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BERLIN, Md. - Monday marked seven weeks since the hit and run accident that killed 14-year-old Gavin Knupp and Maryland State Police continue to investigate.
Knupp was was struck by a vehicle July 11th at Grays Corner Rd. near the Glenn Riddle Community. According to Police, Knupp was crossing the roadway to return to a passenger vehicle when he was hit. The driver left the scene.
Roughly one week later Police announced they had located the vehicle believed to have been involved in the accident. They later announced the suspected vehicle in in custody but no suspects have been named nor an arrest made.
On Tuesday, Maryland State Police, the mother and father of Gavin and the Knupp family attorney all issued separate statements.
Statement from Maryland State police:
"Crash team investigators continue to follow up on leads while talking to witnesses. This case is active and ongoing while police seek anyone with first hand knowledge of the incident or who may have witnessed the incident to contact police at 410-819-4721. Callers will remain confidential. Once the investigation is complete, it will be presented to the Worcester County State's Attorney's Office for review."
Statement from Tiffany & Ray Knupp:
“We continue to have full trust and confidence in law enforcement to complete their investigation and in the legal system to hold those responsible accountable for their crimes. We also implore anyone with information related to Gavin’s death to come forward and share that information with the police.
We also want to say, as parents, how proud we are of Summer who continues to be a shining light in our lives and the lives of everyone who knows her. Her strength and courage inspires us every day.”
Statement from Knupp family attorney Neil Dubovsky:
“While we patiently await the conclusion of the criminal investigation, the family has shown amazing restraint, resilience and strength and taken great comfort from the support of their community and friends.
Those who are responsible for Gavin’s death know who they are and we will not rest until they have all been held to account.” | https://www.wboc.com/news/suspected-vehicle-in-custody-still-no-arrest-seven-weeks-after-fatal-hit-run-near-berlin/article_e278c79c-28ab-11ed-b395-8f4265f0540d.html | 2022-08-30T22:56:24Z | wboc.com | control | https://www.wboc.com/news/suspected-vehicle-in-custody-still-no-arrest-seven-weeks-after-fatal-hit-run-near-berlin/article_e278c79c-28ab-11ed-b395-8f4265f0540d.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Editor’s Note: In the Wednesday, August 24, 2022 edition of The Outlook, an article under the title “Luxury home developer expands to Lake Martin” was published with incorrect information that insinuated that Russell Lands would be developing several neighborhoods on Lake Martin in a partnership with Centennial Homes. The facts are that Centennial Homes was announced as an approved builder of homes in neighborhoods developed on Lake Martin by Russell Lands. The original wording of the article incorrectly stated Centennial Homes would be a partner with Russell Lands, but they will be an independent contractor that homebuyers can use in Russell Lands developments. The Outlook regrets this error. Find below the corrected version of the article.
Russell Lands has approved another builder of homes for the Lake Martin area.
Two weeks ago, luxury home builder Centennial Homes announced they officially joined a list of approved builders for Russell Lands.
Russell Lands maintains a list of vetted, insured and quality-proven builders for homebuyers in their developments. They work to make sure builders on this list meet the high standards Russell Lands is known for.
To be approved, builders must apply, provide proof of licensure, references and insurance, as well as have a proven history of building high quality homes.
Since 2015, Centennial Homes has been building custom luxury homes in Alabama, in the Hoover and Smith Lake areas. Most of the company’s completed homes range between $1 million and $3 million.
Centennial Homes CEO Scott Underwood described the company’s expansion into Tallapoosa County and the Lake Martin area as a natural fit for the company. He also noted that the company found success in building homes at Smith Lake in recent years.
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“Lake buyers today are looking for not only a place to get away for the weekend but for homes that feel like a luxury resort — that is what we are building,” Underwood said.
Underwood went on to explain that their homes offer luxury features that many prospective buyers dream of.
“We have features like waterfalls, pools and spas, all the way down to whole-house-scenting technology,” Underwood said.
Alan Howard, co-owner of Centennial Homes, added that the company brings a unique design to each project.
“We have never built the same home twice; they are truly custom,” Howard said.
Steve Arnberg, vice president of real estate sales at Russell Lands, explained that Centennial Homes would be building some homes in The Ridge and The Willows developments, and that Centennial Homes is one of many approved independent contractors approved by Russell Lands.
“We’re very excited to be working with them,” Arnberg said. “They’ve just broken ground on their first projects.”
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A Lake Martin Community Hospital employee administers the Pfizer vaccine on her colleague in Dadeville late last year. Chief among the ENI's goals include helping communities recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
A new healthcare network will soon launch in Dadeville.
Next month, city leaders will set in motion the Equitable Neighborhoods Initiative (ENI), a partnership between the city and the University of Alabama designed to improve community health.
For the last two months, Dadeville Councilwoman Teneeshia Goodman-Johnson has served as a community liaison for the university, and has charted a local committee for the initiative. During a city council meeting last week, Goodman-Johnson updated city leaders regarding the project’s status.
“For the ENI kick-off, I would like to host it here [at city hall]. Some people from the University of Alabama will come and introduce it to the community and our partners, and I hope some of you can be there,”Goodman-Johnson said.
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Mayor Jimmy “Frank” Goodman along with other council members approved the use of city hall for the meeting after which Goodman-Johnson announced the initiative’s first official meeting for Wednesday, September 14.
Goodman-Johnson will organize the meeting in conjunction with university representatives who will outline the program’s services.
According to the university, chief among the project’s goals include helping residents overcome long-term COVID-19 health complications, as well as addressing major healthcare gaps within Alabama’s rural and diverse communities.
Goodman-Johnson said in July that the pandemic disproportionately impacted Dadeville and the Lake Martin area due to the region lacking a robust healthcare infrastructure. The ENI is anticipated to help build lasting infrastructure that promotes healthy living among communities in the project and connect local neighborhoods with healthcare resources.
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President Joe Biden declared last week that his administration would aid millions of Americans living with student loan debt.
In a White House press release, the administration outlined a three-part plan on Wednesday, August 24, that provides student debt relief for low-to middle-income borrowers. In the statement, the administration promised to cancel anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 of debt for eligible borrowers.
According to the statement, the Biden Administration hopes the policy will provide American families breathing room as they recover from the economic strains associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Biden Administration is coordinating with colleges and universities throughout the country, including in Alexander City, as the federal government rolls out the relief program.
The Office of Federal Student Aid contacted Central Alabama Community College (CACC) in the days following the announcement. The community college discussed the new federal policy in a letter addressed to students.
“At this time, for student loan forgiveness, there are more questions than answers for you and for the CACC Financial Aid Office,” the letter reads in part. “We do know what has been shared with us (referenced below) from the Office of Federal Student Aid”
The federal agency shared with the college several government websites, including Federal Student Aid, an office of the U.S. Department of Education, and a link to the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA).
According to the college statement, these sources work with Federal Student Aid programs on a daily basis and provide reliable information to students and financial aid staff.
CACC administrators advised in the letter that students remain patient as schools navigate the new policy.
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“There are many implementation and eligibility questions that are still unanswered. Remember that the CACC Financial Aid Office is here to help our students and that we are all in this together,” the letter said.
Despite lingering questions, the Biden Administration supports the new policy, arguing borrowing money for college has become a necessity transformed into a lifelong burden as tuition prices continually skyrocket.
The administration noted that the total cost of both four-year public and four-year private college has nearly tripled since 1980, even after accounting for inflation.
Tuition at many Alabama universities currently ranges into the thousands of dollars. At Auburn University, a four-year public college just 40 miles from Alexander City, tuition ranges based on an Alabama residency. According to the university's website, the 2022 fall semester costs $6,088 for an Alabama resident and $16,480 for non-residents.
The university’s website also notes tuition costs are the average price to attend a college or university for the fall and spring semesters of one academic year. It includes tuition, registration or student services fees and is based on an estimate of average costs for books and supplies, room and board, transportation and personal expenses.
Regionally, Tuskegee University's base tuition for the 2022 fall semester is charging nearly $10,000, according to the college’s website, and a full academic year at the University of Montevallo in 2022 will cost $12,000 based on statistics from the university’s admission website.
At Troy University, tuition rates have remained unchanged for the third consecutive year at the school, with both online and in-person undergraduate classes costing $388 per credit hour.
As the federal relief rollouts in the months ahead, CACC Recruiter and Coordinator of High School and Public Relations, said in Alexander City, the college will continue to update students regarding the program.
“There is still information coming down the line because it's in the initial stages. As we learn additional information, we will make it available,” he said. | https://www.alexcityoutlook.com/news/more-questions-than-answers-local-college-reacts-to-biden-s-student-loan-forgiveness-plan/article_6adbca88-2895-11ed-8244-9f69b381f95e.html | 2022-08-30T22:56:57Z | alexcityoutlook.com | control | https://www.alexcityoutlook.com/news/more-questions-than-answers-local-college-reacts-to-biden-s-student-loan-forgiveness-plan/article_6adbca88-2895-11ed-8244-9f69b381f95e.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
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People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe | https://www.alexcityoutlook.com/obituaries/darin-dewayne-baker/article_2d490384-289a-11ed-8c11-33054cba3369.html | 2022-08-30T22:57:03Z | alexcityoutlook.com | control | https://www.alexcityoutlook.com/obituaries/darin-dewayne-baker/article_2d490384-289a-11ed-8c11-33054cba3369.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Funeral Service for Mrs. Gladys Oliver Moncrief, 87, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Wednesday, August 31, 2022, at 12:00 pm at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Rev. Wayne Cowhick will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, August 31, 2022, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Radney Funeral Home.
Mrs. Moncrief passed away on Monday, August 29, 2022, at her residence. She was born on September 20, 1934, in Tallapoosa County, Alabama to A.C. Godfrey and Cleo Pritchard Godfrey. She attended West End Baptist Church. Gladys was a devout Christian lady, read her bible daily and would witness for God any chance she got. She was a hardworking woman who loved and cared for her family dearly, kept an immaculate home, and cooked wonderful meals. Gladys grew beautiful roses and had a green thumb for fruit trees. Her grace and beauty were timeless, especially on the occasions she dressed up in flowing gowns and jewelry for her ballroom dancing.
She is survived by her daughters, Rhonda Scott (Donnie), Shelia Peters (Tommy); grandchildren, JR Peters (Lynn Jones), Candy Ashworth (Chad), Brandi McKinnon (Mark), Adam Scott (Amanda), Matthew Scott (Audrey); great-grandchildren, Victoria Eagerton, Wyatt Ashworth, Brianna Peters, Katie Peters, Cooper Scott, Carson Scott, Michael McKinnon, Colton McKinnon, Jamar McKinnon, JD McKinnon, Hunter Ashworth; sister, Sherrel Wesson; brother,
She was preceded in death by her first husband, Kenneth Franklin Oliver; husband, William Roland Moncrief; parents; siblings, Irene Rhodes, WJ Godfrey, Louise Hand, Thelma Colvin, Sue Davis, Hoyt Godfrey; brother- in- law, Herman E. Wesson, and life-long friend Naomi Harrelson
To plant a tree in memory of Gladys Moncrief as a living tribute, please visit Tribute Store.
Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death. Submission deadlines: Wednesday Outlook - Tuesday 2pm, Saturday Outlook - Friday 2pm, Thursday Record - Tuesday 12pm.
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Please support our tireless efforts to gather and report your local news by subscribing or making a contribution. | https://www.alexcityoutlook.com/obituaries/gladys-moncrief/article_d3846d9c-289a-11ed-889b-0b5d00461faa.html | 2022-08-30T22:57:09Z | alexcityoutlook.com | control | https://www.alexcityoutlook.com/obituaries/gladys-moncrief/article_d3846d9c-289a-11ed-889b-0b5d00461faa.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Lucan Yates, 2020 graduate of Benjamin Russell, is off to the best start of his career through two games with the Truett McConnell University Bears soccer team.
Through two games this season, Yates has a goal and an assist as a starter.
Truett McConnell University is a private Baptist university in Cleveland, Ga., competing in the NAIA Appalachian league. So far, the Bears are 1-1, with Yates helping lead his team to a 12-1 opening victory over Toccoa Falls College.
In his team’s victory over Toccoa Falls, Yates was third on the team in shots with six and tied for second on the team for shots on goal with three.
In only 95 minutes of play, Yates has matched his career assist total and has reached the halfway mark in goals for the previous two seasons.
Yates has been a midfielder for Truett McConnell for the previous three seasons, appearing in 30 games and starting in 25. Yates has five career goals and two career assists, with a .513 shots on goal percentage.
Truett McConnell’s most recent scheduled game against Trinity Baptist College in Jacksonville, Fla. was canceled. Next up for the Bears is a match at SCAD-Savannah on Labor Day.
Henry Zimmer is sports editor for The Outlook and Dadeville Record. He may be contacted via email at henry.zimmer@alexcityoutlook.com.
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Please support our tireless efforts to gather and report your local news by subscribing or making a contribution. | https://www.alexcityoutlook.com/sports/former-benjamin-russell-soccer-player-off-to-hot-start-with-truett-mcconnell-university/article_4f60f820-288e-11ed-9ffa-070452fdad88.html | 2022-08-30T22:57:15Z | alexcityoutlook.com | control | https://www.alexcityoutlook.com/sports/former-benjamin-russell-soccer-player-off-to-hot-start-with-truett-mcconnell-university/article_4f60f820-288e-11ed-9ffa-070452fdad88.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Only two local teams played this week, Benjamin Russell and Central Coosa, due to poor conditions for Dadeville at Reeltown and a bye week by Horseshoe Bend. Both teams won, and produced big numbers along the way. Read below about three of the best athletic performances and visit www.alexcityoutlook.com/sports/ to vote for who you think is deserving of Player of the Week.
Benjamin Russell athlete Malcolm Simmons
It is hard to put Simmons in a box athletically. He plays both sides of the ball, and even punts, for Benjamin Russell. He is being recruited collegiately to play wide receiver, but plays mostly safety and running back for the Wildcats. Against Central High School of Clay County, Simmons shined from the backfield rushing for two scores. For the game, Simmons had 99 yards on 11 carries. He also added an interception for good measure. Simmons is second on the team in rushing yards per game, with 53.5 per contest.
Central Coosa quarterback Antoneo Grant
Central Coosa won its first game on Friday, with a 34-22 victory over Talladega County Central. Leading the charge for the Cougars was Grant, making plays with both his legs and his feet to get his team and his new head coach their first win of the year. Grant went 11-17 passing for 192 yards and threw for two scores. He also added nine rushes for 72 yards. Coosa only managed eight points in its opener, but with a game under his belt, Grant clearly found his stride.
Benjamin Russell running back Malik Maddox
The Benjamin Russell run game seemingly was an afterthought against Sylacauga, as the Wildcats employed the air raid against the Aggies. Central Clay saw that and did everything it could to prevent the pass. That only paved the way for Maddox. The senior running back scored his first touchdown of the year last Friday, also rushing for 53 yards on 13 carries. His 57.5 yards per game on the ground are a team best. Maddox’s ability to lower his shoulder and run through defenders gives Benjamin Russell much needed depth.
Who should be this week's Player of the Week?
Vote for your favorite student-athlete for The Outlook's Player of the Week for Week 2.
You voted:
Henry Zimmer is sports editor for The Outlook and Dadeville Record. He may be contacted via email at henry.zimmer@alexcityoutlook.com.
Now, more than ever, the world needs trustworthy reporting—but good journalism isn’t free.
Please support our tireless efforts to gather and report your local news by subscribing or making a contribution. | https://www.alexcityoutlook.com/sports/week-2-player-of-the-week-vote-for-your-player-of-the-week/article_1aea030a-27dc-11ed-a719-e3bed969dced.html | 2022-08-30T22:57:21Z | alexcityoutlook.com | control | https://www.alexcityoutlook.com/sports/week-2-player-of-the-week-vote-for-your-player-of-the-week/article_1aea030a-27dc-11ed-a719-e3bed969dced.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
GLOCESTER, R.I. (WPRI) — Three men are facing numerous drug charges following a months-long investigation into a large-scale marijuana grow in Glocester.
The investigation led detectives to a Blackinton Drive home, where the men were taken into custody Monday.
Detectives found 856 marijuana plants, 40 pounds of packaged marijuana and approximately $4,000 in cash inside the residence, according to police.
Police said a “domesticated animal” was removed from the home by Glocester Animal Control.
The suspects, identified as Yi Zhou, 32, of Quincy, Mass., Zhu Bin Bao, 31, of Brooklyn, New York, and Xiao Xing Dong, 32, of Bronx, New York, have been charged with possession with intent to deliver marijuana, possessing more than 5 kilograms of marijuana and conspiracy.
The three men were arraigned Tuesday, where a judge set their bail at $30,000 with surety and ordered them to surrender their passports. | https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/northwest/police-uncover-massive-marijuana-grow-in-glocester/ | 2022-08-30T22:58:58Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/northwest/police-uncover-massive-marijuana-grow-in-glocester/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The big boss of TSLA normally tweets on other matters. Crypto spruiking, how unfair Twitter is. That sort of thing.
This time he is tweeting on the firm he oversees. Probably a relief to shareholders.
Giga is the factory for his cars in Berlin.
The big boss of TSLA normally tweets on other matters. Crypto spruiking, how unfair Twitter is. That sort of thing.
This time he is tweeting on the firm he oversees. Probably a relief to shareholders.
Giga is the factory for his cars in Berlin.
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MOSCOW — Mikhail Gorbachev, who as the last leader of the Soviet Union waged a losing battle to salvage a crumbling empire but produced extraordinary reforms that led to the end of the Cold War, has died at 91, Russian media reported Thursday.
News organizations quoted a statement from the Central Clinical Hospital as saying he died after a long illness. No other details were given.
Though in power less than seven years, Gorbachev unleashed a breathtaking series of changes. But they quickly overtook him and resulted in the collapse of the authoritarian Soviet state, the freeing of Eastern European nations from Russian domination and the end of decades of East-West nuclear confrontation.
His decline was humiliating. His power hopelessly sapped by an attempted coup against him in August 1991, he spent his last months in office watching republic after republic declare independence until he resigned on Dec. 25, 1991. The Soviet Union wrote itself into oblivion a day later.
A quarter-century after the collapse, Gorbachev told The Associated Press that he had not considered using widespread force to try to keep the USSR together because he feared chaos in a nuclear country.
“The country was loaded to the brim with weapons. And it would have immediately pushed the country into a civil war,” he said.
Many of the changes, including the Soviet breakup, bore no resemblance to the transformation that Gorbachev had envisioned when he became the Soviet leader in March 1985.
By the end of his rule he was powerless to halt the whirlwind he had sown. Yet Gorbachev may have had a greater impact on the second half of the 20th century than any other political figure.
“I see myself as a man who started the reforms that were necessary for the country and for Europe and the world,” Gorbachev told The AP in a 1992 interview shortly after he left office.
“I am often asked, would I have started it all again if I had to repeat it? Yes, indeed. And with more persistence and determination,” he said.
Gorbachev won the 1990 Nobel Peace Prize for his role in ending the Cold War and spent his later years collecting accolades and awards from all corners of the world. Yet he was widely despised at home.
Russians blamed him for the 1991 implosion of the Soviet Union — a once-fearsome superpower whose territory fractured into 15 separate nations. His former allies deserted him and made him a scapegoat for the country’s troubles.
The official news agency Tass reported that Gorbachev will be buried at Moscow’s Novodevichy cemetery next to his wife.
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The 2020 helicopter crash in the hills of Calabasas that took the lives of NBA Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna; Sarah and Payton Chester; Keri, John and Alyssa Altobelli; Christina Mauser, and pilot Ara Zobayan sent shock waves across the world.
But the unimaginable pain and grief sustained by Bryant’s widow, Vanessa Bryant, was compounded when graphic photos from the crash scene were shared by Los Angeles County deputies and firefighters with each other, some of their spouses, and in one instance with a bartender at a bar where a deputy was drinking.
Though these photos never appeared publicly, a jury last week said the sharing among deputies and firefighters of grisly photos of the bodies of her husband and daughter invaded the privacy of Vanessa Bryant and caused her emotional distress, resulting in $15 million in damages awarded to the NBA star’s widow, part of a $30 million court settlement on Aug. 24.
Her co-plaintiff Chris Chester, whose wife and daughter Sarah and Payton, also killed in the crash, was also awarded $15 million.
On Tuesday, Aug. 30, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors passed a motion with a basic question: How can the county Sheriff’s Department and Fire Department prevent this kind of conduct from happening again?
The board motion asks the county attorneys to draw up new regulations, policies and additional training courses for first responders, specifically addressing the photographing of human remains while on duty. A report from the Office of the County Counsel was ordered by the board to be completed within the next 45 days.
This is in response to the jury’s verdict, which said neither the Los Angeles County Fire Department or the Sheriff’s Department “had adequate policies and/or training in place that would prevent such a violation from occurring,” according to the board motion.
The motion was put forth by Supervisor Janice Hahn. Hahn’s staff member Liz Odendahl responded to questions via email about the issue, saying, “The supervisor’s opinion is there is no reason for a first responder to be taking photos at a crash scene.”
When asked what specific changes in policies she recommends, the supervisor wrote in an email that any strengthening of policies and training will be included in the report that comes back to the board.
“In the aftermath of this public trial and massive verdict, it is important that the County strengthen Fire Department and Sheriff’s Department policies and training and take any steps necessary to prevent this type of conduct from ever occurring again,” said Hahn in a prepared statement.
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(CN) — With the war in Ukraine intensifying and the colder months approaching, European politicians are scrambling to deal with the shock of an energy crisis that threatens to only get worse and plunge Europe into an extremely harsh winter.
Across the European Union and United Kingdom, businesses, governments and households are struggling to pay soaring prices for power and natural gas. Energy has become extremely expensive since the EU and U.K. joined the United States and other allies in launching unprecedented sanctions on Russia.
In the EU, natural gas costs 10 times more than it does in the United States and it is 10 times pricier than the average cost over the last decade. Western sanctions and Russian counter-moves to cut off gas exports have driven up prices.
It's so bad officials across the 27-member EU bloc are warning that millions of households may not be able to pay for heating, schools face closing down and businesses are going broke. Britain, which is no longer part of the EU, is struggling with soaring prices too. Higher energy prices are turbocharging inflation and dragging economies down.
“A recession is drawing closer as businesses are becoming more pessimistic about economic activity at this point,” said Bert Colijn, a senior economist at the Dutch ING Bank, in a briefing note on Tuesday.
“Things are [at] a crisis point,” Alex Munton, an expert on global gas markets at Rapidan Energy Group, told Foreign Policy magazine. “There’s genuine uncertainty whether there will be sufficient gas to meet demand throughout the winter.”
As an immediate response to the energy crisis, EU policymakers are looking at decoupling the price of electricity from the price of natural gas and offering bailouts, tax credits and other forms of help such as price caps.
But government aid can only go so far as national treasuries buckle: Last Friday, Britain's energy regulator announced an 80% hike in the cap for household energy costs and Germans were told they will pay almost 500 euros (about $500) more a year on their gas bills as part of a measure to help German utilities move away from Russian gas supplies.
In July, the European Commission laid out a plan to force EU nations to reduce their gas consumption by 15% if necessary, a move that has raised fears of gas rationing and blackouts. The EU says gas stockpiles are nearly full, but still during the winter months Europe relies on imports and demand may exceed supply as stockpiles dwindle.
In the longer term, European politicians are examining other ways of both cutting off Russian energy supplies and meeting energy needs, for instance by building new nuclear power plants, natural gas ports and pipelines.
In Moscow, meanwhile, Europe's agony is being monitored very closely as Russia seeks retribution by squeezing off gas supplies to the EU. Before the war, the EU got about 40% of its gas from Russia. The Kremlin's strategy is to use the energy crisis to force the EU to rethink its support for Ukraine and cause divisions inside the bloc.
“Step by step, unfortunately, both Brussels and individual European countries are demonstrating their absolute lack of reason,” Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, told reporters on Tuesday.
Peskov said such “anti-Russian impulses” are hurting European households while boosting the profits of American energy companies. As an alternative to Russian gas, the EU aims to increase American liquefied natural gas shipments.
With the war in Ukraine raging on and energy prices on the rise globally, Europe's energy crisis is set to only worsen as autumn and winter approach. For now, though, the EU remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz declaring on Monday in a major speech that Germany will provide Kyiv with economic and military help “for as long as it takes.”
The fighting in Ukraine looks like it will continue for many more months, if not years.
On Monday, Ukraine began a long-awaited offensive to retake southern territories captured by Moscow since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched the invasion on Feb. 24.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has vowed that he will not sit down for negotiations until Russia is pushed out of all the lands it now occupies. At the start of the invasion, Russia and its Ukrainian allies controlled about 7% of Ukraine's territory, including Crimea, and now Moscow's forces are in possession of about 20%.
By Tuesday, fighting continued to rage on the front lines near the southern city of Kherson. It remained unclear how successful the counteroffensive was going, though Russia's defense ministry claimed more than 1,200 Ukrainian soldiers were killed. It appears that Ukrainian forces may be vulnerable as they try to cross extensive open fields in their attempts to launch attacks against Russian forces in the grain-growing southern region.
In Kherson, there were reports of gunfire on the streets Tuesday morning and explosions. Russian media outlets claimed a group of Ukrainian militants was linked to the fighting inside the city. The alleged the fighters were “neutralized,” according to RIA Novosti, a Russian state news agency.
Fighting and shelling continued in Donbas, the eastern region of Ukraine where combat has been fierce for months. The front line in this area has not changed much in recent weeks, though Russian forces continue to make small advances.
Courthouse News reporter Cain Burdeau is based in the European Union.
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MANHATTAN (CN) — Accusing the apartment-hunting app Roomster of pulling a bait-and-switch on its users, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and six states brought a federal complaint Tuesday that describes an inventory of fake listings and charges to access them.
Roomster claims to offer “authentic” and “verified” listings, but the FTC says it does not verify listings or ensure the rental listings are legitimate and authentic.
Indeed, the FTC investigated Roomster undercover with a fake listing for a nonexistent apartment at the same address as a U.S. Post Office commercial facility. Rather than verify anything, according to the complaint, Roomster instantly accepted and published the ad, complete with fictitious rental specifications that described an apartment at less than half the price and twice the square footage as those in the represented market.
“The Roomster Defendants post listings on their Roomster platform immediately upon request, as long as the street address associated with the listing is recognized by the platform,” the complaint states. “The Roomster Defendants do not determine whether their listings are authentic and, despite purporting to offer only residential listings, do not verify whether the listed address is residential or commercial.”
Unsurprisingly, consumers who paid for access to Roomster's listings only to find that the apartments were all fake wrote negative 1-star negative reviews. A few are quoted in the FTC's complaint: "Full of scammers," "Worst app ever waste of money" and "Every profile on here seems to be a fake profile.”
Roomster meanwhile sought to bury and dilute the impact of those negative reviews, according to the FTC, by buying thousands of fake positive reviews for its app in the Google and Apple app stores.
"The Roomster Defendants have taken in excess of $27 million from consumers, many of whom can least afford to lose money," the complaint argues, noting that those who need help securing affordable housing tend to be students and low-income renters.
To boost traffic on its platform, the complaint accuses Roomster of buying and uploading tens of thousands of fake positive reviews on app stores. It says Roomster also laid bait for fake listings by advertising on Craigslist, either directly or through their affiliates, to further induce consumers to pay for the company’s platform.
Representatives for Roomster did not immediately respond to requests for comment Tuesday afternoon.
The complaint includes emails between Roomster co-founder John Shriber and co-defendant Jonathan Martinez, owner of the review sales business AppWinn, showing Shriber asking for “lots of 5 star IOS app reviews” and stating that he “would like to be #1” in search results for people seeking roommates.
Martinez, who lives in California, is named as a co-defendant for his role in the fraud but he paid $100,000 to the FTC’s six state partners — New York, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois and Massachusetts — as part of a cooperation agreement and settlement.
The complaint says Martinez utilized more than 2,500 fake iTunes accounts, as well as fake Gmail accounts, to push out fake reviews on Roomster’s apps.
“Before Martinez became aware of this investigation, his website stated ‘Buy app reviews & boost your app ranking.’ By selling fake reviews to the Roomster Defendants, Defendant Martinez helped the Roomster Defendants distort the market and deceive potential users of the Roomster platform,” the complaint states.
The FTC is seeking a settlement stipulation with Martinez that would require him to stop selling reviews and to notify the Apple and Google app stores that Roomster paid him for posting reviews on each platform.
In New York, Assistant Attorney General Melvin Goldberg with the consumer frauds bureau is overseeing the case.
“There is a term for lying and deceiving your customers to grow your business: Fraud. Roomster used illegal and unacceptable practices to grow its business at the expense of low-income renters and students,” New York Attorney General Letitia James said on Tuesday. “Unlike Roomster’s unverified listings and fake reviews, their deceptive business practices will not go unchecked.”
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WASHINGTON (AP) — A long-awaited review of prescription opioid medications, including their risks and contribution to the U.S. overdose epidemic, is still underway at the Food and Drug Administration, the agency's commissioner said Tuesday.
Dr. Robert Califf wrote in a blog entry that the FDA is still studying “what revisions are needed to support appropriate use” of opioid painkillers like OxyContin and Vicodin. The update comes as part of a broader outline of the FDA's ideas and initiatives for combating drug misuse and addiction.
Califf told The Associated Press that the sheer scale of the epidemic makes potential remedies a challenge.
“Almost everything that we want to do involves some other entity or part of society that we need to work with to figure things out," Califf said in an interview Tuesday.
Califf promised to conduct a full review of the FDA’s approach to opioids, including their prescribing instructions, to clinch Senate confirmation early this year. He told the AP last month that the public would soon hear “a lot more about this."
Part of the delay in reassessing the drugs is that makers of long-acting opioids didn't originally study the medications' effectiveness for long-term pain, which carries risks of addiction and overdose. FDA-mandated studies to get at that question have dragged on for years.
“FDA does its best when it has high quality evidence, and we don’t have high quality evidence now,” Califf said, adding that it may ultimately take government-run studies to answer the question of long-term opioid safety and effectiveness.
Prosecution rests in R. Kelly Chicago federal trial
Tuesday's update is unlikely to appease Califf's critics, including five Senate Democrats who voted against his nomination, largely over concerns that the FDA hasn’t taken bolder action to reduce opioid prescribing and misuse.
It’s not the first attempt at a reset on opioids for the FDA — or even for Califf. During his brief stint as FDA commissioner at the end of the Obama administration, Califf had also vowed to conduct a “sweeping review” of opioids.
Last year, U.S. overdose deaths soared to a record of 107,000, driven overwhelmingly by fentanyl and other illegal opioids. Opioid prescriptions have fallen about 40% in the last decade but deaths tied to the medications remain at 13,000 to 14,000 per year.
Califf's post lays out a framework for combating drug addiction and overdoses overall, focusing on reducing inappropriate prescribing, developing new addiction and overdose therapies and shutting down suppliers of illicit drugs.
But many of the agency's specific ideas have failed to gain traction.
For example, a recent FDA proposal that would require pharmacies to dispense “mail-back” envelopes with every opioid prescription has faced resistance from pharmacists, drugmakers and other groups. Elsewhere the FDA has tried for nearly a decade to require doctors and other health professionals to undergo training in safe opioid prescribing. That effort has been stalled over questions of whether it requires action by Congress or other government agencies. Medical societies generally oppose any blanket requirement.
Califf said the FDA continues to work with other federal officials to find a way to implement broader training.
“I’m personally in favor of mandatory education," Califf said, but it must match "the needs of the clinicians, which I think is very hard to do.”
Califf said another priority will be encouraging the development of an over-the-counter version of naloxone, the medication that can reverse opioid overdose. Most states have passed measures allowing pharmacists to dispense the drug without a prescription, but an over-the-counter version would further expand access.
Even that proposal could have unintended consequences, if consumers are unable to afford naloxone that's no longer covered by insurance.
“We know that more naloxone is needed,” Califf said. “The question is how to do that.”
__
By MATTHEW PERRONE AP Health Writer
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
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WILKES BARRE, Pa. (CN) — President Joe Biden made a stop in election battleground country Tuesday to rally votes for the Democratic side of the ticket in the upcoming midterms, questioning the lack of bipartisan support for his crime-prevention plan.
“Every single Republican member of Congress — every single one in this state — voted against the support for law enforcement,” Biden said, referring to his Safer America Plan. "They talk about how much they love it [policing]. They voted against the funding.”
Speaking from Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, Biden pitched the plan as a way to invest in effective and accountable community policing that builds public trust and public safety by investing in mental health, social work and drug counseling services while also outlawing certain dangerous policing tactics — like chokeholds and no-knock warrants.
“When it comes to public safety, the answer is not to ‘defund the police,’ it's to fund the police,” Biden told the crowd of about 500 people on Tuesday.
For a total infusion of $37 billion, Biden's plan would allocate $15 billion for grants to programs that help prevent violent crime through public health; $13 billion for the hiring and training of 100,000 police officers in various communities over five years; $3 billion for clearing court backlogs and outstanding cases; and $5 billion toward preventative violence programs.
Pennsylvanians are slated to pick replacements for Governor Tom Wolf and U.S. Senator Pat Toomey in the November race, and the Democrat running for governor, state Attorney General Josh Shapiro, stood with Biden on Tuesday. Lieutenant Governor John Fetterman, the Democrat running against TV doctor Mehmet Oz for Senate, was not at the rally but is expected to march with Biden in Pittsburgh's Labor Day parade on Sept. 5.
Fetterman’s been off the campaign trail for months while recovering from a stroke, but in the polls the 6-foot-8-inch lieutenant governor known for dressing in shorts and sweatshirts continues to lead his cardiothoracic surgeon opponent by double digits.
Biden's choice to focus his speech on gun control was well timed following a Pew Research Center and Gallup survey that showed 53% of Americans favor stricter gun laws.
The president said his plan would mark the renewal of a ban on assault-style weapons, speaking of a short-lived law with similar focus that he had helped craft during his time as a U.S. senator in 1994.
“For 10 years mass shootings were down,” Biden recounted of the ban, “but in 2004, Republicans let the ban expire and mass shootings tripled.”
While campaign messaging from the Republican candidate for governor, Doug Mastriano, has attempted to link Pennsylvania’s rising homicide rate with Shapiro’s lack of action in office, state statistics show that the overall crime rate has dropped at the same time.
Shapiro has a record of cracking down on gun trafficking and ghost guns since he took office in 2017. Biden endorsed the candidate as “a champion for the rule of law” Tuesday, asking voters to elect him as well as Fetterman.
Biden also spoke Tuesday about last years U.S. Capitol riot, emphasizing that it was law enforcement officers who defended Congress members against a mob of people claiming against all evidence that the 2020 election was stolen from one-term President Donald Trump.
Both Mastriano and Oz are endorse by Trump, and Mastriano was actually in the crowd outside the U.S. Capitol when the insurrection occurred on Jan. 6, 2021.
“Don’t tell me you support law enforcement if you won’t condemn what happened on the 6th,” Biden said. “There’s no place in this country for endangering the lives of law enforcement.”
Biden said it is up to voters to hold every elected official’s feet to the fire and ask them if they are for banning assault weapons. “‘Yes or no?” Biden said. “If the answer's no, vote against them.”
Biden said it is up to voters to hold every elected official’s feet to the fire and ask them if they are for banning assault weapons. “Yes or no?” Biden said. “If the answer's no,’vote against them.”
Spurred by a mass shooting in a supermarket in Buffalo, New York, and a school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, a bipartisan group of legislators worked together to pass. While it expanded background checks for gun buyers under the age of 21 and close the so-called ‘boyfriend loophole,’ by including serious dating partners in a federal law that prevents people convicted of domestic abuse from buying guns, Biden has maintained that more action is needed.“We have to act so our kids can learn to read a school instead of learning to duck and cover,” Biden said Tuesday.
He argued that service members must receive significant training, extensive background checks, mental health assessments, and lessons on how to lock up and store their weapons responsibly when they are given firearms.
“Or they get kicked out,” Biden said. “But we let any stranger, any 18-year-old, walk in and buy an AR-15.”
The new gun safety legislation championed by a bipartisan members of Congress in June followed mass shootings at a supermarket in Buffalo, New York, and an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas. In addition to expanding background checks for gun buyers under the age of 21, the law closes the so-called boyfriend loophole by including serious dating partners in a federal law that prevents people convicted of domestic abuse from buying guns.
Biden has maintained, however, that more action is needed.
“We have to act so our kids can learn to read a school instead of learning to duck and cover,” Biden said Tuesday.
Before Labor Day, Biden will be back in Pennsylvania on Thursday for a prime-time speech that the White House said will address “the continued battle for the soul of the nation” and defending democracy.
Former President Donald Trump meanwhile is scheduled to host a rally in the state Saturday.
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WASHINGTON (CN) — Honeywell International doesn't have to pay $35 million in treble damages for supplying government contractors with defective materials used to make bulletproof vests, according to a Tuesday ruling from the D.C. Circuit.
The ruling implements the so-called pro tanto rule, a new federal common law rule under the False Claims Act that allows a party to offset its common damages in the amount of the government’s settlements from the other parties when joint "fraudsters" are involved.
"Without a uniform rule, the government would not have a secure baseline against which to negotiate settlements in cases involving multiple defendants and thorny choice-of-law questions. The future liability of settling parties and the government’s ultimate recovery would remain uncertain," wrote U.S. Circuit Judge Neomi Rao, a Donald Trump appointee.
Honeywell argued that it was entitled to this dollar-for-dollar offset because the $36 million the United States has already received through other False Claim Act settlements is greater than its trebled roughly $11.5 million in actual alleged damages, a total of about $35 million.
Under the district court's ruling that has now been reversed, the government could pursue additional statutory damages against Honeywell, bringing the potential total amount recovered to over $68 million, which is six times its alleged loss.
"We recognize that in cases such as this where the government has already recouped its full damages from settling parties, a non-settling party like Honeywell will escape paying damages under the pro tanto rule. Nevertheless, consistent with the FCA, the pro tanto rule leaves the government in the driver’s seat to pursue and punish false claims according to its priorities," Rao wrote for a unanimous three-judge panel.
