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NEW YORK, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- iStar Inc. (NYSE: STAR) announced today that the Company entered into privately negotiated exchange agreements with certain holders of its 3.125% Convertible Senior Notes due 2022 to exchange $194 million aggregate principal amount of the convertible notes for an aggregate of 13.75 million newly issued shares of its common stock and $14 million of cash.
After the closing of these exchanges, $93 million aggregate principal amount of the convertible notes will remain outstanding. The remaining notes are convertible on a net share settled basis at a current conversion price of $13.83 per share, or 72.3126 shares of iStar common stock, per $1,000 principal amount of notes. The convertible notes are scheduled to mature on September 15, 2022.
"These exchanges further strengthen and simplify our balance sheet," said Jay Sugarman, iStar's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "As a result, we will save interest expense and additional conversion ratchets from common stock dividends, preserve cash on hand, reduce our outstanding debt and mitigate volatility on the trading price of our common stock as we approach the maturity of these convertible notes."
The exchanges are being made pursuant to an exemption from registration provided in Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. This press release does not constitute an offer to exchange the convertible notes for common stock or other securities of iStar.
* * *
iStar Inc. (NYSE: STAR) is focused on reinventing the ground lease sector, unlocking value for real estate owners throughout the country by providing modern, more efficient ground leases on institutional quality properties. As the founder, investment manager and largest shareholder of Safehold Inc. (NYSE: SAFE), the creator of the modern ground lease industry, iStar is using its national investment platform and its historic strengths in finance and net lease to expand the use of modern ground leases within the $7 trillion institutional commercial real estate market. Recognized as a consistent innovator in the real estate markets, iStar specializes in identifying and scaling newly discovered opportunities and has completed more than $40 billion of transactions over the past two decades. Additional information on iStar is available on its website at www.istar.com.
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$4.6 billion (€ 4.1 billion) in grants and $5.5 billion (€ 5 billion) in loans will support refugee efforts in Ukraine and other European countries in providing accommodation and economic security, as well as support for grassroots organizations and UN agencies working with refugees and internally displaced people.
In using these funds, governments are called on not to cut other crucial development and humanitarian priorities around the world and pit vulnerable people against one another.
Commitments made to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine must not come at the expense of vulnerable populations around the world.
EPK LINK: https://publicity.gettyimages.com/event/global-citizen-stand-up-for-ukraine
WARSAW, Poland and OTTAWA, ON and NEW YORK, April 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, at the Stand Up for Ukraine pledging event, $4.6 billion in grants was pledged in new funding for humanitarian efforts being undertaken by Ukraine and other European countries, UN agencies and grassroots organizations to support all those impacted by the invasion. In addition, $5.5 billion in loans was newly announced to help Ukraine and neighboring countries cope with the crisis.
Convened by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in partnership with Global Citizen, with the participation of Andrzej Duda, President of Poland, and moderated by Isha Sesay, the "Stand Up for Ukraine" pledging event sought to raise billions of dollars to bolster efforts to assist the more than 4.4 million refugees who have fled Ukraine and the 6.5 million people displaced within the country.
The campaign also called for commitments to be new and additional, and not to result in cuts to existing development programs. Governments should not use existing ODA budgets to cover costs of welcoming refugees at home, which is unacceptable and counterproductive in the long term.
We must avoid pitting vulnerable groups against one another. This is especially important given the more than 80 million people who are currently displaced around the world. Governments must significantly increase development and humanitarian spending NOW to jointly address the multiple humanitarian, climate, and hunger crises across the world.
New Government and European Commission Pledges for Ukraine and Refugees in Europe
Pledges and in kind contributions made by leaders included:
- European Commission - $1.1B (€1B)
- Canada - $80M (€72M)
- Belgium - $904M (€813M)
- Croatia - $111M (€100M)
- Czech Republic - $222M (€200M)
- Estonia - $111K (€100K)
- Finland - $778M (€700M)
- Ireland - $58M (€53M)
- Italy - $400M (€360M)
- Malta - $55K (€50K)
- Slovakia - $595M (€535M)
- Sweden - $333M (€300M)
- Qatar - $5M (€4.4M)
Announcements of Loans
- Council of Europe Development Bank - $ 1.1B (€1B) in loans
- European Investment Bank - $4.4 (€4B) in loans, which still requires approval by the board of directors.
Additionally, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development confirmed it will allocate $1.1 billion (€ 1 billion) out of a previously announced package of $2.25 billion (€2 billion) on March 9, specifically for projects in municipalities impacted by the crisis.
New Corporate Financial Commitments
Global Citizen thanks the companies below for their generous contribution in support of humanitarian relief efforts in Ukraine and around the world:
- Blue Bottle Coffee
- Bridgewater Associates
- Cisco
- The Coca-Cola Company
- Continental Development Corporation
- Crush Music
- CSL Behring
- DocuSign
- Farmamundi Foundation
- Nestlé
- Nespresso
- Verizon
- The Foundation at Sanofi
- Seadream Family Foundation
- Sun Life
Public donations from citizens were also made as part of the Stand Up for Ukraine. Over $500.000 was donated to GlobalGiving's Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund by almost 5000 people in 66 different countries.
A full breakdown of the impact from the "Stand Up for Ukraine" can be found in the impact report on Global Citizen's website.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, said: "It's not only Ukraine fighting for its sovereignty and integrity, but they are also fighting for the question of whether humanity will prevail or whether heinous devastation will be the result. We want to rally the world for refugees, inside and outside Ukraine, to support them."
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, said, "Your voice, donations, and advocacy are making a real difference. You're helping provide food, water, shelter, and medical aid for refugees who had to flee their homes — so thank you. Together, let's keep working to mobilize governments around the world, private companies, and the people in our communities to support refugees from Ukraine and, indeed, support all Ukrainians." He added, "Everyone deserves to be safe. Let's all continue to Stand Up For Ukraine!"
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a special appeal for citizens around the world: "Convince your politicians. Stay with Ukraine. Stay with Freedom. Stay with Bravery."
The Stand Up for Ukraine Social Rally
Leading into the pledging event, on 8 April, artists, athletes, entertainers, advocates and citizens from around the world including, Adam Lambert, Aitana, Alec Benjamin, Alejandro Sanz, Alex Len, Alexandra Stan, Andy Cohen, Angélique Kidjo, Annie Lennox, Antytila, Arlo Parks, Ashlee Simpson Ross, Au/Ra, Barbra Streisand, Barenaked Ladies, Bastille, Becky Lynch, Billie Eilish, Billy Porter, Black Eyed Peas, Bobby Weir, Bridget Moynahan, Bruce Springsteen, Carole King, Celine Dion, Chris Isaak, Chris Tomlin, Connie Britton, Dave Matthews, Daymond John, Dead & Company, Drew McIntyre, Dwane Casey, Dylan Dunlap, Ellen DeGeneres, Ellie Goulding, Elton John and David Furnish, Evan Ross, Fall Out Boy, Finn Bälor, Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, Gelila Assefa Puck, Gloria Steinem, Green Day, Herbert Grönemeyer, Hozier, Hugh Jackman and Deborra-lee Furness, Isha Sesay, Ivar and Erik, Jamala, Jenna Dewan, Jennifer Lopez, Jesse McCartney, Jewel, Jill Vedder, Jim Kyte, Johnny Orlando, Jon Bon Jovi, Jonas Brothers, Juanes, Julian Lennon, Kacey Musgraves, Katie Couric, Katy Perry, Kerry Washington, KD Lang, Lennon Stella, Leon Bridges, Lilly Singh, Liv Morgan, Lola Lennox, Luis Fonsi, Luke Steele, Madonna, MÅNESKIN, Megan Morant, Metallica, Michael Bublé, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Miley Cyrus, Nicky Jam, Nigel Barker, Nikki A.S.H., Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Nuno Bettencourt, ONEREPUBLIC, Oprah Winfrey, Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne, Padma Lakshmi, Panic! At The Disco, Pearl Jam, Pharrell Williams, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Radiohead, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rita Ora, Rufus Wainwright, Sarsa, Seth 'Freakin' Rollins, Shayna Baszler, Shinsuke Nakamura, SOFI TUKKER, Stevie Nicks, Sviatoslav "Svi" Mykhailiuk, Tame Impala, Thalia, The Lumineers, Third Eye Blind, U2, Ukulele U, Usher, Vito Bambino, Weezer, Within Temptation, Young Leosia, Zucchero and 5 Seconds of Summer.
Hugh Evans, CEO and Co-Founder of Global Citizen, said, "Today, and into the future, the world must stand up not just for Ukraine, but for refugees and displaced people everywhere. Now is the time to double-down on our efforts to work together to fund these challenges, taking care of refugees while protecting overseas aid. We need leaders who understand that standing up for Ukraine must not be allowed to mean standing down on climate, extreme poverty or vaccine inequality. We know what's needed, we have the wallet, so the only question is, "do our leaders have the political will to act and act now?"
Highlighting Previous Support
As part of the Stand Up for Ukraine pledging event, many governments highlighted the humanitarian support they have already provided to Ukraine and neighboring countries.
Those reiterations of previous humanitarian pledges by governments included: Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Japan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States.
Accountability & Follow Through
Global Citizen advocates for all commitments pledged as part of "Stand Up for Ukraine" to be dedicated to humanitarian efforts in Ukraine and neighboring countries, without discrimination on the basis of the nationalities of potential beneficiaries in the crisis-affected region. Given the evolving nature of the crisis, we are continuously working to ensure that this criteria is met immediately and throughout the months to come.
The Stand Up For Ukraine event saw a combination of pledges, including funds to Ukrainian authorities, UN Agencies, grassroot organizations, refugee resettlement costs as well as a number of loans and guarantees. Some commitments related to refugee resettlement include funds EU member states have allocated to welcome refugees and provide accommodation, economic opportunities, access to healthcare, and education. Their implementation and the final amount of funds spent will depend on the amount of refugees being resettled in their respective countries.
Funding to Ukraine, while absolutely necessary and desirable, must not lead to cuts to existing development programs, which are unacceptable and counterproductive in the long term. We also advocate for global solidarity with other communities across the globe that are still facing important challenges, from war to poverty, climate injustice and unbearable inequalities. Governments must significantly increase development spending including humanitarian spending now to jointly address the multiple humanitarian, climate, and hunger crises across the world.
Global Citizen believes it is fundamental responsibility for any organization giving a platform to governments, businesses, and decision makers to ensure that their promises are kept. That's why Global Citizen will monitor and track the pledges made during this campaign, reporting back on progress and calling for action when more needs to be done.
Thank You + Acknowledgements
Global Citizen would also like to acknowledge our many partners who supported the "Stand Up for Ukraine" campaign and social media rally, including: AEG, Bridgewater Associates, CAA, Captivate, Cisco, The Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines, Dolphin Entertainment, Guy Oseary, GSTV, Hugh Jackman and Deborra-lee Furness, iHeartMedia, Intersection, Link Media Outdoor, Live Nation, NBA, NBPA, NHL, NHL Alumni Association, NHLPA, OAAA, Oak View Group, the Recording Academy, The Door, TID Agency, Universal Music Group, Verizon, WWE as well as over 70 policy, NGO and civil society partners.
For more information about "Stand Up for Ukraine," visit www.forUkraine.com.
ABOUT GLOBAL CITIZEN:
Global Citizen is the world's largest movement of action takers and impact makers dedicated to ending extreme poverty NOW. We post, tweet, message, vote, sign, and call to inspire those who can make things happen — government leaders, businesses, philanthropists, artists, and citizens — together improving lives. By downloading our app, Global Citizens learn about the systemic causes of extreme poverty, take action on those issues, and earn rewards, which can be redeemed for tickets to concerts, events, and experiences all over the world. For more information, visit www.globalcitizen.org and follow @GlblCtzn.
CONTACT:
Global Citizen Inquiries: media@globalcitizen.org
Media Inquiries: Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis on behalf of Global Citizen, gc@sunshinesachs.com
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LAS VEGAS, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As Easter is around the corner, it's a great time for family gatherings or planning an escape from the city to relax mind and soul in the wild. To cater to such off-grid power needs during the holiday, BLUETTI, an innovative company in the power storage industry for over 10 years, is now offering an Easter assortment, starting from Apr 7, 7PM PDT and ending on Apr 18, 7PM PDT.
Though with no battery built-in, the AC300 is 100% modular, which can connect with up to 4 B300 battery packs to reach a 12,288Wh capacity. The 3000W Pure Sine AC inverter is built for securely running high-load devices. The BLUETTI Fusion Box Pro can combine 2 such units in series and even boost to a massive 24,576Wh/ 6000W/ 24V, which is sure to cover all household power needs for a day or two.
AC200MAX integrates a 2048Wh (51.2V 40Ah) ultra-durable LiFePO4 battery pack that holds up to 3,500 cycles before dropping to 80% efficiency. It features 16 outputs to run multiple devices at the same time. Flexible to recharge it in 7 ways, the maximum 1400W input rate allows it to top up to full within 2 hours. It also compatible with B300 battery packs to expand up to as much as 12,288Wh.
When considering a solar generator as an emergency power supply, then EP500 should be on the top of the list since it's shipped with a 5100Wh capacity and a 2000W rated pure sine wave AC inverter. With the Smart Home Panel, EP500 can be integrated into the home grid due to the seamless 24/7 UPS function, combating power failure anytime. Remote control, monitor, and firmware updates can be done merely with clicks on the cellphone.
EB55 & EB70 are super lightweight and portable especially for outdoor trips like camping or fishing. The easy-to-carry handle is ergonomically constructed for easy transport. Simply hook it up with BLUETTI solar panels PV120 or PV200 to make it a reliable power source with endless green energy.
Widely compatible with most solar generators in the market, PV350 solar panel is made of advanced laminated technology and long-lasting ETFE material to withstand daily scratch and water splash. The 350-Watt monocrystalline can ensure a high conversion rate up to 23.4%. Always stay powered along the way.
Highly Recommended BLUETTI Modules for Easter:
AC300+2*B300+3*PV350 Combo
--AC300: 3000W Power Station
--B300: 3072Wh LFP External Battery
--PV350: 350W Foldable Monocrystalline Solar Panel
AC200MAX+3*PV350 Off-grid Power Solution
--AC200MAX: 2200W, 2048Wh Expandable Solar Generator
--PV350: 350W Foldable Monocrystalline Solar Panel
EP500+4*PV350 Unparalleled Power Backup
--EP500: 2000W, 5100Wh Solar Power Station
--PV350: 350W Foldable Monocrystalline Solar Panel
EB55/EB70+PV120/ PV200 Ultra Portable System
--EB55: 700W, 537Wh Solar Generator
--EB70: 700W, 716Wh Solar Generator
--PV120: 120W Foldable Monocrystalline Solar Panel
--PV200: 200W Foldable Monocrystalline Solar Panel
About BLUETTI
With over 10 years of experience in the energy storage industry, BLUETTI is committed to building the world's best power stations for van dwellers, explorers, and off-grid life. For more information, please visit https://www.bluettipower.com/
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NEW ORLEANS, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until May 3, 2022 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against C3.ai, Inc. ("C3" or the "Company") (NYSE: AI), if they purchased the Company's securities between December 9, 2020 and February 15, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period") and/or purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's shares pursuant to the Company's December 2020 initial public offering (the "IPO"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.
Get Help
C3 investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-ai/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.
About the Lawsuit
C3 and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period and/or in the Registration Statement and Prospectus issued in conjunction with the initial public offering, violating federal securities laws.
The alleged false and misleading statements and omissions include, but are not limited to, that: (i) the Company's partnership with Baker Hughes was deteriorating; (ii) the Company was employing a flawed accounting methodology to conceal the deterioration of its Baker Hughes partnership; (iii) the Company faced challenges in product adoption and significant salesforce turnover; (iv) the Company overstated, inter alia, the extent of its investment in technology, description of its customers, its total addressable market, the pace of its market growth, and the scale of alliances with its major business partners; and (v) as a result of the foregoing, the Company's statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.
The case is The Reckstin Family Trust v. C3.Ai, Inc., et al., No. 22-cv-01413.
About ClaimsFiler
ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.
To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.
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Acquisition to increase Club Car presence in Europe, diversify product portfolio in growing consumer and utility markets
Expanded portfolio of zero-emission vehicles to help meet increasing global demand for sustainable transportation options
AUGUSTA, Ga., April 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Club Car today announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire Garia A/S ("Garia"), a Denmark-based manufacturer of electric low-speed vehicles for the utility, consumer and golf markets, from Lars Larsen Group. Financial terms were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter.
Garia, founded in 2005, is best known as an innovator of luxury golf and leisure cars that feature elevated performance and distinctive Scandanavian design. The company launched Garia Utility in 2015, a growing line of compact vehicles for utility applications, including: public sector (municipalities, hospitals, universities, parks), facility management (industrial sites, hotels, resorts), leisure and outdoor (zoos, amusement parks, forestry and agriculture), and last-mile delivery (mail, packages, food delivery).
The acquisition also includes Melex, which Garia acquired in November 2021 to accelerate its growth in the utility space. Melex is a manufacturer of lightweight utility vehicles based in Poland and offers an array of street and non-street legal products, including multi-passenger and compact cargo utility vehicles.
"We have great respect for Garia and Melex, which design and build some of the most impressive electric golf, leisure and compact utility vehicles in the world," said Mark Wagner, president of Club Car. "We are excited to welcome their teams to the Club Car family.
"Our product lines complement each other nicely with very little overlap," he added. "Which is great news for our dealers and customers in Europe and the United States who will have access to a wider range of zero-emission, on and off-road vehicles at a greater variety of price points."
Garia's golf and consumer cars are primarily luxury products geared toward the high end of their respective markets. Garia and Melex's utility products are mostly model types that Club Car doesn't currently manufacture.
"Club Car is the perfect partner and will immediately open new opportunities for growth across our entire product portfolio," said Garia CEO Jakob Holstein. "Club Car's extensive dealer network, combined with the operational benefits we can achieve with substantially increased scale, will help us take our brands to a new level."
Club Car is a portfolio company of Platinum Equity, which acquired the business in 2021.
"Around the world demand for sustainable transportation solutions continues to grow," said Platinum Equity Partner Jacob Kotzubei. "The addition of Garia and Melex's all-electric fleets will strenthen Club Car's ability to meet that demand globally, and in the European utility market in particular, where governments and businesses are modernizing and electrifying their vehicle fleets."
The Garia and Melex transaction is Club Car's first add-on acquisition under Platinum Equity's ownership.
"A big part of our ambition for Club Car is to expand its addressable market geographically and into new product categories," said Platinum Equity Managing Director Matthew Louie. "This acquisition is an important step in delivering on that strategy. We will continue seeking more opportunities to grow the business organically and through additional acquisitions."
Morgan Lewis, Bech-Bruun, and Sołtysiński Kawecki & Szlęzak are serving as legal counsel and Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP is providing debt financing counsel to Club Car and Platinum Equity on the Garia acquisition. Goldman Sachs is leading the debt financing on the transaction.
With over 60 years of experience of innovation and design in producing small-wheel vehicles, Club Car is a leading manufacturer of gas and electric golf, utility and personal transportation vehicles. Founded in 1958, the Club Car product portfolio has grown to include much more than golf cars, now encompassing vehicles for commercial and consumer markets, built with an uncompromised desire for superior performance. As an industry leader in electrification and sustainability, Club Car is proud to be on the forefront of environmentally responsible Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) technologies. For more information, visit www.clubcar.com.
Garia was founded in 2005 by Anders Lynge with the vision of introducing a paradigm shift for golf and leisure vehicles by producing the world's first premium vehicles in their segments. In 2014, with almost ten years of experience in the luxury electric vehicle market, Garia embarked on an entirely new journey: the Garia Utility. A compact electric utility vehicle that combines reliability, ergonomics and zero emissions with comfort, functionality and thoughtful design. Made of high-quality European components, the Garia Utility is one of a kind. Garia is privately held by Lars Larsen Group and headquartered in Denmark with a subsidiary in the U.S. Learn more about the Garia Utility at gariautility.com.
Melex was founded in 1970 as a manufacturer of electric golf and lightweight utility vehicles in Mielec, Poland. Melex is a versatile manufacturer of electric vehicles and offers over 100 different models for almost any niche in the segment. From 250kg and up to 1,6 tons of cargo, or 2-8 passengers as service vehicles for factories, logistic centers, supermarkets, municipalities, tourism, airports etc., there is a Melex for any usage. Learn more about Melex at melex.com.pl
Founded in 1995 by Tom Gores, Platinum Equity is a global investment firm with more than $25 billion of assets under management and a portfolio of approximately 50 operating companies that serve customers around the world. The firm is currently investing from Platinum Equity Capital Partners V, a $10 billion global buyout fund, and Platinum Equity Small Cap Fund, a $1.5 billion buyout fund focused on investment opportunities in the lower middle market. Platinum Equity specializes in mergers, acquisitions and operations – a trademarked strategy it calls M&A&O® – acquiring and operating companies in a broad range of business markets, including manufacturing, distribution, transportation and logistics, equipment rental, metals services, media and entertainment, technology, telecommunications and other industries. Over the past 26 years Platinum Equity has completed more than 300 acquisitions.
Dan Whelan, Platinum Equity
(310) 282-9202
dwhelan@platinumequity.com
Tammy Cillo, Club Car
(908) 256-4586
tamatha.cillo@irco.com
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SOURCE Platinum Equity
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NEW ORLEANS, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until May 2, 2022 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson ("Ericsson" or the "Company") (NasdaqGS: ERIC), if they purchased the Company's securities between April 27, 2017 and February 25, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York.
Get Help
Ericsson investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nasdaq-eric-2/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.
About the Lawsuit
Ericsson and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.
On February 16, 2022, the Company disclosed "serious breaches of compliance rules" involving dealings in Iraq dating back to 2018 including payments made "for road transport through areas controlled by terrorist organisations, including IS." Then, on February 27, 2022, the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists ("ICIJ") reported on the Company's alleged dealings with ISIS in Iraq, originating from an internal report by the Company that revealed it had reportedly made "tens of millions of dollars in suspicious payments" over nearly a decade to maintain business in the country and that "a spreadsheet lists company probes into possible bribery, money laundering and embezzlement by employees in Angola, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brazil, China, Croatia, Libya, Morocco, the United States and South Africa[,]" which "have not been previously disclosed."
On this news, the price of Ericsson's ADS fell $0.84 per ADS, or 8.3%, from its closing price on February 25, 2022, to close at $9.28 per ADS on February 28, 2022, the next trading day.
The case is Nyy v. Telefonaktiebolaget Lm Ericsson, et al., 22-cv-01167.
About ClaimsFiler
ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.
To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.
View original content:
SOURCE ClaimsFiler
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https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/04/09/ericsson-shareholder-alert-claimsfiler-reminds-investors-with-losses-excess-100000-lead-plaintiff-deadline-class-action-lawsuit-against-telefonaktiebolaget-lm-ericsson-eric/
| 2022-04-09T22:17:35
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First Bank & Trust Company Recognized As Sponsor Of The Meadows During Grand Opening
ABINGDON, Va., April 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- During the grand opening of The Meadows Sports Complex on Saturday, First Bank & Trust Company was recognized as a sponsor of the new, state-of-the-art athletic facilities.
First Bank & Trust Company contributed more than $45,000 in support of the landmark recreational facilities located at The Meadows. The bank's support includes a $40,000 sponsorship over five years and a $5,370 contribution to the Enhance Abingdon Foundation, which will assist in maintaining The Meadows.
In a statement ahead of Saturday's ribbon-cutting, First Bank & Trust Company's President & CEO, Mark Nelson said, "As the leading financial institution in Abingdon and Washington County, First Bank & Trust Company has a responsibility to support the current and future economic development efforts of the town and the county, where possible. This contribution represents our commitment to the continued growth and improvement of our local communities."
At Saturday's grand opening, Senior Regional Manager for Southwest Virginia, Brent Dyson, said, "Our leadership team has always been invested in bettering the lives of people within the communities that we serve. The Meadows Sports Complex will benefit the customers we serve in Abingdon and the surrounding communities by providing local citizens with top-notch recreational facilities and by advancing tourism opportunities, which bolster revenue for local businesses."
Saturday's opening ceremony featured comments from Abingdon's Mayor, Mr. Derek Webb and Food City's Vice President of Marketing, Kevin Stafford.
The highly anticipated athletic facility occupies 34 acres and includes four multi-purpose diamond fields, two regulation-size soccer fields and one half-size soccer field. Each of the three soccer fields are designed to serve as multi-use fields suitable for a variety of sports. The property also includes an ADA-accessible playground, a walking track, access to The Virginia Creeper Trail, picnic areas, public and family restrooms and lighted parking lots.
Numerous First Bank & Trust staff attended Saturday's event, including: Eric Moore, Chief Financial Officer; Brent Dyson, Senior Vice President & Southwest Virginia Regional Manager; Chad Taylor, Vice President & Branch Manager – West Abingdon Office; Wendy Mullins, Branch Operations Supervisor – West Abingdon Office; Kaitlyn Widner, Vice President – Marketing Officer; and Shelby Quesenberry, Marketing Coordinator.
About First Bank & Trust Company
First Bank & Trust Company, one of the top community banks in the United States, is a diversified financial services firm with more than thirty office locations throughout Southwest Virginia, Virginia's New River and Shenandoah Valleys and Northeast Tennessee. The bank's financial solutions include free checking products for personal and business accounts, savings, money market and time deposit accounts. Lending solutions are managed by mortgage, agricultural and commercial lending divisions. Comprehensive wealth management solutions are available through First Trust & Wealth Management.
For more information, visit www.firstbank.com.
Media Contact:
Kaitlyn Widner
Vice President – Marketing
276-285-0293
kpruitt@firstbank.com
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SOURCE First Bank & Trust Company
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NEW YORK, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --
WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of Gatos Silver, Inc. (NYSE: GATO): (a) pursuant and/or traceable to the Registration Statement issued in connection with the Company's initial public offering (the "IPO" or "Offering") conducted on or about October 28, 2020; and/or (b) between October 28, 2020 and January 25, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important April 25, 2022 lead plaintiff deadline.
SO WHAT: If you purchased Gatos Silver securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Gatos Silver class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=3100 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than April 25, 2022. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (1) the technical report for Gatos Silver's primary mine, the Cerro Los Gatos deposit, contained certain errors; (2) among other things, the mineral reserves had been overestimated by as much as 50%; and (3) as a result of the foregoing, defendants' positive statements about Gatos Silver's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.
To join the Gatos Silver class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=3100 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.
No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Information:
Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
Fax: (212) 202-3827
lrosen@rosenlegal.com
pkim@rosenlegal.com
cases@rosenlegal.com
www.rosenlegal.com
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SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
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https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/04/09/gato-shareholder-alert-rosen-trusted-national-trial-counsel-encourages-gatos-silver-inc-investors-with-losses-secure-counsel-before-important-deadline-securities-class-action-gato/
| 2022-04-09T22:17:49
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NEW ORLEANS, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until April 25, 2022 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Gatos Silver, Inc. (NYSE: GATO), if they purchased the Company's securities between October 28, 2020 and January 25, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period") and/or purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's shares pursuant to the Company's October 2020 initial public offering (the "IPO"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado.
Get Help
Gatos Silver investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-gato or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.
About the Lawsuit
Gatos Silver and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period and/or in the Registration Statement and Prospectus issued in conjunction with the initial public offering, violating federal securities laws.
On January 25, 2022, post-market, the Company revealed "errors in the technical report entitled 'Los Gatos Project, Chihuahua, Mexico' with an effective date of July 1, 2020 . . . , as well as indications that there is an overestimation in the existing resource model" and that on a preliminary basis, the Company estimated a potential reduction of the metal content of its CLG's mineral reserve ranging from 30% to 50% of the metal content remaining after depletion.
On this news, shares of Gatos Silver fell $7.02 per share, or approximately 68.9%, to close at $3.17 per share on January 26, 2022.
The case is Bilinsky v. Gatos Silver, Inc., et al., No. 22-cv-453.
About ClaimsFiler
ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.
To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.
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SOURCE ClaimsFiler
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https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/04/09/gatos-silver-shareholder-alert-claimsfiler-reminds-investors-with-losses-excess-100000-lead-plaintiff-deadline-class-action-lawsuit-against-gatos-silver-inc-gato/
| 2022-04-09T22:17:56
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LAS VEGAS, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- GBank Financial Holdings Inc. ("GBank" or the "Company") (OTCQX: GBFH), the parent company for Bank of George (the "Bank"), today announced it will host its annual meeting of shareholders on Thursday, May 12, at 2:00 p.m. (PST). Shareholders will be able to listen from their home or from any remote location that has Internet connectivity. There will be no physical location for shareholders to attend. Shareholders may participate online, via the ZOOM app on their smartphones, or by joining by telephone:
The ZOOM video conference ID is 822 7499 1409.
The ZOOM meeting password is included on your Notice of Virtual Annual Meeting of Shareholders that accompanied your proxy materials.
Joining by ZOOM Video Conference
Log in on your computer at: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82274991409?pwd=cU1zbEQ5cmZ3OUM5SitDNmxqY2hNUT09
or by using the Zoom app on your smartphone.
Joining by Telephone
Dial (408) 638-0968. The conference ID is 822 7499 1409.
Additional information on joining ZOOM by various methods can be found at:
https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362193
The Annual Meeting of Shareholders will be hosted by Edward M. Nigro, Executive Chairman, and T. Ryan Sullivan, President/CEO. You are encouraged to review in full the Annual Meeting Notice and all related materials. Reviewing these materials will allow you to know which items of business we intend to cover during the meeting. The 12/31/2021 Annual Report was posted to https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/GBFH/disclosure on March 29, 2022.
GBank Financial Holdings Inc. ("GBank" or the "Company") (GBFH), a bank holding company with approximately $618 million in assets at December 31, 2021, conducts business through its wholly owned subsidiary, Bank of George (named in honor of George Washington). Founded in 2007, the Bank operates two full-service commercial branches in Las Vegas, Nevada, with primary lending activities focused on engaging clients in Nevada, California, Utah, and Arizona. Bank of George has key businesses in three prominent divisions: SBA Lending, Gaming FinTech, and Commercial Lending. The Bank conducts business nationally through its SBA lending activities (ranked 19th in the nation by the U.S. Small Business Administration for SBA 7(a) dollar loan volume through September 30, 2021) and its partnership. Launched in 2016, the Bank's Gaming FinTech Division, through its contract with BankCard Services, LLC ("BCS") is empowering Sightline Payments Play+ Solution (Sightline Payments) for seamless and secure pay-and-play that is enabling cashless, mobile commerce solutions for gaming, lottery, and sports betting ecosystems – positioning GBank as a financial leader in this new payments world. The Bank also provides general commercial banking services with an emphasis on serving the needs of small- and medium-sized businesses, high net worth individuals, professionals, and investors. The Bank offers a full complement of consumer deposit products and is focused on delivering a premium level of service. Bank of George has been recognized every year for each of the past five years by S&P Global Market Intelligence as a top 100 U.S. community bank under $3 billion in assets. For more information about Bank of George, please visit its website at https://www.bankofgeorge.com. GBank's Common Stock is quoted on the US OTCQX Market under the symbol GBFH.
GBank has made forward-looking statements in this Press Release. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include information concerning possible or assumed future results of operations of the Company and its subsidiaries. When words such as "believes," "expects," "anticipates," or similar expressions occur in this Press Release, the Company is making forward-looking statements. Note that many factors could affect the future financial results of the Company and its subsidiaries, both individually and collectively, and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements contained in this Press Release. Those factors include, but are not limited to: the recent and continuing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic which poses risks and may harm the Company's business and results of operations in future quarters, credit risk, changes in market interest rates, inability to achieve merger-related synergies, competition, economic downturn or recession, and government regulation and supervision. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements.
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SOURCE GBank Financial Holdings Inc.
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https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/04/09/gbank-financial-holdings-inc-annual-meeting-shareholders-scheduled-thursday-may-12-200-pm-pacific-time/
| 2022-04-09T22:18:03
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NEW ORLEANS, La., April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until May 16, 2022 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Grab Holdings Limited (NasdaqGS: GRAB, GRABW), if they purchased the Company's securities between November 12, 2021 and March 3, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.
Get Help
Grab investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nasdaq-grab/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.
About the Lawsuit
Grab and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.
On March 3, 2022, the Company announced its 4Q2021 results, disclosing "a 44% decline YoY" in revenue and a $1.1 billion loss for the quarter due to "invest[ing] heavily" in driver incentives and that it would take one or two quarters "to get that equilibrium between drivers and riders, between supply and demand."
On this news, shares of Grab fell $2.04, or 37.3%, to close at $3.28 per share on March 3, 2022, on unusually heavy trading volume.
The case is Peccarino v. Grab Holdings Limited, et al., No. 22-cv-2189.
About ClaimsFiler
ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.
To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.
View original content:
SOURCE ClaimsFiler
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https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/04/09/grab-holdings-shareholder-alert-claimsfiler-reminds-investors-with-losses-excess-100000-lead-plaintiff-deadline-class-action-lawsuit-against-grab-holdings-limited-grab-grabw/
| 2022-04-09T22:18:09
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CHICAGO, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Olympic gold medalist and Laureus Academy Member Missy Franklin surprised youngsters from an inner-city baseball program at Wrigley Field today, presenting them with a Laureus World Sports Award, an honor which puts them alongside their sporting heroes.
Executive Chairman of the Chicago Cubs, Tom Ricketts, joined Franklin to present Lost Boyz Inc. with the 2022 Laureus Sport for Good Award.
Ricketts handed the Award to LaVonte Stewart, who founded Lost Boyz Inc. in 2009 to help disadvantaged kids in Chicago's low-income neighborhoods. Stewart was coaching a boys' team in Chicago's Rosenblum Park when two men with a gun chased another through the area. The children's reaction to the violence--which was to laugh and take bets on what was going to happen next – shocked their coach into action.
From that day on, Lost Boyz Inc. has been a beacon of hope in the community. Today, the program provides at-risk youths with training and the competition of organized sport, but also economic and academic opportunities in an area where a third of residents live below the poverty line and are surrounded by gang violence.
The Cubs won the Team of the Year Award at the 2017 Laureus World Sports Awards following their World Series victory in 2016, their first since 1908.
Lost Boyz Inc. is one of more than 250 sport for development programs Laureus supports around the world. Laureus Sport for Good works with community sports organizations that use sport to combat violence, discrimination and disadvantage faced by young people. Together with our partners, Laureus Sport for Good has reached and helped change the lives of almost six million children and young people since 2000.
Missy Franklin, Laureus Academy Member, said: "As Laureus Academy members, programs like Lost Boyz Inc. are the reason we are so passionate about being part of this wonderful organization. When our founding patron Nelson Mandela said 'Sport has the power to change the world', this is what he was talking about. For these young boys and girls, sport is inspiration, hope and a path to a brighter future. They are an inspiration and as Academy Members, and we are so proud to celebrate their success."
Tom Ricketts, Executive Chairman of the Chicago Cubs, said: "Chicago is a proud baseball city and it is an honor for us to host the presentation of this global Award to the Lost Boyz Inc., an organization that impacts the lives of Chicago's youth through baseball and softball. The work LaVonte and his team are doing is an inspiration to us all and this Laureus Sport for Good Award is recognition of their tireless effort. We were honored to be recipients of the 2017 Laureus World Team of the Year Award and I continue to be inspired by their work to celebrate the positive power of sport."
Over the past five years, the Chicago Cubs and Cubs Charities have supported Lost Boyz Inc. via program grants, investment in community baseball fields in South Shore through the Diamond Project and hosted events at Wrigley Field for program participants to meet players and employees.
The 2022 Laureus World Sports Awards will be hosted by skiing great Lindsey Vonn on April 24, from the picturesque Spanish city of Seville.
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SOURCE Laureus
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| 2022-04-09T22:18:17
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NEW YORK, April 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --
WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of Homology Medicines, Inc. (NASDAQ: FIXX) between June 10, 2019 and February 18, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important May 24, 2022 lead plaintiff deadline.
SO WHAT: If you purchased Homology securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Homology class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=4851 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than May 24, 2022. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Homology had overstated the efficacy and risk mitigation regarding HMI-102, which is in Phase I/II pheNIX clinical trial and a gene therapy for the treatment of phenylketonuria (PKU) in adults; (2) accordingly, it was unlikely that Homology would be able to commercialize HMI-102 in its present form; and (3) as a result, defendants' public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.
To join the Homology class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=4851 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.
No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Information:
Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
Fax: (212) 202-3827
lrosen@rosenlegal.com
pkim@rosenlegal.com
cases@rosenlegal.com
www.rosenlegal.com
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SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
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| 2022-04-09T22:18:24
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SANTA CRUZ, Calif., April 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Onewheel takes over the Santa Monica pier this weekend as its first stop on the company's 2022 demo tour. The new Onewheel GT and Pint X boards will be available for a test ride free of charge for anyone ages 14 and older. Onewheel is one of the most rapidly growing boardsports and e-mobility options and has seen an explosion in popularity in recent years.
"If you've ever stepped on a Onewheel, you know it's an amazing experience," explained Chief Evangelist, Jack Mudd. " Onewheel's have the power to make your day better, get you where you're going, and find joy in the process. This Santa Monica demo is about sharing that experience with the people."
The Onewheel Demo event will be open Saturday, and Sunday from 11:00 am - to 6:00 pm and will feature DJs, games, giveaways, and fruta picada. The event is free and open to the public. Onewheel instructors will be on hand to teach people of all skill levels and athletic abilities to ride safely.
"The beauty is anyone, and everyone can hop on and get the hang of it in a couple of minutes. There's the perception that you need to be a boardsport enthusiast to ride a Onewheel." Says Mudd. "But the reality is, Onewheel makes life more magical and less stressful for thousands of people who have never been on a surfboard or snowboard in their life. It makes that feeling of flow more accessible than ever."
Onewheel is also teaming up with Meals on Onewheels Sunday from 9 am to 11:00 pm to do local outreach, collecting and distributing essential goods and food to unhoused neighbors in need. Meals on Onewheels has utilized grassroots community support and Onewheels to distribute over 3,000 meals to unhoused neighbors in communities across 15 cities since its inception in 2020.
Location:
Santa Monica Pier
Demo Hours:
Saturday, April 9th: 11am-6pm
Sunday, April 10th: 11am-6pm
Meals on Onewheels Outreach:
Sunday, April 10th: 9 am-11 am
For more information on the Onewheel Demo event on the Santa Monica Pier, visit the event page here.
About Future Motion, Inc
Founded in 2013, Future Motion is committed to designing and developing inspiring vehicles that include both elegant form and unprecedented function. Future Motion's products, Onewheel Pint, Pint X, and GT, exemplify its dedication to crafting products that bridge recreation and transportation. Future Motion designs not only the Onewheel product line but also all the subsystems that power it, including custom brushless motors, power electronics, and battery modules. Onewheel, which provides a riding experience similar to surfing but on paved or unpaved trails, is perfectly situated in Santa Cruz, where the mountains meet the sea. Its products are protected by over 89 issued patents in the US and worldwide.
Press Contacts:
InGoodTaste Studio on Behalf of Onewheel
Garin Fons – garin@igtstudio.com
Andrew Meehan - andrewm@igtstudio.com
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SOURCE Onewheel
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https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/04/09/onewheel-pledges-save-world-scooters-launches-demo-tour-beginning-santa-monica-pier/
| 2022-04-09T22:18:31
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NEW ORLEANS, La., April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until May 6, 2022 to file lead plaintiff applications in securities class action lawsuits against Rivian Automotive, Inc. (NasdaqGS: RIVN), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Company's shares between November 10, 2021 and March 10, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period") and/or pursuant or traceable to its November 2021 initial public stock offering (the "IPO"). These actions are pending in the United States District Court for the Central District of California.
Get Help
Rivian investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nasdaq-rivn/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.
About the Lawsuits
Rivian and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period and/or in the Registration Statement and Prospectus issued in conjunction with the initial public offering, violating federal securities laws.
The alleged false and misleading statements and omissions include, but are not limited to, that the Company's R1T electric pickup truck and R1S electric SUV products were underpriced to such a degree that the Company would have to raise prices shortly after the IPO, which could tarnish its reputation as a trustworthy and transparent company and potentially jeopardize sales for the existing backlog of 55,400 preorders as well as future preorders. As a result, the price of the Company's shares was artificially and materially inflated at the time of the Offering and declined when the truth was subsequently revealed.
The first-filed case is Crews, Jr. v. Rivian Automotive Inc., et al., No. 22-cv- 1524.
About ClaimsFiler
ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.
To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.
View original content:
SOURCE ClaimsFiler
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https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/04/09/rivian-shareholder-alert-claimsfiler-reminds-investors-with-losses-excess-100000-lead-plaintiff-deadline-class-action-lawsuits-against-rivian-automotive-inc-rivn/
| 2022-04-09T22:18:38
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https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/04/09/rivian-shareholder-alert-claimsfiler-reminds-investors-with-losses-excess-100000-lead-plaintiff-deadline-class-action-lawsuits-against-rivian-automotive-inc-rivn/
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BEIJING, April 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- RLX Technology Inc. ("RLX Technology" or the "Company") (NYSE: RLX), a leading branded e-vapor company in China, today announced that Ms. Ying (Kate) Wang has resigned as a member and the chairperson of the compensation committee (the "Compensation Committee") and the nominating and corporate governance committee (the "Nominating Committee ") of the Company's board of directors to help the Company comply with the relevant New York Stock Exchange's listing requirements on board committees' independence. Going forward, the Compensation Committee and Nominating Committee will be composed entirely of independent directors, namely Ms. Zhenjing Zhu and Mr. Youmin Xi. Concurrent with Ms. Ying (Kate) Wang's resignation from the Compensation Committee and the Nominating Committee, Mr. Youmin Xi was appointed as the chairperson of the Nominating Committee and the chairperson of the Compensation Committee.
About RLX Technology Inc.
RLX Technology Inc. (NYSE: RLX) is a leading branded e-vapor company in China. The Company leverages its strong in-house technology and product development capabilities and in-depth insights into adult smokers' needs to develop superior e-vapor products. RLX Technology Inc. sells its products through an integrated offline distribution and "branded store plus" retail model tailored to China's e-vapor market.
