing a 235% increase from 2016.
Congenital syphilis occurs when a woman with syphilis passes it to her baby during pregnancy and it can lead to serious health problems and death.
Commenting on the data Tuesday, a CDC official highlighted the pandemic’s dramatic disruption to life as we knew it.
Chlamydia rates were down 1.2% from 2016.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.1011now.com/2022/04/13/rates-certain-stds-increased-2020-cdc-data-shows/ | 2022-04-13T14:27:23 | 1 | https://www.1011now.com/2022/04/13/rates-certain-stds-increased-2020-cdc-data-shows/ |
Remembering a Nebraskan, one of the 1st Americans killed in Vietnam
PLATTSMOUTH, Neb. (WOWT) - More than 58,000 American troops died in the Vietnam War. One of the first casualties was a special forces staff sergeant from Plattsmouth.
Wayne Marchand was killed in Vietnam 60 years ago this month.
America began its full-scale involvement in the Vietnam War in 1964, two years before Special Forces Staff Sergeant Wayne Marchand and three other team members were training a south Vietnam village self-defense group when they came under attack from the Viet Cong. After fighting off several attacks, Marchand was wounded, captured, and later executed.
Terry Wayne Marchand never knew his uncle Wayne, but he wears his uncle’s middle name.
“It’s very humbling to know I have some lineage to someone who has done great things for people not for himself, not being selfish,” Terry said.
Terry says he wasn’t yet born when his uncle was killed in Vietnam, but his family often told stories about his uncle Wayne.
“He was talked about being a very good man, a down-to-earth person, always thinking of other people. I’ve always asked questions of my father, about his time with him, and he said there was not a better brother out there. He always had his back.”
Sixty years ago the death of Staff Sergeant Marchand was big news here in the heartland, and Omaha sent Hall of Fame Journalist Dave Hamer and his camera to Vietnam to cover the story.
Dave Hamer worked in Omaha television news for 40 years. In 1962, a then 32-year-old Hamer and his camera were sent to Vietnam to cover the death of the local soldier.
“The station wanted to know why are Americans over there and why are they dying,” Hamer said. “So the long and short of it was they sent two of us, Bob Fuller and myself, and we went over and spent almost a month there.”
Hamer covered the story and produced four documentaries on the situation in Vietnam, two years before the U.S. became totally involved in the war.
The purpose was to inform local people here what was going on there, and why a local man from Plattsmouth had been killed.
There were only five U.S. reporters in Vietnam. New York Times had one, United Press had one, AP had one, and two men from Omaha, which everyone thought was a little strange.
Terry says this time of year he thinks about his uncle and all the things he went through over in Vietnam. He tells us the man he never met still inspires him.
“It makes me strive to be a better man every time I think about it. You know it makes me have a lot to live up to. He kind of put a standard I try to shoot for all the time and try to live my life that way. Try to be that humble person, and try to be that person that cares for others and led others to better themselves.”
Staff Sergent Marchand is interred at Lafayette Cemetery in Nemaha County.
Copyright 2022 WOWT. All rights reserved. | https://www.1011now.com/2022/04/13/remembering-nebraskan-one-1st-americans-killed-vietnam/ | 2022-04-13T14:27:29 | 0 | https://www.1011now.com/2022/04/13/remembering-nebraskan-one-1st-americans-killed-vietnam/ |
SARAJEVO, Bosnia-Herzegovina (AP) — The top international official in Bosnia on Tuesday suspended a Bosnian Serb property law that is seen as part of a separatist drive by Bosnian Serbs.
Christian Schmidt, who heads the U.N. Office of High Representative in Bosnia, says that the law passed in February in the Bosnian Serb assembly was unconstitutional.
Bosnian Serbs have refused to withdraw the law and top Serb politician Milorad Dodik said Tuesday he does not accept Schmidt’s decision.
The legislation seeks to transfer ownership of public property to the Serb-run entity called Republika Srpska, rather than the Bosnian federal state.
Bosnia’s government consists of two entities — one run by Bosnian Serbs and the other by Bosniaks and Croats — established in a U.S.-brokered peace agreement that ended the 1992-95 ethnic war. The two semi-autonomous regions are bound together by joint central institutions.
Dodik, a pro-Russia politician who’s the Serb member of Bosnia’s multi-ethnic presidency, has repeatedly called for the separation of the Serb entity from the rest of Bosnia.
Britain slapped Dodik and Bosnian Serb President Zeljka Cvijanovic with sanctions on Monday for undermining peace in the Balkan nation. Dodik already has faced U.S. sanctions earlier this year.
He remained defiant on Tuesday, saying that “the property of Republika Srpska remains the property of Republika Srpska.”
Schmidt said that his decision “makes it clear that only the state of Bosnia and Herzegovina can dispose of state property or regulate property.”
The Dayton peace accord envisages that joint decisions in Bosnia are reached by consensus of its ethnic groups. The U.N. High Representative has the authority to suspend laws and officials viewed as violating the peace deal.
The issue of ownership and division of the state property has remained unsolved for years amid disagreements between Bosnian politicians.
Bosnia’s war killed more than 100,000 people and left millions homeless. | https://www.wane.com/news/bosnias-international-official-suspends-serb-property-law/ | 2022-04-13T14:31:48 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/bosnias-international-official-suspends-serb-property-law/ |
LAS VEGAS (AP) — A defense attorney raised doubt Tuesday about the competency of a 16-year-old student to face sex assault and attempted murder charges in a violent after-school attack that left a Las Vegas high school teacher injured and unconscious in her classroom last week.
In a police report, investigators said the boy’s mother said he had no known medical or mental disabilities but recently seemed “depressed and disconnected.”
A local judge confirmed with the teen’s lawyer and a prosecutor that state law calls for him to be prosecuted as an adult if the case moves forward on those charges and others including first-degree kidnapping, which could put him in prison for the rest of his life.
Defense attorney Paul Adras told Justice of the Peace Joe M. Bonaventure he’ll seek a mental evaluation for his client ahead of a May 6 competency hearing in state court.
The Associated Press is not naming the teen, pending a competency determination. He is being held as an adult on $500,000 bail at the Clark County Detention Center in Las Vegas.
Additional charges including more counts of sexual assault and battery by strangulation were added Monday, bringing to 15 the number of felonies he faces. He has not been asked to enter a plea.
A Las Vegas police arrest report obtained Tuesday provided new details of the alleged attack at Eldorado High School. It said the student, a junior, went to the teacher’s classroom last Thursday afternoon to talk about his grades.
The female teacher told investigators the teen is physically larger than her, approached her as she sat at her desk and choked her from behind with a rope or cord before pulling a bookcase and filing cabinet down upon her.
The teacher “asked … repeatedly why he was ‘doing this’ to her,” before she lost consciousness, police said. She “recalled (him) telling her he had something like ‘multiple personalities,’ and … he ‘didn’t like teachers’ and was ‘getting revenge.’ “
The teacher said she tried to fight her attacker and scratched his arms. When she awoke, she had blood in her hair and her clothes were disheveled.
“I don’t know why I attacked her, she was good to me,” the arrest report quotes the student telling detectives. It said he admitted taking the teacher’s keys before he fled the campus.
He attends ROTC and was with his mother driving him back to school about two hours later for an award ceremony when they were stopped and he was arrested by school police.
His mother described her son as a good student who was “not diagnosed with any medical or mental disabilities.” She told police that in recent months he seemed “depressed and disconnected” but would not talk about what was wrong.
Officials said the teacher was hospitalized. Neither her name or the extent of her injuries were immediately made public. The police report said the teen described removing her clothes, and said DNA evidence was collected.
Outside court, Adras called it too early in the case to comment on his client’s behalf, and acknowledged intense public interest since his arrest.
“I know there’s a lot of information going out on social media,” the attorney told The Associated Press. “We’re asking everyone to respect the process.”
Adras added that prosecutor Lindsey Moors informed him the case may be presented to a grand jury behind closed doors.
Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson, outside court, expressed frustration with escalating violence in Clark County schools, the nation’s fifth-largest district, and told reporters that he spoke Tuesday with school Superintendent Jesus Jara.
“This is an example of the kind of behavior that will not be tolerated,” Wolfson said of the allegations against the teen.
Wolfson, Jara and other officials convened a news conference two weeks ago to call for calm in the sprawling school district, which has more than 300,000 students and 18,000 teachers at about 336 campuses. Wolfson, the top prosecutor in Las Vegas since 2012, is running for reelection this year.
Jara blamed incidents on the “stress, anxieties and isolation of the (coronavirus) pandemic.”
The same day the news conference was held, a campus police officer fired three gunshots at a moving car that had struck a girl amid a report of an after-school fight in a parking lot at a downtown Las Vegas high school. Among four teenage non-students in the car, the driver and a passenger received minor wounds, authorities said. The girl struck by the car was not seriously hurt.
Classrooms are empty this week during spring break.
Since schools opened in August, campus police have reported 3,000 assaults and fights, and confiscated more than 25 guns. Brawls at some schools have involved non-students, adults and parents. The mothers of two students have been accused in separate cases of using their vehicles as weapons to defend their children from schoolmates. | https://www.wane.com/news/competency-issue-raised-in-vegas-teen-teacher-attack-case/ | 2022-04-13T14:31:56 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/competency-issue-raised-in-vegas-teen-teacher-attack-case/ |
MOMBASA, Kenya (AP) — Climate activists are urging more banks and insurers not to back the controversial $5 billion East African Crude Oil Pipeline that is primed to transport oil from the Hoima oilfields in Uganda to the Tanzanian coastal city of Tanga.
Influential climate activists Vanessa Nakate and Hilda Nakabuye have lent their support to opponents of the pipeline citing the need for Africa to stay away from fossil fuels.
The growing pressure mounted by environmental groups, under the banner #StopEACOP, has led to a growing list of banks and insurers quitting the oil pipeline project. Just this week the project suffered another major setback after insurer Allianz Group pulled out of the project. It joins 15 banks and seven insurance companies — including HSBC, BNP Paribas and Swiss Re — who have denied financially backing the pipeline in response to the campaign waged by numerous environmental organizations, led by the international group 350.org.
The 897-mile (1,443 kilometer) oil pipeline is billed as the longest heated pipeline in the world. The China National Oil Corporation and French energy conglomerate TotalEnergies, alongside the Uganda National Oil Company and the Tanzania Petroleum Development Cooperation, have remained firm in pushing ahead with the pipeline project which is expected to start transporting oil in 2025.
Johnson Nderi a financial analyst in Nairobi supports the oil pipeline, saying “Africa needs cheap stable power as that afforded by oil and coal to grow its manufacturing sector.”
Construction of the pipeline will displace thousands of families and threaten water resources in the Lake Victoria and River Nile basins, according to 350.org. The environmental group goes on to say that the crude pipeline will generate some 37 million tons (34 million metric tonnes) of carbon dioxide emissions annually, fueling climate change.
“TotalEnergies is putting profits over people and it shows. Communities in Uganda and Tanzania have been fighting tirelessly against the planned pipeline and the trail of destruction it is already leaving in its wake,” Omar Elmawi, the coordinator of the #StopEACOP campaign, said. “At a time when scientists call for the phasing out of fossil fuel projects, to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, it is ill-advised and irresponsible to go ahead with this project, while ignoring the cries of those most affected.”
TotalEnergies has defended the pipeline noting that it adheres to strict Ugandan and Tanzanian environmental laws. An environmental social impact assessment report conducted by the Netherlands Commission for Environmental Assessment raised concerns about significant risks posed to wildlife notably chimpanzees in the Bugoma, Wambabya and Taala forest reserves.
Initially priced at $3.5 billion, the underground electrically heated pipeline will now cost $5 billion and is expected to start near Lake Albert in Hoima District, western Uganda. It will skirt around Lake Victoria entering northern Tanzania on its way to Chongoleani peninsula on the Indian Ocean transporting 216,000 barrels of crude oil per day.
The pipeline is expected to displace over 14,000 households in Uganda and Tanzania, according to the international poverty charity Oxfam. But proponents of the project are citing a $2 billion annual revenue from the oil exports alongside some 12,000 direct jobs in its defense.
British firm Tullow Oil first discovered oil in the Lake Albert Basin in 2006, with recoverable oil estimates pegged at 1.2 billion barrels. In 2020, Tullow sold its entire stake to Total Energies. In early February, the oil pipeline’s major backers, led by Total Energies, announced the conclusion of the Financial Investment Decision, signaling the commencement of the construction of the oil pipeline.
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Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives support from several private foundations. See more about AP’s climate initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | https://www.wane.com/news/east-african-oil-pipeline-hits-the-headwinds/ | 2022-04-13T14:32:09 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/east-african-oil-pipeline-hits-the-headwinds/ |
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — The influx of prescription opioids into West Virginia communities was the main driver of the state’s drug crisis — more than poverty, job loss and other economic stressors, an epidemiologist testified Tuesday at the ongoing trial against three major pharmaceutical companies.
“The economic conditions were the kindling, but the opioid suppliers were the gasoline that was poured directly on that kindling,” said Dr. Katherine Keyes, director of Columbia University’s Psychiatric Epidemiology Training Program.
Keyes was questioned on the stand all day Tuesday in the state’s bench trial against Johnson & Johnson subsidiary Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc., Teva Pharmaceuticals Inc., AbbVie Inc.’s Allergan and their family of companies.
The West Virginia trial began last week and is expected to last up to two months. State and local governments, Native American tribes, unions, hospitals and other entities have filed more than3,000 lawsuits involving the opioid epidemic in state and federal courts.
Most allege the industry created a public nuisance in a crisis that has been linked to the deaths of 500,000 Americans over the past two decades.
A trial opened Monday in Florida’s opioid epidemic lawsuitagainst the Walgreens pharmacy chain, which state officials accuse of prioritizing profits over health by improperly dispensing millions of powerful painkillers that caused tens of thousands of deaths. Closing arguments are expected this week for an opioid-related trial in Washington.
Keyes described West Virginia, one of the poorest U.S. states, as the “epicenter of the opioid crisis in the U.S.” More people have died of overdoses in the state per capita than any other, all while the state has been grappling with a loss of jobs from the declining coal industry. West Virginia was one of the only U.S. states to lose population during the 2020 U.S. census.
But while she said there is a relationship between poverty and unemployment and drug deaths, the number of prescription drugs present in communities makes a much greater impact.
“Economic factors certainly are important and certainly play a role and we should be paying attention to those, but the opioid supply is by far the predominant risk factor,” she said.
Keyes said she’d cited at least 400 scientific papers in her research preparing for trial. One 2021 studyreviewing opioid shipments to retail pharmacies across the country showed that Mingo County, West Virginia, had the highest rate of per capita pill volume in the country in 2008. The county saw an influx of 372 pills per person per capita, compared with a population-weighted national average of around 35.
Lawyers representing the pharmaceutical companies said West Virginia has greater rates of prescription drug use across the board. They also said there are higher rates of individuals who are diagnosed with chronic pain conditions in the state compared with the national average, a statistic likely related to the higher number of people working jobs that require manual labor.
During her testimony, Keyes said that the wave of prescription opioids drove a tsunami of drug dependence and prescription opioid-related overdose deaths. As the number of people being prescribed opioids decreased, people turned to heroin and fentanyl. | https://www.wane.com/news/epidemiologist-drug-supply-fueled-wva-crisis-over-poverty/ | 2022-04-13T14:32:16 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/epidemiologist-drug-supply-fueled-wva-crisis-over-poverty/ |
THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — Ukraine said Tuesday it is investigating a claim that a poisonous substance was dropped on the besieged city of Mariupol. Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar said it was possible that phosphorus munitions — which cause horrendous burns but are not classed as chemical weapons — had been used.
Now the question is how to establish the truth amid the fog of war that has descended over a city still under attack from Russian forces. A clear answer is unlikely to emerge any time soon.
The global chemical weapons watchdog said Tuesday it is “concerned by the recent unconfirmed report of chemical weapons use in Mariupol” and is closely monitoring the situation in Ukraine. Both Russia and Ukraine are among the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons’ 193 member states.
The Nobel Peace Prize-winning OPCW says that it “remains ready to assist any State Party upon its request, in case of use or threat of use of chemical weapons.”
WHO COULD INVESTIGATE?
First in line to investigate in Ukraine is the country’s own law enforcement agencies. There also are teams from other nations investigating allegations — particularly around the Ukrainian town of Bucha — of war crimes and the International Criminal Court has launched an investigation in Ukraine. The OPCW has, so far, not announced any investigations in Ukraine, although it says on its website that it “is monitoring the status of relevant chemical industrial facilities and any threats of use of toxic chemicals as weapons in the country.”
Marc-Michael Blum, former head of the OPCW’s laboratory and now an independent consultant, said the organization won’t send a team to Mariupol any time soon to investigate.
“We have an active war zone where the OPCW would not send a team in because the security of the team cannot be guaranteed,” Blum told The Associated Press.
HOW ARE SUSPECTED CHEMICAL ATTACKS INVESTIGATED?
If a team of experts were able to investigate what was used and by whom, it would seek to build a dossier of evidence based on laboratory tests of samples collected at the scene and from victims. That means taking soil samples and testing them for traces of possible chemical weapons or other munitions. Samples of blood and urine from victims who were exposed to the munition would also be tested.
Then investigators would seek to interview witnesses and survivors, to build a picture of what they experienced, and the physicians who treated them. In past investigations, experts have studied gas dispersion models and topographic charts and looked at digital images. The OPCW has experience building such investigations in Syria, where its experts have confirmed the use of chemical weapons on multiple occasions.
Damascus denies using chemical weapons.
WHAT HAPPENED IN PREVIOUS CASES OF CHEMICAL WEAPONS USE ELSEWHERE?
Hundreds of people were killed in gas poisoning attacks in Syria during the country’s civil war. The OPCW faced numerous hurdles and Russian vetoes complicating the establishment of investigation mechanisms. To this day, no one has been held accountable.
Two recent cases outside Syria show how a suspected chemical weapon use can be investigated by local authorities — the poisoning in 2020 of Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny and of former double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter in the English city of Salisbury in 2018.
In those cases, authorities in Germany, where Navalny went for treatment, and in the United Kingdom in the case of the Skripals, took and tested biological samples and concluded that they were targeted with a Soviet-era nerve agent known as Novichok. In those cases, the OPCW tested the samples and confirmed the findings by national authorities.
Russia denied involvement in both attacks.
IF PHOSPHORUS WAS USED IN MARIUPOL, IS IT ILLEGAL?
Phosphorus munitions are not considered chemical weapons. Most armies have phosphorus munitions to use for illuminating battlefields or targets or to produce smoke screens. However, if an army deliberately fired a phosphorus munition into an enclosed space in order to expose people to toxic fumes, it could be a breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention, said Blum.
“Once you start using the properties of white phosphorus, toxic properties, specifically and deliberately then it becomes banned,” he said.
WHAT ARE THE CHANCES OF A SUCCESSFUL INVESTIGATION IN BESIEGED MARIUPOL?
Blum is not optimistic. “Given the current situation we have Mariupol, almost impossible to really pin down, and so I have no high hopes for any any kind of investigation,” he said.
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Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | https://www.wane.com/news/explainer-how-to-investigate-alleged-chemical-attacks/ | 2022-04-13T14:32:23 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/explainer-how-to-investigate-alleged-chemical-attacks/ |
Russia is readying a massive, new offensive in eastern Ukraine, hoping to reverse its fortunes on the battlefield after a catastrophic start to seven weeks of war.
A long convoy of combat vehicles has jammed highways across northeastern Ukraine in preparation for an attack that could begin within days, and the Kremlin has named a general known for overseeing Moscow’s campaign in Syria to lead it.
A look at Russia’s military objectives and challenges it faces.
A BOTCHED BLITZ
A failed Russian attempt to storm Kyiv and other big cities took a heavy toll in personnel and equipment, boosted morale in Ukraine and allowed it to rally broad international support.
“The myth about the invincibility of the Russian military as the second-most powerful in the world has been shattered to much surprise of the Ukrainians themselves,” Ukrainian military expert Oleh Zhdanov told The Associated Press.
The flow of Western weapons into Ukraine and a growing popular resistance to Russian aggression will further raise the costs of war for Moscow.
President Vladimir Putin badly needs a quick battlefield victory to find an exit from what increasingly looks like a disastrous quagmire.
Russia’s focus is turning to Ukraine’s industrial heartland, known as the Donbas, where Moscow-backed separatists have been fighting Ukrainian government forces since the conflict there erupted shortly after the Kremlin’s 2014 annexation of Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula.
“In the first round, Russia has lost face both politically and militarily,” Zhdanov said. “It has done every possible stupid thing in the careless hope for a blitz … but it will make the Russian attack in the next round even more furious.”
REFOCUS AND REDEPLOYMENT
After their retreat from Kyiv, Chernihiv and Sumy, Russian forces pulled back to the territory of Belarus, Moscow’s ally, as well as areas in western Russia to be rearmed and resupplied for the new offensive.
Retired British Gen. Sir Richard Barrons estimated the Russians have “probably lost about 25% of the ground forces they started out with in the sense that those have been units that have become noncombat effective.”
“So they’re amalgamating them, they’re refitting them, they’re reinforcing them and then moving them around,” Barrons told AP.
Russia also was trying to move additional equipment from elsewhere and mobilize reservists in a desperate attempt to build a sufficient attack force, said Barrons, a co-chair of the consulting group Universal Defence & Security Solutions.
“They’ve had a beating, and they will have only a few weeks to get better,” he said.
Recently, Russian troops have been seen rolling into eastern Ukraine to move into attack positions. A convoy stretched for about 13 kilometers (8 miles) on a highway east of Kharkiv, heading south toward Ukrainian lines near Izyum, a strategic road junction.
At the same time, Russian forces rushed to crush remaining pockets of Ukrainian resistance in Mariupol after besieging the vital Sea of Azov port for nearly 1 1/2 months.
The offensive is expected to start once Mariupol is fully under Russian control, and the troops pulled from areas near Kyiv, Chernihiv and Sumy complete their redeployment.
WILL A NEW COMMANDER MAKE THE DIFFERENCE?
Gen. Alexander Dvornikov was appointed the new military commander for the campaign in Ukraine. The 60-year-old soldier is one of Russia’s most experienced officers, credited with leading Moscow’s forces to victory in Syria in a ruthless campaign to shore up President Bashar Assad’s regime in a civil war that saw entire cities flattened and millions displaced.
In 2016, Putin awarded Dvornikov the Hero of Russia medal, one of the country’s highest awards, and named him the chief of the Southern Military District, commanding units in southwestern Russia.
Dvornikov’s appointment is seen as reflecting the Kremlin’s awareness to quickly improve poor coordination among various forces that hampered previous military efforts. Skeptics point out, however, that the Syrian campaign involved a relatively small number of troops, unlike the massive operation in Ukraine.
TRYING NEW BATTLEFIELD TACTICS
Ukrainian and Western experts expect the Russians to try to encircle Ukrainian forces in Donbas with a pincer movement by advancing from Izyum in the north and Mariupol in the south.
Some predict Russia also may try to use its forces north of Crimea to try to capture the industrial hubs of Zaporizhzhia and Dnipro on the Dnieper River, effectively cutting Ukraine in half.
Barrons said the Russians are focusing on the east ”instead of trying to do three or four big things at once and spreading the air power and the logistics.”
“The key conundrum is, can the Russians muster enough force … good enough to overwhelm a very good Ukrainian defensive position by sheer weight of brutality” by concentrating firepower and troops in a few key locations, he said.
WILL RUSSIA’S LOGISTICAL PROBLEMS PERSIST?
Despite a new commander, the offensive will likely face the same logistical challenges Russian troops encountered early in the campaign.
During the botched attempt to storm Kyiv, Russian convoys stretched along highways leading to the capital, becoming easy prey for Ukrainian artillery, drones and scouts.
Supporting the operations in the east could be equally hard, with Russian supply lines likely to face hit-and-run raids, helped by the arrival of spring as foliage offers natural cover for Ukrainian scouts and guerrillas.
Control of the skies also has been a problem, with Ukrainian air defense assets continuing to shoot down Russian warplanes, making it more difficult for ground troops to advance. In recent days, Russia has launched strikes on Ukrainian long-range air defense systems in apparent preparation for the offensive.
“If the Russians learned the lessons of their failure so far and could concentrate more force and could connect their air force to the ground forces better and could sort the logistics out, then they might start to overwhelm the Ukrainian positions eventually, although I still think it would be a battle of enormous attrition,” Barrons told AP.
MORE FAVORABLE TERRAIN FOR RUSSIA?
During the eight years of fighting separatists in the east, Ukrainian forces have built multilayered defenses, which Russian troops failed to break despite persistent attacks since the invasion began Feb. 24.
“They’ve been fighting in these current positions in the Donbas for about eight years, so they’re very seasoned and they’re very well prepared,” Barrons said of Ukrainian forces.
He noted, however, that “this will be different because the Russian onslaught will be potentially very much greater” and the east’s flat terrain could give the Russians an edge.
“The sort of ambush tactics the Ukrainians were highly successful with around Kiev may not apply in the Donbas,” Barrons said. “And if the Russians were capable of maneuvering their armor so tanks, armored infantry and armored artillery at speed, they could get behind the Ukrainian position. It is going to be a much harder, bigger fight than we’ve seen so far.”
Ukraine has pleaded with the West for warplanes, long-range air defense systems, heavy artillery and armor to counter a massive Russian edge in firepower.
“There is a battle of time and space between the Russians and Ukrainians for the Russians to muster enough force and the Ukrainians to get the weapons that they need and rehearse themselves for what will be a bigger and slightly different battle, and I think it is finely balanced,” Barrons said.
FOR PUTIN, A RACE AGAINST TIME
After earlier battlefield failures, Putin desperately needs a quick success in the east.
Battered by Western sanctions, Russia lacks financial resources for a protracted conflict. If the fighting drags on, it will inevitably worsen the economy and could bring social tensions, eroding the Kremlin’s support base.
The military already has put its most capable combat units in the campaign, and continued fighting will likely force it to call up more reservists and throw fresh conscripts into combat — moves that could be extremely unpopular.
Putin could be hoping to quickly expand the territory under separatist control in the east, then try to force Ukraine into concessions in negotiations to wrap up the campaign and spin it as victory.
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Associated Press writers Yuras Karmanau in Lviv, Ukraine, and Danica Kirka in London contributed.
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Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | https://www.wane.com/news/explainer-new-front-same-challenges-for-russian-offensive/ | 2022-04-13T14:32:30 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/explainer-new-front-same-challenges-for-russian-offensive/ |
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden said Tuesday his administration will suspend a federal rule that bars higher levels of ethanol in gasoline during the summer. The move, which Biden announced during a visit to Iowa, is intended to tamp down prices at the pump that have spiked during Russia’s war with Ukraine. Iowa is a key producer of the corn-based fuel additive.
A look at how that the decision to authorize year-round use of so-called E15 will impact gas supplies, prices and the environment.
WHAT ACTION IS BIDEN TAKING?
Most gasoline sold in the U.S. is blended with 10% ethanol. At Biden’s direction, the Environmental Protection Agency will issue an emergency waiver to allow widespread sale of 15% ethanol blend that is usually prohibited between June 1 and Sept. 15 because of concerns that it adds to smog in high temperatures.
Senior Biden administration officials said the move will save drivers an average of 10 cents per gallon at 2,300 gas stations that sell E15, as the high-blend ethanol is known. Those stations are mostly in the Midwest and the South, including Texas, according to industry groups.
WHY IS BIDEN DOING THIS?
Lawmakers from both parties and ethanol advocates have urged Biden and the EPA to allow year-round sales of E15, calling it a cheaper and readily available domestic alternative to traditional gasoline. The U.S. has banned imports of Russian crude oil since the country’s late February invasion of Ukraine, disrupting global markets and raising prices.
“Homegrown Iowa biofuels provide a quick and clean solution for lowering prices at the pump, and bolstering production would help us become energy independent once again,″ said Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, a longtime ethanol proponent. Grassley and 15 other senators sent Biden a letter last month urging him to allow year-round E15 sales.
Ethanol groups called Biden’s action a major win for American drivers and U.S. energy security. “It means cleaner options at the pump and a stronger rural economy,” said Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, a biofuel trade group.
HOW WILL THIS AFFECT THE ENVIRONMENT?
Biden administration official say the short-term move will have little effect on the environment and that EPA will work with states to “ensure there are no significant air quality impacts through the summer driving season.”
Environmentalists questioned that, saying ethanol production contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and soil erosion and raises prices for corn and other crops.
“The ethanol lobby will be happy and kids with asthma will be sicker,” said Dan Becker of the Center for Biological Diversity, an environmental group. “However well-meaning (Biden’s action) might be, kids and the elderly shouldn’t pay the price with their health for slight gas savings.”
A recentreport in the Proceedings of the National Academy of the Sciencesrevealed that the federal ethanol mandate inflated corn prices by 30% from 2008 to 2016, made corn-based ethanol more carbon intensive than gasoline and increased annual fertilizer use by up to 8%, polluting waterways.
HAS EPA DONE THIS BEFORE?
The EPA has lifted seasonal restrictions on E15 in the past, including after Hurricane Harvey in 2017. The Trump administration allowed for year-round E15 sales starting in 2019, but a federal appeals court struck down the policy change in July 2021, saying the EPA overstepped its authority.
The decision dealt a significant blow to the ethanol industry and corn farmers who had anticipated increased ethanol demand through year-round sales of the higher blend.
HOW IS THIS DIFFERENT FROM TRUMP’S ACTION?
Senior Biden administration officials said they expected the EPA waiver to survive a likely court challenge, saying that unlike the open-ended Trump rule, the action is limited to this summer and is prompted by a supply disruption caused by the war in Europe.
Greater use of E15 should “help alleviate some of the pain that we’ve seen since Russia launched this war against Ukraine,” EPA Administrator Michael Regan told a Senate committee last week.
But critics said the only emergency is Biden’s dropping poll numbers.
Emergency fuel waivers are reserved for acute supply disruptions, such as those resulting from a hurricane, said Chet Thompson, president & CEO of the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers, which represents petroleum refiners.
“An additional three months of E15 sales won’t do anything to address high crude oil prices, and 98% of retail (gas) stations can’t even sell the fuel,” Thompson said. “This is politics, not a real solution for drivers.”
WILL E15 HURT MY CAR’S ENGINE?
E15, often sold at the pump as Unleaded 88, for its octane rating, can safely be used in all cars, trucks and SUVs from 2001 on. Those model years represent more than 90% of vehicles on U.S. roads. The ethanol industry says the fuel is one of the most tested in history and has no effect on vehicle drivability. More than 20 billion miles have been driven in cars and trucks using Unleaded 88, a number continues to grow.
WHAT IS THE PRICE OF E15 GAS?
E15, or Unleaded 88, typically sells for 10 cents a gallon less than E10, the standard formulation for U.S. cars. The price difference between Unleaded 88 and conventional gasoline without ethanol is around 40 cents.
WILL I GET BETTER MILEAGE WITH E15?
There is no noticeable difference between the mileage achieved when using E15 and mileage when operating on E10.
CAN I USE E15 IN MY LAWNMOWER OR OTHER SMALL-ENGINE EQUIPMENT?
E15 has not been approved by EPA for use in non-automotive engines such as boats, motorcycles, lawn mowers and other small engines. E10, the standard ethanol formulation, is approved for small engines. | https://www.wane.com/news/explainer-why-biden-is-allowing-more-ethanol-in-gasoline/ | 2022-04-13T14:32:37 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/explainer-why-biden-is-allowing-more-ethanol-in-gasoline/ |
VERNON, France (AP) — Far-right leader Marine Le Pen on Tuesday described France as a nation that would put its people’s voices at the center of the political process if she is elected president in 12 days.
Le Pen, a solid nationalist, faces centrist President Emmanuel Macron in a presidential runoff on April 24. He placed first and Le Pen second in Sunday’s first-round presidential vote that eliminated 10 other candidates. Both Le Pen and Macron are now aggressively campaigning to win an election that could upend France’s system of governance and Europe’s dynamics should Le Pen be victorious.
In a dramatic change, new laws could be passed or old laws modified in a referendum proposed by citizens, with conditions such as 500,000 signatures backing the proposal . Such a system was demanded two years ago by the sometimes violent yellow vest movement for social and economic justice that challenged Macron’s government as being too business-friendly.
In Sunday’s first round of voting for the country’s next president, the far-right, including Le Pen and two other parties, together won 32% of the vote, compared to Macron’s 27.8% support, although he was the top individual candidate. Still, that means far-right voters can be expected to factor into France’s political future not just in the next two weeks, but for years, even if Le Pen loses.
Le Pen also wants two-thirds of the 577 seats in France’s lower house of parliament to be allotted by the proportional system to better reflect voters’ choices. Her anti-immigration National Rally party currently holds 8 seats.
Le Pen claimed that democracy would be the main beneficiary of these changes, giving citizens who represent what she calls “the France of the forgotten” a say in how they are governed.
Having referendums can contribute to France’s democratic culture, Le Pen said Tuesday at a news conference in the Normandy town of Vernon. A small crowd of local opponents cried “Facist!” while supporters shouted back “Marine, president!” as she left the hotel to meet the press.
“During my mandate, I count on consulting the only expert that Emmanuel Macron never consulted —the people,” Le Pen said.
Le Pen would also return the French presidency to a seven-year non-renewable mandate, instead of the current five-year term that can be renewed once.
“I want to be the president who gives back the people their voice in their own country,” she said.
The French Constitution would have to be revised to make possible the referendum concept possible, and vital subjects like nuclear power could not be put to a vote.
Also needing a constitutional change would be Le Pen’s plan, if elected, to ban Islamic headscarves in French streets. That’s a big step further than current laws, which ban headscarves in classrooms since 2004 and face-coverings in the streets since 2010. With an estimated 5 million Muslims in France, headscarves are commonly worn by many Muslim women.
“We must leave no space, not a thumb space,” for Islamists, Le Pen said, adding that she wants to “liberate” French Muslim women from the yoke of radicals.
France has faced several deadly attacks by Islamic extremists in the past decade, including the 2015 Paris attacks that left 130 people dead.
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Follow all AP stories on France’s 2022 presidential election at https://apnews.com/french-election-2022. | https://www.wane.com/news/far-right-le-pen-campaigns-as-french-voice-of-the-people/ | 2022-04-13T14:32:45 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/far-right-le-pen-campaigns-as-french-voice-of-the-people/ |
MULHOUSE, France (AP) — Facing a tougher-than expected fight for reelection, French President Emmanuel Macron has hit the campaign trail at last — and it isn’t always proving welcoming.
But he’s not shying away from angry voters, instead engaging in lively, sometimes confrontational debates. Since he and far-right nationalist rival Marine Le Pen qualified Sunday for France’s April 24 presidential runoff, Macron has seemed eager to go in the field to explain his policies and try to convince people to hand him a second term.
On Tuesday, he was asked hard questions during a visit to the eastern city of Mulhouse.
“Why didn’t you help the poorest?”
“Why do hospitals suffer from shortages of beds and shortages of health workers?”
“How can you propose to push back retirement age from 62 to 65 when so many people are jobless?”
The 44-year-old leader appeared determined to explain his policies at length — but sometimes grew impatient when people kept contradicting him.
Before Sunday’s first round presidential vote which had 12 candidates, Macron skipped most campaign activities, focusing his time at the Elysee Presidential Palace on diplomatic efforts to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. Domestic critics decried the perceived lack of debate in France’s presidential campaign.
Now the role of candidate has taken over. Macron is considered the favorite by the polls, but Le Pen appears to have significantly narrowed the gap from 2017, when he trounced her in the same presidential runoff.
On Monday, Macron went to an economically depressed region in northern France that is considered Le Pen’s stronghold. The next day, he visited the eastern cities of Mulhouse and Strasbourg, where far-left candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon, who came in third Sunday, got a majority of the first-round vote.