She added, "The pro tanto rule comports with the FCA because it allows the federal government flexibility to pursue its enforcement priorities. Instead of relying on courts to adjudicate relative responsibility, the government can pursue settlement and/or seek damages against each violator in line with its assessment of relative fault."
According to the circuit judges, the district court's proposal to allocate the settlement offsets between the parties under the proportionate share rule would be "anomalous" for the False Claims Act, because courts would have to determine culpability and base damages on fault and the government could recover more than its total damages.
The ruling could consequently encourage large companies with more litigation resources to delay negotiating settlements in similar suits, in hopes that smaller companies involved will settle out first.
Senior U.S. Circuit Judge Douglas Ginsburg, a Ronald Reagan appointee, and U.S. Circuit Judge David Tatel, a Bill Clinton appointee, rounded out the appeals panel.
Despite its win Tuesday, the multinational conglomerate Honeywell still faces civil penalties from the government in the body armor case, which could exceed $500,000.
The government first sued Honeywell in 2008, accusing the corporation of participating in "a five-year fraudulent scheme against the United States and other participants in the body armor market."
Concealed testing data from Honeywell scientists showed that their anti-ballistic material known as “Z Shield” degraded in high heat and humidity and from exposure to moisture, causing it to lose its ballistic stopping power.
By bounding resin with Zylon fiber purchased from the Japansese textile company Toyobo, Honeywell produced sheets of the Z Shield material and sold them to Armor Holdings Inc., which used the product to create bulletproof vests for U.S. military and law enforcement agencies.
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CHICAGO (CN) — Federal prosecutors in Chicago rested their case against 55-year-old former R&B star R. Kelly on Tuesday, less than halfway through the trial's third week.
Kelly is already serving 30 years in federal prison for a 2021 sex trafficking conviction in Brooklyn, but the U.S. attorney's office has levied 13 more charges against him in Chicago. The counts range from dealing in child pornography to obstruction of justice to sexual coercion of minors.
To support this lengthy list of accusations, prosecutors called almost two dozen witnesses to the stand after delivering their opening statements on Aug. 17. Their star witnesses consisted of four women who say they were sexually abused by Kelly as minors in the late 1990s.
These women – referred to by the pseudonyms Jane, Tracy, Pauline and Nia to protect their identities – all said they had some form of sexual contact with Kelly prior to turning 17, the legal age of consent in Illinois. Jane and Pauline both said they participated in numerous threesomes and videotaped sex scenes with the singer between the ages of 14 and 16, while Kelly was in his early 30s.
Early in the trial, jurors were played snippets of one of these videotaped sex scenes allegedly featuring Kelly and Jane.
Nia, who testified Tuesday morning before the prosecution rested, said Kelly masturbated on her in a hotel room in Minneapolis when she was 15 in 1996.
Tracy, who testified on Monday, brought the most serious allegations. She claimed that Kelly raped her in a Chicago hotel room while she was 16 in 1999.
Noticeably absent from the list of alleged abuse victims who testified was a woman going by Brittany, whom both Jane and Pauline said participated in their threesomes with Kelly, and whom prosecutors said in their opening arguments would appear in court. She never did. The prosecution offered no explanation for her absence.
The given pseudonym for Pauline also changed over the course of their trial, as prosecutors initially said she would be called Pinky.
Besides the four alleged victims, the prosecution also called to the stand several individuals who were connected to the alleged sex tapes featuring Jane, which leaked publicly in 2001. Most prominent were a woman named Lisa Van Allen, who said she participated in videotaped threesomes with Kelly and Jane, and a man named Charles Freeman, who claimed to have helped recover the tapes after they leaked.
Unlike Jane, Van Allen said she was already a legal adult when the threesomes took place. She told the jury last Thursday that after learning Jane was 14 when the trio began having sex in 1998, not 16 as she believed, her attitude toward the arrangement changed.
"I was told that she was 16 two years prior to [2000]... I didn't want any more [sexual] encounters with Jane," after that, Van Allen said Thursday.
She told the jury that when she had a moment alone in Kelly's Chicago recording studio in 2001, she took a tape with several threesome scenes out of his personal duffel bag. She says she sent the tape to her friend Keith Murrell, a former artist in the music group Talent, in Kansas City.
"I didn't want him watching it," Van Allen said, adding. "I sent it to Keith in Kansas City... I wanted to get it out of my possession."
Van Allen's testimony intertwines with that of Freeman, an associate of Murrell also from Kansas City. Freeman said last Tuesday that he was hired in 2001 by Kelly's now-deceased private investigator Jack Palladino, as well Kelly's former manager and current co-defendant Derrel McDavid, to recover some tapes Kelly had lost. Freeman said he was familiar with Kelly after having worked in merchandising on several of the singer's music tours in the early-mid 90s, and that he agreed to help recover the tapes in exchange for $1 million.
"Derrel [McDavid] said it was a performance tape they really needed to recover," Freeman said. If he got it back, Freeman added, McDavid said they "would take care of me."
Besides making a copy of Murrell's alleged tape on his cellphone, Freeman also told the jury he had found another tape in a house in Atlanta. Freeman said this tape featured "Robert Kelly with a young lady, having sex, urinating on her and putting lotion on her face."
Van Allen, despite moving to Atlanta from Chicago after sending Murrell her own tape, denied ever leaking any sex scenes there. Further complicating matters, Jane testified on Aug. 18 that she believed it was her aunt Stephanie "Sparkle" Edwards who leaked one of her and Kelly's sex tapes to the public by providing it to former Chicago Sun-Times reporter Jim DeRogatis.
Kelly's own attorneys, as well as the attorneys for McDavid and third co-defendant Milton Brown, have thus far relied on the complexity of these varying accounts to build their clients' defense. Both McDavid and Brown, Kelly's former personal assistant, are accused of helping Kelly cover up the leak of his sex tapes in 2001. McDavid is also accused of helping to silence Kelly's accusers prior to his 2008 state trial in Cook County on 21 child porn counts.
Throughout the trial, Kelly's lead defense attorney Jennifer Bonjean has pointed numerous occasions where the four alleged victims' testimony - as well as that of Van Allen's - over the past few weeks has not matched up with information they provided to investigators on prior occasions.
Tracy, for example, testified Monday that Kelly raped her after she met him at a Black Women's Expo in Chicago in 1999, but affidavits attached to a civil lawsuit Tracy filed against Kelly in 2001 state that the Expo took place in 2000. Similarly, Jane and her father both denied to an Illinois grand jury that it was her in the alleged sex tape prior to Kelly's 2008 state trial.
Pauline also had no qualms telling Bonjean that she lied in prior testimony to state and federal investigators. She said Monday that she lied about the extent of her sexual involvement with Kelly to a 2002 Illinois grand jury in order to protect herself and her mother.
"I sure did [lie]... because I wasn't going to admit that in front of my mom, for anybody, period," Pauline said.
Highlighting these inconsistencies and occasional outright lies feeds into an argument Bonjean laid out in her opening statements on Aug. 17, in which she characterized Kelly's accusers as extortionists and clout-chasers hoping to materially benefit from a man already at his lowest point. She pointed out that many of the prosecution's witnesses had received immunity deals in exchange for their cooperation in this trial, and that some, like Freeman, claimed to have unapologetically traded in child porn in order to get $1 million out of Kelly.
"The government's case really does rely on the testimony of liars, extortionists... people who, if you believe the government's case, deal in sex trafficking," Bonjean said.
She and the rest of the defense team will begin fleshing out their own case starting Thursday, as Senior U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber, a Ronald Reagan appointee, decided to suspend court on Wednesday in order to let them prepare. Defense attorneys said Tuesday that they should be able rest their case by the middle of next week.
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NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) – The Northampton Mayor’s office said there are 12 retail dispensaries in Northampton and now some city councilors say it’s time to start the discussion about what a cap would entail.
The most recent proposal for a marijuana dispensary at the former Pizza Factory in Florence left some neighbors upset about the proposal.
22News spoke with Council Vice-President Karen Foster and Ward Two Councilor Stanley Moulton. Both said they’re interested in a discussion about a cap on marijuana dispensaries, however there are a lot of factors to consider.
“I don’t want to have this discussion targeted towards one particular license or one particular business but it also feels like in the community we’re reaching a tipping point. And so we need to examine all of the issues,” said Foster.
“There are number of people who are in recovery, who live or receive treatment in that area. I really want to make sure that they have a seat at the table,” said Moulton.
Councilor Moulton said the last time the city council considered a cap on the number of dispensaries was in 2018. The city’s adult marijuana excise tax revenue brought in more than a million dollars last fiscal year.
The next city council meeting is scheduled for this Thursday. | https://www.wwlp.com/news/local-news/hampshire-county/northampton-city-council-to-discuss-marijuana-dispensary-limit/ | 2022-08-30T23:09:47Z | wwlp.com | control | https://www.wwlp.com/news/local-news/hampshire-county/northampton-city-council-to-discuss-marijuana-dispensary-limit/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
National
As precedent on US territories draws criticism, feds want high court to stay hands off
In a move certain to rile progressives in the base, the Biden administration urged the Supreme Court this week to pass on the opportunity to overrule a series of early 20th century decisions widely denounced as racist.
‘Fund police’: Biden pushes plan to build public trust in officers
President Joe Biden made a stop in election battleground country Tuesday to rally votes for the Democratic side of the ticket in the upcoming midterms, questioning the lack of bipartisan support for his crime-prevention plan.
Fake reviews, scam listings put Roomster app under regulatory fire
Accusing the apartment-hunting app Roomster of pulling a bait-and-switch on its users, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and six states brought a federal complaint Tuesday that describes an inventory of fake listings and charges to access them.
Regional
Mississippi governor declares emergency as Jackson water system fails
An ongoing water crisis in Mississippi’s largest city escalated late Monday when Governor Tate Reeves announced that equipment failures and lack of staffing at a treatment plant have essentially rendered Jackson's water system inoperable.
Prosecution rests in R. Kelly Chicago federal trial
Federal prosecutors in Chicago rested their case against 55-year-old former R&B star R. Kelly on Tuesday, less than halfway through the trial's third week.
International
EU energy crisis intensifies with no end in sight for Ukraine war
With the war in Ukraine intensifying and the colder months approaching, European politicians are scrambling to deal with the shock of an energy crisis that threatens to only get worse and plunge Europe into an extremely harsh winter.
‘Until we find them’: Families of victims of enforced disappearance march in Mexico City
For families of people who have been forcibly disappeared in Mexico, the United Nations' commemoration of such victims was a painful day. But also one of hope, as they looked to each other to find the strength and support denied them by their government.
European rights court slams Russian protest rules
Europe’s top rights court on Tuesday sided with a woman who wore a knitted balaclava to a protest, calling Moscow’s enforcement of face covering rules part of a campaign to scare the opposition.
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Sign up for the Top 8, a roundup of the day's top stories delivered directly to your inbox Monday through Friday. | https://www.courthousenews.com/top-8-today-8-30-2022/ | 2022-08-30T23:09:51Z | courthousenews.com | control | https://www.courthousenews.com/top-8-today-8-30-2022/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
(CN) — A stymied project to string up a 145-mile electrical transmission line from Canada to Maine faces another shot after a narrow reversal Tuesday from the Maine Supreme Court.
Forces critical of the project had stopped it with a voter initiative that received 59% support in last year's election. The ballot question asked voters if they wanted to ban construction of such lines in the Upper Kennebec Region and require legislative approval for future projects.
The catch, which the state Supreme Court found unconstitutional Tuesday, is that the initiative purported to have retroactive effect, reaching back to 2020 for some projects and to 2014 for others if the project involved public land.
Groups pushing for the question’s passage say transmission line projects should be banned to preserve the Maine wilderness and the habitat it provides. No specific project appeared by name in the ballot question, but one was on the forefront of many voters' minds: the New England Clean Energy Connect, or NECEC, which had spent $450 million and cut 124 miles through field, forest and stream by the time passage of the ballot question required it to stop work on the transmission line.
Developers of the NECEC describe the effort to carry Canadian-generated hydropower to Maine as a major step in reducing the region’s reliance on fossil fuel. Indeed, oil or natural gas are responsible for heating the vast majority of New England homes in the winter. As of 2020, a mere 14% of the region heats with electricity.
In the lead-up to the 2021 election, proponents of the project spent millions in a failed effort to defeat the question. While the project still needed a couple of permits and approval from some municipalities, the Public Utilities Commission had issued a certificate of public convenience and necessity.
After a trial judge denied the NECEC’s request for a preliminary injunction to block the ballot initiative from going into effect retroactively, the developers sought relief from the Maine Supreme Court.
In Tuesday’s ruling, Chief Justice Valerie Stanfill wrote that the portion of the initiative saying it applied to projects retroactively “would infringe on NECEC’s constitutionally-protected vested rights if NECEC can demonstrate by a preponderance of the evidence that it engaged in substantial construction of the Project in good-faith reliance on the authority granted by the [certificate of public convenience and necessity] before Maine voters approved the initiated bill by public referendum.”
Stanfill noted that the ruling comes short of the NECEC's request to declare it had a right to finish the whole project. Taking a narrower position, she wrote the voter initiative "does nothing to affect the other permits or approvals that NECEC needs before it may complete the Project, many of which are still the subject of pending proceedings."
New England Clean Energy Connect did not respond to a request for comment. The Maine Office of Attorney General declined to speak about the decision.
The Natural Resources Council of Maine, which earlier described the project’s suit as an “effort to subvert the will of Maine voters,” said Tuesday it was unclear when and how long the courts would take to review the issues surrounding the transmission line.
Stanfill remanded the case to the Business and Consumer Docket, where the trial court will make factual findings, such as whether the project forged ahead in good faith or whether it quickly buzzed through Maine’s forests in order to convince the courts it had a vested right to proceed.
Like the comment she made before leaving the courtroom after the panel of five justices heard oral arguments in the case back in May, Stanfill ended her decision by saying the court only decided a limited question of law.
“We emphasize that our analysis and conclusions are not based on the wisdom of either the Project or the Initiative,” she wrote.
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Sign up for the Top 8, a roundup of the day's top stories delivered directly to your inbox Monday through Friday. | https://www.courthousenews.com/top-maine-court-strikes-down-portion-of-ballot-question-that-killed-power-line/ | 2022-08-30T23:09:57Z | courthousenews.com | control | https://www.courthousenews.com/top-maine-court-strikes-down-portion-of-ballot-question-that-killed-power-line/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
MEXICO CITY (CN) — Many had to force their chants through tears and voices that cracked with the pain of their loss, the toil of their struggle: “Because they took them alive, we want them back alive!”
Some, like Jorge Verástegui González, have been searching for over a decade. Others lost loved ones more recently. But no matter how much time has lapsed since a family member was disappeared without a trace, their absence is ever-present in the lives of those who continue to look for them.
Verástegui said his brother Antonio and nephew Antonio Jesús were disappeared by police in Parras, Coahuila, in January 2009.
“I’ve been looking for them ever since,” he said as others in the same situation gathered at the Roundabout of Women Who Fight, an anti-monument installed by feminist activists on Mexico City’s Paseo de la Reforma Avenue in September 2021.
Their march and other activities on Tuesday commemorated the United Nations’ International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances. The families chanted as they walked to the Roundabout of the Disappeared, an anti-monument a couple blocks down the avenue installed by families of disappeared people in May.
Mexico’s National Registry of Disappeared and Missing Persons topped 100,000 people that month. It is now over 105,000 names long.
As the extreme violence of Mexico’s drug war intensifies and rampant impunity allows state corruption to go on unchecked, more and more families are finding themselves in the powerless position of looking for help in a government that is unwilling to provide it.
“I have proof that my son was stopped by state and municipal police, but up to now, authorities have told me nothing,” said Flor de Lis Torres García, holding an enlarged picture of her son.
“Today is very painful for us,” said Torres. It is the second such commemorative day since her son José Eduardo went missing on July 22, 2021, in Comalcalco, Tabasco. He was 19 years old. “He turned 20 in January.”
She also had a photo of the patrol cars that she said stopped her son on the day he was forcibly disappeared.
In spite of the pain caused by Tuesday’s march, the day also brings Torres “hope that through one of these collectives we can find at least one person who can help us find out what happened to him, where they took him, where they have him or what they did to him.”
It’s a hope that more and more people in her situation have turned to in recent years. In the face of a government that flatly refuses to own up to its atrocities, families of the forcibly disappeared look to each other for support and to find strength in numbers.
“Families are sick of the government not looking for their loved ones, because the authorities don’t look for them,” said María Eugenia Arriaga Salomón, an activist with the Fray Juan de Larios Center for Human Rights in Saltillo, Coahuila. She came to the capital from that state that borders Texas to attend Tuesday’s march.
“They find strength in these collectives, because it’s the only way the authorities will pay any attention to them,” said Arriaga. “It’s company, it’s understanding. What you’re going through, I’m going through too.”
Enforced disappearances have spiked sharply during the term of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, which began in December 2018. And this organization among citizens could be one reason why, according to security analyst David Saucedo.
While organized criminal groups have both intensified the levels of violence they carry out and broadened their portfolios to include crimes such as human trafficking and widespread extortion, families of the victims of enforced disappearances also feel more comfortable reporting such crimes when they have each other’s support. | https://www.courthousenews.com/until-we-find-them-families-of-victims-of-enforced-disappearance-march-in-mexico-city/ | 2022-08-30T23:10:03Z | courthousenews.com | control | https://www.courthousenews.com/until-we-find-them-families-of-victims-of-enforced-disappearance-march-in-mexico-city/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
(NewsNation) — President Joe Biden traveled to Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania on Tuesday afternoon to deliver remarks on his Safer America Plan, specifically gun safety in America.
Biden’s plan moves to ban assault weapons, high-capacity magazines and ghost guns; require background checks for all gun sales with some exceptions; clear court backlogs and improve pretrial supervision of criminal cases; and invest in recruiting and training 100,000 additional police officers for community policing over the next five years.
The White House said Biden will use his Tuesday visit to call out Republicans for opposing his proposal to restore a ban on assault-style weapons. Both parties worked together in a rare effort to pass bipartisan gun safety legislation earlier this year after massacres in Buffalo, New York, and Uvalde, Texas, but Biden has repeatedly said more needs to be done.
The president is expected to deliver remarks at Wilkes University at 3:15 p.m. local time. NewsNation will live stream the article in the player above.
Biden’s visit to the university was rescheduled from his original visit date in July after he tested positive for COVID-19.
Following his remarks in Wilkes-Barre, Biden is slated to deliver a prime-time address Thursday in Philadelphia. The president will speak on “the continued battle for the soul of the nation” while outside Independence Hall.
“He will talk about the progress we have made as a nation to protect our democracy, but how our rights and freedoms are still under attack,” the White House told The Associated Press. “And he will make clear who is fighting for those rights, fighting for those freedoms and fighting for our democracy.”
Biden’s speech at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre comes as Democrats try to blunt Republican efforts to use concern about crime to their advantage in the midterms, which are two months away.
It’s a particularly fraught issue in Pennsylvania, a key swing state where a U.S. Senate seat and the governor’s office are up for grabs. | https://www.wwlp.com/news/political-news/biden-talks-crime-gun-control-in-pennsylvania/ | 2022-08-30T23:10:05Z | wwlp.com | control | https://www.wwlp.com/news/political-news/biden-talks-crime-gun-control-in-pennsylvania/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch just answered quarterback questions for roughly 23 minutes straight. Lynch started the conference call by saying, “yesterday was a really good day for our organization,” as the team retrained Jimmy Garoppolo. The 49ers brass floated the idea of bringing Jimmy back in the past month or so.
Lynch:
“With a player of his caliber, you don’t just allow him to walk... Obviously, there were going to be some deadlines, but Kyle and I started floating the idea about a month ago...It was important for Kyle to let Trey know.”
Keeping Garoppolo on the roster wasn’t going to happen until Jimmy’s camp exhausted every opportunity for something to develop elsewhere before coming to an agreement with San Francisco, per Lynch.
And while both sides discussed the possibility of a return, Shanahan said he felt the chances of Jimmy returning were “slim and none.” That explains why Garoppolo wasn’t practicing with the team during the past month. The deal came to fruition Monday morning and was done shortly after practice finished.
Shanahan isn’t worried about Jimmy being ready to play or not having a playbook since he knows the system. Kyle joked that he doesn’t have a playbook, either.
Trey Lance wasn’t left in the dark during this process. Shanahan said Lance didn’t have any problems and was great with the idea of Garoppolo returning:
“When I told Trey that Jimmy was gonna come back, he said, ‘awesome. That dude was awesome for me last year.’ When you have a QB room that likes each other, it makes it more enjoyable to come to work.”
In a mild surprise, Brock Purdy has made the roster. So, Garoppolo will be QB2 with Purdy as the QB3. Shanahan: “We were really happy with Nate, but Brock won that job.”
The 49ers will eat $2 million in dead money to release Nate Sudfeld. Purdy brought more to the table, has greater upside, and feels like a Shanahan type of backup.
Above all, and most importantly, Shanahan reiterated that this is Lance’s team when talking about the salary cap: “Not at all. That’s why Trey’s our starting QB. That’s why Jimmy wasn’t an option unless he was our backup QB.”
Repeatedly throughout the call, Shanahan said something along the lines of “we didn’t think it was going to end up this way,” suggesting he either expected another team to come calling for Garoppolo or that he wouldn’t be on the roster.
In the end, Garoppolo realized staying in the Bay Area was best for him and, in turn, the 49ers, per Kyle: “I’m glad that what (Garoppolo) thought was the best option for him was a great option for us.”
The roster will be finalized shortly. There will be three quarterbacks. Lance, Garoppolo, and Purdy. Just as we all predicted a month ago. | https://www.ninersnation.com/2022/8/30/23329331/49ers-qb-purdy-garoppolo | 2022-08-30T23:13:49Z | ninersnation.com | control | https://www.ninersnation.com/2022/8/30/23329331/49ers-qb-purdy-garoppolo | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Brian Mennes, deputy commanding general, XVIII Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, N.C., conducts a walk through at the Smoke Bomb Hill barracks, Aug. 29, 2022. Fort Bragg has started to move Soldiers to other barracks throughout the installation from the Smoke Bomb Hill barracks. (U.S. Army Video by Spc. Jacob Bradford) | https://www.dvidshub.net/video/855799/smoke-bomb-hill-barracks-move | 2022-08-30T23:13:52Z | dvidshub.net | control | https://www.dvidshub.net/video/855799/smoke-bomb-hill-barracks-move | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The 49ers’ final (for a day, probably) 53-man roster is here. We know the team will keep three quarterbacks. So here’s a look at the rest of the roster.
Per The Athletic’s Matt Barrows, DE Jordan Willis and TE Tyler Kroft have agreed to sign with the team later this week after Jimmie Ward and Curtis Robinson are placed on the injured reserve.
Quarterbacks (3): Trey Lance, Jimmy Garoppolo, Brock Purdy
As Kyle Shanahan said Tuesday afternoon, Jimmy’s presence doesn’t change anything about Lance. It’s his team. Kudos to Purdy for winning a spot on the roster during the preseason. He was entertaining to watch.
Once Week 1 comes, I imagine we’ll see Purdy on the practice squad while the team keeps two active quarterbacks. Expect Purdy to be protected. This could be a way for the 49ers to manipulate the roster and ensure no other team poaches Purdy.
Running backs (6) Elijah Mitchell, Jeff Wilson Jr., Trey Sermon, Ty Davis-Price, Jordan Mason, Kyle Juszczyk
This is a fascinating group as Mitchell starts as the RB1, but there might be a new leader weekly.
Mason averaged five yards a carry during the preseason, with 3.5 yards after contact, and had 31% of his runs go for first downs in the preseason. He’s viewed as a power back at 223 pounds, but he’s faster than most realize. Mason is legit, and the 49ers likely felt it was too risky to sneak him through waivers.
TDP and Sermon will have plenty of opportunities throughout the season. This could turn out to be a battle of attrition.
Wide receivers (5): Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel, Danny Gray, Jauan Jennings, Ray-Ray McCloud
It seemed as though the 49ers would keep Malik Turner after Shanahan spoke highly of him last week, but the argument I made a couple of weeks ago that you would use/need RB6 more than WR6 came true.
McCloud, Jennings, and probably even Gray, will have to chip in on special teams. Even though the team only kept five wideouts, this could be the best group under Shanahan.
Tight ends (3): George Kittle, Charlie Woerner, Ross Dwelley
Kittle and Woerner are the clear top two tight ends on the roster. Whoever was TE3 would have been a special teamer. Dwelley has been around the team for a few years now, and his familiarity likely kept him around over Tyler Kroft.
Offensive line (9): Trent Williams, Aaron Banks, Jake Brendel, Spencer Burford, Mike McGlinchey, Jaylon Moore, Colton McKivitz, Nick Zakelj, Daniel Brunskill
I wonder how much Zakelj being a draft pick, played into him earning a spot over Jason Poe. Zakelj has a bit more versatility, but he looks far away from being ready. Still, he’s locked in through 2025 at a team-friendly number. If you have two developmental projects, the one with longer control is always more favorable.
Don’t be surprised if Zakelj is the team’s center of the future, and this year is treated as a redshirt for him while he learns the position.
Honestly, everyone had issues during the preseason along the offensive line. Thankfully, Trent Williams and Mike McGlinchey — health permitting — will hide a lot of those issues.
Outside of the tackles and Brunskill, there’s youth/inexperience everywhere. That has to be nerve-wracking, knowing you’re an injury away from playing someone who is not ready.
Defensive line (9): Samson Ebukam, Javon Kinlaw, Arik Armstead, Nick Bosa, Drake Jackson, Kevin Givens, Hasaan Ridgeway, Kerry Hyder, Charles Omenihu
We’ve said it many times during the offseason, but this group will single-handedly win games for the Niners. Their second team could give some starters around the league a run for its money.
I think Omenihu is in for a big year. The depth allows Jackson to come along slowly and put him in situations where he can thrive.
If Jimmie Ward goes on the IR, expect Dontae Johnson, or Kemoko Turay back.
Linebacker (5): Fred Warner, Dre Greenlaw, Azeez Al-Shaair, Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles, Oren Burks
One of the most straightforward positions on the team. There are three clear-cut starters with two special-teamers.
Cornerbacks (5): Charvarius Ward, Emmanuel Moseley, Samuel Womack, Deommodore Lenoir, Ambry Thomas
Ward, Moseley, and Verrett (who does not count against the 53-man roster because he was placed on the PUP list during the summer) are easily the most talented trio of corners the Niners have had with Shanahan. Obviously, Verrett’s health is an ongoing question, but rookie Samuel Womack looks like an immediate difference-maker at nickel. Second-year players Deommodore Lenoir and Ambry Thomas round out their depth.
Safeties (4): Jimmie Ward, Talanoa Hufanga, George Odum, Tarvarius Moore
Jimmie Ward is headed to the injured reserve as soon as the roster finalizes, which will open up another spot on the roster. With Ward out for at least the first few games of the season, the pressure will be on Talanoa Hufanga to take a big jump in his sophomore season.
George Odum and Tarvarius Moore will both be tested early in the season, competing for reps while Ward is out. Moore still has all the physical skills to be a fantastic safety but has continued to struggle with fundamentals this preseason. Odum, on the other hand, is undersized but has performed well spelling other safeties in Indianapolis.
Veteran Tashaun Gipson and impressive undrafted free agent Qwuantrezz Knight both were unable to make the cut on the first draft of the 53-man roster, although they both are practice squad candidates with a shot to return once, Ward is IR’d. It’s also worth keeping in mind that former Niner's safeties Jaquiski Tartt and Tony Jefferson were both released. Either could make a return.
Specialists (3): Robbie Gould, Mitch Wishnowsky, Taybor Pepper
No surprises here. The 49ers stick with their incumbents at long snapper, kicker, and punter. | https://www.ninersnation.com/2022/8/30/23329448/49ers-news-official-53-roster-jordan-mason-brock-purdy-nick-zakelj | 2022-08-30T23:13:55Z | ninersnation.com | control | https://www.ninersnation.com/2022/8/30/23329448/49ers-news-official-53-roster-jordan-mason-brock-purdy-nick-zakelj | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
(NEXSTAR) – Chipotle is adding some spice to its menu in two markets as it tests out a “fiery” new menu item, the restaurant chain announced Tuesday.
Chicken al pastor will be available at 94 restaurants in Denver and Indianapolis for the trial period. While “al pastor” might make you think of the popular pork option at many taquerias, Chipotle says its chicken innovation adds “an exciting level of spice to guests’ go-to orders.”
The meat, which will be prepared in small batches throughout the day, starts in a marinade of Chipotle’s signature adobo, seared morita peppers, ground achiote with a splash of pineapple. The chicken is then chopped into bite sized pieces and finished with cilantro and lime. The “premium” option will cost 65 cents extra.
“We created Chicken Al Pastor to fuel our fans who have been craving spicy chicken from Chipotle,” Chris Brandt, the chain’s chief marketing officer, said in a statement. “The new menu item artfully pairs fire with flavor in a uniquely Chipotle way.”
Al pastor is the second test of a new chicken item in less than a year, following the launch of pollo asado in March. The first new chicken dish in nearly three decades, pollo asado was a wild success, CNBC reports.
Chipotle doesn’t release sales numbers for the tests, but the company said it was on par with smoked brisket, one of its bestselling new menu additions in recent history, according to trade publication Restaurant Business.
Chipotle is also offering $0 delivery on chicken al pastor orders made through the Chipotle app and on the restaurant’s website from Sept. 6 – 11.
Chipotle’s stock is down about 15% over the last year after rocketing to an all-time high in 2021 during the pandemic. | https://www.wwlp.com/news/national/chipotle-testing-new-fiery-chicken-item-at-nearly-100-locations/ | 2022-08-30T23:14:07Z | wwlp.com | control | https://www.wwlp.com/news/national/chipotle-testing-new-fiery-chicken-item-at-nearly-100-locations/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
President Biden Delivers Remarks on his Safer America Plan to Further Reduce Gun Crime & Save Lives
Wilkes-Barre, PA
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This work, President Biden Delivers Remarks on his Safer America Plan to Further Reduce Gun Crime & Save Lives, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright. | https://www.dvidshub.net/video/855819/president-biden-delivers-remarks-his-safer-america-plan-further-reduce-gun-crime-save-lives | 2022-08-30T23:14:10Z | dvidshub.net | control | https://www.dvidshub.net/video/855819/president-biden-delivers-remarks-his-safer-america-plan-further-reduce-gun-crime-save-lives | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Ground breaking at the site of the Panasonic plant in De Soto, Kansas, will begin in September, according to officials. The small city, with fewer than 6,500 people, was selected as the construction site of the $4 billion battery plant expected to employ 4,000 workers.
City officials say the plant is good for De Soto but there are challenges that come with it.
"You know, it's big, but you don't realize how big it is until you start having meetings with the consultants, with Panasonic, with all the other interested parties and realize just what a complicated task it is," said City Administrator Mike Brungardt.
Residents of De Soto are cautiously optimistic about the plant and keeping them informed is one of the biggest challenges, according to Mayor Rick Walker.
The city is working with partners throughout the Johnson County and the Kansas City region to improve the infrastructure and housing needs required to support the plant.
Jobs at the electric battery plant are expected to have a mid-range salary of $50,000 a year, attracting employees from across the Kansas City metro, Walker said.
"We'll maintain a small town feel and we'll do that by knowing our neighbors, taking care of our neighbors looking out for each other. And being involved in the community," he said.
- Rick Walker, mayor, De Soto, Kan.
- Mike Brungardt, city administrator, De Soto, Kan. | https://www.kcur.org/podcast/up-to-date/2022-08-30/de-soto-wont-lose-small-town-feel-with-construction-of-panasonic-battery-plant | 2022-08-30T23:14:13Z | kcur.org | control | https://www.kcur.org/podcast/up-to-date/2022-08-30/de-soto-wont-lose-small-town-feel-with-construction-of-panasonic-battery-plant | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Maintenance window scheduled to begin at February 14th 2200 est. until 0400 est. February 15th
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B-Roll Footage of the 1st Cavalry Division Band
B-Roll Footage of the 1st Cavalry Division Band playing a variety of songs on Aug 30, 2022, in Fort Hood, TX. (U.S. Army Video by Sgt. Froylan Grimaldo, 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs)
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Three injured after massive tomato spill on highway
Published: Aug. 30, 2022 at 5:43 PM EDT|Updated: 2 hours ago
VACAVILLE, Calif. (KOVR) – A big rig spill had a freeway in California covered in tomatoes.
Thousands of them were crushed when they spilled on I-80 and caused several collisions Monday.
Officials said a tractor-trailer lost its cargo after it lost control and hit another car. Then it slammed into the center median, spilling its load.
Tomatoes covered the roadway, causing a major road hazard.
One car got stuck in the spill, which led to a chain reaction of crashes involving four vehicles.
California Highway Patrol said one person suffered major injuries, while two others were treated for minor injuries.
Copyright 2022 KOVR via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wave3.com/2022/08/30/three-injured-after-massive-tomato-spill-highway/ | 2022-08-30T23:15:19Z | wave3.com | control | https://www.wave3.com/2022/08/30/three-injured-after-massive-tomato-spill-highway/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Tony Sigmon named Detroit Lions coach of the week
Whitehall head football coach Tony Sigmon has been named the Detroit Lions Coach of the Week for week one of the high school football season.
Sigmon led the Vikings to a 54-26 win over Unity Christian last Thursday night at Jenison High School.
Sigmon is in his tenth season as head coach at Whitehall compiling a 54-37 (.593) record which includes playoff berths in seven of nine seasons.
The Vikings have won two district championships (2014, 2020) and last season won the West Michigan Conference title.
For more scores, highlights, and the latest news on high school sports in West Michigan, go to the FOX 17 Blitz page. | https://www.fox17online.com/news/local-news/whitehalls-tony-sigmon-named-detroit-lions-coach-of-the-week | 2022-08-30T23:17:47Z | fox17online.com | control | https://www.fox17online.com/news/local-news/whitehalls-tony-sigmon-named-detroit-lions-coach-of-the-week | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
10 ways to work smarter, not harder
Everyone has 24 hours each day, but somehow, some people achieve more than others during this same period of time we all have each day. The reason for this is not luck or magic. It is because those who achieve more have mastered the art of working smart, not necessarily hard.
One of the easiest ways to improve your productivity and performance is through smart work, not hard work alone. With smart work, you can also save your energy, make yourself more valuable, increase your self-esteem and many more.
Working smart makes it possible for you to achieve more in the shortest time possible and out-perform those working harder than you.
In this article, we will discuss 10 ways you can be more productive by working smarter.
1. Shun perfectionism
Perfectionism slows down delivery and wastes your valuable time. If you wait until you get it all figured out before you start, then you may never get to do the work. Working smart requires you to make quick but calculated decisions. To work smart, you must always hit the ground running immediately when you are given a task.
2. Discover your productivity zone and time
The environment you are in will influence your productivity. This is why it is important to discover where you are most productive. For instance, some people find it easier to assimilate while reading in a noisy place, while others decode quickly when they read in a quiet and serene environment.
Also, are you a night person or a day person? You must discover this to know when best to perform your task.
3. Stop multitasking
As human beings, we always try to multitask and lay our hands on many things simultaneously, but the truth is that multitasking is a myth. It is difficult to keep the focus on multiple tasks that require brain power. Always try to focus your attention fully on one single task until you complete it, then you can quickly move to the next task.
4. Set your priorities
You must be able to always grade the importance of the activities in front of you every day, then prioritise the important ones and focus more of your energy on them. Avoid channeling much of your energy on the less important tasks at the expense of the important ones.
5. Learn to say no
Saying no may be difficult sometimes, but it is a habit you should learn if you care about working smart. You don’t need to say yes to everything that is brought to you. Try to learn how to respectfully decline irrelevant tasks that may drain your energy and brain power. Be sure not to overschedule yourself and be realistic about what you can achieve in a day.
6. Plan ahead of time and stick to it
Be it a daily, weekly or monthly plan, it is a known fact that planning makes your work easier and smarter. Planning gives you a clear idea of what you need to do next. It saves you from an unnecessary waste of time trying to think about the next line of action. Having a clear plan gives you direction, helps you focus and increases your confidence.
7. Maximise your work time; take a break when necessary
As the saying goes, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” To work smart, you don’t need to work 24 hours a day. You just need to maximise your working time. Without a proper break, your brain will easily get tired and lose concentration. Take time out to relax and cool your brain.
8. Surround yourself with like-minded people
Apart from serving as motivation for you to get your job done, surrounding yourself with like-minded people will also make your work easier and smarter. Getting relevant and useful information will be easier if you are with people who share the same commitment as you.
9. Avoid distraction
You can’t work smartly if you are distracted. To be more productive, you need to do away with any form of distraction or interruption. To concentrate fully on the task in front of you, there is a need to turn off anything that can divert your attention.
10. Take care of yourself
Working smart requires you to prioritize taking good care of yourself. You should get enough sleep, eat healthy food, and exercise your body. Feeling well rested will boost your productivity.
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Burkina Faso is a landlocked French-speaking West Africa country with its capital in Ouagadougou. Burkina Faso is bordered by Mali to the northwest, Niger to the northeast, Benin to the southeast, Togo and Ghana to the south, and the Ivory Coast to the southwest. The country covers an area of 274,200 km2 (105,900 sq mi).
The country gained independence from France on the 5th of August, 1960 and was formerly known as the Republic of Upper Volta from 1958- 1984 until it was renamed Burkina Faso during the tenure of President Thomas Sankara.
The climate in Burkina Faso is largely tropical, with two clearly defined seasons. The country experiences between 600 and 900 mm (23.6 and 35.4 in) of rainfall during the rainy season, while the harmattan, a scorching, dry wind from the Sahara, blows during the dry season. The country’s rainy season lasts around four months, from May/June to September, however, it is shorter in the north.
According to worldometers.info, the current population of the country is pegged at 22,132,201 as of Friday, August 26, 2022, based on Worldometer elaboration of the latest United Nations data, with a forecast population of 43,432,184 by 2050.
Burkina Faso is blessed with natural resources such as gold, limestone, manganese, marble, phosphates, pumice, and salt.
The most populous ethnic group in Burkina Faso is Mossi, other being Fula, Gurma, Bobo, Gurunsi, Senofo, Lobi, Tuareg, Dyula among others.