For more information, please visit: http://ir.relxtech.com.
Safe Harbor Statement
This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "aim," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "is/are likely to," "potential," "continue" and similar statements. Among other things, business outlook contains forward-looking statements. The Company may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about the Company's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: the Company's growth strategies; its future business development, results of operations and financial condition; trends and competition in China's e-vapor market; changes in its revenues and certain cost or expense items; PRC governmental policies, laws and regulations relating to the Company's industry, and general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is current as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update such information, except as required under applicable law.
For more information, please contact:
In China:
RLX Technology Inc.
Head of Investor Relations
Sam Tsang
Email: ir@relxtech.com
The Piacente Group, Inc.
Jenny Cai
Tel: +86-10-6508-0677
Email: RLX@tpg-ir.com
In the United States:
The Piacente Group, Inc.
Brandi Piacente
Tel: +1-212-481-2050
Email: RLX@tpg-ir.com
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NEW YORK, April 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --
WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of SunPower Corporation (NASDAQ: SPWR) between August 3, 2021 and January 20, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important April 18, 2022 lead plaintiff deadline.
SO WHAT: If you purchased SunPower securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the SunPower class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=3135 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than April 18, 2022. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) certain connectors used by SunPower suffered from cracking issues; (2) as a result, SunPower was reasonably likely to incur costs to remediate the faulty connectors; (3) as a result of the foregoing, SunPower's financial results would be adversely impacted; and (4) as a result of the foregoing, defendants' positive statements about SunPower's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.
To join the SunPower class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=3135 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.
No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Information:
Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
Fax: (212) 202-3827
lrosen@rosenlegal.com
pkim@rosenlegal.com
cases@rosenlegal.com
www.rosenlegal.com
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TORONTO, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Spin Master Corp. (TSX: TOY) (www.spinmaster.com), a leading global children's entertainment company, has won The Golden Screen Award for Feature Film, presented by the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television, for its box office hit PAW Patrol: The Movie. The Golden Screen Award recognizes the Canadian film that grossed the highest domestic box office over the time period of Jan 1, 2021 to Feb 24, 2022. The first feature film for Spin Master Entertainment, in association with Nickelodeon Movies and distributed by Elevation Pictures in Canada (Paramount Pictures in rest of world), PAW Patrol: The Movie grossed over $7.5 million in Canadian box office sales and $152 million to date globally.
Now in its ninth year, preschoolers in over 190 countries have gone on countless adventures in over 30 languages with the PAW Patrol pups – all produced right here in Canada. PAW Patrol: The Movie stayed true to these roots with more than 90% of the production being completed in Canada. The movie was directed by Canadian animation veteran Cal Bunker; written by Bunker and his writing partner Bob Barlen, animated by Montreal based Mikros Studio and brought to life with Canadian voice actors from the original series. As a nod to its heritage, the opening scene involves Chase rescuing truck driver Gus from a conundrum while transporting maple syrup.
"When setting out to tell a deeper PAW Patrol story we were passionate about working with the best Canadian talent to create our first theatrical," said Jennifer Dodge, Spin Master's President of Entertainment. "Winning the Golden Screen Award is a powerful tribute to the exceptional team of Canadian writers, voice actors, animators and producers who worked tirelessly to bring PAW Patrol: The Movie to the big screen. Thanks to the Academy for this recognition and to all the kids and families, who enjoyed this film, here in Canada and abroad."
PAW Patrol continues to be on a roll with a second feature film, PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie™, greenlit for an exclusive theatrical release, distributed by Elevation Pictures in Canada, on October 13, 2023. A new PAW Patrol television series spin-off for Rubble, one of the main pups, is also set to debut in the same year.
In addition to receiving The Golden Screen Award, Spin Master's PAW Patrol won Best Pre-School Program/Series and PAW Patrol Moto Pups: Pups vs the Ruff-Ruff Pack won Best Sound, Animation. PAW Patrol: The Movie was also nominated for Canadian Screen Awards in the categories of Achievement in Sound Editing and Achievement in Sound Mixing.
About Spin Master
Spin Master Corp. (TSX:TOY) is a leading global children's entertainment company, creating exceptional play experiences through its three creative centres: Toys, Entertainment and Digital Games. With distribution in over 100 countries, Spin Master is best known for award-winning brands PAW Patrol®, Bakugan®, Kinetic Sand®, Air Hogs®, Hatchimals®, Rubik's Cube® and GUND®, and is the global toy licensee for other popular properties. Spin Master Entertainment creates and produces compelling multiplatform content, through its in-house studio and partnerships with outside creators, including the preschool franchise PAW Patrol and numerous other original shows, short-form series and feature films. The Company has an established presence in digital games, anchored by the Toca Boca® and Sago Mini® brands, offering open-ended and creative game and educational play in digital environments. Through Spin Master Ventures, the Company makes minority investments globally in emerging companies and start-ups. With over 30 offices in close to 20 countries, Spin Master employs more than 2,000 team members globally. For more information visit spinmaster.com or follow-on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @spinmaster.
About Elevation Pictures
Founded in 2013 with finance partner Teddy Schwarzman of Black Bear Pictures, Elevation Pictures has become one of Canada's leading entertainment companies specializing in distribution and production. Elevation is known for releasing award-winning films such as The Imitation Game starring Benedict Cumberbatch; Room starring Brie Larson; The Father starring Anthony Hopkins; and Moonlight, winner of three Academy Awards including Best Picture. The company has also been prolific in production, including recently wrapped Alice Darling starring Anna Kendrick, and Infinity Pool directed by Brandon Cronenberg. For more information, please visit elevationpictures.com
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NEW ORLEANS, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until April 18, 2022 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against SunPower Corporation (NasdaqGS: SPWR), if they purchased the Company's securities between August 3, 2021 and January 20, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.
Get Help
SunPower investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nasdaq-spwr-1/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.
About the Lawsuit
SunPower and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.
On January 20, 2022, the Company disclosed that it had "identified a cracking issue that developed over time in certain factory-installed connectors" and that replacement of the connectors would cause the Company to incur "approximately $27 million of supplier-quality related charges in fourth quarter 2021 and approximately $4 million in the first quarter of 2022."
On this news, shares of SunPower fell $3.22 per share, or 16.9%, to close at $15.80 per share on January 21, 2022, on unusually heavy trading volume.
The case is Jaszczyszyn v. SunPower Corporation, et al., No. 22-cv-956.
About ClaimsFiler
ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.
To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.
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SOURCE ClaimsFiler
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| 2022-04-09T22:19:08
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CLEVELAND, April 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- B1 - This is a test from PR Newswire. This is a test from PR Newswire. This is a test from PR Newswire. This is a test from PR Newswire. This is a test from PR Newswire. This is a test from PR Newswire. This is a test from PR Newswire. This is a test from PR Newswire.
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This Is a Test From PR Newswire
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View original content:
SOURCE PRN Test
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| 2022-04-09T22:19:15
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NEW YORK, April 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --
WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of FAT Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: FAT, FATBB, FATBP, FATBW) between December 4, 2017 and February 18, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important May 17, 2022 lead plaintiff deadline in the securities class action commenced by the Firm.
SO WHAT: If you purchased FAT Brands securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the FAT Brands class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=3635 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than May 17, 2022. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) the Company and the Wiederhorns engaged in transactions "for no legitimate corporate purpose"; (2) the Company ignored warning signs relating to transactions with the Wiederhorns; (3) as a result, the Company was likely to face increased scrutiny, investigations, and other potential issues; (4) certain executives, who are touted as critical to the Company's success, were at great risk of scrutiny—potentially, at least in part, due to the Company's actions; (5) the Company's touted chief executive officer (CEO) and chief operating officer (COO) were under investigation regarding transactions with the Company; and (6) as a result, defendants' public statements were materially false and/or misleading at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.
To join the FAT Brands class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=3635 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.
No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Information:
Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
Fax: (212) 202-3827
lrosen@rosenlegal.com
pkim@rosenlegal.com
cases@rosenlegal.com
www.rosenlegal.com
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
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| 2022-04-09T22:19:23
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NEW YORK, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Vicky Press Public Relations is proud to announce its expansion into the Influencer and Optimization branding market. In todays digital era, it has never been more important to build a brand online.We will use our expertise in publicity and photoshoot productions to create expertly produced StoryBrands that best represents our clients online presence. Victoria is a successful model agent with NYC top agencies. Her connections in the modeling industry with well know photographers, stylist, and editors gives her the upper hand.
Knowing the current state of the industry, Female entrepreneur and businesswoman Victoria Talbot of Vicky Press Public Relations has launched a division that ties publicity to influencers likeness to offer brands product placement plugs to gain more exposure. In today's competitive digital landscape, building a strong brand image is no longer a choice it's a necessity. To keep up with a changing World we must adapt ourselves, but one universal truth remains: your brand is the hallmark of your quality. It's the most effective way to share your passion. A strong brand enables you to maintain a congruent identity across multiple platforms, establish your authority and spark a connection with your audience.
Victoria CEO of Vicky Press Public Relations has made a name of her own in the entertainment and media fields, becoming one of the industries prominent brand managers and publicity agents. She has an iconic history for discovering talent and building careers through creating powerful content and brokering groundbreaking talent and brand deals. This all while finding balance between a life of pleasure and business. This is the exact mission she is driving forward as a business. Her high profile connections, industry experience, and mission to better her clients personal lives and careers through an authentic focus on personal development has the company positioned in a great place to make things happen for her clients.
For more info on Vicky Press go to her website: www.vickypresspr.com
Instagram: @vickypressnyc Twitter: @vickypress2
contact: vickypresspr@gmail.com
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Amazon plans to object to union win in New York
(AP) – Amazon plans to file objections to the union election on Staten Island, New York, that resulted in the first successful U.S. organizing effort in the company’s history.
The e-commerce giant stated its plans in a legal filing to the National Labor Relations Board made public Thursday. Among other things, the company accused the Amazon Labor Union, a group of former and current employees who spearheaded the union drive, of threatening warehouse workers to vote in favor of the organizing effort. Eric Milner, an attorney representing the ALU, said the claims were “patently absurd.”
“The employees have spoken and their voices have been heard,” Milner said in a statement. “Amazon is choosing to ignore that, and instead engage in stalling tactics to avoid the inevitable — coming to the bargaining table and negotiating for a contract” on behalf of the warehouse workers on Staten Island.
Warehouse workers on Staten Island cast 2,654 votes — or about 55% — in favor of a union, giving the fledgling group enough support to pull off a victory Friday. Federal labor officials had said the results of the count won’t be verified until they process any objections — due by April 8 — that both parties may file. Amazon requested a two-week extension, which the labor board has granted. It now has until April 22 to back up its claims.
The company had initially signaled it planned to challenge the election results based on a lawsuit filed in March by the NLRB, which sought to force Amazon to reinstate a fired employee who was involved in the union drive. In the filing made public Thursday, Amazon said it was also objecting to the labor agency’s conduct “before and during the polling,” that the company says interfered with the election.
A labor dispute down in Alabama, where the other union election was held, is also heating up. The Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, which is trying to unionize an Amazon warehouse in the city of Bessemer, said Thursday it filed several objections with the federal labor board over how the retail giant conducted itself in that election. Among other things, the RWDSU said the company fired and retailed against union supporters.
Initial results in the Alabama union election show the RWDSU down by 118 votes, with the majority of Amazon warehouse workers rejecting a bid to form a union. The final outcome is still up in the air with 416 outstanding challenged ballots hanging in the balance. A hearing to review the ballots is expected to begin in the coming weeks.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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Appeals court OKs Biden federal employee vaccine mandate
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — President Joe Biden’s requirement that all federal employees be vaccinated against COVID-19 was upheld Thursday by a federal appeals court.
In a 2-1 ruling, a panel of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals reversed a lower court and ordered dismissal of a lawsuit challenging the mandate. The ruling, a rare win for the administration at the New Orleans-based appellate court, said that the federal judge didn’t have jurisdiction in the case and those challenging the requirement could have pursued administrative remedies under Civil Service law.
Biden issued an executive order Sept. 9 ordering vaccinations for all executive branch agency employees, with exceptions for medical and religious reasons. U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown, who was appointed to the District Court for the Southern District of Texas by then-President Donald Trump, issued a nationwide injunction against the requirement in January.
When the case was argued at the 5th Circuit last month, administration lawyers had noted that district judges in a dozen jurisdictions had rejected a challenge to the vaccine requirement for federal workers before Brown ruled.
The administration argued that the Constitution gives the president, as the head of the federal workforce, the same authority as the CEO of a private corporation to require that employees be vaccinated.
Lawyers for those challenging the mandate had pointed to a recent Supreme Court opinion that the government cannot force private employers to require employee vaccinations.
Twelve of 17 active judges at the 5th Circuit were nominated to the court by Republicans, including six Trump appointees.
Judges Carl Stewart and James Dennis, both nominated to the court by President Bill Clinton, were in the majority. Judge Rhesa Barksdale, a senior judge nominated by President George H.W. Bush, dissented, saying the relief the challengers sought does not fall under the Civil Service Reform Act cited by the administration.
The case marked ideological divides at the appeals court even before Thursday’s ruling.
A different panel had refused in February to block Brown’s ruling pending the appeal. That panel’s vote was 2-1. There were no reasons given by the majority — Judge Jerry Smith, a President Ronald Reagan nominee, and Don Willett, a Trump nominee.
But there was a lengthy dissent by Judge Stephen Higginson, a nominee of President Barack Obama, who said a single district judge “lacking public health expertise and made unaccountable through life tenure,” should not be able to block the president from ordering the same type of COVID-19 safety measures many private sector CEOs have ordered.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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UN assembly suspends Russia from top human rights body
UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The U.N. General Assembly voted Thursday to suspend Russia from the world organization’s leading human rights body over allegations that Russian soldiers in Ukraine engaged in rights violations that the United States and Ukraine have called war crimes.
It was a rare, if not unprecedented rebuke against one of the five veto-wielding members of the U.N. Security Council.
U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield called the vote “a historic moment,” telling the assembly: “We have collectively sent a strong message that the suffering of victims and survivors will not be ignored” and that Russia must be held accountable “for this unprovoked, unjust, unconscionable war.”
WARNING: Videos in this story may contain graphic content.
Thomas-Greenfield launched the campaign to suspend Russia from the U.N. Human Rights Council in the wake of videos and photos showing streets in the town of Bucha on the outskirts of the capital, Kyiv, strewn with the bodies of civilians after Russian soldiers retreated. The deaths have sparked global revulsion and calls for tougher sanctions on Russia, which has vehemently denied its troops were responsible.
U.S. President Joe Biden said the vote demonstrated how Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war “has made Russia an international pariah.” He pledged to continue working with other nations to gather evidence to hold Russia accountable, increase the pressure on its economy and isolate it on the international stage.
Russia is only the second country to have its membership rights stripped at the rights council. The other, Libya, was suspended in 2011 by the assembly when upheaval in the North African country brought down longtime leader Moammar Gadhafi.
The Geneva-based Human Rights Council is tasked with spotlighting and approving investigations of rights violations, and it does periodic reviews of the human rights situation in all 193 U.N. member nations.
It has created commissions of inquiry — which provide its highest level of scrutiny on alleged rights violations and abuses — for conflicts in Ukraine, Syria, the Palestinian territories and elsewhere. It has also set up fact-finding missions in places like Libya, Myanmar and Venezuela.
The vote on the U.S.-initiated resolution suspending Russia was 93-24 with 58 abstentions, significantly lower than on two resolutions the assembly adopted last month demanding an immediate cease-fire in Ukraine, withdrawal of all Russian troops and protection for civilians. Both of those resolutions were approved by at least 140 nations.
Russia’s deputy ambassador, Gennady Kuzmin, said after the vote that Russia had already withdrawn from the council before the assembly took action, apparently in expectation of the result. By withdrawing, council spokesman Rolando Gomez said Russia avoided being deprived of observer status at the rights body.
Kuzmin said Russia considers adoption of the resolution “an illegitimate and politically motivated step” by a group of countries with “short-term political and economic interests” that he accused of “blatant and massive violations of human rights.”
The 47-member Human Right Council was created in 2006 to replace a commission discredited because of some members’ poor rights records. The new council soon faced similar criticism, including that rights abusers sought seats to protect themselves and their allies, and for focusing on Israel.
Along with Russia, four other permanent members of the U.N. Security Council — Britain, China, France and the United States, which rejoined this year — currently are serving three-year terms on the Human Rights Council. Other members with widely questioned rights records include China, Eritrea, Venezuela, Sudan, Cuba and Libya.
While almost half the U.N.’s 193 member nations supported the resolution, more than half either voted against it, abstained or didn’t vote.
Explaining their decision not to support the resolution, some countries called it premature, noting there are ongoing investigations into whether war crimes have occurred, or said it would undermine the credibility of the Human Rights Council and the United Nations. Others said the resolution reflected American and European geopolitical agendas and what opponents called Western hypocrisy and selective outrage about human rights.
In addition to a Human Rights Council investigation being led by former Norwegian judge Erik Mose, who previously served as president of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, the International Criminal Court is conducting an investigation of possible war crimes in Ukraine.
Before the vote, Ukraine’s U.N. Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya urged assembly members to keep the Human Rights Council from “sinking” and suspend Russia, saying it has committed “horrific human rights violations and abuses that would be equated to war crimes and crimes against humanity.”
“Russia’s actions are beyond the pale,” he said. “Russia is not only committing human rights violations, it is shaking the underpinnings of international peace and security.”
In a document circulated by Russia and obtained by The Associated Press, Russia said the U.S. and other opponents want to preserve their control over the world and continue “the politics of neo-colonialism of human rights” in international relations.
Kyslytsya responded to Russia’s complaints saying: “We have heard, many times, the same perverted logic of the aggressor trying to present itself as the victim.”
The General Assembly voted 140-5 with 38 abstentions on March 24 on a resolution blaming Russia for the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and urging an immediate cease-fire and protection for millions of civilians and the homes, schools and hospitals critical to their survival.
The vote was almost exactly the same as for a March 2 resolution that the assembly adopted demanding an immediate Russian cease-fire, withdrawal of all its forces and protection for all civilians. That vote was 141-5 with 35 abstentions.
Both of those votes were not legally binding but did have clout as a reflection of global opinion.
Thursday’s vote and Russia’s withdrawal, however, have a direct impact on Moscow’s voice in a human rights body that has increasingly become a venue for a global stand-off between Western democracies and autocratic countries. China will lose a key ally there.
China abstained in both assembly votes last month but voted against suspending Russia from the Human Rights Council.
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Peltz reported from New York. Associated Press writer Jamey Keaten contributed from Geneva.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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A Senate committee approved legislation Friday allowing the Maryland Stadium Authority to borrow up to $1.2 billion to pay for stadium improvements designed to keep the Orioles and Ravens in their current Baltimore homes for the long term.
The Budget and Taxation Committee approved the measure on a voice vote, along with a companion bill creating a $200 million fund for improvements to the state’s minor league ballparks. Stadiums in Aberdeen, Bowie, Frederick, Hagerstown, Salisbury and Waldorf would be eligible to apply to the stadium authority to tap into the capital improvements fund. Other sports facilities, such as equestrian centers, also would be eligible.
Both measures — which previously cleared the House by overwhelming margins — now move to the Senate floor, where approval was expected before the General Assembly ends its session Monday.
The companion bill also would create a $10 million fund to help the state attract or retain large-scale sports or entertainment events such as Major League Baseball’s All-Star game or World Cup soccer games in 2026.
It also would fund two studies on the progress of redevelopment efforts at Pimlico Race Course and Laurel Park, and a third on potential tax issues arising from Laurel’s rebuild. The redevelopment is designed to preserve the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico in Northwest Baltimore and enhance Laurel for year-round racing and the stabling of nearly 1,600 horses.
The request for $1.2 billion in bond authority is designed to demonstrate the state’s commitment to keeping the NFL’s Ravens and Major League Baseball’s Orioles in Baltimore, and to help the clubs attract fans to games and other events such as concerts.
“We lease the stadiums to the teams on a 365-day-a-year basis, and so they’re responsible for programming and maximizing the use of those stadiums all year long,” Tom Kelso, the authority’s chairman, told the committee. “And so the idea of concerts and other events that can take place in the stadiums really required different amenities to be in those stadiums in order to make that happen.”
The legislation would increase the allowable bond debt for stadium projects from $235 million to $1.2 billion. Up to $600 million in outstanding debt would be allowed for projects at each club’s stadium at any given time.
The legislation provides a flexible funding stream but doesn’t specify what sorts of modernization projects the Orioles and Ravens might seek.
At Camden Yards, changes could include more social spaces, fewer seats and a sports betting area. Ravens officials have expressed interest in additional lower-bowl premium seating.
Both clubs said it would be premature to discuss specific projects.
“No single investment is $600 million,” Kelso testified. “But over a 5-or-10-year period of time, it’s not illogical that both teams could get to that level of spending.”
The bill also would gradually increase the amount of state lottery proceeds that can be used to pay debt service on the bonds — from $20 million to up to $90 million per year. The legislation would require the teams to sign a lease long enough to pay off the bonds.
The bill doesn’t address FedEx Field, the Washington Commanders’ stadium in Prince George’s County. But it does authorize $400 million in bonds for major development projects to enhance the area around the stadium known as the “Blue Line Corridor.”
Oriole Park is 30 years old and M&T Bank Stadium is 24. Some stadiums, such as Turner Field in Atlanta and the former Globe Life Park in Texas, were abandoned by their baseball teams before turning 30.
The Orioles’ original lease with the state began April 1, 1992, and was to expire at the end of 2021. The parties agreed in February 2021 to extend the agreement for two years through Dec. 31, 2023, with the club retaining the right to exercise a one-time, five-year extension by Feb. 1, 2023.
The Ravens’ lease isn’t up until after the 2027 season, but the team and the authority say they have begun preliminary talks about an extension.
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| 2022-04-09T22:23:15
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Coach Erik Spoelstra was back with the Miami Heat for Friday night’s game against the Atlanta Hawks at FTX Arena for the first time since being placed in NBA health-and-safety protocols ahead of last Sunday’s game against the Toronto Raptors.
The Heat were required to test for COVID in order to fly across the border after that game. Spoelstra instead drove to Buffalo and then returned to South Florida on a private flights. He had been one of the few NBA coaches not previously be sidelined by coronavirus.
“I mean, obviously, it was a strange week,” Spoelstra said before Friday’s game. “It was a little bit of a surprise. Look, a lot of people have been pretty hard by COVID. Thankfully I was not one of them.
“I really would never have had any idea if we didn’t have to test for it while we were in Toronto. But I’m thankful at least I found out, so when I came back, I can make the appropriate arrangements with my family and everything.”
In the interim, assistant coach Chris Quinn guided the team to a victory in Toronto and then a victory Tuesday night over the visiting Hornets. Spoelstra previously missed a game two weeks earlier due to a family matter, with Quinn coaching the Heat during that loss to the Nets.
Spoelstra said he watched both games on a laptop.
“It was good to actually take a look at things from a different view at the point of year,” Spoelstra said.
He was effusive for his praise of Quinn.
“I thought Quinny and the staff just did an outstanding job,” Spoelstra said. “It just shows you how many responsibilities he’s taken on over the last couple of years. He was really able to step into that seamlessly. For us, that wasn’t a surprise.
“I think everything was seamless.”
Life at No. 1
Now that they are the No. 1 seed in the Eastern conference, the Heat’s best-of-seven opening-round NBA Eastern Conference playoff series is locked into an April 17 start at FTX Arena, but much of what comes next remains up in the air.
That includes the tipoff time for that postseason opener, as well as the opponent.
The NBA currently has four windows for playoff games on April 17, an afternoon tip at 3 p.m. on ABC, and then games on TNT at 5 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.
A Heat game in any slot but the ABC excusive window would be televised in South Florida by Bally Sports Sun. The latest slot will go to a Western Conference playoff game.
One thing that could affect the Heat’s tipoff time would be a possible marquee opening-round matchup against Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and the Brooklyn Nets. The Nets’ playoff status will be determined by next week’s play-in round, possibly as soon as Tuesday night.
The Hawks, Charlotte Hornets and Cleveland Cavaliers are the Heat’s other potential playoff opponents.
As the No. 1 seed, the Heat first-round opponent will not be determined until next Friday’s close of the East play-in round.
This is the fourth time in the franchise’s 34 seasons that Heat have completed a regular season as the conference’s No. 1 seed.
In 1999, the Heat finished first in the East in a lockout-shortened season at 33-17 and lost 3-2 in the first round to the New York Knicks.
In 2005, the Heat finished first in the conference at 59-23 and lost 4-3 in the Eastern Conference finals to the Detroit Pistons.
And in 2013, the Heat was the No. 1 seed at 66-16 and won 4-3 in the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs, for the franchise’s third and most recent championship.
When it comes to potential playoff opponent, the Heat have never met the Cavaliers in the postseason. Their most recent series against the Hornets was a 4-3 victory in the 2016 first round. Their most recent series against the Nets was a 4-1 win in the 2014 Eastern Conference semifinals. And their most recent series against the Hawks was a 4-3 loss in the 2009 first round, in Erik Spoelstra’s first playoff series as Heat coach.
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| 2022-04-09T22:23:21
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ALEXANDRIA, Minn. — A former Alexandria police chief in Minnesota was arrested Friday following a yearlong investigation into alleged financial crimes.
Richard Wyffels, 57, was taken into custody by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension without incident, according to a release from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. He was arrested at his Alexandria home.
He has been charged by complaint with felony theft by swindle and was booked into the Douglas County Jail. Wyffels is expected to appear in Douglas County District Court in the coming days, according to the release.
Wyffels was chief of police in Alexandria from 2006 to 2020, according to the city’s website.
The Stearns County Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case for the Douglas County Attorney’s Office. Further information about the investigation is contained in the criminal complaint.
The BCA initiated the investigation at the request of the city of Alexandria, according to the release. It remains an active and ongoing investigation.
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| 2022-04-09T22:23:27
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Gerrit Cole was rattled — even before he threw a pitch Friday. The Yankees ace was thrown off by an “unforeseen” schedule snafu with the Opening Day festivities. He was caught on camera looking annoyed yelling “Lets Go, Lets Go,” as celebrity and long-time Yankee fan Billy Crystal took to the field to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.
“That was an unforeseen challenge. The festivities got a little away from the schedule,” Cole said. He went on to explain that it was like “you expect something and you don’t get it.”
The delay was four minutes and the Yankees didn’t exactly get what they expected from their ace either Friday.
Cole opened the season by issuing a four-pitch walk to Red Sox leadoff hitter Kike Hernandez and then a home run to Rafael Devers. The Bombers bats took him off the hook and with home runs from Giancarlo Stanton, Anthony Rizzo, DJ leMahieu and a walk-off, 11th-inning single from Josh Donaldson, they beat the Red Sox 6-5 to start the season.
“It’s a big win,” Cole said. “Opening day you can get off on the right foot and I think that these games are always just a little bit elevated between these two clubs. I think more so we just all kind of settled in and started to play some really good baseball and ended up pushing, pushing over the winning run.”
Cole picked up where he left off, unfortunately for the Yankees. The ace who was chased off the mound by the Red Sox in last October’s Wild Card game, came out and got hit hard in the first game of the 2022 season. Cole did not record an out before giving up three runs in the first inning — including giving up the two-run home run to Devers.
It immediately brought back memories of his disastrous start last October when the Red Sox chased him after completing just two innings.
Friday, he allowed those three runs on four hits. He walked one and struck out three. Cole got 11 swings and misses, but not one on his fastball.
The Red Sox left a mark on Cole last season. Including the two innings he completed in the Wild Card Game loss, Cole allowed 15 earned runs over 24 innings pitched against the Red Sox for an ugly bruise of a 5.63 ERA.
It was an overall strange season for Cole. He came out early in 2021 as the best pitcher in the league and then became the poster boy for pitchers using illegal sticky stuff on the balls in June when MLB decided to enforce their own rules more stringently. He adjusted and regained control of his season, only to catch COVID after the All-Star break. He got back on track and then whether it was a tight hamstring or the workload (181.1 innings pitched after just 91 in 2020), Cole went into that Wild Card game with a 6.35 ERA over his last four starts.
The Yankees are obviously looking for a bit of a bounce back from Cole this season and Friday wasn’t the best way to turn the page on his struggles. But Aaron Boone saw something encouraging.
“Obviously a very tough way to start your season, but I think he kind of embodied what we were today,” the Yankees manager said. “He didn’t fold the tent. It could have been a not-get-out-of-the-first-inning thing the way it was going and he settled in and started executing pitches. And I thought he pitched really well the rest of the way.”
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| 2022-04-09T22:23:33
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Minnesota United is tinkering with its midfield.
In manager Adrian Heath’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, the Loons have used three different pairings in this season’s first five games. A fourth option — possibly in a different set-up — might come when Minnesota (2-1-2) play at Austin FC (2-1-2) at 6:30 p.m. Sunday.
“I think we have five midfield players for two real starting spots if we play a 4-2-3-1,” Heath said Friday. “I think the (2-1 loss to Seattle last weekend) proved that we can go to a 4-3-3. … At the end of the day, we will see where we are, but I know we have really healthy competition in there.”
After missing the season-opening 1-1 draw at Philadelphia on Feb. 26, Will Trapp has started the past four straight games and worn the captain’s armband each time. He and Hassani Dotson started in the loss to the Sounders last Saturday, but the Loons were outmanned in the middle of the field, and at halftime, Heath added Joseph Rosales.
Kervin Arriaga wasn’t available against Seattle due to a delay in his visa process in his native Honduras, but he is available to play Sunday. As he recovered from a hamstring injury, Jacori Hayes played all180 minutes in two games with the club’s second team, but he is back now with the MLS side.
That’s the party of five. But there certainly will be odd men out. “I do have a few sort of dilemmas to pick with because certainly Joseph did enough to maybe keep his place,” Heath said.
Rosales, as Heath alluded, might make his first MLS start against Austin, which would mean yet another midfield combination. The club has liked what the 21-year-old Honduran has provided and they’re trending toward picking up his purchase option once his loan ends from Independiente in Panama in December.
“A bit like Kervin, he’s got a real anger inside him when he plays,” Heath said. “We really like him. We know there is a player there.”
The Loons went into 2022 with designs for a Trapp-Dotson midfield. When together in midfield last season, they lost only one of 10 games, and the club had a plus-8 goal differential in that sample. Coming into the season, MNUFC rewarded Dotson with a contract extension and a substantial raise and wanted to stop moving him around to different positions.
The Loons’ dearth of starting fullback to begin the year changed that. In the two games Dotson hasn’t played in midfield, he’s helped fill in at right back with Romain Metanire (hamstring/toe) sidelined in all five games. Metanire has since returned to training and is on the verge of his season debut.
“Romain is looking like his old self (Friday) morning, so we will wait and see what we do,” Heath said. “It might be a bit early for him to start, but certainly he wants to start and feels as though he is ready to start.”
If Metanire returns at right back or Oniel Fisher steps back in there, and Kemar Lawrence makes his first start at left back as expected, Dotson’s versatility at fullback won’t be needed.
That means the Loons having all five midfielders available will make Heath’s decisions Sunday all the more intriguing.
MNUFC’S MIDFIELD DUOS
Feb. 26 — Dotson-Arriaga, 1-1 draw vs. Philadelphia
March 5 — Dotson-Trapp, 1-1 draw vs. Nashville
March 13 — Arriaga-Trapp, 1-0 win vs. New York Red Bulls
March 19 — Arriaga-Trapp, 1-0 win vs. San Jose
April 2 — Dotson-Trapp, 2-1 loss vs. Seattle
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A man received a four-year sentence this week for fatally striking a 60-year-old pedestrian in St. Paul and leaving the scene.
Lor Xiong, of St. Paul, died the night of Feb. 28, 2021, at Phalen Boulevard and Atlantic Street. Multiple witnesses provided police with the license plate number and description of the vehicle that struck Xiong, officers went to the registered owner’s address and found the damaged vehicle in the West Seventh Street neighborhood.
Officers located Christopher D’Shaun Mack, 24, inside a nearby residence and arrested him. He pleaded guilty in January to criminal vehicular homicide – driver who causes collision leaves scene and was sentenced Tuesday to 48 months, the presumptive term according to the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines.
Mack told police he didn’t know he struck someone, according to the criminal complaint.
“Our father sacrificed so much for his country fighting in the Vietnam War as a teenager, volunteering for the Hmong community, and giving his family a life here in America,” a daughter wrote in a victim impact statement. “He was just about to get to enjoy his time with his kids, his grandkids and get to see the world. All of these things that he wished to do were taken away from him. Our father has so much resiliency in his life but in his final moment he suffered a terrible death and died alone. It is not fair to him.”
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| 2022-04-09T22:23:46
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A 36-year-old man shot during a bar fight in Arden Hills last month has died — and the alleged triggerman now faces a murder charge.
The man died Tuesday of the gunshot wound, according to an amended criminal complaint filed against 45-year-old Eric Eugene Baker of Forest Lake.
Baker, who had been charged with first-degree assault resulting in great bodily harm, is accused of second-degree murder without intent in connection with the March 25 shooting at Welsch’s Big Ten Tavern.
Baker also still faces two counts of felony possession of a firearm by an ineligible person. They were filed with last month’s initial charges.
Baker, who has nine prior felony convictions, remained at Ramsey County jail Friday in lieu of $800,000 bail.
Ramsey County sheriff’s office deputies were called to the bar at 4703 U.S. Highway 10 around 12:30 a.m. and saw a patron holding napkins to the chest of the shooting victim. A deputy who took over first aid saw that he had a gunshot wound that was gushing blood when pressure was removed, according to the criminal complaint.
The man, identified in the complaint by his initials, DK, was transported to Regions Hospital in St. Paul, where doctors removed part of his large intestine and colon.
“Subsequent surgeries could not save DK’s life,” the amended complaint read.
Deputies spoke to a man at the bar who said Baker had asked him for a ride “to grab something,” the charges read. He drove Baker to Baker’s girlfriend’s apartment, where he was inside for about 10 to 15 minutes.
He said they returned to the bar, where he then saw Baker and another man physically fighting, according to the charges. The man fell to the floor.
Deputies found a single 9mm shell casing. Bar surveillance video shows Baker with a handgun moments before the fight, according to charges.
The criminal complaint does not state why Baker and the man fought.
Baker was arrested about two hours later at the DoubleTree by Hilton at 2540 Cleveland Ave. in Roseville. He declined to provide a statement to authorities.
Baker’s felony convictions include aiding and abetting an offender, aiding and abetting theft, second-degree burglary and drug possession. A conviction for violation of controlled substance law makes him ineligible to possess firearms or ammunition, according to charges.
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| 2022-04-09T22:23:52
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Roseville officer Ryan Duxbury, who was struck in the face by gunfire by an active shooter Tuesday night, had surgery Friday to remove a bullet lodged in his neck, according to a statement by police.
“Our thoughts are with officer Ryan Duxbury and his family, especially today as he underwent surgery,” Police Chief Erika Scheider said in the Friday evening statement.
Scheider said although Duxbury’s condition continues to improve each day, he “has a long road to a full recovery.” The officer and his family “remain in good spirits and are so grateful for the outpouring of support from the community,” she added.
According to a GoFundMe page for Duxbury, those by his side at the hospital include his longtime girlfriend, Ana, his parents, Randy and Amy, and his sister, Heidi. As of early Friday night, the page had raised more than $67,000.
“If you are unable to donate, prayers, good vibes, and doing small acts of kindness for strangers are equally appreciated,” the page reads.
Duxbury has been with Roseville police since 2019. He was among 15 Roseville officers who responded to multiple rounds being fired by 53-year-old Jesse Werling in the 2900 block of West Owasso Boulevard, according to police.
Duxbury was shot as officers were setting up a perimeter, according to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Roseville officers Bryan Anderson and Boua Chang shot and struck Werling, who died at Regions Hospital.
“The magnitude of Tuesday night has taken a toll on all of our officers and their families,” Scheider said. “Officer wellness will be a top priority of the department in the coming days and months.”
In addition to his patrol work, Duxbury serves as a department field training officer, background investigator and recruitment liaison and wellness committee member. Last year, he was awarded three unit citations, and his file also includes numerous letters of appreciation, Scheider said.
Scheider thanked the community, saying the cards, flowers, treats and “overall support has been unbelievable and means so much to the department as we work to move forward.”
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| 2022-04-09T22:23:58
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Justice Dept.: 4 men indicted for fentanyl conspiracy, overdose death
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Gray News) - Four Missouri men have been indicted for their role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, which resulted in an overdose death, according to the Justice Department.
Dmitry Cattell, 22, Joseph Burgess, 21, Jordon Simmer, 20, and Kelton Hill, 22, were charged in a nine-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury on Tuesday.
The Justice Department reports the indictment was unsealed and made public following the arrests of all four defendants on Thursday. They remain in federal custody pending a detention hearing on April 12.
The federal indictment alleges that all four defendants have participated in a conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl since Sept. 12, 2019.
In addition to the drug-trafficking conspiracy, the indictment charges Cattell and Simmer with aiding and abetting each other to distribute fentanyl. The use of which caused the death of another person on May 18, 2020. The victim of the fatal overdose was not identified in court documents.
The Justice Department reports Cattell was also charged with two counts of distributing fentanyl, one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and one count of being an unlawful drug user in possession of a gun. Cattell allegedly was in possession of a Taurus handgun on Nov. 10, 2020.
Simmer, Burgess, and Hill each were also charged with one count of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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| 2022-04-09T22:40:14
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Baby formula shortage worsens, may take weeks to improve
(CNN) - A baby formula shortage in many parts of the United States is forcing retailers to ration their supplies.
Walgreens is limiting shoppers to three infant and toddler formula products per transaction.
A recent review of supplies at 11,000 stores indicates that nearly 30% of popular baby formula brands may be sold out.
Cities like San Antonio and Minneapolis are reporting out-of-stock rates for certain formulas even higher than that, well above 50%.
Part of the problem stems from an Abbott Nutrition recall in mid-February for select lots of Similac and other formulas made in Sturgis, Michigan.
Manufacturers are ramping up production to make up the difference, but they admit it may take weeks for them to catch up.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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| 2022-04-09T22:40:21
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Father of 4 young kids shot, killed in argument at gas station; gunman remains on loose
PHOENIX (KPHO/KTVK/Gray News) - A family in Arizona is trying to put the pieces of their life back together after losing a loved one in a deadly shooting at a gas station.
Rene Sanchez lost his life last weekend after getting into an argument with another man while at a QuickTrip convenience store in Phoenix. Rene Sanchez was shot while he was walking away, his bother told Arizona’s Family.
Eddie Sanchez, Rene Sanchez’s brother, said the shooting took place in the afternoon, and the family remains heartbroken and wants justice. Rene Sanchez was also a father of four young children.
“We are missing that piece of the puzzle, and that is Rene,” Eddie Sanchez said. “It makes me sad that people like that don’t care about human life and people’s family it affects.”
The Phoenix Police Department released a picture and video from that afternoon’s shooting that showed an unidentified man leaving the scene on a bicycle. However, no arrests were immediately reported.
“To tell them [Rene’s kids] their dad won’t come home. To tell them he was murdered at a gas station. It’s just frustrating not to see him and know we won’t see him again,” Eddie Sanchez said.
Rene Sanchez was an electrician with the goal of starting his own business, according to his brother. But currently, the family is just waiting on updates on the case and wanting answers.
“It’ll be a big load off of our shoulders to find this person,” Eddie Sanchez said. “He will get caught eventually and pay for what he did.”
Eddie Sanchez said people will remember his brother, and the family has created a GoFundMe to help raise money for funeral expenses and the four kids and wife Rene Sanchez leaves behind.
Phoenix police urged those with any further information to contact authorities. There is a $2,000 reward.
Copyright 2022 KPHO/KTVK Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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| 2022-04-09T22:40:28
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Attention New Yorkers: to-go cocktails are coming back.
Gov. Kathy Hochul signed New York's $220 billion, one-year budget on Saturday, which included the return of a popular program instituted during the early days of the first wave of coronavirus cases in 2020.
Liquor and wine are set to be available for take-out and delivery for three years, as long as the purchase includes a “substantial food item.”
"New York's nightlife and hospitality industry is second to none, and by allowing the sale of to-go drinks we will continue to support the industry's recovery from the pandemic," Hochul said Saturday in a statement.
Hochul had announced her intention to include the program in this year's budget during her State of the State address in January.
To-go drinks were one of the few bright spots for bars and restaurants as the state emerged from the early days of lockdown in 2020. The program was in effect until June, when state lawmakers let the emergency regulation expire.
Local
"When the policy abruptly ended last year, it struck a financial blow to their recovery, and New Yorkers were disappointed this popular policy allowing them to have wine delivered to their front door or to pick up a margarita with their takeout food from restaurants was no more," the New York City Hospitality Alliance said in a statement this week.
The group, which supported the measure, said the road through the state legislature "was very difficult, complex, controversial, and required a lot of finesse and negotiation."
Hochul's statement clarifies the program returns with a caveat for consumers and sellers. Included in the law, she says, is a ban on bottles sales in an effort to keep restaurants from competing with liquor stores.
Also new this time around is the requirement that to-go beverages be accompanied by a "substantial food item." In the first months of the 2020 program, most sales of to-go drinks were paired with small snacks, like peanuts or "Cuomo chips."
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| 2022-04-09T22:40:37
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KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — Two European divers were rescued by fishermen on Saturday but a third, a 14-year-old Dutch, had died, four days after they disappeared off a southern Malaysian island and drifted some 70 nautical miles (100 kilometers), authorities said.
Alexia Alexandra Molina, 18, of France and Adrian Peter Chesters, 46, of Britain were found early Saturday in neighboring Indonesian waters and taken to a hospital, the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency said.
Chesters’ Dutch son, Nathen Renze Chesters, remained missing but Chesters told police that he had died because he was too weak, the agency said in a statement.
The agency said it notified Indonesian authorities to continue searching for the body. The search operation in Malaysia has been called off.
Molina and Chesters were found 16 nautical miles (30 kilometers) north of Indonesia’s Bintan Island, which is about 70 nautical miles (100 kilometers) from the location they were reported missing on Wednesday, according to Mersing police chief Cyril Edward Nuing.
