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RICHMOND, Va., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Virginia Retirement System reported a 0.6% return, net of fees, on its investment portfolio for fiscal year 2022, ending the year with approximately $101.2 billion.
"We registered a positive return by following VRS' long-term strategy of diversification while taking advantage of strong private markets," Chief Investment Officer Ronald D. Schmitz said. "Although the return was muted compared to last year's banner 27.5%, the VRS total fund outperformed passively managed stock and bond indices by over 10%. In addition, we exceeded the assumed rate of return for the three-, five- and 10-year periods."
"VRS remains in a solid position to support our current and future retirees while maintaining stable contribution rates for our employers," said VRS Board Chair A. Scott Andrews. "Our investment professionals are bound by a risk-controlled approach, typically contributing about 0.5% of average added value annually over the long term. In a year scarred by inflation, war, supply chain issues and other disruptions, the VRS investment staff achieved a remarkable 6% of added value above the benchmark, which translates to hundreds of millions toward the bottom line of the VRS trust fund."
During fiscal year 2022, the major asset classes performed as follows:
- Public equity program returned -14.8%
- Fixed income program returned -10.6%
- Credit strategies program returned 1.5%
- Real assets program returned 21.7%
- Private equity program returned 27.4%
- Private investment partnerships 17.0%
- Multi-asset public strategies -4.7%
The portfolio included approximately $29.9 billion in public equity, $12.9 billion in fixed income, $14.5 billion in credit strategies, $15.1 billion in real assets, $19.0 billion in private equity, $2.6 billion in private investment partnerships and $3.6 billion in public strategies portfolio, as of June 30, 2022.
For more information about VRS' investment strategy, visit varetire.org/investments.
The Virginia Retirement System, an independent state agency based in Richmond, delivers retirement and other benefits to covered Virginia public sector employees through sound financial stewardship and superior customer service. VRS ranks as the 17th largest public or private pension fund in the U.S. and the 46th largest in the world, serving more than 750,000 active and inactive members, retirees and beneficiaries. Members include public school teachers, political subdivision employees (cities, towns, special authorities and commissions), state agency employees, public college and university personnel, state police, Virginia law officers and the judiciary. Approximately 835 employers participate in VRS.
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SOURCE Virginia Retirement System | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/vrs-reports-06-return-fiscal-year-2022/ | 2022-08-18T16:54:12Z | witn.com | control | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/vrs-reports-06-return-fiscal-year-2022/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
STEVE INSKEEP, HOST:
Good morning, I'm Steve Inskeep. To 911 operators, every call counts. So when they got a call from a central California zoo and the line dropped, dispatchers tried to call back. They investigated and found no prime suspects, but a primate suspect. A capuchin monkey had made that call, grabbing a phone from a golf cart. On social media, the sheriff's office concluded it was a classic case of monkey see, monkey do. It's MORNING EDITION. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR. | https://www.klcc.org/2022-08-17/a-monkey-at-a-zoo-in-california-makes-a-call-to-911 | 2022-08-18T16:56:42Z | klcc.org | control | https://www.klcc.org/2022-08-17/a-monkey-at-a-zoo-in-california-makes-a-call-to-911 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Young people turning away from alcohol is generally welcomed as a positive trend. But it's bad news both for booze companies, and governments that are watching lucrative alcohol tax revenues dry up along with the populace.
Japan's National Tax Agency is clearly concerned: It's taking an unorthodox approach to try to get young Japanese adults to drink more, in an online contest dubbed Sake Viva!
The project asks young people to submit business plans to lure a new generation into going on the sauce, saying Japan's sake, beer and liquor makers are facing challenges that the pandemic has made even worse.
Contest runs against Japan's non-drinking trend
Japan's alcohol consumption has been in a downward arc since the 1990s, according to the country's health ministry. In the past decade, the government adopted a sweeping plan to counter societal and health problems linked to alcohol, with a focus on reaching the relatively small portion of the population who were found to account for nearly 70% of Japan's total alcohol consumption.
Coronavirus restrictions have kept many people from visiting Japan's izakaya (pub) businesses, and people simply aren't drinking enough at home, the tax agency said.
"The domestic alcoholic beverage market is shrinking due to demographic changes such as the declining birthrate and aging population," as well as lifestyle shifts away from drinking, according to a website specially created for the contest.
New products that reflect the changing times; sales that use virtual "AI and Metaverse" concepts; promotions that leverage products' place of origin — those are just a few of the ideas the site lists as ways to get Japan's young adults to embrace alcohol.
Backlash hits the plan to boost alcohol businesses
The contest is aimed at "revitalizing the liquor industry and solving problems." But it has hit a sour note with many people online, prompting pointed questions about why a government that has previously encouraged people to drink responsibly or abstain is now asking for help in getting young people to drink more.
Writer and journalist Karyn Nishi highlighted the controversy, saying Japan was going in the opposite direction most modern governments are pursuing and stressing that alcohol is inherently dangerous. As discussions erupted about the contest on Twitter, one popular comment praised young people who aren't drinking, saying they believe the social costs imposed by alcohol aren't outweighed by tax revenues.
Critics also questioned the initiative's cost to taxpayers. The contest and website are being operated by Pasona Noentai, an agriculture and food-related arm of a massive Japanese corporation called Pasona Group.
The pro-drinking contest will run for months, ending this fall
The Sake Viva! contest is open to people from 20 to 39 years old, with submissions due on Sept. 9. An email to contest organizers seeking comment and details about the number of entries was not answered before this story published.
Pro-drinking contest submissions that make it to the final round will be judged in person in Tokyo on Nov. 10.
The date underlines the dichotomy many now see in the government's alcohol policies: When Japan enacted the Basic Act on Measures against Alcohol-related Harm, it established a week devoted to raising alcohol abuse awareness, with a start date of Nov. 10.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.klcc.org/npr-news/2022-08-18/japan-launches-a-contest-to-urge-young-people-to-drink-more-alcohol | 2022-08-18T16:56:51Z | klcc.org | control | https://www.klcc.org/npr-news/2022-08-18/japan-launches-a-contest-to-urge-young-people-to-drink-more-alcohol | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LOS ANGELES — LeBron James has agreed to a two-year, $97.1 million contract extension through the 2024-25 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, his agent announced Wednesday.
Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul said the league-maximum deal makes James the highest-paid player in NBA history. His new deal includes a player option that would keep the second-leading scorer in NBA history with the Lakers past his 40th birthday in December 2024.
The 37-year-old James is headed into the final year of his most recent contract with the Lakers, who signed the four-time NBA Most Valuable Player and four-time league champion in July 2018. The new deal means the 18-time All-Star will make $46.7 million this season.
Barring injury, James is likely to surpass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA's career scoring king this winter. James and the Lakers also still hope to be in contention for another title if James and Anthony Davis can return at full health after an injury-plagued 2021-22 ended without a playoff appearance.
James' new deal syncs with Davis' most recent contract extension with the Lakers, allowing both to leave the Lakers or to negotiate new deals in 2024. Both superstars are represented by Klutch.
James' recommitment to the Lakers also silences persistent talk of his possible departure as a free agent or in a trade. James hasn't appeared to be going anywhere on social media or in his public appearances, and he praised the hiring of new Lakers coach Darvin Ham.
James has missed significant portions of the season due to injury in three of his four years with the Lakers. He was largely healthy in the elongated 2019-20 season when the Lakers won the franchise's 17th NBA title in the Florida bubble, and he has been every bit the dominant player of his prime when at full strength in the ensuing two years.
Although his contract status inspired plenty of offseason chatter, James seemed unlikely to relocate after spending the past four seasons of his 19-year career with the storied Lakers. His family is settled in Los Angeles, where his eldest son, Bronny, is a 17-year-old senior and college basketball prospect playing at Sierra Canyon High School in Chatsworth.
James has occasionally said he intends to play on the same team with Bronny when his son reaches the NBA. Although plenty of obstacles remain between the younger James and the NBA, he could be draft-eligible in the summer of 2024.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.klcc.org/npr-news/npr-news/2022-08-18/lebron-james-97-1m-contract-extension-makes-him-the-top-paid-player-in-nba-history | 2022-08-18T16:57:14Z | klcc.org | control | https://www.klcc.org/npr-news/npr-news/2022-08-18/lebron-james-97-1m-contract-extension-makes-him-the-top-paid-player-in-nba-history | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Kuwait Brig. Gen. Fahad Alotaibi, director, Office of Military Cooperation, Kuwait Ministry of Defense, provides guidance, from the head of the table, during the Joint Implementation Committee meeting, Kuwait City, Aug. 16, 2022. To his left are, U.S. Air Force, Col. Rolandis Walker, vice chief, Office of Military Cooperation, KMOD; and Col. Martin A. Wohlgemuth, commander, Area Support Group-Kuwait. Members of KMOD, K Ministry of Interior, and U.S. Armed Forces met during a two-day event to discuss joint ventures. The meetings, held throughout the year, ensure the continuous dialogue and strengthening of our relationships. (U.S. Army photo by Claudia LaMantia)
This work, U.S. Dept. of Defense Members Meet with Kuwaiti Partners, JIC, Aug 2022 [Image 4 of 4], by Claudia LaMantia, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright. | https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7376423/us-dept-defense-members-meet-with-kuwaiti-partners-jic-aug-2022 | 2022-08-18T17:12:29Z | dvidshub.net | control | https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7376423/us-dept-defense-members-meet-with-kuwaiti-partners-jic-aug-2022 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
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Readers' Choice Awards | https://www.parrysound.com/news-story/10694660--what-happened-that-night-broke-her-dying-woman-s-goodbye-visit-to-peterborough-ends-in-disappoi/ | 2022-08-18T17:12:34Z | parrysound.com | control | https://www.parrysound.com/news-story/10694660--what-happened-that-night-broke-her-dying-woman-s-goodbye-visit-to-peterborough-ends-in-disappoi/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
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Readers' Choice Awards | https://www.parrysound.com/news-story/10695048-doug-ford-tories-unveil-health-care-changes-to-free-up-hospitals-but-stress-ontarians-will-always-a/ | 2022-08-18T17:12:58Z | parrysound.com | control | https://www.parrysound.com/news-story/10695048-doug-ford-tories-unveil-health-care-changes-to-free-up-hospitals-but-stress-ontarians-will-always-a/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Greensboro, NC Author Publishes Inspirational Story
A Story of When Medicines Don’t Work But Faith Does
Hope in Hard Times, a new book by Judy Dunn Palmer, has been released by Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc.
If you've ever felt down and out, you'll relate to this book, Hope in Hard Times. One morning, Judy Dunn Palmer woke up and couldn't brush her teeth. Her right hand was frozen in the shape of the letter "C". She received a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis, but despite having one of the best doctors in the area and one of the best medicines, nothing worked. Her hand remained frozen. In fact, it stayed that way for two years. This is God's story of how He took this broken-down woman, wrapped His arms around her and straightened her fingers. This is an inspirational story of healing that will encourage and comfort many readers.
About the Author
Judy Dunn Palmer grew up in Des Moines, Iowa, and learned by example that God and family were most important. She is eternally grateful to her parents for their example. She is pleased to be a servant to the children of God in many different areas, such as in her role as Mom to the five children she and her husband have together. These are children of her heart, not her body. Yet, no children could be more dear to her. She is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University in Journalism and Medical Anthropology. She was an editor at the Centre Daily Times in State College, PA, and for the Citizens Voice Online Newsletter. Currently, she edits the Truck Stop Newsletter for Faith Road Ministries. She now teaches classes in English, Writing, and Literature both in person and online. She always finds time for writing. She is now working on her second novel titled Adopting As A Single Parent.
Hope in Hard Times is a 88-page paperback with a retail price of $13.00 (eBook $8.00). The ISBN is 978-1-6853-7075-6. It was published by Dorrance Publishing Co., Inc of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.To buy the book visit our online bookstore at https://bookstore.dorrancepublishing.com/hope-in-hard-times/. | https://www.yesweekly.com/literature/greensboro-nc-author-publishes-inspirational-story-hope-in-hard-times-a-new-book-by-judy/article_72747082-1f09-11ed-aba0-03a1fd941035.html | 2022-08-18T17:15:05Z | yesweekly.com | control | https://www.yesweekly.com/literature/greensboro-nc-author-publishes-inspirational-story-hope-in-hard-times-a-new-book-by-judy/article_72747082-1f09-11ed-aba0-03a1fd941035.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The road to a potential NWSL playoff berth for Angel City Football Club is just that … the road.
Beginning Friday night, Angel City will conclude the regular season with a stretch of five consecutive league games on the road and six of its final eight away from Banc of California Stadium. The only two home games are Sept. 21 (Washington) and Sept. 25 (Racing Louisville FC).
The final stretch kicks off Friday at the Kansas City. Currently, who is riding a 10-game unbeaten streak.
“I think we’ve made a lot of progress since that first game and I think this is going to be a key game for us as we head into the last part of the season,” Angel City coach Freya Coombe said.
The first meeting came back on May 21 at Banc of California Stadium on an own goal forced by Christen Press in a 1-0 win. The Current enters this meeting with 25 points and Angel City is in seventh place with 21.
To remain in the race, Angel City will have to take care of business on the road and make some adjustments along the way.
“We’ve seen a great reduction in our number of training sessions we have available to us due to our busy away schedule,” Coombe said. “For us, seeing out the season, I think it is common with a lot of teams, we have a reduced number of training sessions, so our training load will be about preparing our players for games, so really reducing training load and tapering.
“There’s not a lot of opportunity to overload the players in midweek as we would normally do with four training sessions to build into a game. So the structure of our week is changed every week.”
To accommodate for that Coombe said the team will do more off-field work.
“Having more meetings, having more film sessions and being able to supplement some of the players’ on-field load with off-field work in order to still make sure that we are ticking the boxes and heading in the direction that we need to do,” she said.
The emphasis for the upcoming stretch, especially in September when Angel City has four matches in a 14-day period is rest and recovery.
“We have to make sure we give players, with this hectic schedule, a mental break too,” Coombe said. “It’s easy to view a travel day for a player as a day off, but we know that with some of our travel days, they can be completely exhausting, especially traveling coast to coast.”
Last Sunday’s 1-0 win over Chicago kept Angel City in the playoff chase.
“Hopefully we can take each game one by one and take something for that,” defender Paige Nielsen said. “It’s been our goal all season to make playoffs as an expansion team.
“We all know that we can make the playoffs, so it’s really just honing in on these last couple of weeks.”
ANGEL CITY FC at KANSAS CITY CURRENT
When: Friday, 5 p.m. PT
Where: Children’s Mercy Park, Kansas City, Kansas
TV: CBS Sports Network
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Disneyland visitors looking to save a few steps at the beginning or end of the day can jump aboard the Monorail before the park opens or when the park closes now that the “highway in the sky” is once again offering early morning and late night service.
The Disneyland Monorail has resumed evening service for the first time since the pandemic closure of the Anaheim theme park in March 2020.
SEE ALSO: Theme park spending up despite lower attendance this summer
The transportation attraction that runs between the Anaheim theme park and the hotel hub on the west side of the resort begins running 30 minutes before Disneyland opens each day for Disney hotel visitors eligible for early park entry and closes with Disneyland each night.
Early Entry privileges starting 30 minutes before the opening each day of Disneyland and Disney California Adventure began last week for guests at the Disneyland Hotel, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. Disneyland and DCA typically open at 8 a.m. — which means Disney hotel guests will be able to get into the parks starting at 7:30 a.m. most days.
The Disneyland Monorail returned to operation in October with reduced operating hours as part of the phased reopening of the theme park resort following a yearlong coronavirus closure.
Since returning to operation, the Monorail has closed most days in the early evening before sunset as Disneyland ramped up attendance and staffing levels during the phased reopening of the parks. The Monorail trains — which lack air conditioning — also don’t run on particularly hot days.
During normal operating hours, you’ll need your ticket or annual pass and a theme park reservation to hop on the Monorail at the Downtown Disney entrance and bypass the front gate on your way to the Tomorrowland station. Hotel guests with Early Entry privileges board 30 minutes prior to park opening.
SEE ALSO: What to expect at the D23 Expo from Disney theme parks
The Monorail also offers a respite at the end of the day for hotel guests with aching feet or park visitors who want to skip the parking lot tram and walk the last leg from the Downtown Disney station to the Mickey and Friends and Pixar Pals parking garages.
The “highway in the sky” offers aerial views of Tomorrowland and Fantasyland in Disneyland and a quick peek at Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure on its circuitous route that includes a Downtown Disney stop near the Disneyland Hotel.
The Monorail debuted in 1959 along with the Matterhorn Bobsleds and what is today known as Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage as part of the first wave of E-Ticket attractions. At the time, the theme park attraction and transportation system were the first daily operating monorail in the Western hemisphere.
U.S. Vice President Richard Nixon helped usher in the E-Ticket era of Disneyland on June 14, 1959 during a daylong celebration that was nationally televised on ABC and hosted by Art Linkletter.
SEE ALSO: When will Disneyland roll out MagicBand+ wearable tech bracelets?
A monorail system was envisioned for Tomorrowland with the 1955 debut of Disneyland, but Walt Disney was unsatisfied with the design options at the time. The unique straddle-beam track from Germany’s Alweg Corporation was the perfect solution. Disney loved the monorail’s nearly noiseless operation delivered thanks to a combination of electric propulsion and rubber wheels on the beam.
Disney called the new monorail attraction a “prototype of a rapid transit system which may solve many of the traffic problems of our modern day” in a May 1959 personal letter to Nixon.
The trains on the 8/10-mile beamway around Tomorrowland didn’t take you anywhere until 1961 when the track length more than doubled to incorporate a Disneyland Hotel stop.
The track route was diverted in 1994 to accommodate Indiana Jones Adventure and in 1999 to make room for Disney California Adventure, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Downtown Disney. The latest Mark VII trains first debuted in 2008.
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Universal Studios Hollywood has officially rounded out its attractions and live entertainment lineup for Halloween Horror Nights.
The newly added mazes include Killer Klowns from Outter Space, which is based on the 1988 cult classic film and will trap guests in a funhouse filled with murderous clown-like aliens; The legend of La Llorona: The Weeping Woman will rise and be on the hunt for children in an all-new maze; Scarecrow: The Reaping pits Mother Nature against the homesteaders as the scarecrows come to life in the cornfields; and inside the Universal Horror Hotel, patrons will have to escape the vengeful spirit of the property owner.
Since the Jupiter’s Claim theme park set from director Jordan Peele’s latest film “Nope” recently opened on the Universal backlot, the HHN Terror Tram experience will expand on “Nope” as well as Peele’s 2019 horror film, “Us.” A frightening group of doppelgangers from “Us,” known as The Tethered, will be on the loose and in a rare crossover moment, they’ll be invading Jupiter’s Claim.
The theme park previously announced mazes based on the 1978 horror classic “Halloween”; the Universal Monsters: Legends Collide that brings together The Wolf Man, Dracula and The Mummy for the first time; The Horrors of Blumhouse, which will explore “The Black Phone” and “Freaky” films; and pop and R&B star The Weeknd will get his very own house of horrors that will turn the tracks from his hit album “After Hours” into a living nightmare.
There will also be three new scare zones including: El Pueblo del Terror, Sideshow Slaughterhouse and Clownsawz. The award-winning dance crew Jabbawockeez will be back with a fresh, high-energy, horror-themed dance and special effects show, which will run multiple times per evening.
Universal Studios Hollywood will expand the footprint of its HHN event into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and bring the Death Eaters, a group of Voldermort’s devoted followers, into Hogsmeade Village for scares. Other open nighttime attractions and rides include Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey; Flight of the Hippogriff; Jurassic World — The Ride; Transformers: The Ride 3-D; Revenge of the Mummy — The Ride; and The Simpsons Ride.
Halloween Horror Nights officially opens on Sept. 8 and runs on select evenings through Oct. 31. Tickets are $72-$102 general admission; $179-$289 Universal Express; $219-$329 Universal Express Unlimited; $112-$154 After 2 p.m. Day/Night Passes; $319-$449 R.I.P. Tour; $199 Frequent Fear Pass; $329 Ultimate Fear Pass.
All tickets are now on sale now at universalstudioshollywood.com.
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We invite you to use our commenting platform to engage in insightful conversations about issues in our community. We reserve the right at all times to remove any information or materials that are unlawful, threatening, abusive, libelous, defamatory, obscene, vulgar, pornographic, profane, indecent or otherwise objectionable to us, and to disclose any information necessary to satisfy the law, regulation, or government request. We might permanently block any user who abuses these conditions. | https://www.pasadenastarnews.com/2022/08/18/halloween-horror-nights-2022-universal-studios-announces-killer-klowns-la-llorona-scarecrow-mazes/ | 2022-08-18T17:23:01Z | pasadenastarnews.com | control | https://www.pasadenastarnews.com/2022/08/18/halloween-horror-nights-2022-universal-studios-announces-killer-klowns-la-llorona-scarecrow-mazes/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Nearly everyone today recognizes that housing costs are too high in California. With a median home price over one million dollars in Orange County, even upper-middle-class families face the reality of their kids and grandkids moving on mass to states where housing costs don’t eclipse every other need. The past few years of price increases (both homes and rents) have put poorer residents in crisis.
The latest scheme offered by politicians to make homeownership more accessible is the California Dream for All program, touted recently in these pages. It turns the state into an investment partner with first-time homebuyers, raising billions with government bonds for a fund to provide interest-free second mortgages for up to 30 percent of a home’s cost (with the buyer investing 3 percent or more). It gets the money back when the house is later sold or refinanced, repaying the loan plus 20 percent of any increase in the home’s price. If home prices fall, the fund or the taxpayers will absorb the loss.
However, this program is premised on an upside-down view of the problem, which is counterproductive. Homes cost too much in California not because buyers can’t afford them but because there is a profound lack of supply and that shortage is almost entirely a function of regulation.
The only way to make housing affordable is to build (much) more of it. But land use regulations throughout the state make it illegal to build enough homes in the locations and varieties needed to serve people at all income levels. Most of those regulations did not exist — or were not as complicated and costly — before the 1970s when people optimistically moved here in pursuit of the “California Dream.”
Environmental regulations, such as the Endangered Species Act (1973), Clean Water Act (1972), and California Environmental Quality Act (1970), take vast amounts of land off the table for development. Even where the regulations allow permits, litigation in the name of the environment often makes development impossible without meaningful public health benefits. Exclusionary zoning policies at the local level outlaw building homes except on “large lots” that drive prices higher. Apartments are relatively easier to build in some Orange County cities, like Irvine but remain mostly illegal except in small corridors of land throughout the county and across the state. One can add a long list of additional regulations to these examples.
Goosing the demand for houses by adding state money to the budgets of buyers bidding on existing homes doesn’t make housing affordable. Boosting demand where supply remains constrained tends instead to increase home prices.
The program may give the buyers it aims to assist (about 7500 per year) a step up but pulls the first rung of the property ladder up a little higher for tens of millions of Californians not granted the state’s help. The program’s biggest beneficiaries are likely to be existing homeowners who can now add state cash to the list of regulations that have artificially increased their home values for years.
Once one recognizes that the affordability problem is a regulation-induced shortage of the right types of homes in the right locations, better solutions emerge. We don’t need the standard list of government-led proposals coming from too many housing advocates today, such as rent controls, building mandates, public housing, or exotic state investment programs.
We need more respect for the property rights of landowners and the private enterprise of builders to abundantly produce new homes.
In recent years the state has enacted legislation to make it easier to build granny flats as well as duplexes and other small projects in areas where anything but a single-family home was previously illegal. That has added some units to niche segments of the market, providing welcome housing to many. But as the California Dream for All program advocates point out, only 26 percent of California households today earned an annual income reasonably needed to buy a median-priced, single-family home last year. Prices have only risen since then. A problem of that magnitude cannot be fixed without eliminating barriers to the production of housing.
The California Dream is a phrase that once beckoned outsiders with opportunity and the promise of a better life. A home of one’s own is represented in movies, history books, and the popular mind as a key part of it. But laws squelching homebuilding have put that dream to sleep for all but the wealthiest today.
Achieving the “California Dream for all” will take something much bigger than a new government program, yet much simpler: freedom to build.
Larry Salzman is director of litigation at Pacific Legal Foundation, a nonprofit legal organization that defends Americans’ liberties when threatened by government overreach and abuse.
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The demand for vasectomies has increased since Roe v. Wade was overturned in July, and men are taking to TikTok to share their experiences getting the procedure.
Some are even shockingly documenting their reactions during the process itself.
A vasectomy is a form of male birth control that cuts the supply of sperm to semen. It’s done by cutting and sealing the tubes that carry sperm to prevent pregnancy, and according to the Mayo Clinic is 99% effective.
With women in parts of America no longer able to safely access abortions, doctors have reported an increase in the male snipping procedure.
There are 522.5 million videos using the hashtag #vasectomy — with many men filming themselves throughout the procedure and some encouraging other guys to do the same and attempting to dispel any misinformation.
“One of the things that surprised me is the sheer amount of misconceptions about vasectomies,” Texas-based comedian Keith Laue told Health. “I still have my testicles. I can still ejaculate. I don’t have low testosterone.”
In a now-viral TikTok that’s been viewed over 3.2 million times, Laue said the procedure only took “10 to 15 minutes, so it wasn’t that bad” and said the entire process from start to finish was “super easy.”
The 23-year-old told the publication that since he and his partner already had one child and knew they didn’t want another, deciding a vasectomy would be the most cost-effective option available to them.
“The road blocks were significantly less for me than Taylor [my partner] who had been on birth control before,” he said. “But also, it’s not just Taylor’s responsibility to take care of contraception.”
Urologists recently told the Washington Post they have seen an increase in interest in vasectomies since the Supreme Court’s decision, with 60% to 70% of males coming in for the procedure mentioning it as a main reason for getting the procedure.
Dr. Philip Werthman, a Los Angeles urologist, told the publication he’s seen a “300 to 400 percent” increase in the number of vasectomy consultations he has performed. Dr. Esgar Guarín, an Iowa-based urologist, claimed a “200 to 250%” increase in traffic on his website.
Laue’s not the only one to share his story on TikTok. Mike Pridgen, 28, also filmed his surgery and posted it online with a vote of confidence.
“I’ve had dental fillings with more hassle than this,” he proclaimed in the video that’s been viewed 2.8 million times.
“That’s not nearly as bad as I thought it was going to be.”
“It was an easy procedure,” father-of-three Ernest Quiocho said in his own vasectomy video. “I would do it again.”
Thousands of people have commented on the videos, thanking the men for sharing their stories.
“THANK YOU for showing other men how easy it is,” one user commented.
“Every time I debate with a man about how easy this is, I’m going to show them you,” said another.
“I got one too, it is pretty painless and the recovery was sooooo quick. It is 100% worth it,” commented another.
According to Planned Parenthood, there are two types of vasectomies: the incision method and the no-scalpel (no-cut) method.
No-cut methods reportedly lower the risk of infection and other complications and generally take less time to heal. | https://nypost.com/2022/08/18/bizarre-tiktok-trend-men-getting-vasectomies-on-camera/ | 2022-08-18T17:25:29Z | nypost.com | control | https://nypost.com/2022/08/18/bizarre-tiktok-trend-men-getting-vasectomies-on-camera/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Giants quarterback Daniel Jones revealed Thursday that he underwent a “non-football-related procedure” done on his neck early in the offseason.
A photo of Jones with a scar at the base of his neck began circulating social media after last week’s game against the Patriots. The scar can be seen under the Adam’s apple, where the thyroid is located.
Jones missed the final six games of last season with an unspecific neck injury. He took his first hits since then when playing two series in the preseason opener against the Patriots.
“It was all good,” Jones said of how he felt the morning after playing. “Didn’t have any kind of issues at all.” | https://nypost.com/2022/08/18/giants-daniel-jones-reveals-he-had-neck-surgery-during-offseason/ | 2022-08-18T17:25:35Z | nypost.com | control | https://nypost.com/2022/08/18/giants-daniel-jones-reveals-he-had-neck-surgery-during-offseason/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Fort Smith film festival starts Friday
Screenings will be Aug. 26-27 at TempleLive
Fort Smith's second annual film festival is showing 137 films created by people from more than 30 countries.
The Fort Smith International Film Festival will be Friday, Aug. 26 and Saturday, Aug. 27 at TempleLive. Tickets cost $10.
On the opening day of the festival Friday doors will open at 5 p.m. At 6 p.m., Mayor George McGill will speak, kicking off the event, said Executive Director Brandon Chase Goldsmith.
On Saturday, the festival will begin showing films at 10 a.m. and will continue showing films until 11:45 p.m.
“Basically Saturday is a movie marathon," Goldsmith said.
At midnight, there will be an awards show, and after that the party will continue until 2 a.m.
The first day of the festival will include lectures from the Arkansas Cinema Society and the Cherokee Nation Film Office.
Filmmakers submitted 365 films from 51 countries.
The festival is featuring new categories of film this year. These include thrillers, westerns and LGBTQ+.
Another new category includes alum, which are filmmakers who were a part of the festival last year.
“And the beautiful thing about having the alum is getting to watch them grow as filmmakers, so what we’re doing we’re creating a film festival community with our alums, and we get to watch them grow every year," Goldsmith said.
After each feature-length film, the directors will have a Q&A.
"Because that’s what makes a film festival different from just going to the movies is you get to talk to the director, the actors and the producers," Goldsmith said.
With films showing in four rooms at TempleLive, audience members can choose the films they want to see, making their own itinerary during the festival.
“You get to choose your own adventure for movies," Goldsmith said.
Clay Pruitt, who is also involved with the festival, talked about what the festival brings to Fort Smith.
“Honestly I think the festival benefits Fort Smith in multiple ways, but the biggest one is just bringing the community together," Pruitt said. He later added, "For me, that’s the most gratifying part of the film festival is just being able to bring the community together.'
Goldsmith said the festival is also creating a space for filmmakers to meet each other and discuss new ideas.
“By having them all in one place, they can have conversations that give birth to new projects," Goldsmith said.
Alex Gladden is a University of Arkansas graduate. She previously reported for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and The Jonesboro Sun before joining the Times Record. She can be contacted at agladden@swtimes.com. | https://www.swtimes.com/story/news/2022/08/18/executive-director-hopes-500-people-attend-film-festival/10342901002/ | 2022-08-18T17:26:53Z | swtimes.com | control | https://www.swtimes.com/story/news/2022/08/18/executive-director-hopes-500-people-attend-film-festival/10342901002/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Randy Johnston receives prestigious 'Lawyer of the Year' honor from nationally respected guide for 2023
DALLAS, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- All four attorneys with trial and appellate law firm Johnston Tobey Baruch are recognized in the 2023 edition of Best Lawyers in America, including founding shareholder Randy Johnston, who was named as "Lawyer of the Year" in two practice areas.
A board-certified attorney in civil appellate law, managing shareholder Chad Baruch is honored for his appellate work. This is the eighth year Mr. Baruch has been recognized by the distinguished legal guide.
Shareholder and firm co-founder Robert Tobey is honored for his work in commercial litigation and legal malpractice on behalf of plaintiffs and defendants. Mr. Tobey has been recognized each year since 2013. He is board certified in consumer and commercial law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Like Mr. Tobey, shareholder and trial lawyer Randy Johnston is honored for commercial litigation and legal malpractice law for plaintiffs and defendants, but is also recognized for his esteemed work in professional malpractice law for defendants. Additionally, Mr. Johnston has been given the distinguished honor of "Lawyer of the Year" for his litigation practice relating to mergers and acquisitions and legal malpractice law on behalf of plaintiffs for 2023. He has been named to the prestigious legal guide each year since 2013.