Upon his arrival in Mulhouse, Macron literally ran toward the small crowd waiting for him. He met some supporters, but also angry, discouraged workers from a nearby public hospital who came to challenge him.
“We are exhausted,” some nurses told him. “Improve our working conditions!”
A 61-year-old health care worker said he worked for 30 years and but is earning only 1,885 euros ($2,051) a month.
“I am not thinking about myself. I am thinking of my children, my grandchildren,” he said, explaining his vote.
Macron mentioned changes his government had made amid the COVID-19 pandemic, including a small salary increase for hospital workers.
“Have your earnings been increased?” he asked.
“We don’t feel the impact of it,” the man answered.
Another health care worker asked him about hospitals “losing beds” as the pandemic is still going on.
“I know, that is the challenge we are facing,” Macron acknowledged, explaining that the issue is about a lack of trained hospital staff, a situation amplified in a region where many French seek work in neighboring Germany and Switzerland where wages are higher.
“Two years ago, I made commitments… and the salaries were increased. And 183 euros ($199) per month, you can’t say that’s nothing,” Macron insisted.
Another big obstacle repeatedly came Macron’s way: his planned pension changes. Macron wants to raise the minimum retirement age from 62 to 65, which he argues is needed so France can keep financing the pensions. Le Pen says she would maintain the retirement age at 62. The issue prompted major street protests in late 2019, and Macron then had to postpone his plans amid the COVID-19 crisis.
“We must work longer,” Macron said. “It’s not true we can keep financing our social model if we don’t push back (the retirement age).”
He kept repeating that the retirement changes would be implemented very gradually through 2031 and opened the door to softening the reform, as he seeks to attract voters who chose other candidates in the first round.
At a rally on the plaza adjacent to the 12th-century cathedral of Strasbourg, home to the European parliament, boos briefly disrupted Macron’s speech on Europe but failed to destabilize him. Instead, he responded spontaneously to criticism and called for his supporters and his opponents to respect each other.
Le Pen’s supporters credit her months of campaigning in France’s provinces for her strong first-round showing. But as Macron joined the fray at last, he sought to make a distinction between their campaigns, criticizing those candidates “who never go to meet opponents.”
“I’m not going to meet only people who like me,” he said.
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Associated Press journalists Masha Macpherson and John Leicester in Paris contributed to this report.
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Follow all AP stories on the 2022 French presidential election at https://apnews.com/hub/french-election-2022. | https://www.wane.com/news/frances-macron-faces-angry-voters-as-he-fights-for-2nd-term/ | 2022-04-13T14:32:52 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/frances-macron-faces-angry-voters-as-he-fights-for-2nd-term/ |
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — One of the busiest trade ports on the U.S.-Mexico border remained closed on Tuesday as frustration mounted over new orders by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott requiring extra inspections of commercial trucks as part of the Republican’s sprawling border security operation.
Since Monday, Mexican truckers have blocked the Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge in protest of Abbott directing state troopers last week to pull over and inspect trucks coming into Texas. The bridge is the largest land port for produce entering the U.S.
Unusually long backups — some lasting 12 hours or longer — have also been reported elsewhere along Texas’ roughly 1,200-mile (1,930-kilometer) border in the early rollout of an initiative that Abbott says is needed to curb human trafficking and the flow of drugs. But critics question how the inspections are meeting that objective, while business owners and experts say the impact is already being felt and warned that U.S. grocery shoppers could notice shortages as soon as later this week.
Frustration is also spreading to members of Abbott’s own party: Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, a Republican, called the inspections a “catastrophic policy” that is forcing some trucks to reroute hundreds of miles (kilometers) to Arizona.
“I do describe it as a crisis, because this is not the normal way of doing business,” said Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez, whose county includes the bridge in Pharr. “You’re talking about billions of dollars. When you stop that process, I mean, there are many, many, many, many people that are affected.”
The shutdowns and slowdowns have set off some of widest backlash to date of Abbott’s multibillion dollar border operation, which the two-term governor has made the cornerstone of his administration. Texas already has thousands of state troopers and National Guard members on the border and has converted prisons into jails for migrants arrested on state trespassing charges.
Abbott warned last week that inspections would “dramatically slow” border traffic, but he hasn’t addressed the backups or port shutdowns since then. His office didn’t reply to a message seeking comment left Tuesday.
The disruptions at some of the world’s busiest international trade ports could pose economic and political threats to Abbott, who is seeking a third term in November. Democrat Beto O’Rourke, the former presidential candidate who is running against Abbott for governor, said during a stop in Pharr on Tuesday that the inspections were doing nothing to halt the flow of migrants and were worsening supply chain issues.
He was joined by Joe Arevalo, owner of Keystone Cold, a cold-storage warehouse on the border. He said that although Texas state troopers have always inspected some trucks crossing the border “they’ve never, ever, ever held up a complete system or a complete supply chain.”
An estimated 3,000 trucks cross the Pharr bridge on a normal day, according to the the National Freight Transportation Chamber.
“We’re living through a nightmare, and we’re already suffering through a very delicate supply chain from the pandemic and to try to regrow the business,” Arevalo said.
The additional inspections are conducted by the Texas Department of Public Safety, which said that as of Monday, it had inspected more than 3,400 commercial vehicles and placed more than 800 “out of service” for violations that included defective brakes, tires and lighting. It made no mention of whether the truck inspections had turned up migrants or drugs.
Mexican trucking companies accused Abbott of collapsing cross-border trade through his order, and Mexico’s assistant secretary of commerce wrote a letter to Abbott requesting a solution.
The order’s impact is spreading beyond Texas: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials confirmed Tuesday that there was another blockade at the Mexican customs facility at the Santa Teresa port of entry in southern New Mexico, not far from El Paso. Those protests are misguided since New Mexico has nothing to do with Texas’ inspection policies, said Jerry Pacheco, executive director of the International Business Accelerator and president of the Border Industrial Association.
He said the protests were costing businesses millions of dollars a day.
“Everybody down here is on a just-in-time inventory system,” Pancheo said. “It’s going to affect all of us, all of us in the United States. Your car parts are going to be delivered late, your computer — if you ordered a Dell or HP tablet, those are going to be disrupted.”
Ed Anderson, a professor at the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin, compared the disruptions to those caused by February’s trucker blockade in Canada that forced auto plants on both sides of the border to shut down or scale back production. During that protest, trucks looking for other entries to cross into the U.S. wound up causing congesting at other bridges, a scenario that Anderson said might now be repeated on the southern border.
Anderson said consumers would likely begin noticing the effects by the end of this week, if not sooner.
“Either prices are going to spike or shelves are going to be low,” he said.
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Associated Press reporters Acacia Coronado. Susan Montoya in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Mark Stevenson in Mexico City contributed to this report. | https://www.wane.com/news/frustration-grows-over-truck-backlogs-at-texas-mexico-border/ | 2022-04-13T14:32:59 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/frustration-grows-over-truck-backlogs-at-texas-mexico-border/ |
Alabama gymnastics is a decade removed from its last national title as it heads to this week’s national meet.
The Crimson Tide, runners-up at both the SEC and NCAA regional meets, has a Thursday national semifinal in Fort Worth with eyes on Saturday’s final.
Alabama, No. 5 in the national rankings, must finish in the top two in the four-team Thursday afternoon session to make the championship round.
Alabama’s semifinal beginning at noon CT includes No. 1 Oklahoma (197.827 average score), No. 4 Utah (197.679), the No. 5 Tide (197.448) and No. 8 Minnesota (197.243.)
The other semifinal involves No. 2 Florida, No. 3 Michigan, No. 7 Auburn and No. 11 Missouri.
Alabama’s rotation begins on the uneven bars, before heading to the balance beam and floor exercise and the vault. The individual national titles on each apparatus and all-around will be determined in the semifinal as well as sending the top two squads to the team final.
Reigning NCAA floor exercise champion Lexi Graber is back along with defending balance beam champ Luisa Blanco. Alabama coach Dana Duckworth on Monday said they’re hoping Blanco will be healthy enough to compete on the bars, vault and beam after injuring her foot on the dismount on beam at the SEC championships.
“She’s been very diligent to her process of rehab and treatments and taking care of her body the best she possibly can with the hope we’ll have more events than bars,” she said. “And that’s the plan as of today.”
The Crimson Tide is coming off a season-high score at the NCAA regionals in Seattle with a 198.175 -- its highest score in school postseason history and second-best score in any Crimson Tide meet.
The Thursday competition has posted season highs that bettered Alabama’s with Oklahoma going as high as 198.475 while Utah has a 198.575 this season.
Alabama won its most recent of the program’s six national titles in 2012 when it claimed a second straight crown under coach Sarah Patterson.
Michael Casagrande is a reporter for the Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @ByCasagrande or on Facebook. | https://www.al.com/alabama/2022/04/no-5-alabama-gymnastics-enters-ncaa-semis-after-record-score.html | 2022-04-13T14:33:07 | 1 | https://www.al.com/alabama/2022/04/no-5-alabama-gymnastics-enters-ncaa-semis-after-record-score.html |
DOUGLASVILLE, Ga. (AP) — Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp rose to national notice in 2018 in part through a television ad that showed him brandishing a shotgun at an actor playing a suitor of one of his daughters.
The Republican, then running as conservative insurgent, pushed his support for gun rights, proposing to do away with the requirement that Georgians obtain a permit to carry a concealed handgun in public.
Tuesday, facing a Republican primary challenge from former U.S. Sen. David Perdue, Kemp completed his return to those roots, signing Senate Bill 319. It immediately allows permitless carry in Georgia, making it the 25th state with such a law, and the 10th added in the past two years.
“SB 319 makes sure that law-abiding Georgians, including our daughters, and your family too, can protect themselves without having to have permission from your state government,” Kemp said outside Gable Sporting Goods in Douglasville, where he said he had previously purchased a handgun for one of his daughters. “The Constitution of the United States gives us that right, not the government.”
Republicans argue that requiring a carry permit, which costs about $75, infringes on Second Amendment gun rights. They also cite permitting delays in some Georgia counties during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kemp’s advocacy of permitless carry had grown quieter after he took office. He supported some gun rights expansions but talked little of constitutional carry, failing to mention the issue in his 2019, 2020 or 2021 State of the State speeches. Republican state House Speaker David Ralston shelved even a more modest gun bill in 2021 after shootings killed eight people at two Atlanta-area spas.
But in one example of how Perdue’s Donald Trump-endorsed challenge has forced Kemp to the right,he revived calls for constitutional carry in January,saying people need to carry guns to protect themselves against crime.
Perdue told reporters Tuesday in Atlanta that he’s “glad” Kemp was signing the bill but said the governor isn’t doing enough to fight crime. Perdue cited the failure of lawmakers to allow the Buckhead neighborhood to vote on seceding from Atlanta, said Kemp has let the state police force “deteriorate” and said Kemp should do more to arrest people who entered the country illegally.
“It’s too bad it took four years to get it done, and it’s too bad it took me getting in the race for them to get any energy to get that done,” Perdue said of the gun law.
Kemp denies he ever waivered on the issue, saying he had to keep persuading lawmakers. “The votes haven’t been there, but a lot changed,” he told reporters after signing the law.
Kemp’s support points to a sharp divergence between the Georgia Republican and Democratic parties this year on guns and other issues. There’s little dissension inside the Republican Party on expanding gun rights, while Democrats are eager to stake their claim to “commonsense” gun regulation.
At an event before Kemp signed the law, several Democratic lawmakers lambasted the measure as “criminal carry,” saying it would remove one of Georgia’s few deterrents blocking people who aren’t supposed to carry a gun.
Under Georgia law, people who have been convicted of a felony, are facing felony charges or have been treated for certain mental health issues within the past five years can’t carry a gun. The new law doesn’t change that. But it removes the background check for a permit to carry a loaded or concealed handgun in public. Democrats note that more than 5,000 people applied for permits last year and were blocked, and say police and the public will now face the danger of some of those people carrying guns.
“Yes, I believe in the Second Amendment,” said Sen. Donzella James, an Atlanta Democrat. “But why are we spreading the access to guns to everyone?”
Democrats point to polling showing the measure is unpopular with a majority of the public, saying Kemp has become a prisoner of his party’s right wing.
“It is a sad day when the Republican leadership across Georgia cares more about their political position than public safety,” said Rep. Roger Bruce, an Atlanta Democrat.
The state would still issue concealed-carry permits to allow Georgians to take advantage of agreements allowing interstate gun carry. Kemp also signed a bill Tuesday enhancing reciprocity in Georgia for gun owners from other states.
Kemp signed the law a day after Democratic President Joe Biden announced new regulations on ghost guns, privately made firearms without serial numbers. But Biden has made no progress on getting Congress to pass gun regulations, and the U.S. Supreme Court could be poisedto strike down New York’s more restrictive permitting regime.
There are no studies that show permitless carry laws decrease violent crimes, a 2020 Rand Institute analysis found, while it’s uncertain whether the laws increase violence.
Even some gun control proponents say that Georgia’s laws were already so permissive that it’s unclear what will change without permits. Allison Anderman is senior counsel for the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, named for former Arizona U.S. Rep Gabby Giffords, a Democrat who was shot outside a supermarket and suffered a severe brain injury in 2011.
“I don’t know that we can really draw any conclusions,” Anderman said.
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Follow Jeff Amy on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jeffamy. | https://www.wane.com/news/georgia-gov-kemp-signs-bill-easing-gun-laws-amid-primary/ | 2022-04-13T14:33:07 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/georgia-gov-kemp-signs-bill-easing-gun-laws-amid-primary/ |
When Regina Hale was growing up in Tennessee, she didn’t know any librarians. Now, 50 years later, she is one. She was the youngest of 10, and her pastor father and homemaker mother were busy with home and church duties.
“I don’t remember anybody taking me to the library,” she says. But when she married and had a family, she started her reading life at the same time. When she was pregnant with her first child, she read to the unborn baby each day. Somebody told her that was a good thing to do. It must have worked. This adult child has “a whole wall of books” in her house now and is working on a master’s degree in Language Studies in Spain.
After a divorce and single motherhood, Hale started substitute teaching and eventually was hired as a full-time teacher. She began a master’s degree in library science from Trevecca Nazarene University, working during the week and going to class each weekend.
Hale has taught in both Tennessee and Alabama and is now the librarian at a Title I school in Huntsville, Martin Luther King Elementary. It’s evident that she loves her work. “This job chose me,” she says.
Like schools all over the country, MLK has a book fair twice a year where students can buy new books from Scholastic, the world’s largest publisher and distributor of children’s books.
“Everybody gets excited when the book truck pulls up,” Hale says. “The books are for all reading levels and abilities, and they’re priced so most students can buy them with a little help. If they’re short 25 cents, I tell them to get that out of the change jar. Some of them learn about budgeting, money, and just what happens when they give me a five dollar bill and I ask them how much they should get back. They have to learn a math lesson when they buy a book.”
Sometimes they donate the change so there will be some for the next student who might be a little short. Clubs and organizations provide books and book money, too, like Pen Women, a national organization of women in the arts. One year the local chapter made sure each first grader got a free book to start a home library.
Some are sensory books that young readers can touch and pat; others are chapter books that older readers can buy, and there are favorites that feature cartoon characters, monster trucks, and dinosaurs. There are biographies, too, so students can learn about how people who came before them lived and endured and made it.
The library is the opposite of drab. It’s a colorful place, one that might cheer a student up if she is having a bad day. Book posters line the walls and the library rules are posted at the check out desk: Read and talk quietly. Be respectful of others. Walk, don’t run. Listen to the librarian. Hale says most students do.
They come in with their class and leave with a book, either one they’ve checked out or one they’ve bought. At the end of each day, Hale goes on the intercom, reaches in her raffle jar and reads the names of children who came to the library and won a prize: a package of pencils, a pen with a light on the end of it, something that tells them the library is a good place to go.
Librarian Hale spends her days surrounded by books and may spend her weekends writing some of her own. When she went through hard times in her past, she kept a journal and a log of what helped her cope. A friend suggested she publish it since it may help others going through the same thing. Hale has another book idea after that.
She believes that reading books can change your life. She wants the students who come to her book fair to believe that, too. | https://www.al.com/life/2022/04/book-fairs-can-spawn-a-love-of-reading-and-sometimes-even-a-math-lesson.html | 2022-04-13T14:33:13 | 1 | https://www.al.com/life/2022/04/book-fairs-can-spawn-a-love-of-reading-and-sometimes-even-a-math-lesson.html |
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — In Rio de Janeiro, two rescue dogs have turned local mascots and budding online influencers after joining their rescuers’ ranks, wooing their growing audience, one bark at a time.
Corporal Oliveira, a dog with short brown hair thought to be around four years old, turned up one morning in 2019 at a police station on Rio’s Governador Island, injured and weak.
“I gave him food, water. It took a while for him to get used to me,” said Cpl. Cristiano Oliveira, the officer who took the dog under his wing and later gave him his name. But within a few days, Corporal Oliveira – the furry animal – started following his new master around the precinct. Oliveira has since joined another precinct, but the dog never left.
Corporal Oliveira has his own Instagram profilewith more than 45,000 fervent followers, always hungry for more photos and videos of their mascot in his trademark police uniform, standing on top of police armoured vehicles, motorcycles or sticking his little head out of a regular patrol car’s window. He even has a miniature toy firearm attached to his uniform.
A dozen miles from there, in the leafy and leftist neighborhood of Laranjeiras, another rescue dog has turned mascot.
Caramello – a name inspired by the colour of his fur – has been residing at the fire brigade that found him injured across the iconic Sugarloaf mountain ever since he was rescued nearly a year ago. During that time, the 11-year-old dog has amassed some 27,000 followers.
Older, and slightly less adventurous then Corporal Oliveira, Caramello’s online efforts have focused on drawing attention to a wide range of good causes and campaigns.
He has used his newly found clout to promote awareness around cancer, or to encourage donations for victims of natural disasters such as the recent deadly landslides in Petropolis. He’s also helped other rescue dogs or cats find new homes.
“Caremello is a real digital influencer,” said Maj. Fabio Contreiras, from the Catete Fire Brigade, one of Rio de Janeiro’s oldest.
But with fame, comes burden. And the dogs’ fans are demanding.
“Sometimes I have too much work. I go a week without posting and people complain: ‘Where is (Corporal) Oliveira? Has he gone missing?’,” jokes Oliveira, the police officer in charge of the dog’s social media. He can get more than 200 messages in one day. Sometimes, he just has to tell them: “He’s on holiday!” | https://www.wane.com/news/in-rio-rescue-dogs-watch-out-for-their-rescuers/ | 2022-04-13T14:33:14 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/in-rio-rescue-dogs-watch-out-for-their-rescuers/ |
“Write what you know,” the saying goes. And Drive-By Truckers’ Patterson Hood and Mike Cooley know about Club XIII. That was the Muscle Shoals bar where they played early gigs with their previous band, Adam’s House Cat.
That place is the subject of “Welcome 2 Club XIII,” the lead single and title track from Drive-By Truckers 14th studio album. Musically, the song’s a collision of glam-rock and outlaw-country. Hood’s vocals paint a seedy picture of “disco light,” a “Foghat cover band,” “penny beer,” “cheap cocaine” and “girls warmed up by tanning beds.”
MORE ON DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS:
How Patterson Hood’s lost ‘90s album finally got released
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Patterson Hood talks Drive-By Truckers, Eddie Van Halen, Jason Isbell
In a press statement, Hood says of the lyrics, “”There were no cool bars in town and Club XIII was the best we had,” says Hood, referring to the two vocalist/guitarists’ former band, Adam’s House Cat, “but it wasn’t all that good, and our band wasn’t particularly liked there. From time to time the owner would throw us a Wednesday night or let us open for a hair-metal band we were a terrible fit for, and everyone would hang out outside until we were done playing. It wasn’t very funny at the time, but it’s funny to us now.”
The album “Welcome 2 Club XIII” will be released June 3. You can preorder the LP on vinyl, DC and digital formats via atorecords-ffm.com/welcome2dbt. The cover art was created by Wes Freed, who’s far-out depictions adorn many DBT sleeves.
In addition to the title track, songs on “Welcome 2 Club XIII” include: “The Driver,” “Maria’s Awful Disclosures,” “Shake and Pine,” “We will never wake you up in the morning,” “Forged In Hell and Heaven Sent,” “Every Single Storied Flameout,” “Billy Ringo In The Dark” and “Wilder Days.” Guests on the album include R.E.M.’s Mike Mills and alt-country singer Margo Price. Drive=By Truckers’ current lineup features keyboardist/guitarist Jay Gonzalez, bassist Matt Patton, and drummer Brad Morgan. The band released two albums in 2020, “The New OK” and “The Unravelling.”
Founded by Shoals singer/guitarists Hood and Cooley Athens, Ga., Drive-By Truckers are celebrating their 26th year as a band. “Cooley and I have been playing together for 37 years now,” Hood says in a statement. “That first band might have failed miserably on a commercial level, but I’m really proud of what we did back then. It had a lot to do with who we ended up becoming.”
DBT’s woke Southern rock sound was crystallized on now-classic albums “Decoration Day,” The Dirty South” and “Southern Rock Opera.” Green Hill native Jason Isbell was a member of the band from 2001 to 2007, before going on to solo folk/rock stardom. This spring, the Truckers and Isbell will return to their North Alabama stomping grounds to perform at The First Waltz, the opening weekend celebration concerts for Huntsville’s new Orion Amphitheater.
MORE ON CULTURE:
Ann Wilson talks Heart, new Muscle Shoals album, Led Zeppelin
This Alabama singer and producer has breakthrough potential
20 awesome female guitarists and their essential recordings | https://www.al.com/life/2022/04/drive-by-truckers-recall-shoals-bar-gigs-cheap-cocaine-on-new-song.html | 2022-04-13T14:33:19 | 1 | https://www.al.com/life/2022/04/drive-by-truckers-recall-shoals-bar-gigs-cheap-cocaine-on-new-song.html |
An influential U.S. group is raising doubts about routine suicide screening for children and teens even as others call for urgent attention to youth mental health.
In draft guidance posted Tuesday, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force said there’s not enough evidence to recommend routinely screening kids who show no obvious signs of being suicidal. The document is open for public comment until May 9, and opposing voices are already weighing in.
Many experts agree with the group’s assessment that more research is urgently needed but argue that there’s no evidence that screening — asking kids if they’ve ever considered or attempted suicide — could cause harm.
“In the meantime, what are you going to do with this mental health crisis? You cannot turn a blind eye,’’ said psychologist Lisa Horowitz of the National Institute of Mental Health.
The task force is an independent group of doctors and other experts that creates guidelines for prevention services in primary care settings, based on an analysis of research. The group’s final recommendations often mirror its draft guidance. Insurance coverage decisions are often based on its advice.
The draft guidance pertains to screening in pediatricians’ offices and similar settings for kids up to age 18.
In 2020, suicide was the second-leading cause of death for ages 10 to 14, and the third leading cause for ages 15 to 19, according to data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Abundant reports suggest kids’ mental health has suffered during the pandemic, with troubling numbers of suicide attempts and increases in depression, anxiety, eating disorders and other signs of distress.
“Certainly, we all share the same concern about wanting to minimize this risk for young people and to intervene effectively so that we can prevent these consequences,’’ said task force member Martha Kubik, a professor of nursing at George Mason University. But she said suicide screening in kids who aren’t obviously troubled could lead to stigma and needless anxiety.
The task force’s draft document recommends anxiety screening for ages 8 to 18, and echoes its previous advice for depression screening starting at age 12. Kubik said depression screening may catch some suicidal kids.
Suicide prevention experts say there’s a common misconception that asking kids about suicide will plant the idea in their minds. They argue that open conversations will reduce suicide stigma and let kids know parents and trusted adults care about their wellbeing.
“This report may actually set the field back,’’ said Dr. Christine Moutier of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Just last month, the foundation and the American Academy of Pediatrics backed suicide screening for ages 12 and up, and for kids aged 8 to 11 when there are concerns.
Last year, the pediatrics group and two others declared children’s health a national emergency worsened by the pandemic. And in January, the government issued updated Affordable Care Act preventive care guidelines that call for universal screening for suicide risk for ages 12 to 21.
The suicide of a 12-year-old Elkhart, Indiana, girl last month left her close-knit family reeling and wondering if they’d missed any signs. Rio Allred was a witty, bright-eyed seventh grader with a wicked laugh who loved books, sketching and video games.
They knew she was bothered by merciless bullying about her alopecia, an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss. She developed it during the pandemic, shaved her head and only sometimes wore wigs or a hat. The family complained to school authorities and gave Rio a choice of transferring or home-schooling, but she wanted to stay put, said her mom, Nicole Ball.
“She put on such a brave face,” Ball said. “I never thought it would get to this point.”
The family talked openly about tough subjects including suicide, and Ball says Rio had recently gone to a school counselor, worried about one of her friends self-harming.
But Ball says she thinks routine suicide screening by “somebody that’s trained, on the outside looking in,’’ might pick up things kids don’t openly share, or signs that parents overlook.
The family has launched an anti-bullying campaign, and Ball says she’s sure Rio would approve.
“I always said she would change the world,’’ she said. “I hate that it’s this way.”
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Follow AP Medical Writer Lindsey Tanner: @LindseyTanner
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The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | https://www.wane.com/news/influential-panel-raises-doubts-on-youth-suicide-screening/ | 2022-04-13T14:33:21 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/influential-panel-raises-doubts-on-youth-suicide-screening/ |
A small Sinclair station built in 1920 makes a cozy getaway for a visit to Troy, Ala. The Station is located in downtown Troy and is available for rent on Airbnb for about $78 per night.
The host writes: “One block from The Square, this space is perfectly equipped for your day of shopping and eating Downtown or enjoying a night out on the town. From casual to fine dining, Downtown Troy offers a variety of enjoyable eateries and shopping opportunities. The Station is only minutes from Troy University, Troy Sports and Recreation Center and more. This is a great getaway option or perfect if you’re in town for work!”
The Station has a small-but-open interior space that includes a king-sized bed, sofa, kitchenette, and 1.5 bathrooms, a screened porch and a “private courtyard area with fire pit, grill, swing and lounging area.”
The Station is pet friendly and offers a small grassy lawn to the side. Click here for more photos and rental information.
Troy is home to the Pioneer Museum of Alabama, the Johnson Center for the Arts, Butter and Egg Adventures ziplining, College Street Historic District with 17 homes from the 1870s, and Troy University, whose campus features a replica of the ancient Terracotta Army. | https://www.al.com/life/2022/04/troys-historic-sinclair-station-makes-the-cutest-airbnb.html | 2022-04-13T14:33:26 | 1 | https://www.al.com/life/2022/04/troys-historic-sinclair-station-makes-the-cutest-airbnb.html |
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Iran’s supreme leader on Tuesday insisted negotiations over Tehran’s tattered nuclear deal “are going ahead properly,” even after repeated comments by American officials that an agreement to restore the accord may not happen.
The comments by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during a meeting with hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi’s administration marking the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, offered his endorsement of their “faithful and diligent” efforts.
But restoring the deal remains in question, apparently over Iran’s demand that its paramilitary Revolutionary Guard be delisted by America as a terrorist group.
Khamenei made a point to praise the country’s foreign minister and negotiating team, something that he had grown sour on under the government of previous President Hassan Rouhani, who attended the event Tuesday night in Tehran as well.
“There is nothing wrong with criticizing and commenting on their performance, as long as it is free from suspicion and pessimism and, as I have said many times, does not weaken the elements of the field and disappoint the people,” Khamenei said, according to the state-run IRNA news agency.
Khamenei and other officials have referred to the Guard and its expeditionary Quds Force as “the field” in the past.
He added that the West had faced a “deadlock” since then-President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018.
“So far our negotiation team has resisted before the other party’s excessive demands and, God willing, (that resistance) will continue,” Khamenei said.
However, lead U.S. negotiator Rob Malley has said in recent days that a deal is “not just around the corner and is not inevitable.” That’s been repeated by other American officials since the talks in Vienna went on a “pause” a month ago.
There’s been no immediate sign of them resuming, despite Iranian media in recent days suggesting a prisoner swap could see billions of dollars in Iranian assets unfrozen in South Korea.
The U.S. State Department on Tuesday said no deals had been reached on either a prisoner swap or on the nuclear accord.
“Any reports otherwise, including reports that Iranian funds held in restricted accounts in third countries will be transferred, are false,” the State Department said. “Our partners have not released these restricted funds to Iran, nor has the United States authorized or approved any such transfer of restricted funds to Iran.”
The 2015 nuclear deal saw Iran put advanced centrifuges into storage under the watch of the International Atomic Energy Agency, while keeping its enrichment at 3.67% purity and its stockpile at only 300 kilograms (661 pounds) of uranium.
As of Feb. 19, the IAEA says Iran’s stockpile of all enriched uranium was nearly 3,200 kilograms (7,055 pounds). Some has been enriched up to 60% purity — a short technical step from weapons-grade levels of 90%. Meanwhile, Iran has stopped the IAEA from accessing its surveillance camera footage.
That has worried nuclear nonproliferation experts. While Iran insists its program is peaceful, the IAEA and Western governments say Iran had an organized military nuclear program up until the end of 2003.
But having Iran able to sell its crude oil and natural gas on the global market could also push down energy prices. Americans have been paying some of the highest-ever prices at the pump for gasoline, fueled by Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Khamenei also praised Palestinians for attacks against Israelis that killed and wounded several people in recent days.
“These moves showed that Palestine is alive despite efforts by the U.S. and its followers and through the current moves the final victory will be with the Palestinian people,” he said.
Iran does not recognize Israel and supports anti-Israeli militant groups like the Palestinian group Hamas and Lebanon’s Shiite militia group Hezbollah.
In Yemen, where Iran supports the Houthi rebels against Iran’s regional rival Saudi Arabia, Khamenei urged the kingdom to bring an end to the war. A temporary truce is ongoing there amid Ramadan.
“Why do you continue a war when you do not have the possibility of victory in it?” Khamenei asked. “Find a way and pull yourself out of the trouble.”
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Gambrell reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. | https://www.wane.com/news/iran-supreme-leader-optimistic-though-nuclear-talks-stalled/ | 2022-04-13T14:33:28 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/iran-supreme-leader-optimistic-though-nuclear-talks-stalled/ |
An Alabama jury is deliberating in the trial of a man charged with capital murder in the killing of a woman whose body was never found following her disappearance in 2006.
Prosecutors contend Derrill Richard Ennis, 41, was obsessed with Lori Ann Slesinski, 24, and killed her when she refused to be more than friends. Ennis testified that their relationship was deeper, telling jurors they had consensual sex and she vanished after leaving to meet a drug dealer.
Lee County jurors began deliberating late Tuesday following closing arguments, news outlets reported, and a judge told them to continue work on Wednesday. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.
Slesinski’s mother reported her missing June 13, 2006, and her burned-out car was found the next day. Ennis left Auburn after being questioned by police and was arrested in Virginia in 2018.
District Attorney Jessica Ventiere told jurors in closing arguments that Ennis was “obsessed with Lori,” and it wasn’t “puppy love.” When Slesinski told Ennis she wanted to just be friends, Ventiere said, the man killed her.
Ennis’ semen was found inside Slesinski’s mobile home, forensic evidence showed, and investigators found a phone, minus its long cord, in her bedroom. A rolled cigarette with Ennis’ DNA was found near Slesinski’s burned vehicle, and the man had fresh scratches on his arms and hands when questioned by police. Cleaning supplies, a knife and handcuffs were found in Ennis’ car, evidence showed.
Ennis denied that he killed the woman, telling jurors the two had consensual sex. Ennis said the last time he spoke with Slesinski she was supposed to meet with a drug dealer to sell marijuana the duo had been growing together.
Scratches on his arms came from his dog, Ennis said, and the defense suggested someone planted the cigarette with Ennis’ DNA at the scene of the burned-out vehicle.
With investigators having never found a body, Ventiere questioned Ennis about Slesinski’s whereabouts.
“Where did you dump Lori’s body?” Ventire asked.
“I did not dump Lori’s body anywhere,” Ennis replied.
“Who did then?” the prosecutor asked.
“I have no idea,” he responded. | https://www.al.com/news/2022/04/alabama-jury-deliberating-in-capital-murder-case-of-woman-missing-since-2006.html | 2022-04-13T14:33:32 | 0 | https://www.al.com/news/2022/04/alabama-jury-deliberating-in-capital-murder-case-of-woman-missing-since-2006.html |
SAN DIEGO (AP) — A California appeals court has upheld a lower court ruling that Johnson & Johnson must pay penalties to the state for deceptively marketing pelvic mesh implants for women, but reduced the amount by $42 million to $302 million.
Johnson & Johnson had appealed in 2020 after Superior Court Judge Eddie Sturgeon assessed the $344 million in penalties against Johnson & Johnson subsidiary Ethicon.
Sturgeon found after a non-jury trial that the company made misleading and potentially harmful statements in hundreds of thousands of advertisements and instructional brochures for nearly two decades.
California’s Fourth District Court of Appeal issued a ruling Monday that $42 million in penalties assessed for the company’s sales pitches to doctors were unjustified because there was no evidence of what the sales representatives actually said.
But the appeals court said Sturgeon received ample evidence that Ethicon knowingly deceived both physicians and patients about the risks posed by its products, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.
Ryan Carbain, a Johnson & Johnson spokesperson, told the Chronicle that the company would appeal the appeals court ruling to the state Supreme Court.
The instructions for use in all of the company’s pelvic mesh implant packages “falsified or omitted the full range, severity, duration, and cause of complications associated with Ethicon’s pelvic mesh products, as well as the potential irreversibility and catastrophic consequences,” Presiding Justice Judith McConnell of the appeals court said in a 3-0 ruling upholding the $302 million in penalties.
She rejected the company’s claim that the fine was excessive, saying it amounted to less than 1% of Johnson & Johnson’s net worth of $70.4 billion.
The products, also called transvaginal mesh, are synthetic and surgically implanted through the vagina of women whose pelvic organs have sagged or who suffered from stress urinary incontinence when they cough, sneeze or lift heavy objects.
Many women have sued the New Jersey-based company alleging that the mesh caused severe pain, bleeding, infections, discomfort during intercourse and the need for removal surgery.
The condition is estimated to affect 3% to 17% of women and it sometimes becomes severe after age 70.
Johnson & Johnson, the world’s biggest maker of health care products, is contesting other lawsuits over drug side effects, its role in the U.S. opioid epidemic and allegations its baby powder caused cancer in some users. | https://www.wane.com/news/johnson-johnson-ordered-to-pay-302m-in-pelvic-mesh-case/ | 2022-04-13T14:33:35 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/johnson-johnson-ordered-to-pay-302m-in-pelvic-mesh-case/ |
Colorado lawmakers say a report due out soon from the Government Accountability Office confirms there were major flaws in the process behind last year’s decision to move the headquarters of U.S. Space Command from Colorado Springs to Huntsville.
The findings, which have now been reviewed by Colorado lawmakers, hint that a flawed process and not “key national security and cost considerations” may have influenced the decision to relocate the headquarters to a state that went red in the 2020 election. The decision was a surprise move announced during then-President Donald Trump’s last week in office.
“We have said before that the U.S. Space Command basing decision was the result of a flawed and untested process that lacked transparency and neglected key national security and cost considerations,” read a joint statement Tuesday morning from U.S Rep. Doug Lamborn, Sen. Michael Bennet, Sen. John Hickenlooper and Rep. Jason Crow. “After reviewing the draft GAO report, we are even more concerned about the questionable decision to move U.S. Space Command from Colorado to Alabama,” they said.
Before Jan. 13, 2021, a yearslong quest by the Pentagon to find a permanent headquarters for Space Command appeared to be in its final phases, and its long-term interim home at what was then known as Peterson Air Force Base a shoo-in. The announcement that Huntsville’s Redstone Arsenal had won out drew widespread confusion and pushback, in the Springs and from the state’s elected leaders. It also triggered two federal investigations into the potential impact of political influence on a decision the ex-president said, seven months later during a phone interview with a radio show, had been made by him “single-handedly.” His statement confirmed a January 2021 report by The Gazette.