The three were diving with their Norwegian instructor, Kristine Grodem, about 15 meters (50 feet) deep at an island off Mersing town in Malaysia’s southern Johor state. Grodem, 35, was rescued Thursday by a tugboat. She said the four of them surfaced safely Wednesday afternoon but later drifted away from the boat and were separated by a strong current.
Grodem was training for the other three, who were seeking to obtain advanced diving licenses, maritime officials said.
The boat skipper was detained for further investigation, and diving activities off Mersing were suspended. There are several islands off the town that are popular dive spots.
Malaysia’s borders reopened to foreigners on April 1 after being closed for more than two years during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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| 2022-04-09T22:46:47
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WARSAW, Poland (AP) — Air travel authorities in Poland are warning travellers of possible flight delays and cancellations at Warsaw’s airport due to a protest and some flight controllers quitting their jobs.
The protest is in reaction to changes made in January to the functioning of the flight regulatory body, the Polish Air Navigation Services Agency, as well as to allegations that it was not properly ensuring airspace security. The controllers have also criticized the new salary system, although it allows those most experienced to earn up to 45,000 zlotys ($10,500) a month.
Of Warsaw’s Frederic Chopin Airport’s 216 flight controllers, 44 quit last month and some 130 area threatening to quit in April. A new head of the regulatory body was appointed March 31 and negotiations are continuing.
On Saturday, a number of arrivals and departures were delayed by an average of 30 minutes at the airport. A spokeswoman for the airport, Anna Dermont, said the situation was the result of shortages in the control tower’s staff.
Poland’s Civil Aviation Authority has posted a warning that flights may be delayed or cancelled in the coming days.
The state auditing body, NIK, has found irregularities in the air navigation regulatory body’s work, saying there were internal tensions, while controllers complained of overwork.
In mid-March, airspace over eastern Poland was reserved only for military training and defense purposes, due to Russia’s Feb. 24 invasion of Poland’s eastern neighbour, Ukraine.
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| 2022-04-09T22:46:54
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WARSAW, Poland (AP) — Anxious about the wellbeing of their Ukrainian refugees, city mayors across Poland are refusing the government’s instructions to sound air raid alarm sirens Sunday as part of memorial observances for Poland’s 2010 presidential plane crash.
The right-wing central government wants the sirens to go off at 0641 GMT Sunday, the exact time the plane crashed in Russia 12 years ago, killing President Lech Kaczynski and 95 other prominent Poles.
Kaczynski was the twin of Jaroslaw Kaczynski, who is the ruling Law and Justice party’s leader and Poland’s key politician.
But city mayors, who represent local governments, are refusing to do that, saying it will be an unnecessary trauma for people — especially children — who recently fled their homes at the sound of air raid sirens and headed to shelters to avoid Russian bombings since it attacked Ukraine on Feb. 24.
More than 2.5 million refugees from Ukraine have sought security in neighboring Poland and are staying at special reception centers or with private people. Many need psychological assistance to deal with their trauma.
Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki insisted Saturday that the 2010 plane crash was a national tragedy and its victims merit every form of commemoration. He said text messages were being sent to refugees to explain that the sirens mean no danger.
Amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Polish government is reviving its controversial allegation that the crash on April 10, 2010, which killed the president, the first lady and other leading political figures, was a Kremlin assassination plan. Sunday’s observances are being given special attention.
But local governments, often run by opposition politicians, say the use of air raid sirens for the anniversary is “extremely irresponsible.”
The sirens also bring frightful associations to many Poles who either experienced World War II as small children or watched documentaries of the country’s destruction during the war.
“We will not sound the sirens on the anniversary,” said Rafal Bruski, mayor of the central city of Bydgoszcz. “I have seen too many children terrified by war.”
Bruski said he has grown accustomed to many “unwise” decisions by the current right-wing government “but there are limits to stupidity.”
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Follow all AP stories about developments in the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine.
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CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — The medical technician who drew blood from New Hampshire Rep. Peter Schmidt after he broke his leg in February was registered with the state, thanks to a 2014 law enacted after a traveling medical technician infected dozens of people with hepatitis C.
But by the time Schmidt was back on his feet, colleagues had hijacked his bill aimed at improving the registry. House lawmakers passed a bill last month eliminating the registration requirement altogether, and Schmidt is now urging senators to reject it.
“Please do not pass this, this is a terrible idea,” Schmidt said. “I think we need to continue to register these medical technicians, otherwise we are opening ourselves up to a potential repeat of the Exeter experience.”
New Hampshire created the Board of Registration for Medical Technicians in response to David Kwiatkowski, who is serving 39 years in prison for stealing painkillers and replacing them with saline-filled syringes tainted with his blood.
At the time, officials hoped the board would become a model for other states, but that hasn’t happened. And those who want to ditch it say it creates unnecessary bureaucracy at a time when health care facilities are struggling to hire workers.
“The actions of one bad actor, however heinous, are not reason to require thousands of technicians to register and pay fees,” said Rep. Carol McGuire, R-Epsom, when the House passed the bill last month.
But Linda Ficken, a Kansas woman who contracted hepatitis C from Kwiatkowski in 2011, said she believes any medical worker with access to drugs should be registered and should undergo frequent drug testing.
“Every time I go into the hospital, I can’t help but wonder, is this a repeat?” she said. “Cured or not, the thoughts and anxiety are still there.”
Despite being fired numerous times over drug allegations, Kwiatkowski had worked in 18 hospitals in seven states before being hired in at Exeter Hospital in New Hampshire. After his arrest in 2012, 46 people in four states were diagnosed with the same strain of the hepatitis C virus he carries, including one who died in Kansas.
In all, 32 patients were infected in New Hampshire, seven in Maryland, six in Kansas and one in Pennsylvania. Kwiatkowski also worked in Michigan, New York, Arizona and Georgia.
The case highlighted the fact that medical technicians aren’t as closely regulated as nurses or doctors, whose misconduct and discipline are tracked via a nationwide database. While some states require certain technicians to be licensed, four of the states where he worked didn’t license any of them at the time of his arrest, including New Hampshire.
The registry New Hampshire eventually created applies to all health care workers who are not otherwise already licensed or registered and have access to both patients and drugs. Hospitals are required to report disciplinary actions to the board, which also investigates complaints and takes disciplinary action.
The board has struggled to maintain a quorum, however, and hasn’t met in more than a year, said Lindsey Courtney, director of the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification.
“We’re greatly concerned the state is not meeting its obligation to protect the public,” she said at a public hearing.
Courtney, who isn’t taking a position on eliminating the board, supported Schmidt’s original proposal to convert it to an advisory panel that would make recommendations to her office. There are currently 1,691 registered technicians, and although complaints are rare, the board has taken action in a handful of cases each year.
Schmidt said his goal was to shift some of the administrative burden from the board to the larger agency. He hopes the Senate will either kill the amended bill or return to his original idea.
While hospitals are on the front lines of preventing and responding to drug diversion, partnering with public health, licensing and law enforcement agencies is essential, said Dr. Matthew Crist, a medical officer with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
He said the CDC isn’t aware of outbreaks in recent years related to drug diversion and is cautiously optimistic given that health care facilities have improved security around controlled drugs, and many state licensing agencies have taken steps to improve communication across state lines.
In the decade before Kwiatkowski’s arrests, similar hepatitis C outbreaks had been traced to other hospital technicians in Texas, Colorado and Florida, and CDC officials said at the time that the Kwiatkowski case highlighted a problem that was a growing concern across the public health system.
Even though other states didn’t follow New Hampshire’s lead, the registry likely has deterred people like Kwiatkowski from coming to the state in the first place, said state Sen. Tom Sherman, D-Rye, who led the bipartisan effort to create the board.
Sherman, a gastroenterologist who is running for governor, played a key role in discovering Kwiatkowski’s misconduct when he and his colleagues noticed a cluster of hepatitis C cases among their patients and realized they all had been treated in Exeter Hospital’s cardiac catherization lab. He’s now urging his fellow senators to consider “the price of doing an experiment to see what happens if we get rid of the board.”
“People died because of that outbreak,” he said. “This was a very carefully thought-out solution that has worked. To take it away now means we just don’t learn from history.”
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| 2022-04-09T22:47:07
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LONDON (AP) — U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer on Saturday joined the stream of European leaders showing their support for Ukraine by traveling to the nation’s capital for face-to-face meetings with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Johnson’s surprise visit included a pledge of new military assistance, including 120 armored vehicles and new anti-ship missile systems. This came a day after he promised to send an additional 100 million pounds ($130 million) of high-grade military equipment to Ukraine, saying Britain wanted to helpUkraine defend itself against Russian aggression.
Johnson also confirmed further economic support, guaranteeing an additional $500 million in World Bank lending to Ukraine, taking Britain’s total loan guarantee to up to $1 billion.
“Today I met my friend President @ZelenskyyUa in Kyiv as a show of our unwavering support for the people of Ukraine,” Johnson said on Twitter. “We’re setting out a new package of financial & military aid which is a testament of our commitment to his country’s struggle against Russia’s barbaric campaign.”
The head of Ukraine’s presidential office, Andriy Yermak, said “the conversation was rich and constructive,” but offered no details.
An image of the two leaders meeting was posted online by the Ukrainian Embassy in London with the headline: “Surprise,” and a winking smiley face.
The package of military aid Britain announced Friday includes more Starstreak anti-aircraft missiles, another 800 anti-tank missiles and precision munitions capable of lingering in the sky until directed to their target.
“Ukraine has defied the odds and pushed back Russian forces from the gates of Kyiv, achieving the greatest feat of arms of the 21st century,″ Johnson said in a statement. “It is because of President Zelenskyy’s resolute leadership and the invincible heroism and courage of the Ukrainian people that Putin’s monstrous aims are being thwarted.”
As Zelenskyy makes a continuous round of virtual appearances to drum up support from lawmakers around the world, an increasing number of European leaders have decided the time is right to travel to Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, for in-person talks. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was in Kyiv on Friday, following earlier visits from the Czech, Polish and Slovenian prime ministers.
Nehammer met with Zelenskyy earlier Saturday and pledged that the EU would continue to ratchet up sanctions against Russia “until the war stops.”
“As long as people are dying, every sanction is still insufficient,” he said, adding that Austrian embassy staff will return to Kyiv from western Ukraine.
Von der Leyen, who heads the European Union’s executive branch, travelled to Warsaw on Saturday to lead a fundraising event for Ukraine. She was joined by Polish President Andrzej Duda, with Zelenskyy and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appearing by video link.
At the end of the 90-minute meeting, von der Leyen said 10.1 billion euros ($11 billion) had been raised for Ukrainian refugees.
The event was held in Warsaw because more than 2.5 million of the 4.4 million people who have fled Ukraine since Russia’s invasion began Feb. 24 have entered Poland. Many have stayed, though some have moved on to other countries.
Convened jointly by von der Leyen and Trudeau, the event sought to attract pledges from governments, global celebrities and average citizens.
It ended with Julian Lennon singing his father John Lennon’s peace song “Imagine,” which he said is the first time he did so publicly.
Julian Lennon posted on social media that he always said he would only sing the song if it was the “end of the world.” He says it’s the right song to sing now because “the war on Ukraine is an unimaginable tragedy,” and he felt compelled to respond in the most significant way that he could.
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Associated Press Writers Colleen Barry in Milan, Geir Moulson in Berlin and Monika Scislowska in Warsaw contributed.
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Follow all AP stories on the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine.
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| 2022-04-09T22:47:14
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One million gallons of radioactive water is inside a former nuclear power plant along Cape Cod Bay and it has got to go.
But where, is the vexing question, and will the state intervene as the company dismantling the plant decides?
Holtec International is considering treating the water and discharging it into the bay, drawing fierce resistance from local residents, shell fishermen and politicians. Holtec is also considering evaporating the contaminated water or trucking it to a facility in another state.
The fight in Massachusetts mirrors a current, heated debate in Japan over a plan to release more than 1 million tons of treated radioactive wastewater into the ocean from the wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant in spring 2023. A massive tsunami in 2011 crashed into the plant. Three reactors melted down.
Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station in Plymouth, Massachusetts, closed in 2019 after nearly half a century providing electricity to the region. U.S. Rep. William Keating, a Democrat whose district includes the Cape, wrote to Holtec with other top Massachusetts lawmakers in January to oppose releasing water into Cape Cod Bay. He asked the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to examine its regulations.
Keating said in late March that Holtec’s handling of the radioactive water could set a precedent because the U.S. decommissioning industry is in its infancy. Most U.S. nuclear plants were built between 1970 and 1990.
“If they’re listening, sensitive and work with these communities, it’s important,” he said. “That’s the message for future decommissioning sites.”
Holtec has acquired closed nuclear plants across the country as part of its dismantling business, including the former Oyster Creek Generating Station in New Jersey and Indian Point Energy Center in New York. It’s taking ownership of the Palisades Nuclear Plant on Lake Michigan, which is closing this year.
Pilgrim was a boiling water reactor. Water constantly circulated through the reactor vessel and nuclear fuel, converting it to steam to spin the turbine. The water was cooled and recirculated, picking up radioactive contamination.
Cape Cod is a tourist hotspot. Having radioactive water in the bay, even low levels, isn’t great for marketing, said Democratic state Rep. Josh Cutler, who represents a district there. Cutler is working to pass legislation to prohibit discharging radioactive material into coastal or inland waters.
Holtec said Pilgrim already discharged water into the bay for 50 years while the plant was operating and environmental studies, conducted by the plant operators and now Holtec, have shown little or no environmental impact. Radiological environmental reports are shared with the NRC annually.
“We are working to provide scientific data, educate the public on the reality of radiation in everyday life, and working to have experts explain the true science versus the emotional fear of the unknown,” spokesperson Patrick O’Brien wrote in an email in March.
WHAT ARE HOLTEC’S OPTIONS?
Holtec could treat the water and discharge it in batches over multiple years, likely the least expensive option. Or, it could evaporate the water on site, as it says it has done with about 680,000 gallons (2,600 kiloliters) over the past two years.
Evaporating the water would be more challenging to do now because the spent nuclear fuel is in storage, and couldn’t be used as a heat source. Holtec would have to use a different — likely more expensive — method that would release gas.
Or, Holtec could truck the water to an out-of-state facility, where it could be mixed with clay and buried or placed in an evaporation pond, or released into local waterways. That’s what Keating wants.
Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Station, another boiling water reactor, was shut down in Vernon, Vermont, in 2014. It’s sending wastewater to disposal specialists in Texas and other states. Entergy operated and sold both Vermont Yankee and Pilgrim. NorthStar, a separate and competing corporation in the decommissioning business, is dismantling Vermont Yankee.
Nuclear plants occasionally need to dispose of water with low levels of radioactivity when they’re operating, so a process to release it in batches into local waterways was developed early in the nuclear industry.
In recent years at Pilgrim, the two largest releases were in 2011, with 29 releases totaling about 325,000 gallons (1,500 kiloliters), and 2013, with 21 releases totaling about 310,000 gallons.
The water from those releases was well below the federal limits for the amount of radionuclides in millirems a person would be exposed to in a year if they ate local seafood or swam in nearby waters, according to the NRC.
NRC spokesperson for the Northeast Neil Sheehan said the limits are set very conservatively and are believed to be protective of the public and environment. He said it’s important to consider the role of dilution — once the discharges mix with vast quantities of water any radioactivity is typically not detectable.
WHY ARE PEOPLE WORRIED?
In Duxbury, Kingston and Plymouth Bays, there are 50 oyster farms — the largest concentration in the state, worth $5.1 million last year, according to the Massachusetts Seafood Collaborative. The collaborative said dumping the water would devastate the industry, and the local economy along with it.
Diane Turco, a Harwich resident and longtime Pilgrim watchdog, questions if the water is heavily contaminated, especially from the pool that covered the stored, spent fuel for cooling and shielded workers from radiation.
“Isn’t this a crazy idea for Holtec to use our bay as their dump? No way,” she said.
Others didn’t know Pilgrim’s water went into the bay in previous years and they don’t want it to happen again.
“We can’t change that, but we can change what’s happening in the future,” said Cutler, the state lawmaker. “It’s the first time it has ever been decommissioned, so to compare this to the past is a convenient excuse. ‘Well, we did it in the past,’ that sounds like my kid.”
Towns on the Cape are trying to prohibit the dispersal of radioactive materials in their waters. Tribal leaders, fishermen, lobstermen and real estate agents have publicly stated their opposition as well.
Sheehan, the NRC spokesperson, said the water is not different or distinct, compared to water released during the plant’s operations. Holtec would have to handle it the same way, by filtering it, putting it into a tank, analyzing the radio isotopes and calculating the environmental impacts if it was released in batches, he added.
WHO GETS THE FINAL SAY?
Holtec wouldn’t need a separate approval from the NRC to discharge the water into the bay. However, Holtec would need permission from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency if the water contained pollutants regulated by the Clean Water Act, such as dissolved metals.
If the water contained only radioactive materials regulated by the NRC, Holtec wouldn’t need to ask the EPA for a permit modification, according to the EPA’s water division for New England. Holtec has never given the EPA a pollutant characterization of the water associated with decommissioning, the division’s director said.
Mary Lampert, of Duxbury, is on a panel created by the state to look at issues related to the Pilgrim’s decommissioning. She believes the state could use its existing laws and regulations to stop the dumping and plans to press the Massachusetts attorney general to file a preliminary injunction to do so.
The attorney general’s office said it’s monitoring the issue and would take any Clean Water Act violations seriously.
Holtec said this week it’s examining the water for possible pollutants but the lab results won’t be available for awhile.
The company expects to decide what to do with the water later this year. Discharge, evaporation and some limited transportation will likely all be part of the solution, Holtec added.
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| 2022-04-09T22:47:20
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FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — In the days after a group of West Point cadets on spring break were sickened by fentanyl-laced cocaine at a South Florida house party, community activists sprang into action.
They blitzed beaches, warned spring breakers of a surge in recreational drugs cut with the dangerous synthetic opioid and offered an antidote for overdoses, which have risen nationally during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Street teams stood under the blistering sun, handing out beads, pamphlets and samples of naloxone, a drug known by the brand name Narcan, which can revive overdose victims.
“We weren’t sure how people would react,” said Thomas Smith, director of behavioral health services for The Special Purpose Outreach Team, a local mobile medical program. “But the spring breakers have been great. Some say, ‘I don’t do drugs, but my buddy sometimes does something stupid.’ They are happy to get Narcan.”
Smith’s team pulls up to Fort Lauderdale beach in a brightly colored mobile clinic van. They walk the sidewalks that run parallel to the beach, across the main drag from the bustling oceanfront clubs and restaurants.
“Have you heard of Narcan?” Huston Ochoa, a clinical counselor for The SPOT, asked Tristan Gentles on a recent afternoon as music blared from the Elbo Room, a bar at the heart of Fort Lauderdale Beach.
Gentles, who worked as a bartender and bouncer in New York City before moving to Fort Lauderdale, said he appreciates their efforts.
“There’s only so much you can do when you see someone on the floor,” he said, adding that he had witnessed numerous overdoses during his days in New York.
Fentanyl and other synthetic drugs, which can be 50 to 100 times more potent than heroin or prescription opioids, are what make the overdoes so dangerous, said David Scharf, who oversees community programs for the Broward Sheriff’s Office and is the chairman of the county’s Opioid Community Response Team.
Last year, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that for the first time more than 100,000 Americans had died of drug overdoses over a 12-month period. About two-thirds of the deaths were linked to fentanyl and other synthetic drugs. Stress from the coronavirus pandemic and the use of fentanyl are considered factors in the increase in deaths, according to preliminary reports by the CDC.
Broward County led the state in fentanyl deaths in 2020, the latest year for which statistics are available from the Florida Medical Examiners Commission. In the vast majority of the deaths, fentanyl was combined with another drug, the sheriff’s office said.
“One snort, one swallow, one shot can kill,” said Jim Hall, a retired epidemiologist from Nova Southeastern University, who has worked with the county’s opioid response team. “It is not just in Florida but anywhere in North America.”
For the first three months of 2022, Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue responded to 373 calls involving a possible overdose, where Narcan was administered, Battalion Chief Stephen Gollan said. That’s an average of more than four per day.
The reaction in Broward was swift after the five U.S. Military Academy cadets overdosed in Wilton Manors on March 10, just as thousands of college students were heading to Fort Lauderdale for spring break.
The following Monday, more than 100 people representing agencies from law enforcement to social service organizations and hospitals met via Zoom to devise a plan to keep spring breakers safe.
Groups such as The SPOT and the South Florida Wellness Network, which partner with the United Way of Broward County, agreed to hit the beaches to talk with people about the dangers associated with fentanyl-laced drugs. They also talked to restaurant and bar owners who could distribute Narcan if “someone went down,” Scharf said.
The groups have so far distributed more than 2,000 doses of Narcan supplied by state grants. The SPOT volunteers handed out packages with two doses of the nasal spray plus instructions.
“It was kind of a blitz operation to get out there as quickly as possible, and to get as much information and Narcan out on the streets,” Scharf said.
The volunteer groups and sheriff’s office don’t have figures on how many of the distributed doses were actually used but believe the program has succeeded in raising awareness.
The region isn’t yet out of the spring break period, which runs until mid-April, but Scharf said organizers have been heartened to see a couple of weekends pass without any overdoses that resulted in emergency calls.
“We had zero, which is like the first time in forever that we had none,” Scharf said.
“We had a terrible situation,” with overdoses of the cadets and others, and turned it into “an opportunity to really beef up our education and prevention efforts by flooding the beaches and the streets,” Scharf said.
Smith, of The SPOT, said spring breakers were “grateful and appreciative” and his group now has to plan how to “keep the momentum going.”
To that end, the street teams plan to continue working events that bring in large crowds, such as this weekend’s sold out Tortuga Music Festival on Fort Lauderdale Beach.
“It’s about saving lives,” said Emy Martinez, who manages a safe syringe program for The SPOT. “It’s all about saving one life at a time.”
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| 2022-04-09T22:47:27
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POISSY, France (AP) — From the market stall outside Paris that she’s run for 40 years, Yvette Robert can see first-hand how soaring prices are weighing on France’s presidential election and turning the first round of voting on Sunday into a nail-biter for incumbent President Emmanuel Macron.
Shoppers, increasingly worried about how to make ends meet, are buying ever-smaller quantities of Robert’s neatly stacked fruits and vegetables, she says. And some of her clients no longer come at all to the market for its baguettes, cheeses and other tasty offerings. Robert suspects that with fuel prices so high, some can no longer afford to take their vehicles to shop.
“People are scared — with everything that’s going up, with prices for fuel going up,” she said Friday as campaigning concluded for act one of the two-part French election drama, held against the backdrop of Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Macron, a political centrist, for months looked like a shoo-in to become France’s first president in 20 years to win a second term. But that scenario blurred in the campaign’s closing stages. The pain of inflation and of pump, food and energy prices that are hitting low-income households particularly hard subsequently roared back as dominant election themes. They could drive many voters Sunday into the arms of far-right leader Marine Le Pen, Macron’s political nemesis.
Macron, now 44, trounced Le Pen by a landslide to become France’s youngest president in 2017. The win for the former banker who, unlike Le Pen, is a fervent proponent of European collaboration was seen as a victory against populist, nationalist politics, coming in the wake of Donald Trump’s election to the White House and Britain’s vote to leave the European Union, both in 2016.
In courting voters, Macron has economic successes to point to: The French economy is rebounding faster than expected from the battering of COVID-19, with a 2021 growth rate of 7%, the highest since 1969. Unemployment is down to levels not seen since the 2008 financial crisis. When Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, sparking Europe’s worst security crisis since World War II, Macron also got a polling bump, with people rallying around the wartime leader.
But the 53-year-old Le Pen is a now a more polished, formidable and savvy political foe as she makes her third attempt to become France’s first woman president. And she has campaigned particularly hard and for months on cost of living concerns, capitalizing on the issue that pollsters say is foremost on voters’ minds.
Le Pen also pulled off two remarkable feats. Despite her plans to sharply curtail immigration and dial back some rights for Muslims in France, she nevertheless appears to have convinced growing numbers of voters that she is no longer the dangerous, racist nationalist extremist that critics, including Macron, accuse her of being.
She’s done that partly by diluting some of her rhetoric and fieriness. She also had outside help: A presidential run by Eric Zemmour, an even more extreme far-right rabble-rouserwith repeated convictions for hate speech, has had the knock-on benefit for Le Pen of making her look almost mainstream by comparison.
Secondly, and also stunning: Le Pen has adroitly sidestepped any significant blowback for her previous perceived closeness with Russian President Vladimir Putin. She went to the Kremlin to meet himduring her last presidential campaign in 2017. But in the wake of the war in Ukraine, that potential embarrassment doesn’t appear to have turned Le Pen’s supporters against her. She has called the invasion “absolutely indefensible” and said Putin’s behavior cannot be excused “in any way.”
At her market stall, Robert says she plans to vote Macron, partly because of the billions of euros (dollars) that his government doled out at the the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to keep people, businesses and France’s economy afloat. When food markets closed, Robert got 1,500 euros ($1,600) a month to tide her over.
“He didn’t leave anyone by the side of the road,” she says of Macron.
But she thinks that this time, Le Pen is in with a chance, too.
“She has changed the way she speaks,” Robert said. “She has learned to moderate herself.”
Barring a monumental surprise, both Macron and Le Pen are expected to advance again from the first-round field of 12 candidates, to set up a winner-takes-all rematch in the second-round vote on April 24. Polls suggest that far-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon is likely to finish out of the running in third place. Some of France’s overseas territories in the Pacific, the Caribbean and South America vote Saturday, before Sunday voting on the French mainland.
When Macron made a campaign stop in Poissy, the town west of Paris where Robert has her stall, in early March, pollsters had him leading Le Pen by double digits. Although a Le Pen victory still appears improbable, much of Macron’s advantage has subsequently evaporated. Kept busy by the war in Ukraine, Macron may be paying a price for his somewhat subdued campaign, which made him look aloof to some voters.
Market-goer Marie-Helene Hirel, a 64-year-old retired tax collector, voted Macron in 2017 but said she’s too angry with him to do so again. Struggling on her pension with rising prices, Hirel said she is thinking of switching her vote to Le Pen, who has promised fuel and energy tax cuts that Macron says would be ruinous.
Although Le Pen’s “relations with Putin worry me,” Hirel said that voting for her would be a way of protesting against Macron and what she perceives as his failure to better protect people from the sting of inflation.
“Now I’m also part of the ‘all against Macron camp,” she said. “He is making fools of us all.”
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Follow all AP stories on the French presidential election at https://apnews.com/hub/french-election-2022
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Outside the Michigan courthouse where a jury did not convict any of the four men charged with planning to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a defense lawyer said jurors saw the alleged plot as what it was: Dirty FBI tactics and “rough talk.”
The men — who were heard on audio during the trial talking about killing Whitmer, blowing up a bridge and other violence — didn’t say anything shocking, attorney Michael Hills said. He noted one of the defense witnesses he considered calling to testify planned to assert that he’s “heard worse from pregnant mothers up on the Capitol.”
“If I don’t like the governor and it’s rough talk, I can do that in our country. That’s what’s beautiful about this country. That’s what’s great about it,” Hills said. “So hurrah, freedom in America. It’s still here.”
But to others, Friday’s outcome following a weekslong trial was a chilling reminder that the political violence that is raging across the U.S. too often goes unpunished. From attacks on social media and elsewhere that disproportionately affect women lawmakers, to the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol and the plan to abduct Whitmer, people are increasingly angry and feeling emboldened to act on it, they say.
Whitmer, a Democrat, has blamed former President Donald Trumpfor stoking anger over COVID-19 restrictions and refusing to condemn right-wing extremists. On Friday, her office said people across the country are experiencing “a normalization” of violence. A Democratic state lawmaker said the threats posed won’t be taken seriously “until someone dies.”
“The plot to kidnap and kill a governor may seem like an anomaly. But we must be honest about what it really is: the result of violent, divisive rhetoric that is all too common across our country,” Whitmer’s chief of staff, JoAnne Huls, said in a statement. “There must be accountability and consequences for those who commit heinous crimes. Without accountability, extremists will be emboldened.”
Whitmer wasn’t a trial witness, didn’t attend the trial and has not directly commented on the proceedings, but on Saturday, she alluded to the trial’s outcome.
“I have often been asked why the heck do I want to keep doing this job. And after yesterday I’m sure we all have to ask that question maybe once or twice,” she said during a speech at the Michigan Democratic Party Endorsement Convention in Detroit. “But here’s the reason: Tough times call for tough people and we are going to get through this together.”
Four men — Adam Fox, Barry Croft Jr., Brandon Caserta and Daniel Harris — were arrested in October 2020. Federal prosecutors said they wanted to kidnap Whitmer because they were angry over pandemic restrictions she imposed, and saw her as a “tyrant” who needed to be removed.
The charges came at a particularly divisive time, with debate raging over the pandemic and just weeks before the 2020 presidential election between Trump and Joe Biden. Armed protests were occurring at the Michigan Capitol and elsewhere in the U.S., and in the streets of many cities, demonstrations over the police killing of George Floyd at times turned violent.
Prosecutors presented evidence at the federal trial in Grand Rapids, Michigan, from undercover agents, an FBI informantand two men who pleaded guiltyto the plot. Jurors also read and heard secretly recorded conversations, violent social media posts and chat messages.
Defense attorneys argued that the men were entrapped by the FBI— pulled into an alleged plot they would never have participated in if not for the government and its informants luring them. They painted the men as wannabes who were frequently high and easily influenced, or in one case, a former member of the military who wanted to brush up on firearms training.
Before returning their verdicts, the jury said that after nearly five days of deliberations they could not agree unanimously on all 10 of the charges against the men.
Harris, 24, and Caserta, 33, were found not guilty of conspiracy. Harris also was acquitted of charges related to explosives and a gun.
The jury could not reach verdicts for Fox, 38, and Croft, 46, which means the government can put them on trial again.
U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge said after the verdicts that “We have two defendants that are awaiting trial and we’ll get back to work on that.”
Hills, who defended Caserta, said the outcome was a message to the government that the FBI’s actions were “unconscionable.” He said the federal government should “let it go” rather than take Croft and Fox to trial a second time.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Republican, tweeted after the verdict that the “FBI and DOJ need a complete and total cleansing. … All the rot must be removed and these agencies must be restored.”
Others were stunned by the jury’s decision, and said it set a dangerous example.
U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, a Democrat, called for an end to “the hatred and division in this country” and said she is “Deeply concerned that today’s decision in the Whitmer kidnapping trial will give people further license to choose violence and threats.”
Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist called on elected officials, parents, teachers and others to stand up to “these hateful actions and teach our kids that there is a better way.”
“Our differences must be settled at the ballot box, not through violence,” he said. “We need to be honest and clear about what causes violence by extremists and do all we can to address the root cause of it.”
Michigan state Rep. Laurie Pohutsky, a Democrat, noted on Twitter that a man who threatened to kill her in 2020 was acquitted.
“The next time you ask why we can’t get good people to run for office, consider today’s verdict,” she said, adding, “This won’t be taken seriously until someone dies.”
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Find AP’s full coverage of the Whitmer kidnap plot trial at: https://apnews.com/hub/whitmer-kidnap-plot-trial
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| 2022-04-09T22:47:42
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FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — Shortly after Riley Briones Jr. arrived in federal prison, he cut his long, braided hair in a symbolic death of his old self.
As a leader of a violent gang and just shy of 18, Briones drove the getaway car in a robbery turned deadly on the Salt River-Pima Maricopa Indian Community outside Phoenix in 1994. He was convicted of murder and given a mandatory sentence of life without parole.
In prison, he has been baptized a Christian, ministers to other inmates who call him Brother Briones, got his GED and has a spotless disciplinary record, his attorneys say in their latest bid to get the now 45-year-old’s sentence cut short.
“He’s clearly on the side of the line where he should be walking free,” said his attorney, Easha Anand.
The U.S. Supreme Court opened the door for that possibility with a 2012 ruling that said only the rare, irredeemable juvenile offender should serve life in prison. Over the past decade, most of the 39 defendants in federal cases who received that sentence have gotten a reprieve and are serving far fewer years behind bars.
Meanwhile, more than 60 legal experts and scholars have asked the federal government to cap sentences for juvenile offenders at 30 years, create a committee to review life sentences in the future and reconsider its stance in Briones’ case.
But the move toward greater leniency has been gradual and not without resistance.
Briones is among those whose life sentences have been upheld in recent years, though he still has another chance.
Prosecutors in his case have opposed a reduced term. They argue despite Briones’ improvements, he minimized his role in the gang and its crimes that terrorized Salt River amid an explosion of gang violence on Native American reservations in the 1990s.
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Briones began serving prison time in 1997 for the death of Brian Patrick Lindsay, a Northern Arizona University honors student who was home for the summer and had picked up a solo shift at a Subway sandwich shop.
Briones drove four others from the notorious “Eastside Crips Rolling 30s” gang to the restaurant on May 15, 1994, one of whom was armed with a 9 mm pistol, according to court documents. Lindsay was preparing food they ordered when one of the gang members went outside to talk to Briones, came back inside and suddenly shot Lindsay in the face. He pumped more bullets into Lindsay as he lay bleeding on the floor.
They had planned the robbery to get cash for guns, prosecutors wrote in court documents. They weren’t able to open the cash register but took a bank bag with $100 and the food the dying clerk had prepared.
Briones instructed another gang member to kill a maintenance man whom they saw earlier clearing the sidewalk, but they couldn’t find him, court documents state.
Prosecutors said the murder was the most egregious of the violent crimes that Briones helped plot and carry out on the reservation about 15 miles (24 kilometers) from Phoenix. But there were others that demonstrated a “murderous, unrepentant and unapologetic attitude,” prosecutors said.
The gang members set diversionary fires while they firebombed a rival’s house and did drive-by shootings. They stole cars and firearms to carry out the crimes. They also hatched plans to kill a tribal judge, federal prosecutors and tribal police investigators but didn’t follow through, according to court documents.
Briones was arrested at his home in 1995. Along with murder, he was convicted of arson, tampering with a witness and assault with a dangerous weapon. Three of his co-defendants were sentenced to life. One cooperated with prosecutors and received a lesser term.
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Bennit Hayes can’t imagine that version of Briones, whom he served time with at the federal prison in Beaumont, Texas. Hayes said he learned about Sunday chapel services and a Bible study group that gathered on the prison yard, and Briones welcomed him with a big smile and a hug.
Hayes said he respected Briones because he never talked over others, he studied intently, and he worked hard and encouraged others to lead better lives. Briones prayed for anyone who asked, Hayes said.
“God blessed me not only to have the camaraderie and the brotherhood but to see genuine change,” said Hayes, whose sentence was commuted by President Barack Obama in 2016. “He was the light in the candle that I put up against everything else going forward.”
By then, Briones had cut his hair that fell past his waist, abstained from food for 40 days and surrendered to God, said his wife, Carmen Briones.
“Riley made that decision,” said Carmen Briones, who is enrolled Pascua Yaqui. “He said, ‘I have to have a different life. I can’t have the same life I had before.’”
The couple met while they were teenagers attending a youth camp at Arizona State University. They had a daughter who is now 30 and got married in 1999 while Briones, who is San Carlos Apache and Salt River Pima-Maricopa, was in prison.
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Briones’ case became eligible for resentencing after the Supreme Court’s 2012 decision in Miller v. Alabama. It was part of a series of cases in which the court found minors should be treated differently from adults, partly because of a lack of maturity. The court previously eliminated the death penalty for juveniles and barred life-without-parole sentences for juveniles except in cases of murder.
A handful of the defendants in the 39 federal cases — most of whom are minorities — have been released from prison.
The Feb. 17 letter seeking reform from the Justice Department pointed to statistics that show the median sentence for adults convicted of murder in the federal system is 20 years — nearly half the median for the juvenile offenders.
“Taking a life is really, really serious, and I don’t belittle that at all,” said Mary McCord, executive director of the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection at the Georgetown University Law Center, one of the signatories. “But a full life in prison when you’re a juvenile and you’re talking about 40, 50, 60 years in prison is exceedingly excessive probably in almost every case and not consistent with typical sentences for homicides, even adults.”
The Justice Department did not respond to requests for comment from The Associated Press.
A decision in the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in 2019 gave Briones an opportunity to plead again before a district court judge to lower his sentence. But before he got the chance, the U.S. Department of Justice asked the U.S. Supreme Court to hold the case until it decided another one, Jones v. Mississippi, meant to clarify rulings in two other cases regarding juvenile offenders.
From there, Briones’ case went back to the 9th Circuit.
A three-judge panel ruled against Briones, and now his attorneys are asking the full court to reconsider. The federal government’s response is due in May.
The California-based Criminal Justice Legal Foundation, a victims rights group, said changes in the law that continually allow juvenile offenders to get another shot at freedom are damaging for the families, communities and the criminal justice system.
“Some of these crimes are just very horrible, and the impacts on the families are substantial, and they never go away,” said the group’s president, Michael Rushford.
The Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth has long argued the changes a person makes once they’ve entered prison should matter, and juveniles offenders should be able to live as adults outside prison walls.
“If the facts of the crime are always going to be the overpowering force, then Miller isn’t going to be meaningfully interpreted to outweigh all this positive growth,” said Rebecca Turner, who tracks the federal cases for the group.
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The federal court in Arizona has resentenced more of the juvenile offenders to life in prison than any other state. Texas has two juvenile offenders who are serving life but weren’t able to be resentenced because of how courts interpreted Miller v. Alabama. South Carolina resentenced one inmate to life.
All three federal cases in Arizona were from Native American reservations, where the federal government has jurisdiction when the suspect, victim or both are Native American for a set of major crimes, including homicide. The penalties, in general, are stricter than if the crimes happened off the reservation and the cases ended up in state court.
Branden Pete, who is Navajo, got a mandatory life sentence for raping and then killing a woman by throwing rocks at her head on the Navajo Nation in 2002. A judge considered his dysfunctional upbringing, substance abuse issues, prison disciplinary record and the brutality of the crime in resentencing him to 54 years in prison in 2017.
It’s the third-longest resentence among defendants, not including those whose life sentences were reaffirmed or didn’t get a chance to plead for less time. The resentences range from 15 years to 70 years.
The other Arizona defendant, Johnny Orsinger, is serving life for the deaths of four people in two incidents when he was 16. Orsinger, who is Ute and Mexican, also committed the crimes on the Navajo Nation, which spans parts of New Mexico, Utah and Arizona. A co-defendant in one of the cases, Lezmond Mitchell, was executed in 2020. He was the only Native American on federal death row at the time.
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Prosecutors in Briones’ case acknowledged he’s changed for the better and expressed remorse but argued he should remain imprisoned for life because he hasn’t accepted responsibility for Lindsay’s death and minimized his role as a founder and leader of the gang that spanned other tribal reservations.
The U.S. District Court judge who resentenced Briones in 2016 said he considered Briones’ troubled childhood that included abuse at the hands of his father — with whom the gang consulted — along with Briones’ alcohol and drug use, and immaturity. He also noted Briones had been a model inmate.
“However, some decisions have lifelong consequences,” the judge wrote.
The trial for Briones and his co-defendants was the first prosecution in Indian Country under a federal law meant to enhance sentencing for organized crime. During the trial, prosecutors played the 911 recording in which Lindsay told dispatchers through a mouthful of blood that he had been shot. His parents were in the courtroom.
“I can still almost hear that tape,” Paul Charlton, one of the prosecutors at the time, recently told The Associated Press. “And if you had been through that trial, if you had seen the callous and remorseless way in which these individuals faced the evidence against them and their lack of remorse at that time, most people would be as I remain today, unsympathetic to Mr. Briones’ arguments.”
The Salt River Police Department declined to comment. Emails and phone messages left at a number listed for Lindsay’s parents were not returned.
In a letter to the court during Briones’ 2016 resentencing, Sharyn and Brian Lindsay said the passing of time hadn’t made their lives easier or mended their hearts.
“Isn’t a lifetime without our son enough without having to go through another court proceeding?” they wrote.
They established an engineering scholarship in their son’s name at Northern Arizona University.
Briones now is at the federal prison in metropolitan Phoenix, about a 50 minute drive from Carmen Briones’ home on the Salt River reservation. She hasn’t seen him since last May because of pandemic restrictions, but they keep in contact through email and phone calls.
She said releasing Riley Briones from prison would mean they could be a family in a more meaningful way. But whatever the 9th Circuit decides won’t change who her husband has become, she said.
“He’s still going to continue wherever he’s at to minister, to mentor, to be a positive example and give guidance to those who he has contact with,” she said. “We’ve had enough appeals come and go that … wisdom would tell you just pray and see what happens.”
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Fonseca covers Indigenous communities on the AP’s Race and Ethnicity team. Follow her on Twitter at https://twitter.com/FonsecaAP
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KYIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the leaders of Britain and Austria for their visits to Kyiv on Saturday and pledges of further support.
In his daily late-night video address to the nation, Zelenskyy also thanked European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for a global fundraising event that raised more than 10 billion euros ($11 billion) for Ukrainians who have had to flee their homes.
Zelenskyy said democratic countries were united in working to stop the war. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer became the latest of several European rulers to meet Zelenskky in Kyiv.
“Because Russian aggression was not intended to be limited to Ukraine alone, to the destruction only of our freedom and our life,” he said. “The entire European project is a target for Russia.”
Zelenskyy repeated his call for a complete embargo on Russian oil and gas, calling them the sources of Russia’s “self-confidence and impunity.”
“But Ukraine does not have time to wait. Freedom does not have time to wait. When tyranny begins its aggression against everything that keeps the peace in Europe, action must be taken immediately,” he said.
He added: “And an oil embargo must be the first step. Moreover, by all democratic states, the entire civilized world. Then Russia will feel it. Then it will be an argument for them to seek peace, to stop the senseless violence.”
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KEY DEVELOPMENTS IN THE RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR:
— Zelenskyy, in AP interview, wonders if he’s done enough
— War Crimes Watch: A devastating walk through Bucha’s horror
— S&P downgrade indicates Russia headed for historic default
— Panicked civilians board buses after attack on train station
— Intel: Putin may cite Ukraine war to meddle in US politics
— Go to https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine for more coverage
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OTHER DEVELOPMENTS:
LVIV, Ukraine — Eyewitness descriptions are coming from Kramatorsk, the town in eastern Ukraine where a missile hit a train station packed with evacuees on Friday.
