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Florida high school senior gets into 27 schools, including Ivy League
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG//Gray News) - A senior at a Florida high school has been admitted into all of the 27 schools he applied to. Among those include multiple Ivy League universities such as Harvard, Yale, and the University of Pennsylvania.
Jonathan Walker said he is ecstatic about his future.
“That’s such a rare thing to occur, but the fact that it did happen, I’m so excited about it,” Walker told WJHG.
The 18-year-old is in the International Baccalaureate Program, which means he completed college-level classes in his junior and senior years of high school. The program covers all subjects and gives students college credits after they complete multiple assessments.
He also loves sports and is on the school’s football team. Besides extracurricular activities and making time for a social life, Walker is also an inventor. He said he wants to help people, so he created a device that helps the deaf and blind. It’s currently in the process of being patented.
Walker said he made sure to take his time during the application process.
“It’s really just like writing a set of essays for one college and then tweaking them specifically for the colleges,” Walker said.
His advice for students applying to colleges is to make sure they are passionate and put in the hard work.
“Keep grinding no matter what,” Walker said.
Walker has received scholarship offers totaling over $4 million from all the schools. He is still deciding which school he will attend.
Copyright 2022 WJHG via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wagmtv.com/2022/04/14/florida-high-school-senior-gets-into-27-schools-including-ivy-league/ | 2022-04-14T22:42:32 | 1 | https://www.wagmtv.com/2022/04/14/florida-high-school-senior-gets-into-27-schools-including-ivy-league/ |
Which USB-C hub adapter is best?
As laptops get smaller, thinner and more powerful, they tend to lose some of their functionalities. Where built-in USB 3.0 connections were once a common sight, it’s now unusual to see them on the side of a laptop.
If your USB-C laptop only has one or two connections, this is where a USB-C hub adapter can prove useful. Through a device such as the Hiearcool USB-C Dongle for MacBook Pro, you can connect multiple devices to your computer.
What to know before you buy a USB-C hub adapter
It could drain your laptop’s battery faster
Connecting several devices or accessories to your laptop through a hub comes at a price. While some adapters require an independent power source, others don’t — they use power from your laptop. This can cause your device to run flat much faster than usual if it’s not plugged into a charger.
Robust construction materials
A USB-C is incredibly important if you rely on one connection for all your portability needs. If it gets damaged, you could lose the ability to access vital devices or accessories. Keep in mind the construction materials of the hub, and try to get one that’s made from hardened plastic or aluminum.
Compatibility with your device
While USB-C is now a common connection type, not all devices are the same. Ensure that the hub you’re interested in is compatible with your device. For example, Apple’s Thunderbolt is a type of USB-C but is only compatible with certain gadgets. Similarly, Nintendo’s Switch console also uses USB-C, but the type used isn’t compatible with certain hubs or cables. The way to determine compatibility is to check with the manufacturer of the device.
What to look for in a quality USB-C hub adapter
USB-C Power Delivery
A key aspect to look for when deciding on an adapter is Power Delivery technology. This lets you use your laptop to charge other devices that are connected to the hub. The amount of power delivered to the connected device can vary, but the most common is around 100 watts.
Lengthy cable (or no cable at all)
You don’t want to struggle to get devices connected to your laptop, which is why a lengthy USB-C cable can be handy. The length also lets you move the adapter around to minimize any electromagnetic interference. On the other hand, there are adapters that have no cables at all. These sit flush with your laptop and are a great option if you have limited space.
Multiple connections
The purpose of an adapter is so you can connect multiple devices of different connections to your laptop. For that reason, it’s imperative that the adapter has as many as possible, which should include USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI connection and an SD card slot.
How much you can expect to spend on a USB-C hub adapter
The average cost of a USB-C adapter or hub depends on the number of ports and connections it has. An entry-level hub with a few slots can cost $15-$20, while a feature-packed adapter can go for $25-$35.
USB-C hub adapter FAQ
Can you connect a mouse and keyboard to an adapter?
A. Yes, you can, but you should keep in mind that due to their limited design, users often complain that the mouse is less responsive when an additional monitor is also connected.
What’s the difference between USB-C and Lightning?
A. The Lightning connection is the proprietary connection method for many Apple products and isn’t interchangeable with other devices. However, Apple’s Thunderbolt is a type of USB-C connection that can be used with other USB-C products or adapters.
What’s the best USB-C hub adapter to buy?
Top USB-C hub adapter
Hiearcool USB-C Dongle For MacBook Pro
What you need to know: This adapter has all the ports and connections that you could ever need. It features two USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI port for an external display and an SD card slot.
What you’ll love: You can recharge your laptop through the Power Delivery function, and it’s capable of displaying 4K content at 30 frames per second. The outer case is made from aluminum alloy, weighs only 2.4 ounces and is available in six colors.
What you should consider: The adapter isn’t compatible with Samsung’s DeX software, which lets you cast your device’s screen to a bigger monitor such as a TV. Unlike other hubs, this one is compatible with Nintendo Switch.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top USB-C hub adapter for the money
AorZ USB-C 7-in-1 Dongle Adapter
What you need to know: Not only does this hub have seven different connections, it can also power your laptop through USB-C Power Delivery technology.
What you’ll love: This hub features an HDMI connection, which lets you display content on an external monitor at 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second, or 4K resolution at 30 frames per second. It has three USB 3.0 ports, which is handy if you want to connect a keyboard or mouse. There’s also an SD card slot for transferring content such as photos from a camera.
What you should consider: This hub isn’t compatible with the Apple iPad Pro 11-inch or 21.9-inch before 2018.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
What you need to know: If you need to add a variety of useful connection ports to your laptop, this hub is a perfect choice.
What you’ll love: Its best feature is that it can handle an HDMI connection to an external monitor at a 4K resolution at 30 frames per second. In addition, this hub sports one connection for each of the most popular ports, so you’ll always have a way of connecting external devices. It has an SD card slot, USB-C input, USB-C data port and two USB 3.0 slots. It features USB-C Power Delivery so you can simultaneously charge your laptop.
What you should consider: This USB-C hub is only compatible with Apple’s MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and the Pixelbook. It isn’t compatible with the Nintendo Switch, even though it uses USB-C.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Charlie Fripp 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/best-usb-c-hub-adapter/ | 2022-04-14T22:42:32 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/electronics-br/best-usb-c-hub-adapter/ |
GRAPHIC: Husband of Food Network star pleads guilty in 3-year-old’s beating death
GRAPHIC WARNING: The details of this story may disturb some readers.
GREENVILLE, S.C. (FOX Carolina/Gray News) – The husband of a Food Network star pleaded guilty Thursday to charges in the death of the couple’s 3-year-old foster daughter.
Jerry “Austin” Robinson pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting homicide by child abuse in the death of Victoria “Tori” Smith.
Prosecutors say Tori died in January 2021 after she was beaten by Ariel Robinson, the winner of season 20 of Food Network’s “Worst Cooks in America.”
Jerry Robinson will remain on house arrest until his wife’s trial.
Prosecutors said Jerry Robinson claims he never physically hurt Tori but told investigators Ariel Robinson would beat the child with different items, including a belt.
Ariel Robinson was angry with Tori the night before her death because she vomited on herself on the way to church, Jerry Robinson told investigators. The next morning, he said Ariel Robinson was frustrated with Tori for not eating her pancakes fast enough.
He described hearing Ariel Robinson giving Tori a “whooping” with a belt that was audible from outside the home. According to prosecutors, when Jerry Robinson went inside, he saw his wife standing over Tori with the belt, saying, “You don’t get to tell me when you’re done.”
Jerry Robinson claims he told his wife, “You’ve gone too far. You went too far this time.” He went to CVS to buy liquid Tylenol to try to bring Tori’s bruising down, attorneys said, and then gave the child an Epsom salt bath.
Jerry Robinson called 911 hours later, and when first responders arrived at the home, Tori was in cardiac arrest.
Jerry Robinson’s attorney asked the judge to take his cooperation with the investigation into account when considering sentencing. He faces 10 to 20 years minimum in prison. He will be sentenced after Ariel Robinson’s trial.
Ariel Robinson will go to trial on May 9.
Prosecutors asked for body camera footage from when first responders responded to the 911 call to be admissible in court during Ariel Robinson’s trial. The body camera footage captures first responders’ “horrified” reactions when they found the bruising on Tori’s body, according to prosecutors.
Prosecutors said Ariel Robinson told first responders the bruising on Tori’s abdomen was caused by the force she used trying to do CPR. She claimed the bruising on Tori’s legs was caused by her then-7-year-old brother, according to prosecutors.
However, Ariel Robinson’s attorney has pushed for the body camera footage to be inadmissible since she was not read her Miranda Rights on the scene at the time.
The judge will decide Friday whether the body camera footage is admissible in Ariel Robinson’s trial.
Copyright 2022 WHNS via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wagmtv.com/2022/04/14/graphic-husband-food-network-star-pleads-guilty-3-year-olds-beating-death/ | 2022-04-14T22:42:38 | 0 | https://www.wagmtv.com/2022/04/14/graphic-husband-food-network-star-pleads-guilty-3-year-olds-beating-death/ |
Which Canon printer is best?
Even if you don’t use your printer on a daily basis, it’s important to have one at home. Many feel they don’t need a printer since documents are available online, and you can sign and return them quickly through the internet. Even though printers have become somewhat less popular over the years, you’ll undoubtedly want to have one.
Canon is a trusted brand that offers a wide range of printers that are excellent for basic printing needs as well as scanning photos or making copies. If you want a functional printer that will save you money on ink, take a look at the Canon Maxify GX6020 All-in-One Wireless Supertank Printer.
What to know before you buy a Canon printer
The purpose of the printer
People typically use Canon printers to print documents onto paper, scan documents or photos, send emails and more. Decide what you think you’ll use your printer for the most to help you decide which model works best for your needs. If you only print black-and-white documents, there is no need to buy an expensive device that produces photo-quality images.
Inkjet vs. laser printer
Canon printers are generally available in inkjet or laser design, which refers to the different methods of printing out images or text. For example, inkjet printers use several tiny nozzles to deposit ink drops on the page. They tend to be cheaper, but the nozzles are prone to clogging, and the ink is expensive. On the other hand, laser printers use heat to melt the ink powder onto a page. While they are more costly, they last a long time, which helps even out the costs over time.
Types of Canon printers
Canon has different printers that cater to various needs. Here are some of the options you’ll come across.
Pixma printers are perfect for everyday use at home or in a small office. The inkjet design offers terrific print quality and speed. The Pixma line includes both all-in-one printers that can print, copy and scan as well as photo printers that can create first-rate prints of your favorite memories.
Selphy printers are small enough to fit in a backpack and feature an attractive design. They allow you to print quality photos from your smartphone or tablet even on the go.
Maxify printers are known for their power and efficiency. These multifunction, wireless inkjet printers provide quality prints at a reasonable price per page. They’re ideal for use at home or in small offices.
ImageClass color printers are ideal when your work demands high-quality prints in rich, bold hues (note that some models only print in black and white). These laser printers feature a touch screen that lets you customize the settings to suit your needs, and they’re fast.
Printing resolution
Canon printers produce images or text at a set resolution, measured in dots per inch (dpi). The more dots there are in a square inch, the better the quality will be. It’s best to find a dpi that goes hand in hand with what you plan on using the printer for. For example, black-and-white documents are perfect at a dpi of 400-600. But for high-quality images, you ideally want a dpi of 1,000-1,200.
What to look for in a quality Canon printer
Printing cost per page
Printer ink is notoriously expensive, so you need to factor in how much it costs you to print a page. This will vary depending on the printer, but black-and-white pages should only cost a couple of cents. Color prints are more costly, but even then, they shouldn’t cost more than 15 cents per page. Take time to figure out the cost-per-page for your printer, so you don’t spend a fortune on ink.
Wireless connectivity
While you can connect a Canon printer to a computer or laptop with a USB cable, the best option is to use a wireless connection. A good-quality printer can connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network, allowing anybody to access it. In addition, some printers connect through Bluetooth technology, which is a great option when printing from a mobile device.
Printing speed
The days of standing by the printer waiting for your pages to pop out are long gone. But with that said, some printers are faster than others. Look for a Canon printer that can produce high-quality prints in a few seconds. For example, a good-quality Canon printer can produce around 45 black-and-white pages per minute.
How much you can expect to spend on a Canon printer
The average cost of a Canon printer depends on the model and what printing technology it uses. Entry-level printers cost $250-$350, while high-quality devices that produce excellent photos are around $500-$700.
Canon printer FAQ
Why is printer ink so expensive?
A. Printer ink is expensive because the printers themselves are cheap to make. Manufacturers still need to profit, and they know that you can’t operate a printer without ink. So they tend to increase the cost of the ink to make a profit.
Can a Canon printer do double-sided printing?
A. Yes, several models can create double-sided prints. Some Canon printers even do this automatically, so you don’t have to turn over the page yourself.
What’s the best Canon printer to buy?
Top Canon printer
Canon Maxify GX6020 All-in-One Wireless Supertank Printer
What you need to know: Not only does this printer deliver high-quality photos, but it can also produce double-sided prints automatically.
What you’ll love: This printer features a 2.7-inch LCD touchscreen, making it easy to select the functions and get it set up. It can print 24 black and white pages per minute and displays the ink levels on the front panel, so you always know how much ink is left. It connects to devices through Wi-Fi or USB and can print glossy photos and labels.
What you should consider: It is best suited for a small office, as the initial cost can be a bit pricey for a home user.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Canon printer for the money
Canon ImageClass D1620 Multifunction Printer
What you need to know: This all-in-one laser printer is perfect for a small or at-home office.
What you’ll love: One of the fastest Canon printers, it produces 45 black-and-white pages per minute. It can print, scan and copy, and has a paper tray that can hold up to 2,300 pages.
What you should consider: It’s a monochrome printer, so it won’t print in color.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Canon Wireless Pixma TR4520 Inkjet All-in-one Printer
What you need to know: The Pixma is a powerful printer in a small package, making it the best choice for everyday home use.
What you’ll love: This inkjet printer has a resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, making it perfect for printing photos or high-quality images for school projects. It has wireless connectivity and comes with an extra set of ink cartridges.
What you should consider: There is no mechanism to stop the paper from falling on the floor once printing is complete.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Charlie Fripp 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/printers-office-electronics-br/best-canon-printer/ | 2022-04-14T22:42:39 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/electronics-br/printers-office-electronics-br/best-canon-printer/ |
CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — As the Chesterfield County Police Department continues to search for 6-month-old Kynsley Grimshaw, roughly two weeks since she was last seen with her father — the courts may have missed vital information when deciding to grant him bond.
On Friday, April 8, Chesterfield Police announced they were attempting to locate the two Grimshaws. An incident that took place March 31 resulted in a warrant for 32-year-old Andrew Grimshaw’s arrest on charges of assault on a family member, brandishing a firearm and felony strangulation. Authorities said that Grimshaw left the area with his daughter the next day.
After the court determined Grimshaw was unlikely to “obstruct or attempt to obstruct justice of threaten, injure or intimidate or attempt to threaten, injure or intimidate a prospective witness, juror, victim or family or household member,” he was granted bond and released.
A Criminal History
Bail for Grimshaw was set at $2,500 — $500 for the General District Court charge of brandishing a firearm, and $2,000 for the Juvenile and Domestic Relations (JDR) Court charges of strangulation and assault.
According to 8News legal analyst Russ Stone, whether a judge will grant bond to a defendant generally relies on three factors: whether the defendant is a flight risk, whether they pose a threat to themselves or others and whether they have a history of criminal offenses.
Court documents obtained by 8News show how Grimshaw’s bail was determined, with a note reading “accused turned himself in and has been polite and cooperative” and a checklist indicating that he isn’t on parole, is employed locally, and has “No [criminal history] at all.”
While records show that Grimshaw has never previously faced charges in Virginia, 8News obtained court records from North Carolina that detail a long criminal record with convictions spanning eight counties.
Most of the charges Grimshaw faced were traffic infractions, ranging from running a red light to driving under the influence with a revoked license. Grimshaw was found guilty of speeding at least 10 times in a period ranging from 2007 to 2021, shortly before he moved to Chesterfield County.
But Grimshaw’s most serious offense was a case in 2007, in which he was charged with breaking and entering, felony larceny and possession of stolen goods. He eventually reached a plea agreement, and was convicted of misdemeanor larceny and destruction of property.
Over the next 10 years, he was charged with five probation violations, including multiple “out of county” violations, meaning he allegedly fled the area he was ordered to remain within as a condition of his parole.
None of that information was reflected in his bail determination, which also ordered him to remain in the commonwealth until his case is over.
The bail sheet also indicates that no firearm was allegedly used in the offense, despite an admission that the charge of brandishing a firearm — currently being heard in the Chesterfield General District Court — occurred on the same date, against the same victim and “may need to be transferred to JDR.”
Grimshaw was scheduled for arraignment on Thursday, April 14, but records obtained by 8News show that his hearing was continued to June, and that Grimshaw’s attorney faxed information to the court on April 14.
8News reached out to the Chesterfield Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, but did not receive a response.
Where is Kynsley?
According to police, Grimshaw turned himself in on Sunday, April 10, but did not have his daughter with him.
On April 10, after Grimshaw turned himself in, he was served with a Preliminary Protective Order, which says that he cannot have any contact with 6-month-old Kynsley.
Police tell 8News they believe Kynsley is still with Andrew Grimshaw, but because they cannot confirm her whereabouts, they can’t verify a breach of the protective order.
If Andrew is found to have violated the order, he could face additional charges carrying a sentence of up to one year in prison and a $2,500 fine. | https://www.wric.com/news/crime/father-of-missing-chesterfield-infant-granted-bond-despite-nc-rap-sheet/ | 2022-04-14T22:42:45 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/news/crime/father-of-missing-chesterfield-infant-granted-bond-despite-nc-rap-sheet/ |
New Jersey to start recreational marijuana sales April 21
TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — Recreational marijuana sales in New Jersey for those 21 and older will begin April 21, Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy said Thursday.
“This is a historic step in our work to create a new cannabis industry,” said Murphy, who made the announcement via Twitter.
The news comes just three days after state regulators greenlighted permits for seven facilities, which already sell medical cannabis, to begin retailing recreational marijuana. It’s also about a year after the state’s regulatory commission started operating, and a year and a half after voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot question to allow recreational marijuana for people 21 and older.
New Jersey and 17 others states, along with the District of Columbia, have legalized recreational marijuana. Thirty-seven states, including New Jersey, have legalized medical marijuana.
New Jersey’s recreational sales are slated to begin ahead of New York, where sales are not expected to start until the end of the year, state officials have said.
Neighboring Pennsylvania has medical cannabis but not recreational. Some cities, including Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, have passed ordinances to decriminalize marijuana or make it a low law enforcement priority. Legislation to permit recreational marijuana in Delaware was defeated last month in the Legislature.
Three of the seven New Jersey facilities, known as alternative treatment centers, are in the northern part of the state. Three are in the south, and one is in its central.
To get approval, the centers agreed that the coming influx of recreational buyers won’t interrupt access for patients. The facilities said they would reserve parking spaces for patients as well as keep hours specifically for patients only.
There are about 130,000 medical marijuana patients in the state, with an estimated roughly 800,000 potential recreational consumers, and fewer than 800,000 estimated “tourism” consumers, according to the commission.
Ben Kovler, the CEO of Green Thumb Industries, which operates dispensaries in several states, is preparing for the start of recreational sales at facilities in Paterson and Bloomfield. Kovler said he expects a “tidal wave” of demand.
“We are witnessing the end of prohibition 2.0,” he said in an emailed statement.
The alternative treatment centers that already had medical cannabis retail sales are getting a head start in the recreational market, but regulators have attached strings to their advantage. The centers have to meet social equity standards, such as providing technical knowledge to new marijuana businesses, especially social equity applicants — those located in economically struggling parts of the state or people who have had cannabis-related offenses.
“We remain committed to social equity,” Cannabis Regulatory Commission Chair Dianna Houenou said in a statement. “We promised to build this market on the pillars of social equity and safety. Ultimately, we hope to see businesses and a workforce that reflect the diversity of the state.”
How much tax revenue New Jersey gets from recreational marijuana isn’t clear. Murphy’s fiscal year 2023 budget, which is pending before the Democrat-led Legislature, estimates revenues of just $19 million in a nearly $49 billion budget. In 2019, as legalization of recreational marijuana was still just pending before voters, he had estimated about $60 million in revenue.
Legislation governing the recreational market calls for the 6.625% sales tax to apply, with 70% of the proceeds going to areas disproportionately affected by marijuana-related arrests. Black residents were likelier — up to three times as much — to face marijuana charges than white residents. Towns can also levy a tax of up to 2%.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wagmtv.com/2022/04/14/new-jersey-start-recreational-marijuana-sales-april-21/ | 2022-04-14T22:42:45 | 1 | https://www.wagmtv.com/2022/04/14/new-jersey-start-recreational-marijuana-sales-april-21/ |
Which TV mount is best?
Swapping a bulky entertainment center for a slim TV wall mount frees up floor space and lightens the look of any room. It also gives your TV tilt and swivel functionality for multiple viewing angles.
Choosing the right wall mount comes down to compatibility, materials and size. If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile TV wall mount, the Mounting Dream MD2268-LK TV Mount is easy to use and supports most TV sizes.
What to know before you buy a TV mount
Along with the wall material, the wall mount and TV screen size impact which TV mount will work best for your space.
Types of wall mounts
There are three main types of TV mounts: the tilt and swivel mount, the tilt-only mount and the fixed mount.
- The tilt and swivel mount is the most versatile, offering a customizable viewing experience. You can tilt these mounts up or down and swivel left and right. These mounts are typically more expensive with such a flexible range of motion.
- The tiltable TV mount is ideal if you only need to adjust the screen a few degrees downward to avoid glare.
- A fixed mount remains in one position after it’s attached to the wall. These mounts are cheaper and easier to install, and they’re ideal if you don’t need to adjust the TV.
Wall material
For a safe and secure mount, attach the mounting bracket to wooden studs. Plain drywall will not hold the TV’s weight for long, and it’s not a safe surface to use for your brackets. Use a stud finder to find studs and locate drywall screws. Keep in mind that the location of your studs will dictate the general location of your TV, even if it means your TV is slightly off-center.
If you want to attach your mounting bracket to brick, stone or concrete, use concrete anchors. If you’re not sure how to mount your TV safely, you may want to hire a professional to help.
Screen size
Your TV’s screen size will determine what kind of mounts you can use. While it’s best to use the manufacturer’s measurements, you can estimate by measuring diagonally across your TV with a measuring tape.
What to look for in a quality TV mount
High-quality TV mounts use strong materials and allow you to easily access the cables either from the back or the side.
Materials
TV mounts are often either plastic, aluminum, steel or a combination of materials. Plastic mounts are cheaper and lighter, but they aren’t as sturdy. An all-steel mount will be heavier, but it will offer the strongest support.
Some mounts use aluminum or combined materials to create a sturdy, midweight option. If the mount is mostly plastic, it’s best to pair it with a lightweight TV.
Compatibility
Make sure your TV mount is compatible with your TV’s make, model and size. Look for a TV mount approved by the Video Electronics Standards Association, and find out what sizes your mount supports on their website. Then, cross-check the VESA size with the size of your TV to confirm they will work together. Only use a VESA-compliant mount that matches the size of your TV.
Cable hookups
When you use a TV mount, you have a few options for cable management. Instead of letting cables dangle from your TV mount, use a cable organizer to hide them against the wall or floor. You can even find paintable covers, so you can paint them to match your walls.
How much you can expect to spend on a TV mount
Pricing for TV wall mounts varies and can cost between $20-$500. The pricing depends on the size, brand and materials. Adjustable mounts are at the higher end of the price range.
TV mount FAQ
Why do I need a VESA-compliant TV mount?
A. Every TV mount comes with a VESA size. The rating refers to the screw hole pattern on the mounting bracket and TV. This rating determines if you can safely use the mount with your TV. It also ensures the screw holes on the mount and your TV will align properly.
How do I know if the mount will support my TV’s weight?
A. The most important part of choosing a TV mount is making sure it’s compatible with your TV. The mount manufacturer should list what TVs it is compatible with, as will your TV’s manual. Cross-reference these lists to ensure both pieces are compatible, and mount the bracket as instructed for the safest, sturdiest TV display.
What’s the best TV mount to buy?
Top TV mount
Mounting Dream MD2268-LK TV Mount
What you need to know: This mount works with several TV brands and sizes. It also has a high weight capacity.
What you’ll love: You can install this mount on 16- to 24-inch stud measurements, and it holds TVs up to 132 pounds. The 1.5-inch profile is slim and sleek, and it has the ability to tilt forward to reduce glare.
What you should consider: You should use your own level instead of the one provided in the mounting kit. Additionally, it’s best to plug in your cords before mounting the brackets.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top TV mount for the money
VideoSecu ML531BE2 TV Wall Mount Kit
What you need to know: This versatile mount tilts and swivels for easy viewing.
What you’ll love: The mount holds a decent range of TV models and offers 20 inches of swivel extension for an excellent range of motion. The mounting kit includes a level, a 6-foot long HDMI cable and a magnetic stud finder.
What you should consider: The weight limit is 88 pounds, and you have to install it on a stud or another solid surface, such as brick concrete or stone.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
AENTGIU Studless TV Wall Mount
What you need to know: This TV wall mount doesn’t require any studs or power tools to install.
What you’ll love: The mount is compatible with most TVs between 16 and 55 inches. It is made of heavy-duty steel and can support up to 110 pounds if installed in wood or concrete.
What you should consider: You may need to use larger nails than what’s included in the mounting kit to add stability.
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/electronics-br/tv-video-br/best-tv-mount/ | 2022-04-14T22:42:46 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/electronics-br/tv-video-br/best-tv-mount/ |
HAGERSTOWN, Md. (WDVM) — Easter isn’t just about carrots and candy, especially not for bunnies who could just be bought just for the holiday gift basket.
Before Peter Rabbit comes hopping down the Bunny Trail, the Humane Society of Washington County (HSWC) wants people to know that rabbit is more than a cute holiday prop and make sure people know up front that they need to give a lot of thought to the idea of giving a bunny or rabbit a forever home.
Dani Whalley, an HSWC employee, adopted her Mini Rex rabbit, Cronos, in January after his owners surrendered him to the shelter. Whalley explains that to her knowledge, Cronos was not a “holiday gift” and the owners were unable to continue caring for him.
“They are long-term commitments, they’re not just this cute thing to look at and it’ll be fun for a few weeks while it’s small and cute,” Whalley explained. “They need special diets. They need special vet care. They can be easily stressed out.”
While the Humane Society of Washington County does not see an increase of surrendered bunnies after the Easter holiday, rabbits are the third most common animal brought to shelters, according to PETA. Noel Cordell, the Development and Communications Manager of the Humane Society of Washington County, explains that rabbits aren’t low-maintenance pets like many people assume.
“They require a balanced diet with a lot of greens. Carrots are actually not something they should have very often,” Cordell explained. “Bunnies can actually live up to 15 years with proper care.”
While HSWC emphasizes there’s no shame in re-homing your bunny, it’s best to figure out ahead of time whether a bunny is right for you.
“We just want to caution people that adopting a bunny is actually a lifelong commitment. It’s not just a cute furry little animal to put in an Easter basket,” Cordell said. “We never want people to feel shame for surrendering an animal to the shelter because the shelter can then find a good home that is equipped to care for that animal.”
The Humane Society of Washington County encourages families to do their research before bringing a bunny home and they’re available to you as a resource if you have questions about your bunny’s health or how to best care for your long-eared friend. | https://www.wric.com/news/easter-bunnies-a-long-term-commitment-not-a-holiday-toy/ | 2022-04-14T22:42:51 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/news/easter-bunnies-a-long-term-commitment-not-a-holiday-toy/ |
Police: 183 animals found in man’s freezer, some frozen alive
GOLDEN VALLEY, Ariz. (Gray News) - An Arizona man is facing animal cruelty charges after authorities found numerous dead animals in his freezer.
The Mohave County Sheriff’s Office said a woman reported that Michael Patrick Turland, 43, hadn’t returned snakes she’d lent him for breeding and that several animals, including hers, were located in his freezer.
According to police, the property owner told the woman that a freezer full of dead animals was found in the garage while they were cleaning after Turland and his wife, Brooklyn Beck, had left the state.
Deputies and Animal Control officers entered the property and said they located the freezer, which contained approximately 183 frozen animals of different breeds.
According to the sheriff’s office, dogs, turtles, lizards, birds, snakes and rabbits were among the animals found in the freezer. Several of the animals also appeared to have been frozen alive due to their body positioning.
On April 13, deputies were notified that Turland returned to the residence, where he was then taken into custody.
Police said the 43-year-old eventually admitted to placing some of the animals in the freezer when they were still alive.
Turland was arrested on 94 counts of animal cruelty. He was taken to the Mohave County Adult Detention Facility in Kingman, Ariz.
The sheriff’s office said it is also looking to speak to Turland’s wife regarding the incident.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wagmtv.com/2022/04/14/police-183-animals-found-mans-freezer-some-frozen-alive/ | 2022-04-14T22:42:51 | 0 | https://www.wagmtv.com/2022/04/14/police-183-animals-found-mans-freezer-some-frozen-alive/ |
Which pergola is best?
A pergola is similar to a gazebo, except that the roof has open slats rather than being fully covered. Good pergolas still provide plenty of shade, but they offer a design some consider more attractive. It’s important to purchase pergolas with durable materials that can outlast the wind, sun and rain, as they’re too expensive to keep replacing.
The best pergola is the Vita Avalon Vinyl Pergola. Its slats are adjustable so you’re always sitting in shade, and the vinyl is highly weather-resistant.
What to know before you buy a pergola
Roof designs
Pergolas have one of three roof designs: traditional, gabled and pitched.
- Traditional roofs are flat, with slats that are usually in a lattice pattern.
- Gabled roofs are triangular, like most modern American housing.
- Pitched roofs are flat, but one end is higher than the other. They are usually installed flush with your home rather than further out into your yard.
Coverings
Some pergolas, either in addition to or instead of slats, use coverings hung underneath the roof to protect you from sun and rain. Many are adjustable. Cloth is the most common material, with plastic, PVC and steel also available.
Size
Most pergolas are sized between 7 by 7 and 12 by 12 feet, with heights from 7-10 feet.
Shape
Pergolas are typically square or rectangular, though some can be found in circular or octagonal shapes. Other shapes are possible, but you’ll likely need to have it custom-made rather than find it available to order.
What to look for in a quality pergola
Material
In order of general quality, pergolas are typically made of metal, vinyl or wood.
- Metal pergolas are typically made of aluminum or steel. Freestanding aluminum is the most affordable, but also can be dented or bent, and is the most likely to be blown away by heavy wind. Metal pergolas are available in the widest range of colors and provide a more modern aesthetic. However, If the metal isn’t treated properly, you need to worry about rusting.
- Vinyl pergolas are the most durable, requiring little to no maintenance compared to metal and wood. They are naturally resistant to most weather, including water, wind and ultraviolet rays. They aren’t the most expensive, either. However, they have two major negatives. First, they are rarely any color but a shade of white — it’s possible to paint them with acrylic paint, but you’ll need to keep reapplying as it fades away. Second, their plasticky looks are rarely thought aesthetically pleasing.
- Wood pergolas are the most common. They’re expensive, but wood is easy to stain or paint to match your home, and there are many varieties of wood to choose from. Generally, they can be divided between softwoods and hardwoods, with softwoods less expensive, a bit less durable and a little lighter than hardwoods.
Warranty
The best pergolas tend to have the best warranties, as manufacturers will stand by their best products. Twenty-year warranties are the best, but 10-year ones are acceptable. Some pergolas have different warranties for certain parts.
How much you can expect to spend on a pergola
Depending on their size and material, pergolas can cost less than $500 or more than $4,000. Metal pergolas are typically the most affordable, followed by vinyl and then wood.
Pergola FAQ
Do I need a permit to install a pergola?
A. It’s possible, depending on your state and local laws as well as the size of the pergola. Your municipal building department should be able to answer this question.
Are pergolas accepted by homeowners associations?
A. That depends on your homeowners’ association. Always check with yours, if you have one, before making any large changes to your home.
Should wood pergolas be stained before or after assembly?
A. Neither method is better than the other. Staining it before means you have easier access to all the materials, but you’ll need to stain in two rounds to make sure every piece is properly covered. Staining it afterward means you only need to stain the surfaces you can see, but you need to go up and down a ladder.
What’s the best pergola to buy?
Top pergola
What you need to know: This quality option is gorgeous, durable and has adjustable shading.
What you’ll love: The vinyl construction is resistant to water, wind, UV rays and other causes of rot, and it includes a 20-year warranty for the pergola and a 5-year warranty for the louvers. It measures 10 by 10 by 8.67 feet.
What you should consider: A few consumers felt the louvers were difficult to adjust. Others had issues with missing parts or no-show installers.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Wayfair
Top pergola for the money
Coolaroo Aurora Patio Shade Pergola
What you need to know: It’s money-saving without sacrificing function or style.
What you’ll love: It can be built and left freestanding — there’s no need to anchor it to the ground — and it has a weather-resistant and light-filtering retractable canopy that comes in three colors. It measures 9.84 by 9.84 by 7.17 feet.
What you should consider: If you want to mount or anchor it, you need to purchase a separate kit. The installation instructions can be difficult to understand and a few people received damaged parts.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Wayfair
Worth checking out
What you need to know: This is perfect for those who need large coverage.
What you’ll love: The vinyl construction is fully weather-resistant — it can even be safely cleaned by spraying it with your hose. It can be safely installed to most materials, including wooden and concrete patios. It measures 12 by 12 by 8.84 feet.
What you should consider: It doesn’t include a mounting or anchoring kit. Most reviewers needed a second set of hands to assemble it, though the instructions are easy to follow.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
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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/home-br/decor-br/best-pergola-2/ | 2022-04-14T22:42:53 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/home-br/decor-br/best-pergola-2/ |
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Due to Phase II of Richmond’s 1.2 million Broad Street repaving project, many GRTC buses will be detoured, and stops may be temporarily relocated.
The two-month-long project will occur from Monday, April 11 to Tuesday, June 21, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
GRTC route/stop changes: Westbound from Belvidere St. to Meadow St.
Pulse
Westbound: From Broad Street, turn right on Belvidere Street, turn right on Leigh Street, make a slight right onto Brook Road, turn right on Clay Street, turn right on Harrison Street, turn left on Leigh Street, turn left on Hermitage Road, turn right on Broad, and resume regular route. Missed stop: VCU & VUU westbound station. Use temporary stops: Leigh + Brook, Clay + Brook, Clay + Belvidere, Clay + Hancock, Leigh + Kinney, Leigh + Dinneen.
14
Westbound: From Broad Street, turn right on Belvidere Street, turn right on Leigh Street, make a slight right onto Chamberlayne Parkway, turn right on Clay Street, turn left on Harrison Street, turn left on Leigh Street, turn right on Lombardy Street, and resume regular route.
Missed stops: #428 (Broad + Gilmer), #2487 (Broad + Hancock), #464 (Broad + Ryland), #400 (Broad + Bowe), and #2815 (Lombardy + Kroger). Use temporary stops: Leigh + Brook, Clay + Brook, Clay + Belvidere, Clay + Hancock, Leigh + Kinney.
Eastbound: From Lombardy Street, turn left on Leigh Street, turn right on Adams Street, turn left on Broad Street, and resume regular route.
Missed Stops: #3675 (Lombardy + Broad), #463 (Broad + Ryland), #432 (Broad + Shafer), #446 (Broad + Laurel), and #435 (Broad + Henry). Use temporary stops: Leigh + Brook.
50
Westbound: From Broad Street, turn right on Belvidere Street, turn right on Leigh Street, make a slight right onto Brook Road, turn right on Clay Street, turn right on Harrison Street, turn left on Leigh Street, turn left on Hermitage Road, turn right on Broad, and resume regular route.
Missed stops: #428 (Broad + Gilmer), #2487 (Broad + Hancock), #464 (Broad + Ryland), and #400 (Broad + Bowe). Use temporary stops: Leigh + Brook, Clay + Brook, Clay + Belvidere, Clay + Hancock, Leigh + Kinney, Leigh + Dinneen.
Eastbound: No detour.
77
Westbound: No detour.
Eastbound: No detour.
78
Westbound: From Broad Street, turn left on Belvidere Street, turn right on Main Street, turn left on Harrison Street, and resume regular route. Missed stops: #428 (Broad + Gilmer), #2487 (Broad + Hancock), #1171 (Harrison + Broad), #1175 (Harrison + Franklin), and #1183 (Harrison + Park). Use temporary stop: #1635 (Main + Laurel).