Shareholder Coyt Johnston has also earned a spot on the list for his commercial litigation and mergers and acquisitions practices for the eighth year in succession. He is a member of the Dallas and American Bar Associations, the Dallas Trial Lawyers' Association, the Texas Trial Lawyers' Association and others.
The Best Lawyers in America list is widely considered one of the most respected and reliable guides in the legal industry. Honorees are chosen based on confidential client and peer evaluations, as well as extensive editorial research.
About Johnston Tobey Baruch:
Johnston Tobey Baruch is a dynamic law practice based in Dallas. Its trial and appellate attorneys have a broad range of litigation, arbitration and appellate experience. They are pioneers in the handling of legal and accounting malpractice, investment fraud and business disputes. They also have an enviable track record with insurance bad faith matters, commercial litigation and fiduciary litigation, as well as civil, family and criminal appeals for many prominent Texas companies and individuals.
Media Contact:
Mark Annick
800-559-4534
Mark@androvett.com
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SOURCE Johnston Tobey Baruch | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/all-four-attorneys-with-johnston-tobey-baruch-named-among-best-lawyers-america/ | 2022-08-18T17:29:08Z | wbko.com | control | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/all-four-attorneys-with-johnston-tobey-baruch-named-among-best-lawyers-america/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
San Diego Civil Trial Lawyers Craig R. McClellan and Conor J. Hulburt have been named to The Best Lawyers in America® 2023.
SAN DIEGO, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The McClellan Law Firm has earned national recognition and a regional reputation as one of Southern California's most respected civil trial law firms.
Having recovered hundreds of millions in compensation for victims in complex cases involving serious personal injury, products liability, insurance bad faith, and other civil claims, the firm's two attorneys have also garnered widespread respect from their peers.
Their latest recognition: selection to the 2023 edition of The Best Lawyers in America.
Recognition by Best Lawyers is regarded as one of the legal industry's top honors. And because it's a distinction based entirely on peer review, it's a meaningful indicator that honorees have earned the highest degree of professional recognition from fellow lawyers who know what it takes to be the best.
Attorneys included in The Best Lawyers in America are deemed to demonstrate exceptional knowledge and success in their areas of practice. For Craig McClellan and Conor Hulburt, it's an honor they've earned more than once:
- Craig R. McClellan has been named to Best Lawyers every year since 1993. As Founder of The McClellan Law Firm, he's won millions for plaintiffs in claims involving business and IP litigation, serious injury, and defective products, earning widespread recognition for his work litigating complex auto defect claims against powerful automakers and securing more than 145 verdicts and settlements in excess of $1 million each. He is a member of the Inner Circle of Advocates, an invite-only group of the top 100 plaintiffs' attorneys in the nation, and a recent inductee in the Lawdragon 500 Hall of Fame and Consumer Attorneys of San Diego Trial Lawyer Hall of Fame.
- Conor J. Hulburt has been selected to The Best Lawyers in America in the Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs and Product Liability Litigation – Plaintiffs categories since 2021. At The McClellan Law Firm, he has obtained numerous seven- and eight-figure recoveries in claims involving serious personal injury, wrongful death, product defects, and insurance bad faith. Hulburt is a three-time recipient of San Diego Business Journal's "Best of the Bar" award and has been selected to The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and Super Lawyers on multiple occasions.
The McClellan Law Firm has been serving clients in matters of serious personal injury, wrongful death, and complex business litigation for more than 30 years. Based in San Diego, the firm handles cases across California and beyond. Visit www.mcclellanlaw.com for more information.
Media Contact:
Carlie Ramos
Carlie@mcclellanlaw.com
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SOURCE The McClellan Law Firm | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/attorneys-craig-mcclellan-conor-hulburt-named-2023-best-lawyers/ | 2022-08-18T17:29:14Z | wbko.com | control | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/attorneys-craig-mcclellan-conor-hulburt-named-2023-best-lawyers/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Tamika Farr, CEO of Pathways LA issued the following statement on The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022
Upon review of the Inflation Reduction Act, I support the transformative investment in environmental protection and healthcare measures that the latest reconciliation package outlines. The Inflation Reduction Act allocates nearly $400 billion in transformational climate change proposals that will help reduce carbon emissions by approximately 40% by 2030 and includes enhancements in healthcare subsidies to the most vulnerable in our community. By any measure, the Inflation Reduction Act represents the most ambitious action taken by the federal government to combat climate change and mitigates the exorbitant cost of healthcare access. I applaud the monumental impact that these measures aim to achieve.
However, I am disheartened that our federal leaders have neglected to support child care providers and the millions of young children for whom they care for. Over the past 18 months, Congress and President Biden have deliberated on several iterations of a reconciliation package that promised to address the fractured child care sector and aid the countless families on the brink of poverty. Although Congress passed a Child Tax Credit provision in the American Rescue Plan ACT (ARPA) - a measure that temporarily lifted millions of children out of poverty – child care was omitted in this legislation by a handful of Congressional votes. As a result, a path forward - to build on similar regulations to support families and early care educators who cannot keep up with rampant inflation and the high prices for basic necessities - was obstructed. Despite the shortcomings on Early Childhood Education (ECE) policies, I commend President Biden and the supporting members of Congress for their unwavering convictions to support legislation that will help tackle our nation's most intractable economic challenges and position the country to lead in critical global policy initiatives.
Put simply, the ECE field faces a precarious fate without proper investments to help mitigate a ruptured infrastructure caused by decades of flawed policy-making across all sectors of government. Providers are indispensable to our nation's economy at large and to the families they provide care for; therefore, it's time all our leaders recognized them by implementing substantive investments for the ECE sector.
To this end, legislation akin to the ARPA bill is what the ECE sector and families across the country need. ARPA ensured that all children received adequate funds for day-to-day expenses and established child care stabilization grants. The Biden administration delivered key initiatives that benefited all American families and invested in the child care sector which is essential for a thriving U.S. economy. I'm hopeful the President will continue to prioritize these measures and ensure quality child care for all children and secure livable wages for all ECE workers.
I look forward to seeing subsequent proposals from Congress and the Biden Administration.
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SOURCE Pathways LA | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/pathways-la-statement-inflation-reduction-act/ | 2022-08-18T17:32:19Z | wbko.com | control | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/pathways-la-statement-inflation-reduction-act/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
After his second impeachment, former President Donald Trump made it his mission to oust Rep. Liz Cheney, his chief Republican rival. On Tuesday, he succeeded.
In possibly the biggest congressional race in Wyoming’s history, Cheney lost to Trump-backed natural resources attorney Harriet Hageman.
It marked the first time a Cheney has lost an election in Wyoming in nearly half a century. Cheney struck a determined tone in her concession speech to supporters in Jackson.
“I have said since Jan. 6 that I will do whatever it takes to ensure Donald Trump is never again anywhere near the Oval Office,” she told them. “And I mean it.”
At the time the race was called, Hageman held about 60% of the vote. Cheney trailed with 35%. About 22% of the total vote had been reported.
“Tonight, Harriet Hageman has received the most votes in the primary,” Cheney told her supporters. “She won. I called her to concede the race. But now the real work begins.”
The results did not come as a surprise: Polls showed the congresswoman losing badly. Wyoming voters repeatedly told the Star-Tribune that they feel “betrayed” and “used” by Cheney, as she battled the former president over his role in the Jan. 6 insurrection and repeated lies about the 2020 election.
Hageman, who grew up on a ranch near Fort Laramie and now lives in Cheyenne, entered the race with Trump’s endorsement nearly a year ago, prompting some other Republican challengers to bow out. Sen. Anthony Bouchard, R-Burns, however, remained in the race.
The congresswoman’s defeat — seen by some as a referendum on the strength of the former president’s grip on the future of the GOP — is the final flash point in a closely watched saga that has been building for over a year.
Following the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, Cheney was one of 10 House Republicans to vote to impeach the former president, beginning her fall from power.
Less than a month later, the House Republican Conference held a secret ballot on whether to remove Cheney as their chair. Cheney safely survived 61-145, but did not back down in her criticism of the former president.
Only days later, the Wyoming GOP censured her for her vote to impeach Trump.
In mid-May, Cheney was ousted from House leadership in a voice vote. But her adversaries did not stop there — in November, Wyoming Republican leaders voted to symbolically no longer recognize Cheney as a member of their party.
The incumbent congresswoman was then selected to serve as vice chair of the Jan. 6 investigative committee, which angered Wyomingites further.
During peak campaign season, Cheney spent most of her time in D.C. serving on the committee. When she did come to Wyoming, she campaigned almost entirely at private events.
The Cheney family has strong ties to Wyoming, and her candidacy in this race disrupted much of the political order here.
Lifelong Democrats switched their party affiliation to vote for Cheney, a staunch conservative who, despite her moral opposition to Trump, voted with him roughly 93% of the time during his term.
More money was poured into this race than has been seen in Wyoming’s recent political history, including funds from national super PACs.
Her candidacy also prompted Trump and high-profile Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul to endorse an election reform bill during the state’s legislative session that backers saw as a way to lessen her chances of victory.
In early July, a Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategies/Star-Tribune survey of likely voters found Cheney was trailing by 22 points.
A few weeks later, a University of Wyoming survey of a random sample of Wyomingites found Hageman up 29 points.
The Star-Tribune poll found that only 11% of primary voters were undecided, reiterating the fact that this was not only a prominent race nationally, but statewide too.
Despite the fact that Hageman repeatedly touted Trump’s endorsement on the campaign trail, she did not take a firm stance on the legitimacy of the 2020 presidential election until a few weeks before the primary.
“Absolutely the election was rigged,” she told a Casper crowd. “It was rigged to make sure that President Trump could not get reelected.”
Of likely voters who said they supported Hageman, only 16% believe that President Joe Biden’s election was legitimate, according to the UW poll. That’s compared to 94% of Cheney supporters who believe the result was legitimate.
Cheney has coasted to victory since she first ran for U.S. House in 2016. But before Hageman, she has never faced such a well-funded, well-supported challenger.
Cheney, the daughter of Wyoming political icon and former Vice President Dick Cheney, got her start in the federal government with a job in the Department of State’s Near Eastern Affairs bureau.
She first ran for elected office in 2013 against popular three-term incumbent Sen. Mike Enzi, but she bowed out a few months later, citing family health issues.
Now, Hageman is likely to be Wyoming’s next representative, as the Republican House nominee often easily wins in Wyoming’s general election.
Hageman is a fourth-generation Wyomingite who grew up on a ranch outside of Fort Laramie. She attended Casper College and the University of Wyoming.
Cheney and Hageman used to be political allies, and like other Trump-endorsed candidates, Hageman once publicly opposed him.
Cheney’s next steps are unclear, but she shows no sign of backing out of politics or her battle against Trump and his allies.
She has said that a 2024 presidential bid is not out of the question. Her failed House campaign has almost $7.5 million in the bank, which can legally be used in any federal race if it doesn’t get spent in her House race. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/cheney-s-focus-on-trump-remains/article_574ae276-1f06-11ed-98cb-3b684b3b9028.html | 2022-08-18T17:32:20Z | wyomingnews.com | control | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/cheney-s-focus-on-trump-remains/article_574ae276-1f06-11ed-98cb-3b684b3b9028.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
In the days after Wyoming’s primary election, winning candidates in Carbon County have been masking plans for the future and thanking their supporters.
Alex Bakken, who ran against three challengers in the race for Carbon County Sheriff, said he was grateful and humbled to receive a winning 40.2% of the 3,649 votes cast in the race for sheriff.
“Words simply cannot express how grateful I am and how humbled I feel,” he said in a statement emailed to the Rawlins Times. “I sincerely thank everyone who supported me throughout this journey thus far. I could not have done it without all of you.”
Bakken began his Wyoming career as a caseworker and then correctional officer at the Wyoming State Penitentiary. He also attended the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy to become a state-certified firearms instructor. He then transitioned to the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office, starting as a detention deputy before he took his current position as a patrol deputy.
“To all of the candidates who put themselves out there and ran in the primary election, congratulations,” he said. “Running for office is not an easy task, yet you all committed to it and saw it through.
“I truly look forward to serving our community and making the Sheriff’s Office a reflection of the people’s voice.”
In city limits, Jacquelin Wells will be returning to her Rawlins at-large City Council seat, after garnering 1,050 votes over challenger Elizabeth McDonald’s 628.
“I’m just very grateful for the community continuing to support me,” she said Wednesday morning. “Being on the council for the last four years, and then going into a new term, we’ve been doing a lot of exciting things with the city under the new leadership.”
Wells said she hopes to see continued growth in the community.
“I’m looking forward to the new dog park and the new skate park, and I think those will help expand our community and give people more things to do,” Wells said. “I also would like to see (work done on) the dilapidated buildings in the community. We’ve made some progress in that area, but that’s a place that I really want to see taken better care of.”
R. Travis Moore, who is a current member of the Carbon County Board of Commissioners, secured the most votes for two open commission seats with 2,592. Willing “John” Johnson will also advance after the primary.
“Running for office, you’re always happy to win. Running unopposed, I didn’t have as much doubt, but at the same time, I’m grateful to the people who turned out to vote,” Moore said.
With a total of 4,399 votes cast in Carbon County, voter turnout was over 75%, representing an increase of about 25 percentage points over normal turnout during a primary election, said Lisa Smith, deputy Carbon County Clerk.
Moore said he was pleased with the turnout, especially after he worried that construction at the courthouse may deter some voters.
“My only real concern was that we had construction going on at the courthouse, so that limited one of the only entrances and exits into the main polling place in Rawlins,” he said. “That was poor timing, but it doesn’t seem to have to have impacted voter turnout. The turnout was awesome.”
Moore also received 250 votes and will become the next 2-1 Republican party precinct committeeman. He said he sought the position to learn more about the party.
While he suspected some crossover voting took place Tuesday, Moore said there has always been a strong Republican presence in Carbon County.
“I wanted to become more involved to see how the process works, how all the pieces connect to the state organization and of course, the national organization,” Moore said. “I’m signing up for the education and to meet people and get out and figure out what the people of Carbon County want.”
Dave Throgmorton, a longtime local Democratic leader in Carbon County, said that the only bright spot he could see coming off of Tuesday's election was that Wyoming voters favored Casper native Megan Degenfelder in her bid to become Wyoming’s next superintendent of public instruction. In Carbon County, Degenfelder received 1,184 votes to current Wyoming State Superintendent Brian Schroeder’s 1,268 votes.
“(Statewide), that was a good sign, because Schroeder has been trying to create a culture war in Wyoming where it doesn’t exist,” Throgmorton said. “I’m glad to see that there are enough people out there thinking (that) we don’t want to turn our K-12 system into a cultural battleground for the right.”
He said he suspected many Democrats in Carbon County switched parties to vote in the race for U.S. House District 1, where Harriet Hageman beat out sitting Rep. Liz Cheney. Of the 4,399 ballots cast in Carbon County, 304 were cast in the Democratic primary.
“A lot of Democrats jumped ship just for this election,” Throgmorton said. “We processed a whole lot of registration changes, party registration changes, at our table alone. I know that was happening at a lot of places around the county.”
But overall, it was not enough to save Cheney, he said.
“The Republican Party is not only the dominant party but it is becoming extraordinarily narrow,” he said. “If there’s not a place in the Republican Party for Liz Cheney, that party has become really, really narrow.”
Throgmorton said that while he’d like to be able to say the Carbon County Democrats will rally after an election like Tuesday’s, he just doesn’t think that is the case.
“I think we will see a migration out of the state. I think we will see people who look at (election results like Tuesday’s) and say, ‘Wyoming is not worth it,’” he said. “And I think the Republican Party is encouraging that.
“They don’t want any dissenting point of view. I don’t think it is a bunch of younger Democrats bailing. I think the Republicans are actively pushing that, and they will be very glad to have it.” | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/huge-turnout-for-local-primary/article_e9038408-1f0a-11ed-8663-674004e306b1.html | 2022-08-18T17:32:26Z | wyomingnews.com | control | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/huge-turnout-for-local-primary/article_e9038408-1f0a-11ed-8663-674004e306b1.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
NEW YORK, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Redpoint Cybersecurity LLC ("Redpoint") has named David Duncan as its new Vice President of Cyber Operations. As leader of the Cyber Operations team, David will have oversight over the Breach Response group as well as the Redpoint Labs team. Redpoint's Breach Response has handled the most complex and extensive ransomware and other breaches, and the Redpoint Labs group houses Redpoint's Threat Mitigation Group as well as its DevOps team.
Prior to his newly expanded role, David was the Technical Director for Redpoint Labs and also worked closely with and led numerous breach engagements since joining Redpoint in 2020. David has a unique perspective as he focuses on offensive cybersecurity, with over a decade of experience supporting U.S. National Defense in the Intelligence and Cybersecurity sectors. He engaged with Threat Actors in real time and also assisted clients through their recovery from nearly catastrophic ransomware events. David is a strategic, tactical and technical leader who enjoys helping organizations in their cybersecurity journey. Prior to joining Redpoint, David was a Cyber Operations Officer in the U.S. Army, where he served as leader of a Cyber Protection Team in the defense of U.S. Critical Infrastructure and Key Resources. David's key military roles allowed him to track, defend and conduct offensive operations against Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) groups studying their Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs), and he is now using that knowledge to secure organizations.
Russell Safirstein, President and CEO of Redpoint Cybersecurity, commented, "David's leadership and guidance since joining us more than two years ago is what led to his well-deserved promotion. It's been great watching him grow and take on a greater leadership role, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for him here."
Redpoint Cybersecurity is a human-led, technology-enabled cybersecurity firm. Redpoint's expertise spans the defense, intelligence, and Fortune 500 communities, with our teams providing commercial and US Government clients with cutting-edge solutions to emerging cyber threats. The firm's military grade cyber professionals have decades of experience in cyber operations, and apply their knowledge of the attacker perspective to facilitate efficient, effective and scalable responses to cyber breaches. Redpoint provides Digital Forensics, Incident Response Services, Threat Mitigation Services specializing in Threat Hunting, Ethical Hacking / Penetration Testing and Compromise Assessments designed to mitigate cybersecurity threats, and Risk Advisory Consulting providing secure cloud migration, security assessment and compliance road mapping, data and infrastructure protection and 24/7 managed detection and response.
For more information on Redpoint Cybersecurity, contact Anne Rusinak, Marketing Manager, at 646.531.3287, or via email at anne@redpointcyber.com and visit redpointcyber.com.
For further information:
Anne Rusinak
212.863.1327
anne@redpointcyber.com
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SOURCE Redpoint Cybersecurity | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/redpoint-cybersecurity-llp-david-duncan-is-promoted-vice-president-cyber-operations/ | 2022-08-18T17:32:33Z | wbko.com | control | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/redpoint-cybersecurity-llp-david-duncan-is-promoted-vice-president-cyber-operations/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Evolved company positioning and identity reflect agency's 20-year heritage of marketing expertise and supporting the B2B industry
IRVING, Texas, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Multiview, the leader in digital publishing and marketing solutions for associations and industry suppliers, today announced a brand evolution campaign that reinforces its longtime support of the B2B industry. The new effort aims to elevate awareness of the 400-employee Stagwell (NASDAQ: STGW) company and its pivotal role within America's vital association community. It also comes with a new company tagline: "Your Aspiration is Our Inspiration."
The tagline and related positioning work will extend across the company's website, sales collateral, an internal and external video, as well as print and social assets. The omnichannel communications program reinforces Multiview's foundational values around client transparency, professional growth, empowerment, and an employee-first culture. It also emphasizes the value the company delivers to partners as the number one digital publisher for associations and provider of world-class B2B digital advertising opportunities, all grounded in a collaborative and transparent relationship approach that is motivated by partner success.
"We are problem solvers, and we push ourselves to be better on behalf of our partners, employees and community," said Multiview CEO, Andy Keith. "This campaign showcases the strength of our network through Multiview's B2B marketplace and our unmatched ability to connect industry buyers and sellers with their exact audience."
Creating one of the first 'buy one give one' business models, Multiview helps associations fund critical programs with the sale of advertisements. By accessing specialized audience segments and high-quality digital media on association websites and industry publications, B2B advertisers and agencies support their respective industry. As a result, Multiview provides nearly a million dollars each month in supplemental revenue streams to associations.
"The non-dues revenue contributes substantially to our budget, making up at least one-third of our advertising sales each year," said Karen Garrett, CAE, Chief of Communications, Marketing and Membership of ASPA.
Today, Multiview partners with over 1,200 associations to deliver digital marketing services and communications that help them engage and grow their membership. The company is also a preeminent B2B marketing partner for small businesses, agencies and publishers trying to reach highly specific audience segments across more than 30 industries.
Multiview partnered with sister Stagwell company MMI Agency to develop the strategy for the campaign, as well as creative concepting, brand identity and web design, copywriting and communications and social engagement counsel.
About Multiview
Multiview connects brands to their target audiences through digital media. As a leading digital publisher and marketing company for more than 20 years, Multiview helps over 1,200 associations and 14,000 companies find and connect with millions of professionals every day. By leveraging our first party data on over 10 million B2B professionals across 30 industries, we deliver targeted advertisements to unique market segments thereby helping brands to maximize their advertising budgets and achieve their growth goals. For more information on Multiview, its association partnerships or our products please visit www.multiview.com.
About Stagwell
Stagwell is the challenger network built to transform marketing. We deliver scaled creative performance for the world's most ambitious brands, connecting culture-moving creativity with leading-edge technology to harmonize the art and science of marketing. Led by entrepreneurs, our 13,000+ specialists in 34+ countries are unified under a single purpose: to drive effectiveness and improve business results for their clients. Join us at www.stagwellglobal.com.
Contact: Sarah Arvizo, pr@stagwellglobal.com
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SOURCE Stagwell Inc. | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/stagwells-stgw-multiview-bolsters-commitment-associations-with-your-aspiration-is-our-inspiration-brand-refresh/ | 2022-08-18T17:32:59Z | wbko.com | control | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/stagwells-stgw-multiview-bolsters-commitment-associations-with-your-aspiration-is-our-inspiration-brand-refresh/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
SEATTLE (AP) — A Seattle CEO who announced in 2015 that he was giving himself a drastic pay cut to help cover the cost of big raises for his employees has announced his resignation.
Dan Price, the embattled CEO of credit card processing company Gravity Payments, resigned Wednesday, The Seattle Times reported.
Price stunned his 100-plus workers when he told them he was cutting his roughly $1 million salary to $70,000 and using company profits to ensure that everyone there would earn at least that much within three years.
“My No. 1 priority is for our employees to work for the best company in the world, but my presence has become a distraction here,” Price wrote in a statement on Twitter. He founded the company 18 years ago.
“I also need to step aside from these duties to focus full time on fighting false accusations made against me,” he wrote. “I’m not going anywhere.”
Earlier this year, Seattle prosecutors charged Price with misdemeanor assault against a woman and reckless driving. Prosecutors say Price tried to forcibly kiss a woman. He pleaded not guilty in May; the case remains ongoing.
Price, 38, has also run into other legal trouble. His brother Lucas sued him in 2015, alleging that Dan Price was overpaying himself. A King County judge ruled that Dan had not violated Lucas’ rights as a minority shareholder.
Allegations that Price had abused ex-wife Kristie Colon also surfaced that year. A Bloomberg report recounted an October 2015 TEDx talk given by Colon during which she described being beaten and waterboarded by her ex, without naming Price. Price told Bloomberg those events “never happened.”
Chief operating officer Tammi Kroll will take over as CEO. | https://www.wpri.com/news/national/ceo-who-cut-his-pay-so-workers-could-earn-70000-resigns/ | 2022-08-18T17:33:13Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/national/ceo-who-cut-his-pay-so-workers-could-earn-70000-resigns/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — The Las Vegas City Council approved plans to demolish one of the former homes of German-American entertainers Siegfried & Roy.
For decades, the legendary Las Vegas performers had a huge home site originally consisting of dozens of acres that included what they called “Little Bavaria,” which was reminiscent of their homeland.
Developers want to build apartments on the remaining 12 acres.
Siegfried Fischbacher died in Jan. 2021, and Roy Horn died in May 2020.
According to a city council staff report, a local developer plans to build a 334-unit, four-story apartment complex. If approved, the project won’t start until 2024.
Personal items belonging to the men were auctioned off in June in Los Angeles.
For years, Siegfried & Roy was an institution in Las Vegas, where Fischbacher and Horn’s magic and artistry consistently attracted sellout crowds. The pair performed six shows a week, 44 weeks per year.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. | https://www.wpri.com/news/national/las-vegas-home-of-siegfried-roy-to-be-demolished/ | 2022-08-18T17:33:34Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/national/las-vegas-home-of-siegfried-roy-to-be-demolished/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
(NEXSTAR) – Pfizer and Valneva have recently announced later-stage studies into a new vaccine against Lyme disease, which, if eventually approved, would make it the first vaccine to target the tick-borne disease in decades.
VLA15, as the vaccine candidate is known, has so far shown promise in both adults and children, as well as “acceptable safety and tolerability profiles” for both groups, Pfizer and Valneva announced. VLA15 will work by blocking a tick’s ability to transfer Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium — which causes Lyme disease — to its human host.
Clinical trials have recently entered Phase 3, which involves 6,000 participants — age 5 and up — in the United States and five other European countries where Lyme disease is regularly reported among the population.
“With increasing global rates of Lyme disease, providing a new option for people to help protect themselves from the disease is more important than ever,” said Annaliesa Anderson, Ph.D., the senior vice president and head of vaccine research and development at Pfizer, in a news release issued last week.
But vaccine candidate VLA15 — if shown to be safe and effective — likely won’t be available to the public for years, Pfizer estimates. When the final clinical trials are completed, the drug company is aiming to “potentially” submit an application to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by 2025.
This may come as frustrating news as Lyme disease continues to affect a growing number of Americans — and especially those living along the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Upper Midwest regions where 90% of cases are reported, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Confirmed cases of Lyme disease reported to the CDC have climbed over the past two decades, from somewhere between 16,000 and 17,000 per year in the late 1990s to anywhere between 22,000 and 30,000 in the mid-to-late 2010s. When probable cases are factored in, the CDC estimated close to 40,000 or more annual cases in recent years.
But those are just reported cases. Recent estimates indicate that cases are often underreported, and the number of Americans treated for Lyme disease annually is actually “closer to 476,000,” the CDC notes. (That figure is likely an over-estimate, the agency notes, as some treatments are administered as a precaution for patients who may not actually have it.)
One major reason for the uptick in cases, the CDC reports, is that the ticks that transmit Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium have “expanded their geographic range.” In fact, since the late ‘90s, the number of U.S. counties considered “high-risk” for Lyme disease — particularly in the Northeast and Upper Midwest — have increased by more than 300%, the agency said.
“They are now routinely found in places they weren’t seen 20 years ago,” the CDC notes.
There was also a vaccine previously available for Lyme disease — LYMERix — though it was discontinued by SmithKline Beecham (now GlaxoSmithKine) in 2002 due to declining sales and concerns over side-effects.
Still, the pharmaceutical companies behind VLA15 are hopeful the new candidate will be embraced when, and if, it becomes available in several years’ time.
“Lyme disease continues to spread, representing a high unmet medical need that impacts the lives of many in the Northern Hemisphere,” said Juan Carlos Jaramillo M.D., the Chief Medical Officer of Valneva, in last week’s news release. “We look forward to further investigating the VLA15 candidate in Phase 3, which will take us a step closer to potentially bringing this vaccine to both adults and children who would benefit from it.” | https://www.wpri.com/news/national/when-will-the-lyme-disease-vaccine-be-available/ | 2022-08-18T17:33:55Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/national/when-will-the-lyme-disease-vaccine-be-available/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Tags: node.netmail, npm@*?*, 1/4x/y (regex is slow to test?): npm @0/1/npm@6-00...-a\nAsk User, NPM Depends Error; npm audit fail: ...dependencies are not compatible among a registry & non ...is out of nodejs v5 compatibilite...e a npm.../dependencies node ≤5, yarn npm/cli/ How long did I read/draw on one comic/project?? (For artists out their) Octupdate #4 (Comics) (archivebusted)! Sep 11 6303\nOctober Project #6 is a Go Oct # of comics? Mar update Nov15 (Archived in Jan8 61 comments (last new Aug6 atm).\nThe most successful (and best one, so its all that needs counting) update, was WILLIAMSPORT, Penn. — "Tears of joy."
That's how the Oliverson family described the latest update on 12-year-old Easton.
Doctors removed the breathing tube from the Little League baseball player late Wednesday, which family and friends said is a "big step" as he recovers from surgery after falling from a dormitory bunk bed in Pennsylvania on Sunday.
According to the Facebook page providing updates on his condition, Oliverson's MRI scan was also very promising.
Among other encouraging signs shared by the family is that Easton is no longer sedated and was able to suck water through a straw, along with mouthing the words "I love you" to his parents.
When doctors asked his name and age, he replied "Easton" and "12."
Video shared by the family showed Easton eating spoonfuls of vanilla pudding.
Early Wednesday, Little League World Series organizers in Pennsylvania announced it would remove all bunk beds from its dormitories and have placed each bed frame individually on the floor.
"Since 1992, Little League has used institutional-style bunk beds to offer the most space for the players to enjoy their time in the dorms. While these beds do not have guard rails, Little League is unaware of any serious injuries ever occurring during that period of time," said Kevin Fountain, Sr. Dir. of Communications for Little League International.
As he recovers, he has received an outpouring of support worldwide, including a video from his favorite player, Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star outfielder Mookie Betts.
On Wednesday, Betts told Oliverson in a short video that he and his Dodgers teammates were praying for his recovery. Easton started to cry when he watched it in the morning.
Closer to home, others are also giving well wishes to Easton.
"What's up, Easton, Jaren Hall from the BYU Football Team. Hey man, just want you to know the team, coaches, and players are thinking about you. We love you, man. We are praying for you," said BYU quarterback Jaren Hall.
Brad Orgill is from Grantsville and is a lifelong friend of Easton's third base coach.
After the Snow Canyon team punched its ticket to Williamsport, Orgill created an online store with shirts and hats to help raise money for the team.
However, Orgill says that effort evolved after Easton's injury. He says he's getting shirts made with #TeamEaston on them.
"We have people from Canada, North Carolina, the word's gotten out in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, we've had probably 10 to 12 orders there, New York, Connecticut California, Washington, New Mexico, Texas, I mean it is pretty much almost every state," said Orgill.
As of Wednesday morning, Orgill says they have received 650 orders for shirts. All proceeds with the #TeamEaston shirts will go to Easton and his family.
While he hasn't personally met the Oliverson family, Orgill hopes this gesture will go a long way in helping them as Easton recovers.
"I think it's just in our DNA of people here in Utah. We truly want to help each other out when it comes to the end of the day that we do love and care about them," said Orgill.
This marks the first time ever that a team from Utah made it all the way to the Little League World Series in Williamsport. The team will play Friday after Easton's family told them to continue on despite his injury.
Doctors had previously said Oliverson had been reacting well to being weened off oxygen, leading to the decision to remove his breathing tube. Easton was also able to give a thumbs up after being asked to do so by a friend.
A fundraiser is being held Thursday night at Handel's Ice Cream locations in St. George, Woods Cross, Layton, Sandy, and Fort Union, with a portion of the proceeds going directly to the Oliverson family.