The Sydorneko family could have been among the 52 dead and more than 100 wounded, but their taxi didn’t show and they had to wait for another one. They finally arrived for the 11 a.m. evacuation train just three minutes after the explosion.
Ivan Sydorneko says there were around 2,000 people inside the station and on the platforms when the missile hit. He says they got out of their taxi in a scene of burning cars, burning pieces of the missile and people fleeing for their lives.
Ivan managed to escape by bus and then train with his wife and daughter, eventually reaching the relative safety of Lviv in western Ukraine. The Sydornekos are just one of thousands of families clamoring to leave eastern Ukraine ahead of an expected Russian onslaught there.
Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said 10 evacuation corridors were planned for Saturday, and other stations were open for trains full of refugees.
Russia meanwhile has denied responsibility, accusing Ukraine’s military of firing on the station to try to turn blame for civilian slayings on Moscow.
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KYIV, Ukraine — Panicked residents of eastern Ukraine boarded buses or looked for other ways to leave Saturday, a day after a missile strike killed at least 52 people and wounded more than 100 at a train station.
The attack in in Kramatorsk left the city with no trains running and came with thousands of people seeking to leave. Ukrainian authorities have called on civilians to get out ahead of an imminent, stepped-up offensive by Russian forces in the east.
Residents on Saturday feared the kind of unrelenting assaults and occupations by Russian invaders that brought food shortages, demolished buildings and death to other cities elsewhere in Ukraine.
“It was terrifying. The horror, the horror,” one resident told British broadcaster Sky, recalling Friday’s attack on the train station. “Heaven forbid, to live through this again. No, I don’t want to.”
Western military analysts said an arc of territory in eastern Ukraine was under Russian control. It was from Kharkiv — Ukraine’s second-largest city — in the north to Kherson in the south.
But Ukrainian counterattacks are threatening Russian control of Kherson, according to the Western assessments, and Ukrainian forces are repelling Russian assaults elsewhere in the Donbas region in the southeast.
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WASHINGTON — U.S. intelligence officials predict Russian President Vladimir Putin may use U.S. support for Ukraine as justification for a new campaign to interfere in American politics.
Intelligence officials tell The Associated Press that they have yet to find any evidence that Putin has authorized measures like the ones Russia undertook in the last two elections to support former President Donald Trump. Several people familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive findings said it remains unclear which candidates Russia might try to promote next.
Trump has repeatedly assailed U.S. intelligence officials and claimed that investigations of Russian influence on his campaigns to be political vendettas. In Ukraine and elsewhere, Russia has been accused of trying to spread disinformation, amplifying pro-Kremlin voices in the West and using cyberattacks to disrupt governments.
Top U.S. intelligence officials are still working on plans for a new Foreign Malign Influence Center, authorized by Congress, that will focus on foreign influence campaigns by Russia, China and other adversaries.
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KYIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told The Associated Press on Saturday that he is committed to seeking peace despite Russian attacks on civilians that have stunned the world.
He said no one wants to negotiate with people who tortured their nation — “as a man, as a father, I understand this very well.” But he said “we don’t want to lose opportunities, if we have them, for a diplomatic solution.”
Zelenskyy said he’s confident Ukrainians would accept peace despite the horrors they have witnessed in the war. But meanwhile, Russian troops are regrouping for an expected surge in fighting in eastern Ukraine, including the besieged port city of Mariupol that Ukrainian defenders are battling to retain.
So Zelenskyy renewed his plea for countries to send more weapons. He says they have to fight for life — not “for dust when there is nothing and no people. That’s why it is important to stop this war.”
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KYIV, Ukraine — U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv, promising so much support that his nation might never be bullied again.
Johnson’s surprise visit included a pledge of 120 armored vehicles and new anti-ship missile systems, part of another 100 million pounds ($130 million) of high-grade military equipment. Johnson also confirmed an additional $500 million in World Bank lending, taking Britain’s total loan guarantee up to $1 billion.
Johnson said Ukraine defied the odds pushing Russian forces “from the gates of Kyiv, achieving the greatest feat of arms of the 21st century.″
The prime minister credits “Zelenskyy’s resolute leadership and the invincible heroism and courage of the Ukrainian people” for thwarting what he calls the “monstrous aims” of Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
Johnson says Britain and its partners “are going to ratchet up the economic pressure … not just freezing assets in banks and sanctioning oligarchs but moving away from use of Russian hydrocarbons.”
Johnson also described a vision for a future Ukraine so fortified and protected by the equipment, technology and know-how of Britain and its partners that it can never be threatened in the same way again. In the meantime, Johnson said, “there is a huge amount to do to make sure that Ukraine is successful, that Ukraine wins and that Putin must fail.”
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MILAN — An Italian government source said Italian Premier Mario Draghi is traveling to Algeria on Monday to sign a deal for more gas.
Italy has been urgently looking for alternatives to natural gas from Russia since its invasion of Ukraine. Russia is Italy’s biggest supplier, representing 40% of total imports.
Italy’s foreign minister has traveled to Algeria as well as Azerbaijan, Qatar, Congo, Angola and Mozambique to secure more deals. Algeria is Italy’s second-largest supplier of natural gas, which is the main source of the nation’s electricity, providing some 21 billion cubic meters of gas via the Trans-Mediterranean pipeline.
Italian energy company ENI has operated in Algeria for 40 years. ENI announced a significant oil and gas discovery in Algeria last month and said it would work with Algerian partner Sonatrach to fast-track its development for the third quarter of this year.
— Italy business reporter Colleen Barry.
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Julian Lennon has explained why he decided to sing his father’s song “Imagine” for the first time publicly.
He’s posted on social media that he always said he would only sing the song if it was the End of the World. He says it’s the right song to sing now because “the War on Ukraine is an unimaginable tragedy,” and he felt compelled to respond in the most significant way he could.
The son of John Lennon says murderous violence in Ukraine is forcing millions of innocent families to leave the comfort of their homes. He says the lyrics reflect our collective desire for peace worldwide, and “within this song, we’re transported to a space, where love and togetherness become our reality, if but for a moment in time.”
Lennon joined celebrities around the world calling on world leaders to do more to support refugees in the Stand Up For Ukraine campaign.
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KYIV, Ukraine — Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer says the Austrian embassy staff will return to Kyiv from western Ukraine.
The Austria Press Agency reported that Nehammer announced the move during a visit on Saturday to Kyiv, where he met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Nehammer said that “since the situation around Kyiv has now stabilized somewhat, the Austrian embassy’s team will resume its work in the Ukrainian capital.” He said it’s a sign of Austria’s “full support for Ukraine at this very difficult time.”
The team had been moved at the beginning of the war to an outpost in Uzhhorod, near the Slovak border in Ukraine’s far west.
The European Union also has returned its ambassador to Kyiv and Italy also reportedly plans to reopen its embassy there.
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BOSTON — The International Monetary Fund has created an account to give donor countries a secure way to funnel financial assistance directly to war-ravaged Ukraine.
The multilateral lender said in a statement Friday that it’s launching the account at the request of several member countries.
The goal is to help Ukraine meet its payment obligations and help stabilize its economy using loans or grants from pooled resources.
The IMF says Canada has proposed routing up to 1 billion Canadian dollars ($795 million) to Ukraine through the new account.
Two weeks after Russia’s Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine, the IMF approved a $1.4 billion emergency loan to Ukraine.
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BOSTON — S&P Global Ratings has downgraded its assessment of Russia’s ability to repay foreign debt, signaling increased prospects that Moscow will soon default on such loans for the first time in more than a century.
The credit ratings agency issued the downgrade to “selective default” Friday night after Russia arranged to make foreign bond payments in rubles last week when they were due in dollars. It said it didn’t expect Russia to be able to convert the rubles into dollars within a 30-day grace period.
S&P said it believes sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine are likely to increase, impeding its willingness and ability to honor its obligations to foreign debtholders.
The Kremlin has signaled it’s willing to pay its debts but warned it would do so in rubles if its overseas accounts in foreign currencies remain frozen.
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WARSAW, Poland – The head of the European Union’s executive branch says 10.1 billion euros ($11 billion) have been raised globally in a fundraising event for Ukraine and people who have fled the country invaded by Russia.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was joined at the event in Warsaw by Polish President Andrzej Duda and — remotely — by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
At the end of the 90-minute event, a smiling von der Leyen said the donations will go to help refugees, both outside and inside Ukraine.
“We will continue providing support. And once the bombs have stopped falling, we will help the people of Ukraine rebuild their country,” von der Leyen said.
Saturday’s pledging event was held in Warsaw because more than 2.5 million of the 4.4 million people who have fled Ukraine since Russia’s invasion began Feb. 24 have entered Poland. Many have stayed, though some have moved on to other countries. The event aimed to prompt political leaders and global celebrities to provide funding and other donations for the people of Ukraine.
It ended with Julian Lennon singing his father John Lennon’s peace song “Imagine.”
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MOSCOW — YouTube has banned the channel of Russia’s lower house of parliament, the State Duma, prompting government officials to renew longtime threats against the platform.
The Duma TV channel reported the ban on the messaging app Telegram, noting that it had 145,000 subscribers and over 100,000 million total views. In comments to the Russian news agency Interfax, Google didn’t give an exact reason for the move, but said the company follows “all applicable sanction and trade compliance laws.”
Russia’s state communications watchdog Roskomnadzor demanded that YouTube unblock the channel. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Saturday that the service “has handed itself a sentence” and urged its users to “download content, transfer it onto Russian platforms. And fast.”
State Duma speaker Vyacheslav Volodin called the move against the parliament’s YouTube channel “another proof of violations of the rights and freedoms of citizens by Washington.”
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MILAN — Italy’s foreign minister has reportedly told staff that Italy will reopen its embassy in the Ukrainian capital after Easter.
News agency ANSA quoted Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio on Saturday as telling his ministry’s crisis unit that Italy “will be among the first to return” to Kyiv.
He called it “another gesture to demonstrate support for the Ukrainian population, a concrete way to affirm that diplomacy must prevail.”
Di Maio said the return would be coordinated with other European Union nations.
The EU itself announced the return of its ambassador on Friday. On Saturday, EU ambassador Matti Maasikas tweeted a picture of an EU flag atop a flagpole with the words “First things first.”
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KYIV, Ukraine — Austria’s leader says he expects more European Union sanctions against Russia but is defending his country’s opposition so far to cutting off deliveries of Russian gas.
Chancellor Karl Nehammer spoke Saturday after becoming the latest of several European leaders to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv.
Nehammer said at a news conference that “we will continue to ratchet up sanctions inside the European Union until the war stops” and that a package of sanctions imposed this week “won’t be the last one.” He acknowledged that “as long as people are dying, every sanction is still insufficient.”
Austria, which gets most of its gas from Russia, is one of the countries that have been resisting a halt to deliveries. Questioned about that Saturday, Nehammer said that EU sanctions are becoming increasingly “accurate” but that “sanctions are effective when they hit those they are directed against, and don’t weaken those imposing sanctions against the one who is conducting war.”
Austria is militarily neutral and not a member of NATO.
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LONDON — Britain’s Ministry of Defense says Russian naval forces are launching cruise missiles into Ukraine to support military operations in the eastern Donbas region and around the cities of Mariupol and Mykolaiv.
In its Saturday morning briefing, the ministry said Russia’s air forces are expected to increase activity in the south and east of Ukraine to further support these operations.
The ministry said these actions come as attempts to establish a land corridor between Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014, and Russian-controlled parts of the Donbas region “continue to be thwarted by Ukrainian resistance.”
U.K. officials also say Russia is continuing to attack non-combatants, such as those killed at the Kramatorsk railway station in a rocket strike on Friday.
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KYIV, Ukraine — Ten humanitarian corridors for civilian evacuations are to open in Ukraine’s east on Saturday, according to Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk. The corridors will allow residents to leave a number cities in the regions of Donetsk, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhia.
Those in Mariupol, Enerhodar, Tokmak, Berdyansk and Melitopol will be able to evacuate to the city of Zaporizhzhia, while those in Severodonetsk, Lysychansk, Popasna, Girske and Rubizhne can evacuate to the city of Bakhmut in the Donetsk region.
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WASHINGTON — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said his country’s security service has intercepted communications of Russian troops that provide evidence of war crimes.
“There are soldiers talking with their parents about what they stole and who they abducted. There are recordings of prisoners of war who admitted killing people,” Zelenskyy said in an excerpt of an interview with CBS’ “60 Minutes” that aired Friday.
“There are pilots in prison who had maps with civilian targets to bomb. There are also investigations being conducted based on the remains of the dead,” he said in a translation provided by CBS.
Zelenskyy said “everyone who made a decision, who issued an order, who fulfilled an order” is guilty of a war crime. Asked whether he held Russian President Vladimir Putin responsible, he said: “I do believe that he’s one of them.”
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ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan’s veto of a measure to expand access to abortion in the state was overridden on Saturday by the General Assembly, which is controlled by Democrats.
The state will end a restriction that only physicians can provide abortions. The new law will enable nurse practitioners, nurse midwives and physician assistants to provide them with training. It creates an abortion care training program and requires $3.5 million in state funding annually. It also requires most insurance plans to cover abortions without cost.
Del. Emily Shetty said she was supporting the measure on the House floor as a mother who had experienced a high-risk pregnancy. She also described being a sexual assault survivor in college and the difficulties she experienced “with the weight of what had happened after that incident.”
“And thankfully, the incident did not result in pregnancy but had it, it would have drastically changed my life if I had not been able to access the care that I needed at that time,” Shetty, a Democrat, said.
Hogan, a Republican, wrote in his veto letter that the legislation “endangers the health and lives of women by allowing non-physicians to perform abortions.”
The measure comes at a time when the conservative majority on the U.S. Supreme Court is weighing whether tooverturn Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 ruling that banned states from outlawing abortion.
If they do, at least 26 states are likely to either ban abortion outright or severely limit access, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research and policy organization that supports abortion rights.
“In this context, it’s very important that we keep in mind that the strategies that this bill is using is ensuring that people can access the care that they need, when they need it, no matter what happens with the rest of the country — no matter what happens with the Supreme Court,” said Del. Ariana Kelly, a Democrat who was the lead sponsor of the bill, said.
Republican lawmakers criticized the provision allocating $3.5 million of taxpayer money annually to pay for the training. Del. Haven Shoemaker, the House minority whip, described the bill as “the most radical expansion of abortion in Maryland’s history in a state that already has some of the most liberal abortion laws in the country.”
“Madam speaker, this bill is too extreme, even for Maryland,” Shoemaker, a Republican, said, referring to House Speaker Adrienne Jones, a Democrat.
Kelly said the measure is modernizing the choice the state’s voters made in 1992, when they approved the right to abortion in a statewide vote with 62% of voters supporting it.
“It is making sure that people have access to care, particularly people of color, particularly low-income people, particularly rural people,” Kelly said. “We know that physician-only restrictions exacerbate health inequalities, and we are trying to reduce health inequalities in the state of Maryland with this bill.”
The measure takes effect July 1. The insurance provisions apply to all policies, contracts, and health benefit plans issued, delivered, or renewed in the state on or after Jan. 1.
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| 2022-04-09T22:48:02
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MEXICO CITY (AP) — A small archipelago off Mexico’s Pacific coast that had been home to an island prison colony is now ready to receive tourists.
Getting to Islas Marias, however, will be a challenge for even the sturdiest tourist: a five-hour boat ride in often choppy waters.
But some people, like Beatriz Maldonado, are already imagining the voyage. When Maldonado was imprisoned between those “walls of water” — as a Mexican writer also confined there described it — she thought she would never see her mother again.
Maldonado only spent one year of her six-year sentence there for drug and weapons possession, but it was the most painful. “I lost my smile, my happiness,” she said. Now at age 55, a laundry worker and an activist advocating for other imprisoned women, she wants to return to close wounds.
The Islas Marias prison colony was founded in 1905 on Mother María Island, the largest of the four islands and the only inhabited one more than 60 miles off the coast of Nayarit state. Frequently buffeted by hurricanes scraping along Mexico’s coast, the government closed the prison in 2019.
President Andrés Manuel López Obrador had it converted into an environmental education center, though which some 150 youths have passed. Now the government wants to make it an ecotourism destination where visitors can watch sea birds and enjoy the beaches.
Last year, authorities said they would now allow camping or build hotels, because it is a protected reserve. It was unclear if any lodging would be provided in the existing buildings, but without it, drawing tourists could be difficult. It is not as easily accessible as Alcatraz, the infamous prison accessed from San Francisco. It could end up like the Panamanian island prison colony Coiba, closed in 2004, that is being reclaimed by the jungle.
Maldonado planned to watch López Obrador’s visit to the island this weekend. “I would have liked to slip myself into his pocket,” she said.
The island now is nothing like the dirt-floored warehouse-like prison dorms with five bathrooms for 500 women that Maldonado remembers. “We lived in a chicken coop,” she said.
Now a colorful mural of former South African leader Nelson Mandela, himself held for years on an island prison, welcomes visitors to remodeled buildings, a whitewashed church and a cultural center.
“What was a hell is becoming a paradise,” López Obrador said.
There was a time when it was considered the “tomb of the Pacific.”
Writer José Revueltas, imprisoned there during the 1930s for his work in the Communist Party, said the prison was much more terrible than he could describe in his book “Walls of Water.” The worst couldn’t be described, he said, because of modesty or because you don’t know how to show that it’s really true.
Island prison colonies were common around the world to make escapes nearly impossible or to rehabilitate through forced labor. Most tried to be self-sufficient.
Prisoners on Mother María Island harvested salt and farmed shrimp. They tried to make a little money brewing their own alcohol from fermented fruits, illegally trading exotic birds or killing boa constrictors to make belts.
In later years, it was known as a “prison without walls” where some prisoners lived with their families in semi-freedom and relatively good conditions.
That changed when President Felipe Calderon launched the war against the drug cartels in 2006 and hundreds of new prisoners were sent there. In 2013, the inmate population reached 8,000.
Maldonado served her time during that era. She said the women, who were the minority, were the worst treated. Unlike the men, they weren’t allowed outside the fences even though they had skills and barely received enough food. Maldonado’s weight dropped to about 45 pounds. “They didn’t pay attention to us when someone got sick,” she said. “My friend’s gallbladder ruptured.”
The extreme isolation was the most punishing part, broken only on the 15th of every month when they were allowed a 10-minute phone call with a relative. Some who tried to escape drowned. Occasionally the Navy rescued others who set out on improvised crafts.
“The boats came on Thursdays to bring us supplies and letters, and I saw the tears of my mother on the stained pages,” Maldonado said. “The worst was thinking that I would never see her again.”
Infrequently some relatives made visits that then involved 12 hours at sea.
Maldonado’s one colorful memory was of a tube of red lipstick, the only personal item she took. When it ran out she solemnly buried it because she felt like it gave her life.
A year after Maldonado was transferred to a prison in Mexico City, six people died on the island in a riot sparked by a lack of food.
It was closed in 2019 because of the high operating costs, some $150 a day per prisoner, which was much higher than on the mainland. Prison reform had also significantly reduced its inmate population.
Devil’s Island in French Guiana, immortalized in the film “Papillon,” closed in 1946. Alcatraz closed in 1963. Later, others in Chile, Costa Rica and Brazil were shuttered. The most abrupt was Peru’s El Fronton in 1986 when the government used gun boats to put down a riot, killing more than 100 inmates.
Maldonado applauded the Islas Marias closure and supports the idea of inviting visitors. She said the proceeds should go to re-insertion programs for inmates.
She has already written to former cellmates to see if they’d like to go with her to the place she thought she’d never see again.
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ISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistan’s political opposition ousted the country’s embattled prime minister in a no-confidence vote early Sunday, which they won after several of Imran Khan’s allies and a key coalition party deserted him.
The combined opposition that spans the political spectrum from the left to the radically religious will form the new government, with the head of one of the largest parties, the Pakistani Muslim League, taking over as prime minister.
Anticipating his loss, Khan, who charged the opposition colluded with the United States to unseat him, has called on his supporters to stage rallies nationwide on Sunday. Khan’s options are limited and should he see a big turnout in his support, he may try to keep the momentum of street protests as a way to pressure Parliament to hold early elections.
Khan earlier had tried to sidestep the vote by dissolving Parliament and calling early elections but a Supreme Court ruling ordered the vote to go ahead.
The vote comes amid cooling relations between Khan and a powerful military who many of his political opponents allege helped him come to power in general elections in 2018. The military has directly ruled Pakistan for more than half of its 75 years and wields considerable power over civilian governments, who worry a disgruntled army could unseat them.
The opposition called for Khan’s ouster charging economic mismanagement as inflation soars and the Pakistani rupee plummets in value. The vote caps months of political turmoil and a constitutional crisis that required the Supreme Court to sort out.
In an impassioned speech Friday, Khan doubled down on his accusations that his opponents colluded with the United States to unseat him over his foreign policy choices, which often seemed to favor China and Russia and defied the U.S.
Khan said Washington opposed his Feb. 24 meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin hours after tanks rolled into Ukraine, launching a devastating war in the heart of Europe.
Ahead of the vote, his lawmakers addressed Parliament to express outrage about a letter Khan said told of a senior U.S. official, who was not named, who informed top Pakistani diplomats that Washington’s relations with Pakistan would improve if Khan was ousted. Human rights minister Shireen Mazari said the memo named Khan and said that if he was out of power “all would be forgiven.”
She went on to ask: “Forgiven for what? What is our sin?”
The U.S. State Department has denied any involvement in Pakistan’s internal politics. Deputy State Department spokeswoman Jalina Porter told reporters on Friday there was “absolutely no truth to these allegations.”
Still, Khan urged his supporters to take to the streets, particularly the youth who have been the backbone of his support since the former cricket star turned conservative Islamist politician came to power in 2018. He said they needed to protect Pakistan’s sovereignty and oppose U.S. dictations.
“You have to come out to protect your own future. It is you who have to protect your democracy, your sovereignty and your independence. … This is your duty,” he said. “I will not accept an imposed government.”
Khan’s allegations of U.S. involvement are likely to resonate with many in Pakistan, says Michael Kugelman, deputy director of the Asia Program at the Washington -based Wilson Center.
“Khan’s conspiracy allegations will resonate in a country where there’s a tendency to ascribe the worst possible motives to U.S. policy, especially because there is a past history of U.S. meddling in Pakistani politics,” said Kugelman.
Khan’s insistence there is U.S. involvement in attempts to oust him also exploits a deep-seated mistrust among many in Pakistan of U.S. intentions, particularly following 9/11.
Washington has often berated Pakistan for doing too little to fight Islamic militants, even as thousands of Pakistanis have died at their hands and the army has lost more than 5,000 soldiers. Pakistan has been attacked for aiding Afghanistan’s Taliban insurgents while also being asked to bring them to the peace table.
The no-confidence vote loss for Khan brings to power some unlikely partners.
Among them is a radically religious party that runs scores of religious schools. The Jamiat-e-Ulema-Islam, or Assembly of Clerics, teaches a deeply conservative brand of Islam in its schools. Many of Afghanistan’s Taliban and Pakistan’s own homegrown violent Taliban graduated from JUI schools.
The largest among the opposition parties — the Pakistan People’s Party, led by the son of slain former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, and the Pakistan Muslim League — have been tainted by allegations of widespread corruption.
Pakistan Muslim League leader and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was convicted of corruption after being named in the so-called Panama Papers. That’s a collection of leaked secret financial documents showing how some of the world’s richest hide their money and involving a global law firm based in Panama. Sharif was disqualified by Pakistan’s Supreme Court from holding office. The new prime minister is expected to be Sharif’s brother Shahbaz Sharif after a vote for the new prime minister is held in Parliament on Monday.
“This would be the first time in Pakistan’s history that a no-confidence vote succeeds in ousting a Prime Minister — the fulfilment of a constitutional process that was far from guaranteed after Khan’s attempts to derail the vote,” said Elizabeth Threlkeld, Pakistan expert at the U.S.-based The Stimson Center. “That, in itself, is significant, and could give Pakistan something to build on going forward.”
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Matthew Lee in Washington contributed to this report. Follow Kathy Gannon on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Kathygannon
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CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — When lunchtime comes, Maybel Sequera and Juan González share a plate of noodles and beans at their home in a low-income neighborhood west of Venezuela’s capital. Their meager lunch was a gift from a nonprofit organization as the couple cannot afford to feed themselves.
Sequera, 72, and González, 74, worked for years as a seamstress and driver to build their two houses and raise their four children. But now, after 50 years of marriage, they rely on donations for food, medicines and clothing.
The government raised their combined monthly pensions from about $4 to roughly $60 last month. But it would have to be multiplied by six for them to be able to buy a basket of goods.
“Now that they have increased us to 130 (each), we are going to see how we manage with those 130 because it is not enough either,” Sequera said referring to the pension in bolívares, Venezuela’s official currency and in which pensions are paid.
In Venezuela, the pension is the amount paid monthly to workers who retire after reaching 750 weeks of Social Security contributions and turning 55, in the case of women, and 60 for men.
Since 1995 — years before Hugo Chavez imposed in the South American country what he considered socialism — a pension is equal to the monthly minimum wage. Workers contribute between 2% and 4% of their salary to Social Security while employers pay an additional 9% to 11% on behalf of workers.
The pensions of Sequera, González and millions of other similarly situated retirees went up last month because President Nicolás Maduro increased the monthly minimum wage from roughly $2 to about $30, an amount insufficient to pay basic goods, whose cost in February was estimated at $365, according to the Venezuelan Finance Observatory, an organization specializing in economic studies.
Venezuela has just over five million pensioners, according to official figures. Annual inflation, which slowed last year but still reached 686.4%, has eaten up their pensions for years.
Although the country in the second half of the last decade experienced a severe shortage of food and hygiene items, prompting people to stand in long lines outside supermarkets to buy whatever they could, store shelves are now well stocked and display imported products. But high prices set in dollars make it impossible for much of the population to afford goods.
This dynamic leaves many older adults dependent on remittances from the more than six million Venezuelans who have migrated due to the economic, political and social crises of recent years.
Nonprofit organizations and churches fill some gaps, but it is not uncommon to see the elderly on the sidewalks of Caracas, the capital, selling candy or begging for money.
“I have to manage to get food. It’s not easy, because you’re of an age, you go out on the street and many people look at you with contempt,” Miriam Jiménez, 68, told The Associated Press after picking up a plate of food at a soup kitchen for the elderly in western Caracas. “One has to beg in the streets. Sometimes, a neighbor gives me something.”
In other South American countries, pensions range from $230 to $650, but the amounts are also usually below the cost of a basket of basic goods or the monthly minimum wage. In Chile, new President Gabriel Boric promised to raise the amount to $310, although it will remain below the $435 monthly minimum wage.
Luis Francisco Cabeza, director of Convite, a non-governmental organization focused on care for the elderly in Venezuela, said social security for the elderly population should not just be a pension. He said it should also include access to medicines, medical care and recreation.
“The pension is a system that seeks to protect you against the contingency of reaching old age,” he added. In Venezuela, the hospital system is precarious, so patients must bring all medical supplies to be treated.
Sequera has been diagnosed with two types of cancer this year, including a type of skin cancer that required an operation on her face. To pay for medical supplies, she sold two of her three sewing machines, which she used to mend neighbors’ clothes in exchange for money.
Pensioners protested dozens of times across the country last year. At the protests in the capital, some could be seen wearing broken shoes and worn clothes.
Sequera and González had a cup of coffee after finishing the plate of noodles and beans for lunch.
“Today, (at breakfast) we ate the last little egg. We are going to wait for another blessing to come out there,” González said.
“For the night, God will provide,” his wife interjected. “And if not, a glass of water and go to sleep,” González lamented.
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| 2022-04-09T22:48:22
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ATLANTA (AP) — Police are searching for at least one armed suspect in connection with the killing of the owner of a gun range in Georgia and his wife and grandson, authorities said Saturday.
The Grantville Police Department said via Facebook that the robbery occurred Friday evening. When officers arrived at the scene around 8 p.m., they discovered the bodies of the owner of Lock Stock & Barrel Shooting Range, along with his wife and grandson.
According to WSB-TV,Grantville Police identified the victims as the gun range owner, Thomas Hawk, 75; his wife, Evelyn, 75; and their grandson, Luke, 17.
Police Chief Steve Whitlock said the Hawk family was well-known and well-respected in their small, tight-knit community. The Hawks had operated Lock Stock & Barrel for nearly 30 years. Their grandson was on spring break, helping his grandparents at the shop.
“This is just a shock to everybody in the community,” Whitlock told The Associated Press. “We’re trying to do the best that we can to figure this out.”
Whitlock said investigators believe the robbery and shooting happened around 5:30 p.m. Friday, which is when the range normally closes. He said Hawk’s son, Richard, came by the business and was the person who found the victims.
There are no suspects as of early Saturday, and no arrests have been made, he said. Investigators said that as many as 40 guns and the range’s surveillance camera were also stolen.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating, but when contacted Saturday referred all inquiries to Grantville Police. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives was also called in due to the amount of weapons taken. Whitlock said he’s grateful for the help from other law enforcement agencies in the investigation.
“We’re just a small town, 12 officers. I’ve been here eight years and have never had to investigate anything like this. It’s been kind of hard on us. The crime rate is really, really low,” he said.
A reward of $15,000 has been posted for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the killer or killers in the case, according to the ATF Atlanta office’s Twitter feed.
“ATF and our law enforcement partners will work tirelessly to bring the killer(s) to justice,” ATF Atlanta Field Division Special Agent in Charge Benjamin P. Gibbons said in a statement. “The brutality of these senseless murders along with the fact that these killer(s) have acquired additional firearms makes solving this case our top priority.”
A message left with the ATF office in Atlanta was not immediately returned.
Police are asking any witnesses to come forward. Whitlock said they don’t have any video evidence to work with right now.
“Anyone having driven by the shooting range during the time frame of 530pm to 630 pm that may have seen vehicles other than a white Ford dually truck and a black Ford expedition are asked to contact the police department,” Grantville police said in their Facebook statement.
The shooting range is in rural Coweta County, about 50 miles (about 80 kilometers) southwest of Atlanta.
Coweta County Sheriff Lenn Wood said in a statement on Facebook that the entire community was forever broken by the “senseless and tragic” killings of the Hawk family members.
“I am also fervently praying that God will use our law enforcement community and the Coweta Community,” he said, “to bring justice swiftly.”
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Associated Press writer Chevel Johnson reported from New Orleans.
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| 2022-04-09T22:48:35
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ISTANBUL (AP) — A powerful earthquake hit eastern Turkey on Saturday but no casualties or serious damage were immediately reported, the country’s disaster service said.
The 5.2 magnitude quake struck the town of Puturge in Malatya province at 5:02 p.m. local time (1402 GMT), Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Directorate (AFAD) said. The tremor was recorded at a depth of 6.7 kilometers (4.2 miles).
“We have not received any negative reports so far. Our teams continue their scanning activities in the field,” Malatya Governor Aydin Barus told the state-run Anadolu Agency.
Environment and Urbanization Minister Murat Kurum tweeted that the Turkish government was closely following the situation.
Turkey sits on top of major fault lines and earthquakes are frequent.
A 6.7 magnitude earthquake hit neighboring Elazig province in January 2020, killing 41 people and injuring more than 1,600. In 1999, at least 17,000 people died in a powerful earthquake in northwest Turkey.
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| 2022-04-09T22:48:42
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COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) — Thousands of Sri Lankans rallied in the country’s main business district and Christian clergy marched in the capital to observe a day of protest on Saturday calling on the debt-ridden nation’s president to resign, as anxiety and anger over shortages simmered.
Protesters carrying national flags and placards, some bemoaning the hardships through songs, blamed President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his administration for mismanaging the crisis. He has remained steadfast in refusing to step down even after most of his Cabinet quit and loyal lawmakers rebelled, narrowing a path for him to seek a way out as his team prepares to negotiate with international lending institutions.
“Go home Rajapaksas” and “We need responsible leadership,” read the placards.
The protest also included a large number of youngsters who had organized themselves through social media and refuse to accept any political leadership. Many carried signs, saying “You messed with the wrong generation!”
The protesters stayed around the president’s office and vowed not to leave until their mission is accomplished.
For months, Sri Lankans have stood in long lines to buy fuel, cooking gas, food and medicines, most of which come from abroad and are paid for in hard currency. The fuel shortage has caused rolling power cuts lasting several hours a day.
The Indian Ocean island nation is on the brink of bankruptcy, saddled with $25 billion foreign debt over the next five years — nearly $7 billion of which is due this year alone — and dwindling foreign reserves. Talks with the International Monetary Fund are expected later this month, and the government had turned to China and India for emergency loans to buy food and fuel.
Much of the anger expressed by weeks of growing protests has been directed at Rajapaksa and his elder brother, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, who head an influential clan that has been in power for most of the past two decades. Five other family members are lawmakers, three of whom resigned as ministers last Sunday.
Thakshila Jayasinghe, a 35-year-old lawyer who joined the protest, said that she felt sorry for voting for Rajapaksa in the 2019 presidential election. “I wonder what sin I have committed by voting for this president when I see the people suffer,” she said.
Reports said that at least four elderly people have died while standing in lines for hours trying to buy cooking gas or kerosene oil.
Jayasinghe said she voted for Rajapaksa believing he was the best candidate to restore national security following the 2019 Easter Sunday bomb attacks that killed more than 260 people. The attacks, blamed on local Muslim militants with ties to the Islamic State group, also shattered the tourism industry, alongside the pandemic, depriving Sri Lanka of hard currency.
At the same time, critics accuse Rajapaksa of borrowing heavily to finance projects that earn no money, such as a port facility built with Chinese loans.
Catholic clergy and lay people joined a rally from the “martyrs cemetery” in Negombo, north of the capital Colombo, where more than 100 people who died in the suicide attacks in the area’s St. Sebastian’s Church are buried.
They protested the economic crisis as well as the government’s alleged failure to uncover the conspirators behind the bombings.
“Today the country needs a major change and a new beginning,” Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, the archbishop of Colombo, told protesters. “We ask from every citizen of this country to come together and change this system. To get together and tell these people to leave.”
“It’s enough now, it’s enough destroying the country, now leave and hand it over to someone who can govern this country,” he said.
The protest later moved near the Anglican cathedral in Colombo.
The Catholic Church in Sri Lanka has been critical of the investigation into the bombings, citing allegations that some members of the state intelligence units knew and met with at least one of the attackers.
Rajapaksa earlier proposed the creation of a unity government following the Cabinet resignations, but the main opposition party rejected the idea. Parliament has failed to reach a consensus on how to deal with the crisis after nearly 40 governing coalition lawmakers said they would no longer vote according to coalition instructions, significantly weakening the government.
With opposition parties divided, they too have not been able to show majority and take control of Parliament.
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| 2022-04-09T22:48:49
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BOSTON (AP) — The credit ratings agency Standard & Poor’s has downgraded its assessment of Russia’s ability to repay foreign debt, signaling rising prospects that Moscow will soon default on external loans for the first time in more than a century.
S&P Global Ratings issued the downgrade to “selective default” late Friday after Russia arranged to make foreign bond payments in rubles on Monday when they were due in dollars. It said it didn’t expect Russia to be able to convert the rubles into dollars within the 30-day grace period allowed.
S&P said in a statement that its decision was based partly on its opinion that sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine “are likely to be further increased in the coming weeks, hampering Russia’s willingness and technical abilities to honor the terms and conditions of its obligations to foreign debtholders.”
An S&P spokesperson said a selective default rating is when a lender defaults on a specific payment but makes others on time.
While Russia has signaled that it remains willing to pay its debts, the Kremlin also has warned that it would do so in rubles if its overseas accounts in foreign currencies remain frozen.
Tightened sanctions placed on Russia this week after evidence of alleged war crimes — the killing of civilians in the town of Bucha during Russian military occupation — barred it from using any foreign reserves held in U.S. banks for debt payments.
Russia’s finance ministry said Wednesday that it tried to make a $649 million payment toward two bonds to an unnamed U.S. bank — previously reported as JPMorgan Chase — but that the tightened sanctions prevented the payment from being accepted, so it paid in rubles.
Western sanctions have severely squeezed Russia’s economy, and S&P and other ratings agencies had already downgraded its debt to “junk” status, deeming a default highly likely.
Russia has used strict capital controls, other severe measures and proceeds from oil and gas sales to artificially prop up the ruble.
The country has not defaulted on foreign debt since the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, when the Soviet Union emerged. Even in the late 1990s, following the Soviet Union’s demise, Russia was able to continue to pay foreign debts with the help of international aid. It did default on domestic debt, however.
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| 2022-04-09T22:48:55
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KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Saturday that he is committed to pressing for peace despite Russian attacks on civilians that have stunned the world, and he renewed his plea for more weapons ahead of an expected surge in fighting in the country’s east.
He made the comments in an interview with The Associated Press a day after at least 52 people were killed in a strike on a train station in the eastern city of Kramatorsk, and as evidence of civilian killings came to light after Russian troops failed to seize the capital where he has hunkered down, Kyiv.
“No one wants to negotiate with a person or people who tortured this nation. It’s all understandable. And as a man, as a father, I understand this very well,” Zelenskyy said. But “we don’t want to lose opportunities, if we have them, for a diplomatic solution.”
Wearing the olive drab that has marked his transformation into a wartime leader, he looked visibly exhausted yet animated by a drive to persevere. He spoke to the AP inside the presidential office complex, where windows and hallways are protected by towers of sandbags and heavily armed soldiers.
“We have to fight, but fight for life. You can’t fight for dust when there is nothing and no people. That’s why it is important to stop this war,” Zelenskyy said.
Russian troops that withdrew from northern Ukraine are now regrouping for what is expected to be an intensified push to retake the eastern Donbas region, including the besieged port city of Mariupol that Ukrainian fighters are striving to defend.
The president said those defenders are tying up “a big part of the enemy forces,” characterizing the battle to hold Mariupol as “the heart of the war” right now.
“It’s beating. We’re fighting. We’re strong. And if it stops beating, we will be in a weaker position,” he said.
Zelenskyy said he is confident Ukrainians would accept peace despite the horrors they have witnessed in the more than six-week-long war.
Those included gruesome images of bodies of civilians found in yards, parks and city squares and buried in mass graves in the Kyiv suburb of Bucha after Russian troops withdrew. Ukrainian and Western leaders have accused Moscow of war crimes.
Russia has falsely claimed that the scenes in Bucha were staged. It also put the blame on Ukraine for the attack on the train station in Kramatorsk as thousands of people rushed to flee ahead of an expected Russian offensive.
Despite hopes for peace, Zelenskyy acknowledged that he must be “realistic” about the prospects for a swift resolution given that negotiations have so far been limited to low-level talks that do not include Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Zelenskyy displayed a palpable sense of resignation and frustration when asked whether the supplies of weapons and other equipment his country has received from the United States and other Western nations were enough to turn the tide of the war.
“Not yet,” he said, switching to English for emphasis. “Of course it’s not enough.”
Still, he noted that there has been increased support from Europe and said deliveries of U.S. weapons have been accelerating.
Just this week, neighboring Slovakia, a European Union member, donated its Soviet-era S-300 air defense system to Ukraine in response to Zelenskyy’s appeal to help “close the skies” to Russian warplanes and missiles.
Some of that support has come through visits by European leaders.
After meeting Zelenskyy in Kyiv earlier Saturday, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said he expects more EU sanctions against Russia even as he defended his country’s opposition to cutting off deliveries of Russian natural gas.
The U.S., EU and United Kingdom responded to the images from Bucha with more sanctions, including ones targeting Putin’s adult daughters. While the EU went after the Russian energy sector for the first time by banning coal, it has so far failed to agree on cutting off the much more lucrative oil and natural gas that is funding Putin’s war chest. Europe relies on those supplies to generate electricity, fill fuel tanks and keep industry churning.
U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson also made an unannounced visit to meet Zelenskyy, with his office saying they discussed Britain’s “long-term support.”
In Kyiv on Friday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented Ukraine’s leader with a questionnaire marking the first step for applying for EU membership. The head of the bloc’s executive arm said the process for completing the questionnaire could take weeks — an unusually fast turnaround — though securing membership would take far longer.
Zelenskyy turned introspective when asked what impact the pace of arms deliveries had for his people and whether more lives could have been saved if the help had come sooner.
“Very often we look for answers in someone else, but I often look for answers in myself. Did we do enough to get them?” he said of the weapons. “Did we do enough for these leaders to believe in us? Did we do enough?”
He paused and shook his head.
“Are we the best for this place and this time? Who knows? I don’t know. You question yourself,” he said.
___
AP photographer Evgeniy Maloletka contributed to this story.
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ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – The Texas A&M Forest Service is calling for the first full weekend of April to be another one that could see grassfires across Texas, including in the Big Country and Heartland. Meanwhile, many are still trying to recover from the Eastland Complex and other grass fires in the area.
Disasters, like the recent fires, somehow bring out the best in people. Neighbors helping neighbors, even an “out of stater” found Texas unique, after donating his time to help rebuild the community of Carbon.
52-year-old Peter Cary has more than 9,000 followers on the social media platform, TikTok. Cary posts a range of videos of what happens in his everyday life. One TikTok stood out, as he made his way to the state of Texas.
“When I came to town, I was just coming to help some strangers,” Cary told KTAB/KRBC.
Cary explained that he was leaving Louisiana and on his way to the beaches of South Texas for a visit, but after hearing about the Eastland Complex wildfires, burning more than 45,000 acres in the city of Carbon he knew he had to help.
“Now I’m leaving my family and I’m empathizing with the pain that you all had to go through, and I’m so sorry,” Cary said with great sympathy.
Cary spent two weeks in Carbon, transporting hay, feeding animals, and distributing items to those in need.
“These people touched me in a way that I’ve never been touched in my whole life,” he explained.
Documenting his whole experience via TikTok, Cary said he wanted to spread the word and show others how they, too, can get involved.
“By the time I left with the amount of hugs, and tears, and just the support that we all had for each other, I knew that I wanted to be part of that community for the rest of my life,” boasted Cary.
Because of the open arms the community showed him in his brief time there, Cary said he had “never felt more at home in my life,” than he did in Carbon. He called it a “no brainer,” wanting to live among them.