Apart from French which is the official language of the country, other languages spoken in Burkina Faso include Moore, Mandinka, Bambara, Fula, Gourmantche, Bwamu, Dagara, and San, among others.
Islam is the most common religion practised in Burkina Faso, the other being Christianity, an indigenous belief with a very tiny of irreligious peoples.
As of 2018, Burkina Faso’s adult literacy rate is 41.22%, according to UNESCO. While the literacy rate for men is 50.07%, it is just 32.69% for women, demonstrating a significant discrepancy between the sexes.
The literacy rate in Burkina Faso is quite low when compared to other nations.
Almost all of West Africa’s other regions have similar cuisines to that of Burkina Faso. Most of their dishes mostly consist of rice, sorghum, peanuts, maize, beans, okra, potatoes, yams, millet, and fonio. Some of the most popular food in the country includes, To (aka Saghbo), Babenda, Poulet Bicyclette, Ragout D’igname, Rizgras, Sauce Gombo, Brochettes, Fufu, Poulet Braise and French Green Beans.
According to Visaindex.com, the Burkina Faso visa is currently ranked at 86 with 59visa-freee destinations with the passport.
According to the Burkina Faso visa policy, Nigeria is one of the 18 countries that can enter Burkina Faso without the need for a visa, other being Benin, Cape Verde, Central Africa Republic, Ivory Coast, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Togo, and the United Arab Emirates. It should be noted that the length of staying in the countries differs from 30 to 90 days.
Additionally, citizens of Brazil, China, Congo, Cuba, Russia, Taiwan, and Turkey who hold diplomatic or service-class passports are exempt from needing a visa to enter Burkina Faso. Additionally, Chinese nationals with passports stamped “for public affairs” are exempt from visa requirements for stays up to 90 days.
Apart from the 18visa-free countries, Burkina Faso also offers visas on arrival to citizens of 52 countries. This means, as a citizen of any of these countries, you can arrive at any point of entry in Burkina Faso and have a visa on the spot.
As a citizen, whose country falls into any of these 52 countries, all you need to do is to ensure you have a passport that is valid for at least 3 months and show it to the immigration officer upon your arrival in Burkina Faso for verification and validity. You must equally need to have a health declaration to declare your health condition.
You also need to decide if you will be opting for a single entry visa with a 3 months validity or multiple entries with a validity of 3 months. It should be noted that the fee attracts by both options varies.
The 52visa-on-arrival countries for Burkina Faso are All European Union countries (except Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and Romania), Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chad, Colombia, Comoros, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Hong Kong, Iceland, Kenya, Libya, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Sao Tome and Principe, Somalia, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tunisia, United Kingdom, United States and Venezuela.
If your country is not among the visa-free or visa-on-arrival countries, then you will need to apply for Visa in advance. This mean, you have to gather all the required documentation and head to a Burkina Faso embassy or consulate for a formal procedure. Based on the motive for your trip, you can either apply for a tourist or business visa.
Requirements for a tourist visa
- Valid passport with at least six months validity
- Two visa application forms.
- Two passport photos that should measure 2×2 on a white background. The photo must be recent, and you shouldn’t be wearing glasses.
- Yellow fever certificate
- Return tickets and confirmed itinerary
- Health declaration
Requirements for Business visa
- Valid passport with at least six months validity
- Two visa application forms
- Two passport photos that should measure 2×2 cm.
- A business letter from your company stating the purpose of your visa
- A letter of invitation from the company in Burkina Faso inviting you to the country.
- Yellow fever certificate
- Round trip tickets and hotel reservations
- Health declaration
The fee for a Burkina for short-stay visa varies depending on the country of submission. On average, Short-stay (max 3 months, single entry) cost 40-105 USD
Short-stay (max 3 months, multiple entries) cost 50-135 USD
Extending Your Stay In Burkina Faso
Regardless of whether or not your country is exempted from visa requirements, if you plan to stay longer in Burkina Faso then, you will have to apply for a long-stay visa from your home country.
Requirements for long-stay visa
- Two application forms
- Two passport photos
- Passport and copy of the main page
- Copy of ID Card
- Residence permit/visa copy
- Proof of accommodation
- Vaccination certificate
According to pickvisa.com, the fee for Burkina Faso long-stay visas are
- Long-stay (max 6 months, single entry) – 55-145 USD
- Long stay (max 6 months, multiple entries) – 145-175 USD
- Long-stay (max 1 year, single entry) – 155-190 USD
- Long-stay (max 1 year, multiple entries) – 180-220 USD
- Long-stay (more than 1 year, single entry) – 215 USD
- Long-stay (more than 1 year, multiple entries) – 240 USD
It should be noted that the fee may vary depending on your nationality and country of submission.
1. Top Attraction Centre
Burkina Faso is a country blessed with many fascinating attraction centres. Let’s take a look at some of them according to a list by crazy tourists.
1. The Ruins of Loropeni
These ancient ruins, which are estimated to be at least 1000 years old, serve as a potent reminder of how significant and extensive the trans-Saharan gold traffic once was. The location was the first in the nation to be honoured with the Unesco World Heritage designation. The nearby stone remains are a fascinating day excursion, and they are now still being investigated, with many more mysteries anticipated to be revealed throughout time. Gaoua, a neighbouring town, is not worth visiting and has a poor reputation throughout the nation. If you do decide to go to the town, keep an eye out for the museum and the hallowed grove of trees.
2. W National park
This National Park is shared with both Benin and Niger. Huge flocks of migratory birds are among the species that live in this area, which is characterised by a transitional topography between savannah and woodland. The park is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Burkina Faso. The park has impressively revealed proof of early neolithic settlers. More evidence of the ecosystem’s enormous diversity in this area. Access to the park must be paid for at all times, and there are also 4×4 or hiking tours available
3. Arli National park
This national park, situated in southeast Burkina Faso, is one of four in Burkina Faso and is home to a large number of wildlife. Lions, antelopes, monkeys, and hippos are among the species that call the park home. It has an area of about 700 square kilometres. The African wild dog once called the park home, but the species may have been eradicated there due to the area’s growing human population and other circumstances. One of the best places in the park to see animals is the drinking hole in Tounga, which attracts a variety of wildlife all year long. There are numerous guided tours that may be taken, and they are typically reasonably priced.
4. Tiebele
A small community called Tiebele is situated directly adjacent to the Ghana-Burkina Faso border. The Kassena people of Africa, one of the country’s oldest ethnic groups, are from this village, thus there are a lot of traditional mud huts and other structures, all of which are exquisitely adorned. Due to the area’s extreme poverty, all of the houses are constructed of straw and mud, but they are decorated with character and pride, making them a wonderful place to visit.
5. Ouagadougou
The administrative and financial hubs of Burkina Faso are located in Ouagadougou, more frequently referred to as Ouaga. The city is a veritable swarm of inspiration for performing arts, even though the architecture is seldom stunning and the sights will leave you unimpressed (apart from the magnificent Roman Catholic cathedral). A vacation to Ouaga is worthwhile because of the dance, live music, amazing festivals, and craft fairs.
6. Bangr Weogo park
This wonderful animal park is located right in the centre of Ouagadougou. It has to be one of the most incredible urban parks in the entire world, and it is home to an astounding variety of animals and plants. Along with fantastic eateries, recreational sports fields, and play spaces, the park also features a fantastic museum that explores the natural history of the region.
7. Nazinga Reserve
The Nazinga Game Reserve, which is close to the shared border with Ghana, spans an area of about 97,000 hectares. This reserve is a must-see if you are travelling to the nation to see the animals. Although the birds and crocodiles are also well-liked in this area, the elephants steal the show. The months of December through April are the greatest for viewing the elephants in the reserve. The reserve offers a variety of lodging alternatives, including the spectacular Nazinga Ranch, which is located in a fantastic location by the most popular drinking spot in the reserve.
8. Ziniare
Blaise Compare, the former president of Burkina Faso, was born in Ziniare, which is a city in the Oubritenga Province. The Ziniare Wildlife Park and a remarkable granite sculpture created by a collaboration of 18 artists from 13 different countries are among the local attractions for tourists. Hyenas, lions, tigers, elephants, and one giraffe are among the creatures that may be found at the Ziniare Wildlife Park. The park could use a makeover to attract more tourists as it appears to have been rather neglected recently.
9. Sindou peaks
The bustling town of Sindou, which is part of Burkina Faso’s Loraba Province, is well-known for the neighbouring rocky peaks that rise abruptly from the surrounding vegetation. The best part about Sindou is that despite the town’s legitimate tourist appeal from the Sindou Peaks, it nevertheless retains its charm and personality and doesn’t feel at all like a destination for tourists. There are many affordable and accessible guides in the neighbourhood. For memorable photos, make sure to visit the peaks just before sunset.
10. Ouahigouya
Since it was established in 1757, Ouahigouya has served as the hub of Mossi culture. It is the fourth-largest city in the nation and draws a sizable number of tourists from all over the world. The market, street food sellers serving different kinds of delicious rice, and the Yatenga Chef, who is the leader of his church and offers information on Mossi culture on a “pay what you wish” basis, are the main draws in this area.
2. COST OF LIVING
According to livingcost.org, the cost of living in Burkina Faso is $677, which is 1.38 times less expensive than the world average. Burkina Faso ranked 124th out of 197 countries in the cost of living and the 181st best country to live in.
The average salary after taxes in Burkina Faso is $178, which is enough to cover living expenses for 0.3 months.
3. ACCOMMODATION
In Burkina Faso, there are many different accommodation alternatives. These could be lodgings like hotels, apartments, studios, or flats. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in Burkina Faso’s city centre costs XOF 156 666.67, whereas a similar apartment outside of the city centre costs XOF 62 500.
4. MINIMUM WAGE
According to wageindicator.org, the national minimum wage of workers in Burkina Faso is CFA34,664. The Burkina Faso minimum wage applies to the formal sector; the minimum wage does not apply to subsistence agriculture or other informal occupations.
5. WORKING HOURS
Generally, the standard workweek is 40 hours. If an employee works beyond their weekly fixed hours, it’s considered overtime and should attract an increase in wages.
6. JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR FOREIGNER
Working knowledge of local languages like Moore, Bambara, and Mandinka, as well as fluency in French, would be quite helpful in your job search.
If you’re searching for expat employment, check out the openings at foreign aid organisations; they’re always in need of qualified personnel and volunteers to assist with various city-wide projects. Alternately, inquire about expat among the community to see if there are any openings or opportunities.
7. WORK PERMIT
Expatriates moving to Burkina Faso for work will need a work permit. This will be obtained through a sponsoring employer. The Burkina Faso work permit is also known as a Worker Card.
8. TRANSPORTATION
Burkina Faso has a variety of transportation alternatives for moving about the country.
1. Taxis
In Burkina Faso, taxis are the best mode of transportation. There are taxis everywhere, and most of them are shared taxis. Prices are generally low but rise at night. If they have a lot of luggage, foreign nationals might be charged more. Cabs can be recognised by their white or green exterior. White cabs are privately owned and slightly more expensive; green cabs are public and less expensive.
2. Buses
In Burkina Faso, this is the least expensive mode of transportation. The majority of significant cities, including Banfora, Bobo, Ouagadougou, and Gaoua, are served by buses.
3. Rental cars
In Burkina Faso, renting cars typically cost $88 per day and $2638 per month. Burkina Faso offers a wide range of cars rental companies, including SIXT, Tenga Tours Voyages, Locaufaso, Budget, Avis, and Europcar, to mention a few.
4. Train
In Burkina Faso, trains are an option, but they are typically slower. It is better to look for other options if you are in a hurry.
9. Crime and Security
According to the 2021 statistics on the organized crime rate in Africa by statista.com, the Republic of Burkina Faso is placed at number 21th out of 54 countries with a 5.56 crime index out of 10 while the Democratic Republic of the Congo had the highest organized crime index on the list, scoring 7.7 points.
Armed groups could stop automobiles (including public buses) on important roads and rob them, especially at night.
Street crime poses high risks for visitors. The majority of occurrences involve opportunistic thefts of handbags, wallets, jewellery, and other valuables. Crowds are a prime environment for thieves. The majority of street crime occurs in and around Ouagadougou’s UN Circle and the former Central Market.
10. How to Ensure Safety
If you are a foreigner visiting Burkina Faso, try to engage the service of a local guide who is familiar with the country’s ins and outs to take you around. You should equally avoid night walking as it increases your chances of being attacked.
Because your guides are well acquainted with the safe and risky areas of the country, you will reduce your chances of becoming a victim of any sort of attack.
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Alleged cocaine deal: Court denies DCP Abba Kyari bail again
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has again refused to grant bail to the suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Abba Kyari, to bail.
The embattled former Head of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the Police is being prosecuted by the Federal Government on allegations bordering on drug trafficking.
Following the refusal of the bail request, Kyari is to remain at the Kuje prison pending his trial on the charges brought against him.
The trial Judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, while ruling on Kyari’s bail application said, the reasons adduced for the bail request had been addressed in the earlier application, which was denied.
The judge then fixed October 19, 20, and 21 for resumption of the trial.
….Details later.
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Few months after politicians were accused of stockpiling US dollars ahead of Nigeria’s primary elections and causing naira’s depreciation, fresh facts have emerged that commercial banks are wooing high net-worth individuals and fund managers with juicy interest rates in order to attract their naira deposits.
This, according to experts, is boosting activities within the Money Market funds space and has opened another window of opportunity for investors to invest in the funds which today can offer yields of 10.0percent per annum, or more, net of fees.
These yields according to experts are the best offered by Money Market funds in almost three years and are far higher than T-bill yields.
Over the past four months, the policy rate of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has risen from 11.5percent to 14.0percent.
In their combined e-mailed comments, analysts from Coronation Research said that Money Market funds can invest in bank deposits and these are attractive at the moment because commercial banks are offering rates in the region of 13.0percent to 15.0percent per annum for 90-day deposits.
“This probably comes as news to the majority of individual deposit account holders, whose personal accounts may yield much less than this: but these high rates are usually only available to large deposits of N1.0billion (those who have US$2.3m) and upwards.
“It makes sense, therefore, for individual savers to pool their money in Money Market funds to take advantage of this,” the Analysts advised.
The interest rate on 90-day Treasury Bills has only risen from 2.81percent to 3.93percent, well short of the CBN’s policy rate.
Offering further explanation, the analysts observed that most Money Market funds cannot just invest in bank deposits, but are obliged to invest at least 25.0 percent of their holdings in government securities such as treasury bills or securities issued by the CBN.
So, a Money Market fund today might invest in some juicy bank deposits (supposing it has N1.0billion or more of cash) but might have to dilute that yield by investing in relatively low-yield T-bills as well.
“This is where it gets interesting because Money Market funds may instead invest in the Special Bills of the CBN. The yields of Special Bills have climbed recently and last week reached 12.3percent pa. So, a Mutual Fund can combine bank deposit rates with Special Bills, along with other instruments, to achieve much higher yields than before. “Today, a typical Money Market fund yield may be as high as 10.0percent pa, net of fees, or slightly more,” according to Coronation Research analysis.
The firm explained that the banks are offering high rates for term deposits, as an indirect consequence of the cash reserve requirement (CRR).
The CRR is the percentage of customer deposits that banks are required to lodge with the CBN.
This percentage is officially 27.5percent but is generally acknowledged to be, in practice, 50.0percent or more.
A low CRR has little influence on deposit rates because people, for the most part, tend not to draw on all their deposits.
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“So banks are not affected by keeping a proportion of deposits with the central bank: but at a certain level of CRR, the demand for deposits affects liquidity, and banks have to offer high rates to keep their deposit levels high,” the firm noted further.
A message from one of the wealth managers to clients and seen by Nigerian Tribune read in part: ” The AXA Mansard Money Market Fund is a large pool of funds from different similar minded investors like you that is invested on your behalf in different securities which include treasury bills, fixed deposits and commercial papers.
“To enjoy these benefits, all you need to do is buy units of the Fund, create a profile and watch your investment grow. Using your very own customer dashboard, you can always buy more units of the Fund, make a withdrawal and generally monitor your investment.”
However, money market conditions are transitory, and constantly changing. Therefore, banks may offer high deposit rates for large term deposits today, and Special Bills may enjoy high yields today, but nothing stays the same for long.
It is just that Money Market fund yields look better now than they have for almost three years, the analysts insist.
Money market funds have very low risk given that they invest in cash and securities guaranteed by the government, such as Treasury bills, Treasury notes and repurchase agreements and Commercial papers.
Commercial papers are money-market securities issued by large corporations to obtain funds to meet short-term debt obligations like payroll and are backed only by an issuing bank or company’s promise to pay the face amount on the maturity date, which is usually in 270 days or less. | https://tribuneonlineng.com/commercial-banks-woo-moneybags-with-high-deposit-rates/ | 2022-08-30T23:23:57Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/commercial-banks-woo-moneybags-with-high-deposit-rates/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Wife of the governor of Ondo State, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has advised Nigerian medical students to borrow a leaf from their American counterparts by contributing to an improvement in healthcare services through volunteerism in order to curb the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in the country.
The first lady gave the advice at the 8th Regional Convention of the Nigerian Medical Students’ Association (NiMSA), held at the Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD)
Akeredolu who spoke on the top ‘Revitalising the Role of Medical Students in the advocacy of Breast Cancer’ as the guest lecturer at the event, decried the high cost of cancer care, and averred that ” volunteering in breast cancer advocacy, conducting Clinical Breast Examination and provision of psychosocial support by NiMSA, would go a long way in early detection, and consequently, reduce cancer burden.”
According to her, “Students in the medical field have been found to be instrumental in a number of public health victories. One study (Shibu, 2021) noted how medical students in the United States of America volunteered as frontline workers when school was closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is interesting to note that even when school got back in session, a good number continued to volunteer in their frontline roles because of their “internal motivation and external pressure of strained healthcare environment.”
Mrs Akeredolu, who founded the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria, (BRECAN) twenty-five years ago, further encouraged the students to be volunteers of some advocacy groups like BRECAN, adding that “You can also provide voluntary service in primary healthcare centres where medical Doctors are lacking.”
She further encouraged the establishment of medical student-run clinic to care for underserved populations and homeless individuals, as witnessed in the USA.
The BRECAN Founder, who revealed the WHO 2020 statistics of 26,000 new cases of breast cancer in Nigeria with about 11,500 deaths yearly, identified late detection, presentation and poor health care services as major causes of the increasing burden of the disease in Nigeria.
She also identified little political will for cancer care, and inadequate radiotherapy centres as other factors contributing to its prevalence and morbidity in Nigeria, compared to countries like Morocco and India who were both referred to as low-middle income countries like Nigeria.
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She said: “Although Nigeria has a national cancer plan, it is yet to be implemented and domesticated at the state and local government level. Radiotherapy is an important treatment option for cancer patients yet it is not generally available in Nigeria; whereas Morocco with a population of just about 32 million people has 17 functional radiotherapy centres as of 2014.
“The Federal government is yet to commence any routine-based campaign to raise awareness on any form of cancer. The majority of the awareness creation on cancer are organised by non-governmental organisations working around cancer.”
The guest lecturer called for a holistic approach to breast cancer programming, noting that creating awareness without addressing the issue of patient navigation and quality cancer care services would render awareness almost useless.
“Clearly, reducing the cancer burden requires the effort of an adequate amount of human resource, yet only few personnel and organisations are working in the Nigerian cancer space.
“The job of awareness and patient navigation is pretty much abandoned for NGOs who have very little or no funds to fulfil their mission; while diagnosis and treatment is left for the very few oncologists left in the country who barely have resources to work with,” she said.
She lamented insufficient population-based cancer registries in Nigeria, which, according to her, made it quite impossible to understand the cancer needs in the country.
The governor’s wife expressed concern about the tremendous high-level brain drain in the medical field, and, therefore, emphasised the need to utilise the plethora of medical students to rescue the nation’s health system.
She enjoined the students to develop an interest in the Oncology speciality, stating that it would be difficult to achieve much in the cancer space if the young healthcare providers weren’t interested in cancer care.
“There is a need for the government to create pull-factors for the Oncology speciality by investing more in cancer care infrastructure and incentivizing the speciality,” Mrs Akeredolu added.
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Contribute to healthcare through volunteerism, Akeredolu’s wife tells medical students
This Is Our Last Chance —Tinubu
Contribute to healthcare through volunteerism, Akeredolu’s wife tells medical students | https://tribuneonlineng.com/contribute-to-healthcare-through-volunteerism-akeredolus-wife-tells-medical-students/ | 2022-08-30T23:24:04Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/contribute-to-healthcare-through-volunteerism-akeredolus-wife-tells-medical-students/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The Federal Government has vowed to bring down its might on vandals and oil thieves who are sabotaging the nation’s economy.
Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola made the declaration at the commissioning of eight gunboats acquired for use by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Tuesday.
A statement by the Minister’s Media Adviser, Sola Fasure said Arẹgbẹsọla also charged the security forces to collaborate to end the scourge.
“Those who steal crude oil not only deny the country of the much-needed revenue, they sell the stolen goods at discounted prices, well below the market value. This black market creates a glut and forces down the official price. They have therefore made Nigeria suffer the double jeopardy of loss in revenue and drop in the value of the product.
“President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, has given us the resources and the marching order to take the war to them. As a step in this direction, the Federal Government is taking adequate steps to equip relevant security agencies and, by extension, the NSCDC, which is the lead agency in the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure,” the minister stated.
The Minister further stated that the government is not oblivious of the dangers crude oil theft portends for the country, stating that the value of such theft is estimated to be in the billions.
“In the latest estimate, billions of dollars are lost to oil thieves and vandals. There is no gainsaying the fact that the Federal Government is committed and determined to curb the menace of oil theft which is bleeding the economy mindlessly, a development which has led to a drop in the earnings of the government. This unhealthy development has equally led to environmental pollution and other health hazards recorded in places where crude and refined products have been unleashed on the environment from broken pipes.
“Government is not oblivious of the danger the above scenario poses to national security and socio-economic development. No responsible government would sit down helplessly and watch this reckless display of brigandage by a few unpatriotic and criminally minded individuals who put personal interest above any other consideration,” Aregbesola informed the public.
Speaking at the event, the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Abubakar Audi, mni, declared the Corps’ readiness to put an end to pipeline vandalism and pillaging of the nation’s resources.
“Let me use this medium to assure the Federal Government and the good people of this great country, that the Corps is determined more than ever before and fully committed to the war against oil theft and illegal oil bunkering and will therefore make judicious use of this operational equipment to take the war to the doorstep of these economic brigands and saboteurs.
“I have directed continued strengthening of effective synergy with the military, relevant sister agencies as well as other stakeholders in our avowed commitment to checkmate the ugly trend,” the Commandant General stated.
Also speaking at the event, the Garrison Commander, 6 Division of the Nigeria Army, Brig. Gen. S. S. Tilawan said the war has the assurance of the Nigeria Military, noting that they will continue to support the fight against illegal bunkering of Nigeria’s crude oil product whilst strengthening the collaboration between the military and the NSCDC.
Also at the event were the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, Eboka Frank; Sector Commander, FRSC, Umar Salisu; Commander, River State Command, NDLEA, Ahmed Mamnda; members of other security outfits and senior officers in the NSCDC.
ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE | https://tribuneonlineng.com/fg-commissions-8-newly-acquired-gunboats-to-fight-oil-theft/ | 2022-08-30T23:24:17Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/fg-commissions-8-newly-acquired-gunboats-to-fight-oil-theft/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Fidelity Bank Plc has announced that it has entered into a binding agreement for the acquisition of a 100.0 per cent equity stake in Union Bank United Kingdom (UK) Plc for which the Central Bank of Nigeria has issued a letter of “No Objection”.
In a corporate filing on the Nigerian Exchange Limited on Tuesday, Fidelity Bank said the Central Bank of Nigeria‘s letter signifies acceptance to its proposed acquisition of the bank which commenced London operations in 1983.
The notice signed by Fidelity Bank’s Company Secretary, Ezinwa Unuigboje, said the transaction is still subject to the approval of the Prudential Regulatory Authority of the United Kingdom.
Commenting on the agreement, Mrs. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc said this transaction aligns with the strategic plan of expanding the lender’s service touchpoints beyond the Nigerian market and providing straight-through services that meet and exceed the needs of its growing clients.
According to her, “The diverse service bouquet and business model of Union Bank UK offered a compelling synergy, and we hope to build on the existing capacity to create a scalable and more sustaining service franchise that will support the wider ecosystem of our trade businesses and diaspora banking services.”
The transaction is subject to the approval of the Prudential Regulatory Authority (PRA} of the United Kingdom.
In June, Titan Trust Bank Limited completed the takeover of Union Bank of Nigeria Plc which was one of Nigeria’s oldest banks.
YOU SHOULD NOT MISS THESE HEADLINES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
As ASUU Extends Strike Indefinitely…
EMINENT Nigerians and groups on Monday suggested ways out of the the strike embarked upon by members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), on February this year as the union extended the exercise indefinitely….
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Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike has promised to expose politicians who plan to continue the looting of Nigeria’s treasury even as he revealed that some politicians canvassing for votes to win 2023 presidential election do not mean well for the country…. Fidelity Bank acquire Union Bank UK… | https://tribuneonlineng.com/fidelity-bank-plc-set-to-acquire-100-equity-in-union-bank-uk/ | 2022-08-30T23:24:24Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/fidelity-bank-plc-set-to-acquire-100-equity-in-union-bank-uk/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Lagos will continue to prioritise education through increased funding ― Sanwo-Olu
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday said his administration will continue to prioritize the development of the education sector in the state through an increase in the education budget.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was in Abuja for a meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari on the ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) via zoom on the opening day of a two-day 2022 Lagos State Education Summit held at Eko Hotel and Suites with the theme; “Creating a Sustainable Fit-for-Purpose Education Model.”
The governor, who was, however, represented physically by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mrs Folasade Jaji, said his administration had completed over 1000 education projects in the last three (3) years, adding that improved education is one of the legacies he wished to leave behind by the time he left office.
Sanwo-Olu further said the Summit came at the right time when the state had recorded improvement in the West African Examination Council (WAEC) results from 40per cent to 80per cent.
“Education is not just a pillar in one of our THEMES agenda, it’s one of the dividends of democracy and one of the cardinal objectives of our administration. We see it as one of the tools that can end poverty in our system.
“We are not paying lip service to education, we are taking it seriously. Education has continued to receive an increased budget in our administration.
“I am happy this Summit will be a platform where we can digest what we are presently doing,” he said.
Speaking further, Governor Sanwo-Olu said his administration was looking at improving the welfare and needs of the teachers, as well as working with private schools to improve the education sector, noting that the Ekoexcel Initiative was one of the major success stories of his administration in the education sector.
“We believe we can do more. At the end of the Summit, we can have a real conversation with the private schools and work with them to ensure we get more out of Out-Of-School children,” the governor assured.
The Commissioner for Education, Mrs Folasade Adefisayo, said Nigeria had a lot to do in improving the education sector, adding the Summit was organised to find solutions to the problems of education in the country.
The commissioner said Lagos is an important player in education in Nigeria being the sixth largest economy in Africa, pointing out that the state was making use of technology in teaching as shown in the Ekoexcel Initiative.
“This Summit is about audacity. Some of the outcomes of this Summit will contribute to the process of solving education problems in Nigeria. The focus is not on the problems but now we want to come up with solutions. We want practical ideas that the state can implement. We are ready to listen.
“The state has implemented 210 out of 220 resolutions since the inception of the administration. We have employed over 7000 teachers to replace our fast ageing teachers, Lagos State teachers are the best paid in Nigeria and we have executed 1,400 projects,” she said.
The Vice-Chancellor, Pan Atlantic University, Nigeria, Prof. Enase Okonedo, in her lecture, lamented the decay in the education sector, saying the knowledge-based system that Nigeria now practises is no longer appropriate.
According to her, the system only allows the students to read for exams and pass after which they forget what they have been taught, thereby failing to prepare them for the practical application of what they have learnt
“Education transforms society. We need to invest in our future. We need character, we need values. Education can improve the socio-economic life of its people.
“Education can give a sense of justice and freedom, it strengthens the mind. Lagos is deemed to be a heavy market for private education so it’s necessary we begin to look at education as a process of training the mind,” she said.
“We are not educating, for now, we are educating for the future. Our education system should prepare the students not just to survive. We must change the system now so that our youth can succeed in changing Nigeria.
“I urge stakeholders to see education as investments. Our youth deserves an education that can make them thrive in an ever-changing world,” she added.
ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE | https://tribuneonlineng.com/lagos-will-continue-to-prioritise-education-through-increased-funding-%E2%80%95-sanwo-olu/ | 2022-08-30T23:24:58Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/lagos-will-continue-to-prioritise-education-through-increased-funding-%E2%80%95-sanwo-olu/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
'Ask CTA' program kicks off at Chicago rail and bus stations, seeking rider feedback
CHICAGO - Chicagoans are getting the chance to tell the CTA what they want to see change to make buses and trains safer for riders across the city.
The transit agency launched its "Ask CTA" program Tuesday morning, allowing the public to meet and provide input directly to CTA managers on areas that need improvement.
The action plan was a surprise to many riders who didn’t have time to stop and chat before catching a train or bus to work or school.
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CTA managers were inside the Blue Line California station in Logan Square to hear riders concerns and suggestions. CTA officials said it’s an effort to show appreciation for current customers and to welcome others back.
Officials said the Covid-19 pandemic caused staffing shortages that impacted reliable service, followed by increased violent crime on trains and busses and around stations.
Commuters said they avoid certain lines or stops and have a lot to consider when taking public transportation.
"I'm coming home from work at night when it gets dark. It gets kind of concerning," one female rider said. "It's nice to see police presence around by a train, by the Orange line around rush hour. That makes you feel a little bit better. The safety issue, my life and other peoples lives getting hurt, is really a main factor. It just makes your mobility lessened and the fear. Who wants to go to work and be scared something's going to happen?"
Another rider said one of his biggest concerns is service reliability.
"The issue with CTA is always consistent service I think. Knowing you can depend on a train or a bus coming every 10 or 15 minutes depending on the time of day, especially morning commute and evening commute," the man said.
The community outreach will continue at train stations and bus stops around the city for the next several weeks. Officials said a schedule for future events will be available on the CTA's social media channels. | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/ask-cta-program-kicks-off-at-chicago-rail-and-bus-stations-seeking-rider-feedback | 2022-08-30T23:25:03Z | fox32chicago.com | control | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/ask-cta-program-kicks-off-at-chicago-rail-and-bus-stations-seeking-rider-feedback | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Many persons were trapped when a building under construction collapsed at Beirut road, along Ibrahim Taiwo road in the Kano metropolis of Kano State.
The uncompleted building presently houses those selling mobile phones and other accessories was said to have collapsed around 3.40 pm.
A source who preferred anonymity said it may be due to the rain that had been falling for about three days.
As of the time of filling this report, a rescue operation was ongoing.
YOU SHOULD NOT MISS THESE HEADLINES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
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EMINENT Nigerians and groups on Monday suggested ways out of the the strike embarked upon by members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), on February this year as the union extended the exercise indefinitely….
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Oyo APC Threatens To Expel Akintola Over Alleged Anti-Party Acts
The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has threatened to expel Chief Niyi Akintola, over what it described as unguarded utterances that de-markets the party ahead of the 2023 general election….
EDITORIAL: NPF-PSC’s Endless Clashes
IN recent weeks, and in typical fashion, a fresh cold war has been brewing between the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) headquarters and the Police Service Commission (PSC) over the recruitment of police constables. Following an announcement by the PSC calling for applications by suitable persons into the force to serve as constables… | https://tribuneonlineng.com/many-trapped-as-uncompleted-building-collapses-in-kano/ | 2022-08-30T23:25:04Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/many-trapped-as-uncompleted-building-collapses-in-kano/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Naija Star Search to ensure future of Afrobeats ― Judges
•Show starts September 4, winner to get N10m
The maiden edition of Nigeria’s first Afrobeats reality show, the Naija Star Search, will commence on September 4 on ST Nollywood channels on StarTimes.
Eighteen contestants have been rigorously selected by the show’s judges led by music label executive Kenny Ogungbe; celebrated music producer ID Cabasa; and singer Asha Gangali. VJ Adams is the host of the show.
The judges would look for authenticity, potential, originality and street credibility among the talents. Naija Star Search will see the contestants showcase their singing prowess while battling for N10 million prize.
Furthermore, the top seven finalists from the show would be groomed by the Kennis Music label and given a platform to turn their raw talents into superstars.
Kenny ‘Keke’ Ogungbe, the head judge of the show, revealed that over 4,000 contestants had sent in their entries for the competition.
The music reality show, which aims at sustaining the Afrobeats culture and nurturing young talent, is an initiative of StarTimes in association with Kennis Music.
Speaking at the unveiling event in Lagos, StarTimes Chief Operations Officer Tunde Aina said, “Naija Star Search is fashioned to be an exclusive Afrobeats show, the first of its kind in the country. Contestants will perform only Naija songs, starting with the classics and contemporaries to warm their vibes (ginger their swagger) and then singing original songs composed by themselves.
“With guidance and criticism from the judges, these talents will be schooled in the art and business of Afrobeats music for the next three months.
“Ultimately, the goal is to discover the next promising talents with the potential to blow. Top performing talents will work with Kennis Music, who will groom, mentor, produce and market their songs to a music-loving audience in Nigeria and Africa.
Comparing Naija Star Search to the future of Afrobeats, Kenny Ogungbe said, “Afrobeats will never die. The people sustaining it now are in their mid-twenties and thirties. To sustain it, we need to groom new talents in their teens so that in the next ten years, we will still have those holding it. We are here for the future to project the beauty of Naija music.
Adding to what Kenny said, ID Cabasa said that “we are here to sustain the momentum that is building in the ecosystem of Afrobeats globally. To do this, we don’t just want to leave it to those that are there now. We don’t want a situation where once our legends die, they die with the history, the music, and the culture of the genre.
“We saw a lot of young talents during the audition process, which blew our minds. Naija Star Search has become a pivot for any ambitious artiste for the limelight. Currently, it is very hard to break through in the music industry.
“To promote an artiste now, you would need millions of naira. This platform was set up to push them even when they didn’t have that push. So, any outstanding talent in this reality show would come out with great potential. We will be training them on songwriting, how to record their songs and how to sustain themselves in the industry since it’s easier to blow than sustain oneself in the industry.”
ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE | https://tribuneonlineng.com/naija-star-search-to-ensure-future-of-afrobeats-%E2%80%95-judges/ | 2022-08-30T23:25:11Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/naija-star-search-to-ensure-future-of-afrobeats-%E2%80%95-judges/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Podcasters following 2017 Delphi murders receive tip on search of riverbed
PERU, Ind. - Two ‘True Crime’ podcasters, who have been closely following the 2017 murders of two Indiana girls, got an anonymous tip about a riverbed search.
The search may indicate that authorities are zeroing in on a former local resident.
Last Tuesday, Anya Cain and Kevin Greenlee of the "Murder Sheet" podcast heard from multiple anonymous sources that state police were conducting a search of the Wabash River in Peru, Indiana, in relation to the case.
That day, the two drove there, and sure enough, captured images of a number of officers with buckets, spades and what appeared to be metal detectors combing the river.
Peru is just a few miles away from the former residence of a man name Kegan Kline.
Kline is an accused pedophile already in custody for using a fake Instagram account to lure underage victims.
The account also interacted with one of the Delphi victims the day of the murders.
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"So, we went up after getting a tip, and witnessed ourselves ISP personnel combing through the river," said Cain. "We saw about 12 different individuals wading into this shallow water right off the Kelly Avenue Bridge in Peru."
Greenlee and Cain also say just before the search, Indiana State Police filed paperwork to assume custody of Kegan Kline, who, until then, had been held by a county sheriff's office.
It is important to point out, however, that state police have not confirmed the search to be related to the Delphi murders and Kline has not officially been named a suspect. | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/delphi-murders-podcasters-learn-of-indiana-state-police-conducting-search-of-wabash-river | 2022-08-30T23:25:21Z | fox32chicago.com | control | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/delphi-murders-podcasters-learn-of-indiana-state-police-conducting-search-of-wabash-river | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Not all self-imposed bad habits are curses — Shittu
Shittu Bukola Christiana, the producer of the film Wild Klepto, has said that not all self-imposed bad habits are curses as believed by a majority of the Nigerian society.
Shittu is an actress who graduated from the Theatre and Movie Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) school in 2018.
She has featured in movies like Ewa Oluwa, Oba Iro, Outcast and more before producing Wild Klepto. She said it was the experience of a true life story that propelled her to produce the movie. She said she wanted to let people know that self-imposed negative habits are not always curses that require prayers.
She added that some demeaning activities take place all in the name of deliverance, whereas there are therapeutic measures to help victims recover. She said such measures should be a welcome development in society.
Wild klepto boasts of leading acts with Ireti Osayemi, Jide Kosoko, Biola Adebayo, Franckisence Eche Ben Jumoke George Shittu Bukola and a host of others.
The film was premiered recently in Lagos in a private viewing star-studded two-in-one anniversary event. It was released to the public from the stables of Oceanic Blue Empire Productions. It is already airing on Dstv and major streaming services across Nigeria like Urban TV, Libra TV on Youtube.
Shittu Bukola Christiana is the CEO of Oceanic Blue Empire Productions. Wild klepto is her first movie as a producer.
YOU SHOULD NOT MISS THESE HEADLINES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
As ASUU Extends Strike Indefinitely…
EMINENT Nigerians and groups on Monday suggested ways out of the the strike embarked upon by members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), on February this year as the union extended the exercise indefinitely….
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Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike has promised to expose politicians who plan to continue the looting of Nigeria’s treasury even as he revealed that some politicians canvassing for votes to win 2023 presidential election do not mean well for the country…. | https://tribuneonlineng.com/not-all-self-imposed-bad-habits-are-curses-shittu/ | 2022-08-30T23:25:31Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/not-all-self-imposed-bad-habits-are-curses-shittu/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Asian American history requirement starts in Illinois public schools
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - Beginning this year, every public school and high school in Illinois must include a unit of instruction on Asian American history.
Teachers are being offered a free virtual professional development workshop.
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Grace Pai from Advancing Justice Chicago says adding lessons on Asian American history will help deal with stereotypes.