A @MiraclesForTank Venmo account has been created to help the family with medical expenses. | https://www.fox17online.com/news/national/support-pours-in-as-little-league-baseball-player-recovers-after-falling-from-bunk-bed | 2022-08-18T17:39:20Z | fox17online.com | control | https://www.fox17online.com/news/national/support-pours-in-as-little-league-baseball-player-recovers-after-falling-from-bunk-bed | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles County coroner's office says actor Anne Heche died from burns and inhalation injury after her fiery car crash, and the death has been ruled an accident.
The cause of her death was released Wednesday on the coroner's website, although a formal autopsy report is still being completed.
According to the report, the 53-year-old fractured her sternum caused by "blunt trauma."
On Aug. 5, she plowed her car into a Los Angeles home and it caught fire.
Her family has said she suffered a severe brain injury caused by a lack of oxygen.
The coroner's office says she died on Aug. 11, but she wasn't removed from life support until Sunday, so her organs could be donated.
Detectives investigating the crash had said narcotics were found in a blood sample taken from the actress. However, the police ended their investigation after she was declared brain-dead. | https://www.wtxl.com/entertainment/anne-heches-death-ruled-accidental-after-fiery-car-crash | 2022-08-18T17:44:23Z | wtxl.com | control | https://www.wtxl.com/entertainment/anne-heches-death-ruled-accidental-after-fiery-car-crash | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
TALLAHASSEE, FLa. — The Challenger Learning Center of Tallahassee is set to host a "back-to-school" event for teachers.
The event will take place on August 23 at 4:30 p.m. at the Challenger Learning Center, located at 200 S. Duval St.
Teachers will receive information about field trip opportunities, resources, programs and will also be able to network with other teachers.
The learning center will also be providing door prizes, giveaways, free soda, popcorn and more.
An IMAX documentary will be previewed at a free cost for teachers and discounted price for family members.
The back-to-school event was sponsored by WFSU, Challenger Learning Center, Dyed'N Wool, National MagLab, FSU Teach, St. Marks NWR, Museum of Florida History, Florida Geological Survey, World Class Schools, Centennial Bank, HUB International, Armor Realty, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Allstate Construction and Whataburger. | https://www.wtxl.com/news/local-news/challenger-learning-center-to-host-back-to-school-event-for-teachers | 2022-08-18T17:44:26Z | wtxl.com | control | https://www.wtxl.com/news/local-news/challenger-learning-center-to-host-back-to-school-event-for-teachers | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
TALLAHASSEE, FLa. — Florida State Women’s Basketball Alumna Natasha Howard is one of 28 athletes selected to participate in the 2022 USA Basketball Women’s National Team training camp from Sept. 6-12 in Las Vegas.
Athletes were selected by the USA Basketball Women’s National Team Committee, chaired by Connecticut Sun president Jen Rizzotti.
The 2022 FIBA World Cup includes 12 of the best national teams in the world and takes place Sept. 22-Oct. 1 in Sydney. The USA Women’s Basketball National Team will be announced prior to the start of group play at the FIBA World Cup.
Among the participating athletes are Ariel Atkins, Shakira Austin, Aliyah Boston, Kahleah Copper, Elena Delle Donne, Diamond DeShields, Stefanie Dolson, Allisha Gray, Chelsea Gray, Dearica Hamby, Myisha Hines-Allen, Natasha Howard, Rhyne Howard, Sabrina Ionescu, Brionna Jones, Betnijah Laney, Jewell Loyd, Kayla McBride, Angel McCoughtry, Arike Ogunbowale, Kelsey Plum, Aerial Powers, NaLyssa Smith, Breanna Stewart, Alyssa Thomas, Courtney Williams, A’ja Wilson and Jackie Young.
Howard has enjoyed an All-Star season for the New York Liberty in 2022, averaging 15.1 points, 7.3 rebounds and shooting 48.2 percent from the floor. Howard has won three WNBA Championships with two teams in the Minnesota Lynx (2017) and the Seattle Storm (2018 and 2020), and was named the WNBA Defensive Player of the Year as well as an All-WNBA First Team and All-Defensive Team member in 2019.
On Wednesday, Howard delivered 22 points in a comeback win by the seventh-seeded New York Liberty in the first round of the WNBA Playoffs, defeating the No. 2 seed Chicago Sky 98-91.
Howard played for the Seminoles from 2010-14, emerging as the program’s all-time leader in rebounds (1,046) and double-doubles (41). She also set the single-game scoring record with 43 points at Syracuse on Feb. 13, 2014. | https://www.wtxl.com/news/local-news/natasha-howard-selected-as-one-of-usa-womens-national-team-training-camp-participants | 2022-08-18T17:44:27Z | wtxl.com | control | https://www.wtxl.com/news/local-news/natasha-howard-selected-as-one-of-usa-womens-national-team-training-camp-participants | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Deshaun Watson reaches deal with NFL for 11-game suspension
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has reached an agreement with the NFL to serve an 11-game suspension, the NFL said Thursday.
Driving the news: The agreement includes a $5 million fine for Watson that will go to charity.
- Watson will also "undergo a professional evaluation by behavioral experts" and must commit to a mandatory treatment program, per the NFL.
- The NFL said the league and the Browns will also donate an additional $1 million each to support victims of sexual misconduct and assault, bringing the total in donations to $7 million.
- The NFL and Cleveland Browns did not immediately respond to Axios' request for comment.
- The NFL Players Association declined to comment.
What they're saying: "Deshaun has committed to doing the hard work on himself that is necessary for his return to the NFL," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. "This settlement requires compliance with a professional evaluation and treatment plan, a significant fine, and a more substantial suspension."
The big picture: The settlement agreement comes after the NFL appealed Watson's original suspension of six games set by an arbitrator, hoping for a longer one.
- Watson, who has been accused of sexual abuse by two dozen women, violated the league's personal conduct policy.
- Disciplinary officer and former federal judge Sue Robinson said in the original ruling that Watson had a "lack of expressed remorse," Axios' Sareen Habeshian writes.
- Watson apologized to "all of the women I have impacted in this situation" in an interview shared by the Cleveland Browns.
Editor's note: This story has been updated with a response from the NFL Players Association. | https://www.axios.com/2022/08/18/cleveland-browns-deshaun-watson-suspension-fine | 2022-08-18T17:44:30Z | axios.com | control | https://www.axios.com/2022/08/18/cleveland-browns-deshaun-watson-suspension-fine | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
FDA approves $2.8 million gene therapy
The FDA on Wednesday approved Zynteglo, a gene therapy from Bluebird Bio that treats patients with the blood disorder beta-thalassemia.
Why it matters: The one-time treatment — which helps patients who depend on regular blood transfusions and face decreased life expectancy — comes at a record price of $2.8 million.
- It's only the third gene therapy approved by the FDA.
Details: Bluebird estimates there are between 1,300 and 1,500 people with beta-thalassemia, also known as beti-cel.
- The company plans to use an outcome-based agreement, saying it'll reimburse insurers up to 80% of the cost of the therapy for any patients who still need regular transfusions after their treatment.
What they're saying: The Institute for Clinical and Economic Review, a group that evaluates drug pricing and effectiveness, said in a statement the drug has high long-term value, even with a price tag over $2 million.
The bottom line: Gene therapies offer a particular source of promise for treating rare diseases. But they've proved costly so far and the growing pipeline of such treatments could lead to staggering health care spending. | https://www.axios.com/2022/08/18/fda-gene-therapy-approval-zynteglo | 2022-08-18T17:44:42Z | axios.com | control | https://www.axios.com/2022/08/18/fda-gene-therapy-approval-zynteglo | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Lapid to U.S.: Not walking away from Iran nuclear talks shows "weakness"
Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid sent a message to the White House on Thursday that the EU draft nuclear agreement being discussed with Iran goes beyond the 2015 nuclear deal and isn’t in line with the Biden administration’s own red lines, a senior Israeli official said in a briefing to reporters.
What he's saying: “In the current situation, the time has come to walk away from the table. Anything else sends a message of weakness to Iran," Lapid said in a meeting with Rep. Ted Deutch (D-Fla.), chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Middle East and North Africa subcommittee, and U.S. Ambassador to Israel Tom Nides on Thursday, per the official.
- "Now is the time to sit and talk about what to do going forward in order to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon," Lapid added.
Driving the news: Iran on Monday gave its response to the EU draft agreement, which was described as a "final" offer.
- The Iranians didn’t say yes to the draft and gave several additional requests mainly on the issue of getting more guarantees if the U.S. were to again leave the agreement.
The big picture: The senior Israeli official said Lapid told Deutch and Nides the EU draft agreement includes more concessions for Iran than the original 2015 nuclear deal and doesn’t abide by the principles which the Biden administration itself committed to.
- Lapid specifically mentioned a clause he said was included in the draft agreement that says that the U.S. and the other world powers that are party to the agreement will support closing the ongoing UN investigations against Iran’s suspicious nuclear activities if the international atomic energy agency concludes that Iran gave sufficient explanations.
- He said that the IAEA report published last May stated that Iran isn’t providing credible explanations regarding the open investigations into uranium particles found in several undeclared sites in the country. “This should raise a red flag for the international community," Lapid said, per the official.
- The prime minister also said Israel isn’t bound by any nuclear deal and will do whatever is necessary to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran as well as to stop Tehran from utilizing its terror proxies in the region. “The U.S. knows and recognizes this," Lapid said, according to the Israeli official.
Between the lines: Some in the Israeli government suspect that President Biden and other top U.S. officials were not fully briefed on the concessions in the new EU draft, or signed off on them before the draft was sent to the Iranian government, according to another Israeli official.
- The White House did not answer specific questions regarding when it saw the draft but pointed Axios to State Department spokesperson Ned Price's comments on Tuesday in which he said the U.S. had received Iran’s comments via the EU.
- “We are studying them. We are engaged in consultations with the EU as well as with our European allies on the way ahead," Price said.
What’s next: Israeli National Security Adviser Eyal Hulata will travel to Washington next week for talks with his White House counterpart Jake Sullivan about the negotiations with Iran. | https://www.axios.com/2022/08/18/iran-nuclear-talks-lapid-concessions-eu-draft-deal | 2022-08-18T17:44:48Z | axios.com | control | https://www.axios.com/2022/08/18/iran-nuclear-talks-lapid-concessions-eu-draft-deal | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Zelensky calls on UN to protect Russia-occupied nuclear plant
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on the United Nations Thursday to "ensure the security" of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which has been occupied by Russia since March.
Why it matters: Russia has maintained military activity at or near the facility, which is Europe's largest nuclear power plant, for several months despite repeated condemnations from dozens of other countries and UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
- Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of shelling areas near the facility or in the nearby city of Enerhodar.
- Guterres has denounced the fighting near the facility as "suicidal" and has repeatedly called for the immediate cessation of military activity near the plant and the removal of military personnel and equipment from the site.
What they're saying: Zelensky said Guterres and he discussed the power plant during a meeting in Lviv on Thursday.
- "Separate attention was paid to the topic of nuclear blackmail of Russia at the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant," Zelensky said in a post on social media.
- "This deliberate terror by the aggressor could have global catastrophic consequences. Therefore, the UN must ensure the security of this strategic object, its demilitarization and complete liberation from Russian troops," he added.
- Zelensky said in an address Wednesday night that Ukrainian diplomats and nuclear scientists are working with the IAEA to send an inspection team to the plant.
The big picture: Rafael Mariano Grossi, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, has also condemned the military activity near the plant.
- Russia's Defense Ministry said Thursday that it may force the plant to shut down in response to Ukrainian shelling, which Ukrainian officials have denied.
Go deeper: Explosions at Russian base show Crimea now in play in Ukraine war | https://www.axios.com/2022/08/18/zelensky-un-russia-ukraine-nuclear-power-plant | 2022-08-18T17:44:54Z | axios.com | control | https://www.axios.com/2022/08/18/zelensky-un-russia-ukraine-nuclear-power-plant | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Big box earnings results marred by inventory issues
The Q2 earnings of big box retailers like Walmart and Target reflect a continued struggle to manage excess inventory after overestimating sales trends earlier this year.
Why it matters: People aren't spending the same way they were during the pandemic, David Silverman, a senior director at Fitch Ratings, tells Axios.
- "What we're seeing now are consumers shifting spending back toward consumer services," like entertainment, hospitality and travel.
Catch up fast: Retail sales are up 10% year over year, per the Commerce Department — and though inflation accounts for the increase, the numbers support consumer health, Silverman says.
- Earnings results are more tied to consumer behavior or spending preferences rather than inflation or consumer health concerns, he adds.
Zoom in: Target, which sells more discretionary goods than Walmart, took an aggressive approach to purge excess inventory resulting in an 87% decline in operating profit and a nearly 90% decline in net income.
- While its "rip the band-aid off" approach inflicts some Q2 reporting pain, Target will be better positioned for the remainder of the year, Silverman says.
- The retailer plans to significantly reduce inventory buys for the rest of this year.
- Both revenue growth and comparable sales at Target remained positive at 3.3% and 2.6%, respectively.
Meanwhile, Walmart beat earnings expectations, but its strong numbers were partially buoyed by the fact that much of its sales come from grocery, which has limited inventory and thus less markdown risk.
- While Walmart reported better-than-expected results, during its Q2 earnings call CFO John Rainey said the company canceled billions of dollars in orders to deal with inventory pileups.
By the numbers: Here's how other major retailers that reported this week fared:
- Home Depot's revenue increased 6.5% to $43.8 billion, comparable sales were up 5.4% in the U.S. and net earnings grew 7.6% to nearly $5.2 billion.
- Lowe's revenue declined less than a percent to $27.5 billion, while comparable sales increased 0.2% in the U.S. and net earnings were flat at about $3 billion.
- Kohl's revenue fell 8.5% to nearly $4.1 billion, while comparable sales declined 7.7% and net income plummeted 63% to $143 million.
Be smart: The inventory issue shouldn't be a surprise to the markets, as Walmart and Target began to make noise around the issue in Q1, Silverman says.
- Strong management teams, operations and financial flexibility position both to weather the storm well, he says.
- For struggling retailers with too much working capital tied up in inventory, there are negative cash flow implications — see Bed Bath & Beyond.
What we're watching: We're still early on in the earnings cycle and will have more context over the next week as more discretionary retailers report results.
The bottom line: This earnings season is about resetting unrealistic market expectations, Silverman says. | https://www.axios.com/pro/retail-deals/2022/08/18/big-box-earnings-results-marred-by-inventory-issues | 2022-08-18T17:45:00Z | axios.com | control | https://www.axios.com/pro/retail-deals/2022/08/18/big-box-earnings-results-marred-by-inventory-issues | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LOS ANGELES (AP) — LeBron James has agreed to a two-year, $97.1 million contract extension through the 2024-25 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, his agent announced Wednesday.
Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul said the league-maximum deal makes James the highest-paid player in NBA history. His new deal includes a player option that would keep the second-leading scorer in NBA history with the Lakers past his 40th birthday in December 2024.
The 37-year-old James is headed into the final year of his most recent contract with the Lakers, who signed the four-time NBA Most Valuable Player and four-time league champion in July 2018. The new deal means the 18-time All-Star will make $46.7 million this season.
Barring injury, James is likely to surpass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA's career scoring king this winter. James and the Lakers also still hope to be in contention for another title if James and Anthony Davis can return at full health after an injury-plagued 2021-22 ended without a playoff appearance.
James’ new deal syncs with Davis’ most recent contract extension with the Lakers, allowing both to leave the Lakers or to negotiate new deals in 2024. Both superstars are represented by Klutch.
James' recommitment to the Lakers also silences persistent talk of his possible departure as a free agent or in a trade. James hasn't appeared to be going anywhere on social media or in his public appearances, and he praised the hiring of new Lakers coach Darvin Ham.
James has missed significant portions of the season due to injury in three of his four years with the Lakers. He was largely healthy in the elongated 2019-20 season when the Lakers won the franchise's 17th NBA title in the Florida bubble, and he has been every bit the dominant player of his prime when at full strength in the ensuing two years.
Although his contract status inspired plenty of offseason chatter, James seemed unlikely to relocate after spending the past four seasons of his 19-year career with the storied Lakers. His family is settled in Los Angeles, where his eldest son, Bronny, is a 17-year-old senior and college basketball prospect playing at Sierra Canyon High School in Chatsworth.
James has occasionally said he intends to play on the same team with Bronny when his son reaches the NBA. Although plenty of obstacles remain between the younger James and the NBA, he could be draft-eligible in the summer of 2024. | https://www.wtxl.com/news/national/lebron-james-inks-2-year-97-1-million-deal-with-lakers | 2022-08-18T17:45:08Z | wtxl.com | control | https://www.wtxl.com/news/national/lebron-james-inks-2-year-97-1-million-deal-with-lakers | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Want to avoid dying prematurely? A new study suggests reducing salt intake would lead to a longer life.
According to a study published last week in the European Heart Journal, those who always add salt to their meals had a 28% higher risk of premature mortality than those who rarely or never added salt. Additionally, the life expectancy among those at age 50 is more than two years lower for those who always add salt.
“Most of our salt consumption comes from salt added to food prepared by the industry, for example in common products such as bread and cheese, but also ready-made foods and other items,” wrote study co-author Annika Rosengren. “Adding salt is a source of profit by increasing preference for salty foods and making food products more palatable to people already used to a diet high in salt. A reduction in added salt in food produced by the industry is very unlikely to cause harm, while oversalting common products reduces the opportunity for people to choose for themselves and contributes to the development of hypertension.”
The Food and Drug Administration recommends that adults consume no more than a teaspoon a day of salt. The FDA added that 70% of most adults’ consumption of sodium comes from prepared foods.
Rosengren recommends upping the intake of fruit and vegetables to reduce salt intake.
“So far, what the collective evidence about salt seems to indicate is that healthy people consuming what constitutes normal levels of ordinary salt need not worry too much about their salt intake,” she said. “Instead, to counterbalance potentially harmful effects of salt, and for many other reasons, a diet rich in fruit and vegetables should be a priority on the individual, as well as the population, level.”
One thing the study could not establish is what is the optimal level of salt intake.
The FDA offers the following tips for reducing sodium levels in food.
- Read the Nutrition Facts label Compare and choose foods to get less than 100% DV (less than 2,300 mg) of sodium each day.
- Prepare your own food when you can Limit packaged sauces, mixes, and “instant” products (including flavored rice, instant noodles, and ready-made pasta).
- Add flavor without adding sodium Limit the amount of table salt you add to foods when cooking, baking, or at the table. Try no-salt seasoning blends and herbs and spices instead of salt to add flavor to your food.
- Buy fresh Choose fresh meat, poultry, and seafood, rather than processed varieties. Also, check the package on fresh meat and poultry to see if salt water or saline has been added.
- Watch your veggies Buy fresh, frozen (no sauce or seasoning), or low sodium or no-salt-added canned vegetables.
- Give sodium the “rinse” Rinse sodium-containing canned foods, such as beans, tuna, and vegetables before eating. This removes some of the sodium.
- “Unsalt” your snacks Choose low sodium or no-salt-added nuts, seeds, and snack products (such as chips and pretzels)—or have carrot or celery sticks instead.
- Consider your condiments Sodium in condiments can add up. Choose light or reduced-sodium condiments, add oil and vinegar to salads rather than bottled dressings, and use only a small amount of seasoning from flavoring packets instead of the entire packet.
- Reduce your portion size Less food means less sodium. Prepare smaller portions at home and consume less when eating out—choose smaller sizes, split an entrée with a friend, or take home part of your meal.
- Make lower-sodium choices at restaurants Ask for your meal to be prepared without table salt and request that sauces and salad dressings be served “on the side,” then use less of them. You can also ask if nutrition information is available and then choose options that are lower in sodium. | https://www.wtxl.com/news/national/study-questions-whether-adding-table-salt-causes-premature-mortality | 2022-08-18T17:45:24Z | wtxl.com | control | https://www.wtxl.com/news/national/study-questions-whether-adding-table-salt-causes-premature-mortality | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
NEW YORK (AP) — A top executive at former President Donald Trump’s family business pleaded guilty Thursday to evading taxes in a deal that could potentially make him a star witness against the company at a fall trial.
Trump Organization CFO Allen Weisselberg pleaded guilty to all 15 of the charges he faced in the case. He was accused of dodging taxes on lavish fringe benefits he got from the company, including lease payments for a luxury car, rent for a Manhattan apartment and private school tuition for his grandchildren.
Weisselberg is the only person to face criminal charges so far in the Manhattan district attorney’s long-running investigation of the company’s business practices.
“Today is an important marker in the ongoing criminal investigation of the Trump Organization and its CFO, Allen Weisselberg," said New York Attorney General Letitia James. "In the indictment, we allege, among other things, financial wrongdoing whereby the Trump Organization engaged in a scheme with Mr. Weisselberg to avoid paying taxes on certain compensation. This investigation will continue, and we will follow the facts and the law wherever they may lead.”
Judge Juan Manuel Merchan agreed to sentence Weisselberg to five months incarceration and five years probation at New York City’s Rikers Island jail complex, although he will be eligible for release much earlier if he behaves well behind bars. The judge said Weisselberg will have to pay nearly $2 million in taxes, penalties and interest.
The plea bargain also requires Weisselberg to testify truthfully as a prosecution witness when the Trump Organization goes on trial in October on related charges. The company is accused of helping Weisselberg and other executives avoid income taxes by failing to accurately report their full compensation to the government.
Trump himself is not charged in the case.
Testimony by Weisselberg could potentially weaken the Trump Organization’s defense. If convicted, the company could face fines or potentially be placed on probation and be forced to change certain business practices. | https://www.wtxl.com/news/national/trump-organization-cfo-pleads-guilty-in-tax-evasion-case | 2022-08-18T17:45:36Z | wtxl.com | control | https://www.wtxl.com/news/national/trump-organization-cfo-pleads-guilty-in-tax-evasion-case | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The USD is extending gains and is the strongest of the major currencies. The GBP and the EUR are the weakest.
The EURUSD is breaking below the lower extreme that confined the pair in July and into August at 1.0096. The low swing area between 1.0096 and 1.0121 is now risk stay below keeps the bears more in control.
The GBPUSD is also making new lows and in the process is moving below the swing low from June at 1.1933. In July, the price trade above and below that level with a low for the year at 1.1759. The low price just reached 1.19218. The price is running away from the 1.2000 natural support level.
The USDJPY is trading at the highest level since July 28, moving above a swing area between 135.29 and 135.575. That area is now close risk. Stay above is more bullish. The pair is testing the 61.8% retracement of the move down from the July 14 high at 135.945.
While the USD is moving higher, rates remain negative but off their low levels for the day.
- 2 year yield 3.235%, -5.2 basis points
- 5 year 3.034%, -1.7 basis points
- 10 year 2.84%, -1.6 basis points
- 30 year 3.138%, -1.7 basis points
Admittedly, rates are off there lows for the day, but still negative. Fed's George and Bullard are speaking more hawkish only about inflation. Bullard has been the most hawkish of all Fed officials is looking for 3.75% – 4% Fed target by the end of the year. The current rate is only 2.5%. So he sees 150 basis points more by the end of the year. There are 3 more meetings in 2022.
The US stocks remain mixed with the Dow down -0.24%. The broader S&P is up 0.12% and the Nasdaq is up 0.29%.
There is a 57% chance for 75 basis points at the September meeting.
Crude oil is now up over $3 on the day or 3.3%.
Fed's Kashkari is scheduled to speak shortly. | https://www.forexlive.com/news/us-dollar-higher-crude-oil-prices-higher-stocks-mix-interest-rates-still-lower-20220818/ | 2022-08-18T17:54:43Z | forexlive.com | control | https://www.forexlive.com/news/us-dollar-higher-crude-oil-prices-higher-stocks-mix-interest-rates-still-lower-20220818/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The region’s first Cook Out fast-food restaurant appears to be nearly ready for its opening.
Social media users have recently taken to posting photos of the Manassas Park building, which appears to be nearing completion. Cook Out signs on the building’s façade appear to be fully installed.
According to a report in The Burn, an online news and entertainment website in Loudoun County, the location has a target opening at the end of August or near the start of September and is already staffed up.
The chain has become famous for its inexpensive, fresh fast-food specialties like burgers, hot dogs, milkshakes and more. It has more than 200 locations across the southeast, but the Manassas Park location will be the chain’s first foray into northern Virginia or the DMV area. Its northernmost location as of right now is in Winchester.
InsideNoVa’s attempts to reach representatives for the chain have so far been unsuccessful. | https://www.insidenova.com/headlines/cook-out-opening-soon-in-manassas-park/article_dd642f8a-1f0a-11ed-89ea-af33a07d1a25.html | 2022-08-18T18:00:19Z | insidenova.com | control | https://www.insidenova.com/headlines/cook-out-opening-soon-in-manassas-park/article_dd642f8a-1f0a-11ed-89ea-af33a07d1a25.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
A kitchen fire early Thursday displaced 11 people and left a resident with minor injuries in the County Center Crossing Apartments in Woodbridge.
Fire crews were called to the 13000 block of Tanazari Way at 4:43 a.m. and arrived to find a kitchen fire extinguished by the building’s automatic sprinkler system.
The apartment’s occupant was cooking food on the stove but fell asleep, Prince William County fire and rescue said in a news release. Smoke detectors activated and alerted the resident, who suffered a minor injury attempting to remove the food from the stove. No other injuries were reported.
A total of four apartments sustained water damage, displacing 10 adults and one child. All were assisted by the American Red Cross.
The Fire Marshal’s Office confirmed the cause of the fire was unattended cooking, the release said.
"This incident demonstrated the importance of working smoke detectors and the effectiveness of automatic sprinkler systems," the release said. "The Fire Marshal’s Office continues the emphasis of never leaving food unattended while cooking." | https://www.insidenova.com/headlines/fire-caused-by-food-left-on-stove-displaces-11-in-woodbridge/article_1e12836c-1f09-11ed-b8ee-37e94bb8a767.html | 2022-08-18T18:00:23Z | insidenova.com | control | https://www.insidenova.com/headlines/fire-caused-by-food-left-on-stove-displaces-11-in-woodbridge/article_1e12836c-1f09-11ed-b8ee-37e94bb8a767.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Freedom-Woodbridge High School graduate Josh Fuga is on the 2022 Watch List for the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award.
The award is presented annually to the most outstanding college football player of Polynesian ancestry that epitomizes great ability and integrity. The Watch List is composed of 85 players from 43 different FBS schools.
Fuga is a red-shirt junior defensive lineman at Virginia Tech. Fuga played in 13 games with three starts last season. He totaled 21 tackles, one tackle for loss and 0.5 sacks. Fuga’s first career start came in a win over Middle Tennessee State, he recorded a career-high six tackles vs. Notre Dame.
Five finalists for the 2022 Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award will be unveiled on December 1st and the winner will be announced on December 15th. The presentation of the Award will be held during the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week Celebration Dinner (January 21, 2023) at the Sheraton Waikiki, and they will also be recognized during the Polynesian Bowl (January 20, 2023).
The Watch List candidates have been selected based on past performance and future potential. | https://www.insidenova.com/sports/prince_william/freedom-woodbridge-graduate-josh-fuga-a-candidate-for-the-polynesian-college-football-player-of-the/article_7bf555a6-1f11-11ed-987c-730654b799b3.html | 2022-08-18T18:00:24Z | insidenova.com | control | https://www.insidenova.com/sports/prince_william/freedom-woodbridge-graduate-josh-fuga-a-candidate-for-the-polynesian-college-football-player-of-the/article_7bf555a6-1f11-11ed-987c-730654b799b3.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
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Beyond Transfer
Building common ground and shared will for accelerated change
Title
Transfer Alumni Networks: Your Next Fundraising Focus
Four recommendations for maximizing transfer alum engagement.
The tumult of the pandemic, enrollment shakeups, concerns over tuition costs—all these factors have forced a significant shift in donor and alumni fundraising. Engagement needs to be more immediate and personal. Alumni and donors have more clarity on what is important to them. And underdeveloped donor bases are coming forward ready to give.
Alumni giving and participation are potentially powerful yet underdeveloped tools for fundraising. Students who feel more connected to their alma mater are more engaged as alumni in the short term and have more fiscal impact in the long term. Connected students, connected alums: It’s an effective cycle of giving and receiving. We may take this cycle for granted, yet there is a student community we are not talking about: transfer alums.
Research across sectors found that community college alums with an associate degree were twice as likely to give compared to alums who did not. And alums who gave to their four-year institution were four times more likely to give to the community college they attended. Alumni and donor relations are essential to both community colleges and four-year universities. Engaging transfer alums can help build and sustain a pattern of giving over time that can benefit both institutions.
As the Director of the UCLA Transfer Student Center, I was fortunate to work with senior leaders from the UCLA Alumni Associationand other divisions to develop one of the first transfer alum networks in the country. Today, over 53,000 UCLA transfer students who have graduated since 2000 have an opportunity to engage and give back to their community through the Transfer Student Alumni Network (TSAN).
Below are four recommendations from my experience working with students and senior leaders on transfer alum engagement:
“Start with your transfer alumni: listen and learn.” - Dr. Julie Sina, Associate Vice Chancellor for Alumni Affairs at UCLA,
Dr. Sina underscored the importance of connecting with and hearing directly from transfers about their unique experiences.
How can you do this?
Short-term:
- Host regular listening sessions with current and former transfer students.
- Identify transfer champions (e.g., faculty, staff, active alums) to support the connection and conversations.
- Collaborate with campus divisions that work directly with transfer students.
Longer-term:
- Discover committed transfer alumni leaders.
- Offer lower commitment opportunities to transfer alum (e.g., volunteering for one-off events, virtual mentoring sessions).
- Create a process for and culture of including transfer alums in general alumni-centered programs and events.
Example in Action:
At UCLA, leaders heard how disconnected transfer students felt from the institution post-graduation and how transactional experiences with the university kept them from deepening their allegiance. In response, Dr. Sina and her team collaborated with student affairs to establish a few low-commitment opportunities for transfer alums to connect and give back, such as a transfer scholarship review board and transfer alum networking nights.
Pardees Fassihi, TSAN founding president, reflects, "At events like these, you can see the waves of relief as new transfer graduates connect with transfer alumni. Knowing there is a transfer support net after graduation and that folks with shared experience have our backs as transfers and act as mentors—this sense of connection and community creates incredible confidence during the transition out of UCLA. This engagement with the alumni association shows transfers how important they are to the institution.”
Collect Transfer Alumni Data Post-Graduation
How many of your transfer student alums go on to graduate school? What number remain employed locally? How do you contact them? If you don’t know the answer to these questions, you may need to collect more transfer alum data.
How can you do this?
Short-term:
- Collect transfer alum feedback, stories, and qualitative data through regular listening sessions, surveys, and other creative methods such as video campaigns and scholarship application prompts.
- Code for transfer in all CRM and other data collection strategies.
- Engage your institutional research office in prioritizing transfer data.
Longer-term:
- Remove barriers to transfer student and alums data collection (join forces across divisions to streamline any information collected on transfers campus-wide).
- Collaborate with local community colleges on data collection and sharing.
- Disseminate transfer alum data to appropriate stakeholders.
Example in Action:
At UCLA, once students graduated, they were simply coded as “alum” –their transfer identity and previous college experience were not included with their contact information. The UCLA Alumni Association couldn’t see who was a transfer –let alone which community college they came from. They had to negotiate across divisions to gather the necessary information and ensure it’s tracked and shared in the future.