Leaving Carbon was not a goodbye, but a “see you soon,” Cary explained. He said he plans to relocate to Carbon fulltime within the next year.
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| 2022-04-09T22:49:07
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PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Danielle Russell was in the emergency department at an Arizona hospital last fall, sick with COVID-19, when she made the mistake of answering completely when she was asked what medications she was on.
“I said yes, I was taking methadone,” said Russell, a doctoral student who also was in recovery from heroin use. “The smart thing to do, if I wanted to be treated like a human, would be to say no.”
Even though her primary doctor had sent her to the ER, she said she was discharged swiftly without being treated and given a stack of papers about the hospital’s policies for prescribing pain medications — drugs she was not asking for.
“It becomes so absurd and the stigma against methadone especially is so strong,” she said, noting that other people in recovery have had it worse. “You’re getting blocked out from housing resources, employment.”
It’s a problem people in the addiction recovery community have dealt with for decades: On top of the stigma surrounding addiction, people who are in medical treatment for substance abuse can face additional discrimination — including in medical and legal settings that are supposed to help.
This week, the U.S. Department of Justice publishednew guidelinesaimed at dealing with the problem: They assert that it’s illegal under the Americans with Disabilities Act to discriminate against people because they are using prescribed methadone or other medications to treat opioid use disorder.
The guidelines don’t change federal government policy, but they do offer clarification and signal that authorities are watching for discrimination in a wide range of settings. The Justice Department’s actions this year also show it’s taken an interest in the issue, reaching multiple legal settlements, filing a lawsuit and sending a warning letter alleging other violations.
One of the government’s recent settlementswas with a Colorado program that helps house and employ people who are homeless. A potential client filed a complaint claiming she was denied admission because she uses buprenorphine to treat her addiction. As part of the settlement, Ready to Work is paying the woman $7,500. Stan Garnett, a lawyer for the organization, said Thursday that the organization’s staff is being trained to comply with the law.
“It’s terrifying to be told by some authority — whether it’s a judge, or a child welfare official, or a skilled nursing facility — someone who has something you need is telling you you have to get off the medication that is saving your life,” said Sally Friedman, senior vice president of legal advocacy at the Legal Action Center, which uses legal challenges to try to end punitive measures for people with health conditions, including addiction.
Friedman said advocates and lawyers will cite the new guidelines when they’re making discrimination claims.
Dan Haight, president of The LCADA Way, which runs addiction treatment programs in the Cleveland area, said a suburb where they wanted to put a clinic at one point nixed the idea because of a moratorium in place on new drug counseling centers.
“We’re not looked at as another medical facility or counseling office,” Haight said. “We’re looked at because we do addiction.”
The new guidelines suggest that such broad denials could be violations of the ADA.
Overdoses from all opioids, including prescription drugs containing oxycodone, heroin and illicit laboratory-made varieties including fentanyl, have killed more than 500,000 Americans in the last two decades, and the problem has been growing only worse. That has frustrated advocates, treatment providers and public health experts who see the deaths as preventable with treatment.
Even as the crisis has deepened, there have been glimmers of hope. Drugmakers, distribution companies and pharmacy chains have announced settlements since last year to pay government entities about $35 billion over time plus provide drugs to treat addictions and reverse overdoses. Most of the money is required to be used to fight the epidemic.
It’s still to be determined how the money will be deployed, but one priority for many public health experts is expanding access to medication-based treatments, which are seen as essential to helping people recover.
But there’s still a stigma associated with the treatment programs, which use the medication naltrexone or drugs that themselves are opioids, such as methadone and buprenorphine.
Marcus Buchanan used methadone from 2016 through 2018 to help end a decadelong heroin habit. During that time, he was looking for work near his home in Chouteau, Oklahoma — mostly at factories — and could never land one.
“I can nail an interview. It would be the drug-screen process” when he’d explain why the results showed he was using methadone, said Buchanan, who is now an outreach coordinator for an opioid prevention program. “Every job, more than 20 probably, during those two years, was a door shut in the face.”
Dr. Susan Bissett, president of the nonprofit West Virginia Drug Intervention Institute, said people who are in treatment programs often hide it out of fear that they could lose their jobs.
She said she wants to reach out to business leaders and encourage them to hire and retain people who are using the medications.
“The next step is helping employers understand this is a disease instead of a moral failing,” Bissett said. “We don’t think about substance abuse disorder the way we think about diabetes, for example.”
One of the places where medication-assisted treatment is sometimes restricted or banned is in state drug diversion court programs, which are intended to get people help for addiction rather than incarcerate them.
Fewer than half the states have specific language that prohibits judges from excluding people who are taking the medications from participating in diversion programs or requires that they allow its use as part of the programs. That finding is based on an Associated Press review of legislation, administrative court orders and drug court handbooks that guide state drug diversion court programs.
Some states allow individual courts to make their own rules, while others only include language saying people can’t be excluded. Judges in some states still require defendants to taper off the medications and allow the diversion programs to decide whether the medications are appropriate for each person enrolled.
The Center for Court Innovation is trying to steer the drug courts into creating policies and programs that support people taking those medications instead of incentivizing them to stop.
“It can be frustrating, because nobody needs to tell a judge they need to allow someone to take blood pressure medication,” said Sheila McCarthy, a senior program manager for the Center for Court Innovation. “But for some, there is just a disconnect about the real effect these medications have on a person’s daily life.”
Veronica Pacheco has been off methadone for nearly a year after being on it for more than six years to treat an addiction to pain pills.
She said some people in the medical field — a physician, a dentist, a pharmacist — seemed to treat her differently after they learned she was on methadone treatment. They sometimes assume she was going to ask for new prescriptions for pain medications.
“I felt like I had a sign on my forehead saying, ‘I am a methadone person.’ The minute someone has your medical record, everything changes,” said Pacheco, who lives in the Minneapolis suburb of Dayton. “Now that I’ve been off it, I can see the night-and-day difference.”
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Mulvihill reported from Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
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| 2022-04-09T22:49:13
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A 26-year-old woman has been charged with murder in Texas after authorities said she caused “the death of an individual by self-induced abortion,” in a state that has the most restrictive abortion laws in the U.S.
It’s unclear whether Lizelle Herrera is accused of having an abortion or whether she helped someone else get an abortion.
Herrera was arrested Thursday and remained jailed Saturday on a $500,000 bond in the Starr County jail in Rio Grande City, on the U.S.-Mexico border, sheriff’s Maj. Carlos Delgado said in a statement.
“Herrera was arrested and served with an indictment on the charge of Murder after Herrera did then and there intentionally and knowingly cause the death of an individual by self-induced abortion,” Delgado said.
Delgado did not say under what law Herrera has been charged. He said no other information will be released until at least Monday because the case remains under investigation.
Texas law exempts her from a criminal homicide charge for aborting her own pregnancy, University of Texas law professor Stephen Vladeck told The Associated Press.
“(Homicide) doesn’t apply to the murder of an unborn child if the conduct charged is ‘conduct committed by the mother of the unborn child,’” Vladeck said.
A 2021 state law that bans abortions in Texas for women who are as early as six weeks pregnant has sharply curtailed the number of abortions in the state. The law leaves enforcement to private citizens who can sue doctors or anyone who helps a woman get an abortion.
The woman receiving the abortion is exemptedfrom the law.
However, some states still have laws that criminalize self-induced abortions “and there have been a handful of prosecutions here and there over the years,” Vladeck said.
“It is murder in Texas to take steps that terminate a fetus, but when a medical provider does it, it can’t be prosecuted” due to U.S. Supreme Court rulings upholding the constitutionality of abortion, Vladeck said.
Lynn Paltrow, the executive director of National Advocates for Pregnant Women also noted the state law exemption.
“What’s a little mysterious in this case is, what crime has this woman been charged with?” Paltrow said. “There is no statute in Texas that, even on its face, authorizes the arrest of a woman for a self-managed abortion.”
Another Texas law prohibits doctors and clinics from prescribing abortion-inducing medications after the seventh week of pregnancy and prohibits delivery of the pills by mail.
Medication abortions are not considered self-induced under federal Food and Drug Administration regulations, Vladeck said.
“You can only receive the medication under medical supervision,” according to Vladeck. “I realize this sounds weird because you are taking the pill yourself, but it is under a providers’ at least theoretical care.”
In Rio Grande City on Saturday the abortion rights group Frontera Fund called for Herrera’s release.
“We don’t yet know all the details surrounding this tragic event,” said Rockie Gonzales, founder and board chair of of the organization.
“What we do know is that criminalizing pregnant people’s choices or pregnancy outcomes, which the state of Texas has done, takes away people’s autonomy over their own bodies, and leaves them with no safe options when they choose not to become a parent,” Gonzalez said.
Nancy Cárdenas Peña, Texas State Director for Policy and Advocacy for the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, said in a statement that abortion should be available on the woman’s own terms where she feels most comfortable.
“Allowing criminal law to be used against people who have ended their own pregnancies serves no reasonable state purpose, but may cause great harm to young people, people with lower incomes, and communities of color, who are most likely to encounter or be reported to law enforcement,” Peña said.
___
Miller reported from Oklahoma City and Hollingsworth reported from Mission, Kansas. Associated Press reporter Juan Lozano in Houston contributed to this report.
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| 2022-04-09T22:49:26
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Prom season might still be a little way off, but it might pay to start shopping for prom dresses early to avoid disappointment. The hottest prom looks can sell quickly, and adding potential delays into the mix is a recipe for disaster.
If you’re wondering whether you should buy your teen’s prom dress early this year, here’s why it’s a good idea.
Reasons to buy a prom dress early
To beat pandemic-related delays
Although most companies are now running smoothly, the COVID-19 pandemic is still causing staff shortages, which can lead to delays in fulfillment centers and in the postal service. If you order a dress online at the last minute, it’s completely feasible that it will arrive late. Instead, order early, and there’ll be no need to stress about whether or not it will get to you in time.
In case your teen changes their mind
Everyone has the right to change their mind, so you don’t want to get into a situation where your teen decides they no longer like the dress they chose and have nothing suitable to wear.
This can be a particular issue when shopping online because items may look different in person or fit quite differently from the way it fits the model in the photo. Or you may simply discover the dress is too big or too small when tried on.
When you buy early, there’s time to exchange the dress for another one or a different size before the big event if necessary.
To go bespoke
Prom is a big deal for many teens, especially senior prom, which marks a farewell to high school before moving on to college or the world of work. As such, they may want an extra special dress. Bespoke, made-to-measure dresses fit like a glove, which can make teens feel good about themselves as they head off to the dance. They don’t have to cost a fortune, either. This is especially true when you buy dresses from independent brands, which often cost around the same price as high-end off-the-rack dresses.
What to look for in a prom dress
Although there’s no single feature that makes a dress a prom dress, this type of garment is significantly more formal than an everyday dress. Many have full, flouncy skirts, tight bodices and are embellished with beads, lacework, rhinestones or sequins. They can be full-length, knee-length or above knee-length, but many buyers opt for longer styles.
While these are the hallmarks of a classic prom dress, teens can wear any dress they like to the prom, so it’s fine to opt for something quite different. If they prefer casual dresses or want to opt for something with an alternative vibe, there’s nothing stopping them. Not everyone goes for a classic prom dress, and it’s all about what the wearer feels happy, comfortable and confident in.
Best prom dresses
B Darlin Juniors’ Off-The-Shoulder Glitter Gown
With a long, full skirt, fitted bodice, off-the-shoulder design and sparkly pale rose fabric, this is the princess dress of some teens’ dreams.
Sold by Macy’s
Say Yes to the Prom Strapless Embellished Ballgown
This stunning ivory dress is embellished with gold beads. Although it’s described as strapless, it does have two thin spaghetti straps.
Sold by Macy’s
City Studios Juniors’ Embellished Illusion Tulip Gown
Thanks to the lace and crochet bodice backed with nude panels and the long, flowing skirt, this dress has a relaxed, boho look while still being smart enough for the prom. It comes in pink, navy and lemon.
Sold by Macy’s
Superbprom Lace and Tulle Prom Dress
This gorgeously flouncy dress is available in a range of sizes and colors, or you can choose a custom color and a custom size to get a precise fit.
Sold by Etsy
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.
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Which Tommee Tippee pacifiers are best?
Finding the correct pacifier takes trial and error since babies’ preferences vary widely. Tommee Tippee pacifiers offer unique features that go beyond the traditional pacifier design. For some parents, a Tommee Tippee pacifier is the only brand their baby will accept. Tommee Tippee is known for producing pacifiers that soothe the transition between breast, bottle and pacifier. The Close to Nature Night Time Breast-Like Pacifier is the top choice for a glow-in-the-dark pacifier that helps both bottle and breastfeeding babies. Tommee Tippee also produces a variety of other valuable pacifiers to consider when purchasing from their brand.
What to know before you buy a Tommee Tippee pacifier
Size
You should match the baby’s size and age to the pacifier’s size and shape. The age suggestions are merely a guideline for purchasing, and the baby’s actual mouth size should dictate whether a small (0-6 months) or large (6-18 months) pacifier is the best fit. Learn more about pacifier sizing in BestReviews guide to the best pacifiers.
Construction
Pacifiers use either a single or three-part design. A pacifier with three parts breaks down into a nipple, a mouth shield and a handle. The mouth shield should be large enough to prevent the child from placing the entire pacifier into the mouth. There are various nipple designs with each brand. For example, the Tommee Tippee brand is known for its breast-like nipple design. However, the three-part pacifier handle presents a possible choking hazard if it is separate from the nipple and shield.
Lifespan
Expect to replace a pacifier after a month or two for safety and hygiene purposes. Users should sanitize pacifiers frequently in the dishwasher or hand-washed with soapy water. This breaks down the materials and can lead to a choking risk or accelerate the risk of puncture areas where mold can grow. Never attempt to clean a pacifier with solvents or harsh chemicals, as this does nothing to extend the lifespan of a pacifier and can be poisonous.
Pacifier holders
Parents can purchase a pacifier holder to clip a Tommee Tippee safely to clothing for easy access. Pacifier holders are beneficial for babies who have not yet developed the motor skills to hold pacifiers themselves.
What to look for in a quality Tommee Tippee pacifier
Shield
Tommee Tippee offers a wide variety of pacifier shields. The glow-in-the-dark shield is convenient when locating a pacifier spat out in a dark room. Another option ideal for babies with sensitive skin is the Tommee Tippee shield with ventilation holes. Drool does not become trapped on the skin due to the cutouts on a shield with ventilation holes.
Nipple
There are various orthodontic-shaped nipples to choose from when purchasing a Tommee Tippee pacifier. Each nipple supports oral development. All Tommee Tippee nipples are also reversible, making it easy to insert them correctly into the mouth. Some Tommee Tippee nipples are shaped like their bottle nipple, so a bottle-fed baby will be more familiar with the design from feeding.
Orthodontic
Orthodontic pacifiers are beneficial as soon as teeth emerge. An orthodontic-shaped nipple is less likely to negatively affect a baby’s dental arch, ridge and gums. Tommee Tippee orthodontic pacifier nipples are symmetrical and not flattened like many other brands’ orthodontic pacifier designs.
Newborns
Specialty-sized and shaped pacifiers are essential for babies 3 months and younger. A newborn should use a one-piece pacifier that has hospital-grade, BPA-free and latex-free silicone.
How much you can expect to spend on the Tommee Tippee pacifier
Tommee Tippee pacifiers are typically between $6-$13, depending upon the style and quantity of multi-pack.
Tommee Tippee pacifier FAQ
What is the best way to clean a Tommee Tippee pacifier?
A. Run pacifiers through the dishwasher daily and hand wash with soap and water whenever dropped on a contaminated surface such as the floor. It is also possible to sterilize a pacifier by boiling it in a pot of water for 2 minutes. When sanitizing a pacifier with boiling water, take extra precautions by using tongs to squeeze out any water that may have gotten stuck inside the nipple. Always allow the pacifier to be sufficiently cooled before returning to the baby.
Is it okay to use a pacifier while breastfeeding?
A. There are pros and cons to using a pacifier while breastfeeding, so it is ultimately up to a parent to determine what is suitable for the family. There is not sufficient evidence to indicate that pacifier use is a hindrance to breastfeeding.
What’s the best Tommee Tippee pacifier to buy?
Top Tommee Tippee pacifier
Tommee Tippee Close to Nature Night Time Breast-Like Pacifier
What you need to know: This option has a glow-in-the-dark handle. The breast-shaped nipple makes that the perfect nighttime pacifier.
What you’ll love: It is easy to clean since there’s no worry about water getting stuck inside the nipple and forming mold.
What you should consider: The hole in the back of the pacifier is large enough to fit a finger.
Where to buy: Amazon
Top Tommee Tippee pacifier for the money
Tommee Tippee Fun Style Pacifiers
What you need to know: These orthodontic pacifiers are lightweight and create a good suction that helps the baby hold it longer.
What you’ll love: The nipples are symmetrical and do not flatten like other orthopedic brands.
What you should consider: The nipple is larger compared to other pacifiers.
Where to buy: Amazon
Worth checking out
Tommee Tippee Advanced Sensitive Skin Pacifiers
What you need to know: This option prevents the shield from touching the face and trapping moisture. It is perfect for sensitive skin.
What you’ll love: There is less moisture on the skin to decrease irritation, rashes and cracked lips.
What you should consider: The nipple is thin and a tad longer compared to other pacifiers.
Where to buy: Amazon
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Elizabeth Foley 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.
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https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/baby-kids-br/nursing-feeding-br/best-tommee-tippee-pacifier/
| 2022-04-09T22:49:40
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https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/baby-kids-br/nursing-feeding-br/best-tommee-tippee-pacifier/
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Which three-sided toothbrushes are best?
Most people try to take good care of their teeth and gums but despite their best efforts, improper brushing technique and not doing it for long enough often results in a less-than-adequate cleaning. Three-sided brushes help solve this problem.
For the best results, opt for an electric model such as the Triple Bristle Sonic Electric Toothbrush. This particular one produces 31,000 strokes per minute at its highest speed setting and features an autotimer to remove the guesswork when it comes to brushing for the recommended amount of time.
What to know before you buy a three-sided toothbrush
Benefits
Three-sided toothbrushes help solve the problem of not brushing for long enough as well as missing hard-to-reach and neglected areas. Thanks to the design, they ensure you brush the front, back and top evenly. The angled brushes on the sides get all the way down to the gum line.
Electric vs. manual
Both electric and manual toothbrushes can remove plaque and tartar but the former do it quicker and more effectively. This is because the small micro-movements combine with your broader strokes to increase the overall amount of brushing. Electric toothbrushes also might be easier to use for those with carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis or hand weakness.
Despite their benefits, electric toothbrushes may not be for everyone. They are more expensive than manual toothbrushes, which can put them out of reach for those on a tight budget. Some may find the vibrations to be irritating or tickle their nose and gums.
What to look for in a quality three-sided toothbrush
Bristles
Pay attention to the firmness of the bristles when buying a toothbrush. According to a study, firmer bristles remove more biofilm but have a higher chance of causing gingival abrasion. Most dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush because of this. If you feel like you don’t get a good enough cleaning with a soft-bristled brush and want to use a medium-bristle option instead, make sure you don’t brush too hard.
Tongue scrubber
Some three-sided toothbrushes have an integrated tongue scrubber. This usually is located at the back of the brush head, but it also can be in the handle. There are some toothbrushes that come bundled with a separate tongue scraper.
Grip
A three-sided toothbrush handle should be comfortable and allow for a secure grip. To aid with this, many manufacturers add high-friction rubber or plastic to the handle. Toothbrushes designed for kids may have thicker, contoured handles that are easier for children with still-developing motor skills to hold.
Colors
If you live in a household with other people, it is helpful to buy everyone a different colored toothbrush. This way, there is never any confusion over whose is whose.
Speed settings
Electric three-sided toothbrushes often have three to five speed settings. The lower speeds are useful for those with sensitive teeth or for massaging the gums, while the higher speeds can remove plaque more quickly.
Timer
Since one of the most common mistakes people make when brushing is not doing it long enough, some manufacturers incorporate timers in their electric toothbrushes. Some three-sided toothbrush timers may signal quadrant intervals to let you know when it is time to move to a different spot in your mouth.
How much you can expect to spend on a three-sided toothbrush
Expect to spend between $25-$100 for an electric three-sided toothbrush. Manual three-sided toothbrushes generally cost between $2-$10.
Three-sided toothbrush FAQ
Can you use a three-sided toothbrush with braces?
A. Yes. Not only can you use a three-sided toothbrush with braces, clinical studies have shown them to be more effective at removing food particles stuck in the nooks and crannies. This should result in less plaque and tartar buildup.
Can you brush for less time if you use a three-sided toothbrush?
A. While you theoretically can brush for less time if you use a three-sided toothbrush and get an adequate cleaning, it is a good idea to get into the habit of spending two minutes brushing your teeth each time. If you really want to do it for less time than that, it is best to consult with your dentist and ask what they recommend.
What’s the best three-sided toothbrush to buy?
Top three-sided toothbrush
Triple Bristle Sonic Electric Toothbrush
What you need to know: With 31,000 vibrations per minute, this three-sided sonic toothbrush provides an incredibly effective cleaning in a short amount of time.
What you’ll love: Its bristles change color to let you know when it is time to change the head. It comes with a tongue scraper, and the charging base is compact so it doesn’t take up much space on the bathroom counter.
What you should consider: It is more than twice the price of the company’s non-rechargeable model.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon.
Top three-sided toothbrush for the money
What you need to know: A great choice for big households on a budget, this combo pack comes with three different colored toothbrushes for a low cost.
What you’ll love: Both kids and adults can use them and they feature an integrated tongue cleaner.
What you should consider: The bristles tend to wear out quickly.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon.
Worth checking out
FridaBaby Triple-Angle Toothhugger Training Toothbrush
What you need to know: Designed to make brushing easy for toddlers, the Toothhugger cleans all sides of the teeth at once and has a thick, soft, contoured grip.
What you’ll love: It has a suction cup on the base so the head doesn’t have to come into contact with dirty counters.
What you should consider: Some children may find the bristles too hard.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon.
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Brett Dvoretz writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.
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https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/oral-care-br/the-best-three-sided-toothbrush/
| 2022-04-09T22:49:47
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Justice Dept.: 4 men indicted for fentanyl conspiracy, overdose death
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Gray News) - Four Missouri men have been indicted for their role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, which resulted in an overdose death, according to the Justice Department.
Dmitry Cattell, 22, Joseph Burgess, 21, Jordon Simmer, 20, and Kelton Hill, 22, were charged in a nine-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury on Tuesday.
The Justice Department reports the indictment was unsealed and made public following the arrests of all four defendants on Thursday. They remain in federal custody pending a detention hearing on April 12.
The federal indictment alleges that all four defendants have participated in a conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl since Sept. 12, 2019.
In addition to the drug-trafficking conspiracy, the indictment charges Cattell and Simmer with aiding and abetting each other to distribute fentanyl. The use of which caused the death of another person on May 18, 2020. The victim of the fatal overdose was not identified in court documents.
The Justice Department reports Cattell was also charged with two counts of distributing fentanyl, one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and one count of being an unlawful drug user in possession of a gun. Cattell allegedly was in possession of a Taurus handgun on Nov. 10, 2020.
Simmer, Burgess, and Hill each were also charged with one count of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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https://www.1011now.com/2022/04/09/4-men-indicted-fentanyl-conspiracy-overdose-death/
| 2022-04-09T22:49:50
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Which Mario Badescu product is best?
For many years, brands emphasized covering flaws rather than healing skin. Recently, however, beauty treatments have switched to starting with healthy skin. Mario Badescu is a classic cult brand has a philosophy of providing simple, effective skin care. It’s known for its old-school labels and product names as well as for its affordability.
Many high-profile influencers and celebrities have adopted and promoted the brand in the past few years, bringing it forward from its cult status and into the limelight. A favorite is Mario Badescu Drying Lotion.
What to know before you buy a Mario Badescu product
History
Mario Badescu founded his namesake brand in a two-room Manhattan apartment in 1967, back when skin care was the realm for professionals. An aesthetician, Badescu was inspired by the tradition of European facial skin care. More than 50 years later, skin care has boomed and the brand is going strong. After Badescu passed away in the 1980s, Morise Cabasso purchased the company and it has stayed in the family since. For more affordable skin care options, check out the BestReviews guide to best skin care value sets.
Skin concerns
Acne: Acne-prone skin requires skin care that cleanses the skin without stripping everything from it. Consistency is vital in a skin care regimen for acne-prone skin, not just in-the-moment spot treatments.
Aging: Aging is a natural process, so anti-aging skin care doesn’t fight aging but protects the skin from external factors that can prematurely age it. Sun protection is critical, as is moisturizing. Products with high SPF are the best ways of preventing skin damage.
Oiliness: Oily skin requires balance. Products that contain alpha hydroxy acids or other minerals can help with removing excess oil from the skin.
Dryness: Dry skin needs intensive moisturizing. Gentle hydroxy acids can help prep the skin to absorb more heavy-duty moisturizers.
Sensitivity: Sensitive skin responds best to mild products, especially fragrance-free options and those lacking harsher chemicals and ingredients. All skin is different, so those with sensitive skin will benefit from patch testing.
What to look for in a quality Mario Badescu product
Ingredients
Mario Badescu products contain both botanical and ingredients for more personalized skin care. Go by your skin type and skin issues to find ingredients that work for you. For example, gentler botanicals such as chamomile are better for sensitive skin.
Scents
Pick scents that won’t bother you. Fragranced products can irritate some skin, but it can often depend on the product or fragrance, so look at all the options available, including the ingredients. There are a wide variety of scents from which to choose.
How much you can expect to spend on a Mario Badescu product
Mario Badescu products are affordable as a whole, although price varies. Expect to spend as little as $7-$10 for facial sprays and toners and $40-$50 for items like serums.
Mario Badescu product FAQ
Are Mario Badescu products cruelty-free?
A. Mario Badescu products are cruelty-free, as stated on its website. It doesn’t test on animals or allow testing of its products on its behalf. It also doesn’t sell in retail stores in areas that require animal testing.
Are Mario Badescu products vegan?
A. Mario Badescu is not vegan, although some products are. The products aren’t clearly marked vegan or non-vegan, so it may take some digging to find the status.
Are Mario Badescu products safe for sensitive skin?
A. It depends on the product. As a brand focused on skin care for all skin types, Mario Badescu has a line for sensitive skin with gentler ingredients. Not all products are suitable for sensitive skin, so always patch test before using a new product.
Mario Badescu drying lotion how-to-use guide
Mario Badescu’s drying lotion is a classic product with a stand-out two-tone solution that is pink on the bottom and transparent on the top. It’s one of the original products formulated in the 1960s that has stuck around for decades because it works.
- Don’t mix or shake the bottle. The drying lotion is meant to be separated.
- Before bed, after cleansing the skin, take a cotton swab and swipe it into the pink part at the bottom before pulling it up through the clear liquid. This combination of the two components is what will clear up your acne.
- Apply it to the spot you want gone. Don’t rub it in.
- Leave the drying lotion on overnight before rinsing it off in the morning.
- Keep an eye out for skin irritation.
What’s the best Mario Badescu product to buy?
Top Mario Badescu product
What you need to know: The is the brand’s most iconic product and a quick fix for breakouts.
What you’ll love: This drying lotion is an old-school, effective solution for irritating spots. It comes in a glass bottle.
What you should consider: It can irritate sensitive skin.
Where to buy: Sold by Sephora and Ulta
Top Mario Badescu product for the money
Mario Badescu Facial Spray With Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater
What you need to know: The Mario Badescu product that initially went viral with influencers in the 2010s is known for its skin-soothing effect and vibrant pink color.
What you’ll love: It’s a low-priced facial spray that includes botanical ingredients for skin health. It’s refreshing and simple.
What you should consider: Some aren’t fans of the plastic packaging.
Where to buy: Sold by Sephora and Ulta
Worth checking out
Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner
What you need to know: This is a mild, alcohol-free toner to brighten and balance the skin.
What you’ll love: It contains alpha hydroxy acids for resurfacing and balancing the skin.
What you should consider: Alpha hydroxy acids increase sun sensitivity, so avoid sun exposure as long as you’re using this product. It may be too strong for those with sensitive skin.
Where to buy: Sold by Sephora
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Arabella Matthews 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.
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https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/skin-treatments-br/best-mario-badescu-product/
| 2022-04-09T22:49:54
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Baby formula shortage worsens, may take weeks to improve
(CNN) - A baby formula shortage in many parts of the United States is forcing retailers to ration their supplies.
Walgreens is limiting shoppers to three infant and toddler formula products per transaction.
A recent review of supplies at 11,000 stores indicates that nearly 30% of popular baby formula brands may be sold out.
Cities like San Antonio and Minneapolis are reporting out-of-stock rates for certain formulas even higher than that, well above 50%.
Part of the problem stems from an Abbott Nutrition recall in mid-February for select lots of Similac and other formulas made in Sturgis, Michigan.
Manufacturers are ramping up production to make up the difference, but they admit it may take weeks for them to catch up.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.
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https://www.1011now.com/2022/04/09/baby-formula-shortage-worsens-may-take-weeks-improve/
| 2022-04-09T22:49:57
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Which Youth to the People skincare product is best?
Youth to the People is dedicated to using naturally sourced ingredients for skincare products that not only leave skin looking fresh but can reduce facial impurities caused by pollutants and environmental stressors over time. The brand strives to provide the best skincare routine to its customers, even helping build customized skincare plans. Youth to the People use all vegan ingredients and eco-friendly packaging. If you are looking for an all-around moisturizing and age-defying beauty product, the Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream is the top choice.
What to know before you buy Youth To The People skincare products
Ingredients
One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a product that will be directly applied to your skin is the ingredients. Located on the side of the packaging, the ingredients will tell users if the product contains chemicals or substances that won’t benefit their skin type. Youth to the People are very transparent with the ingredients used in their products and try to make formulas that are free of chemicals and other skin-harming ingredients. It’s still a good idea to be aware of each ingredient going onto your skin, and double -heck for anything you may be allergic or sensitive to.
Cruelty-Free
Most brands have adopted a more natural, eco-friendly way of life, including a reduction of animal testing on products. Youth to the People have run an entirely vegan and cruelty-free operation since opening their doors in 2015. To make sure an item is not tested on animals look for a PETA-approved bunny, a leaping bunny or the words “not tested on animals” directly on the packaging.
Mission
Youth To The People products are created with the natural idea that what you are putting on your skin should contain just as many beneficial nutrients as what you put into your body. All of their products are formulated with natural ingredients and are gentle enough for all skin types. This company believes in helping the environment in any way it can and only uses glass containers for its products. On their website, you can find helpful resources and articles on sustainability and living an eco-friendly lifestyle.
What to look for in a quality Youth To The People skincare product
Formulas
Products that are a cream will typically be oil-based. These tend to provide a smooth application but may take longer to absorb into the skin. They’re extensively moisturizing and can benefit those with dry or otherwise damaged skin. These products can leave steaks and are usually white in color.
Other products are water-based. These skincare products are typically more lightweight and are more beneficial to oily and combination skin types. These products are typically colorless and absorb quickly into the skin while hydrating. With this type of product, there’s less chance of clogged pores or a buildup of product on the skin. However, it doesn’t deeply moisturize as well as some cream-based products.
Skin type
Purchasing the right product and formula for your skin type will ensure that your skin remains hydrated as needed and will help makeup blend easier and look more natural.
Dry skin: If you have dry skin, consider a cream formula, which deeply hydrates dry skin. Lightweight, water-based formulas may not moisturize as effectively if your skin’s extra dry. Products containing natural oils also benefit those with dry skin. Make sure your Youth to the People skincare product is also alcohol-free to prevent excessive drying.
Oily skin: If you have oily skin, consider an oil-free, lightweight, water-based skincare product. This will lessen the chances of your pores getting clogged and your skin looking extra shiny. If you have oily skin, avoid products that are heavier and contain many oils.
Combination skin: It can be trickier for people with combination skin types to find products that match their skin needs. Hydrating formulas that are oil-free can be a great choice. If you have this skin type, you may experience oil on your forehead, nose and chin and may want to use different types of formulas accordingly. To find the right product for you, test a few different formulas out until you find your optimal combination.
Sensitive skin: Those with sensitive skin should avoid use of chemical fragrances. Youth to the People doesn’t use sulfates or parabens in their products, making them less likely to irritate sensitive skin. If a product is particularly good for sensitive skin, it will likely be mentioned in the product description.
How much you can expect to spend on Youth to the People skincare products
Youth to the People products range in price, depending on the quantity and ingredients of the products. You can find all skincare products between $15 on the cheaper end and $80 on the high end.
Youth to the People skincare products FAQ
How do I know when these products expire?
A. On the bottom or side of the product’s container, there will be a small jar graphic. Inside this jar will be a number. That number will specify the time that the product can be used effectively before the ingredients expire. For example, if the product you purchase has a 12 inside the jar graphic, the product expires after 12 months. You can also find the expiration date in the product FAQs on the website listing.
Is it safe to use food ingredients in skincare?
A. Superfoods contain amino acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties which can make them great for skin health, specifically when it comes to environmental stress and pollution’s effects on the skin.
What are the best Youth to the People skincare products to buy?
Top Youth to the People skincare product
What you need to know: This is a deeply hydrating moisturizer with superior plant extracts and a pro-grade peptide that works to soothe sensitive skin.
What you’ll love: It’s fragrance free and, though the formula is thick, it will not clog the pores.
What you should consider: This moisturizer is not deep enough to be effective for extra dry skin and will take longer to show true effects.
Where to buy: Sold by Youth to the People, Sephora.
Top Youth to the People skincare product for the money
Superfood Hydrate and Firm Peptide Eye Cream
What you need to know: The container is small, but the effects of the cream are significant.
What you’ll love: The peptides contained in this product are used to firm the skin under the eye and naturally reduce the look of dark circles over time. It also contains restorative vitamins that brightens under the eye.
What you should consider: The container is small and the product can go quickly.
Where to buy: Sold by Youth to the People.
Worth checking out
What you need to know: This powerful, gentle daily face wash is formulated with cold-pressed antioxidants — kale, spinach and green tea — to deeply cleanse the skin.
What you’ll love: It works to prevent buildup in pores, removes makeup and balances pH without drying the skin.
What you should consider: Some users noticed the pump leaking, which results in a waste of product.
Where to buy: Sold by Youth to the People, Sephora, Amazon.
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Logan DeLoye 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.
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https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/beauty-personal-care-br/skin-treatments-br/the-best-youth-to-the-people-skincare-product/
| 2022-04-09T22:50:01
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Breezy and mild Sunday
LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) - It will not be as cold Saturday night as it was early Saturday morning. Scattered clouds and a steady southeast wind will keep temperatures relatively mild as we head into Sunday morning. Sunday will be cooler across western and central Nebraska thanks to a passing cold front. Temperatures in eastern Nebraska will be about the same as Saturday.
Partly cloudy, breezy and mild Saturday night into early Sunday morning. Lows will drop into the mid to upper 40s with a southeast wind 10 to 15 mph and gusts to around 25 mph.
Partly to mostly sunny, breezy and seasonal on Sunday. Highs in the mid 60s with an east-northeast wind 10 to 15 mph becoming northwesterly 15 to 25 mph with gusts to 30 mph in the afternoon. There is a small chance for a sprinkle or light shower Sunday evening into early Monday morning.
Near average temperatures will continue on Monday for Lincoln. A big warm up is possible on Tuesday out ahead of a strong cold front. This cold front will potentially trigger scattered showers and thunderstorms late on Tuesday and Tuesday night. Much cooler on Wednesday with a continued chance for scattered showers. Windy and chilly temperatures continue on Thursday. Temperatures expected to be well below average on Good Friday and into the Easter Weekend.
Copyright 2022 KOLN. All rights reserved.
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https://www.1011now.com/2022/04/09/breezy-mild-sunday/
| 2022-04-09T22:50:03
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Which bathroom fan is best?
A bathroom fan is an essential feature for bathrooms of all sizes. Without one, the high moisture levels in your bathroom may lead to problems like damaged wood, paint and plaster, the formation of mold and even lung issues if the quality of air suffers. A bathroom fan regulates humidity to keep your bathroom clean and free from moisture damage.
Regardless of your budget and the size of your space, there’s a good bathroom fan option for you. Choosing one can prove overwhelming given the various technical considerations that go into selecting the right bathroom fan, such as the size of your ductwork, the amount of airflow required for the size of your bathroom and whether to opt for additional features, such as lighting, moisture-sensing and heating.
For powerful air movement and quiet performance, the Panasonic WhisperCeiling Ventilation Fan is the best of the best.
What to know before you buy a bathroom fan
Airflow rate
To ensure the circulation power of your fan is good enough, look for its rating of how much air it moves per minute, measured in units of cubic feet per minute or CFM.
Best practice is to select a bathroom fan with at least approximately 1 CFM for every square foot of bathroom space you have. For most small or medium-sized bathrooms, a rating of 50 CFM is sufficient. If you have a large bathroom, look for a fan with a rating of 75-100 CFM.
Noise output level
Look for a bathroom fan that indicates “whisper quiet” operation if low noise levels are a primary concern for you. If members of your household sleep and shower on different schedules, a quiet bathroom fan helps ensure a loud fan early in the morning or late at night doesn’t disturb them.
Bathroom fan noises are measured in sones, which is a subjective unit of perceived noise. Quiet fan models have a rating of less than or equal to 1.0 sones. Very quiet fans can be as low as 0.3 sones, and louder fans may be as loud as 4.0 sones, which would be a very noticeable level of noise.
Size
When selecting a fan, take stock of your current bathroom ventilation ductwork setup. You probably already have ductwork in your bathroom, so you should measure the duct prior to purchasing a new model to avoid purchasing one that’s too small and leaves a gap.
Placement
Install your fan above or near your shower to clear out humidity in the bathroom. It’s also important to have good ventilation near the toilet to dispel odors.
What to look for in a quality bathroom fan
Heating elements
Some high-end bathroom fans include heating elements to keep you warm when you walk out of your bathtub or shower. This is a helpful feature to have, but keep in mind this type of fan uses a lot of energy, similar to a small space heater.
Also, note that heating bathroom fans shouldn’t be installed directly over your shower. This could be problematic if you already have a ventilation system set up over your shower and don’t want to move the duct.
You should consult with an electrician if you choose to install a heating fan to ensure you have the correct wattage hookup in your bathroom and avoid tripping a circuit.
Lighting
Consider whether you want your bathroom fan to include LED lighting. This is a nice feature in a smaller bathroom where installing both a bathroom fan and a lighting fixture takes up too much ceiling space or creates a cluttered look.
Automatic on and off function
A fan with a humidity sensor automatically turns on and off based on the humidity level in the air. This is useful for preserving the quality of the walls in your bathroom and avoiding moisture-related problems, such as mold. This could save you a little bit of mental energy, because without this function, you’ll need to remember to leave your fan on for up to a half an hour after showering.
How much you can expect to spend on a bathroom fan
Bathroom fans range in price from budget models available for less than $50 up to luxury models that cost up to $200 with additional features like LED lights, built-in heaters and variable speed. Expect to pay around $100 for a powerful, durable and quiet fan.
Bathroom fan FAQ
How do you use your bathroom fan separately from the bathroom light?
A. Many bathroom fan models can be set up to operate on a switch that’s separate from your bathroom lighting. If you don’t already have wiring set up for this function, you should consult with a contractor who can take care of wiring for you. Attempting to do this yourself could pose a hazard or lead to work that isn’t up to code.
Where should you install my bathroom fan?
A. Install your bathroom fan above your bathtub or shower to most efficiently reduce humidity in the space. If your fan has a built-in heating function, however, you should install it on the ceiling not above your shower.
What’s the best bathroom fan to buy?
Top bathroom fan
Panasonic WhisperCeiling Ventilation Fan
What you need to know: This is a highly rated fan that operates quietly, moves air efficiently and saves money with Energy-Star rated performance.
What you’ll love: As its name suggests, this fan is very quiet when in operation. It allows users to customize airflow to 110, 130 or 150 CFM.
What you should consider: Some customers find installation of this model difficult, although it’s designed with easy installation in mind.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and The Home Depot
Top bathroom fan for the money
Broan-NuTone 688 Ceiling and Wall Ventilation Fan
What you need to know: This fan costs less than others and provides stunningly powerful performance.
What you’ll love: At a fraction of the cost, this powerful fan moves air and clears humidity with surprising efficiency, especially in small bathrooms. You can also paint this fan to match other finishes in your space. It’s relatively simple to install.
What you should consider: This fan is louder than others on the market.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
What you need to know: Easy to install, this quiet fan has an attractive white housing.
What you’ll love: The fan receives high marks for durability, whisper-quiet operation and a simple snap-in ceiling installation process. It offers impressive performance for its price.
What you should consider: Some customers find the plastic housing a bit thin or flimsy, but it performs well once installed.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Evelyn Waugh 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.
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https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/bed-bath-br/bath-accessories-br/best-bathroom-fan/
| 2022-04-09T22:50:08
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Father of 4 young kids shot, killed in argument at gas station; gunman remains on loose
PHOENIX (KPHO/KTVK/Gray News) - A family in Arizona is trying to put the pieces of their life back together after losing a loved one in a deadly shooting at a gas station.
Rene Sanchez lost his life last weekend after getting into an argument with another man while at a QuickTrip convenience store in Phoenix. Rene Sanchez was shot while he was walking away, his bother told Arizona’s Family.
Eddie Sanchez, Rene Sanchez’s brother, said the shooting took place in the afternoon, and the family remains heartbroken and wants justice. Rene Sanchez was also a father of four young children.
“We are missing that piece of the puzzle, and that is Rene,” Eddie Sanchez said. “It makes me sad that people like that don’t care about human life and people’s family it affects.”
The Phoenix Police Department released a picture and video from that afternoon’s shooting that showed an unidentified man leaving the scene on a bicycle. However, no arrests were immediately reported.
“To tell them [Rene’s kids] their dad won’t come home. To tell them he was murdered at a gas station. It’s just frustrating not to see him and know we won’t see him again,” Eddie Sanchez said.
Rene Sanchez was an electrician with the goal of starting his own business, according to his brother. But currently, the family is just waiting on updates on the case and wanting answers.