"Asian Americans are part of American history, but often our stories are not told," said Pai. "So, it's not so much about teaching about Asians in Asia, its more about talking about Americans, and kind of telling a fuller story of who has contributed to American History."
A database with resources on Asian American studies will also be available for teachers and other educators. | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/every-illinois-public-school-high-school-now-requires-one-unit-of-asian-american-history | 2022-08-30T23:25:33Z | fox32chicago.com | control | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/every-illinois-public-school-high-school-now-requires-one-unit-of-asian-american-history | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Okowa asks FG to understudy Delta education policy to end impasse with ASUU
•Our four universities not on strike, he says
The Federal Government has been advised to send its delegation to Delta state to understudy its education system so as to avoid strikes.
According to the governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, there was a need for federal authorities to apply the Delta State Government formula even to end the lingering strike by lecturers in the nation’s universities.
Lecturers under the aegis of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have been on strike for over six months.
However, the four state-owned universities in Delta are not on strike.
Speaking to reporters in Asaba through his Chief Press secretary, Mr Olise Ifeajika,
Okowa sympathised with students of federal universities for the prolonged strike.
He maintained that academic sessions have not been disrupted in the state’s four universities on account of industrial action, insisting that the students graduate as when due.
The governor commended the speed with which the Federal government acted on his earlier advice to reflect local contents in the policing of oil facilities with the award of a surveillance contract to Government Ekpemupolo aka Tompolo adding that in the same way, the federal government should apply wisdom in handling the education sector in order to resolve the crisis in the nation’s university system.
Mr Ifeajika stated: “Our governor has told the FG that in Delta with four state-owned universities, our students are in school. They should come and understudy what we are doing in Delta to pull our lecturers out of the strike.
“We are asking them to apply the speed in the surveillance contract, in coming to Delta to see the industrial harmony in our universities.
“We thank the FG for heeding our governor’s advice by awarding the oil surveillance contract to one of our sons, Government Ekpemupolo. But they should cascade to the education sector,” he said.
ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
Okowa asks FG to understudy Delta education policy to end impasse with ASUU | https://tribuneonlineng.com/okowa-asks-fg-to-understudy-delta-education-policy-to-end-impasse-with-asuu/ | 2022-08-30T23:25:44Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/okowa-asks-fg-to-understudy-delta-education-policy-to-end-impasse-with-asuu/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Indiana abortion clinics file suit to block ban, as Pritzker pushes for voter turnout in Midterms
INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana abortion clinics have filed a lawsuit to block the state's near-total ban on abortions.
The new law is set to take effect September 15.
The lawsuit claims the ban would violate the Indiana Constitution by infringing on the right to privacy and the guarantee of equal privileges.
Indiana's Republican-dominated legislature approved the tighter abortion restrictions earlier this month, making it the first state to do so since the U.S. Supreme Court eliminated federal abortion protections by overturning Roe v. Wade.
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Meanwhile in Illinois, Governor JB Pritzker is touting the state as an access point for abortion care and pushing for voters to turn out for the Midterm elections.
Among the races are several state Supreme Court seats.
The court could hear anti-abortion arguments next year, challenging Illinois’ 2019 law requiring health insurers to cover abortions.
Demand for abortions at Illinois Planned Parenthoods went from roughly 100 out-of-state patients a month to 750 in the first week after the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling. | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/indiana-abortion-clinics-file-suit-to-block-ban-as-pritzker-pushes-for-voter-turnout-in-midterms | 2022-08-30T23:25:45Z | fox32chicago.com | control | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/indiana-abortion-clinics-file-suit-to-block-ban-as-pritzker-pushes-for-voter-turnout-in-midterms | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Man shot in head, body on Chicago's South Side: police
CHICAGO - A man was killed after being shot in the head and body in Chicago's Roseland neighborhood Monday afternoon.
Around 4:06 p.m., police say the 30-year-old victim was in the 11300 block of South Michigan Avenue when shots were fired.
The man was struck in the head and lower body by gunfire, police said.
He was taken to Christ Hospital in critical condition and was later pronounced dead, according to police.
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No offenders were reported in custody.
The investigation is ongoing. | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/man-shot-in-head-body-on-chicagos-south-side-police | 2022-08-30T23:25:57Z | fox32chicago.com | control | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/man-shot-in-head-body-on-chicagos-south-side-police | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Milwaukee man wanted; homicide, fire near 83rd and Vienna
MILWAUKEE - A Milwaukee man has been charged in connection to a homicide and house fire that happened on the city's north side Aug. 25. A warrant is out for his arrest.
Prosecutors accuse 47-year-old Ernest Terrell Blakney of shooting and killing his ex-girlfriend before setting his home on fire near 83rd and Vienna.
The Milwaukee police and fire departments were called to the home just before 4:30 a.m. for a "house fire." While working to put out the flames, the fire department found the homicide victim, identified as 36-year-old Nikia Rogers, on the second floor of the home.
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An autopsy found Rogers had four gunshot wounds caused by two bullets – shot in the head and back. The medical examiner's office ruled the gunshot wounds as the cause of death in the manner of a homicide.
A criminal complaint states the fire could have started in four different places: the detached garage, the basement, the first floor and Rogers' body. Her body had several burns consistent with having been set on fire, and police found a container of lighter fluid nearby.
Nikia Rogers
The complaint states Blakney and Rogers lived at the home together. There were multiple vehicles at the home registered to Blakney; however, the one vehicle registered to Rogers was missing.
Investigators spoke to a man who said he'd known Rogers for several years, and they had become "reacquainted" a few weeks before the fire. The man said Rogers described Blakney as "crazy" and that he was moving things out of the home.
House fire near 83rd and Vienna, Milwaukee
The man said he got a message from the Rogers' phone number, sent a few minutes after emergency crews were called to the fire on Aug. 25, that said: "You should have left her alone." The man replied "excuse me," to which someone replied, "she dead." The witness said he knew Blakney to go by his middle name, Terrell, so he asked: "This Terrell?" The number answered, "yes," according to the complaint
A witness, who identified Blakney from a photo, told investigators Blakney called him around 5 a.m. the morning of the fire. Blakney said he was "in the woods" and said he was "sorry" – but did not explain why, the witness said. Around 30 minutes later, the witness said Blakney showed up at his home "soaking wet" and bleeding. Blakney changed his clothes and threw his wet clothes away, which police later seized.
Flowers placed for Nikia Rogers outside homicide, fire scene near 83rd and Vienna
The complaint states the witness asked Blakney why he was sorry, but he would only repeat that he was sorry and that "she made me do it; eventually, Blakney said "I shot her." The witness asked who, and said Blakney responded that he shot Rogers because she was moving out.
The witness later noted Blakney had a gun, per the complaint. Blakney also said, according to the witness, that he had burned his house down and was going to burn his tractor trailers near 76th and Florist. The witness said he tried to calm Blakney down and convince him to turn himself in, but he refused and left.
Field where Nikia Rogers' SUV was found
Based on the witness' statements, police searched a wooded area near Swan and Allyn – roughly seven miles from the scene of the fire. Officers saw tire tracks heading from the road into a field and found Rogers' SUV abandoned roughly 100 yards into the field.
Later, the complaint states, police spoke to a third man. The man told police he was repairing a bulldozer at a construction site near the woods on Aug. 25 and heard "metal collapsing" while he was at his work truck. He went to the back of the truck and saw a man, whom he identified as Blakney from a photo lineup, pointing a gun at him. Blakney demanded the keys to the truck and ordered the man to get inside a trailer, locking the man in from the outside before driving away in the truck. The man eventually forced his way out and called 911.
Construction site where worker was forced into trailer at gunpoint
In all, Blakney is charged with:
- First-degree reckless homicide
- Attempted mutilating a corpse
- Armed robbery
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
- Felony bail jumping
- False imprisonment
The complaint states Blakney was previously charged with second-degree sexual assault – accused of having sex with a 13-year-old girl in 2020 – and was released in November 2021 after posting $5,000 cash bail.
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On Aug. 15, 2022 – 10 days before the fire – he pleaded guilty and was convicted; he was due in court for sentencing on Oct. 20. In 2010, he was convicted of cocaine possession with intent to deliver.
MPD continues to seek Blakney. Anyone with information is asked to call the MPD at 414-935-7360; to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 414-224-TIPS or use the P3 tips app.
Rogers' mother told FOX6 News she is hurt, heartbroken, torn and does not have the words to try to understand why someone would do this to her daughter. | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/milwaukee-wanted-homicide-fire-83rd-vienna | 2022-08-30T23:26:03Z | fox32chicago.com | control | https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/milwaukee-wanted-homicide-fire-83rd-vienna | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The Kogi State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corp (FRSC), Mt. Stephen Dawulung has disclosed that seven persons have been killed in an accident at Banda, Village along Lokoja -Abuja highway.
He stated that the accident was a result of overspeeding by the driver which made the vehicle lose control and somersaulted several times into the bush.
“My officers, who were at hand shortly after the incident, rushed the victims to the hospital for medical treatment, ” he said.
The sector commander warned motorists against non-observance of traffic rules and regulations and speeding during the rainy season whereby brakes are hardly effective.
“With the onset of the rains, road surfaces are normally slippery. This situation is normally complicated by poor visibility when driving in the rain.
”Drivers, should, therefore, avoid speedy driving to enable them to have firm control over their vehicles at emergency times.”
In another incident, an articulated vehicle killed a commercial motorcycle rider in Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State.
It was gathered on Tuesday that the accident was a result of a collision between a tricycle and a motorcycle which resulted in the “Okada” rider being flung on the highway in front of an on-coming articulated vehicle, which crushed him to death on the spot.
The FRSC Sector Commander, Mr Dawulung, also confirmed the story.
He said the body of the Okadaman had been deposited at the Morgue of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Lokoja.
Dawulung described the incident as “unfortunate” given the way and manner it occurred without any chance of survival for the victim.
He expressed concern about the wreckless attitude of both tricycle and motorcycle riders on the highways in the state which, often leads to avoidable accidents and warn commercial cyclists in the state to be more cautious while riding on the highways to reduce the deaths of innocent Passengers on the road.
“Most times you see them competing with Lories and trucks on the roads with reckless speed putting lives of passengers at risk.
“The result of such bad road usage has always been fatal crashes that result in loss of lives, ” the commander, derides the Cyclists.
The Sector Commander advised motorcyclists to adhere to stipulated speed limits, avoid contests with other vehicles and observe safety protocols such as the use of helmets in order to minimize the risk of road traffic accidents.
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- This Is Our Last Chance —Tinubu
- Seven persons dead in Kogi auto crash | https://tribuneonlineng.com/seven-persons-dead-in-kogi-auto-crash/ | 2022-08-30T23:26:11Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/seven-persons-dead-in-kogi-auto-crash/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Stolen crude oil stored in churches, mosques ― Kyari
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, on Tuesday disclosed that crude oil theft has become a widespread phenomenon involving all strata of the society including religious, local leaders and government officials.
He said the company has discovered that stolen products are warehoused in churches and mosques with the knowledge of all members of the society where the incidents occur.
Speaking at the Ministerial Media Briefing organized by the Presidential Communications Team at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Tuesday, he also said the entire network of pipelines for petroleum products distribution in the country has been shut down as a result of the activities of vandals.
According to him, “Wherever our products have gone to, everybody has become some sort of vandal.”
He said beyond the issue of vandalism, the pipelines have also aged necessitating their shut down.
Kyari noted however that the company has decided to come up with a new pipeline management system that will enable them to be put to use for distribution of products in the country.
More details later….
ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
- This Is Our Last Chance —Tinubu
- Stolen crude oil stored in churches, mosques ― Kyari | https://tribuneonlineng.com/stolen-crude-oil-stored-in-churches-mosques-%E2%80%95-kyari/ | 2022-08-30T23:26:25Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/stolen-crude-oil-stored-in-churches-mosques-%E2%80%95-kyari/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Tinubu to Kukah: Nigeria owes you debt of gratitude
All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has sent a special goodwill message to the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah on the occasion of the latter’s 70th birthday celebration.
In a letter he personally signed and made available to newsmen in Abuja, the APC presidential candidate described Kukah as “a voice of conscience in the country.”
While he acknowledged the prominent clergy contributions to national development and progress in the over four decades of pastoral work, Tinubu noted that for over four decades, Kukah’s homilies as a cleric as well as contributions as a public intellectual have enriched the national discourse and highlighted the role of morality in the public space.
His statement read in part: “My Lord Bishop, your life has been one of devotion and duty to God and humanity. As such, your life speaks of humility and compassion.
“The influence and respect that is yours go beyond the Catholic Church and even your position as the Bishop of Sokoto Diocese. You are a voice of conscience in and for all Nigeria.
ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
“For over four decades, your homilies as a cleric as well as your contributions as a public intellectual have enriched the national discourse and highlighted the role of morality in the public space.
“Seminal articles you have authored demonstrate your abiding concern for the poor and vulnerable. It is this concern that has led you to take national assignments such as being a member of the Human Rights Violation Investigation Commission (Oputa Panel), Chief Mediator, Shell-Ogoni Peace Initiative and currently as the Secretary of National Peace Committee.
“This nation owes you more than a debt of gratitude. However, knowing the type of person you are, you will never ask for payment of that debt. You will simply continue to give more.
“I join millions of Nigerians, family and friends to celebrate this milestone that is your 70th birthday. I wish you well. May you continue to serve God and lead your flock to the best of your abilities. May you always be a voice of conscience and service in this land.”
EDITORIAL: NPF-PSC’s Endless Clashes
Tinubu to Kukah: Nigeria owes you debt of gratitude
This Is Our Last Chance —Tinubu
Tinubu to Kukah: Nigeria owes you debt of gratitude | https://tribuneonlineng.com/tinubu-to-kukah-nigeria-owes-you-debt-of-gratitude/ | 2022-08-30T23:26:39Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/tinubu-to-kukah-nigeria-owes-you-debt-of-gratitude/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
We have no report on ‘attack’ on Fayose’s younger brother ― Osun police
The Osun State Police Command has said that it has no report on the alleged attack on Isaac Fayose, the younger brother to the former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose.
Recall that Isaac, on Facebook, claimed that he was attacked by gunmen along the Ife-Ibadan-Gbongan express road in Osun State last Sunday while many others were kidnapped.
But the command in a press statement made available in Osogbo by its Public Relations Officer, Mrs Yemisi Opalola, remarked that “when we talked to the DPO Gbongan, he said that, no report of such had been made in his AOR.”
Opalola, however, maintained that the command is still making enquiries on the incident.
“You can see in the write-up that he didn’t report to any police station in Osun State. We are not spirits to know what happens everywhere and every time. Facebook is not a police complaint/report station.
“If we want more enquiry from him about the incident, because there are lots of questions that we will want to ask him, which can’t be asked on Facebook. But, notwithstanding, we shall work on the matter to know what really happened & know what to do about it.
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“Meanwhile, the police in Osun under the leadership of CP Olawale OLOKODE will not relent in their efforts to ensure that the citizens of Osun are safe and their property secured,” the police spokesperson maintained.
When contacted on the matter, the commandant of Nigeria Hunters Group (NHG) in the state, Nureni Ahmed (a.k.a leader) also claimed the group is not aware of the claim.
The commandant, however, maintained that every attempt made to authenticate the claim from Gbongan and its environs was futile.
Meanwhile, Isaac who spoke with our reporter said: “The incident happened on Sunday around 4 PM when I was returning to Lagos. It happened before the Gbongan bridge. We saw the gunmen after they ambushed a Benz car in front of my vehicle, they were shooting everywhere which forced people to safety.
“Motorists abandoned their cars on the road. My driver was trying to manoeuvre his way when he ran into a truck on the road. He was injured in the process and my security detail fainted instantly.”
Fayose stated that he did not make any report at the police station because the police team at a checkpoint around the area witnessed the attack.
He added: “I did not make any report because the police were there. They told us that they use to witness it because it is an everyday activity in the area. They told me that kidnappers killed many of their men. How can they say I did not make any report?
“It was a terrible experience because after God saved me, I more straight to Lagos, everyone is running for his or her safety. I took the fainted police and my injured driver to the hospital.
“The police we saw told us that they are used to it. At times, if they try to check them they will kill them. They (police) are even running for their safety because they have lost a lot of men.” | https://tribuneonlineng.com/we-have-no-report-on-attack-on-fayoses-younger-brother-%E2%80%95-osun-police/ | 2022-08-30T23:26:45Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/we-have-no-report-on-attack-on-fayoses-younger-brother-%E2%80%95-osun-police/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
As part of efforts to reposition the company for better performance, the board and management of Wemabod Limited has inaugurated Otunba Seyi Oduntan as its new chairman.
The motion for the inauguration, which took place at the headquarters of Wemabod Limited on Broad Street, Lagos, on Tuesday, was moved by one of the board members/directors, Mr Kolawole Akinola, an engineer, and was supported by other directors.
Speaking immediately after his inauguration, Otunba Oduntan, a seasoned administrator and former director of the company, who has just been transformed as the chairman of Wemabod Limited, appreciated members of the board, who he described as core professionals, for their commitment.
He described Wemabod as an iconic organisation, adding that the company had seen a major turnaround in the last four years.
According to him, Wemabod has a real potential in real estate and other businesses, adding that its asset base is worthy of emulation by anybody in the real estate sector.
He assured stakeholders that the new board would help to realise the potential of the company while leaving a legacy that everybody will be proud of.
Oduntan congratulated all board members and the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Wemabod, Mr Yemi Ejidiran, for their commitments to making the company great.
“To whom much is given, much is expected. Wemabod is a subsidiary of Odu’a and the company is looking for more investments and achievements
“We can work together to achieve outstanding results. The work ahead of us is to bring something to the table and achieve the desired greater results,” he said.
ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
Wemabod’s board inaugurates Oduntan as new chairman | https://tribuneonlineng.com/wemabods-board-inaugurates-oduntan-as-new-chairman/ | 2022-08-30T23:26:52Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/wemabods-board-inaugurates-oduntan-as-new-chairman/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
BPI Announces Impact Grant Recipients during Black Philanthropy Month
In celebration of August’s Black Philanthropy Month, The Black Philanthropy Initiative (BPI) is excited to announce $6,000 in six grants awarded through its Impact Grants program.
BPI’s Impact Grants are investments in programs, projects, and initiatives supporting Forsyth County’s Black communities; grantees are local groups and organizations with annual budgets under $150,000. During this grant cycle, BPI requested video proposals from organizations or groups working in one of the four critical areas: education, jobs and wages, poverty, and civic engagement, or on criminal justice reform or racial justice efforts. BPI prioritized Black-led organizations and programs working within predominately Black neighborhoods (including 27101, 27105, and 27107).
Impact Grants were awarded to:
− I.C.A.R.E. (Individuals Caring About Rehabilitation and Education): $1,000 to provide essential items to those experiencing homelessness in local neighborhoods
− One Love Strong Foundation: $1,000 for marketing and educational materials for families to help reduce pre-term births, hospital readmission, and infant mortality
− Partnership for Prosperity: $1,000 to provide stipends to youth ambassadors in the Castle Heights community
− The Speech Bus, Inc.: $1,000 to support a website for a literacy program for preschool children and a communication device for nonverbal participants
− Tiny Creators: $1,000 to teach life skills and provide enrichment activities for young girls
− WISE Fellowship: $1,000 for a laptop and speaker system for a mobile reading program
Robert Leak III, chair of BPI’s Grants Committee says that awarding these grants during August's Black Philanthropy Month is even more gratifying. He notes, “We're excited to invest
in smaller, Black-led groups and organizations that are making a big impact in their neighborhoods through a wide range of creative programming.”
BPI’s grants are made possible by the collective pooling of resources from the generous people of Forsyth County to invest in Black-led organizations and support the local Black community. In 2021, BPI provided over $220,000 in grants to local programs and initiatives. Currently, BPI offers three grant programs: Impact Grants, Building and Inclusive Economy, and Advancing Equity in Education Grants. To learn more about these grant programs and find ways to contribute to this work, visit bpiws.org.
# # #
The Black Philanthropy Initiative (BPI) is a 100% Black-led initiative of The Winston-Salem Foundation launched in 2003 that explicitly, not exclusively, focuses its grantmaking and programming on needs identified in the local Black community. Over the past 19 years, BPI has provided over $685,000 in program grants to local nonprofits. | https://www.yesweekly.com/business/bpi-announces-impact-grant-recipients-during-black-philanthropy-month/article_f6777492-289b-11ed-b9ec-9bf0106a2bc7.html | 2022-08-30T23:26:56Z | yesweekly.com | control | https://www.yesweekly.com/business/bpi-announces-impact-grant-recipients-during-black-philanthropy-month/article_f6777492-289b-11ed-b9ec-9bf0106a2bc7.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
ConvergeSouth 2022 Draws Digerati, Founders and Investors
Winston-Salem, NC – August 29, 2022— Flywheel’s Startup Expo, an annual celebration of the startup community since 2016, has merged with ConvergeSouth to create a two-day conference designed to showcase the region’s entrepreneurs, connect them with investors, and deliver educational programming on digital tools and platforms.
The event will be held Sept. 8-9 in downtown Winston-Salem.
“We’re really excited to be producing the conference at 500 West 5th”, said Flywheel partner Andrea Howell, “because it is vertically stacked with entrepreneurship support organizations, college and university innovation and entrepreneurship programs, and investment firms.”
The first day of the conference features more than 21 educational sessions on all things digital delivered by local and nationally recognized experts. All of the educational sessions are focused on accelerating the success of early-stage businesses with topics relevant to founders as well as digital designers and marketers.
“We’ve organized our programing into five themes” said co-organizer and ConvergeSouth co-founder Dr. Sue Polinsky. “Expect to learn how to grow your online reach, discover emerging digital tools and what you should be doing next, explore ways to automate certain processes, get insights into the business of business and finally to enhance what you offer to be competitive.”
Full information on the speakers and educational sessions can be found on the conference website at https://convergesouth.com/speakers/.
"Merging the two conferences into one two-day event enabled us to offer what many start-ups and entrepreneurs were missing - educational tracts that would help them learn from industry leaders in key business growth areas as well as the opportunity to meet not only other professionals and entrepreneurs, but get them in front of investors and key decision makers that can take their company's to the next level,” added Kristen Daukas, founder of Say Anything Media and Cofounder of ConvergeSouth.
The Startup Expo will be held the second day of the conference the morning of September 9th in the lobby of 500 West 5th. Sixty companies have already signed up to exhibit and make connections with attending angel investors and venture capital firms.
“This is one of the largest gatherings of startups in the Southeast”, said Peter Marsh, a partner in Flywheel and a founding Director of the Flywheel Foundation. “For investors, it’s an efficient way to meet and evaluate emerging scalable startups that need capital as a growth accelerant.”
Friday afternoon will feature mainstage presentations including the keynote speaker, lightning round pitches from top-scoring companies exhibiting on the demo floor, and investor pitches by pre-selected startups that have market traction.
The event will be staged over multiple floors in the building, including an investor reception on the 18th floor sponsored by Flow Automotive.
The conference is produced by the Flywheel Foundation in collaboration with support organizations and accelerator programs including Winston Starts, the Center for Creative Economy, Launch Lab Greensboro, The Launch Place of Danville VA, Agile City’s Venture Winston Grants program, NC IDEA, Greater Winston Salem Inc. and many others.
"Converge South helps fund the work of the Flywheel Foundation and is a key fundraiser that supports our programming across regional ecosystems,” said Jill Atherton, the Foundation’s Executive Director. “Any excess proceeds from the event will be reinvested in our mission-driven programs in support of entrepreneurship.”
The conference is open to the public. The Startup Expo is free, but the education programming requires paid access. For more information about the conference and to see ticketing options visit the conference website at https://convergesouth.com/
About Flywheel and The Flywheel Foundation:
Flywheel designs and operates coworking innovation centers in collaboration with local institutions. In addition to its Winston-Salem location at 500 West Fifth, Flywheel is expanding to additional locations, most recently in Concord, NC with the Cabarrus Center. Flywheel provides infrastructure for entrepreneurs, delivering affordable workspace for startups, consultants and freelancers.
The Flywheel Foundation is an affiliated non-profit charitable organization dedicated to eliminating barriers to entrepreneurship through ecosystem development, education, research, and investment.
For more information please visit www.flywheelcoworking.com | https://www.yesweekly.com/business/convergesouth-2022-draws-digerati-founders-and-investors/article_4cd2179c-2889-11ed-a3cf-1f3dbb961ace.html | 2022-08-30T23:26:56Z | yesweekly.com | control | https://www.yesweekly.com/business/convergesouth-2022-draws-digerati-founders-and-investors/article_4cd2179c-2889-11ed-a3cf-1f3dbb961ace.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Mast General Store Adds Iconic Outdoor Brand
L.L.Bean’s Bestsellers Take Their Place on Mast Store Shelves
VALLE CRUCIS, NC – Mast General Store is entering into a historic partnership with the legendary L.L.Bean company. The iconic Bean Boot, along with other footwear, apparel, and outdoor gear, will be a part of the items now found at local Mast Stores and online.
“We are excited about this new relationship,” said Lisa Cooper, president of Mast General Store. “We can finally answer the regularly fielded question – ‘Do you have the Bean Boot in stock?’ – with a definitive, 'Yes!'"
L.L.Bean products are now on the shelves at Mast Store, which is a regional retail partner for the outdoor company. “The addition of L.L.Bean to our merchandise mix will provide Bean loyalists the opportunity to touch, feel, and try on the new season’s offerings and to purchase them locally,” continued Cooper.
The L.L.Bean collection bolsters Mast General Store’s already-robust assortment of outdoor products, which includes hiking gear, tents, backpacks, boots, sandals, and socks.
“Our businesses have a lot in common, and we are looking forward to a great collaboration,” said Cooper. “It’s a great opportunity for us to showcase another well-loved brand and for both companies to learn a little from each other.”
More than just sharing a passion for quality outdoor apparel and footwear, both businesses maintain commitments to the conservation and preservation of natural resources. The Mast Store and L.L.Bean also are united in a vision to make the outdoors accessible to all people.
“While L.L.Bean offers Outdoor Discovery Programs to learn new skills, we’ve always tried to create an atmosphere where anyone could come in and ask any question about gear, clothing, footwear, or even planning a trip and get knowledgeable, trail-tested answers,” shared Cooper.
For Mast Store and L.L.Bean, getting people into the outdoors is only part of the equation. The other part is the conservation of open spaces, wetlands, farms, and recreation areas. L.L.Bean works with several organizations, including Leave No Trace, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, and the Friends of the Cobbossee Watershed, to educate people about steps they can take to ensure beautiful places will remain for future generations to enjoy.
“The Mast Store's involvement with conservancies is one of our important local activities,” said Cooper. “The areas in easements in all our communities contribute more than the value of their scenic beauty. They provide clean air and water and wildlife habitats, as well as adding to the general quality of life for those who live there.”
With a mutual love of nature and a common desire to help people discover the beauty in their own backyards and beyond, the Mast Store looks forward to this new partnership with L.L.Bean. Stop by any location of the Mast General Store, including the website (www.MastGeneralStore.com) to see the selection from L.L.Bean.
# # #
About Mast General Store
With its Original Store located in the rural historic district of Valle Crucis, North Carolina, Mast General Store has grown its family to 11 locations in 10 towns across four states - North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Historic locations, a focus on customer service, and an eclectic product selection - everything from old-fashioned candies to technical outdoor gear - make every store a destination. The Mast Store is family and employee owned and is passionate about its local communities.
About L.L.Bean
L.L.Bean has grown from a one-man operation to a global, omni-channel brand, but one thing hasn’t changed: the company’s enthusiasm for the shared joy of the outdoors. L.L.Bean was founded in 1912 by Leon Leonwood (L.L.) Bean and transformed by his grandson Leon Gorman into a globally recognized outdoor brand. Headquartered in Freeport, Maine, L.L.Bean is a privately held, family-owned company. | https://www.yesweekly.com/business/mast-general-store-adds-iconic-outdoor-brand/article_27b1ffca-2895-11ed-a5c6-b3659a642ca0.html | 2022-08-30T23:26:57Z | yesweekly.com | control | https://www.yesweekly.com/business/mast-general-store-adds-iconic-outdoor-brand/article_27b1ffca-2895-11ed-a5c6-b3659a642ca0.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
A typical restaurant meal—with no appetizer, drink, or dessert—can easily hit 1,000 calories. Just what we need!
But that’s child’s play compared to our “winners.”
Most pack 2,000+ calories and more than a day’s saturated fat and sodium. Some also deliver a wallop of added sugar. (The Feds still don’t require restaurants to disclose added sugar, so our numbers are estimates. Helloo, FDA?)
Are these eight items the worst in America? Heck no. Are they extreme-worthy? You bet.
And if you're looking for lighter options, we've got some better bets.
What’s a day’s worth?
- Calories: 2,000
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Sodium: 2,300 mg
- Added Sugar: 50 g
For the items below, saturated fat, sodium, and (estimated) added sugar are only shown if an item has close to half the Daily Value (half a day’s worth) or more. Calories are always shown.
Since the chains don’t disclose added sugar, we estimated using total sugar, menu descriptions, ingredients (if available), and, in some cases, total vs. added sugar in similar packaged foods.
Even bigger mouth
Jorge Bach/CSPI.
Remember w-a-a-y back when a Quarter Pounder was a big burger? In October, Chili’s proudly announced two new Big Mouth Burgers that “boast two (yes, TWO) beef patties for a full pound of beef!”
Between the (greenhouse gas-generating) beef, cheddar cheese, six slices of bacon, sugary BBQ sauce, and white-flour bun, the Big Bacon BBQ Burger hits 1,720 calories. With fries, you’re talking 2,140!
It’s like eating: 3 Burger King Whoppers with Cheese.
Too mucho
Lindsay Moyer/CSPI.
Like Applebee’s other “Mucho” cocktails, the Shark Bowl is served in a humongous goblet that holds roughly 2½ cups.
You get a pair of gummy sharks swimming in what looks like a blue slushy. (It’s a sugary drink mix blended with rum and ice.)
Nothing like 630 calories and an estimated 26 teaspoons of added sugar before your meal!
It’s like drinking: 1 liter of Sprite plus 2 oz. of rum.
Triple threat
Jorge Bach/CSPI.
You’ve gotta hand it to The Cheesecake Factory. The chain has never missed earning at least one Xtreme Eating award. This year, make it two: And its new (since 2021) Classic Italian Trio is a stunner.
The Fettuccini Alfredo/Chicken Parmesan/Baked Rigatoni platter may look like one dish, but its 2,800 calories are enough for nearly 1½ days, and its saturated fat is enough for more than 4! And those calories include the load of refined carbs in the white pasta, but not the free bread served at your table.
It’s like eating: 3 Pizza Hut Supreme Personal Pan Pizzas plus 1 stick of butter.
Dippity-don’t
Jorge Bach/CSPI.
The Cheesecake Factory French Dip Cheeseburger is a “Charbroiled Cheeseburger Served on a Toasted Brioche Roll with Grilled Onions, Sriracha Mayo and Au Jus for Dipping.” The sandwich alone has 1,670 calories. With fries, it hits 2,200...if you eat none of the extra free bread.
Nothing like an oversized cheeseburger & fries dressed up to look classier (though it’s mostly just bigger) than fast food.
It’s like eating: 2 footlong Subway Steak & Cheese sandwiches plus ½ cup of lard for dipping.
Hog wild
Marlena Koch/CSPI.
Who wouldn’t want to start the day with the two strips of bacon, two sausage patties, two sausage links, slice of ham, two eggs, hotcake, and slice of French toast plus hash browns, home fries, or fresh fruit in a Bob Evans The Whole Hog? Anything less, and you’d be famished by 10 a.m.
With home fries and fried eggs, the meal hits 2,000 calories. “Go hog wild for our farm-famous meats!” says Bob’s website. Make that “cancer-causing processed meats!”
It’s like eating: 2 Sausage McMuffins, 2 Egg McMuffins, and 6 Hotcakes at McDonald’s.
Slaughterhouse fajitas
Jorge Bach/CSPI.
Fajitas are never skimpy. But the Smokehouse Fajitas at On The Border are “Texas-size.”
We’re talking ribs, sausage, carnitas (pork), and beef brisket with sugary BBQ sauces, plus 6 flour tortillas and refried beans, rice, cheese, and pico de gallo. It’s a salt-drenched 2,530-calorie red-and-processed-meat extravaganza!
It’s like eating: 13 Taco Bell Beef Soft Tacos.
Shake it off
Marlena Koch/CSPI.
“What, you’ve never wanted to take a piece of tasty yellow cake with some sweet and creamy ice cream and blend it all up until you can drink it?” asks Cold Stone Creamery.
Well, here’s your chance. With a 20 oz. “Love It” size Cake Batter ‘n Shake, Cold Stone squeezes 1,440 calories’ worth of ice cream plus white flour plus whipped topping into your cup.
You’ll never even notice the 2½ days’ worth of saturated fat and the estimated 24 teaspoons of added sugar.
Remember when an ordinary ice cream cone was a memorable treat?
It’s like eating: A pint of Ben & Jerry’s Vanilla Ice Cream plus 3 Twinkies.
Be alfredo
Jorge Bach/CSPI.
The Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken at Olive Garden doesn’t sound so extreme. It’s grilled chicken, for goshsakes.
The tip-off: “Alfredo.” The butter-cream-and-cheese sauce can turn almost any food into a health hazard. The dish delivers 1,980 calories...but only if you turn down the free breadsticks and soup or salad that come with Olive Garden’s entrées.
It's like eating: a Fettuccine Alfredo entrée plus a Cheese Ravioli entrée at Olive Garden. | https://www.yesweekly.com/foodanddrink/the-2022-xtreme-eating-awards/article_29ac88d8-288e-11ed-a021-a787c512aa89.html | 2022-08-30T23:26:58Z | yesweekly.com | control | https://www.yesweekly.com/foodanddrink/the-2022-xtreme-eating-awards/article_29ac88d8-288e-11ed-a021-a787c512aa89.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Carolina Classic Announces Grandstand Entertainment
Headliners include C+C Music Factory, Rob Base, Niko Moon and Rend Collective
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (AUGUST 30, 2022)—The Carolina Classic Fair—North Carolina’s second-largest agricultural fair—will feature a number of leading entertainers representing a variety of music genres on the grandstand during the upcoming fair. The Carolina Classic Fair takes place in Winston-Salem September 30 through October 9.
In addition to the headliners at Carolina Classic Fair, other grandstand entertainment will include popular returning shows such as the Demolition Derby (September 30 and October 6), Double Figure 8 Racing (October 1 and 7), 5L Rodeo (October 2 and 9), and the Old Time Tractor Pull (October 8).
On Mon., Oct. 3, C+C Music Factory and Rob Base will be featured on the grandstand. C+C Music Factory formed in 1989 and is best known for its five hit singles: “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now),” “Here We Go (Let's Rock & Roll),” “Things That Make You Go Hmmm...,” “Just a Touch of Love,” and “Keep It Comin.” Original member Freedom Williams continues the legacy of C+C Music Factory. C+C Music Factory have earned a total of 35 music industry awards worldwide, including five Billboard Music Awards, five American Music Awards, and two MTV Video Music Awards. In December 2016, Billboard magazine ranked them as the 44th most successful dance artist of all time. Performing alongside C+C Music Factory will be Rob Base, who is best known for his 1988 top-40 hit “It Takes Two.”
On Tues., Oct. 4, the Carolina Classic Fair will welcome Niko Moon, Restless Road and Frank Ray on the grandstand. Moon is widely known as an adventurous artist, writer and musician with an enduring optimism and a flair for challenging boundaries. That attitude is apparent in the EP “Coastin’,” a judiciously layered synthesis of his Georgia roots, pairing Atlanta-bred hip-hop and rural-fed traditional country, two genres that were considered incompatible not that long ago.
Dubbed “one of the most intriguing and exciting acts of the year,” Restless Road is made up of Zach Beeken, Colton Pack and Garrett Nichols. Their self-titled debut EP “Restless Road” arrived to widespread critical acclaim, catapulting the country music trio into a new level of stardom. Restless Road is playing to sold-out crowds across America and is known for a “one-of-a-kind sound” that is a mix of modern and traditional country sounds. Restless Road recently released new music including the hit single “Bar Friends” and has amassed a following of more than two million TikTok followers.
As a young person, Gomez began listening to not only country music but also ranchera music. Of Hispanic descent, Gomez thought that he would "stand out" as a country musician, citing other Hispanic artists such as Freddy Fender as inspiration on this front. After having success with performances on weekends and gaining regional commercial success with songs on the Texas country charts, he released an EP titled “Different Kind of Country” in 2018. In 2021, Gomez signed with BBR Music Group and released his debut single “Streetlights.” The song features Ray singing in both English and Spanish. Later in 2021, he issued another single, “Country'd Look Good on You,” which was followed in January 2022 by his first performance on the Grand Ole Opry.
Rend Collective with Christian Paul will be featured on the Carolina Classic Fair’s grandstand on Wednesday, October 5. Amidst so much heaviness consuming events of today’s world, Rend Collective shares good news as a response to brokenness. The Ireland hailing Rend Collective harkens back to their roots with a unique sound originally birthed out of Bangor, Ireland. The band’s sixth studio album “Good News,” embraced the moniker “Purveyors of Good News.” Rend Collective is widely known for its authenticity, and simple old-fashioned Gospel.
Grandstand Entertainment at a Glance:
- Friday, September 30 – Demolition Derby
- Saturday, October 1 – Double Figure 8 Racing
- Sunday, October 2 – 5L Rodeo
- Monday, October 3 – C+C Music Factory and Rob Base
- Tuesday, October 4 – Niko Moon, Restless Road and Frank Ray
- Wednesday, October 5 – Rend Collective with Christian Paul
- Thursday, October 6 – Demolition Derby
- Friday, October 7 – Double Figure 8 Racing
- Saturday, October 8 – OTTPA – Old Time Tractor Pull
- Sunday, October 9 – 5L Rodeo
Discounted admission tickets and Strates Ride vouchers to the Carolina Classic Fair are now available through Ticketmaster, the Fair’s website at CarolinaClassicFair.com, the Fairgrounds’ Box Office located in the Annex (414 Deacon Blvd, 27105, Monday–Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and at the new Hanes Mall Store location beginning in late August. The Carolina Classic Fairground Box Office will offer extended hours the week of September 26 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) leading up to the Fair opening day. All online advance ticket sales will end at midnight Sept. 29.