The Government Accountability Office report should be released before the end of April. A report is also coming from the Pentagon’s Office of Inspector General.
Last September, the House Armed Services Committee passed an amendment to the budget of the National Defense Authorization Act, put forward by Rep. Lamborn. The amendment, later scrubbed from the Senate version of the bill, would have prevented any preparation for the relocation of Space Command from Colorado Springs to Huntsville until both federal reports are complete and made public.
Alabama is still cued up to become the new home of Space Command, as soon as 2026, but several hurdles still remain, including the results of an environmental review.
U.S. Space Command is currently headquartered at Peterson Space Force Base, which last summer joined Schriever Space Force Base and Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station in adopting updated names that embrace the space service branch.
In their joint statement, the group of congressmen from Colorado again argued for the logic of locating the headquarters in a place that already has much of the necessary infrastructure and workforce in place and in action. They argued keeping Space Command where it is now is more important than ever in light of current global events, and the prospect of the first ever war potentially fought in space.
“Putin’s war on Ukraine and China’s space expansion underscores the need for U.S. Space Command to reach full operational capability as soon as possible. We cannot afford any operational disruptions or delays to the mission currently being conducted at Peterson Space Force Base, which is why U.S. Space Command must remain in Colorado,” the Colorado lawmakers said in their statement.
In an act condemned by the Biden Administration as “dangerous” and “irresponsible,” last November Russia launched a “direct-ascent anti-satellite missile,” blowing up one of its own satellites. The test scattered “more than 1,500 pieces of trackable orbital debris” through low-Earth orbit, potentially jeopardizing global phone, broadband, GPS and other vital services, according to a Nov. 15, 2021 statement from U.S. Space Command at Peterson Space Force Base.
In January 2021, one of those pieces of debris came less than 50 feet from pulverizing a Chinese satellite.
The lawmakers said they will “continue to work on a bipartisan basis to urge the Biden Administration to keep U.S. Space Command at Peterson. Colorado Springs is the best and only home for U.S. Space Command. We look forward to the report’s public release in the near future.”
___
(c)2022 The Gazette (Colorado Springs, Colo.)
Visit The Gazette (Colorado Springs, Colo.) at www.gazette.com
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. | https://www.al.com/news/2022/04/report-shows-decision-to-move-space-command-to-huntsville-flawedquestionable-colorado-lawmakers-say.html | 2022-04-13T14:33:38 | 1 | https://www.al.com/news/2022/04/report-shows-decision-to-move-space-command-to-huntsville-flawedquestionable-colorado-lawmakers-say.html |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Shirley Troutman, a judge on New York’s highest court, was working last week when her daughter texted messages that included a clapping hands emoji. Soon, her phone was buzzing with other celebratory messages. The applause and the excitement was for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, who last week was confirmed to the U.S. Supreme Court and will become its first Black female justice.
Jackson will become the court’s 116th member. That’s special for Troutman, who is the 116th member of her court too.
“As a judge, as a Black woman, I am extremely proud and wish her the best,” said Troutman, who took her seat earlier this year and is the second Black woman to serve on her court. She said she cried “tears of joy” Thursday when Jackson was confirmed.
Troutman is among 17 Black women and 14 Black men currently serving on their state’s highest court, according to the Brennan Center for Justice in New York, which has tracked diversity on those courts. A majority of the women joined the bench within the last five years and, like Jackson, shattered a barrier, becoming the first Black woman on their state’s high court. In interviews, some of those women described not only their own delight at Jackson’s confirmation but also suggested there’s more work to be done to make America’s courts more reflective of its citizens.
“I am so proud and optimistic about her accomplishment and what this means,” said Justice Melissa Long of Rhode Island’s Supreme Court.
Long, who joined her state’s high court in 2021, also feels a “great sense of connection” to Jackson. They were born 10 days apart in 1970 in Washington, D.C. Long’s parents had married in the city because laws against interracial marriage, struck down by the Supreme Court in 1967, prohibited them from getting married in Virginia.
Being the first Black woman and first person of color on her state’s five-member court “feels like a responsibility,” Long said. “It’s an important responsibility, but it does feel like a responsibility.”
That’s in part because diversity overall on state courts is lacking. People of color make up 17% of the judges on state supreme courts, but as of last year, 22 states had high courts where no member identified as a person of color, according to the Brennan Center. In 11 of those states, minorities make up at least 20% of the population, according to the Brennan Center. About 30% of all federal judges, meanwhile, identify as people of color.
Those numbers help explain why the Brennan Center’s Madiba Dennie says she’s wary of people thinking that Jackson’s confirmation means: “We did it. We have a Black woman on the Supreme Court now.” There’s more work to be done, she said, with “huge disparities throughout the rest of the federal judiciary and at the state judiciary as well.”
The history of Black women serving on their state’s highest court goes back to 1988 when Juanita Kidd Stout joined Pennsylvania’s highest court. That was seven years after Justice Sandra Day O’Connor became the first woman on the U.S. Supreme Court. Stout served for a year before she reached the mandatory age of retirement. Today, the four men and three women on Pennsylvania’s highest court are all white.
Other state high courts are more diverse. Maryland has two Black women on its highest court, the Court of Appeals, where members wear red robes with white collars and are called judge, not justice. Judge Shirley M. Watts joined the seven-member court in 2013 and Judge Michele D. Hotten in 2015.
In California, Justice Leondra Kruger was among the women President Joe Biden considered nominating to fulfill his campaign pledge to put a Black woman on the Supreme Court, if given the opportunity. In Ohio, Justice Melody Stewart was a classically trained pianist before making the switch to a career in law. And in Washington, Justice G. Helen Whitener is one of two gay justices and one of seven women on state’s nine-member high court.
In Massachusetts, Kimberly Budd serves as her court’s chief justice, a position she has held since 2020. North Carolina’s Cheri Beasley served as the chief justice of that state’s Supreme Court and is now a leading candidate in the Democratic primary for the 2022 U.S. Senate election.
Louisiana also until recently had a Black woman leading its highest court. Bernette Johnson was elected to the court in 1994 and served as its chief from 2013 to her 2020 retirement. Today, Justice Piper D. Griffin is the second Black woman and third Black person to serve on that court.
Griffin called Jackson’s confirmation “surreal” and “humbling.” “It was one of those things that you never think you’d see in your lifetime. You know, it’s kind of like you, you’re hopeful, but you’re never expecting it,” said Griffin, who was elected to her position in 2020.
Griffin said her phone “blew up” Thursday afternoon when Jackson was confirmed. “I got lots of exclamation points,” she said. One friend, knowing Griffin couldn’t watch Vice President Kamala Harris announce live that Jackson had been confirmed, recorded the moment on her phone and texted it to her. Over and over and over again friends texted one word: Yes!
Troutman, the judge on New York’s highest court, said one of the things her daughter sent her that day was a picture of Jackson and the president hugging. It’s important that Jackson is the first Black woman on the Supreme Court, Troutman said, but: “It is most important that she shall not be the last.” | https://www.wane.com/news/ketanji-brown-jackson-is-and-isnt-first-black-woman-justice/ | 2022-04-13T14:33:42 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/ketanji-brown-jackson-is-and-isnt-first-black-woman-justice/ |
Florence police arrested one person following a shooting and stabbing at a business Tuesday night.
Det. Sgt. Ryan Kelly said the incident happened about 9 p.m. in the 4300 block of Bryson Boulevard in the Florence Industrial Park.
Officers arrived to find a 27-year-old man who had been shot and stabbed.
The victim was taken by helicopter to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for treatment.
Kelly said the victim is stable but still in critical condition.
Donivon I. Forbes, 22, was arrested and has been charged with attempted murder. He is currently being held on a $60,000 bond. | https://www.al.com/news/huntsville/2022/04/arrest-made-after-person-shot-stabbed-in-florence-business.html | 2022-04-13T14:33:44 | 1 | https://www.al.com/news/huntsville/2022/04/arrest-made-after-person-shot-stabbed-in-florence-business.html |
AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — Tribes in Maine gave up some of their rights to the state when they settled their land claims more than 40 years ago.
They want to change that agreement so they can enjoy the same self-governing rights as the other Native Americans.
The Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, Maliseet and Mi’kmaq view legislative debate this week, ahead of the midterm elections, as their best opportunity for establishing rights to self determination.
The proposed changes come against a backdrop of President Joe Biden’s administration seeking to ensure that tribes are consulted early when it comes to policies or actions that impact them. It also has sought ways for the federal government and tribes to co-manage federal land that is part of tribes’ ancestral homeland.
But unlike the hundreds of tribal reservations across the United States, the Passamaquoddy’s and Penobscot’s three reservations in Maine are governed like municipalities and bound by state laws under the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act of 1980.
In Maine, the larger Passamaquoddy and Penobscot tribes operate their own police departments and health clinics but don’t have full autonomy over matters on their land. The state and tribes have butted heads on environmental, fish and wildlife rules.
Change could come with votes in the state Legislature that began Tuesday.
One of the bills would amend the land claims act to ensure that tribes have control over their land that’s comparable to other tribes in the U.S. Of the 574 federally recognized tribes in the country, about 325 have reservation land. The Legislature has not voted on that bill.
Another bill would ensure the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point can regulate its own drinking water, drilling wells on land owned by the tribe, for example, and working with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency instead of being bound by state regulatory agencies.
That bill overwhelmingly passed, 103-35, in the initial House vote on Tuesday. The Senate will take it up later this week.
On Monday, about 300 tribal members and supporters gathered at the State House and marched to the home of Gov. Janet Mills, who’s opposed some aspects of both proposals.
One of the speakers, 19-year-old Passamaquoddy Noela Altvater, told the crowd that clean drinking water is available virtually everywhere in Maine — except on the Pleasant Point reservation where she’s grown up.
“Our community has been stripped and kept from this basic need for our entire existence,” she said.
Chief Maggie Dana of the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point, also known as Sipayik, put it in stark terms.
“Our culture is clear — water is life. And for the Passamaquoddy people at Sipayik, it is poison,” Dana said.
For the tribes, it has been a long, frustrating battle since they traded some rights to the state under an $81.5 million settlement that was signed by President Jimmy Carter in 1980. The settlement can be changed, but only with the agreement of both the state and the tribes.
That settlement for the Passamaquoddy, Penobscot and Maliseet, along with a 1991 agreement for the Mi’kmaq, all federally recognized, put the Maine tribes on a different footing from tribes elsewhere across the country.
In Maine, opponents fear unintended consequences, like tribes flexing their muscle on environmental, fish and wildlife, and economic development.
That’s one of the reasons why Maine’s Democratic governor has not warmed to the sovereignty bill. If it’s approved, she might veto it.
A spokesperson said the governor is committed to improving drinking water quality by working with the local water district, Passamaquoddy Tribe, and the federal government. But Mills didn’t appreciate one tribal leader’s suggestion that she was offering “beads and trinkets” instead of substantive proposals.
“The governor is focused on bringing people together to solve problems, not trading insults at press conferences,” spokesperson Lindsay Crete said.
Despite the governor’s opposition, the tribes still see this as their best chance, potentially for some time, to get the bills passed because they have the support of Democratic leadership.
With the midterms coming up, Republicans could take control of one or both Democratically controlled chambers in the State House, along with the governorship, hampering efforts to press forward with the proposals.
Maggie Dana said the tribes have been educating lawmakers and creating alliances, and they’re hopeful for change.
It’s time for the state to live up to its motto Dirigo, which is Latin for “I lead,” instead of being last to expand the rights of Native Americans to the same rights enjoyed by others, Dana said. | https://www.wane.com/news/maine-lawmakers-taking-up-thorny-issue-of-tribal-sovereignty/ | 2022-04-13T14:33:49 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/maine-lawmakers-taking-up-thorny-issue-of-tribal-sovereignty/ |
This is an opinion column.
As I write this column, my father is undergoing major heart surgery. Superman is down, and, for the first time in my life, he seems mortal. There’s a terrifying, sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. Yet, even in this moment, I’m coming up with something smart to write and a way to put a smile on a kid scared his hero might not make it.
In many stage performances, an imaginary invisible barrier called the “fourth wall” separates actors from the audience. While spectators can see through the wall, actors behave as if they cannot. Too many of us spend much of our lives performing for an audience we can’t see.
Read more Cameron Smith columns:
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Writing a column isn’t an exception.
Week after week, I develop perspectives on issues relevant to readers, write them down, and then publish. It’s a stage where I manage the characters, story, and even the conclusions I’m hoping readers adopt. My own fourth wall helps me cope with aspects of life beyond my control.
Some people talk with therapists; I write columns.
Readers don’t see the tears streaming down my face when something reminds me of my younger brother who has been gone for two decades. I frequently forget to mention the ugly aspects of marriage and parenting. Most of my idiotic knee-jerk political reactions magically vanish in the editing process.
Maintaining an ongoing performance is morally hazardous. Authenticity matters so deeply. People need to know they’re not stranded in life. Editorial sterilization is the written equivalent of beach pictures where families smile while wearing spotless white clothes. Sure, some of us care about politics. Others enjoy discussions about faith and family. Each of those conversations are vain and empty without authentic humanity to ground the exchange.
Lately, I’ve felt the heaviness of life in powerful ways.
In addition to my father having serious surgery, my grandfather is suffering from severe dementia. It’s the kind that drives him to eat flowers out of a vase, go for walks completely naked, and try to choke people solely because they’re drinking Dr. Pepper. In the midst of our healthcare challenges, my wife and I are also training to foster a child in our home. I’ve taken on the most significant work projects of my professional life, and parenting three boys is unbelievably weird all the time.
In the midst of the chaos, I felt sorry for myself. Sulking in a local coffee shop, I asked God to give me and my family a break. Within five minutes, I passed a red metal chair with a sign on it. “Do not use me. I am broken,” it read. “I am broken.” It was if God himself gently repeated back to me what I’d requested. Then he reminded me that I’m precisely what I need to be.
So many of us are having a moment where our worlds aren’t okay. We’re truly stressed. It’s finances. It’s family. For some, it’s personal identity. We’re afraid that we’re going to be used, exploited, worn out, and ultimately crushed.
As a columnist, I’m afraid you won’t see what I want you to see. Worse yet, I’m afraid you might see me as I am.
And I too am broken.
That’s a far more powerful declaration than any wisdom I can offer. Nobody gives a damn what I have to say unless they’re first convinced I understand what they’re going through.
My honesty about fear, fatigue, and frustration creates the common ground for connection. It’s the basis for empathy that enables us to overcome our differences. It’s the power to change some of the awful, craven aspects of our current culture. For Christians like me, it’s literally the message of the Gospel. God uses the broken and lowly to confound the strong and powerful.
It’s one thing to know all that; it’s another matter entirely to act on it. When I hear God asking, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” my response too often has been, “I’m broken. Don’t use me.”
The correct response comes from the voice of the prophet Isaiah who replied by saying, “Here am I. Send me!”
“I am broken. Send me.” upends “I’m frantically trying to convince the world that I’ve got it all together.” The invisible audience seeking our perfection doesn’t exist. Life’s beauty is found in broken people who show up anyway. We press on. We endure. As a result, others find profound encouragement to do the same. Sometimes those who have a lighter burden need to carry the load for the downtrodden.
Comic Dave Chappelle tells a story about Daphne Dorman, a trans comic whom he befriended in San Francisco. When Chappelle told Dorman that he didn’t understand her trans identity, Dorman responded: “I don’t need you to understand me. I just need you to believe that I’m having a human experience.” Chappelle replied: “I believe you, because it takes one to know one.” That’s what real empathy looks like.
I see the anxiety and fear on the face of others sitting here in the waiting room with me. I watched a family hear unfavorable news about a loved one, and I’m hoping we’re not next.
Regardless of what happens, I’m going to make my real human experience available to my family, my community, and those who take the time to read my opinions. I hope my words connect with where you are, where you’re going, or where you’ve been. I might be broken, but I’m not alone. Neither are you. That’s enough for me to hope that Superman won’t stay down for long.
Smith is a recovering political attorney with three boys, two dogs, and an extremely patient wife. He engages media, business, and policy through the Triptych Foundation and Triptych Media. Please direct outrage or agreement to csmith@al.com or @DCameronSmith on Twitter. | https://www.al.com/politics/2022/04/cameron-smith-im-broken-send-me.html | 2022-04-13T14:33:50 | 0 | https://www.al.com/politics/2022/04/cameron-smith-im-broken-send-me.html |
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — New York Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin resigned Tuesday in the wake of his arrest in a federal corruption investigation, creating a political crisis for Gov. Kathy Hochul seven months after she selected Benjamin as a partner to make a fresh start in an office already rocked by scandal.
Benjamin, a Democrat, was accused in an indictment of participating in a scheme to obtain campaign contributions from a real estate developer in exchange for Benjamin’s agreement to use his influence as a state senator to get a $50,000 grant of state funds for a nonprofit organization the developer controlled.
Facing charges including bribery, fraud, conspiracy and falsification of records, Benjamin pleaded not guilty Tuesday at an initial appearance in Manhattan federal court. He was released and bail was set at $250,000. The terms of his release call for his travel to be restricted and bar him from returning to the state capitol in Albany.
He submitted his resignation to Hochul hours later.
“I have accepted Brian Benjamin’s resignation effective immediately. While the legal process plays out, it is clear to both of us that he cannot continue to serve as Lieutenant Governor. New Yorkers deserve absolute confidence in their government, and I will continue working every day to deliver for them,” Hochul said in a statement.
Two lawyers representing Benjamin said he was suspending his campaign to focus on defending his actions in court and said the grant in question was used to buy school supplies.
“There was nothing inappropriate about this grant. He will focus his energies on explaining in court why his actions were laudable — not criminal. He looks forward to when this case is finished so he can rededicate himself to public service,” the statement said.
Hochul in September plucked Benjamin, then a state lawmaker, to serve as second-in-command when she became governor, taking over for Democrat Andrew Cuomo, who resigned amid allegations he sexually harassed 11 women, which he denied.
Hochul, also a Democrat, was Cuomo’s lieutenant governor. She is now running in this year’s election to try to remain governor. Benjamin had been her running mate.
Hochul’s office and campaign did not respond to messages Tuesday evening about her plans moving forward for a new lieutenant governor and running mate.
Benjamin was the state’s second Black lieutenant governor. During his state Legislature career, he emphasized criminal justice reform and affordable housing. His district included most of central Harlem, where he was born and raised by Caribbean immigrant parents.
New York law makes it tough to remove Benjamin from the June primary ballot: He could move out of New York to disqualify himself from running for state office, or the state Democratic party could let him run for a down ballot office.
Democratic Party Chair Jay Jacobs said the party is exploring its options.
“I’m not ready at this time to outline what we are considering, suffice it to say we will look at the options expeditiously,” Jacobs said.
Two months after Benjamin became lieutenant governor, a real estate developer who steered campaign contributions toward Benjamin’s failed bid for New York City comptroller was indicted. Federal authorities accused Gerald Migdol of wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft in illegally giving donations to Benjamin’s campaign.
The indictment said Benjamin and others acting at his direction or on his behalf also engaged in a series of lies and deceptions to cover up the scheme that stretched from 2019 to 2021.
They falsified campaign donor forms, misled municipal regulators and provided false information in vetting forms Benjamin submitted while he was being considered to be appointed as lieutenant governor, the indictment said.
Prosecutors had previously not made any accusations against Benjamin, and his campaign said at the time of Migdol’s arrest that it had forfeited any improper donations as soon as they were discovered.
More recently, reports came out saying subpoenas had been issued to Benjamin regarding the financial issues even before Hochul picked him as lieutenant governor.
Before Benjamin’s arrest and resignation, Hochul had defended him, saying last week she had the “utmost confidence” in him. She said last week that she didn’t know of the subpoenas when she tapped Benjamin to be her No. 2.
Top Republicans and at least a dozen of Benjamin’s fellow Democrats in the Legislature called on him to resign by Tuesday afternoon.
Senate Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, a Democrat, is taking on the duties of lieutenant governor — a role she took before Benjamin’s appointment last year when Hochul became governor.
Two candidates for governor, Democratic U.S. Rep. Thomas Suozzi and Republican U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin, blasted Hochul’s judgment for selecting Benjamin in the first place despite longstanding concerns about his potential campaign finance violations.
Immigration advocate Ana Maria Archila, a Democrat running for lieutenant governor alongside New York City public advocate and gubernatorial candidate Jumaane Williams, said Albany politicians have traded “favors for money” for too long.
“Today is a dark day, with Albany at its worst on display for all New Yorkers to see,” Archila said.
The scandal is the latest in a long history of lawmakers and other Albany leaders who’ve been engulfed in allegations of wrongdoing.
Cuomo’s resignation as governor came not only amid allegations of sexual harassment but that his administration misrepresented the number of New Yorkers who died in nursing homes from COVID-19.
In 2008, then-Gov. Eliot Spitzer resigned amid a prostitution investigation.
Former New York Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, one of the most powerful figures in state government, resigned in 2015 after he was arrested on federal corruption charges.
Former Republican state Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos, who for a time shared power with Silver, was convicted of extortion, wire fraud and bribery.
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Hays reported from New York. Associated Press writers Deepti Hajela, Michelle L. Price and Larry Neumeister contributed from New York and Michael Hill contributed from Albany. | https://www.wane.com/news/ny-lieutenant-governor-resigns-after-arrest-in-federal-probe/ | 2022-04-13T14:33:56 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/ny-lieutenant-governor-resigns-after-arrest-in-federal-probe/ |
NEW YORK (AP) — A gunman wearing a gas mask set off smoke grenades and fired a barrage of bullets inside a rush-hour subway train in Brooklyn, wounding at least 10 people Tuesday, authorities said. Police were trying to track down the renter of a van possibly connected to the violence.
Chief of Detectives James Essig said investigators weren’t sure whether the man, identified as Frank R. James, 62, had any link to the subway attack.
Authorities were looking at the man’s apparent social media posts, some of which led officials to tighten security for New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell called the posts “concerning.”
The attack transformed the morning commute into a scene of horror: a smoke-filled underground train, an onslaught of at least 33 bullets, screaming riders running through a station and bloodied people lying on the platform as others administered aid.
Jordan Javier thought the first popping sound he heard was a textbook dropping. Then there was another pop, people started moving toward the front of the car, and he realized there was smoke, he said.
When the train pulled into the station, people ran out and were directed to another train across the platform. Passengers wept and prayed as they rode, Javier said.
“I’m just grateful to be alive,” he said.
Five gunshot victims were in critical condition but expected to survive. At least a dozen people who escaped gunshot wounds were treated for smoke inhalation and other injuries.
Sewell said the attack was not being investigated as terrorism, but that she was “not ruling out anything.” The shooter’s motive was unknown.
Sitting in the back of the train’s second car, the gunman tossed two smoke grenades on the floor, pulled out a Glock 9 mm semi-automatic handgun and started firing, Essig said. A rider’s video shows a person raising an arm and pointing at something as five bangs sound.
Passengers in the smoke-filled car pounded on the door to an adjacent car, seeking to escape, rider Juliana Fonda, who was in that adjoining car, told the news site Gothamist. Fonda is a broadcast engineer for Gothamist’s owner, public radio station WNYC.
Investigators believe the shooter’s gun jammed and kept him from firing more, said two law enforcement officials who weren’t authorized to discuss the investigation and spoke on condition of anonymity.
Essig said police found the weapon, along with 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, the detective chief said. The van was later found, unoccupied, near a subway station where investigators determined the gunman entered the train system, Essig said.
Rambling, profanity-filled YouTube videos apparently posted by James, who is Black, are replete with Black nationalist rhetoric, violent language and bigoted comments, some of them directed at other Black people. One, posted April 11, criticizes crime against Black people and says drastic action is needed to change things.
Several videos mention New York’s subways, and Adams is a recurring theme.
A Feb. 20 video says the mayor and governor’s plan to address homelessness and safetyin New York City’s subway system “is doomed for failure” and refers to himself as a “victim” of the mayor’s mental health program. A Jan. 25 video criticizes Adams’ plan to end gun violence.
The attack unnerved a city on guard about a rise in gun crimesand the ever-present threat of terrorism. It left some New Yorkers jittery about riding the nation’s busiest subway system and prompted officials to increase policing at transportation hubs from Philadelphia to Connecticut.
“This individual is still on the loose. This person is dangerous,” Gov. Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, warned at a midday news conference.
In Menlo, Iowa, President Joe Biden praised “the first responders who jumped in action, including civilians, civilians who didn’t hesitate to help their fellow passengers and tried to shield them.”
After people streamed out of the train, quick-thinking transit workers ushered passengers to another train across the platform for safety, transit officials said.
High school student John Butsikaris was riding that other train and initially thought the problem was mundane until the next stop, when he heard screams for medical attention and his train was evacuated.
“I’m definitely shook,” the 15-year-old said. “Even though I didn’t see what happened, I’m still scared, because it was like a few feet away from me, what happened.”
New York City has faced a spate of shootings and high-profile bloodshed in recent months, including on the city’s subways. One of the most shocking was in January, when a woman was pushed to her death in front of a train by a stranger.
Adams, a Democrat a little over 100 days into his term, has made cracking down on crime — especially in the subways — an early focus of his administration, pledging to send more police officers into stations and platforms for regular patrols. It wasn’t immediately clear whether any officers were in the station when the shootings occurred.
The mayor, who is isolating following a positive COVID-19 test on Sunday, said in a video statement that the city “will not allow New Yorkers to be terrorized, even by a single individual.”
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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. | https://www.wane.com/news/police-focus-on-van-renter-in-brooklyn-subway-shooting-probe/ | 2022-04-13T14:34:09 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/police-focus-on-van-renter-in-brooklyn-subway-shooting-probe/ |
Climate change made the record-smashing deadly 2020 Atlantic hurricane season noticeably wetter, a new study says. And it will likely make this season rainier, too, scientists said.
Human-caused climate change made the entire season — 30 named storms — drop 5% more rain. During the 14 storms that reached hurricane status the rainfall was 8% heavier, according to the study in Tuesday’s Nature Communications.
“It doesn’t sound like a lot, but if you’re near a threshold, a little bit can push you over the top,” said Lawrence Berkeley National Lab climate scientist Michael Wehner, co-author of the paper. “The implication is that that means there was more freshwater flooding and that the damages from freshwater flooding were increased, but by how much would require a more detailed analysis.”
While past studies have predicted climate change would make storms wetterand found individual storms, such as 2017’s Harvey,were in fact wetter because of human-caused climate change, this is the first study to look at an entire season, Wehner said. That’s important because it removes the selection bias of just picking the worst storms, such as Harvey.
“It’s not just the big monster ones, it’s a whole season,” Wehner said.
It’s likely 2020 is not the only year made significantly rainier by climate change. Warming is probably increasing the downpours in nearly all storms and most hurricane seasons, including the one that starts June 1, said study lead author Kevin Reed, an atmospheric scientist at Stony Brook University.
And what a season 2020 was. It broke recordsnot only for the number of named storms, but for the number that became major storms with winds of at least 111 miles per hour — seven — and the number that made landfall in the United States. Louisiana got hit five times. Overall, more than 330 people were killed directly by named storms in 2020 and damage soared past $41 billion, according to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Hurricanes Laura, Sally, Isaias, Zeta, Delta, Eta and Hanna all caused more than $1 billion in damage, much of it from flooding. Laura, for example, was 10% wetter than it would have been without climate change, a separate quick analysis shows, Reed said.
The researchers used computer simulations — continually updated with real-time observations — to calculate how much water fell during the 30 storms and then compared them to a simulated world with no human caused climate change from the burning of coal, oil and natural gas. The difference is what’s caused by global warming. This scientifically accepted technique came up with the 5% and 8% figures.
When scientists looked at just the three rainiest hours of each storm, climate change amped them up 8% compared to the mythical world without climate change. For the storms that hit hurricane status, 11% more rain fell during the peak rainy time than would have otherwise, the study found.
A fundamental rule of physics is that the atmosphere can hold nearly 4% more moisture for every degree Fahrenheit the air warms (7% more for every degree Celsius). Globally, temperatures have increased about 2 degrees (1.1 degrees Celsius) since pre-industrial times. And the water of the Atlantic hurricane basin, which acts as storm fuel, has warmed about 1.3 degrees (.7 degrees Celsius) in the past century, Wehner said.
“That signal will only get larger as the sea surface temperatures continue to warm,” Reed said.
Storms are getting stronger, which also makes them wetter, Wehner said.
“The expected increase in hurricane rainfall is probably the most robust prediction concerning the response of hurricanes to climate change,” said MIT atmospheric science professor Kerry Emanuel, who wasn’t part of the study team. But the study is limited by not looking at how climate change could have affected storm track, intensity and frequency, he said.
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Follow AP’s climate coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/climate
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Follow Seth Borenstein on Twitter at @borenbears
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Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives support from several private foundations. See more about AP’s climate initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | https://www.wane.com/news/pouring-it-on-climate-change-made-2020-hurricanes-rainier/ | 2022-04-13T14:34:16 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/pouring-it-on-climate-change-made-2020-hurricanes-rainier/ |
FERNLEY, Nev. (AP) — A Navy veteran who served as an engineer on a nuclear submarine is on an even more important mission now — seeking a way to help others in the name of his little sister, who was kidnapped, killed and buried last month in northern Nevada’s high desert.
“At the end of the day, I just don’t want this to happen to any other families,” Casey Valley told The Associated Press. “I want to do everything I can to make sure no one ever has to go through any of this.”
Hundreds of townspeople turned out for a weekend celebration of the life of 18-year-old Naomi Irion at a park in rural Fernley, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) east of Reno.
The daughter of U.S. State Department workers, Irion moved there from South Africa last summer to live with her brother. She disappeared after video surveillance in a Walmart parking lot showed a man get into her car and drive them away early in the morning on March 12.
Troy E. Driver, a 41-year-old from nearby Fallon with a violent criminal history, was arrested and jailed on a kidnapping charge March 25. Driver previously served more than a decade in a California prison.
Four days after his arrest, a tip led investigators to a remote gravesite more than 60 miles (96 km) away, where Irion’s body was found in neighboring Churchill County. On Friday, Driver was arraigned in Fernley on an amended criminal complaint and ordered held without bail on first-degree murder, kidnapping, destruction of evidence and other charges.
Valley, a soft-spoken man with a bushy red beard, said he was frustrated that sheriff’s deputies didn’t act quickly enough to file a missing persons report when he first contacted them March 13.
He went the next day to the Walmart near U.S. Interstate 80 where Irion had gone to wait for a shuttle bus to take her to her job at a Panasonic plant. Signs posted in the parking lot alert shoppers “cameras in use.”
Valley knew he had to find out if there was surveillance video of his sister, so he tracked downed a store security officer.
“At first he didn’t take me seriously. But finally he said, ‘What do you want?’” Valley said. “We sat in the security office and watched the tape and became convinced it showed the suspect enter her car. I called the sheriff, and they were there in 15 or 20 minutes.”
Valley said he then spent “probably two hours” reviewing the footage with a deputy.
Prosecutors say in the amended complaint that Driver shot Irion northeast of Fernley, where he took her “for the purpose of committing sexual assault and/or purpose of killing her.” In addition to burying Irion’s body, Driver disposed of tires from his truck in an effort to eliminate incriminating evidence, according to prosecutors.
Driver’s public defender, Richard Davies, said Driver maintains his innocence.
“We are prepared to generate an aggressive defense,” he told reporters Friday. “Right now, everybody is jumping to conclusions.”
While initially critical of the investigation, Valley told reporters outside Justice Court on Friday that finding his sister’s body was “some amazing detective work.” He said the family went to the remote gravesite, which “looks like any other part of the Nevada desert.”
“It’s one drop of water in the Pacific Ocean,” he said. “It truly is a miracle that we have closure” and “Naomi is not suffering.”
“We need to take whatever peace we can get from that,” he said.
Sunday’s gathering was surrounded by ribbons in rainbow colors — Irion’s favorite — which continue to flutter from sign posts along main street just off I-80. The town was founded more than a century ago along a canal that was built as part of the U.S. West’s first irrigation project, intended to help “make the desert bloom” and attract settlers.
Valley, 42, served as a Navy submarine nuclear machinist mate stationed in Bangor, Washington, from 2009-16 and now works as a critical facilities engineer for Apple.
He has emphasized from the start Driver is a “human being” who is innocent until proven guilty. He said after the initial arrest for kidnapping he was concerned for Driver’s safety if released from jail.
Davies said prosecutors have not declared whether they will seek the death penalty but acknowledged “all options are on the table.”
For now, Irion’s family isn’t advocating for Driver’s execution, Valley said.
“We’ll see what happens,” he said, adding he knows death penalty cases can drag on with years of appeals.
“It complicates the process. That being said, it is the DA’s decision. If this guy is tried and found guilty, I just don’t want the perpetrator to be able to do this to any other person.”
Irion lived with her parents at U.S. embassies around the world growing up. When she was 13, they moved to Moscow, then Frankfurt, Germany, then South Africa, where she graduated from high school before moving last summer to Fernley.
Valley, who was 14 when his sister was born, changed her diapers and became her de facto babysitter, said family and friends already have begun work to create a scholarship in her name.
“I would like people to know Naomi would want positive change to come from this. We want to let people know this can happen to anyone,” he said.
“Naomi was my responsibility. I’m her big brother. It’s my job.” | https://www.wane.com/news/slain-nevada-womans-brother-seeks-a-positive-from-her-death/ | 2022-04-13T14:34:24 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/slain-nevada-womans-brother-seeks-a-positive-from-her-death/ |
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) — Sri Lanka is suspending its repayment of foreign debt, including bonds and government-to-government borrowing, pending the completion of a loan restructuring program with the International Monetary Fund to deal with the island nation’s worst economic crisis in decades, the government announced Tuesday.
Sri Lankans in recent months have endured fuel and food shortages and daily power outages. Most of those items are paid for in hard currency, but Sri Lanka is on the brink of bankruptcy, saddled with dwindling foreign reserves and $25 billion in foreign debt due for repayment over the next five years. Nearly $7 billion is due this year.
“Sri Lanka has had an unblemished record of external debt service since independence in 1948,” the Ministry of Finance said in a statement. “Recent events, however, including the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the fallout from the hostilities in Ukraine, have so eroded Sri Lanka’s fiscal position that continued normal servicing of external public debt obligations has become impossible.”
The ministry said the IMF has assessed Sri Lanka’s foreign debt as unsustainable, and that staying current on foreign debt payments is no longer a realistic policy.
In addition to seeking help from the IMF, the government has turned to India and China for help in dealing with shortages.
“The government intends to pursue its discussions with the IMF as expeditiously as possible with a view to formulating and presenting to the country’s creditors a comprehensive plan for restoring Sri Lanka’s external public debt to a fully sustainable position,” the ministry said.
Central Bank governor Nandalal Weerasinghe told reporters that the announcement on suspending foreign debt payments was urgent because Sri Lanka is due to repay nearly $200 million next week and if the country can’t raise that money, it would face a “hard default” leading to worse repercussions.
The Central Bank appealed to Sri Lankans living and working abroad to donate foreign currency into four government-run bank accounts set up for government officials to purchase essentials like food, fuel and medicine for distribution to the population urgently because talks with the IMF will take time to generate economic improvement. The Central Bank tweeted that a three-member committee will assure transparency in distribution of the funds and promised to make public quarterly financial statements.
Sri Lankans have been forced to wait in long lines to buy cooking gas, fuel and milk power and doctors have warned there is a catastrophic shortage of essential drugs in government hospitals.
Protesters camped out around the president’s office for a fourth straight day demanded the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, holding him responsible for the economic crisis. Supporters of the protesters who are also calling on the ruling Rajapaksa family to quit supplied drinking water and food to the demonstrators. Muslim protesters broke their Ramadan fasting at the site to share food with people around them.