“It’ll be a big load off of our shoulders to find this person,” Eddie Sanchez said. “He will get caught eventually and pay for what he did.”
Eddie Sanchez said people will remember his brother, and the family has created a GoFundMe to help raise money for funeral expenses and the four kids and wife Rene Sanchez leaves behind.
Phoenix police urged those with any further information to contact authorities. There is a $2,000 reward.
Copyright 2022 KPHO/KTVK Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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| 2022-04-09T22:50:10
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Which bathtub sliding door is best?
Sliding doors improve the look of your bathtub and make getting in and out easy whether you are bathing or showering. Sliding doors keep water where it belongs better than shower curtains. They are easier to clean and less likely to collect mold. Unlike full-length sliding doors for showers, sliding doors for bathtubs are made so the frame sits atop the side of the tub.
The type of frame, glass and hardware all factor in the price of bathtub sliding doors. If you are looking for a sleek and modern frameless bathtub sliding door for your bathroom makeover, consider the DreamLine Mirage-X 56-60-Inch Frameless Sliding Tub Door.
What to know before you buy a bathtub sliding door
Bathtub sliding doors are almost all glass, so choosing the right glass for your needs and preferences is an important first step.
Glass safety
Safety glass is essential in bathtub doors. You have two choices of what happens if your bathtub sliding door ever breaks.
- Tempered glass is the most common type and is the same material found in car windows. It is stronger and more durable than the window glass found in homes. When broken, safety glass does not fracture into pieces with sharp edges. Instead, it breaks into small pebble-like pieces that do not cause cuts or injuries.
- Laminated glass has two outer layers of thin glass sandwiched around a plastic inner layer. In the case of breakage, the plastic holds both outer glass sheets in place and no pieces fall to the floor.
Glass thickness
Most of the glass in bathtub sliding doors is between ⅛ and ½ inch thick. Thicker glass is used in frameless bathtub sliding doors to provide greater structural support. However, the thinner glass that is used in budget bathtub sliding doors is not as safe and is more likely to break.
Glass style
There are four common styles of glass, each admitting a different type and amount of light.
- Clear glass is the most common choice. It is the least expensive and the hardest to keep clean.
- Patterned glass has designs etched on the surface and is favored by many who want to add a decorator’s touch.
- Textured glass is translucent and offers more privacy by blurring what is seen from both inside and out while still admitting all the light.
- Frosted glass is a privacy glass with an etched or sandblasted finish that obscures the view in both directions.
To learn even more about bathtub sliding doors, take a look at the full bathtub sliding door buying guide from BestReviews.com.
What to look for in a quality bathtub sliding door
Frames
Bathtub sliding doors are made in full-framed, frameless and semi-frameless styles.
- Full-framed doors: These doors are the least expensive of the three, contain the most metal and provide the tightest water seal. The metal runs along the top, bottom and sides of the glass panels.
- Frameless sliding doors: The most elegant and the most expensive are the frameless sliding doors. The only metal is at the hinge points and the handles. Frameless sliding doors are found in minimalist bathrooms.
- Semi-frameless tub doors: These have metal along the top edge of the glass panels but not the sides.
Metal finish
All three door frame types have some metal parts, like hinges and handles, and some have full or partial frames. These metal surfaces are usually finished in chrome because chrome is the most common surface found in the bathtub fixtures, faucets and controls in most homes. However, better finishes like stainless steel, polished brass and brushed nickel allow people to give custom looks to their sliding glass doors.
Glass coatings
Water-resistant coatings applied by the manufacturer are a good feature to have if you want to save cleaning time. They prevent the buildup of mold and soap scum and make the glass easier to clean.
How much you can expect to spend on a bathtub sliding door
Midrange bathtub sliding doors cost between $250-$350. Here you will expect to find better glass and better finishes. Bathtub sliding doors under $250 will be made of lower-quality materials. Above $350, you will find smooth-operating, frameless bathtub sliding doors with the best glass panels and best coatings.
Bathtub sliding door FAQ
Can I install my bathtub sliding door myself?
A. You will be dealing with glass and metal in a tiled environment that is made to be wet. Unless you are an avid DIYer with a workshop full of tools, you are better off leaving it to professionals so you don’t get leaks.
What is the best number of shower doors to have?
A. The choice is yours. Some like a large single movable door. Others like having two or three doors that slide in either direction because different people can use it in different ways.
What’s the best bathtub sliding door to buy?
Top bathtub sliding door
DreamLine Mirage-X 56-60-Inch Frameless Sliding Tub Door
What you need to know: The frameless design of this tub door is very sleek and modern and ideal for custom baths.
What you’ll love: A single large door slides open for easy access to the bathtub. The L-bar provides a streamlined look and structural support. The proprietary ClearMax coating is water-resistant and protects against the buildup of lime and scale. The aluminum frame is anodized to resist corrosion.
What you should consider: This product is pricey, and the installation is challenging.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top bathtub sliding door for the money
DreamLine Visions 56-60-Inch Semi-Frameless Sliding Tub Door
What you need to know: The unique dual sliding door design opens at the center.
What you’ll love: This sliding tub door looks great with any bathroom decor. This product has smaller handles than most sliding bathtub doors. The ANSI-certified tempered glass repels water and resists water spotting. The aluminum frame has a chrome finish.
What you should consider: It has only a 4-inch width adjustment.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Delta Trinsic 60-Inch Semi-Frameless Sliding Bathtub Door SD3927410
What you need to know: Choose the glass style, handle and track that you like best.
What you’ll love: This 1-2-3 shower door is a beautiful product that fits many different installations with its 8-inch range of adjustment. The large handles are conveniently placed and easy to use, and this product’s certified safety glass is coated to resist water spots.
What you should consider: This unit needs a perfectly level bathtub area.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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David Allan Van 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.
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| 2022-04-09T22:50:15
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Lake McConaughy, Lake Ogallala temporarily banning campfires
LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) -Due to drought conditions and extreme fire danger, many Nebraska state recreation areas and some wildlife management areas are temporarily banning campfires until further notice.
Although everyone should be cautious when using fire throughout Nebraska, the list of areas with temporary closures includes:
- Southwest Region: Medicine Creek, Red Willow, Swanson, Enders, Sutherland and Buffalo Bill SRAs
- Southern Panhandle Region: Lake McConaughy, Lake Ogallala, Lake Minatare and Wildcat Hills State SRAs, and Ash Hollow State Historical Park
- Central Region: Sherman and Victoria Springs SRAs
A temporary burn ban already is in place at Calamus SRA, under the authority of local officials.
Where fires still are allowed, campers and hunters should apply proper safety practices by properly extinguishing campfires and keeping a bucket of water nearby.
Hunters taking to the field for the April 9 youth shotgun season opener are urged to use caution and avoid open fires for camping or cooking. Much of Nebraska is experiencing drought conditions and recent winds have caused fire dangers to soar.
For more information about the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, visit OutdoorNebraska.org
Copyright 2022 KOLN. All rights reserved.
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| 2022-04-09T22:50:17
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Ybarra lifts Huskers to 6-0 victory
LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) - The Nebraska softball team extended their win streak to 11 after a 6-0 win over Michigan State Saturday afternoon. The Huskers (26-9, 6-0 Big Ten) were led by senior Cam Ybarra who smashed a grand slam in the second inning and added a double in the fifth, finishing 2-for-3 on the day.
In the circle, Olivia Ferrell recorded the four-hit shutout to move to 14-4 on the year. Ferrell pitched the complete game for her fourth shutout of the season.
Ashley Miller (1-7) received the loss while the Spartans dropped to 20-18 (1-7 Big Ten).
The Huskers took a big lead in the top of the second inning with five runs. Singles from Abbie Squier and Ava Bredwell put a runner in scoring position while a single from Caitlynn Neal scored Squier. With two outs, the Spartans intentionally walked Billie Andrews and loaded the bases. Cam Ybarra smashed a grand slam to take a 5-0 lead.
The Spartans tried to respond in the bottom of the third. A walk and an error put a runner in scoring position, but a fielder’s choice and strikeout got NU out of the inning while holding MSU scoreless.
The Big Red added another run in the top of the fifth inning. A double from Cam Ybarra put her in scoring position. Sydney Gray followed it with a triple, scoring Ybarra. Nebraska was able to hold Michigan State scoreless the rest of the game, claiming game one, 6-0.
The Huskers return to action Sunday, April 10 for a doubleheader against the Spartans. Game one will start at 11 a.m. followed by game two at approximately 1:30 p.m. (CT). Both games will be broadcasted live on the Huskers Radio Network and Huskers.com with the call from Matt Coatney. The games can also be streamed live on BTN+ (subscription required).
Copyright 2022 KOLN. All rights reserved.
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| 2022-04-09T22:50:23
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Which bed frame is best?
Several things contribute to a good night’s sleep: mattress quality, sheet quality and perhaps most important, bed frame quality. A good bed frame holds your mattress in place while supporting it. The best bed frames are made from high-quality wood or metal and do not squeak or move while you are in bed.
For a sturdy bed frame with adjustable settings, you can’t beat the Classic Brands Comfort Upholstered Adjustable Bed Base, which also has a massage function for those days when you’re feeling a little tense.
What to know before you buy a bed frame
Type
The traditional box-spring bed frame puts a bed foundation between the frame and the mattress and is the most common type of bed frame. Usually made with horizontal supports or metal lattice, the frame gives the mattress necessary support. A platform bed frame uses slats to support the mattress. Adjustable bed frames allow users to raise and lower either the head or the foot of the bed to provide extra comfort. Adjustable bed frames typically are far more expensive than traditional bed frames due to the ergonomic technology used.
Size
Making sure the bed frame fits the size of your mattress ensures the frame correctly supports the mattress.
Integrated vs. separate frames
Freestanding bed frames are the typical design you see with most bed frames. You can pair one with a headboard to complete a bedroom’s look. On the other hand, integrated bed frames come fully integrated, typically with a headboard, footboard and side rails, creating a more complete and finished look.
What to look for in a quality bed frame
Material
Most bed frames are made of three materials: metal, wood or upholstery. Wooden frames create a more natural appearance and typically are solid and durable. However, solid-wood options tend to be more expensive. Metal frames are durable and lightweight. They often are more affordable than wooden options and usually fit more in modern room designs. Upholstered bed frames tend to be made from a wood composite or frame and upholstered with fabric padding. They often come in integrated frames.
Height
As a rule of thumb, most standard beds are approximately 25 inches off the ground including the height of the mattress. However, some frames range significantly in height, allowing for beds to be higher or lower. Low-profile beds provide a more contemporary feel to a room, while more elevated beds add a sense of sophistication.
How much you can expect to spend on a bed frame
Bed frame prices are determined by both the construction of the frame and the materials used. The least expensive frames cost between $30 and $100 and generally are metal box spring or platform frames. Midrange bed frames range between $100 and $500 and are made of sturdier materials such as wood, metal or upholstery. Some bed frames in this price range may be adjustable. High-end bed frames cost more than $500 and are constructed with high-quality materials such as ornate solid wood. Some of these frames can cost as much as $5,000.
Bed frame FAQ
Do you need a headboard with a bed frame?
A. Some bed frames come with integrated headboards. However, a headboard is not necessary. This is dependent on your aesthetic style and whether a headboard can fit in your room.
Should you also buy a new mattress with a new bed frame?
A. This is not necessary. As long as the mattress fits the bed frame, the bed will be supported and ready for use. However, you should replace your mattress every five to 10 years.
What’s the best bed frame to buy?
Top bed frame
Classic Brands Comfort Upholstered Adjustable Bed Base
What you need to know: This customer favorite is a versatile, adjustable bed base and one of the best options for bed frames.
What you’ll love: For an affordable price, this frame provides several comfortable settings to accommodate every kind of sleeper. It comes equipped with convenient USB ports and a massage function.
What you should consider: Some users have reported the legs can feel wobbly and the wireless remote has been known to freeze on occasion. Additionally, this frame is more expensive than many others.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top bed frame for the money
Zinus SmartBase Super Heavy Duty Mattress Foundation
What you need to know: The ZINUS mattress foundation is one of the most reliable bed frame options providing stability and height.
What you’ll love: This frame has a solid construction that is supportive and stable. It has additional space underneath for extra storage.
What you should consider: Some users have reported this frame may squeak after extended use.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Zinus Michelle Compack Adjustable Steel Bed Frame
What you need to know: This is an adjustable frame designed for comfort and years of use.
What you’ll love: The rugged frame stands out with its adjustability and can accommodate full- to king-size beds.
What you should consider: This frame will not work with some headboards with different screw types.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Jared Lindsay 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.
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| 2022-04-09T22:50:22
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Which early childhood education material is best?
The more the learning experience is a pleasurable one, the more your child sees learning as a fun and interesting activity and not a dreary chore. When a child’s brain is exposed to the right stimuli, they have a greater understanding of the world around them, preparing them for school and beyond.
If you’re looking for a set of learning materials that builds your child’s vocabulary while teaching them to sort and match, try the delightful Learning Resources Alphabet Soup Sorters with more than 200 letter, photo and vocabulary cards.
What to know before you buy early childhood education materials
Areas of early childhood development
- Gross motor skills: Gross motor skills include the bigger muscles of the body, such as the arms, legs and torso. Gaining control of these big muscles contributes to a child’s balance, coordination and reaction time.
- Fine motor skills: Fine motor skills develop control of the small muscles, especially those in the hands and fingers. They include reaching, grasping and controlling objects with the hands. The more quickly kids develop a high degree of control and precision with their fine motor skills, the quicker they’re able to do things for themselves.
- Listening skills: Learning to listen means far more than hearing sounds and knowing what they mean. When kids learn to listen, they learn to pay attention to things and others around them. The time-tested way of developing kids’ listening skills is reading to them. If you choose books with topics that interest them, you’re off to a great start.
- Academic skills: The best way to get started on this phase of your kid’s learning journey is with letters and numbers. Learning here is enhanced with rhymes and sounds. Kids learn to sort and count with collections of brightly colored objects like beads, blocks and cards.
- Free play: Also called unstructured or semi-structured play, free play allows kids to develop their creativity and learn how to solve simple problems on their own. You might give kids a simple instruction or two and then give them some interlocking plastic parts to build whatever they can imagine.
What to look for in quality early childhood education materials
Age group
Age ranges for early childhood education materials are broad guidelines and not hard and fast rules. You don’t want to bore children with games and projects they think are “baby stuff”; neither do you want to frustrate them with too great a challenge.
Grab their attention
The best way to keep kids’ attention is with brightly colored objects, games and other educational materials. Kids’ interest levels go up with things that light up, make sounds and play music, especially younger kids.
Safety
Young learners want to put things into their mouths. Make sure all the materials they play with are non-toxic and non-hazardous. Objects should be free of sharp corners. Avoid early childhood education materials that have parts small enough for children to swallow.
How much you can expect to spend on early childhood education materials
Simple early childhood education materials that develop motor skills, like stringing beads together or craft pages that involve cutting and pasting usually cost no more than $5. Learning kits and resource books cost from $10-$25 and develop motor, listening and early academic skills. Above $30, you can find larger items and sets, like numbers and letters.
Early childhood education materials FAQ
When is the best time to get kids started on learning?
A. Once kids reach 24 months or so, they have begun to develop the language skills necessary to interact with others.
What’s the best way to get my young child’s early childhood education started?
A. Read to your child — the more often, the better. The better your children learn to read, the better they can learn every lesson from kindergarten through graduate school.
Can I replace formal classroom learning with at-home learning?
A. Kids who do both generally learn more and learn it more quickly. If you choose to homeschool your child, you’ll need to do a lot of learning on your own so you teach your kids the right things in the right ways.
What are the best early childhood education materials to buy?
Top early childhood education materials
Learning Resources Alphabet Soup Sorters
What you need to know: These fun stackable soup cans teach your child aged 3 and above how letters look and what sounds they make.
What you’ll love: Each set includes 26 durable cardboard 3 x 4-inch “soup cans” with plastic lids. Inside each are one uppercase and one lowercase letter card, as well as five vocabulary cards for hands-on sorting and matching. This set of education materials builds your child’s vocabulary while developing their ability to sort and recall.
What you should consider: The plastic bag the cards come in is not environmentally friendly.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top early childhood education materials for the money
The Outdoor Toddler Fun Activity Book by Krissy Bonning-Gould
What you need to know: Use this book to introduce your child to more than 100 outdoor activities.
What you’ll love: This potpourri of learning activities is organized by activity level, loudness and messiness. Icons tell parents which childhood education areas are targeted for each activity. The colorful book includes skill-building exercises and tips and tricks for more successful learning sessions.
What you should consider: Parents need to do some planning and gather some household materials.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Learning Resources Gears! Gears! Gears! 100-Piece Deluxe Building Set
What you need to know: Get your child started in the world of STEM learning with this 100-piece set of construction toys.
What you’ll love: This set introduces children to sorting, grouping, counting and designing. Kids use gears, axles, pillars, bases and a crank handle to make something out of a bunch of parts. Kids develop fine motor skills as they learn reasoning and problem-solving.
What you should consider: Smaller kids may have some trouble turning the crank.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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David Allan Van 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.
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| 2022-04-09T22:50:30
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Which Marshall speaker is best?
Even those with limited knowledge of the music industry and all its attendant equipment, you have likely heard of Marshall speakers and their legendary “Wall of Sound” at concert performances. For those looking for a home stereo system that offers incredible performance and advanced technology as a live performance, the Marshall Woburn WiFi and Bluetooth Speaker delivers fantastic audio quality with a timeless style and appearance.
What to know before you buy a Marshall speaker
History of Marshall speakers
Legendary musicians have used Marshall speakers for the best part of 60 years. Therefore, by purchasing a Marshall speaker, you are becoming a small part of a proud musical tradition whose technological capabilities are more impressive than ever before. Check out the Marshall speakers buying guide on BestReviews to learn more about these products.
EU declaration of conformity
As anyone who has ever tried to make an international purchase can attest, you sometimes take risks when buying something from another nation whose technological safety and manufacturing standards are different from those of your country of residence. For multinational groups like the European Union, it is essential that products sold across the EU come with a declaration of conformity certifying a product’s adherence to a set of harmonized and relevant standards. Thankfully, Marshall provides declarations of conformity for 25 speaker models to ensure that international customers can be certain of what they are purchasing.
What to look for in a quality Marshall speaker
Speaker location
Like every speaker model has a specific purpose, it is equally critical to consider what kind of audio setup you wish to create and where you plan to enjoy your favorite audio. To clarify, you should purchase your Marshall speaker based on factors, including their ability to function as either a standalone unit or as part of a single or even multi-room setup. Other factors to consider include portability, IPX-level protection from the elements and battery life, if applicable.
Connections your speaker will need
While there have been many debates over the virtues and superiority of wired versus wireless audio connections, one thing that people can’t argue is that it’s always nice to have a variety of options. While any portable speaker will need to be Bluetooth compatible to get the most out of your music on the go, speakers installed in your home should be able to receive cabled connections for a more hard-wired setup. Many models of Marshall speakers come equipped with both wireless options like AirPlay, Bluetooth and Chromecast and physical inputs for both 3.5mm cable and RCA.
Ease of installation, pre-set audio options and great warranty
Thanks to the handy Marshall Multi-Room app, setting up your new speaker is just a matter of a few taps away, whether you are setting up your streaming room, recording studio, living room or the entire house. Better still, the convenience of several customizable pre-set buttons means that you can access your favorite artists, internet radio stations and Spotify playlist with a single press of a button. If your Marshall speaker suffers from a mechanical defect, a year-long Global warranty with service options covered all purchases, including Carry-In, Mail-in and DIY.
How much you can expect to spend on a Marshall speaker
Depending on your desired features and capabilities, a quality Marshall speaker can easily cost between $300-$480, and sometimes more.
Marshall speaker FAQ
Can I connect my Marshall speaker to my Smart TV?
A. Yes, you can connect your Marshall speaker to any Bluetooth compatible device, using your home WiFi network and employing the Marshall Multi-Room app.
How do I connect two or more Marshall speakers?
A. Simply open your Marshall Multi-Room app, select “couple speakers” and follow the instructions to connect your speakers into a single setup.
What’s the best Marshall speaker to buy?
Top Marshall speaker
Marshall Woburn Multi Room WiFi and Bluetooth Speaker
What you need to know: This is an attractive speaker that is convenient and capable.
What you’ll love: As Marshall’s most prominent speaker, this unit offers the ability to connect with RCA and 3.5mm cables as well as dual 5.25-inch woofers,110 watts of amp power and connects wirelessly through AirPlay, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth or built-in Chromecast.
What you should consider: Users reported issues with Bluetooth sound delays when watching films and problems with updating Google Home.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Marshall speaker for the money
Marshall Stanmore II Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
What you need to know: This is an excellent wireless speaker for taking your music with you around the house.
What you’ll love: This unit features Bluetooth 5.0 aptX lossless wireless sound at up to 30 feet, an iconic design Frequency Range of 50–20 000 Hz, multi-host functionality for connecting and switching between two different Bluetooth devices, as well as RCA and 3.5mm inputs.
What you should consider: Users have reported issues with power failures and the auto-shutoff function engaging for no reason.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Marshall Kilburn II Portable Bluetooth Speaker
What you need to know: This is the perfect speaker for taking quality audio wherever you go.
What you’ll love: This unit is ultra-portable at only 6.6 pounds while offering over 20 hours of portable music, IPX-4 certification against wind and water damage, solid metal grille and vinyl coating to protect against physical damage and multi-host functionality.
What you should consider: Users have reported units failing within a year of initial purchase, as well as Bluetooth connectivity issues.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Daniel Martin 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.
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| 2022-04-09T22:50:37
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Which multitrack recorder is best?
As recording technology has progressed, the equipment involved in capturing sound has become more complicated. For musicians who don’t want to bother with expensive computers and complicated software, multitrack recorders offer a simple, quality option.
The Zoom R16 Multitrack Tabletop Recorder provides flexibility, portability and a straightforward, physical means of quickly capturing sound. This model’s 8 channel simultaneous recording and built-in digital effects make it the best choice if you want an easy to use, affordable recording experience.
What to know before you buy a multitrack recorder
The benefits of using a multitrack recorder
Musicians who find themselves frustrated by complex recording systems full of hard to use features usually prefer multitrack recorders. These devices provide a more cost-effective recording option, as they are much more affordable than the combined cost of the computer, hardware and software required for recording. They are also great for quickly recording songwriting ideas or capturing interesting field audio.
What kind of recording you want to do
Multitrack recorders are the ideal solution for recording small performances or minimalist songs. If you’re a musician on the go, looking for a quick way to save audio during moments of inspiration outside the studio or just have an interest in recording sound for fun, a multitrack recorder will suit your needs well.
Portability
One of the biggest reasons to use a multitrack recorder is portability. These units are compact and can easily be used in the field to gather recordings on the spot with minimal fuss. Even those with professional studios equipped with the latest computer technology can benefit from the convenience a multitrack recorder brings to the creative process.
What to look for in a quality multitrack recorder
Track count
Consider the kind of recordings you plan to make and the source of the audio you plan to capture. If you want to record simple, solo performances, a recorder with as few as four tracks may be all you need. For those who intend to record full band performances or larger ensembles, a recorder with eight tracks or more is best.
Inputs
Consider the complexity of your audio source. A singer who also plays guitar will require two inputs to allow you to keep their vocal and guitar audio separated for customized mixing. Keep in mind, however, if that same performer uses stereo effects on their voice or guitar, each audio source will then require a separate left and right input to be captured accurately. While it may be tempting to skimp on inputs to keep costs down, it is worth spending the money to have plenty of input options.
Microphones
Many multitrack recorders have microphones built in. This allows for convenient, on-the-spot recording without the need to bring along separate microphones, stands and cables. Built-in microphones will generally not be of the highest quality, but usually suffice for field recording and most small performances. For more info on microphones, check out this BestReviews guide.
Complexity
Some multitrack recorders are basic devices that simply capture audio for listening afterwards. Others are designed to be used as alternatives to full studio workstations. These recorders allow users to add effects, mix and produce their sound to professional standards. Consider what your end goal is for your audio recording, and think about investing in a more robust multitrack recorder to accommodate future projects.
How much you can expect to spend on a multitrack recorder
Quality multitrack recorders can be purchased for around $150. These will be small devices that capture audio, but are not designed for mixing or editing sound. Musicians looking for multitrack recorders with more tracks, features and inputs will have to spend $300-$1,000 to meet their needs.
Multitrack recorder FAQ
How do multitrack recorders save audio?
A. The multitrack recorders of years past used to capture audio on cassette tapes or rewritable CDs. Most of today’s models write data digitally to SD cards. You can swap out SD cards of different sizes to get more recording space.
How do I listen to the audio on my multitrack recorder?
A. Multitrack recorders include a headphone jack as well as outputs for connecting to speakers or studio monitors. These outputs can also connect to your audio interface, allowing you to record audio from your device directly into your DAW in real time.
Do multitrack recorders capture sound as well as a computer?
A. Yes. Multitrack recorders are capable of capturing professional audio. However, whether you’re capturing sound in a studio or in your bedroom at home, the quality of your end result will depend on your familiarity with proper recording techniques as well as the quality of your microphone.
What’s the best multitrack recorder to buy?
Top multitrack recorder
Zoom R16 Multitrack Tabletop Recorder
What you need to know: This multitrack recorder continues Zoom’s history of providing high quality audio gear at competitive prices.
What you’ll love: 16 tracks and built-in microphones make this a great portable recording studio. Eight separate inputs give you flexibility when it comes to capturing sound, and the device can also be used as an audio interface. This recorder can run on battery power for portability.
What you should consider: Users report that Zoom does not provide regular firmware updates, which may result in compatibility issues with some PCs.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top multitrack recorder for the money
TASCAM DP-006 6-Track Digital Pocketstudio
What you need to know: This multitrack recorder from TASCAM is a great tool for songwriters or those interested in learning about basic sound recording.
What you’ll love: TASCAM is a well-known company with deep roots in the history of audio recording. This recorder is compact and very light, making it easy to pack in a bag or guitar case. Two built-in microphones and battery power make this device perfect for travel.
What you should consider: The menu on this recorder is challenging to navigate and the device only allows two tracks to be recorded at a time.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Zoom H4n Pro 4-Track Portable Recorder
What you need to know: This compact model is incredibly portable and ideal for quick recordings and simple song sketches.
What you’ll love: This unit is small enough to fit in your pocket, but still captures pristine audio. Two inputs allow for the use of external microphones or instruments.
What you should consider: This device is best for collecting audio and is not suitable for mixing or producing a finished product.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Derek Walborn 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.
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| 2022-04-09T22:50:44
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What is the best Logitech webcam?
With the global COVID-19 pandemic, the economic focus has shifted from office-bound workers to employees working from home. For those who don’t have a laptop with a built-in camera, a webcam is the next best option.
But where do you start looking if you need one? Logitech has been manufacturing computer accessories and peripherals for a long time and knows a thing or two about webcams. So, for the best video and audio quality, check out the Logitech BRIO Ultra HD Webcam.
What to know before you buy a Logitech webcam
Video resolution
The quality of the video stream will be relative to what that camera captures. Webcams are generally available with either 720p, 1080p or 4K recording quality. Consider which video resolution is best suited for your situation. You will need an internet connection fast enough to handle the webcam’s output resolution.
Microphone capabilities
Next to the video resolution quality, another key aspect of the webcam is the microphone. Without it, other people in a video call won’t be able to hear you talk. The quality of the microphone is also important, as any popping or scratching sounds will distract from the discussions.
Mounting and placement
Most users like to mount their webcam on top of their monitor for the best viewing angle. This is done through the attached bracket or clip supplied with the webcam. Some cameras are available on small tripods for use on a desk. Consider which type of mounting or placement you prefer and make sure that everything is in view.
What to look for in a quality Logitech webcam
High-definition video calling
While a video resolution of 720p has been the standard for a long time, the most common resolution now is 1080p and higher. This gives you high-definition visuals, and the participants in a meeting can see you clearly. A good-quality webcam will also be able to adjust the resolution according to your internet connection, making sure that you are visible at all times.
Noise-canceling microphone
Whether it is a dog barking or a vacuum cleaner in the background, a good-quality webcam microphone will have noise-canceling technology. This allows for minimal audio distractions when on a call and ensures all the meeting guests can hear you perfectly.
Additional software
A good-quality webcam will be shipped with software (either on a disk or downloadable) that will allow you to blur your surroundings, replace the background with something else or adjust the contrast and brightness.
How much you can expect to spend on a Logitech webcam
Webcams are available in a variety of configurations, and the average price will depend on the device’s capabilities. An entry-level webcam can retail for $30-$50, while a 4K webcam can sell for as much as $200.
Logitech webcam FAQ
Can you use a Logitech webcam to record YouTube videos?
A. Yes, and in most cases, it will be perfect for that. A webcam isn’t just used for video conferencing, as it can record videos on your hard drive as well. Through the additional software, you can record your daily musings and upload them to any video-sharing platform.
Will a Logitech webcam work with a PC and Mac?
A. Most webcams are capable of functioning with Windows-based computers and Apple’s Mac machines. It is important to check the specifications of the webcam.
What’s the best Logitech webcam to buy?
Top Logitech webcam
What you need to know: A top-of-the-line webcam that records in 4K brilliance.
What you’ll love: In a sleek, matte black enclosure, the BRIO 4K webcam features the highest resolution video-capturing, high-dynamic range and autofocus. With the built-in Right Light 3 software, the webcam adjusts the recording contrast and brightness based on the surrounding environment. It can be digitally zoomed up to five times, and you have the choice of three different fields of view. It has two omnidirectional microphones, and the included USB cable is 7.2 feet in length.
What you should consider: The camera itself can’t swivel from side to side, as panning is done through the included software. You will also need bandwidth capable of streaming 4K video.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Logitech webcam for the money
What you need to know: A no-frills webcam that delivers on what it promises.
What you’ll love: One of the more affordable Logitech webcams, this model is only capable of capturing video at a maximum resolution of 720p. It features two hinges that can be adjusted to the perfect angle and clips onto your computer monitor. It uses a USB 2.0 port and is also capable of capturing still images at a resolution of 3 megapixels.
What you should consider: It doesn’t have an autofocus function, so you’ll need to make sure that you remain in focus at all times.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
What you need to know: An affordable HD webcam that is perfect in any condition.
What you’ll love: With a clip at the top and an angled foot at the bottom, the C920x fits onto the computer monitor securely. It has a maximum video resolution of 1080p and features built-in software that adjusts the lighting according to the surroundings. It has two omnidirectional and noise-canceling microphones, a five-element lens and autofocus.
What you should consider: You can’t replace your background with the included software. If that is something you want to do, you’ll need third-party software.
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.
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| 2022-04-09T22:50:51
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Which external hard drives for Xbox One are best?
When the first video games were released, they comfortably fit onto several floppy disks. As the games became better, the format changed to 700MB CDs and eventually 4.2GB DVDs. Naturally, you needed a hard drive to store all the data as well.
Today, as digital downloads have become more prevalent than physical disks, the need for an external hard drive is growing. Gaming consoles have not been spared the limitations on storage, which is why you’ll need something like the Seagate Game Drive Hub for Xbox One. Check out the Best Reviews buying guide for a complete list of options.
What to know before you buy an external hard drive for Xbox One
Size and placement
Depending on the design of the hard drive casing, it can be a rather bulky device. Generally, you cannot use external hard drives in horizontal and vertical positions, making placement a lot easier. Consider the size of the hard drive and where you will place it to ensure that it is both out of the way and accessible to the Xbox One console.
Storage capacity
External hard drives for Xbox One come in a variety of storage sizes. The console has a built-in hard drive, but that can fill up quickly if you have a lot of data. Analyze your gaming habit and library to determine what size hard drive will be sufficient for your purposes.
Additional components
An external hard drive will connect to the Xbox One console through a supplied USB cable. But that isn’t the only way you can use it. Some manufacturers sell additional components that allow you to clip the drive directly onto the console. If that is the case, then you might want to consider some extra cooling options.
What to look for in a quality external hard drive for Xbox One
High-speed data transfer
It is vitally important that you use an external hard drive with a high-speed rate of data transfer. If you want to download the enhanced versions of Xbox games, you can only do so on high-speed drives. A good quality external hard drive for an Xbox One will have around 200MB per second transfer speed. Solid-state drives can go as fast as 540MB per second.
Sturdy case
Protecting your hard drive is the best way also to protect your data. Since the drive is in place, it should be moved around, especially when in use. A quality hard drive will have a sturdy case to protect the external hard drive from light bumps and handling.
USB connectivity
The only connection method of an external hard drive is through the USB cable. Coupled with the hard drive’s transfer speed, the USB speed also plays a vital role. A good quality external hard drive will have a USB 3.0 port and support the corresponding speeds.
How much you can expect to spend on an external hard drive for Xbox One
The cost of an external hard drive for your Xbox will depend on the brand and the drive’s storage capacity. Smaller drives can retail for around $80, while bigger storage options can cost as much as $200.
External hard drive for Xbox One FAQ
Can you use any hard drive with an Xbox One?
A. Yes, as long as the hard drive can connect to the Xbox through a USB connection and is formatted to the correct filing system. The Xbox can do that for you.
Do I need a solid-state drive or a hard disk drive?
A. The difference between an SSD and an HDD will be the rate of transfer. SSDs tend to be more expensive than HDD but operate at a much faster transfer speed. The storage capacity of SSDs is generally also less than HDD.
What’s the best external hard drive for Xbox One to buy?
Top external hard drive for Xbox One
Seagate Game Drive Hub for Xbox
What you need to know: Perfect in size and color, it will complement an Xbox One rather well.
What you’ll love: The Seagate Game Drive Hub is specifically designed for use with the Xbox One console, and it comes with a massive 8TB of SSD storage capacity. It has two front-facing USB 3.0 ports and connects to the console through a USB cable at the back. You can use the front USB ports to charge controllers or other mobile devices.
What you should consider: You need to connect it to its one power source through the included power adapter.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top external hard drive for Xbox One for the money
Seagate Game Drive for Xbox Game Pass Special Edition
What you need to know: Perfect for gaming, it’s sleek and includes a little something extra.
What you’ll love: Seagate is known for its storage devices, and gamers can’t go wrong with the thin and good-looking Game Drive for the Xbox One. It connects to the console through a USB 3.0 cable and doesn’t need its own power source. For storage capacity, it has a 2TB SSD with super-fast transfer speeds. This Special Edition drive comes with a 14-day free trial to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
What you should consider: The USB cable is only 18-inches, which might be a bit short if you want to store the drive somewhere else.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
What you need to know: This option is made for gaming. It’s sturdy and good-looking.
What you’ll love: With a bit of a military look to it, the P10 external hard drive from WD is 5TB in storage capacity. That is more than enough for hundreds of games. It comes with an 18-inch USB-A to micro USB-B cable and is compatible with PCs and PlayStation consoles. The external case is made from metal, making sure that it is always protected.
What you should consider: This version is only a hard disc drive, but some games require that you install them to faster SSDs.
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.
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| 2022-04-09T22:50:58
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Which travel router is best?
Whether you want to backpack across the European Union or make sure you stay in touch with your business partners from half a world away, having a travel router can assist you in circumventing some of the common network issues that occur during international travel.
Having a powerful and slim unit like the HooToo Filehub Wireless Travel Router HT-TM05 at your disposal, you can convert any wired internet connection into a WiFi connection with minimal effort, offering excellent security and a host of great technical options.
What to know before you buy a travel router
Keep your connection safe and secure
No matter where your travels take you, wired connections or accessing a public Wi-Fi connection could result in potential risk issues. Cybercriminals in particular target these public Wi-Fi hotspots where information quite often flows unprotected. Whether you are staying in a luxury hotel or just renting a bed for eight hours at a hostel, it never hurts to take that little bit of extra caution when accessing the internet.
Instead of seeking public unprotected Wi-Fi hotspots or physically plugging your computer into the internet, travel routers provide you with your own secure Wi-Fi network by connecting to an ethernet, act as a Wi-Fi hotspot to connect other devices and even perform the duties of a Wi-Fi range extender. Whatever your particular destination, a travel router will help keep you in touch with your friends, family and contacts and help ensure your digital safety.
Travel routers powering options
As with many advanced electronic devices, it is important to consider exactly how your brand new travel router will be able to power itself up. This will depend on the continent and the country you’re traveling to. While having the ability to simply plug your travel router directly into a wall socket is the most convenient way to keep your device in working order, having the ability to receive power via USB port or even batteries might be the only thing between you and your ability to access the internet. Check out the buying guide at BestReviews.com to learn more about what makes for a reliable and affordable travel router.
What to look for in a quality travel router
Physical specifications
Depending on just how far from the beaten path you intend to travel, you will absolutely need to purchase a travel router that doesn’t take up an excessive amount of room or weigh a ton. When it comes to challenging issues such as packing your luggage to be under the airline’s baggage allowance or needing your tech to easily slip into your backpack or pocket, you should always consider the size and weight of your travel router before you end up stuck with it for thousands of miles and countless hours.
Power banks, file storage and more
While having the ability to ensure secure internet access in a variety of forms is certainly an incredible convenience, some travel routers are capable of offering much more than that. For example, select travel routers contain power banks that can be used to charge and power up other devices while others can serve as file hubs capable of performing TITAN transfers between multiple USB devices simultaneously. In fact, some models of travel routers can even support traditional hard drives or HDDs as well as USB card readers, meaning you might not even need to bring your laptop along.
Additional protection and custom options like VPN and Open Source
On top of providing the protection of conventional Wi-Fi security measures like WPA2, some travel routers come equipped with the ability to connect to VPNs or virtual private networks clients and servers, providing additional layers of security and greatly improving the speed of your internet connection. For those who prefer to take their technological security into their own hands, some models offer extensive options for customization, including the ability to use Open Source operating systems and software, DIY hardware upgrades, extendable USB discs and much more.
How much you can expect to spend on a travel router
Depending on your desired features, a quality travel router can cost anywhere from $29-$59 and sometimes more.
Best travel router FAQ
Why do I need to buy a travel router in the first place?
A. While you technically don’t need to purchase a travel router, it certainly makes managing your Wi-Fi enabled devices and safely connecting to the internet much easier than it otherwise would be.
Will I need to pay a subscription fee to use my travel router?
A. Unless you purchase a device through an internet service provider or ISP to constantly provide services, owning and using a travel router will not incur any additional expenses.
What’s the best travel router to buy?
Top travel router
HooToo Filehub Wireless Travel Router HT-TM05
What you need to know: This multipurpose travel router will serve you well all over the globe.
What you’ll love: This unit includes the ability to instantly convert a wired network to Wi-Fi as well as transfers files between your device and multiple USB hard drives.
What you should consider: Users have reported issues with slow connection speeds as well as poorly written directions which makes operating it confusing in the beginning.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top travel router for the money
VONETS Mini 2.4GHz Portable Wireless Travel Travel Router
What you need to know: This affordable travel router offers a wide range of ports and functions.
What you’ll love: This unit offers two ethernet ports that can exchange and support Wi-Fi or WAN access in Wi-Fi router mode as well as Wi-Fi smart bridge mode, AP Client, hotspot, range extender and a one year warranty.
What you should consider: Users have reported being unable to access or change the admin password or creating solid connections.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
GL.iNET GL-AR750S Mini VPN Travel Router
What you need to know: This travel router is ideal for those who prefer to tinker with their technology.
What you’ll love: This unit has a preconfigured Cloudflare DNS and offers compatibility with over 30 VPNs. It has 128MB RAM, three ethernet ports, 16MB NOR Flash + 128MB NAND Flash, and a USB port.
What you should consider: Users have reported issues with the initial setup of the travel router as well as spontaneous failures within months of purchase.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Daniel Martin 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.
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| 2022-04-09T22:51:05
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Which iPad stand is best?
When it comes to tablets, the iPad is a classic for a reason. No matter which model you own, the battery is long-lasting, the design is convenient and you have access to exclusive apps. However, there is one snag. Most of the time, holding an iPad requires two hands, which can be a challenge if you’re trying to multitask.
Luckily, an iPad stand can help make your iPad more visible and easier to use. Whether you’re looking for a stand that will turn your iPad into a second monitor or a convenient cookbook, there’s an iPad stand for you.
What to know before you buy an iPad stand
Height
The reason for getting an iPad stand will vary from person to person. You might want to use it as a bedside holder, while others would like to prop up their tablet while reading recipes in the kitchen. Consider all the ways you would use the stand and which height would be the best for your specific needs.
Adjustments
An iPad’s display will rotate depending on the tablet’s orientation. Ideally, you want an iPad stand that can just as easily be rotated as the display can. An adjustable stand will increase functionality and be more compatible with the tablet’s orientations.
Display size
There is nothing wrong with getting an iPad stand that fits your current model perfectly. But what happens when you upgrade to a device that is a different size? If that could be the case, consider a stand that is compatible with different iPad sizes. Most stands can also be adjusted in terms of the display’s size, so keep that in mind.
What to look for in an iPad stand
Cable management
As much as we would like it, iPads don’t have an infinite battery life. At some point, your device will need to be charged, but the one thing that can quickly make a space look untidy is messy cable management. A good quality iPad stand will have a spot for you to thread the charging cable through so that it is out of the way and out of sight.
Securing mechanism
The purpose of an iPad stand is to hold your device in place. If the mechanism that holds it there fails, you could end up with a cracked screen or a damaged tablet. A good quality iPad stand will have a mechanism to secure the iPad so that it doesn’t easily slip off or out of the stand.
Material
As with most accessories for tablets and computers, the more affordable products tend to be made from plastic. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but a metal or steel iPad stand will provide you with the best aesthetics and durability.
How much you can expect to spend on an iPad stand
Stands for your iPad or other tablets are inexpensive to manufacture, resulting in an affordable purchase. A no-frills stand may be under $10, but more expensive models can retail for as much as $50.
iPad stand FAQ
Can I use a stand if my iPad has a case on it?
A. Yes, but in some instances, it could compromise the securing mechanism of the iPad stand. Most iPad stands are designed to accommodate thick cases though.
Can I secure the iPad stand onto a surface?
A. That will depend on the design of the iPad stand. If the stand has rubber or silicone feet, it won’t need to be secured, as this prevents the stand from slipping or moving around. Look for an iPad stand that isn’t top-heavy but has a large base.