Eastbound: No detour. | https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/richmond/broad-st-project-causes-grtc-bus-detours-temporary-stop-locations/ | 2022-04-14T22:42:57 | 0 | https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/richmond/broad-st-project-causes-grtc-bus-detours-temporary-stop-locations/ |
Which convection microwave is best?
Most microwaves can’t effectively cook much more than a mug cake. Instead, they reheat leftovers or quickly melt foods, such as butter for your current recipe. A convection microwave changes this. It can be used to bake and broil foods just like a full-sized oven. Some of the more feature-rich models can even air-fry foods.
The best convection microwave is the Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven. It can perform any task you need it to and it has a spacious interior and 1,000 watts of power.
What to know before you buy a convection microwave
Size and capacity
Convection microwaves have two dimensions to consider: exterior size and interior capacity. More often than not, one of these being larger doesn’t mean the other will be large too.
- Size: The size you can or should purchase is only limited by your counter space. When measuring your countertop to find your limitations, remember to add a few inches to the back and sides for proper ventilation space. Keep enough space in front for the swinging door.
- Capacity: Capacity restricts how much food you can cook at once. Most convection microwaves have higher capacities than standard microwaves, and those measurements are given in cubic feet. The smallest is rarely less than 1 cubic foot, and the biggest usually top out at 1.5 cubic feet — though there are always rare exceptions.
Wattage
A convection microwave’s power is given in watts, just like standard microwaves. Lower wattages will cook food slower and less evenly, so you should prioritize a microwave with at least 1,000 watts. Most convection microwaves have wattages between 700 and 1,500. Better microwaves will let you adjust how much wattage you can use for cooking smaller or more sensitive food.
What to look for in a quality convection microwave
Presets
Presets are the easiest way to cook the most commonly microwaved foods. They make it so you don’t have to Google how much power and time a given food needs, and you won’t have to manually punch in that power and time. The most common presets are popcorn and pizza, but many convection microwaves also have presets for baked potatoes and roast chicken or vegetables.
Cooking modes
The best convection microwaves include more cooking modes than just microwave, convection and microwave/convection. The most common additional modes are air frying and broiling, but some are also able to grill. It’s important to note that you’ll need appropriate accessories for air frying and grilling — a wire basket and grilling rack, respectively — but most microwaves with these cooking modes include them.
Humidity sensor
Humidity sensors take some of the guesswork out of cooking by adding or subtracting to the total cooking time based on the moisture in the food and the oven, preventing accidental overcooking.
How much you can expect to spend on a convection microwave
Convection microwaves are more expensive than standard microwaves, typically starting around $100-$150 with basic models topping out around $250. The best countertop models can reach $500, while built-in models can cost more than $1,500.
Convection microwave FAQ
Can I use metal in a convection microwave?
A. Possibly. It depends on if the microwave has a convection-only setting. This setting only uses heating elements, just like a standard oven, so aluminum takeout containers and metal baking trays are safe to use. Some convection microwaves use microwave and convection heating simultaneously with no way to turn off the microwave portion. These are just as incompatible with metal as a standard microwave. A quick way to tell if a convection microwave is safe for metal is if it includes metal accessories, such as a wire air fryer rack. If so, you’re good to go.
Do recipes intended for a standard oven need to be adapted for use in a convection microwave?
A. Typically yes, though not by much. Despite having less power than a standard oven, convection microwaves have drastically less space to heat. This makes their heating more focused on the food rather than the air around it. As such, many recipes need to drop their heat and timing requirements. Heat usually drops no more than 25 to 50 degrees, but timing doesn’t have an easy generalization, so you’ll need to keep a close eye on your recipe.
What’s the best convection microwave to buy?
Top convection microwave
Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
What you need to know: This model can do it all.
What you’ll love: The four functions are standard and convection microwaving, air frying and broiling. It has a 1.2-cubic-foot capacity and an easy-to-clean interior. It includes the accessories you need to cook, such as a wire rack, an air fryer basket and an enamel drip tray.
What you should consider: If the start button is accidentally pressed, it will begin sensor cooking mode, even if there’s nothing inside for it to cook.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top convection microwave for the money
Toshiba Countertop Microwave Oven with Convection
What you need to know: This model is basic but excellent and affordable.
What you’ll love: It has a variety of special features, such as a power-saving ECO mode, smart cooking sensors, child safety locks and sound off/on for late-night snacks. It has a large 1.5-cubic-foot capacity and 1,000 watts of power.
What you should consider: A few consumers had issues with the upper heating element not functioning as it should. It takes up a large amount of counter space.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Cuisinart 1.2-Cubic-Foot Convection Microwave Oven
What you need to know: This model is perfect for convection grilling, thanks to an included grill rack.
What you’ll love: It’s packed with preset cooking modes, including popcorn, roast chicken, baked potato, cake and pizza. It can also keep foods warm at low settings and has a memory mode to save time on repetitive tasks. It is BPA-free and includes a recipe book.
What you should consider: Extended use of the convection setting causes the exterior to become hot. A few consumers had issues with their microwave breaking down within a few months.
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/microwaves-br/best-convection-microwave/ | 2022-04-14T22:43:00 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/kitchen-br/microwaves-br/best-convection-microwave/ |
Texas lawmakers respond as second bus of immigrants arrives in DC
A second bus of undocumented immigrants arrived in Washington from Texas Thursday. According to Gov. Greg Abbott (R-Texas), it’s part of his response to President Biden’s decision to end Title 42 expulsions.
WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - A second bus of undocumented immigrants arrived in Washington from Texas Thursday. According to Gov. Greg Abbott (R-Texas), it’s part of his response to President Biden’s decision to end Title 42 expulsions.
Some Texas lawmakers support Gov. Abbott’s plan, but some of their colleagues are calling the bus trip a political stunt.
Noting that Texas is bearing the burden of an unsecured border, Gov. Greg Abbott began bussing migrants, who are awaiting deportation trials to Washington D.C.
Two buses have arrived so far, filled with only those who, according to Rep. Pete Sessions (R-Texas), volunteered for the trip.
“[It] wouldn’t surprise me if we take people to Los Angeles, Seattle, Chicago, but we’re trying to move people to where they want to go as an option,” Sessions said. “I support what the governor is doing.”
But it’s the location: Washington D.C., that feeds into concerns that the bus trips are purely political.
Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) said the governor is using the trips to make a political point, though he does agree with Abbott on some facets of immigration, such as his push to keep Title 42.
“He’s trying to get publicity. But, you know, that’s the whole key I think people need to understand that, that we at the border, we’re the ones that see the whole thing. We’re the ones who see the migrants,” Cuellar said.
Politically, this is all part of broader conflict at the border. Immigration has been one of the most divisive issues between the primary parties and it remains so, as the next election cycle nears.
Title 42 was first written decades ago to prevent sick immigrants from crossing the U.S. border. It was enforced during the coronavirus pandemic, but now, it’s set to end next month.
Copyright 2022 Gray DC. All rights reserved. | https://www.wagmtv.com/2022/04/14/texas-lawmakers-respond-second-bus-immigrants-arrives-dc/ | 2022-04-14T22:42:59 | 0 | https://www.wagmtv.com/2022/04/14/texas-lawmakers-respond-second-bus-immigrants-arrives-dc/ |
WASHINGTON, D.C. (WRIC) — The Republican National Committee has voted unanimously to withdraw from the Commission on Presidential Debates, the organization that oversees the televised panel-style debates that presidential candidates participate in during election season.
According to a tweet from RNC chairwoman Ronna McDaniel, the committee will begin to look for “freer and fairer debate platforms.”
“Debates are an important part of the democratic process, and the RNC is committed to free and fair debates,” said McDaniel in the tweet. She added, “The Commission on Presidential Debates is biased and has refused to enact simple and commonsense reforms to help ensure fair debates including hosting debates before voting begins and selecting moderators who have never worked for candidates on the debate stage.” | https://www.wric.com/news/politics/rnc-votes-to-withdraw-from-participation-in-future-presidential-debates/ | 2022-04-14T22:43:03 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/news/politics/rnc-votes-to-withdraw-from-participation-in-future-presidential-debates/ |
Which puppy diaper is best?
Everyone loves a new puppy, but bringing one into your home and potty training it can be difficult and time-consuming. While it learns where and when to go to the bathroom, one method of keeping your house clean is to employ puppy diapers. Technically, there aren’t diapers meant specifically for puppies. That said, any standard dog diaper will work, as long as it’s the right size and fits your puppy’s sex.
The best puppy diapers are Paw Inspired Ultra Protection Disposable Female Dog Diapers. They’re soft and effective but may not work for male puppies.
What to know before you buy a puppy diaper
Your puppy’s gender
Puppy diapers are designed differently for females and males.
- Female diapers look just like human diapers, only they have a hole for the tail. These diapers work just fine for puppies of either sex, as male puppies’ penises have yet to grow large enough to need to switch to male diapers.
- Male diapers take the form of wraps that leave your puppy’s posterior open but cover their penis. Puppies are a little more likely to wiggle out of male diapers, plus the open back is counterintuitive to using a puppy diaper while you house train them.
Reusable vs. disposable
Most puppy diapers are disposable, and for good reason. Puppies grow fast, just like children, so purchasing a reusable diaper — which can’t be donated once used — may be better for the environment, but you’ll only be able to use it for a short time. However, some dog breeds don’t grow much bigger than their puppy stages. In these cases, it’s wise to go with a reusable diaper. Besides the environmental benefits, it saves money and you’ll still have a usable diaper if you need to travel long distances or they become incontinent years down the line.
What to look for in a quality puppy diaper
Elastic
The best puppy diapers have elastic in the hems. This lets the diaper seal around the edges to prevent even the smallest leak and also gives your puppy full range of motion without painful pinching or chafing. Elastic around the tail hole is particularly important for keeping any solids from slipping out.
Adjustability
Most puppy diapers use Velcro straps to close around your puppy. This lets you fit your diaper precisely to your puppy, and you can let more space out as it grows. Some disposable female puppy diapers use alternate methods for securing, including snap closures and the same sticky tabs as disposable baby diapers. These aren’t quite as freely adjustable, though they’re still secure enough to prevent leaks.
How much you can expect to spend on a puppy diaper
Puppy diaper packs usually cost $10-$30, though there are exceptions on either end. The quality of diapers and how many you get greatly vary within this price range, but most are still found within it.
Puppy diaper FAQ
How often should I change my puppy’s diaper?
A. As soon as you notice it’s soiled. Some disposable puppy diapers can be removed when you take the puppy outside for potty training and reattached if they haven’t been soiled. Reusable diapers have the same functionality.
My puppy’s diaper fits but still leaks. How do I fix it?
A. First, double-check that it still fits. Dogs, puppy or no, have a tendency to wiggle loose from diapers you were sure fit perfectly. Oftentimes, a diaper seems to fit perfectly but is in fact just loose enough around the edges to allow for some leakage. If it does indeed fit, you may be using diapers with poor absorbency — there’s nothing to do in this situation but try a new brand of puppy diaper.
What should I do with leftover disposable diapers my puppy has outgrown?
A. Donate them. Search for your nearest animal shelter and drop them off. Keep in mind that almost any pet-related leftovers you have, including food, toys and bowls, can also be taken to your local animal shelter. You can write the value off as a donation on your taxes. If you aren’t sure if they’ll accept something, just give them a call beforehand to check and potentially save yourself a trip.
What’s the best puppy diaper to buy?
Top puppy diaper
Paw Inspired Ultra Protection Disposable Female Dog Diapers
What you need to know: These are designed for females but can work for male puppies, too.
What you’ll love: These diapers have multiple urine-handling features, including converting it into gel immediately on contact and using leakproof edges that absorb urine before it can leak out. The fasteners are fur-resistant and can be repositioned for a custom fit and the interior uses soft quilting for comfort.
What you should consider: A few consumers had issues with waste getting loose through the tail hole. Hyperactive puppies may shimmy out of them over time.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Chewy
Top puppy diaper for the money
Out! Pet Care Disposable Male Dog Wraps
What you need to know: These are great male-focused diaper wraps.
What you’ll love: These wraps are secured using Velcro, which makes their fit adjustable and means the wrap can be removed and reused if it hasn’t yet been soiled. They have a wetness indicator, so there’s no need to spot-check for soiling.
What you should consider: There’s no protection from poo, only urine. More hyperactive puppies may be able to wiggle out of them.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Chewy
Worth checking out
Simple Solution Washable Female Dog Diapers
What you need to know: These reusable diapers make a good environmentally conscious choice.
What you’ll love: These can be machine-washed and become softer and more absorbent the more you wash them. They’re also compatible with most disposable liners if you still desire some disposable aspect. They use a large Velcro strap across the back for fine-tuning the fit as your puppy grows.
What you should consider: Depending on the breed, your puppy may outgrow these before you get sufficient use out of them. They don’t handle poo well.
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/br/pets-br/dog-health-br/best-puppy-diaper/ | 2022-04-14T22:43:07 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/pets-br/dog-health-br/best-puppy-diaper/ |
(NEXSTAR) — Are you looking to rent instead of buying a home during the hot housing market? You may not find much relief: Since March 2020, the national average rent has jumped nearly 20%, according to a new rental report released Thursday.
Last month marked the eighth in a row in which rent growth has reached double-digits, Realtor.com found. The average rent for the nation’s 50 largest metros even reached a new high at $1,807. That marks a year-over-year average rent increase of 17%.
While rent in many of the largest metros has risen relatively as much as the national average, some have been hit harder than others.
Among those is the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, Fla., area, where rent has spiked by more than 57% since March 2020, Realtor.com’s report shows. Hardly any other market was hit as hard. Two other Florida markets — Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford and Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater — saw the closest rates of change in the average rent price at 35% and 31%, respectively.
Despite having the greatest year-over-year change in rent, none of the above have the highest overall median rent. That title belongs, unsurprisingly, to a metro in another sunny state: California.
Among the 50 metros evaluated, just three have overall median rents at $3,000 a month or more, and they’re all in California. San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara has the highest at $3,075. Close behind are San Diego-Carlsbad at $3,016 and Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim at $3,000. (Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach isn’t far behind with a median rent of $2,988.)
Of the top 10 metros with the highest rent prices, seven are either in California or Florida. Of the 10 markets that have seen the largest year-over-year increase in rent, eight are within traditionally warmer states (Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada, and Texas).
On the other end, Detroit-Warren-Dearborn is the only metro to report a year-over-year rent increase of less than 1% with 0.70%. The next closest rate is that of a fellow Midwestern metro — Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington — at 5.3%.
Overall, cities within the Midwest and the Rust Belt — Minnesota south to Missouri and Illinois, then east along the Great Lakes to Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and New York — have seen the smallest increase in rent prices since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. That includes Cleveland, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, Milwaukee, and St. Louis, all of which have seen rent prices rise by less than 10%. Of the 25 metros where rent has increased by less than 15% since March 2020, 14 are in the Midwest and Rust Belt.
Oklahoma City, Okla., has the lowest median rental rate at just $943 — and it’s the only metro with a median rental rate that doesn’t surpass $1,000. Metros in the Midwest and Rust Belt widely have the lowest median rents, making up 14 of the 25 least expensive metros.
Here’s the full list of rent changes since March 2020, courtesy of Realtor.com:
There is a bit of relief for renters, though. According to Realtor.com, the rate at which rent prices are growing is slowing and has remained in the same range since January. | https://www.wric.com/news/rent-is-up-by-15-in-some-cities-heres-where-its-worse-hint-richmond-is-on-the-list/ | 2022-04-14T22:43:09 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/news/rent-is-up-by-15-in-some-cities-heres-where-its-worse-hint-richmond-is-on-the-list/ |
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — USS The Sullivans is slowly going underwater.
The destroyer was commissioned in 1943 and later decommissioned in 1965. Earning 11 battle stars over more than two decades, USS The Sullivans was used in World War II, the Korean War and the Cuban Missile Crisis. Today, it sits at the Buffalo Waterfront.
“This morning, the USS The Sullivans took on water and is partially sinking due to a major hull breach,” Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said. “Efforts are underway to evaluate the situation and take appropriate action to preserve this critical piece of our nation’s naval heritage. The Department of Public Works and the Buffalo Fire Department are on site and coordinating with the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Servicemen’s Park staff to determine the next course of action.”
The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park is temporarily closing off the museum and all ships to the public. Naval Park President Paul Marzello says it’s a tough day for veterans and the park itself.
“It’s a tough day for anybody who has put their time, effort, sweat into making sure that this park can sustain operations and keep and preserve these ships for another generation,” Marzello said. “We are confident that we are going to be able to correct the situation. It doesn’t look very good. But we are going to be back on this as soon as we can find out what is the cause.”
Marzello said some sort of incident took place Wednesday night, and it’s not clear if it was a seam split or a puncture. But his confidence remains, and there’s good reason for it, as Marzello says the rate of water being pumped out exceeds the amount that’s coming in.
“There is no chance that the ship is actually going to sink,” Marzello says.
During a conference Thursday afternoon, Marzello said 13,000 gallons of water were being pumped out of USS The Sullivans every minute.
“Failure is not an option,” Marzello says.
It’s been just over 79 years since USS The Sullivans was launched. In recent years, it’s desperately been in need of repairs to keep it from taking on more water. Earlier this month, Congressman Brian Higgins made an announcement about $490,000 in federal funding that had been awarded to the Naval Park.
Saving The Sullivans has been an ongoing effort, with support coming from multiple sources, including at least 25 states and seven countries. After the Naval Park raised $1 million to keep it in shipshape, another fundraiser took place last month at Seneca One Tower.
Work to fix the ship started in August but stopped two months later. The plan was to continue the work this Monday.
Named for the five Sullivan brothers who were killed in World War II, Higgins calls USS The Sullivans “a critical piece of our maritime history that deserves to be preserved long into the future.”
“As the decommissioned ship shows its age, this funding will ensure that necessary repairs can be completed so it can continue to be toured and enjoyed by veterans, visitors, and community members for many years to come,” Higgins said of the previously announced federal funding.
Marzello says there’s a lot of cleanup to be done in the days ahead. Anyone looking to help keep the ship above water can make a donation here. | https://www.wric.com/news/u-s-world/decommissioned-wwii-destroyer-uss-the-sullivans-partially-sinking/ | 2022-04-14T22:43:15 | 0 | https://www.wric.com/news/u-s-world/decommissioned-wwii-destroyer-uss-the-sullivans-partially-sinking/ |
Which meat slicer is best?
A good chef’s knife can accomplish many tasks, but it can’t make paper-thin cured meats or dozens of slices of cheese with consistent thickness. You’ll need an electric meat slicer to make the perfect charcuterie board at home. The right one can help you slice cold cuts, artisan bread and raw meat for jerky in small and large batches.
The best meat slicer for most people is the Berkel Red Line 300. It comes from a highly respected manufacturer and is modeled after commercial-style machines, with the precision, speed and duty cycle that every cook needs.
What to know before you buy a meat slicer
You need to keep it clean
It’s important to respect all your kitchen equipment and keep it clean, but that’s never more true than it is for a meat slicer. Even the most refined designs can allow for food buildup in various places, and leftover meat, cheese and other food can hurt an appliance’s finish, damage seals and contribute to bacterial contamination. It’s far easier to maintain a clean slicer regularly than it is to deep clean a thoroughly messy one every few weeks. This is especially important if you’ll only use the slicer occasionally, as food particles are particularly bad things to store in your cupboard.
It will take up space
Even the smallest meat slicers aren’t really that small. Unless you have a truly massive home kitchen, you’ll need somewhere to put your new meat slicer that’s out of the way, as very few make attractive kitchen decorations. Along with that, don’t forget that meat slicers also tend to be heavy. After all, the most effective ones boast durable steel bodies and rugged gears and motors.
It may require an investment
A good meat slicer can do a lot. If you frequently make large batches of beef jerky, slice artisanal bread with thick crusts or prepare homemade hot pot or pho, you might find yourself using a meat slicer often. If that’s the case, take a good look at a full-size model like the ones found in restaurant kitchens. They are faster and more precise and can prep more food at once than budget-friendly options, known as having a long duty cycle. A longer duty cycle means an appliance will ultimately receive less wear and tear.
What to look for in a quality meat slicer
Blade diameter
Typical consumer-grade meat slicers have 7- or 8-inch blades. That should do fine for small jobs, but more demanding cooks will notice that the blade moves too slowly and gets dull too quickly for satisfactory results. Models with 10-inch blades are usually the best ones that don’t break the bank. If you’re ambitious and have room for it, a 12-inch meat slicer should perform even better if you get it from a reasonably dependable manufacturer.
Durable and precise construction
Ideally, your new meat slicer will have a rugged stainless steel body and be easy to clean and sanitize. Another build quality aspect is how consistent the materials and components are. Subpar tolerances and poorly machined parts lead to cracks, crevices and other areas where it’s easy for food to get stuck. When you finally receive your new meat slicer, check it thoroughly to make sure it’s assembled properly and doesn’t have any glaring errors or broken fasteners.
Motor wattage
Budget-friendly meat slicers are rated for around 100 watts and commercial models roughly 500 watts or more. Mid-range slicers that offer excellent bang for your buck tend to have 250- or 300-watt motors.
How much you can expect to spend on a meat slicer
The most affordable meat slicers worth buying cost just over $100. You can spend several thousand dollars on a premium commercial meat slicer, but the absolute best for home use top out at just under $2,000, and most consumers should look to spend around $400.
Meat slicer FAQ
What safety equipment do you need for a meat slicer?
A. Aside from extreme caution and attention to detail, a chainmail glove is the only thing that will protect you from the high-speed rotating blade found on a meat slicer. Consider ordering one size bigger than you need, and keep in mind that wearing a nitrile glove outside of your chainmail glove will significantly increase your dexterity.
Are Hobart slicers any good?
A. Hobart slicers are some of the best and most popular in kitchens worldwide, which is why they’re so well-known. However, they’re incredibly bulky, don’t look great in homes and usually cost an extreme amount, so only the most passionate home cooks should consider one.
What’s the best meat slicer to buy?
Top meat slicer
Berkel Red Line 300 Electric Food Slicer
What you need to know: It’s a commercial-style meat slicer reworked to fit perfectly in a large home kitchen.
What you’ll love: For starters, Berkel actually claims to have made the first meat slicer ever. The Red Line 300 is modeled after institutional meat slicers but has a less industrial aesthetic and a less bulky design. Its 12-inch blade is big enough and rotates fast enough to handle the finest cured meats and the unit’s overall construction is particularly solid.
What you should consider: A high-quality meat slicer like this one requires an investment that few home cooks are willing to make.
Where to buy: Sold by Home Depot and Amazon
Top meat slicer for the money
Chef’sChoice 615A Electric Food Slicer
What you need to know: This is the most affordable meat slicer that’s actually able to get most jobs done.
What you’ll love: If you only occasionally need sliced meat, cheese or bread, this one’s an excellent choice. It isn’t as large, doesn’t rotate as fast and can’t handle the same size jobs as a commercial-grade meat slicer, but it’s perfectly suited to home kitchens where you need to do your own sandwich prep every now and then. As long as you keep it clean and take care not to force anything while using it, it should last for a long time.
What you should consider: Some people have trouble with hard meats or highly precise cuts. For a more consistent and thinly cut end product, many owners recommend picking up the compatible non-serrated blade.
Where to buy: Sold by Home Depot and Amazon
Worth checking out
Vevor Commercial Electric Food Slicer
What you need to know: This 10-inch meat slicer is modeled after a commercial unit but priced right for the discerning consumer.
What you’ll love: The Vevor lies in the middle between plastic-bodied consumer and industrial slicers. It has the size and power needed for most meats, cheeses and bread but costs a fraction of what you pay for one from a more well-known brand. We’ve highlighted the 10-inch version because it’s the most convenient size for many home kitchens, but there’s a 12-inch model available for those who need more performance and a larger cutting area.
What you should consider: The quality control and product consistency aren’t exactly perfect, but it’s better than most other off-brand competition.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
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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/tools-br/best-meat-slicer/ | 2022-04-14T22:43:14 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/tools-br/best-meat-slicer/ |
WEST SENECA, N.Y. (WIVB) — The SPCA serving Erie County is gearing up for a tough season as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, a variant of bird flu, closes in on our area.
This strain started in Europe a couple of years ago but has been moving up the east coast and is now as close as Orleans County.
The highly contagious disease is carried by water fowl, like geese and ducks, which spread it when they migrate, along with gulls, blue jays, and more.
While the water fowl don’t typically die from it, animals like chickens, hawks, and eagles die within days of showing symptoms.
Wild birds start to come into the hospital in May and the SPCA will still treat them using caution.
They plan to separate the species to quarantine them and staff will wear full PPE.
If there is a positive case, the SPCA would likely have to shut down for 30 days and couldn’t take in new animals.
Wildlife director Barb Haney said it’s just a matter of time before we see this show up in Erie County.
“The worst case scenario is that we’re gonna affect some of the domestic poultry farms these wild animals, we don’t want any of our volunteers bringing it back to their backyard flocks. We’d like to see people not have to say goodbye to their pets in the form of their backyard flocks so we just wanna be really careful that we’re not spreading anything,” Haney said. “This also goes to birders as well. You’re walking through some of the feces, you are carrying those fomites and those viruses wherever you’re walking.”
The last outbreak in the U.S. was in 2015 causing the depopulation of millions of turkeys. This strain is different as it’s also impacting wildlife and made it to the East Coast.
Haney said if your backyard chickens or poultry start dying or even if you see a group of dead birds in nature you should contact the DEC.
The SPCA needs to know about any possibility of cases in the county. | https://www.wivb.com/news/local-news/erie-county/spca-taking-precautions-as-bird-flu-spreads-closer-to-erie-county/ | 2022-04-14T22:46:48 | 0 | https://www.wivb.com/news/local-news/erie-county/spca-taking-precautions-as-bird-flu-spreads-closer-to-erie-county/ |
NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (WIVB) — Garbage is coming to The Rapids Theater in a few months.
The alt-rock quartet will perform an 8 p.m. show at the Niagara Falls venue on July 3.
Tickets for the concert go on sale April 22 at 10 a.m. and cost $40 in advance. That price increases by five dollars on the day of the show.
To get tickets once they go on sale, call (716) 893-2900, visit After Dark’s office (630 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo) or go to AfterDarkPresents.com.
Doors for the show will open at 7 p.m.
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Evan Anstey is an Associated Press Award and Emmy-nominated digital producer who has been part of the News 4 team since 2015. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter. | https://www.wivb.com/news/local-news/niagara-county/niagara-falls/garbage-to-perform-at-rapids-theater-this-summer/ | 2022-04-14T22:46:54 | 1 | https://www.wivb.com/news/local-news/niagara-county/niagara-falls/garbage-to-perform-at-rapids-theater-this-summer/ |
HENDERSONVILLE, North Carolina -- Thousands of dollars vanished from a Western North Carolina couple's checking account, and it could happen to you.
"They're skillful, they know what they're doing and they target people like us, really," Stephen Savage, of Hendersonville, said.
The video in the player above is from a previous report.
The target -- the mountain couple's bank account, and all they could do was watch helplessly. And $2,800 was gone instantly, News 13 reported.
News 13 has the couple's warning to others, tips to protect your accounts and the one tool that reveals if your accounts are compromised.
SEE ALSO | California woman loses over $18K through 'Zelle' after scammers text, call her pretending to be bank
The attack "We could have been completely, no funds left in our account," Savage said, sitting at his Henderson County kitchen table talking with News 13 after he and his wife's bank account was targeted by thieves.
Stephen and Tessa Savage consider themselves computer savvy.
"I would always verify a web address before you click on any links," he said.
So, a threat to their home computer was a gut punch.
"It said, 'Ha, ha you are the victim of ransomware.' It said if you pay $900 we will unlock all your files. I found a suspicious folder or file on the computer. I removed it, and, then at that point, I tried to go to sleep. And I was thinking about it all through the night," Stephen Savage said.
About 9 p.m. a baffling text to Stephen Savage's phone didn't help.
"That said the funds had been transferred successfully. This was from TD Bank and Zelle," he said.
The Savages don't have a Zelle account or mobile banking. The next morning, the hoax further unfolded.
"My phone was not active. It was completely dead," Stephen Savage said.
He had to borrow a co-worker's phone to call Tessa, urging her to check their bank accounts.
"I saw that funds were being moved, that we hadn't moved from our savings to our checking. And, so then, I said, 'Stephen, we need to get down there," said Tessa, and both were on their way to TD Bank.
Before reaching TD Bank, $1,800 was transferred from the Savage's savings, plus $1,000 from their checking, a total of $2,800 had vanished from their accounts via Zelle.
"I said, 'How can you do that with a Zelle?' And they go, 'Well, it's just done. Somebody hits the thing and then, boom, it's gone, it's gone,'" Tessa Savage said.
Drive by and smshing frauds are rising cyber-security threats.
"Yeah, this could be a particularly sophisticated attack. If this individual is most likely was a drive by, they clicked on an email months and months and months ago. Sometimes, the, these nefarious actors will sit in your systems for six, eight, nine months before they act," said Adam Bricker, executive director of the Carolina Cyber Center at Montreat College.
Bricker explained how a smshing attack works.
RELATED | Bank account fraud, hacking causes customers to lose hundreds of dollars
"They get an SMS messages on their phone. This looks legitimate and it says it's from your bank. And, by the way, this isn't a Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Truist. it's not that bank. Anybody can spoof that bank. They go, you have a Zelle transit. Whoa, hold on. I didn't do that. And so, your instinctive reaction to say, no, I didn't do that. Now, they've got you," Bricker said.
All it takes is an email or phone number. Zelle, created by the major banks, is a quick money transfer.
"Let's say you don't have a mobile banking app. Let's say you don't use your phone for mobile banking. Your account is still largely in many, many, 5,000-plus cases linked to a Zelle capability," Bricker explained.
So, what is that first step you need to take if your account is compromised?
Steps you can take to protect yourself "Don't engage, do not respond at all. But then think to yourself, what information could they already have about me," Bricker said.
What are some good just practices for people to keep in mind?
"Three things. One, we strongly advise you use a password manager application like 1Password or LastPass, because you can set that up to have long, complex passwords," Bricker said.
Second, Bricker encouraged everyone to set up multi-factor authentication to log into accounts.
"The third thing, with all of those accounts, set up the notification, where if there is any change to them, you get notified," Bricker said.
The tool informing you where your info is compromised Bricker also recommends the website, "Have I been pwned?"
"It will show you, credit card, your phone number, your social security, your address, your username, your password has been compromised and which source it was compromised from," Bricker said.
That's giving you time to act and make changes to accounts that maybe compromised.
SEE ALSO | Scams targeting Zelle app users rising as criminals get more creative; how to avoid losing thousands
As for the Savages, they said the bank either cannot or will not give them any information about how the money was transferred.
Despite efforts to prove the transfer errors and show the Savages had no access to their mobile phone, the refund request citing Regulation E, a federal law protecting electronic fund transfers, was denied twice by TD Bank. Once it claimed there was no error. And once it said the transfers were authorized.
"I think it's shameful the way the banking industry treats the consumers, treats seniors in this country, and I think we need to hold them accountable," Tessa Savage said.
Shouldn't the attack on the Savages be covered by the Electronic Funds Transfer Act or Regulation E?
"Regulation E does require the banks to reimburse you for fraud, even if it was induced and you did the action. You were induced, tricked, duped into making the cell transaction, they should cover you for this," Bricker said.
News 13 asked TD Bank why it wasn't complying with the Electronic Funds Transfer Act or Regulation E.
The response News 13 got from TD Bank was ultimately different from what the Savages received.
"At TD, we take fraud very seriously. We investigate fraud complaints thoroughly to determine the facts and take appropriate action. Due to privacy concerns, we cannot discuss the account activity of particular customers. However, we can tell you that TD has achieved a positive resolution for the customer in this case," TD Bank told News 13.
Remember, the Savages' refund had been denied twice. The day after News 13 got a response from TD Bank, the Savages were contacted by TD Bank, notifying them the bank was refunding the entire $2,800. The Savages have since closed their accounts.
(The-CNN-Wire & 2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a Time Warner Company. All rights reserved.)
Thieves steal thousands from couple's bank accounts: 'Ha, ha you are the victim of ransomware'
RANSOMWARE | https://abc11.com/online-banking-zelle-app-protect-from-ransomware-bank/11748085/ | 2022-04-14T22:50:25 | 1 | https://abc11.com/online-banking-zelle-app-protect-from-ransomware-bank/11748085/ |
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Monica Moynan's best friend took the stand Thursday and described the Holly Springs mother as upbeat and loving, but also someone who struggled at times with self-esteem and wanted out of her relationship.
Alex Wilson said Moynan came to her on two separate occasions saying she was choked by the defendant, Brian Sluss.
"She saw the lights go out, and that's just all she can remember. She said she almost died," said Wilson.
Moynan vanished in the spring of 2019.
A co-worker testified that Moynan was a "no show" for a shift, which was "very usual."
RELATED: 'She was scared': Mother of Holly Springs murder victim testifies as trial begins
The prosecution asserted that the mom of two girls was murdered by Sluss, her on-again-off-again boyfriend. Her remains have never been found.
Sluss is charged with the murder and is expected to testify in his defense.
Wilson said Moynan would never abandon her children.
"She made sure those girls had joy, there was fun," said Wilson.
Moynan did have a protective order out against Sluss.
The trial will resume Friday morning. | https://abc11.com/sluss-trial-monica-moynan-missing-holly-springs-mom-brian/11748475/ | 2022-04-14T22:50:28 | 1 | https://abc11.com/sluss-trial-monica-moynan-missing-holly-springs-mom-brian/11748475/ |
BUFFALO, N.Y. — The coronavirus pandemic ushered in what may be the most rapid rise in homeschooling the U.S. has ever seen. Two years later, even after schools reopened and vaccines became widely available, many parents have chosen to continue directing their children’s educations themselves.
Homeschooling numbers this year dipped from last year's all-time high, but are still significantly above pre-pandemic levels, according to data obtained and analyzed by The Associated Press.
Families that may have turned to homeschooling as an alternative to hastily assembled remote learning plans have stuck with it — reasons include health concerns, disagreement with school policies and a desire to keep what has worked for their children.
In 18 states that shared data through the current school year, the number of homeschooling students increased by 63% in the 2020-2021 school year, then fell by only 17% in the 2021-2022 school year.
Around 3% of U.S. students were homeschooled before the pandemic-induced surge, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The rising numbers have cut into public school enrollment in ways that affect future funding and renewed debates over how closely homeschooling should be regulated. What remains unknown is whether this year’s small decrease signals a step toward pre-pandemic levels — or a sign that homeschooling is becoming more mainstream.
Linda McCarthy, a suburban Buffalo mother of two, says her children are never going back to traditional school.
Unimpressed with the lessons offered remotely when schools abruptly closed their doors in spring 2020, she began homeschooling her then fifth- and seventh-grade children that fall. McCarthy, who had been working as a teacher's aide, said she knew she could do better herself. She said her children have thrived with lessons tailored to their interests, learning styles and schedules.
“There’s no more homework 'til the wee hours of the morning, no more tears because we couldn’t get things done,” McCarthy said.
Once a relatively rare practice chosen most often for reasons related to instruction on religion, homeschooling grew rapidly in popularity following the turn of the century before leveled off at around 3.3%, or about 2 million students, in the years before the pandemic, according to the Census. Surveys have indicated factors including dissatisfaction with neighborhood schools, concerns about school environment and the appeal of customizing an education.
In the absence of federal guidelines, there is little uniformity in reporting requirements. Some states, including Connecticut and Nevada, require little or no information from parents, while New York, Massachusetts and some others require parents to submit instruction plans and comply with assessment rules.
The new surge in homeschooling numbers has led state legislatures around the country to consider measures either to ease regulations on homeschool families or impose new ones — debates have gone on for years. Proponents of more oversight point to the potential for undetected cases of child abuse and neglect while others argue for less in the name of parental rights.
All of the 28 state education departments that provided homeschooling data to the AP reported that homeschooling spiked in 2020-21, when fears of infection kept many school buildings closed. Of the 18 states whose enrollment data included the current school year, all but one state said homeschooling declined from the previous year but remained well above pre-pandemic levels. (The exception, South Dakota, recently changed the way it collects data).
Minnesota, for example, reported that 27,801 students are being homeschooled now, compared to 30,955 during the last school year. Before the pandemic, homeschool figures were around 20,000 or less.
Black families make up many of the homeschool converts. The proportion of Black families homeschooling their children increased by five times, from 3.3% to 16.1%, from spring 2020 to the fall, while the proportion about doubled across other groups, according to U.S. Census surveys.
Raleigh, North Carolina, mother Laine Bradley said the school system's shortcomings became more evident to families like hers when remote learning began.
“I think a lot of Black families realized that when we had to go to remote learning, they realized exactly what was being taught. And a lot of that doesn’t involve us,” said Bradley, who decided to homeschool her 7-, 10- and 11-year-old children. “My kids have a lot of questions about different things. I’m like, 'Didn't you learn that in school?' They're like, ‘No.’”