Online sales will be promoted via the Fair’s social media links on Facebook, TikTok, Twitter @CClassicFair and Instagram. Advance Tickets can be purchased with no convenience charges at the Fairgrounds Box Office.
About the Carolina Classic Fair
Celebrating its 140th year in 2022, the Carolina Classic Fair is owned and operated by the City of Winston-Salem after being donated to the City by the Winston-Salem Foundation in 1969. The 10-day annual Fair features nationally renowned musical entertainment, delicious food, and beverages, exhibits for livestock, poultry, fine arts and crafts, a world-class carnival with numerous rides and games, and many more activities. The Carolina Classic Fair at the time of opening day will follow all state and local health and safety protocols. For more information on the Carolina Classic Fair, please visit CarolinaClassicFair.com. | https://www.yesweekly.com/music/carolina-classic-announces-grandstand-entertainment/article_88f8c584-2886-11ed-ac9f-8781445a01ec.html | 2022-08-30T23:26:58Z | yesweekly.com | control | https://www.yesweekly.com/music/carolina-classic-announces-grandstand-entertainment/article_88f8c584-2886-11ed-ac9f-8781445a01ec.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LINK is a native token of the Chainlink crypto platform. From the name, it becomes clear that the project is “linking” something. Chainlink was engineered with the goal of bridging (or linking) traditional businesses with blockchain technologies, thus, facilitating data transfer between enterprises worldwide. It is logical that Chainlink is a smart contract platform where non-blockchain firms and companies can access such popular networks as Ethereum and Solana. By the way, Chainlink and its native LINK crypto were built on the Ethereum blockchain. The Chain link crypto is used for payments on the platform, and it participated in smart contracts execution.
Now that we figured out the answer to the question, “What is LINK crypto”, let’s move to its price.
Chain Link Crypto Price
As of late August 2022, the LINK crypto is traded at $7,02. The market capitalization is $3,302 billion, and the daily trade volume is $548,6 million. Since the project has useful technology that allows traditional companies to join the crypto landscape and facilitate their transactions, the Chainlink project has all the chances to grow in the future.
Analyzing the LINK crypto price during 2021 and 2022, experts believe the rate will grow by the end of 2025. They predict the future rate of the asset will be about $32,10. Everything will depend on the market situation, investors’ sentiment, and the overall condition of the global economy.
You can track the LINK crypto price on the Coinmarketcap service or one of the most credible crypto platforms, for example:
• WhiteBIT;
• Coinbase;
• Binance;
• Huobi.
These officially operating crypto platforms allow attractive trading and investment conditions at low fees and with maximum comfort. We recommend using the WhiteBIT exchange for novice investors. Beginner traders will find WhiteBIT an easy-to-handle service with lightning-fast customer support and various tools for receiving income. | https://tribuneonlineng.com/what-is-chain-link-crypto/ | 2022-08-30T23:26:58Z | tribuneonlineng.com | control | https://tribuneonlineng.com/what-is-chain-link-crypto/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Country-Soul, Pop-Funk and R&B Rising Star Yola Comes to Boone on Her Stand for Myself Tour
The six-time Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter kicks off The Schaefer Center Presents fall season on Friday, Sept. 16
BOONE, NC — The Schaefer Center Presents (SCP) series, presented by Appalachian State University’s Office of Arts and Cultural Programs, opens its 2022-23 season with six-time Grammy Award nominee Yola to Boone on Friday, Sept. 16 at 7pm. The genre-fluid singer-songwriter stops at App State on tour to celebrate her critically acclaimed 2021 sophomore release, Stand for Myself. The New York Timessaid, “Stand for Myself draws from the same Americana soundbook as Yola’s first record [Walk Through Fire], but it’s also shot through with disco and pop,” and NPR’s All Songs Considered anointed the album “the best soul record of the last 20 years.” Yola is a 2022 four-time Grammy Award nominee for Best New Artist, Best American Roots Song, Best American Roots Performance, and Best Americana Album. For tickets and more information, visit TheSchaeferCenter.org or contact the Box Office at 828.262.4046.
Occupying the intersection between country music’s roots and Americana’s hybrid of pop, folk and soul, the British superstar is at the forefront of a generation of Black female artists — including Allison Russell and Joy Oladukun — who are helping evolve Nashville, country music and American society. In a February 2022 article in The Tennessean about her tour’s kickoff at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium, Yola said, “I’m making the statement now for women in music broadly, and women of color in music specifically, that you don’t have to be in service to someone else’s art or vision of yourself to be worthy of appreciation."
Everything about Stand for Myself — musically, lyrically, spiritually — explores the epiphany that making decisive choices leads to freedom. The album seamless blends disco, funk, rock and country into a fluidity of sound that defies categorization, weaving elements of symphonic soul, mellifluous pop melodies, disco grooves, rootsy rawness, and ecstatic gospel power into a package that is as eclectic as it is groundbreaking.
“The album is like a window into my mind, my life experiences, my politics, my hopeful and sentimental sides, and my hope for humanity at large,” she says of the 12-track collection. At her most melodically and lyrically free, it is an album of both artistic freedom and subtle social commentary that Yola hopes will connect personally with anyone who has experienced being made to feel “other.”
Yola, who appeared on the big screen this past summer as Sister Rosetta Tharpe in Baz Luhrmann’s biopic Elvis, makes exciting new vocal choices on Stand for Myself. While her gale force power remains undiminished, she probes the layers of both higher and lower registers, exploring new textures on songs like the transporting title track, the addictive “If I Had to Do It All Again,” and the slow-burning “Great Divide,” which deftly balances grit and light.
Lyrically, she explores the difference between surviving and thriving (the languid R&B soul-searcher “Barely Alive”); inventively imagines new outcomes grappling with mortality (the inventive “Break the Bough”); frolics in the intersection of sentimentality and sexuality (the deeply sensual “Starlight”); recognizes the value of allyship (“Be My Friend,” featuring vocal contributions from Brandi Carlile); and takes control of her own destiny on the anthemic title track. In examining and embracing the various elements of her identity: black, female, empathic, creative, erotic, bawdy, sophisticated, curious, intelligent, and more, Yola takes listeners on a journey to self-actualization that they might not even realize they’ve been on until the album ends.
On the title track, she urges the listener to stand for themselves and those around them by challenging biases that fuel bigotry, inequality and tokenism which have deeply impacted her personal life and professional career. “It is about how people continue to bury their heads in the sand to hide from inconvenient truths that create a profound need to change how they think,” she says.
Yola was able to record Stand for Myself as the person she has known herself to be for years. She wanted to show her vulnerability, her hope, her intricacies, and to ultimately uncover all of those things for the listener.
“I want people to feel like they know a dark-skinned black woman a little better,” she says. “I could be the first, and all with an English accent and a chocolate-bar skin tone. I will be an example of nuance that one can reference that someone might not have had, because the media does not want to portray us in a way that is nuanced.”
If, she says, the first record was about introducing a person who, at a low point, recognized the need to ask for help, this second one illuminates that “I’ve been proven through this fire and I’m back to where I started, the real me. I kind of got talked out of being me and now I'm here. This is who I’ve always been in music and in life.”
Buy Tickets:
$35 Adults, $30 App State University Faculty/Staff, $20 Students
Tickets are available to purchase at theschaefercenter.org, in person at the Schaefer Center box office (733 Rivers Street), or by calling 828-262-4046.
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The Schaefer Center Presents 2022-23 Season
COMING SOON…
Complexions Contemporary Ballet in STAR DUST: From Bach to David Bowie
Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 at 7pm
“This was simply one of the most exciting performances I’ve seen on the dance series, less a rock ballet than a rock concert…” — The Washington Post
Tickets: $25 Adult, $20 Faculty/Staff, $10 Student
Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy: A Celtic Family Christmas
Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022 at 7pm
Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts
“Nothing short of jaw dropping … There are performances here that will raise you up and performances that will leave you misty-eyed.” —The Guardian
Tickets: $25 Adult, $20 Faculty/Staff, $10 Student
Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023 at 7pm
Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts
“Her voice has only gained texture and power over the years.” —Pitchfork
“[She] provides the comfort of a higher power.” —People
Tickets: $40 Adult, $35 Faculty/Staff, $20 Student
LA Theatre Works — Lucy Loves Desi: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Sitcom
Wednesday, March 8, 2023 at 7pm
Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts
This behind-the-scenes true story of TV’s iconic sitcom brings as much heart and humor to the stage as an episode of I Love Lucy itself.
Tickets: $20 Adult, $15 Local Resident, $5 Student
Thursday, March 23, 2023 at 7pm
Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts
“Indeed, if there is such a thing as perfection in music, Kodo comes as near to it as any group in the world.” —The Boston Globe
“Superlatives don’t really exist to convey the primal power and bravura beauty of Kodo. … Throughout, the devil of it is the combination of the discipline of a surgeon’s scalpel with the primitive, muscular endurance of a cavalry charge. The speed and dexterity are as impressive as the physical tenacity is breathtaking.” —Chicago Tribune
Tickets: $25 Adult, $20 Local Resident, $10 Student
Bela Fleck, Zakir Hussain, Edgar Meyer with Rakesh Chaurasia
Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 7pm
Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts
There’s a bit of the sorcerer in Béla Fleck (banjo), Zakir Hussain (tabla), Edgar Meyer (double bass), and their special guest Rakesh Chaurasia (bansuri – Indian flute). It’s music that transcends description — ineffable, indefinable, and very beautiful.
Tickets: $40 Adult, $35 Faculty/Staff, $20 Student
Tickets
A student discount is available for all shows; a faculty/staff discount is available for most shows; and a local resident discount for Lucy Loves Desi and KODO is available with proof of residence in Watauga, Ashe or Avery counties. Purchase in person at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts, call 800-841-2787 or 828-262-4046, or visit http://theschaefercenter.org.
About “The Schaefer Center Presents”
“The Schaefer Center Presents” is a series offering campus and community audiences a diverse array of music, dance and theatre programming designed to enrich the cultural landscape of the Appalachian State University campus and surrounding area. By creating memorable performance experiences and related educational and outreach activities, the series promotes the power and excitement of the live performance experience; provides a "window on the world" through the artistry of nationally and internationally renowned artists; and showcases some of the finest artists of our nation and our region. Musical events range from symphony orchestra and chamber music performances to jazz, folk, traditional, international, and popular artists. Theatre productions run the gamut from serious drama to musical comedy. Dance performances offer an equally wide array of styles, from ballet to modern dance to international companies representing cultural traditions from around the world. For more information, visit http://theschaefercenter.org.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Explore Boone, Creekside Electronics, University Bookstore, Hampton Inn & Suites, Courtyard by Marriott, Our State Magazine, High Country Radio (WZJS and WATA), WDAV 89.9 FM, WFDD 88.5FM, WKSK The Farm, and WASU 90.
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THE SCHAEFER CENTER PRESENTS… CO-SPONSORED EVENTS
The Schaefer Center Presents series is proud to support our university partners by co-sponsoring three series that are vital to the cultural life of the university. | https://www.yesweekly.com/music/country-soul-pop-funk-and-r-b-rising-star-yola-comes-to-boone-on-her/article_d4cd40ce-2887-11ed-bcdf-afa5e3e8b575.html | 2022-08-30T23:27:16Z | yesweekly.com | control | https://www.yesweekly.com/music/country-soul-pop-funk-and-r-b-rising-star-yola-comes-to-boone-on-her/article_d4cd40ce-2887-11ed-bcdf-afa5e3e8b575.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Greensboro Youth Chorus Seeking New Students
Registration Now Open for Season 35
GREENSBORO - Registration is now open for Greensboro Youth Chorus’s 35th Season for any student grades 2-12 with an interest in exploring singing. Students will learn to read music, sight-sing, and receive great vocal training in an environment where all are welcome. No auditions are required to join – just a love for music and a desire to have fun singing with others. Numerous performance opportunities will take place throughout the 2022-2023 season.
Students grades 2-5 will make up the Apprentice Choir, grades 6-8 will make up the Intermediate Choir, and grades 9-12 will make up the Concert Choir.
New Greensboro Youth Chorus (GYC) Artistic Director, LJ Martin, will conduct both the Intermediate Choir and the Concert Choir, and GYC is pleased to welcome Claire Jurs to conduct the Apprentice Choir.
There is a modest tuition fee to participate. Choir specific tuition rates can be found on our website at greensboroyouthchorus.org/gyc-choirs. Tuition is billed annually and may be paid in up to 6 installments. Need-based, partial scholarships are also available (Scholarship Application). Interested students may register online at: 2022-2023 Registration. Enrollment will remain open throughout September.
Rehearsals are held Tuesday evenings in the Greensboro Cultural Center, 200 N Davie St,from August 30through May 16. Tuesday, August 30, is Open House for all choirs at 5:30pm in room 121. Regular rehearsals begin with “Bring a Friend to Rehearsal Night” on Tuesday, September 6. Apprentice Choir rehearses from 5:15-6:00pm, Intermediate Choir from 5:30-6:30pm, and Concert Choir from 6:30-8:00pm.
About Greensboro Youth Chorus:
In December 2021, Greensboro Youth Chorus merged with Bel Canto Company to form The Choral Arts Collective. The vision of The Choral Arts Collective is of community that celebrates excellence, diversity, and lifelong participation in choral music. As part of The Choral Arts Collective, Bel Canto Company and the Greensboro Youth Chorus will continue to create engaging, inclusive, and entertaining choral experiences.
Founded in 1988, The Greensboro Youth Chorus has offered children opportunities that enrich their lives through music education and foster inner qualities, such as personal and group responsibility, independence, discipline, commitment, and self-esteem. An outstanding music faculty empowers young musicians through a challenging, creative, and diverse curriculum of the finest sacred and secular repertoire written for young voices. Students learn music reading skills, sight-singing skills, vocal training, choral techniques, as well as experience a variety of choral repertoire from various time periods and styles.
For more information, please visit greensboroyouthchorus.org or email gyc@choralartscollective.org. | https://www.yesweekly.com/music/greensboro-youth-chorus-seeking-new-students/article_cd30009e-289c-11ed-ab46-3be8313a8fb3.html | 2022-08-30T23:27:22Z | yesweekly.com | control | https://www.yesweekly.com/music/greensboro-youth-chorus-seeking-new-students/article_cd30009e-289c-11ed-ab46-3be8313a8fb3.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Piedmont Wind Symphony Announces 33rd Season
Winston-Salem, NC -- The Piedmont Wind Symphony, under the direction of Music Director and Conductor Mark Norman, announces its 33rd season. The upcoming season continues the wind symphony’s popular free outdoor pops concerts and features internationally acclaimed composer Omar Thomas, the return of holiday pops with NC vocalist Christal Rheams and Matt Niess of the Capitol Bones, John Corigliano’s Mr. Tambourine Man, a full-costume tribute to John Phillip Sousa with UNCG Conductor Emeritus John Locke, and the East Coast premiere of Unbroken by composer Randall Standridge. The Piedmont Wind Symphony will be also performing for the North Carolina Music Educators Association conference in November.
Discounted season subscription tickets are available through Eventbrite here until Nov. 4, 2022.
Piedmont Pops 1 – Patriotic Pops in The Pit!
Sunday, September 4, 2022, at 6:00 PM
Bailey Park Coal Pit in Front of Incendiary Brewing
FREE ADMISSION
The Piedmont Pops in the Pit series continues as the Piedmont Wind Symphony performs a patriotic program full of toe-tapping marches, military service songs, and patriotic favorites! Fun for the entire family! Lawn chairs encouraged! Rain Date: Monday, September 5, 2022, at 6:00 PM
Piedmont Pops 2 – Heroes and Villains! Battle for The Pit!
Sunday, September 18, 2022, at 6:00 PM
Bailey Park Coal Pit in Front of Incendiary Brewing
FREE ADMISSION
The Piedmont Pops in the Pit continues as the Piedmont Wind Symphony “summons the heroes” and explores its “dark” side in this program of music from Star Wars, the Marvel Universe and much more! Live music trivia returns so form your team and get ready to battle in the Pit! Lawn chairs encouraged!
Piedmont Wind Symphony 420 W. 4th Street, Suite 202A, Winston-Salem, NC 27101 pwsadmin@piedmontwindsymphony.com 336-770-5025
COME SUNDAY! Featuring Omar Thomas, Lindsay Kesselman, and the UNCSA Wind Ensemble
Friday, November 4, 2022, at 7:30 PM
Stevens Center of the UNC School of the Arts
Tickets available through Eventbrite here.
The Piedmont Wind Symphony will share the stage with celebrated Soprano Lindsay Kesselman and the UNCSA Wind Ensemble as UNCSA welcomes internationally acclaimed jazz composer and musician Omar Thomas as artist-in-residence. Described as “elegant, beautiful, sophisticated, intense, and crystal clear in emotional intent,” the music of Omar Thomas continues to move listeners in concert halls the world over. Thomas will speak about his music from the stage.
Holiday Piedmont Pops: Christal Rheams and Matt Niess with the Piedmont Wind Symphony
Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at 7:30 PM
The Ramkat
Tickets available soon through The Ramkat.
Ring in the Holiday season with the Piedmont Pops and special guest singer Christal Rheams performing Holiday and Jazz favorites. A native of Raleigh, NC, Christal has performed with the US Army Blues Jazz Band for over 22 years and has performed with Wayne Newton, Ricky Martin, and Trisha Yearwood. Most recently, Christal was a top five finalist on America’s Got Talent as a member of Voices of Service. Matt Niess of the Capitol Bones will be the guest arranger and soloist on this fantastic evening at the Ramkat!
Mr. Tambourine Man
Saturday, February 11, 2023, at 7:30 PM
Brendle Auditorium at Wake Forest University
Tickets available through Eventbrite here.
Celebrated Soprano Lindsay Kesselman sings American composer John Corigliano’s powerful Mr. Tambourine Man: Seven Poems of Bob Dylan with the Piedmont Wind Symphony. A fantastic and exuberant prologue precedes five searching and reflective monologues that form the core of the piece; and the epilogue: Forever Young makes a kind of folk-song benediction after the cycle's close. The inner five songs trace a journey of emotional and civic maturation for a very moving musical experience.
Also being performed is James Barnes’ personal Third Symphony, commissioned by the US Air Force Band, which progresses from the composer’s deepest darkness of despair in losing his baby daughter Natalie all the way to the brightness, fulfillment and joy of his son Billy being born a year later.
SOUSA! A Tribute to John Phillip Sousa and His Band
Saturday, April 22, 2023, at 7:30 PM @ Wait Chapel at Wake Forest University
Tickets available through Eventbrite here.
Don’t miss a fantastic evening of riveting marches, patriotic favorites and virtuosic soloists as the Piedmont Wind Symphony turns back time to become The Sousa Band! Led by Sousa specialist Conductor Emeritus at UNCG, John Locke, the band will be in full costume and the hall will be decked to resemble the days of Sousa’s Band as it traveled around the world to packed and enthusiastic audiences. You won’t want to miss this performance!
Piedmont Wind Symphony 420 W. 4th Street, Suite 202A, Winston-Salem, NC 27101 pwsadmin@piedmontwindsymphony.com 336-770-5025
About the Piedmont Wind Symphony
Founded in 1989, the Piedmont Wind Symphony consists of the finest professional musicians in the Piedmont-Triad area of North Carolina. Known for their energetic and innovative programming, PWS consistently brings headlining performers to its audiences such as Ben Folds, Al Jarreau, The Capitol Bones, Demondrae Thurman, and Arturo Sandoval. Thousands of concertgoers enjoy PWS performances and its Piedmont Pops concerts each year. Serving as a leading ambassador for NC bands, PWS frequently works with today’s composers and music educators in producing recordings and providing inspiration to band participants of all ages. To learn more about Piedmont Wind Symphony and its upcoming performances and events, visit www.piedmontwindsymphony.com.
About Mark A. Norman
Mark A. Norman is the Music Director of the Piedmont Wind Symphony and has enjoyed a career spanning over thirty-five years as a conductor and tuba performer. During his tenure with PWS, Mark has led the professional ensemble in critically acclaimed performances and in producing recordings including new works by Brian Balmages, John Mackey, and Randall Standridge. He serves as the Director of Instrumental Ensembles at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts where he conducts the wind ensemble, chamber winds, and serves as the resident conductor for the orchestra. He also teaches courses in conducting and music entrepreneurship and leads the graduate conducting program at UNCSA. Mark is a former member of several orchestras and was a tuba instrumentalist with the US Navy Band in Washington, DC. | https://www.yesweekly.com/music/piedmont-wind-symphony-announces-33rd-season/article_f24cc5b8-287b-11ed-beaf-db03375cd3c6.html | 2022-08-30T23:27:28Z | yesweekly.com | control | https://www.yesweekly.com/music/piedmont-wind-symphony-announces-33rd-season/article_f24cc5b8-287b-11ed-beaf-db03375cd3c6.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Creekside parkrun Celebrates First Anniversary
Archdale, N.C. – Creekside parkrun will celebrate its first anniversary on Saturday, September 17. Nearly every Saturday for the last year Creekside parkrun has brought this free, timed 5k to Creekside Park in Archdale. It is held in cooperation with Archdale Parks and Recreation (APRD) and is for all ages and abilities. The event averages 22 participants each week; 54 is the current attendance record. Organizers hope to set a new attendance record on September 17.
Parkruns are volunteer led events held all over the world, with over 50 in the United States.
According to Co-Event Director Joyce Wolford, “Creekside parkrun is for everyone, and there’s no charge to participate. We welcome runners and walkers, and love to see entire families. The goal of parkrun is to encourage folks to be active and enjoy the outdoors.” Four-legged family members, known as barkrunners, are also welcome at parkrun.
The anniversary event will be 45th 5k since Creekside parkrun began Sept. 18, 2021. The event has only been cancelled a few times due to inclement weather and when there have been conflicts with other activities at the park. In addition to Saturdays, Creekside parkrun holds a Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day. The central location of Creekside Park makes it convenient for participants not only from Randolph County, but from surrounding counties as well.
The Creekside parkrun course starts and finishes near Mose Drive, behind the Senior Center, inside Creekside Park. First-time participants should arrive around 8:45 a.m. for a course briefing. There’s an event briefing for everyone at 8:55 a.m., and the 5k starts at 9 a.m. Participants are required to complete a one-time registration at https://www.parkrun.us/creekside/ to obtain their free, personal barcode. The barcode is scanned at the completion of each event to calculate results. It also inc1udes the participant’s emergency contact information. There is no sign-up for each week’s event.
For more information about Creekside parkrun, visit our website or email creekside@parkrun.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @creeksideparkrun. | https://www.yesweekly.com/sports/creekside-parkrun-celebrates-first-anniversary/article_3e6eac5e-288b-11ed-b5d1-ffaaa070a872.html | 2022-08-30T23:27:34Z | yesweekly.com | control | https://www.yesweekly.com/sports/creekside-parkrun-celebrates-first-anniversary/article_3e6eac5e-288b-11ed-b5d1-ffaaa070a872.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The 2023 Nissan Rogue compact crossover carries over mostly unchanged into the new model year, except for a small price increase of $240 over the 2022 Rogue. The base S costs $28,655, including a $1,295 destination fee.
The only significant change to Nissan’s bestseller comes with a new Midnight Edition on the SV grade that adds 18-inch black alloy wheels, black exterior accents, a glossy grille insert, and black synthetic leather on the inside. It costs an extra $1,535. Top grades get Amazon Alexa.
On Monday, Nissan announced it would discontinue the smaller Rogue Sport at the end of the year, with Nissan shoppers splitting their interest between the Nissan Kicks small crossover and the proper Nissan Rogue.
For 2023, every Rogue uses a variable-compression 1.5-liter turbo-3 that makes 201 hp and 225 lb-ft of torque. It’s more potent and more efficient than the 2.5-liter inline-4 that powered the redesigned 2021 Rogue. It pairs with a CVT driving the front wheels; all-wheel drive is available across the lineup for $1,500.
Standard features include 17-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Every Rogue comes with driver-assist features such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitors.
Stepping up to the Rogue SV unlocks more options, better features, and a stronger value, with only a $210 increase from last year. The SV costs $30,345 and adds a power driver seat, wi-fi, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, and remote start. Shoppers can upgrade to a Premium Package or the Midnight Edition.
The 2023 Rogue SL costs $35,005 and adds synthetic leather upholstery, power front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The Platinum tops the lineup at $38,335 and adds navigation that can adjust the speed of the adaptive cruise control system to match the highway, wireless Apple CarPlay, a Bose sound system, a 9.0-inch touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
The 2023 Rogue goes on sale this fall.
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- 2023 Kia Sportage crossover SUV qualifies for Top Safety Pick status | https://www.wpri.com/automotive/internet-brands/2023-nissan-rogue-gets-modest-price-increase-to-28655/ | 2022-08-30T23:30:46Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/automotive/internet-brands/2023-nissan-rogue-gets-modest-price-increase-to-28655/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
JOHANNESBURG (AP) — Angola’s opposition party has filed a complaint against the election victory of the ruling MPLA party in which President Joao Lourenco won a second term and the party got a reduced majority in the legislature.
The main opposition party, the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola, known as UNITA, said Tuesday that it has submitted an objection to the results.
“UNITA reiterates that it will not recognize the results announced by the National Electoral Commission until the complaints already in its possession are resolved,” the party said in a statement.
If UNITA’s written complaint is rejected, the party can take the objection to the Constitutional Court, which must rule on the complaint within 72 hours, according to Angola’s electoral regulations.
The Peoples Movement for the Liberation of Angola, known by its Portuguese acronym MPLA, won with 51% of the votes cast, extending its 47-year rule of the country, according to the electoral commission’s results.
As the party’s leader, Lourenco, 68, welcomed the official results which have given him a second five-year presidential term.
UNITA got its best-ever result, coming in second with about 44% of the votes, according to the electoral commission.
However, UNITA on Tuesday claimed that according to its calculations it should have won the election with 64% of the vote.
Although UNITA’s leader, Adalberto Costa Junior has rejected the official results, he has urged calm. There have been no reports of major demonstrations in the capital, Luanda, or other cities.
Voter turnout was low on voting day last week with just 45.7% of registered voters casting their ballots.
In the national legislature, the MPLA lost the two-thirds majority that it needs to pass major bills, although it won a majority with 124 of the National Assembly’s 220 seats. UNITA has nearly doubled its presence in the legislature to 90 seats. The remaining seats were won by smaller parties.
UNITA had campaigned for the support of Angola’s young, urban population and it won in Luanda, Angola’s most populous province, and in Cabinda and Zaire, the country’s main oil-producing provinces.
Angola is Africa’s second-largest producer of oil and has rich diamond deposits, but the majority of the southern African country’s 34 million people remain in poverty, according to the U.N, and unemployment is currently above 30%.
Both the MPLA and UNITA are former rebel movements that fought Portuguese colonial rule. The MPLA won power with backing from the Soviet Union and established Marxist rule when Angola became independent in 1975. UNITA fought a bitter civil war against the MPLA, with support from the U.S. and apartheid-ruled South Africa.
In a negotiated truce, the MPLA agreed to multiparty elections held in 1992. UNITA furiously rejected the MPLA’s win and the country was plunged back into civil war that only ended in 2002.
Since then, UNITA has transformed itself from a rebel group into a political party, particularly under the new leadership of Costa Junior, who didn’t fight in the civil war. Costa Junior has succeeded in gaining support from other opposition politicians and intellectuals.
UNITA legally challenged its loss in the 2017 election but the courts ruled in favor of the MPLA. | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-angolan-opposition-unita-rejects-ruling-partys-election-win/ | 2022-08-30T23:31:29Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-angolan-opposition-unita-rejects-ruling-partys-election-win/ | 0 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | 44 |
JOHANNESBURG (AP) — Angola’s opposition party has filed a complaint against the election victory of the ruling MPLA party in which President Joao Lourenco won a second term and the party got a reduced majority in the legislature.
The main opposition party, the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola, known as UNITA, said Tuesday that it has submitted an objection to the results.
“UNITA reiterates that it will not recognize the results announced by the National Electoral Commission until the complaints already in its possession are resolved,” the party said in a statement.
If UNITA’s written complaint is rejected, the party can take the objection to the Constitutional Court, which must rule on the complaint within 72 hours, according to Angola’s electoral regulations.
The Peoples Movement for the Liberation of Angola, known by its Portuguese acronym MPLA, won with 51% of the votes cast, extending its 47-year rule of the country, according to the electoral commission’s results.
As the party’s leader, Lourenco, 68, welcomed the official results which have given him a second five-year presidential term.
UNITA got its best-ever result, coming in second with about 44% of the votes, according to the electoral commission.
However, UNITA on Tuesday claimed that according to its calculations it should have won the election with 64% of the vote.
Although UNITA’s leader, Adalberto Costa Junior has rejected the official results, he has urged calm. There have been no reports of major demonstrations in the capital, Luanda, or other cities.
Voter turnout was low on voting day last week with just 45.7% of registered voters casting their ballots.
In the national legislature, the MPLA lost the two-thirds majority that it needs to pass major bills, although it won a majority with 124 of the National Assembly’s 220 seats. UNITA has nearly doubled its presence in the legislature to 90 seats. The remaining seats were won by smaller parties.
UNITA had campaigned for the support of Angola’s young, urban population and it won in Luanda, Angola’s most populous province, and in Cabinda and Zaire, the country’s main oil-producing provinces.
Angola is Africa’s second-largest producer of oil and has rich diamond deposits, but the majority of the southern African country’s 34 million people remain in poverty, according to the U.N, and unemployment is currently above 30%.
Both the MPLA and UNITA are former rebel movements that fought Portuguese colonial rule. The MPLA won power with backing from the Soviet Union and established Marxist rule when Angola became independent in 1975. UNITA fought a bitter civil war against the MPLA, with support from the U.S. and apartheid-ruled South Africa.
In a negotiated truce, the MPLA agreed to multiparty elections held in 1992. UNITA furiously rejected the MPLA’s win and the country was plunged back into civil war that only ended in 2002.
Since then, UNITA has transformed itself from a rebel group into a political party, particularly under the new leadership of Costa Junior, who didn’t fight in the civil war. Costa Junior has succeeded in gaining support from other opposition politicians and intellectuals.
UNITA legally challenged its loss in the 2017 election but the courts ruled in favor of the MPLA. | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-angolan-opposition-unita-rejects-ruling-partys-election-win/ | 2022-08-30T23:31:29Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-angolan-opposition-unita-rejects-ruling-partys-election-win/ | 1 | 0 | green-iguana-35 | 44 |
TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey arrived in Taiwan on Tuesday for a visit focused on semiconductors, the critical chips that are used in everyday electronics and have become a battleground in the technology competition between the U.S. and China.
His visit is the latest in a recent string by U.S. politicians that have angered China, which claims the self-governing island off its coast as part of its territory and says the visits encourage Taiwan independence forces.
Ducey is on a mission to woo suppliers for the new $12 billion Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp. (TSMC) plant being built in his state. He is traveling with the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry president and the head of the state’s economic development agency.
He will meet with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, business leaders and university representatives in the semiconductor industry, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
The governor’s office said he will travel to South Korea and meet with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and business leaders later this week.
“The goal of this trade mission is to take these relationships to the next level – to strengthen them, expand them and ensure they remain mutually beneficial.”
American states are competing to attract a multibillion-dollar wave of investment in chip factories as the U.S. government steps up spending on expanding the U.S. semiconductor industry with a recently passed law. Last week, the Indiana governor visited Taiwan for a similar purpose.
Taiwan produces more than half the global supply of high-end processor chips.
U.S. officials worry that the United States relies too heavily on Taiwan and other Asian suppliers for processor chips used in smartphones, medical devices, cars and most other electronic devices.
Those worries have been aggravated by tensions with China over technology and security. The potential for disruption was highlighted by chip shortages due to the coronavirus pandemic that sent shockwaves through the auto and electronics industries.
Beijing fired missiles into the sea near the island starting on Aug. 4 after U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited, disrupting shipping and air traffic, and highlighting the possibility that chip exports might be interrupted.
A law approved by Congress on July 29 promises more than $52 billion in grants and other aid to develop the U.S. semiconductor industry and a 25% tax credit for investors in chip factories in the United States.
State governments are now promising tax breaks and grants to lure chip factories they hope will become centers for high-tech industry.
Intel Corp., the only major U.S. producer, announced plans in March 2021 to build two chip factories in Arizona at a cost of $20 billion. The company has had another facility in Arizona since 1980.
In January, Intel announced plans to invest $20 billion in a chip factory in Ohio.
TSMC, headquartered in Taiwan and which makes chips for Apple Inc. and other customers, announced plans last year to invest $3.5 billion in its second U.S. manufacturing site on the northern outskirts of Phoenix, Arizona.
The company recently completed construction of the main buildings at the $12 billion north Phoenix facility and can now start moving in manufacturing equipment, with production expected to start by 2024, according to Ducey’s office. TSMC’s decision to build the facility has led other Taiwan-based suppliers to expand in Arizona, with investments totaling $1 billion already announced.
Ducey’s five-day trip to Taiwan and South Korea comes as the Republican governor prepares to leave office because of term limits in January. One of the former businessman’s major focuses in his eight years in office has been on boosting Arizona’s economy by adding to its manufacturing base. New electric vehicle companies have begun production, adding to its existing semiconductor firms.
South Korea’s LG Energy Solutions announced in April that it planned to invest $1.4 billion to build an electric vehicle battery manufacturing facility on land it purchased in the Phoenix suburb of Queen Creek. The company later said it would reassess its plans because of changing global economic conditions. Arizona development officials continue to work with LG.
U.S. semiconductor manufacturing has long been established in Arizona, and the state has more than 200 production facilities in addition to Intel and the new TSMC plant.
TSMC’s first U.S. semiconductor wafer fabrication facility is in Camas, Washington. It also operates design centers in San Jose, California, and Austin, Texas.
South Korea’s Samsung Electronics says it will break ground in 2024 for a $17 billion chip factory near Austin, Texas. The state says it is the biggest single investment to date in Texas.
___
McDonald reported from Beijing, China. Associated Press Reporter Bob Christie contributed from Phoenix. | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-arizona-governor-to-focus-on-semiconductors-in-taiwan-visit/ | 2022-08-30T23:31:36Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-arizona-governor-to-focus-on-semiconductors-in-taiwan-visit/ | 0 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | 33 |
TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey arrived in Taiwan on Tuesday for a visit focused on semiconductors, the critical chips that are used in everyday electronics and have become a battleground in the technology competition between the U.S. and China.
His visit is the latest in a recent string by U.S. politicians that have angered China, which claims the self-governing island off its coast as part of its territory and says the visits encourage Taiwan independence forces.
Ducey is on a mission to woo suppliers for the new $12 billion Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp. (TSMC) plant being built in his state. He is traveling with the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry president and the head of the state’s economic development agency.
He will meet with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, business leaders and university representatives in the semiconductor industry, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
The governor’s office said he will travel to South Korea and meet with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and business leaders later this week.
“The goal of this trade mission is to take these relationships to the next level – to strengthen them, expand them and ensure they remain mutually beneficial.”
American states are competing to attract a multibillion-dollar wave of investment in chip factories as the U.S. government steps up spending on expanding the U.S. semiconductor industry with a recently passed law. Last week, the Indiana governor visited Taiwan for a similar purpose.
Taiwan produces more than half the global supply of high-end processor chips.
U.S. officials worry that the United States relies too heavily on Taiwan and other Asian suppliers for processor chips used in smartphones, medical devices, cars and most other electronic devices.
Those worries have been aggravated by tensions with China over technology and security. The potential for disruption was highlighted by chip shortages due to the coronavirus pandemic that sent shockwaves through the auto and electronics industries.
Beijing fired missiles into the sea near the island starting on Aug. 4 after U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited, disrupting shipping and air traffic, and highlighting the possibility that chip exports might be interrupted.
A law approved by Congress on July 29 promises more than $52 billion in grants and other aid to develop the U.S. semiconductor industry and a 25% tax credit for investors in chip factories in the United States.
State governments are now promising tax breaks and grants to lure chip factories they hope will become centers for high-tech industry.
Intel Corp., the only major U.S. producer, announced plans in March 2021 to build two chip factories in Arizona at a cost of $20 billion. The company has had another facility in Arizona since 1980.
In January, Intel announced plans to invest $20 billion in a chip factory in Ohio.
TSMC, headquartered in Taiwan and which makes chips for Apple Inc. and other customers, announced plans last year to invest $3.5 billion in its second U.S. manufacturing site on the northern outskirts of Phoenix, Arizona.
The company recently completed construction of the main buildings at the $12 billion north Phoenix facility and can now start moving in manufacturing equipment, with production expected to start by 2024, according to Ducey’s office. TSMC’s decision to build the facility has led other Taiwan-based suppliers to expand in Arizona, with investments totaling $1 billion already announced.
Ducey’s five-day trip to Taiwan and South Korea comes as the Republican governor prepares to leave office because of term limits in January. One of the former businessman’s major focuses in his eight years in office has been on boosting Arizona’s economy by adding to its manufacturing base. New electric vehicle companies have begun production, adding to its existing semiconductor firms.
South Korea’s LG Energy Solutions announced in April that it planned to invest $1.4 billion to build an electric vehicle battery manufacturing facility on land it purchased in the Phoenix suburb of Queen Creek. The company later said it would reassess its plans because of changing global economic conditions. Arizona development officials continue to work with LG.
U.S. semiconductor manufacturing has long been established in Arizona, and the state has more than 200 production facilities in addition to Intel and the new TSMC plant.
TSMC’s first U.S. semiconductor wafer fabrication facility is in Camas, Washington. It also operates design centers in San Jose, California, and Austin, Texas.
South Korea’s Samsung Electronics says it will break ground in 2024 for a $17 billion chip factory near Austin, Texas. The state says it is the biggest single investment to date in Texas.