What’s the best iPad stand to buy?
Top iPad stand
Lamicall Adjustable Tablet Stand
What you need to know: A sturdy stand that is big enough to hold most tablet sizes.
What you’ll love: Made from aluminum alloy, this iPad stand has a heavy and wide base to remain in place wherever it is used. The tablet rests on a small shelf, and the arm can be adjusted in two locations. The hinges are tight, which keeps the arm from sliding down or adjusting by itself. It is compatible with tablets ranging in size from 4 inches to 13 inches.
What you should consider: The holder itself can’t be rotated, so if you want to view the iPad in a different orientation, it needs to be picked up and rotated manually.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top iPad stand for your money
Amazon Basics Adjustable Tablet Holder
What you need to know: A no-frills iPad stand that will get the job done.
What you’ll love: Perfect on a bedside table or in the kitchen, the plastic stand consists of a triangle design. Two width-adjustable feet with a groove at the bottom help to secure it on a surface, while a third, upright arm prevents the tablet from toppling over. The arm can also be adjusted at two hinges, allowing for more flexibility.
What you should consider: The iPad stand is made from plastic, so the stand could break if it is knocked over.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
What you need to know: Versatile and durable. It works perfectly at any angle.
What you’ll love: The iPad stand is made from durable plastic and features a heavy metal base that can’t be easily knocked over. The iPad is held in place by retractable arms on both sides, which clamp onto the iPad’s edges. The stand can be rotated at two different hinges, while a third swivel is used to rotate the arm a full 360 degrees. You can thread a charging cable through the hole in the middle of the stand arm.
What you should consider: Due to its construction, it might not be suitable for use with iPads that have thick protective cases.
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.
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| 2022-04-09T22:51:13
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Which window shade is best?
Today’s window shades offer much more than just a way to lessen or block the light entering a room from a window. With the wealth of options available regarding look, style and material, window shades have become a foundational part of interior design and insulating your home.
Madison Park Galen Cordless Roman Shades, available in a variety of neutral colors, provide excellent privacy and light control in an aesthetically pleasing package. With many sizes available and a thermal backing material, these are the best window shades. For further analysis and tips regarding window shade options, check out the window shade buying guide courtesy of BestReviews.
What to know before you buy a window shade
Types
- Shade blinds: These look similar to traditional blinds but the slats are connected with no space between them. They block more light and are more energy efficient than regular blinds due to the design. Often made of bamboo, these shades have a natural, earthy look.
- Roman shades: These shades feature stacks of draped or folded fabric when rolled up but have a smooth, seamless look when down. These often are thick canvas or other woven material.
- Cellular shades: Sometimes called honeycomb shades, these shades have cells within them that hold air and create an insulating barrier between your room and the window. They are available in both single-cell and double-cell varieties.
- Pleated shades: This type looks similar to cellular shades but does not have any insulating honeycomb spaces. The accordion design allows them to be tightly drawn up. These shades usually are made from sheer, thin material like paper that allows some light to filter through.
- Roller shades: As the name suggests, these window shades roll up tightly into a tube shape. Pulled down, they have a smooth, even surface. They are affordable and very easy to clean but may look too industrial or utilitarian for some.
Location
The room or area in which you will install your window shades is the most important factor when it comes to what type you should choose. Shades for a bedroom should block as much light as possible, while shades in open rooms that have more activity in them typically won’t need to be as opaque. Shades in sunrooms or outdoor areas should be made from weather-resistant materials that aren’t prone to deteriorating due to moisture or direct sunlight.
What to look for in a quality window shade
Opacity
Some shade types are designed to block light coming from either direction. These shades provide superior privacy and are great for bedrooms, bathrooms, home theaters or other areas where light can be a disturbance. Shades that are sheer and allow light to filter through are better suited for areas of your home that you prefer to be brighter, such as kitchens, breakfast areas or living rooms.
Raising and lowering
You pull a cord to raise and lower most shades. Some shades are constructed with motors that allow you to control their level with the push of a button. You move cordless shades up and down by pulling or pushing them to the desired height.
Size
Window-shade manufacturers provide standard sizes for their products, but many homes require a custom fit. Some companies build shades to specific measurements while others provide cheaper options you can cut to size. Choose a shade from a company whose sizing options best suit your abilities and budget.
Material
Window shades are available in all kinds of materials, from wooden slats connected with natural fibers to flat vinyl or laminated fabric. If you are going to place the shades outdoors or in areas exposed to weather, choose plastic or vinyl because these materials won’t get damaged or saturated if they are kept in damp conditions. The material you choose for indoor shades can be whatever you personally want.
How much you can expect to spend on a window shade
Inexpensive pleated shades are $10-$25, depending on the size. These shades provide little light blockage and are made from thin, fragile material. For quality shades made from strong, lasting materials, expect to pay $60 or more per window.
Window shade FAQ
Will window shades affect my utility bill?
A. Depending on your home, yes. Older houses that have not been updated often have drafty, single-pane windows. Leaving these windows with nothing to block drafts in the winter or hot outside temperatures in the summer can leave your thermostat working overtime to continually regulate your indoor climate. Window shades provide an added layer of protection between you and the outdoors.
Are window shade cords dangerous?
A. Long, dangling window shade cords can pose a strangulation risk to young children and pets. Cordless window shades are recommended due to these safety concerns.
Are window shades hard to install?
A. Potentially. Window shade installation usually requires screwing the necessary hardware into the window frame and ensuring everything is level and secure. You need power tools and a step ladder. Larger windows pose a greater challenge than small ones, so additional help is recommended.
Window shade tips
Stay cool
Keeping your shades pulled down over windows that receive direct sunlight helps keep indoor areas cool.
Be mindful of shadows
Shades that allow light to enter during the day also allow it to escape when it’s dark out. If privacy is a priority, look for shades that won’t show the silhouettes or shadows of indoor occupants at night.
Don’t forget to dust
Window shades are easy to overlook when it comes to cleaning, but they collect dust and odors. Depending on the material of your shade, you can use a vacuum or cloth duster to keep them tidy.
What’s the best window shade to buy?
Top window shade
Madison Park Galen Cordless Roman Shades
What you need to know: These homey fabric shades provide visual warmth and texture and are available in many colors.
What you’ll love: These cordless shades are available in multiple sizes and include mounting hardware. They feature a thermal foam backing that provides additional insulation from drafts.
What you should consider: These shades are not suitable for bathrooms or other areas that are high in humidity. Users have noted they allow light to pass through them easily, providing less privacy than they hoped for.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Bed Bath & Beyond
Top window shade for the money
Redi Shade Quick Fix Light Filtering Pleated Fabric Shade
What you need to know: Extremely economical, these sheer window shades allow filtered light through, giving your windows a pleasant glow.
What you’ll love: These window shades filter sunlight but also provide decent privacy. You don’t need tools for installation. Multiple sizes are available but you can cut these shades for a perfect fit.
What you should consider: These shades feature an adhesive mounting tape that can damage window-frame paint. The shade’s construction feels low quality even for its price point. It is best as a temporary solution.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
Worth checking out
Windowsandgarden Custom Cordless Single-Cell Shades
What you need to know: These window shades provide great insulation and privacy because of their cellular construction and custom fit.
What you’ll love: Featuring the latest in cellular window-shade technology, these cordless shades are available in nine colors and you can choose custom sizes.
What you should consider: Some customers think these shades tear easily and are too flimsy.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Derek Walborn 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.
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Which KitchenAid blender is best?
Whether you like to start every day with a fresh smoothie, make frozen cocktails for parties or whip up milkshakes for the kids, a blender is usually a must-have kitchen appliance. If you want a top-notch model, you can’t beat a KitchenAid blender when it comes to features and performance.
KitchenAid offers a wide range of blenders so that you can choose from high-performance models, standard countertop options and even immersion blenders. The KitchenAid High Performance Series Blender is the top choice if you want a top-of-the-line blender with great, convenient features.
What to know before you buy a KitchenAid blender
Blender type
KitchenAid offers three main types of blenders:
- KitchenAid high-performance blenders provide the most powerful motors, so they can handle nearly any food, including pulverizing ice with ease. These models can even mix heavy batters, create nut butter and knead dough. However, they are the most expensive KitchenAid blenders.
- KitchenAid standard countertop blenders aren’t as powerful as high-performance models, but they can still handle plenty of tasks in the kitchen. They can effectively blend up smoothies, shakes, frozen cocktails, dips and sauces. Some standard models are more powerful than others, though, so you’ll need to shop around to find the best fit for your needs.
- Kitchen immersion blenders are commonly known as hand or stick blenders because they’re handheld models without a jar. That allows you to bring the blender directly to a pot or bowl to blend ingredients. They work incredibly well for making soup and sauces. KitchenAid immersion blenders are usually the most affordable models, though some come with extras like a whisk or chopper and cost a little more.
Horsepower
You can measure a blender’s motor power in horsepower. KitchenAid high-performance blenders usually offer 3.5 HP, while standard countertop blenders typically run at approximately 0.5 to 1 HP. To learn more, check out the complete KitchenAid blender buying guide at BestReviews.
Capacity
A KitchenAid blender’s jar capacity determines how much you’re able to blend at a time. KitchenAid blender jars typically range from 50 to 90 ounces. Since immersion models don’t have a jar, you can blend in a container of any size with one of these blenders.
Consider how many servings of your morning smoothie or how large a batch of soup you usually make to decide how large a jar you need.
What to look for in a quality KitchenAid blender
Controls
KitchenAid blenders can have a few different control styles. Some models feature buttons, while others have dial controls. Some high-end models even feature a touchpad. All types can work well, but touchpad controls are typically the easiest to clean because there aren’t any nooks and crannies for food residue to become trapped.
The controls that a KitchenAid blender typically offers include multiple speed settings and preset programs for extremely user-friendly operation.
Heating function
Some blenders offer a heating function that allows you to cook and blend soups and sauces without needing to turn on the stove. This is a rare option in KitchenAid blenders, so make sure to read the product specifications carefully if this feature is critical to you.
Jar shape
The jars that come with KitchenAid blenders are either round, square or diamond-shaped. While round jars are the classic option, square- and diamond-shaped models create a more effective vortex to pull the ingredients toward the blades. That helps ensure that your recipe blends until entirely smooth.
Color
Depending on the model, KitchenAid blenders are available in a range of colors. Some blenders only come in three or four shades, but others are available in as many as 15. You can find many neutral options, such as black, white or silver. However, some models also come in bolder colors like red or blue.
How much you can expect to spend on a KitchenAid blender
Depending on the model, you’ll usually pay $50-$600 for a KitchenAid blender. KitchenAid immersion blenders are typically the most affordable, with some models costing as little as $35 and high-end options topping out at $350. Standard countertop models generally cost $100-$200, and high-performance blenders are the most expensive, ranging from $300-$600.
KitchenAid blender FAQ
Do KitchenAid blenders have dishwasher-safe components?
A. It depends on the model, but most KitchenAid blenders have jars, blades and accessories that you can clean in the dishwasher. As a result, these models are the easiest to clean.
What recipes can I make with a KitchenAid blender?
A. A KitchenAid blender can whip up various foods, including basics like smoothies, milkshakes, sauces and dips. High-performance models can make even more recipes, such as nut butter, soups and super-smooth frozen cocktails.
What’s the best KitchenAid blender to buy?
Top KitchenAid blender
KitchenAid High Performance Series Blender
What you need to know: A powerful, high-performance model, this blender can handle any kitchen task you throw at it with ease, though it is one of KitchenAid’s pricier blenders.
What you’ll love: It boasts a potent 3-HP motor for maximum power. The controls offer nine speeds and a pulse function, the die-cast metal base is extremely stable and durable and the sleek, modern design looks great out on a counter too.
What you should consider: The blender only comes in three color options: black, white and gray.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Kitchenaid blender for the money
KitchenAid 5-Speed Immersion Blender
What you need to know: This high-quality immersion blender has all the features you could want at an attractive price point.
What you’ll love: It comes with a variety of attachments, including a whisk and mini chopper. It also includes a 4-cup blending and storage container. It also features a removable blending arm to make it easier to blend in deeper pots.
What you should consider: It’s somewhat pricer than other immersion blenders, but you’re paying for the performance quality and other features.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
KitchenAid 5-Speed Classic Blender
What you need to know: While it’s a fairly basic countertop blender, this model offers excellent durability and solid construction at a price that won’t break the bank.
What you’ll love: It comes with a 56-ounce, BPA-free round pitcher. It features user-friendly controls with five speeds, a pulse function and an ice-crushing feature. Its soft-start feature ensures the most even blending results.
What you should consider: There can sometimes be leaks around the blender’s blade shaft.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Jennifer Blair 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.
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| 2022-04-09T22:51:27
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Which Contigo travel mugs are best?
Contigo is a familiar name in travel mugs and tumblers that has been providing spill-proof mugs to coffee drinkers for years now. Contigo travel mugs are great for people who are on the go. The brand’s name means “with you” in Spanish, and these travel mugs are meant to do just that — accompany you wherever you go.
Their sleek and spill-proof designs are great for commuters who need to get their coffee fix on the road. Our top pick, the Contigo Luxe Autoseal Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug, is a travel mug with a particularly stylish stainless steel design. Thanks to its autoseal technology, you’ll never have to worry about spills.
What to know before you buy a Contigo travel mug
Why do I need a travel mug?
Travel mugs are great for people who have long commutes or like to take their coffee or tea to the office. These mugs are great for the office since they are spill-proof, portable and will keep your coffee hot for hours. Thus, you won’t have to worry about returning to a cold cup of coffee if you get sidetracked at work.
If you’re interested in checking out a few different types of travel mugs, check the full BestReviews travel mug buying guide.
Travel mug vs. thermos vs. tumbler
While all three of these products are designed to take both hot and cold drinks on the go, there are some key differences to consider.
Travel mugs are normally designed with hot drinks in mind, although they can also carry cold drinks. Travel mugs will sometimes come with a handle. These mugs are designed to be drunk out of directly.
Thermoses are meant to carry hot or cold drinks but are not meant to be drunk from directly like a travel mug. A thermos will often be larger than either a travel mug or a tumbler.
Tumblers are plastic cups that normally come with a lid and a plastic straw. These cups can handle both hot and cold liquids, though they are normally used for cold drinks. However, tumblers are not as spill-proof as travel mugs and thermoses.
Contigo spill-proof travel mugs
While most of Contigo’s travel mugs are marketed as spill-proof, they have a few different designs that use different technology to varying degrees of effectiveness. All of Contigo’s travel mugs are somewhat spill-proof, but some are more spill-proof than others.
For example, some of their travel mugs will have Contigo’s auto-seal technology, whereas some will come with Contigo’s snap seal feature. Therefore, consider which type of travel mug you prefer before deciding on which one to go with.
What to look for in a quality Contigo travel mug
A travel mug with a handle
Some Contigo travel mugs, such as the Contigo Randolph, come with a handle for added portability and comfortability. Travel mugs with handles are a staple in offices around the country.
How to clean a travel mug
Travel mugs can be notoriously hard to clean due to all of the different components in the lid. Most Contigo travel mugs are dishwasher-safe, but you may have to pay extra attention to the lid to ensure there isn’t any built-up grime.
Travel mug size
If you will be using your Contigo travel mug in the car, make sure that the travel mug will fit your car’s cup holders for added ease. Even some larger travel mugs are made to fit into cup holders.
If you choose to go with a Contigo autoseal travel mug, you can easily slip the mug into your bag and not worry about spills.
How much you can expect to spend on Contigo travel mugs
Most Contigo travel mugs are around the $10-$15 range, but some of their more deluxe models can reach up to $30.
Contigo travel mug FAQ
What’s the difference between snapseal and autoseal?
A. Contigo’s snapseal travel mugs seal and open using a convenient snap lid. These work by unsnapping one side of the lid, opening the hole on the other side of the lid. Autoseal travel mugs function by pressing a button on the lid while drinking from the cup.
Are Contigo travel mugs BPA-free?
A. All of Contigo’s travel mugs are BPA-free.
What’s the best Contigo travel mug to buy?
Top Contigo travel mug
Contigo Luxe Autoseal Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug
What you need to know: The stainless-steel Contigo Luxe is the perfect travel mug for the office. It can keep hot drinks hot for up to 5 hours and cold drinks cold for up to 12 hours.
What you’ll love: While the design of this mug is lovely, this travel mug’s main feature is its 100 percent spill-proof lid. It even features a lock so that the auto seal button can’t be accidentally pressed.
What you should consider: Some users have reported that the stainless-steel lid can get a bit warm when used with hot drinks. However, the main body of the mug will remain cool to the touch.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Contigo travel mug for the money
Contigo Couture Snapseal Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug
What you need to know: This fashionable travel mug is great for anyone looking to make a statement.
What you’ll love: This travel mug can fit most standard cup holders and can keep hot drinks hot for up to 6 hours.
What you should consider: This travel mug is not dishwasher-safe.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Contigo Autoseal West Loop Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug
What you need to know: This travel mug is perhaps the most recognizable Contigo design and is great for getting your coffee from point A to point B, thanks to its autoseal lid.
What you’ll love: This travel mug has many of the same features as our top pick, the Luxe, at a slightly cheaper price point. It comes in many colors.
What you should consider: The lid is top-rack dishwasher safe, but the body will need to be hand-washed.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Addison Hoggard 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.
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Which corn peeler is best?
Eating corn on the cob is always a fun experience, but plenty of recipes call for fresh corn kernels off the cob. Of course, you can use a knife or spoon to scrape the kernels off, but a corn peeler makes the job much quicker and easier.
A corn peeler is a tool that can safely and efficiently remove the kernels from a corn cob. It doesn’t remove pieces of the cob either, so you wind up with the kernels only. The top corn peeler from Beaverve is a popular model because it can do multiple tasks in the kitchen in addition to effective corn peeling, including grating and measuring ingredients.
What to know before you buy a corn peeler
Cob size
Corn cobs can vary in size, with some cobs being shorter and/or thicker than the average cob. Some peelers can only effectively cut the kernels from cobs that are an average or standard size, though.
Look for a peeler that can work with cobs of various lengths and thicknesses, so you’re never stuck with kernels that can’t be removed.
Cutting depth
An average corn kernel measures approximately .25 to .5 inches from the area where it connects to the cob to its top. A corn peeler’s cutting depth affects how much of the kernel is removed. A model with a deeper cutting depth is better able to remove the entire kernel from the cob.
However, the problem with a deeper cutting blade is that it can remove some of the cob when cutting smaller kernels. It’s not a big deal if small bits of the cob make their way into your dish, but the cob is pretty tough, so you don’t want too much of it in your food.
Efficiency
The majority of corn peelers cut the kernels off the cob in narrow sections, so you need to make several trips around the cob with the peeler to fully peel it. You can find some peelers that actually remove all of the kernels in one motion, though. They are obviously the most efficient type of peeler, but they usually can’t work with cobs of different lengths and thicknesses.
Ease of use
It can be challenging to hold a corn cob steady while driving a peeler down it with the necessary force. The best corn peelers are easy to use and feature sharp enough blades that you don’t need to apply too much pressure to remove the kernels. The blades shouldn’t be so sharp that you have to worry about cutting yourself, though.
For even more information, read the full buying guide on corn peelers at BestReviews.
What to look for in a corn peeler
Design
Because removing the corn from a cob requires some strength, you want a peeler that’s ergonomically designed. That allows you to get a firm, comfortable grip on it so you can use it safely and effectively.
Keep in mind that some peelers are designed for right-hand use only. Left-handed individuals should look for a peeler that features a double-sided blade so it can be used in either hand.
Make sure that any corn peeler you choose features a solid, durable design too. You don’t want to worry about it breaking after only a few uses.
Container
Many high-end corn peelers come with an attached container that collects the kernels as they’re removed from the cob. That can limit the mess in your kitchen and keep you from having to wash too many bowls or dishes.
Care
Corn peelers are usually dishwasher safe, but some are more difficult to clean than others. Those with a more complicated design require taking the peeler apart and rinsing it before placing it in your dishwasher.
Smaller, compact corn peelers fit in your hand, making them easy to store in most drawers. You can also find some with a hook for hanging storage. On the other hand, larger peelers with an attached container require more space to store, making them a poor fit for a smaller kitchen.
Warranty
Some corn peelers are backed by a warranty, which can give you more confidence in your purchase. The longer a peeler’s warranty is, the longer you can expect to use it effectively.
How much you can expect to spend on a corn peeler
Corn peelers aren’t especially pricey, so you’ll usually pay between $5-$25 for one. Small, basic peelers typically cost between $5-$8, while more durable, ergonomically designed models generally range from $8-$12. More complex corn peelers with an attached container can cost as much as $12-$25.
Corn peeler FAQ
Should I use a corn peeler before or after I cook the corn?
A. You can remove the corn from the cob before or after cooking. You’ll usually have an easier time if you do it before you cook the corn, because it’s cool and easier to handle. Another benefit of peeling the corn before cooking is that the cooking process can kill any bacteria that might make their way onto the kernels during peeling.
How many kernels do you usually get from peeling an ear of corn?
A. It depends on the length and thickness of the ear you’re peeling. An average-sized cob of corn typically produces a three-quarter cup of kernels.
What’s the best corn peeler to buy?
Top corn peeler
What you need to know: A versatile kitchen tool that not only peels corn, this corn stripper also grates and serves as a measuring cup.
What you’ll love: It features a non-slip silicone ring on the bottom to keep the tool in place. The space-saving design frees up storage space, and the corn peeler offers a money-back guarantee.
What you should consider: It isn’t as durable as some buyers would like.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top corn peeler for the money
What you need to know: As a safe, efficient tool, the corn zipper allows you to quickly remove corn kernels without using a knife and risking a cut.
What you’ll love: It works much more quickly and safely than a knife, and it’s effective for both cooked and uncooked corn. The rubber shield covers the blades and reduces the risk of cuts.
What you should consider: It must be used over a large bowl or baking sheet to limit the mess in your kitchen.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
HIC Quick Corn Cutter Stripper
What you need to know: This is an extremely simple corn peeler that can effectively remove both small and large quantities of corn kernels.
What you’ll love: It offers an extremely easy, user-friendly operation. The ring is adjustable to fit different cob sizes. The peeler features durable stainless steel blades.
What you should consider: It can make a mess in your kitchen with flying kernels.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Jennifer Blair 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.
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Which infusion pitcher is best?
An infusion pitcher is a powerful tool in the arsenal of anyone trying to drink more water. By combining the taste of fresh fruits with your water or tea, you’re much more likely to drink enough water to maintain healthy hydration levels, not to mention the additional benefits if you’re trying to cut down on the amount of soda you drink.
The best infusion pitcher is the Chef’s INSPIRATIONS 3 Core Infusion Water Pitcher, which is built for maximum durability and includes three separate inserts for ice, loose tea and fruit.
What to know before you buy an infusion pitcher
Material
Infusion pitchers are typically made of either glass or plastic.
Glass: Glass is more expensive than plastic, though it’s far less durable. It is also non-porous, which means that there’s no chance of flavors being absorbed into the material, like with plastics.
Plastic: Plastic is a lighter-weight and much more durable option than glass, though you sacrifice the aesthetic values of a glass pitcher for longevity. If you constantly use the infusion pitcher, plastic is probably a better option.
Infusion rod
Also known as the core, the infusion rod or rods are what hold the ingredients separate from the water, so only their flavor is mixed instead of their body. They come in three varieties: standard, loose tea and ice. Standard cores have medium-sized holes to allow your flavors to seep into the water while loose tea cores use a fine mesh to allow for steeping without the tea materials getting into the water. Ice cores have no holes at all, and simply keep the water cold without diluting the flavors.
Size
As infusion pitchers come in most any size you could want, consider how much need you’ll have of infused water as well as if the pitcher will fit in your refrigerator. It’s always best to get a size equal to what you think you’ll need instead of a size larger. You can always infuse more water, but you can’t shrink a big infusion pitcher if it doesn’t fit your space.
What to look for in a quality infusion pitcher
Rapid cool
Certain infusion pitchers are constructed to allow for vigorous shaking to speed up the cooling process using an ice core, also known as flash chilling if not rapid cooling. These infusion pitchers also tend to be able to speed up the infusion process in the same manner.
No-spill lid
Infusion pitchers that use lids that are completely sealable, spout and all, tend to be rapid coolable in addition to being much easier to store. They’re especially easy to transport if you like picnics or have other destinations in mind.
How much you can expect to spend on an infusion pitcher
Infusion pitchers are very affordable across the board, costing about as much, if not a touch more, than most standard pitchers. You can find small, simple pitchers for as little as $10, though you’ll probably want to spend up to $25 on one of the better, though smaller, infusion pitchers. If you need something in a bigger size, you won’t need to spend more than around $35.
Infusion pitcher FAQ
Are infusion pitchers free of BPA?
A. Most infusion pitchers are, but there are a few that aren’t, so if you’re concerned about BPA then make sure to double check. Glass pitchers obviously won’t contain any BPA, but if they use plastic or acrylic infusion rods, those might contain BPA. It should be fairly easy
to locate BPA-free signage on the product description or packaging, so if you can’t find it, you can be confident that that particular infusion pitcher will contain some amount of BPA.
Can hot drinks be infused in an infusion pitcher?
A. Only some infusion pitchers can infuse hot drinks. Those capable of this will explicitly say this somewhere on the packaging or in an included owner’s manual.
What are some examples of foods I can infuse into my water with my new infusion pitcher?
A. Really, any kind of fruit is a top choice for infusion in your new infusion pitcher as well as combinations of fruit. One of the more popular options is infusing a variety of berries, although oranges or apples are strong contenders as well. Don’t be afraid to add a little mint or cucumber either!
What are the best infusion pitchers to buy?
Top infusion pitcher
Chef’s INSPIRATIONS 3 Core Infusion Water Pitcher
What you need to know: This is a strong, durably designed infusion pitcher with three separate inserts.
What you’ll love: This infusion pitcher is narrow enough to fit in refrigerator shelves and dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
What you should consider: The spout is quite large which can mess with your pitcher muscle memory.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top infusion pitcher for the money
Primula Today Shake and Infuse Pitcher
What you need to know: This is an affordable, durable and efficient infusion pitcher with no extra fuss.
What you’ll love: This infusion pitcher is shakeable, which accelerates the infusing process.
What you should consider: The lid can be a little difficult to remove, and it’s a touch too big for some refrigerator shelving.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Mami Wata Fruit & Tea Infusion Water Pitcher
What you need to know: A nice, lightweight infusion pitcher, this model throws some extra features in for good measure.
What you’ll love: Included in the package are a loose tea infuser and an ice ball maker.
What you should consider: The plastic of the handle and body can feel a bit lackluster, and the ice tray is quite simple.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Jordan 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.
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Which fertilizer spreaders are best?
The right fertilizer has been known to significantly increase crop yields and is responsible for producing food that can feed more people, so it should be no surprise that it can also be used to bring out the best in your lawn or garden.
You don’t need to be a lawncare expert or a landscaper because it’s easier than ever to apply fertilizer if you have the right equipment. Choices may vary depending on your needs, but a top pick is Scotts 76565 Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader.
What to know before you buy a fertilizer spreader
Types of fertilizer spreaders
- Handheld spreaders: For smaller gardens, lawns or areas where only limited patching of bare spots is needed, a handheld spreader is a cost-effective, hands-on option. They are easy to use, portable, lightweight and come in both manual or battery powered. However, they aren’t good for large areas and will require a battery replacement.
- Drop spreaders: These deposit fertilizer and seeds for broad coverage. This is a top choice for gardens, flower beds and lawns that have odd shapes. They are available in both the tow-behind and push models, but sometimes they require more passes to provide adequate coverage.
- Broadcast spreaders: Alternatively known as rotary spreaders, they provide an easy-to-use option that is great for covering large amounts of land. These can be more expensive and are not ideal for the specific distribution of fertilizer and seeds.
- Liquid spreaders: These are a great option for potted plants and container gardens, which specifically require a liquid version of fertilizer. They offer a very quick application, although they’re not very accurate. If you’re in the market for garden fertilizer, take a look at the buying guide for best garden fertilizers on Best Reviews.
Benefits of fertilizer spreaders
- Time: A fertilizer spreader is much less time-consuming than manual fertilizing, especially if you have a very large lawn or garden.
- Even distribution: A spreader allows you to evenly distribute fertilizer over a large area of land much better than if you were trying to do it manually. Fertilizer can be expensive, and that can add up over time if you’re using too much.
- Skin protection: Some fertilizers contain harsh chemicals that can cause irritation when coming in contact with your skin. A spreader keeps you at a safe distance from these chemicals.
What to look for in a quality fertilizer spreader
Area
The size of the area you need to fertilize should help determine the type of spreader you purchase. The bigger the spreader, the more it can hold and the less you have to refill it.
Material
Are you looking to save money, or do you want a product that will last? A plastic spreader will be less expensive, but a steel spreader is more durable and can last multiple years.
Distribution
It’s not just the size of a spreader and how much fertilizer it can hold that’s important, it’s how much ground you can cover with each pass. Different spreaders allow you to adjust the width of the spread.
How much you can expect to spend on a fertilizer spreader
A quality basic home spreader will range from $20-$50 and can handle space of 2,500 square feet. For larger lawns or commercial and professional use, fertilizer spreaders range between $50-$300.
Fertilizer spreader FAQ
How often should I clean the fertilizer spreader?
A. You should clean your spreader after each use to avoid wear and tear and any contamination if you later change up fertilizer. Lubricating the wheels can help it to move easily and smoothly, so it will last.
Can my fertilizer spreader be used for grass seed as well?
A. It is possible to use the fertilizer spreader for seeds, but depending on the size and texture of those seeds, it may not flow as evenly through the spreader since that’s not what it is designed for.
Is fertilizer dangerous to kids or animals?
A. Spreading fertilizer is safe. However, it is recommended to wait 24 hours before allowing kids or pets on the lawn.
What’s the best fertilizer spreader to buy?
Top fertilizer spreader
Scotts 76565 Turf Builder Classic Drop Spreader
What you need to know: Experienced gardeners will agree that this mid-range model is a quality product. This top-selling fertilizer spreader easily handles medium to large lawns.
What you’ll love: This spreader comes assembled, so you can easily use it right away. This has the capacity to cover up to 10,000 square feet while maintaining precise distribution.
What you should consider: Although this model comes pre-calibrated, some customers mentioned it functioned better after re-calibrating.
Where to buy: Amazon
Top fertilizer spreader for the money
Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader
What you need to know: This budget-conscious fertilizer spreader is good quality and has the capacity to meet the needs of most consumers.
What you’ll love: This model comes pre-calibrated, completely assembled and is also collapsible for easy storage. It holds enough fertilizer to distribute over 5,000 square feet and can also work to treat smaller areas.
What you should consider: Some customers feel the distribution is uneven when fertilizing larger areas.
Where to buy: Amazon
Worth checking out
Brinly BS36BH Tow-Behind Broadcast Spreader
What you need to know: This is a fan-favorite for those who want to cut down the time of spreading fertilizer on large areas of land over an acre.
What you’ll love: This spreader is long-lasting, durable and constructed with top-of-the-line
materials. With a patented auto flow spread control, this model offers professional-grade results.
What you should consider: Although this is a high-quality spreader for larger areas, the same results may not apply for smaller areas. You should be sure you purchase a spreader that meets the specifics of your lawn or garden.
Where to buy: Amazon
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Ryan Dempsey 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.
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| 2022-04-09T22:51:55
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Which bird carrier is best?
Birds are intelligent, curious animals that require ample time outside of their cages to play, exercise and interact with new objects and environments. Even small birds like parakeets benefit from enrichment.
A bird carrier is a great way to allow your pet a safe way to explore new sights and sounds. It’s also indispensable if you have to travel with your bird or make a trip to the vet. The Petsfit Bird Carrier With Stainless Steel Bowl is the best bird carrier for small to medium birds. It provides excellent visibility and ventilation, allowing for both security and flexibility because of its use of quality materials and its backpack design.
What to know before you buy a bird carrier
Traveling
Air travel: Traveling with a pet bird by airplane can be a challenge. Your bird carrier has to fit under the seat in front of you and will require a security inspection. Check with your preferred airline to determine their requirements and restrictions regarding birds in the cabin. Carefully select a bird carrier that complies with their requests.
Groomer or vet: Like other pets, birds require periodic trips to the veterinarian as well as to the groomer to get their wings, claws and beaks trimmed. If you expect that your bird carrier will only be used as a way to transport your pet for these short visits, you don’t require an especially large model with multiple food and water bowls or other accessories.
Trips for fun: If your bird is comfortable with new people and places, a trip to the park or other outdoor area outside the home is a great way to give them the stimulation and socialization they crave. If you anticipate that your bird carrier will be used for adventure and exploration, consider one that’s easy to move and provides your bird with good visibility, plenty of room and access to food and water.
Your bird’s personality
If your bird is particularly shy or sensitive, choose a carrier that offers them a feeling of security. While many birds enjoy meeting people and taking in new sights, they all appreciate the ability to choose their own level of privacy. For apprehensive birds, select a carrier with opaque sides or a mesh screen as opposed to a clear plastic one that will leave them feeling fully exposed.
What to look for in a quality bird carrier
Visibility
Birds are visual creatures. Not only do they appreciate being able to see their surroundings, they’re also comforted by being able to see their owner. Select a bird carrier that allows you to easily observe your pet.
Ventilation
Because of their delicate respiratory systems, fresh air and good ventilation is necessary for the health of your bird. Carriers with screen windows provide ample airflow. If you prefer a carrier with plastic sides, choose one that provides adequate ventilation through portholes or a mesh door.
Material
Parrots’ powerful bills can make short work of almost anything they determine to be worth chewing. It’s important that your carrier is made from a material that’s strong enough to prevent your bird from biting its way out. Large parrots like cockatoos that are especially prone to chewing require metal carriers.
Food dishes and accessories
Many bird carriers include bowls to provide clean water and food. However, a carrier in motion can result in spills. If you intend to do a lot of walking with your bird, seek out a model that allows you to use a water bottle as opposed to an open dish. While getting your bird to drink from a bottle requires some training, it greatly reduces the mess.
Size
Whether your bird carrier is used for short trips or an afternoon at the park, it should provide ample room for your pet to comfortably turn around and stand up at full height. Birds are especially protective of their tail feathers, so a carrier that extends below your bird’s perch and allows room for their tail to hang without dragging is ideal for your pet’s comfort and cleanliness.
Portability
Some bird carriers come with backpack straps to allow for easy travel. Others are built in the style of a duffel bag with a handle or strap that can be slung over your shoulder. Consider your plans with your pet to determine which configuration works best for you.
Color
From metal cages to patterned bags, bird carriers are available in a variety of colors and styles. Choose a look that best matches your personal aesthetic, but keep in mind that some birds are highly sensitive to brightly colored objects and may take more time to become acclimated to the stimulation.
Toys and accessories
Many bird carriers come with clips or hooks that can be used to hang your pet’s favorite toys or treats. While not necessary for short trips to the groomer, toys and other accessories can prevent your bird from getting bored during travel.
How much you can expect to spend on a bird carrier
Expect to pay $50-$100 for a quality bird carrier made from strong, safe materials. Bird carriers made from metal or those from premium brands can cost $200 or more, depending on size.
Bird carrier FAQ
How long can your bird be safely left in its carrier?
A. To avoid undue stress and mess, your pet bird shouldn’t be in its carrier for more than a couple of hours at a time. While this isn’t possible during extended travel, trips outdoors for socialization should be kept brief. Be sure your bird always has access to drinking water.
Can you put more than one bird in a bird carrier?
A. Depending on the carrier’s size and how well your birds get along, yes. Bonded pairs prefer the security of their partner, but some birds like more solitude. Placing birds who aren’t familiar with one another in a confined space can result in injuries due to fighting.
Will your bird get car sick if you travel with it?
A. You may be surprised to learn that some birds can get car sick. If your bird becomes nauseous during travel, try to limit drives to necessary trips only. If travel by car is a must, some owners recommend installing a hanging perch in your carrier. The swinging motion of a hanging perch provides a more comfortable car ride for some birds.
What’s the best bird carrier to buy?
Top bird carrier
Petsfit Bird Carrier with Stainless Steel Bowl
What you need to know: This bird carrier backpack is versatile and includes features only available in carriers that cost twice as much.
What you’ll love: Stylishly designed and comfortable to carry and wear, this bird carrier is an excellent choice for conures or other small parrots. Its mesh screen provides great ventilation and visibility. All side windows can be covered with flaps to provide your bird with privacy for sleeping or stressful situations.
What you should consider: This bird carrier’s plastic mesh isn’t suitable for aggressive chewers. Only one bowl is included. It is not large enough for many species.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top bird carrier for the money
Colorday Lightweight Bird Carrier
What you need to know: This lightweight bird carrier is available in two sizes and provides crystal-clear visibility.
What you’ll love: The included wooden perch provides your bird with a secure grip and stable balance. This carrier’s shoulder strap and handle make it portable and easy to move around.
What you should consider: Users have noted that this bird carrier’s window is covered in a protective plastic film that’s difficult to fully remove. Plastic mesh can be destroyed by birds who are excessive chewers.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Featherland Paradise Perch ‘n Go Polycarbonate Bird Carrier
What you need to know: Rugged plastic construction and metal cage doors make this popular carrier a safe, secure option.
What you’ll love: This model’s carrying handle doubles as an additional perch for your bird to use outside of the carrier. It is easily cleaned, and the clear polycarbonate plastic provides great visibility.
What you should consider: This carrier is on the expensive side and is only acceptable for small birds.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Derek Walborn 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.
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Which bird ladders are best?
Birds are intelligent animals that spend their time in the wild navigating complex environments as they socialize and forage for food. Providing your pet bird with the mental stimulation and activity it requires ensures your companion will remain physically and emotionally healthy.
Bird ladders are popular with bird owners because their pets have a versatile toy with which to perch, play and explore. The Mrli Pet Bird Ladder with its bright colors, spinning beads and poseable internal wires is the best choice for bird owners who wish to give their pets a fun, functional accessory.
What to know before you buy a bird ladder
Type
Ladders come in three basic styles. Rigid ladders are made of wood or plastic dowels that do not flex or bend. Poseable ladders are wood or plastic rods and beads that have a bendable wire running through them, allowing for any number of twists and turns. Rope ladders feature swinging steps tied together and hung with rope.
Many bird owners decorate their cages with all three of these ladders to give their pets a varied environment. For examples of all three of these ladder types, check out the bird ladder buying guide from BestReviews.
Size
Select a ladder sized appropriately for your bird’s species as well as its cage. Cockatiels, budgies, small conures and lovebirds can easily climb a ladder with dowels around ½ inch in diameter. Macaws, cockatoos and other large birds require much bigger ladders. Long ladders are best for cages that house more than one bird so each animal can maintain its personal space.
Material
Bird ladders most commonly are wood. Wood is a natural material that will not cause any stress or irritation to your pet. A wood bird ladder not only provides your pet with an exciting new playground but also a satisfying chew toy. Plastic perches are acceptable for budgies, finches and other small birds that are not excessive chewers.
Extra features
Some ladders come with extras such as bells, swings or ropes for additional stimulation. Birds are fussy animals, with each having its own preferences. Only through experimentation with toys and other items will you be able to determine if a ladder that includes these accessories is right for your pet.
What to look for in a quality bird ladder
Style
From tropical colors and finished surfaces to natural bark and rope, bird ladders come in a variety of styles. Birds are visual creatures that tend to show a great deal of interest in brightly colored objects, making colorful ladders and toys obvious choices. However, natural bark gives your bird an opportunity to peel, shred and strip wood as it would in the wild.
Strength
Select a ladder that safely holds the weight of your bird. Unless the ladder is made of metal, chewing damage among parrots is unavoidable. Consider your bird’s individual enthusiasm for chewing and choose a ladder you feel will last the longest.
Attachment method
Rigid ladders usually attach to the side of your bird’s cage using open hooks as hangers. These are fine for small birds such as finches and parakeets. However, owners of conures and larger birds will find that anything attached in this manner is quickly dislodged. Metal locking hooks and carabiners are the most secure way to attach your bird’s ladders and toys to its cage.
How much you can expect to spend on a bird ladder
Ladders of all types and materials are $10-$15 if sized for small birds. Heavy-duty ladders for large parrots, or those that include additional accessories, platforms and toys, can cost $20-$40.
Bird ladder FAQ
Does my bird need a ladder?
A. From giant hyacinth macaws to tiny zebra finches, toys and enrichment are essential for a pet bird’s wellbeing. While a ladder is not a specific requirement for your pet, it provides a simple way to give your bird opportunities for perching and playing.
Will my bird destroy its ladder?
A. If you own a parrot, yes. Chewing is a favorite pastime among these busy creatures. While it’s disappointing to have to continually replace your pet’s cage furniture, do not expect toys and perches for parrots to last very long.
How do I clean my bird ladder?
A. Use warm water and a gentle brush to remove any droppings or food, then allow the ladder to dry. Avoid soap or bleach as wood can absorb these and pose a health risk to your pet. Replace ladders that become overly soiled or chewed.
Bird ladder tips
Don’t expect your bird ladder to last forever
Birds are both messy and destructive. Bird owners should expect cage furniture to require regular cleaning and replacement because of soiling and chewing.
Keep your bird’s life interesting
Birds are highly inquisitive and get bored easily. Every time you clean your bird’s cage, rearrange or swap out a few toys and perches to give your pet a new environment to explore and new problems to solve.
Treats make anything possible
Many birds are naturally cautious around new objects. If your bird is leery of its new ladder, encourage curiosity by placing treats or favorite toys on the ladder. Your bird will quickly learn its new accessory is not to be feared.
What’s the best bird ladder to buy?
Top bird ladder
What you need to know: This brightly-colored ladder features flexible wires and secure mounting clips.
What you’ll love: Available in three lengths, this poseable ladder allows you to change its shape to give your bird regular updates to its environment. Mounting clips keep the ladder firmly in place.
What you should consider: Larger birds can quickly destroy this ladder. The dye used to color the wood comes off easily when wet and may concern some bird owners.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top bird ladder for the money
Prevue Hendryx 62806 Naturals Rope Ladder Bird Toy
What you need to know: Natural wood and rope construction give your bird fun textures and the opportunity for stimulating acrobatics.