Use Transfer Data to Appeal to New Donors
Once you have compelling data and stories on the transfer experience, you can make a stronger case to donors, local employers, and others that investing in transfer students can have a significant impact that aligns with their interests and goals.
How can you do this?
Short-term:
- Collaborate with development teams to connect the transfer student experience to donors, grantees, and local industry interests—show that by supporting transfers, your college can increase enrollment, diversity, degree completion, and deliver needed talent to the community.
- Spotlight transfer successes and stories in alum newsletters, official institution social media outlets, and other campus outreach.
Longer-term:
- Embed transfer into the alumni engagement and donor relation strategies.
- Embed transfer into the larger institutional mission, vision, and goals.
Example in Action:
At the Aspen Institute, we work with college presidents and senior leaders who utilize data to demonstrate the power of engaging the transfer community long term. For instance, in some cases, presidents who collected transfer alum data were able to raise funds from and collaborate with local employers interested in addressing outmigration and diversifying the workforce.
Celebrate Transfer Success and Cultivate Community
Being an alumnus can be an identity, a life trajectory— a sense of belonging that can be nurtured before students enroll and can last a lifetime. Transfers have a strong and unique identity, and this provides an opportunity: Alumni groups can create a space, a place, and an appreciation for that identity to thrive.
How can you do this?
Short-term:
- Share your transfer story and other stories of transfer success.
- Collaborate with affinity groups with intersecting identities to transfer (e.g., first generation, Veteran, diversity alumni networks).
- Establish opportunities for college presidents and senior leaders to participate in the transfer community.
Longer-term:
- Provide space for authentic connections between transfers and alums.
- Systematize more inclusive infrastructures for transfer alums.
- Start before transfers get to your institution, as you might for first time in college, full-time and residential students.
Example in Action:
New admit events increase students' likelihood of enrolling and help to create a sense of belonging before students even submit their intent to register. This early connection is particularly impactful for first-generation college students and students of color, which are common intersecting identities to transfer. In a recent study of the UCLA new admit events, researchers found that African American, Chicano/Latino, Native American, and Southeast Asian/Pacific Islander students are twice as likely to enroll when engaging in new admit events.
To connect with transfers early in their experience, UCLA hosts annual transfer-specific admit events. These events by student and alumni volunteers give admitted students and their families a holistic view of UCLA and its supportive community as it relates to their identity.
A successful transfer alum network requires a successful transfer experience. The recommendations above are a good place to start. And for more, you can always review the complete Beyond Transfer blog series.
With fundraising and new donor interests shifting to more personally meaningful and impactful investment opportunities, there is no better time to realize the unique potential of the transfer community.
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Higher Ed Gamma
MOOCs and beyond.
Title
Innovating at Scale
How one community college system discarded a cookie-cutter approach to education.
Colleges pay tribute to diversity yet largely offer a cookie-cutter approach to education.
Go to most campuses and a conventional, unimaginative, standardized approach to education is the norm: A college education consists of 60 or 120 credit hours, a 15 week-long semester, distribution requirements, a department-based major, and 3 or 5 credit hour lecture, seminar, and laboratory courses.
Homogeneity and uniformity are generally the rule, not an education with distinguishing characteristics.
Sure, there are exceptions. Columbia, Chicago, and St. Johns offer variations on a great books curriculum. Work colleges like Berea and Paul Quinn require all students to perform campus jobs to defray part of their education’s cost. The coop approach at Drexel and Northeastern combines classroom-based education with practical work experiences.
Why does a cookie cutter approach to education prevail? The reasons are obvious:
- Because that’s the education that most faculty and administrators received.
- Because it makes it easier for students to transfer credits.
- Because it’s easy to scale.
- Because it’s in the interest of faculty who are trained in specific disciplines.
Why, after all, should an institution deviate from the tried and true?
Which is why I was bowled over when I learned what a neighboring institution, Austin Community College, was up to.
Ted Hadzi-Antich Jr., a department chair and an associate professor of Government at ACC, and himself a graduate of a graduate of St. John’s College, decided to wage war against a cookie-cutter education. He and his colleagues created and scaled a first-semester student success seminar focused on the discussion-based study of transformative texts.
This course has since become one of ACC’s signature experiences.
ACC, like most two-year institutions, has a shockingly low graduation rate. In 2019, just 7.2 of first-time, full-time earned a degree or certificate in three years. That’s much lower than the rate at similar 2-year institutions.
It’s possible, of course, to explain this away. After all, just 3 percent of ACC’s students are first-time, full-time students. Many withdraw to enter Austin’s booming job market, while a large number, around 40 percent, transfer to other, often 4-year, institutions.
Still, no institution should rationalize or attempt to justify its organizational failures. Excuse making helps no one.
Clearly, something needed to change.
ACC responded by implementing the community college success formula – a multi-pronged approach to student retention and success that has become widespread thanks, in part, to the intrepid efforts of the Community College Research Center:
- Provide every student with a clear degree map.
- Institute guided pathways to help students remain on a well-defined path to completion.
- Offer specialized “Area of Study” orientations to entering students.
- Strengthen advising and counseling by expanding opportunities for one-on-one interactions with designated professionals.
- Implement wrap-around student support services.
- Embed tutors in online courses.
- Replace remedial classes with co-requisite remediation and supplemental instruction.
Such steps are necessary but insufficient. In the absence of a richer, more engaging, inspiring, and supportive academic experience and a deeper sense of connection and belonging, these innovations wouldn’t amount to a hill of beans.
That’s where Professor Hadzi-Antich Jr. stepped up to the plate.
Drawing on his own St. John’s College undergraduate education, he decided that ACC needed a new kind of first-year student experience that combined student success training, academic and career counseling, cultivation of writing and oral communication skills, and a curriculum organized around timeless big questions (about the self, identity, justice, and other enduring philosophical, theological, moral, and political issues) and critical engagement with foundational, culturally-transformative texts – taught by faculty members genuinely committed to students’ growth and development.
So far, Professor has helped train 100 ACC faculty members adopt the Great Questions discussion-based, text-centered approach and more than 2,000 students have taken Great Questions seminars. Under this program:
- Each student meets privately with their professor twice a semester.
- Students must respond in writing to a study question for each class session.
- Three larger assignments are designed to help students develop evidence-based arguments.
- Faculty are responsible for introducing students to ACC’s support services and helping them navigate the curriculum.
The assigned texts are not confined to classics of literature or moral and political philosophy. One key text, surprisingly, is Euclid’s Elements. Nor are the texts exclusively canonical classics or exclusively Western or male-authored. Readings come from Sappho, Du Fu, Li Bai, The Bible, The Qur’an, St. John of The Cross, Rumi, Mirabi, Nammalvar and Kabir. A comprehensive list of texts can be found here.
Issues addressed in the seminar sessions range from leadership, identity, and justice to empathy, community, violence, migration, cultural difference, trauma, power, gender, and language
ACC has also established faculty reading groups, including one that focuses on teaching Eastern and Islamic classic texts.
To get a sense of the impact of this approach, take a look at a YouTube video that records students’ comments. You’ll be dazzled.
ACC is not alone in embracing this approach. Thanks to funding from the New York-based Teagle Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting and strengthening liberal arts education and punches well beyond its weight, a number of other institutions have adopted somewhat similar models.
Examples include:
- Purdue’s Cornerstone: Learning for Living, an immersive, integrated liberal arts certificate program. Given that Purdue is best known for its engineering, education, pharmacy, audiology, business, nursing and speech pathology programs, Cornerstone seeks to introduce these career-minded students to ideas and issues that impact the disciplines of engineering, technology, science, medicine, business, and public policy.
- CUNY’s Core Texts, which began as a collaboration between Hostos Community College and Columbia, and has now expanded to three other CUNY campuses: The Borough of Manhattan Community College, LaGuardia Community College, and New York City College of Technology.
There is also The Great Questions Foundation which seeks to promote core-text and discussion-based learning at the community colleges nationwide by offering professional development workshops and curriculum redesign support.
As higher education has become more and more stratified, the kind of education that students receive has grown less and less democratic. I worry that only those students who attend selective institutions will receive a rich, well-rounded liberal arts education, while most will receive something quite different: an education that is narrower, more vocational, and less attentive to a liberal education’s true goals – the development of a breadth of cross-cultural understanding, personal maturation, advanced research, analytical, and communication skills, engagement with the enduring philosophical, moral, and political, questions, and the growth of a rich interior life and a robust capacity for self-reflection.
A democratic education isn’t simply an education for responsible citizenship or civic engagement. Nor is it merely a matter of instilling democratic values like tolerance or respect for rule of law, freedom speech and religion, or respect for an independent judiciary or election results.
Rather, a truly democratic education requires students to reflect deeply on issues of justice, fairness, equity, freedom, and morality. It entails intensive discussion, debate, interaction with classmates, and regular, substantive feedback from a professor.
As the great French political philosopher and historian Alexis de Tocqueville recognized nearly two centuries ago, democracy isn’t simply a system of government involving political parties and contested elections that can be easily transplanted from one society to another. Rather, a stable political democracy rests upon a preexisting democratic social order. That requires a certain equality of condition among its citizens and their active participation in the institutions and associations that comprise civil society.
It also entails, I might add, a broad liberal education that offers the essential knowledge and skills that will allow every member of society to participate in informed democratic decisionmaking.
I’m not alone in worrying about the future of American democracy – and not just because of the authoritarian temptation exhibited by some of our political leaders or the polarization and political vitriol that characterizes public discourse or the Congressional gridlock and legal impediments that prevent this society from addressing fundamental issues involving housing, healthcare, transportation, mental health, and environmental and climate concerns in a timely, cost-effective manner.
A more profound problem, which the Harvard professor of public policy Robert D. Putnam has analyzed in depth, lies in increasing social disconnection and the fraying social fabric evident in the weakening of a wide range of social institutions, whether religious, political, or community-based. Higher education can’t solve those problems, but it can heighten public awareness, cultivate more knowledgeable and reflective citizens, and generate social capital.
ACC’s Great Questions seminars are a small but much needed step toward ensuring that all students, not just the most privileged, receive a genuinely democratic education and get the liberal education befits a free person.
Steven Mintz is professor of history at the University of Texas at Austin.
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Learning Innovation
A space for conversation and debate about learning and technology.
Title
CHLOE 7: Centralization vs. Distribution of Online Student Services
5 thoughts.
The report I'm drawing from and sharing around most enthusiastically this summer is the recently released CHLOE 7: Tracking Online Learning From Mainstream Acceptance to Universal Adoption.
In a previous post, I highlighted the reported data on present and future instructional design capacity.
In this post, I'd like to amplify the report's findings on centralization vs. distribution of online student services (Figure 5) and offer some thoughts.
1 - Figure 5 gives a good list of the critical services a university must provide for online programs.
The pandemic accelerated the shift to online education as a strategic priority across the postsecondary ecosystem. One challenge for colleges and universities with distributed or small online learning footprints is getting a handle on all the pieces that must be brought together to develop and run a new online program.
This complexity is one of the reasons many schools have turned to online program management (OPM) partners, as OPMs have expertise in the pieces that may not be the core competencies of many schools.
The list of services from Figure 5 includes faculty recruitment, course/program design & development, tutoring/coaching/mentoring, advising, program marketing, proctoring & student authentication, market research, student recruitment, accessibility & ADA compliance, student help desk & technical support, and financial aid for students.
The big things missing from this list are start-up capital, financial projections and modeling, accreditation, foreign student visa management, system integrations, data security, and maybe some other things. Not all of these are "student" services, but they are all vital elements of developing and running an online program.
2 - The question for universities and schools running online programs is not "if" these services must be offered but rather "how" they will be provided.
I like Figure 5 from the CHLOE 7 report because it does two things. It enumerates the student services for online programs and shows where those services can be provided. None of the services can be skipped. They need to come from somewhere.
When it comes to online learning, the challenge for most colleges and universities is one of scale. The larger the online learning footprint - the more programs offered and students enrolled - the lower the marginal cost for online services for each new student. Conversely, small programs still must invest in developing and providing a range of online student services.
Schools that have siloed online programs duplicate the people and resources required for each online service, therefore driving up costs. Building out centralized services for online programs may be more cost-efficient as online education grows across the institution. However, centralization is always challenging as individual schools have specialized needs and requirements for their online programs.
3 - I think (hypothesize) that we are seeing an ecosystem-wide shift towards institutional centralization of online services.
When it comes to online learning, we tend to think about the big players in the game, such as SNHU, WGU, and ASU. The other big story in online education is the scope and diversity of colleges and universities with small but growing online portfolios.
Everyone is getting into the online game, at least at the master's level, as that is where the students are. There will always be a handful of master's programs where it makes sense to quit your job, move to where a school is located, and devote two years of your life to getting that degree. For most degrees and most students, the opportunity costs of leaving work to get a degree are too high.
As this realignment from residential to online is taking place across higher ed, I think we are seeing an ecosystem-wide shift to the centralization of online services. Online education is moving from the periphery to the core, from entrepreneurial and opportunistic deans to central institutional strategies. As that change plays out, we will see more centralized online services.
4 - The story of non-profit/for-profit partnerships and online program management (OPM) companies is a story of the provision of online student services.
Looking at the list of online student services, it should not be surprising that many schools turn to OPMs and other types of partners (OPX - fee for service) to help out.
The extent that a college or university is dependent on for-profit partners in the online learning space is directly proportional to the degree to which an institution has developed internal capacities for building and supporting online programs.
There are some tasks that all but the largest of universities that offer online programs may never bring in-house. A school must have a massive online program footprint to contemplate bringing all digital marketing services to campus.
As colleges and universities build more internal capacity for online programs, we will see traditional OPMs unbundle and diversity their services to meet universities' varying and changing needs.
5 - Building institutional capacities to deliver centralized online services is a long-term project; one requires leadership buy-in and resilience to leadership turnover.
No college or university can instantly build the infrastructure needed to support online programs across the institution. It takes time to build capacity, expertise, and experience.
Creating robust centralized online learning services requires leadership vision, alignment with the institutional strategic plan, faculty buy-in, the right online learning leadership, and patience.
Building central university services for online programs is also not cheap. Likely, the revenues that will ultimately support these activities will only come when a school reaches a critical mass of programs and students.
The challenge is finding a way to articulate how online learning aligns with and supports the institutional mission. Online learning must be understood as a central institutional strategic priority that enhances and supports the broader university mission.
The timeframes necessary to develop the centralized internal capacities for online learning, as described in Figure 5 of the CHLOE 7 report, may outlast the tenure of academic leadership.
Campus online learning leaders who fail to prioritize aligning their operations with the broader institutional mission will be unlikely to succeed in the long run.
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- Humanities' scholarly infrastructure is vanishing (opinion) | Inside Higher Ed | https://www.insidehighered.com/blogs/learning-innovation/chloe-7-centralization-vs-distribution-online-student-services | 2022-08-18T18:04:54Z | insidehighered.com | control | https://www.insidehighered.com/blogs/learning-innovation/chloe-7-centralization-vs-distribution-online-student-services | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The Dadeville Police Department is conducting a death investigation after a deceased individual was found Thursday morning. The body, a white male, was found dead under a canopy in front of a vacant Dadeville business on East South Street.
“It is a death investigation,” Dadeville police Chief Jonathon Floyd said. “The body is being sent to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for an autopsy.”
As soon as the body was removed, law enforcement cleared the scene.
Floyd said the death remains under investigation.
Cliff Williams is a staff writer for Tallapoosa Publishers.
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Error! There was an error processing your request. | https://www.alexcityoutlook.com/news/police-investigate-public-death/article_a63712c2-1f08-11ed-ae23-5759918ea131.html | 2022-08-18T18:07:09Z | alexcityoutlook.com | control | https://www.alexcityoutlook.com/news/police-investigate-public-death/article_a63712c2-1f08-11ed-ae23-5759918ea131.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Some candidates of the Rivers chapter of the All Progressives Congress APC for the 2023, have asked Justice Stephen Daylop-Pam of the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt to recuse himself from Suit No: FHC/PHC/CS/127/2022: Peoples Democratic Party, PDP vs the Independent Natonal Electoral Commission, INEC and 17 others.
The suit seeks to disqualify all APC National Assembly candidates in the state over some irregularities.
Addressing journalists in Port Harcourt on Thursday, the candidate for Ikwerre/Emohua Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ezemonye Ezekiel-Amadi, accused the judge of having a close relationship with Governor Nyesom Wike.
Ezekiel-Amadi who was speaking on behalf of the other APC NASS candidates said Daylop-Pam cannot deny his closeness to the PDP legal adviser in the state, Kingsley Chuku, pointing out that all suits filled by the party against other political parties in the state, were being handled by the judge.
He said: “Between July 25, 2022 when the matter came up in court and today, August 18, 2022, further applications have been made individually by the rest of us seated here today, to the Administrative Judge of the Port Harcourt Division as well as to the Honorable, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, requesting that the matter be withdrawn from Justice Pam and re-assigned to another judge of the Federal High Court preferably in Abuja.
“Today, we have gathered here – the 16 of us, individually and represented – as the National Assembly Candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2022 general elections, to add flesh to our collective insistence that Justice Stephen Daylop Pam recuses himself from the suit against us and before him.
“Permit us to place on record here that justice is rooted in the confidence of the parties to get justice and we do not have any iota of confidence in the outcome of this suit as long as it is allowed to be determined by Justice Pam.
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“It may not be possible for us as responsible citizens to publicly reveal and divulge all we know about the relationship between Justice Pam and Governor Nyesom Wike, the leader of the PDP in Rivers State as well as all we know today, that transpired in the VAT case between the Rivers State Government and the FIRS.
“But we are reminded of a Nigerian adage that when a child is crying and pointing to a particular place, either the child’s parents or toys must be in that place!
“We know that the relationship between Justice Pam and Governor Wike is a lot deeper than just casual. Any wonder why all the suits filed by the PDP seeking to delist other political parties from the 2023 election ballots, are all assigned to Justice Pam? And we are tempted to ask: Is Justice Pam the only judge in the Port Harcourt Division?
“There are no fewer than 79 judges of the Federal High Court in Nigeria today. Why then is Justice Pam the only judge to handle all cases of PDP seeking to bar all other political parties from the 2023 elections? Why? Is this not sufficiently curious as to arouse the suspicion of a discerning mind?” | https://tribuneonlineng.com/rivers-apc-nass-candidates-ask-judge-to-recuse-self-in-case-seeking-to-disqualify-them/ | 2022-08-18T18:08:07Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/rivers-apc-nass-candidates-ask-judge-to-recuse-self-in-case-seeking-to-disqualify-them/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Kochi: The Kerala High Court will pronounce its verdict on the pleas filed by Swapna Suresh, the prime accused in the gold smuggling case that rattled the state, on Friday.
Swapna's pleas seek to quash the cases filed against her for allegedly conspiring to cause a riot in the state through her recent revelations against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his family.
She had alleged that they were involved in several anti-national activities, including gold smuggling.
Swapna's remarks came in a confidential statement she had filed in the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court in connection with the gold smuggling case.
Her statement also names former Speaker P Sreeramakrishnan, former principal secretary to CM, M Sivasankar, and some top bureaucrats.
Cases were filed against her in Thiruvananthapuram and Palakkad. One of the complainants is former minister KT Jaleel, who is also named in Swapna's statement.
She said that she was cautioned against revealing these facts to the central agencies before, but added that she decided to disclose the information citing the harassment she had to endure these past months.
"I feel threatened by the police. The Customs Department has deliberately buried my secret statement without due follow-up," Swapna said.
Justice Riyad Rehman's bench will pronounce the verdict on Swapna's pleas on Friday.
It was in mid-2020 that the Customs busted a smuggling racket linked to the consulate. Swapna was then working at the Thiruvananthapuram Consulate of the United Arab Emirates.
The probe revealed that consular staff were hand in glove with gold smugglers in Kerala and the Middle East.
They used the diplomatic baggage to carry out smuggling. Money laundering also was likely attempted by the syndicate that enjoyed political patronage. | https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2022/08/18/swapna-suresh-gold-smuggling-conspiracy-case.amp.html | 2022-08-18T18:08:55Z | onmanorama.com | control | https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2022/08/18/swapna-suresh-gold-smuggling-conspiracy-case.amp.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
A New Jersey-based developer wants to construct 225 homes near Haymarket.
K.Hovnanian Mid-Atlantic Division LLC submitted a rezoning application with Prince William County June 29 for the project.
The company wants to change the land-use designation of about 80.8 acres across four parcels from agricultural zoning to planned mixed residential.
The properties, which are near the intersection of Allaire Drive and Old Carolina Road, are owned by Charles and Patricia Limage, Patrick Cronin, Valerie Walker and James Jackson. K. Hovnanian is under contract to purchase the land.
The entrance to the property would come off Old Carolina and Thoroughfare roads.
The application includes pocket parks, natural areas and playgrounds.
“Grayson Overlook is intended to fit in with the existing character of single-family development in this portion of Prince William County while providing high-quality amenities to the residents of this new community,” the application says.
The project is expected to generate 144 students for the school division and put particular stress on Ronald Reagan Middle School. To mitigate the impact, the company is pledging to provide $755,308 to the county.
The developer is also proposing $381,600 for the impact on Fire and Rescue, $59,636 for police and $22,845 for parks.
No public meetings have been scheduled on the project. | https://www.insidenova.com/headlines/225-unit-development-pitched-near-haymarket/article_8aa64462-1f1a-11ed-89e4-bf70399ace04.html | 2022-08-18T18:09:00Z | insidenova.com | control | https://www.insidenova.com/headlines/225-unit-development-pitched-near-haymarket/article_8aa64462-1f1a-11ed-89e4-bf70399ace04.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The Arlington Chamber of Commerce has launched a new effort to give its member organizations, that do not have one access to one, an employee-retirement plan.
The business organization on Aug. 17 announced a partnership with Lincoln Financial Group and Morgan Stanley Wealth Management to deliver a group 401(k) Multiple Employer Aggregation Program (MEAP) to its members. Through this program, Chamber members will receive access to a cost-effective retirement program that will relieve businesses of many of the administrative obligations associated with providing a retirement program.
“This program provides a simple solution to an issue that many businesses are struggling to solve,” Chamber officials said.
Chamber member Barry Seymour with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management will handle the overall operation of the 401(k) program. Members who opt to participate will have direct contact with Seymour, who will walk through their current plan or assist with the transition into the Chamber’s MEAP program.
“People have always been at the heart of every good business and organization, and taking care of employees truly is good business,” said Chamber president/CEO Kate Bates. “We are proud to adopt this program as an additional value to our members, especially our small-business members. In today’s competitive labor market, it is important that our members have the ability to offer their employees a robust benefits program, which includes a retirement plan.”
This program is now available to Chamber members. Businesses that are not yet members and are interested in learning more can contact membership@arlingtonchamber.org.
[https://sungazette.news provides content to, but otherwise is unaffiliated with, InsideNoVa or Rappahannock Media LLC.] | https://www.insidenova.com/news/arlington/arlington-chamber-of-commerce-to-offer-401-k-plan-for-member-organizations/article_c0e80ef2-1f1a-11ed-8b41-0b03f216f9e9.html | 2022-08-18T18:09:02Z | insidenova.com | control | https://www.insidenova.com/news/arlington/arlington-chamber-of-commerce-to-offer-401-k-plan-for-member-organizations/article_c0e80ef2-1f1a-11ed-8b41-0b03f216f9e9.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Home sales may have belly-flopped in July, but the average sales price of a single-family home just kept on pushing into record territory in Arlington, according to new sales data.
Will that be a symbol of the “new normal” in local real estate – fewer sales, higher prices – or is it something of a bacchanalian feast before a significant correction approaches? Only time will tell.
A total of 245 properties went to closing in Arlington last month, according to figures reported from MarketStats by ShowingTime based on listing activity from Bright MLS. That’s down 26 percent from the 342 sales recorded a year before.
Sales were down but the average sales price of $894,779 was up 13.8 percent, due in part to a larger percentage of single-family homes in the sales mix for the month – 42 percent of all sales compared to 34 percent a year before.
(While single-family transactions were down 12% to 103 for the month, sales in the townhouse/condo sector plummeted 37% to 142.)
The average sales price of single-family homes rose a seemingly incredible, given cooling market conditions, 17 percent to just over $1.4 million, while the average sales prices of attached homes ($526,720) and condominiums ($460,294) were down 7.5 percent and 9.2 percent, respectively.
A total of 77 properties went to closing for more than $1 million, including five for $2.5 million or higher.
Add it all up, and total sales volume for the month stood at just over $218 million, down 18.3 percent from just under $267 million a year before.
While sales were dropping, sellers who made a love connection with a buyer were making out OK: It took an average of 20 days between listing and ratified sales contract for homes that went to closing in July, and homes sold, on average, for 99.4 percent of original listing price – both up from a year before. Just over half of homes found a buyer within 10 days of going on the market.
Conventional mortgages represented the method of transacting sales in 170 cases, followed by cash in 49 instances and VA-backed loans in 22.
Inventory, which at one point had been exceptionally tight in Arlington, is now only somewhat so: The 461 properties on the market at the end of the month represented a supply of 1.9 months, still somewhat in pro-seller territory.
But there’s little question the slowing sales will continue, as the number of homes that were listed as pending were down by nearly 30 percent compared to July 2021.
Figures represent most, but not all, home sales in the market. All July 2022 figures are preliminary and are subject to revision.
[https://sungazette.news provides content to, but otherwise is unaffiliated with, InsideNoVa or Rappahannock Media LLC.] | https://www.insidenova.com/news/arlington/arlington-home-sales-down-but-single-family-prices-keep-rocketing-upward/article_7fee208a-1f1a-11ed-a7a1-17c4f406dd30.html | 2022-08-18T18:09:04Z | insidenova.com | control | https://www.insidenova.com/news/arlington/arlington-home-sales-down-but-single-family-prices-keep-rocketing-upward/article_7fee208a-1f1a-11ed-a7a1-17c4f406dd30.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Home-sales declines across Northern Virginia’s five largest jurisdictions may be seen as a case of the haves and have-nots, as homes in tip-top condition are drawing buyer interest away from those that are not.
“Well-maintained, updated properties that are priced correctly are still in very high demand,” said Heather Embrey, president-elect of the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors, parsing July sales data.
Embrey, with Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Premier, prefers the term “calming” to describe the transition that has occurred in recent months, as inventory has risen and prospective purchasers either have moved to the sidelines for now, or become noticeably more choosy.
The current market environment is giving those buyers the chance to catch their breath and assess what opportunities are out there.
“More options are available,” Embrey acknowledged.
For July, home sales were down 31 percent compared to a year before, measuring transactions in Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William counties and the city of Alexandria.
Figures come from MarketStats by ShowingTime based on listing activity from Bright MLS, as analyzed by the Sun Gazette.
The downturn was relatively uniform, although Alexandria saw less of a drop-off than the other jurisdictions. (But Alexandria, paradoxically, also is seeing the lowest sales-price-to-list-price ratio among the five.)
Among the jurisdictions, sales for July totaled 2,909, down from 4,210 a year before.
On a locality-by-locality basis:
• Sales dropped 30.6 percent to 1,285 in Fairfax County. • Sales were off 31.8 percent to 608 in Prince William County. • Sales dropped 35.4 percent to 543 in Loudoun County. • Sales fell 28.4 percent to 245 in Arlington County. • Sales dipped 19.7 percent to 228 in Alexandria.
Figures represent most, but not all, home sales in the market. All July 2022 figures are preliminary and are subject to revision.
[https://sungazette.news provides content to, but otherwise is unaffiliated with, InsideNoVa or Rappahannock Media LLC.] | https://www.insidenova.com/news/arlington/regional-home-sales-decline-as-market-calms-from-past-frenzy/article_a1eaa280-1f1a-11ed-a389-374c50443ccf.html | 2022-08-18T18:09:05Z | insidenova.com | control | https://www.insidenova.com/news/arlington/regional-home-sales-decline-as-market-calms-from-past-frenzy/article_a1eaa280-1f1a-11ed-a389-374c50443ccf.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The Fairfax County Park Foundation (FCPF) has named a foundation, an organization and a Park Authority “friends” group as recipients of this year’s Eakin Philanthropy Awards, honoring outstanding contributions to local parks.
Honorees include:
• The Adler Foundation, committed to helping communities and the environment, is being recognized for generous support of various Park Foundation projects.
It began in 2021, supporting Hunter Mill Melodies Summer Entertainment Series. In 2022, the foundation donated $20,000 to adopt carousel horses at Chessie’s Big Backyard in Franconia. Acknowledging the environmental impact that the Stewardship Education Center at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park will have through education, the Adler Foundation also donated $100,000 to fund the new amphitheater.
• The Park Foundation also is honoring Wegmans for its active involvement in many Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) programs.
Ranging from donations for FCPA events, such as the Elly Doyle Park Volunteer Awards and the 2022 Take Your Child to Work Day, to monetary sponsorship of the Summer Entertainment Series and the Stewardship Education Center’s STEAM feature.
Since 2013, Wegmans’ support exceeds $30,000, park officials said.
• The Ellanor C. Lawrence Park Friends group will be honored for partnering with the Park Foundation to preserve and protect the park and to help the Park Foundation secure sponsorships for the STEAM [science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics] features, including musical flowers, solar trail cameras, and the birds and wildlife feeding stations at the Stewardship Education Center at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park.
The group already has raised more than $20,000 since forming in 2020. The Fairfax County Park Foundation established the Eakin Philanthropy Award to recognize visionary, financial and material contributions that significantly enhance Fairfax County parks. The award is named in honor of LeRoy Eakin Sr., who donated 14 acres of land in 1951 that became Fairfax County’s first public park.
The 2022 recipients will be honored during an online program set as part of the Elly Doyle Park Service Award ceremony in November.
[https://sungazette.news provides content to, but otherwise is unaffiliated with, InsideNoVa or Rappahannock Media LLC.] | https://www.insidenova.com/news/fairfax/fairfax-park-foundation-set-to-honor-philanthropic-efforts/article_f377f24c-1f1a-11ed-b1f7-3f8b9d455f22.html | 2022-08-18T18:09:05Z | insidenova.com | control | https://www.insidenova.com/news/fairfax/fairfax-park-foundation-set-to-honor-philanthropic-efforts/article_f377f24c-1f1a-11ed-b1f7-3f8b9d455f22.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
For those who say that all the Sun Gazette editorial page does is criticize school-system leaders? Well, we calls ’em as we sees ’em. Which means when school officials do something smart, we praise the effort. Other times, we pounce.
(As Harry Truman used to retort when those in the crowd told him to “give ’em hell”: “I just tell the truth, and some people THINK it’s hell.”)
Today we will praise the Arlington school system, which seems to be doing the right thing in deciding that, for the coming year, it will position two substitute teachers permanently at every school.
That way, the teachers will get to know the school and the students, rather than being shuffled around the county willy-nilly. And it certainly would seem like there are enough teacher absences spread across an entire school to keep those substitutes busy.
Smart decision and creative thinking. And therefore deserving of some praise.