___
McDonald reported from Beijing, China. Associated Press Reporter Bob Christie contributed from Phoenix. | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-arizona-governor-to-focus-on-semiconductors-in-taiwan-visit/ | 2022-08-30T23:31:36Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-arizona-governor-to-focus-on-semiconductors-in-taiwan-visit/ | 1 | 0 | green-iguana-35 | 33 |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Any federal student loans used to attend the for-profit Westwood College from 2002 through 2015 will be canceled after federal officials found that the school greatly exaggerated the job prospects of its graduates, the Biden administration announced Tuesday.
The action will automatically erase $1.5 billion in federal student debt for 79,000 borrowers who attended the now-defunct college, according to the Education Department.
It adds to the administration’s mounting effort to cancel federal loans for students who were defrauded by their colleges — more than $14 billion has been erased so far — and it follows President Joe Biden’s sweeping plan to cancel at least $10,000 in student debt for millions of Americans.
The Westwood College cancellation applies to all students who attended the chain from Jan. 1, 2002, through Nov. 17, 2015, when the college stopped enrolling new students before its 2016 closure. Students will not need to apply for the relief.
With help from attorneys general in Colorado and Illinois, federal officials found that the college routinely misled prospective students about their chances of getting good jobs after graduating.
In its marketing materials, the chain advertised employment rates and salary outcomes that were “grossly inflated,” the Education Department found. It also promised to help graduates pay their bills if they couldn’t find jobs within six months after graduating — a pledge officials say wasn’t kept.
In Illinois, the chain’s criminal justice programs told students they could expect law enforcement jobs in agencies including the Illinois State Police, but Westwood never had the accreditation needed to meet employment requirements for the state, authorities found.
“Westwood operated on a culture of false promises, lies, and manipulation in order to profit off student debt that burdened borrowers long after Westwood closed,” said James Kvaal, under secretary of education.
Kvaal said the administration is ramping up efforts to protect students and to “ensure that executives who commit such harm never work at institutions that receive federal financial aid again.”
Before its closure, Westwood operated 15 campuses in California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois and Virginia, along with online programs.
A group of students and civil rights organizations sued the Education Department in May demanding debt cancellation for Westwood students in Illinois based on findings of fraud there. It followed a settlement between the college and Illinois that erased institutional loans but not federal debt.
“It never should have taken this long — or litigation — for the Department of Education to do the right thing, but we are thrilled that the department has finally discharged the loans of defrauded Westwood College students,” said Dan Zibel, chief counsel at National Student Legal Defense Network, one of the groups behind the suit.
Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., called it a victory for students but said more must be done “to crack down on for-profit colleges that lie and lead Illinoisans into mountains of student debt without a viable degree or career path.”
The cancellation is being granted through a federal rule known as borrower defense, which provides federal student debt cancellation to borrowers whose colleges misled them or defrauded them in other ways. The rule has mostly been used to erase debt used to attend for-profit colleges.
In similar actions, the Biden administration also moved to cancel nearly $6 billion for former students of Corinthian Colleges and nearly $4 billion for former students of ITT Technical institute.
After months of intense pressure for broader student debt cancellation, Biden last week unveiled a plan to forgive $10,000 in federal student debt for all borrowers with incomes less than $125,000 a year or $250,000 per household. Those who received a federal Pell Grant to attend college are eligible for an additional $10,000 in cancellation.
The plan, which is almost certain to be challenged in court, applies to federal student loans that were paid out before July 1 of this year. It applies to loans used to attend undergraduate and graduate programs.
Most borrowers will need to apply for cancellation through an application that the Education Department is expected to create by early October. Early applicants could see their student debt canceled before the start of next year, when a federal pause on student debt payments is set to expire.
The White House estimates the cancellation will cost $240 billion over the next 10 years, but outside analysts say it could be much higher. Official cost projections from the federal government are expected in coming weeks.
___
The Associated Press education team receives support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-former-westwood-college-students-get-federal-debt-canceled/ | 2022-08-30T23:32:19Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-former-westwood-college-students-get-federal-debt-canceled/ | 0 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | 47 |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Any federal student loans used to attend the for-profit Westwood College from 2002 through 2015 will be canceled after federal officials found that the school greatly exaggerated the job prospects of its graduates, the Biden administration announced Tuesday.
The action will automatically erase $1.5 billion in federal student debt for 79,000 borrowers who attended the now-defunct college, according to the Education Department.
It adds to the administration’s mounting effort to cancel federal loans for students who were defrauded by their colleges — more than $14 billion has been erased so far — and it follows President Joe Biden’s sweeping plan to cancel at least $10,000 in student debt for millions of Americans.
The Westwood College cancellation applies to all students who attended the chain from Jan. 1, 2002, through Nov. 17, 2015, when the college stopped enrolling new students before its 2016 closure. Students will not need to apply for the relief.
With help from attorneys general in Colorado and Illinois, federal officials found that the college routinely misled prospective students about their chances of getting good jobs after graduating.
In its marketing materials, the chain advertised employment rates and salary outcomes that were “grossly inflated,” the Education Department found. It also promised to help graduates pay their bills if they couldn’t find jobs within six months after graduating — a pledge officials say wasn’t kept.
In Illinois, the chain’s criminal justice programs told students they could expect law enforcement jobs in agencies including the Illinois State Police, but Westwood never had the accreditation needed to meet employment requirements for the state, authorities found.
“Westwood operated on a culture of false promises, lies, and manipulation in order to profit off student debt that burdened borrowers long after Westwood closed,” said James Kvaal, under secretary of education.
Kvaal said the administration is ramping up efforts to protect students and to “ensure that executives who commit such harm never work at institutions that receive federal financial aid again.”
Before its closure, Westwood operated 15 campuses in California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois and Virginia, along with online programs.
A group of students and civil rights organizations sued the Education Department in May demanding debt cancellation for Westwood students in Illinois based on findings of fraud there. It followed a settlement between the college and Illinois that erased institutional loans but not federal debt.
“It never should have taken this long — or litigation — for the Department of Education to do the right thing, but we are thrilled that the department has finally discharged the loans of defrauded Westwood College students,” said Dan Zibel, chief counsel at National Student Legal Defense Network, one of the groups behind the suit.
Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., called it a victory for students but said more must be done “to crack down on for-profit colleges that lie and lead Illinoisans into mountains of student debt without a viable degree or career path.”
The cancellation is being granted through a federal rule known as borrower defense, which provides federal student debt cancellation to borrowers whose colleges misled them or defrauded them in other ways. The rule has mostly been used to erase debt used to attend for-profit colleges.
In similar actions, the Biden administration also moved to cancel nearly $6 billion for former students of Corinthian Colleges and nearly $4 billion for former students of ITT Technical institute.
After months of intense pressure for broader student debt cancellation, Biden last week unveiled a plan to forgive $10,000 in federal student debt for all borrowers with incomes less than $125,000 a year or $250,000 per household. Those who received a federal Pell Grant to attend college are eligible for an additional $10,000 in cancellation.
The plan, which is almost certain to be challenged in court, applies to federal student loans that were paid out before July 1 of this year. It applies to loans used to attend undergraduate and graduate programs.
Most borrowers will need to apply for cancellation through an application that the Education Department is expected to create by early October. Early applicants could see their student debt canceled before the start of next year, when a federal pause on student debt payments is set to expire.
The White House estimates the cancellation will cost $240 billion over the next 10 years, but outside analysts say it could be much higher. Official cost projections from the federal government are expected in coming weeks.
___
The Associated Press education team receives support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-former-westwood-college-students-get-federal-debt-canceled/ | 2022-08-30T23:32:19Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-former-westwood-college-students-get-federal-debt-canceled/ | 1 | 0 | green-iguana-35 | 47 |
FORD PERFORMANCE NASCAR: DARLINGTON NOTES
The NASCAR Cup Series playoffs kick off this weekend at Darlington Raceway with five Ford drivers eligible to compete for this year’s championship. Joey Logano is going for a season sweep on the Cup side after winning in the spring while Kevin Harvick looks for his second Southern 500 victory in the past three years. The NASCAR Xfinity Series, which has three races remaining in its regular season, will race on Saturday.
This Week’s Schedule:
Saturday, Sept. 3 – NASCAR XFINITY Series, 3 p.m. (USA)
Sunday, Sept. 4 – NASCAR Cup Series, 6 p.m. (USA)
FORD IN THE NASCAR CUP SERIES AT DARLINGTON
- Ford has 32 all-time series wins at Darlington.
- NASCAR Hall of Famer Curtis Turner won Ford’s first race at Darlington in 1966.
- Brad Keselowski, Kevin Harvick and Joey Logano have Ford wins at Darlington.
ROUND OF 16 NCS PLAYOFF STANDINGS (Top 12 Advance After Bristol)
2nd – Joey Logano (-15 behind 1st place)
7th – Ryan Blaney (-27)
9th – Kevin Harvick (-28)
12th – Chase Briscoe (-31)
14th – Austin Cindric (-34)
FORD IN THE NASCAR XFINITY SERIES AT DARLINGTON
- Ford has 20 series wins at Darlington.
- Mark Martin holds the record for most series wins at Darlington with eight.
- Jack Roush leads all owners with 15 Darlington series wins.
THE FORD FIVE AT DARLINGTON
Darlington Raceway has been a good stop on the NASCAR Cup Series circuit for the five Ford drivers in the playoff field. Kevin Harvick has three career Cup victories and 18 top-10 finishes in 29 career starts while Joey Logano owns one win and 9 top-10 efforts (17 starts). Chase Briscoe, who will be making his fourth Cup Series start at Darlington, has one win at the track in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Ryan Blaney’s best finish at the Lady in Black in 11 career starts is 8th while Austin Cindric finished 18th in his debut Cup race earlier this year after posting three top 10 runs in six career NXS races.
LOGANO GOING FOR SEASON SWEEP
Joey Logano looks to become the first Ford driver to sweep consecutive races at Darlington Raceway since Jeff Burton did it for Roush Racing in 1999. Logano earned his first Cup Series win at the Track Too Tough To Tame in May when he passed William Byron with two laps to go. After earning the pole, Logano proceeded to lead a race-high eight times for 107 laps as he became the 10th different winner in the first 12 races. Logano could actually be the second Ford driver to win twice at Darlington in the last three years after Kevin Harvick won 2-of-3 races during the 2020 season.
HARVICK CELEBRATES RETURN TO RACING IN STYLE
Nobody enjoyed a return to Darlington in 2020 more than Kevin Harvick, who celebrated the sport’s return to competition by winning his 50th career series race in what turned out to be the first of three NASCAR Cup Series races held at the track dubbed ‘Too Tough to Tame.’ Harvick led 159-of-293 laps and once he passed fellow Ford driver Brad Keselowski on lap 216, he never trailed again. That marked the first of two Darlington wins on the season for Harvick, who captured the annual Southern 500 in the fall.
KESELOWSKI SPARKS BACK-TO-BACK 1-2 FINISHES
Brad Keselowski was at the forefront of consecutive 1-2 Ford finishes when he swept the NASCAR XFINITY and NASCAR Cup Series fall Darlington weekend in 2018. Keselowski led the final 33 laps and won Saturday’s NXS event after Ross Chastain and Kevin Harvick made contact while battling for the lead. Cole Custer finished second to Keselowski, who registered his first win at Darlington. One night later Keselowski got his second after the No. 2 pit crew got him the lead on the final round of stops. Keselowski took off on the restart and beat Penske teammate Joey Logano to the finish line for Ford’s first Cup win at Darlington since Greg Biffle in 2006.
WOOD BROTHERS LEAD THE WAY
It comes as no surprise that the Wood Brothers are Ford’s all-time winningest team at Darlington Raceway, posting eight career victories. All but one of those triumphs came in a Mercury, which the team ran in the 1960’s and 70’s. David Pearson, who holds the record with 10 career Darlington Cup victories, led the way with six while Cale Yarborough captured the team’s first in 1968. The last Darlington win for Wood Brothers Racing came in 1981 when Neil Bonnett took the Southern 500 in 1981 behind the wheel of a Ford.
DARLINGTON MASTER
David Pearson holds the record for most NASCAR Cup Series wins at Darlington Raceway with 10 and eight of those came in Ford Motor Co. products. He won six times driving the famed No. 21 Wood Brothers Mercury (1972,’74,’76-2,’77), winning the Southern 500 twice in that span (1976-77), and two more times in a Holman-Moody Ford (1968 and ’70). Pearson won three Southern 500 titles overall, capturing his third in 1979.
FIELD OF 70
The first time Ford won a NASCAR Cup Series race at Darlington Raceway was when Curtis Turner took the Southern 500 on Sept. 3, 1956. Unlike today, where the field is set at a maximum of 40 cars, there were 70 vehicles in the race that saw Turner lead 224 of the 400 laps. He beat Speedy Thompson to the finish line by more than two laps, and did it in record fashion with an average race speed of 95.167 mph.
FORD NASCAR CUP SERIES WINNERS AT DARLINGTON
1956 – Curtis Turner
1960 – Joe Weatherly (1)
1961 – Fred Lorenzen and Nelson Stacy
1962 – Nelson Stacy and Larry Frank
1963 – Fireball Roberts (2)
1964 – Fred Lorenzen (1)
1965 – Junior Johnson and Ned Jarrett
1968 – David Pearson (1)
1969 – Lee Roy Yarbrough (2)
1970 – David Pearson (1)
1981 – Neil Bonnett (2)
1982 – Dale Earnhardt (1)
1985 – Bill Elliott (Sweep)
1988 – Bill Elliott (2)
1992 – Bill Elliott (1)
1993 – Mark Martin (2)
1994 – Bill Elliott (2)
1997 – Dale Jarrett (1)
1998 – Dale Jarrett (1)
1999 – Jeff Burton (Sweep)
2001 – Dale Jarrett (1)
2005 – Greg Biffle
2006 – Greg Biffle
2018 – Brad Keselowski
2020 – Kevin Harvick (1) and (3)
2022 – Joey Logano (1)
FORD NASCAR XFINITY SERIES WINNERS AT DARLINGTON
1993 – Mark Martin (2)
1994 – Mark Martin (Sweep)
1995 – Mark Martin (2)
1996 – Mark Martin (1) and Terry Labonte (2)
1997 – Jeff Burton (2)
1999 – Mark Martin (2)
2000 – Mark Martin (Sweep)
2001 – Jeff Green (1) and Jeff Burton (2)
2002 – Jeff Burton (Sweep)
2004 – Greg Biffle
2005 – Matt Kenseth
2009 – Matt Kenseth
2018 – Brad Keselowski
2019 – Cole Custer
2020 – Chase Briscoe (1)
Ford Performance PR | https://www.speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/nascar-cup-series-news/72462-ford-performance-nascar-logano-going-for-darlington-season-sweep-as-cup-playoffs-begin | 2022-08-30T23:33:39Z | speedwaydigest.com | control | https://www.speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/nascar-cup-series-news/72462-ford-performance-nascar-logano-going-for-darlington-season-sweep-as-cup-playoffs-begin | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Chevrolet’s 2022 NASCAR Cup Series Playoff Drivers:
Chase Elliott, No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Camaro ZL1 – 1st in Playoff Standings
2022 NASCAR Cup Series Regular Season Champion
Victories: 4 (series-leading)
Top-Fives: 10 (tied for series-leading);
Top-10s: 17 (series-leading);
Laps Led: 719 (series-leading);
Average Finish: 10.5 (series-leading);
Stage Wins: 5
Of Note:
- For the first time in his NCS career, Elliott was crowned the 2022 NCS Regular Season Champion.
- The 2022 season marks Elliott’s seventh consecutive appearance in the NCS playoffs.
- Elliott has advanced to the Championship 4 the past two seasons, winning his first career NCS Driver Championship in 2020.
- Six of his 17 career NCS wins have come in the playoffs.
Ross Chastain, No. 1 Trackhouse Racing Camaro ZL1 – 3rd in Playoff Standings
Victories: 2
Top-Fives: 10 (tied for series-leading);
Top-10s: 14
Laps Led: 583
Average Finish: 14.6
Stage Wins: 5
Of Note:
- The 2022 season marks Chastain’s first career appearance in the NCS playoffs.
- Chastain secured a playoff berth with his first career NCS win at COTA in March; also marking Trackhouse Racing’s first win in the organization’s second season in the series.
Kyle Larson, No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Camaro ZL1 – 4th in Playoff Standings
2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Victories: 2
Top-Fives: 10 (tied for series-leading)
Top-10s: 13
Laps Led: 307
Average Finish: 14.3
Stage Wins: 3
Of Note:
- In 2021, Larson scored his first career NCS Regular Season Championship, going on to win his first career NCS Driver Championship.
- The 2022 season marks Larson’s sixth appearance in the NCS playoffs, with 2021 bringing Larson his first trip to the Championship 4.
- During the playoff era (2004-present); Larson leads the series in multiple playoff race wins in a single season’ with five in 2021 (Bristol, Charlotte ROVAL, Texas, Kansas, Phoenix).
William Byron, No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Camaro ZL1 – 5th in Playoff Standings
Victories: 2
Top-Fives: 4
Top-10s: 5
Laps Led: 612
Average Finish: 18.1
Stage Wins: 3
Of Note:
- The 2022 season marks Byron’s fourth consecutive appearance in the NCS playoffs.
- Bryon’s career-best finish in the NCS playoffs came in 2021, finishing the season 10th in the final standings.
Tyler Reddick, No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Camaro ZL1 – 8th in Playoff Standings
Victories: 2
Top-Fives: 8
Top-10s: 11
Laps Led: 331
Average Finish: 16.7
Stage Wins: 2
Of Notes:
- The 2022 season marks Reddick’s second consecutive appearance in the NCS playoffs, with his first coming in 2021.
- Reddick earned a playoff berth following his first career NCS win at Road America; going on to win his second of the season at the Indianapolis Road Course.
Daniel Suarez, No. 99 Trackhouse Racing Camaro ZL1 – 13th in Playoff Standings
Victories: 1
Top-Fives: 6
Top-10s: 10
Laps Led: 238
Average Finish: 16.5
Stage Wins: 2
Of Note:
- The 2022 season marks Suarez’s first career appearance in the NCS playoffs.
- Suarez earned his playoff berth following his first career NCS win at Sonoma Raceway.
Alex Bowman, No. 48 Ally Camaro ZL1 – 14th in Playoff Standings
Victories: 1
Top-Fives: 3
Top-10s: 10
Laps Led: 29
Average Finish: 15.7
Stage Wins: 1
Of Note:
- The 2022 season marks Bowman’s fifth consecutive appearance in the NCS playoffs.
- Bowman has raced his way into the Round of 12 in each of his NCS playoff appearances; making it to the Round of Eight in the 2020 season to score a career-best sixth in the final standings.
Austin Dillon, No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Camaro ZL1 – 16th in Playoff Standings
Victories: 1
Top-Fives: 4
Top-10s: 8
Laps Led: 18
Average Finish: 19.8
Stage Wins: 0
Of Note:
- The 2022 season marks Dillon’s fifth appearance in the NCS playoffs.
- Dillon’s playoff berth came from his win in the NCS regular season finale at Daytona International Speedway, after entering the weekend in a must-win scenario to take one of the final two playoff spots.
- Dillon’s career-best finish in the NCS playoffs is 11th, accomplishing that feat in 2017 and 2020.
GM PR | https://www.speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/nascar-cup-series-news/72463-chevrolet-racing-eight-chevrolet-drivers-set-for-2022-ncs-playoffs | 2022-08-30T23:33:45Z | speedwaydigest.com | control | https://www.speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/nascar-cup-series-news/72463-chevrolet-racing-eight-chevrolet-drivers-set-for-2022-ncs-playoffs | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
NEW YORK (AP) — For the first time in three years, the fall movie industrial complex is lurching back into high gear. Festival red carpets are rolled out. Oscar campaigns are primed. Long-awaited blockbusters, like “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” and “Avatar: The Way of Water,” are poised for big box office.
But after the tumult of the pandemic, can the fall movie season just go back to way it was? Many are hoping it can. After two springtime editions, the Academy Awards have returned to a more traditional early March date. The Golden Globes, after near-cancellation, are plotting a comeback. Some movies, too, are trying to recapture a before-times spirit. At the Toronto Film Festival in September, Rian Johnson’s “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery,” has booked the same theater “Knives Out” premiered to a packed house almost exactly three years ago.
“Seems like yesterday,” Johnson says, laughing. “OK, a few things have happened.”
After an all-but-wiped-out 2020 autumn and a 2021 season hobbled by the delta and omicron COVID-19 variants, this fall could, maybe, just maybe be something more like the normal annual cultural revival that happens every fall, when most of the year’s best movies arrive.
“We’re all, I think, just trying to will it into existence as at least some version of what we knew before,” says Johnson. “As with everything, you kind of just have to dive into the pool and see what the water’s like. I’m really hoping that at least the illusion of normalcy holds. I guess that’s all normalcy is.”
But “Glass Onion,” with Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc in a new mystery, is also a reminder of how much has changed. After “Knives Out” was a box-office hit for Lionsgate, grossing $311 million worldwide for Lionsgate, Netflix shelled out $450 million to snap up the rights to two sequels. And while exhibitors and the streaming company discussed a larger theatrical release for “Glass Onion” — a surefire hit if it did — a more modest rollout in theaters is expected before the films lands Dec. 23 on Netflix.
The balance between theatrical and streaming remains unsettled. But after a summer box-office revival and an evolving outlook for streaming by Wall Street, theatrical moviegoing — with its billions in annual ticket sales and cultural footprint — is looking pretty good. For the first time in years, moviegoing has a strong wind at its back. Or at least it did until an especially slow August sapped momentum due largely to a dearth of new wide releases.
“If you look at how many movies we had compared to what business we did, we were operating at 2019 levels,” says John Fithian, president of the National Association of Theater Owners. “We had 70% of the supply of wide-release movies in the first seven months and we did 71% of the business we did in the same period in 2019. Moviegoers are back in pre-pandemic numbers, it’s just we still need more movies.”
That will be less of an issue as the fall season ramps up. “Wakanda Forever” (Nov. 11) and “The Way of the Water” (Dec. 16) may each vie with the summer smash “Top Gun: Maverick” ($1.36 billion worldwide and still counting) for the year’s top film. Less clear, though, is if the fall’s robust slate of adult-driven films and Oscar contenders can once again drive moviegoing. Last year’s best-picture winner, “CODA,” from Apple TV+, ran the awards gauntlet without a cent of box office.
Among the most anticipated films hitting the fall festival circuit and theaters are Steven Spielberg’s semi-autobiographical “The Fabelmans” (Nov. 23); “Blonde” (Sept. 16), starring Ana de Armas as Marilyn Monroe; Todd Fields’ “TÁR” (Oct. 7), with Cate Blanchett; Sam Mendes’ “Empire of Light” (Dec. 9); “The Son” (Nov. 11), Florian Zeller’s follow-up to “The Father”; Chinonye Chukwu’s Emmett Till saga “Till” (Oct. 14); Martin McDonagh’s “The Banshees of Inisherin” (Oct. 21); James Gray’s “Armageddon Time” (Oct. 28); and the Cannes Palme d’Or winner “The Triangle of Sadness” (Oct. 7).
Superhero films (“Black Adam,” Oct. 21, starring Dwayne Johnson), kids movies (“Lyle Lyle Crocodile,” Oct. 7), horror flicks (“Halloween Ends,” Oct. 14) rom-coms (“Ticket to Paradise,” Oct. 21, with Julia Roberts and George Clooney) and more high-flying adventures (“Devotion,” Nov. 23) will also mix in, as will prominent titles from streamers. Those include Amazon’s “My Policeman” (Oct. 21), with Harry Styles; and Netflix releases “Bardo” (in theaters Nov. 4), by Alejandro González Iñárritu; “White Noise” (in theaters Nov. 25) by Noah Baumbach; and Guillermo del Toro’s “Pinocchio” (streaming Dec. 9).
But if much of the fall movie season is about restoring what was lost the last few years, for some upcoming movies, change is the point. “Woman King” (Sept. 16), directed by Gina Prince-Blythewood and starring Viola Davis, is muscular fact-based epic about a West African army of female warriors. To Prince-Blythewood, the filmmaker of “Love & Basketball” and “The Old Guard,” “Woman King” represents “the chance to reframe what it means to be female and feminine.”
“I don’t think we have ever seen a movie like this before. So much of our history has been hidden or ignored or erased,” says Blythewood. “‘Braveheart,’ ‘Gladiator,’ ‘Last of the Mohicans.’ I love those movies. Now, here was our chance to tell our story in this genre.”
“Bros” (Sept. 30), too, is something different. The film, starring and co-written by “Billy on the Street” comedian Billy Eichner, is the first gay rom-com by a major studio (Universal). All of its principal cast members are LGBTQ. Comedies have struggled in theaters in recent years but “Bros,” produced by Judd Apatow, hopes a new perspective will enliven a familiar genre.
“It’s a historic movie in many ways,” says Eichner. “That’s not something we thought about when we were first developing it. Nobody sits down and says, ‘Let’s write a historic movie.’ We said, ‘Let’s make a hilarious movie.’ It will make people laugh but it’s unlike anything the vast majority of people have seen.”
“Bros” and “Woman King” are productions meant to challenge the status quo of Hollywood. That’s also part of the nature of “She Said” (Nov. 18), a dramatization of New York Times journalists Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey’s investigation into movie mogul Harvey Weinstein. Sarah Polley’s “Women Talking” (Dec. 2) likewise chronicles a real-life female uprising. It’s based on events from 2009, when Bolivian Mennonite women gathered together after having been drugged and raped by the men in their colony.
Olivia Wilde’s buzzed-about “Don’t Worry Darling,” starring Florence Pugh and Harry Styles as a married couple living in a 1950s-style suburban nightmare-slash-male fantasy, approaches some similar themes through a science-fiction lens.
“I want to make something that is just really entertaining and fun and interesting, but actually is my way of provoking conversations about real issues like body autonomy,” says Wilde. “I didn’t know it would be as timely as it is right now. Never in my wildest nightmares did I believe Roe would have been overturned right before the release of this film.”
Other movie production timelines seem to exist almost apart from our earthly reality. James Cameron’s “Avatar: The Way of the Water” will debut 13 years after 2009’s “Avatar” (still the highest grossing film ever), a follow-up originally scheduled for release in 2014. Since then, so many dates have come and gone that the sequels — four films are now slated to launch in the next five years — have sometimes seemed like blockbuster Godots that might forever wait in the wings.
Speaking from the New Zealand where “The Way of the Water” was being mixed and scored, producer Jon Landau promised the wait is, in fact, nearly over.
“This is finally happening,” said Landau. “Those delays, as you would call them, were really about us creating a foundation for a saga of movies. It wasn’t about going: ‘Let’s get one script right.’ It was about: ‘Let’s get four scripts right.’”
Measuring the change in the movie industry is even harder when it comes to the span in between “Avatar” installments. When the first “Avatar” was in theaters, 3-D was being billed (again) as the future. Barack Obama was in the first year of his first term. Netflix was renting DVDs by mail.
“A lot has changed but a lot hasn’t,” says Landau. “One of the things that has not changed is: Why do people turn to entertainment today? Just like they did when the first ‘Avatar’ was released, they do it to escape, to escape the world in which we live.”
___
AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr contributed.
___
Follow AP Film Writer Jake Coyle on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/jakecoyleAP | https://www.wpri.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-fall-preview-is-it-maybe-back-to-normal-at-the-movies/ | 2022-08-30T23:33:53Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-fall-preview-is-it-maybe-back-to-normal-at-the-movies/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Notes of Interest ● For the third time this season, Cole Custer and the No. 41 Ford Mustang team welcome back Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) partner Wow Wow Classic Waffles, and Feeding America®, the largest hunger relief organization in the United States with a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs, during Sunday night’s traditional Labor Day-weekend Cook Out Southern 500 NASCAR Cup Series race at Darlington (S.C.) Raceway. In addition, they’ll showcase an honorary crew member as part of NASCAR’s inaugural Workforce Appreciation Weekend celebration. ● Erinn Rowe, CEO of the Harvest Hope Food Bank, which serves the Darlington area, was nominated by Wow Wow and Feeding America® to serve as the honorary crew member with the No. 41 team this weekend. Rowe manages the organization’s operations through its three locations in the Midlands, Pee Dee and Upstate of South Carolina, and annually helps distribute more than 20 million meals to neighbors in need. Prior to joining the food bank, with was preceded by her 10-year stint with Bank of America, Rowe owned and operated a franchise of Young Chef’s Academy, a children’s cooking school which promoted healthy eating and skill-based learning for kids and adults of all ages. Her passion has always been feeding people, and she is glad to put her skills to use to safely and effectively source and distribute millions of meals to those in need. Rowe and her family live in the Midlands of South Carolina. ● Darlington Raceway, home to the traditional crown jewel Cook Out Southern 500, is introducing Workforce Appreciation Weekend in partnership with NASCAR Cup Series teams to showcase the industry’s appreciation of to the American workforce and its tireless efforts throughout the year. ● SHR, Wow Wow Classic Waffles and Feeding America® are also asking fans to continue to do their part in helping to end hunger in America by visiting the Feeding America donation page via the Feeding America website. Each $1 donated helps provide at least 10 meals secured by Feeding America on behalf of local member food banks. ● Sunday night’s 367-lap race will be Custer’s 102nd career Cup Series start and seventh on the 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval. The 2020 Cup Series Rookie of the Year’s 11th-place finish in last September’s Southern 500 was the best of his previous six Darlington outings. ● The native of Ladera Ranch, California, was credited with the victory in his most recent NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Darlington in 2019 after finishing second the previous year and ninth in 2017, all behind the wheel of the No. 00 SHR Ford. In the 2019 race, he crossed the finish line .602 of a second behind the apparent race-winner Denny Hamlin. But Hamlin’s racecar was disqualified after a ride-height violation was discovered in postrace inspection, giving Custer his eighth of 10 career Xfinity series victories. In the September 2018 Xfinity Series race at Darlington, Custer was runner-up to Brad Keselowski by .738 of a second. Cole Custer, Driver of the No. 41 Feeding America®/Wow Wow Classic Waffles Ford Mustang for Stewart-Haas Racing You’re welcoming back Wow Wow Classic Waffles and Feeding America® to the team this weekend and are showcasing an honorary crew chief with a passion for feeding people in need. Talk about that. “We’ve been able to do some really cool things through our partnership with Wow Wow Classic Waffles and Feeding America, and we want to welcome Erinn Rowe to the team this weekend as we honor the American workforce on Labor Day weekend. It’s been eye-opening to see how many in our area need help and we’ve been able to provide meals for many families through the work we’ve done, but we need help. There are so many ways to help and it doesn’t take much to make a difference for the many families out there who are in need. It’s been really cool to get involved with the food banks and pack bags for local schools and the community. It gives you a great mindset because volunteering is something I wish I did more of before and now it’s something that I’m doing as often as I can. It’s definitely rewarding to see the people that you’re helping in your community.” Does it open your eyes to people who are less fortunate than you? “Yeah, for sure. That’s what it’s all about. We get so wrapped up in our own lives and our own problems. You’re able to help out people who really need it in our community, so it’s something that has been really cool to get involved with and I’m really looking forward to doing even more of it in the future.” Darlington is one of the trickiest tracks in the Cup Series. How do you approach racing on “The Track Too Tough To Tame?” “I would say Darlington is one track that I always look forward to. It’s one of those races that every driver looks forward to because of the challenge behind it and how much you can do as a driver. There are so many different lanes you can work and you’re running right up against the wall. It’s just a driver’s racetrack and I feel there’s not one guy who doesn’t feel excited when they hear Darlington is coming up.” This weekend marks the beginning of the Cup Series playoffs for 16 of your fellow competitors. Do you feel the playoffs are a good way to determine a champion? “It’s how we play the game. I don’t know how else to say it. I think it generates a lot of excitement. I think it’s a lot like other sports where we have playoffs and I think it’s always been good. In all sports, you have times where the best team doesn’t win the whole thing, doesn’t win the championship. That happens in our sport, too. It’s just part of it. Our sport is a little bit unique because we do race at different tracks and things can happen. Some teams are better at certain tracks than others, but at the same time it’s the game you play. We have a playoff system and I think it’s been great for the sport in having a lot of excitement and you just have to make it happen those last 10 races.” TSC PR | https://www.speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/nascar-cup-series-news/72465-feeding-america-wow-wow-classic-waffles-racing-cole-custer-darlington-advance | 2022-08-30T23:33:58Z | speedwaydigest.com | control | https://www.speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/nascar-cup-series-news/72465-feeding-america-wow-wow-classic-waffles-racing-cole-custer-darlington-advance | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
ADVANCE NOTES
Weekend Format
- The traditional weekend schedule returns this weekend with practice and qualifying on deck for Saturday in group format, which will determine Sunday’s lineup.
Buescher at Darlington
- Buescher is set for his 11th Cup start from Darlington where he is coming off two top-10s in the last three starts. He ran ninth in both of last season’s events and has a 17.4 average finish.
- Prior to last season, Buescher’s top finish stood as 12th (2019 fall race).
- He carries a 22.8 average starting position with a best starting spot of 11th which came in last season’s spring race.
- Buescher also made four Xfinity starts at Darlington with a fifth-place run in 2015.
Scott Graves at Darlington
- Graves will be on the box for his 11th Cup event from Darlington where he carries a 19.2 average finish with one top-10.
- Graves led Ryan Newman to a P10 finish in last season’s spring race after starting 20th, and otherwise has five finishes inside the top-15 in the last six races.
- Graves also called three Xfinity events – two with Buescher – with a career-best third-place finish in 2016 with Daniel Suarez.
QUOTE WORTHY
Buescher on racing at Darlington:
“Darlington is one of those places we’ve worked really hard at to be better, and I think we made some good strides in the spring as a company, even though our finish(es) didn’t necessarily show for it. It’s a really challenging place to drive, but is really fun once you get the drive of the car tuned in. We’re looking forward to a solid weekend in the Fifth Third Ford.”
Last Time Out
Buescher was in the mix of vying for the race lead when rain began to fell in turn one with just over 20 to go Sunday at Daytona, and was caught up in the multi-car crash that claimed a host of victims, ending his day in 27th.
On the Car
Fifth Third makes its fifth appearance as the primary on the No. 17 this weekend. Fresh off celebrating its 10th season as a partner with RFK in 2021, Fifth Third returns this season for five races in total, while serving as an associate in all events for the No. 17 team.
The bank will also feature Sam’s Xpress Car Wash this weekend on the decklid of the No. 17 machine as part of the Fueled by Fifth Third pass-through program.
- Sam’s Xpress Car Wash is a privately owned and operated company headquartered in Matthews, N.C. Its first location was opened in Fort Mill, S.C. in 2012, and now has over 35 locations in the Carolinas and Virginia.
- They offer an express model car wash; a ride through xperience with free self-service vacuums that include many unique features like unlimited wash options, free gourmet coffee, mat cleaning, and exceptional customer service. Sam’s Xpress® also aims to be a friend to the communities they serve through fundraising, sponsorships and using environmentally safe processes and chemicals.
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RFK PR | https://www.speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/nascar-cup-series-news/72471-chris-buescher-darlington-ii-advance | 2022-08-30T23:34:17Z | speedwaydigest.com | control | https://www.speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/nascar-cup-series-news/72471-chris-buescher-darlington-ii-advance | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
CHASE BRISCOE, No. 14 HighPoint.com Ford Mustang – DO YOU FEEL LIKE THIS IS A SECOND LIFE FOR THE SEASON? “Yeah, for sure. For us, we’ve had small glimpses of, truthfully, I feel like we’ve had speed every week, but unlike a lot of times we run anywhere from seven to 12th for a lot of the race and then we finish 18th to 23rd the last 60 laps, where other teams have kind of done the opposite. They run 17th to 21st a lot of the day and then at the end they find themselves from seventh to 12th. For us, it’s kind of nice to have a little bit of a reset button. I know we have the speed, it’s just a matter of putting the whole race together. There are a lot of variables that determine that, but I definitely think it’s a bit of a second life to a certain extent and one I’m looking forward to having.”
HOW CLOSE DID YOU COME TO FLIPPING ON SUNDAY AND HOW HARD OF A HIT WAS IT? “It was definitely a unique crash. I didn’t think I was gonna get airborne. I felt like I had been sliding for quite a while. When I first originally felt that I got airborne and came back down I figured somebody probably hit me in the door, but I never felt anybody hit me in the door. And then when I went back and watched it I saw just naturally went up. Luckily, it came back down, but I’ve flipped sprint cars obviously growing up racing them and getting in the air is definitely different in one of those versus a stock car, but, honestly, the landing, I was surprised. It wasn’t that bad. I don’t know if I landed luckily how it landed, but it wasn’t as bad. My neck is still a little bit sore, but I don’t feel like that was from getting air, I felt like that was probably just from hitting the wall. I felt all good. I wish that it didn’t happen, but glad it didn’t get any worse than it could have been.”
CAN YOU COMPARE WHERE YOU ARE NOW FROM A YEAR AGO AND HAVING THAT RESET TO HAVE A CHANCE TO WIN A CHAMPIONSHIP? “It’s definitely different. Last year, not that you don’t have anything to not race for anymore, but it’s just different when you’re not in the playoffs. You’re going to the racetrack and you know the focus isn’t gonna be on you and you know the attention is just different when you’re not in the playoffs. I think for me this year it’s definitely different to know that you have a shot at still winning a championship, just being in the playoffs, all of the things that come from that just from an attention standpoint for our partners and things like that is definitely different. It’s nice. I feel like our team is excited. For us, we won at Phoenix in the third or fourth week of the year, so we’ve had a long time to think about the playoffs and think about what we’re gonna do and how we’re gonna try to do things in the playoffs and now that they’re finally here, it’s nice because we have had a really, really long time to think about them truthfully. I’m excited that they’re inally here. It is gonna be nice to hit the reset button. We haven’t done a lot of things well the last two or three months and haven’t really had the finishes to show for what I feel like the speed we’ve had. Hopefully, we can hit the gate running these first three weeks or the next three weeks for this first round and kind of show what I know we’re capable of. I feel like they’re all really good racetracks for me career-wise too, so I’m looking forward to it and hopefully we can surprise a lot of people.”