What you’ll love: This bird ladder will appeal to bird owners who prefer a more natural, muted look to their cage decor. Rope construction makes this ladder a stimulating climb and the included locking clips keep it secure.
What you should consider: Some users have complained this ladder’s rope has a chemical odor, which may be hazardous.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Chewy
Worth checking out
What you need to know: This natural seagrass ladder alternative gives birds both climbing and foraging challenges.
What you’ll love: You can roll this flexible mat into a shelter as well as hang it like a ladder or hammock. You can thread toys and treats into the material for foraging fun. Natural seagrass is safe for birds to chew and play with. It includes two small toys.
What you should consider: Given its woven seagrass construction, heavy chewers will make short work of this toy.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Derek Walborn 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.
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Which dog treat bag is best?
It’s always wise to carry dog treats with you on walks to reinforce recall and other good behaviors, but nobody wants a pocket full of dog treats stinking up their pants. Dog treat bags keep your pockets clean while allowing you easy access to treats when you need them.
But that doesn’t mean it’s so simple to know which dog treat bags are worth buying and which features to look out for. If you’re searching for a versatile dog treat bag, the Paw Lifestyles Dog Treat Training Pouch is an excellent choice.
What to know before you buy a dog treat bag
Carrying style
Different dog treat bags have various carrying styles. Some modes are designed to be strapped around the waist like a fanny pack, some are worn across the body like a mini messenger bag, and yet others are simply clipped onto a belt loop or belt. Those worn around the waist or securely fastened to a belt are less likely to get in the way than a crossbody treat bag, but different users have their own preferences.
Capacity
Consider the size and capacity of a dog treat bag before buying. You want a bag that’s large enough to hold all the treats you need but not so large that it will get in your way or even start to tire you out. If you’re unsure how large a bag will be based on its capacity, check the measurements to make sure it isn’t oversized.
Materials
Dog treat pouches are most commonly made from rugged materials such as nylon, which don’t easily stain or absorb odors. They should be tough enough to stand up to daily use, as many dog owners will want to take it along each time they go out with their pooch. The materials used are sometimes water-resistant or completely waterproof to keep treats from getting wet and mushy on rainy days.
What to look for in a quality dog treat bag
Easy access
One of the most frustrating things about some treat bags is that they’re hard to get into when you need to grab a treat. A quality treat pouch offers easy access to what’s inside. It should have a wide mouth or opening to allow you to get your whole hand in to quickly pick a treat. Some models have a hinged opening that might let it stay open unless you specifically close it.
Extra compartments
Some dog treat bags available come with additional zippered compartments for storing small personal items such as keys or a wallet. Models like this preempt the possibility of those without pockets in their clothes needing to take along another bag. Some treat pouches also feature a dedicated pocket for poop bags.
Color
Dog treat bags come in a range of colors and styles. Although this might not matter much to some buyers, others may prefer a dog treat bag that’s as stylish as possible.
How much you can expect to spend on a dog treat bag
Most buyers who decide on a treat bag that’s durable and easy to get into will likely pay $10-$20. Cheaper options are available, but the quality is often lacking.
Dog treat bag FAQ
Do you need a dog treat bag?
A. Sure, you can live without a dog treat bag. Dog owners could put treats inside a plastic sandwich bag or directly in a pocket, but dog treat bags are convenient. When training a dog, it’s important to reinforce good behavior as quickly as possible or it might not be clear to your canine what exactly they’ve done right and why they’re getting a reward. A good dog treat bag allows instant access to treats for more effective training.
How do you clean a dog treat pouch?
A. Check the label inside a treat bag to find its washing instructions. Most are machine washable, although there are some that require hand washing only. As a rule, allowing a treat pouch to air-dry will help it last as long as possible.
What’s the best dog treat bag to buy?
Top dog treat bag
Paw Lifestyles Dog Treat Training Pouch
What you need to know: A reliable multifunction dog treat bag, it is great for anyone who wants a built-in poop bag holder.
What you’ll love: It’s durably made and features a large opening for easy access to treats. You can wear the bag around the waist, over the shoulder or on a belt. It also has extra compartments for personal belongings.
What you should consider: This is a fairly bulky bag that might not be ideal to carry on longer hikes.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top dog treat bag for the money
What you need to know: This dog treat pouch offers excellent value for the money, and has standard and mini sizes available.
What you’ll love: It features a hinged mouth you can keep open when you want quick access but close up when you need to. It comes with an adjustable belt for around the waist.
What you should consider: The standard size is larger than many buyers have realized. Check the dimensions and decide if the mini is more appropriate.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Kurgo Dog Training Treat Pouch
What you need to know: This is a rugged treat pouch suitable for regular, heavy-duty use.
What you’ll love: It has a large opening so you can quickly and easily get to treats, plus a drawstring closure when you need to contain them. The carabiner clips onto a belt loop.
What you should consider: Some pet parents find this bag slightly too small.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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Which balance pads are best?
If you want to bring your workout to the next level, you don’t necessarily have to try an entirely new routine. Introducing a balance pad to your usual strength training workout can help take it up a notch by requiring all of your muscles to spring into action to support and stabilize your body.
A balance pad has a spongy texture, so your body sinks into the material when you step on it. That means all your muscles must engage to keep you balanced on the pad, which makes your regular workout that much harder. If you’re looking for an excellent balance pad for everyday use, the AIREX Balance Pad is the top option.
What to know before you buy a balance pad
Size
Balance pads are typically available in three size options: small, regular and large.
Small balance pads are generally only large enough to place one foot on at a time. They usually have an oval shape and measure 16 by 9 inches or smaller. You can also find some models that are rectangular if that’s more comfortable.
- Regular balance pads are considered the standard size and measure 20 by 16 inches. You can step onto these pads with both feet at the same time, making them excellent for squats and other similar exercises.
- Large balance pads are approximately 38 by 16 inches and are sometimes classified as “extra-large.” Like regular balance pads, you can stand on them with both feet simultaneously, but they provide even more space to maneuver.
- You can also find balance beam-style pads that are a safer alternative to a balance beam since there’s not as much distance from the pad to the floor. They measure approximately 63 by 10 by 2 inches and feature a wider base. You use these pads by walking along them with one foot in front of the other to help you work on your balance.
For more information on size options, take a look at the full balance pad buying guide at BestReviews.
Quantity
The number of balance pads you need largely depends on whether you’ll be working out alone or with a partner.
In general, most workouts only require one balance pad at a time. Exercises like lunges and squats typically call for you to place one foot on the pad at a time, though some may require stepping with both feet. If you tend to work out by yourself, one balance pad is probably all you need.
If you work out with one or more partners, though, you’ll need one pad for each person exercising.
Dry vs. wet
Because of their lightweight construction, balance pads can float in water. As a result, some people actually purchase them to use as a flotation device. A regular-size balance pad can work well as a kickboard, while large models can work as a full-size board for kids. You can also use a balance beam pad as a neck rest when floating in the water.
If you want to use your balance pad for workouts and swimming, it’s a good idea to purchase two — one for dry use during exercise and one for wet use in the pool.
Safety concerns
A balance pad requires you to strain your muscles to remain balanced, so it’s not uncommon to fall when using one. As a result, you must use a balance pad in a wide-open area to prevent injuries. Make sure there is no furniture or other items with sharp edges in the vicinity to pose a risk.
If you don’t have an open place to use the pad, it’s a good idea to ask a friend to spot you while working out.
What to look for in a quality balance pad
Material
Most balance pads are made of some type of closed-cell foam. Some models feature EVA foam, while others offer latex-free foam. You can even find some manufacturers that advertise non-toxic, eco-friendly foam options.
Because all balance pads are made of similar soft foam, you can choose whatever type you like. If you have a latex allergy, though, you definitely want a latex-free option.
Color
Some balance pads are available in a wider range of color options than others. Many brands only offer a single shade. Common balance pad color options include blue, black, green, red and purple.
Textured surface
Higher-end balance pads often have a textured, non-slip surface. You’re generally supposed to use a balance pad barefoot, so some traction on the surface can help you stay balanced. These textured pads tend to cost more, though.
How much you can expect to spend on a balance pad
Most balance pads cost between $19-$75. The majority of small and regular-size pads range from $19-$40, while regular-size, textured pads can cost between $50-$75. For large and balance beam pads, though, you’ll likely pay more than $75.
Balance pad FAQ
Are balance pads the same thing as balance boards?
A. They’re a bit different, though they’re both designed to boost your strength and balance during low-impact workouts. Pads are made of soft foam, while balance boards feature harder materials. A balance pad is typically more effective at engaging multiple sets of muscles because of the softer material.
Can I use a balance pad if I’m a beginner?
A. A balance pad can be somewhat challenging to use if you’re just starting an exercise routine. Because the foam can throw off your balance, it makes exercises more challenging. If you’re not used to doing a particular workout, you may fall and get injured. It’s best to introduce a balance pad to your workout routine once you can complete all of the exercises confidently on solid ground.
What’s the best balance pad to buy?
Top balance pad
What you need to know: This durable, well-designed balance pad holds up to daily use with ease.
What you’ll love: The pad is effective for improving strength and balance. It can also help boost flexibility. It works well for physical therapy and can help improve confidence for everyday activities while you’re recovering. It’s an excellent option for improving balance for those who work at a standing desk, too.
What you should consider: While it’s effective for balance exercises, it’s not ideal for high-impact workouts.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top balance pad for the money
What you need to know: Recommended by physical therapists, this versatile balance pad is effective for both rehabilitation and everyday use.
What you’ll love: It features even padding throughout that’s ideal for people recovering from knee issues. It also comes in handy for regular workouts and can be used during everyday activities like watching TV. It not only improves balance but flexibility, too.
What you should consider: It can feel somewhat stiff compared to other foam pads.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
What you need to know: This affordably priced balance pad is effective for improving balance even for beginners.
What you’ll love: The pad features an anti-skid surface to make it easier to maintain your balance. The price is an excellent value, considering how effective it is for building balance and strength. It’s an ideal option for seniors.
What you should consider: The simple design isn’t suited for more complicated rehabilitation exercises.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Jennifer Blair 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.
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Which putting mat is best?
The putt is one of the trickiest and most important strokes in the entire game of golf. Sure, you need to be able to get your golf ball to the green itself, but that usually boils down to hitting it very hard and as straight or hooked as needed and through the air to boot. A putt has to take into account the shape of the ground, the water concentration of the grass and any other number of complicating factors.
The best putting mat to practice your short game so it’s ready for the big leagues is the Shaun Webb Golf Putting Green. Not only is it more affordable than many top-of-the-line putting mats, but it also has plenty of space to practice longer putts and has multiple holes for honing your precision.
What to know before you buy a putting mat
Coverage size
The most important aspect to consider before purchasing a putting mat is where exactly you plan on placing it. If you have a limited amount of space, you should purchase a smaller putting mat so it actually fits. You should also consider where you want to store it and how it folds away when not in use.
Mat markings
Mat markings are especially helpful for those learning the basic arts of the putting stroke and for those who generally have a rough short game. There are markings that provide a clear line to the hole or perhaps grid lines for assisting in spatial reasoning. If you prefer not to have any markings at all, there are plenty of putting mats without markings as well.
What to look for in a quality putting mat
Ball speed
Some putting mats have something called a stimp rating, which is a measurement of how fast a golf ball will roll on the surface of the mat. Real golf courses have stimp ratings for their various greens, so if you’re trying to improve your short game for a specific course, you can match up your putting mat to your local course’s greens.
Varying breaks
If you have an excellent short game on perfectly straight greens but struggle once uneven surfaces rear their ugly heads, you can purchase a putting mat with uphill and/or downhill breaks to get a feel for those course conditions.
Multiple holes
If you’re someone who detests doing the same things over and over again with no variation, you can purchase a putting mat with multiple holes to break up the repetition and give yourself some extra challenges.
Ball return
Some putting mats have methods of returning your ball to you to expedite setting up for your next stroke. Most will only kick the ball back to you if you get it in the hole, so practice, practice, practice!
Portability
If you want to take a putting mat with you to the office or on vacation, you’ll need one that’s easy to roll up. Seek out a high-quality mat so that repeated rolling won’t damage any part of its construction.
How much you can expect to spend on a putting mat
While you can find inexpensive putting mats for less than $30, you’ll probably want to spend at least $80 to ensure a quality and long-lasting putting mat. There are even putting mats that can reach upwards of $250. For a more detailed breakdown of putting mat price and quality ranges, you can visit the putting mat buying guide from BestReviews.
Putting mat FAQ
How do putting mats compare to the actual conditions of a real grass green on a course?
A. That depends on the putting mat, but most manufacturers try to get as close to real-world course conditions as they can. You won’t be able to practice things like a green logged with water and dew, but you can rest assured that your putting mat practice will be valid when used on a real grass green.
Can you use a putting mat anywhere you want?
A. Some putting mats are designed to be used indoors and outside, but you’ll find just as many that should only be used inside. Pro tip: place your putting mats on flat, firm flooring like tile and concrete; surfaces like plush carpeting can create an inconsistent put.
What’s the best putting mat to buy?
Top putting mat
What you need to know: There are plenty of different practicing options with this top pick putting mat.
What you’ll love: This putting mat is more affordable than many other mats.
What you should consider: The foam can tear in enough time and there’s a bump on the incline that can be difficult to get rid of.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top putting mat for the money
What you need to know: There’s no need to walk back and forth with this mat; you can place holes at each end.
What you’ll love: This 11-foot-long mat allows you to practice plenty of different putting techniques.
What you should consider: This mat tends to wear down faster than most would like.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
MESIXI Indoor/Outdoor Putting Mat
What you need to know: The balls come straight back to you with an automatic return so you can focus on your putting game.
What you’ll love: This mat comes with three bonus balls, so you don’t have to invest in extras.
What you should consider: The holes of this putting mat are smaller than standard, which can be better for developing aim but can be frustrating.
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.
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| 2022-04-09T22:52:31
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Which gardening cart is best?
Gardeners are always busy planting, watering, fertilizing, mulching and trimming. They need to haul tools and supplies out to the garden from the garage or shed and back again when they’re done. All those activities call for a garden cart that’s sturdy, rolls easily and holds the materials you work with regularly.
If you’re a serious garden enthusiast who needs a rough, tough metal cart that can carry 1,000 pounds, you’re going to like the Gorilla Carts Heavy-Duty Steel Utility Cart.
What to know before you buy a gardening cart
Wheels and tires
- Two wheels are good for getting in and out of smaller spaces and are usually found on smaller gardening carts.
- Four wheels are found on gardening carts that carry larger items and heavier weights than two-wheel carts. Four wheels are the most stable by far, not only for transporting things, but when you’re loading and unloading your cart, too.
- Plastic wheels are the cheapest material and effective only with small gardening carts and small loads. They do okay in dirt and grass but get chewed up quickly when used on paved surfaces.
- Pneumatic tires with treads give you the best grip and provide support to gardening carts that carry the biggest and heaviest loads. The downside is they need to be aired up from time to time and repaired or replaced when a tire is punctured or otherwise damaged.
Shape
Some garden carts are shaped like boxes with vertical walls. The walls may be made of wood, metal or plastic. Cart walls may be solid, made of open slats or metal mesh. Some walls are permanent and others are removable to convert the cart to a flatbed. Other carts are shaped like wheelbarrows, with shallow tubs made of a single piece of plastic or steel.
Material
Heavy-duty gardening carts should be made of strong materials like steel, which needs to be protected against rust and corrosion. Light-duty gardening carts are usually made of plastic to save money and weight. Lighter and less sturdy carts can fail if overloaded.
Size
If you have a small garden that you weed regularly, a small cart may be your solution. If you need to move lots of heavy things, you need a big, strong gardening cart. If you have limited storage space, buy a garden cart with a handle that folds down.
What to look for in a quality gardening cart
Assembly
Whatever material you choose, make sure of the quality of the materials and the precision of the assembly. Look for snug-fitting corners, tight seams and bright alloy nuts and bolts.
Body
Open mesh sides are great for carrying leaves, weeds and firewood but lousy for moving dirt. Rectangles carry more than tubs and have the added benefit of removable sides.
How much you can expect to spend on a gardening cart
Simple, light-duty plastic carts with two wheels for small gardens cost around $40. Larger four-wheeled carts cost $60-$100. Heavy-duty gardening carts that can carry 1,000 pounds cost from $150 to more than $300.
Gardening cart FAQ
How do I take care of my gardening cart?
A. Whether your cart is made of metal, plastic or wood, all you need to do is rinse it off and let it dry outside before putting it away. Check and lubricate wheel bearings as directed by the manufacturer. Check your tires regularly to see they stay properly inflated.
Is it better to buy a gardening cart that’s too big or too small?
A. If you go with a bigger one, it’ll be less likely to tip over. Another good reason to get a big cart is that you have to make fewer trips from where you keep your gardening tools and materials out to your garden and back again.
What’s the best gardening cart to buy?
Top gardening cart
Gorilla Carts Heavy Duty Steel Utility Cart
What you need to know: This is the all-around best option for gardening enthusiasts.
What you’ll love: This 56-inch long gardening cart is built for the serious gardener. It rides on 13-inch tires, is made of high-grade alloy steel and has a 1,000-pound capacity. The steel mesh sides can be removed to convert this 7 cubic foot gardening cart into a flatbed trailer.
What you should consider: If you use this cart for heavy loads, make sure you keep the tires properly inflated.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top gardening cart for the money
Gorilla Carts Poly Garden Dump Cart
What you need to know: Unloading is made quick and easy with this gardening cart’s patented quick-release dump feature.
What you’ll love: The frame is made of steel and the cart bed is made of tough and durable poly plastic. The padded handle and 10-inch pneumatic tires make it easy to pull 600 pounds of anything you can load it with, even over heavy terrain. The 40 x 25-inch bed carries things like dirt, mulch, rocks and more.
What you should consider: Some people say assembly is more of a challenge than it should be.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Suncast 15.5-Gallon Multipurpose Cart with Wheels
What you need to know: This weather-resistant cart handles smaller loads with ease.
What you’ll love: Not everyone needs to move lots of rocks and dirt; some gardeners want to move plants, mulch, weeds and so on. They like how this 11-pound cart is easy to maneuver and the handle telescopes into itself for storing in tight places. Users take this cart beyond the garden, using it to tote laundry and groceries.
What you should consider: This two-wheeled cart is prone to tipping over when overloaded or top-heavy.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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David Allan Van 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.
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https://www.wane.com/reviews/br/tools-br/best-gardening-carts/
| 2022-04-09T22:52:38
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Which aerator shoes are best for fall lawn care?
If you’ve been properly watering, weeding and fertilizing your lawn yet it still doesn’t look bright green and healthy, it may be because your soil isn’t properly aerated. Hard, compacted soil doesn’t allow the water and fertilizer to get down to the roots where it is needed.
There are many ways to aerate your lawn and break up thatch, but if you have a small property, aerator shoes are one of the best. When choosing aerator shoes, it is important to look for a pair with a sturdy strap system like the one featured in Leweio Lawn Aerator Shoes. This helps ensure they stay securely in place throughout the entire job.
What to know before you buy aerator shoes
Why lawns need aeration
Anyone who has ever tried to maintain a lawn knows that keeping it green and healthy is no simple task. It needs proper watering and adequate fertilizer, but just a bit too much or too little of either can result in grass that doesn’t grow well or dies off.
Over time, the soil gets compacted from people walking on it, heavy rains and various other reasons. Additionally, thatch from mowing and other sources can build up on top of the soil. Together, these two factors can result in a nearly impenetrable layer that stops water, oxygen and fertilizer from getting down to the roots of your grass. Periodically aerating your lawn breaks up this impenetrable layer so your grass can get the nutrients, oxygen and water it needs.
When and how often to aerate your lawn
Most experts recommend aerating your lawn at least once a year. That said, some lawns need more frequent aeration, while others can go for two or three years before requiring it. Some signs that your lawn may need aeration include a spongy feeling when you press on the grass, water pooling up after rains rather than quickly draining away and dying patches of grass that won’t grow even with regular watering.
You can aerate your lawn at any time without harming it, but you’ll get the most benefit from doing it during the peak growing season. This is early spring or fall for cool-season grasses and late spring or early summer for hot-season grasses.
What to look for in quality aerator shoes
Aerator shoe straps
One of the most important aspects of aerator shoes are the straps. If the straps aren’t sturdy or tend to loosen up as you work, they will allow the shoes to slip, which can potentially be dangerous. The wider and thicker the straps or the more there are, the better they will secure the shoes in place on your feet.
Aerator shoe buckles vs. velcro
Straps on aerator shoes are generally tightened in place through the use of buckles or Velcro. The latter is easier to don and remove quickly. It also tends to have better holding power. However, buckles can sometimes loosen up as you work, so you may want to avoid them.
How to keep lawn aerator shoes from slipping off
As an additional safeguard against your foot slipping around as you walk, some aerator shoes have a textured footbed which adds some traction.
Aerator spike reinforcement
On many aerator shoes, the spikes are secured to the plastic footbed. While this is often sufficient, it can lead to the shoes cracking with use. Higher-end models incorporate some kind of reinforcement, such as a metal plate, to reduce the chances of this happening.
How to assemble aerator shoes
While not complicated, assembling aerator shoes can be time-consuming because you have to individually secure each screw in place, and there are usually between 24-26 of them between the two shoes. If you don’t want to deal with this, look for a pair that comes pre-assembled.
How much you can expect to spend on aerator shoes
The majority of aerator shoes cost between $15-$35. However, most people may want to avoid models that cost less than $20, as they are often made with low-quality materials.
Aerator shoes FAQ
Do aerator shoes work?
A. Aerator shoes’ spikes are solid and push the soil to the side and downward when used, thus compacting the soil even more. You simply strap them to your feet and walk around your yard. You can even do it while mowing, allowing you to get two jobs done simultaneously.
Do aerator shoes actually work?
A. There is no doubt that aerator shoes work to aerate your lawn, but whether or not they are a suitable choice for your needs is another question. If you have a small property, they are an effective way to loosen your soil and can even be used when you mow to save yourself some time. However, if you have a large property, you will be better off with a push or tow-behind aerator. You can learn more about the different types of lawn aerators on the BestReviews buying guide.
Do aerator shoes come in different sizes?
A. No, they don’t. Pretty much all aerator shoes have a one-size-fits-all design.
What are the best aerator shoes to buy?
Top aerator shoes
What you need to know: With a sturdy platform and thick straps, these aerator shoes should be the go-to choice for those who find other models feel a bit too flimsy.
What you’ll love: Thanks to a combination of laces and Velcro, they are easy to don quickly and stay securely in place. Plus, they conveniently come fully assembled, so you won’t have to waste any time screwing down a bunch of nuts.
What you should consider: The spikes can bend if you hit large rocks in the soil.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top aerator shoes for the money
What you need to know: The Ergomind Aerator shoes stand apart from the rest thanks to an integrated heel support system that helps ensure they stay firmly in place as your stomp all over your yard.
What you’ll love: The spikes are embedded into a steel plate, so you don’t have to worry about plastic breaking if you hit something hard at an odd angle with them. Also, the sturdy metal buckles do an effective job at preventing the straps from loosening as you work.
What you should consider: They only come with two spare spikes.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
What you need to know: These basic lawn aerator shoes get the job done but are less durable than more costly models.
What you’ll love: The simple strap system makes them easy to don and doff without much fumbling around, and the textured footbeds offer a bit of traction, so they don’t shift around as you walk.
What you should consider: The spikes can loosen during use.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Brett Dvoretz writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.
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| 2022-04-09T22:52:45
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Which activity cubes are best?
If you are looking for a fun way to develop your child’s cognitive and motor skills, activity cubes are the way to go. They can help improve everything from hand-eye coordination to reading and problem-solving skills. Best of all, they keep kids entertained while doing so.
There are plenty of things to consider when choosing an activity cube for your child, such as the build materials and theme, but the most important is how well it fits their developmental age. If you want a cube that can grow with your child from the time they are a baby through to their toddler years, opt for a model with plenty of activities of varying skill levels, such as the Hape Country Critters Wooden Activity Play Cube.
What to know before you buy an activity cube
Developmental stage
Activity cubes can provide countless hours of entertainment and learning for a child, but only if you get one that fits their skill levels. Most activity cubes list the intended age range, but you’ll also need to consider an individual child’s developmental stage when choosing a model. Ideally, the activities should reinforce and build on things they already know or things you are just beginning to teach them.
For example, if your child understands a few letters, consider buying an activity cube that has the entire alphabet or perhaps a few basic words they can practice spelling out. Very young toddlers tend to do best with activity cubes that provide a lot of tactile sensations because they can enjoy these long before they begin to recognize shapes or letters.
In addition to cognitive skills, consider motor skills. An activity cube should be challenging for a child but not so difficult they become frustrated when trying to use it.
Theme
Along with your child’s developmental stage, consider their interests. Activity cubes are available in a variety of themes, ranging from sports to animals and storybook fantasies. Choosing a model that incorporates pictures, shapes and characters they like should make it more engaging for them. Some models also mix themes, which are great for children who don’t yet have specific likes and dislikes.
Safety
While you might assume any toy marketed for children is safe, this is not always the case. This means the responsibility ultimately falls on parents and other caretakers to ensure they aren’t giving children a toy that could be dangerous. When looking at activity cubes, consider the size of the pieces and if any can be detached or broken off by a determined child. Check that it doesn’t have sharp edges or corners.
Materials
Activity cubes are made from a variety of materials. Wood is the most eco-friendly option but plastic models often are cheaper and more likely to have sounds or music. There also are plushie activity cubes for babies.
What to look for in a quality activity cube
Number and type of activities
Some activity cubes only have a few activities while others might have 15 or more. The greater the number of activities and the more variety, the more time a child will spend playing with it. The most common activities are bead mazes, matching mazes, abacus sliders, shape sorters and spinning gears.
Sounds
Activity cubes with sounds can be more engaging, especially for young children. Some feature pianos, xylophones or other instruments. There also are models that play recordings at the touch of a button, such as counting, animal sounds or nursery rhymes.
Lights
Lights also can make activity cubes more interesting. These often come with models intended for babies between 1-2 years old.
How much you can expect to spend on an activity cube
Small plushies for babies tend to cost between $10-$20. Plastic models range from $10-$50, and wood activity cubes cost between $20-$125.
Activity cube FAQ
How do you clean an activity cube?
A. Activity cubes can be difficult to clean because of the number of nooks and crannies. Start by wiping down the exterior with a solution made from warm water and standard dish soap. Wipe it down one more time with a damp cloth to remove as much of the soap as possible. If you have a place to do it, you can leave it outside in the sun for an hour or two to help kill off germs and bacteria you may have missed when wiping it down.
Is it OK for a child to climb on an activity cube?
A. No. Never allow children to climb or pull too hard on an activity cube. Either of these actions can lead to the activity cube falling on the child and potentially causing injury. To ensure safety, always supervise your child when they’re using their activity cube.
What’s the best activity cube to buy?
Top activity cube
Hape Country Critters Wooden Activity Play Cube
What you need to know: With a country theme, vibrant colors and plenty of activities, this activity cube should keep most children between the ages of 12 months and 6 years entertained for hours.
What you’ll love: It is made from wood sourced from sustainable forests and finished with nontoxic, water-based paint. The durable construction allows it to withstand plenty of use.
What you should consider: You could easily lose some pieces.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon.
Top activity cube for the money
Top Bright Toddler and Baby Activity Cube Toy
What you need to know: This model combines an elephant shape with engaging activities.
What you’ll love: You can remove the bead maze and use it separately, making it a great choice for multi-child households.
What you should consider: It is too small for some babies in the recommended age range.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon.
Worth checking out
Play22 Activity Cube With Bead Maze
What you need to know: This affordably-priced toy keeps children engaged while allowing parents to keep to their budget.
What you’ll love: Most children are drawn to its bright primary colors, and its lack of any notable theme makes it suitable for all children, no matter their interests.
What you should consider: It’s very lightweight and some children may accidentally push it around while playing with it.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon.
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Brett Dvoretz writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.
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| 2022-04-09T22:52:52
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Which adjustable dumbbell is best?
If you like to work out at home, you need dumbbells — and not just one or two of them, either. You need anywhere from 12-30 dumbbells if you want to work on every part of your body with the right amount of weight. Of course, most people simply don’t have room in their home to store this number of dumbbells. Instead, they try to make do with just a couple of pairs, which isn’t an ideal solution. That’s when adjustable dumbbells can help.
Models such as the Bowflex SelectTech ST552 come as a set of two but take the place of 30 traditional dumbbells. These particular dumbbells have a weight range of 5-52.5 pounds and adjust in 2.5-pound increments, making them ideal for casual and serious lifters alike.
What to know before you buy an adjustable dumbbell
Benefits of an adjustable dumbbell
The largest benefit of adjustable dumbbells is their space-saving design. If you’ve stepped foot in a gym before, you’ve probably noticed a row of dumbbells running the entire length of a wall. While that may be fine for a commercial gym, most people don’t have this kind of space in their home. Instead, you can opt for an adjustable dumbbell to take the place of anywhere from 4-15 traditional dumbbells.
Another benefit of adjustable dumbbells is their portability. If you like to work out at the park or another outdoor location, you only have to toss two dumbbells in your trunk and you’ll have a full set of weights to use.
Although adjustable dumbbells may seem expensive, they usually are more affordable than buying a full set of traditional dumbbells.
Size
Adjustable dumbbells may feel a bit awkward at first because of their unusual size and shape. You may not notice this when using the dumbbell at its maximum weight, but it becomes more apparent when using it at the lower weight settings. This is because the overall length of the dumbbell isn’t reduced as you drop the weight. The dumbbell will feel nearly as large when you use it at 10 pounds as it does when you use it at 50 pounds.
Durability
Adjustable dumbbells are great for traditional workout routines but aren’t ideal for any kind of activity where you are tossing around the weight. Due to the integrated weight adjustment mechanism, they are less durable than traditional dumbbells, which don’t have any moving parts.
What to look for in a quality adjustable dumbbell
Weight range
Every adjustable dumbbell has a minimum and maximum weight. The greater the weight range, the more exercises you can do, and the more users for which a particular pair will be suitable. Beginners need lower weights and serious lifters need heavier dumbbells. If you have several people with varying fitness levels at home, an adjustable dumbbell with a wide weight range will be equally suitable for all of them.
Increments
Along with the weight range, the increments a dumbbell adjusts are important. The most common increments are 2.5 and 5 pounds, but there are options that adjust in as little as 1-pound increments. The smaller the increments, the better. This allows you to only slightly increase the weight rather than making a big jump that may make an exercise too difficult.
Grip
An adjustable dumbbell’s grip determines how secure a hold you have on it as well as how comfortable it is for your hand. Any dumbbell you choose should have some kind of traction-increasing texture that reduces the chances of it slipping out of your hand. If you wear gloves when working out, dumbbells with a knurled metal grip are fine. However, if you normally work out without gloves, opt for a dumbbell with a soft grip.
Storage tray
Most adjustable dumbbells come with a storage tray where the unused weight plates sit while you work out. Put the dumbbells back into these trays when you want to adjust to higher or lower weights.
How much you can expect to spend on an adjustable dumbbell
Adjustable dumbbells can cost from $25-$250 for a single dumbbell. The weight range and ease and reliability of the adjustment mechanism are the two biggest determining factors in the price.
Adjustable dumbbell FAQ
Do you need two dumbbells?
A. While you could certainly put together a workout routine that only requires a single dumbbell, most people will be best served by buying a pair. Having just one dumbbell can make it more difficult to keep your body correctly balanced when performing certain exercises.
Do adjustable dumbbells require any maintenance?
A. As with traditional dumbbells, adjustable dumbbells require essentially no maintenance other than periodically cleaning them off with a damp cloth or sanitizing them with a disinfectant.
What is the best adjustable dumbbell to buy?
Top adjustable dumbbell
Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbell ST552
What you need to know: From one of the most reputable brands in home fitness equipment, the SelectTech ST552 can see you through years of constant workouts without you having to worry about their mechanism failing.
What you’ll love: They transition between plates smoothly, adjust in low 2.5-pound increments and have a dial system that is easy to use with gloves on.
What you should consider: Their high price tag can put them out of reach for many consumers.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Top adjustable dumbbell for the money
What you need to know: This reasonably-priced option is available as a single dumbbell and has a low weight range, which makes it a good choice for beginners.
What you’ll love: A simple push-pull design allows you to quickly switch between weights, and it features a comfortable, soft and textured grip you won’t mind holding onto without gloves.
What you should consider: It only replaces four standard dumbbells.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon.
Worth checking out
Merax Deluxe 71.5 Pounds Adjustable Dial Dumbbells
What you need to know: This pair is best for serious lifters looking for high-weight adjustable dumbbells.
What you’ll love: Despite having a maximum weight of 71.5 pounds per dumbbell, you can adjust the weight to just 11 pounds.
What you should consider: The measurements are denoted in kilograms.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon.
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Brett Dvoretz writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.
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| 2022-04-09T22:53:00
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Which budget travel accessories are best?
Traveling can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. There are ways to keep costs down when exploring the world. Using travel accessories that are multipurpose and cost-effective is a great way to save money. When purchasing a budget travel product, consider how it was made and if it can be of optimal use at your destination. It’s also important to consider where you will be going, how you will be getting there and what the weather will be like, among many other factors.
If you are looking for a cheap yet high-quality travel accessory that can be used multiple times, the Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Travel Pillow is the top choice.
What to know before you buy budget travel accessories
Destination
When searching for the best budget travel accessories, consider where you will be traveling. If you’re traveling to a place that’s higher in elevation, consider purchasing products that will help you ease into the change in altitude. If you’re traveling internationally, there’s a chance that your destination will use different products. For example, each country has a different style of adaptor. This is something to consider as a product that you plan to use may not be of common use in another country and will not function properly. Researching a country’s specific customs before traveling will help you purchase travel accessories accordingly.
Transportation
When choosing a good budget travel accessory, consider how you’ll be getting around when traveling. Whether you’re walking to a campsite, taking a road trip or flying to your destination, it’s important for the travel accessory that you chose to be compact and lightweight for convenience. If you’re traveling by car, especially with multiple people, it’s important to consider compact packing. If there are many people, accessories that help you keep items private and organized will be key in helping the trip go smoothly. If you plan to travel by airplane, consider the ounces restriction and weight restriction for carry-ons for efficient, stress-free traveling.
Season
When choosing a budget travel accessory, consider the season you will be traveling. If you’re traveling in colder seasons and plan to be outside a lot during your trip, choose products that will keep you warm, such as thermal blankets and heavy-duty insulated luggage and other gear. If you plan to travel in the summer months, keep all of your travel accessories lightweight and purchase accordingly.
Some products are specific to the season. For example, if you’re traveling in the summer and plan to be in a place without air conditioning, consider a portable fan. If you’re traveling in the winter, consider bringing hand warmers as a useful travel accessory. It is important to always be prepared for the weather when purchasing a budget travel accessory.
What to look for in quality budget travel accessories
Compact
When choosing a budget travel accessory, make sure it’s compact enough for the type of travel that you’ll be doing. A good travel accessory won’t take up unnecessary space and will fit conveniently into whatever you’re using to store your things. If you’re camping or taking a road trip, there are no restrictions on size. However, if you are flying, there will be restrictions on the number of carry-ons that you can bring with you before a fee is added. If your travel accessory is compact, fitting everything you need into the minimum amount of bags won’t be an issue. Regardless of transportation, you’ll want a product that utilizes space effectively.
Organization
Travel accessories are meant to bring ease to your packing process and convenience to your traveling experience. One of the most important aspects of traveling is keeping everything organized so it can be unloaded easily, and you can be off on your adventures. Consider opting for budget travel accessories that provide more organization to the packing process. Whether this be luggage with different compartments or packing cubes, make sure the product is lightweight and helps with compacting your items into one space.
Multipurpose
A good travel accessory will be able to be used for multiple things. For example, purchasing a universal adapter can be used for trips to various countries. A cube organizer set for luggage can be used to keep dirty laundry apart from clean laundry, as well as organize the clothes in your bag. You can use a travel pillow at the place you are staying as well as on the trip during a bumpy bus ride to protect other parts of your body. Products like these can provide multiple uses, will save space and time in the long run and can be used for more than one trip.
For useful information on a multipurpose travel item, take a look at the full travel pillow buying guide from BestReviews.
How much you can expect to spend on budget travel accessories
A budget travel accessory will cost anywhere from $5-$40, depending on the style of product and its function. Smaller products will be between $5-$20, while larger products will cost anywhere between $20-$40.
Budget travel accessories FAQ
What is the most sustainable way to purchase travel accessories?
A. Shopping for used travel accessories secondhand is the most sustainable way to source items for travel. Thrifting needed products can save you money as well as save the environment. Some products, such as pillows, you may not want to purchased secondhand due to cleanliness.
What is the most efficient way to keep track of all needed accessories?
A. The best way to keep track of all needed accessories is to make a physical list. Write down what you will need to bring and search online for pre-made checklists for people who have traveled to the same destination. For efficiency, you can create a spreadsheet and share it with those you’re traveling with to make sure no one forgets an item and the trip goes smoothly.
What are the best budget travel accessories to buy?
Top budget travel accessory
Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Travel Pillow
What you need to know: This product is versatile and can be used to get to your destination and when you arrive at your destination.
What you’ll love: This product is compact, lightweight and portable, and it easily compresses down into a waterproof sack. It is machine washable and made with memory foam for added comfort and firm neck support.
What you should consider: The pillow looks larger than it is in images and may be too small for some.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon.
Top budget travel accessory for the money
Worldwide All-In-One Universal Travel Adapter
What you need to know: This adaptor features four universal plugs and covers more than 150 countries.
What you’ll love: This product features built in safety shutter and an LED power indicator. It has dual USB ports for convenient charging of most electronics.
What you should consider: The Euro-tip on this product is easily breakable, so be careful when packing. It cannot be used in South Africa, India, Sweden or Italy.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon.
Worth checking out
Amazon Basics Small Packing Travel Organizer Cubes Set
What you need to know: This organizer cube set includes four gray travel cubes with handles for easy carrying and mesh tops for breathability.
What you’ll love: The mesh is soft enough to keep fabrics from being damaged, and the product is machine washable for convenience. It features interior seams for increased durability and a double zipper for easy open and close.
What you should consider: The fabric can be stiff and too bulky to conveniently fit into some suitcases.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon.
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Logan DeLoye writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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| 2022-04-09T22:53:07
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NEW YORK (AP) — A suspect was charged Saturday in the fatal shooting of a teen girl who was walking home from school when she was hit by a stray bullet during a street dispute in New York City.
New York Police Department officials announced the arrest of Jeremiah Ryan on charges of murder, attempted murder and criminal possession of a weapon in connection with Friday’s shooting.
Police identified the girl killed in the shooting as 16-year-old Angellyh Yambo. Another 16-year-old girl was hit in the leg, and a 17-year-old boy was wounded in the buttocks. Both are expected to survive.
Prosecutors said Ryan, 17, would have a court appearance either later Saturday or on Sunday. They declined further comment.
It was not immediately clear if Ryan had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.
The shooting in the Bronx was the latest episode of headline-grabbing violence in the city amid a surge in crime during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Police had said the gunfire appeared to start after Ryan and another person were gesturing at each other across an intersection. The teens who were struck were walking by on the sidewalk headed home from school, police said.
Police were investigating whether the shooting suspect, who had no criminal record, was using a so-called “ghost gun” — homemade firearms that can be built with parts bought online and lack serial numbers normally used to trace them. They said a total of six rounds were fired.
At a news briefing on Saturday, Deputy Police Chief Timothy McCormack expressed dismay over the circumstances of the case.
“We have two families that are completely destroyed right now — our victim’s family and our shooter’s family,” McCormack said. He described the suspect’s mother as “a hard-working woman” whose child had “zero police contact” before his arrest.
The shooting happened outside of the South Bronx Educational Campus, which is home to two schools, Mott Haven Village Prep and University Heights Secondary School.
The Department of Education said two of the teens went to Mott Haven. The third teen went to University Prep Charter High School, a short distance away.
Mayor Eric Adams has made fighting crime a priority since taking office Jan. 1. Homicides are down slightly from this time last year, but gun violence overall remains at levels not seen in a decade.
New York City saw shootings drop to modern-era lows from 2012 to 2019, but that progress was partly erased during the pandemic and social unrest of the past two years. Violence still remains at levels far below the city’s nadir in the 1990s or even in the decade after the Sept. 11 terror attacks.
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https://www.wane.com/news/crime/police-arrest-made-in-slaying-of-girl-walking-on-nyc-street/
| 2022-04-09T22:53:14
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Norman police are investigating a fatal shooting Saturday morning near the University of Oklahoma campus.
NPD spokesperson Sarah Jensen confirmed one person was killed in the shooting on Lindsey Street just east of Elm Street. The stretch of road runs through OU’s campus.
Police responded to the scene after they got a call about the incident at 11:26 a.m. Saturday.
To Jensen's knowledge, university police are not involved in the investigation.
"At this point, all elements of the incident are under investigation," Jensen said. "We can confirm all parties are accounted for, and there’s no further threat to the public related to this incident."
Jensen said police likely won't have any further updates about the shooting until the following week.
At least eight police cars responded to the scene following the call. Police marked off Lindsey Street east of Elm Street with crime scene tape Saturday afternoon.
The university sent out a text to students at 11:34 a.m. notifying them of a “law enforcement emergency” on campus. The school sent a text 23 minutes later saying the area was secure.
Student Collin Chapman said he’s surprised someone was shot where they were.
“There’s obvioulsy some streets around here that I wouldn’t be too shocked that this would happen on — there’s some rougher areas for sure – but right on Lindsey Street, I mean, I drive through here every single day, walk through here every single day, and I’ve never seen as much as somebody getting a speeding ticket. So yeah, it’s definitely crazy. I was not expecting to wake up to this this morning.”
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https://www.normantranscript.com/news/npd-shooting-near-campus-kills-one/article_280aef80-b82a-11ec-9bae-73c3d2b814ce.html
| 2022-04-09T22:53:41
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https://www.unionleader.com/news/safety/83-year-old-wrong-way-driver-causes-five-car-wreck-on-everett-turnpike-in-nashua/article_723a6b8d-15f7-51fc-a82d-e89e5713cd1b.html
| 2022-04-09T22:54:25
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