[https://sungazette.news provides content to, but otherwise is unaffiliated with, InsideNoVa or Rappahannock Media LLC.] | https://www.insidenova.com/opinion/editorials/sun-gazette-editorial-arlington-school-system-gets-creative-with-substitutes/article_0e81ab3c-1f1b-11ed-8071-93e7b33ac4a2.html | 2022-08-18T18:09:20Z | insidenova.com | control | https://www.insidenova.com/opinion/editorials/sun-gazette-editorial-arlington-school-system-gets-creative-with-substitutes/article_0e81ab3c-1f1b-11ed-8071-93e7b33ac4a2.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The decision by Dranesville District Supervisor John Foust to retire next year following four four-year terms in office is perhaps understandable.
Had he run and won in 2023, Foust would be past age 75 by the end of his fifth term. After having done service on the Board of Supervisors for 16 years, he will be more than deserving of throttling back a bit.
Residents of Dranesville District largely have been well-served by the supervisor, whose lengthy tenure in office has been something of an anomaly (we have watched the Dranesville District turn from Republican to Democratic to Republican to Democratic in the days when Fairfax County, and the district, had a more balanced electorate). Foust is thoughtful, engaged and willing to buck his colleagues when he believes it’s the right thing to do.
Not that he didn’t have ambitions: Some years back Foust won the Democratic nomination for the 10th District U.S. House of Representatives seat also sought by Republican Barbara Comstock in the wake of the retirement of venerable Frank Wolf. Comstock won that race, but two years later was unseated by Democrat Jennifer Wexton as Northern Virginia’s push toward a Democratic political oligarchy took hold.
(We think we can speak for the community in saying that Foust almost assuredly would have proved a superior federal legislator than Wexton, who in office has been a rubber-stamp for Democratic groupthink and in recent times has become almost AWOL in the community.)
With Foust opting not to run again for supervisor, we’d expect a crowd to turn up in seeking the job. One hopes that the eventual victor will follow the incumbent’s footsteps as one who keeps an open mind and doesn’t let partisan politics dictate his every move, as unfortunately seems to be the case with an increasing number of members of the Board of Supervisors.
[https://sungazette.news provides content to, but otherwise is unaffiliated with, InsideNoVa or Rappahannock Media LLC.] | https://www.insidenova.com/opinion/editorials/sun-gazette-editorial-foust-is-likely-to-be-a-hard-act-to-follow/article_2fbb6f2c-1f1b-11ed-813b-2f5c3e773877.html | 2022-08-18T18:09:27Z | insidenova.com | control | https://www.insidenova.com/opinion/editorials/sun-gazette-editorial-foust-is-likely-to-be-a-hard-act-to-follow/article_2fbb6f2c-1f1b-11ed-813b-2f5c3e773877.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Thirty-seven people died in the floods in Eastern Kentucky and a southern-based organization is working to help survivors get back into their homes as soon as possible.
God's Pit Crew responds to natural disasters... they are currently working on building three homes in three weeks in Dresden, Tennessee, and helping with flood relief in Kentucky.
"Right now our immediate responders are on the ground today working helping individuals whose homes are just completely devastated," Brandon Knuckles, COO of God's Pit Crew said.
The organization deployed volunteers immediately to get relief efforts underway.
"We have about 50 volunteers that went through some training with God's Pit Crew that will be responding to the Whitesburg area of KY - they're going to go in and cut trees, remove debris, they're going to muck out houses, and ultimately dry them for individuals who want to get back into their homes," He said.
Starting in 1999, the organization has helped build elementary schools, churches, and three houses in three weeks after the devastating tornadoes ripped through the area in December of 2021.
"In the last month, we responded to the flooding in Buckingham County, Virginia, our immediate responders have been sent out again to Whitesburg to help the people with flooding there, we are building 3 houses simultaneously in Kentucky and Tennessee," He said.
Volunteers provide essentials like hygiene products, cleaning supplies, first aid kits, hot meals and water, and even a Bible.
"We respond to disasters immediately with product even product we create in-house... one being called a blessing bucket which is a 5-gallon bucket which is filled with 26 essential items you would need," He said.
The organization operates on donated physical service or monetary support.
If you would like to support the cause, you can find a link to their efforts here. | https://www.local3news.com/local-news/gods-pit-crew-organization-helps-with-disaster-relief-in-kentucky-and-tennessee/article_2abcfe48-1f14-11ed-84a5-9bd05256d2fc.html | 2022-08-18T18:12:10Z | local3news.com | control | https://www.local3news.com/local-news/gods-pit-crew-organization-helps-with-disaster-relief-in-kentucky-and-tennessee/article_2abcfe48-1f14-11ed-84a5-9bd05256d2fc.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
On Wednesday, The Salvation Army Chattanooga Area Command celebrated the re-opening The Blessing Place after its recent remodel.
The community’s unsheltered neighbors are able to have a more uplifting shopping experience and attain free necessary items such as hygiene products, clothes, shoes, camping gear and food.
Volunteers open The Blessing Place every Wednesday, and it operates off of donations from the community.
Donations can be dropped off Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at 822 McCallie Ave.
The Salvation Army is in urgent need of in-kind food and personal hygiene kit donations for the Blessing Place. Items needed include new and not expired:
- Canned goods (meats, soups, fruits and vegetables)
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Grains
- Individually wrapped snack items
- Waters and sports drinks
- Travel hygiene items
- Men and women's socks and undergarments
- Men and women's summer clothes and shoes
- Waterproof gear (tents, sleeping bags, flashlights and ponchos)
To see a complete list of items needed, please visit www.csarmy.org/in-kind-needs. | https://www.local3news.com/local-news/salvation-army-celebrated-grand-re-opening-of-the-blessing-place/article_0d388612-1f19-11ed-a0cf-7b3f2582b649.html | 2022-08-18T18:12:29Z | local3news.com | control | https://www.local3news.com/local-news/salvation-army-celebrated-grand-re-opening-of-the-blessing-place/article_0d388612-1f19-11ed-a0cf-7b3f2582b649.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Florida state attorney Andrew Warren, who was suspended earlier this month by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for his position on abortion, is appealing his suspension by claiming the Republican governor abused his authority.
"The Florida Constitution sets very limited parameters under which a governor can suspend an elected official and what's happening here is, he's trying to overturn a free and fair election, Warren, the twice-elected state attorney of Hillsborough County, told CNN's John Berman on "New Day" Wednesday. "He's trying to throw out the votes of hundreds of thousands of Floridians. And he's trying to substitute his judgment for that of the voters who elected me."
After Warren had pledged not to prosecute those who seek or performed abortions or those who provide so-called gender-affirming treatments earlier this month, DeSantis announced he was suspending Warren for "neglect of duty" and "incompetence" as Hillsborough County's prosecutor.
Under Florida law, a governor can remove "any county officer" for malfeasance, misfeasance, neglect of duty, drunkenness, incompetence, permanent inability to perform official duties, or commission of a felony.
"The First Amendment still applies even though DeSantis is the Governor of Florida and that the Constitution of the State of Florida means what the courts say it means, not whatever DeSantis needs it to mean to silence his critics, promote his loyalists, and subvert the will of the voters," attorneys for Warren said in a complaint filed on Wednesday in District Court for the Northern District of Florida.
In response to a CNN request for comment, Taryn Fenske, a spokesperson for DeSantis, said, "It's not surprising Warren, who was suspended for refusing to follow the law, would file a legally baseless lawsuit challenging his suspension. We look forward to responding in court."
Warren told CNN on Wednesday that he hopes a court will "admit and show that what (DeSantis's) done abuses his authority under the Florida Constitution. He can't just suspend an election. He can't just throw out people's votes, because he disagrees with something that I've said."
He accused DeSantis of having "retaliated against me for speaking out against him in violation of my First Amendment rights. And he's abused the power that he has under the Florida Constitution to suspend an elected official."
He also argued that Florida's law that DeSantis signed banning abortions at 15 weeks of pregnancy is unconstitutional.
"I can't enforce an unconstitutional law and no case has come before me yet. This isn't about anything that I've done. This is about what I've said," Warren said.
Pressed on whether he would prosecute a case that violates an abortion law that's deemed constitutional, Warren replied that he would evaluate the merits of the case.
"We'd look at it the same way we look at every single one of the 50 to 60,000 cases that come to my office every year. We look at the law, and we look at the facts. And then we make a decision on that case, based on case specific information," he said.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved. | https://www.local3news.com/regional-national/florida-state-attorney-challenges-suspension-by-gov-ron-desantis/article_29eb2ebb-f699-51a6-8aa2-c2830da401fa.html | 2022-08-18T18:12:53Z | local3news.com | control | https://www.local3news.com/regional-national/florida-state-attorney-challenges-suspension-by-gov-ron-desantis/article_29eb2ebb-f699-51a6-8aa2-c2830da401fa.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Perrys Dover Mazda and Perrys Canterbury Mazda are your local reference point when it comes to all your Mazda needs, offering a huge selection of both new and used cars to suit different budgets and needs.
There's a wide range of aftersales services, including MOT at competitive prices, car service plans, as well as SMART vehicle repairs for your Mazda. If there is a particular car you’re interested in, feel free to contact the showrooms for more information or reserve it on the website for only £99. This means it will be ready for you to test drive when visiting the store.
Also, not to worry if you’re not local, as there is a vehicle delivery service so that you can get the car you want regardless of where you are located across the country.
Perrys Dover Mazda and Perrys Canterbury Mazda highly value all its customers and if you’re looking for an accessible vehicle with ad hoc adaptations, there is a huge range of vehicles that can be tailored to your mobility needs thanks to being a Motability accredited premier dealer.
When visiting the showrooms you’ll be met by a friendly and professional team ready to answer any queries you may have and help you find the perfect car. All the vehicles undertake thorough and comprehensive checks before being sold in the dealerships to match high standards. And if you’ve found what you like on your visit, the staff will be happy to present you with a full suite of financial packages to match different budgets and requirements, as well as giving you the option of buying and driving away on the same day.
Something new and exciting that will soon be launching in the dealerships is the new Mazda CX-60, the franchise’s first Plug-in Hybrid SUV. The Mazda CX-60 has been shortlisted in the Auto Express Awards as a “medium size premium SUV”, showing that this model can compete against established premium brands.
The all-new Mazda CX-60 features outstanding exteriors and interiors, human-centric technologies and a 2.5 litre petrol engine combined with an electric motor and battery.
Available in three different trims: Exclusive-Line, Homura and Takumi, the CX-60 can be driven in pure EV mode for up to 39 miles, making it perfect for both medium-length daily commutes and city driving. The Mazda CX-60 also introduces a number of ground-breaking technologies including the Mazda Driver Personalisation system which recognises the occupant of the driver’s seat through facial recognition and automatically adjusts the surroundings including seat position, head-up display, wing mirrors and even the sound and climate control settings.
If you’re interested in knowing more and surprised with everything that the all-new Mazda CX-60 has to offer, head to the Mazda dealerships in Dover or Canterbury for the CX-60 Launch Event on September 16 and 17, where you’ll have the opportunity to view the car, learn all about it and take it for a test drive.
Perrys Dover Mazda dealership is located at White Cliffs Business Park in Whitfield in Dover and also covers Deal, Sandwich, Folkestone and Hythe. to get in touch call 01304 276681.
If you’re closer to Canterbury instead, the closest Perrys is located on Island Road in Canterbury, which also covers Ashford, Sittingbourne, Rainham, Gillingham, Folkestone, Hythe and Maidstone. To get in touch call 01227 235569.
Both dealerships are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 6pm and Saturdays 8.30am to 5pm. | https://www.kentlive.news/special-features/test-drive-your-dream-car-7455475 | 2022-08-18T18:16:29Z | kentlive.news | control | https://www.kentlive.news/special-features/test-drive-your-dream-car-7455475 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
A film critic shared a screenshot appearing to show a sternly worded message from actress Amandla Stenberg following a recent review of her film, “Bodies Bodies Bodies.”
After New York Times writer Lena Wilson reviewed Stenberg’s latest on-screen venture — A24’s horror film helmed by 20-somethings — her Instagram DMs were seemingly hit with a message from the 23-year-old star, who plays Sophie in the film.
Wilson’s review of the film, which also stars Maria Bakalova, Lee Pace, Rachel Sennott, and Pete Davidson, was somewhat negative, and it seems as though Stenberg had some choice words for the writer.
“The only thing that really sets ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ apart is its place in the A24 hype machine, where it doubles as a 95-minute advertisement for cleavage and Charli XCX’s latest single,” Wilson wrote in her review.
Wilson said that while the film — which boasts 89% on Rotten Tomatoes — is not “bad,” it’s certainly “not special.”
She then shared a screenshot of her DMs, with the alleged message from Stenberg.
“Maybe if you had gotten ur eyes off my t-ts you could’ve watched the movie,” the DM allegedly from Stenberg reads.
“Do you think she Instagram DM’d Alison Willmore, Justin Chang, and Anthony Lane like this or..,” Wilson tweeted alongside the screenshot, referring to the other critics who also reviewed the film.
In a follow-up tweet, Wilson claimed Stenberg’s DM was somewhat homophobic.
“Always weird when the homophobia is coming from inside the house but this is something,” she wrote.
“Me: (spends one line of a 500-word review facetiously commenting on how A24 objectifies young women to sell content),” Wilson went on. “Random men on Twitter dot com and also, apparently, Amandla Stenberg: Local Dyke Cannot Stop Talking About Boobies.”
Stenberg’s reps did not immediately respond to The Post’s request for comment.
The Post’s review of the film garnered four out of five stars. | https://nypost.com/2022/08/18/amandla-stenberg-slams-critic-over-bodies-bodies-bodies-review/ | 2022-08-18T18:17:32Z | nypost.com | control | https://nypost.com/2022/08/18/amandla-stenberg-slams-critic-over-bodies-bodies-bodies-review/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Chicago Police Sergeant charged after video showed him kneeling on 14-year-old boy in Park Ridge: police
PARK RIDGE, Ill. - A Chicago Police Sergeant has been charged and relieved of his police powers after a video showed him kneeling on a 14-year-old boy in Park Ridge last month.
Michael A. Vitellaro, 49, faces official misconduct and aggravated battery charges.
The incident happened on July 1 outside a Park Ridge Starbucks.
Cellphone video shows Vitellaro pinning the boy to the ground, with the alleged officer's knee pressed to the child's back.
In a Facebook post, the boy's mother, Nicole Nieves of Park Ridge, says it happened when the boy moved a bike that was blocking the sidewalk. She said Vitellaro allegedly believed he was stealing the bike, even though the boy had his own bike at his side.
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In the video, the boy’s friends come to his defense telling Vitellaro "get your hands off him" several times.
The friends were eventually able to free the boy, who is visibly shaken.
Vitellaro turned himself over Park Ridge police Thursday, where he was processed.
Chicago police said Vitellaro was relieved of his police powers Wednesday. The department declined to comment, citing an ongoing internal investigation. | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/chicago-police-sergeant-charged-after-video-showed-him-kneeling-on-14-year-old-boy-in-park-ridge-police | 2022-08-18T18:17:48Z | fox32chicago.com | control | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/chicago-police-sergeant-charged-after-video-showed-him-kneeling-on-14-year-old-boy-in-park-ridge-police | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Several online databases track MMA fighters’ results, but Tapology in particular records canceled bouts. Fights fall through all the time at the UFC level, so one or two cancellations is fairly ho-hum.
Since the start of 2020, Leon Edwards has had two bouts reach the cage — one officially a no contest due to a fight-ending incidental eye poke — and six noted contests that fell through. Six!
For Edwards (19-3, nine finishes) to even reach Saturday’s UFC 278 main event, in which he finally challenges Kamaru Usman for the welterweight championship, is a marvel in and of itself. Not to say he isn’t worthy of a title shot — on the contrary, he had a viable case even before the dawn of the COVID-19 pandemic — but when fights against four separate opponents were postponed or outright scrapped so many times in such a brief window, there’s at least a modicum of relief that fight night is right around the corner.
“It was a frustrating last two or three years, but I’ve always stayed focused and knowing that this opportunity will come one day [helped],” Edwards recently told The Post over the phone. “It’s a long time coming.”
Edwards is 11-1 (plus the no contest) since the start of 2015 and his unbeaten in his last 10 fights. Wins over Nate Diaz, Rafael dos Anjos, Vicente Luque and Donald Cerrone underscore the level of opponent he’s successfully navigated the past seven years.
But that single defeat looms large over his first bid to become the UFC champion. Back in December 2015, it was Usman (20-1, 10 finishes) who picked up a wrestling-heavy decision. Edwards managed to do some damage early, but the former NCAA Division II national champion wrestler kept him, in his estimation, too much “on the defensive” when it came to his wrestling.
“I went into that fight thinking, Don’t get taken down; don’t get taken down. That was my whole mindframe even in training camp for that fight,” said Edwards, who trained away from his usual team for that fight with standout wrestlers at American Kickboxing Academy.
The Jamaican-born Edwards, who moved to Birmingham, England as a child, looks back on that fight and remains largely impressed with how well he handled Usman’s wrestling at the time, pointing to his knack for returning to his feet and not being held down for much of the fight. Nonetheless, he said reviewing the footage for this training camp reminded him of how much progress he’s made since he was just 24 years old and a pro fighter for 4 ½ years.
Crediting his Team Renegade MMA coaches and training partners, Edwards feels he’s improved in every facet of the sport, especially in how he navigates takedowns and avoiding being “held on the floor.” He also doesn’t heap too much praise on Usman’s own grappling chops.
“As far as Kamaru’s wrestling, what he does, he does well, but it’s not a spectacular, high-paced wrestling style,” said Edwards, who turns 31 on Aug. 25. “He just does what he does do well. He knows how to, basically, lay on you and to beat the clock.”
Edwards acknowledges both he and the champion, who will be making his sixth title defense when he hits the octagon in Salt Lake City, have grown immensely since the early-career meeting. In his own case, he points to a greater “understanding of the game” as he’s reached his fighting prime.
As for Usman, most would agree his stand-up has made the biggest strides since the two first fought. Once known more for his wrestling — which he leaned on to trounce Tyron Woodley and win the championship three years ago — Usman has (T)KO victories in three of his five title defenses, including a blast of a punch that slept Jorge Masvidal in their April 2021 rematch. Edwards sees a correlation between Usman training with coach Trevor Wittman and improvements to his boxing.
Given how Edwards has been in the championship mix for years, he’s had his eye on Usman for awhile. That’s lasted through his would-have-been main event against Woodley, which was the first to fall victim to mass cancellations at the dawn of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. That fight could have vaulted him to the title shot later in the year, as could have a win over uber-prospect Khamzat Chimaev — an opponent the UFC scheduled him to face on three separate occasions, all of which were scrapped by one man or the other contracting or recovering from COVID.
An original date with Diaz had been intended to take place a month earlier, and a Masvidal fight was to take place last December. In both cases, Edwards’ opponents suffered injuries that affected his schedule.
But that’s in the past. Edwards is just days away from his long-awaited chance to prove he’s better than the consensus top pound-for-pound fighter on the planet. But he’s doing his best to stay grounded.
“This is my fourth main event for the UFC, so just another main event; a normal fight, to be honest with you,” Edwards says. “I’m not complicating it in my head and making it bigger than what it is. It’s just a main event, five [five-minute rounds], and I’ll go out there and get the win.” | https://nypost.com/2022/08/18/leon-edwards-ufc-278-title-shot-vs-kamaru-usman-long-time-coming/ | 2022-08-18T18:18:20Z | nypost.com | control | https://nypost.com/2022/08/18/leon-edwards-ufc-278-title-shot-vs-kamaru-usman-long-time-coming/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles County coroner's office says actor Anne Heche died from burns and inhalation injury after her fiery car crash, and the death has been ruled an accident.
The cause of her death was released Wednesday on the coroner's website, although a formal autopsy report is still being completed.
According to the report, the 53-year-old fractured her sternum caused by "blunt trauma."
On Aug. 5, she plowed her car into a Los Angeles home and it caught fire.
Her family has said she suffered a severe brain injury caused by a lack of oxygen.
The coroner's office says she died on Aug. 11, but she wasn't removed from life support until Sunday, so her organs could be donated.
Detectives investigating the crash had said narcotics were found in a blood sample taken from the actress. However, the police ended their investigation after she was declared brain-dead. | https://www.katc.com/entertainment/anne-heches-death-ruled-accidental-after-fiery-car-crash | 2022-08-18T18:20:11Z | katc.com | control | https://www.katc.com/entertainment/anne-heches-death-ruled-accidental-after-fiery-car-crash | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (AP) — Yellowstone National Park officials are investigating after an employee spotted part of a foot, in a shoe, floating in a hot spring in the southern part of the park.
Officials say the discovery on Tuesday led to the temporary closure of the West Thumb Geyser Basin and its parking lot. The area has since reopened.
Park officials had no more information about the discovery to make public on Thursday. The shoe was spotted in Abyss Pool, a 53-foot-deep hot spring west of the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake with a temperatures of about 140 degrees. | https://www.katc.com/media/v/content/95d895ac3fbc683c94ef1fcf7dc4eaa4 | 2022-08-18T18:20:15Z | katc.com | control | https://www.katc.com/media/v/content/95d895ac3fbc683c94ef1fcf7dc4eaa4 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
It’s officially pumpkin spice season and this year, Dunkin’ is taking it up a notch with a product that is a bit outside the chain’s typical realm of coffee and doughnuts. In collaboration with Goldfish, the two brands are bringing a new fall-flavored snack to the pumpkin spice scene: Goldfish Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Grahams.
The new graham treats feature popular autumnal flavors, like pumpkin, doughnut glaze, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. They’re still shaped like fish and will be stocked alongside the other Goldfish crackers in stores nationwide starting Sept. 1.
They could be enjoyed as a standalone snack, or paired with a pumpkin spice coffee drink. They’d also be a cute addition to fall desserts, like arranged on top of spice cake cupcakes with cream cheese frosting.
If you’d rather enjoy your pumpkin spice in actual coffee, Dunkin’s fall menu is now available and includes the Pumpkin Spice Signature Latte, Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew and a Nutty Pumpkin Coffee, which blends iced coffee with a pumpkin spice swirl, a hazelnut flavor shot and cream.
You’ll also find a variety of fall-inspired Starbucks products on store shelves, including pumpkin spice cold brew concentrate, pumpkin spice-flavored creamers and pumpkin spice-flavored coffee.
Starbucks is even offering two new fall coffee treats this year: pumpkin cream nitro cold brew and salted caramel mocha-flavored coffee, which combines mocha flavor with sweet, salty caramel notes.
Non-coffee pumpkin spice treats you’ll find this fall include the return of Pumpkin Spice Cheerios and Pumpkin Spice Oreos (which are back for the first time since 2017!).
The golden Oreos have a pumpkin spice-flavored creme, so they’ll make a sweet and seasonal addition to back-to-school lunches and fall celebrations. Or try dunking them in some pumpkin spice coffee for an extra dose of fall!
Are you a fan of pumpkin spice goodies?
This story originally appeared on Simplemost. Checkout Simplemost for additional stories. | https://www.katc.com/new-goldfish-dunkin-collaboration-pumpkin-spice-grahams | 2022-08-18T18:20:17Z | katc.com | control | https://www.katc.com/new-goldfish-dunkin-collaboration-pumpkin-spice-grahams | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has started reporting additional demographic data for Louisiana monkeypox patients on the LDH monkeypox dashboard.
These demographic data show striking racial disparities: Nearly 60% of monkeypox cases in Louisiana have occurred among Black Louisianans, and about 27% have occurred among white Louisianans.
Among the cases included in today’s demographic analysis, approximately 95% have occurred in males.
Going forward, demographic data, including age, gender, race and ethnicity, among monkeypox patients will be updated weekly on Wednesdays.
New data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that the national monkeypox outbreak is disproportionately affecting minorities in America. The data, collected from 43 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico between May 17 and July 22 show that Black people make up 12% of the population but 26% of all monkeypox cases, while Hispanic people accounted for 19% of the population and 28% of all cases.
So, while those groups make up about a third of the U.S. population, they account for more than half of the cases.
"We felt it was critical to release this analysis so we could shine a light on these disparities and the need for us all to do more," said LDH State Health Officer Dr. Joseph Kanter. "This requires a whole of Louisiana effort. Now that we have more vaccine supply, we will be able to do many more community vaccination events. This is a priority for the Department -- we must do all we can to protect our at-risk residents and communities."
With equity in mind, LDH has prioritized awareness-raising, targeted communications to at-risk groups, and partnerships with trusted local providers and community organizations to help identify and remove barriers, share critical information and organize vaccination events in trusted venues.
The Department has developed and continues to update and build out its toolkit for partners, with communications assets in multiple languages; continues its advertising campaign on dating apps and social media platforms that serve LGBTQ people in Louisiana; and continues regular community partner calls and briefings.
While cases have been identified in six of Louisiana’s nine public health regions, the vast majority have been identified in southeast Louisiana. Nearly 1,000 people were vaccinated against monkeypox at initial community vaccination events LDH held at LGBTQ bars in New Orleans. LDH formally requested and received approval for technical assistance from CDC ahead of Southern Decadence in New Orleans; a team specializing in vaccines, communications, behavioral science, epidemiology and logistics has begun its remote deployment and is working closely with LDH and NOHD teams.
People most commonly get monkeypox through close and sustained skin-to-skin contact, including but not limited to intimate and sexual contact. The virus can also spread through contact with body fluids such as saliva or fluid from the lesions of infected individuals or by touching objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding, or towels), and surfaces that have been used by someone with monkeypox.
JYNNEOS is a safe and effective monkeypox vaccine. The vaccine requires two doses, and it takes 14 days after getting the second dose of JYNNEOS to reach maximum protection. People interested in receiving the vaccine can visit the LDH monkeypox webpage for information, including a list of locations in Louisiana that have received vaccine. People can also call 211 to get their monkeypox questions answered.
Vaccinations to protect against Louisianans against monkeypox are now available for:
- Gay, bisexual, other (cis or trans) men who have sex with men OR transgender women and nonbinary persons assigned male at birth who have sex with men AND
- Have had intimate or sexual contact with multiple or anonymous partners in last 14 days or
- Have had intimate or sexual contact with other men in a social or sexual venue in the last 14 days
- OR Individuals (of any sex/gender identity) who have given or received money or other goods/services in exchange for sex in the last 14 days | https://www.katc.com/news/covering-louisiana/ldh-majority-of-monkeypox-cases-are-in-black-citizens-overwhelmingly-male | 2022-08-18T18:20:17Z | katc.com | control | https://www.katc.com/news/covering-louisiana/ldh-majority-of-monkeypox-cases-are-in-black-citizens-overwhelmingly-male | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
According to Lafayette Police, officers responded to a shooting in the 800 block of Martin Luther King Drive.
The shooting took place around 1:30 a.m. When officers arrived, they found a woman suffering with multiple gunshot wounds, according to a press release.
Officers said the suspect was told to leave an apartment who then returned and shot at the victims apartment.
The victim was transported with non-life threatening injuries. The shooting is under investigation. | https://www.katc.com/news/lafayette-parish/lafayette-police-investigating-early-morning-shooting | 2022-08-18T18:20:17Z | katc.com | control | https://www.katc.com/news/lafayette-parish/lafayette-police-investigating-early-morning-shooting | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Newest low-code API offering provides access to every credit provider in the market and enables lenders to easily toggle between soft and hard credit pulls
PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Staircase, the company building an integrated, digital infrastructure to accelerate tech-enabled mortgages, has launched Credit Waterfall, a new application program interface (API) that empowers lenders to streamline originations by providing access to all credit providers serving the mortgage market.
Credit Waterfall enables lenders to easily switch between credit providers to get the best pricing every time and to securely share a borrower's credit data throughout their other systems. The new API also lets lenders toggle between soft and hard credit pulls so they are able to better control expenses while protecting their leads from trigger credit pull alerts at other lenders.
Currently, most lenders order a borrower's credit through hard-wired connections between a single credit provider and their point-of-sale (POS) system or loan origination system (LOS). This strategy fails to provide lenders with the best credit option for a particular scenario and prevents them from sharing a borrower's credit data with their other systems which drive up costs.
"Pulling a borrower's credit to determine their eligibility for a loan is an essential part of the mortgage process, but also one of the largest sources of lender costs," said Soofi Safavi, Staircase cofounder and CTO. "With Credit Waterfall, lenders now have the full breadth of choices when it comes to pulling a borrower's credit, with the best possible option chosen every single time, automatically. There's nothing else on the market like it."
"Most lenders are struggling to reduce expenses, especially given today's tight housing market," said Staircase CEO and cofounder Adam Kalamchi. "Yet, they are typically hamstrung by poor technology integrations and lack of credit options when qualifying borrowers. By performing a soft pull on a borrower's credit, Credit Waterfall enables lenders to check a borrower's credit earlier in the application process without tipping off competitors that their customer is in the market for financing."
Credit Waterfall is available through Staircase's low-code credit API, which allows lenders to switch from their current credit provider in just minutes. With Credit Waterfall, lenders are only charged $1 to access any given credit provider. For $2, they can create a credit "waterfall," which uses dynamic business logic to choose the best solution from multiple credit providers. In less than a month, Credit Waterfall develops a logical sequence to provide lenders with the optimal credit workflow for their organization's needs. Lenders pay nothing if Credit Waterfall does not return any results.
"Our customers on average reduce their credit expense by 33% right away and realize further savings with just a few weeks of fine tuning," Kalamchi said.
Beyond Credit Waterfall, Staircase's unique waterfall technology has numerous applications, enabling lenders and servicers to create automated, integrated loan processing workflows using the optimum service partner or partners. If a partner does provide adequate results, Staircase automatically goes to other partners in waterfall fashion until the process is complete.
For more information about Credit Waterfall, please contact hello@staircase.co.
About Staircase
Staircase is an API and low-code marketplace which automates complex technologies and makes them self-serve for the U.S. residential mortgage industry. Focused on providing automation for complicated mortgage functions, it allows for the integration and orchestration of all U.S. mortgage industry technology providers and enables all parties throughout mortgage origination, insurance, and servicing to easily communicate with zero friction. Staircase is based in Philadelphia, with employees in over 20 countries. For more information, visit www.staircase.co.
Press Contact:
Mary McGarity
Strategic Vantage Marketing and Public Relations
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MaryMcGarity@StrategicVantage.com
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SOURCE Staircase | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/staircase-launches-landmark-credit-waterfall-technology-mortgage-lenders/ | 2022-08-18T18:20:22Z | witn.com | control | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/staircase-launches-landmark-credit-waterfall-technology-mortgage-lenders/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
A major water line has broken in Opelousas, leaving some residents and businesses with brown water.
Officials say that, due to the size of the water line, a significant portion of the community may be experiencing issues as the valves and water lines are being repaired.
If you have brown water in your faucets, run cold water for approximately 15 minutes at a time. It may take up to 6 hours for the water to clear up, they say.
If the water doesn't clear up, please contact the City of Opelousas at 337-948-2520 and 337-948-2550. | https://www.katc.com/news/major-water-line-break-in-opelousas | 2022-08-18T18:20:31Z | katc.com | control | https://www.katc.com/news/major-water-line-break-in-opelousas | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Disneyland's "Magic Key" annual passes can now be renewed— at an increased price.
The passes are offered in four tiers, each with different perks. "Inspire" is the top tier at $1,599. It's followed by "Believe" at $1,099, "Enchant" at $699 and "Imagine" at $449.
The "Enchant" pass is for Southern California residents only.
The prices are between $50 and $200 more than last year, according to USA TODAY.