Much of the anger expressed in weeks of protests has been directed at the Rajapaksa family, which has held power for most of the past two decades. Critics accuse the family of borrowing heavily to finance projects that have earned no money, such as a port facility built with Chinese loans.
Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, a former president who is the current president’s older brother, sought in a speech Monday night to reassure people that the government is working to resolving the country’s financial problems.
“We are embarking on an enormous program to overcome the crisis we face today. Every second spent by the president and this government is used up exhausting avenues to rebuild our country,” he said.
Rajapaksa refused to yield power, saying the governing coalition will continue to rule Sri Lanka because opposition parties rejected its call for a unity government.
The crisis and protests prompted many Cabinet members to resign. Four ministers were sworn in as caretakers, but many of the key government portfolios are vacant.
Parliament has failed to reach a consensus on how to deal with the crisis after nearly 40 governing coalition lawmakers said they would no longer vote according to coalition instructions, significantly weakening the government.
But with opposition parties divided, they have been incapable of forming a majority to take control of Parliament. | https://www.wane.com/news/sri-lanka-halts-debt-repayment-pending-imf-bailout-plan/ | 2022-04-13T14:34:31 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/sri-lanka-halts-debt-repayment-pending-imf-bailout-plan/ |
BOSTON (AP) — Russian military hackers attempted to knock out power to millions of Ukrainians last week in a long-planned attack but were foiled, Ukrainian government officials said Tuesday.
At one targeted high-voltage power station, the hackers succeeded in penetrating and disrupting part of the industrial control system, but people defending the station were able to prevent electrical outages, the Ukrainians said.
“The threat was serious, but it was prevented in a timely manner,” a top Ukrainian cybersecurity official, Victor Zhora, told reporters through an interpreter. “It looks that we were very lucky.”
The hackers from Russia’s GRU military intelligence agency used an upgraded version of malware first seen in its successful 2016 attack that caused blackouts in Kyiv, officials said, that was customized to target multiple substations. They simultaneously seeded malware designed to wipe out computer operating systems, hindering recovery.
Authorities did not specify how many substations were targeted or their location, citing security concerns, but a deputy energy minister, Farid Safarov, said “2 million people would have been without electricity supply if it was successful.”
Zhora, the deputy chair of the State Service of Special Communications, said the malware was programmed to knock out power on Friday evening just as people returned home from work and switched on news reports.
He said that power grid networks were penetrated before the end of February, when Russia invaded, and that the attackers later uploaded the malware, dubbed Industroyer2. The malware succeeded in disrupting one component of the impacted power station’s management systems, also known as SCADA systems.
Zhora would not offer further details or explain how the attack was defeated or which partners may have assisted directly in defeating it. He did acknowledge the depth of international assistance Ukraine has received in identifying intrusions and the challenges of trying to rid government, power grid and telecommunications networks of attackers. The helpers include keyboard warriors from U.S. Cybercommand.
Cybercom was asked if it assisted in the emergency response but did not immediately answer.
The Computer Emergency Response Team of Ukraine thanked Microsoft and the cybersecurity firm ESET for their assistance in dealing with the power grid attack in a bulletin posted online.
Officials said the destructive attacks had been planned at least since March 23, and Zhora speculated it was timed by Russia to “invigorate” its soldiers after they took heavy losses in a failed bid to capture Kyiv, the capital.
Zhora stressed that Russian cyberattacks have not successfully knocked out any power to Ukrainians since this invasion began.
GRU hackers from a group that researchers call Sandworm twice successfully attacked Ukraine’s power grid — in the winters of 2015 and 2016. U.S. prosecutors indicted six GRU officials in 2020 for using a previous version of the Industroyer malware to attack Ukraine’s power grid by gaining control of electrical substation switches and circuit breakers.
In the 2016 attack, Sandworm hackers used Industroyer to turn circuit breakers on and off in a sequence designed to create a blackout, said Jean-Ian Boutin, director of threat research at ESET.
“We know that Industroyer still has the capability to turn off circuit breakers,” he said.
Working closely with Ukrainian responders, ESET also determined that the attackers had infected networks at the targeted plants with disk-wiping software.
Successfully activating the malware would have rendered plant systems in operable, seriously hindering remediation and recovery and destroying the attackers’ digital footprints, Boutin said.
One of the destructive malware varieties used in the attack, dubbed CaddyWiper, was first discovered by ESET in mid-March being used against a Ukrainian bank, he said.
Western prosecutors blame Sandworm for a series of high-profile cyberattacks including the most destructive, the 2017 NotPetya wiper virus that caused more than $10 billion in damage globally by destroying data on entire networks of computers of companies doing business in Ukraine including those belonging to the shipper Maersk and the pharmaceutical company Merck.
Russia’s use of cyberattacks against Ukrainian infrastructure during its invasion has been limited compared with experts’ pre-war expectations. In the early hours of the war, however, an attack Ukraine blames on Russia knocked offline an important satellite communications link that also impacted tens of thousands of Europeans from France to Poland.
In another serious cyberattack of the war, hackers knocked offline the internet and cellular service of a major telecommunications company that serves the military, Ukretelecom, for most of the day on March 28.
Zhora said “the potential of Russian (state-backed) hackers has been overestimated” and cited a number of reasons why he believes cyberattacks have not played a major role in the conflict:
— When the aggressor is pummeling civilian targets with bombs and rockets there is little need to hide behind covert cyberactivity.
— Ukraine has significantly upped its cyber defenses with the help of volunteers from sympathetic countries.
— Attacks as sophisticated as this effort to knock out power are complex and tend to require a lot of time.
“This is not an easy thing to do,” Zhora said.
Ukraine has been under steady Russian cyberattack for the past eight years, with Zhora noting that the attacks have tripled since the invasion when compared with the same period last year.
Russia has said its invasion was needed to protect civilians in eastern Ukraine, a false claim the U.S. had predicted Russia would make as a pretext for the invasion. Ukraine has called Russia’s assault a “war of aggression,” saying it “will defend itself and will win.”
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Associated Press writer Alan Suderman in Richmond, Virginia, contributed to this report. | https://www.wane.com/news/ukraine-says-potent-russian-hack-against-power-grid-thwarted/ | 2022-04-13T14:34:38 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/ukraine-says-potent-russian-hack-against-power-grid-thwarted/ |
TOKYO (AP) — As millions of Ukrainians fled their country, a longtime Tokyo resident did the opposite. Sasha Kaverina left her life in Japan and rushed to Ukraine to rescue her parents after a Russian missile hit their apartment building.
Kaverina’s main goal in returning was to get her parents out of their hometown of Kharkiv, the second-largest city in battered eastern Ukraine, to a safer place in western Ukraine. But Kaverina, who had organized fund-raising and antiwar rallies in Japan for her homeland, also delivered medicine, first-aid kits and other relief goods.
Like many Ukrainian expats around the world, the war in her homeland has upended her life. Despite reports of horrendous Russian attacks, she said she is not afraid for herself, but for her parents and relatives.
Because of her antiwar and pro-Ukraine activities in Japan, she fears that the Russians could persecute or kill those close to her if they return to Kharkiv, which is now under fierce attack and may fall under Russian control.
“A lot of Ukrainians are worried (that) if Russians occupy us, pro-Ukrainian people would be killed,” as they were in Bucha and other cities, she said in an online interview from Chernivtsi, a city in southwestern Ukraine near the border with Romania where she took her parents.
Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24. Since then, more than 4 million Ukrainians have fled the country and millions more have been displaced internally.
Kaverina’s parents narrowly survived in early March when a Russian missile badly damaged their eighth-floor apartment in a 16-story building and forced them to evacuate to their relatives’ home in the suburbs.
After nearly two days on planes and buses, Kaverina made it to Chernivtsi, where she reunited with her parents, who had driven across the country from Kharkiv to meet her.
She is renting an apartment in Chernivtsi for her parents while she does remote work for her job at an IT company in Japan, where she intends to return, and volunteers as an aid worker with the help of her parents.
Ukrainian officials have urged residents in eastern Ukraine to evacuate to the west. But even in Chernivtsi the family can hear air-raid warning sirens at night, though they haven’t experienced actual bombings, she said.
Some people go to shelters every night, and the place may not be safe any more, Kaverina said.
Whenever a door bangs or they hear footsteps, her parents immediately jump, apparently because of trauma from the missile attack on their apartment.
Kaverina worries about more Russian atrocities.
“If Kharkiv is occupied, people who have been mentioned in the media or known for their pro-Ukrainian positions, they may be targeted. I have no problem … but I’m worried about my parents,” she said, requesting anonymity for her parents. “My parents will be targeted for being with me and for their pro-Ukrainian activities.”
Several times a day, her parents call their relatives, friends and colleagues in Kharkiv to make sure everyone is safe and alive. They worry whenever anyone is unreachable.
One of her father’s acquaintances was taken to “a filtering camp” where Russians forced residents to remove their shirts to look for any tattoos indicating a pro-Ukrainian stance, Kaverina said.
Her father can’t leave the country because of local laws, she said, and she hasn’t been able to persuade her mother to fly back to Tokyo with her. Her parents want to return as soon as possible to their hometown, where her father’s 89-year-old mother has stayed behind because of old age.
“My parents ask me every day when they can go back to Kharkiv, and I say, ‘No, you cannot,’” she said. “They want to go back to get their photos, not TV, money or documents. … It’s so sad and maybe stupid, but for them it’s their whole life.”
Kaverina said their apartment in Kharkiv is uninhabitable, but her parents, like many others, still hope to rebuild. To her, their determination seems linked to Ukraine’s strong resistance to the Russians.
Kaverina, who has been in Japan for five years, said she has seen a lack of tolerance for foreign residents and diversity in Japan. So she was surprised by Tokyo’s quick pledge to accept displaced Ukrainians, even though Japan does not expect many will come. Rather than going to a faraway, unfamiliar Asian country, most Ukrainians are turning to Europe, hoping to return home at some point.
About 400 war-displaced Ukrainians have arrived in Japan, where a number of municipalities and companies are offering to provide housing, language lessons and jobs.
The biggest hurdle for many Ukrainians is to get plane tickets to Japan, she said, because they have lost their jobs, homes and money since the invasion.
Japan was quick to join the United States and other leading economies in imposing sanctions against Russia and providing support for Ukraine. Tokyo has also sent nonlethal defense equipment such as helmets and bulletproof vests to Ukraine as an exception to its arms equipment transfer ban to countries in conflict.
Japan can also contribute to disaster relief, including sending construction equipment, Kaverina said. Because many people died under rubble while awaiting rescue, Kaverina said that she plans to reach out to Komatsu or other Japanese construction machine makers for help.
“I had been just an ordinary long-time resident in Japan until a month ago, but what happened changed not only the lives of Ukrainians (in the country) but also the lives of Ukrainians abroad,” she said. | https://www.wane.com/news/ukrainian-in-japan-returns-home-to-help-parents-country/ | 2022-04-13T14:34:45 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/ukrainian-in-japan-returns-home-to-help-parents-country/ |
Key members of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council say one year into the Biden Administration’s commitment that 40% of all benefits from climate investment go to disenfranchised communities, not enough has been done.
Speaking Tuesday at a press briefing ahead of the HBCU Climate Change Conference in New Orleans, they say they’ve secured $14 million from the Bezos Earth Fund for a program called Engage, Enlighten and Empower to hold the Biden administration accountable for carrying out its Justice40 initiative.
President Biden made the commitment in a sweeping executive order on his first day in office. The initiative has been held up as an unprecedented push to bring environmental justice to communities long plagued by pollution and climate inaction.
The three members of the federal environmental justice council leading the $14 million-dollar effort, Beverly Wright, Peggy Shepard and Robert Bullard, have been working closely with the administration on Justice40.
But Wright told members of the press that more needs to be done to “turn a novel idea into a project that works.”
The trio are combining philanthropic grants from the Bezos Earth Fund, $6 million from Shepard’s WE ACT for Environmental Justice, $4 million from Wright’s Deep South Center for Environmental Justice and $4 million from the Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice, to ensure federal funding from Justice40 “goes where it’s intended,” Shepard said.
The effort should “ensure equitable implementation of the Justice40 initiative at the state and local level and empower local communities to participate in the policy-making” that comes as a result of the initiative, a press release said.
The funds will go to educate grassroots organizations on the resources available to them through Justice40, inform state and local governments on how the money should be used, and develop a screening tool to determine where Justice40 funds are needed most, one that includes racial demographic data. Controversially a federal screening tool used by the administration does not take into account the racial makeup of communities.
There has been little change on the ground yet from the Justice40 pledge because the federal government is still trying to figure out which communities are most in need of the investment. In recommendations to the Biden administration, many reputable environmental justice advocates pushed for a methodical, intentional process for identifying disadvantaged communities and disbursing funds.
At the briefing, Wright and Bullard said they’ve seen past federal social and infrastructure projects fail to deliver on promises to disadvantaged communities and don’t want to see it happen again.
“There’s been a lot of really novel approaches at changing the lives of Americans in general that have worked out” benefitting just white Americans, Wright said.
Bullard pointed todiscrimination in how flood relief was distributed in Texas, where the Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice is located, as an example.
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Follow Drew Costley on Twitter: @drewcostley.
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The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | https://www.wane.com/news/wh-environmental-justice-advisors-press-for-justice40/ | 2022-04-13T14:34:52 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/wh-environmental-justice-advisors-press-for-justice40/ |
WHAT ARE THE 10 BEST BUYBUYBABY CAR SEATS?
A car seat is an absolute must-have for all babies and toddlers. In many places, parents and caretakers are required to use a car seat or booster for kids up to 10 or 11 years old.
Since these seats are so important for keeping a child safe, it’s worth it to take the time and find a quality car seat. That said, you don’t need to spend a fortune to buy a seat that’s safe and comfortable.
Baby-products retailer BuyBuyBaby sells top-notch car seats at a range of price points, so you’re sure to find one that works for you and your child.
INFANT CAR SEATS VS. CONVERTIBLE CAR SEATS
Infant car seats are rear-facing car seats designed for newborns up to around 1 year of age. They generally have carry handles so you can move a sleeping baby from the car to the house easily. They also often fit into a travel-system stroller, so they’re perfect for going out and about.
Convertible car seats cover several stages of a child’s life, so you can use them for longer periods before your child outgrows them. Some convert from infant seats to toddler seats and eventually boosters, while others convert from toddler seats to boosters. Make sure to check the product details before making a purchase. Some are forward-facing only, while others can remain in the rear-facing position into toddlerhood and beyond.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A CAR SEAT
Quality car seats should undergo rigorous crash testing for safety. Car seats should have a sturdy five-point harness to keep your child secure while still being easy for adults to release when they need to take it out of the car. They should have good padding with the option for extra padding for newborns, which you can remove as your child grows. Also, look for removable, washable covers since they get dirty easily.
BEST INFANT CAR SEATS
Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX Infant Car Seat
A safe, secure choice for infants, this car seat features five recline positions and connects to its LATCH base with ease. The “Graco ProtectPlus” engineering ensures this design withstood a range of rigorous crash tests to make it as safe as possible. The anti-rebound bar offers an extra layer of protection in the rear-facing position.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat
Lightweight yet strong, this versatile seat for infants is compatible with Chicco strollers to create a handy travel system. The strong shell and EPS energy-absorbing foam provides exceptional impact protection. And the leveling foot helps you find the right base installation for a secure foundation. Thanks to the SuperCinch LATCH tightener, it’s easier than ever to get a secure fit.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
Peg Perego Primo Viaggio Nido Infant Car Seat
It might be on the pricier side, but this seat has several excellent features that make it worth the cost. You can move the adjustable side impact protection into six different positions without rethreading the seat. The dual-stage cushion system helps you position your baby’s head in the right spot. It has a fully adjustable seat recline, allowing you to adjust the angle.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
This light car seat only weighs 10 pounds, but it offers exceptional protection for your little one, thanks to clever engineering. It features impact-absorbing foam and an adjustable headrest with side impact protection. The SMARTSecure System makes it extremely easy to fit the seat into place, and it includes an indicator that changes from red to green when you install it properly.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
Maxi-Cosi Mico 30 Infant Car Seat
Well-padded and comfortable, your baby will be snug and secure in this seat. It’s easy to install with a one-click LATCH system, so you won’t need to wrestle it into place. Also, the harness holders conveniently keep the straps out of the way as you put your baby down in the seat.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
BEST CONVERTIBLE CAR SEATS
Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat
This seat accommodates various weights and ages, from 4-pound babies to toddlers to 2-year-old kids. It converts from rear-facing to a forward-facing toddler seat and holds up to 65 pounds. It has a steel-reinforced frame and uses EPS energy-absorbing foam to absorb the impact in an accident.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
Baby Jogger City Turn Convertible Car Seat
Kids can stay in this convertible car seat for years. It’s suitable for babies, toddlers and kids from 4-65 pounds. It has rear- and forward-facing modes, and the steel-reinforced frame keeps them safe. The press-button LATCH system is easy to use, too.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
Chicco NextFit Max ClearTex Convertible Car Seat
This seat fits children from newborns (including babies weighing as little as 4 pounds) right up until they are 65 pounds and 49 inches tall. You can use it in the rear-facing mode for kids up to 50 pounds, and it offers up to 25% more legroom to keep kids feeling comfortable in the rear-facing setup for longer.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
Cybex Sirona S SensorSafe Convertible Car Seat
Due to its innovative load leg, this seat minimizes the force of impact in the event of a collision. Plus, the linear side-impact protection absorbs up to 25% more shock. The rear-facing mode is suitable for kids between 4-50 pounds, and the forward-facing mode is best for children between 22-65 pounds. The design makes it easy to switch between the two modes, too.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
UPPAbaby KNOX Convertible Car Seat
This car seat could see kids throughout their entire childhood, especially since it can accommodate children up to 45 pounds in rear-facing mode and 65 pounds in forward-facing mode. It uses Koroyd technology to offer maximum-impact absorption in the event of a collision.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/10-best-buybuybaby-car-seats/ | 2022-04-13T14:34:59 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/10-best-buybuybaby-car-seats/ |
Which bully stick is best?
Dogs know we love them, but we don’t always have a way to communicate how grateful we are to have them. One solution is to shower them with treats, but this can lead to adverse effects like weight gain. An excellent middle ground to this approach is giving them tasty bully sticks to chew on. Top choice Pawstruck 12-Inch Bully Sticks are high in calories but can last long enough to mitigate that fact.
What to know before you buy a bully stick
Length and thickness
Bully sticks come in a variety of lengths and thicknesses to fit the size and caloric needs of any dog breed. It’s important to use appropriate lengths and thickness with your dog. If it’s too small, it becomes a choking hazard; too large and it can upset their stomach or be difficult to chew.
Four-inch sticks are best for dogs under 30 pounds, while six-inch sticks are best for dogs between 30-50 pounds. Dogs between 50-100 pounds should chew on 12-inch sticks, and dogs over 100 pounds should chew on 24-inch sticks.
Shape
Bully sticks are available in a variety of shapes. The most common is a straight stick. Others include curls, rings and braids. Rings take the longest to chew, while braids provide the most dental benefits.
Per-pack size
Bully sticks are available as an individual purchase, but this is rare. Most come in packs of at least five, though some can be as large as 100. It’s recommended to start with a small package to see if your dog likes the treat before upgrading to larger sizes for cheaper per-stick costs. Extra-large packages should be stored in airtight containers to prevent them from spoiling before you can use them all.
What to look for in a quality bully stick
Odor
All bully sticks have a natural odor. It becomes stronger as your dog pumps moisture into them while chewing. Fair warning: many consumers find the odor to be difficult to stand. Thus, many manufacturers use one of several methods to reduce or change the odor into something more manageable. The most common method of odor reduction is to dry the stick for varying lengths. The less moisture it contains before chewing, the less it will smell. But even the most thoroughly dried sticks — often marketed as odor-free — still have some amount of smell. Smoking the stick to make it smell smoky is also commonly done.
All of this said, the smellier the stick, the more flavorful it will be and the more your dog will enjoy it. Some dogs will outright refuse to chew an odorless stick.
Filling
Some bully sticks take the “treat” aspect even further and stuff the center with all manner of fillings, peanut butter being among the most common. The downside to filled treats is the increase in calories and the likely presence of preservatives that fill-less sticks usually lack.
How much you can expect to spend on a bully stick
Small packages of bully sticks usually cost $10-$30. Medium-sized packages usually cost $20-$50. Large packages can cost up to $100, and the rare individual bully stick rarely costs more than $15.
Bully stick FAQ
What is a bully stick made of?
A. Bully sticks are made from high-protein muscle. They’re a good source of protein and taurine, which improves the health of your dog’s muscles and organs.
How often can a dog have a bully stick?
A. Generally speaking, one stick a day. However, due to the high levels of protein, it’s wise to consider one every two or three days. Too much protein can upset a dog’s stomach and negatively affect its liver and kidneys. You also need to balance your dog’s caloric intake to prevent unhealthy weight gain.
How safe are bully sticks for my dog?
A. When given responsibly, perfectly safe. The biggest risks are simply too much protein and calories. They can also be a possible choking hazard once your dog has chewed a stick down to a size it can swallow, so it’s best to take the stick away once it hits that point. The health benefits of the treats and the dental benefits of being a hard chew outweigh the risks.
What’s the best bully stick to buy?
Top bully stick
Pawstruck 12-Inch Bully Sticks (10-Pack)
What you need to know: These sticks can last for several hours of chewing and provide plenty of nutrition and fun for large-breed dogs.
What you’ll love: Each one has approximately 120 calories. The braided design is excellent for cleaning teeth. They’re sourced from free-range Paraguayan bulls and have no additives, including color or preservatives. Pawstruck is a family-owned small business.
What you should consider: The extra-large size makes for a long-lasting smell. Stick quality is inconsistent between packages.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top bully stick for the money
Best Bully Sticks Odor-Free Angus Bully Sticks
What you need to know: These are lower-cost and come in perfect sizes for any breed.
What you’ll love: They are sourced from free-range, grass-fed Brazilian cattle and contain no additives. The sticks resist even heavy chewers. and help keep your dog’s teeth clean. They’re available in a 6-inch pack of 20 or a 12-inch pack of 12 or 24.
What you should consider: They aren’t fully odor-free, only odor-reduced with some packages being more or less so. Stick quality is inconsistent between packages.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Chewy
Worth checking out
Nature Gnaws Small Bully Sticks
What you need to know: If you’re unsure about bully sticks, try this small-size package.
What you’ll love: These are 6 inches long and provide adequate dental cleaning. The company sources only fresh material, irradiates for cleanliness, submits for food-grade testing and is packaged in the U.S. with a further round of UV disinfection.
What you should consider: Some consumers found these sticks to have a powerful odor. Others were unhappy with the thinness and hollowness of the sticks.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Chewy
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Jordan C. Woika writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/best-bully-stick/ | 2022-04-13T14:35:06 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/best-bully-stick/ |
Which navy blue rug is best?
Navy blue is a classic color loved by interior designers for its dignified aesthetic. This versatile hue can do wonders as a backdrop for your decor, letting your accents glimmer and shine like stars in the night sky. This makes a rug the perfect candidate to add a rich pool of color to your interior. Which rug you choose will come down to your taste and the area you’re trying to cover.
For a solid area rug that will elevate your home’s aesthetic, you can’t go wrong with the Safavieh Vision Collection Modern Ombre Tonal Chic Non-Shedding Area Rug.
What to know before you buy a navy blue rug
Advantages of navy blue
Navy blue is a stately color associated with power and authority. When used in deeper, darker shades, navy is a great way to add a sense of importance and momentousness to your room. But it can also be peaceful and relaxing, recalling the expansive ocean. Lighter shades not only inspire tranquil reflection, but also positivity and possibility — after all, the big blue sky’s the limit.
Colors that go with navy blue
Navy blue is a cool color, so it pairs best with the warmer side of the spectrum. Colors from blush pink to rust red can balance out the hue. Consider also warm, muted purples, golden yellows and burnt oranges. And navy blends with warm neutral tones such as grays that have red or yellow undertones.
Another tried-and-true pairing is navy blue and white. This crisp, clean aesthetic is a touch nautical, but suits the modern and classical home alike.
If you’re feeling blue through and through, try adding lighter, warmer shades of the color, or even brighter greens to lean into the cool half of the color wheel.
Patterns vs. solid color
While a solid blue rug provides a rich base to play with accents, a patterned rug can have its benefits as well. Patterns tone down navy’s domineering qualities. When set against a warm neutral tone, a navy-blue patterned rug, whether floral or geometric, can offer a modest dose of blue’s psychological prowess without sucking your entire decor into its awesome orbit.
What to look for in a quality navy blue rug
Material
Choosing the right material comes down to your budget and where you intend to place the rug, as certain materials stand up better to foot traffic than others.
- Wool: Tough yet soft underfoot, wool is one of the most common rug materials because it can take a beating. Just keep it out of damp environments.
- Silk: The stuff of luxury, silk is a great option for patterned rugs as the fine fibers allow for intricate details. It won’t stand up to lots of foot traffic, so place it in a less-visited room. .
- Cotton: A more-affordable natural fiber, cotton is used for a lot of flat-weave rugs. It’s easy to clean, making it great for kids’ rooms or kitchens where spills are inevitable.
- Grasses and fibers: Jute, sisal and seagrass are natural grasses used to make rugged carpets. They’re perfect for the outdoors, but can also look great indoors, especially in sunny rooms. They’re just a little rough underfoot.
- Synthetics: Synthetic rugs can are usually polyester, but also include polypropylene, rayon and viscose. These mimic natural fibers’ properties. They’re not as long-lasting, but are easy to clean and can be used in high-traffic areas. They’re also generally more affordable than wool, cotton or silk.
Weave
Your rug’s weave reflects its manufacturing process. Today, most rugs are produced by machine on a power loom. But you can still find one-of-a-kind handmade ones that not only reflect their makers’ idiosyncrasies, but also last for generations.
Both handwoven and hand-knotted rugs don’t have a backing. Because hand-knotted rugs are flat woven, they have the added benefit of reversibility, meaning you can flip them to extend their lifespan.
Machine-woven rugs, on the other hand, pull the fibers through a backing. This renders them prone to shedding as the glue deteriorates over time. But the cheaper cost of production does make synthetics an affordable alternative.
Pile
Your rug’s pile is a measurement of how long or high each individual fiber is, and how densely they’re woven together. A high pile height indicates long strands like those of a shag rug. These are fluffy and thick, but shed easily. A low pile can still be dense, but lasts much longer as it’s harder to pull these rugs apart. Flat-woven rugs have zero pile.
How much you can expect to spend on a navy blue rug
The cost of a rug depends on its size and material. Smaller rugs are typically $25-$150. A large synthetic area rug can cost as much as $200-$350, and a premium handmade rug can cost $700 or more.
Navy blue rug FAQ
What decors does navy blue look best in?
A. Navy blue is a jack of all trades. While it’s most often associated with beach houses, this grand color looks great with a muted palette in modern decors, or with rich yellow-to-red tones in classical homes. How you integrate it is a game of accents, and warm metals and natural woods work great in this regard.
How do I clean my rug?
A. Most rugs need to be cleaned by hand, though some synthetics can be washed in a machine. Silk must be professionally cleaned.
If you’re cleaning by hand, first dust and vacuum your rug to get any dirt and debris out of the fibers. Then, using a carpet shampoo, scrub thoroughly with a brush. Rinse your rug with a hose or a bucket and dry it off. You can do this by blotting with towels first and then hang-drying on a line. When cleaning your rug, it’s best to first test a small patch in case your dyes will fade.
What’s the best navy blue rug to buy?
Top navy blue rug
Safavieh Vision Collection Modern Ombre Tonal Chic Non-Shedding Area Rug
What you need to know: Cast in deep dark blue, this solid-color rug has a hint of faded glory to soften its presence.
What you’ll love: At 5 feet, 1 inches by 7 feet, 6 inches, this area rug suits bedrooms and living rooms. It’s machine-made from polypropylene, a resilient material that resists staining and heavy treading. That makes it a good fit for homes with kids or pets.
What you should consider: Because it’s synthetic, this rug will have a strong smell out of the wrapper, so prepare to air it out for a couple of weeks.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top navy blue rug for the money
Wayfair Basics Shag Navy Area Rug
What you need to know: This shag rug has just the right amount of pile to feel like you’re walking on a cloud without looking like it came from some big blue animal.
What you’ll love: This rug is versatile. You have your choice of large area rugs and smaller accent rugs, as well as rectangular and circular shapes. As an area rug, its high pile adds rich texture to your decor. And as a smaller accent rug — say, by your bedside — you’ll have a luxuriously plush surface to step onto every morning. The synthetic fibers are durable and resist shedding.
What you should consider: You need a pad under it to avoid slipping.
Where to buy: Sold by Wayfair
Worth checking out
Callista Southwestern Navy/Ivory Area Rug
What you need to know: Inspired by Oriental and Persian rugs, it features a geometric pattern that’s right at home in boho and classical interiors.
What you’ll love: It has a sophisticated ornamental diamond motif. With just the right mixture of blue and ivory, you don’t have to totally commit to navy, making this a great rug for decors that prize the crisp duality of blue and white. It’s synthetic, so it’s tough. And it comes in a vast array of sizes to fit whatever space you envision.
What you should consider: The rug can get pricey the larger you go in size.
Where to buy: Sold by Wayfair
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Karl Daum writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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Which RV sewer hose extension is best?
The ability to travel around the country with your home on your back is an incredible gift. Just like stationary homes, it doesn’t come without effort and upkeep. One of the least enjoyable tasks is emptying your toilet tank at designated spots. Making matters worse, sometimes you can’t reach those designated spots with your standard sewer hose.
In these cases, you’ll wish you had the Lippert Waste Master Extension Hose Kit For RV Sewer System. It’s expensive, but you can’t beat its quality.
What to know before you buy an RV sewer hose extension
How frequently will you use it?
Some people live in their RV year-round. Others take it on an extended vacation once or twice a year. RVs are expensive enough as it is, so save some money by buying an RV sewer hose extension with a price tag that fits your expected usage. For example, if you travel once a year, you don’t need a top-dollar, max-durability hose, just something that gets the job done.
Contraction
Most RV sewer hoses contract when not in use to save storage space. Some hoses will attempt the contract on their own at all times. These will put undue pressure on the couplings and lead to broken hoses and disgusting messes. So, you’ll want to purchase a hose that expands and shrinks manually. Better hoses will usually be able to constrict further than lesser hoses.
Flexibility
There’s no way of knowing what situation you’ll find at your RV campground until you get there. You’ll want to have a hose that’s flexible enough to bend and twist around obstacles with just enough rigidity to remain durable. Highly rigid hoses may last longer, but it’s only a matter of time before you find yourself in a situation that your unbending hose can’t handle.
What to look for in a quality RV sewer hose extension
Interior
The best RV sewer hose extensions have the smoothest interiors. This allows the waste to flow smoothly and prevents, or at least limits, clogs. Smooth interiors are also less likely to hold onto small amounts of waste that can leak out in storage.
Durability
There are many elements to an RV sewer hose extension’s durability, but crush and UV resistance are two of the most important.
- Crush-resistance: If something lays on the ground, inevitably, someone or something will eventually step on it. Better hoses have enough strength to hold their shape and prevent flattening or breaks from a few accidents. All will eventually succumb, though.
- UV-resistance: PRV sewer hose extensions tend to become weaker the longer it remains in direct contact with the sun. Hoses with UV resistance will last far longer than a hose without UV resistance.
How much you can expect to spend on an RV sewer hose extension
RV sewer hose extensions can cost as little as $10, which is perfect if you rarely use your RV. Most extensions cost $25-$50. The best extensions can easily exceed $100, a tier reserved for constant RV travelers.
RV sewer hose extension FAQ
How often do I need to empty the waste tank?
A. That depends on many factors, such as the size of your RV’s waste tank, the number of people traveling in the RV and how often each person uses the onboard bathroom. Some RVs have metered tanks, so you can be informed of exactly how full your tank is. In these cases, you’ll want to empty the tank once it hits two-thirds full to be safe. If you don’t have a metered tank, dumping once you arrive or before you leave your RV campground is a good policy.
Do I really need to cap my waste hoses when not in use?
A. Yes. No matter how thoroughly you flush a used hose with clean water, there’s no way to be sure there isn’t still a little something nasty hiding in an interior crevice. Capping your hoses before storing them is the best way to prevent any nasty spills or seepage from ruining your storage compartments.
What’s the best RV sewer hose extension to buy?
Top RV sewer hose extension
Lippert Waste Master Extension Hose Kit for RV Sewer System
What you need to know: This is among the highest quality kits you can find.
What you’ll love: It adds up to 20 feet to your main sewer hose. It is highly resistant to most weather conditions and has high UV resistance. The interior is smooth enough to prevent clogs and to limit waste being left inside after dumping.
What you should consider: It’s among the priciest options. Some consumers had issues with the glue connections being improperly connected or totally lacking in glue, leading to leaks.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top RV sewer hose extension for the money
Camco RhinoFLEX Heavy Duty 10-Foot RV Sewer Hose Extension Kit
What you need to know: This budget pick is excellent for infrequent travelers.
What you’ll love: It uses a swiveling bayonet design to lock the connectors into place, and the locking rings are reusable. It can contract to over 3 feet long when not in use, and it’s made of steel wire-reinforced polyolefin for durability.
What you should consider: The 10-foot size isn’t enough for some situations. Some consumers had issues with the connections suddenly separating during a dump.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
Worth checking out
Valterra EZ Coupler RV Sewer Hose Kit
What you need to know: This is a great midrange pick.
What you’ll love: The kit includes a universal sewer adapter that’s transparent so you can monitor the draining process, rotating fittings and two 10-foot collapsible hoses that can add up to 20 feet to your main sewer hose. When collapsed, the hoses measure just over 2 feet long.
What you should consider: Some consumers had issues not reaching its listed maximum of 20 feet. It has fewer connectors and thus a higher chance of failure.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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What do you decorate on Easter?
Springtime pastel hues, flower-adorned wreaths, artistically-designed eggs and more — there are numerous ways to showcase your Easter spirit with lovely decorations for both inside and outside your home. From your front door to your dining room table, decorations that are both classy and reasonably priced will make your place inviting for the upcoming holiday. Whether you prefer simplistic or whimsical designs, our favorite decorative ideas will help you celebrate the holiday with style.
Focus on color
With sprouting greenery and blooming flowers, spring is all about color. When it comes to Easter, soft, subdued shades are always on trend. White bunnies, yellow chicks and pastel blue, green and pink eggs are all cheerful icons of the holiday.
Colors that represent the death and resurrection of Christ are symbolic of the religious meaning of the holiday. Purple has long been the color associated with Lent and sorrow, while gold and white represent rebirth and joy.
Add spring flowers
Flowers representing renewal and rebirth go hand in hand with springtime and the Easter holiday. Tulips, lilies, daffodils, crocuses and hyacinths are popular blooms for the season. Adding a live arrangement to special events like Easter dinner creates a special touch. If you prefer flowers that can be displayed year after year, these Easter blooms are also available in artificial bouquets, centerpieces and wreaths.
Include your entryway
Easter decorations for your front porch and door will create festive curb appeal. Wreaths and door art are affordable and easy to put in place. Baskets, signs, figures and statues are available with spring and bunny themes that appeal to Easter enthusiasts of all ages.
Create festive tables
Seasonal bouquets add a classy touch to accent and end tables in your home this time of year. Centerpieces are a nice touch for a dining table for Easter gatherings. Runners and tablecloths with Easter graphics are also available.
Don’t forget the eggs
Coloring eggs is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to decorate for Easter. There are more options than ever for turning eggs into colorful art, including pens, paints, decals, stencils and dyes. Many of these items come in sets that include everything you need for eye-catching eggs.