Bradley, who works in financial services, converted her dining room into a classroom and rearranged her work schedule to take over her children's education, adding lessons on financial literacy, Black history and Caribbean history important to her heritage.
“I can incorporate things that I feel like they should know,” she said. Her husband, Vince, who retired from the Air Force last year, steps in at times. The couple also have a 14-month-old. They plan to continue homeschooling for as long as their children want it. Her social media posts about her experience have drawn so much interest that Bradley recently created an online community called Black Moms Do Homeschool to share resources and experiences.
Boston University researcher Andrew Bacher-Hicks said data showed that while homeschool rates rose across the board during the last school year, the increase was greater in school districts that reverted to in-person learning, perhaps before some parents were ready to send their children back.
He said the same health concerns that drove those increases are likely behind the continued elevated rates, despite additional upheaval in schools as parents and policy-makers debate issues surrounding race and gender and which books should be in libraries.
“It’s really hard to disentangle those two things because all of this is kind of happening at the same time,” he said. “But my my guess would be that a large part of the decisions to exit from the system do have to do with COVID-related issues as opposed to political issues, because those things come up frequently and we’ve never seen an increase in homeschooling rates like this before.”
He said parents also may be concerned about the quality of education delivered by schools that have had to rely heavily on substitute teachers amid pandemic-caused staffing shortages.
McCarthy, the mom from suburban Buffalo, said it was a combination of everything, with the pandemic compounding the misgivings she had already held about the public school system, including her philosophical differences over the need for vaccine and mask mandates and academic priorities.
The pandemic, she said, “was kind of — they say the straw that broke the camel’s back — but the camel’s back was probably already broken.”
“There are kids that don’t know basic English structure but they want to push other things on children, and it can be blatant but it can be, and mostly is, very subtle, very, very subtle,” McCarthy said. “So we were ready to pull them and will never send them back to traditional school. It’s just not a fit for us.”
“It's just a whole new world that is a much better world for us,” she said. | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/nation-world/homeschooling-surges-post-pandemic/507-dded9e02-2d35-4d69-a6b4-9c36f4ddb3d4 | 2022-04-14T22:50:55 | 1 | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/nation-world/homeschooling-surges-post-pandemic/507-dded9e02-2d35-4d69-a6b4-9c36f4ddb3d4 |
WASHINGTON — Two House committees have launched an investigation into the government's use of facial recognition software that was most recently used by the Internal Revenue Service, but stopped after complaints from lawmakers and privacy advocates.
Critics of the software said facial recognition databases could become a target for cyberthreats. They also expressed concerns about how the information could be used by other government agencies.
In a letter Thursday to Blake Hall, CEO of ID.me, the lawmakers requested documents and information related to the company’s contracts with 10 federal agencies and 30 state governments for use of its facial recognition technology.
“I am deeply concerned that the federal government lacks a clear plan, leaving agencies like the IRS to enter contracts worth tens of millions of dollars with questionable terms and oversight mechanisms," House oversight committee chair Carolyn Maloney, D-N.Y., said in a statement.
“Without clear rules of the road, agencies will continue to turn to companies like ID.me, which heightens the risk that essential services will not be equitably provided to Americans, or will be outright denied, and that their biometric data won’t be properly safeguarded."
The letter was signed by Maloney and Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C., who chairs the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. It was first reported by The Washington Post.
In an emailed statement, a company representative said “ID.me remains a highly effective solution available for government agencies that provides the most access for under-served Americans.”
“ID.me adheres to the federal guidelines for identity verification and login while providing services to public sector agencies. These standards have proved remarkably effective at preventing fraud. Four states have credited ID.me with preventing $210 billion in fraud,” the statement reads.
In February, the IRS said it would suspend its use of facial recognition technology to authenticate people who create online accounts after the practice was criticized by privacy advocates and lawmakers.
Lawmakers, including Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, D-Ore., called on the IRS to end its use of the ID.me software.
The agency is currently grappling with a worker shortage and an expanded workload processing tax filings and administering pandemic-related programs.
The tax day deadline is Monday. | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/nation-world/house-investigating-govt-use-face-id/507-c528552e-79d0-4bd7-a045-6b5de8e9bbba | 2022-04-14T22:51:01 | 1 | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/nation-world/house-investigating-govt-use-face-id/507-c528552e-79d0-4bd7-a045-6b5de8e9bbba |
WASHINGTON — The number of people seeking unemployment benefits ticked up last week but remained at a historically low level, reflecting a robust U.S. labor market with near record-high job openings and few layoffs.
Jobless claims rose by 18,000 to 185,000, the Labor Department said Thursday, after nearly touching the lowest level since 1968 in the previous week. The four-week average of claims, which levels out week-to-week ups and downs, edged up from 170,000 to 172,000.
“Claims are still at very low levels, underscoring historically tight labor market conditions,'' said Nancy Vanden Houten, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics. “We expect initial claims to remain below (200,000) in the weeks ahead, as employers, who continue to struggle to attract and retain workers, will keep layoffs to a minimum.''
Two years after the coronavirus pandemic sent the economy into a brief but devastating recession, American workers are enjoying extraordinary job security. Weekly applications for unemployment aid, a proxy for layoffs, have remained consistently below the pre-pandemic level of 225,000.
Last year, employers added a record 6.7 million jobs, and they've added an average of 560,000 more each month so far in 2022. The unemployment rate, which soared to 14.7% in April 2020 in the depths of the COVID-19 recession, is now just 3.6%, barely above the lowest point in 50 years. And there is a record proportion of 1.7 job openings for every unemployed American.
The resilience of the job market and the overall U.S. economy is striking in light of a still-destructive pandemic, the economic consequences of Russia’s war against Ukraine and the highest consumer inflation in 40 years.
Fewer than 1.48 million Americans were collecting traditional unemployment benefits in the week of April 2. | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/nation-world/us-jobless-claims-april-14/507-338df235-4beb-4164-96e6-2e4b96dd41ab | 2022-04-14T22:51:08 | 1 | https://www.kgw.com/article/news/nation-world/us-jobless-claims-april-14/507-338df235-4beb-4164-96e6-2e4b96dd41ab |
ASHVILLE — A Cropwell man has been sentenced to 29 years in prison for the 2017 murder of New London resident Billy Saffold.
James Earl "Peanut" Castleberry, 58, of Cropwell was sentenced to 29 years in prison after a sentencing hearing before St. Clair County Circuit Judge Bill Weathington on Thursday. As the case was preparing to go to trial, Castleberry pled guilty to murdering Saffold in March.
While Castleberry's plea did away with the need for a trial, Weathington set a separate sentencing hearing. As a part of Weathington's decision, Castleberry will also receive credit for the 1636 days he has spent in the St. Clair County Jail since his original arrest in 2017.
Castleberry's co-defendant in the case, Charla Johnson, pled guilty to murder charges in August of 2021. She was sentenced to 25 years in prison.
During the hearing, St. Clair District Attorney Lyle Harmon said the incident originally took place on Oct. 23, 2017. He said a witness saw a Chevrolet Cobalt stopped in the roadway on Cook Springs Cutoff Road and decided to stop to see if anyone needed assistance. Harmon said the witness then saw Castleberry walking towards them covered in blood and holding a knife . The DA said the victim then called 911 and quickly left the scene.
Harmon said when St. Clair County Sheriff's deputies arrived, they found Saffold in a ditch on the side of the road alive.
In a 2018 hearing, St. Clair County Investigator, now Chief Investigator, Wayne Layton, read an account from one of the deputies on what happened next.
"I asked him who did this," Layton testified, reading the deputy's sworn statement from the witness stand. "He said, 'James Castleberry, the one they call Peanut.'"
St. Clair County Coroner Dennis Russell later pronounced Saffold dead at 3:56 p.m. on Oct. 23 at Ascension St. Vincent's St. Clair Hospital in Pell City after he died en route to the hospital.
On Thursday, Harmon said there was overwhelming evidence that the cause of death had been blunt force trauma and multiple stab wounds. He said the prosecution believed some of the blunt injuries had been caused by a gun found in Saffold's car, which Castleberry and Johnson originally used to flee the scene. Harmon said Saffold had severe defensive wounds on his hands, to the point that some of his figures were almost severed. The DA said Saffold was eventually stabbed in the neck, which damaged his spine and left him paralyzed and unable to fight back.
"Unfortunately, Mr. Saffold did not die fast," Harmon said.
In a statement given in court by Saffold's sister, his family described the way he died as torture. The family described Saffold as a man who always wished to help others. They also said he was a father and grandfather.
Charlie Tudisco, Castleberry's attorney, said during Thursday’s hearing that, had there been a trial, his client could testify that he, Saffold and Johnson had all been intoxicated at the time of the murder. Tudisco also said Castleberry said Saffold had been the first one to pull a knife on the day of the incident while in the Chevrolet Cobalt, though Harmon pointed out that there was no physical evidence to back up that claim. Tudisco also said his client asked for leniency and wanted to express his apologies to Saffold's family for the part he played in Saffold's death.
Harmon said his office is happy with the final result of the case, which it has been working on for over four years.
"The district attorney's office is pleased with the sentence and really appreciates Judge Weathington taking the time to review the documents for sentencing," he said. "We would like to thank all of the law enforcement that participated in this investigation, in particular St. Clair County Chief Investigator Wayen Layton and Former Chief Investigator Tommy Dickson."
Harmon also expressed the gratitude of Saffold's family.
"The family felt that justice was served today," he said, "and that the sentence of James Early Castleberry, while it wont bring their brother back, brings justice to this violent murder. The family did receive some comfort in hearing James Early Castleberry admit that he murdered their son and brother." | https://www.annistonstar.com/the_st_clair_times/stclair_life/cropwell-man-sentenced-to-29-years-for-2017-murder/article_f3571174-bc3e-11ec-80b9-6be6ee844187.html | 2022-04-14T22:52:06 | 1 | https://www.annistonstar.com/the_st_clair_times/stclair_life/cropwell-man-sentenced-to-29-years-for-2017-murder/article_f3571174-bc3e-11ec-80b9-6be6ee844187.html |
HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. (WGN) — An Illinois woman was sentenced to three years in prison for starving two of her dogs to death.
Sarah Gorski, 21, of Hoffman Estates, Illinois initially pleaded guilty to three counts of animal cruelty on Feb. 22. Her co-defendant Andre Norris, 29, of the same address, was sentenced to three years in prison back in November.
On March 2, 2020, Naperville officers and animal control responded to a trail regarding a report of a disposed German Shepherd. The dog, later identified as “Otis,” was found dead weighing approximately 20 pounds.
An investigation led authorities to Gorski and Norris as the owners of the dog. Investigators discovered that the pair also owned two other dogs, Scooby and Bubba. On March 12, 2020, a search warrant was executed on the home.
Scooby was found in a rusted crate weighing approximately 20 pounds and could not walk. The starved dog was ultimately saved by veterinarians and is living happily with a foster family.
Authorities discovered the body of Bubba, a corgi, was dumped by Gorski and Norris weighing only four pounds. He was found dead and died of severe starvation, authorities said.
Gorski will begin serving her sentence on June 2. She will be required to serve 50% of her sentence before being eligible for parole. | https://www.wfla.com/news/national/illinois-woman-sentenced-to-3-years-for-starving-her-dogs-to-death/ | 2022-04-14T22:53:49 | 0 | https://www.wfla.com/news/national/illinois-woman-sentenced-to-3-years-for-starving-her-dogs-to-death/ |
CONCORD, Calif. (KRON) — A woman was arrested Wednesday around noon for swinging an axe at drivers passing by in California.
Police received calls around 11 a.m. about a woman swinging an axe at cars in the area of Olivera Road and Grant Street, the Concord Police Department said in a Facebook post.
After officers arrived at the scene, they closed off roadways to limit her reach to passing drivers.
Officers then tried to approach the woman, who police did not identify, and gave her commands to drop the axe and get on the ground, according to police. The woman refused to comply, and police were forced to take physical action.
After police saw the woman strike a car with the axe, an officer decided to use his taser on the woman. Police were able to successfully disarm, arrest, and take her into custody.
The woman was booked in county jail for multiple charges, including assault with a deadly weapon. The woman, officers, and the surrounding residents were not injured, police said. | https://www.wfla.com/news/national/woman-tased-arrested-after-swinging-axe-at-cars-in-california-police/ | 2022-04-14T22:53:55 | 1 | https://www.wfla.com/news/national/woman-tased-arrested-after-swinging-axe-at-cars-in-california-police/ |
CLEARWATER, Fla. (WFLA) – The Clearwater Marine Aquarium announced on Thursday, National Dolphin Day, its brand new immersive celebration called “Dolphintopia.”
Guests to the aquarium will be “transported to a summer of peace, love and dolphins” starting in June.
Families can explore the science of dolphins and their intimate connection with humans throughout history, as well as other facts, fiction and fun.
“Dolphintopia” will include unique art installations and activities, as well as interactive shows exploring the connection between humans and dolphins. Vibrant photo opportunities for Instagram will be available as well.
CMA said the experience will change throughout the summer and will be included with aquarium admission.
The aquarium is currently home to seven dolphins, including bottlenose dolphins PJ, Apollo, Nicholas, Hemingway and Hope, as well as two rough-toothed dolphins named Rex and Rudy. | https://www.wfla.com/news/pinellas-county/dolphintopia-to-be-celebrated-at-clearwater-marine-aquarium-this-summer/ | 2022-04-14T22:54:03 | 0 | https://www.wfla.com/news/pinellas-county/dolphintopia-to-be-celebrated-at-clearwater-marine-aquarium-this-summer/ |
While the amount owed was small, the frustration felt recovering the money was through the roof. The reason: The company owing the money is a household name worth billions.
Verizon's net worth stands at $224 billion, yet Diane Belforti was baffled as to why couldn't get the $59 the wireless giant owed her.
"I guess I didn't want to give up these just on principle," she said. "I just think it's simply wrong."
More 7 On Your Side | CARFAX correction when vehicle history report has a big mistake
The money belonged to her late father, Bud Joy, who died from cancer last year. The credit was for his disconnected cell phone, but getting the tech company to cut a check has taken the family longer than settling everything in the estate.
"Every single aspect of it, including selling his house, you know, investments, banking, everything, and this was the final thing that I just could not get resolved," Belforti said. "I feel like my father is of that generation, like $59 might not mean a lot to a lot of people, but it's $59 my father worked hard for."
She and her husband took over the small family business her dad ran, an appliance store that's been in Red Bank for 60 years. His dad, Paul Joy, founded Better Housekeeping in 1939. Metal was in short supply because of World War II, so they repaired -- not replaced -- appliances when broken.
The average wage was 30 cents, so someone would have to work 25 eight-hour days to to earn the $59 needed to buy a Westinghouse electric washer.
"My dad was 6'4''," Belforti said.
The mountain of a man knew his cancer was terminal, so he organized all his affairs. His two daughters got power of attorney and became will executors, and they made smart moves like adding their names to bank accounts, titles and investments.
The cell phone bill was one thing they didn't think would be an issue.
"I had no way to log into my father's account online," Belforti said. "He was 86 years old. He didn't even log on to an account."
She had to send letters from the court and his death certificate, but the check never arrived.
"I don't think I ever reached that point (of giving up) until I contacted 7 On Your Side," Belforti said.
More 7 On Your Side | Man nearly lost his entire retirement savings in crypto scam
So we contacted Verizon, and eight emails, five texts, and 10 days later, Belforti got the money.
"I finally have the check," she said. "I am so appreciative to 7 On Your Side, because there's no way I could've resolved this on my own."
A Verizon representative said the company would not comment on the case because of customer privacy.
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HENDERSONVILLE, North Carolina -- Thousands of dollars vanished from a Western North Carolina couple's checking account, and it could happen to you.
"They're skillful, they know what they're doing and they target people like us, really," Stephen Savage, of Hendersonville, said.
The video in the player above is from a previous report.
The target -- the mountain couple's bank account, and all they could do was watch helplessly. And $2,800 was gone instantly, News 13 reported.
News 13 has the couple's warning to others, tips to protect your accounts and the one tool that reveals if your accounts are compromised.
SEE ALSO | California woman loses over $18K through 'Zelle' after scammers text, call her pretending to be bank
The attack "We could have been completely, no funds left in our account," Savage said, sitting at his Henderson County kitchen table talking with News 13 after he and his wife's bank account was targeted by thieves.
Stephen and Tessa Savage consider themselves computer savvy.
"I would always verify a web address before you click on any links," he said.
So, a threat to their home computer was a gut punch.
"It said, 'Ha, ha you are the victim of ransomware.' It said if you pay $900 we will unlock all your files. I found a suspicious folder or file on the computer. I removed it, and, then at that point, I tried to go to sleep. And I was thinking about it all through the night," Stephen Savage said.
About 9 p.m. a baffling text to Stephen Savage's phone didn't help.
"That said the funds had been transferred successfully. This was from TD Bank and Zelle," he said.
The Savages don't have a Zelle account or mobile banking. The next morning, the hoax further unfolded.
"My phone was not active. It was completely dead," Stephen Savage said.
He had to borrow a co-worker's phone to call Tessa, urging her to check their bank accounts.
"I saw that funds were being moved, that we hadn't moved from our savings to our checking. And, so then, I said, 'Stephen, we need to get down there," said Tessa, and both were on their way to TD Bank.
Before reaching TD Bank, $1,800 was transferred from the Savage's savings, plus $1,000 from their checking, a total of $2,800 had vanished from their accounts via Zelle.
"I said, 'How can you do that with a Zelle?' And they go, 'Well, it's just done. Somebody hits the thing and then, boom, it's gone, it's gone,'" Tessa Savage said.
Drive by and smshing frauds are rising cyber-security threats.
"Yeah, this could be a particularly sophisticated attack. If this individual is most likely was a drive by, they clicked on an email months and months and months ago. Sometimes, the, these nefarious actors will sit in your systems for six, eight, nine months before they act," said Adam Bricker, executive director of the Carolina Cyber Center at Montreat College.
Bricker explained how a smshing attack works.
RELATED | Bank account fraud, hacking causes customers to lose hundreds of dollars
"They get an SMS messages on their phone. This looks legitimate and it says it's from your bank. And, by the way, this isn't a Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Truist. it's not that bank. Anybody can spoof that bank. They go, you have a Zelle transit. Whoa, hold on. I didn't do that. And so, your instinctive reaction to say, no, I didn't do that. Now, they've got you," Bricker said.
All it takes is an email or phone number. Zelle, created by the major banks, is a quick money transfer.
"Let's say you don't have a mobile banking app. Let's say you don't use your phone for mobile banking. Your account is still largely in many, many, 5,000-plus cases linked to a Zelle capability," Bricker explained.
So, what is that first step you need to take if your account is compromised?
Steps you can take to protect yourself "Don't engage, do not respond at all. But then think to yourself, what information could they already have about me," Bricker said.
What are some good just practices for people to keep in mind?
"Three things. One, we strongly advise you use a password manager application like 1Password or LastPass, because you can set that up to have long, complex passwords," Bricker said.
Second, Bricker encouraged everyone to set up multi-factor authentication to log into accounts.
"The third thing, with all of those accounts, set up the notification, where if there is any change to them, you get notified," Bricker said.
The tool informing you where your info is compromised Bricker also recommends the website, "Have I been pwned?"
"It will show you, credit card, your phone number, your social security, your address, your username, your password has been compromised and which source it was compromised from," Bricker said.
That's giving you time to act and make changes to accounts that maybe compromised.
SEE ALSO | Scams targeting Zelle app users rising as criminals get more creative; how to avoid losing thousands
As for the Savages, they said the bank either cannot or will not give them any information about how the money was transferred.
Despite efforts to prove the transfer errors and show the Savages had no access to their mobile phone, the refund request citing Regulation E, a federal law protecting electronic fund transfers, was denied twice by TD Bank. Once it claimed there was no error. And once it said the transfers were authorized.
"I think it's shameful the way the banking industry treats the consumers, treats seniors in this country, and I think we need to hold them accountable," Tessa Savage said.
Shouldn't the attack on the Savages be covered by the Electronic Funds Transfer Act or Regulation E?
"Regulation E does require the banks to reimburse you for fraud, even if it was induced and you did the action. You were induced, tricked, duped into making the cell transaction, they should cover you for this," Bricker said.
News 13 asked TD Bank why it wasn't complying with the Electronic Funds Transfer Act or Regulation E.
The response News 13 got from TD Bank was ultimately different from what the Savages received.
"At TD, we take fraud very seriously. We investigate fraud complaints thoroughly to determine the facts and take appropriate action. Due to privacy concerns, we cannot discuss the account activity of particular customers. However, we can tell you that TD has achieved a positive resolution for the customer in this case," TD Bank told News 13.
Remember, the Savages' refund had been denied twice. The day after News 13 got a response from TD Bank, the Savages were contacted by TD Bank, notifying them the bank was refunding the entire $2,800. The Savages have since closed their accounts.
(The-CNN-Wire & 2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a Time Warner Company. All rights reserved.)
Thieves steal thousands from couple's bank accounts: 'Ha, ha you are the victim of ransomware'
RANSOMWARE | https://abc7ny.com/online-banking-zelle-app-protect-from-ransomware-bank/11748085/ | 2022-04-14T22:55:42 | 0 | https://abc7ny.com/online-banking-zelle-app-protect-from-ransomware-bank/11748085/ |
NEW YORK — The average salary in the major leagues rebounded to $4.4 million on opening day, boosted by a frenzy of free agent signings before and after the 99-day lockout, according to a study of baseball contracts by The Associated Press.
New York Mets pitcher Max Scherzer set a season record at $43.3 million, topping the previous mark established last year by Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer at $38 million. Scherzer earns more than all the current players on the Baltimore Orioles combined.
The average of $4,414,184 was up 5.9% from the $4,167,164 at the start of last season and just below the record of $4,451,508 set in 2017, before the salary slide that angered players during the labor contract that expired last December.
Major League Baseball projects opening-day payrolls at about $4.5 billion, up almost 10% from the previous high of approximately $4.1 billion.
This year’s average would have been higher had active rosters not been expanded from 26 to 28 through May 1 following the shortened spring training. Factoring out the added players who are at the $700,000 minimum or close to it, the average would have been a record $4.62 million.
In addition, this year’s final average will be boosted by the new labor contract’s $50 million bonus pool for lower-salaried players not yet eligible for arbitration. Adding that figure and dropping the added 60 players, the average would be $4.68 million.
The average salary declines over the course of a season as higher-paid veterans are released and replaced by lower-salaried players.
The Los Angeles Dodgers top the major leagues at nearly $285 million, up from $241 million at the start of last season.
The Mets are second at $266 million in their second season under owner Steven Cohen, up from $186 million last year and $154 million in 2019, the last full season under the Wilpon and Katz families.
The New York Yankees are third at just under $237 million, followed by Philadelphia ($224 million) and San Diego and Boston ($212 million each).
World Series champion Atlanta is eighth at $184 million, and AL champion Houston is 10th at $174 million.
Oakland, which traded several stars after the lockout, is last at $48 million, down from $83 million last opening day and the Athletics’ lowest for a full season since 2008.
Other low payrolls are Baltimore ($58 million), Pittsburgh ($59 million), Cleveland ($60 million) and Miami (just under $80 million).
The Orioles totaled $38 million for their current players, with just over $20 million going toward the final season of the seven-year contract of first baseman Chris Davis, who retired after years of injuries and three straight sub-.200 batting averages.
Scherzer was followed at the top of the salary list by Angels outfielder Mike Trout at $37.1 million, Angels third baseman Anthony Rendon at $36.6 million, Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole at $36 million. Minnesota shortstop Carlos Correa at $35.1 million and San Diego third baseman Manny Machado at $34 million.
Sentinel Sports Final
Thirteen players earn $30 million or more, 48 earn at least $20 million and 133 at least $10 million. More than half the players, 514, earn at least $1 million.
After several years of widening, payroll disparity among players decreased slightly.
The 50 highest-paid players are getting 30.3% of salaries, down from 33.4% at the start of last season but still above the 28.6% in 2017. The 100 highest-paid are receiving 48.9%, down from 52.4% last year but above the 42.5% in 2017.
Of 975 players on opening day active rosters, injured lists, the restricted list and the bereavement list, 461 (47%) had salaries under $1 million, up from 46% last year. The minimum was raised from $570,500 to $700,000; 57 earned the minimum and 375 were below $730,000.
The median salary — the point at which an equal number of players are above and below — rose by $50,000 to $1.2 million, down from $1.4 million in 2019 and well below the $1.65 million record high at the start of 2015.
The AP’s figures include salaries and prorated shares of signing bonuses and other guaranteed income. For some players, parts of deferred money are discounted to reflect current values. For the 23 players remaining eligible for salary arbitration, the midpoints of the player requests and team offers were used.
Luxury tax payrolls computed by Major League Baseball are different, using average annual values of contracts on 40-man rosters plus about $18 million per team for benefits and extended benefits and a 1/30 share of the pre-arbitration bonus pool. | https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/national-sports/ct-mlb-salaries-lockout-20220414-e3d5q4don5ci3mctsj3p7p5eo4-story.html | 2022-04-14T22:58:09 | 0 | https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/national-sports/ct-mlb-salaries-lockout-20220414-e3d5q4don5ci3mctsj3p7p5eo4-story.html |
BALTIMORE — Inflation is impacting just about every Marylander. It's not only affecting gas prices, but grocery shopping and local food banks as well.
The stress or worry about finances is nothing new. As of 2020, more than 25 percent of adults didn’t have enough in savings to cover a $400 emergency, according to the most recent statistics from the U.S. Federal Reserve.
Licensed psychologist Dr. La Keita Carter explained that some of that stress comes from the fear of the unknown.
"If we're not comfortable with doing something or working with something, we tend to get anxious about it," Dr. Carter said. "That's the case with a lot of things, it just so happens that we use money every day in some capacity."
Money worries occur from the moment you enter this world to the time you leave, what differs in how money impacts you, is what stage of life you're in. Whether it's dealing with paying off student loan debt, worrying about daycare or paying rent, one of the best ways to better your own financial health is by being conscious about how you spend your money.
Avoiding the money issue is often part of the problem, and Dr. Carter explained that like with any skill, the more you do something, the more you'll get comfortable with it.
You need to take a step back and ask yourself if your avoidance of dealing with your finances is helping or hurting the problem.
"If you are avoiding, you're having physical reactions to even the thought of it or the topic or the mention, that's anxiety and you should probably address that," she explained.
Dr. Carter found with some of her patients who are stressed about money in particular is that they can do what is called "the ostrich effect" which is essentially just acting and not really thinking about the impact of their choices.
"That's actually the point of a budget, to help you be more insightful about what you're spending and where you're spending it," Dr. Carter said.
Having a budget set in stone can be a bit daunting, but Mark Ring, a wealth advisor at Jacob William Advisory in Timonium says it may be more beneficial to take a step back and write out your spending habits.
"The best way to start a plan is to stop worrying about what the outcome is going to be and actually go old school," Ring said. "If you take some time, and you simply list what you spend money on, first of all, I think we'll all notice, we actually don't spend money on that many different items."
The first part of financial planning is understanding how you spend your money, Ring said. That can often be the hardest part of the entire process, because that's an emotional response that we all have.
"Being an educated consumer obviously is important, knowing that you're not overspending for something and you do have alternatives when you're a consumer, but at the same time, we're always going to be in a position where we have to spend the money we earn," he explained.
There are necessities that you can't avoid. One of the mistakes a lot of consumers make is setting these lofty goals.
Ring says when someone sets a rule, they're usually the first one to break them.
And what happens often when you break these rules? Guilt and shame can set in. Dr. Carter said that's why its important to give yourself grace but also give yourself some boundaries, whether that's an accountability partner or another system.
"Life is about the balance between extremes...anything that has no boundaries and anything that has such rigid, rigid boundaries, that you can't be a person or human being, you really are more expecting robotic responses from yourself," she said. "Both of those things can create stress."
Saying that you're never going to spend again is unrealistic, but there are things you can do on a bigger scale, to help you move towards improving your savings.
"Especially with all the inflation that's going around, one of the first things you want to look at is your debt and what kind of debt if you have any," Ring continued. "Do you have credit card debt? Do you have other debt that has adjustable interest rates on it? You could have a mortgage with adjustable interest rate, you can have a personal loan, there's all different types that have adjustable rates."
RELATED: Inflation jumped 8.5% in past year, highest since 1981, Labor Department reports
Paying off debts improves your cash flow and allows you to take that money that you were sending into that bill and start saving it, so that improves the situation of building wealth over time.
"The other thing to do if you haven't already over the last few years with all the low interest rates we have, is to look to see if you have an adjustable rate mortgage, and you have the ability to go refinance it into a fixed rate for whatever term is appropriate for your plan or for your economic situation," Ring said. "So if you can take advantage of locking in an adjustable rate debt to a fixed rate, then it makes it easier to budget over time as you pay it off. But if you can also pay some of that debt off, you are better off over time."
Creating these sort of financial plans can seem intimidating, but Ring said sometimes you need to face the fear head on.
"When you hug that monster and pull it close to you and you accept it, all of a sudden, it's not so frightening, and you can actually develop a plan," he continued. "The first step of a really good financial plan is getting past the emotional fear of what the outcome could be and just saying, 'I got to do this and I'm gonna be better off no matter what.'" | https://www.wmar2news.com/news/local-news/money-on-your-mind-how-you-can-better-your-financial-health | 2022-04-14T23:00:13 | 1 | https://www.wmar2news.com/news/local-news/money-on-your-mind-how-you-can-better-your-financial-health |
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has just approved an emergency use authorization to bring the first breath COVID-19 diagnostic test to market.
The test detects chemical compounds in the breath which are associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, the FDA said in a statement.
Samples will be collected and analyzed in environments like a doctor's office, mobile testing sites, and hospitals the agency said. They will have to be performed by a trained healthcare provider, and results can be returned in less than three minutes the FDA said.
Dr. Jeff Shuren, director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health said in a statement, “The FDA continues to support the development of novel COVID-19 tests with the goal of advancing technologies that can help address the current pandemic and better position the U.S. for the next public health emergency.”
Earlier in April, President Joe Biden announced that his administration would be ordering a new national research push on long COVID-19, while also directing federal agencies to support patients dealing with the mysterious and debilitating condition.
The White House said Biden ordered the Department of Health and Human Services to coordinate an urgent new initiative across federal agencies, building on research already underway at the National Institutes of Health. The president also directed federal agencies to support patients and doctors by providing science-based best practices for treating long COVID, maintaining access to insurance coverage, and protecting the rights of workers coping with the condition. | https://www.wmar2news.com/news/national/fda-approves-first-covid-19-breath-diagnostic-test | 2022-04-14T23:00:19 | 1 | https://www.wmar2news.com/news/national/fda-approves-first-covid-19-breath-diagnostic-test |
The Missouri attorney general has refiled criminal charges against three men involved in the 2018 deadly sinking of a tour boat near Branson.
News of Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt recharging the men comes after a circuit court judge dismissed all criminal charges against the boat's captain, Scott McKee; the general manager of Ride the Ducks Branson Curtis Lanham; and the manager on duty that day Charles Baltzell, the Associated Press reported.
Circuit Court Judge Alan Blankenship dismissed the charges on April 5 without prejudice, stating in his ruling that prosecutors did not have enough evidence to uphold the charges.
Two days later, Schmitt refiled the involuntary manslaughter charges, saying in a statement that his office is committed to seeking justice for those who died.
Seventeen people died when the duck boat capsized during a storm on Table Rock Lake on July 19, 2018.
A nearly two-year-long investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board found that the tour operator and its parent company were at fault blame because managers to the vessel's captain did not relay a severe weather forecast.
All three men face 17 counts each of first-degree involuntary manslaughter, with McKee also facing 12 counts of endangering the welfare of a child. | https://www.wmar2news.com/news/national/missouri-ag-refiles-charges-in-boat-sinking-that-killed-17 | 2022-04-14T23:00:25 | 1 | https://www.wmar2news.com/news/national/missouri-ag-refiles-charges-in-boat-sinking-that-killed-17 |
Tesla is recalling nearly 595,000 vehicles in the U.S., most for a second time, because a "Boombox" function can play sounds over an external speaker and obscure audible warnings for pedestrians.
The company says in government documents that the new recall will disable "Boombox" if owners are using a feature that lets them "summon" the vehicles at low speeds. The first recall in February disabled "Boombox" if the Tesla vehicles are in drive, neutral or reverse.
Both recalls will be done with online software updates. The new recall covers certain 2020 through 2022 Model Y, X, and S vehicles, as well as 2017 through 2022 Model 3s.
Also on Thursday, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration posted documents showing that Tesla is recalling more than 7,000 Model X SUVs from 2021 and 2022 because the side curtain airbags may not inflate as intended in a crash when the windows are lowered. | https://www.wmar2news.com/news/national/second-recall-issued-at-tesla-for-obstructing-pedestrian-warning | 2022-04-14T23:00:31 | 0 | https://www.wmar2news.com/news/national/second-recall-issued-at-tesla-for-obstructing-pedestrian-warning |
President Joe Biden is now calling Russia’s actions in Ukraine a genocide.
"It is a horrible thing that the Russians have done in Ukraine, and we're only going to learn more and more about the devastation," he said.
The president then told reporters he stands by his use of the word in his Tuesday speech.
"Your family budget, your ability to fill up your tank, none of it should hinge on whether a dictator declares war and commits genocide a half a world away,” President Biden said.
The U.N. defines genocide as “acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group.”
The use of the word has become a litmus test of Western resolve against Russia because of the weight it carries.
“The general public generally views the term genocide as representing the crime of all crime," said Valerie Oosterveld, professor of international criminal law at Western University Canada.
But there’s more to it than symbolism.
“If there's a genocide, you need to take action to punish it," said Stephen Rapp, former U.S. ambassador-at-large and leader of the State Department's Office of Global Criminal Justice. "If there's a threat of genocide, you need to take action to prevent it.”
President Biden says it’s still up to lawyers to determine if Russia’s crimes in Ukraine meet the legal standard of genocide. That international standard would trigger an obligation to intervene, but it’s a high bar.
“To get to genocide, you have to show that intent, and the fact that not all Ukrainians are being targeted, which to some extent belie that intent," Rapp said. "On the other hand, we're seeing a lot about the way the Russians are conducting themselves, the language used by Putin denying that Ukraine really exists as a country.”
“The images coming out of Bucha and the area surrounding Kyiv in recent times really have galvanized the international community," Oosterveld said.
Oosterveld says a recent account by a Ukrainian official that 25 women and girls were raped in Bucha is one potential indication of Russia’s genocidal intent.
“Being told as they were being raped that they were being raped so they could never have Ukrainian children, that their children would be Russian, that is a real warning sign of potential genocide," Oosterveld said.
Unlike President Biden, French president Emmanuel Macron says it’s too early to tell if Russian war crimes amount to genocide.
“I want to continue to try my best to be able to stop the war and restore peace," Macron said. "I’m not sure if the escalation of words serves our cause.”
In the past, American leaders have often dodged the word because of the legal obligations it triggers.
“When the genocide in Rwanda was unfolding, there were many world leaders, including the president of the United States, who did not want to name what was happening in Rwanda as genocide because they feared that they would need to intervene under international law," Oosterveld said.
President Biden’s use of the word drew immediate praise from Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his staff.
“I'm thankful to your president, your president who recognized the genocide, thank you," Zelenskyy said.
The White House says the escalated rhetoric does not mean an escalation in the U.S. response. Still, experts tell Newsy that President Biden’s choice of words increases pressure on the U.S. and its allies to prevent and document Russian crimes in Ukraine.
Newsy is the nation’s only free 24/7 national news network. You can find Newsy using your TV’s digital antenna or stream for free. See all the ways you can watch Newsy here. | https://www.wmar2news.com/news/national/the-weight-of-genocide-why-leaders-are-hesitant-to-use-the-word | 2022-04-14T23:00:37 | 1 | https://www.wmar2news.com/news/national/the-weight-of-genocide-why-leaders-are-hesitant-to-use-the-word |
Age, race, income, language affect NJ access to end-of-life care
Two studies leaning on research out of the Rutgers School of Nursing and School of Public Health found New Jersey has low utilization of palliative and hospice care for patients with metastatic cancer, compared to the rest of the United States.
Some of the alarming disparities across demographics may be due to the Garden State being the most ethnically diverse in the nation, said the first author of both studies, Bridget Nicholson, a School of Nursing PhD graduate, clinical consultant, and nurse practitioner, but further research will be needed to determine if that theory holds.
What is clear is that metastatic cancer patients have a high symptom burden, characterized primarily by pain and depression, which Nicholson said can both be eased by palliative care.