The annual passes are not available to everyone. Disney says people who held "Magic Key" passes last year are the only ones eligible to renew this year. | https://www.katc.com/news/national/disneyland-raises-prices-on-annual-passes | 2022-08-18T18:20:38Z | katc.com | control | https://www.katc.com/news/national/disneyland-raises-prices-on-annual-passes | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
TAMPA BAY, Fla. — Sit down and talk to J.C. LaVerde, or J.C. Defeats, as his friends call him, and you'll immediately see his humble nature.
The former U.S. Air Force pararescueman and now Oldsmar, Florida, firefighter and paramedic knows how to handle stressful situations.
Little did he know he would be in the center of one.
"That thing was huge. That thing wasn't a little gator. It would be funny if it was a little gator," J.C. LaVerde said.
LaVerde was attacked by what he believes was a 12-foot alligator in Lake Thonotosassa on August 3.
He was shooting an instructional video for his company, DefeatX.
His friend unknowingly caught video footage of the attack on his drone from above.
"Later on, all he told me was he heard a scream, and then he didn't know what happened to me," LaVerde said.
LaVerde said almost instantly he knew what was happening.
"With the right stroke, all I felt was scales, teeth, and then right there, I'm like okay. So, what I think I did, what I felt like I did, was that I immediately tried to open its jaws because I knew I was in a gator," LaVerde. said.
Call it instinct, luck, or a higher intervention, but as the two struggled, LaVerde put his hand in the gator's mouth.
"When I felt the teeth, I immediately knew, and then as I opened it, I knew that I either turned it or it turned me, but it was confused just as I was confused, and then it just let go," LaVerde said.
He swam to the dock, hoisted himself up, and was driven to the hospital by a Good Samaritan.
All the while, he called 911 himself and explained what had happened.
"I am not going to put extra stress on somebody that is already driving a bloody man somewhere. Like if I can ease that load off of this lady," LaVerde said.
He underwent an emergency six-hour surgery. He'll need another surgery in the future and wears a helmet to protect the right side of his head.
LaVerde said he understands the lake is dangerous and usually takes precautionary steps before entering the waters, but that day he said he was in a hurry.
"This time, I was just in a rush to get it done just because I was so focused to get it done that I forgot my swim cap. I forgot my goggles," LaVerde said.
Through it all, he remains humble and grateful and has a message for those who may be struggling in their own lives.
"I am perfectly fine. I am actually even better because this gave me a new perspective, you know, and not many people get that," LaVerde said.
"Find your God. Find Him. It's silly. I get that that's scary, I do, but life is a scary place, so you can carry that load by yourself or have someone carry it for you," he said.
The family has created a GofundMe to help with expenses. To help, visit their GoFundMe here. | https://www.katc.com/news/national/florida-firefighter-paramedic-in-high-spirits-after-fighting-off-alligator | 2022-08-18T18:20:44Z | katc.com | control | https://www.katc.com/news/national/florida-firefighter-paramedic-in-high-spirits-after-fighting-off-alligator | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Resident doctors begin two weeks warning strike in Ondo
• We are on top of the situation- Management
Residents Doctors under the auspices of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at the Federal Medical Centre, (FMC) Owo, on Thursday, embarked on two weeks warning strike over the death of personnel in the hospital.
The doctors who commenced the warning strike after the association’s general meeting said the strike action was inevitable saying members have been working “under dire stressful conditions.”
President of the Owo FMC ARD, Dr Olutobi Gideon Olaopa, lamented that only 80 Resident Doctors and Health Officers are currently in employment at the hospital, while no employment had been carried out in the hospital in the last four years.
According to him, about 300 doctors and house officers used to be in employment at the hospital but said many of them have left the system.
Olaopa said: “But now one person is doing the job of five persons. We have been on this issue since last year. The situation keeps getting worst because a lot of people are leaving the system.
“There has not been any employment in the FMC Owo, since 2018. The employment of additional 200 doctors and health officers will solve the problem. They are also not paying for our extra work. We are doing duty calls every day.”
The doctors in a communique signed at the end of its meeting raised other issues including poor quality of meals served to them, lack of befitting and secured accommodation for their colleagues working at the hospital’s annexe in Akure.
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The communique read: “We implore the management and all relevant offices of the Federal Government to ensure the employment of the resident doctors and House officers to the hospital to relieve the severe shortage of manpower and overwhelming workload being faced by our members in the hospital.
“That the Association can no longer bear the burnouts being experienced by its members and requests that recruitment of resident doctors and House Officers be commenced in earnest.
“The management should provide a befitting accommodation fortified with requisite amenities for those currently being posted to Akure Annex and that the association executives should certify the standard of accommodation before acceptance.”
Speaking on the development, the Public Relations Officer of the hospital, Olufunsho Ijanusi, confirmed the industrial but said the management of the hospital is on top of the situation.
He said the Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Dr Liasu Adeagbo, has just returned from Abuja and had a meeting with the leadership of the ARD appealing to them to exercise patience.
He explained that there were lots of bureaucratic bottlenecks causing delays in the employment of more hands in the hospital but assured that the management would soon find a lasting solution to the challenge.
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Resident doctors begin two weeks warning strike in Ondo
Health Benefits Of Unripe Plantain
Resident doctors begin two weeks warning strike in Ondo | https://tribuneonlineng.com/resident-doctors-begin-two-weeks-warning-strike-in-ondo/ | 2022-08-18T18:20:51Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/resident-doctors-begin-two-weeks-warning-strike-in-ondo/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
YUMA, Ariz.— A plan to fill gaps in the Arizona-Mexico border wall hit a roadblock.
Two of the shipping container Arizona is using as a wall were found tipped over this week.
The containers, which weigh about 8,800 pounds each, were not attached to other cargo boxes, a spokesperson for Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey said.
They have since been put back into position— bolted and welded into place.
Ducey signed an executive order last week to install the barriers at the border. He said Arizona communities are being overrun with people crossing the border illegally.
“It’s our responsibility to protect our citizens and law enforcement from this unprecedented crisis," Ducey said. | https://www.katc.com/news/national/shipping-container-barriers-toppled-at-arizona-mexico-border | 2022-08-18T18:21:18Z | katc.com | control | https://www.katc.com/news/national/shipping-container-barriers-toppled-at-arizona-mexico-border | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
BEREA, Ohio — Deshaun Watson’s suspension has been increased from six games to 11, and he will pay a $5 million fine to the NFL, which had sought a harsher penalty for the Browns quarterback. The agreement was reached by settlement.
At the request of the NFL, Watson’s case was under review by former New Jersey Attorney General Peter C. Harvey after the league appealed the Aug. 1 decision by Sue L. Robinson, an independent disciplinary officer who recommended the NFL suspend Watson for six games.
Robinson’s suspension decision followed the NFL’s investigation into allegations made by women who accused him of sexual assault and harassment. The NFL was hoping for a stricter decision and a fine for Watson.
"We've seen the evidence, [Robinson] was very clear about the evidence, she reinforced the evidence,'' said Commissioner Roger Goodell on August 9. "There were multiple violations that were egregious and it was predatory behavior.'”
Watson's was the first case heard by Robinson as part of the new league discipline policy agreed upon in the Collective Bargaining Agreement signed in 2020. As per the CBA, violations of the NFL's Personal Conduct Policy are initially determined by a jointly appointed disciplinary officer after serving as the hearing officer.
In her 16-page ruling, Robinson, who was jointly appointed by the league and the NFL Players Association, called Watson’s behavior “egregious” and “predatory,” as Goodell reiterated in his comments Tuesday. The women alleged he sexually assaulted or sexually harassed them during massage therapy sessions when the quarterback played for the Houston Texans.
The former federal judge concluded that Watson violated the league's policy by engaging in unwanted sexual contact with another person, endangering the safety and well-being of another person and undermining the league’s integrity.
However, in imposing the suspension, Robinson pointed out flaws in the league's guidelines for player misconduct, which limited her authority to penalize him.
Leading up to the decision, Watson and the NFLPA announced that they would not be appealing Robinson’s decision no matter the outcome and urged the league to do the same, but the NFL did not comply with that request.
One day before Watson started in the Browns' first pre-season game against the Jaguars, sources confirmed to the Associated Press that Watson proposed an eight-game suspension and a $5 million fine to settle the matter and avoid missing the 2022 season.
Then, hours before the game on Friday, Watson publicly expressed remorse and contrition for the first time since he was accused of sexually harassing or assaulting the women during therapy sessions in 2020 and 2021.
Watson apologized “to all the women I have impacted” after being accused by two dozen women of sexual misconduct during massage therapy sessions.
The settlement reached between the league and Watson will be signed Thursday, but has been agreed to by both parties, sources said. | https://www.katc.com/sports/deshaun-watson-suspension-increased-to-11-games-as-nfl-gets-harsher-penalty-it-sought-for-browns-qb | 2022-08-18T18:21:44Z | katc.com | control | https://www.katc.com/sports/deshaun-watson-suspension-increased-to-11-games-as-nfl-gets-harsher-penalty-it-sought-for-browns-qb | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
With the first preseason game in the rearview mirror, I wanted to debut a new series I will be doing each week. This series will focus on five plays from each game that stood out to me the most while watching the coach’s film.
The most crucial factor will be the impact a given play had on the game, but I also will keep it open-ended to a degree. If Kyle Shanahan calls a really unique play, or DeMeco Ryans dials up an exotic look on defense, it might take precedence over a play with a seemingly bigger impact on the game’s outcome.
To kick us off, I have five that I have selected from the 49ers' win over the Green Bay Packers, starting with...
5. Pressure by Drake Jackson gives us a glimpse into the future
Drake Jackson is an exceptionally gifted athlete. Based on that alone, it feels like the 49ers hit the jackpot, given how defensive line coach Kris Kocurek has developed players with freakish physical traits.
The 49ers' 2022 second-round pick gave us a preview of what is to come, showcasing his eye-popping athleticism while pressuring Packers quarterback Jordan Love. The Packers call play action faking a run to the left side before Love rolls back to his right. It looked like Love wanted to go to Josiah Deguara on the slide route, but Jackson never gave him a chance.
Jackson identified it was not a run, broke off his backside pursuit, and removed the throwing angle to Deguara while also getting a hand on Love’s arm as he had to let this one go.
Looks like Jordan Love wanted to hit the slide route to #81
— Jordan Elliott (@JLeeElliott) August 18, 2022
Drake Jackson never gave him a chance pic.twitter.com/y85xr9g81B
Attacking the quarterback downhill while eliminating a throwing angle in the flat is a highly savvy move for a first-year player. This is not an easy play to make for a defensive end, and Jackson made it look routine. I am excited to see how he develops as the season progresses. Here is the entire play from both angles.
— JLeeElliott Film Burner (@splash_cousin) August 16, 2022
4. Marcelino McCrary-Ball, the newest YAC bro?
On 1st & 14 from inside the 49ers' 20-yard line, the Green Bay offense lined up in trips to the field side. #2 and #3 clear space for an in-breaking route from #1, and Love puts a good ball on the receiver for what should have been a respectable gain.
The ball bounced off the hands of the receiver, however, with the ball hanging in the air for what felt like an eternity as this play quickly turned into two of the most exciting words in football. TIP DRILL!
McCrary-Ball, who comes from a hybrid linebacker-safety role during his time at Indiana, showed good ball skills to track this ball in the air and come down with it before ripping off an impressive return deep into Green Bay’s side of the field. This also kept points off the board for a Packers offense that was set up to have a favorable field goal attempt at the very least.
Tip drill! pic.twitter.com/bLNJiZqjGb
— Jordan Elliott (@JLeeElliott) August 13, 2022
The interception itself was impressive, but the return stole the show here. McCrary-Ball weaved his way through traffic and left me wondering if Shanahan had a fleeting thought about scheming something up for McCrary-Ball on the offensive side of the ball.
When Kyle Shanahan gets in the lab and draws something up with Marcelino McCrary Ball lined up at tight end >>>> pic.twitter.com/VZ1ahCh8n9
— Jordan Elliott (@JLeeElliott) August 13, 2022
3. Ray-Ray leaves Green Bay’s defense in a McCloud of dust
This was a fun one. On the first snap for Nate Sudfeld in this game, Shanahan dials up a Mills concept against a quarter's coverage, with Ray-Ray McCloud running a widened post route.
The dig route Tyler Kroft ran over the middle is the first read in the progression, but the widened post route that McCloud is running is an alert vs. quarters coverage, which Green Bay ran on this play.
McCloud pushes vertical and turns Packers defensive back, Rico Gafford around with a double move at the top of the stem of his route. Gafford falls over while trying to recover and make up ground on McCloud.
Sudfeld identifies the alert vs. quarters and fires a strike to McCloud, who didn’t have a Green Bay defender in the same zip code when he came down with this ball and coasted into the end zone. Great play call, fantastic route, and even better execution all around. You can’t draw it up any better than this.
Tyler Kroft running the dig is the first read in the progression, but Nate Sudfeld is able to quickly identify the alert vs quarters and fires a strike to Ray-Ray McCloud on the post for a TD pic.twitter.com/sfZpFJIuIv
— Jordan Elliott (@JLeeElliott) August 18, 2022
2. Samuel Womack’s spectacular debut
The rookie cornerback out of Toledo was undoubtedly the star of this game, bringing down two interceptions and putting himself in the driver’s seat to be the starting nickel cornerback.
Womack’s most impressive rep in this game came on his second interception of the night. Womack is the MEG defender on #2 (man everywhere he goes), meaning it is his responsibility to follow that receiver wherever he may go for the duration of the play.
Womack’s technique while in press was also flawless, prioritizing using his feet to mirror the wide receiver before getting his hands on him. This allows Womack to disrupt the timing of the route while also staying in a position to make a play on the ball.
Incredible rep by Samuel Womack on this play
— Jordan Elliott (@JLeeElliott) August 16, 2022
Prioritizes mirroring with his feet before getting his hands on the WR while in press
This allows Womack to disrupt the timing of the route and maintain inside to make a play on this ball for an INT
Really well done by Womack pic.twitter.com/3Anw5kPgDD
Then to top it all off, Womack left us with one more highlight on the return. Love tries to bring Womack down in the open field, and Womack tosses the Packers quarterback aside easily.
The best part of Samuel Womack’s second INT was the way he tossed aside Jordan Love while the Packers QB tried to make a tackle in the open field on the return pic.twitter.com/o4DizsMxN1
— Jordan Elliott (@JLeeElliott) August 16, 2022
1. Bombs away to Danny Gray
You had to know this one would take the top spot. The 76-yard touchdown pass from Trey Lance to Danny Gray was by far the most exciting play of this game, and more importantly, it gave us a preview of how lethal this connection can be moving forward.
Shanahan dials up ‘Spartan Smash,’ which will have #1 run a smash route with #2 running a slot fade. Kroft runs the smash route, and Gray runs the slot fade, which isolated him one-on-one with a safety with Green Bay in a single high coverage.
Meaning there was no help over the top for the safety tasked with covering Gray, which gave the speedster the chance to showcase his elite acceleration as he created separation downfield. Lance fires a dart to Gray, who then turns on the burners after catching the ball and races into the end zone for a touchdown.
Trey Lance hits Danny Gray on a “Spartan Smash” concept deep down the left sideline for a 76 yard touchdown
— Jordan Elliott (@JLeeElliott) August 13, 2022
Great play design to get the 4.3 WR isolated on a slot fade against a safety while GB was in a single high coverage
Lance puts it on the money and Gray turns on the jets pic.twitter.com/tkp2LvvoXd
This slot fade is something that Lance must be very comfortable throwing because they ran it a ton during the camp practices that I attended. It was a point of emphasis and something they felt comfortable dialing up for Lance during his rookie season too. This was from last year in the preseason against the Chargers. The same exact route concept on this slot fade to Trent Sherfield for a big gain.
The 49ers had success running this exact same route concept in the preseason against the Chargers last year
— Jordan Elliott (@JLeeElliott) August 13, 2022
Lance looks really comfortable throwing those slot fades, and I’d expect to see a lot more of it going forward pic.twitter.com/M3DeGGqXqL
As impressive as the throw was and as exciting as the thought of Lance rocketing balls downfield to Gray can be, the thing that was most encouraging on this play happened on the offensive line.
Green Bay’s defense runs a stunt on this play, but watch how Aaron Banks and Jake Brendel are able to pick up this stunt and keep the pocket clean for Lance to step up and make this throw.
A very promising rep for two players who are currently slated to be first-time starters on the 49ers' offensive line.
This play had everything. The franchise quarterback gets to show off his arm, the speedster wide receiver gets to showcase his ability to shred a defense, and the offensive line displays strong communication and the ability to adapt on the fly to a curveball from the defensive front. | https://www.ninersnation.com/2022/8/18/23310969/49ers-plays-preseason | 2022-08-18T18:24:10Z | ninersnation.com | control | https://www.ninersnation.com/2022/8/18/23310969/49ers-plays-preseason | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
One of the best parts of the preseason is getting to know the new players on your team. In the case of the 49ers, there aren’t a ton of new faces across the roster, except maybe at running back. Between Ty Davis-Price, Jordan Mason, and the seldom used Trey Sermon, we’ve got a lot to learn about the Niners’ ball carriers this season. With Elijah Mitchell still sidelined with a hamstring injury, who do you want to watch the most against the Vikings?
Personally, I would give the ball to the young guys and let them run wild. We’ve all seen enough of JaMycal Hasty and Jeff Wilson by this point. We know what they are, and more importantly, we know what they aren’t. Let’s unwrap the Christmas presents we’ve been staring at for so long.
On today’s Gold Standard podcast, Levin Black said he doesn’t think the game against the Vikings will clear anything up for us when it comes to the running backs.
“You can’t trust Kyle. It would not surprise me at all if [Jordan] Mason is the real number two, but he wants to hide that fact until the regular season. So he’s going to make it seem like he’s buried on the depth chart, so nobody knows, nobody prepares for what he can bring. Then all of a sudden, come the regular season, he’s getting 10 carries a game. You can’t trust Kyle. Sometimes when he has something that’s new, he likes to hide it - and I don’t disagree with that.”
Part and parcel to this, of course, is a good effort by the offensive line. Last week against the Packers, there weren’t a ton of big holes for the backs to run through. Hopefully, this week, there will be a little more space so guys like Sermon and Davis-Price can stretch their legs.
One area in particular to watch? Short yardage. In situations where the 49ers needed three or fewer yards on third or fourth down last year, running backs converted just 42.1% of the time - dead last in the NFL. Running backs averaged just 2.3 yards per carry on third and two or fewer in 2021, which was 26th in the NFL. Trey Lance obviously helps with that this year, but the running backs (and offensive line) simply have to be better in those situations.
There’s one more thing to keep in mind when it comes to the roster decisions at running back: Who are you likely to be able to claim later if you need someone? It’s risky to try and stash Jordan Mason on the practice squad if he continues to play well because he’ll likely get scooped up by another team with a need at running back. Hasty and Wilson won’t be nearly as enticing to another team, so you worry less about them becoming free agents.
To hear the entire conversation, check out the Gold Standard podcast, available everywhere podcasts are found.
Other topics in today’s show
- Why hasn’t Levin started the Niners Nation listener fantasy, league? (2:32)
- When does Danny Gray become legit and not just a training camp hero? (4:21)
- Can Trey Lance be both a playmaker and a game manager? (5:35)
- One thing Lance already handles better than Jimmy Garoppolo (8:20)
- When will the running back picture clear up? (10:14)
- Does Kyle Shanahan already know which RBs he’s keeping? (11:21)
- Garoppolo’s ghosting: Did he do it to the Patriots, and did they know when they traded him? (13:38)
- Why did the 49ers stick with Jimmy when Brady wanted to come over? (21:23)
- How well do the Niners match up with the Bucs? (24:52) | https://www.ninersnation.com/2022/8/18/23311526/49ers-running-backs-vikings-preseason | 2022-08-18T18:24:16Z | ninersnation.com | control | https://www.ninersnation.com/2022/8/18/23311526/49ers-running-backs-vikings-preseason | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Kyle’s update, 10:30 AM PT: Browns GM Andrew Berry was asked if Jacoby Brissett will be his starting QB Thursday morning. He answered, “We have a lot of confidence in Jacoby,” but didn’t rule out adding to the position.
The NFL announced Thursday that Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson’s suspension had been upped to 11 games from six. Additionally, Watson must pay $5 million in settlement — 2% of his contract. Since this was agreed upon in a settlement, no appeal ruling and, presumably, no other legal action of any kind will take place. So, this is set in stone.
Watson returns the same week the Browns play the Texans, which tells you that this is part-theater to the NFL. This means Cleveland enters the season with a playoff roster surrounding Jacoby Brissett.
Jimmy Garoppolo won’t be on the 49ers roster come September 1, when the team has to get under 53 men on its roster. That means Cleveland must decide within the next two weeks whether or not they want to roll the dice and trade for Jimmy or run the risk of another team signing the veteran QB if he’s released from the Niners.
Money isn’t an issue for the Browns. They have over $48 million in cap space. There doesn’t need to be any negotiating as far as asking the 49ers to pay a portion of Jimmy’s salary. So, in theory, the move makes plenty of sense for Cleveland.
Looking at it from a football perspective, Garoppolo is a clear upgrade over Brissett. Cleveland is a playoff team with Jimmy. They would struggle to get to .500 with Brissett under center.
The hold-up would be Garoppolo learning the offense in a month. Cleveland’s head coach Kevin Stefanski runs a similar scheme to Kyle Shanahan, as he worked under Shanahan. Stefanski would likely need Shanahan’s stamp of approval on Garoppolo’s character and work ethic.
If I’m Cleveland, it’s a no-brainer. Do you think they make the trade? | https://www.ninersnation.com/2022/8/18/23311602/49ers-browns-garoppolo-watson-trade | 2022-08-18T18:24:23Z | ninersnation.com | control | https://www.ninersnation.com/2022/8/18/23311602/49ers-browns-garoppolo-watson-trade | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
There’s lots of trash at the bottom of hundreds of ponds on Cape Cod, Mass. One group of older women finds joy in digging it up.
Eve Zuckoff of WCAI has their story.
Five members of Old Ladies Against Underwater Garbage form a can-can line, as they wait for their photo to be taken in front of the trash they found. (Layne Fennell)
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.klcc.org/2022-08-18/meet-olag-old-ladies-against-underwater-garbage-who-dive-into-cape-cod-ponds | 2022-08-18T18:26:29Z | klcc.org | control | https://www.klcc.org/2022-08-18/meet-olag-old-ladies-against-underwater-garbage-who-dive-into-cape-cod-ponds | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Gov. Larry Hogan was joined by federal, state, and local law enforcement leaders on Thursday to announce a new Lower Shore coalition of the Maryland Criminal Intelligence Network, a coordinated criminal justice network to target higher instances of gang-related crime, in addition to drug, firearm, and human trafficking.
First established in 2017, MCIN is reporting a record increase in the program’s role in the disruption of criminal activity statewide, including illegal cash, asset, drug and firearm seizures. Earlier this year, MCIN facilitated the largest drug bust ever on the Eastern Shore, including the seizure of enough heroin and fentanyl to kill more than 250,000 people.
“Today, we are announcing the creation of a new Maryland Intelligence Network Lower Shore Coalition, with the addition of Worcester County, Somerset County, along with Dorchester’s existing operation, in order to strengthen allied law enforcement capacity on the Lower Shore, and to target criminal operations throughout the Delmarva Peninsula,” Hogan said. “I can assure you that we are going to continue to use every tool at our disposal to make our neighborhoods safer, and we will not stop pursuing these criminal gangs who have been terrorizing our communities.”
MCIN coalitions are currently active in 16 Maryland jurisdictions, including Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Cecil, Dorchester, Frederick, Harford, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George’s, Somerset, Washington, Wicomico, and Worcester counties, in addition to Baltimore City. For FY 2023, Maryland State Police added Somerset and Worcester Counties to Dorchester’s existing MCIN operation, creating a new Lower Shore MCIN coalition. Howard County has instituted a new MCIN program led by the Howard County Police Department. An additional $6.5 million in funding will support the program expansion, bringing total statewide MCIN funding to $25 million.
Record Increase In Disruption of Criminal Activity. Data for 2022 show that through July 1, MCIN coalitions disrupted or dismantled more than 400 criminal organizations, including:
68 local gangs, 26 multi-state gangs, 43 international gangs;
197 local drug trafficking organizations, 39 multi-state drug trafficking organizations, eight international drug trafficking organizations; and
30 local firearm trafficking organizations, three multi-state firearm trafficking organizations, three international firearm trafficking organizations.
Overall, this reflects a record 97% increase in criminal organizations disrupted or dismantled year-to-year.
MCIN 2022 mid-year data also report more than $8.2 million in cash and asset seizures, including:
- $5.7 million in cash assets, which include cash, vehicles, and other property alleged to be involved in criminal activity
- $2.2 million and 860 pounds worth of illegal drugs including heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana
- More than 300 illegal firearms
Overall, this represents a record 108% increase in cash and asset seizures year-to-year.
“Over time, we developed MCIN from an offender-based, eight jurisdiction program into a robust information-sharing, data-driven network,” said Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services Kunle Adeyemo. “These partnerships are invaluable and we thank our allied law enforcement for their steadfast commitment to public safety.”
“I am confident that the expansion of MCIN to the Lower Eastern Shore will improve our ability to keep our communities safe,” said Worcester County State’s Attorney Kristin Heiser. “We will be better prepared to rise to whatever challenges we face moving forward together.”
MCIN funding is prioritized to help install program coordinators, data analysts, and MCIN prosecutors within each coalition, in addition to supporting ongoing program enhancements, including those through the Maryland Crime Research and Innovation Center and data sharing enhancements. | https://www.wboc.com/news/hogan-announces-new-lower-shore-coalition-for-maryland-criminal-intelligence-network/article_0a64e88a-1f15-11ed-9013-3ff44bab268b.html | 2022-08-18T18:26:31Z | wboc.com | control | https://www.wboc.com/news/hogan-announces-new-lower-shore-coalition-for-maryland-criminal-intelligence-network/article_0a64e88a-1f15-11ed-9013-3ff44bab268b.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
SEAFORD, Del. - Seaford police have released the name of a suspect wanted in connection with a late Wednesday night shooting that put a man in the hospital with a gunshot wound to the head.
Police identified the suspect as Rihem Frisby, 30, of Laurel, Del. A warrant has been obtained for Frisby's arrest.
The shooting happened shortly after 10 p.m. at the Chandler Heights Two apartment complex. When officers arrived on the scene, they were directed to the victim’s location in the parking lot. The victim, who suffered from a single gunshot wound to the head, was airlifted to Christiana Hospital for the life-threatening injury. He was last listed in critical condition.
This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information about this crime or knows of Frisby's whereabouts is asked to contact the Seaford Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 302-629-6645, ext. 1217 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333. | https://www.wboc.com/news/updated-police-id-suspect-in-seaford-shooting/article_156de5ce-1ee8-11ed-b10b-77fc736e74bd.html | 2022-08-18T18:26:37Z | wboc.com | control | https://www.wboc.com/news/updated-police-id-suspect-in-seaford-shooting/article_156de5ce-1ee8-11ed-b10b-77fc736e74bd.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A judge’s order that forced the Biden administration to resume sales of oil and gas leases on federal land and waters was vacated Wednesday by a federal appeals court in New Orleans.
It was at least a temporary victory for President Joe Biden but the immediate effect was unclear.
The much-heralded climate bill that Biden signed into law Tuesday provides for new drilling opportunities, in a compromise among Democrats, and mandates that several lease sales be held over the next year in the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska.
Biden had signed an executive order that suspended new lease sales soon after taking office in 2021. The following March, U.S. District Judge Terry Doughty in Monroe, Louisiana, blocked the policy, siding with a more than a dozen Republican-leaning states opposed to Biden’s move.
The appeals court in New Orleans on Wednesday said the judge’s reasons were unclear and sent the case back to him.
“We cannot reach the merits of the Government’s challenge when we cannot ascertain from the record what conduct — an unwritten agency policy, a written policy outside of the Executive Order, or the Executive Order itself — is enjoined,” Judge Patrick Higginbotham wrote for a panel that also included judges James Dennis and James Graves.
Department of the Interior officials were reviewing the decision, spokesperson Melissa Schwartz said. She declined to say whether the climate law made the issue moot.
The practical impacts of the ruling could be minor because of the fossil fuel leasing mandates in the climate law, said Erik Milito, president of the National Ocean Industries Association, which represents oil and gas companies.
The law requires the government to reinstate $192 million in leases in the Gulf of Mexico that were blocked by another court ruling last year. And it requires two more sales in the Gulf and one in Alaska before October 2023. Those sales had been canceled under Biden. The provision reviving them was inserted into the law at the insistence of West Virginia Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin, an advocate for fossil fuels.
Going forward the law says Interior will hold periodic oil and gas lease sales and offer at least 60 million acres (24 million hectares) of offshore parcels and 2 million acres (810,000 hectares) onshore during the prior year before it can approve any renewable energy leases.
“Offshore oil and gas leasing has been protected and will proceed,” said Milito.
Environmentalists remained hopeful that the ruling would prompt the administration to move forward with other changes to the oil and gas leasing program, such as limits on future development including where leasing occurs.
“They may not be able to deliver a full moratorium on leasing, but at least they can exercise more restraint than they could with the injunction in place,” said Jeremy Nichols with the environmental group WildEarth Guardians. “All eyes are going to be on the Interior Department to see what their next move might be.”
Following last year’s injunction from Doughty that forced lease sales to resume, the Biden administration auctioned off more than 2,700 square miles (6,950 square kilometers) of leases in the Gulf of Mexico in November. The sale was later overturned by a federal judge in Washington D.C., who said the government had failed to adequately consider climate change impacts from burning oil and gas from the Gulf.
In June, the administration sold leases on about 110 square miles (285 square kilometers) of federal land, mostly in Wyoming, despite concluding that future emissions from the parcels offered could cause billions of dollars in damages due to climate change impacts. Legal challenges of those sales by environmentalists are pending.
Doughty was appointed to the federal bench by former President Donald Trump. Higginbotham was appointed to the appeals court by former President Ronald Reagan; Dennis, by former President Bill Clinton; Graves, by former President Barack Obama. | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ruling-clears-bidens-2021-pause-on-new-oil-gas-leases/ | 2022-08-18T18:26:40Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ruling-clears-bidens-2021-pause-on-new-oil-gas-leases/ | 0 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | 35 |
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A judge’s order that forced the Biden administration to resume sales of oil and gas leases on federal land and waters was vacated Wednesday by a federal appeals court in New Orleans.
It was at least a temporary victory for President Joe Biden but the immediate effect was unclear.
The much-heralded climate bill that Biden signed into law Tuesday provides for new drilling opportunities, in a compromise among Democrats, and mandates that several lease sales be held over the next year in the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska.
Biden had signed an executive order that suspended new lease sales soon after taking office in 2021. The following March, U.S. District Judge Terry Doughty in Monroe, Louisiana, blocked the policy, siding with a more than a dozen Republican-leaning states opposed to Biden’s move.
The appeals court in New Orleans on Wednesday said the judge’s reasons were unclear and sent the case back to him.
“We cannot reach the merits of the Government’s challenge when we cannot ascertain from the record what conduct — an unwritten agency policy, a written policy outside of the Executive Order, or the Executive Order itself — is enjoined,” Judge Patrick Higginbotham wrote for a panel that also included judges James Dennis and James Graves.
Department of the Interior officials were reviewing the decision, spokesperson Melissa Schwartz said. She declined to say whether the climate law made the issue moot.