Best Easter decorations
Glitzhome Wooden Easter Welcome Porch Sign with Bunny Ears
This welcome sign sports a sweet bunny face that kids and the young at heart will appreciate when they stop by for Easter visits. It’s crafted of firwood and fiberboard that’s durable, making it suitable for use year after year.
Sold by Macy’s
National Tree Company Easter Egg Garland
Garland isn’t just for Christmas. This pretty strand includes springtime blooms with pastel-colored eggs, and it can be placed on a shelf, mantle or table. It’s made of quality materials that will last for many Easters to come.
Crowned Beauty Spring Easter Garden Flag
A spiritual message with colorful graphics makes this garden flag a nice addition to seasonal outdoor decorations. It’s made of strong polyester that holds up well to outdoor conditions.
Sold by Amazon
Adding fresh flowers to your Easter decor is easy with this beautiful flower-filled basket. It features roses, daisies, carnations and eggs in pastel shades that pair perfectly with the season. Small, medium and large displays are available.
Sold by 1-800Flowers.com
Winston Porter Charlestown Peter Rabbit Statue
This adorable rabbit statue features realistic details. It’s crafted of durable resin and makes a nice addition to a porch or garden.
Sold by Wayfair
Celebrate Easter Together Easter Bunny Tablecloth
Setting an Easter table starts with a tablecloth like this one that’s covered in bunnies and pastel flowers. It is available in two sizes and is machine-washable for easy care.
Sold by Kohl’s
EverBloomingOriginal Tulip Wreath
Greet your Easter guests with this unique handmade door wreath that’s packed with colorful faux tulips in a bucket and topped with a bow. There are several size options, and you can pick both the bow color and tulip color.
Sold by Etsy
National Tree Company Easter Tree
This artificial tree is designed for spring, as it showcases flowers and eggs in colors that are ideal for the Easter season. It has a sophisticated appearance that complements any room’s decor.
Sold by Home Depot
Flowers, pastel eggs and a cute bunny — this wreath has an unmistakable Easter theme. It can be used to decorate a front door but works just as well as part of an indoor Easter display.
Sold by 1-800Flowers.com
Anyone who prefers to decorate with earth-friendly products will appreciate this natural Easter egg dye kit that produces beautiful colors with dyes derived from fruits and vegetables. Even the packaging is safe for the environment, as it’s recycled and biodegradable.
Sold by Amazon
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Jennifer Manfrin writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/apparel-br/holiday-br/these-easter-decoration-ideas-are-classy-and-surprisingly-affordable/ | 2022-04-13T14:35:27 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/apparel-br/holiday-br/these-easter-decoration-ideas-are-classy-and-surprisingly-affordable/ |
Which men’s base layers are best?
Whether you live in a cold climate, plan on taking a trip to a chilly destination or just like to be prepared for the winter months, wearing a base layer is one of the surest ways to keep warm. They’re thin, insulated pants and long-sleeve shirts that don’t add uncomfortable bulk underneath your main bottoms and tops. Some come in top and bottom pairs, but most clothing companies separate the two.
The best men’s base layer is the Helly-Hansen HH LIFA Crew Baselayer Top. It is a little on the costly side, but it is breathable and thin without sacrificing warmth.
What to know before you buy men’s base layers
Material
Most men’s base layers are blends of one majority material to provide warmth and a small amount of stretchy material for fit and function. However, some top-dollar layers might be made entirely of one material. The most commonly used majority materials are polyester, nylon, acrylic and rayon. High-end layers may use polypropylene. Cotton is occasionally used as well, though rarely. The stretchy material is usually elastane, which is also known as Lycra or spandex.
Size
Men’s base layers go by the same sizing standards as most clothing. Some base layers come in big and tall options. The complication comes from the elasticity of most base layers. This means a shirt that’s normally your size may restrict your body to the point of discomfort. Most brands also use different sleeve and pant leg lengths than a similarly sized option from a different brand. All of which to say, you’ll likely need to try on multiple base layers before you find a comfortable fit.
What to look for in quality men’s base layers
Weight
Men’s base layer weights are closely tied to the degree of heat retention they provide. Lightweight layers provide minimal retention, making them best for cool morning runs and the like. Heavyweight layers are thick enough to trap a huge amount of body heat and keep you warm in frigid environments. Medium-weight layers have the widest range of weights and heat retention. Weather conditions between cool and frigid will be covered here, but you may need to shop for a while to find the perfect weight.
Cuffs and collars
To facilitate maximum heat retention, most men’s base layers have highly elastic cuffs and collars to prevent body heat from escaping through these weak points. The goal is to be snug enough that the cuff won’t be pulled away during average movement but not tight enough to constrict. You’ll also want to look for thin cuffs — if they’re too thick, they’ll make your outer layers feel bunched and uncomfortable.
How much you can expect to spend on men’s base layers
The cheapest men’s base layers cost no more than $20, though their effectiveness may be questionable. The priciest options start at $60 and can exceed $100 in some cases. Most men’s base layers cost between $30-$50.
Men’s base layers FAQ
What else can I wear with men’s base layers?
A. Many additional articles of clothing can be worn to increase your comfort in cold weather. Starting at the top and moving down:
- Warm hats that cover the ears, such as beanies or even balaclavas for especially frigid weather.
- Long-sleeve shirts or T-shirts made from warm materials like fleece and flannel.
- Jackets, sweatshirts and hoodies for additional top-area coverage.
- Sweatpants and other similar styles for extra bottom layers.
- Wool socks and insulated shoes for the feet.
How long do men’s base layers last?
A. Most men’s base layers last up to three years, even with regular use. Once they start to be noticeably stretched or develop any holes or thin sections, it’s time to consider a replacement. Don’t bother with repairs, as the stretchy construction of most base layers is impossible to fix once stretched or torn.
How should I wash men’s base layers?
A. Most men’s base layers require special care when washing to prevent damage. For many, this means machine-washing in cold water with bleach-free detergent and no fabric softeners. Most base layers, even machine-washable ones, shouldn’t be machine-dried.
What are the best men’s base layers to buy?
Top men’s base layer
Helly-Hansen HH LIFA Crew Baselayer Top
What you need to know: This top is warm and stylish, and it comes from an excellent brand.
What you’ll love: It’s entirely polypropylene with high degrees of breathability, flexibility and warmth retention. It comes from Scandinavia. It feels ultra-light on the body at only 0.3 pounds and uses flatlock seams for comfort. It’s available in black and two shades of white.
What you should consider: It’s among the priciest tops. The zebra-stripe accents can be too much for some consumers. Some consumers found them to run small, so it is best to purchase a size up.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top men’s base layer for the money
Starter Athletic Light-Compression Leggings
What you need to know: This bottom layer piece is effective for a low price.
What you’ll love: It’s made of 88% woven polyester with 12% Spandex for compression and fit. It dries quickly and wicks moisture. Plus, mesh inner legs allow for maximum breathability, which make these well-suited for runners. It is machine-washable and comes in black or gray.
What you should consider: With a low cost and mesh on the inner leg comes low heat retention, and some consumers found the compression to be too strong.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Under Armour Packaged Base 2.0 Crew-Neck T-Shirt
What you need to know: This shirt traps body heat to keep the wearer warm in cool weather.
What you’ll love: It comes in sizes small to 3XL. It has four-way stretch construction and a soft interior for maximum comfort in any direction. Light and breathable, this top dries quickly and wicks moisture.
What you should consider: This top is also among the priciest picks. It runs a little small, so make sure to order a size up. Additionally, it has minimal heat retention.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
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Jordan C. Woika writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/apparel-br/loungewear-undergarments-br/best-mens-base-layers/ | 2022-04-13T14:35:34 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/apparel-br/loungewear-undergarments-br/best-mens-base-layers/ |
What are the best gifts for 11-year-olds?
No longer little kids but not quite teenagers, 11-year-olds often want to be more grown-up than they are, and will appreciate gifts that make them feel this way. It can be a tricky age group to buy for, but once you get down to it, you can find plenty for tweens to enjoy.
You know the 11-year-old you’re buying for, so thinking about their likes and interests will help you choose the perfect gift. And it’s useful to look at popular products for inspiration.
Best tech gifts for 11-year-olds
Top tech gift
WobbleWorks 3Doodler Create+ 3D Printing Pen
What you need to know: Creative 11-year-olds who love tech will be wowed by this 3D printing pen.
What you’ll love: It lets users create 3D models out of plastic rods that are inserted into the pen and melt as they come out of the tip. Users can craft all kinds of wonderful creations, both big and small.
What you should consider: Although sensible 11-year-olds will be able to use it safely, it’s recommended for ages 14-plus.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top tech gift for the money
Sphero Mini App-Enabled Programmable Robot Ball
What you need to know: This is an excellent choice if you’re buying for an 11-year-old who loves tech and is interested in programming.
What you’ll love: This tiny robot can teach users how to code with the Sphero app for smartphones, tablets or laptops. It also acts as a controller to play a variety of mini games and has a drive mode that lets users drive it around from the app.
What you should consider: It suffers from a few glitches, such as easily becoming uncalibrated and disconnecting from Wi-Fi.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Best gifts for 11-year-olds who love music
Top music gift
Fender Squier Bullet Stratocaster Starter Pack
What you need to know: It’s a reasonably priced electric guitar that’s great for beginners as it comes bundled with other essentials.
What you’ll love: This guitar is on the higher end of basic, so it will serve a new player for at least a few years before they want to upgrade. It comes with accessories including a strap, lead, tuner and small practice amp.
What you should consider: If you’re not sure your 11-year-old wants to learn guitar, it’s a pricey gift to take a risk on.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top music gift for the money
What you need to know: This portable Bluetooth speaker is perfect for music lovers, letting them play music from a phone, tablet or laptop.
What you’ll love: It’s waterproof and durable, so it’s a good choice for kids who aren’t known for taking the best care of their belongings. The sound quality is excellent considering its compact size.
What you should consider: Kids who don’t have their own phone or tablet will get limited use from it.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Best gifts for creative 11-year-olds
Top creative gift
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils
What you need to know: Art-lovers can level up their drawing game with these colored pencils.
What you’ll love: They have soft cores, are highly pigmented and easily blendable, so they’re a huge step up for tweens who only have basic colored pencils. You can choose a range of pack sizes, from small 36-pencil sets to huge 150-pencil ones.
What you should consider: Their high price point means they’re not ideal for kids who aren’t seriously into art.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top creative gift for the money
Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera
What you need to know: This camera lets the tween in your life experience the magic of instant Polaroid pictures, but in a modern package.
What you’ll love: It’s great for 11-year-olds into photography, easy to use and comes in a range of appealing colors: blue, pink, lilac, charcoal and white. It automatically adjusts the shutter speed to get the best results in any lighting.
What you should consider: The film is relatively pricey and kids may go through it quickly when they’re used to taking snaps on digital cameras.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Best gift for adventurous 11-year-olds
Top adventurous gift
What you need to know: This mini drone is made by a reputable drone manufacturer, but has cheaper components and hardware to bring the cost down.
What you’ll love: It has a decent build quality and is easy to control, which is great for young drone pilots. It comes with a camera that can capture still photos and videos.
What you should consider: The maximum flight time is only 13 minutes, but it’s still fun to play with.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top adventurous gift for the money
What you need to know: A skateboard is a great gift for adventurous young people who are longing to hang out at the skatepark with their friends.
What you’ll love: This is a complete board, so it’s ready to ride out of the box. It’s a decent setup for new skaters that they’ll take a while to grow out of. The 7.5-inch width is a good size for young skaters.
What you should consider: You’ll need to buy the right safety gear for the 11-year-old in your life to skate safely.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Best gifts for 11-year-olds into games and gaming
Top game and gaming gift
What you need to know: This Marvel version of the strategy game Splendor is complex enough to keep 11-year-olds interested without being too hard to play.
What you’ll love: It’s a great choice for Marvel fans, board-gamers and young people you’re trying to encourage to spend less time staring at screens. It’s a relatively quick game, taking around 30 minutes from start to finish once players have the hang of the mechanics.
What you should consider: It can be tough to get some 11-year-olds to agree to family game time.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top game and gaming gift for the money
Paladone Playstation Icons Light
What you need to know: Young people of this age often want to start asserting their identity, so a keen gamer would love to display this in their bedroom or game room.
What you’ll love: It has three lighting modes: one displaying solid colors, one phasing among colors and one music-reactive mode that flashes along with a beat. It’s officially licensed by PlayStation and is solidly made.
What you should consider: Kids who are more into Xbox or Nintendo than PlayStation might not like it.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/baby-kids-br/best-gifts-for-11-year-olds/ | 2022-04-13T14:35:42 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/baby-kids-br/best-gifts-for-11-year-olds/ |
Which toddler beanbag chair is best?
A toddler beanbag chair provides a comfy spot to rest that’s just the right size for a little body. It’s a perfect place for toddlers to sit and look at a picture book, do some coloring or watch their favorite shows. The Idea Nuova Toddler Beanbag Chair comes in three cute designs and is an ideal size for young toddlers.
What to know before you buy a toddler beanbag chair
Filling type
Beanbag chairs can be filled with polystyrene beads, expanded polypropylene beads or shredded foam beads.
- Polystyrene beads are comfortable to sit on and inexpensive, but they flatten over time.
- Expanded polypropylene beads bounce back into shape better than polystyrene beads, but they’re pricier.
- Shredded foam beads are light and very comfortable, but feel slightly more squishy than classic beanbag fillings, which some people prefer and some people don’t.
Size
Some beanbag chairs for kids are the perfect size for toddlers but not for older kids, while others are great for toddlers to grow into. It’s up to you to decide if you want a chair that’s just the right size for your toddler now, or one that’s oversized now but might last until they’re 8 or 10 years old.
Design
Beanbags for toddlers generally have more elaborate designs than those for adults. While you can find some in solid colors, many feature animal designs, cartoon characters, princesses or superheroes. This means you should be able to easily find a chair design your child will love.
What to look for in a quality toddler beanbag chair
Washable cover
Toddlers aren’t known for their ability to keep things clean, so any chair you buy for them will probably end up covered in crumbs and sticky fingerprints. Ideally, it should have a removable, washable cover so you can keep it clean and fresh.
Refillable
Fillings often flatten over time, so it’s great if you can top up the filling to keep the chair plush and comfy for years to come.
Safety-locked zippers
Toddlers are curious and get into everything, so it’s natural they’d want to discover what’s inside their chair. However, a learning experience for them equals a huge mess to clean up for you. Safety-locked zippers are easy for adults to open but tricky for toddlers to work, which is a huge bonus.
How much you can expect to spend on a toddler beanbag chair
Expect to spend around $30-$75 on a beanbag chair for your toddler. If it’s cheaper than $30, make sure you’re getting a filled beanbag rather than just a cover.
Toddler beanbag chair FAQ
How long do beanbag chairs last?
A. This depends on a range of factors, including the quality of the chair and how much use it gets. On average, you can expect them to last around three to five years before they split, flatten or get too worn and grubby. It’s likely that your toddler will outgrow the chair before it needs replacing, but it may have enough life left in it to pass down to a younger sibling or another child in your life.
Are beanbag chairs safe for toddlers?
A. The only real risks are that a toddler could eat the filling or open up the zipper, climb inside and suffocate. Both risks are negated by choosing a chair that either has a safety locked zipper or doesn’t open. As long as your toddler can’t open up the chair, it’s safe to use unsupervised.
Which beanbag shape is best?
A. Toddlers will have more support from a with a back and arms than a round sack-shaped one. Beanbag loungers also offer support in a reclined position but are harder to sit up on. Most toddlers are happy to sit on any kind of beanbag chair.
What’s the best toddler beanbag chair to buy?
Top toddler beanbag chair
Idea Nuova Toddler Beanbag Chair
What you need to know: This adorable mini beanbag chair is perfectly sized for toddlers of around 12-36 months.
What you’ll love: You can choose from three designs, featuring Minnie Mouse, Spiderman and Grogu from “The Mandalorian.” It’s made from a soft fleece material with a sherpa trim.
What you should consider: It’s very small, so older toddlers will grow out of it quickly.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top toddler beanbag chair for the money
Big Joe Milano Kids Beanbag Chair
What you need to know: Featuring a terrazzo print, this cool-looking beanbag is ideal for ages 2-4.
What you’ll love: The back and arms offer plenty of support and the foam bead filling is comfortable. It has a handle to make it easier to pick up and move around. It has a safety locked zipper.
What you should consider: The filling flattens slightly over time, so you may need to top it up after a year or so of use.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Posh Creations Beanbag Chair for Kids
What you need to know: It’s perfect for parents who want to buy a beanbag chair for their toddler to grow into.
What you’ll love: Buyers have eight designs to choose from, including a llama, sloth and dragon. The cover is removable and washable, with a safety locked zipper.
What you should consider: Young toddlers may need to climb onto it, but it will last them through much of their childhood.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/baby-kids-br/best-toddler-beanbag-chair/ | 2022-04-13T14:35:49 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/baby-kids-br/best-toddler-beanbag-chair/ |
What are the best bassinets at BuyBuyBaby?
Lightweight and compact enough to position at your bedside, bassinets make excellent first beds for babies. Having your baby right next to you at night will help you both rest easier — and make it easy to breastfeed right away or console your newborn when they wake up. The trouble is finding the perfect bassinet for you and your newborn.
A good bassinet is, above all else, safe for babies. It should give you easy access to your baby at night so nocturnal disturbances aren’t so stressful. Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s less challenging to find the right bassinet.
Best bassinets from BuyBuyBaby
Halo Bassinest Luxe Swivel Sleeper
This deluxe bassinet is not only safe and comfortable for babies but highly convenient for parents. The swivel design brings your baby even closer to you when you need it to, which is perfect when you have to feed or soothe your child in the night but don’t want to get out of bed. The lowering bedside wall also allows you easier access while keeping your little one safe. What’s more, the bed portion is easy to remove from the base for naps in other parts of your home.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a decent bassinet, as proved by this affordable model. The mesh sides are breathable and allow you to see in and check on your baby without getting up from bed. Thanks to the quick-fold mechanism, it’s easy to pack and move for travel or naps outside or in other parts of your home. The hammock-style shelf below the sleeping area is perfect for holding changing or feeding essentials that you need on hand.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
Ingenuity Dream and Grow Bedside Bassinet
A common complaint about bassinets is how quickly babies grow out of them. Most bassinets are no longer safe to use once your baby can sit up. This model has an adjustable depth, so you can use it until your child reaches 12 months. What’s more, it has a convenient storage caddy to hold diapers, wipes, muslins and other essentials.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
Baby Delight Beside Me Dreamer Bassinet and Bedside Sleeper
You can either use this as a standard bassinet or as a co-sleeper bassinet with the side down and the base properly anchored to your mattress. The latter is great for parents who like the idea of co-sleeping but are concerned about the potential risks as it gives babies their own space where there’s no chance you could roll onto them. It’s easy to adjust the height so it’s at the right level for your bed.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
With four ways to use this bassinet, it’s perfect for parents who want something that will grow with their child. You can use it as a raised bassinet so your baby’s at eye level when you’re in bed, as a standard crib-level bassinet, as a portable bassinet separate from the base and as a crib or play yard for older babies and toddlers. It folds down and comes with a convenient carry case for travel use.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
Delta Children Wave Vibrating Bassinet
Thanks to its built-in wave vibration, this bassinet can help soothe fussy infants, either to get them off to sleep at bedtime or to settle them down if they wake in the night. It has a toy bar suspended above the sleeping area, giving babies something to look at. Below is a shelf that you can use for storage of all those items you need to care for your baby.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
DaVinci Archie Portable Bassinet
If you like the classic crib look, this is the bassinet for you. It’s made from wood with slats down the sides for breathability; this also allows you to easily look in and see your baby from bed or another low angle. It’s available in a brown wood finish or painted white or gray. It’s on wheels so you can easily move it from one spot to another, as needed. The large shelf at the base gives you plenty of space to hold what you need for changing, feeding and so on.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
Skip Hop Cozy-Up 2-in-1 Bedside Sleeper and Bassinet
This height-adjustable bassinet can be used either in a regular freestanding fashion or as a bedside co-sleeper, anchored to your mattress for safety. Whichever option you choose, it’s safe to use and performs well. The mesh sides are breathable and offer great visibility. Some buyers found it hard to find sheets to fit, so it’s worth checking that before you buy.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
Fisher-Price Soothing Motions Bassinet
A perfect choice for fussy babies or difficult sleepers, this bassinet has a range of options to help soothe infants to sleep. It has a gentle swaying motion, gentle vibrations and soothing sounds, all of which combine to help babies and parents get more rest. Of course, these are optional, so you don’t have to use them if your child isn’t a fan. It also has a mobile with stars and a lion, providing visual stimulation. The storage shelf below the sleeping area is also nice to have.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
Ingenuity FoldAway Rocking Wood Bassinet
Thanks to its rocking abilities, you can more easily soothe your baby off to sleep with the help of this bassinet. You can also lock it into stationary mode to keep it safe and stable when you need. It has an attractive dark wood frame and a gray and white sleeping area with breathable mesh sides that are removable and machine washable. It also folds extremely quickly and easily, so it’s great for travel or simply taking to different rooms in your house so your baby can nap near you.
Sold by BuyBuyBaby
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/baby-kids-br/nursery-br/10-best-buybuybaby-bassinets/ | 2022-04-13T14:35:56 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/baby-kids-br/nursery-br/10-best-buybuybaby-bassinets/ |
Should you buy a Graco jogging stroller?
If running is important to you, having a baby or toddler to look after doesn’t mean giving up on it. With a jogging stroller, you can safely and easily run with your child. However, choosing the stroller is important, and you may be wondering if Graco strollers can provide the durability and features you want.
Many people love them, but it’s up to you to decide if they’re worth it for you. Learning more about their features, pros and cons will help you decide if a jogging stroller from Graco is what you need.
Graco jogging stroller features
Locking front wheel
When jogging with a stroller, the front wheel must be fixed in a forward-facing position for safety reasons. While some dedicated jogging strollers have front wheels permanently fixed in place, this makes them impractical for non-jogging use, as they’re difficult to maneuver at a walking pace. Instead, all Graco jogging strollers have locking front wheels so you can lock them in place for jogging and unlock them when you want to use the stroller for standard day-to-day activities.
Child tray
Every jogging stroller from Graco has a child tray with a cup holder and a compartment for snacks. This is an excellent feature to keep toddlers happy and hydrated while you’re on the go.
Adult cup holder
You also need to keep yourself hydrated while you’re running, which is why you’ll appreciate the adult cup holder attached to the handles of these strollers. It can fit two standard water bottles or coffee cups and has a recess that can be used for snacks or as a phone holder.
Large wheels
Jogging strollers’ wheels are larger than those of standard strollers, which makes jogging strollers roll along more smoothly. The large wheels can roll right over obstacles that standard strollers can’t, making them less likely to be caught by potholes or other bumps in the road.
Under-seat storage
The large under-seat baskets on these strollers provide ample storage. Even when you’re out for a run, you still need to bring diapers, bottles, snacks and all those other baby and toddler essentials. Plus, you might decide to grab a few groceries on the way back from your jog, in which case the extra storage space comes into its own.
Air-filled tires
Air-filled tires provide some natural shock absorption to give your child a smoother ride while you’re running. Although not all Graco strollers have suspension systems, these tires do a decent job of absorbing bumps in the road so your little one will feel more comfortable.
Sun canopy
There’s no need to worry about your baby on a sunny day with the sun canopy providing UV50 sun protection. Of course, you’ll still need to apply baby sunscreen on any exposed skin that isn’t shaded by the canopy, but it still offers your child a decent level of protection.
How much do Graco jogging strollers cost?
Compared to high-end jogging strollers, they’re fairly affordable. Expect to pay roughly $150-$250, depending on your chosen model.
Graco jogging stroller pros
- Compatibility: You can buy Graco jogging stroller travel systems if you want to be able to fit an infant car seat to your jogging stroller base.
- Features: They’re thoughtfully designed with features parents and caregivers want, such as storage and cup holders.
- Foldability: These strollers fold easily even when you’re only using one hand, a huge relief when you’re trying to hold a baby with one arm and adjust your stroller with the other.
- Air-filled tires: All Graco strollers have them, providing some natural shock absorption and, therefore, giving your little one a smoother ride.
- Sneak peek: The peekaboo window in the canopy lets you check in on your baby while keeping the canopy up for sun protection.
Graco jogging stroller cons
- Singles only: While you can buy standard double strollers from Graco, the company doesn’t make double jogging strollers.
- Spot-clean only: The seat pads are spot-clean only, so they can get grubby once you’ve had the stroller for a while.
- Pavement only: Only one features a suspension system, so the others aren’t suitable for off-road use.
- Leaks possible: While the air-filled tires provide a smoother ride, there is a chance they could get punctured.
Are Graco jogging strollers worth it?
While they have a handful of flaws and features that could be improved upon, they’re solid, reliable strollers for an affordable price. This makes them an attractive choice for many buyers. They’re versatile enough to use day-to-day, as well as for jogging or running, so you could make one your only stroller.
If you’re looking for a high-end stroller, on the other hand, you may prefer to pay more to have a stroller with all the bells and whistles, along with a trendy brand name.
Ultimately, you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons, take a closer look at the models available and decide whether a Graco jogging stroller is the best one for you.
Best Graco jogging strollers
Graco FastAction Fold Jogging Stroller
This affordable, lightweight jogging stroller is quick and easy to hold with just one hand. The air-filled tires provide excellent shock absorption to give your baby a smooth ride.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Graco Modes 2.0 Jogging Stroller
With seven ways to position your baby or toddler, this is a versatile jogging stroller. It has a suspension system as well as air-filled tires, which is great for use on bumpy trails.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and BuyBuyBaby
Graco FastAction Jogger LX Stroller
It works as both a stroller for toddlers and older babies and is compatible with any Graco infant car seat for newborns. It folds quickly and has plenty of storage.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/baby-kids-br/strollers-br/are-graco-jogging-strollers-worth-it/ | 2022-04-13T14:36:03 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/baby-kids-br/strollers-br/are-graco-jogging-strollers-worth-it/ |
Sephora’s bestselling eye masks
When outlining how to have glowing and smooth skin, the first tip dermatologists and skin care experts always offer is to get more sleep and drink water. While there’s no replacement for staying hydrated, there is a way to look like you got eight hours of sleep, even after spending all night in the office or out with friends.
Under-eye masks are no longer the beauty industry’s best-kept secret. Whether you have puffy eyes, dark circles or dehydrated skin, eye masks offer a miracle solution in just 15 minutes. If you’re wondering which choice is best for you, here are the eight most popular eye masks at Sephora.
Eye mask considerations
Styles of eye masks
There are several styles of eye masks. The most popular is an under-eye patch, which is usually soaked in a serum full of quality ingredients. The patches themselves are made from paper, cloth, fibers or gel and don’t provide too much benefit. The most important part of an eye mask patch is the serum it’s soaked in.
Some eye masks come with dry patches and a separate gel or serum. In this case, you apply the gel or serum and place the mask on top. There are also eye masks in the form of a cream or a balm that are used without a patch, similar to an eye cream.
When using the patch style, the thinner, tapered end is the side that goes next to the inner corner of your eye. This leaves the thick end to wrap around the outer side of your eye and target any fine lines. While some hydrating masks can be used every day, masks with actives and powerful ingredients may only be recommended for use once or twice a week.
Benefits of eye masks
Eye masks can have numerous benefits, which are primarily dependent on the ingredients. For example, some eye masks are targeted toward those with puffy eyes, while others are designed to brighten or smooth fine lines and wrinkles. Some of the most common ingredients used in eye masks include:
- Caffeine: One of the most popular ingredients found in eye masks is caffeine. Caffeine is known to restrict blood vessels, which can significantly reduce puffiness.
- Hydrating ingredients: Some under-eye issues like fine lines and texture are caused by a lack of moisture, which can be improved by using a hydrating eye mask. A few hydrating ingredients found in eye masks include hyaluronic acid, ceramides and squalane.
- Antioxidants: One of the primary ways to brighten the under-eye area is by using ingredients rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin K and niacinamide.
- Actives: Actives are powerful ingredients that go deeper into your skin to address a specific issue. A few actives include retinol, which targets fine lines and wrinkles, and chemical exfoliants like BHAs and AHAs that encourage skin cell turnover.
Most popular eye masks at Sephora
Best eye masks with retinol
Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Pure Retinol Express Smoothing Eye Mask
Packed with retinol, these powerful eye masks brighten and smooth the under-eye area in as little as 15 minutes. Over time, the active ingredients also target fine lines around the eyes. As a bonus, these masks can also be used for laugh lines around the mouth.
Sold by Sephora
Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Eye Sleeping Mask
Those who prefer a cream instead of a patch will love this sleeping mask formulated with encapsulated retinol and avocado. The encapsulated retinol is gentler around the eyes than other forms because it releases smaller amounts at a time. This cream is also packed with antioxidants that help to brighten and de-puff.
Sold by Sephora
Best gold eye masks
Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Eye Masks
After seeing shiny gold masks on celebrities around the world, this eye mask became a skin care favorite. It doesn’t just look pretty but also contains peptides, amino acids and hyaluronic acid. Together, these ingredients work to hydrate, diminish the appearance of fine lines and improve the texture of your skin.
Sold by Sephora
Peter Thomas Roth 24-Karat Gold Pure Luxury Lift and Firm Hydra-Gel Eye Patches
Everyone loves a gold mask, and they’re even better if they work. These luxurious eye patches are infused with 24K and colloidal gold to lift and firm the under-eye area. The formula also includes caffeine and hyaluronic acid to reduce the look of puffiness and deliver hydration.
Sold by Sephora
Best eye masks for puffiness and bags
Peace Out Puffy Under-Eye Patches
With powerhouse ingredients like caffeine, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid working together, your sleepy eyes don’t stand a chance. If you want to reduce puffiness and brighten and hydrate your under-eye area, put these patches on for just 15 minutes. They’re also vegan and free of parabens, mineral oil, sulfates, and gluten and contain less than 1% synthetic fragrance.
Sold by Sephora
Tarte SEA Pack Your Bags Under-Eye Patches
Those looking for eye masks with unique ingredients will appreciate these clear, contoured patches that use jellified algae and coconut to brighten and hydrate. They’re also vegan and hypoallergenic and, most importantly, won’t slide around your face. The pack includes four sets of two patches.
Sold by Sephora
Best visibly hydrating eye masks
Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Concentrated Eye Treatment Mask
Estee Lauder has been creating top skin care for years, and these eye masks are no different. The patches are soaked in an intensely concentrated treatment that delivers effective and powerful results. It’s so effective that it’s only recommended to use these eye masks once a week.
Sold by Sephora
Dior Backstage Eye Reviver Patches
If you want to look fancy, these eye patches with the iconic Dior logo printed all over them are the way to go. Unlike most eye masks, the serum and eye patches are separate. After smoothing the eye serum on your under-eyes, place the patches on for 10 minutes. If you run out of patches before serum, you can use other patches and get the most bang for your buck.
Sold by Sephora
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Bre Richey writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/eye-care-br/8-most-popular-eye-masks-at-sephora/ | 2022-04-13T14:36:10 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/eye-care-br/8-most-popular-eye-masks-at-sephora/ |
What’s the best eye primer at Sephora?
If you haven’t been using eye primer, you’re lucky you’ve never needed one, but most likely you aren’t getting the best performance out of your eyeshadow. Starting your eye look with a primer creates a smooth, flawless base that can actually make it easier to apply and blend your eyeshadow. Plus, a good eyeshadow primer can help your makeup stay as crease-free and brilliant as the moment you put it on. Here are the most popular Sephora eye primers to try out for lasting, perfect eye makeup.
Eye primer considerations
Do I need eye primer?
Have you ever caught a glimpse of your makeup a few hours after applying and noticed it creasing, fading or smudging? Even eyeshadow formulas touting their long-lasting capabilities are prone to wearing away over time. Applying an eyeshadow primer first can help your eye makeup look freshly done for hours. Eyeshadow primers create a smooth, even canvas that lets eyeshadows blend more easily, avoiding patchiness. Primers can also capture the true color of your eyeshadow and prevent it from being altered by your skin tone showing through.
How to choose an eye primer
Most eye primers are formulated to create a grippy base for your eyeshadow, but some offer color-correcting or skincare benefits as well. When it comes to color coverage, some primers dry down transparent, while others are tinted. Shop carefully to pick one that suits your skin tone and your makeup goals, and keep in mind that the lighter your primer, the more your eyeshadow’s pigment will pop. If you have oily eyelids, look for an eyeshadow primer formula that’s described as long-lasting to avoid creasing. For dry eyelids, choose a formula with hydrating ingredients like vitamin E.
Can I use concealer as eye primer?
Probably not. Some people with drier eyelids might be able to make their under-eye concealer multitask as an eye primer, but in general, concealers just don’t have the same ability to grip pigments and prevent creasing the way an eye primer can. Concealer can act as a good eyeshadow base and help eyeshadow color look truer and brighter, but it won’t last as long. You can set your concealer with a translucent setting powder or an eyeshadow that matches your skin tone, which helps turn it into a better base for blending. But in general, an eyeshadow primer is going to give you the same flawless base plus much longer-lasting staying power.
How to use eye primer
Eye primer is a quick and easy step to add to your makeup routine. To use eye primer, apply a small amount to your eyelid using your fingers (or the primer’s applicator, if it has one) and lightly pat with your ring finger to blend. Fill in your eyelid area from corner to corner and up to your brows. Start small, because it’s easier to build up product than it is to remove it. Let the primer dry down completely before applying your eyeshadow. To help your makeup last even longer, use a setting spray when you’re done with your makeup to lock everything in place.
Most popular Sephora eye primers
Urban Decay Original Eyeshadow Primer Potion
This sheer beige primer can help heavily pigmented eyeshadows stay bright, colorful and crease-free for up to 24 hours. It blends out and dries down well, leaving your eyes ready for your makeup. This primer is vegan and cruelty-free.
Smashbox 24-Hour Photo Finish Eyeshadow Primer
This powerful, long-wearing formula is sweat- and humidity-resistant so your eyeshadow can stay vibrant up to 24 hours, no matter what climate you’re in. Users with hooded and/or oily eyelids report excellent results. It comes in one shade that dries clear.
Nars Pro-Prime Smudge-Proof Eyeshadow Base
This highly rated primer applies smoothly and keeps eyeshadow looking crease-free and true to color for hours, even on oily eyelids. The unique formula combines polymers and minerals for a grippy canvas that’s so lightweight, you’ll forget it’s there. It’s ophthalmologist- and dermatologist-tested and comes in four color choices, including untinted.
Urban Decay Eden Eyeshadow Primer Potion
This opaque beige formula offers the same crease-free primer power as the original, but with a pale tint that can make eyeshadow colors look more vibrant. If you have a shimmery eyeshadow that looks too glittery, use this primer to soften it. This formula tends to feel a little thicker than the original, so only use a very small amount and build up as needed.
Benefit Cosmetics Stay Don’t Stray 360-Degree Stay Put Eyeshadow Primer
Apply this primer in a circle around your eye to conceal under-eye dark circles and create a base for eyeshadow. It’s a great choice for those with drier eyelids because it’s formulated with vitamins C and E as well as sodium hyaluronate, a hydrating, more lightweight derivative of hyaluronic acid.
Urban Decay Anti-Aging Eyeshadow Primer Potion
Another variation of the popular Urban Decay Primer Potion, this formula smooths the appearance of fine lines thanks to blurring pigments. Hydrating ingredients also help nourish the eye area, especially on dry eyelids. It needs a little longer to dry down than other Urban Decay formulas, but eye makeup still lasts hours without creasing.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Pro Pencil
Perfect for makeup minimalists looking for a multitasking product, this pencil can highlight and carve out brows, conceal dark circles, highlight the inner eye area and act as a grippy eyeshadow primer. The pencil point also makes it handy for priming for eyeliner and cat-eye flicks. It blends easily and comes in three shades.