The studies, "Hospice Referral in Advanced Cancer in New Jersey," published in the Journal of Hospice and Palliative Nursing, and "Palliative Care Use in Advanced Cancer in the Garden State," published in Cancer Nursing: An International Journal for Cancer Care Research, established some opposing trends.
Nicholson said palliative care access was more affected by the age, income level, or insurance status of a patient than race or a language barrier, but treatment of the main symptoms, pain and depression, differed.
"Pain influenced the use of palliative care, and if you had pain, you were much more likely to have a palliative care consult, but depression was not predictive of an inpatient palliative care consult," she said, while adding that depression can manifest in some unique ways. "We need culturally sensitive scales to measure depression in diverse populations, so that we can identify it more appropriately across populations."
But she said Black and Hispanic residents were less likely to receive hospice referrals, which is concerning because it puts into sharp focus what New Jersey could be doing better to provide in-home care in certain communities and extend survival for patients — even if the path to get there has not yet really taken shape.
"Those patients who did not speak a primary language of English also had significantly lower odds of receiving a hospice referral," Nicholson said.
The data that was examined came from well before the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2018, but Nicholson admitted the coronavirus has changed everything, and newer figures need to be studied to really determine if New Jersey is improving in any of these areas.
Next would be giving health care providers the necessary education and training to infiltrate and benefit underserved communities.
"Patients deserve the same level of care regardless of their language spoken or their demographics, and pain and depression are symptoms that really need to be addressed," Nicholson said.
Patrick Lavery is a reporter and anchor for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at patrick.lavery@townsquaremedia.com
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story. | https://nj1015.com/age-race-income-language-affect-nj-access-to-end-of-life-care/ | 2022-04-14T23:15:34 | 1 | https://nj1015.com/age-race-income-language-affect-nj-access-to-end-of-life-care/ |
Ex-Olympic equestrian rider, Michael Barisone, ‘not guilty by reason of insanity’ in attempted murder trial
MORRISTOWN — A jury in New Jersey found a former Olympian equestrian competitor not guilty Thursday in the shooting of a woman at his training center nearly three years ago.
Michael Barisone had faced attempted murder and other charges for the August 2019 shooting of Lauren Kanarek.
Kanarek and her fiancé, Michael Goodwin, had been living and training horses at Barisone's farm in the Long Valley section of Washington Township.
The verdict in state Superior Court came after about 18 hours of deliberations following a two-week trial.
The jury found Barisone not guilty by reason of insanity on the attempted murder of Kanarek and not guilty for the attempted murder of Goodwin. Barisone also was acquitted on weapons counts.
According to his website, Barisone was a member of the 2008 Olympic team and the 1997 gold medal-winning Nations Cup team in Hickstead, England. It said he coached Olympians and was a member of the U.S. Equestrian Federation's board of directors.
Barisone claimed Kanarek and Goodwin had violated a verbal agreement to leave the farm once they were finished with the training, and police had been called several times to the home in the 10 days leading up to the shooting.
Barisone's attorney had said at the time of his indictment that Kanarek and Goodwin had threatened and harassed his client.
Kanarek was shot in the chest and was placed in a medically induced coma, and underwent extensive surgery to repair damage to her left lung. She has since recovered.
"While disappointed with the outcome, in keeping with our commitment to the integrity of the criminal justice system, the verdict must be respected. I acknowledge the case has elicited strong opinions when it comes to how the public views the defendant and victims in this matter, and I ask that the public respect the jury members and their decision," Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said in a written statement Thursday.
Doctors who testified at the trial said Barisone, who didn't testify, was legally insane and suffered from delusions and paranoia, the Daily Record reported.
Barisone will be committed to the Ann Klein Forensic Center in Trenton for 30 days for evaluation before returning to court next month, the newspaper reported.
(Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.) | https://nj1015.com/michael-barisone-not-guilty-attempted-murder/ | 2022-04-14T23:15:40 | 0 | https://nj1015.com/michael-barisone-not-guilty-attempted-murder/ |
New NJ poll: How worried about COVID are people in 2022?
Concern about COVID continues to drop in New Jersey, according to a just-released poll.
Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute said the newest Monmouth University survey finds “34% of the state supports bringing back mask mandates and social distancing guidelines, 64% are opposed to that."
“If we go back just a few months ago that was more than 6 in 10 who actually supported bringing those back," he said.
Murray pointed out that support for re-instituting COVID guidelines has declined among every partisan group, but the largest drop has occurred among Democrats – from 89% who supported these measures in September to 50% who back them now.
A split on mandating workplace vaccines
He said the poll also finds 45% of respondents support requiring proof of COVID vaccination at work, while 52% oppose it, but there’s a big partisan divide on this issue.
— 72% of Democrats versus 17% of Republicans think there should be some sort of vaccine mandate in the workplace.
— 23% are concerned about a family member getting very ill from COVID. That’s down from about 4 in 10 who felt that way back in the fall, and 6 in 10 when the pandemic started.
I think I've had it
He noted about half of respondents indicated they either have had the virus or suspect they had it at some point during the pandemic, and that may one main reason why concern is going down.
He said when people were asked about booster shots “we found that 59% report that they’ve gotten a booster shot right now, that’s higher than what we found nationally, just 24% say that they’re not at all likely to get a booster shot.”
He noted 46% of Republicans say they’re not at all likely to get a booster, compared to 8% of Democrats.
Big support for Murphy
Murray said when Jersey residents were asked how Gov. Murphy has handled the pandemic “he’s getting 67% who say he’s done a good job, and that was an issue that we saw last year when he was running for reelection.”
He pointed out “the pandemic has been the one area where the governor has consistently gotten positive ratings.
While 2 out of 3 state residents approve of his handling the health crisis, 25% say he’s done a bad job.
The poll also finds 53% of respondents believe Jersey has done a better job than other states in dealing with the pandemic, 14% say it has done worse, and 31% believe Jersey has been about the same as other states.
The Monmouth University Poll was conducted by telephone from March 31 to April 4 with 802 New Jersey adults. The question results in this release have a margin of error of +/- 3.5 percentage points.
David Matthau is a reporter for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at david.matthau@townsquaremedia.com
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story. | https://nj1015.com/new-nj-poll-how-worried-about-covid-are-people-in-2022/ | 2022-04-14T23:15:46 | 0 | https://nj1015.com/new-nj-poll-how-worried-about-covid-are-people-in-2022/ |
NJ pause on gender ID school standards gets bipartisan support
TRENTON — Gender identity and sexual orientation as part of health and physical education lessons in public elementary schools remain a hotbed of controversy, even after Gov. Phil Murphy’s announcement that the state would reexamine the framework.
Lawmakers from both major political parties have called for a pause to ensure age appropriateness when it comes to actual classroom applications, as the standards were set to be enacted in time for the 2022-2023 school year.
"These standards were adopted in the spring of 2020 when everyone had a few other things on their minds. The silver lining of the release of the controversial curriculum is that everyone is paying attention," Sen. Declan O’Scanlon said in a written statement to New Jersey 101.5. "Let’s take advantage of that fact and work with parents to develop standards that work for all… especially our kids.”
O'Scanlon, R-Monmouth, continued “It should be made clear that the problem here is with curriculum and standards, not the LGBTQ community. Those attempting to weaponize this debate against this community must stop. Division and animosity help no one.”
Around the time of Murphy's announcement on Wednesday, a dozen Democratic South Jersey legislators issued a joint statement urging such a “thorough review.”
"We believe parents, healthcare professionals, educators, and boards of education must all be together at the table to help guide children through the next stages of their education, particularly after two years of difficult learning loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Governor Murphy should immediately conduct a thorough review of the health sciences curriculum framework to ensure that only age-appropriate lessons are being taught to our children.
It is critically important to ensure that school children receive a well-rounded, science-based education that also respects their natural stages of development.
If there are local boards of education that are acting beyond the scope of the intended curriculum, the Department of Education should act swiftly to bring them in line with acceptable standards."
The joint statement was signed by Senators Jim Beach, Fred Madden, Nilsa Cruz-Perez and Troy Singleton, as well as Assembly Majority Leader Lou Greenwald and Assembly members Pamela Lampitt, Herb Conaway, Carol Murphy, Paul Moriarty, Gabriela Mosquera, Bill Moen and Bill Spearman.
In exchanges on Twitter, O’Scanlon was also asked to condemn the frequent use of inflammatory words by some critics of any inclusion of gender identity issues in the classroom.
“I have done so…reiterate here again…those people accusing anyone of being a pedophile or “groomer” in the context of policy disagreement need to stop. Personal, unfounded attacks diminish value of legit debate and are cruel.I have problems w/curriculum. Firmly support LGBTQ community.”
Sen. Holly Shepisi, R-Bergen, said that a “disinformation alert” released by NJEA about a potential curriculum was “disingenuous, at best.”
In a written statement, she pointed to a couple of sample lesson plans offered for use by the non-profit “Advocates for Youth,” which have been widely shared on social media amid the heightened concern over how standards will be applied in classrooms.
Those sample lesson plans, which are not adopted at the state level, include a potential gender identity lesson for second graders, and a lesson on hormones, including hormone blockers, for fifth graders.
“Progressive groups have been trying to incorporate their far-left ideologies into our children’s curriculum for years,” Schepisi said.
Standards versus curriculum
Revised education standards include gender identity and sexual orientation as just one part of comprehensive health and physical education, depending on grade level.
Standards are set at the state level and define what is to be learned by the end of a school year.
Curriculum refers to the detailed plan for day-to-day teaching — it varies from district to district.
Grades are banded together in the plans as Kindergarten through second and grades third through fifth.
The next “bands” for lesson standards are grades 6 through 8 and high schoolers, grades 9-12.
Among the standards now being scrutinized, there is a suggestion for the youngest grades (K-2) to “discuss the range of ways people express their gender and how gender role stereotypes may limit behavior.”
For grades 3-5, the basic difference between sexual orientation and gender identity is mentioned in the state DOE standards, as revised in June 2020.
A day before Murphy's call for the standards to be reviewed, Sen. Vin Gopal, D-Monmouth, had said that a great deal of misinformation was being circulated and that state officials should step in to reassure and inform parents.
He said that the guidelines were meant to “highlight and promote diversity, equity, inclusion, tolerance and belonging, on topics including gender and sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, disabilities, religious tolerance.”
“I think it’s imperative on the Department of Education and the governor to take a pause, and provide clarity provide an easy one-pager, say exactly what’s in there, what the districts can and can’t do,” Gopal previously said.
With previous reporting by David Matthau and Rick Rickman
Erin Vogt is a reporter and anchor for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach her at erin.vogt@townsquaremedia.com
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story. | https://nj1015.com/nj-pause-on-gender-id-school-standards-gets-bipartisan-support/ | 2022-04-14T23:15:52 | 0 | https://nj1015.com/nj-pause-on-gender-id-school-standards-gets-bipartisan-support/ |
Legal recreational marijuana sales in NJ begin Thursday, April 21
TRENTON – Legal sales of adult-use, recreational marijuana will begin on April 21 in New Jersey.
It comes a day after 4/20 — the unofficial annual weed celebration day — but also 535 days after New Jersey voters legalized recreational marijuana in a referendum.
Gov. Phil Murphy had pledged as a candidate in 2017 that he’d legalize adult-use marijuana in his first hundred days in office. In the end, the first sales will happen on his 1,557th day in office.
Seven alternative treatment centers got initial approvals Monday from the Cannabis Regulatory Commission to begin adult-use sales at 13 existing medical dispensaries. The CRC says those licenses will be issued to allow sales to start next Thursday, with each ATC deciding their own start date.
“This is an exciting time for New Jersey,” said Jeff Brown, the CRC executive director. “New Jerseyans voted overwhelmingly to have access to adult-use cannabis and it is now here. I am very proud of the work the commission has done over the past year to open the market. We have been intentional and deliberate to do everything in our power to set the market on good footing to start.”
There are 23 medical dispensaries in the state currently, but not all of them will offer recreational sales, in some cases because the municipalities where they’re located haven’t approved.
The dispensaries that will have recreational sales are in Bellmawr, Bloomfield, Deptford, Edgewater Park, Egg Harbor Township, Elizabeth, Lawrence, Maplewood, Paterson, Phillipsburg, Rochelle Park, Vineland and Williamstown.
Existing medical dispensaries that will not have recreational sales, at least initially, are in Atlantic City, Bordentown, Cranbury, Eatontown, Montclair, Neptune, Paramus, Secaucus, Union and Woodbridge.
The CRC said the companies that will have recreational sales will be assessed on whether they meet certain social equity standards, such as diversity in hiring and management, support for community programs, the number of new and local businesses to which they provide technical support and the percentage of minority-owned vendors or suppliers with which they contract.
“We remain committed to social equity,” said Dianna Houenou, the CRC chairwoman. “We promised to build this market on the pillars of social equity and safety. Ultimately, we hope to see businesses and a workforce that reflect the diversity of the state, and local communities that are positively impacted by this new and growing industry.”
The CRC has approved 102 conditional licenses specific to the recreational marijuana business, all for cultivators and manufacturers. It continues to consider other license applications.
The state has also received at least 327 applications for marijuana retailers. They began to be accepted in March, and none have yet been approved.
Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story. | https://nj1015.com/when-do-legal-recreational-marijuana-sales-start-in-nj-thursday-april-21/ | 2022-04-14T23:15:59 | 1 | https://nj1015.com/when-do-legal-recreational-marijuana-sales-start-in-nj-thursday-april-21/ |
You can see the ‘Pink moon’ this weekend in NJ
The full Pink Moon happens this weekend and we have a suggestion for seeing it in style in South Jersey.
First, though, why is it called the Pink Moon, anyway? Is the moon really going to be changing color? Well...no.
The full moon in April has been coined the "Pink Moon" since it falls during the time of year when the moss pink wildflower blooms in North America.
According to the Farmer's Almanac, April's full moon has also been called the Sprouting Grass Moon, the Fish Moon, and the Egg Moon—all of which have ties to the season in which this moon arrives.
What does the full moon have to do with religious festivals at this time of year? More than you might have realized.
Passover began on the evening before the first full moon after the equinox (March 20, 2022) and Easter happens on the first Sunday following the first Full Moon after the equinox.
I mentioned a good suggestion for enjoying this month's full Pink Moon in all of its glory, and here's what I had in mind.
The Cape May Lighthouse will host a series of full moon climbs this spring up the lighthouse's original 199-step cast iron spiral stairway, and the first one is this Saturday, April 16th to see the April full Pink Moon.
Seeing a newly full moon while enjoying a nighttime view of the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean from 156 feet above both bodies of water sounds like a weekend highlight.
Adult tickets cost $12 and children ages 3-12 can attend for $8. Tickets can be purchased in-person Saturday night. | https://nj1015.com/you-can-see-the-pink-moon-this-weekend-in-nj/ | 2022-04-14T23:16:05 | 0 | https://nj1015.com/you-can-see-the-pink-moon-this-weekend-in-nj/ |
FDA authorizes first COVID-19 breath test
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted emergency use authorization to the first COVID-19 test that spots chemical compounds associated with the coronavirus in breath, the agency said Thursday.
Related video above: Booster shots in children ages 5 to 11 increase omicron antibodies, Pfizer says
The FDA said the InspectIR COVID-19 Breathalyzer, which is about the size of a piece of carry-on luggage, can be used in medical offices and mobile testing sites. It can give results in less than three minutes.
The system separates and identifies chemical mixtures to detect five compounds associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
A study of the InspectIR Breathalyzer found it accurately identified more than 91% of positive samples and nearly 100% of negative samples. Similar sensitivity was found in another study that focused on the omicron coronavirus variant. However, a positive result should be confirmed with a PCR test, the FDA said.
"Today's authorization is yet another example of the rapid innovation occurring with diagnostic tests for COVID-19," Dr. Jeff Shuren, director of the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health, said in a statement. "The FDA continues to support the development of novel COVID-19 tests with the goal of advancing technologies that can help address the current pandemic and better position the U.S. for the next public health emergency." | https://www.wisn.com/article/fda-authorizes-first-covid-breath-test/39730033 | 2022-04-14T23:17:13 | 1 | https://www.wisn.com/article/fda-authorizes-first-covid-breath-test/39730033 |
House panels probe government use of facial recognition software following security concerns
Two House committees have launched an investigation into the government's use of facial recognition software that was most recently used by the Internal Revenue Service, but stopped after complaints from lawmakers and privacy advocates.
Critics of the software said facial recognition databases could become a target for cyberthreats. They also expressed concerns about how the information could be used by other government agencies.
In a letter Thursday to Blake Hall, CEO of ID.me, the lawmakers requested documents and information related to the company’s contracts with 10 federal agencies and 30 state governments for use of its facial recognition technology.
“I am deeply concerned that the federal government lacks a clear plan, leaving agencies like the IRS to enter contracts worth tens of millions of dollars with questionable terms and oversight mechanisms," House oversight committee chair Carolyn Maloney, D-N.Y., said in a statement.
“Without clear rules of the road, agencies will continue to turn to companies like ID.me, which heightens the risk that essential services will not be equitably provided to Americans, or will be outright denied, and that their biometric data won’t be properly safeguarded."
The letter was signed by Maloney and Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C., who chairs the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. It was first reported by The Washington Post.
In an emailed statement, a company representative said “ID.me remains a highly effective solution available for government agencies that provides the most access for under-served Americans.”
“ID.me adheres to the federal guidelines for identity verification and login while providing services to public sector agencies. These standards have proved remarkably effective at preventing fraud. Four states have credited ID.me with preventing $210 billion in fraud,” the statement reads.
In February, the IRS said it would suspend its use of facial recognition technology to authenticate people who create online accounts after the practice was criticized by privacy advocates and lawmakers.
Lawmakers, including Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, D-Ore., called on the IRS to end its use of the ID.me software.
The agency is currently grappling with a worker shortage and an expanded workload processing tax filings and administering pandemic-related programs.
The tax day deadline is Monday. | https://www.wisn.com/article/house-panels-probe-government-use-of-facial-recognition/39728621 | 2022-04-14T23:17:23 | 1 | https://www.wisn.com/article/house-panels-probe-government-use-of-facial-recognition/39728621 |
Mortgage rates have hit 5% for the first time in more than a decade
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Updated: 5:59 PM CDT Apr 14, 2022
SOLEDAD: PRICES ARE RISING EVERYWHERE RIGHT NOW. AND IT’S HARD NOT TO WORRY WHEN WE SEE THE COSTS OF HOUSING, GAS, LUMBER, GROCERIES, AND TRANSPORTATION GOING UP AT A RATE MANY OF US HAVE NEVER EXPERIEND.CE THAT’S ESPECIALLY TRUE FOR GEN ZERS AND MILLENNIA.LS IRONICALLY, THEIR PANDICEM SPENDING IS DRIVING DEMAND FOR BIG TICKET ITEMS, PUSHING PRICES UP. LAST YEAR, THEY ACCOUNTED FOR MORE THAN HALF OF HOME MORTGAGE LOAN APPLICATIONS AND BOUGHT MORE NEW CARS THAN ANY OTHER AGE GRP.OU LINDA NAZARETH IS AN ECONOMIST AND A FUTURIST, FOCUSING ON POPULATION CHANGES. SHE IS THE HOST OF THE PODSTCA "WORK AND THE FUTURE." MILLENNIALS, H OOWLD AREHE T EXACTLY AND GEN ZERS? HOW OLD ARE THEY? LINDA: IF YOU LOOK AT MILLENNIALS, THEY WERE BORN SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE 1980S, SO THEY ARE WELL INTO, I SAY, MDLIDE E.AG IF WE LOOK AT GEN Z, THEY’RE THE GROUP THAT CAME AFTER THEM. WE’RE TALKING ABOUT TEENS, 20S, 30 SOMETHINGS, BASICALLY. SOLEDAD: WHY IS INFLATION HITTING THEM SO HARD? LINDA: WELL, FIRST OF ALL, IT’S A SURPRISE TO THEM THAT THERE IS INFLATION, BECAUSE THEY HAVEN’T REALLY GROWN UP WITH THIS. I MEAN, WE’VE HAD QUITE A WHILE WHERE PRICES HAVE BEEN PRETTY STABLE. INTEREST RATES HAVE BEEN PRETTY LOW. IT HASN’T REALLY BEEN AN ISS.UE AND NOW WE HAVE A VERY DIFFERENT SIATTUION. SO THEY’RE LEARNING WHAT THIS MEANS THAT THE PAYCHECK THAT THEY RELIED ON TO BUY CERTAIN GROCERY BASKET AND PAY FOR THIS MORTGAGE PAYMENT ISN’T GOING AS R.FA AND THAT’A SHS OCK. THEY’RE AT THE PART OF THEIR LIFE WHERE THEY’RE ACQUIRING THIN.GS SO IT IS HITTING THEM FAIRLY HARD. SOLEDAD: I MEAN, THEY’RE KIND OF PIVOTAL IN WHAT DRIVES THE ECONOMY, RIGHT? THE MILLENNIALS. LINDA: YEAH, THEY’RE CERTAINLY THE LARGEST PART OF THE LABOR FORCE, IF YOU LOOK AT NORTH AMERICA AND A LOT OF THE WLDOR RIGHT NOW, WE’RE TALKING ABOUT THE PEOPLE WHO ARE TAKING THE ENTRY LEVEL JOBS, OBPRABLY TAKING THE MANAGEMENT JOBS THAT ARE COMING OPEN AND THEY WILL BE AN INCREASINGLY LARGE PART OF THE LABOR FORCE. SO YOU KNOW YOU HAVE TO LOOK AT HOW THEY ACT IN TERMS OF BEING ECONOMIC AGENTS, IN TERMS OF THEIR ACTIONS THAT’S GOING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO EVERYTHING. SOLEDAD: WE’VE HEARD ALL ABOUT THE GREAT RESIGNATION, RIG?HT AND PEOPLE HOPPING TO NEW OPPORTUNITIES. DOES THAT MEAN TT HAWAGES ARE ALSOIS RING AS PRICES CREEP UP AS WELL? LINDA: THEY ARE RISING, BUT THERE’S A GAP BETWEEN THE TW IO, MEAN, WE’RE LOOKING PROBABLY TWO PERCENTAGE POINTS BETWN EETHE DIFFERENCE IN PRICE PRICES AND THE WAGE INCREASES, ANITD ANCHGES MONTH TO MONTH, TBU THEY’RE CERTAINLY NOT EQUAL. BUT IT WILL BE AN INTERESTING YEAR BECAUSE WE ARE SEEING INTEREST RAT GESOING HIGHER, THAT WILL SLOW THE ECONOMY SOMEWHAT. SOLEDAD: CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE MECHANISM THAT’S MAKING PRICES RI?SE LINDA: ONE THING IS THAT INTEREST RATES HAVE BEEN LOW FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME, AND THERE WAS A REASON FOR THAT POST 2010. AND THE ECONOMY WAS SLOWER AND THEN WE HAD THE PANDEMIC, WHHIC MEANT THAT WE REALLY HADO T RRWOY ABOUT ECONOMIC GROWTH. IT WAS LIKE THE ECONOMY SWA GRINDING TO A HALT. OF COURSE, THE FEDERAL RESERVE KEPT INTEREST RATES VERY LOW AND THAT TENDS TO GIVE RISTOE RISING PRICES. WE CAN LEAVE RATES LOW BECAUSE THERE’S ALL THIS SLACK IN THE ECONOMY BECAUSE OF THE PANDEMIC. WE HAD A LOT OF E THWORLD COMING BACK ACTUALLY PRETTY NICELY, WHICH IS THE FINE. IT BID PRICES UP FOR THINGS LIKE COMMODITIES, OIL AND THE LIKE. AND THEN YOU HAD THE SUPPLY CHAIN ISSUES, NOW WE HAVE THIS EXTRA CONFLICT IN RUSSIA, UKRAINE, WHICH IS ALSO SENDING COMMODITY PRICES HIGHER, OIL PRICES HIGR.HE SO IT’S ALL REALLYIN KD OF A PERFECT STORM. SOLEDAD: HOW DOES ALL OF THIS IMPACT INCOME INEQUALITY? LINDA: IF YOU LOOK AT JOBS AND YOU LOOK AT WHO IS ABLE TO KEEP WORKING AND KEEP MAKING MORE MONEY, IT WAS VERY MUCH PEOPLE WITH MORE EDUCATION, WITH PROBABLY MORE ADVANTAGES GOING .IN PEOPLE WHO WERE LESS ADVANTAD,GE DEFINITELY LOST GROUND. NOBODY LIKES HAVING IT COST MORE TO FILL UP THEIR CAR. SOME GROUPS CAN REALLY BEAITR BETTER WITHOUT HAVING THEIR FOOD BUDGET IMPACTED AND WE’RE GOING TO SEE THE IMPACT OF THIS OVER THE NEXT YEAR OR SO. SOLEDAD: LINDA NAZARETH, NICE TO TALK TO YOU.
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Mortgage rates have hit 5% for the first time in more than a decade
Mortgage rates rose again this week, reaching 5% for the first time in over a decade.The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 5% in the week ending April 14, up from 4.72% the week before, according to Freddie Mac. That's the highest since 2010.Rapidly rising rates, along with sky-high home prices and rapid inflation continue to push homeownership out of reach for many Americans, according to Sam Khater, Freddie Mac's chief economist."This week, mortgage rates averaged 5% for the first time in over a decade," said Khater. "As Americans contend with historically high inflation, the combination of rising mortgage rates, elevated home prices and tight inventory are making the pursuit of homeownership the most expensive in a generation."The sticker shock is particularly painful for first-time homebuyers, said George Ratiu, a senior economist and manager of economic research at Realtor.com. He noted that the monthly mortgage payment for a median-priced home is now $530 more than a year ago, adding more than $6,300 to a homeowner's annual budget. Rising inflation and record-high rents are also weighing on prospective homebuyers, he said."Higher rents are encouraging many tenants to take a second look at buying a home, especially in cities where a mortgage payment may be on par or lower than monthly rent," he said. "On the other hand, the for-sale market continues to be undersupplied, making it difficult to find an affordable home."The increase comes after the Federal Reserve confirmed last week that it's ready to raise interest rates at a faster pace in an effort to "aggressively" combat inflation, said Zillow's vice president of capital Markets Paul Thomas.Minutes from the central bank's March meeting released last week suggested the Fed is planning several 50-basis-point rate hikes this year."The Federal Reserve's plan for reducing its balance sheet — its holdings of U.S. Treasuries and mortgage-backed securities — was slightly more aggressive than some market participants expected," Thomas said.
Mortgage rates rose again this week, reaching 5% for the first time in over a decade.
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 5% in the week ending April 14, up from 4.72% the week before, according to Freddie Mac. That's the highest since 2010.
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Rapidly rising rates, along with sky-high home prices and rapid inflation continue to push homeownership out of reach for many Americans, according to Sam Khater, Freddie Mac's chief economist.
"This week, mortgage rates averaged 5% for the first time in over a decade," said Khater. "As Americans contend with historically high inflation, the combination of rising mortgage rates, elevated home prices and tight inventory are making the pursuit of homeownership the most expensive in a generation."
The sticker shock is particularly painful for first-time homebuyers, said George Ratiu, a senior economist and manager of economic research at Realtor.com. He noted that the monthly mortgage payment for a median-priced home is now $530 more than a year ago, adding more than $6,300 to a homeowner's annual budget.
Rising inflation and record-high rents are also weighing on prospective homebuyers, he said.
"Higher rents are encouraging many tenants to take a second look at buying a home, especially in cities where a mortgage payment may be on par or lower than monthly rent," he said. "On the other hand, the for-sale market continues to be undersupplied, making it difficult to find an affordable home."
The increase comes after the Federal Reserve confirmed last week that it's ready to raise interest rates at a faster pace in an effort to "aggressively" combat inflation, said Zillow's vice president of capital Markets Paul Thomas.
Minutes from the central bank's March meeting released last week suggested the Fed is planning several 50-basis-point rate hikes this year.
"The Federal Reserve's plan for reducing its balance sheet — its holdings of U.S. Treasuries and mortgage-backed securities — was slightly more aggressive than some market participants expected," Thomas said. | https://www.wisn.com/article/mortgage-rates-hit-5-percent/39729944 | 2022-04-14T23:17:33 | 0 | https://www.wisn.com/article/mortgage-rates-hit-5-percent/39729944 |
Toyota recalls 460,000 vehicles due to software problem
Related video above: Rossen Reports: Check used cars for this before buying
Toyota is recalling about 460,000 vehicles in the U.S. to fix a software problem that can inadvertently disable the electronic stability control system.
In a news release, the company says that when the vehicles are restarted, in rare cases the software may not automatically switch the system into the "on" mode. That can disable the system, which uses a computer to individually brake wheels to help drivers keep control.
The recall covers vehicles from the 2020 to 2022 model years including the Toyota brand's Venza, Mirai, RAV4 Hybrid, RAV4 Prime, Sienna Hybrid, and Highlander Hybrid. Also included are the LS500h, LX600, NX350h, and NX450h-plus from the Lexus luxury brand.
Dealers will update the software on the skid control computer to fix the problem. Owners will be notified by mid-June. | https://www.wisn.com/article/toyota-recalls-460000-vehicles-due-to-software-problem/39729078 | 2022-04-14T23:17:43 | 0 | https://www.wisn.com/article/toyota-recalls-460000-vehicles-due-to-software-problem/39729078 |
Why Dolby Atmos-enabled sound bars are still a good choice
While sound bars are better than integrated TV speakers, they haven’t always lived up to their reputation. With Dolby Atmos becoming increasingly common, it’s worth revisiting sound bars to see how much better they are than they used to be. A lot of them are on sale right now, so now’s a great time to get one.
We sat down with resident tech expert Jaime Vazquez to get his thoughts on how and why a Dolby Atmos sound bar is a good investment right now with the current discounts.
What is Dolby Atmos?
Dolby Atmos is a proprietary audio protocol designed for use with home theater systems, such as 7.1-channel surround sound. The protocol separates an audio track into separate streams similar to traditional surround sound. It also adds height channels and data that tells each stream which direction it’s supposed to come from.
Typically, you need satellite speakers mounted above viewers’ heads to take advantage of Dolby Atmos. As Vazquez noted, “The speaker knows where all the other speakers are. You have a much more customized experience because you’re getting things relative to your listening space, as opposed to hoping that the soundtrack matches your room.”
Instead of overhead speakers, Atmos-enabled sound bars leverage multiple drivers pointed in different directions to simulate spatial audio. Vazquez continued, “The big deal with sound bars now is that they got a lot better at bouncing sound around a room. They now are really good at faking surround sound.”
Why Dolby Atmos is worth it
For a few years, Dolby Atmos seemed like more of a marketing stunt than a useful home theater technology. This was largely because media, such as movies and TV shows, must be specifically mastered to support the protocol.
According to Vazquez, “It used to be that Atmos was a feature that was primarily found on Blu-ray discs and the Apple TV. But, the deal is now that if you have the gear, you can log into your Netflix, HBO Max or Paramount+ and give you the surround-sound experience.”
Previously, Dolby Atmos was more for early adopter tech enthusiasts. Now, it’s more worthwhile to be able to play back Dolby Atmos content because of the streaming services that support it. There’s not a single, specific reason why Dolby Atmos sound bars are priced so well right now. Overall, manufacturers are taking advantage of the standard’s increased adoption and offering a wider range of Dolby Atmos sound bars, and they are putting older and more basic models on sale.
How Dolby Atmos sound bars work
Affordable sound bars usually have just two or three full-range speakers, while a quality Dolby Atmos-enabled model will have more. “Typically, a Dolby Atmos sound bar has speakers firing in all directions to mimic the surround-sound effect. Whereas if you’re looking at a 2.1- or a 3.1-channel model, that’s just stereo, not surround,” Vazquez said.
Additionally, acoustic refinements and increased driver efficiency have led to better sound quality, especially in the low end. To sum it up, Vazquez said, “sound bars have hit the sweet spot of reliably being able to produce quality surround effects at an affordable price.”
How to pick a Dolby Atmos sound bar
Vazquez recommends a sound bar that comes with additional satellite speakers. At the top of the line, sound bar setups like the Samsung HW-Q950A boast several drivers in the front in addition to full-range satellites and a powerful subwoofer. The Vizio M512a-H6 costs considerably less, is outfitted with 11 speakers in total and approaches full-on surround sound systems in performance.
However, Vazquez advises caution when looking for an especially affordable solution. “There’s a big gap between budget-friendly and high-quality sound bars,” he said, “and some budget models give the whole category a bad name.” There are exceptions. The TCL Alto 8i delivers decent simulated spatial audio at a low price.
Sound bar features to consider
- Number of inputs: “If you’re a gamer or have multiple devices to plug in, you’ll need more than one input into the sound bar,” Vazquez noted.
- Audio/video connections: Many sound bars let you route the audio and video connection directly through the unit itself, but not all of them do. For some, you’ll need to use the audio return channel function to drive the sound bar. Make sure that your TV supports ARC or eARC before buying a sound bar that doesn’t allow for direct audio input.
- HDR pass-through: If your sound bar does accept direct connections, make sure it supports HDR10 or, ideally, Dolby Vision pass-through to take advantage of modern dynamic contrast.
- Wireless subwoofer: You can’t get a cinematic experience without a dedicated sub.
- Built-in apps: Premium sound bars often include features that tailor the output to the shape of the room, while others have built-in streaming platforms. The former is a great way to improve the audio experience, but most users won’t need the latter.
Best Dolby Atmos sound bars
It’s a high-end sound bar that sounds better than many full-featured surround-sound systems. Sold by Amazon
With two satellites, a subwoofer and consistently accurate sound, this midrange Vizio model is the perfect blend of price and performance. Sold by Amazon
There aren’t any other sound bars in its price range that perform as well. Sold by Amazon
It is more affordable than most and offers particularly impressive bass, although it doesn’t have much in the way of sound enhancement or room correction features. Sold by Amazon
Seven internal drivers help this moderately priced option deliver powerful simulated surround sound without the inconvenience of installing satellite speakers. 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://fox59.com/reviews/as-dolby-atmos-sound-bars-are-placed-on-deep-discount-is-it-worth-getting-one-now/ | 2022-04-14T23:17:45 | 0 | https://fox59.com/reviews/as-dolby-atmos-sound-bars-are-placed-on-deep-discount-is-it-worth-getting-one-now/ |
Which electric nail file for thick toenails is best?
Electric nail files, also known as electric nail drills, are the machines most frequently used in salons on both fingernails and toenails. For thick toenails, whether they’re naturally thick or coated in thick polish, you’ll need an electric file with enough power behind it. You should also look for one that includes plenty of bits.
The best electric nail file for thick toenails is the Makartt Electric Nail File. It has more than enough power to handle anything thick and comes with a variety of bits.
What to know before you buy an electric nail file for thick toenails
Power
An electric nail file’s power is measured in revolutions per minute. Most electric files have maximum RPMs between 10,000-30,000, though a few can go faster. Most natural nails can be comfortably filed with 15,000 rpm, but thick natural nails might be better served with 20,000 rpm. If you’re planning to file nails thick from acrylic polish, you’ll need 25,000-30,000 RPMs.
Bits
In order to focus the power of your electric nail file, you’ll need drill bits. Most electric files include a handful to get you started, but you can always buy any bit you may need separately — just be aware that not all bits fit all files. For simple filing, all you need is a bit that holds disposable sanding bands. For trimming and shaping, you’ll need natural-nail and carbide bits for natural and acrylic-coated nails, respectively. Under-nail and pedicure bits are also good choices.
Noise
Drills make noise, but that doesn’t mean an electric nail file has to make too much. Cheap drills have no noise-dampening and can be quite loud. This may not bother you if you’re trimming your own nails. However, if you need to trim clients’ nails, it’s best for their experience if you choose a noise-dampened drill.
What to look for in a quality electric nail file for thick toenails
Hands-free control
If you’re setting out to file your friend’s or client’s toenails, a hands-free control system will make it much easier and faster to finish the task. These typically take the form of foot pedals that can turn the bit off and on and change the direction the drill spins. Most still require hands-on action to alter the speed.
Vibration dampening
When setting out to file thick toenails, you don’t just file one. You file all 10. Cheap electric nail file motors cause the drill to noticeably vibrate, which can make long trimming sessions deeply uncomfortable. Look for a file with a vibration-dampened motor to avoid this issue.
How much you can expect to spend on an electric nail file for thick toenails
Electric nail files for thick toenails need a little more power behind them, so you’ll likely need to spend at least $20-$30. Better options with more bits usually cost $50-$100, while the best options cost $100-$200.
Electric nail file for thick toenails FAQ
Are electric nail files for thick toenails safe?
A. Yes, though the power electric nail files for thick toenails need to have can easily cause damage if you use the file improperly. The first step is to carefully read all use and safety instructions. Then, start cleaning your toenails or fingernails using the lowest possible speed until you feel comfortable using it. Keep increasing the speed little by little in order to get the hang of each speed setting.