The practical impacts of the ruling could be minor because of the fossil fuel leasing mandates in the climate law, said Erik Milito, president of the National Ocean Industries Association, which represents oil and gas companies.
The law requires the government to reinstate $192 million in leases in the Gulf of Mexico that were blocked by another court ruling last year. And it requires two more sales in the Gulf and one in Alaska before October 2023. Those sales had been canceled under Biden. The provision reviving them was inserted into the law at the insistence of West Virginia Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin, an advocate for fossil fuels.
Going forward the law says Interior will hold periodic oil and gas lease sales and offer at least 60 million acres (24 million hectares) of offshore parcels and 2 million acres (810,000 hectares) onshore during the prior year before it can approve any renewable energy leases.
“Offshore oil and gas leasing has been protected and will proceed,” said Milito.
Environmentalists remained hopeful that the ruling would prompt the administration to move forward with other changes to the oil and gas leasing program, such as limits on future development including where leasing occurs.
“They may not be able to deliver a full moratorium on leasing, but at least they can exercise more restraint than they could with the injunction in place,” said Jeremy Nichols with the environmental group WildEarth Guardians. “All eyes are going to be on the Interior Department to see what their next move might be.”
Following last year’s injunction from Doughty that forced lease sales to resume, the Biden administration auctioned off more than 2,700 square miles (6,950 square kilometers) of leases in the Gulf of Mexico in November. The sale was later overturned by a federal judge in Washington D.C., who said the government had failed to adequately consider climate change impacts from burning oil and gas from the Gulf.
In June, the administration sold leases on about 110 square miles (285 square kilometers) of federal land, mostly in Wyoming, despite concluding that future emissions from the parcels offered could cause billions of dollars in damages due to climate change impacts. Legal challenges of those sales by environmentalists are pending.
Doughty was appointed to the federal bench by former President Donald Trump. Higginbotham was appointed to the appeals court by former President Ronald Reagan; Dennis, by former President Bill Clinton; Graves, by former President Barack Obama. | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ruling-clears-bidens-2021-pause-on-new-oil-gas-leases/ | 2022-08-18T18:26:40Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ruling-clears-bidens-2021-pause-on-new-oil-gas-leases/ | 1 | 0 | green-iguana-35 | 35 |
Three major bank stocks, Morgan Stanley (MS), Goldman Sachs Group (GS), and Wells Fargo & Co. (WFC), have risen since June-end on improving U.S. economic conditions. These stocks have comfortably outperformed the broader S&P 500 (SPX) index’s rise in the same period.
Other large U.S. banks like Citigroup (C) and Bank of America (BAC) have also been able to match the trend. Furthermore, the popular SPDR S&P Bank ETF (KBE) also rallied more than the S&P 500 since the end of June.
Of late, the major economic data releases have pointed out that the tough economic conditions witnessed earlier might have been left behind. Strength in the U.S. jobs market and calming red-hot inflation levels are instilling optimism among investors. On slight relief from some fall in energy and gasoline prices, the consumer price index (CPI) climbed 8.5% over the prior year in July, slowing from June’s 9.1% year-over-year rise.
Moreover, the improving consumer sentiment is being highlighted by the University of Michigan’s preliminary consumer sentiment reading of 55.1 in August compared to 51.5 in July and June’s all-time low reading of 50. It seems that the U.S. economy may receive support from decent consumer spending levels in the second half of 2022.
According to a Wall Street Journal article, major credit-card issuers like American Express Co. (AXP) and Capital One Financial (COF) have increased their marketing and advertising budgets to attract new customers, highlighting the expectations of strong consumer spending. They are also making efforts to raise total credit-card balances.
Furthermore, analysts are speculating that the recession-related fears have already been priced in.
Let’s discuss three major bank stocks that have outperformed the broader market’s rally since July.
1. Morgan Stanley
Financial services major Morgan Stanley posted weaker-than-expected results for the second quarter of 2022, as revenue and earnings missed consensus estimates. However, the company’s capital deployment activities remain strong, as it announced a new multi-year buyback program worth $20 billion.
Turning to Wall Street, analysts seem to be cautiously optimistic about MS, which has a Moderate Buy rating based on 12 Buys and six Holds. However, the average MS stock forecast of $90.53 implies ~1% downside potential. Shares of the stock have lost about 6.9% year to date.
Still, financial bloggers are 86% Bullish on MS compared to the sector average of 67%.
2. Goldman Sachs
The investment banking firm impressed investors with better-than-expected Q2-2022 financial results. Furthermore, the bank informed in July that it dominated in announced and completed M&A worldwide, global equity/equity-related offerings, and common stock offerings in the year-to-date period. It also raised its common dividend by 25%.
Moving on to Wall Street analysts, they are optimistic about the stock, as it has a Strong Buy rating based on 14 Buys and three Holds. The average GS stock price target of $394.27 implies around 12% upside potential. However, shares of the stock have slipped about 7.9% year to date.
Similar to analysts, financial bloggers are 95% Bullish on GS compared to the sector average of 67%.
3. Wells Fargo & Co.
The American multinational financial services company posted dismal Q2-2022 results, as it missed both revenue and earnings expectations. However, on the dual forces of rising interest rates supporting net interest income growth and falling expenses, management is expecting to see improved performance. Also, Wells Fargo is taking initiatives to boost its loan and deposit balances and consumer card portfolios.
Wells Fargo stock is receiving support from Wall Street, as analysts are optimistic about the stock. WFC has a Strong Buy rating based on 10 Buys and two Holds. The average WFC price target of $52.83 implies 15.2% upside potential. Shares of the stock have fallen about 4.4% so far in 2022.
Lastly, financial bloggers are 79% Bullish on WFC compared to the sector average of 67%.
Conclusion: Will U.S. Bank Stocks Continue Rallying?
There is no denying that if the U.S. economy, which has already contracted for two straight quarters, enters a recession, there can be a decrease in bank stocks’ upside potential. Also, despite the slowing pace, persistently high inflation levels may weigh on the bank stocks’ rally. Other hurdles like the sluggish investment banking environment and slowing U.S. housing market can do the same.
However, all is not dull for the banking sector. The Fed stress test results signal that the major U.S. banks will have the lending capacity even during recessionary periods, per The Wall Street Journal. | https://www.tipranks.com/news/article/3-major-bank-stocks-benefiting-from-improving-u-s-economic-outlook | 2022-08-18T18:26:51Z | tipranks.com | control | https://www.tipranks.com/news/article/3-major-bank-stocks-benefiting-from-improving-u-s-economic-outlook | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
"You can't really know where you are going until you know where you have been." That adage by poet and writer Maya Angelou speaks to the experience of Emmet Cohen, a pianist in the process of finding his sound.
He's 32 right now, but Cohen has been a practicing jazz musician since his teens, and it took him a while to come around to this conviction. He recalls sharing a four-hour bus ride with Jimmy Heath, where the late saxophonist didn't talk about the notes, or the meaning of them, but about the context and backdrops in and against which the notes were laid and the creations were made.
Based on this interaction, Cohen decided to launch the Masters Legacy Series, his musical meetings with living legends of the music: Ron Carter, George Coleman, Benny Golson, Albert "Tootie" Heath and the late Jimmy Cobb.
"The series is designed to show the two-way relationship between the master and the student," says Cohen.
His career path was there in front of him; his professional network was growing. Then, of course, came the coronavirus pandemic, which brought everything screeching to a halt. Out of that stillness, Cohen decided to revive a Jazz Age tradition: the rent party. As early as March 2020 he launched a series of live-streamed concerts, Live from Emmet's Place, in his Harlem apartment. What started as an experiment turned to gold, attracting hundreds of thousands of viewers weekly.
When it became safe to invite new guests to be part of the series, he made sure to employ his intergenerational approach, as we'll hear in a performance with tenor saxophonist Houston Person.
For this episode of Jazz Night in America we'll bring you that soulful set, recorded at Dizzy's Club. We'll also take you backstage for a cross-generational conversation between the pianist and the saxophonist. "There's a fine line," Cohen says. "One of always respect and reverence, but also of being peers."
Musicians:
Emmet Cohen, piano; Houston Person, tenor saxophone; Russell Hall, bass; Kyle Poole, drums.
Set List:
• "Billy Boy" (traditional)
• "Lester Leaps In" (Lester Young)
• "Maybe You'll Be There" (Rube Bloom )
• "Why Not" (Houston Person)
• "Venus de Milo" (Gerry Mulligan)
• "Sunny" (Bobby Hebb)
Credits:
Writer and producer: Sarah Geledi, with Alex Ariff; Host: Christian McBride; Assistant producer: Scout Opatut; Concert engineer: Chris Gold; Episode mix: Ron Scalzo; Project manager: Suraya Mohamed; Vice President of Visuals and Strategy at NPR Music: Keith Jenkins; Executive producers: Anya Grundmann and Gabrielle Armand.
Copyright 2022 WBGO and Jazz At Lincoln Center. To see more, visit WBGO and Jazz At Lincoln Center. | https://www.klcc.org/npr-music/2022-08-18/pianist-emmet-cohen-hosts-a-harlem-rent-party-for-the-modern-day | 2022-08-18T18:26:54Z | klcc.org | control | https://www.klcc.org/npr-music/2022-08-18/pianist-emmet-cohen-hosts-a-harlem-rent-party-for-the-modern-day | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
This year has been very challenging for Meta Platforms’ (META) investors. Meta’s second-quarter results added to investors’ woes, as the company reported its first-ever revenue decline since it went public. Furthermore, its Q3 guidance reflects continued pressure and a second consecutive quarter of declining sales. While short-term headwinds may continue to impact Meta, Wall Street remains optimistic about the long-term potential.
Meta Platforms Stock is Facing Multiple Headwinds
Meta is facing multiple headwinds. Its Q2 revenue declined nearly 1% year-over-year to $28.8 billion. This was due to lower online ad spending amid a tough macro backdrop and currency headwinds. Also, Apple’s (AAPL) iOS privacy policy changes are hurting Meta’s ad business by limiting its ability to effectively track users.
Meta’s Q2 earnings per share fell 32% to $2.46, with the operating margin down significantly to 29% from 42.5% in the prior-year quarter. The Q2 profitability was impacted by significant investments made in its Reality Labs division.
The Reality Labs segment focuses on the company’s Metaverse vision and develops augmented and virtual reality hardware, software, and content. The division’s revenue increased 48% to $452 million in Q2. However, it generated an operating loss of $2.81 billion, up from $2.43 billion in the prior-year quarter. Clearly, the company’s long-term growth plans for Metaverse are impacting its near-term profitability.
Meanwhile, Meta is also under pressure due to intense competition from TikTok. Instagram Reels, which is Meta’s answer to TikTok, is gaining traction. The company disclosed that it has now crossed $1 billion in annual revenue run rate for Reels ads. That said, Reels currently monetizes at a lower rate than Instagram Feed or Stories.
Is Meta Stock Still a Good Buy?
Overall, the Street is cautiously optimistic about Meta Platforms, with a Moderate Buy consensus rating based on 28 Buys, five Holds, and two Sells. The average META price target of $227.03 suggests 29.84% upside potential from current levels. Shares have plunged 48% year-to-date.
RBC Capital analyst Brad Erickson noted that Meta’s Q2 results were “roughly in-line” with his checks, but the company’s third-quarter outlook missed the sell-side consensus by 10%.
Erickson stated, “Value seekers may be tempted with likely acceleration beyond Q3, but ex-macro, Reels must ramp monetization & stem Tiktok share loss, targeting must improve, and investors must find religion on metaverse investments before the stock breaks out of its current valuation range.”
In line with his investment thesis, Erickson lowered his price target for META stock to $190 from $200 but maintained a Buy rating.
Conclusion: Analysts are Optimistic about Meta Stock’s Long-Term Prospects
The reach of the suite of products that Meta owns – Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp – can’t be ignored. Daily Active Users (DAU), which indicates the number of users who visited at least one of these products in a day, was 2.88 billion on average for June 2022. However, near-term pressures due to softened ad spending, Apple’s iOS privacy changes, and intense competition from TikTok can’t be ignored. That said, most analysts continue to be bullish on the company’s long-term potential. | https://www.tipranks.com/news/article/meta-platforms-stock-should-investors-look-beyond-near-term-pressures | 2022-08-18T18:27:04Z | tipranks.com | control | https://www.tipranks.com/news/article/meta-platforms-stock-should-investors-look-beyond-near-term-pressures | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids; neither do most insurance policies. That's why advocates are welcoming a new federal rule allowing over-the-counter sales of the devices, hoping the move cuts prices and makes it easier for people with hearing loss to improve their lives.
By mid-October, consumers could see over-the-counter devices in drug stores that are far more affordable than prescription aids that routinely cost thousands of dollars, thanks to the rule the Food and Drug Administration announced on Tuesday. But many people will likely have to bear that cost alone — and that's just one of the challenges still confronting people with hearing loss.
"We're really excited about the market," said Barbara Kelley, executive director of the Hearing Loss Association of America. But, she added, "we think it's going to be confusing for consumers."
Here's a rundown of why the rule is being celebrated, and what problems still exist.
The new rule is a long-awaited breakthrough
"There's 48 million people in this country with some degree of hearing loss," Kelley told NPR, "and there's no such thing as a small hearing loss. It can be completely disruptive to your life."
The new rule's promise to minimize a host of health problems was hailed by Dr. Debara Tucci, director of the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.
"Hearing loss is associated with dementia, increased risk of falling, reduced mobility, depression, social isolation, and anxiety," Tucci said on her federal agency's website.
Wearing hearing aids can make a big difference. As the Hearing Industries Association said in an email to NPR, "8 in 10 who chose to treat their hearing loss report life-changing results."
Prescription hearing aids are often wildly expensive
"The FDA estimates this rule will save consumers on the order of about $1,400 per individual hearing aid or over $2,800 per pair," Brian Deese, director of the National Economic Council, said of the new FDA rule.
That's a substantial saving for an essential item that the Hearing Industries Association says can range from under $1,000 up to $4,000 each.
The industry group notes that the actual devices usually account for only about a third of the total cost, since the process of getting a prescription hearing aid normally includes numerous visits to doctors and specialists who evaluate patients and fit, test and adjust their hearing aids.
One source of potential relief: your tax return. In response to an NPR request, the IRS confirmed that taxpayers can use their FSA plan to pay for over-the-counter hearing aids or claim a medical deduction for the cost, just as they're currently allowed to do.
"There has never been a 'prescription' requirement for hearing aids" under the tax rules, according to IRS spokesman Bruce Friedland, who adds, "all that is necessary is that they be for a hearing deficiency."
OTC aids could compete with PSAP devices
By creating a new product category, the FDA is giving a regulated alternative to people who in recent years might have turned to PSAPs — or personal sound amplification products.
PSAPs are promoted as a way to amplify a normal person's hearing. But many people who buy them aren't hunters or private detectives — they're just having trouble hearing, whether it's in person or when they're watching TV.
With the change, the PSAP category will still exist, but if their makers want to sell a device as an OTC hearing aid, they'll have to fulfill the FDA's quality and labeling standards.
"The truth is, in that category, there are some very good devices that will cross over to the over-the-counter market and meet the criteria," Kelley said. "The difference is they can now market them to people with hearing loss."
Medicare does not pay for hearing aids
"Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids," the government program's website states. "You pay 100% of the cost for hearing aids and exams."
Many Americans might be surprised that the federal insurance program doesn't offer help to people who are most likely to need hearing aids. But it's by design.
"Back when the law was enacted in 1965, hearing aids were not only not in there, they were statutorily excluded," Kelley said.
Other components of modern insurance, such as dental and vision coverage, were similarly left out of the original law — although in today's system, some Medicare Advantage plans do include coverage for those costs.
Kelley says several ideas are behind the exclusion, including a belief in 1965 that problems like hearing loss weren't major health issues. Average U.S. lifespans were also shorter — and as we now live longer, many of us are doing so in noisier environments that progressively harm our ability to hear.
Lawmakers made headway to include hearing aids in Medicare coverage in recent years, but a House-approved bill in 2019 failed to advance in the Senate. Attempts to include the requirement in the Democrats' Build Back Better framework also foundered.
Using hearing aids isn't as easy as putting on reading glasses
The new class of over-the-counter hearing aids is meant to help adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. But for anyone who thinks getting an OTC hearing aid will help them as easily as snagging a pair of cheap reading glasses boosts their sight, Kelley warns that it isn't that simple.
"That's a good analogy," she said, "except I'd like to clarify that when we put on glasses, typically they correct our vision. When you put on a hearing aid, it doesn't always correct your hearing."
That's because many hearing loss cases are highly individualized, with problems linked to specific frequencies or environments.
"Hearing loss is unique to each person, and most do not know if their condition is mild, moderate, or greater, caused by another medical issue or something as simple as ear wax," Hearing Industries Association President Kate Carr said in an emailed statement.
While many people might benefit from an OTC product, others might need to see a doctor and an audiologist for more sophisticated care, Carr and others say.
The chance that some consumers might rely on trial-and-error to find a device that works well for them led some commenters on the FDA proposal to ask the agency to ensure they can easily return or exchange OTC hearing aids. The FDA declined to do so, citing existing consumer laws. But its final rule does require manufacturers to clearly state their return policies.
If you buy a hearing aid without a prescription, the Hearing Industries Association says you should hang on to your receipt and be aware of the device's warranty and return details. It also cautions consumers against using devices that over-amplify sound, as too much volume could harm their hearing further.
The rule meets a mandate set in 2017
Despite the limit on Medicare coverage, the OTC rule comes as a highly anticipated victory, arriving five years after Congress voted in in 2017 to require the FDA to create an OTC category for hearing aids.
Regulators were prodded to take action last summer, when President Biden issued a wide-ranging executive order to promote more competition. It tasked the Department of Health and Human Services with proposing an OTC hearing aid rule, setting a new timeline in motion.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.klcc.org/npr-news/npr-news/2022-08-17/over-the-counter-hearing-aids-will-bring-relief-but-with-some-confusion | 2022-08-18T18:27:06Z | klcc.org | control | https://www.klcc.org/npr-news/npr-news/2022-08-17/over-the-counter-hearing-aids-will-bring-relief-but-with-some-confusion | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The London Stock Exchange (GB:LSEG) released its interim results for 2022, which were slightly ahead of expectations, driven by strong income growth across segments and better cost management.
The LSE’s stock has performed well and has beaten overall market returns this year. The company’s shares have gained 20% YTD and 5.5% in the last year.
Shares reacted positively to the results, including a dividend hike and a new share buyback for £750 million. Its interim dividend was increased by 27% to 31.7p per share.
Is London Stock Exchange profitable?
LSE is a profitable company: adjusted profit for the first half of 2022 increased by 21.9% to £1.06 billion.
The total income for the period grew by 6.2% to £3.5 billion, pushed up by the data and analytics segment, which contributed more than 65% of total income.
The data segment posted an income of £2.3 billion, up by 4% from last year. The LSE’s capital market segment posted the highest jump in its income by 13%, to £720 million.
Looking ahead, the company expects that it will achieve cost synergies worth £100 million in 2022, which makes up 60% of its overall target of £400 million by 2025.
The company’s profitability was also supported by the savings target from its acquisition of Refinitiv in 2021. Refinitiv is a data and infrastructure provider in the global financial markets. With this acquisition, LSE is better placed in financial data and information services, its biggest segment by revenue.
How many stocks are on the London Stock Exchange?
The LSE is among the oldest stock exchanges in the world, with a history going way back 300 years old.
As of last month, the LSE had 1,900 companies’ stocks trading on its platform, which decreased slightly from the previous month. These companies have a total market capitalization of £3.9 trillion.
Is LSEG a good investment?
According to TipRanks’ analyst rating consensus, LSE stock is a Strong Buy. The company has a total of eight ratings, including seven Buy and one Hold recommendations.
The LSE stock forecast is 9,312.6p, with a high and a low forecast of 10,501p and 8,000p, respectively. The price forecast is around 10.3% higher than the current price level.
After the results were released, many analysts reiterated their buy ratings. Among them, Morgan Stanley’s Bruce Hamilton increased his target price from 10,115p to 10,501p while maintaining a buy rating. The target price has the highest upside potential of 22.73%.
Conclusion
LSE is a stable company with a lot of recurring revenue-generating businesses. With its data and analytics generating stable income, the company is well positioned. The overall prospects for the stock are bullish. | https://www.tipranks.com/news/london-stock-exchange-won-the-investors-with-increased-profits-and-dividends | 2022-08-18T18:27:10Z | tipranks.com | control | https://www.tipranks.com/news/london-stock-exchange-won-the-investors-with-increased-profits-and-dividends | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The Bourbon Street Extravaganza, a free concert held in New Orleans amid Southern Decadence — one of the nation’s largest LGBTQ events — has been canceled over monkeypox concerns, organizers said Wednesday.
The concert was scheduled to return Sept. 3 for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic shut down Decadence in 2020. It normally attracts up to 20,000 people to the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann streets in New Orleans’ French Quarter outside the bar Napoleon’s Itch.
The concert’s producer, Chuck Robinson, called off the concert in light of the rapidly spreading monkeypox virus, news outlets reported. The virus, which seems to disproportionately affect gay and bisexual men, is spread by prolonged skin-to-skin contact.
“I regret that we can’t do the show, but monkeypox just came out of the blue, and quickly,” Robinson told The Associated Press in a telephone interview. “My concerns have to be the safety of the artists and the production team.”
He added there were plans to bring in stars from Australia and England and yet the virus has “stats that frighten me.”
“It’s spread by touch and closeness, not by droplets like COVID and I did not feel, in all good conscious, that I could be responsible for an event that could become a mass spreader,” he said.
The Washington Post first reported on the Bourbon Street Extravaganza’s cancelation as part of a story about the growing threat of monkeypox. There have been concerns about the lack of availability of the monkeypox vaccine in Louisiana, which has 120 confirmed cases, state health officials said.
Earlier this month, the Louisiana Department of Health said it was in contact with Southern Decadence organizers to get people vaccinated before the event scheduled to run Sept. 1-5 over the extended Labor Day holiday weekend.
Since 1972, Southern Decadence has grown from an informal gathering to an annual blowout that draws thousands of revelers to New Orleans over the long holiday weekend. In 2019, an estimated 225,000 people attended various events and the wide-ranging street party. An even larger crowd was expected this year.
The Bourbon Street Extravaganza has been part of Southern Decadence since 2004, the year Robinson and co-founder Ron Julian opened Napoleon’s Itch at 734 Bourbon. Robinson and Julian launched the concert on an outdoor stage in part as a way to promote their new bar, The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate reported. Over the years, Jeanie Tracy became a frequent, and favorite, performer at the concert.
“It has grown into the largest event of Southern Decadence,” Robinson said. “It’s our gift to the city.”
Robinson said the concert will return in 2023.
“I pray for everyone’s safety, but this is what I had to do,” he said of the decision to cancel.
Other Southern Decadence events and promotions are still on as scheduled. | https://www.wpri.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/monkeypox-cancels-free-concert-held-at-southern-decadence/ | 2022-08-18T18:27:36Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/monkeypox-cancels-free-concert-held-at-southern-decadence/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — A bombing at a mosque in the Afghan capital of Kabul during evening prayers on Wednesday killed at least 10 people, including a prominent cleric, and wounded at least 27, an eyewitness and police said.
There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack, the latest to strike the country in the year since the Taliban seized power. Several children were reported to be among the wounded.
The Islamic State group’s local affiliate has stepped up attacks targeting the Taliban and civilians since the former insurgents’ takeover last August as U.S. and NATO troops were in the final stages of their withdrawal from the country. Last week, the IS claimed responsibility for killing a prominent Taliban cleric at his religious center in Kabul.
According to the eyewitness, a resident of the city’s Kher Khanna neighborhood where the Siddiquiya Mosque was targeted, the explosion was carried out by a suicide bomber. The slain cleric was Mullah Amir Mohammad Kabuli, the eyewitness said, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the media.
He added that more than 30 other people were wounded. The Italian Emergency hospital in Kabul said that at least 27 wounded civilians, including five children, were brought there from the site of the bomb blast.
Khalid Zadran, the Taliban-appointed spokesman for the Kabul police chief, confirmed an explosion inside a mosque in northern Kabul but would not provide a casualty toll or a breakdown of the dead and wounded.
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid also condemned the explosion and vowed that the “perpetrators of such crimes will soon be brought to justice and will be punished.”
There were fears the casualty numbers could rise further. On Thursday morning, one witness to the blast who gave his name as Qyaamuddin told The Associated Press he believed as many as 25 people may have been killed in the blast.
“It was evening prayer time, and I was attending the prayer with others, when the explosion happened,” Qyaamuddin said. Some Afghans go by a single name.
AP journalists could see the blue-roofed, Sunni mosque from a nearby hillside. The Taliban parked police trucks and other vehicles at the mosque, while several men carried out one casket for a victim of the attack.
A U.S.-led invasion toppled the previous Taliban government, which had hosted al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden in Afghanistan, following the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States.
Since regaining power, the former insurgents have faced a crippling economic crisis as the international community, which does not recognize the Taliban government, froze funding to the country.
Separately, the Taliban confirmed on Wednesday that they had captured and killed Mehdi Mujahid in western Herat province as he was trying to cross the border into Iran.
Mujahid was a former Taliban commander in the district of Balkhab in northern Sar-e-Pul province, and the only member of the minority Shiite Hazara community among the Taliban ranks.
Mujahid had turned against the Taliban over the past year, after opposing decisions made by Taliban leaders in Kabul.
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Faiez reported from Islamabad. | https://www.wpri.com/news/breaking-news/ap-top-news/bombing-at-kabul-mosque-kills-10-including-prominent-cleric/ | 2022-08-18T18:27:57Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/breaking-news/ap-top-news/bombing-at-kabul-mosque-kills-10-including-prominent-cleric/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
BHOLA, Bangladesh (AP) — When the Mehgna River swallowed Mohammad Jewel and Arzu Begum’s tin-roofed family home overnight in southern Bangladesh just over a year ago they had no choice but to leave their ancestral village.
The couple fled the next morning with their four young boys to the capital, Dhaka, over a hundred kilometers (62 miles) away from their home in Ramdaspur village in the Bhola district, one of the hardest-hit coastal areas where many villagers regularly lose their houses and land to rivers flowing into the Bay of Bengal.
“We have grown up seeing the river, we live on the river by catching fish. But now it has taken everything from us,” Jewel said.
“My heart aches when I think of my village, my ancestors, my old days. I had no choice but to leave my birthplace.”
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EDITOR’S NOTE: This story is part of an ongoing series exploring the lives of people around the world who have been forced to move because of rising seas, drought, searing temperatures and other things caused or exacerbated by climate change.
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The mighty rivers that run through Bangladesh, such as the Mehgna, originate in the Himalayas or in Tibet, and run through northern and northeastern regions of the country before flowing down to the sea in the south. More than 130 rivers criss-cross through the low-lying nation, some of them prone to severe flooding.
Experts say climate change is causing erratic weather conditions in the country, resulting in a rapid collapse of riverbanks and the destruction of village after village. During the monsoon season, which runs from June to October, many rivers change course, devouring markets, schools, mosques and homes near their banks.
Millions are at risk of being displaced and becoming “climate refugees” because of sea level rise, river erosion, cyclonic storms and salty water creeping inland, scientists say. Bangladesh is expected to have about a third of South Asia’s internal climate refugees by 2050, according to a World Bank report published last year.
When Jewel and Begum visited their family’s old home in Ramdaspur a year later, even more homes were washed away, the river surging through new lands. Jewel said the river never felt that close by as a child, but it inched nearer every year.
“By the time we grew up, all the land and houses were destroyed by the river. The place we are standing now will also be eroded in the river in a few days,” he added, just feet away from their old family home.
He said the village was once brimming with small shops and tea stalls, markets and green spaces. The land was fertile. But over the years, people were forced to abandon their homes. He estimates that no more than 500 people now live in the once 2,000-strong village.
Walking through the remnants of their former community, his wife Arzu Begum also feels pain, even though the abundant water in recent years made life difficult for the family.
“I raised my youngest child by tying his legs with a rope attached to the door of my house because of the fear of drowning. During the tide the house got filled with water and my youngest child always moved toward water,” remembers Begum.
“All these got destroyed in the river erosion and people got scattered,” she said, pointing to the homes of friends and neighbors.
“Some are living on raised platforms, some in rented homes, some in makeshift shelters at the side of dams and so on. I moved to Dhaka. We lived in a large community. Now all you can see is the river and nobody living there.
“We have become homeless,” she said.
It’s estimated that more than 2,000 migrants arrive in the capital Dhaka every day, with many fleeing coastal towns.
In the northern part of Bangladesh’s capital, officials are building shelters for climate migrants and improving the water supply, but Jewel and Begum’s family are one of many unable to benefit from these projects. Officials also are working with smaller cities to be designated “climate havens” that welcome migrants.
Experts say that limiting planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions, especially in the high-emitting nations like the U.S., China and India, will help limit more drastic weather events around the world.
Now in Dhaka’s poor Mirpur area, living in a one-room hut raised over a swamp, Begum and Jewel may be away from the swelling Mehgna, but say they can’t adjust to the difficult city life.
“We had a place of our own and didn’t have to pay any rent. Our monthly income was sufficient to run our family,” recalled Begum, referring to their life back in Ramdaspur.
“Now we are forced to pay home rent and spend such an amount of money for food that what we earn isn’t enough for the family,” she said.
Her husband earns 12,000 takas ($136) a month by doing a “dirty job” going door-to-door and sorting household waste while Begum earns another 4,000 takas ($45) as a cleaner for two different houses. Her income pays the family’s rent and Jewel’s barely covers the rest of the family’s outgoings.
Jewel, who used to catch fish in his village, says they lived there joyfully and thought of giving a better life to their children.
“I had a plan to raise my children properly, to send them to school. But now, everything is so uncertain that I don’t know how we would survive. My children are growing up but I cannot take care of them,” he said.
“My job is very dirty, I don’t feel good sorting out all the nasty stuff I collect from households in my wealthy neighborhood,” he added.
“I hate my job. But when I think how can I survive without a job, I stay calm. Life is not easy.”
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Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives support from several private foundations. See more about AP’s climate initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | https://www.wpri.com/news/breaking-news/ap-top-news/climate-migration-flooding-forces-bangladesh-family-to-flee/ | 2022-08-18T18:28:04Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/breaking-news/ap-top-news/climate-migration-flooding-forces-bangladesh-family-to-flee/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
WALES, Wis. (AP) — A Wisconsin school board voted in favor of a policy that prohibits teachers and staff from displaying gay pride flags and other items that district officials consider political in nature.
The Kettle Moraine School Board voted Tuesday to keep a code of conduct in place that the superintendent recently interpreted as forbidding district employees from displaying political or religious messages, including pride flags, and Black Lives Matter and We Back the Badge signs. Staff also may not say in emails what their preferred pronouns are.
Superintendent Stephen Plum recently told the board that the district’s interpretation of a policy that prohibits staffers from using their positions to promote partisan politics, religious views and propaganda for personal, monetary or nonmonetary gain changed following a legal analysis.
Jim Romanowski was the only board member to vote against the ban, saying he changed his mind about the policy after hearing from students and staff.
Most of those who spoke at Tuesday’s packed board meeting opposed the policy. The public comment period was capped at an hour, despite a call from the crowd to extend it.