Rare Beauty Always An Optimist Weightless Eyeshadow Primer
This primer is formulated to boost the color of your eyeshadow, and its hydrating ingredients help create a smoother, silky canvas for makeup. The custom doe-foot applicator has a pointed tip to help you get primer wherever it’s needed. The hydrating formula performs better on drier eyelids.
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Laura Duerr writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/eye-makeup-br/8-most-popular-eye-primers-on-sephora/ | 2022-04-13T14:36:17 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/eye-makeup-br/8-most-popular-eye-primers-on-sephora/ |
Which YSL lipstick is best?
For more than 50 years, Yves Saint Laurent has been one of the most respected and coveted names in beauty. The brand’s daring colors and high scientific standards make YSL lipsticks a must-have for beauty fans.
If you’re looking for a long-wearing lipstick that’s still hydrating and comfortable, YSL Rouge Pur Couture The Slim Matte Lipstick is a great choice.
What to know before you buy a YSL lipstick
Lipstick formulation
Yves Saint Laurent makes more than a dozen lip products, including classic bullet formulations, liquid lipsticks, lip glosses and lip stains. For a classic lipstick experience, it’s hard to beat a bullet format. However, if you prefer a longer-wearing option, a better bet may be a YSL liquid lipstick or stain.
Bold color choices
Yves Saint Laurent founded his own fashion house in 1961 after working as head designer at Dior for 3 years. He drew inspiration from the Algerian culture he grew up in as well as the bounty of the Mediterranean, and this is reflected in the bold color palettes YSL offers.
Often regarded as one of the most subversive and avant-garde of the French fashion houses, the brand’s lipsticks capture modernity and boldness in shades that are highly pigmented or texturally unique. Along with iconic bright reds, YSL lipsticks come in rich burgundies, bright oranges and corals, vivid pinks and more. If you prefer makeup that stands out, YSL lipstick deserves a place on your vanity.
True French beauty
Yves Saint Laurent Beauty manufactures all of its products in France with internationally sourced ingredients. Some of their ingredients, such as the pomegranates in the Rouge Volupte Shine lipstick, are sourced from a proprietary garden co-op in Morocco.
What to look for in a quality YSL lipstick
Customizable pigmentation
Do you want full, matte coverage from your lipstick, or something more sheer and balmy? Yves Saint Laurent offers lipsticks with varying coverage levels and finishes. Check the product description carefully while you’re shopping, because some YSL lipsticks can look more pigmented in the tube than they do on your lips.
Bold vs. nude lipsticks
Yves Saint Laurent may be famous for its classic red shades, but if you don’t feel like going bold, there are plenty of nude options in YSL’s lineup that still let you stand out.
For fair or light skin skin tones, consider YSL Tatouage Couture Velvet Cream Matte Liquid Lipstick in Nude Sedition or Rouge Pur Couture Satin Lipstick in Rosy Nude.
For medium or deep skin tones, try Rouge Volupte Shine Lipstick in Burnt Zellige or Rouge Pur Couture The Slim Matte Lipstick in Nude Antonym.
Luxe packaging
If you’re going to splurge on a luxury lipstick, it should look and feel luxurious on every level — and YSL delivers. The brand’s lipsticks come in beautiful metallic cases with the distinctive YSL logo highly visible on the side. Some formulations also feature thoughtfully engineered bullet shapes or applicator wands customized to how the formula behaves to make application smoother and simpler.
European cosmetics regulations
As a French brand, YSL adheres to the regulations that control European cosmetics, which are some of the strictest in the world. This means that YSL lipsticks have unsurpassed standards for ingredient quality, and they’re formulated without ingredients like parabens or phthalates.
Yves Saint Laurent Beauty has also been recognized by Positive Luxury, a company that rewards luxury brands for taking steps toward better sustainability and business ethics.
How much you can expect to spend on a YSL lipstick
Almost all YSL lipsticks cost $39. However, some lipsticks, especially the liquid formulations, contain more product per dollar than others.
YSL lipstick FAQ
Do YSL lipsticks have fragrance?
A. Yes, YSL lipsticks contain different fragrances. The flagship Rouge Pur Couture lipstick line has a floral fragrance reminiscent of a classic perfume scent, while other YSL lipsticks have fruity scents like melon or mango thanks to added botanical oils.
Is YSL lipstick vegan?
A. Some Yves Saint Laurent Beauty products contain animal-derived ingredients, and while YSL Beauty does not test its products on animals, they’re sold in countries that require animal testing.
What’s the best YSL lipstick to buy?
Top YSL lipstick
Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture The Slim Matte Lipstick
What you need to know: These highly pigmented lipsticks are so long-wearing, you may never need to reapply.
What you’ll love: The slim, square-shaped bullet makes precise application a breeze, especially for defining your cupid’s bow. It’s available in 19 shades that dry down to a matte finish and leave a lasting tint.
What you should consider: The bullet contains less product than other YSL lipsticks. Not everyone is a fan of the square shape.
Where to buy: Sold by Sephora and Macy’s
Top YSL lipstick for the money
Yves Saint Laurent Tatouage Couture Liquid Matte Lip Stain
What you need to know: This long-wearing, non-drying liquid lipstick can last comfortably for up to 8 hours.
What you’ll love: The lightweight, ultra-thin formula resists smudging or flaking for a true and lasting stain. Its unique flat-paddle applicator can also act as a lip liner. It’s available in 18 shades, ranging from everyday nudes to bright corals and pinks.
What you should consider: Application can be uneven. Some users disliked the lipstick’s fragrance.
Where to buy: Sold by Sephora and Macy’s
Worth checking out
Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupte Shine Lipstick Balm
What you need to know: A lightweight, moisturizing lipstick, this formula is infused with botanical oils for glossy, comfortable color.
What you’ll love: It comes in 35 shades that apply sheer and can be built up for full, glowy color coverage. Users love its luxe packaging, which includes a colored ring that matches the lipstick shade, and the formula’s creamy, hydrating feel.
What you should consider: The soft, oil-rich formula can be prone to quickly smudging and fading. The formula’s botanical scent received mixed reviews.
Where to buy: Sold by Sephora and Macy’s.
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Laura Duerr writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/lip-makeup-br/best-ysl-lipstick/ | 2022-04-13T14:36:24 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/lip-makeup-br/best-ysl-lipstick/ |
Which queen-size bedspreads are best?
When you’re looking for a clean, polished look in your bedroom, few items can instantly transform your room like a good bedspread. With its ability to conceal any clutter under the bed to its crisp construction, a bedspread is an easy and fast solution. If you’re looking for a bedspread that instantly dresses up your bedroom, Madison Park Quebec 3-Piece Queen Quilted Bedspread Set is the top choice.
What to know before you buy a queen-size bedspread
Mattress thickness
There can be a wide disparity between thicknesses in different mattresses. This is important in how your bedspread falls and how far down it reaches. If you have a pillow-top mattress or another deep-pocket variety, this may affect the fall of your bedspread. Bedspreads are intended to give crisp edges and a straight fall down the sides of the bed, so getting the measurements right is key.
Bed height and width
After measuring the thickness of your mattress, next tackle the measurement of the distance of its top from the floor. Next, measure the width of your mattress. (If it is a queen mattress, this measurement should equal 60 inches.) Subtracting this amount from the overall width of the bedspread, then dividing this number by two will give you a measurement of how far the bedspread will fall on your bed. If you like the look of a bedspread that just skirts the floor, be precise in your sourcing of a bedspread.
Bed type
Bedspreads give a great, well-made look to a bed, but they aren’t for every bed. They tend to not fit snugly on beds with posts, for example, or those with a tall, pronounced footboard. Even if the foot of your bed is lower but ornate (e.g., a carved wood footboard), a bedspread will both obscure this detail and also fail to fall straight down, which is one of the key benefits of a bedspread. If any of these are true about your bed, you may be better off with either a patterned comforter or, for greater flexibility, a plain white comforter and a duvet cover.
What to look for in a quality queen-size bedspread
Washability
It’s great when a bedspread looks good right out of its packaging, but it’s even better when it still looks good after being washed many times. Fabrics like cotton and linen look great after repeated wear and washing, for example. Be sure to read the care instructions on the packaging or the online listing to be sure the recommended care is something you can easily keep up with.
Weight
Do you tend to like snug, heavy bedding while you sleep? Or do you like to “feel free” and tend to kick off the covers? Bedspreads come in a variety of weights, so pay attention to the description as you consider a bedspread. Light or summer-weight bedspreads will be best for sleepers who don’t like a lot of weight.
Visual interest
Whether it’s an embroidered design, appliques, or patterned fabric, a bedspread can add to the appeal of your bedroom by including detailing that’s pleasing to you. Matelasse bedspreads, which can have raised embroidered detail, offer both the visual appeal of a pattern but the calmness of a solid color.
How much you can expect to spend on a queen-size bedspread
Depending on material, expect to pay between $50-$200 for a queen-size bedspread.
Queen-size bedspread FAQ
Bedspread, comforter, coverlet, quilt … what’s the difference?
A. The basic differences between the various types of bed coverings are size and thickness. Bedspreads are single-layer coverings that are intended to cover the whole bed and its sides down to the floor. A quilt and a coverlet both are designed to cover only to the point where the mattress meets the box spring or the platform of your bed (for beds without box springs, a coverlet would lay flat like a bedspread, but a quilt would contain batting). A comforter also covers the area to the box spring but has thicker filling, giving it a puffy look.
Do people still use bedspreads?
A. Bedspreads were once the go-to bed covering, but they have lost ground to comforters in recent decades due to fashion as well as the latter’s ease of use and superior warmth. However, bedspreads are making a comeback, and they are particularly suited for bedrooms with a retro or boho feel.
What’s the best queen-size bedspread to buy?
Top queen-size bedspread
Madison Park Quebec 3-Piece Queen Quilted Bedspread Set
What you need to know: Available in a dozen color options, this quilted, classic bedspread is sure to make any room look dignified and put together.
What you’ll love: This bedspread looks high-end but is easily machine-washable. It is designed to drape well on pillow-top mattresses.
What you should consider: Some shoppers report that the colors aren’t exactly as seen onscreen, so choose yours carefully.
Where to buy: Sold by Macy’s
Top queen-size bedspread for the money
Mellanni Bedspread Coverlet Set
What you need to know: Available both in solid and patterned fabric, this budget-friendly option adds polish to your bedroom.
What you’ll love: The microfiber construction is soft and durable, and the stitching is sturdy and beautiful.
What you should consider: This bedspread is on the thinner side and most suited for summertime use.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Martha Stewart Collection Midland Vine Queen Bedspread
What you need to know: Dainty floral embroidery gives this bedspread an air of a time gone by.
What you’ll love: The soft, beige cotton washes easily and spring back into shape on your bed with a minimum of fuss.
What you should consider: Depending on the height of your bed, this bedspread may not fall all the way to the floor, so measure carefully.
Where to buy: Sold by Macy’s
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Maria Andreu writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/bed-bath-br/bedding-br/best-queen-size-bedspread/ | 2022-04-13T14:36:31 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/bed-bath-br/bedding-br/best-queen-size-bedspread/ |
Which Bluetooth headphones are the best for calls?
It’s relatively easy to find an acceptable pair of headphones for listening to music. Making phone calls, though, relies a little more on specific aspects of Bluetooth connectivity and microphone capabilities. There are some Bluetooth headphones that are decidedly poor at making voice and video calls, but luckily, there are plenty of great choices if you need dependable voice capabilities compatible with your phone or PC. Many of those great models are even available at reasonable prices.
What to know about Bluetooth headphones and phone calls
There are two types of noise cancellation
The most well-known form of active noise cancellation (ANC) helps to eliminate noise that you hear around you. Headphones with ANC will let you turn the feature on and off, and generally offer significantly different sound quality and battery life depending on whether ANC is activated or not. This type of ANC isn’t incredibly important to making phone calls, although it can help if you frequently call from busy locations.
The more important type of noise cancellation in terms of making calls, though, has everything to do with your primary microphone. Specifically referred to as Clear Voice Capture (CVC) noise cancellation, it uses algorithms to isolate your voice and remove echo and background noise that might otherwise distract the person you’re calling. This type of noise isolation goes so far as to reduce the sound of keyboard keystrokes and mouse button clicks (when it’s implemented well, at least). In contrast to ANC, CVC noise canceling is especially important when choosing wireless headphones for making calls.
Over-ear headphones vs. earbuds for making calls
Over-ear headphones almost universally sound better when listening to music and true wireless earbuds are practically infinitely more convenient. Both of those items hold true in terms of calls, and there are even more definite considerations. It’s harder to find earbuds (whether true wireless or tethered) that offer pristine call quality, simply because earbuds have smaller and fewer microphones that are essentially located in the ear canal, nowhere near your mouth.
For that reason, you’ll notice that over-ear headphones get the majority of recommendations for voice and video calls. Nonetheless, there are some earbuds that are great at picking up your voice, and we’ve gone to great lengths researching which models are best.
What Bluetooth version do you need for phone calls?
Headphones’ call quality isn’t directly tied to their Bluetooth version, but look for headphones with version 4.2 or later. Bluetooth 5.0 to 5.2 is ideal because it ensures a robust connection and advanced connectivity options like multipoint pairing (which lets you connect to two devices at once and switch between them at will). However, you’ll notice that some models from big-name manufacturers like Sony and Bose still use Bluetooth 4.2, and ultimately it doesn’t cause any significant drawbacks when making calls.
Best Bluetooth headphones for voice and video calls
These are some of the best headphones on the market in nearly every facet, including sound quality, Bluetooth codec support, active noise cancellation and microphone isolation and effectiveness. They also have a great battery life and charge quickly via USB-C.
Sold by: Amazon
Don’t be fooled by their low price; these high-quality headphones punch well above their class and deliver surprisingly good audio quality. In particular, they’re better at making phone calls than such cheap headphones have any right being.
Sold by: Amazon
Bose has made industry-leading wireless headphones for years, and the 700s are no exception. They’re exceedingly simple to use and offer great background noise removal, although they’re not ideal for Android phones due to subpar Bluetooth codec support.
Sold by: Amazon
While true wireless earbuds can be hit or miss when it comes to microphone capabilities, these are an excellent option for both listening to music and talking on the phone. Since they’re also waterproof and have secure ear hooks, they’re great for everyday use like during workouts at the gym.
Sold by: Amazon
The evolution of Bose’s famous QC35 II headphones, the QuietComfort 45 offer arguably the most effective active noise cancellation on the market with advanced features such as transparency mode, which lets you hear your surroundings when needed.
Sold by: Amazon
Since they’re marketed as a gaming headset, these headphones are specially designed with a flexible boom and a microphone engineered for peak clarity, even in crowded environments. In case you do plan on gaming with them, they use a low-latency proprietary wireless connection in addition to Bluetooth 5.0 and wired support.
Sold by: Amazon
If you need professional-grade performance, consider this headset from corporate audio giant Jabra. Their flip-up boom mic ensures you’ll be heard clearly and their on-ear design helps to ventilate and cool your ears during a long workday.
Sold by: Amazon
If you want unobtrusive headphones that are made specifically for phone calls on your iPhone, these are the best on the market. They even work well with some Android phones, but unfortunately not all of them.
Sold by: Amazon
These are some of the most affordable true wireless earbuds available, but in spite of their affordable cost, they sound great with most genres of music and enable clear communication over the telephone as well as Zoom and other PC-based voice and video calling.
Sold by: Amazon
Most people buy these because they’re especially stylish and deliver pristine audio when listening to music. Their lesser-known feature is that they pick up and reproduce voices on phone calls as good as or better then almost anything else.
Sold by: Amazon
If you need headphones for both work and play, it’s hard to beat this pair from a leader in telecommunications. Their active equalizer and noise cancellation algorithm go into effect only when needed, ensuring the best possible audio quality at all times.
Sold by: Amazon
A four-microphone array allows the Voyager 8200 to reduce background noise for you and your call’s recipient better than most of the competition. They even include a USB-A Bluetooth adapter in case there isn’t one built into your PC.
Sold by: Amazon
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Chris Thomas writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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How to get a flagship smartphone and one of the top smart displays in a bundle
Once upon a time, OnePlus was an entry-level and midrange smartphone company trying to get a foothold in a crowded industry. With its latest release, the OnePlus 10 Pro, it’s clear that this former upstart company deserves its place among high-end mobile device manufacturers.
While the OnePlus 10 Pro is an excellent phone in its own right, Amazon is offering to sweeten the deal by including its popular and convenient Alexa-enabled Echo Show 8 smart display. It’s an especially noteworthy deal because the OnePlus 10 Pro is already one of the best-value flagship smartphones today. Adding a free smart display that normally costs $100 or more makes it that much more worthwhile.
To take advantage of the bundle, just head over to Amazon and add both the OnePlus 10 Pro pre-order and Amazon Echo Show 8 to your cart. Upon purchase, Amazon will apply the discount.
The OnePlus 10 Pro officially launches on April 14th.
Why is the OnePlus 10 Pro such a good phone?
The latest OnePlus is designed to go toe-to-toe with heavy-hitting flagships, such as the iPhone 13 Pro and Galaxy S22 Ultra. Early benchmarks actually prove that the OnePlus is no slouch up against the industry leaders’ best. It performs at a similar level to both when under a heavy load while multitasking, and even exceeds them in some graphics-intensive testing.
It currently comes in a single configuration, with 128 gigabytes of storage and 8GB of RAM. There’s no microSD card slot, unfortunately, but that’s becoming par for the course with the most high-end smartphones.
What is unusual is the inclusion of a 65-watt fast charger in the OnePlus 10 Pro’s box, so you can go from zero to 100% battery without an aftermarket charger. In addition to the premium charger, the 5,000-mAh battery inside should last most users an entire day without issue.
It ships with Android 12, which finally provides a stable experience after a relatively buggy launch. OnePlus has already committed to three new Android OS updates in addition to 4 years of security patches.
As you might expect from such a costly phone, the 10 Pro doesn’t skimp when it comes to the camera array. OnePlus offers a number of impressive photography features, including a high-efficiency HDR image format and a proprietary RAW mode for precise control. There’s a decent list of other camera features, such as professionally tuned color filters and a long exposure mode. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or novice Instagram artist, you’ll be highly satisfied with the OnePlus 10 Pro’s photos.
What makes the Amazon Echo Show 8 great
The big selling point of Amazon’s 8-inch smart display is its advanced Alexa integration. If you want to control your smart home by activating the stereo system, changing the lighting, locking and unlocking doors or adjusting the thermostat, the Echo Show 8 can help you do so without lifting a finger.
While the screen isn’t exactly huge, it’s big enough to be seen from partway across the room if, for example, you’re working in the kitchen and need to keep an eye on a recipe. Its speakers also sound surprisingly good considering their small size. The whole package doesn’t take up much space and has a modest design, so it won’t stand out for being too gaudy or high-tech in an otherwise normal living room.
An unusual but worthwhile pair
The OnePlus 10 Pro is the perfect option for lovers of flagship smartphones who want something other than a Samsung or iPhone. It is not as expensive as its competitors and offers similar or better performance on most tasks.
On the other hand, the Amazon Echo Show 8 is a versatile smart display that can make your life considerably easier through voice control and smart home integration. Together, they’ll make calls, provide entertainment, help with cooking and simplify home management on a daily basis.
OnePlus 10 Pro
This premium smartphone offers high performance at a respectable price. Sold by Amazon
Amazon Echo Show 8
The Echo Show 8 is one of the most convenient smart displays available. Sold by Amazon
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Chris Thomas writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/electronics-br/home-portable-audio-br/amazon-is-giving-away-a-free-echo-show-8-if-you-pre-order-the-oneplus-10-pro-smartphone/ | 2022-04-13T14:36:46 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/electronics-br/home-portable-audio-br/amazon-is-giving-away-a-free-echo-show-8-if-you-pre-order-the-oneplus-10-pro-smartphone/ |
Which Kendra Scott earrings are best?
Looking for a pair of versatile earrings with beautiful gemstones at a reasonable price? Kendra Scott is known for gold earrings that are accessible, comfortable and affordable. The Kendra Scott Sophee Drop Earrings are a great one-tone pair suitable for any occasion.
What to know before you buy Kendra Scott earrings
What Kendra Scott is
Kendra Scott is a company that’s all about family, fashion and philanthropy. It has spent the last two decades creating inspiring, well-made jewelry, from bold statement earrings to subtle, sophisticated studs. While it sells pricier solid gold jewelry, it’s best known for its gold-plated pieces.
Assorted styles
It can be hard to find a pair of gold earrings that’s right for you, but Kendra Scott has a lot of styles — great for picky shoppers who are looking for that perfect piece.
The most popular styles at Kendra Scott include:
- Studs: These are small earrings that rest snugly against the earlobe.
- Drop earrings: These hang below the earlobe and can be long or short, but do not offer much in terms of movement.
- Dangle earrings: Similar to drop earrings, these also hang below the earlobe, but they “dangle” and dance around as the head moves.
- Hoop earrings: These hang off the ear but in a curved circular design. Hoops can be big or small, thick or thin.
- Huggie earrings: These are like hoops, only smaller and thicker. They “hug” the ear, putting the metal in closer contact with the earlobe.
Earring-back types
Kendra Scott uses both open and closed backing types for their earrings. Consider which style you like the look of and what feels most comfortable on your earlobe.
- Closed-back earposts feature a straight point that is put through the earring hole with a push, screw or tube snap backing to keep it in place.
- Other earrings are made with earwire. These have bows of looped wire that slip through the earring hole and hang loose with no added backing. It’s a style most popular with dangle earrings.
Gemstones and crystals
Kendra Scott is known for vibrant, colorful gemstones. In fact, the company was founded because its namesake, Kendra Scott, struggled to find the gemstone colors she wanted at an affordable price.
Earrings at Kendra Scott feature natural gemstones as well as custom colors created by crushing stones and mixing them with metallic powders. In some cases, real or lab-created crystals are worked into the designs.
What to look for in quality Kendra Scott earrings
Gold plating
Some great Kendra Scott earrings are made from brass with gold plating. Gold plating is more affordable than solid gold but still offers a luxurious finish that makes a piece look more high-end. Brass alone can tarnish easily and turn skin green. Gold plating offers protection against signs of excessive wear.
Lightweight feel
Kendra Scott often makes bold earrings with large stones or long designs. These stylistic choices can make earrings feel bulky or heavy as they hang from the lobe. A good pair of Kendra Scott earrings feels lightweight and comfortable, no matter how large the faceted stone looks.
Vibrant colors
Since Kendra Scott is known for bringing beautiful colors to its designs, it’s important that their earrings look fresh and vibrant. Metals shine and stones sparkle, with rich color and detail in each. Kendra Scott frequently uses rose quartz and mother-of-pearl, both of which offer rich tones. It also uses a lot of crystals that are bright and eye-catching.
How much you can expect to spend on Kendra Scott earrings
Most cost $50-$150, but solid gold Kendra Scott earrings with real diamonds can cost up to $450.
Kendra Scott earrings FAQ
What stones are used for Kendra Scott ‘drusy’ earrings?
A. “Drusy” refers to the clustered crystals on a rock surface. Kendra Scott is known for centering these crystalized formations as textured centerpieces in its jewelry.
Do gold-plated earrings tarnish?
A. Gold-plated jewelry can fade or tarnish over time, but it tarnishes less than the metals used beneath it. Kendra Scott usually plates brass in gold, and the gold plating prevents the metal from turning green.
How do you clean gold-plated earrings?
A. Gold-plated earrings are easy to clean. All you have to do is mix a mild liquid soap with warm water and leave your earrings to soak for a few minutes. When that’s done, simply remove them from the mixture and wipe them dry.
What are the best Kendra Scott earrings to buy?
Top Kendra Scott earrings
Kendra Scott Sophee Drop Earrings
What you need to know: These bestselling dainty drop earrings are gold-plated over brass with earwire backs.
What you’ll love: This simple curved design can be paired with any outfit for any occasion. The earrings are large but lightweight. They come in gold, rose gold, gunmetal and rhodium tones.
What you should consider: They hang long.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Macy’s
Top Kendra Scott earrings for the money
Kendra Scott Elle Drop Earrings
What you need to know: These drop earrings feature large stones framed in gold-plated brass with earwire backs.
What you’ll love: A real stone is faceted as the centerpiece for each, available in genuine rose quartz, abalone or mother-of-pearl. They are versatile, with bright, vibrant colors.
What you should consider: They come in gold or silver tones but not rose gold.
Where to buy: Sold by Macy’s
Worth checking out
Kendra Scott Faceted Illusion Stone Drop Earrings
What you need to know: These drop earrings feature large glass “illusion stones” faceted in thin gold-plated brass with earwire backs.
What you’ll love: There’s depth and dimension to the colors, especially the black “pyri” stone. Other available colors include an “iridescent oxford” with pinks and yellows as well as a purple stone. They look stunning and are lightweight.
What you should consider: They don’t come in rose gold tones.
Where to buy: Sold by Macy’s
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Emily Verona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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Which rose quartz heart necklace is best?
Rose quartz is a pale pink stone that’s all about love, making it a perfect accent or centerpiece for heart-themed jewelry. And it’s as much about self-love as it is about promoting loving relationships with those you care about. So whether you’re looking to treat yourself to something special or want to give a loved one a gift with meaning, a rose quartz heart necklace is a tender, thoughtful choice.
The Macy’s Heart-Shaped Rose Quartz Necklace In Sterling Silver is a gorgeously designed necklace made from excellent materials.
What to know before you buy a rose quartz heart necklace
Raw vs. tumbled crystals
When a piece of rose quartz is “rough” or “raw,” it’s in the same shape in which it naturally formed. The edges are rough, and no two pieces of raw quartz will match because each grows with its own unique details and imperfections.
A tumbled crystal, on the other hand, has been smoothed out and polished, often worked into a specific shape. Most rose quartz hearts are tumbled so that they can be heart-shaped, though raw rose quartz can be incorporated into alternative heart designs.
Settings
There are several ways for a piece of rose quartz to be attached to a pendant. The most popular include:
- Prong setting: This is a classic stone setting with four to six metal prongs that wrap around the edges of the stone to hold it in place. It works with both raw and tumbled crystals.
- Bezel setting: This features a vertical strip of metal that wraps all the way around the stone’s edge. It works for raw and tumbled crystals but is more popular with tumbled ones. It can cost a little more because it uses more metal.
- Wire wrapped: This one sees thin wires wrapped around the stone several times to secure it in place. It is one of the less expensive settings, popular with those who like to make their own pendants with jewelry-making kits.
- End cap: A small piece of metal is glued or fastened to the top of the stone, with a hole at the top for securing the pendant to a rope or chain.
- Drilled hole: This is when a hole is drilled into the stone so it can be directly attached to a rope or chain. Sometimes a top drilled setting is used so that a post can be inserted.
Stone size
The size of the crystal depends on the necklace. Some pendants feature large heart-shaped rose quartz stones about an inch in both width and height. Other pendants are small and dainty, around a quarter of a inch in width and height. Smaller stones are also more popular for necklaces that feature multiple crystals instead of one big centerpiece.
What to look for in a quality rose quartz heart necklace
Authentic quartz
The best rose quartz stones are transparent, or at least translucent. One way to tell if a piece of rose quartz is genuine or fake is to look for air bubbles inside the stone. Fake rose quartz usually has air bubbles inside, because it is made from dyed glass, while natural rose quartz has imperfections or cracks developed as the stone forms. Real rose quartz feels heavier in the hand than glass fakes.
Resilient chain
The chain should match the stone in quality and resilience. Solid silver or gold chains must be sturdy, and cords or less expensive chains must stand up to daily use and wear. A good cord won’t fray, and a good chain won’t snap with the weight of the pendant.
If you don’t want to spend the money on silver or gold, consider silver-plated or gold-plated chains that are more affordable without sacrificing that high-end look.
Mix and match options
The best rose quartz jewelry gives you choices, especially when it comes to the chain. It’s much easier to find a necklace to match your wardrobe when there are gold, rose gold and silver-toned versions. It’s also great to have options when it comes to the length of the chain.
How much you can expect to spend on a rose quartz heart necklace
A simple rose quartz heart necklace costs $10-$30, while ones that use upscale metals or settings can cost $60-$200.
Rose quartz heart necklace FAQ
Is rose quartz a precious stone?
A. Rose quartz is considered a semi-precious stone. While quartz in general is a common mineral, the pale pink rose color is a little harder to come by.
Is rose quartz a healing crystal?
A. People who believe in the healing power of crystals say it has healing properties and strong love vibrations. This makes it a particularly comforting stone, especially for those who like their jewelry to have specific meaning.
What’s the best rose quartz heart necklace to buy?
Top rose quartz heart necklace
Macy’s Heart-Shaped Rose Quartz Necklace In Sterling Silver
What you need to know: This necklace features a tumbled, heart-shaped rose quartz centerpiece that measures a little under an inch in width and length. It comes fastened to a 17.5-inch sterling silver chain with a spring ring clasp.
What you’ll love: The rose quartz is smooth, with a delicate “X”-shaped design across the surface in sterling silver. The chain comes with a 2-inch extender.
What you should consider: Because of the way it is set, it cannot be removed from the chain.
Where to buy: Sold by Macy’s
Top rose quartz heart necklace for the money
Lotus Metta Asana Love Rose Quartz Heart Pendant
What you need to know: This necklace features a tumbled, heart-shaped rose quartz pendant on an 18-inch silver chain or sterling-silver filled chain.
What you’ll love: The pendant comes in four types ranging from half an inch to a little over an inch in size. The stone is smooth with lovely light pink tones. It can be purchased with or without a chain. For a few dollars more, it comes with a gift box.
What you should consider: It only comes on a rolo chain, made of thick interlocking round links, but you can put it on a chain of your own with ease.
Where to buy: Sold by Etsy
Worth checking out
Cotacoco Rose Quartz Minimalist Heart Necklace
What you need to know: This necklace features a five-eighths-inch piece of heart-shaped rose quartz framed in gold-plated brass on a matching chain.
What you’ll love: It’s delicate and elegant, with dimension and depth you don’t find with smoother pieces of quartz. The chain comes in three lengths. A free gift box is included.
What you should consider: There is no silver-plated option.
Where to buy: Sold by Etsy
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Emily Verona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/fashion-accessories-br/jewelry-br/best-rose-quartz-heart-necklace/ | 2022-04-13T14:37:00 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/fashion-accessories-br/jewelry-br/best-rose-quartz-heart-necklace/ |
Which protein shake is best?
If you’re hitting the gym consistently, it’s crucial to keep your body’s protein levels up. Protein is one of the most vital macronutrients required for efficient muscle repair and growth, so if you’re working out a lot, you need to make sure you’re getting enough of it.
There’s a lot of conflicting information about dietary supplements, especially protein powder, but the truth is, there’s no conclusive science surrounding them because everyone’s body reacts differently.
That said, they can help facilitate your progress, but which shake is the right one for you?
What you should consider before buying a protein shake
How much protein do you need?
If you’re unsure about how much protein you need, there is a baseline you can use as a starting point. The average adult needs 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. If you exercise often, you’ll need roughly 1.1 to 1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight, while weightlifters require 1.2 to 1.7 grams per kilogram.
Types of protein powders
Whey protein powders are the most popular choice among athletes and weightlifters. There are three main types: concentrate, isolate and hydrolysate. Whey protein concentrate has low levels of carbohydrates and fats, while whey protein isolate doesn’t have any at all. Whey protein hydrolysate is the least common of the three, but it’s the most easily digestible, which is why it’s primarily found in infant formulas.
Most protein powders contain one type of whey protein, but others include a blend of two, and some even incorporate other types of proteins like soy. Also, it’s important to note that all kinds of whey protein contain essential amino acids for muscle regeneration.
Casein protein is usually extracted from cow’s milk and is absorbed and digested by the body at a much slower rate than whey protein. Some athletes prefer it, as it allows for slow but steady absorption of amino acids, but it’s not as common as whey protein powders.
If you don’t want any animal by-products in your protein shake, you can do away with whey and casein protein and opt for a vegan protein powder. The protein in these powders is usually derived from eggs, soy, rice, hemp or peas.
Are protein shakes necessary?
Some skeptics believe that protein powders and other dietary supplements are a waste of money, and the truth is that they can be — but it depends on your diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, protein shakes and powders aren’t needed if you’re getting enough protein in your regular diet from whole foods.
Side effects
As previously mentioned, everyone’s body reacts differently to supplements. So, while some may experience side effects after drinking a protein shake, it really depends on each individual and the type of protein powder.
Any side effects from consuming protein shakes are usually minor and can include bloating, stomach cramps and nausea. Some protein powders can also cause acne, but it’s not very common.
What are your fitness goals?
Weight loss
If your main fitness goal is to lose weight, look for protein shakes containing low or no amounts of sugars or sweeteners. Also, any protein powders with extra quantities of amino acids, specifically branch-chain amino acids (BCAA), can be detrimental to your weight loss goals, as they do the opposite and facilitate muscle growth and weight gain in general.
Muscle gain
On the flip side, if you’re looking to increase muscle mass, you want protein powders loaded with BCAA. Whey protein isolate is digested quickly by the body and helps speed up the muscle recovery process, so it’s your best bet if you want to build your muscles at an efficient rate.
Best protein shakes
Best whey protein shakes
Dymatize Iso100 Hydrolyzed Whey Protein
This powder incorporates a combination of whey protein isolates and hydrolysate to deliver 25 grams of protein and 5.5 grams of BCAA per serving. It’s easy to mix and digest, and it’s available in more than 15 delicious flavors, including Cinnamon Bun and Orange Dreamsicle.
Sold by iHerb
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey
Whey protein isolate is the main ingredient in this budget-friendly protein shake. You’ll get 24 grams of protein and 5.5 grams of BCAA per serving. Plus, it’s gluten-free and available in 18 flavors.
Sold by iHerb and Bodybuilding.com
Isopure Zero Carb Protein Powder
This whey protein isolate powder packs a whopping 50 grams of protein and 10.9 BCCA per serving and contains zero carbohydrates, gluten and lactose. It has an unpleasant aftertaste, but it offers an efficient way to get your daily protein intake.
Sold by iHerb
Best casein protein shakes
Bodybuilding.com Signature Casein Protein
If you want a protein shake that’ll help your muscles recover hours after your workout, this casein solution will do the trick. It contains 25 grams of protein per serving with just 0.5 grams of sugars and 2 grams of total carbohydrates.
Sold by Bodybuilding.com
Kaged Muscle Kasein Casein Protein
With this delicious vanilla-flavored protein shake, you’ll get 26 grams of protein and 10.5 grams of BCAA per serving. It mixes easily and is easy to digest, making it an excellent option for those with sensitive stomachs.
Sold by Bodybuilding.com
Best vegan protein shakes
This organic protein will provide you with the protein you need without the animal by-products found in whey protein shakes. Its protein is derived from chia seeds, acacia, peas and brown rice and each serving contains 21 grams of it.
Sold by iHerb
Garden of Life Organic Protein Powder and Greens
This vanilla-flavored, plant-based protein shake is ideal for those following a strict diet and offers 20 grams of protein per serving at just 100 calories. It’s easy to mix with water, but it also goes great with unsweetened almond milk.
Sold by Kohl’s
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Kevin Luna writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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What should I add to a protein shake to make it taste better?
Protein shakes help you meet your protein requirements and gain muscle, but they can taste awful. If you’re fed up with dutifully forcing them down, you might be wondering how to make protein shakes taste better.
There are several ways to achieve this, whether you change your mixing technique or add extra ingredients to improve the flavor.
Mix your protein shake the right way
If it isn’t so much the flavor of your protein shake that you find offensive, but a lumpy or grainy texture, changing the way you mix it can help. If you’re making it at home or somewhere with access to a kitchen, you’ll get a far better texture if you blend it with a stick blender or bullet blender than you will mixing it in a shaker bottle. That said, not all shaker bottles give you equally poor results. The BlenderBottle has a patented whisk that makes lumpy shakes a thing of the past.