How do I maintain an electric nail file for thick toenails?
A. You need to maintain the drill and the bits using separate processes. The drill shouldn’t come in contact with any water. To clean the drill, you’ll need to brush it off or blast it with a can of compressed air. The bits will need to be disinfected, not just cleaned. Start by scrubbing them while in warm soapy water, then let them soak in a metal-safe disinfecting solution for at least 20 minutes. Once done, dry them thoroughly before storing.
What’s the best electric nail file for thick toenails to buy?
Top electric nail file for thick toenails
What you need to know: This is powerful and reasonably priced.
What you’ll love: It has speeds that can reach up to 30,000 rpm, which is powerful enough to file away even tough acrylic nails. Additionally, it has forward and reverse spin modes. It has a hands-free foot switch and includes several drill bits and 30 sanding bands.
What you should consider: A few consumers had issues with overheating — in rare cases, it became hot enough to melt. Others had issues with the motor giving out in a few months.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top electric nail file for thick toenails for the money
What you need to know: This has just enough power for occasional toenail maintenance.
What you’ll love: It comes packed with accessories, including six drill bits, 30 sanding belts and a pair of nail clippers. The drill has speeds that can reach up to 20,000 rpm and can rotate forward or backward. It comes in silver and green.
What you should consider: A few consumers didn’t receive all the pieces it’s supposed to include. The 20,000 rpm maximum speed setting can’t handle acrylic-covered toenails.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Imene Portable Professional Nail Drill
What you need to know: This drill is perfect for professional use but may be too strong for at-home pedicures.
What you’ll love: It has a brushless vibration- and noise-dampened motor with variable speeds that can spin in either direction and can reach up to 35,000 rpm. It’s surprisingly small and rechargeable, making it easy to take on the go. It includes six drill bits and six sanding bands.
What you should consider: It’s expensive — too expensive for only occasional use. A few consumers had difficulty understanding the instructions. Few third-party drill bits are compatible.
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://fox59.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/foot-care-br/best-electric-nail-file-for-thick-toenails/ | 2022-04-14T23:17:51 | 1 | https://fox59.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/foot-care-br/best-electric-nail-file-for-thick-toenails/ |
The Milwaukee County Zoo nursed the turtle back to health and discovered a surprising detail.
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Updated: 6:00 PM CDT Apr 14, 2022
Turtle back home after community center attack
The Milwaukee County Zoo nursed the turtle back to health and discovered a surprising detail.
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Updated: 6:00 PM CDT Apr 14, 2022
mhm. Are you so happy to see her? So Jimmy King to us February 16. There's some vandalism at center. Um, pretty center and had a cracked shell. We called the top of the carapace. And then also had a severed spine, luckily for turtles, they've seemed to regenerate those kind very well. And he is swimming. He is eating, he is acting totally this has a seal on it. But eventually the shallow will remind. Okay. And you won't even be able to see that little and these will fall off. This is epoxy. Um, some hooks that we got at a fabric shop and then we twisted some stainless steel wire so you can see a little rusting there. But that's not. You can go in the water. Yes. It's a girl as she while she was here. So now we're calling her jimmy Lien. Yeah. Male turtles have a lot longer fingernails. They wave to attract the girls and also a longer tail and a curved bottom. Um shop. So plastic. So anyway, we're really excited to be giving him back to. You appreciate you doing what you did to get her back first to find out that she was a girl. She's been at the building since I've been there. So she is a staple in their center. She's very active. We'll miss her, definitely. You can come by and visit any time I want to. I've heard so much about it. This is for me and okay. Most circumstances right? Mm hmm. So, yeah, Unfortunately, due to the large animal collection we have here. Um, we typically aren't able to treat animals from outside institutions. However, we were very lucky to be able to partner with another community program in order to get occurred. Yeah. Now we gotta get used to seeing her. I still say it houses. Yeah, it was pretty severe. You can see the cracks on his shell. Um They extended from here to there and here to here and it went across his vertebra. So his verbal actually severed and the spinal cord was set. So in any person that would mean they would become a paraplegic. Um turtles are able to regenerate some of their nerves and were able he was able to regenerate at first he wasn't really using his hind limbs. Now he's using them fully. Um they are reptiles and so they do tend to he'll their metabolism is much slower. They tend to heal much more slowly. So typically in a person the bone which this um shell is made out of would be Pretty much healed in about 6-8 weeks where we can take the casting. This is going to take a little bit longer but it is sealed so jimmy can go back in the water and she epoxy that's holding these hooks on will follow. They'll just shut off the top of the shell and not cause an issue. But we don't want to create trauma by crying. Yes. Well, I think it's more finding out. She's a girl instead of a boy that's going to have fun to reflect on the staff. But no, she's she's doing 100% great. So we'll continue to monitor her and get updates from D. And um, we're just really excited that she gets to go home. Yeah. Called jimmy. You don't story consider the injury really. We had we had her at the same for and she was about to before, so I'm gonna say she's about so this is kind of a creative way to it is other people sometimes you screws, but you have to stabilize the just like in broken bones. So you have to stabilize the shell together and we typically don't do shell repair on turtles here. We just don't have the yes, potential for them to get injured. Usually it's by a car hitting them or something like that. And um, so a lot of wildlife rehabbers have more creative ways to deal with. So we should be able to maybe she's not in a while. Well, I mean, she's not, she's not in laying mode right now. She's in healing mode. So typically all their energy goes into healing. Um, but she is, her follicles are not large right now. So she would have been, she may potentially in the future that's not gonna happen because the Children was in there would have reigned as lulu. So, so anyway, we're just, she's a rhetoric slider. Yeah, but extra special to the center their names and titles. You can just see your I am d I'm the director of the doctor he said and my name's dr Pamela go vet. P A M E L A G O V E T T. And I am the senior staff veterinarian America Milwaukee. Is it very sweet to see jimmy? We have put a lot of effort into him and my one of my veterinary technicians who has a special love of reptiles and brought in some goldfish to feed him when he was eating on his own and also brought in some perch filets. Now that's not what we normally feed turtles long term because it's lacking in a lot of vitamins and calcium. But ah this is she she's eating a normal diet so we have to diet in that bag right over there. You and I think we're ready to go. Yes, you can put her down because of current. Yeah. And for that reason to protect, protect her as long as she's here sure mike over simple. What's that the same. And so it's just about she calls the change I think the biggest thing. Yes, I'm happy to have her back but just as happy have are still present because this that put us here today. And so my name's focused right now is following his case and to continue to make sure that I really care about this turtle. I always have. I'm glad that stays on everything they could to figure out back to us but she still terribly the hair she's not making I'm so thankful. I just I that night we were on the phone trying to call a lot of places and it was one of the, you see it, hey wait, let me call somebody else there there and they caught and then so I truly actually appreciate what, you know, what's her new name. Jimmy lin because he is a she so I'm probably still gonna call her Jimmy. I've been calling him Jimmy for 12 years so and we're probably still gonna say he from there every now and again is doing Y. N. N. Yeah, definitely. Yeah. J. I M M. E. Now L. Y. M. And instead of J. I. M. M. Y. So she don't care. She I think she could be happy. She's got a brand new tank, a brand new home. We're gonna have a partner in the tank. So we're gonna watch her all day today and all night tonight to see if they get along and if they don't get along the other terminals name is lulu lulu got to go because the tank actually belongs to jimmy. So somewhere else. So You're going home. Little one you see jimmy and then over time you just get a little video. She likes to walk. That is good because breaking them touch her more than I do so they can definitely take around and let her walk that. Yeah, like I don't want to go the fact that when she first got hurt, she wouldn't pull her head out of the shell. He wouldn't pull her limbs out. She was all tight and she wouldn't move. And the sierra like this now is massive. Very well. Just, you know, just really did do something to me. And I was like, okay, I think I'm attached to the dark. So you didn't think she was gonna make it, You know, once they told me that her spine because I didn't know the history. So once they told me that her spine was brought severe and that the shell was damaged so badly, I don't think that she could come back because my belief was do that much damage to the spine. She can't take care of herself because she can't swim and she can't. So then I was waiting for the phone call to say jimmy. So this is definitely better. Yeah. You get out of here mm hmm. Double slide. Yeah. I mean they can grip bigger and they grow out over time. Like they start out almost like tiny half dollar. But it's with the nutrition nutrition habitat. That should be Sure if it's the # one. Thank you. There you go. What happened? And she still, Oh yeah. Yeah. She's been trucking around the back and then closer to the back. We're giving it to find out how she does with me. I can't wait for the call. Yeah, I'm gonna send you a couple of pictures. Do they have to get used to each other. Lulu was donated from the community. The family that donated her. She had been in the tank for like 10 years with another turtle. That turtle passed away and they thought that she would be good to be in the tank with jenny. And I thought that that was a good idea at first until I realized, well, Lulu's gonna take somebody for 12 years. Jim has been entertained by herself. So we're gonna see how it works. So, but if they're not going to work out, they'll fight right away and then we'll just have to make some changes and we're prepared to make those. Yeah, well we're prepared. We're prepared to make those changes if necessary to put on vampires. But lulu definitely wants to be in the tank with somebody because she watches like turtle season. I mean they are social creatures. You'll see them in the wild all on a log basking in the sun together. But what makes two animals get along? What makes two people get along? I just thought there Hungarian anyway, they didn't like it or whatever. We have, we have, we have three smaller ready and we had three of them in a tank together. one of them just, no, I wanted the whole tank, which is running and snapping at the other one. So we had to put her, there's some, we're going to eventually try it again to see if it works. But the other turtles, yes. Sometimes they get along some contracts attributed to some of them must have some kind of human. Sometimes I get along with sometimes. Mhm. Yeah. Okay. Friends.
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Turtle back home after community center attack
The Milwaukee County Zoo nursed the turtle back to health and discovered a surprising detail.
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Updated: 6:00 PM CDT Apr 14, 2022
A beloved turtle has returned to the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center.Jimmy was injured in February when a man smashed doors, fish tanks, and trophy cases inside the center near 14th and Vliet.The attack left the turtle bloodied with a broken spine.For the last two months, Jimmy's been getting treated at the Milwaukee County Zoo."I never thought of Jimmy not being there," said community center director Dee McCollum. "You never know how attached you are to something that's not human until it happens."While the zoo took care of the turtle, it made an interesting discovery -- Jimmy is actually a girl.She's now been renamed, Jimmy Lynn.The center has reopened and increased its security since the attack.
MILWAUKEE —
A beloved turtle has returned to the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center.
The attack left the turtle bloodied with a broken spine.
For the last two months, Jimmy's been getting treated at the Milwaukee County Zoo.
"I never thought of Jimmy not being there," said community center director Dee McCollum. "You never know how attached you are to something that's not human until it happens."
While the zoo took care of the turtle, it made an interesting discovery -- Jimmy is actually a girl.
She's now been renamed, Jimmy Lynn.
The center has reopened and increased its security since the attack. | https://www.wisn.com/article/turtle-back-home-after-community-center-attack/39729919 | 2022-04-14T23:17:53 | 1 | https://www.wisn.com/article/turtle-back-home-after-community-center-attack/39729919 |
Christina Rodriguez
Created: April 14, 2022 02:59 PM
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The New Mexico Department of Health reported 10 additional COVID-19-related deaths and 176 new COVID-19 cases Thursday.
There are currently 60 individuals hospitalized in New Mexico with COVID-19.
The NMDOH has modified its daily reporting of COVID-19 data. Their data dashboard no longer includes a daily breakdown of new cases and deaths in each county.
Hospitalizations
Deaths
Cases
Tests
For more information, click here.
Copyright 2022 - KOB-TV LLC, A Hubbard Broadcasting Company | https://www.kob.com/albuquerque-news/new-mexico-covid-19-update-10-new-deaths-60-hospitalizations-176-cases/6446550/?cat=500 | 2022-04-14T23:17:53 | 0 | https://www.kob.com/albuquerque-news/new-mexico-covid-19-update-10-new-deaths-60-hospitalizations-176-cases/6446550/?cat=500 |
Which Valentino perfume is best?
Valentino has been one of the preferred fashion and fragrance brands of the rich and famous for more than a few decades. Their perfume is known for exuding elegance and opulence. Introduced for the first time in 1978, Valentino’s perfume line has grown to include numerous enticing concoctions that encompass a variety of fragrance profiles, from sweet and spicy to fruity and sour.
A good place to start is by checking out Valentino Donna Born In Roma Eau de Parfum, a pretty floral fragrance with notes of jasmine, blackcurrant and bourbon vanilla.
What to know before you buy a bottle of Valentino perfume
Perfume concentration
Valentino makes three concentrations of perfume: eau de toilette, eau de parfum and parfum.
- Eau de toilette: This is the weakest of the three but it still carries quite a bit of scent. With 10%-15% pure perfume oils, a high-quality eau de toilette can be intense and last all day.
- Eau de parfum: This is a stronger, longer-lasting fragrance, containing 15%-20% pure perfume oils.
- Parfum: This is the strongest concentration, with between 20%-40% perfume oils. Parfum is also the most expensive because perfume oil is the priciest ingredient in any fragrance.
What to look for in a quality Valentino perfume
Uniqueness
Valentino womenswear, which includes their perfumes, is designed around the philosophy that a “woman must cause heads to turn when she enters a room.” A clear indicator that a perfume adheres to this principle is the extent to which it smells completely one of a kind. The best Valentino perfume will excite your nose and leave a memorable impression on all those around you. This uniqueness is exactly why Valentino fragrances are prized by so many perfume connoisseurs.
Bottle design
Valentino’s partner, both in business and life, Giancarlo Giammetti, was a professional Italian architect at the time of their meeting. Because of this, Valentino perfume bottles have an especially provocative architectural feel and design. Be on the lookout for eye-catching bottles that feature Valentino’s signature three-dimensional spike or subtly tinted glass. These details allow each perfume bottle to serve as a display piece all on its own — even after the perfume is gone.
How much you can expect to spend on Valentino perfume
Expect to spend between $50-$90 for small- and medium-sized bottles of Valentino perfume and between $120-$150 for larger bottles.
Valentino perfume FAQ
Where should I apply my new Valentino perfume?
A. Where you choose to apply your perfume is really a matter of preference. However, there are certain areas you can spray that will naturally increase or decrease the intensity and longevity of your perfume. If you want your scent to smell more intense and last longer, spray it onto areas that are naturally warm and experience friction, such as the inner elbows, neck and the backs of your knees.
Can Valentino perfume expire?
A. Yes, once a bottle of perfume has been opened, it can last an average of two years, sometimes longer if you keep it in a cool area out of direct sunlight. You can tell that the perfume has gone bad if it no longer smells as it should or appears discolored.
What’s the best Valentino perfume to buy?
Top Valentino perfume
Valentino Donna Born In Roma Eau De Parfum
What you need to know: Encapsulated in a stunning studded bottle, this pink perfume has rich floral notes and an invitingly feminine scent profile.
What you’ll love: This scent is sophisticated, boasting top notes of bergamot and jasmine that enliven the senses, middle notes of Bulgarian rose and blackcurrant and base notes of warm vanilla and beechwood. This versatile perfume is bold and sensual and was inspired by the edgy yet elegant style of the nightlife scene in Rome.
What you should consider: Although this is an Eau de parfum, the sweetness of the initial scent doesn’t last as long as some wearers would have liked.
Where to buy: Sold by Sephora, Kohl’s and Ulta Beauty
Top Valentino perfume for the money
Valentino Voce Viva Eau De Parfum
What you need to know: If you’re in the market for a subtle yet long-lasting perfume with a unique scent profile and premium ingredients, look no further than Voce Viva.
What you’ll love: The initial scent profile contains robust top notes of bergamot, mandarin and orange blossom, which lend this perfume a distinct sense of citrus-powered awareness. These top notes eventually give way to heart notes gardenia and crystal moss accord, which is a rare ingredient that gives this perfume a sweet subtlety. Finally, the heart notes fade and the base notes of vanilla and tonka bean settle in.
What you should consider: Some wearers feel that the unique combination of ingredients give it a polarizing scent profile.
Where to buy: Sold by Sephora, Kohl’s, Macy’s, Amazon and Ulta Beauty
Worth checking out
Valentino Donna Yellow Dream Eau De Parfum
What you need to know: One of Valentino’s most popular scents, Donna Yellow Dream has a luxurious scent profile that includes complementary contrasts, such as vibrant florals and sweet musk.
What you’ll love: Introduced in 2021, this is one of Valentino’s newest additions to its perfume line, and as such, it’s properly modern. With top notes of Italian lemon, middle notes of luscious rose petal and base notes of white musk, this perfume is both light and breezy as well as mysterious and sensual.
What you should consider: Some wearers report that this perfume isn’t strong enough given the fact that it’s an Eau de parfum.
Where to buy: Sold by Sephora, Kohl’s and Ulta Beauty
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William Briskin 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://fox59.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/fragrance-br/the-best-valentino-perfume/ | 2022-04-14T23:17:58 | 1 | https://fox59.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/fragrance-br/the-best-valentino-perfume/ |
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The Associated Press
Updated: April 14, 2022 03:44 PM
Created: April 14, 2022 10:59 AM
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The New Mexico Supreme Court has a new chief justice who will oversee the administration of the judiciary and act as an advocate for state courts at the legislature on budgetary and other matters.
Shannon Bacon was sworn in Wednesday to a two-year term as chief justice, a post that also involves coordination with the State Bar that sets professional standards for attorneys.
Bacon was appointed by Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham in 2019 and won the statewide election in 2020. She previously served nine years as a state district judge in the Albuquerque-based 2nd Judicial District.
Bacon already leads several high-court initiatives including a review of issues related to race and bias in the state’s justice system and efforts to promote diversity among judges and judicial employees. And she is active in efforts to improve eviction and foreclosure programs and reform the state's guardianship and conservatorship.
Bacon's years on the Supreme Court have been marked by webcast proceedings amid the COVID-19 pandemic, support for the governor's authority to impose sanctions under emergency health orders and an opinion upholding the Legislature's spending authority over federal pandemic aid.
The justice was a dissenting voice in a Supreme Court decision allowing the Legislature to convene without in-person public access to the Capitol building in 2021.
(Copyright 2022 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) | https://www.kob.com/albuquerque-news/new-mexico-swears-in-shannon-bacon-as-chief-justice/6446336/?cat=500 | 2022-04-14T23:17:59 | 0 | https://www.kob.com/albuquerque-news/new-mexico-swears-in-shannon-bacon-as-chief-justice/6446336/?cat=500 |
New Mexico wildfire claims lives of elderly couple attempting to evacuate
The remains of a New Mexico couple were found near their burned home as a wind-driven wildfire charred more than 200 residences on the edge of a mountain community in the southern part of the state.
Fire crews on Thursday pointed to a break in what has been a steady stream of relentless gusts as their chance to make headway against the deadly wildfire, which is believed to have killed the two people, Ruidoso spokesperson Kerry Gladden said Thursday.
Video above: Home destroyed in New Mexico wildfires
Police investigators and firefighters found the older couple’s remains Wednesday afternoon after family members notified Ruidoso police that the two had tried to evacuate but were unaccounted for.
The remains were found near the home but not in it, and no additional information was immediately available, Gladden said. Authorities were working to confirm the identities of the two people.
The fire moved into a more densely populated area on Ruidoso's northeastern side Wednesday afternoon, prompting more evacuations. Laura Rabon, a spokesperson for the Lincoln National Forest, interrupted a fire briefing and told people to get in their cars and leave after the flames jumped a road where crews were trying to hold the line.
Authorities have told as many as 4,500 people to evacuate. Overnight, crews kept the flames from pushing further into the village, Rabon said.
The fire has torched about 9 square miles of forest and grass, and the strong winds that battered the area have left behind toppled trees and down power lines. Crews continued work Thursday to restore power to parts of the village that have been without it since Monday.
Power is being restored in phases. About 10,000 customers remain without power, according to sister station KOAT.
While the cause of the blaze was under investigation, fire officials and forecasters warned that persistent dry and windy conditions had prompted another day of red flag warnings for the eastern third of New Mexico and other parts of the Midwest.
Ruidoso officials are also asking village residents to conserve water at this time. Due to power outages in the area, water production efforts are limited. The village warns parts of town may experience loss of pressure or total outages as crews work to fight the fire.
Incident Commander Dave Bales said the strategy was “attack while we can," noting that winds were expected to pick up Thursday afternoon and again Friday.
“We're trying to keep this fire as small as possible, especially because it's right in the community,” he said. “We've had a loss of a lot of structures so our crews are right there on the fire front going as direct as possible.”
Six new large fires were reported Wednesday: three in Texas, two in Colorado and one in Oklahoma. In all, wildland firefighters and support personnel were trying to contain 11 large fires that have charred more than 40 square miles in five states.
The National Interagency Fire Center reported Thursday that since the start of the year, 18,550 wildfires have burned about 1,250 square miles. That's well above the 10-year average of 12,290 wildfires and 835 square miles burned.
Hotter and drier weather coupled with decades of fire suppression have contributed to an increase in the number of acres burned by wildfires, fire scientists say. The problem is exacerbated by a more than 20-year Western megadrought that studies link to human-caused climate change.
Elsewhere in New Mexico, wildfires were burning northwest of Ruidoso, along the Rio Grande south of Albuquerque, in mountains northwest of the community of Las Vegas and in grasslands along the Pecos River near the town of Roswell.
Hearst Television contributed to this report. | https://www.wisn.com/article/wildfire-ruidoso-eagle-creek-homestead-acres-evacuation/39729633 | 2022-04-14T23:18:03 | 1 | https://www.wisn.com/article/wildfire-ruidoso-eagle-creek-homestead-acres-evacuation/39729633 |
Alex Ross
Updated: April 14, 2022 03:33 PM
Created: April 14, 2022 02:28 PM
RUIDOSO, N.M. — Normally the sidewalks of Ruidoso are crowded with people but that was not the case Wednesday morning.
“It’s very strange not to see people up and down midtown, very strange,” said Brandi Shelby, an employee with Village ACE Hardware.
The hardware store is one of a few places open for businesses in this small resort community that is normally a hotbed of tourists.
Much of downtown Ruidoso was still without power after the same high winds that fanned the McBride Fire also knocked out power and downed tree limbs Wednesday.
Village Ace Hardware was able to get electricity through the use of a generator but the fire was still on everyone’s mind.
“We are finding out that people, normal people, people who are regulars here have lost everything, lost animals,” Shelby said.
Elsewhere, The Cork & Kettle, a high-end grocery store, like other businesses in downtown Ruidoso could not open due to the lack of electricity.
But owner Laura Doth, and her daughter, were forced to come to the store anyway and work in the dark, cleaning out their dairy products.
“We actually needed to come in because we do have product that is refrigerated. Our dairy cases, we just need to go ahead and clear those out because we’ve been without power now for almost 24 hours,” she said.
The closures and evacuations come, just as businesses were bracing for a flood of tourists ahead of the holiday weekend.
“This was Easter week, so we were anticipating really good crowds starting to come into town” Doth said.
Next door at UltraHealth, Corey Hilyer, manager of the cannabis dispensary moved his merchandise to a safer location. The dispensary, one of many in Ruidoso, was closed.
“We are trying to get this taken care of sooner rather than later so we are not scrambling at the last minute,” he said.
But back at Village Ace Hardware, even though the lights are on, there is an awareness that they will not be immune to the lack of foot traffic.
“If there is no people right now its concerning too. Because those (businesses) that may possibly have power, could still be hurting from this,” Shelby said.
But these businesses are resilient.
Doth said wildfires are something she and other residents take into account when living in the alpine mountains of New Mexico.
Copyright 2022 - KOB-TV LLC, A Hubbard Broadcasting Company | https://www.kob.com/new-mexico-news/local-business-owners-react-to-mcbride-fire/6446536/?cat=500 | 2022-04-14T23:18:06 | 0 | https://www.kob.com/new-mexico-news/local-business-owners-react-to-mcbride-fire/6446536/?cat=500 |
Which peach shower curtain is best?
Interior designers are in love with pastels right now — and for good reason. These softened tones open decorators up to the full color spectrum with just about every pastel hue being easy on the eyes. Chief among these is peach, the color of sunsets and fresh pitted fruit.
If you’re looking to add warmth and light to your bathroom, a peach shower curtain is the perfect mood booster. Which you choose comes down to the size of your bathtub and your bathroom’s decor, but you can’t go wrong with the delightful print of the Lifeel Peach Shower Curtain.
What to know before you buy a peach shower curtain
Psychology of peach
Peach is a warm mixture of red and yellow. Its properties put people at ease, projecting calm and contentment. This makes it an excellent color for your bathing routine, imbuing your shower or tub with positive and rejuvenating energy.
Colors that go with peach
As a pastel, peach plays well with other colors. The trick is matching the tone to its opposite and tertiary colors. Peach goes great with soft greens such as turquoise and teal and muted yellows such as ocher. It also pairs well with warm grays and light purples such as mauve. If you don’t want pastel overload, try using peach as an accent by pitting it against rich red backdrops.
Styling a peach shower curtain
Because it’s a bright and happy color, peach thrives when surrounded by open, minimal and natural interiors. Warm, raw woods match the energy of this color, as do rose-tinted metals.
If your decor is inspired by vintage aesthetics, you might find yourself struggling to match the color to luscious and saturated hues. In these scenarios, peach can integrate with the darker browns of antique furniture by using mid-tones to work the eye up to the brighter color. As for the severe black of modern interiors, gold, copper and brass are all great ways to guide your space in a warm direction so peach feels at home.
Solid color vs. patterned
Shower curtains are underappreciated canvases that offer excellent color-blocking potential, but that doesn’t mean you have to go peach all the way. A patterned curtain presents decorators with additional versatility. By opting for a peach motif, you can introduce a neutral backdrop that balances the color out and opens your bathroom’s palette up to further color exploration.
What to look for in a quality peach shower curtain
Material
Shower curtains come in three different materials that determine their look, feel and durability:
- Cotton: Soft, hefty and luxurious, cotton is a premium option that comes at a significant cost compared to other materials. It lasts the longest and can be machine-washed; just be prepared to use a liner to protect it from mold and mildew.
- Vinyl: The budget option, vinyl is completely waterproof but has a plasticky sheen and smell. These curtains are also available in non-toxic, eco-friendly PEVA and EVA.
- Polyester: These synthetic fibers offer a waterproof yet textured curtain material halfway between cotton and vinyl. They’re typically more affordable than cotton, and their durability makes them an attractive substitute, though they don’t last quite as long.
Size
- Standard: At 72 by 72 inches, the standard shower curtain is sized to cover one long edge of your typical bathtub.
- Extra-wide: For everything from claw-foots to basins, extra-wide shower curtains offer the additional coverage necessary to prevent water damage. Sized from 108-180 inches wide, these are designed to wrap around any tub with more than one exposed side.
- Extra-long: High ceilings and tall shower curtain rods leave standard curtains coming up short. Extra-long curtains add 1-2 more feet in length to block spillage and ensure your shower doesn’t look like it’s squeezing into a hand-me-down curtain.
- Narrow: Small bathrooms come with small showers, and excess curtain fabric can bunch up, consuming precious space. Narrow curtains are half the width of standard curtains to cover stalls and other diminutive showers.
Installation
Sewn into the top of your shower curtain are small, plastic- or metal-reinforced holes called grommets. If they’re big enough, you can slide the curtain rod directly through these grommets to install your shower curtain. While this method is the easiest, grommets make it harder to pull your curtain back and forth.
If you want to pull your curtain back with ease without any bunching or if your grommets are too small, you need to use hooks. These require a little more finesse to install but also present a fun decorative opportunity.
How much you can expect to spend on a peach shower curtain
Vinyl shower curtains typically cost $5-$20. Polyester can range from $15-$50, and high-quality cotton can be as much as $60-$120.
Peach shower curtain FAQ
Do I need to use a curtain liner?
A. Shower curtain liners act as a barrier that blocks soap scum, mold and mildew from penetrating your curtain. Cotton shower curtains aren’t waterproof and need these for protection. Neither vinyl nor polyester require a liner, but it can help boost their longevity and makes cleanup a lot easier.
How do I clean my shower curtain?
A. All three materials can be put through the wash; you should do this once a month. Vinyl can also be wiped down with household cleaner and paper towels. Just stay away from bleach, as this can damage the dyes and inks.
What’s the best peach shower curtain to buy?
Top peach shower curtain
What you need to know: This one may be a little on the nose, but the all-over peach motif has a beautiful, summery vibe.
What you’ll love: With a vintage-graphic quality, this curtain is ripe with color. It’s made from polyester and weighted at the bottom so you don’t have to worry about it fluttering about in a draft. It comes with 12 hooks to make installation easy.
What you should consider: You can only get this in a standard size.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top peach shower curtain for the money
Elaine Karen Vinyl Shower Curtain Liner with Metal Grommets
What you need to know: This vibrant peach liner makes for a great shower curtain on a budget.
What you’ll love: Because it’s made from vinyl, you don’t have to worry about waterproofing with this durable curtain. It’s dyed with a light peach color that can brighten up gloomy bathrooms. The magnets sewn into the bottom help prevent spills and billowing.
What you should consider: This curtain doesn’t come with hooks.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
August Grove Andes Solid Single Shower Curtain
What you need to know: This curtain adds a touch of texture to your bathroom decor with its ruffled design.
What you’ll love: The boho-chic frills of this peach curtain feel like the stuff of royalty. Made from polyester, it retains the fabric qualities of cotton without the risk of water damage. The grommets are subtle, reinforced by a hem rather than plastic or metal.
What you should consider: This is only available in standard sizing.
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.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://fox59.com/reviews/br/bed-bath-br/shower-accessories-br/best-peach-shower-curtain/ | 2022-04-14T23:18:05 | 0 | https://fox59.com/reviews/br/bed-bath-br/shower-accessories-br/best-peach-shower-curtain/ |
Which USB-C hub adapter is best?
As laptops get smaller, thinner and more powerful, they tend to lose some of their functionalities. Where built-in USB 3.0 connections were once a common sight, it’s now unusual to see them on the side of a laptop.
If your USB-C laptop only has one or two connections, this is where a USB-C hub adapter can prove useful. Through a device such as the Hiearcool USB-C Dongle for MacBook Pro, you can connect multiple devices to your computer.
What to know before you buy a USB-C hub adapter
It could drain your laptop’s battery faster
Connecting several devices or accessories to your laptop through a hub comes at a price. While some adapters require an independent power source, others don’t — they use power from your laptop. This can cause your device to run flat much faster than usual if it’s not plugged into a charger.
Robust construction materials
A USB-C is incredibly important if you rely on one connection for all your portability needs. If it gets damaged, you could lose the ability to access vital devices or accessories. Keep in mind the construction materials of the hub, and try to get one that’s made from hardened plastic or aluminum.
Compatibility with your device
While USB-C is now a common connection type, not all devices are the same. Ensure that the hub you’re interested in is compatible with your device. For example, Apple’s Thunderbolt is a type of USB-C but is only compatible with certain gadgets. Similarly, Nintendo’s Switch console also uses USB-C, but the type used isn’t compatible with certain hubs or cables. The way to determine compatibility is to check with the manufacturer of the device.
What to look for in a quality USB-C hub adapter
USB-C Power Delivery
A key aspect to look for when deciding on an adapter is Power Delivery technology. This lets you use your laptop to charge other devices that are connected to the hub. The amount of power delivered to the connected device can vary, but the most common is around 100 watts.
Lengthy cable (or no cable at all)
You don’t want to struggle to get devices connected to your laptop, which is why a lengthy USB-C cable can be handy. The length also lets you move the adapter around to minimize any electromagnetic interference. On the other hand, there are adapters that have no cables at all. These sit flush with your laptop and are a great option if you have limited space.
Multiple connections
The purpose of an adapter is so you can connect multiple devices of different connections to your laptop. For that reason, it’s imperative that the adapter has as many as possible, which should include USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI connection and an SD card slot.
How much you can expect to spend on a USB-C hub adapter
The average cost of a USB-C adapter or hub depends on the number of ports and connections it has. An entry-level hub with a few slots can cost $15-$20, while a feature-packed adapter can go for $25-$35.
USB-C hub adapter FAQ
Can you connect a mouse and keyboard to an adapter?
A. Yes, you can, but you should keep in mind that due to their limited design, users often complain that the mouse is less responsive when an additional monitor is also connected.
What’s the difference between USB-C and Lightning?
A. The Lightning connection is the proprietary connection method for many Apple products and isn’t interchangeable with other devices. However, Apple’s Thunderbolt is a type of USB-C connection that can be used with other USB-C products or adapters.
What’s the best USB-C hub adapter to buy?
Top USB-C hub adapter
Hiearcool USB-C Dongle For MacBook Pro
What you need to know: This adapter has all the ports and connections that you could ever need. It features two USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI port for an external display and an SD card slot.
What you’ll love: You can recharge your laptop through the Power Delivery function, and it’s capable of displaying 4K content at 30 frames per second. The outer case is made from aluminum alloy, weighs only 2.4 ounces and is available in six colors.
What you should consider: The adapter isn’t compatible with Samsung’s DeX software, which lets you cast your device’s screen to a bigger monitor such as a TV. Unlike other hubs, this one is compatible with Nintendo Switch.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top USB-C hub adapter for the money
AorZ USB-C 7-in-1 Dongle Adapter
What you need to know: Not only does this hub have seven different connections, it can also power your laptop through USB-C Power Delivery technology.
What you’ll love: This hub features an HDMI connection, which lets you display content on an external monitor at 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second, or 4K resolution at 30 frames per second. It has three USB 3.0 ports, which is handy if you want to connect a keyboard or mouse. There’s also an SD card slot for transferring content such as photos from a camera.
What you should consider: This hub isn’t compatible with the Apple iPad Pro 11-inch or 21.9-inch before 2018.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
What you need to know: If you need to add a variety of useful connection ports to your laptop, this hub is a perfect choice.
What you’ll love: Its best feature is that it can handle an HDMI connection to an external monitor at a 4K resolution at 30 frames per second. In addition, this hub sports one connection for each of the most popular ports, so you’ll always have a way of connecting external devices. It has an SD card slot, USB-C input, USB-C data port and two USB 3.0 slots. It features USB-C Power Delivery so you can simultaneously charge your laptop.
What you should consider: This USB-C hub is only compatible with Apple’s MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and the Pixelbook. It isn’t compatible with the Nintendo Switch, even though it uses USB-C.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Charlie Fripp 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://fox59.com/reviews/br/electronics-br/best-usb-c-hub-adapter/ | 2022-04-14T23:18:12 | 1 | https://fox59.com/reviews/br/electronics-br/best-usb-c-hub-adapter/ |
Which Canon printer is best?
Even if you don’t use your printer on a daily basis, it’s important to have one at home. Many feel they don’t need a printer since documents are available online, and you can sign and return them quickly through the internet. Even though printers have become somewhat less popular over the years, you’ll undoubtedly want to have one.
Canon is a trusted brand that offers a wide range of printers that are excellent for basic printing needs as well as scanning photos or making copies. If you want a functional printer that will save you money on ink, take a look at the Canon Maxify GX6020 All-in-One Wireless Supertank Printer.
What to know before you buy a Canon printer
The purpose of the printer
People typically use Canon printers to print documents onto paper, scan documents or photos, send emails and more. Decide what you think you’ll use your printer for the most to help you decide which model works best for your needs. If you only print black-and-white documents, there is no need to buy an expensive device that produces photo-quality images.
Inkjet vs. laser printer
Canon printers are generally available in inkjet or laser design, which refers to the different methods of printing out images or text. For example, inkjet printers use several tiny nozzles to deposit ink drops on the page. They tend to be cheaper, but the nozzles are prone to clogging, and the ink is expensive. On the other hand, laser printers use heat to melt the ink powder onto a page. While they are more costly, they last a long time, which helps even out the costs over time.
Types of Canon printers
Canon has different printers that cater to various needs. Here are some of the options you’ll come across.
Pixma printers are perfect for everyday use at home or in a small office. The inkjet design offers terrific print quality and speed. The Pixma line includes both all-in-one printers that can print, copy and scan as well as photo printers that can create first-rate prints of your favorite memories.
Selphy printers are small enough to fit in a backpack and feature an attractive design. They allow you to print quality photos from your smartphone or tablet even on the go.
Maxify printers are known for their power and efficiency. These multifunction, wireless inkjet printers provide quality prints at a reasonable price per page. They’re ideal for use at home or in small offices.
ImageClass color printers are ideal when your work demands high-quality prints in rich, bold hues (note that some models only print in black and white). These laser printers feature a touch screen that lets you customize the settings to suit your needs, and they’re fast.
Printing resolution
Canon printers produce images or text at a set resolution, measured in dots per inch (dpi). The more dots there are in a square inch, the better the quality will be. It’s best to find a dpi that goes hand in hand with what you plan on using the printer for. For example, black-and-white documents are perfect at a dpi of 400-600. But for high-quality images, you ideally want a dpi of 1,000-1,200.