“If you have a policy that says ‘nothing political,’ does that mean you can’t have a sign up that says, ‘Support our Troops,’ or ‘Believe Women’ or ‘Save the Planet?’ By some people’s definitions, all of those things are political,” said Christine Donahoe, an attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin.
Donahoe said she’s looking closely at the policy and a similar one approved last fall by the school district in nearby Waukesha.
“It really looks like targeted attacks at specific viewpoints, like LGBT communities, or welcome and safe spaces to students of color,” said Donahoe.
More than 13,000 people have signed an online petition opposing the Kettle Moraine policy that was launched by two local high school students, Bethany Provan and Brit Farrar.
“Having a rainbow flag in your room isn’t pushing your beliefs on someone,” Provan told WITI-TV. “It’s just saying, ‘Hey, you’re welcome here, and we support you.’”
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This story has been corrected to show that the vote was not unanimous and board member Jim Romanowski was the only no vote. | https://www.wpri.com/news/breaking-news/ap-top-news/wisconsin-school-board-votes-in-favor-of-pride-flag-ban/ | 2022-08-18T18:28:32Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/breaking-news/ap-top-news/wisconsin-school-board-votes-in-favor-of-pride-flag-ban/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — A lawyer for conspiracy theorist Alex Jones is facing scrutiny from a Connecticut judge, who began hearing testimony Wednesday on whether the lawyer should be disciplined for giving other attorneys for Jones highly sensitive documents, including medical records of relatives of victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.
Attorney Norman Pattis is representing Jones in a defamation lawsuit filed by Sandy Hook families against Jones for calling the 2012 shooting in Newtown, Connecticut, a hoax. Twenty first-graders and six educators were killed.
The Connecticut trial is separate from a trial in Texas that ended earlier this month with a jury awarding more than $49 million to the parents of one of the slain children. There’s also a second lawsuit against Jones in Texas by Sandy Hook families over the hoax claims.
Pattis, who did not testify Wednesday, has denied violating Judge Barbara Bellis’ order in the case to not disclose confidential documents to unauthorized people. Pattis said he was “confident in our defense” in a brief response to an email seeking comment Wednesday.
A lawyer for the Sandy Hook families, Christopher Mattei, testified Wednesday that Pattis sent him a text in which Pattis said he may have violated the document disclosure order. After a couple hours of testimony before Bellis in Waterbury, Connecticut, the hearing was continued to next week.
Jury selection before Bellis is set to resume Thursday for a trial on how much in damages Jones should pay the families. Bellis found him liable for damages last November.
According to court documents, Pattis sent a large number of records from the Connecticut defamation case within the past month to the lawyer representing Jones in Texas in the similar lawsuits by Sandy Hook parents over the hoax claims, as well as a bankruptcy case for one of Jones’ companies.
It hasn’t been made clear what documents Pattis allegedly sent. But from what has emerged from court documents, lawyer comments and the Texas lawsuit, they appear to have included confidential medical records of some of the Sandy Hook victims’ relatives as well as texts from Jones’ cell phone.
Jones’ attorneys in Texas mistakenly sent the last two years’ worth of texts from Jones’ cellphone an attorney for a Sandy Hook family. In the recently completed Texas case, Jones had said he didn’t have any texts about Sandy Hook. Legal experts say that episode could open Jones up to a possible perjury charge. | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/alex-jones-lawyer-faces-disciplinary-hearing-in-connecticut/ | 2022-08-18T18:28:38Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/alex-jones-lawyer-faces-disciplinary-hearing-in-connecticut/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
PARIS (AP) — After a summer of drought, heat waves and forest fires, violent storms are whipping France and neighboring countries and have flooded Paris subway stations, snarled traffic and disrupted the president’s agenda.
Winds over 100 kph (60 mph) were recorded at the top of the Eiffel Tower during a flash flood Tuesday, and similar winds were forecast Wednesday in the southeast.
Hail hammered Paris and other regions in Tuesday’s sudden storm. Rainwater gushed down metro station stairwells and onto platforms, and cars sloshed along embankments where the Seine River broke its banks.
In southern France, thunderstorms overnight and Wednesday flooded the Old Port of Marseille and the city’s main courthouse and forced the closure of nearby beaches.
As scattered storms swept across Belgium on Wednesday, one flooded parts of the historic town of Ghent following weeks of unrelenting drought.
London and other parts of southern England were lashed with torrential rain and thunderstorms after one of the driest summers on record which gave the country its first-ever 40 degree Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) temperature last month.
There was widespread flash flooding as the downpours fell on parched ground.
Despite the rain, much of Britain is still officially in drought. Thames Water, which supplies 15 million people in and around London, says a ban on watering lawns and gardens will take effect Aug. 24.
Much of Western Europe has experienced a season of extreme weather that scientists link to human-made climate change.
Amid the storm warnings, French President Emmanuel Macron postponed an event Wednesday on the French Riviera to mark the 78th anniversary of a key Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied France. It was rescheduled for Friday.
The dramatic downpours put an end to weeks of historic heat that left much of France parched, rivers dry and dozens of villages without running water.
Across much of Europe this summer, a series of heat waves has compounded a critical drought, creating prime wildfire conditions.
Rainfall in recent days has eased the burden on firefighters facing France’s worst fire season in the past decade, though emergency authorities said scattered wildfires continued to burn Wednesday in southwest France.
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Follow all AP stories about the environment at https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/first-drought-now-downpours-as-storms-slam-france-england/ | 2022-08-18T18:28:46Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/first-drought-now-downpours-as-storms-slam-france-england/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LAGRANGE, Ga. (AP) — A man was arrested Wednesday in connection with three separate shootings that took place earlier in the day along Interstate 85 in Alabama and Georgia. One man was seriously wounded.
Jerel Raphael Brown of Montgomery, Alabama, was arrested in LaFayette, Alabama, after shootings were reported in Montgomery and Auburn in Alabama and near Hogansville, Georgia, according to sheriff’s deputies in Troup County, Georgia.
The Auburn Police Department said Brown has been charged with attempted murder and shooting into an unoccupied vehicle. He is being held without bond, the police department said.
Officials had asked people to look for a 1996 white Cadillac Fleetwood after three shootings were reported. In the Auburn shooting, a 45-year-old Prattville, Alabama, man was seriously wounded by a gunshot that officials said appeared to enter from the rear of the man’s vehicle. The victim was taken by helicopter to a Montgomery hospital.
A stretch of Interstate 85 in Auburn was closed for hours while police investigated.
No one was injured in the Georgia shooting. No details on the Montgomery shooting were immediately released.
Brown is charged in Georgia with aggravated assault, possessing a gun while committing a felony and first-degree criminal damage.
Deputies in western Georgia’s Troup County said they identified the suspect vehicle using a traffic camera, allowing information about the car to be broadcast around the region. Authorities said that led to a Chambers County, Alabama, sheriff’s deputy pulling Brown over and arresting him. Brown was later handed over to Auburn police.
Troup County Sheriff’s spokesperson Sgt. Stewart Smith said investigators can’t say at this time what motivated the shootings. He said that while Troup County has filed charges, he expected Brown would be jailed in Alabama and would be prosecuted first in that state. | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/man-arrested-in-3-highway-shootings-in-alabama-georgia/ | 2022-08-18T18:29:00Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/man-arrested-in-3-highway-shootings-in-alabama-georgia/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
DENVER (AP) — Denver’s district attorney says she is opening a grand jury investigation into the actions of three police officers who wounded six bystanders while shooting at an armed suspect in a crowded downtown Denver nightlife zone last month.
The officers had already been placed on administrative leave pending a separate internal investigation into the July 17 shooting, which happened as dozens of patrons left bars that were closing for the night in the city’s Lower Downtown neighborhood.
“The public’s interest in this particular shooting incident is understandably high,” District Attorney Beth McCann said in a statement announcing the new investigation on Tuesday. “For the community to trust in the outcome from this incident, it is important that independent members of the community review the facts, evidence and law regarding whether these officers should be criminally charged.”
Police have said the three officers, whose names have not been made public, fired seven times in the confrontation with suspect Jordan Waddy, who police say was armed. The gunfire erupted as a nearby group of partygoers left a bar and gathered at a food truck.
The officers were following Waddy, 21, after they saw him punch another man during a fight, police have said.
Bodycam footage released by Denver police on Tuesday appears to show Waddy holding a pistol and throwing it to the ground as the officers opened fire. Police previously said Waddy was holding a firearm before the shooting.
At least one officer shot at Waddy while facing a crowd of people gathered behind the suspect, the footage shows. When the shots were fired, the crowd scattered. Some people fell to the ground in a rush to escape and others ducked behind the food truck or crawled on all fours.
Waddy, who suffered non life-threatening injuries, was arrested on suspicion of felony menacing and possession of a handgun by a previous offender. Court records said he is represented by a lawyer from the public defender’s office, which does not comment on cases.
Six bystanders were injured and authorities have said all received hospital treatment for non life-threatening injuries.
Siddhartha Rathod, an attorney representing the injured bystanders, welcomed the investigation announced by McCann.
Willis Small IV, 24, said in an interview that he was near the food truck when he felt a bullet or bullet fragment penetrate his left foot. Small looked down to see a hole through his shoe, hopped to his car and drove to the hospital.
Yekalo Weldehiwet, 26, was outside the bar after celebrating his fiance’s brother’s 23rd birthday when a bullet shattered a bone in his upper arm. His right arm went limp, “like a noodle,” he said, and he held it with his left arm as he sprinted away.
Bailey Alexander, 24, who was waiting in line at the food truck with her boyfriend, said she felt blood rushing down her body after a bullet or bullet fragment went through her upper back and exited her right arm. Alexander’s boyfriend held her up by the waist as they fled.
Speaking to reporters last month, Denver police Cmdr. Matt Clark said that officials “are deeply concerned for those who were injured during the incident and are working to provide all resources and support to them as they heal.”
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Jesse Bedayn is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Bedayn on Twitter. | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/probe-opened-into-denver-police-shooting-that-injured-6/ | 2022-08-18T18:29:15Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/probe-opened-into-denver-police-shooting-that-injured-6/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Which Herschel backpack style is best?
Herschel has been making modern bags with vintage-inspired accents for over a decade. Based in Canada, Herschel creates a timeless collection of duffle bags, tote bags, crossbody bags, hip packs and backpacks.
Herschel backpacks come in a range of styles and sizes in solid colors and select prints. The designs are similar to those of hiking gear, but they have functional everyday features. The Herschel Retreat Backpack is a stylish backpack with versatile size options and stylish accents.
What to know before you buy a Herschel backpack
Construction
Herschel backpacks are usually made from canvas or ripstop nylon. Both are durable materials designed for frequent use. Ripstop nylon uses a grid pattern in the sewing to reinforce the bag against rips and tears.
All backpacks with interior tech sleeves have padding to protect laptops and tablets. Most have fleece lining, too.
Closure method
Herschel backpacks use a zipper or a drawstring closure in the main compartment.
- Zipper closures are easy to use and ensure that everything is sealed securely inside the bag. It’s considered the most convenient backpack closure method, and designers use it often.
- Drawstring closures open and close faster than zipper closures. Since a drawstring closure does not completely seal off the compartment, items can fall out of the bag if not secured well.
Size
Herschel backpacks come in mini, mid-volume, standard and extra-large sizes. The dimensions for each of these sizes depend on the style of the backpack. For example, the Herschel Classic Backpack is about 11 inches tall and 8 inches wide in the mini size and about 18 inches tall and 13 inches wide in the extra-large size.
Herschel sells backpacks for adults and children, but the only real difference is the size. Most of the backpacks geared toward adults could easily be used by children and vice versa.
What to look for in a quality Herschel backpack
Extra pockets
Even mini backpacks can fit all the essentials, and they usually sport a front-zippered pocket. This pocket is great for charging cords, hand sanitizer and other easy-to-reach items. In same vein, a water bottle pocket on the side can go a long way when you’re on the go. Exterior or interior water bottle pockets usually have an elastic string to keep the bottle snug and in place. Exterior water bottle pockets separate your bottle from any papers or tech supplies you might store inside the backpack.
Comfortable backing
Contoured shoulder straps are more comfortable than the average shoulder strap. The curves follow the natural line of the shoulder, putting less pressure on the weaker points of your body.
Air-mesh backing is also helpful since it is breathable and dries quickly. It also provides some cushioning around the contents of the backpack, so you don’t have a sharp corner of a book or laptop poking into your back.
Themed prints
Herschel backpacks are best-known for their array of timeless solid colors, but the company also releases special-edition backpacks with tie-ins to sports or pop culture.
There is an extensive line of backpacks with professional baseball and basketball team emblems. There is also a line of backpacks inspired by “The Simpsons” television series and a “Star Wars” backpack inspired by “The Mandalorian” series.
How much you can expect to spend on a Herschel backpack
Depending on the size and style, a Herschel backpack costs $40-$110 with the average price between $65-$85.
Herschel backpack FAQ
Do Herschel backpacks use real leather?
A. The leather-like straps on Herschel backpacks are not genuine leather. They are constructed from synthetic leather.
Is there a top grab handle?
A. All Herschel backpacks have a convenient carry handle on the top. Most of these handles don’t have padding.
Can you wash the backpack?
A. You can hand-wash your Hershel backpack for spot cleaning with a mild soap, but it should not go in the washing machine. Do not put your backpack in the dryer.
What’s the best Herschel backpack to buy?
Top Herschel backpack
What you need to know: Available in several sizes and colors, this canvas backpack features a drawstring closure and faux leather straps that snap shut using a magnet.
What you’ll love: It’s spacious and stylish with clean lines. There’s a padded fleece laptop sleeve inside and a front storage sleeve. The shoulder straps are padded and contoured for comfort.
What you should consider: There are no water bottle pockets.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Top Herschel backpack for the money
What you need to know: Available in eight colors, this canvas backpack features zipper closures and measures 17.5 by 11.75 by 6 inches in size.
What you’ll love: The rounded top and clean lines make this backpack quite attractive. It has a 15-inch padded and fleece-lined laptop sleeve in the main compartment. There’s a rectangular front zippered pocket and a key clip. It has an extra fleece-lined compartment for sunglasses.
What you should consider: There’s a water bottle pocket on the inside but not on the outside.
Where to buy: Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods
Worth checking out
What you need to know: Available in two sizes and several colors, this canvas backpack features zipper closures with gold-tone hardware.
What you’ll love: It has a sleek, single-color exterior design, a zippered front pocket, and a key clip. The zippers have pebbled pulls for easier use. There’s a padded laptop sleeve in the main compartment. It has contoured shoulder straps and an air mesh back.
What you should consider: The zipper isn’t as durable as the rest of the backpacks, which impacts the bag’s longevity.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wpri.com/reviews/br/fashion-accessories-br/backpacks-br/best-herschel-backpack/ | 2022-08-18T18:29:59Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/reviews/br/fashion-accessories-br/backpacks-br/best-herschel-backpack/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
CINCINNATI (AP) — Jose Barrero hit a game-ending RBI single off Seranthony Domínguez with two out in the ninth inning, and the Cincinnati Reds beat the Philadelphia Phillies 1-0 on Wednesday.
Albert Almora Jr. helped set up Barrero’s winning hit with a one-out walk. Almora advanced to second when Alejo Lopez singled for his third hit, and then hustled home when Barrero hit a grounder back up the middle.
“I was fortunate enough to make contact,” said Barrero, who had never faced Dominguez before. “All I wanted to do was help the team by making contact.”
The 24-year-old Barrero has struck out 26 times in 48 big league at-bats this year.
It was the first run allowed by Dominguez (6-4) since July 10, snapping a string of 11 consecutive scoreless appearances.
Rookie left-hander Nick Lodolo struck out eight in a career-high seven innings for Cincinnati, allowing five hits. Alexis Díaz (4-1) got six outs for the win.
“I was aggressive in the zone,” Lodolo said. “I felt I got better as the game went on. I was working through traffic the first three innings but it got better.”
Reds first baseman Joey Votto announced after the win that he will have season-ending surgery Friday to repair a torn left rotator cuff. The 38-year-old Votto, a six-time All-Star and 2010 NL MVP, hit just .205 this season with 11 homers and 41 RBIs.
“It’s a big blow obviously. We’re going to miss him a ton,” manager David Bell said. “I have no idea how he was playing with it. I was lucky enough to talk to the doctors. They were very clear this has to be done now.”
Lodolo got some help from right fielder Aristides Aquino, who made a terrific defensive play in the fifth. Aquino tracked down Alec Bohm’s drive and then made a strong throw from the warning track to double up Rhys Hoskins at first.
“At that moment I was thinking just catch the ball,” Aquino said. “When I caught the ball I saw the runner was off the base. I just threw it. When I’m playing defense, I always think I have a chance to catch the ball.”
It was Aquino’s ninth assist — the most by a Reds outfielder since Billy Hamilton had 12 in 2018.
Philadelphia won the first two games of the three-game series against lowly Cincinnati. But the Phillies wasted a stellar performance by Ranger Suárez in the finale.
The 26-year-old Suárez allowed three hits, struck out eight and walked two. The left-hander made his big league debut at Cincinnati on July 26, 2018.
TRAINER’S ROOM
Phillies: OF Brandon Marsh left Tuesday’s 11-4 win when he crashed into the wall while trying to catch Jonathan India’s home run. He had an MRI but there was no update on his condition.
Reds: RHP Art Warren (right upper arm) was activated from the 15-day injured list. RHP Buck Farmer was placed on the bereavement list. … OF Nick Senzel (right hamstring) and INF Mike Moustakas (left calf strain) planned to work out before the game. Senzel was available to pinch-hit, but did not play. Moustakas is eligible to come off the IL on Friday.
UP NEXT
Phillies: Open a four-game series at home against the Mets on Friday. RHP Chris Bassitt (10-7, 3.27 ERA) is scheduled to face Philadelphia RHP Aaron Nola (8-9, 3.07 ERA).
Reds: Open a three-game series in Pittsburgh on Friday. RHP Graham Ashcraft (5-3, 3.96 ERA) is scheduled to start for the Reds.
___
More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/barrero-gets-game-ending-hit-as-reds-beat-phillies-1-0/ | 2022-08-18T18:30:42Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/barrero-gets-game-ending-hit-as-reds-beat-phillies-1-0/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
CINCINNATI (AP) — Joe Burrow is trying to pack on the pounds, gaining back the weight he lost after having surgery to remove his ruptured appendix three weeks ago.
The Cincinnati Bengals quarterback won’t say how much he lost, but the pounds are coming back, along with the strength and mobility he had before the July 26 procedure.
The goal is for Burrow to be healthy for the regular-season opener against AFC North rival Pittsburgh in 3 1/2 weeks.
“I’m getting exponentially better each day,” Burrow said Wednesday in his first availability with reporters since the surgery. “Each day that I’m in the weight room, each day that I’m on the field I’m feeling stronger and stronger, so by Game 1 I’ll be feeling great.”
Burrow began participating in training camp on Sunday, threw passes in 7-on-7 drills and was set to work in 11-on-11 drills on Wednesday. Of course, defensive players will have to keep their hands off the valuable quarterback. The Bengals want to keep him off the ground as long as possible.
“The more I’ve done each day, the better I felt the next day. That’s kind of how it’s always gone to me,” he said.
“Just getting my abs and my core re-engaged. When they cut into you and do all that stuff, your core is going to lose some muscle and strength. Just working to get that back.”
Don’t expect to see Burrow play in the two remaining preseason games. Too big a risk. In fact, few if any Bengals starters are expected to play in the next one, against the New York Giants on Sunday.
“Obviously, I would have liked to,” Burrow said. “This whole thing has kind of thrown a wrench into that. I don’t anticipate playing in a preseason game, though.”
Coach Zac Taylor said the remaining preseason practices will be designed to get Burrow ready to go Sept. 11.
“Trust me, we’ve dialed out every practice, and he and I have had conversations about how many opportunities we have left to make sure we check all the boxes before we go into Week 1,” Taylor said. “And we feel very confident that we’ll be able to do that and be prepared going into that game.”
Before the appendicitis, the 25-year-old Burrow, who led the Bengals to the Super Bowl for the first time in 33 years in 2021, was enjoying a healthy, productive offseason after spending all of last year’s training camp rehabbing from major knee surgery.
“I just think my whole career has been coming back from speed bumps and adversity,” he said. “I don’t know anything else. It’s another speed bump in the way.”
Also Wednesday, Sports Illustrated introduced its NFL preview issue with Burrow on the cover. The caption says “their ultracool QB has transformed the Bengals’ vibe.”
Burrow shrugged it off.
“It’s just something that comes with success that will go away without success,” he said. “It doesn’t mean anything to me.”
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More AP NFL coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/burrow-working-on-regaining-strength-after-appendix-surgery/ | 2022-08-18T18:31:11Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/burrow-working-on-regaining-strength-after-appendix-surgery/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
By mid-January, LeBron James could be the NBA’s scoring king.
The NBA schedule was released Wednesday, all 1,230 games that are set between Oct. 18 and April 9 taking place in four countries with Mexico and France playing host to regular-season contests along with the U.S. and Canada.
There are the usual highlights — Stephen Curry and Golden State will raise another title banner on opening night, as is the NBA’s customary perk for champions; a five-game slate of games on Christmas yet again; the traditional games in Atlanta and Memphis as part of the leaguewide commemoration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year brought a twist, with Election Day now a newly created off day in the NBA.
And now that the list of games is out, the numbers show that James could catch Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the final two weeks of January — assuming James doesn’t have to miss games and scores at his usual pace. James enters this season No. 2 on the all-time list, 1,325 points behind Abdul-Jabbar.
“We have obviously a very large ecosystem of league office staff, team staff, players, arena staff that are truly driving to this process,” said Evan Wasch, who, along with Gene Li and Tom Carelli, is on the NBA team of executives who build the schedule. “So, we are just one small piece.”
Wasch, Li and Carelli spent weeks putting a 1,230-piece jigsaw puzzle together, mindful of things like team wishes to have games on certain dates, total miles traveled, even carbon footprint.
The big headline from their work: Teams will travel a bit less, about 5% fewer miles in the air on average over last season.
The NBA made that happen by adding to the instances of teams having no travel between road games, something that’ll happen 88 times this season — up 66% from last season. There are 55 instances of teams playing consecutive road games against the same opponent, and 33 instances of teams playing two games in a row against the two teams from Los Angeles or New York.
Add it all up, and NBA teams will combine to fly about 50,000 fewer miles this season.
“There’s a player health component, and there’s also a sustainability component there,” Wasch said. “That’s a 5% decrease from where we’ve been. We’ll take it.”
Among the countless storylines entering the season is James, and his pursuit of more NBA history.
If he continues scoring at his typical pace — 27 points per game for his career, 30 points per game last season for the Los Angeles Lakers — he would need between 44 and 49 games to pass Abdul-Jabbar.
Games 44 through 49 for the Lakers fall in the second half of January. They happen to be at home for most of that stretch, a coincidence since it precedes the annual spot in the calendar where the Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers need to vacate their home arena while it gets ready to play host to the Grammy Awards.
Other revelations from the schedule:
BACK-TO-BACKS
Minimizing the instances of having games on back-to-back days is still a point of emphasis for the NBA, and the average number of them dipped another 1.5% this season — the average going from 13.5 per team last season to 13.3 per team this season.
Since 2014, the average is down 31.1%. Teams faced an average of 19.3 of them per season then.
No team has fewer than 12 back-to-backs this season. No team has more than 15.
ATTENDANCE RECORD
The San Antonio Spurs’ magic number on Jan. 13 — 62,047.
If the Spurs’ game against Golden State that night draws at least that many fans, it’ll set an NBA regular-season record. The Spurs will play that game in San Antonio’s Alamodome, not their typical arena, and it’ll be set up to accommodate at least 65,000 fans.
The biggest crowd at an NBA regular-season game is 62,046, who gathered to watch Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls meet the Atlanta Hawks at the Georgia Dome on March 27, 1998.
The biggest crowd in league history was 108,713, that group gathering for the 2010 All-Star Game at the home of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys in North Texas.
The Alamodome record for an NBA game is 39,554 on June 18, 1999, when New York visited San Antonio for Game 2 of that year’s NBA Finals.
INTERNATIONAL REACH
The NBA has scheduled 45 games that will be shown live in prime time across Europe, the Middle East and Africa on Saturdays and Sundays.
Many of those games feature at least one prominent international player, including two-time reigning MVP Nikola Jokic of Denver, two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo of Milwaukee, reigning scoring champion Joel Embiid of Philadelphia and All-NBA first-teamer Luka Doncic of Dallas.
INTERNATIONAL GAMES
San Antonio has a “home” game against Miami in Mexico City on Dec. 17. Detroit has a “home” game with Chicago in Paris on Jan. 19.
WELCOME BACK
Some prominent NBA names missed the entirety of last season for a variety of reasons. Among those who were in that group and are expected back this year, assuming they’re ready to go when their teams play Game 1:
Kawhi Leonard and John Wall, now teammates with the Clippers, would open their season Oct. 20 — a “road” game against the Lakers.
Denver’s Jamal Murray would return Oct. 19 at Utah. Brooklyn’s Ben Simmons and New Orleans’ Zion Williamson also would be in line to come back Oct. 19 when the Nets host the Pelicans.
___
More AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/nba-schedule-has-less-miles-and-lebron-chasing-more-history/ | 2022-08-18T18:31:33Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/nba-schedule-has-less-miles-and-lebron-chasing-more-history/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Tiger Woods showed up for a private meeting of top PGA Tour players dressed in jeans and a long-sleeved plaid shirt. By the sound of his impact, he might as well have been wearing a Sunday red shirt.
“I think it’s pretty apparent that whenever we all get in the room, there’s an alpha in there,” Rory McIlroy said Wednesday. “And it’s not me.”
Exactly what came out of the Tuesday night meeting at Hotel Du Pont is more of a mystery, even down to the number of players in attendance. The purpose was to unify, not only against the threat of a rival league funded by Saudi money, but shoring up any weaknesses in the tour.
Chief among the topics was a future of bigger money and a formula that gets the best players on tour competing against each other more often.
Otherwise, details were scarce. They emerged from the players-only meeting with another form of unity: tight lips.
“I think I’d be pretty unhappy if I saw one of those guys from last night just blabbering to you guys what we talked about,” Xander Schauffele. “That would be really frowned upon, and you probably wouldn’t get invited back to the meeting. There’s a little bit of a code there, I’d say.”
The meeting was an extension of an impromptu gathering at the J.P. McManus Pro-Am at Adare Manor in Ireland the week of the Scottish Open, which featured a field of golf’s best, young and old, even those who already have signed with LIV Golf.
It was important enough for Woods, who has played only three times this year because of injuries to his leg from a February 2021 car crash, to fly up in his private jet and bring along Rickie Fowler, who did not qualify for the BMW Championship.
“I think it shows how much he cares about the tour. I think it shows how much he cares about the players that are coming through and are going to be the next generation,” McIlroy said.
“Like it or not, they can’t really sell Tiger Woods anymore. The Tour had an easy job for 20 years. They don’t have Tiger. Yes, they’ve got a bunch of us and we’re all great players, but we’re not Tiger Woods,” he said. “We’re moving into a different era, and we just have to think about things a little differently.”
The meeting came at a volatile time. Even the start of the lucrative FedEx Cup playoffs was interrupted by more LIV Golf developments — The Daily Telegraph reported British Open champion Cameron Smith will join the rebel series after the FedEx Cup, and a federal judge denied a request by three LIV Golf players who wanted to play in the tour’s postseason.
“One thing that came out of it, which I think was the purpose, is all the top players on this tour are in agreement and alignment of where we should go going forward, and that was awesome,” McIlroy said.
So where should it go?
“I don’t think that’s for a public forum right now,” McIlroy said. “I think that’s between the players and between the executives at the tour to sort of manage a way forward.”
Will Zalatoris was in the meeting, fresh off his first PGA Tour title last week that lifted him to the top spot in the FedEx Cup standings and No. 9 in the world. He just turned 26 and has been on tour for only two years, one of them as a full member.
To be in that room, Zalatoris said, was one of “coolest” experiences he could imagine.
“He is the most powerful voice in sports, obviously in golf, without question,” Zalatoris said of Woods. “Having everyone there and being that united in terms of how much we want — with everything going on in terms of landscape of golf — we want the best thing not only for now but going forward. It was exceptionally cool to see that many people together to try to do the right thing.”
PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan was not invited. He had a Player Advisory Council meeting earlier Tuesday, and he had an informal Q&A with players Wednesday morning, similar to what he did last week in Memphis, Tennessee.
Monahan already has announced an increase in prize money for next season, with eight tournaments offering $15 million or more in prize money, a planned series of even larger purses for three international events late in the year and a January-August schedule starting in 2024.
LIV Golf offers $25 million for each tournament — five more this year, 14 for 2023 — with $5 million of that for a team concept.
The players wouldn’t discuss specific areas the PGA Tour could do better or what else they felt was needed except for the top players competing together more often.
So guarded were they that at one point in response to a question about how to improve the tour, Justin Thomas said, “I know that doesn’t answer your question, but that’s what the answer is.”
“I’m not obviously going to talk about it very much. It was a productive meeting,” Thomas said. “I think it’s just one of those things where we all want what’s best for the players, and we’re working to do that.”
___
More AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/players-only-private-meeting-was-all-about-a-better-pga-tour/ | 2022-08-18T18:31:40Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/players-only-private-meeting-was-all-about-a-better-pga-tour/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LOS ANGELES (AP) — LeBron James has agreed to a two-year, $97.1 million contract extension through the 2024-25 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, his agent announced Wednesday.
Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul said the league-maximum deal makes James the highest-paid player in NBA history. His new deal includes a player option that would keep the second-leading scorer in NBA history with the Lakers past his 40th birthday in December 2024.
The 37-year-old James is headed into the final year of his most recent contract with the Lakers, who signed the four-time NBA Most Valuable Player and four-time league champion in July 2018. The new deal means the 18-time All-Star will make $46.7 million this season.
Barring injury, James is likely to surpass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA’s career scoring king this winter. James and the Lakers also still hope to be in contention for another title if James and Anthony Davis can return at full health after an injury-plagued 2021-22 ended without a playoff appearance.
James’ new deal syncs with Davis’ most recent contract extension with the Lakers, allowing both to leave the Lakers or to negotiate new deals in 2024. Both superstars are represented by Klutch.
James’ recommitment to the Lakers also silences persistent talk of his possible departure as a free agent or in a trade. James hasn’t appeared to be going anywhere on social media or in his public appearances, and he praised the hiring of new Lakers coach Darvin Ham.
James has missed significant portions of the season due to injury in three of his four years with the Lakers. He was largely healthy in the elongated 2019-20 season when the Lakers won the franchise’s 17th NBA title in the Florida bubble, and he has been every bit the dominant player of his prime when at full strength in the ensuing two years.
Although his contract status inspired plenty of offseason chatter, James seemed unlikely to relocate after spending the past four seasons of his 19-year career with the storied Lakers. His family is settled in Los Angeles, where his eldest son, Bronny, is a 17-year-old senior and college basketball prospect playing at Sierra Canyon High School in Chatsworth.
James has occasionally said he intends to play on the same team with Bronny when his son reaches the NBA. Although plenty of obstacles remain between the younger James and the NBA, he could be draft-eligible in the summer of 2024.
___
More AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/reports-lebron-james-agrees-to-2-year-extension-with-lakers/ | 2022-08-18T18:31:54Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/reports-lebron-james-agrees-to-2-year-extension-with-lakers/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
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