If you’re looking for a thicker texture, consider blending your protein powder with some ice for a frappe-like drink. This is especially great on hot days.
What makes protein shakes taste better
Another secret to making your shake taste better is as simple as throwing a few extra ingredients into the blender. Think about the flavor of your protein powder, as some additives work better with certain flavors than others. Once you’ve found a few combinations you like, your days of lackluster protein shakes will be behind you.
Cocoa powder
Cocoa powder is the ultimate addition for chocolate lovers. It can cover a multitude of sins without adding many extra calories, as a little goes a long way. It blends nicely with vanilla protein powder or coffee protein powder to make a mocha flavor. You can even add a little to chocolate protein powders that aren’t chocolatey enough.
If mixing it with an unsweetened protein powder, add some sweetener or you’ll be left with a muddy, bitter shake.
Sweeteners
Some shakes can be improved with just a little extra sweetness. While this can come from fruit or juice, sometimes it makes sense to simply add some sweetener.
You have a wide range of options when it comes to sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners add sweetness without sugar or calories, but they can have bitter notes or taste overly sweet, and some people prefer to avoid them altogether. Stevia is a natural sweetener that contains no calories and is a good alternative to artificial sweeteners, but some people don’t like the flavor.
Then you have sugar-based sweeteners. These add calories and can cause blood-sugar spikes, so they aren’t everyone’s first choice. Agave nectar is a great alternative to granulated sugar and honey, as it has a significantly lower glycemic index, meaning it’s less likely to cause blood-sugar spikes.
Nut butters
Not only can nut butters improve the flavor of your shake, but they also add extra protein and other nutrients. They’re relatively high in fat and calories, ideal for people looking to bulk up or for drinking after heavy exercise sessions. Plus, they thicken shakes, so if you find your protein powder too thin, nut butter is a great option.
You can choose classic peanut butter (which technically isn’t even a nut butter) or other nut butters, such as almond, cashew or macadamia butter. It’s a great idea to switch every now and then to change up your nutrient intake. Nut butters taste great with chocolate, vanilla or even plain protein powders.
Juice
Using juice instead of water (or half juice and half water) when you mix your protein powder adds sweetness from a natural source. It tastes good with fruity protein powders, but most juices don’t work well with chocolate powders and vanilla can be hit or miss. That said, orange juice and chocolate protein powder makes a chocolate-orange flavor some people love.
Fruit
Blend fresh or frozen fruit with your protein powder and either juice or water to make a protein smoothie. This thickens your shake, as well as flavoring it and adds all kinds of nutrients and a great dose of sweetness from the fruit. Banana makes a pleasant addition to chocolate- or peanut-butter-flavored protein drinks, while berries can liven up a strawberry-flavored powder. If you want to use a blend of fruits, it works best with unflavored or fruity protein powders.
Consider changing your protein powder
If you’ve only tried one or two varieties, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you don’t like the taste of protein powder — you might just not like the ones you’ve tried. Some people don’t like the taste of whey protein powders, so it’s worth trying a vegan protein powder if you haven’t already. Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder has a creamy chocolate fudge flavor that melds well with chocolate coconut and peppermint hot cocoa and is ideal for chocolate lovers.
What you need to buy to make protein shakes taste better
Barney Bare Smooth Almond Butter
This nutritious organic almond butter contains nothing but almonds and oil. It’s free from added salt and sugar and is made from skinned almonds, so it’s an ideal additive for smooth, healthy protein shakes.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Certified organic by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and rich in antioxidants, this cacao powder makes a perfect addition to protein shakes for a chocolatey kick.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Agave in the Raw Organic Agave Sweetener
Thanks to its low glycemic index, agave nectar is great for adding to protein shakes that need some extra sweetness. This brand is non-GMO and has USDA organic certification.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
If you want to add some natural sweetness and fruity flavor to your shakes, look no further. It’s made from pure concentrated orange juice with no added sugar.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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Which mustard throw pillow is best?
Whether you want to match a throw or comforter, or add some color to a black or gray couch, sometimes only mustard throw pillows will do. And it’s important your pillows are as practical as they are attractive. Think about the size, shape, material and whether you want a plain mustard pillow or something with a decorative design.
The JWH Handmade 3D Decorative Sunflower Pillow is sunny and bright and will add a fun flavor to your decor.
What to know before you buy a mustard throw pillow
Size
Most square throw pillows measure either 18 by 18 or 20 by 20 inches, but you can find larger and smaller options. Pillows of other shapes often measure 16-18 inches across at their widest point but, again, larger and smaller versions are available.
Consider the size of the couch, chair or bed you intend to put your pillows on when picking the size, as well as the size of other throw pillows you already own. Some people like a mismatched look, with pillows of varying sizes, while others prefer the same size across the board.
Material
Cotton and polyester are some of the most common materials for pillows. Both are easy to care for and clean, making them obvious choices. You’ll also find many velvet pillows as it’s an on-trend fabric right now. Then there are less-common fabrics such as satin, faux fur and fleece. There’s no right or wrong fabric for a cushion, so choose one you like the look of.
Design
Consider whether you want a plain mustard pillow or one that features a pattern or design. For example, you could choose a throw pillow with mustard and white stripes or chevron zigzags, or you might want a pillow with a mustard background and a bumblebee design in the center. You’ll find many pillows that use mustard as a key color and you might even choose a few kinds of mustard pillows to display.
What to look for in a quality mustard throw pillow
Washable cover
If you’re worried about getting your pillows dirty, choose ones with covers that are removable and machine-washable. This is especially important if you have pets or young children on your couch.
Shape
In addition to standard square and rectangular mustard throw pillows, you’ll also find some that are round, oval and flower-shape. Assuming they have removable covers, it’s harder to find replacement inserts for pillows with non-standard shapes.
Hidden zipper
A hidden zipper gives a seamless appearance to a throw pillow. Because there’s no noticeable closure, it makes pillows effectively reversible.
How much you can expect to spend on a mustard throw pillow
Basic throw pillows cost less than $10, while designer ones can cost $200 and up. That said, you usually won’t need to pay more than $50 for a single pillow, and often much less.
Mustard throw pillow FAQ
Why is it called a throw pillow?
A. It’s called a throw pillow because you “throw” it on your couch or bed (although actual throwing is optional). Throw pillows are both decorative and used for comfort and support while you sit. The term helps differentiate this type of pillow from the pillows you rest your head on at night.
Are throw pillows necessary?
A. Throw pillows certainly aren’t essential, but they can add color to rooms otherwise dominated by neutrals and tie together elements of rooms that might otherwise make them look disjointed. For example, if you have an open- plan living room/dining area and you’ve chosen mustard yellow chairs for your table, adding mustard throw pillows on the couch carries over the color palette and helps bring a cohesive look.
How many throw pillows is too many?
A. There’s no hard and fast rule, so place as many as looks good to you. If you can’t see the back of your couch or it takes you minutes to get them off your bed at night, you may have gone overboard.
What’s the best mustard throw pillow to buy?
Top mustard throw pillow
JWH Handmade 3D Decorative Sunflower Pillow
What you need to know: This cute and sunny sunflower pillow cover comes with an insert.
What you’ll love: The pillow would fit in perfectly with farmhouse decor and measures 12 inches in diameter. You can also buy a 14-inch version. The zipper blends in well with the fabric.
What you should consider: Some thought the pillow was smaller than they expected.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top mustard throw pillow for the money
Amazon Basics Velvet Decorative Throw Pillows
What you need to know: Made from a soft polyester velvet fleece, these pillows look and feel good.
What you’ll love: They’re suitable for machine-washing or hand-washing. Both the color and fabric are on trend. They look full and plush when they arrive.
What you should consider: They don’t have removable covers, so you can’t replace the filling if it gets flat.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Roslynwood Shelly Round Yellow Pillow
What you need to know: This round throw pillow makes a change from square ones and can double as a floor pillow.
What you’ll love: It comes in golden yellow, a rich mustard hue, but there’s also a brighter lemon yellow that’s similar to English mustard for buyers who prefer it. The polyester filling is plush and comfortable.
What you should consider: The cover isn’t removable and the pillow is hand-wash only.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/home-br/decor-br/best-mustard-throw-pillow/ | 2022-04-13T14:37:20 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/home-br/decor-br/best-mustard-throw-pillow/ |
Which throw pillow cover is best?
An economical and easy way to refresh your interior design is to swap out your throw pillow covers. You can even do this seasonally, such as buying festive covers for the holidays and summery ones for warmer months.
Before you buy a new throw pillow cover, you’ll need to know the size of your existing pillow or buy the correct-sized insert. If you’re looking for a square cover, Willa Arlo Interiors Edgar Square 100% Cotton Pillow Cover is a top choice and comes in three sizes.
What to know before you buy a throw pillow cover
Material
Throw pillows are both decorative and functional. They are also known as “toss pillows” for their loose placement on couches, armchairs, beds and even floors. The material of the cover can add texture and a pop of color to furnishings. You can find covers in a wide variety of textiles, including cotton, velvet, corduroy, flannel, linen, microfiber, chenille, suede, leather and faux fur.
Size
Throw pillow covers come in a variety of sizes, such as 16 by 16 inches, 18 by 18 inches, 20 by 20 inches, 22 by 22 inches, 24 by 24 inches and 12 by 20 inches. Select manufacturers may offer smaller and larger covers. The majority of covers are 18 by 18 inches and you’ll find plenty of options in those dimensions.
Shape
Square and rectangular covers are widely available for throw pillows. Cylindrical and circular throw pillows may be harder to find covers for that fit properly, other than the one that came with the insert. Circular inserts come in a range of diameters, from 14-36 inches, so be sure the cover has the correct dimensions to fit the pillow.
Count
You can buy throw pillow covers individually or in packs of two. Some manufacturers only offer covers in sets of two or four, especially when buying 18 by 18-inch covers.
What to look for in a quality throw pillow cover
Color
Throw pillow covers do not need to match bedding and upholstery exactly in color (or in textile). In fact, you can opt for a contrasting color, such as a dark color to contrast lighter furnishings for an aesthetic statement. Or pick a complementary shade that goes with color accents in a room. You can find throw covers in every color under the sun, from neutral hues to pastels to bold gem tones.
Pattern
Covers not only come in solid colors but also in patterns. Geometric patterns are popular as well as floral, plaid and striped designs. You can also find covers with graphics and words, such as “love” or “home sweet home.” During holiday time, there are plenty of Christmas-themed throw pillow covers to spruce up your living space with the holiday spirit.
Texture and decorations
Depending on its material, a throw pillow cover can also be textured. Some materials are naturally textured, like corduroy or faux fur, while other covers add tufted materials, yarn, fur or raised material that provide both texture and a decorative element. In addition, throw pillow covers can have tassels, pom-poms or piping.
Closure
Throw pillow covers feature either a concealed envelope or a hidden zipper closure. Both use zippers to close the opening of the pillow cover. Envelope-style closures conceal a hidden zipper behind it and use an extra piece of fabric to do so. Hidden zipper openings are located along the bottom edge of the pillow and the zipper is concealed on the inside of the cover.
How much you can expect to spend on a throw pillow cover
Expect to pay between $4-$58 for an 18- by 18-inch cover.
Throw pillow cover FAQ
Should the pillow insert be the same size as the throw pillow cover?
A. You can certainly buy a cover that is the same size as the insert. For a full look, try buying a pillow insert that’s 2 inches bigger than the size of the cover. For instance, for a 20- by 20-inch cover buy a 22- by 22-inch insert for a plump appearance.
Can I machine-wash my throw pillow cover?
A. It really depends on the fabric. Some fabrics can only be dry-cleaned or hand-washed while others can only be spot-cleaned. If you want a throw pillow that can be cleaned easily, especially if you live in a household with children and pets, select a throw pillow cover that is machine washable.
What’s the best throw pillow cover to buy?
Top throw pillow cover
Willa Arlo Interiors Edgar Square 100% Cotton Pillow Cover
What you need to know: To add a pop of color to your bed or couch, this simple cotton cover has a velvety finish.
What you’ll love: This cover comes in three square sizes: 18 by 18 inches, 20 by 20 inches and 22 by 22 inches. The velvety-soft material is perfect to cozy up to and is high quality. The zipper closure makes changing out inserts easy. It comes in a plethora of solid color choices.
What you should consider: The cover is not machine-washable.
Where to buy: Sold by Wayfair
Top throw pillow cover for the money
Miulee Velvet Soft Solid Decorative Square Throw Pillow Covers Set
What you need to know: This two-pack of covers comes in every color imaginable and has many size options, all at a great value.
What you’ll love: The polyester material is soft and plush with a velvety feel. The colors are rich and saturated. The covers look luxurious and expensive but cost under $20 for a pair of 18-inch by 18-inch covers.
What you should consider: The zipper handle is noticeable and on the big side, even though the zipper itself is hidden.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Wlnui Set of 2 Fluffy Pillow Covers
What you need to know: This fluffy, faux fur design adds coziness to any room.
What you’ll love: These covers have shaggy fur on one side and a plush velvet backing on the other. You can brush the faux fur to keep it looking fresh. This pair of covers comes in pink, light gray, black and white.
What you should consider: The fur can shed. For some, the material comes apart in the wash.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Ana Sanchez writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/home-br/decor-br/best-throw-pillow-cover/ | 2022-04-13T14:37:27 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/home-br/decor-br/best-throw-pillow-cover/ |
Which outdoor ceiling fan is best?
If you want to enjoy your outdoor space to its fullest in every season, you need a way to keep cool when the weather turns warm. The best way to do that is by installing an outdoor ceiling fan that can keep the air circulating, even when Mother Nature isn’t providing you with much of a breeze.
While many aspects of choosing an outdoor ceiling fan will be similar to picking an indoor model, such as aesthetics and extra features, you’ll also need to consider its weatherproof rating to ensure it is suitable for your installation location. It’s a good idea to pick a model that can move a lot of air, too, since there may be crosswinds that can affect how much of the fan’s cooling breeze actually reaches you.
What to consider when purchasing an outdoor ceiling fan
Weatherproofing
Outdoor ceiling fans have two ratings — damp rated and wet rated. It is important to understand the difference between these two ratings, as that will determine where you can install a particular fan. Damp rated models can be installed outdoors where the air may be damp, but only in places where they will not be exposed directly to the elements, such as in covered patios and garages.
Wet rated fans can be installed in locations that are completely exposed to the elements, like gazebos and open decks. These have a sealed motor casing that protects their electrical components from water damage even if they are constantly rained on.
Aesthetics
Everyone wants their fan to look nice in their home or business and match well with the existing decor. With that in mind, aesthetics should play a major role in your decision making process. Consider what kind of style you have already cultivated, whether that be contemporary, tropical, rustic, industrial chic or anything else, and look for a fan that will blend in well with it.
Mounting location
Some fans are designed to be flush mounted. These are ideal for areas with a low ceiling. Other models install on a downrod that may be as short as 4 inches or as long as 60 inches. These work best in locations with a high ceiling. There are also outdoor fans that allow for both installation methods as per your needs.
Blades
Many people assume the number of blades matters in determining air flow, but this actually only has a negligible effect on it. More important is the length and the pitch or tilt of the blades. The longer the blades and the deeper the pitch, the more air they will move. You can read more about what blade length best fits spaces of various sizes in this outdoor ceiling fan guide.
Settings
Fans differ in the number of speed settings they have. You may find some that have just two speeds while others may have as many as seven. The more speeds a fan has, the more control you will have over the air flow. There are also fans that feature a reversible motor that can spin backwards. This is useful for pulling warm air up and away from the ground.
The best outdoor ceiling fan
Best overall outdoor ceiling fan
Kathy Ireland Home Batalie Breeze Outdoor Ceiling Fan
This attractive wet-rated fan can be installed in gazebos and other outdoor locations where it will be exposed to the elements, and it boasts the classic palm leaf style blades that many people love so much. It is backed by a limited lifetime warranty too, so you can rest assured you’ll get plenty of years of use out of it.
Sold by Amazon
Best outdoor ceiling fan for the money
When it comes to bang for the buck, it’s hard to beat the Merrimack II, which offers all the style of a premium model and many of the same features but for a much more palatable price. It can be installed flush to the ceiling or on the included downrod, making it suitable for low and high ceilings alike. It fits in well with many decor schemes too, and the blades are reversible with a different color on each side.
Sold by Amazon
Best smart outdoor ceiling fan
Trifecte 60-inch Indoor Outdoor Ceiling Fan
If you are searching for a high-tech model that can be controlled via a smartphone or even by voice when paired with an Alexa device, look no further than this sleek model from Trifecte. You can even set schedules and timers for both the fan component and it’s dimmable light. Plus, despite moving a lot of air, it is very quiet so it won’t disturb you when running.
Sold by Amazon
Best modern outdoor ceiling fan
Monte Carlo Maverick Outdoor Fan
This eye-catching ceiling fan has a unique shape to the blades that really makes it stand out. It is available in a wide variety of colorways, including options like aged pewter and weathered oak or brushed steel and dark walnut, and comes with a six-speed handheld remote control. The fan is pricey, but the bold style statement makes it worth every penny.
Sold by Amazon
Best tropical-inspired outdoor ceiling fan
Concord Fans Fernleaf Breeze Tropical Ceiling Fan
You can bring that tropical resort feel into your outdoor space with this fern leaf-inspired fan. It is damp rated for covered areas, has three speed settings and can be upgraded with a light with the purchase of an optional adapter kit. Note that the blades are actually plastic, but many will mistake them for wood unless closely inspected.
Sold by Amazon
Best outdoor ceiling fan for large spaces
Big Air 72-Inch Industrial Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling Fan
If you are trying to cool a large space, this 72-inch, nine-blade model can do the trick. It has six speed settings, and at its highest it moves 10,200 cubic feet of air per minute. The motor is reversible, so it can be used to push cold air towards the ground or draw hot air away. Sadly, it is only backed by one-year warranty.
Sold by Amazon
Best outdoor ceiling fan for small spaces
Vox Indoor and Outdoor 5-Blade Smart Flush Mount Ceiling Fan
Falling into the opposite end of the spectrum as the Big Air 72-inch is this short-bladed smart fan from Vox. It measures just 26 inches in diameter, so it can fit almost anywhere, yet still moves a respectable 5,084 cubic feet of air per minute. It is quieter than many other models too. You can control it by an app or, when paired with an Alexa device, by voice.
Sold by Amazon
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Brett Dvoretz writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/home-br/heating-cooling-air-quality-br/how-to-choose-an-outdoor-ceiling-fan/ | 2022-04-13T14:37:34 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/home-br/heating-cooling-air-quality-br/how-to-choose-an-outdoor-ceiling-fan/ |
Which Mickey Mouse cookie cutter set is best?
Baking cookies with your children or grandchildren is a time-honored tradition. There’s nothing wrong with the classic circle shape, but your children will love the hands-on work of using a cookie cutter, and the Mickey Mouse shapes pair perfectly with your Disney movie night. Plus, a good set can be used on more than just cookies.
The best Mickey Mouse cookie cutter set is the Elfkitwang Mickey And Minnie-Themed Cookie Cutter Set. It includes multiple sizes of Mickey and Minnie’s silhouettes and some other fun shapes like Mickey’s hands and feet.
What to know before you buy a Mickey Mouse cookie cutter set
Mickey Mouse cookie cutter set types
Mickey Mouse cookie cutters can be one of four types.
- Cutout cutters are the classic idea. You press them down into the dough, and the edges cut out the outline of your shape.
- Stamp cutters are like upgraded cutouts. They still cut out an outline, but they also have a second layer that presses a design into the cookie.
- Mold cutters are an inverted process. Instead of being pressed into the dough, you press the dough into them and push the cookie out.
- 3D cutters use several cutters, of any mixture of the above three types, to cut out layers that are then stacked up to create a 3D cookie.
What’s included
Mickey Mouse cookie cutters come in a surprisingly large variety of shapes, plus a given set can have any number of them. Some even have extras like cleaning wands or pipettes.
Most include, at the very least, the outline of Mickey’s head. Many also include Minnie-shaped heads. Other common shapes are Mickey’s hands and feet. If there’s a particular shape you’re looking for, it’s likely just a matter of time before you find it.
What to look for in a quality Mickey Mouse cookie cutter set
Material
Most Mickey Mouse cookie cutters are made of metal, plastic or silicone.
- Metal cutters can be either tin, aluminum or stainless steel. Tin is cheap, flimsy and rusts. Aluminum is also a little flimsy, but affordable and naturally rust resistant. Stainless steel is the most durable, but can still be bent if subjected to enough force.
- Plastic cutters are best for kids, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t great for adults too. They have enough of an edge to cut through most doughs but are much softer on the hands, even if the dough is tough.
- Silicone cutters are typically for molds only. They’re durable and easy to clean.
Nonstick
Some Mickey Mouse cookie cutters are nonstick to help keep your cookie operation flowing. It isn’t the end of the world if they aren’t, but it absolutely helps.
How much you can expect to spend on a Mickey Mouse cookie cutter set
Most Mickey Mouse cookie cutter sets cost $5-$15, though some can cost up to $30. Some extra-pricey sets can reach highs of $60-plus.
Mickey Mouse cookie cutter set FAQ
How should I clean and care for my Mickey Mouse cookie cutter set?
A. Unlike most kitchen gear, many cookie cutters can’t be run through your dishwasher. Hand-washing them is relatively straightforward: simply drop them into a sink full of hot soapy water and scrub. You may need to use a little elbow grease to remove all the remnants of dough — some cutter sets include a brush for just this purpose.
Once they’re dry, you need to store them properly to prevent damage. Most are made of sturdy stainless steel, but even these types of cutters can still bend if tossed into the average kitchen drawer. Instead, you’ll want to keep them in their own storage unit. Plastic bins are the most common.
How do I get the cleanest cuts from my Mickey Mouse cookie cutter set?
A. That depends on the dough you’re cutting, but there are a few general tips you can follow. The first is to use metal cutters — they have sharper edges than any other material so have an easier time, well, cutting. Secondly, grease or flour your cutters before each cut. Common cooking spray works especially well.
What’s the best Mickey Mouse cookie cutter set to buy?
Top Mickey Mouse cookie cutter set
Elfkitwang Mickey And Minnie-Themed Cookie Cutter Set
What you need to know: This brightly colored set is excellent for parent-child activities.
What you’ll love: This 15-piece set includes four sizes each of Mickey and Minnie heads, one each of glove, foot, bow and heart, a cleaning wand, a skewer and a stamp. Each cutter has a bright plastic covering on one side for protection and easy identification.
What you should consider: Most of the pieces in this set are too small to be used for cookies, instead being intended for cutting fun shapes out of other foods.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Mickey Mouse cookie cutter set for the money
BakingWorld Mickey Mouse Cookie Cutter Set
What you need to know: This 10-piece set is full of fun Mickey- and Minnie-related shapes.
What you’ll love: It includes four different sizes of Mickey’s head, four of Minnie’s head and a smiling Mickey cutter. They are made of rigid stainless steel that won’t bend easily. They’re also great for cutting sandwiches into fun shapes.
What you should consider: You might not realize what the small green tools that come with it are for. (They’re for pressing in the filling.)
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Texasdeluxe Mickey-Shape Cookie Cutter Mold Set
What you need to know: This five-piece set can create richly detailed Mickey and Minnie faces.
What you’ll love: It includes one each of Mickey- and Minnie-shaped cutter, one each of Mickey- and Minnie-shaped press molds and a miniature pipette for carefully adding food coloring to each section.
What you should consider: The imprint molds can be difficult to pull from some doughs without damaging the shape. All pieces must be washed and dried by hand.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Jordan C. Woika writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/kitchen-br/bakeware-baking-tools-br/best-mickey-mouse-cookie-cutter-set/ | 2022-04-13T14:37:41 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/kitchen-br/bakeware-baking-tools-br/best-mickey-mouse-cookie-cutter-set/ |
Which Lavazza espresso machine is best?
The Lavazza name is nearly synonymous with quality espresso, and its single-serve consumer machines hold true to those standards. These sleek machines are perfect for the coffee connoisseur who wants excellence without the labor or cleaning involved in a manual espresso machine. They are also ideal for serving multiple people with different drink preferences.
For an easy-to-use espresso machine that brews a variety of single-serve drinks on demand, the Lavazza Expert Classy Plus is the perfect choice.
What to know before you buy a Lavazza espresso machine
A machine’s number and amount of drink settings, size, compatibility and maintenance requirements are all key things to think about when choosing the right one for your coffee habits.
Drink settings
Lavazza machines come with varying drink options. The more advanced ones offer up to six drinks — espresso, lungo, coffee, cappuccino, macchiato and latte. Simpler models typically offer two settings — espresso and lungo.
Some models also let you program a delayed brew time or save your favorite setting. These extra conveniences can make brewing your favorite drinks at home even easier.
Size and capacity
All Lavazza machines are small compared to others on the market. That said, some may fit better in your kitchen than others, and their capacities vary.
Lavazza water reservoirs can hold anywhere from 25 to 42 fluid ounces. To avoid lots of water refills. look for a model that caters to how often you plan to brew.
Many good Lavazza models are less than 24 inches tall. However, if you enjoy a variety of drinks, those features may add to the machine’s height and depth.
Compatibility
Lavazza machines only accept branded coffee pods from Lavazza. They can be either from the Blue or Expert lines of coffees, and are shaped differently than any other brand of pods, making them hard to confuse.
Maintenance
Lavazza technology helps you maintain your machines regularly with LED alerts. These lights or flashing indicators tell you when it’s time to refill the water reservoir, empty the used-capsule container or clean and descale individual parts.
You can remove the drip tray, capsule container and water reservoir for easy cleaning. Some parts are dishwasher-safe — check the manufacturer’s instructions for more information on cleaning.
What to look for in a quality Lavazza espresso machine
A Lavazza machine always delivers quality espresso. However, a few extra capabilities make certain machines stand out.
Milk frother
If you enjoy your espresso drinks with milk, a machine with a built-in frother may be worth the investment. These machines have a small frother at the front to whisk your milk. It’s one less step for you, and one less gadget you need to buy.
Programmable settings
Many Lavazza machines let you select the quantity of coffee you want to brew per cup and save your settings as favorites. Some even let you program a delayed brew cycle to schedule your drinks.
Accessories
Small but helpful additional features can include a removable drip tray for easy cleaning, adjustable cup sizing for brewing multiple types of drinks, automatic capsule disposal, and a standby function for instant brewing.
How much you can expect to spend on a Lavazza espresso machine
Single-serve Lavazza espresso machines range in price from $100-$275, with more settings and features available at the higher prices.
Lavazza espresso machine FAQ
Can I use other coffee pods in Lavazza espresso machines?
A. No. Lavazza espresso machines only work with Lavazza brand capsules. Be sure to confirm if there is a specific type of capsule you need to buy, such as Blue or Expert model capsules. Lavazza capsules are smaller and shaped differently than any others, so you can’t accidentally install the wrong type.
Does the milk frother steam milk, make froth or both?
A. An attached milk frother both heats the milk with steam wand and froths it with a mini whisk. To brew a milk-based drink, add the appropriate amount of milk for the drink you want, place the lid with the frother attachment on the mug and place it on the drip tray. Select your drink and watch the machine steam the milk, froth it and brew your espresso, all at the touch of a button.
What’s the best Lavazza espresso machine to buy?
Top Lavazza espresso machine
What you need to know: This single-serve machine is small but mighty, able to craft the best barista-style espresso drinks at the push of a button.
What you’ll love: It includes a milk frother, which makes it easy to brew a variety of espresso drinks such as a latte, macchiato or cappuccino. The slim profile can fit on most countertops and tables, while the 42-fluid-ounce capacity can brew many cups of espresso before needing a refill. This was the first all-in-one espresso and coffee machine.
What you should consider: It’s only compatible with Lavazza Expert capsules.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Lavazza espresso machine for the money
What you need to know: This small single-serve espresso machine brews your favorite Lavazza shots for a reasonable price.
What you’ll love: The drink selection module gives visual alerts when the water tank is empty or the capsule drawer is full. The cup support ledge is adjustable for any type of cup or mug. Standby mode lets you save energy when not in use.
What you should consider: Some customers noted it’s louder than other espresso machines.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
What you need to know: The Lavazza Blue is a scaled-down version of the Blue Classy Mini, offering the best of Lavazza espresso in one simple machine.
What you’ll love: The interface is straightforward and easy to use, with a programmable brewing option. The drip tray keeps your counters clean and is adjustable for different cup sizes. The smallest of the Lavazza options, this single-serve espresso machine will easily fit in any size kitchen, pantry or office.
What you should consider: Some customers notice functionality issues when resetting it.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Katy Palmer writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/kitchen-br/coffee-accessories-br/best-lavazza-espresso-machine/ | 2022-04-13T14:37:49 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/kitchen-br/coffee-accessories-br/best-lavazza-espresso-machine/ |
Which smart device is best for cats?
Advances in technology have made life for humans a lot easier over the last few decades. Few things in your house can’t be automated with faster phones, powerful computers and smarter devices.
That advancement can also extend to your cats (and pets in general) as there are plenty of smart gadgets to feed, track, hydrate and play with your furry friends. A good option for food-obsessed cats is the Petlibro Automatic Cat Feeder, which allows you to monitor their intake and regulate their portion sizes.
What to know before you buy a smart device for cats
It will take time for your cat to be comfortable
Few cats take to intelligent gadgets quickly around the house. It might take some time to get comfortable with the new device. Don’t feel discouraged if they don’t immediately use it, but try to show them what it’s for.
Consider the needs of your cat
While it might be cute to humans when cats use smart devices, consider your feline friend’s needs. For example, if they don’t cover their waste (or have difficulty doing so), then a self-cleaning litter box is more important than a remotely controlled mouse. And while a smart water fountain keeps them hydrated, overweight cats will benefit more from a smart pet feeder.
Most require an internet connection
A smart device in your home is a great idea, but you should be aware of the limitations. Most require a constant connection to a Wi-Fi network for pets or humans. This is so you can monitor the device through your mobile phone and change settings. Without an internet connection, the gadget may continue working with limited functionality.
What to look for in a quality smart device for cats
Reputable brand
When it comes to gadgets your pets need to use without your supervision, the device mustn’t get damaged. In most cases, reputable brands use robust materials for the construction and can take a few knocks. Unfortunately, unknown brands might not have the same level of quality checks as others, and you might put your cat at risk.
Easy to set up and operate
It can get incredibly frustrating when you want to set up a new gadget, but it doesn’t work. Making it overly complicated isn’t a good thing, so a good-quality cat device will have detailed instructions for setup and operation. Many reputable brands will also have a webpage that you can turn to for help.
A smart device that they can’t outsmart
Cats are brilliant, and even the most cuddly or docile felines can be highly inquisitive. So while they will undoubtedly try to outsmart the device, a good-quality gadget will quickly stop any attempts. For example, a smart feeder has a lid that closes tightly with a latch at the top, so no cat without opposable thumbs can click it open.
How much you can expect to spend on a smart device for cats
The average cost of a smart device for your cat will largely depend on what the device is designed to do and how the manufacturer is. An entry-level smart device such as a tracker can retail for $10-$20, while a more complex gadget such as an automatic feeder can retail for $100-$200.
Smart device for cats FAQ
What happens when there is a power failure?
A. Most smart devices require a wall socket connection to operate. However, some models can use shop-bought batteries to remain operational with the electricity fails. So while it won’t be connected to the internet, it can still perform as needed, possibly with limited functions.
How do you train a cat to use a smart device?
A. Depending on what the device is for, you might want to slowly introduce your cat to the gadget. For example, a smart litter box shouldn’t be a problem, but a feeder can be intimidating. Try to show your cat what is happening so that they don’t assume it will hurt them.
What’s the best smart device for cats to buy?
Top smart device for cats
What you need to know: This automatic feeder is the perfect device to monitor your cat’s daily food intake and regulate their portion sizes. This feeder can hold up to 17 cups of dry cat food and has a built-in LCD screen.
What you’ll like: This feeder takes the hassle out of your cat waking you up for breakfast. It features customizable feeding times that can dispense four meals a day. The food tray is angled so kibble doesn’t accumulate in front of the outlet. In addition, you can record a 10-second voice clip to play before each feed.
What you should consider: The feeder uses a 5-volt adapter to connect to a wall socket but can also be operated on three D-cell batteries.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Chewy
Top smart device for cats for the money
What you need to know: Cats will always wander around as they expand their territory. This can be stressful to owners, but an intelligent pet tag lets you keep track of where they are.
What you’ll love: The “smarter” cat tag easily clips onto their collar, and when you set up a safe zone around your property through the app, the tag alerts you if they move beyond that. Other Pawscout users can get notifications when your cat moves into their safe zone, allowing you to track their movements.
What you should consider: The tag doesn’t give you the precise GPS location of your cat, but rather an alert if it is within 300 feet of you.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Chewy
Worth checking out
PetSafe ScoopFree Smart Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box
What you need to know: Unremoved cat waste has a powerful odor and can quickly permeate a room. A self-cleaning litter box takes the hassle out of the process by rapidly removing undesired particles.
What you’ll love: This litter box initiates the cleaning process 20 minutes after use by automatically removing the waste and raking the crystal granules. It comes with a prefilled disposable tray, which only needs to be changed out once a month. By connecting the litter box to your mobile phone, you can keep track of your cat’s health from anywhere and see daily statistics of litter box usage.
What you should consider: It is not recommended to use any other brand of cat litter crystals as the ScoopFree crystals are specifically designed not to overstress the cleaning motors.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Chewy
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Charlie Fripp writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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When should you bathe your puppy?
Getting your puppy used to baths will stand you in good stead as they get bigger and harder to control. But how often should you bathe them? It’s important to strike the right balance between keeping them fresh and clean and potentially over-bathing them.
Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or you need a refresher, it’s important to learn how regularly to bathe a puppy and what you need to get the job done well.
Puppy bathing questions
When should you give a puppy their first bath?
Some breeders and shelters give puppies their first baths before they send them off to their new homes, as it’s safe to do so from the age of 4-6 weeks. When you get a puppy as a pet, they should be at least 8 weeks old, at which point it’s perfectly safe to bathe them right away. That said, it’s a good idea to give your new puppy a week or two to settle in before you attempt to bathe them, because you’re a stranger to them at first and baths can be stressful for dogs.
Whether it’s their first bath ever or their first bath in their new home, start slowly to avoid putting them off bathing for life. Invite them into the bathroom and give them treats for a few days before you attempt a first bath to create a positive association with the bathroom. Never bathe young puppies outside with cold water, as they get chilled easily.
Can you bathe a puppy too much?
Yes, you absolutely can bathe a puppy too much. Dogs have natural oils in their coats that do a great job of self-cleaning. Overly frequent bathing disrupts these oils and can dry out the skin. It’s fine to give your puppy an occasional extra bath if they roll in something nasty, but avoid excessive bathing just for the sake of it.
How often should you bathe a puppy?
Bathe your pup once every 4-8 weeks. It’s fine to go as long as 3 or 4 months between baths in adult dogs, but getting your puppy used to them at a young age will make it easier when they’re older.
What you need to give a puppy a bath
Now that you know how often to bathe your puppy, you just need to gather the right supplies. Having everything you need on hand makes the bathing process much simpler.
Puppy shampoo
You should use puppy shampoo rather than standard dog shampoo when bathing your pup. These are designed to be extra gentle so they won’t irritate your puppy’s delicate skin. Many have “tear-free” formulas that don’t sting the eyes, though you should avoid shampooing their face anyway. Don’t use human shampoos on puppies, if you can avoid it. In an emergency, it’s OK to use baby shampoo as a one-off, as it’s gentler than shampoo for adults, but it still doesn’t have the correct pH balance for canine skin.