THERE IS MORE PARITY THIS YEAR AS FAR AS POINT DIFFERENTIAL. IS IT MORE WIDE-OPEN THIS YEAR? “I think so. It definitely makes it a little bit easier when there’s not a huge point spread. At the same time because it’s so tight, I think it makes it even more important that you can’t have a bad race. And I think the other thing people are overlooking with these playoffs is in the past the playoff guys were so much faster from a speed standpoint that the non-playoff guys didn’t even have a chance to win any of the races or truthfully contend in the top five to 10 sometimes, where now there are legitimately seven to eight guys that can still go win races that aren’t in the playoffs and that are still gonna be battling inside the top five and top 10 that still have a lot to race for. So, I think that’s gonna be even tougher this year in the playoffs than ever before just because you’re gonna have a lot of non-playoff guys up there in the mix that normally with the old car you just wouldn’t have that from a speed standpoint, where with the Next Gen there’s just so much more parity, so many more guys that can run up front, so the point spread is probably gonna be a little bigger than normal because before if you were a playoff guy, you were gonna run top 15 fairly easy, where now you can be a playoff guy and run 21st just because there are a lot more guys that can run up front, so it’s gonna be interesting and to see how that plays out. The first two rounds, I think, are the toughest two rounds just because you can eliminate yourself and kind of how the racetracks play out. There are a lot of opportunities to make mistakes at those racetracks, so hopefully that’s one thing we haven’t done a great job of this year is limiting mistakes, but hopefully we can do that now.”
DO YOU FEEL AS SAFE AS YOU CAN IN THIS NEXT GEN CAR OR DOES NASCAR NEED TO DO MORE TECH ON IT? “For me, I’ve only crashed the Next Gen car, truthfully, twice where I feel like it was a hard wreck and they were both at superspeedways. Both of them were way better than I thought they were gonna be. The Talladega wreck, for sure, I thought was gonna be way worse from a feel standpoint and I felt fine. I was sore the next day or two, but I feel like that was kind of typical. Obviously, I think there’s still stuff we can do to make it better, but I think in the old car there was still stuff we could do to make it better, so I think that’s the hard thing right now with the Next Gen car is with the old car we literally probably had thousands of data points that we could look at in crashes, where right now we’re not even probably in the hundreds yet, so it’s just hard to kind of pinpoint what we need to do better on this car and as it runs and as we get through the years I’m sure we’re gonna continue to make progress on it and make it better, but I think it’s always a moving target. You’re never gonna be perfectly safe, I don’t think. You’re a race car driver. You’re driving nearly 200 miles an hour and anything can happen, but the safer we can make it, the better. I’m confident that NASCAR wouldn’t send us out there if it wasn’t something that they don’t think is safe, so, yeah, can it be safer? Absolutely, but, at the same time, I do think I’ve taken two hard hits and I’ve felt OK. At the same time, obviously Kurt is sitting out. Everybody’s body reacts different. Yeah, I absolutely think it could still be safer, but I think it’s safe right now at the same time and I don’t think it’s ever gonna be bulletproof. It’s just a hard object. It’s a moving target and until we get more data on it, it’s gonna be really hard to kind of pinpoint it, I think.”
HOW ARE YOU APPROACHING THESE NEXT THREE WEEKS IN THE FIRST ROUND? “I think it’s not to eliminate ourselves in this first round. Darlington, especially, the Southern 500 there are gonna be a lot of opportunities to tear your car up at some point in the race running up on the wall. I think, just for me, the regular season and, like I was saying earlier, I just haven’t done a very good job of finishing where our car had the speed for, and I think these next three weeks if we have an eighth-place car, just try to run seventh or eighth with it. Don’t try to win with it and then end up costing yourself with a 10-spot difference. You just have to be smart about it in the playoffs and understand the bigger picture and that’s something I haven’t done a great job of this year. I think that’s my biggest focus these next three weeks is just limiting mistakes, doing all the little details right, and I feel like as long as you do the little details right this first round, you should be able to point your way through because there are gonna be guys that eliminate themselves just by making mistakes and if you can limit your mistakes and not make them super detrimental, I think then you should be able to make it out of that first round. At least that’s what we’re gonna try to do.”
DARLINGTON AND BRISTOL HAVE BEEN GOOD TRACKS FOR YOU. DOES THAT GIVE YOU MORE CONFIDENCE AT THOSE TWO PLACES SPECIFICALLY? “Yeah, I mean, truthfully how the playoffs are at the racetracks I feel like all 10 of them, with the exception of Talladega, are all really, really good racetracks for me statistically and I just enjoy going to all of them with the exception of Talladega just because of what can happen there. So, yeah, I’m definitely excited. I feel like this first round I’ve won at all three of these tracks before. The next round we have the Roval in there and Texas has been really good to me, too. Yeah, I’m definitely excited. I know I’m capable of doing it, it’s just a matter of putting it all together and, like I said, limiting mistakes. If we can do that, there’s no reason why we can’t make it to Phoenix because I feel we’ve shown when we do all the things right, whether it’s at Phoenix earlier in the year or the Coke 600. When we put the whole race together, we’re always right there battling for the win. It’s just a matter of doing that all day long and that’s where I’ve struggled, as a team we’ve struggled a little bit doing that as well, so if we can do all the little things right and if we can to Phoenix, we know we’re capable of getting it done there as well. We just have to limit mistakes and I know that’s hard to change in a matter of a week, but I think if we really put our mind to it and really focus on it, the regular season we still made them, but we didn’t have the pressure of the playoffs and there was no penalty if you went for trying to win the race, where now there’s a huge penalty. I think you just have to manage it all and hopefully I can do a better job behind the wheel and just give my team the best opportunity to try to get to Phoenix.”
ANY IDEA HOW DIFFERENT THE CUP PLAYOFFS WILL BE COMPARED TO XFINITY? “It’s hard because until you’re actually there and experience it I think it’s hard to say exactly what it’s gonna be like, but I know, for me at least in the Truck Series and even the Xfinity Series, the intensity definitely ratchets up. The stages, I remember in Xfinity I think it was at Kansas, battling for seventh was some of the hardest racing I’d ever done just because I knew that one point was gonna make a difference and now with the Cup Series I think it’s gonna be different this year too, just because of what I was saying earlier about all the non-playoff guys that can still run up front. I think just the intensity is gonna ratchet up even more than it already has, so, yeah, I think until I get going at Darlington and kind of feel out how the intensity is gonna be, I think it’s one way to expect what it’s gonna be like but until you get out there and do it, I know it’s gonna be more intense than what I’ve done throughout the regular season just because it’s way more cut throat. Every position matters even more, so we’ve just got to go there. Until we experience it, it’s gonna be hard for me to sit here and tell you what it’s gonna be like, but I think I have an idea.”
YOU HAVE BEEN TO DARLINGTON AND KANSAS WITH THIS CAR ALREADY. DOES THAT BRING SOME COMFORT AS THE PLAYOFFS START? “Yes and no. I think if you were really good there the first race, then yeah, absolutely, it probably brings you a little bit of comfort. For us, I will say Darlington was probably a little more of a struggle than we originally thought it was gonna be just because it has been a really good track for me in the past. We think we know what we kind of were doing wrong there, so I’m definitely confident this time around that we’re gonna be a lot better. Kansas, we were really, really good out there. I think I was running fourth or fifth and I spun out, so that was on me. I know we’re gonna have a car capable of going there and running good. We just have to go week by week and kind of see what hand you’re dealt for the following week because it’s gonna determine how you have to run the race, how aggressive you’ve got to be just because of your point situation. It’s gonna be nice to kind of know what to feel, especially at Darlington and Kansas – the feel you’re trying to find in practice and kind of know what to expect from a car driving standpoint for sure.”
ARE YOU STILL WORKING WITH A PERSONAL TRAINER? “I’ve been Pelotoning at home. I don’t know if that counts as a personal trainer or not, but, no. We used to have Dan Jansen and when COVID happened Ford let Dan go and I think now he’s actually with Chevy, but I was always using Dan from 2017-2020 and then after that I haven’t had one since. I started going a little bit to Pit Fit and then it was like 45 minutes from my house, so I quit doing that and I kind of just do my own deal at home now.”
ANY CHANGES TO YOUR DIET OR FITNESS TO TRY AND MAKE YOURSELF AS PHYSICALLY FIT AS POSSIBLE? “No. I know for the last four weeks I’ve tried to be better about just working out and trying to be in the best shape. I haven’t felt like at any time this year I’ve been out of shape in a race, so I don’t know. I’ve tried to slim down for the playoffs a little bit. I think I’m down eight points right now, so I’m trying to do everything I can for my team at least to be a little bit better.”
DOES SHR HAVE A NUTRITIONALIST ON BOARD JUST TO HELP KEEP YOU FIT? “No. At one point, I want to say in 2019 we had one for like literally two months and then not anymore.”
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM YOUR TEAMMATES AND TONY ABOUT THE PLAYOFFS? “I think obviously like we were talking earlier about the second win question, kind of the same as Tony was in 2011. Everybody had written him off and thought there was no way he should even be in the playoffs and he even said it himself and then to go out there and make a run like he did. I think using that to your advantage and knowing that it is a reset in a certain sense. Everything we did the first 26 weeks, yeah, it mattered to get to this point, but now you could win the first 26 races and if you have three bad races in a row, you’re out of the playoffs. It’s all kind of irrelevant to a certain extent outside of getting you here. So I think, for us, just using that to go and know that, ‘hey, just because we’ve had a bad two, three months doesn’t mean we still can’t do this.’ We’re fully capable of making a run and then just talking to some of my teammates that have been in playoffs just about limiting mistakes and making sure that you don’t eliminate yourself. That’s kind of the big thing, especially the first round – how you don’t have to win. You can point your way there and that’s something that is hard for me, obviously, at times is to understand the bigger picture and realize you don’t always have to win the race or try to take a 12th-place car and win with it – that you have to be able to take a 12th-place car and run ninth with it. That’s a huge day when it comes to playoff time, so just talking to those guys from that side of things has been a big help. I’ll probably talk to Kevin before Darlington and kind of just feel him out a little bit more about things I guess I should try to work on, but outside of that, that’s really it.”
DOES IT HELP YOU TO HAVE A TEAMMATE IN THE PLAYOFFS WITH THIS CAR? “I don’t know. It’s hard to say. From a company standpoint, I wish all four of us were in it because financially for our partners it’s better to have all four cars in the playoffs, but, at the same time, there’s a lot of pride whenever out of four cars only two of us made it and to be able to be there with Kevin is a huge deal. I think come playoff time there is pros and cons to each now that there are two of us and we obviously have two teammates that can try different setups or if we’re in the middle of the race and maybe want to make an air-pressure adjustment that we’re not 100 percent set on, one of those two guys can now try it and kind of validate it for us and hopefully on the racetrack it’ll help just to know they’re gonna watch your back. They’re gonna try to help as much as they can in the situations where it makes sense, so I think there are pros and cons. Yeah, I would love for all four of us to be in it and be able to go battle, but having two of us in it and two of us out of it, there are some pros to the two guys that are in it – to be able to use those two guys to try setups and things like that. Until I get into it and see how it all plays out with the two of us and two of us out it’s hard to say, but I feel like there are pros and cons to each.”
IS THERE MORE URGENCY TO START THE PLAYOFFS OFF STRONGER? “Yeah, for sure. Just getting off on the right foot. If you go to Darlington and run 25th or whatever the number is or if you have an issue, you’re gonna pretty much be in a must-win at that point. It’s just hard to be in a must-win situation and go out there and execute it, so, for sure, like I said, we’ve been in the playoffs for a really long time and have been able to think about going to Darlington, starting the playoffs on the right foot and you talk about it a long time and you think about it for a long time and then if you can actually go there and do it, there’s a certain confidence and just when you talk about doing something and then you go do it, it just helps team morale and all those things. So, yeah, definitely it’s important to go there and get off on the right foot and just have a good, solid, clean day. These last couple of weeks we’ve just had weird stuff happen. At Richmond, we were gonna run top five fairly easily and maybe potentially try to win the race and just randomly our exhaust catches on fire. So just weird things like that have happened and hopefully at Darlington we can avoid all that stuff and just have a good, clean day.”
DOES YOUR PREVIOUS XFINITY PLAYOFF EXPERIENCE HELP AS FAR AS KNOWING SOME OF YOUR COMPETITORS’ TENDENCIES? “Yeah, I think so. The more you race around guys you definitely kind of know their tendencies a little bit more. I’ve raced a lot with Bell and Cindric and Reddick a lot more than I’ve raced against a Ryan Blaney, for example. So, just knowing their tendencies I feel like helps and knowing what they do in certain situations and things like that, but all of these guys are so good that it doesn’t really matter. They’re always switching it up and kind of keep you on your toes as far as a guessing game goes. It’s nice to at least understand how a lot of those guys race and I feel like the more you’ve raced with guys the more respect you have with them and it just makes things easier, so I guess it is unique that a lot of us are in our first year in the playoffs or some of us the second year. It’ll be interesting to see how the intensity ratchets up because of that.”
Ford Performance PR | https://www.speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/nascar-cup-series-news/72473-ford-performance-nascar-chase-briscoe-excited-for-cup-playoff-debut-at-darlington | 2022-08-30T23:34:23Z | speedwaydigest.com | control | https://www.speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/nascar-cup-series-news/72473-ford-performance-nascar-chase-briscoe-excited-for-cup-playoff-debut-at-darlington | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
NASCAR and Riverhead Raceway today announced the September NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour race will now be known as the Eddie Partridge 256 and will feature a format change in tribute to the late Eddie Partridge, the long-time Riverhead Raceway and team owner who passed away last year.
The race length will be 256 laps (the previously announced length was 200 laps) and will feature a live pit stop in full view of the fans, bringing an additional element of excitement to the race. A temporary pit wall will be built in the infield to allow for the format. The six in the race length is in honor of the car number Partridge used as a team owner.
“Track general manager John Ellwood spearheaded this exciting change for the fans,” said Riverhead Raceway co-owner Tom Gatz. “His enthusiasm for the track is unmatched, and we are excited about what this will mean for everyone in attendance in September.”
Partridge was the 2011 and 2017 owner champion in the Whelen Modified Tour, and also won the 2011 driver title with Ron Silk in his car. Shortly before passing away on September 10, 2021, Partridge stood in Victory Lane one final time as Ryan Preece won at Richmond in his car that night.
“Eddie was a larger-than-life figure in the Modified community, and it was a goal of his to bring this format to Riverhead,” said Jimmy Wilson, Senior Director, NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour. “We know this will be a fitting homage to his legacy and can’t wait to put on a show he would be proud of.”
But aside from his legendary career as a car owner, during which he was known for giving many in the NASCAR industry their start, Partridge was also the long-time owner of Riverhead Raceway.
“I’m committed to keeping Eddie’s memory alive and this will be a tribute to him,” said Ellwood. “We all know how great the Whelen Modified Tour racing is at Riverhead, and Eddie really wanted to add this live pit stop format to give the fans in the stands even more to cheer for.”
Riverhead has hosted two Whelen Modified Tour races thus far this season, with Doug Coby winning the May race and Riverhead Raceway regular Kyle Soper winning in June.
The Eddie Partridge 256 at Riverhead Raceway will take place Saturday, Sept. 17, at 8 p.m. ET. Tickets are available for purchase at the box office, and the race can be seen live on FloRacing. The delayed broadcast of the race will be on USA on Sunday, Sept. 25, at 1:30 p.m. ET.
The NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour next races Saturday, Aug. 27, at Langley Speedway. The race can be seen live on FloRacing at 8:30 p.m. ET and delayed on USA on Sunday, Sept. 4 at 4 p.m. ET.
NASCAR PR | https://www.speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/speedway-news/72468-nascar-and-riverhead-raceway-announce-fall-race-format-change-in-tribute-to-eddie-partridge | 2022-08-30T23:34:29Z | speedwaydigest.com | control | https://www.speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/speedway-news/72468-nascar-and-riverhead-raceway-announce-fall-race-format-change-in-tribute-to-eddie-partridge | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
According to various Russian state media accounts, former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, who played a pivotal role in ending the Cold War, died after a prolonged illness in Moscow at age 91.
Copyright 2022 NPR
According to various Russian state media accounts, former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, who played a pivotal role in ending the Cold War, died after a prolonged illness in Moscow at age 91.
Copyright 2022 NPR | https://www.klcc.org/2022-08-30/the-life-and-legacy-of-former-soviet-leader-mikhail-gorbachev | 2022-08-30T23:34:44Z | klcc.org | control | https://www.klcc.org/2022-08-30/the-life-and-legacy-of-former-soviet-leader-mikhail-gorbachev | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 563rd Rescue Group at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base prepare for an air drop at Playas Training Center, New Mexico, Aug. 16, 2022. Training opportunities provide Airmen, the Joint Force and coalition partners the skills needed for high-end readiness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kaitlyn Ergish)
This work, Red Flag-Rescue 22-2 Night Ops [Image 5 of 5], by SrA Kaitlyn Ergish, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright. | https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7395106/red-flag-rescue-22-2-night-ops | 2022-08-30T23:35:57Z | dvidshub.net | control | https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7395106/red-flag-rescue-22-2-night-ops | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — An investigation is underway after a man was caught throwing a package of “suspected drugs” into a New Bedford Jail Tuesday, according to the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office.
The sheriff’s office said a security officer spotted the man throwing the package over the wall in the back parking lot of the Ash Street Jail.
When the security officer approached the suspect, the sheriff’s office said he took off running toward a nearby housing complex.
The package was recovered before any inmates could retrieve it, according to the sheriff’s office, and is in the process of being tested.
“No arrest has been made yet, but we do know the identity of the individual,” the sheriff’s office said.
The suspect will eventually be charged in connection with the incident, though he has not yet been identified or taken into custody. | https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/se-mass/man-tossed-suspected-drugs-into-new-bedford-prison/ | 2022-08-30T23:36:32Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/se-mass/man-tossed-suspected-drugs-into-new-bedford-prison/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Kayleb Moore, a recruit with Bravo Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, responds to a drill instructor during a pugil sticks event at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Aug. 30, 2022. Recruits executed numerous Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques throughout the event to better their opponent and increase endurance. Moore was recruited out of Recruiting Station Fort Worth, Texas. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Grace J. Kindred)
This work, Bravo Company Pugil Sticks [Image 7 of 7], by Cpl Grace Kindred, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright. | https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7395117/bravo-company-pugil-sticks | 2022-08-30T23:36:40Z | dvidshub.net | control | https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7395117/bravo-company-pugil-sticks | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The small northwest Iowa city of Sheldon planned to make the opening of a time capsule one of the centerpiece events of its 150th anniversary this weekend, but it ran into a slight problem.
No one is sure where the time capsule is buried.
“We’re trying to find instructions on exactly where it’s at before we just start digging,” said Sheldon Chamber of Commerce Director Ashley Nordahl. “We think we know where it is, but to dig up concrete in the park when we have such a big event going on, we’re just postponing that to a little bit later in the year.”
The time capsule was buried 50 years ago during Sheldon’s centennial celebration and over time its specific location became a bit fuzzy. Event organizers had planned to open the time capsule during a town birthday celebration Friday morning featuring birthday cake and coffee. They then planned to place new items inside the capsule and rebury it.
The other events will go on as planned, with the time capsule unveiling delayed until workers can find it. To do that, the city will hire a company with an underground radar system that helped the nearby city of Sibley find its time capsule earlier this year.
“We still have every intention of finding it and digging it up,” Nordahl said. “It’s just a little more involved than what we originally had planned.”
Sheldon, a city of 5,178 people about 160 miles northwest of Des Moines, was founded in 1872. | https://www.wpri.com/news/politics/ap-politics/ap-iowa-town-asks-where-did-we-put-our-time-capsule/ | 2022-08-30T23:36:51Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/politics/ap-politics/ap-iowa-town-asks-where-did-we-put-our-time-capsule/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — The first ship carrying grain from Ukraine for people in the hungriest parts of the world has docked at the Horn of Africa port of Djibouti as areas of East Africa are badly affected by deadly drought and conflict.
Food security experts call it a drop in the bucket for the vast needs in the worst-hit Horn countries of Somalia, Kenya and Ethiopia, the nation where this first shipment is going. But the flow of grain from Ukraine for other hungry parts of the world is expected to continue, with another ship departing Tuesday for Yemen. The U.N. World Food Program has said it is working on multiple ships.
WFP says this first shipment of grain will be shipped overland to northern Ethiopia, where millions of people have been affected by the country’s Tigray conflict, which has now flared up again.
How any of the grain will reach Tigray is now in question as humanitarian deliveries by road and air have been suspended amid the fighting that sparked again last week between Tigray forces and Ethiopian ones. But Ethiopia’s neighboring Amhara and Afar regions also are expected to benefit.
WFP has said the 23,000 metric tons of grain on the first ship are enough to feed 1.5 million people on full rations for a month. But the U.N. has said 2.4 million in Tigray alone are severely food insecure and that 20 million people across Ethiopia face hunger.
Millions of other people in the Horn of Africa region are going hungry because of drought, and thousands have died. Somalia has been especially hard hit because it sourced at least 90% of its grain from Ukraine and Russia before Russia invaded Ukraine in February.
Millions of tons of food are needed for the Horn of Africa, WFP said. “In Ethiopia alone, three-quarters of everything that we used to distribute originated from Ukraine and Russia,” regional director Michael Dunford said.
Food security experts have said it will take weeks for people in African countries to see grain from Ukraine arrive and even longer to see it bring down high food prices that have been a source of despair and protests in multiple nations.
Far more ships carrying grain from Ukraine’s reopened ports have been going to richer places like Europe as existing business contracts are fulfilled. As of Sunday, 114 ships carrying more than 1.2 million metric tons of food commodities had left Ukraine, WFP said, but “export volumes remain far below pre-conflict averages.” | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-1st-ukraine-grain-ship-for-horn-of-africa-reaches-djibouti/ | 2022-08-30T23:37:04Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-1st-ukraine-grain-ship-for-horn-of-africa-reaches-djibouti/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
YUMA, Ariz. (AP) — Hours before Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey declared “a major step forward to secure our border” with the installation of 130 double-stacked shipping containers, hundreds of migrants found their way around them, belying his claim.
They walked through tribal lands to the edge of a towering wall built during Donald Trump’s presidency to surrender to border agents waiting outside the reservation, expecting to be released in the U.S. to pursue asylum.
Families, young parents carrying toddlers, elderly people and others easily waded through the knee-deep Colorado River before dawn Wednesday, many in sandals with shopping bags slung over their shoulders.
The wall isn’t the issue it was in 2018 when Congress denied Trump funding for one of his top priorities, prompting the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. But last week’s events in Yuma are a reminder of obstacles that the government faces with border barriers: difficulty building on tribal land, most notably in the Tohono O’odham Nation in Arizona, and opposition from landowners, especially in Texas, where, unlike other border states, much property is privately owned.
Ducey’s critics have seized on images from Univision network showing two containers that toppled during 11 days of construction for unknown reasons. Gary Restaino, the top federal prosecutor in Arizona, used a bilateral meeting in Mexico City to needle the governor Friday, tweeting, “We’re not dumping a bunch of shipping containers in the desert and calling it a wall to get cheap press.” Ducey retorted that ”we’ve taken matters into our own hands” because the federal government hasn’t done enough.
Migrants continue to avoid barriers by going around them — in this case, through a 5-mile (8-kilometer) gap in the Cocopah Indian Reservation near Yuma, a desert city of about 100,000 people between San Diego and Phoenix that has become a major spot for illegal crossings.
President Joe Biden halted wall construction his first day in office, leaving billions of dollars of work unfinished but still under contract. Trump worked feverishly in his final months to reach more than 450 miles (720 kilometers), nearly one-fourth of the entire border.
The Biden administration has made rare exceptions for small projects at areas deemed unsafe for people to cross, including four gaps in Yuma. It expects to award a contract for Yuma this fall and take up to 28 months to complete work.
When U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced its Yuma plans in July, Ducey said he couldn’t wait. Like fellow Republican Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas, he has sparred with the Democratic administration over immigration policies, often suing and recently offering free bus rides to the East Coast for asylum-seekers who are released in the United States to pursue their cases.
“Arizona did the job the federal government has failed to do — and we showed them just how quickly and efficiently the border can be made more secure – if you want to,” Ducey said to celebrate installation of the containers, which run the length of 13 football fields in five locations combined.
A string of 44 double-stacked containers ends abruptly in an open desert expanse. Farther north, at the Morelos Dam, containers plug several openings in an area that had become less traveled in recent months.
The day Ducey declared his project complete, the Border Patrol encountered a fairly typical count of about 850 migrants entering the country illegally in its Yuma sector. Most were dropped off by bus or hired vehicle on the Mexican side and walked through the reservation in darkness under a crescent moon.
Migrants used vehicle barriers, dirt roads and flashlights on their phones to guide them to Border Patrol agents outside tribal lands to be taken into custody.
CBP hasn’t commented on Ducey’s containers but says its plan to plug gaps in the Trump-style barrier of steel poles topped with a metal plate up to 30 feet (9.1 meters) high will make a difference by funneling traffic to fewer areas.
“If Yuma has 10 gaps and people were crossing all 10 gaps, it’s much more difficult for us to deal with than if Yuma has one or two gaps and the majority of traffic is crossing through those gaps,” said John Modlin, chief of the Border Patrol’s Tucson, Arizona, sector.
Asked for comment, the Cocopah Indian Tribe referred to a May 2020 letter to CBP expressing strong opposition to a wall, saying it would cut access to the river and tribal members in Mexico.
The tribe also released video showing its interim police chief, Arlene Martinez, outlining other cooperative measures with the Border Patrol, such as surveillance cameras and ground sensors. “Cocopah supports efforts to secure the border and always has,” she said. | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-containers-are-no-hindrance-for-migrants-on-arizona-border/ | 2022-08-30T23:37:40Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-containers-are-no-hindrance-for-migrants-on-arizona-border/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
PRAGUE (AP) — European Union nations were divided Tuesday over whether to slap a broad visa ban on Russian citizens, torn between a desire to ramp up pressure on President Vladimir Putin and concern about punishing people who may not even support his war on Ukraine.
The 27-nation EU already tightened visa restrictions on Russian officials and businesspeople in May, but calls have mounted from, notably, Poland and the Baltic countries — Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania — for a broader ban on tourists.
“There must be more restrictions on travel for Russian citizens,” Latvian Defense Minister Artis Pabriks said.
“We cannot simply give bonuses to people which are supporting such presidents as Putin,” he told reporters in Czech capital Prague, where EU defense and foreign ministers are meeting.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, who is chairing the talks, has said that a visa ban on all Russian citizens is unlikely to be agreed on. Germany and France are leading a push to tighten visa restrictions, rather than impose an outright ban.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock expressed support for suspending more parts of the 2007 EU agreement with Russia, and to halt the issuing of multiple-entry or multi-year visas.
But Baerbock said it’s important “that we don’t deprive ourselves of what made it possible for us to allow persecuted people in Russia to leave very quickly.”
“We should not punish those who have the courage to stand up against this regime,” Baerbock said at a Cabinet gathering north of Berlin, from where she is due to travel to Prague on Wednesday.
Finland’s foreign minister, Pekka Haavisto, said his country is worried about a kind of Russian “tourist route” through Helsinki airport. He said Finland will unilaterally slash the granting of tourist visas to Russians to 10% of their usual number from Sept. 1.
As of Thursday, Finland, which has the longest border with Russia of all EU countries, will only allow Russian citizens to apply for tourist visas on one day a week, and only in four cities in Russia.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday that Moscow was closely following the EU visa discussions and described them as part of Western moves against Russia that are “irrational and bordering on madness.” He warned that Moscow will retaliate if Russian citizens are targeted.
In talks earlier Tuesday, EU defense ministers weighed the possibility of setting up a training mission for Ukraine’s beleaguered armed forces, but the bloc’s countries disagree over what added value such an effort might bring.
Ukraine has provided the EU with a list of short- and long-term requirements, ranging from basic military training and organizing resistance to high-level instruction on the use of equipment or defending against nuclear and chemical weapons.
Several countries already provide military training on a bilateral basis, but some feel that it’s important to throw the EU’s combined weight behind the effort. The Netherlands highlighted new demining training that it’s providing with Germany.
Others fear that an EU effort of 27 countries might be too unwieldy.
“It’s not maybe the quickest way. I’m not so convinced,” Luxembourg Defense Minister Francois Bausch said. Austria was also cool on the idea. Pabriks said that Latvia stands ready to help, but that such an EU-wide mission “must be practical.”
In the end, Borrell said, the ministers agreed “on launching the work necessary to define the parameters” of what such a mission might look like, meaning that little movement is likely at the EU level for some time.
The ministers also discussed ways of pooling military resources and material, and using their collective weight to jointly purchase defense equipment and help European industry “to ramp up production capacities,” Borrell said.
“We are depleting our stocks. We are providing so many capacities to Ukraine that we have to refill our stocks,” he said.
Slovak Defense Minister Jaroslav Nad sought help from EU partners to “backfill” his country’s national defense needs so that it can be free to send more military equipment to Ukraine, including Mig-29 fighter jets.
___
Geir Moulson in Berlin, and Jari Tanner in Helsinki, contributed to this report.
___
Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-eu-to-ramp-up-arms-production-eyes-ukraine-army-training/ | 2022-08-30T23:38:07Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-eu-to-ramp-up-arms-production-eyes-ukraine-army-training/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
MOSCOW (AP) — Before Mikhail Gorbachev came along, the Soviet Union seemed an immovable superpower in perpetual antagonism to the United States. With a breathtaking series of reforms, Gorbachev changed all that — and re-directed the course of the 20th century.
Alongside Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher, Gorbachev was a key protagonist in a global drama that many thought impossible and, for those who lived through it, seemed almost surreal.
Under Gorbachev, the Berlin Wall crumbled, thousands of political prisoners were released and millions of people who had known only communism got their first real taste of freedom. But he was unable to control the forces he unleashed — and ultimately waged a losing battle to salvage a crumbling empire.
Gorbachev died Tuesday at a Moscow hospital at 91.
Although little known outside Sovietologist circles before he became leader in 1985, he quickly became a dominant and charismatic figure on the world stage. The splotchy purple birthmark on his bald pate made him instantly recognizable, and his vigor stood in sharp contrast to the recent run of aged and barely articulate Kremlin leaders.
His vision of remaking the Soviet Union into a more humane and flexible country had the power of the epochal. By 1990, he had won the Nobel Prize for his “leading role” in ending the Cold War and reducing nuclear tensions.
But a mere year later, he was the sad and bewildered embodiment of failure. The country had fallen apart in his hands, and at home he was derided, despised and increasingly shunted aside as irrelevant.
His power hopelessly sapped by an attempted coup against him in August 1991, Gorbachev spent his last months in office watching republic after republic declare independence until he resigned on Dec. 25, 1991, and the Soviet Union wrote itself into oblivion a day later.
Many of the changes, including the Soviet breakup, bore no resemblance to the transformation that Gorbachev had envisioned when he became the Soviet leader in March 1985.
By the end of his rule, he was powerless to halt the whirlwind he had sown. Yet Gorbachev may have had a greater impact on the second half of the 20th century than any other political figure.
“I see myself as a man who started the reforms that were necessary for the country and for Europe and the world,” Gorbachev told The Associated Press in a 1992 interview shortly after he left office.
“I am often asked, would I have started it all again if I had to repeat it? Yes, indeed. And with more persistence and determination,” he said.
Russians blamed him for the 1991 implosion of the Soviet Union — a once-fearsome superpower whose territory fractured into 15 separate nations.
His run for president in 1996 was a national joke, and he polled less than 1 percent of the vote. In 1997, he resorted to making a TV ad for Pizza Hut to earn money for his charitable foundation.
His former allies deserted him and made him a scapegoat for the country’s troubles.
“In the ad, he should take a pizza, divide it into 15 slices like he divided up our country, and then show how to put it back together again,” quipped Anatoly Lukyanov, a one-time Gorbachev supporter.
Gorbachev never set out to dismantle the Soviet system. He wanted to improve it.
Soon after taking power, he began a campaign to end his country’s economic and political stagnation, using “glasnost,” or openness, to help achieve his goal of “perestroika,” or restructuring.
In his memoirs, he said he had long been frustrated that in a country with immense natural resources, tens of millions were living in poverty.
“Our society was stifled in the grip of a bureaucratic command system,” Gorbachev wrote. “Doomed to serve ideology and bear the heavy burden of the arms race, it was strained to the utmost.”
Once he began, one move led to another: He freed political prisoners, allowed open debate and multi-candidate elections, gave his countrymen freedom to travel, halted religious oppression, reduced nuclear arsenals, established closer ties with the West and did not resist the fall of communist regimes in Eastern European satellite states.
But the forces he unleashed quickly escaped his control. Long-suppressed ethnic tensions flared, sparking wars and unrest in trouble spots such as the southern Caucasus region. Strikes and labor unrest followed price increases and shortages of consumer goods.
In one of the low points of his tenure, Gorbachev sanctioned a crackdown on the restive Baltic republics in early 1991. The violence turned many intellectuals and reformers against him.
Competitive elections also produced a new crop of populist politicians who challenged Gorbachev’s policies and authority. Chief among them was his former protege and eventual nemesis, Boris Yeltsin, who became Russia’s first president.
“The process of renovating this country and bringing about fundamental changes in the international community proved to be much more complex than originally anticipated,” Gorbachev told the nation as he stepped down.
“However, let us acknowledge what has been achieved so far. Society has acquired freedom; it has been freed politically and spiritually. And this is the most important achievement, which we have not fully come to grips with, in part because we still have not learned how to use our freedom.”
There was little in Gorbachev’s childhood to hint at the pivotal role he would play on the world stage. On many levels, he had a typical Soviet upbringing in a typical Russian village.
But it was a childhood blessed with unusual strokes of good fortune.
Mikhail Sergeyevich Gorbachev was born March 2, 1931, in the village of Privolnoye in southern Russia. Both his grandfathers were peasants, collective farm chairmen and members of the Communist Party, as was his father.
Despite stellar party credentials, Gorbachev’s family did not emerge unscathed from the terror unleashed by Soviet dictator Josef Stalin: Both grandfathers were arrested and imprisoned for allegedly anti-Soviet activities. But, rare in that period, both were eventually freed.
In 1941, when Gorbachev was 10, his father went off to war, along with most of the other men from Privolnoye. Meanwhile, the Nazis pushed across the western steppes in their blitzkrieg against the Soviet Union. They occupied Privolnoye for five months. When the war was over, young Gorbachev was one of the few village boys whose father returned.
By age 15, Gorbachev was helping his father drive a combine harvester after school and during the region’s blistering, dusty summers. His performance earned him the order of the Red Banner of Labor, an unusual distinction for a 17-year-old.
That prize and the party background of his parents helped him land admission in 1950 to the country’s top university, Moscow State. There, he met his wife, Raisa Maximovna Titorenko, and joined the Communist Party.
The award and his family’s credentials also helped him overcome the disgrace of his grandfathers’ arrests, which were overlooked in light of his exemplary Communist conduct.
In his memoirs, Gorbachev describes himself as something of a maverick as he advanced through the party ranks, sometimes bursting out with criticism of the Soviet system and its leaders.
His early career coincided with the “thaw” begun by Nikita Khrushchev. As a young Communist propaganda official, he was tasked with explaining the 20th Party Congress that revealed Soviet dictator Josef Stalin’s repression of millions to local party activists. He said he was met first by “deathly silence,” then disbelief.
“They said: ‘We don’t believe it. It can’t be. You want to blame everything on Stalin now that he’s dead,’” he told the AP in a 2006 interview.
He was a true if unorthodox believer in socialism. He was elected to the powerful party Central Committee in 1971, took over Soviet agricultural policy in 1978 and became a full Politburo member in 1980.
Along the way, he was able to travel to the West, to Belgium, Germany, France, Italy and Canada. Those trips had a profound effect on his thinking, shaking his belief in the superiority of Soviet-style socialism.
“The question haunted me: Why was the standard of living in our country lower than in other developed countries?” he recalled in his memoirs. “It seemed that our aged leaders were not especially worried about our undeniably lower living standards, our unsatisfactory way of life, and our falling behind in the field of advanced technologies.”
But Gorbachev had to wait his turn.
Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev died in 1982, and was succeeded by two other geriatric leaders: Andropov, Gorbachev’s mentor, and Konstantin Chernenko. It wasn’t until March 1985, when Chernenko died, that the party finally chose a younger man to lead the country. Gorbachev was 54.
His tenure was filled with rocky periods, including a poorly conceived anti-alcohol campaign, the Soviet military withdrawal from Afghanistan and the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.
But starting in November 1985, Gorbachev began a series of attention-grabbing summit meetings with world leaders, especially U.S. Presidents Ronald Reagan and George Bush, which led to unprecedented, deep reductions in the American and Soviet nuclear arsenals.
After years of watching a parade of stodgy leaders in the Kremlin, Western leaders practically swooned over the charming, vigorous Gorbachev and his stylish, brainy wife.
But perceptions were very different at home. It was the first time since the death of Soviet founder Vladimir Lenin that the wife of a Soviet leader played such a public role, and many Russians found Raisa Gorbachev showy and arrogant.
Although the rest of the world benefited from the changes Gorbachev wrought, the rickety Soviet economy collapsed in the process, bringing with it tremendous economic hardship for the country’s 290 million people.
In the final days of the Soviet Union, the economic decline accelerated into a steep skid. Hyper-inflation robbed most older people of their life’s savings. Factories shut down. Bread lines formed — and popular hatred for Gorbachev and his wife grew.
But the couple won sympathy in summer 1999, when it was revealed that Raisa Gorbachev was dying of leukemia. During her final days, Gorbachev spoke daily with television reporters, and the lofty-sounding, wooden politician of old was suddenly seen as an emotional family man surrendering to deep grief.
Gorbachev worked on the Gorbachev Foundation, which he created to address global priorities in the post-Cold War period, and with the Green Cross foundation, which was formed in 1993 to help cultivate “a more harmonious relationship between humans and the environment.”
He took the helm of the small United Social Democratic Party in 2000 in hopes it could fill the vacuum left by the Communist Party, which he said had failed to reform into a modern leftist party after the breakup of the Soviet Union. He resigned from the chairmanship in 2004.
He continued to comment on Russian politics as a senior statesman — even if many of his countrymen were no longer interested in what he had to say.