What to look for in a quality Canon printer
Printing cost per page
Printer ink is notoriously expensive, so you need to factor in how much it costs you to print a page. This will vary depending on the printer, but black-and-white pages should only cost a couple of cents. Color prints are more costly, but even then, they shouldn’t cost more than 15 cents per page. Take time to figure out the cost-per-page for your printer, so you don’t spend a fortune on ink.
Wireless connectivity
While you can connect a Canon printer to a computer or laptop with a USB cable, the best option is to use a wireless connection. A good-quality printer can connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network, allowing anybody to access it. In addition, some printers connect through Bluetooth technology, which is a great option when printing from a mobile device.
Printing speed
The days of standing by the printer waiting for your pages to pop out are long gone. But with that said, some printers are faster than others. Look for a Canon printer that can produce high-quality prints in a few seconds. For example, a good-quality Canon printer can produce around 45 black-and-white pages per minute.
How much you can expect to spend on a Canon printer
The average cost of a Canon printer depends on the model and what printing technology it uses. Entry-level printers cost $250-$350, while high-quality devices that produce excellent photos are around $500-$700.
Canon printer FAQ
Why is printer ink so expensive?
A. Printer ink is expensive because the printers themselves are cheap to make. Manufacturers still need to profit, and they know that you can’t operate a printer without ink. So they tend to increase the cost of the ink to make a profit.
Can a Canon printer do double-sided printing?
A. Yes, several models can create double-sided prints. Some Canon printers even do this automatically, so you don’t have to turn over the page yourself.
What’s the best Canon printer to buy?
Top Canon printer
Canon Maxify GX6020 All-in-One Wireless Supertank Printer
What you need to know: Not only does this printer deliver high-quality photos, but it can also produce double-sided prints automatically.
What you’ll love: This printer features a 2.7-inch LCD touchscreen, making it easy to select the functions and get it set up. It can print 24 black and white pages per minute and displays the ink levels on the front panel, so you always know how much ink is left. It connects to devices through Wi-Fi or USB and can print glossy photos and labels.
What you should consider: It is best suited for a small office, as the initial cost can be a bit pricey for a home user.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Canon printer for the money
Canon ImageClass D1620 Multifunction Printer
What you need to know: This all-in-one laser printer is perfect for a small or at-home office.
What you’ll love: One of the fastest Canon printers, it produces 45 black-and-white pages per minute. It can print, scan and copy, and has a paper tray that can hold up to 2,300 pages.
What you should consider: It’s a monochrome printer, so it won’t print in color.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Canon Wireless Pixma TR4520 Inkjet All-in-one Printer
What you need to know: The Pixma is a powerful printer in a small package, making it the best choice for everyday home use.
What you’ll love: This inkjet printer has a resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, making it perfect for printing photos or high-quality images for school projects. It has wireless connectivity and comes with an extra set of ink cartridges.
What you should consider: There is no mechanism to stop the paper from falling on the floor once printing is complete.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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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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Which TV mount is best?
Swapping a bulky entertainment center for a slim TV wall mount frees up floor space and lightens the look of any room. It also gives your TV tilt and swivel functionality for multiple viewing angles.
Choosing the right wall mount comes down to compatibility, materials and size. If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile TV wall mount, the Mounting Dream MD2268-LK TV Mount is easy to use and supports most TV sizes.
What to know before you buy a TV mount
Along with the wall material, the wall mount and TV screen size impact which TV mount will work best for your space.
Types of wall mounts
There are three main types of TV mounts: the tilt and swivel mount, the tilt-only mount and the fixed mount.
- The tilt and swivel mount is the most versatile, offering a customizable viewing experience. You can tilt these mounts up or down and swivel left and right. These mounts are typically more expensive with such a flexible range of motion.
- The tiltable TV mount is ideal if you only need to adjust the screen a few degrees downward to avoid glare.
- A fixed mount remains in one position after it’s attached to the wall. These mounts are cheaper and easier to install, and they’re ideal if you don’t need to adjust the TV.
Wall material
For a safe and secure mount, attach the mounting bracket to wooden studs. Plain drywall will not hold the TV’s weight for long, and it’s not a safe surface to use for your brackets. Use a stud finder to find studs and locate drywall screws. Keep in mind that the location of your studs will dictate the general location of your TV, even if it means your TV is slightly off-center.
If you want to attach your mounting bracket to brick, stone or concrete, use concrete anchors. If you’re not sure how to mount your TV safely, you may want to hire a professional to help.
Screen size
Your TV’s screen size will determine what kind of mounts you can use. While it’s best to use the manufacturer’s measurements, you can estimate by measuring diagonally across your TV with a measuring tape.
What to look for in a quality TV mount
High-quality TV mounts use strong materials and allow you to easily access the cables either from the back or the side.
Materials
TV mounts are often either plastic, aluminum, steel or a combination of materials. Plastic mounts are cheaper and lighter, but they aren’t as sturdy. An all-steel mount will be heavier, but it will offer the strongest support.
Some mounts use aluminum or combined materials to create a sturdy, midweight option. If the mount is mostly plastic, it’s best to pair it with a lightweight TV.
Compatibility
Make sure your TV mount is compatible with your TV’s make, model and size. Look for a TV mount approved by the Video Electronics Standards Association, and find out what sizes your mount supports on their website. Then, cross-check the VESA size with the size of your TV to confirm they will work together. Only use a VESA-compliant mount that matches the size of your TV.
Cable hookups
When you use a TV mount, you have a few options for cable management. Instead of letting cables dangle from your TV mount, use a cable organizer to hide them against the wall or floor. You can even find paintable covers, so you can paint them to match your walls.
How much you can expect to spend on a TV mount
Pricing for TV wall mounts varies and can cost between $20-$500. The pricing depends on the size, brand and materials. Adjustable mounts are at the higher end of the price range.
TV mount FAQ
Why do I need a VESA-compliant TV mount?
A. Every TV mount comes with a VESA size. The rating refers to the screw hole pattern on the mounting bracket and TV. This rating determines if you can safely use the mount with your TV. It also ensures the screw holes on the mount and your TV will align properly.
How do I know if the mount will support my TV’s weight?
A. The most important part of choosing a TV mount is making sure it’s compatible with your TV. The mount manufacturer should list what TVs it is compatible with, as will your TV’s manual. Cross-reference these lists to ensure both pieces are compatible, and mount the bracket as instructed for the safest, sturdiest TV display.
What’s the best TV mount to buy?
Top TV mount
Mounting Dream MD2268-LK TV Mount
What you need to know: This mount works with several TV brands and sizes. It also has a high weight capacity.
What you’ll love: You can install this mount on 16- to 24-inch stud measurements, and it holds TVs up to 132 pounds. The 1.5-inch profile is slim and sleek, and it has the ability to tilt forward to reduce glare.
What you should consider: You should use your own level instead of the one provided in the mounting kit. Additionally, it’s best to plug in your cords before mounting the brackets.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top TV mount for the money
VideoSecu ML531BE2 TV Wall Mount Kit
What you need to know: This versatile mount tilts and swivels for easy viewing.
What you’ll love: The mount holds a decent range of TV models and offers 20 inches of swivel extension for an excellent range of motion. The mounting kit includes a level, a 6-foot long HDMI cable and a magnetic stud finder.
What you should consider: The weight limit is 88 pounds, and you have to install it on a stud or another solid surface, such as brick concrete or stone.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
AENTGIU Studless TV Wall Mount
What you need to know: This TV wall mount doesn’t require any studs or power tools to install.
What you’ll love: The mount is compatible with most TVs between 16 and 55 inches. It is made of heavy-duty steel and can support up to 110 pounds if installed in wood or concrete.
What you should consider: You may need to use larger nails than what’s included in the mounting kit to add stability.
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.
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Which pergola is best?
A pergola is similar to a gazebo, except that the roof has open slats rather than being fully covered. Good pergolas still provide plenty of shade, but they offer a design some consider more attractive. It’s important to purchase pergolas with durable materials that can outlast the wind, sun and rain, as they’re too expensive to keep replacing.
The best pergola is the Vita Avalon Vinyl Pergola. Its slats are adjustable so you’re always sitting in shade, and the vinyl is highly weather-resistant.
What to know before you buy a pergola
Roof designs
Pergolas have one of three roof designs: traditional, gabled and pitched.
- Traditional roofs are flat, with slats that are usually in a lattice pattern.
- Gabled roofs are triangular, like most modern American housing.
- Pitched roofs are flat, but one end is higher than the other. They are usually installed flush with your home rather than further out into your yard.
Coverings
Some pergolas, either in addition to or instead of slats, use coverings hung underneath the roof to protect you from sun and rain. Many are adjustable. Cloth is the most common material, with plastic, PVC and steel also available.
Size
Most pergolas are sized between 7 by 7 and 12 by 12 feet, with heights from 7-10 feet.
Shape
Pergolas are typically square or rectangular, though some can be found in circular or octagonal shapes. Other shapes are possible, but you’ll likely need to have it custom-made rather than find it available to order.
What to look for in a quality pergola
Material
In order of general quality, pergolas are typically made of metal, vinyl or wood.
- Metal pergolas are typically made of aluminum or steel. Freestanding aluminum is the most affordable, but also can be dented or bent, and is the most likely to be blown away by heavy wind. Metal pergolas are available in the widest range of colors and provide a more modern aesthetic. However, If the metal isn’t treated properly, you need to worry about rusting.
- Vinyl pergolas are the most durable, requiring little to no maintenance compared to metal and wood. They are naturally resistant to most weather, including water, wind and ultraviolet rays. They aren’t the most expensive, either. However, they have two major negatives. First, they are rarely any color but a shade of white — it’s possible to paint them with acrylic paint, but you’ll need to keep reapplying as it fades away. Second, their plasticky looks are rarely thought aesthetically pleasing.
- Wood pergolas are the most common. They’re expensive, but wood is easy to stain or paint to match your home, and there are many varieties of wood to choose from. Generally, they can be divided between softwoods and hardwoods, with softwoods less expensive, a bit less durable and a little lighter than hardwoods.
Warranty
The best pergolas tend to have the best warranties, as manufacturers will stand by their best products. Twenty-year warranties are the best, but 10-year ones are acceptable. Some pergolas have different warranties for certain parts.
How much you can expect to spend on a pergola
Depending on their size and material, pergolas can cost less than $500 or more than $4,000. Metal pergolas are typically the most affordable, followed by vinyl and then wood.
Pergola FAQ
Do I need a permit to install a pergola?
A. It’s possible, depending on your state and local laws as well as the size of the pergola. Your municipal building department should be able to answer this question.
Are pergolas accepted by homeowners associations?
A. That depends on your homeowners’ association. Always check with yours, if you have one, before making any large changes to your home.
Should wood pergolas be stained before or after assembly?
A. Neither method is better than the other. Staining it before means you have easier access to all the materials, but you’ll need to stain in two rounds to make sure every piece is properly covered. Staining it afterward means you only need to stain the surfaces you can see, but you need to go up and down a ladder.
What’s the best pergola to buy?
Top pergola
What you need to know: This quality option is gorgeous, durable and has adjustable shading.
What you’ll love: The vinyl construction is resistant to water, wind, UV rays and other causes of rot, and it includes a 20-year warranty for the pergola and a 5-year warranty for the louvers. It measures 10 by 10 by 8.67 feet.
What you should consider: A few consumers felt the louvers were difficult to adjust. Others had issues with missing parts or no-show installers.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Wayfair
Top pergola for the money
Coolaroo Aurora Patio Shade Pergola
What you need to know: It’s money-saving without sacrificing function or style.
What you’ll love: It can be built and left freestanding — there’s no need to anchor it to the ground — and it has a weather-resistant and light-filtering retractable canopy that comes in three colors. It measures 9.84 by 9.84 by 7.17 feet.
What you should consider: If you want to mount or anchor it, you need to purchase a separate kit. The installation instructions can be difficult to understand and a few people received damaged parts.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Wayfair
Worth checking out
What you need to know: This is perfect for those who need large coverage.
What you’ll love: The vinyl construction is fully weather-resistant — it can even be safely cleaned by spraying it with your hose. It can be safely installed to most materials, including wooden and concrete patios. It measures 12 by 12 by 8.84 feet.
What you should consider: It doesn’t include a mounting or anchoring kit. Most reviewers needed a second set of hands to assemble it, though the instructions are easy to follow.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
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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.
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Which convection microwave is best?
Most microwaves can’t effectively cook much more than a mug cake. Instead, they reheat leftovers or quickly melt foods, such as butter for your current recipe. A convection microwave changes this. It can be used to bake and broil foods just like a full-sized oven. Some of the more feature-rich models can even air-fry foods.
The best convection microwave is the Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven. It can perform any task you need it to and it has a spacious interior and 1,000 watts of power.
What to know before you buy a convection microwave
Size and capacity
Convection microwaves have two dimensions to consider: exterior size and interior capacity. More often than not, one of these being larger doesn’t mean the other will be large too.
- Size: The size you can or should purchase is only limited by your counter space. When measuring your countertop to find your limitations, remember to add a few inches to the back and sides for proper ventilation space. Keep enough space in front for the swinging door.
- Capacity: Capacity restricts how much food you can cook at once. Most convection microwaves have higher capacities than standard microwaves, and those measurements are given in cubic feet. The smallest is rarely less than 1 cubic foot, and the biggest usually top out at 1.5 cubic feet — though there are always rare exceptions.
Wattage
A convection microwave’s power is given in watts, just like standard microwaves. Lower wattages will cook food slower and less evenly, so you should prioritize a microwave with at least 1,000 watts. Most convection microwaves have wattages between 700 and 1,500. Better microwaves will let you adjust how much wattage you can use for cooking smaller or more sensitive food.
What to look for in a quality convection microwave
Presets
Presets are the easiest way to cook the most commonly microwaved foods. They make it so you don’t have to Google how much power and time a given food needs, and you won’t have to manually punch in that power and time. The most common presets are popcorn and pizza, but many convection microwaves also have presets for baked potatoes and roast chicken or vegetables.
Cooking modes
The best convection microwaves include more cooking modes than just microwave, convection and microwave/convection. The most common additional modes are air frying and broiling, but some are also able to grill. It’s important to note that you’ll need appropriate accessories for air frying and grilling — a wire basket and grilling rack, respectively — but most microwaves with these cooking modes include them.
Humidity sensor
Humidity sensors take some of the guesswork out of cooking by adding or subtracting to the total cooking time based on the moisture in the food and the oven, preventing accidental overcooking.
How much you can expect to spend on a convection microwave
Convection microwaves are more expensive than standard microwaves, typically starting around $100-$150 with basic models topping out around $250. The best countertop models can reach $500, while built-in models can cost more than $1,500.
Convection microwave FAQ
Can I use metal in a convection microwave?
A. Possibly. It depends on if the microwave has a convection-only setting. This setting only uses heating elements, just like a standard oven, so aluminum takeout containers and metal baking trays are safe to use. Some convection microwaves use microwave and convection heating simultaneously with no way to turn off the microwave portion. These are just as incompatible with metal as a standard microwave. A quick way to tell if a convection microwave is safe for metal is if it includes metal accessories, such as a wire air fryer rack. If so, you’re good to go.
Do recipes intended for a standard oven need to be adapted for use in a convection microwave?
A. Typically yes, though not by much. Despite having less power than a standard oven, convection microwaves have drastically less space to heat. This makes their heating more focused on the food rather than the air around it. As such, many recipes need to drop their heat and timing requirements. Heat usually drops no more than 25 to 50 degrees, but timing doesn’t have an easy generalization, so you’ll need to keep a close eye on your recipe.
What’s the best convection microwave to buy?
Top convection microwave
Panasonic HomeChef 4-in-1 Microwave Oven
What you need to know: This model can do it all.
What you’ll love: The four functions are standard and convection microwaving, air frying and broiling. It has a 1.2-cubic-foot capacity and an easy-to-clean interior. It includes the accessories you need to cook, such as a wire rack, an air fryer basket and an enamel drip tray.
What you should consider: If the start button is accidentally pressed, it will begin sensor cooking mode, even if there’s nothing inside for it to cook.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top convection microwave for the money
Toshiba Countertop Microwave Oven with Convection
What you need to know: This model is basic but excellent and affordable.
What you’ll love: It has a variety of special features, such as a power-saving ECO mode, smart cooking sensors, child safety locks and sound off/on for late-night snacks. It has a large 1.5-cubic-foot capacity and 1,000 watts of power.
What you should consider: A few consumers had issues with the upper heating element not functioning as it should. It takes up a large amount of counter space.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Cuisinart 1.2-Cubic-Foot Convection Microwave Oven
What you need to know: This model is perfect for convection grilling, thanks to an included grill rack.
What you’ll love: It’s packed with preset cooking modes, including popcorn, roast chicken, baked potato, cake and pizza. It can also keep foods warm at low settings and has a memory mode to save time on repetitive tasks. It is BPA-free and includes a recipe book.
What you should consider: Extended use of the convection setting causes the exterior to become hot. A few consumers had issues with their microwave breaking down within a few months.
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.
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Which puppy diaper is best?
Everyone loves a new puppy, but bringing one into your home and potty training it can be difficult and time-consuming. While it learns where and when to go to the bathroom, one method of keeping your house clean is to employ puppy diapers. Technically, there aren’t diapers meant specifically for puppies. That said, any standard dog diaper will work, as long as it’s the right size and fits your puppy’s sex.
The best puppy diapers are Paw Inspired Ultra Protection Disposable Female Dog Diapers. They’re soft and effective but may not work for male puppies.
What to know before you buy a puppy diaper
Your puppy’s gender
Puppy diapers are designed differently for females and males.
- Female diapers look just like human diapers, only they have a hole for the tail. These diapers work just fine for puppies of either sex, as male puppies’ penises have yet to grow large enough to need to switch to male diapers.
- Male diapers take the form of wraps that leave your puppy’s posterior open but cover their penis. Puppies are a little more likely to wiggle out of male diapers, plus the open back is counterintuitive to using a puppy diaper while you house train them.
Reusable vs. disposable
Most puppy diapers are disposable, and for good reason. Puppies grow fast, just like children, so purchasing a reusable diaper — which can’t be donated once used — may be better for the environment, but you’ll only be able to use it for a short time. However, some dog breeds don’t grow much bigger than their puppy stages. In these cases, it’s wise to go with a reusable diaper. Besides the environmental benefits, it saves money and you’ll still have a usable diaper if you need to travel long distances or they become incontinent years down the line.
What to look for in a quality puppy diaper
Elastic
The best puppy diapers have elastic in the hems. This lets the diaper seal around the edges to prevent even the smallest leak and also gives your puppy full range of motion without painful pinching or chafing. Elastic around the tail hole is particularly important for keeping any solids from slipping out.
Adjustability
Most puppy diapers use Velcro straps to close around your puppy. This lets you fit your diaper precisely to your puppy, and you can let more space out as it grows. Some disposable female puppy diapers use alternate methods for securing, including snap closures and the same sticky tabs as disposable baby diapers. These aren’t quite as freely adjustable, though they’re still secure enough to prevent leaks.
How much you can expect to spend on a puppy diaper
Puppy diaper packs usually cost $10-$30, though there are exceptions on either end. The quality of diapers and how many you get greatly vary within this price range, but most are still found within it.
Puppy diaper FAQ
How often should I change my puppy’s diaper?
A. As soon as you notice it’s soiled. Some disposable puppy diapers can be removed when you take the puppy outside for potty training and reattached if they haven’t been soiled. Reusable diapers have the same functionality.
My puppy’s diaper fits but still leaks. How do I fix it?
A. First, double-check that it still fits. Dogs, puppy or no, have a tendency to wiggle loose from diapers you were sure fit perfectly. Oftentimes, a diaper seems to fit perfectly but is in fact just loose enough around the edges to allow for some leakage. If it does indeed fit, you may be using diapers with poor absorbency — there’s nothing to do in this situation but try a new brand of puppy diaper.
What should I do with leftover disposable diapers my puppy has outgrown?
A. Donate them. Search for your nearest animal shelter and drop them off. Keep in mind that almost any pet-related leftovers you have, including food, toys and bowls, can also be taken to your local animal shelter. You can write the value off as a donation on your taxes. If you aren’t sure if they’ll accept something, just give them a call beforehand to check and potentially save yourself a trip.
What’s the best puppy diaper to buy?
Top puppy diaper
Paw Inspired Ultra Protection Disposable Female Dog Diapers
What you need to know: These are designed for females but can work for male puppies, too.
What you’ll love: These diapers have multiple urine-handling features, including converting it into gel immediately on contact and using leakproof edges that absorb urine before it can leak out. The fasteners are fur-resistant and can be repositioned for a custom fit and the interior uses soft quilting for comfort.
What you should consider: A few consumers had issues with waste getting loose through the tail hole. Hyperactive puppies may shimmy out of them over time.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Chewy
Top puppy diaper for the money
Out! Pet Care Disposable Male Dog Wraps
What you need to know: These are great male-focused diaper wraps.
What you’ll love: These wraps are secured using Velcro, which makes their fit adjustable and means the wrap can be removed and reused if it hasn’t yet been soiled. They have a wetness indicator, so there’s no need to spot-check for soiling.
What you should consider: There’s no protection from poo, only urine. More hyperactive puppies may be able to wiggle out of them.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Chewy
Worth checking out
Simple Solution Washable Female Dog Diapers
What you need to know: These reusable diapers make a good environmentally conscious choice.
What you’ll love: These can be machine-washed and become softer and more absorbent the more you wash them. They’re also compatible with most disposable liners if you still desire some disposable aspect. They use a large Velcro strap across the back for fine-tuning the fit as your puppy grows.
What you should consider: Depending on the breed, your puppy may outgrow these before you get sufficient use out of them. They don’t handle poo well.
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.
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Which meat slicer is best?
A good chef’s knife can accomplish many tasks, but it can’t make paper-thin cured meats or dozens of slices of cheese with consistent thickness. You’ll need an electric meat slicer to make the perfect charcuterie board at home. The right one can help you slice cold cuts, artisan bread and raw meat for jerky in small and large batches.
The best meat slicer for most people is the Berkel Red Line 300. It comes from a highly respected manufacturer and is modeled after commercial-style machines, with the precision, speed and duty cycle that every cook needs.
What to know before you buy a meat slicer
You need to keep it clean
It’s important to respect all your kitchen equipment and keep it clean, but that’s never more true than it is for a meat slicer. Even the most refined designs can allow for food buildup in various places, and leftover meat, cheese and other food can hurt an appliance’s finish, damage seals and contribute to bacterial contamination. It’s far easier to maintain a clean slicer regularly than it is to deep clean a thoroughly messy one every few weeks. This is especially important if you’ll only use the slicer occasionally, as food particles are particularly bad things to store in your cupboard.
It will take up space
Even the smallest meat slicers aren’t really that small. Unless you have a truly massive home kitchen, you’ll need somewhere to put your new meat slicer that’s out of the way, as very few make attractive kitchen decorations. Along with that, don’t forget that meat slicers also tend to be heavy. After all, the most effective ones boast durable steel bodies and rugged gears and motors.
It may require an investment
A good meat slicer can do a lot. If you frequently make large batches of beef jerky, slice artisanal bread with thick crusts or prepare homemade hot pot or pho, you might find yourself using a meat slicer often. If that’s the case, take a good look at a full-size model like the ones found in restaurant kitchens. They are faster and more precise and can prep more food at once than budget-friendly options, known as having a long duty cycle. A longer duty cycle means an appliance will ultimately receive less wear and tear.
What to look for in a quality meat slicer
Blade diameter
Typical consumer-grade meat slicers have 7- or 8-inch blades. That should do fine for small jobs, but more demanding cooks will notice that the blade moves too slowly and gets dull too quickly for satisfactory results. Models with 10-inch blades are usually the best ones that don’t break the bank. If you’re ambitious and have room for it, a 12-inch meat slicer should perform even better if you get it from a reasonably dependable manufacturer.
Durable and precise construction
Ideally, your new meat slicer will have a rugged stainless steel body and be easy to clean and sanitize. Another build quality aspect is how consistent the materials and components are. Subpar tolerances and poorly machined parts lead to cracks, crevices and other areas where it’s easy for food to get stuck. When you finally receive your new meat slicer, check it thoroughly to make sure it’s assembled properly and doesn’t have any glaring errors or broken fasteners.
Motor wattage
Budget-friendly meat slicers are rated for around 100 watts and commercial models roughly 500 watts or more. Mid-range slicers that offer excellent bang for your buck tend to have 250- or 300-watt motors.
How much you can expect to spend on a meat slicer
The most affordable meat slicers worth buying cost just over $100. You can spend several thousand dollars on a premium commercial meat slicer, but the absolute best for home use top out at just under $2,000, and most consumers should look to spend around $400.
Meat slicer FAQ
What safety equipment do you need for a meat slicer?
A. Aside from extreme caution and attention to detail, a chainmail glove is the only thing that will protect you from the high-speed rotating blade found on a meat slicer. Consider ordering one size bigger than you need, and keep in mind that wearing a nitrile glove outside of your chainmail glove will significantly increase your dexterity.
Are Hobart slicers any good?
A. Hobart slicers are some of the best and most popular in kitchens worldwide, which is why they’re so well-known. However, they’re incredibly bulky, don’t look great in homes and usually cost an extreme amount, so only the most passionate home cooks should consider one.
What’s the best meat slicer to buy?
Top meat slicer
Berkel Red Line 300 Electric Food Slicer
What you need to know: It’s a commercial-style meat slicer reworked to fit perfectly in a large home kitchen.
What you’ll love: For starters, Berkel actually claims to have made the first meat slicer ever. The Red Line 300 is modeled after institutional meat slicers but has a less industrial aesthetic and a less bulky design. Its 12-inch blade is big enough and rotates fast enough to handle the finest cured meats and the unit’s overall construction is particularly solid.
What you should consider: A high-quality meat slicer like this one requires an investment that few home cooks are willing to make.
Where to buy: Sold by Home Depot and Amazon
Top meat slicer for the money
Chef’sChoice 615A Electric Food Slicer
What you need to know: This is the most affordable meat slicer that’s actually able to get most jobs done.
What you’ll love: If you only occasionally need sliced meat, cheese or bread, this one’s an excellent choice. It isn’t as large, doesn’t rotate as fast and can’t handle the same size jobs as a commercial-grade meat slicer, but it’s perfectly suited to home kitchens where you need to do your own sandwich prep every now and then. As long as you keep it clean and take care not to force anything while using it, it should last for a long time.
What you should consider: Some people have trouble with hard meats or highly precise cuts. For a more consistent and thinly cut end product, many owners recommend picking up the compatible non-serrated blade.
Where to buy: Sold by Home Depot and Amazon
Worth checking out
Vevor Commercial Electric Food Slicer
What you need to know: This 10-inch meat slicer is modeled after a commercial unit but priced right for the discerning consumer.
What you’ll love: The Vevor lies in the middle between plastic-bodied consumer and industrial slicers. It has the size and power needed for most meats, cheeses and bread but costs a fraction of what you pay for one from a more well-known brand. We’ve highlighted the 10-inch version because it’s the most convenient size for many home kitchens, but there’s a 12-inch model available for those who need more performance and a larger cutting area.
What you should consider: The quality control and product consistency aren’t exactly perfect, but it’s better than most other off-brand competition.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
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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://fox59.com/reviews/br/tools-br/best-meat-slicer/ | 2022-04-14T23:18:53 | 0 | https://fox59.com/reviews/br/tools-br/best-meat-slicer/ |
NWS confirms third NW Louisiana tornado following Tuesday storms
The National Weather Service has confirmed a third tornado in Northwest Louisiana. The EF-0 tornado touched down near Hosston, Louisiana Tuesday evening.
The peak wind speeds were reported at 80 mph and it had a path length of 1.2 miles.
This tornado was the weakest of the three and only damaged a few trees.
The National Weather Service previously confirmed two tornadoes.
The first tornado was an EF1 and it touched down in Benton, producing wind speeds up to 110 miles per hour. The second was an EF0 which was confirmed to have touched down in the area of Youree Drive in Shreveport near the LSUS campus.
The three tornadoes developed within a four-minute time span.
More:Two tornadoes, severe thunderstorms leave path of damage across Northwest Louisiana
Makenzie Boucher is a reporter with the Shreveport Times. Contact her at mboucher@gannett.com. | https://www.shreveporttimes.com/story/news/local/2022/04/14/nws-confirms-third-nw-louisiana-tornado-following-tuesday-storms/7324392001/ | 2022-04-14T23:25:11 | 0 | https://www.shreveporttimes.com/story/news/local/2022/04/14/nws-confirms-third-nw-louisiana-tornado-following-tuesday-storms/7324392001/ |
Former Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano, once one of Long Island's most powerful elected officials, was sentenced Thursday to 12 years in prison for what a prosecutor described as “widespread corruption and dishonesty.”
Mangano, who was convicted in 2019 on corruption charges related to his relationship with businessman Harendra Singh, defended his actions at his sentencing in federal court on Long Island, according to Newsday.
“I haven’t been able to say anything in the last seven years and I just want you to know the type of people we are,” Mangano told U.S. District Judge Joan Azrack. He said he and his wife, Linda, who was also charged in the case, were “not conspiring people" but "caring people.”
But Azrack told Mangano, “Your crimes were motivated by greed."
“You were the Nassau County Executive and had tremendous political clout,” the judge said. “You were the Nassau County Executive and you led by your corrupt example.”
Prosecutors said that Mangano, a Republican, used his influence as the county’s top elected leader to help Singh get loan guarantees from the Town of Oyster Bay. They said he received gifts in exchange for including a no-show job for Linda Mangano as a food taster at Singh’s restaurants.
Linda Mangano was sentenced to 15 months in prison on charges including conspiracy to obstruct justice, obstruction of justice and lying to the FBI about her employment.
“In my heart I just can’t agree with it,” she told the judge. “I have been portrayed to be lazy, uncooperative and a liar … that is not who I am.”
Afterward, U.S. Attorney Breon Peace made a lengthy statement, saying Edward Mangano “gave Nassau residents widespread corruption and dishonesty instead of truth and integrity.”
“The disgraceful and greedy conduct of the Manganos has been exposed and punished,” he added. “And the same fate awaits those in public service who abuse their positions to serve themselves and not the people.” | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/former-nassau-county-exec-ed-mangano-sentenced-to-12-years-for-bribery-corruption/3647253/ | 2022-04-14T23:25:11 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/former-nassau-county-exec-ed-mangano-sentenced-to-12-years-for-bribery-corruption/3647253/ |
A teenager was stabbed by Manhattan store manager after stealing from the shop, police said.
The incident occurred just before 3 p.m. near 100 Delancey Street in the Lower East Side, according to police, where a Duane Reade pharmacy is located. Police did not confirm whether the incident took place inside the store, however.
A 16-year-old allegedly stole from a store, and the manager in turn stabbed him, police said. The teen was initially taken to Bellevue Hospital in critical condition, but police later described his condition as stable.
The store manager was in police custody, but information regarding charges was not immediately clear. It was also unclear if the teen would face charges as well.
Police said that the incident occurred between two different stores, but were still investigating to determine what may have happened. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/teen-stabbed-by-store-owner-after-stealing-from-lower-east-side-shop-police/3647152/ | 2022-04-14T23:25:17 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/teen-stabbed-by-store-owner-after-stealing-from-lower-east-side-shop-police/3647152/ |
A California couple was sentenced to eight weeks in prison on Thursday after pleading guilty to paying $25,000 to cheat on their son’s college admissions test.
Dr. Gregory Colburn, 63, and Amy Colburn, 52, of Palo Alto, were the 16th and 17th parents to be sentenced in the sprawling bribery scandal. The couple abruptly pleaded guilty in January — six weeks before they were to go on trial — to money laundering and mail fraud conspiracy charges.
A federal judge in Boston accepted their plea deal, which also includes a year of supervised release, 100 hours of community service and $12,500 fines.
Judge Nathaniel Gorton said he was “flabbergasted” that the Colburns and other successful parents so easily abandoned their principles to get their kids into college, but he acknowledged they have already faced consequences, including damage to their reputations and financial instability.
Additional Coverage:
“You and many of your codefendants have already been punished for your selfish, brazen and frankly stupid conduct,” Gorton told the couple. “You both have time to make it up to the ones you love, and to society in general.”
In brief statements, both parents said they were sorry and accepted responsibility for their actions.
Federal prosecutors said the Colburns agreed to plead guilty to their roles in a scheme to defraud The College Board by paying William “Rick” Singer $25,000 to bribe Igor Dvorskiy, a corrupt test administrator.
Dvorskiy, in turn, arranged for bogus test proctor Mark Riddell to fraudulently inflate the score on the SAT exam taken by the Colburns’ son, the U.S. Attorney's office in Boston said.
Singer, Dvorskiy and Riddell all have pleaded guilty to federal charges related to their respective roles in the scheme. Riddell was sentenced last week to four months' imprisonment; Dvorskiy is scheduled to be sentenced in June.
The couple are among nearly 60 wealthy parents, athletic coaches and others charged since March 2019 in the case dubbed “Operation Varsity Blues.” The scheme led by Singer involved rigging test scores and paying off sports coaches to help students get into top universities across the country, prosecutors said. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/national-international/parents-get-8-weeks-in-prison-for-college-bribery-scandal/3647197/ | 2022-04-14T23:25:23 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/national-international/parents-get-8-weeks-in-prison-for-college-bribery-scandal/3647197/ |
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As seen on News 4 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/nyc-to-expand-gifted-and-talented-program/3647218/ | 2022-04-14T23:25:29 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/nyc-to-expand-gifted-and-talented-program/3647218/ |
How many NBA teams with losing records reached the playoffs? originally appeared on NBC Sports Washington
It doesn’t take much to advance past the regular season in the NBA these days.
For decades, just over half the league moved on to the playoffs with eight teams from each conference in the mix. There are still 16 actual playoff spots, but the addition of the play-in tournament has given more teams an opportunity to reach the postseason.
For the last two seasons, the number of teams still alive after the regular season jumped to 20. With two-thirds of the league reaching the play-in or playoffs, there are bound to be some squads with losing records.
It’s one thing to make the playoffs as a losing regular season team. It’s another to do something once they’re there. In most cases, those teams are merely a stepping stone for the actual contenders.
The New Orleans Pelicans will look to buck that trend. After beating the San Antonio Spurs in the No. 9-No. 10 play-in game, the Pelicans have a chance to earn the No. 8 seed. They need to beat the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday first, though. And if they win? They will be met with a first-round series against the No. 1 seed Phoenix Suns.
Before the Pelicans fight to keep their season alive on Friday, let’s look back on prior sub-.500 teams to reach the playoffs:
Sports
How many teams with losing records have made the NBA playoffs?
Since the field expanded from 12 teams to 16 in 1984, 47 teams with a losing regular season record have reached the NBA playoffs.
After a four-year drought with no such team from 2016 to 2019, four have pulled it out over the last two postseasons. The Brooklyn Nets, Orlando Magic and Portland Trail Blazers all reached the Bubble playoffs in 2020. The Blazers needed to win a play-in game over a sub-.500 foe, the Memphis Grizzlies, to secure that playoff berth.
The 2020-21 Washington Wizards also needed to win a play-in game to reach the playoffs. After finishing the regular season as the East’s No. 8 seed with a 34-38 record, Washington lost to the Boston Celtics in a game for the No. 7 spot and secured its playoff spot with a play-in victory over the Indiana Pacers.
If the Pelicans beat the Clippers on Friday, they will become just the second Western Conference team with a sub-.500 record to reach the first round since 1997.
What is the worst regular season record for a playoff team in NBA history?
Of the 47 teams with losing records to reach the playoffs, nine of them had win percentages below .450. Here’s a look at the teams with the worst records to play in the postseason dating back to 1984:
1. 1985-86 Chicago Bulls, 30-52 (.366)
2. 1987-88 San Antonio Spurs, 31-51 (.378)
T-3. 1983-84 Washington Bullets, 35-47 (.427)
T-3. 1985-86 San Antonio Spurs, 35-47 (.427)
T-3. 1994-95 Boston Celtics, 35-47 (.427)
T-6. 1984-85 Phoenix Suns, 36-46 (.439)
T-6. 1984-85 Cleveland Cavaliers, 36-46 (.439)
T-6. 1996-97 Los Angeles Clippers, 36-46 (.439)
T-6. 2003-04 Boston Celtics, 36-46 (.439)
T-10. Four teams, 37-45 (.451)
Has a team with a losing regular season record ever won an NBA playoff series?
Unsurprisingly, it’s tough for a team with a losing record to win a playoff series. After all:
1. It’s in the name – teams with a losing record lose.
2. Not only does the competition get stiffer in the playoffs, but these teams with losing records were immediately met with top seeds in the first round of the playoffs.