Towels
Assuming you don’t want to dry your puppy on the same towels you use to dry yourself, you should have a selection of towels just for your dog. It’s fine to use any old towels you have lying around, but if you don’t have towels you’re no longer using, dedicated dog towels are often made from microfiber, so they’re extra absorbent.
Treats
The first few times you bathe your puppy, you might need an extra person on hand to feed them treats as a distraction. This helps keep them calm and happy and can create a positive association if they know every time they get a bath, they also get plied with treats. If you don’t have someone who can continuously feed your pup treats, you can get lick mats with suction cups so you can adhere them to your bathroom tiles. You smear pastes such as peanut butter on them and it keeps your dog entertained.
Brush
Although it’s not 100% essential, you might want a rubber brush to help work the shampoo through your puppy’s coat, especially if they have medium or long fur. These brushes also massage the skin to improve blood flow and scratch any itches your pup might have.
Shower attachment
You can buy shower attachments specifically for dogs. These have longer heads than regular shower attachments so you can wet and rinse your canine companion more quickly. The less time it takes to bathe your dog, the easier it will be, so they’re worth investing in. You can use them in your bathroom or outside, but remember not to bathe young puppies with cold water, even on a hot day.
What to buy to bathe a puppy
Its extra-gentle, tearless formula makes it the ideal choice for puppies. It leaves their coat soft, shiny and smelling great.
Where to buy: Sold by Chewy and PetSmart
Kong Dog ZoomGroom Multi-use Brush
This rubber brush helps work shampoo through the coat and gives your puppy’s skin a massage at the same time.
Where to buy: Sold by Chewy and Amazon
Waterpik Pet Wand Pro Dog Shower Attachment
This shower attachment gives you better coverage so you can rinse your puppy off more quickly and easily. You can use it indoors or outdoors, but only attempt the latter on hot days with older puppies and adult dogs.
Where to buy: Sold by Chewy and Amazon
Frisco Microfiber Towel for Cats and Dogs
This is a large, highly absorbent towel that’s perfect for drying puppies off after a bath. It’s machine washable and fast drying, so it’s easy to clean between uses.
Where to buy: Sold by Chewy
Aquapaw Slow Treater Silicone Lick Mat
If you need a distraction for your pup, simply smother this lick mat in peanut butter or similar, stick it to a tiled wall and keep them entertained while you bathe them.
Where to buy: Sold by Chewy and Amazon
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/pets-br/grooming-br/how-often-to-bathe-a-puppy/ | 2022-04-13T14:38:03 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/pets-br/grooming-br/how-often-to-bathe-a-puppy/ |
Are hard or soft golf travel cases better?
Golf clubs are not only expensive, but can be irreplaceable if the manufacturer discontinued a model you really like. So it makes sense golfers want to do everything possible to keep them safe when traveling.
Hard models offer the most protection but soft travel cases are lighter weight and can be more convenient to store. There are also several other pros and cons to consider that will make one more suitable for your needs than the other.
Hard golf travel cases
Hard golf travel cases have a rigid structure similar to hard-sided luggage. Nearly all feature thick interior padding and have wheels for easy maneuverability. They can also be carried like a suitcase if needed. Hard cases close securely via latches, often with locks approved by the Transportation Security Administration and are available in styles that accommodate just your clubs or your clubs and golf bag. Most cost $200-$350.
Hard golf travel case pros
- Highest level of protection
- Secure latches
- Thick interior padding
- Often equipped with TSA-approved locks
- Some have spinner wheels
Hard golf travel case cons
- Heavier than soft cases
- Require a lot of storage space
- Can be difficult to fit inside vehicles
Best hard golf travel case
Samsonite Hard-Sided Golf Travel Case
Combining a high level of protection with a conveniently portable design, this case does a good job of keeping your clubs safe without being a hassle to roll around. It features multidirectional spinner wheels and has a quilted interior with extra foam at the top, where it’s most needed.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Best hard golf travel case for the money
SKB Cases ATA Standard Hard-Shell Wheeled Golf Bag Carrier
This case is made from a sturdy, high-density polyethylene and is equipped with industrial-strength latches and a TSA-approved lock so your clubs will arrive safely at their destination. Despite this, it’s a pound or so lighter than many other hard cases.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Ram Golf Ultimate Hard-Sided Travel Cover
This hard-sided case has many of the same features as the most popular luggage, including a tough thermoplastic shell, compression straps, spinner wheels and a TSA-approved lock. It’s equipped with plenty of interior padding and two handles for convenient lifting.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Soft golf travel cases
Soft cases lack a rigid structure and, instead, are made entirely of durable fabrics such as polyester or nylon. There are also hybrid cases that feature a rigid shell around the club head area, but are soft fabric everywhere else. Some have interior padding. Some of the cheapest lack wheels.
Unlike hard cases, soft cases close via a zipper, which some people feel makes them more likely to open up during travel. You can prevent this by attaching a small TSA-approved luggage lock if your bag allows for that. Most soft travel cases cost $50-$300.
Soft golf travel case pros
- More affordable
- Lightweight construction
- Commonly feature an easy-to-access exterior pocket
- Fold up for storage when not in use
Soft golf travel case cons
- Uninsurable with many airlines
- May have little to no padding
- Leave clubs more susceptible to damage
Best soft golf travel case
Sun Mountain Golf ClubGlider Meridian Club Cover Travel Bag
Thanks to flip-out support legs and smooth-rolling wheels, this case eliminates most of the hassle of traveling with your clubs. It comes in several colors and features an ID window so you can label it with your personal information.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Best soft golf travel case for the money
This lightweight case is a good choice for those who are on a budget but lacks some of the padding found in many of the more expensive options. It’s both weather- and tear-resistant, and features internal compression straps to hold your clubs in place.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Sun Mountain Kube Golf Travel Cover
The Kube combines elements of hard and soft cases to give you the best of both worlds. It offers extra protection and durability where it’s most needed, yet still maintains a lightweight construction. Plus, it folds down into a cube barely larger than 1 cubic foot when not needed.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Should you buy a hard golf travel case or a soft golf travel case?
The decision comes down to your budget, storage space and how much protection you want for your clubs. If budget and storage between uses aren’t issues, and you want the maximum protection for your clubs, hard cases are the way to go. If money or storage is a bit tight, and you can make do with less protection, you’ll likely prefer a soft case.
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Brett Dvoretz writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/sports-fitness-br/golf-br/hard-golf-travel-case-vs-soft-golf-travel-case/ | 2022-04-13T14:38:10 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/sports-fitness-br/golf-br/hard-golf-travel-case-vs-soft-golf-travel-case/ |
Which indoor playset for toddlers is best?
Many toddlers love playing outdoors on backyard playsets, but sometimes Mother Nature just doesn’t want to cooperate. On those cold, rainy or snowy days, you need another option to keep your children occupied. Rather than plopping them in front of the TV or a tablet, consider providing them with an indoor play set to expel that endless energy they are so full of.
Indoor playsets often feature several of the most beloved activities of outdoor ones but are smaller and more manageable. For example, the Costzon Toddler Climber and Swing Set has a climbing wall, slide and even a small basketball hoop, yet it only measures 66 by 59 by 47 inches, so it should fit in most bedrooms and living rooms.
What to know before you buy an indoor playset for toddlers
Skills
There are many kinds of play sets for toddlers, and not all help develop the same skills. Some are similar to outdoor swing sets and feature high-energy activities. These are good for developing strength, balance and speed. Others have activities that focus more on imaginative play, developing hand-eye coordination and even musical abilities.
Consider both what skills your child needs to work and what kinds of activities they find most enjoyable.
Space
When deciding how much room in your home you want to dedicate to the set, don’t forget to account for additional space around it for your child to play in. Sets that include intense activities — such as jumping, sliding and tumbling — require more space around them than those that focus on educational or imaginative play.
Placement
Indoor play sets should only be used under adult supervision. They should be set up where you can always keep an eye on your child. This area should be clear of objects that could cause harm, including sharp furniture and decorations, and of delicate items that are easily damaged if a child accidentally bumps into them.
If you’ll be setting up the play set on hard flooring such as tile or wood, consider purchasing a large foam play mat or thick rug to place underneath it. These reduce the chance of injury if your child falls off.
What to look for in a quality indoor playset for toddlers
Activities
The most basic playsets only have two or three activities. Others can have 10 or more. The more activities a playset has and the greater their variety, the longer it can keep a toddler entertained. Common activities include ball pits, slides, swings, basketball, climbing walls, jungle gyms, target tosses and spinning gears. Some also feature numbers and letters to help teach counting and reading.
Sounds
Though less common, you can find models that play music and sounds when buttons are pressed or that feature simple tap instruments such as pianos and xylophones.
Bright colors
Colors affect people’s moods, and that’s true of children as well as adults. According to the National Institutes of Health, children have positive reactions to bright colors and negative emotions attached to dark colors. It is also easier for kids to recognize bright colors, which makes them more likely to capture kids’ attention. So your child is likely to be drawn to a brightly colored set and spend more time playing with it than with one in muted colors.
Reconfigurable
No matter how brightly colored a play set is or how many activities it has, toddlers will eventually tire of them. Purchasing one that is reconfigurable helps mitigate this. These modular sets can be constructed in different ways after a child gets bored with a particular setup.
Multi-child play
If you have two young children in your home, or want your toddler to be able to use their playset with a friend, look for one that allows multi-child play. These have a higher weight capacity and at least two separate play stations.
How much you can expect to spend on an indoor playset for toddlers
Most indoor playsets for toddlers cost $50-$400.
Indoor playset for toddlers FAQ
Are indoor playsets difficult to assemble?
A. It varies by the model, but most are designed to be easy for one person to assemble on their own. Many don’t require any tools and simply snap together.
Can I use an indoor playset outdoors?
A. Some indoor playsets are also suitable for use outdoors. If so, this should be specified somewhere in the product details.
What’s the best indoor playset to buy for toddlers?
Top indoor playset for toddlers
Costzon Toddler Climber and Swing Set
What you need to know: This 4-in-1 model replicates all the fun of an outdoor play set and offers plenty of activities to keep tots occupied.
What you’ll love: It’s made of a sturdy, high-density polyethylene material that can last through several children and also be used outside. Plus, it does a great job of tiring kids out so you’ll get a little peace and quiet afterward.
What you should consider: It’s a bit short and isn’t ideal for older or taller toddlers.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top indoor playset for toddlers for the money
Little Tikes Activity Garden Playhouse
What you need to know: This budget-priced option helps foster a child’s imagination, yet hardly requires any floor space.
What you’ll love: It expands to grow with a baby or be used by two kids simultaneously. There is a shape sorter and tap-a-tune piano for mental development.
What you should consider: It’s best for toddlers under age 2.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Reliancer Six-Piece Climb and Crawl Foam Activity Play Set
What you need to know: Made entirely of soft, CertiPUR-US-certified foam and covered in faux leather that’s free of potentially harmful phthalates, this set is a smart and safe choice for toddlers of any size and age.
What you’ll love: It can be configured in a nearly limitless number of ways to keep kids from getting bored. Toddlers can use it to learn color recognition and matching, too.
What you should consider: Because it is made from multiple components that will be spread out across the floor, it can make rooms look a bit messy.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Brett Dvoretz writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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Which ‘Toy Story’ Jessie doll is best?
As the first film franchise ever established by Disney Pixar, “Toy Story” has become a cultural phenomenon and has spawned many memorable characters. The most popular are sheriff Woody and the space ranger Buzz Lightyear, but characters such as Jessie, Woody’s cowgirl companion, are just as beloved by fans.
If you have a little one who’s a Jessie fan, there might not be a better way to see them smile than by gifting them a doll of the spunky cowgirl. The Disney Pixar Toy Story 4 Jessie Figure is a crowd favorite because of her elaborate detail and posable body parts.
What to know before you buy a ‘Toy Story’ Jessie doll
Age
“Toy Story” is one of those franchises with fans of all ages, but you should consider your child’s age before buying them any toy. Most Jessie dolls have basic designs and are safe for children of all ages, but if you spot one with small accessories or peripherals, it’s best to avoid them if you have a toddler, as they can be dangerous.
For a small child, a toy larger than their mouth is always the best choice since it decreases the chances of choking. In any case, you can read the label to determine the suitable age range of any “Toy Story” doll.
Quality
Jessie dolls are usually made of plastic, but some are thicker than others. Thin plastic can break easily, potentially posing a hazard, especially for younger children. Sturdy plastic toys can take more of a beating without breaking.
Plush
Traditional dolls and figures are made of plastic, and if they’re inspired by a famous movie, they’re designed to resemble their appearance in their respective film as closely as possible.
It’s easy to recreate a figure that’s to scale when using materials such as plastic, but if you want the safest toy possible and don’t mind a reduction in likeness, a plush toy is your best bet. Plush dolls are super-soft and the best choice for younger children, especially those under 3 years old.
What to look for in a quality ‘Toy Story’ Jessie doll
Height
There’s nothing wrong with a mini-Jessie doll, but if you want something where she looks similar to her appearance in the films, you’re going to want it to be at least 7 inches tall when standing. The most common size for a “Toy Story” doll is 6-12 inches, but you can find plush toys as small as 2 inches and as large as 4 feet.
Design
Jessie has braided red hair in the movies and sports an outfit like Woody’s. She wears a western-style shirt with blue jeans, black-spotted chaps, a red hat with white laces and cowboy boots.
You might stumble upon a Jessie doll where she’s sporting a different outfit, but for an authentic figure, you’re going to want her to look like she does in the films.
Collectible
“Toy Story” is such a popular franchise that it’s not uncommon for some adults to have a collection of toys inspired by the franchise. Most Jessie dolls are designed for children, but some exclusive or limited-edition figures are expensive and treated as valuable collectibles.
How much you can expect to spend on a ‘Toy Story’ Jessie doll
More miniature Jessie dolls and plush toys usually go for anywhere from $10-$30, but collector or special edition dolls can cost $30-$100.
‘Toy Story’ Jessie doll FAQ
Can plush toys be dangerous for small children?
A. Unless they’re very small, plush toys are among the safest options for children under 3 years old.
Do Jessie dolls always have a smiling facial expression?
A. In the films, Jessie’s motionless facial expression is a smile showing her teeth. Most dolls attempt to recreate that, but you can find some that feature her with a sad-looking facial expression or a more subdued, close-lipped smile.
What’s the best ‘Toy Story’ Jessie doll to buy?
Top ‘Toy Story’Jessie doll
Disney Pixar Toy Story 4 Jessie Figure
What you need to know: Inspired by the latest film in the franchise, this doll accurately reflects Jessie’s appearance in the movies and is a worthy addition to any “Toy Story” toy collection.
What you’ll love: It’s a highly posable Jessie figure, as the head, arms and legs can move, and it features a classic design, outfit and her endearing smiling facial expression. It’s large, standing at 8.8 inches tall, but suitable for children ages 3 and up.
What you should consider: It’s somewhat sensitive, as light scratches can scuff the plastic and paint.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top ‘Toy Story’ Jessie doll for the money
Disney Pixar Jessie and Bullseye
What you need to know: This is an excellent bargain pick, since you get a Jessie doll along with a figure of Bullseye, her faithful horse companion.
What you’ll love: These figures boast movie-scale sizes at 7 inches and have impressive detail inspired by the films. They’re suitable for children as young as 3 years old and can be positioned in many ways for different pose setups.
What you should consider: Although they’re sturdy, Jessie’s hat often slips off her head, and she cannot firmly sit on Bullseye to ride him.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Disney Pixar Toy Story 4 Jessie Plush
What you need to know: This plush makes for a cuddly bedtime companion and is appropriate for younger “Toy Story” fans.
What you’ll love: It stands 16.5 inches and has meticulously detailed plush sculpturing and high-quality embroidered features such as Jessie’s belt buckle and back pull-string. The hat is made of soft velour fabric, and the bottom of her boots have “Andy” written on them, just like in the movies.
What you should consider: Some find it too stiff for a plush doll.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Kevin Luna writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/toys-games-br/theme-toys-br/best-toy-story-jessie-doll/ | 2022-04-13T14:38:25 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/toys-games-br/theme-toys-br/best-toy-story-jessie-doll/ |
Tips for picking the best carpet cleaner
If you love the plush, cozy feeling carpets bring to your home but hate how dirty they get over time, it only makes sense to buy a carpet cleaner. It will soon pay for itself compared to hiring someone to do the job, and you have it ready to use whenever you need.
Some cleaners are perfect for deep cleans, whereas others are better for spot cleaning and cleaning smaller areas. Learn how to pick the best carpet cleaner for you so yours will give you everything you need.
Questions to ask yourself before buying a carpet cleaner
How dirty do your carpets get?
You’ll need more impressive cleaning power if you have kids or dogs than if you have a small, adult-only, pet-free household. Some carpet cleaners are specifically designed for homes with pets and have the extra oomph needed to get rid of pet odors, muddy paw prints and other pet-related messes. Think about whether there are any high-traffic areas in your home in which your carpets tend to get extra dirty. If so, it’s worth paying more for a powerful cleaner that will do its job well.
How often will you use your carpet cleaner?
Are you likely to use a carpet cleaner once every couple of months, once a year or once in total before relegating it to the back of a closet somewhere? It makes sense to spend more if you’ll use your cleaner regularly, getting more bang for your buck. For occasional use, an inexpensive one will do the trick.
Do you want to clean upholstery?
Most carpet cleaners also work on upholstery, with the help of the right attachments. However, some are specifically geared toward upholstery and do a better job with it than they do with carpets and rugs.
What to look for in a carpet cleaner
Upright vs. canister
You’ll find two main types of carpet cleaners: upright and canister. Upright ones have the water tanks, motor and cleaning head all in one unit, with most looking similar to upright vacuum cleaners. Canister models have the motor and water tanks in the body of the unit with a separate cleaning head attached to the body by a hose. It’s generally quicker to clean with an upright model, so they’re suitable for cleaning large areas, while canister options are better for spot cleaning and upholstery.
Quick-dry mode
When you deep clean your carpet, it can take as long as 24 hours to fully dry, but this isn’t always practical or necessary. Quick-dry mode is a lighter cleaning mode that doesn’t get your carpet as wet, so it will fully dry within 1-2 hours. After an initial deep clean, you should only need to use the quick-dry mode to refresh your carpets if you clean them regularly.
Tools
Carpet cleaners should come with at least a couple of tools or attachments. The main cleaning head is what you’ll use for cleaning large areas, such as big rugs or wall-to-wall carpet, but you’ll also want a crevice tool for getting into tight corners and an upholstery brush for cleaning couches and other soft furnishings. Other tools are less essential, but it’s nice to have a good range just in case.
Dual tanks
Ideally, your carpet cleaner should have two water tanks: one that holds clean water only and one that holds dirty water after it’s been sucked out of the carpet. Without dedicated tanks for each, you’ll be cleaning your carpet with grubby water and you’ll need to empty and refill the tank regularly to keep the water clean.
Tank capacity
Check the capacity of both the clean water tank and the dirty water tank. Larger capacities allow you to clean more of your home before needing to empty the dirty water and replenish the fresh water. Compact models may only hold 1.5-2 liters of water, while large models can hold as much as 3.5-4.5 liters. If you have a large home with fitted carpets, you’ll thank yourself for choosing a model with a decent tank capacity.
Cleaning solutions
Check what kind of cleaning solution is required before buying. Some work with any cleaning solution designed for use with carpet cleaning machines, while others only work with the manufacturer’s proprietary solution, which can be limiting.
Best carpet cleaners
Bissell TurboClean PowerBrush Pet Carpet Cleaner
This inexpensive, lightweight carpet cleaner is great for occasional use but still powerful enough to clean up after pets.
Sold by Amazon
Bissell Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner
This professional-quality carpet cleaner leaves rugs, carpets and upholstery looking as good as new. It’s pricey, so it’s best suited for people who will use it regularly or who have large homes with fitted carpets in most rooms.
Sold by Amazon
Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner
With quick-drying technology, this is a great choice for quick cleans to tackle pet messes as well as more thorough deep cleans. It’s compact and easy to use and maneuver.
Sold by Amazon
Hoover Smartwash Automatic Carpet Cleaner
Thanks to its automatic cleaning technology, it’s extremely simple to use — just push it forward to clean and pull it backward to dry. Its power brushes clean deep into the pile of your carpet.
Sold by Amazon
Rug Doctor Pet Portable Spot Cleaner
This compact canister spot cleaner is perfect for cleaning up pet-related stains on carpet and upholstery but isn’t well-suited to cleaning whole rooms worth of carpet.
Sold by Amazon
Vacmaster Wet/Dry Shampoo Vacuum Cleaner
A wet/dry model, the Vacmaster is suitable for dry vacuuming, wet vacuuming and carpet shampooing. It’s good for low pile rugs and carpets but really shines when it comes to upholstery cleaning.
Sold by Amazon
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wane.com/reviews/how-to-pick-the-best-carpet-cleaner-for-you/ | 2022-04-13T14:38:32 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/how-to-pick-the-best-carpet-cleaner-for-you/ |
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Posted: Apr 13, 2022 / 09:56 AM EDT
Updated: Apr 13, 2022 / 09:56 AM EDT | https://www.wric.com/community/showcase-richmond/reverse-mortgage-pro-111/ | 2022-04-13T14:38:45 | 0 | https://www.wric.com/community/showcase-richmond/reverse-mortgage-pro-111/ |
(WGHP) — Cancers aren’t like coronavirus infections, but fighting them may have a lot of similarities.
For the last several years, researchers have been working with technology based around mRNA — messenger RNA, which is something that complements the work of your DNA — to see if they can utilize it to get your body’s own immune system to fight cancers. At Duke University, they’re working with mRNA technology to create vaccines for cancer.
“It is a product which is RNA nucleic acid which encodes a specific protein and then that can be encapsulated in something we like to call a lipid nanoparticle, which is really a little fat bubble, and that can be injected into your body and sort of teaches your body what to go after immunologically,” said Zachary Hartman, who works in the Lyerly Lab at Duke.
If it all sounds familiar, it should — mRNA vaccines have been in the news quite a bit over the last two years. It’s the type of technology used to create the COVID-19 vaccines.
“Remember, people were expecting that a successful vaccine would provide protective immunity to about 50% of patients, and the first two mRNA vaccines provided over 90% protection, a remarkable achievement,” said Dr. H. Kim Lyerly, who runs the lab at Duke.
Lyerly has been at Duke for nearly 40 years and has seen massive changes in how we can combat cancer going from relatively crude chemotherapy to very targeted immunotherapy.
“Think about that, in my career, a complete reversal of fortune for immunotherapy to be something to being considered an outsider, not likely to ever work, to being the most prominent form of cancer therapy and the development of new cancer therapeutics in the world today,” said Lyerly.
He’s taken note of the people who are skeptical when it comes to the new mRNA vaccines, but he thinks their concern is misplaced.
“You have mRNAs – billions of mRNA copies in your body right now. And so, to be concerned that the introduction of an mRNA coding of a viral protein is going to be harmful to you, again, doesn’t make a lot of sense to me, because if you happen to be infected with a coronavirus, you’re going to have a thousand times more mRNAs from the virus invading your body. So, the way to protect yourself from disease-causing mRNAs in your body is to vaccinate yourself,” he said.
Zach Hartman believes this technology will change the way we treat cancers completely.
“I think that within my lifetime, we will see cancer as a more managed disease,” said Hartman. “We’re going to turn the dial and be able to treat more and more of these kinds of cancers in the coming years and decades to where it’s not quite the same sentence it was 20 or 30 years ago. I don’t think we’ll ever be able to rid the world of cancer, but I think we will be able to prevent a lot of cancers, and then a lot of cancers that we’ll be able to catch early and treat, we’ll have very effective treatments.” | https://www.wric.com/health/how-close-are-we-to-a-cancer-vaccine-duke-scientists-say-theyre-closing-in/ | 2022-04-13T14:38:52 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/health/how-close-are-we-to-a-cancer-vaccine-duke-scientists-say-theyre-closing-in/ |
HENRICO, Va. (WRIC) — Henrico County finalized a slate of tax relief measures at their meeting Tuesday night, reducing rates on real estate, biotechnology equipment and mobile homes.
Henrico homeowners have already received half of their tax relief, in the form of checks sent out in March. That tax credit was part of the counties so-called “2+2” plan – 2 cents of real estate tax credit, followed by a 2 cent reduction in the real estate tax rate.
That means residents will effectively pay a rate of .83% on their homes, or 83 cents for every hundred dollars of value.
The tax credit was made possible by higher-than-expected revenue from last year’s real estate tax. Under state law, the county is allowed to return the surplus to residents as a tax credit.
“This is yet another way that Henrico is demonstrating our financial stewardship and transparency to our citizens,” said Sheila Minor, director of the Department of Finance.
According to the county, the surplus was driven by rapidly rising home prices in the county – a trend that hasn’t slowed down this year.
“Henrico’s average assessed home value is $322,200 in 2022, an increase from $290,600 in 2021,” a county spokesperson wrote.
With the board’s final vote tonight, the permanent real estate tax rate will be lowered from .87% to .85%, making it lower than both Chesterfield and Richmond.
David Goodall Sr., a retiree and resident of Henrico, thanked the board for sending relief checks in March, but called on them to go further.
“I know that the board has the power to further reduce the real estate tax,” he said. He added that he hoped they would consider another 2 cent reduction in 2024, since he and other retirees were faced with rising home values and fixed incomes.
Got Biotech?
The county’s tax relief package also includes incentives intended for “labs and other businesses specializing in research and development.”
A property tax levied on “certain equipment used primarily for research, development, production or provision of biotechnology” has been slashed by more than half, from 3.5% to 0.9%. That means companies will only be expected to pay 90 cents per hundred dollars of owned laboratory equipment.
The board also approved the creation of a “technology zone” in Innsbrook, designed to encourage high-tech businesses to move into the area.
New businesses trading in one of the tech areas outlined by the ordinance – and bringing with them $1 million in investment and ten new, high-paying jobs – would get waived planning and permitting fees, as well as “other incentives” provided by the Henrico Economic Development Authority. | https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/henrico-county/whos-getting-a-tax-cut-in-henrico/ | 2022-04-13T14:38:58 | 0 | https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/henrico-county/whos-getting-a-tax-cut-in-henrico/ |
(The Hill) – Prominent GOP pollster Frank Luntz said in a recent interview that Republicans in private are mocking former President Trump and they are “tired of going back and rehashing the 2020 election.”
Luntz said he was not surprised by comments made by New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu (R) that gained attention from the Gridiron Club’s annual dinner.
“He’s f—— crazy,” Sununu said of Trump earlier this month at the annual event, known for its roasts of politicians and other figures.
“I don’t think he’s so crazy that you could put him in a mental institution,” he added. “But I think if he were in one, he ain’t getting out.”
Luntz said that while the comments were made at a roast, many members of the Republican party feel the same way.
“I don’t know a single Republican who was surprised by what Sununu said. He said what they were thinking,” Luntz said to The Daily Beast. “They won’t say it [in public], but behind his back, they think he’s a child. They’re laughing at him.”
“That’s what made it significant,” he added, referring to Sununu’s comments.
Luntz added, “Trump isn’t the same man he was a year ago.”
“Even many Republicans are tired of going back and rehashing the 2020 election. Everybody else has moved on and in Washington everyone believes he lost the election,” the pollster said.
After Sununu’s comments at the dinner gained attention, he emphasized that his remarks were a joke.
“It’s all a joke. Look, I don’t think he’s crazy. It’s all a joke,” Sununu said.
“It’s all in fun, it’s all a joke, and anyone who’s trying to make this to be more than it is either seriously doesn’t understand what the Gridiron dinner is all about or just has to, you know, like I said, lighten up a little bit, get a sense of humor,” he added.
President Biden even appeared at the popular event via a video message.
“I get the sense even if I’m not at the dinner, I’m going to be on the menu,” the president said.
Sununu late last year announced that he would run for a fourth term as governor, despite pressure from the GOP to run for Senate.
“I’d rather push myself 120 miles an hour delivering wins for New Hampshire than to slow down, end up on Capitol Hill debating partisan politics without results. That’s why I am going to run for a fourth term,” Sununu said, speaking from Concord, N.H. | https://www.wric.com/news/politics/gop-pollster-says-republicans-are-mocking-child-trump/ | 2022-04-13T14:39:04 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/news/politics/gop-pollster-says-republicans-are-mocking-child-trump/ |
WASHINGTON, D.C. (The Hill) — Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) on Tuesday said the political atmosphere is good for Republicans heading into the midterms but warned that the party could bungle its chances if “unacceptable” candidates win their primaries but go on to lose in November.
Republicans are feeling optimistic about their chances to win back the Senate, but they face several messy primaries that could have ramifications for the general election map and the GOP’s chances of picking up, or holding onto, a seat.
McConnell, speaking at a chamber event in Kentucky, said that 1994 had been the best year for Republicans and that the atmosphere heading into November “is better than it was in 1994.”
“From an atmospheric point of view, it’s a perfect storm of problems for the Democrats,” McConnell said. “How could you screw this up? It’s actually possible. And we’ve had some experience with that in the past.”
“In the Senate, if you look at where we have to compete in order to get into a majority, there are places that are competitive in the general election. So you can’t nominate somebody who’s just sort of unacceptable to a broader group of people and win. We had that experience in 2010 and 2012,” McConnell added.
To win back the Senate in November, Republicans would need a net pickup of just one seat to tip the current 50-50 balance. Republicans are defending 21 seats, compared to Democrats’ 14, including two seats currently held by Republicans that are in states President Biden won in 2020.
Five seats are rated by The Cook Political Report as toss-ups. Three of those — Nevada, Georgia and Arizona — are currently held by Democrats, while two — Pennsylvania and Wisconsin — are currently held by Republicans. In Pennsylvania, GOP Sen. Pat Toomey is retiring.
Meanwhile, three of the seats currently held by Republicans are ranked as “lean” Republican: Florida, Ohio and North Carolina. In Florida, GOP Sen. Marco Rubio is running for reelection, while Ohio and North Carolina are open races because GOP Sens. Rob Portman and Richard Burr are retiring.
Only one seat currently held by Democrats is ranked “lean” Democrat: New Hampshire, where Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan is running for reelection.
Despite having to play defense on a larger swath of seats, Republicans are increasingly confident about their chances of winning back the majority in November as Biden struggles to rebound in polling and Americans remain concerned about inflation and the economy more broadly.
But first Republicans need to navigate several crowded primaries that will determine who their nominee is in the general election.
Former President Trump over the weekend irked some allies when he endorsed Mehmet Oz in the Pennsylvania Senate race. There’s also been running high-profile tension in the North Carolina GOP primary, where Trump has endorsed Rep. Ted Budd.
Top GOP figures have also raised red flags over Senate candidate Eric Greitens in Missouri. Greitens’s ex-wife is accusing him of abusing her and their children while they were married. The accusations, which Greitens has denied, sparked calls for him to drop out of the race.
Republicans in previous cycles have watched GOP nominees win the party’s primary only to lose the Senate seat in the general election. McConnell has warned that he and his allies could step in where a candidate they view as unable to win in November appears poised to win the primary.
The fight for the Senate is running through several states, most of which McConnell mentioned on Tuesday: Georgia, Arizona, Missouri, Nevada, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, New Hampshire, Ohio and Wisconsin.
“So far, I’m optimistic that in the places that are going to determine who the next majority leader is we’re going to have fully electable nominees,” McConnell said. | https://www.wric.com/news/politics/mcconnell-gop-could-flub-midterms-with-unacceptable-candidates/ | 2022-04-13T14:39:10 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/news/politics/mcconnell-gop-could-flub-midterms-with-unacceptable-candidates/ |
NEW YORK (NewsNation) — John Hinckley Jr., the man who attempted to assassinate U.S. President Ronald Reagan on March 30, 1981, in Washington, is playing a sold-out concert in Brooklyn this summer. Hinckley plays guitar and sings.
Hinckley tweeted, “I’m very excited about my upcoming show. Ticket sales are good. July 8, Market Hotel in Brooklyn NY.”
Tickets for the show, at the hotel at 1140 Myrtle Ave. in Bushwick, were going for $20 but recently sold out, according to the website.
“You’re not gonna find this man on a Grammy stage anytime soon,” entertainment attorney Domenic Romano said Tuesday night during an appearance on NewsNatinon’s “Banfield.”
“The federal judge ruled that he’s a low risk for violence, not a high-risk to society, and so finally, the restrictions are coming off, as of June, and so he’ll be allowed to live his life,” Romano added.
Hinckley seriously injured Reagan, as well as three others, but was found not guilty by reason of insanity.
Hinckley was released from psychiatric care in 2016 and later started focusing on a music career.
His YouTube channel, which he started posting videos to in 2020, has more than 26,000 subscribers. | https://www.wric.com/news/u-s-world/president-reagans-would-be-assassin-to-play-sold-out-ny-concert/ | 2022-04-13T14:39:16 | 0 | https://www.wric.com/news/u-s-world/president-reagans-would-be-assassin-to-play-sold-out-ny-concert/ |
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (WKRG) — A man from Fort Walton Beach was sentenced Tuesday afternoon for his involvement in the Jan. 6 riots at the U.S. Capitol.
Timothy O’Malley was sentenced to two years of probation and will pay a $10 special assessment on count four, which is parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building.
He must also serve 20 hours of community service and pay $500 in restitution.
Three counts were dismissed. Those are: entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building
O’ Malley reached a plea agreement in December. | https://www.wfla.com/news/florida/florida-man-gets-probation-for-parading-through-u-s-capitol/ | 2022-04-13T14:39:16 | 1 | https://www.wfla.com/news/florida/florida-man-gets-probation-for-parading-through-u-s-capitol/ |
(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://www.wric.com/sports/sports-headlines/protestor-glues-hand-to-court-during-nba-game/ | 2022-04-13T14:39:22 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/sports/sports-headlines/protestor-glues-hand-to-court-during-nba-game/ |
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — President Joe Biden has now said Russia’s war in Ukraine amounts 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.”
Last week, Biden stopped short of saying Russia’s actions amounted to genocide.
At an earlier event Tuesday in Menlo, Iowa, addressing spiking energy prices caused by 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.
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. French President Emmanuel Macron declined to take his rhetoric that far in comments Wednesday.
“I am prudent with terms today,” Macron said. “Genocide has a meaning. The Ukrainian people and Russian people are brotherly people. It’s madness what’s happening today. It’s unbelievable brutality and a return to war in Europe. But at the same time I look at the facts, and I want to continue to try the utmost to be able to stop the war and restore peace. I’m not sure if the escalation of words serves our cause.”
Macron said it’s been established that the Russian army has committed war crimes in Ukraine.
Zelenskyy praised with Biden’s assessment.
“True words of a true leader @POTUS,” he tweeted Tuesday. “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 said 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 of Putin.
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.” | https://www.wfla.com/news/international/biden-russia-war-a-genocide-trying-to-wipe-out-ukraine/ | 2022-04-13T14:39:22 | 1 | https://www.wfla.com/news/international/biden-russia-war-a-genocide-trying-to-wipe-out-ukraine/ |
WINTER HAVEN, Fla. (WFLA) — Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd will speak about a year-long gang racketeering investigation at a press conference on Wednesday morning.
There were 41 suspects charged with a total of 121 felonies and 40 misdemeanors. The criminal histories of the suspects added up to 1,147 felonies, 161 misdemeanors, and 205 felony convictions.
The charged suspects are gang members or criminal business associates of gang members from Florida and North Carolina.
He will be joined by Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, FDOC Secretary Ricky Dixon and FDLE Special Agent in Charge Mark Brutnell.
The press conference is expected to start at 11 a.m.
It can be viewed live on WFLA.com, the WFLA app and on the WFLA Facebook page. | https://www.wfla.com/news/polk-county/sheriff-judd-to-speak-on-year-long-gang-racketeering-investigation/ | 2022-04-13T14:39:28 | 1 | https://www.wfla.com/news/polk-county/sheriff-judd-to-speak-on-year-long-gang-racketeering-investigation/ |