“The crisis in our country will continue for some time, possibly leading to even greater upheaval,” Gorbachev wrote in a memoir in 1996. “But Russia has irrevocably chosen the path of freedom, and no one can make it turn back to totalitarianism.”
Gorbachev veered between criticism and mild praise for Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has been assailed for backtracking on the democratic achievements of the Gorbachev and Yeltsin eras. He said Putin had done much to restore stability and prestige to Russia after the tumultuous decade following the Soviet collapse.
He did, however, protest growing limitations on media freedom and in 2006 bought one of Russia’s last investigative newspapers, Novaya Gazeta, with a businessman associate.
“We should — this is one of our goals — promote the newspaper’s qualitative development in the interests of democratic values,” he said, tacitly criticizing the Kremlin’s efforts to bring Novaya Gazeta and other independent media outlets to heel.
Gorbachev ventured into other new areas in his 70s, winning awards and kudos around the world. He won a Grammy in 2004 along with former U.S. President Bill Clinton and Italian actress Sophia Loren for their recording of Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf, and the United Nations named him a Champion of the Earth in 2006 for his environmental advocacy.
He had a daughter, Irina, and two granddaughters. | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-gorbachev-who-redirected-course-of-20th-century-dies-at-91/ | 2022-08-30T23:38:29Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-gorbachev-who-redirected-course-of-20th-century-dies-at-91/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) — A man who was beaten and held down by Arkansas law enforcement officers during an arrest that was caught on a widely circulated video has filed a federal lawsuit against the officers.
Attorneys for Randal Worcester filed the lawsuit Monday over the Aug. 21 arrest outside a convenience store in the small town of Mulberry that’s prompted state and federal criminal investigations. A bystander’s video shows one officer hold Worcester down as a sheriff’s deputy repeatedly punches and knees the 27-year-old man in the head before grabbing his hair and slamming him against the pavement. At the same time, a third officer also kneed Worcester repeatedly.
All three officers — Mulberry Officer Thell Riddle and Crawford County deputies Zachary King and Levi White — are white. Worcester is also white, according to jail booking information.
Worcester’s lawsuit accuses the officers, all of whom have been suspended, of violating his constitutional rights. The lawsuit also names the city of Mulberry, its police chief, Crawford County and its sheriff as defendants.
“Any reasonable law enforcement officer should have known that his conduct violated clearly established federal law and was a direct violation of the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution,” the lawsuit said.
Mulberry is a community of about 1,600 people that’s roughly 140 miles (220 kilometers) northwest of Little Rock, near the Oklahoma state line.
Crawford County Sheriff Jimmy Damante has said Worcester was being questioned for threatening a clerk at a convenience store in nearby Alma. Damante said Worcester had tackled one of the deputies and punched him in the head before what is seen on the bystander’s video. The deputy suffered a concussion, Damante has said.
Damante has said that before the arrest, Worcester handed over a knife and gave the officers a false name.
An attorney for the two deputies said he was not aware of the lawsuit.
“However, I will vigorously defend the lawsuit like I do every lawsuit against my law enforcement clients,” Russell Wood said in an email.
Damante and Mulberry Police Chief Shannon Gregory did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment Tuesday afternoon.
Policing experts have said that the video of Worcester’s arrest raises red flags about the officers’ actions, saying that blows to the head amount to a potentially deadly use of force that’s only justified when someone poses a current and serious threat.
Worcester was treated at a hospital before being jailed on charges including second-degree battery and resisting arrest. He was released the following day on a $15,000 bond. The lawsuit said Worcester has permanent injuries from the arrest and that he will need continued medical treatment for injuries to his face, body and head.
Worcester’s lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages, as well as money for medical bills and lost wages. | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-lawsuit-filed-over-violent-arrest-outside-arkansas-store/ | 2022-08-30T23:39:13Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-lawsuit-filed-over-violent-arrest-outside-arkansas-store/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
JOHANNESBURG (AP) — South African President Cyril Ramaphosa faced a grilling by lawmakers in Parliament on Tuesday as they demanded answers on his handling of the theft of millions of dollars from his farm.
Ramaphosa faced loud heckling from opposition members who called for him to answer questions about the theft at his Phala Phala farm in Limpopo province. The parliamentary session was adjourned before he answered all questions on the matter.
The president is being investigated over allegations that he was holding foreign currency at his farm that had not been properly declared to financial officials. This has raised suspicion that Ramaphosa did not report the theft because the cash was being held illegally.
When questioned in Parliament about the allegations, Ramaphosa said he had been advised that he should not make any public statements about the matter until investigations have been concluded.
“I have responded, and will continue to respond, to all the questions that have been put to me by the relevant authorities with regards to the theft at my farm,” said Ramaphosa.
“It is important for me that due process is followed, including the process that is going to unfold in Parliament,” he said.
However, some opposition lawmakers insisted that Ramaphosa was obliged to answer questions on the matter as he has not been formally charged and the issue is not before a court of law.
At least three members of the leftist opposition party, Economic Freedom Fighters, were physically ejected from the chambers for shouting and disrupting order.
Parliament has agreed to form an independent panel of experts to look into the allegations against Ramaphosa regarding the money at his Phala Phala farm. The report will be referred to parliament’s intelligence committee.
The allegations against Ramaphosa come as he will be seeking re-election as leader of the ruling African National Congress party in December. He must be the party’s leader in order to stand as its presidential candidate to be reelected as South African president in the 2024 general elections.
The allegations are a blow to Ramaphosa’s carefully crafted image as a corruption-buster. He campaigned on promises to clean up South Africa’s rampant corruption in 2019 when he was elected president.
Not only is Ramaphosa confronted by heated criticism from opposition parties, he also has detractors within his African National Congress party. A large number of ANC officials and even Cabinet members are loyal to his predecessor, former President Jacob Zuma, despite the corruption charges against the ex-leader. They have called for Ramaphosa to step down until he is cleared of any wrongdoing in what is called the Phala Phala scandal. | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-south-african-president-hit-by-tough-questions-in-parliament/ | 2022-08-30T23:40:03Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-south-african-president-hit-by-tough-questions-in-parliament/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
MONROE, Mich. (AP) — Severe storms that brought damaging winds, heavy rains and flash flooding to parts of the Midwest and the South were blamed for the deaths of three people, including two children in Michigan and Arkansas as well as a woman in Ohio.
Monday’s storms also knocked out electrical service to hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses in Indiana and Michigan, with dozens of schools canceling classes in Michigan alone on Tuesday because of power outages.
In the Michigan city of Monroe, a 14-year-old girl was electrocuted Monday night in the backyard of her home after coming into contact with an electrical line that was knocked down by a thunderstorm, the public safety department said in a Facebook post.
The girl was with a friend and she reached for what she believed was a stick, but it turned out to be the power line, the department said.
And in the Detroit-area community of Warren, two boys were hospitalized — including an 8-year-old who was in critical condition — after one of them touched a downed power line Tuesday morning, The Detroit News reported, citing a fire department official.
In Arkansas, an 11-year-old boy died after he was swept into a storm drain during heavy rainfall Monday, authorities said.
A 47-year-old woman who tried to help the child was also pulled from the drain and taken to a hospital for treatment, according to police in Bentonville. Slow-moving thunderstorms brought heavy rainfall to the area Monday and caused localized flash flooding, the National Weather Service said.
“Those heavy rains, when they fell, a lot of them fell really quickly and in a short time,” said meteorologist Brad McGavock with the weather service in Tulsa, Oklahoma, which covers parts of Arkansas. “Water management through those storm drains can really lead to a big volume of water through those culverts.”
In Ohio, a woman was killed Monday night when a tree fell on her behind her home in Toledo just as a strong storm moved through the area, the city’s fire department said. Her name and age were not released.
The storms were widespread in states including Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. Tree branches and power lines fell while winds gusted as high as 58 mph (93 kilometers per hour) at Battle Creek Executive Airport in Michigan and 60 mph (96 kilometers per hour) in Huntington, Indiana, the weather service reported.
On Monday night, Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said that he was declaring a state of emergency after excessive rainfall exacerbated problems in one of Jackson’s water-treatment plants and caused low water pressure through much of the capital city. A swollen Pearl River caused flooding in Jackson on Monday, days after storms dumped heavy rain.
The Mississippi flooding was less severe than flooding that caused death and destruction in Kentucky last month. Those floods left at least 39 dead and robbed thousands of families of all of their possessions. Nearly a month later, residents are wrestling with whether to rebuild at the place they call home or to start over somewhere else. | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-storms-blamed-in-deaths-of-2-children-in-michigan-arkansas/ | 2022-08-30T23:40:10Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-storms-blamed-in-deaths-of-2-children-in-michigan-arkansas/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
ROME (AP) — The Vatican on Tuesday moved to defend Pope Francis from allegations he hasn’t come down hard enough on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, saying the pontiff clearly views the war launched by Moscow as “senseless, repugnant and sacrilegious.”
Last week, Ukraine summoned the top papal diplomat to complain about recent comments by Francis. At an audience a day earlier at the Vatican, Francis had referred to a national Russian TV commentator who was killed by a car bomb in Moscow as a “poor girl.”
Francis was speaking about the slaying of Darya Dugina, the daughter of right-wing Russian political theorist Alexander Dugin, who fiercely backs the war.
Russia has accused Ukrainian intelligence in the bombing, which Ukraine denies.
In his remarks, Francis also said orphans in Ukraine and Russia were among the “innocents” who have been victimized by the “insanity of war.”
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba summoned the Vatican ambassador to Kyiv last week and told reporters that “the Ukrainian heart is torn apart by the pope’s words.”
In a statement, the Vatican appeared intent Tuesday on doing damage control.
“In recent days, public discussions have arisen about the political significance to attribute” to comments by Francis, the statement said.
“The words of the Holy Father on this dramatic question should be read as a voice raised in defense of human life and of the values linked to that, and not taken as a political position,” the Vatican said. “As for as the war of wide dimensions in Ukraine, begun by the Russian Federation, the interventions of the Holy Father Francis are clear and unequivocal in condemning it as morally unjust, unacceptable, barbaric, senseless, repugnant and sacrilegious.”
On the same day that the Ukraine slammed the pope’s remarks, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church cancelled a planned meeting with Francis for September.
Francis has said he wants to go to Ukraine if that could further the cause of peace but so far logistics have made that trip impossible for the 85-year-old pontiff who has mobility issues.
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Follow all AP stories on the impact of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine. | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-vatican-pope-clearly-condemns-russias-repugnant-war/ | 2022-08-30T23:40:39Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-vatican-pope-clearly-condemns-russias-repugnant-war/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Which Fresh Step cat litters are best?
Whether you have an outdoor or indoor cat, you must deal with the litter at some point. Outdoor cats typically use a litter pan or tray less often, as they spend much of their day exploring the neighborhood.
But owners of indoor cats will attest that even after one use, a litter tray can quickly produce an odor that’s strong enough to alert the state’s hazardous materials removal team. However, cat litter isn’t just about containing the smell. There are several other aspects to consider, and most importantly, the comfort of your cat.
Clumping clay vs. crystals
There are several types of cat litter, but you’ll generally find the most common types in a cat owner’s house are clay or crystals.
- Clay: With a gray appearance, clay is an effective way of keeping cat waste contained. Within the clay category, there are clumping and nonclumping options. As the name implies, clumping is easier to clean, as the litter sticks together around the waste. You only have to scoop out the clumps to keep the tray odor-free. Nonclumping litter is easier for cats to kick off, potentially scattering litter outside the tray.
- Crystals: Whether scented or natural, crystal cat litter is often made from silica. The material is excellent at absorbing waste and liquids but is typically more expensive than clay. Even though crystals are dust-free, they can pose a hazard to cats if ingested frequently.
- Other litter options: While clay and crystals are the most common, cat owners have other options. The environmentally-conscience can opt for using biodegradable corn, wheat or soy. Cat litter can also be made from recycled pine wood scraps or recycled paper formed into pellets or granules.
Best Fresh Step cat litter
Fresh Step Multi-Cat Scented Clumping Clay
This 25-pound box of cat litter is the perfect size for a household with multiple cats and several litter trays. It is 99.9% dust-free, so tiny particles don’t fly away after use. The clumping clay is treated with Febreze scent and ammonia-block technology, dramatically reducing the smell of waste.
Sold by Chewy
Fresh Step Fresh Scented Non-Clumping Crystals
With premium silica crystals, this 8-pound bag has Fresh Step’s 30 days of odor control guarantee. For one cat, this back should last around two months. It is non-clumping, so you must take care to scoop up solid and liquid waste completely.
Sold by Chewy
Fresh Step Triple Action Scented Clumping Clay
This 42-pound pack is perfect for several months or multiple cats in your house. The clumping litter includes activated charcoal, ammonia-block technology and plant extracts to trap and eliminate odors and bacteria for up to 10 days.
Sold by Chewy
Fresh Step Lightweight Febreze-Scented Clumping Clay
Treated with Febreze scents, this clumping litter is best suited for cats that don’t need to go often or have smaller movements. It still uses Fresh Step’s extra-strength formula to help eliminate odors and easily clumps together for quick waste removal.
Sold by Chewy
Fresh Step Simply Unscented Clumping Clay
This unscented litter is best if your cat prefers to do business in a natural-smelling tray. It has no added fragrances or dyes and is 99.9% dust-free. The high-quality clay clumps quickly, making removal easy.
Sold by Chewy
Fresh Step Extreme Odor Control Febreze-Scented Clumping Clay
For the times when you need extreme odor control, this mountain spring-scented litter clumps quickly and efficiently. Fresh Step guarantees that it will block the smell of ammonia for up to 10 days. The 11-pound box is good for one cat for about two weeks.
Sold by Chewy
Fresh Step Clean Paws Multi-Cat Scented Clumping Clay
More cats mean more litter, but this box of four 9.4-pound bags is all you need. The clumping clay leaves behind a fresh scent and can’t easily be tracked throughout your house.
Sold by Chewy
Fresh Step Outstretch Concentrated Clumping Clay
This is an excellent option if you need to make your clumping clay litter last. With six times more activated carbon than other Fresh Step litters, it will last around 50% longer, meaning you’ll need to change it less often. It comes with a 15-day odor control guarantee.
Sold by Chewy
Fresh Step Summer Breeze Cat Litter Deodorizing Crystals
If you use crystal litter, these deodorizing crystals help to block unwanted odors. Simply sprinkle it on the litter in the tray or soiled area, and it contains the smell. You should always remove solid waste first before sprinkling.
Sold by Chewy
Fresh Step Soothing Lavender Litter Box Deodorizing Gel Beads
With the scent of soothing lavender, these deodorizing gel beads help combat the odor from a litter tray. Instead of pouring the beads into the litter, you simply place it close by. The 12-ounce jar should last for a few weeks.
Sold by Chewy
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Charlie Fripp writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wpri.com/reviews/10-best-fresh-step-cat-litters/ | 2022-08-30T23:40:52Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/reviews/10-best-fresh-step-cat-litters/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Which camping toilet is best?
A crucial question you must tackle when planning a camping trip is knowing where and how your group will go to the restroom. While some people are comfortable fully roughing it, others prefer at least a small amount of normalcy while they camp. This is where a camping toilet can help, and a wide variety is available.
If you are looking for a reliable, portable and simple design that takes care of business when you need to, the Blika Upgraded Portable Toilet for Camping is a good choice.
What to know before you buy a camping toilet
Types of toilets
- Foldable: Foldable or collapsible toilets work well when storage space is minimal, on the road or at home. These may come with a toilet seat or be a plain platform. You can use them over a pit toilet or a bucket.
- Buckets: Bucket toilets utilize composting to break down human waste. Sometimes, a toilet seat is attached to a bucket that collects deposits. You may add an absorbent material such as cedar pet bedding or newspaper. It is important to use compostable liners for bucket camping toilets.
- Chemical flush: Chemical flush toilets seal waste inside the toilet and use added chemicals to break it down. These still require disposal and handling, but some prefer a more sanitized version of waste. These can also be safely emptied at RV disposal stations.
Toilet height
Little kids might be able to squat anywhere, but people with aching knees and backs might prefer a taller toilet. Anything shorter than a foot will be challenging for older outdoor enthusiasts to use comfortably.
Capacity
Camping toilets need to be emptied when they are full. How often this happens depends on how many people are using the toilet and how much it can hold. If you prefer fewer trips to the dump, choose a larger capacity camping toilet.
What to look for in a quality camping toilet
Compostable bags included
For composting bucket toilets, you’ll need special bags that break down in a landfill or pit toilet. Look for toilets that include compostable bags sized to fit.
Easy to empty
All of that waste has to go somewhere. If it doesn’t go into a bag you can tie off and throw out, make sure the receptacle is leak-proof and easy to carry.
Solid construction
The last thing you want is your toilet to be wobbly when sitting on it. Look for solid construction and well-crafted design, regardless of what kind of materials were used to make your toilet.
How much you can expect to spend on a camping toilet
The price varies depending on the type of toilet you purchase and how elaborate it is. Expect to spend $250-$150.
Camping toilet FAQ
Do you have to buy a camping toilet for outdoor adventures?
A. No. Some campers are perfectly content to dig a hole in the woods. However, there are some big advantages of camping toilets over squatting in the wilderness.
- It’s easier on the joints: If your knees aren’t as flexible as they used to be, a comfortable camping toilet makes it easier to use the bathroom.
- It feels like home: Even if you love camping off-grid far away from people, it’s nice to bring a little civilization with you. A camping toilet can make even the most desolate place more comfortable.
- It’s not public: Public outhouses and restrooms at campsites can be less than desirable. It’s a crapshoot as to whether or not they are clean and well-stocked. Bring your own toilet wherever you go, and you can avoid rolling the dice.
Where do you dispose of waste from a camping toilet?
A. The best place to dispose of waste is at a dumping station that services RVs. Waste can also be disposed of in a pit toilet, but only if it has been collected in a compostable bag.
Some local laws permit dumping waste in a landfill in special areas. Make sure this is legal before you make the trip.
What’s the best camping toilet to buy?
Top camping toilet
Blika Upgraded Portable Toilet for Camping
What you need to know: This foldable toilet is perfect over a pit, a bucket or a bag.
What you’ll love: This stainless steel camping toilet sits at a regular chair height for comfort. It weighs 4.4 pounds for easy packing and holds 350 pounds. Toilet bags can attach directly to the chair or be positioned over a receptacle. It comes with a carrying bag and toilet paper holder. Try it out for a month and return it for your money back if it does not work for you.
What you should consider: The toilet paper holder is not sturdy. Most people choose not to use it.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top camping toilet for the money
Camco Bucket Toilet Seat With Lid and Waste Bags
What you need to know: This converts any 5-gallon bucket to a backcountry camping toilet.
What you’ll love: The seat snaps securely on most standard 5-gallon buckets. It is made of polypropylene. The kit also comes with three leak-proof bucket bags.
What you should consider: This is just the toilet seat and the waste bags. The bucket is not included.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
What you need to know: If you need a portable toilet that functions most like a conventional, in-home toilet, this one’s for you.
What you’ll love: This works both indoors and out. It uses water with a 360-degree spray and flush to keep the bowl clean. It works for 50 flushes before it needs to be emptied. It has a 5.3-gallon waste tank and a 3.2-gallon water tank. It comes with a carrying and storage case.
What you should consider: It is expensive and requires a little more setup than other options.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Suzannah Kolbeck writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wpri.com/reviews/br/camping-outdoors-br/gear-br/best-camping-toilet/ | 2022-08-30T23:41:24Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/reviews/br/camping-outdoors-br/gear-br/best-camping-toilet/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — NASA will try again Saturday to launch its new moon rocket on a test flight, after engine trouble halted the first countdown this week.
Managers said Tuesday they are changing fueling procedures to deal with the issue.
The 322-foot (98-meter) rocket remains on its pad at Kennedy Space Center, with an empty crew capsule on top. It’s the most powerful rocket ever built by NASA.
The Space Launch System rocket, or SLS, will attempt to send the capsule around the moon and back. No one will be aboard, just three test dummies. If successful, it will be the first capsule to fly to the moon since NASA’s Apollo program 50 years ago.
During Monday’s launch attempt, one of the four main engines in the rocket’s core stage could not be chilled sufficiently prior to planned ignition moments before liftoff. The three others came up just a little short.
The chilling operation will be conducted a half-hour earlier for Saturday afternoon’s try, once fueling is underway at the pad, officials said.
John Honeycutt, NASA’s program manager for the rocket, told reporters that the timing of this engine chilldown was earlier during successful testing last year, and so moving it sooner may do the trick.
Honeycutt also questioned the integrity of one engine sensor, saying it might have provided inaccurate data Monday. To change that sensor, he noted, would mean hauling the rocket back into the hangar, which would mean weeks of delay.
The $4.1 billion test flight is the opening shot in NASA’s Artemis moon-exploration program, named after the twin sister of Apollo in Greek mythology. Astronauts could strap in as soon as 2024 for a lap around the moon and actually attempt a lunar landing in 2025.
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The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | https://www.wpri.com/rhode-show/talking-tech/ap-technology/ap-nasa-aims-for-saturday-launch-of-new-moon-rocket-take-2/ | 2022-08-30T23:42:33Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/rhode-show/talking-tech/ap-technology/ap-nasa-aims-for-saturday-launch-of-new-moon-rocket-take-2/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Carolina Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield has ignited what was already expected to be an emotionally charged Week 1 game against his former team, the Cleveland Browns.
According to Bills sideline reporter Cynthia Frelund, Mayfield had some choice words for the Browns following the Panthers’ 21-0 preseason win over Buffalo on Friday night.
“I’m going to (expletive) them up,” Mayfield said of the Browns, according to what Frelund said on a podcast.
Frelund, who works as a analytics analyst for the NFL Network, shared a story during the “Around the NFL” podcast with Dan Hanzus, Marc Sessler and Gregg Rosenthal about a brief conversation she had with Mayfield at Bank of America Stadium.
“I walked up to him and said, ‘I’m so excited to see you, like, go kick some butt,’ I didn’t say that word,” Frelund said with a laugh. “… Go kick some butt, especially Week 1, I like cannot wait. And he uses some expletives and I was like, ‘I just hope you’re like ready.’ He was like, ’I’m gonna bleep them up.”
When contacted on Tuesday about a request to speak with Mayfield, the Panthers public relations department referred all comments to the quarterback’s media availability later this week.
The Panthers were off Tuesday.
In an interview with The Associated Press on Tuesday, Frelund confirmed the exchange, but said she was trying to be supportive of Mayfield and shouldn’t have disclosed what she called a private conversation.
“I was trying to defend Baker,” Frelund said. “He’s in a good spot now and is primed for success. … I was showing effusive support for a person who had a really rough offseason.”
Mayfield has been known to make some inflammatory comments during his four seasons with the Browns, and it’s no secret the team’s decision to pursue and trade for Deshaun Watson didn’t sit well with the No. 1 overall draft pick in 2018.
The Browns traded Mayfield to the Panthers on July 6 and agreed to pay $10.5 million of his contract.
Mayfield has been careful in choosing his words when talking about the Browns since his arrival in Carolina.
“Obviously, there’s a lot of attachment there,’’ Mayfield said last week after being selected as the Panthers’ Week 1 starter. “I’m not going to sit here and be a robot and say it doesn’t mean anything. It will.’’
Mayfield wouldn’t say what he’ll do against the Browns, adding “I’m not going to premeditate anything. Once I step inside the lines, I’m a competitor.’’
Browns All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett didn’t hear the comments directly from Mayfield, so he was reluctant to comment on “hearsay.”
However, Garrett said he’s not surprised Mayfield would say something to fire himself up.
“I know he has that swagger, that confidence that borders on arrogance in some people’s eyes,” Garrett said after practice. “But he’s always played with a chip on his shoulder, and I think we have as an organization as well. So however he feels or goes about it in his mind scape to prepare for the game to play us at the highest level for him, it’s whatever.
“Of course, we’ll use it. It will be motivation. It will be fuel. But at the end of the day a guy is going to do anything he can to try and get one thousandth of a percent better, and if it takes that to hype him up or us using it to hype us up, it’s all going to add to the fire for both teams.”
Panthers center Bradley Bozeman said Mayfield is a fiery competitor, but “someone you want to play for.”
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AP Sports Writer Tom Withers in Cleveland contributed to this report.
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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/ap-mayfields-comments-add-spark-to-browns-panthers-week-1-game/ | 2022-08-30T23:43:17Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-mayfields-comments-add-spark-to-browns-panthers-week-1-game/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
NEW YORK (AP) — Baseball’s elite are getting involved with one of Europe’s most celebrated soccer clubs.
The New York Yankees are becoming a minority investor in Italian champion AC Milan, the second soccer team the baseball power will partially own after MLS’s New York City.
A Los Angeles-based fund that includes LeBron James also is becoming a minority investor in the seven-time European champion under RedBird Capital Partners, The Financial Times reported Tuesday. RedBird is nearing a deal to purchase a controlling interest in Milan for 1.2 billion euros ($1.2 billion).
Gerry Cardinale, who founded RedBird in 2014 and is a managing partner, announced a preliminary agreement in June to buy Milan from fellow American firm Elliott Management. The closing is to take place by the end of September.
Yankees Global Enterprises, the baseball team’s parent company led by the Steinbrenner family, will take a stake of about 10% in Milan, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press, speaking on condition of anonymity because the final deal has not been announced.
“We’re very confident that the Yankee brand is the most famous sports brand in the world, and we think we can help boost the revenue of AC Milan by being associated with it,” Yankees president Randy Levine said Tuesday.
Milan declined to comment.
The Yankees agreed in 2013 to purchase a 20% stake in the New York City Major League Soccer team that launched in 2015. City Football Group, Manchester City’s parent company, is the controlling owner.
Yankees Global Enterprises also owns stakes in the YES Network and Legends Hospitality, formed in 2008 with the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys.
“It came about based on our relationship with Gerry and RedBird that goes back over 25 years,” Levine said. “The Steinbrenners were one of the original investors in RedBird when Gerry started it. We worked very closely with Gerry when he was at Goldman Sachs in building the YES Network and Legends Hospitality. He was involved with Goldman’s work on the new Yankee Stadium when RedBird was formed and YES was purchased back from Disney, RedBird became a partner with us and YES.”
The Yankees, 27-time World Series champions, are signing a separate marketing agreement with Milan, a 19-time Italian champion, that will include broadcasting replays of games on the YES Network, as Manchester City does. There also will be cross-merchandising between the pinstripes and the Rossoneri.
“We have a little familiarity with soccer — we’ve learned a little since our relationship with City Football Group,” Levine said. “We think it’s a good investment. Like with Man City, we do not intend to get involved in running the soccer side. We leave it to the experts. We’ve got enough to do on the baseball side.”
New York City plays most of its home games at Yankee Stadium, and Levine is helping lead the search for a site for a soccer stadium for the MLS team.
Milan is coming off its first Italian title in 11 years.
Main Street Advisors, the fund supported by James, also counts the rapper Drake among its partners, as well as English Premier League club Liverpool and the Boston Red Sox.
James and Drake will be passive investors in Milan through the fund and have not taken direct stakes, according to The Financial Times, which first reported the investments.
RedBird also has a stake in Fenway Sports Group, parent company of Liverpool and the Red Sox. Champions League rules prohibit two clubs in the competition from being under the same ownership to protect the integrity of games on the field. UEFA likely will have to make a judgment on the extent of RedBird’s influence on decision-making at Liverpool.
RedBird is set to become Milan’s fourth owner in five years.
Milan was owned by Silvio Berlusconi from 1986 until 2017. Italy’s prime minister from 2001-06 and 2008-11, Berlusconi sold control to a company controlled by Sino-Europe Sports Investment Management Changxing Co. The American hedge fund Elliott provided financing and took control of the team in 2018 when loan payments were not made.
Inter Milan, Roma, Fiorentina and Bologna are among other foreign-owned teams in Serie A.
“Italian soccer is still experiencing financial contraction,” Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta said of the Milan transaction. “We’ve gone from a period of patronage by the Morattis and the Berlusconis who brought (trophies) to Milan and Inter to a situation in which both clubs have foreign ownership. And thank goodness they came.
“Most of the foreign owners are American and they’ve brought in a new business model, and a different mentality in which economic and financial sustainability is very important.”
Having previously failed to qualify for Europe’s elite competition for seven consecutive years, including a one-year UEFA ban for breaking financial monitoring rules, Milan is playing in the Champions League for a second consecutive season. That competition can increase revenue by about 100 million euros ($100 million) in UEFA prize money and help restore the club’s global brand.
Milan shares one of soccer’s iconic venues, San Siro, with rival Inter Milan. With a capacity of about 80,000, the stadium opened in 1926, was extensively renovated ahead of the 1990 World Cup and is scheduled to host the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics. There are few luxury suites and fan amenities in the venue, formally known as Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, and both Milan and Inter have discussed building a new stadium adjacent to the current arena.
“As we help the City Football Group here in New York,” Levine said, “in commercial ways and trying to get through a stadium and a whole bunch of other things, we think in our brand there could be synergies between us and Milan that will raise the value of Milan significantly.”
Former longtime team captain Paolo Maldini will stay on as Milan’s technical area director despite the ownership change, a person involved in the negotiations said, adding that Stefano Pioli is safe in his job as Milan’s coach. That person also spoke the AP on condition of anonymity because the final deal has not been announced yet.
The only Italians investing in the deal are media rights executive Riccardo Silva and his brother, Saverio Silva, the person said.
Riccardo Silva owns the Miami soccer club, which plays in the second-tier USL Championship. He founded the Miami team together with Maldini, who withdrew his ownership stake in Miami when he took on his current role at Milan.
The deal could involve players from Milan’s youth academy spending time at Miami.
___
Dampf reported from Rome. AP Sports Writer Graham Dunbar in Geneva contributed to this report.
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More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/Soccer and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
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Andrew Dampf is at https://twitter.com/AndrewDampf | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-report-yankees-la-fund-investing-in-ac-milan-soccer-team/ | 2022-08-30T23:43:46Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-report-yankees-la-fund-investing-in-ac-milan-soccer-team/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Superhero Hype’s Best Amazon Books and Comics Deals for Aug 30
What are the good cheap reads right now? We may be able to go outside again, but there’s always time to read. In this ongoing series, Superhero Hype takes a look at some of the better deals Amazon.com has running as of publication time. Please note that all deals are subject to change or sell out at any time based on supply and demand. But as of now, these are what we consider some of the best deals for Aug 30.
The Sandman Vol. 1: Preludes & Nocturnes 30th Anniversary Edition Paperback
$17.99
For anyone new to The Sandman, catch up now on the comics that inspired the current Netflix series. The story’s the same, but the artwork remains mind-blowingly impossible to capture in live-action. Unlike Morpheus, who gets caught in a see-through chamber for a century in this first tale.
Still Just a Geek: An Annotated Memoir
$14.49
Revisiting his 2004 autobiography, comprised of edited blog posts, Star Trek actor Wil Wheaton finds much wanting in his younger self. Now more at peace with who and where he is, he adds new commentary to the old entries, and reconciles with some of his more problematic recollections.
Jane Foster: The Saga of the Mighty Thor
$25.86
Do you love her thunder? Read one of the major Marvel storylines that inspired the latest Thor movie, in which Jane Foster dons the mantle and hammer of the thunder god, but each time she transforms, the cancer inside her gets worse. Rather than Gorr, she must face the threat of Dark World foe Malekith, and assemble a team to defeat him.
Ms. Marvel Volume 1: No Normal (Ms Marvel, 1)
$16.51
Discover the comic origin of Kamala Khan’s powers, in a story with many of the same players as the TV show, but very different specifics. Inhuman and able to stretch and reshape her body, the new Ms. Marvel made her mark as the first Muslim superhero with her own Marvel title. Read her first adventures here.
Thor: The Saga of Gorr the God Butcher
$24.99
The other storyline powering Thor: Love and Thunder comes from this Jason Aaron arc featuring a deicidal villain. But his path here is longer and bloodier, with an army and a massive body count of gods. Can he succeed in his ultimate plan to detonate the Godbomb? It may take Thors from three different eras to stop him.
Marvel’s Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness: The Official Movie Special Book
$19.99
When it’s time to play with madness, Sam Raimi’s your man. Enter the behind-the-scenes world of Doctor Strange, with probably very little acknowledgement of how rushed the production was, or the first director who left. Still, the movie gave us many cool things to look at, and their development is probably even more so. Was there ever concept art of Tom Cruise as Iron Man? Maybe the book will reveal.
She-Hulk Omnibus Vol. 1 Paperback – February 1, 2022
$25.29
Delve even further into the life of Jennifer Walters, and learn even more than you will in Marvel’s new legal comedy. Read up on some of her wackiest superhero law cases. From taking on Titania with her brawn to trying a case with the Living Tribunal using her brains, she still maintains a head-turning beauty. But it’s okay to read it for the storylines and the art.
The Art of Star Wars: The Mandalorian (Season Two)
$19.51
We caught up with Ahsoka and Bo-Katan. Learned “Baby Yoda” was really named Grogu. Saw Luke Skywalker with a weird digital face. And Boba Fett came back! Now look behind the scenes at all the design work which made it happen.
Anakin Skywalker: The Story of Darth Vader Figure and Book Set Star Wars Masterpiece Edition
$42.98
Released shortly before the prequel trilogy, this hefty look at the life of Darth Vader includes what was then known about young Anakin, based on George Lucas’ notes and Steve Sansweet’s research. Also included is a rare 12-inch Hasbro figure of Anakin Skywalker as portrayed in Force ghost form by Sebastian Shaw, before the DVD sets digitally erased him. | https://www.superherohype.com/deals/518439-superhero-hypes-best-amazon-books-and-comics-deals-for-aug-30 | 2022-08-30T23:44:06Z | superherohype.com | control | https://www.superherohype.com/deals/518439-superhero-hypes-best-amazon-books-and-comics-deals-for-aug-30 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
NEW YORK (AP) — The Latest on the U.S. Open tennis tournament (all times local):
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7 p.m.
Serena Williams won’t be doing double duty at the U.S. Open — at least, not yet.
She and sister Venus are not on Wednesday’s schedule for their opening match in the women’s doubles tournament. First-round doubles matches will continue Thursday, when the Williams sisters will play unless weather or other factors cause delays.
Serena Williams plays her second-round singles match Wednesday night against No. 2 seed Anett Kontaveit. In what could be the final tournament of her career, she is also playing doubles with her older sister for the first time since the 2018 French Open. They have won 14 Grand Slam championships as a team, most recently at Wimbledon in 2016.
They will face the Czech pair of Lucie Hradecka and Linda Noskova in the first round.
___
5:10 p.m.
Venus Williams has been eliminated in the first round of her return to the U.S. Open.
Williams lost 6-1, 7-6 (5) to Alison Van Uytvanck of Belgium in Arthur Ashe Stadium, where younger sister Serena won a night earlier.
Venus Williams, 42, was given a wild card into the tournament she first played in 1997, where she was runner-up. She missed the event that she won in 2000 and 2001 last year with an injury.
Williams fell to 0-4 in singles matches this year. She has won at least one match every year since 1994.
___
3:50 p.m.
The Wimbledon women’s champion is out in the first round of the U.S. Open.
Elena Rybakina lost 6-4, 6-4 to Clara Burel of France, who came through qualifying to earn a spot in the main draw.
Rybakina was seeded only 25th, with her victory in the most recent Grand Slam not boosting her in the rankings because no points were awarded at the tournament this year. The men’s and women’s tours took that step after the All England Club barred Russian and Belarussian players from competing because of the war against Ukraine.
Rybakina, who was born in Russia but represents Kazakhstan, said before this tournament she thought that was unfair, adding she didn’t even feel like a Wimbledon champion.
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3:10 p.m.
Carlos Alcaraz moved into the second round of the U.S. Open when his opponent was forced to stop because of injury in the third set.
The No. 3 seed led Sebastian Baez 7-5, 7-5, 2-0 when the Argentine player motioned he couldn’t continue because of leg pain or cramps.
Alcaraz’s U.S. Open ended last year in a similar manner. He reached the quarterfinals at 18, the youngest man to get that far in New York in the professional era, before stopping in the second set of his loss to Felix Auger-Aliassime because of an upper right leg injury.
Alcaraz has followed that by winning four ATP titles this year.
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1 p.m.
Serena Williams will be back under the lights in Arthur Ashe Stadium on Wednesday.
Williams will play the leadoff match of the night session in the main stadium, the U.S. Tennis Association announced Tuesday.
She will face No. 2 seed Anett Kontaveit of Estonia. They will be followed by defending men’s champion Daniil Medvedev against Arthur Rinderknech of France.
Williams beat Danka Kovinic on Monday night to begin what could be the final tournament of her career. That helped draw the largest crowd ever for a U.S. Open night session, which had more than 29,000 fans.
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12:30 p.m.
Top-ranked Iga Swiatek powered into the second round of the U.S. Open, beating Jasmine Paolini 6-3, 6-0.
No. 8-seeded American Jessica Pegula also raced through her opening match, like Swiatek needing just more than an hour before beating Viktorija Golubic 6-2, 6-2.
Swiatek is just 5-4 since her 37-winning streak earlier this year, but the two-time French Open champion got sharper as the match went on Tuesday while supported by a number of Polish fans wearing red inside Louis Armstrong Stadium.
She is trying to become the first player since Serena Williams in 2014 to win seven titles in a year.
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11:10 a.m.
A day after Serena Williams won her opening match at the U.S. Open, sister Venus will begin her tournament on the same Arthur Ashe Stadium court.
Top-ranked Iga Swiatek was among the players on court when the second day of the event began Tuesday morning. Garbiñe Muguruza and Jelena Ostapenko were other Grand Slam champions with early starts.
Play in Ashe was set to begin at noon with No. 3 seed Carlos Alcaraz facing Sebastian Baez of Argentina. Then it was the 42-year-old Venus Williams, returning to the tournament she first won 25 years ago. She facing Alison Van Uytvanck of Belgium after a one-year absence at Flushing Meadows.
Rafael Nadal was in night action, along with defending women’s champion Emma Raducanu and two-time winner Naomi Osaka.
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More AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-venus-williams-nadal-set-for-day-2-action-us-open-updates/ | 2022-08-30T23:44:30Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-venus-williams-nadal-set-for-day-2-action-us-open-updates/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
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