That said, there is one squad that overcame a losing record in the regular season to make an actual postseason run.
The Seattle SuperSonics went 39-43 (.476) during the 1986-87 season before upsetting the Dallas Mavericks 3-1 in the first round. The Sonics weren’t done there, either. They beat the Houston Rockets 4-2 in the West semis before getting swept by the eventual champion Los Angeles Lakers in the conference finals. | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/sports/how-many-nba-teams-with-losing-records-reached-the-playoffs/3647202/ | 2022-04-14T23:25:36 | 1 | https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/sports/how-many-nba-teams-with-losing-records-reached-the-playoffs/3647202/ |
In the last 8 years, Maine’s aquaculture harvest has more than doubled in volume and in value, and some predict that the state's aquaculture exports could be worth as much as $800 million by 2025. A new report is recommending how that growth should be managed over the next decade. But critics say it's too focused on expanding the industry, and gives short shift to other users of the ocean commons or the ecosystems that they all depend on.
The document sets broad goals for aquaculture's next decade in Maine, starting with streamlined permitting for public water leases that "balances the rights of the applicant and the public.
And it identifies the potential costs of specific actions: $100,000, for instance, to support a state employee who would help applicants get through the permitting process and engage with host communities, $100,000 to integrate aquaculture into K-12 education, and a quarter million dollars to create a Maine Seafood Council to market both farmed and wild-caught seafood.
"It's one tool that can be used along with the many tools the state has in thinking about the future," said Gayle Zydlewski, who directs Maine Sea Grant, a federal-state program housed at the University of Maine that led a collaborative effort to create the so-called Maine Aquaculture Roadmap.
"There is definitely a lot happening in this space. And the roadmap is meant to help the sector strengthen opportunities to connect with local coastal communities. So it really is a time to be thinking about our working waterfront (and) aquaculture and fisheries, recreation and tourism," Zydlewski said.
More than 140 stakeholders weighed in, including Chebeague Island oyster farmer Bob Earnest, who sees the plan as a useful guide for growing the industry in a sustainable way.
"We don't want the government managing how many oysters we produce. (They would not be efficient at that.) But we also don't want every retired person like me in the state of Maine selling unsafe product because we're issuing too many licenses and not doing enough education. It's not an easy proposition. This road map speaks to all the right aspects of that evolving industry," Earnest said.
He added, though, that the sustainability of small, independent farms could be challenged by an emerging influx of venture capital that's backing industrial-scale shellfish farming, and proposed finfish farms on and off the coast.
And there are sharper critics.
"The lack of even mentioning any sort of tradeoff of aquaculture in any of these conversations is hugely concerning," said Marissa McMahan, a Georgetown-based marine scientist who participated in one of the stakeholder focus groups. She's also one of 19 people who signed a recent letter to Sea Grant criticizing the road for overlooking the value of shared waters for many outside of the aquaculture industry.
"There's no mention of the tradeoffs, and there are potential environmental impacts. There are huge potential social impacts. It's all linked," McMahan said.
Other critics who signed the letter include lobstermen, the director of Stonington's Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries, several UMaine researchers and Downeast Salmon Federation Director Dwayne Shaw. He said the road map fails to provide a plan for assessing the cumulative impacts of aquaculture leases on ecosystems and wild fisheries, and how aquaculture can hurt efforts to restore them.
"Its not a comprehensive plan but more of a bit of advocacy for economic development utilizing aquaculture. And because aquaculture is so complex with various types of farms being proposed, it's very important that we move cautiously," Shaw said.
But supporters maintain that fears about unbound growth are unfounded. Brianna Warner is the CEO of Atlantic Sea Farms, the state's biggest seaweed processing company, which provides free seed to 27 independent lobstermen who spend their off-seasons growing and harvesting seaweed.
"We have this thing in Maine which I find very interesting that puts value judgments around 'big is bad and small is good,'" Warner said.
Warner said the state's leasing application process is vigorous and protective of users and the environment. If Maine really wants to create more jobs on the water, she added — good-paying jobs with benefits — some aquaculture operations are going to need to get big enough to achieve the revenue streams that make that possible.
"Look, I think the industry needs to grow responsibly but I don't think there's any indication that it's not," she said.
The road map authors plan another look at the issues in 2026. And in the meantime Sea Grant director Gayle Zydlewski said she is seeking further conversations with the plan's critics, and a broad multi-sector seafood planning effort, Sea Maine, is getting under way as well. | https://www.mainepublic.org/environment-and-outdoors/2022-04-14/new-report-sets-broad-goals-for-maines-aquaculture-industry-in-the-next-decade | 2022-04-14T23:28:36 | 1 | https://www.mainepublic.org/environment-and-outdoors/2022-04-14/new-report-sets-broad-goals-for-maines-aquaculture-industry-in-the-next-decade |
Updated April 14, 2022 at 5:54 PM ET
A streak of unionizing at Starbucks has been broken, with workers at a store in Springfield, Virginia, voting against the union.
The loss follows four unanimous wins for the union earlier this week at stores in Boston, Pittsburgh, and Eugene, Oregon.
Twenty Starbucks stores have now unionized. Around 220 Starbucks stores have sought elections, with more added every day. More votes will be counted next week.
In Springfield, Starbucks shift supervisor Gailyn Berg who led the union campaign, said Starbucks' anti-union messaging, including warnings about what could happen if the store voted to unionize, changed votes.
"We weren't going to be able to get raises in the next coming months. We're not going to be able to work at other stores. Definitely our partners believe that," Berg said just after the tally was announced.
Since his return to Starbucks last week as interim CEO, Howard Schultz has appealed to employees, known as partners at Starbucks, to trust him — not a union — to make things right for them.
"My job in coming back to Starbucks is to ensure the fact that we... reimagine a new Starbucks with our partners at the center of it all, as a pro-partner company, as a company that does not need someone in between us and our people," Schultz told employees at a town-hall style meeting on his first day back.
He has said that some — not all — of the worker organizers have intentionally and aggressively sown divisions within the company while "attempting to sell a very different view of what Starbucks should be."
He's also noted the low turnout at some of the store elections. Starbucks stores typically have 20 or 30-some workers, and in some of the elections, half or fewer than half have voted.
That was not the case in Springfield, where all 19 employees at the store voted. The final tally was 10 to 8 against the union. One ballot was voided.
Starbucks workers were originally drawn to the company because of its culture
Starbucks has long prided itself on being a standout employer. Indeed, the generous benefits and socially progressive culture are a big part of what drew Berg and their colleagues Tim Swicord, Megan Gaydos and Claire Picciano to find jobs with the company.
"The way that they treated their employees and also the work environment that I witnessed — it seemed very engaging and fun," says Swicord, a high school senior who sought out Starbucks for a part-time job last year.
"I wanted to go to college for free," says Picciano, a barista trainer who has worked at Starbucks part-time for three-and-a half years while also working toward a bachelor's degree in health sciences, thanks to Starbucks. The company offers free college tuition through an online program at Arizona State University, a perk Berg and Gaydos have also enjoyed.
Berg, who joined four years ago and is now a shift supervisor, says they love Starbucks, or at least, loved it before.
"Definitely, I felt that they had lived up to the culture, the promises of the culture that they had made," they say.
But in the pandemic, the goodwill faded fast. And all four of the Springfield workers eventually became convinced that they would be better off with a union. It started in January, a month after a Starbucks store in Buffalo won a successful union drive. What started out as a casual, almost jokey conversation quickly turned serious, says Swicord. "We just started to think, 'Hey, this is something we should really do as a store.'"
Starbucks' anti-union campaign has riled the workers
Swicord became one of the organizers. He also became a target of Starbucks' anti-union campaign. At a closed-door meeting with his store manager and the district manager, he says he was warned that unionizing was a gamble, that the employees risked losing their benefits and that he in particular risked losing out on a promotion.
"To me, it did not feel like a conversation," he says.
Swicord says Starbucks has carried out other union-busting activities as well. After their store filed for a union vote, their schedule was taken down from the wall in the back room, and when it was reposted, their hours had been cut. Five new employees were suddenly brought on, but Picciano, the store's barista trainer, says she was not allowed to train the new hires.
"Those partners were shipped to other stores to be trained," she says.
Starbucks denies engaging in illegal anti-union activities, including at other stores where worker organizers have been fired. Starbucks says the workers in question were fired for violating company policies.
Tensions at the Springfield store date to early in the pandemic
The mistrust the four Springfield workers feel toward Starbucks dates to the onset of the pandemic. In those scary first days, Berg felt Starbucks was slow to respond, but soon after, their store was among those Starbucks closed for six weeks, with pay. During that time, the staff got together on Zoom to brainstorm ideas for how to keep safe. Along with their store manager, they decided to place a table and a tent at the door. Customers could place orders on the Starbucks app and pick up their drinks outside.
They were quickly overruled.
Citing food safety issues, their district manager told them their plan was inappropriate, and that customers had to be able to come into the store.
"That was definitely a rough first couple of weeks when we were first getting used to what Starbucks corporate wanted us to look like and deciding if it was actually safe enough," says Berg.
In fact, Starbucks took a number of steps to help employees through that time. For 30 days, they paid workers regardless of whether they went to work or not, for whatever reason. They gave 14 days of paid time off to workers exposed to or diagnosed with COVID. They expanded child care benefits and, for a couple of months, paid workers $3 more per hour in hazard pay.
But increasingly, the employees felt voiceless over the challenges they faced at work. Confrontations with customers over masks. Coworkers calling out sick, with no one to replace them.
"'I'm just so stressed out. We need more help,'" Picciano remembers telling her manager at the time.
Pandemic benefits were cut as company reported record sales
For Gaydos, a barista, a low point came last fall when Starbucks phased out one of its pandemic benefits. Employees had been allowed one free food item and one beverage every day, from any store, even if they weren't working that day. Gaydos says they were told the company couldn't afford the benefit anymore.
"And then it came out that we had record-breaking sales, and that the CEO at the time, Kevin Johnson, was going to receive a 40% raise," says Gaydos.
Starbucks notes that it has replaced some pandemic benefits with others as the pandemic has evolved. For example, twice a quarter, workers can now take five days' paid leave if they need to isolate due to COVID.
The company also points to raises it has announced for store employees. By summer 2022, Starbucks says all workers will earn at least $15 an hour.
The Springfield workers are not impressed.
"Starbucks is boasting about raising everyone to $15 an hour, but that was ten years ago that we needed that," says shift supervisor Berg.
What workers want: more money and more of a say
Before the vote, the Springfield workers had a long list of demands they planned to bring to the bargaining table.
"Of course a raise — that's our very first one," says Berg.
They also want consistency in their schedules and in how many hours they are allotted each week.
The baristas want customers to be able to tip on the credit card readers in the stores and to be able to tip more easily on the mobile app. They also want Starbucks to supplement the tips, seeing as many people don't tip because the prices are so high.
"It is not our fault that Starbucks keeps increasing the cost of everything to the point where it's the most expensive cup of coffee you've ever had," says Picciano.
Berg has a bigger ask in mind: a larger store. The store now is too small for the amount of traffic they get, Berg says, and workers have suffered injuries while restocking because many items are high up on shelves.
Above all, the workers want a say in how things are done at their store. They want their voices heard.
"All of us would be happy to give this company everything we had if we were also treated the same way back," says Picciano.
Having lost the election, the worker organizers say they are considering filing an objection with the National Labor Relations Board, citing unfair labor practices. In the meantime, two other Starbucks stores in their vicinity will be voting in coming weeks.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.mainepublic.org/npr-news/2022-04-14/starbucks-union-campaigns-streak-of-election-wins-ends-with-a-loss-in-virginia | 2022-04-14T23:28:42 | 1 | https://www.mainepublic.org/npr-news/2022-04-14/starbucks-union-campaigns-streak-of-election-wins-ends-with-a-loss-in-virginia |
April 14, 2022: Maine House passes tribal sovereignty bill; Driving an electric vehicle in rural Maine Published April 14, 2022 at 6:11 PM EDT Listen • 13:50 | https://www.mainepublic.org/podcast/this-day-in-maine/2022-04-14/april-14-2022-maine-house-passes-tribal-sovereignty-bill-driving-an-electric-vehicle-in-rural-maine | 2022-04-14T23:28:49 | 1 | https://www.mainepublic.org/podcast/this-day-in-maine/2022-04-14/april-14-2022-maine-house-passes-tribal-sovereignty-bill-driving-an-electric-vehicle-in-rural-maine |
The Maine House gave initial approval Thursday to a bill to overhaul the fraught relationship between state government and tribal nations in the state. But supporters fell well short of the margin they would need to overcome a potential veto from Gov. Janet Mills.
Tribal leaders agreed three years ago to participate in a task force to explore changing a 1980 agreement that ended the tribes' legal claims against the state but that sparked decades of other lawsuits and jurisdictional fights. After being delayed by the pandemic, the resulting bill finally reached the House floor on Thursday in what bill sponsor Rep. Rachel Talbot Ross, D-Portland, described as an historic moment to right past wrongs against the tribes.
"We in this body are confronted with the urgency of now,” said Talbot Ross, the assistant majority leader.” It is time to correct the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act. It is time to restore the Wabanaki nations' sovereign rights. To the people of Maine, I say, this is a moment of opportunity.
In effect, LD 1626 would allow the Passamaquoddy Tribe, the Penobscot Nation and the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians to benefit from all of the "rights, privileges, powers, duties and immunities" afforded to more than 500 tribes nationwide under federal law. It deals with taxation and land use as well as hunting and fishing on tribal lands. The bill would give tribal courts more jurisdiction over criminal justice issues involving members or on tribal lands, and it would strengthen the tribes’ ability to set environmental standards on their lands.
But it would not allow Maine tribes to open casinos or offer other gambling. Lawmakers are expected to debate as early as Friday a bill from the Mills administration that would allow the four federally recognized tribes in Maine the exclusive right to offer online sports gambling while allowing Maine’s two existing casinos to offer in-person betting on athletic events. But the casinos oppose being cut out of online sports betting and are pushing an alternative version of the bill.
In the debate over LD 1626, tribal leaders said that because the state treats tribes as municipalities rather than sovereign governments, they have been unable to benefit from more than 150 laws passed since 1980. Passamaquoddy Tribal Rep. Rena Newell told her House colleagues that Maine's Wabanaki communities deserve all of the rights and privileges of other federal recognized Indian tribes.
"Let it be stated that the Wabanaki tribes have lived for more than 42 years to what I observe as the intended consequences of living with the limitations set forth in the Maine Implementing Act created in 1980.,” Newell said. “Mr. Speaker and honorable members of this House, the time to change this is now."
Mills, who fought with the tribes as attorney general, has pledged to improve state-and-tribal relations but has also expressed serious concerns about the bill. While only two bill opponents spoke during Thursday’s debate, critics of the legislation have warned that it could lead to different environmental and tax standards between tribal lands and their neighboring municipalities. They have also raised concerns about tribes’ ability to acquire additional “trust lands” throughout the state with little to no input from the state or municipalities.
Thursday's 81-55 vote is significantly less than the two-thirds majority needed to overcome a potential veto from Mills. The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration. | https://www.mainepublic.org/politics/2022-04-14/historic-bill-on-tribal-sovereignty-advances-but-fate-remains-unclear | 2022-04-14T23:28:55 | 0 | https://www.mainepublic.org/politics/2022-04-14/historic-bill-on-tribal-sovereignty-advances-but-fate-remains-unclear |
INDIANAPOLIS — A New York family with ties to Indianapolis is searching for answers after their father, Sebastian Reyes, was shot and killed on Saturday in the Butler-Tarkington neighborhood.
“You just got to cherish the loved ones man," Ti-Risse Reyes, son of Sebastian Reyes, said. "You never know when your last time seeing them or anything."
Ti-Risse Reyes describes his father as a kind-hearted man who would help anybody at anytime. He also described his father as tough.
“My dad was just like another dad, he loved his children," Ti-Resse Reyes said. "Life wasn’t easy growing up in New York City."
Metro Police said that 56-year-old Sebastian Reyes was found injured in an alley behind a home when officers got the call shortly before 4 p.m. to the 600 block of West 39th St.
Reyes was taken to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
Now, the Reyes family just wants to know who shot and killed their dad.
“We love him and we are going to make sure he go out the way that he believed in," Ti-Resse Reyes said. "So whatever we could do to make it comfortable for my family, for my mother, my sister, my grandmother — everybody in the family, that’s what we are going to do."
Ti-Risse Reyes said that he is hoping that at least one person would hear his father's story and come forward with answers.
“I mean the universe is going to take care of him,” Ti-Risse Reyes said.
Reverend Dr. Charles Harrison runs the Indianapolis Ten Point Coalition. Their mission is to reduce gun violence by patrolling neighborhoods around Indianapolis.
“This neighborhood has gone 14 months without a homicide,” Reverend Dr. Charles Harrison said.
The Butler-Tarkington neighborhood is one of the neighborhoods that Ten Point patrols.
“It had gone 365 days four times out of the last six years," Harrison said. "The neighborhood has seen a lot of success but there has been times when some violence in the neighborhood."
Ti-RisseReyes is hoping that the neighborhood speaks up and brings justice to his family. | https://www.wrtv.com/news/local-news/crime/family-searching-for-answers-following-fathers-homicide-over-the-weekend | 2022-04-14T23:29:37 | 0 | https://www.wrtv.com/news/local-news/crime/family-searching-for-answers-following-fathers-homicide-over-the-weekend |
INDIANAPOLIS — A man has been convicted in a 2019 shooting that killed one woman and seriously injured another.
A jury found Jermaine M. Lamar of Indianapolis guilty on all counts against him — including murder, attempted murder, and carrying a handgun with a prior felony conviction — after a two-day trial, the Marion County Prosecutor's Office said Thursday.
Lamar was accused of shooting two women on Nov. 20, 2019, because one of them was talking to his friend too much, according to court documents.
The shootings happened in a truck on a side street near Interstate 465 and Washington Street. Latashia Sims died as a result.
The surviving victim told police Lamar was driving her and Sims home after leaving a friend's house and he began to yell at her during the drive. He then pulled over and shot Sims, who was asleep in the backseat, then shot the surviving victim in the left side of her head, the Prosecutor's Office said.
Lamar then flagged down a Hendrick's County Sheriff's Deputy in Plainfield, where the two women were found with gunshot wounds, according to the Prosecutor's Office.
Lamar denied shooting the women when speaking with police. He told them he pulled over so they could use the restroom when another vehicle pulled up behind him, started fighting with him, and fired shots, according to court documents.
Lamar told police he was struck with a handgun, but detectives said they did not observe such injuries.
Lamar is scheduled to be sentenced at 9:30 a.m. on May 12. | https://www.wrtv.com/news/local-news/crime/indianapolis-man-convicted-for-nov-2019-shooting-that-killed-1-woman-wounded-another | 2022-04-14T23:29:43 | 1 | https://www.wrtv.com/news/local-news/crime/indianapolis-man-convicted-for-nov-2019-shooting-that-killed-1-woman-wounded-another |
INDIANAPOLIS — They're a nuisance, dangerous and damage your car. You report a pothole, and hopefully, the city comes to fill it.
Neighbors who live off Wicker Road, just off State Road 37, said they have reported the potholes for two years.
"I have just been waiting for them to come and fill them up, but that just hasn't happened yet," Brett Sayers said.
One neighbor said she's worried someone is going to be killed and added there are accidents or close calls every day.
The pothole viewer, on the Mayor's action center website, shows several potholes on that road, indicating that neighbors have made requests.
Indianapolis officials said they receive calls from all over the county, and they have to prioritize the reports starting with the major thoroughfares.
"Each day, pothole-filling crews are given a starting location to begin work, and then they address all potholes along a given road segment. As we still are in the beginning of the season, crews continue to focus on major thoroughfares which carry emergency vehicles and the largest volumes of traffic across the city. As we shift to the mid-and-later season, the strategy will shift to include more secondary streets and residential streets (which traditionally see less traffic and slower speeds). Efforts will see crews continue to work on thoroughfares, but then also addressing reported potholes on local roads nearby. This demonstrates the direct connection between the reported locations of potholes and the work plan for the crew. Our crews worked down total pothole requests to a very low number by the end of last season. So, it’s very likely they hit Wicker Road at some point last year, if not multiple times. Certainly, however, each new season (particularly the winter/spring) brings more deterioration. We continue to recommend that residents report all potholes to the Mayor’s Action Center if they’ve been filled before and have reopened."
"Traffic literally comes to a stop," Michael Wendel said. "We either stop or we try to navigate and try not to hit each other."
Indy DPW crews have filled over 147,000 potholes so far in 2022. | https://www.wrtv.com/news/local-news/indianapolis/you-could-be-waiting-for-potholes-to-be-filled | 2022-04-14T23:29:49 | 1 | https://www.wrtv.com/news/local-news/indianapolis/you-could-be-waiting-for-potholes-to-be-filled |
The Missouri attorney general has refiled criminal charges against three men involved in the 2018 deadly sinking of a tour boat near Branson.
News of Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt recharging the men comes after a circuit court judge dismissed all criminal charges against the boat's captain, Scott McKee; the general manager of Ride the Ducks Branson Curtis Lanham; and the manager on duty that day Charles Baltzell, the Associated Press reported.
Circuit Court Judge Alan Blankenship dismissed the charges on April 5 without prejudice, stating in his ruling that prosecutors did not have enough evidence to uphold the charges.
Two days later, Schmitt refiled the involuntary manslaughter charges, saying in a statement that his office is committed to seeking justice for those who died.
Seventeen people died when the duck boat capsized during a storm on Table Rock Lake on July 19, 2018.
A nearly two-year-long investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board found that the tour operator and its parent company were at fault blame because managers to the vessel's captain did not relay a severe weather forecast.
All three men face 17 counts each of first-degree involuntary manslaughter, with McKee also facing 12 counts of endangering the welfare of a child. | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/missouri-ag-refiles-charges-in-boat-sinking-that-killed-17 | 2022-04-14T23:29:55 | 1 | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/missouri-ag-refiles-charges-in-boat-sinking-that-killed-17 |
Frank James posted dozens of videos ranting about race, violence, and his struggles with mental illness. One stands out for its relative calm: A silent shot of a packed New York City subway car in which he raises his finger to point out passengers, one by one.
Even as police arrested James on Wednesday in the Brooklyn subway shooting that wounded 10 people, they were still searching for a motive from a flood of details about the 62-year-old Black man’s life.
An erratic work history. Arrests for a string of mostly low-level crimes. A storage locker with more ammo. And hours of rambling, bigoted, profanity-laced videos on his YouTube channel that point to a deep, simmering anger.
“This nation was born in violence, it’s kept alive by violence or the threat thereof, and it’s going to die a violent death,” says James in a video where he takes on the moniker “Prophet of Doom.”
After a 30-hour manhunt, James was arrested without incident after a tipster — thought by police to be James himself — said he could be found near a McDonald’s on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Mayor Eric Adams triumphantly proclaimed “We got him!” Police said their top priority was getting the suspect, now charged with a federal terrorism offense, off the streets as they investigate their biggest unanswered question: Why?
A prime trove of evidence, they said, is his YouTube videos. He seems to have opinions about nearly everything — racism in America, New York City’s new mayor, the state of mental health services, 9/11, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and Black women.
A federal criminal complaint cited one in which James ranted about too many homeless people on the subway and put the blame on New York City’s mayor.
“What are you doing, brother?” he said in the video posted on March 27. “Every car I went to was loaded with homeless people. It was so bad, I couldn’t even stand.”
James then railed about the treatment of Black people in an April 6 video cited in the complaint, saying, “And so the message to me is: I should have gotten a gun, and just started shooting.”
In a video posted a day before the attack, James criticizes crime against Black people and says things would only change if certain people were “stomped, kicked and tortured” out of their “comfort zone.”
Surveillance cameras spotted James entering the subway system turnstiles Tuesday morning, dressed as a maintenance or construction worker in a yellow hard hat and orange working jacket with reflective tape.
Police say fellow riders heard him say only “oops” as he set off one smoke grenade in a crowded subway car as it rolled into a station. He then set off a second smoke grenade and started firing, police said. In the smoke and chaos that ensued, police say James made his getaway by slipping into an R-train going the opposite direction and exiting after the first stop.
Left behind at the scene was the gun, extended magazines, a hatchet, detonated and undetonated smoke grenades, a black garbage can, a rolling cart, gasoline and the key to a U-Haul van, police said.
That key led investigators to James, and clues to a life of setbacks and anger as he bounced among factory and maintenance jobs, got fired at least twice, and moved among Milwaukee, Philadelphia, New Jersey and New York.
Investigators said James had 12 prior arrests in New York and New Jersey from 1990 to 2007, including for possession of burglary tools, criminal sex act, trespassing, larceny and disorderly conduct.
James had no felony convictions and was not prohibited from purchasing or owning a firearm. Police said the gun used in the attack was legally purchased at an Ohio pawn shop in 2011. A search of James' Philadelphia storage unit and apartment turned up at least two types of ammunition, including the kind used with an AR-15 assault-style rifle, a taser and a blue smoke canister.
Police said James was born and raised in New York City. In his videos, he said he finished a machine shop course in 1983 then worked as a gear machinist at Curtiss-Wright, an aerospace manufacturer in New Jersey, until 1991 when he was he was hit by a one-two punch of bad news: He was fired from his job and, soon after, his father whom he had lived within New Jersey died.
Records show James filed a complaint against the aerospace company in federal court soon after he lost his job alleging racial discrimination, but it was dismissed a year later by a judge. He says in one video, without offering specifics, that he “couldn’t get any justice for what I went through.”
A spokesperson for Curtiss-Wright didn’t immediately respond to a call-seeking comment.
James describes going in and out of several mental health facilities, including two in the Bronx borough of New York City in the 1970s.
“Mr. Mayor, let me say to you I’m a victim of your mental health program in New York City,” James says in a video earlier this year, adding he is “full of hate, full anger and bitterness.”
James says he later was a patient at Bridgeway House, a mental health facility in New Jersey, although that could not be immediately confirmed. Messages left with the facility were not returned.
“My goal at Bridgeway in 1997 was to get off Social Security and go back to f------ work,” he says in a video, adding that he enrolled in a college and took a course in computer-aided design and manufacturing.
James says he eventually got a job at telecommunications giant Lucent Technologies in Parsippany, New Jersey, but says he ended up getting fired and returned to Bridgeway House, this time not as a patient but as an employee on the maintenance staff. A message-seeking comment was sent to Lucent Technologies.
“I just want to work. I want to be a person that’s productive,” he said.
Touches of that earnest, struggling man showed up after James’ parked car was hit in Milwaukee. Eugene Yarbrough, the pastor of Mt. Zion Wings of Glory Church of God in Christ next door to James’ apartment, said James was impressed that the pastor owned up to hitting the car. Neither James nor anyone else was there to see the accident. And James called him up to say so.
“I just couldn’t believe it would be him,” Yarbrough said. “But who knows what people will do?”
Newsy is the nation’s only free 24/7 national news network. You can find Newsy using your TV’s digital antenna or stream for free. See all the ways you can watch Newsy here. | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/prophet-of-doom-subway-suspect-left-ranting-video-clues | 2022-04-14T23:30:01 | 0 | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/prophet-of-doom-subway-suspect-left-ranting-video-clues |
Tesla is recalling nearly 595,000 vehicles in the U.S., most for a second time, because a "Boombox" function can play sounds over an external speaker and obscure audible warnings for pedestrians.
The company says in government documents that the new recall will disable "Boombox" if owners are using a feature that lets them "summon" the vehicles at low speeds. The first recall in February disabled "Boombox" if the Tesla vehicles are in drive, neutral or reverse.
Both recalls will be done with online software updates. The new recall covers certain 2020 through 2022 Model Y, X, and S vehicles, as well as 2017 through 2022 Model 3s.
Also on Thursday, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration posted documents showing that Tesla is recalling more than 7,000 Model X SUVs from 2021 and 2022 because the side curtain airbags may not inflate as intended in a crash when the windows are lowered. | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/second-recall-issued-at-tesla-for-obstructing-pedestrian-warning | 2022-04-14T23:30:07 | 1 | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/second-recall-issued-at-tesla-for-obstructing-pedestrian-warning |
President Joe Biden is now calling Russia’s actions in Ukraine a genocide.
"It is a horrible thing that the Russians have done in Ukraine, and we're only going to learn more and more about the devastation," he said.
The president then told reporters he stands by his use of the word in his Tuesday speech.
"Your family budget, your ability to fill up your tank, none of it should hinge on whether a dictator declares war and commits genocide a half a world away,” President Biden said.
The U.N. defines genocide as “acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group.”
The use of the word has become a litmus test of Western resolve against Russia because of the weight it carries.
“The general public generally views the term genocide as representing the crime of all crime," said Valerie Oosterveld, professor of international criminal law at Western University Canada.
But there’s more to it than symbolism.
“If there's a genocide, you need to take action to punish it," said Stephen Rapp, former U.S. ambassador-at-large and leader of the State Department's Office of Global Criminal Justice. "If there's a threat of genocide, you need to take action to prevent it.”
President Biden says it’s still up to lawyers to determine if Russia’s crimes in Ukraine meet the legal standard of genocide. That international standard would trigger an obligation to intervene, but it’s a high bar.
“To get to genocide, you have to show that intent, and the fact that not all Ukrainians are being targeted, which to some extent belie that intent," Rapp said. "On the other hand, we're seeing a lot about the way the Russians are conducting themselves, the language used by Putin denying that Ukraine really exists as a country.”
“The images coming out of Bucha and the area surrounding Kyiv in recent times really have galvanized the international community," Oosterveld said.
Oosterveld says a recent account by a Ukrainian official that 25 women and girls were raped in Bucha is one potential indication of Russia’s genocidal intent.
“Being told as they were being raped that they were being raped so they could never have Ukrainian children, that their children would be Russian, that is a real warning sign of potential genocide," Oosterveld said.
Unlike President Biden, French president Emmanuel Macron says it’s too early to tell if Russian war crimes amount to genocide.
“I want to continue to try my best to be able to stop the war and restore peace," Macron said. "I’m not sure if the escalation of words serves our cause.”
In the past, American leaders have often dodged the word because of the legal obligations it triggers.
“When the genocide in Rwanda was unfolding, there were many world leaders, including the president of the United States, who did not want to name what was happening in Rwanda as genocide because they feared that they would need to intervene under international law," Oosterveld said.
President Biden’s use of the word drew immediate praise from Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his staff.
“I'm thankful to your president, your president who recognized the genocide, thank you," Zelenskyy said.
The White House says the escalated rhetoric does not mean an escalation in the U.S. response. Still, experts tell Newsy that President Biden’s choice of words increases pressure on the U.S. and its allies to prevent and document Russian crimes in Ukraine.
Newsy is the nation’s only free 24/7 national news network. You can find Newsy using your TV’s digital antenna or stream for free. See all the ways you can watch Newsy here. | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/the-weight-of-genocide-why-leaders-are-hesitant-to-use-the-word | 2022-04-14T23:30:14 | 1 | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/the-weight-of-genocide-why-leaders-are-hesitant-to-use-the-word |
Stocks are closing lower on Wall Street on Thursday as investors gave mixed reviews to earnings from four of the nation's largest banks.
The S&P 500 fell 1.2% and ended a shortened trading week with a decline of more than 2%. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 2.83% as inflation worries continue to overhang the markets. Investors again turned their attention to the drama surrounding Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Twitter.
Musk offered to buy the social media company for $54.20 a share, two weeks after revealing he'd accumulated a 9% stake. The Commerce Department said retail sales rose 0.5% in March.
Musk criticized Twitter for not living up to free speech principles and said, in a regulatory filing, that it needs to be transformed as a private company. Twitter’s stock was up 0.2% at $45.92, well below Musk’s offering price. | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/us-stocks-fall-as-investors-eye-elon-musks-offer-for-twitter | 2022-04-14T23:30:20 | 1 | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/us-stocks-fall-as-investors-eye-elon-musks-offer-for-twitter |
GREENWOOD — Police have requested the public's help in the disappearance of a 15-year-old girl last seen Wednesday.
Megan Yaste, of Greenwood, was reported missing to police Wednesday after she did not return home from a walk, police and Yaste's family tell WRTV.
Missy Yaste, Megan's mother, said she was walking around the neighborhood when she texted her father around 11 a.m. saying she was on her way back. But she never returned home.
Missy Yaste said she and her husband tried to reach her phone repeatedly, but their calls went straight to voicemail.
"We love her and we just want her home safe," Missy Yaste said.
Police described Megan as about 5 feet, 8 inches tall, and 100 pounds. She was last seen around 10:58 a.m. wearing a green sweatshirt, plaid pajama pants and black shoes.
Missy Yaste said Megan also has a septum piercing and a highlight on the side of her hair.
Missy Yaste said she's concerned for her daughter's health and safety and wants her home as soon as possible. She thinks she may have started her walk in the Providence Green neighborhood, where the Yaste family lives.
Anyone with information on Megan's whereabouts was urged to call the Greenwood Police Department at 317-346-6336 or 911. | https://www.wrtv.com/news/public-safety/greenwood-girl-15-reported-missing-police-seek-publics-help-in-finding-her | 2022-04-14T23:30:26 | 1 | https://www.wrtv.com/news/public-safety/greenwood-girl-15-reported-missing-police-seek-publics-help-in-finding-her |
ROGERS, Ark. — Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO) invites motorcycle riders to donate blood during the Bikers for Blood Drive.
On Saturday, April 23, two CBCO bloodmobiles will be onsite at Pig Trail Harley-Davidson from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to take donations.
“We are proud to be partnering with Community Blood Center of the Ozarks, where 100% of donations remain here in our local region,” Kyle Johnson, General Manager of Pig Trail Harley-Davidson, said. “Blood provides a much-needed lifeline to local hospitals and patients. Ride free and roll up your sleeves!
During this drive, donors will receive a $10 Pig Trail Harley-Davidson gift card and a commemorative gray T-shirt that lets others know that you “give to ride and ride to give.”
CBCO, the exclusive provider of blood for patients at 44 area healthcare facilities, says it continues to see some blood shortages, with many reserves at less-than-optimal levels.
Appointments are encouraged but not required for this event. Click here to make an appointment. Masks are required for all donors. If you do not have a face covering, one will be provided.
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To report a typo or grammatical error, please email KFSMDigitalTeam@tegna.com. | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/community/pig-trail-harley-davidson-bikers-for-blood-drive/527-e36420f9-d4c7-492c-826f-d306fbd45328 | 2022-04-14T23:30:34 | 0 | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/community/pig-trail-harley-davidson-bikers-for-blood-drive/527-e36420f9-d4c7-492c-826f-d306fbd45328 |
Would you like to see changes to Somers Park?
Center Township was recently gifted Somers Park from the City of Kokomo. Now, the township’s Trustee’s Office wants to hear your ideas on how it can be improved.
There will be an open house at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 21, in the Community Building adjacent to the Center Township Trustee Office (213 E. Jefferson St. in Kokomo). There will be a quick review of public survey responses and initial park concepts, followed by the opportunity to provide additional ideas and review concepts in more detail.
The Center Township Trustee’s Office strives to provide community residents with a multitude of services and assistance. For more information, visit centertownship1.com/. | https://www.kokomotribune.com/news/center-township-to-host-open-house-on-somers-park/article_e0b2f5ec-bc20-11ec-914f-abb88e701be4.html | 2022-04-14T23:30:34 | 1 | https://www.kokomotribune.com/news/center-township-to-host-open-house-on-somers-park/article_e0b2f5ec-bc20-11ec-914f-abb88e701be4.html |
SPRINGDALE, Ark. — Two 17-year-olds are facing attempted capital murder charges after allegedly opening fire at a man at a Springdale gas station.
According to court records, officers with the Springdale Police Department were called to Silent Grove and Pump Station Roads around 1:45 a.m. on Tuesday, March 29, after reports of gunshots in the area.
When officers arrived they didn't find anyone in need of assistance or any signs of a disturbance at the time. Records state that later on, police found a total of 10 9MM spent casings in the parking lot near the intersection of Silent Grove and Pump Station Roads.
Records state that the next morning just before 11 a.m. a man called the department saying that he had been shot at in that same area around the same time the gunshots were heard.
The victim told police that he was in the area to meet his friend Haylee Valdez. He said the two were meeting to talk about a "date" they had but instead of meeting Valdez, her boyfriend David Magana showed up. Records state that Valdez then began shooting at the victim.
The victim's vehicle had 10 bullet holes in it, according to police records.
After further investigation, police found out that the victim met Valdez on Snapchat and was talking to her for a few days. The victim said Valdez told him, "she was pregnant and currently taking a break from her boyfriend and father of her unborn child, Magana." Records state that the victim said he felt uncomfortable when Valdez described her boyfriend as a "drug dealer" and she "needed to tell" Magana she went on a date with the victim.
The victim told police he dropped Valdez off at her home after the date. Records state that the next day Magana sent the victim threatening messages through Instagram.
On March 29 when the victim said Valdez asked to meet him, he was reluctant, according to the court record. Out of caution, he asked Valdez to send him a video of her alone. When she did, he agreed to meet with her.
According to court records, the victim told police that when he pulled up next to Valdez's vehicle, Magana opened the passenger door and shot at him with a handgun. The victim began to drive away as bullets hit his driver's side window and door.
Out of fear of retaliation, the victim did not immediately report the shooting to the police.
Valdez was arrested on charges of attempted capital murder. Magana was arrested on charges of attempted capital murder, terroristic act and minor in possession of a handgun.
RELATED: Police: 18-year-old shot by juvenile in Springdale, one man arrested in connection to shooting
RELATED: Police: 17-year-old girl dead after being shot in the head, homicide investigation underway
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To report a typo or grammatical error, please email KFSMDigitalTeam@tegna.com. | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/crime/teens-attempted-capital-murder-charges-shooting-springdale/527-091fe0f7-d817-4f4e-b46d-03d441221300 | 2022-04-14T23:30:40 | 1 | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/crime/teens-attempted-capital-murder-charges-shooting-springdale/527-091fe0f7-d817-4f4e-b46d-03d441221300 |
PERU — The defense attorney for a La Fontaine man accused of murder in the May 2018 death of another man during an incident inside the Okie Pinokie woods said he will soon be conducting an independent survey to see how much is publicly known about the case.
The independent survey is in an effort to avoid a tainted jury pool, he noted.
During a hearing Thursday morning, Brent Dechert, defense attorney for Joshua Kean, noted intense media coverage of the case following the convictions of two of Kean’s co-defendants, Ethan Cain and Brittany Morris, as a proposed reason for the upcoming survey.
Dechert also specifically cited the number of public comments and opinions that appeared on social media relating to the case.
“It’s not often a community like Miami County has a big murder trial, and this was one,” he said.
Dechert added that the defense has a bit more research into how to conduct the independent survey, such as the how the survey will be conducted, the type of information or questions that will be asked, how the residents will be selected and who will officially conduct it, but he did say it would likely take a few weeks to complete.
Asked for a response, Miami County Prosecutor Jeff Sinkovics did not object to the defense’s desire to conduct the survey, though he noted that he believes the media coverage hasn’t affected the case so far.
“I’ve researched the issue, and it’s something the court can do,” Sinkovics said, referring to the survey. “It’s at the judge’s discretion. In doing the previous trial, there was nobody that had read any media coverage about the case. … I understand Mr. Dechert’s concern, but I don’t know that it’s going to have any effect on getting a jury.”
Earlier this year, the defense team also filed three separate motions, including the possibility of a test jury and a change of venue, but the acceptance or rejection of those motions is currently tabled pending the results of the independent survey.
A further pretrial conference on the matter is set for 8:30 a.m. June 16, with a trial scheduled for September.
The case stems from what police say was a plot — organized by Morris, Cain and Kean — to rob 22-year-old Summitville resident Drake Smith of drugs, money and a Bluetooth speaker by luring him into the Okie Pinokie woods on May 19, 2018.
Smith’s body was found by mushroom hunters a few hours later, severely beaten and lying just a few feet away from his truck.
Last February, Cain pleaded guilty to a charge of felony murder in connection with Smith’s death, and he was sentenced to 55 years in the Indiana Department of Correction.
And last month, a jury convicted Morris of felony counts of aiding, inducing or causing murder and aiding, inducing or causing robbery, as well as a misdemeanor charge of theft, for her role in the case.
She is set to be sentenced on at 8 a.m. Wednesday, May 18. | https://www.kokomotribune.com/news/defense-to-conduct-independent-survey-in-murder-case/article_725bf454-bc20-11ec-aa3a-6bb4db3b9a44.html | 2022-04-14T23:30:40 | 1 | https://www.kokomotribune.com/news/defense-to-conduct-independent-survey-in-murder-case/article_725bf454-bc20-11ec-aa3a-6bb4db3b9a44.html |
ARKANSAS, USA — If you are a hunter, turkey season is almost underway in Arkansas and Oklahoma.
In Oklahoma, you can start hunting turkey on Saturday, April 16, and in Arkansas on Monday, April 18.
“Nothing gets your hair standing up like a gobbler in a tree,” said Beauchamp Jansen.
Avid hunter Beauchamp Jansen says turkey hunting is something he and his family always look forward to every year.
“It makes me crazy every time I hear it. The closer you get; they are a lot louder than you realize. Those birds can make some crazy noises. Even just hearing the hens cluck and purr in the trees just trying to group up with other ladies. All the different sounds they make, it just amazes me,” said Jansen.
In Arkansas, hunters can only harvest two turkeys and after the first one, hunters have to wait seven days to harvest another one. Hunters in Oklahoma will only be able to harvest one turkey this year because of the declining population.
Jack Jansen says he and his brother and excited to head to Oklahoma to hunt this weekend.
“Going out early morning, it’s still dark out and the turkeys are roosted up in the trees and just start gobbling all over the place and you just here them…and just sitting there getting pumped up. Just hearing those birds gobble and waiting for them to come in, strike a little call and see what happens. A lot of anticipation and excitement,” he said.
Steve Dunlap is the program coordinator at the Ozarks Highland Nature Center in Springdale and he says with all hunting safety is very important. He encourages hunters to wear orange of some type when walking to and from their hunting spot and suggests using hen calls instead of gobbler calls to keep hunters safe.
If you want to know where the best place is to find a turkey, Dunlap has some suggestions.
“What hunters need to be looking for are roosting sights which are tall trees because the turkeys like to get up in the trees at night. And then open areas for the quart ship and the strutting and also these open areas are good for them to find their food and water,” said Dunlap.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission says more than 6,700 turkeys were harvested last season and they expect even more to be harvested this year.
In Oklahoma, hunting season opens this Saturday, April 16, and ends a month later on May 16th. In Arkansas, the season opens on Monday and closes on April 26th in Benton and Washington Counties. For all the other counties in our area, it closes on May 8th.
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To report a typo or grammatical error, please email KFSMDigitalTeam@tegna.com. | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/turkey-season-opening-soonsome-new-rules/527-3c897f49-6654-4cc6-a142-db1f45bd2794 | 2022-04-14T23:30:46 | 1 | https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/local/turkey-season-opening-soonsome-new-rules/527-3c897f49-6654-4cc6-a142-db1f45bd2794 |
BUNKER HILL — Officials at Grissom Air Reserve Base are warning airmen that they could fail a drug test and face disciplinary action if they eat products that contain hemp or CBD.
The base earlier this week issued a release saying airmen should be hyper-vigilant about what they eat as more and more snacks, drinks, shampoos, lotions and protein powders are using hemp or hempseed oil as an ingredient.
The reminder comes after the Department of Defense in March 2020 issued a memorandum saying service members were still prohibited from using hemp products, despite the the 2018 Farm Bill no longer defining it as marijuana.
The Air Force policy specifically says “the use of products containing or products derived from hemp, including but not limited to cannabidiol (CBD), is prohibited. This prohibition applies regardless of the route of administration, ingestion or use.”
Alicia Santana, Demand Drug Reduction Program manager at Grissom, said that means service members at the base need to always read the ingredients on everything they use or ingest.
“Check all your ingredients, no matter if its food, drink, lotion or supplements,” she said in the release. “Whatever’s going into your body, always check the ingredients.”
Santana said a major concern is the fact that concentrations of THC in hemp products is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, so it’s impossible to know exactly how much THC might be in a product.
“They could have one batch that has a higher concentration (of hemp or CBD) that could potentially make somebody test positive on a urinalysis test,” she said. “Since it’s not regulated, you can’t know exactly how much of what they have is going into that product.”
Service members who knowingly use products derived from hemp, including CBD, may face administrative or disciplinary action. In certain cases, this could even block discharged members from receiving VA benefits and services.
Grissom’s Chief Public Affairs Officer Doug Hays said service members failing drug because of using hemp or CBD products isn’t an issue at the base. However, with hemp becoming more and more ubiquitous, there’s more of a chance now that it could cause problems for airmen, he said.
“It hasn’t been an issue, and we don’t want it to become an issue,” he said. “... We want to let people be aware of it so they know to look at the ingredients so it stays a non-issue.” | https://www.kokomotribune.com/news/grissom-warns-airmen-to-stay-away-from-hemp-products/article_882e24f6-bc1a-11ec-81f7-138bdfbb2035.html | 2022-04-14T23:30:46 | 0 | https://www.kokomotribune.com/news/grissom-warns-airmen-to-stay-away-from-hemp-products/article_882e24f6-bc1a-11ec-81f7-138bdfbb2035.html |
FORT WORTH, Texas — Despite entering the weekend as the No. 1 team in the country, Oklahoma entered the first session of the NCAA Championships with a do-or-die mentality Thursday.
So despite the Sooners posting their highest team score of the year on vault at the Norman Regional Final earlier this month, OU head coach KJ Kindler made the last-second decision to make a change to her lineup.
Originally, Danae Fletcher was slated to anchor the Sooners’ first event of the day, but Kindler said Fletcher looked a little rattled during one-touch warmups. Sophomore Audrey Davis, who was originally named an alternate, said she was shocked when Kindler pulled her out of the corral to tell her she would now be vaulting.
“Audrey always knows that that’s a possibility,” Kindler said. “It’s something that we actually planned to do during the season before, but we have never done it before today.”
Davis hadn’t vaulted since the team’s regular season finale, but has turned in solid performances in each of her previous appearances. Still, after the success the Sooners had in the vault in their last meet, it wasn’t an easy decision to change the original plan before the session had even started.
Davis responded with a confident vault that earned her a 9.8, which helped the Sooners finish second overall as a team in the event. They would go on to edge out Utah for the top spot in the session, 198.1125-197.7125, earning a chance to compete in the final meet Saturday for a national championship. The score is the Sooners' highest in the national semifinal in program history.
Kindler said she was confident going to the sophomore due to the consistency she’s shown throughout the year.
“I knew that we needed to pop off a consistent vault score,” she said. “Danae has an amazing vault, but she was rattled a little and so we made the decision to pull Danae in the last spot and put Audrey in at the last moment.”
Still, it wasn’t the start the Sooners wanted in their first event of the day. They trailed Utah heading into the second rotation, when Danielle Sievers stepped up and delivered a big performance on the uneven bars.
“Going into bars we really needed to start off hot again,” Kindler said. “And Danny has been very confident, she works very hard on the details, and as a freshman starting an event … we wouldn’t do that if we didn’t have the upmost confidence in her.”
The freshman led off the second event with a 9.9, her second-highest score of the season. When she landed her dismount, the Oklahoma fans in attendance erupted.
The routine appeared to give the Sooners some energy back, and they went on to stick four of their six dismounts. Olivia Trautman, who hasn’t competed on the bars all season due to injury, tied the highest score in the session with a 9.95.
“Coming back from an injury for the third time, I kind of knew what to expect,” Trautman said. “Obviously it wasn’t my foot, it was my knee this time, but I trusted my coaches and teammates and trainers that they’re going to put me in the best position possible to succeed at the end of the season.”
The Sooners team total of 49.575 was their highest this postseason, and was the highest of all the teams in the session. The Sooners also finished with a 49.350 on vault, a 49.675 on floor and a 49.5125 on beam.
Both teams earned a spot in Saturday's session by finishing in the top two. With the win, Oklahoma advances to the final four for the seventh consecutive season.
Still, even with the past success, Kindler said she still considers her team the underdog.
“No one’s expecting us to win this meet,” she said. “That’s what I believe and I think we can do it. … I really think there’s some super great teams, and I understand people leaning another way. I totally get it. But this team has the heart and the ability to do it. Listen, whoever’s night it is (Saturday) night, that’s who’s winning this thing — whoever has the night.”
Saturday's session will begin at noon and will be televised on ABC. | https://www.normantranscript.com/sports/ou-womens-gymnastics-sooners-earn-top-score-in-national-semifinal-advance-to-final-four/article_181fb63a-bc37-11ec-8d20-37b0564f6ef1.html | 2022-04-14T23:30:51 | 1 | https://www.normantranscript.com/sports/ou-womens-gymnastics-sooners-earn-top-score-in-national-semifinal-advance-to-final-four/article_181fb63a-bc37-11ec-8d20-37b0564f6ef1.html |
A Kokomo man who police say was connected to the shooting death of another man in December 2020 was sentenced on Thursday to six years in the Indiana Department of Correction.
Kyron McKnight, 19, will serve four of those years in jail, one year on in-home detention and one year on supervised probation after pleading guilty to a Level 5 felony charge of assisting a criminal.
A Level 1 felony charge of conspiracy to commit murder was dismissed, per terms of the agreement.
Along with McKnight, six other people were arrested in connection to the incident.
Chicago resident Terrence Ben is currently facing a preliminary charge of murder, a Level 1 felony, for his alleged role in the case.
Along with McKnight, other co-defendants were Kevonte Tyler; Amari Deaarion Anderson; Marquis Darrionta Herron; and Dion Creed Smith, who were each originally arrested on a preliminary charge of conspiracy to commit murder.
However, like McKnight, many of them have had that particular charge dismissed in favor of an assisting-a-criminal charge.
Tyler, Anderson and a Kokomo woman named Alexis James are also each facing a felony charge of obstruction of justice as well, according to the release.
McKnight’s sentence stems from an incident that occurred just after midnight on Dec. 23, 2020, in which police located 42-year-old Sharman Pearson, of Kokomo, at a residence in the 800 block of East Broadway Street.
Pearson had suffered several apparent gunshot wounds, and he was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.
But according to court records, it was reportedly Pearson’s girlfriend who was actually the intended target of the shooting.
During his sentencing hearing on Thursday, McKnight took responsibility for his role in the shooting, acknowledging that he stayed with Pearson’s girlfriend the night before the shooting so that he could provide Ben with a layout of the property, even though he knew Ben was going to attempt to kill the woman.
McKnight expressed remorse for his actions in an unsworn written statement he read to the court.
“I’m 19 and have spent the last year of my life in jail,” he told the court in the statement. “I’ve had a lot of time to sit and think about what I did. ... I’m asking for a second chance to get my life straight.” | https://www.kokomotribune.com/news/kokomo-man-gets-6-years-in-2020-shooting-death/article_86aef244-bc2f-11ec-90ff-4fc6ed896f37.html | 2022-04-14T23:30:52 | 0 | https://www.kokomotribune.com/news/kokomo-man-gets-6-years-in-2020-shooting-death/article_86aef244-bc2f-11ec-90ff-4fc6ed896f37.html |
Kokomo schools became the second Howard County school district to join a national class-action lawsuit against e-cigarette manufacturer Juul on Wednesday.
The Kokomo School Corporation Board of School Trustees voted to join the lawsuit that includes hundreds of school districts, including Indianapolis Public Schools, Carmel Clay Schools, Madison-Grant and Alexandria in Indiana.
Northwestern joined the suit last month. Western is expected to vote on joining the lawsuit next week.
The lawsuit accuses Juul of marketing its products to teens through advertising and flavors such as mango and other fruits. The allegations are similar to those that were leveled against tobacco companies about how they targeted young people.
“Kokomo School Corporation officials feel obligated to challenge any company and/or organization which intentionally targets student-aged youth to engage in unhealthy practices, such as vaping,” Superintendent Mike Sargent said in a statement.
Teen use in vapes coincided with the rise of Juul as a company in 2015, leading the Food and Drug Administration to declare an underage vaping epidemic.
Vapes are marketed as a safer alternative to cigarettes, though they still contain nicotine, which is addictive and harmful to a developing brain.
Joining the lawsuit means Kokomo schools is eligible for compensation if the court rules in schools’ favor. Money can be used for vaping education and other preventative measures.
Juul has already settled for millions with two different states over similar allegations of deceptive advertising practices. In settlements, Juul agreed not to advertise to anyone under 21.
A federal law that raised the purchase age for tobacco and vape products to 21 and the FDA banning flavors for cartridge-based e-cigarettes has helped decrease the number of teens vaping.
Area schools have told the Kokomo Tribune vaping remains an issue among students. | https://www.kokomotribune.com/news/kokomo-schools-joins-lawsuit-against-juul/article_5e15c9b4-bc27-11ec-b710-13ce5cf530d7.html | 2022-04-14T23:30:59 | 1 | https://www.kokomotribune.com/news/kokomo-schools-joins-lawsuit-against-juul/article_5e15c9b4-bc27-11ec-b710-13ce5cf530d7.html |
EL PASO, Texas (Border Report) — The Texas Department of Public Safety is immediately scaling back commercial truck checks in El Paso after the governors of Texas and Chihuahua reached a deal to jointly fight illegal immigration.
The memorandum of understanding signed Thursday in Austin by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Chihuahua Gov. Maru Campos is like one penned Wednesday between Abbott and the governor of Nuevo Leon.
“Chihuahua is doing more than talking about (border security), they have an organized game plan to address illegal immigration from Chihuahua to Texas,” Abbott said at a live-streamed news conference. “Gov. Campos will continue security efforts to prevent illegal immigration from Chihuahua into the state of Texas. She will collaborate with Texas DPS.”
The enhanced security checks that have caused delays of up to 12 hours in the bringing across of merchandise from Mexico into Texas will continue at border crossings Texas shares with Tamaulipas and Coahuila until those states commit in writing to helping Texas secure their common border.
Abbott ordered the checks in response to a continuous increase in unauthorized migration at the border which he says President Biden not only is ignoring but brought about through pro-immigration rhetoric. DPS officers are looking for drugs, migrants hidden in the trucks and vehicle safety inspections.
DPS hasn’t disclosed how much drugs or how many migrants have been found in the trucks, but the agency said one-fourth of the vehicles inspected were cited for safety violations and many were ordered off Texas roads.
The enhanced DPS inspections came a few days after the Biden administration announced it would stop expelling migrants under the Title 42 public health order. Abbott, quoting Department of Homeland Security internal data, said that will triple illegal immigration to his state.
“Since Chihuahua has a plan, Texas DPS can return to its previous strategy of random checks of trucks. As a result, the (international) bridges between Chihuahua and Texas will return to normal immediately,” Abbott said.
Just prior to the news conference in Austin, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website showed trucks were waiting between five and six hours to cross the Ysleta Port of Entry and the Bridge of the Americas border crossing between Juarez, Mexico, and El Paso, Texas.
Campos said she was “proud to sign” the agreement and said her administration has made great strides in the past seven months when it comes to public safety. Murders are down significantly in Juarez, a number of gang members involved in both drug and migrant smuggling have been captured, and the state is in the process of deploying an extensive “smart” surveillance camera system.
She also mentioned air patrols, drones and the deployment of license plate and facial recognition software.
“I thank Gov. Abbott because of his openness and willingness, his attitude to negotiate and for having really clear what the (mutual) interests are between the states of Texas and Chihuahua,” she said at the news conference.
She said the investment in the Sentinel surveillance program is close to $200 million and that she is willing to share the images and the intelligence analysis derived from them with Texas DPS.
Abbott emphasized a paragraph in the agreement that specifies the two states will collaborate in stemming illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border. While Campos signed the agreement, Mexican officials in the past have said it’s illegal, as per the Mexican constitution, for government officials to hinder the free transit of Mexican citizens anywhere. Chihuahua police and Juarez police, though, often detain Central American migrants and arrest Mexican citizens involved in human smuggling.
Campos said getting international commerce back to normal was a priority and said she’s willing to let third parties audit the effectiveness of her state’s new public safety initiatives. | https://www.wane.com/border-report-tour/chihuahua-governor-meets-with-abbott-over-texas-truck-checks/ | 2022-04-14T23:36:45 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/border-report-tour/chihuahua-governor-meets-with-abbott-over-texas-truck-checks/ |
(The Hill) – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Thursday that it had authorized the first test to detect COVID-19 through breath for emergency use.
The InspectIR COVID-19 Breathalyzer is able to identify five volatile organic compounds tied to the coronavirus in a person’s breath by using a technique known as gas chromatography gas mass-spectrometry, delivering results in less than three minutes, according to the FDA.
The agency said that in a study of 2,409 people, which included both people with and without symptoms, the test had a 99.3 percent specificity rate, which measures the percent of correctly identified negative test samples.
The FDA also noted that the InspectIR COVID-19 Breathalyzer had a 91.2 percent sensitivity rate, which measures the percent of correctly identified positive test samples.
Still, the health agency said that a molecular test should be used to confirm positive test results returned by the COVID-19 breath test.
“Today’s authorization is yet another example of the rapid innovation occurring with diagnostic tests for COVID-19,” Jeff Shuren, director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health, said in a statement.
“The FDA continues to support the development of novel COVID-19 tests with the goal of advancing technologies that can help address the current pandemic and better position the U.S. for the next public health emergency.”
The InspectIR COVID-19 Breathalyzer, which the FDA said was about the size of a piece of carry-on luggage, will be able to be used in places like mobile testing sites, hospitals and doctor’s offices, the agency said.
About 100 of the InspectIR COVID-19 Breathalyzers, each of which the FDA said can be used to test roughly 160 samples per day, are anticipated to be made each week. | https://www.wane.com/news/fda-approves-first-covid-19-breath-test-for-emergency-use/ | 2022-04-14T23:36:51 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/fda-approves-first-covid-19-breath-test-for-emergency-use/ |
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — She helped him with his costume. Her classmates did, too. Stitch by stitch, the senior at Magic City Acceptance Academy helped her history teacher become a Mardi Gras queen. The occasion was a drag show fundraiser to help the school’s history quiz bowl team attend a competition in Washington, D.C. The fundraiser was a student idea, the school’s principal said, and was successful. The quiz bowl team will head to D.C. next week.
“It was a fun thing,” the senior at MCAA said, although it’s hard for her to remember it that way now. Because now, in the shadow of an Alabama election, she said that the fun event has been “weaponized” in a television advertisement by Tim James, a Republican candidate for governor. The advertisement, which incorrectly labels MCAA as “the first transgender public school in the South,” includes images of the fundraiser the senior had worked to make a success. The images showed staff and students, including the senior, their faces visible.
“I hope he’s ashamed”
The senior at MCAA, who CBS 42 has chosen not to identify by name, was one of the students visible in the ad. She said when she realized she was pictured, her heart sank.
“I didn’t process it immediately,” she said. “My initial reaction was to laugh because it’s such a ridiculous concept to attack a school that’s purpose is to avoid bullying people for something they can’t control.”
The senior, who identifies as queer, said Magic City Acceptance School is one of the best places she’s ever been. The public charter school, which labels itself as an LGBTQ-affirming learning environment, opened last year and serves students from all backgrounds. Transgender students make up less than 10% of the school’s student population, its principal said, and the majority of pupils at MCAA are not members of the LGBTQ community.
The senior wanted to attend MCAA because she’d been bullied at her previous school.
“I was facing a lot of ostracization, bullying, and just meanness directed at me and my friends,” she said. “I became desensitized to it because of how bad it was.”
One afternoon at her previous school, she was waiting to be picked up when a group of boys who had never been friendly threw a noose at her.
“You can go home and use this later,” she remembers them saying.
So when she heard about the opportunity to attend Magic City Acceptance Academy, she hopped on the opportunity. She hoped she’d be able to feel safe without needing to isolate herself.
She got that at MCAA.
“The first day I came here, I went home and cried because of how fantastic it was,” she said.
But now, the senior feels her school has been violated.
Since the release of Tim James’ gubernatorial ad, Magic City Acceptance Academy has increased security. The decision was a prudent one. On one occasion, a car drove by the school and its occupants yelled slurs at students outside the school. On another, a woman approached the school, filming its exterior, with a person waiting in a car nearby. When students noticed her, she ran away.
The senior was there for the second incident. She and her friends were eating lunch outside when the woman approached the school.
“While security was running after her, I pushed my friends to go inside,” she said. “It was a serious situation that could’ve ended in violence.”
She said before Tim James’ ad aired, she’d never felt unsafe at MCAA. Now, while she’s glad the school has increased security, she worried that “there’s still a threat of people coming around.” Her safe place has changed forever.
The senior said she wants the ad to be taken down.
“It’s misinformation, and it’s deplorable to act like being part of a minority group is some shameful thing,” she said. “It’s straight-up lying, and it’s embarrassing for him.”
She said that the advertisement stokes hatred and resentment and that she’s worried it could lead to violence against minorities.
“I hope to God it doesn’t turn violent,” she said, “but I am genuinely afraid that it will.”
At 18, this is the first election cycle in which the senior will be able to vote. She said she won’t be voting for Tim James, and he is unfit to be governor.
She has a message for James.
“I hope he’s ashamed of himself,” she said. “I hope he can learn from this experience. I hope he puts any amount of effort into educating himself, and I hope he can learn to stop attacking people for the sole reason that they are different than him.”
A mother’s story
The senior’s mom is an attorney, Kimberly Fasking. Three of her children attend MCAA.
When she saw the ad, she was sickened.
“I was beyond livid,” Fasking said. “As bad as the ad was — endangering the students and the faculty and staff — they’re specifically targeting my child.”
Like her daughter, she said the ad should be taken down.
“It’s disgusting and it’s ignorant and it’s hateful,” Fasking said. “Mr. James puts himself out there as a Christian, but this is certainly not anything that I think Jesus would approve of. I don’t remember him taunting and mocking people. I don’t remember those stories in the Bible.”
Fasking reached out to the James campaign to demand they pull the ad. In response, the James campaign “obscured” Fasking’s daughter but has continued to run the ads.
In a statement released to media outlets regarding the original ad, Tim James’ campaign doubled down on its claims.
“The principal said that the TV ad scared the children,” the statement said. “What should scare mothers and fathers of these children is what the faculty is doing by presenting this ungodly display through the drag show to which the children were subjected.”
Asked for comment on Fasking’s demands regarding the ad, Elizabeth Jordan, communications director for James, sent a 1,000-word response including a list of questions for Fasking, which can be read in full below.
Kimberly Fasking said the campaign’s response is a reflection of exactly who they are.
“They’re really excellent at being horribly hateful, disgusting people,” she said. “They want to play a semantic game about whether it was actually a cease and desist. Call it whatever you want. I sent them a letter demanding they stop using my child’s image in their hate ad.”
While they’ve obscured Fasking’s daughter’s image, the Tim James campaign has doubled down on their attacks. There’s now another video advertisement, titled “Exploitation,” and radio ads featuring MCAA.
Fasking hopes voters don’t fall for the ad when they head to the polls on May 24.
“Somebody with this much hate in his heart is not fit to lead the state of Alabama,” she said. “He doesn’t want these teachers around my children? I don’t want him around my children.”
In its response to questions about Fasking’s concerns, the James campaign said that if Fasking was “truly concerned about her child, she would remove her from the Magic City Acceptance Academy period.”
“My mom brought me to Magic City Acceptance Academy because she was concerned about me,” the senior said. “If they were concerned about children, they wouldn’t be attacking them. My mother is concerned about me. That’s why she’s keeping me in the school. To keep me safe from other people who, like the Tim James campaign, want me to stay quiet or just stop existing.”
The senior said she hopes that transgender people at MCAA and Alabama are able to stay safe and stay strong through the turmoil the ad has brought about.
“A trans person is a person, and they deserve to be able to live happily and freely,” she said. “They shouldn’t let bigots and attackers of children force them to live authentically or live in fear.” | https://www.wane.com/news/jesus-would-not-approve-targeted-by-an-alabama-political-ad-queer-student-and-mother-share-their-story/ | 2022-04-14T23:36:53 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/jesus-would-not-approve-targeted-by-an-alabama-political-ad-queer-student-and-mother-share-their-story/ |
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – Fort Wayne police are investigating a crash between a car and an SUV on North Wells Street, just north of the intersection with West State Boulevard. It happened Thursday at 5:42 p.m., according to the police activity log.
A WANE 15 crew saw five squad cars, a fire engine, and an ambulance at the scene, which is on the street in front of the Walgreens on the corner there.
The initial call on the police log said it was a crash with injuries, but police have not released any other information. It’s unclear how the crash happened, and if there are injuries, no conditions were released.
This story will be updated when more information is available. | https://www.wane.com/news/police-investigating-crash-at-state-and-wells/ | 2022-04-14T23:36:54 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/police-investigating-crash-at-state-and-wells/ |
GREENWOOD, Ind. (WANE)–The Greenwood Police Department is investigating the disappearance of Megan Yaste, a 15 year old white female, 5 feet 8 inches tall, 100 pounds, brown hair with brown eyes.
Yaste was last seen wearing a green sweatshirt, plaid pajama pants, and black shoes.
Megan is missing from Greenwood, Indiana which is 15 miles south of downtown Indianapolis and was last seen on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at 10:58 am. She is believed to be in extreme danger and may require medical assistance.
If you have any information on Megan Yaste, contact the Greenwood Police Department at 317-346-6336 or 911. | https://www.wane.com/news/silver-alert-issued-for-greenwood-teen/ | 2022-04-14T23:36:54 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/silver-alert-issued-for-greenwood-teen/ |
INDIANAPOLIS – Rodney McLeod had just signed his free-agent contract with the Indianapolis Colts and was headed back to the airport.
The veteran safety is prepared for the next phase of his decorated NFL career, even if he’s unclear the direction it takes him.
He might be the starting sidekick to strong safety Khari Willis when the Colts open their bounce-back season in September. McLeod, 31, has started 123 games in 10 seasons – the majority at free safety – and was one of the Philadelphia Eagles’ starting safeties when they whipped New England 41-33 in Super Bowl LII after the 2017 season.
Or he might be the third wheel on the backend of Gus Bradley’s defense if Julian Blackmon, who suffered a season-ending torn Achilles in week 6 of 2021, has completed his rehabilitation in time for the opener.
“There hasn’t been any conversation about my role,” McLeod said Thursday afternoon. “I’m just really here to add value to what is already in existence here: a great defense, a great group of defensive backs, a great group of safeties as well.”
“I’m just excited to be able to add my own skillsets, abilities and leadership to this room and to this defense,” he added. “So, whatever [Bradley] feels is best for the team, that’s what I’m here to do.”
First things first, and that’s getting a crash course on Bradley and his defensive scheme. McLeod conceded he knows “very little” about the defense other than it was instrumental in the success Seattle enjoyed when Bradley was the Seahawks’ coordinator from 2009 to 2012.
Players report to town for the start of offseason workouts Monday.
“It will be interesting just to see and hear more about the scheme and how I’ll be utilized within the defense as well as other players,” McLeod said.
McLeod shouldn’t be looked on as a long-time answer at safety, but should offer immediate impact.
The resume is full and impressive: 139 games and 123 starts, at least 13 starts in eight of 10 seasons; 593 tackles, 16 interceptions, 52 passes defensed and 11 forced fumbles.
Just as important is the leadership he brings. That’s not a knock on Willis or Blackmon, but each still is in the early stages of his career.
“I feel as if my experience is key,” McLeod said. “My leadership and just my personality, the way I approach the game, the way my passion kind of shows.”
“Like I said, the room is already very talented,” he added. “I’m just now an added piece of that and looking forward to building with this new group of guys and getting to work very soon.”
McLeod was part of four Eagles teams that reached the postseason, and he said he anticipates similar success.
“All you can do is put your best foot forward and just look ahead,” he said. “Not looking in the past and just focusing on right now and how I can be an asset to this team and how we can go out there and win games… not only games in the regular season, but playoffs and ultimately championships.”
In a sidenote, McLeod is reunited with Frank Reich, who was the Eagles’ offensive coordinator in 2016-17.
“A great coach,” he said. “I think that was obvious during his short time in Philly and being a huge reason on why we were able to win a title in that two-year span. That’s allowed him to be a head coach and lead a group of men.”
“Frank’s a very great coach. He’s a players’ coach,” he added. “He gets it, understands it from his time in the game and I’m glad that we’re able to reconnect how.”
Listen to the Colts Blue Zone Podcast for weekly coverage/analysis of the Indianapolis Colts.
You can follow Mike Chappell on Twitter at @mchappell51. | https://www.wane.com/sports/indianapolis-colts/rodney-mcleod-ready-for-whatever-role-awaits-with-colts-defense/ | 2022-04-14T23:37:05 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/sports/indianapolis-colts/rodney-mcleod-ready-for-whatever-role-awaits-with-colts-defense/ |
Best friends become ‘perfect match’ for kidney transplant
COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX/Gray News) - A Texas middle school administrative assistant is getting a new kidney thanks to a surprise by one of her best friends and co-workers.
KBTX reports Dawn Oden received her first kidney transplant back in 2014, which was donated by her brother.
However, this time around it was looking a bit different. Oden said she had a 22% chance of finding a match and was in need of someone to step up.
“Back in December 2020, I got COVID and I already had a transplanted kidney. I was doing well, but since I got COVID it’s been kind of a rough road,” Oden said.
The middle school assistant said she was worried about finding a donor until she got a surprise.
“We found out someone had stepped up but wanted to remain anonymous,” Oden said.
Little did she know her “anonymous” donor was one of her best friends, attendance clerk Jamie Alvarado.
According to Alvarado, she secretly went and got tested to see if she would be a match to donate her kidney, and she ended up matching.
“I knew it was a long shot, but it worked out,” Alvarado said. “We need her, her boys need her, her grandchild needs her. To have that opportunity to get to do that, whether it worked out or not, I knew I had to give it a shot.”
When Oden found out who the donor was, she said she was stunned.
“Shocked, but not surprised because that’s just the heart Jamie has,” Oden said.
On Thursday, students and fellow staff at College Station Middle School sent the two women off before the scheduled transplant surgery next week.
“I don’t know exactly how I would be handling it if I did not have the support system that I have,” Oden said.
Copyright 2022 KBTX via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.kttc.com/2022/04/14/best-friends-become-perfect-match-kidney-transplant/ | 2022-04-14T23:39:37 | 1 | https://www.kttc.com/2022/04/14/best-friends-become-perfect-match-kidney-transplant/ |
County crews work together in tornado aftermath
TAOPI, Minn. (KTTC) – Emergency crews are working nonstop to clean up branches and other debris in Taopi after an EF2 tornado tore through the town Tuesday.
“We are in our second day since this tornado ripped through our town but as you might see we are very busy,” Taopi mayor Mary Huntley said.
Crews are working from sun up to sun down to clean up the aftermath from a tornado ripping through the small community of Taopi.
“We’re focusing on the tree debris that’s around and any items in homes such as refrigerators or wet clothing to be put into the dumpster,” Mower County emergency manager Amy Lammey said.
There are hundreds of branches torn off trees, now piled up on the sides of the road.
“We are taking the debris from one side of the town and moving it to the other side where the county agency is actually chopping up the smaller branches and they’re also taking the bigger trees and bringing them over to one pile,” Lammey said.
While crews work tirelessly to clean up, the strong winds linger. creating even more challenges.
“The wind is giving us a little more safety. It slowed down some. We are getting more focused. Our volunteers are spread out more and working in a more focused way today, because we’re that far now,” Huntley said.
Emergency teams from all across the region are coming together to restore this community.
“We have agencies from Lyle, Adams, Hayfield out here with their dump trucks just trying to help us get this debris moved. There’s already that relationship made, but when you have a disaster like this everybody is hands on deck trying to help us out,” Lammey said.
“They’re helping keep things safe. They are keeping our traffic flowing. They’re trying to help us maintain some privacy here and just room to work,” Huntley said.
As crews continue to work, residents are still processing what happened to their home only days ago.
“As hard as it is to describe what happened to us, it’s equally difficult to how overwhelming it is,” Huntley said.
If you’d like to donate to the Taopi relief fund, checks can be sent to United Farmers State Bank in Adams. That address is P.O. Box 354 Adams, MN 55909.
Copyright 2022 KTTC. All rights reserved. | https://www.kttc.com/2022/04/14/county-crews-work-together-tornado-aftermath/ | 2022-04-14T23:39:43 | 0 | https://www.kttc.com/2022/04/14/county-crews-work-together-tornado-aftermath/ |
EXCLUSIVE: Walz discusses aid for Taopi
TAOPI, Minn. (KTTC) – Governor Tim Walz made a visit to Taopi to tour the tornado damage and speak with residents there.
KTTC exclusively spoke with the governor as he walked around the town.
Walz said he’s thankful and grateful that no one was killed in the storm. He is also thankful for the emergency managers and the mayor for all the help provided to the town in the aftermath of the devastation.
Walz said the state will step in and help provide aid to the town to help with the damage and cleanup if Taopi doesn’t reach the threshold for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) aid.
The aid from the state would help with roads, infrastructure and getting power to homes.
Walz didn’t have a number for how much aid could be provided to the town.
Copyright 2022 KTTC. All rights reserved. | https://www.kttc.com/2022/04/14/exclusive-walz-discusses-aid-taopi/ | 2022-04-14T23:39:49 | 1 | https://www.kttc.com/2022/04/14/exclusive-walz-discusses-aid-taopi/ |