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Optimism is mounting at one of Wyoming’s nascent rare earths projects.
Early drilling results suggest the Halleck Creek deposit north of Laramie is larger than anticipated, and may rank among the most promising potential mines in the world, Western Rare Earths announced Sept. 1.
The company, a U.S. subsidiary of Australian exploration company American Rare Earths, acquired Halleck Creek a little over a year ago. It figured, from surface data, that the deposit’s roughly 350 million metric tons of mineralized rock contained up to a million metric tons of rare earths.
During preliminary drilling this spring, the company discovered that the rare earths extend farther east and deeper underground than it anticipated.
It has since expanded its estimate to encompass over a billion metric tons of mineralized rock and closer to 2 million metric tons of rare earths.
“The Halleck Creek project is shaping up to become a world class asset. The maiden drill campaign was a resounding success, and the new exploration target is massive,” Chris Gibbs, managing director and CEO of American Rare Earths, said in a written statement.
For rare earths, those numbers are huge.
A collection of 17 elements required for everything from smartphones to electric vehicles, rare earths are — despite their name — relatively common in nature.
They’re distributed thinly enough, though, that mineable deposits can be tough to find.
“Finding one that’s big enough to matter, and rich enough to be worthwhile, is actually quite rare in the global landscape of rare earths,” said Western Rare Earths CEO Marty Weems.
That’s what sets deposits like Halleck Creek apart.
Western Rare Earths believes that project, along with a similarly vast but less concentrated deposit the company is studying in Arizona, could — with further research — turn out to be one of the largest reserves ever found.
Rare Element Resources, the owner of the state’s other active rare earths project, determined following years of site study that its northeastern Wyoming resource holds roughly 500,000 metric tons of rare earths.
“Not many rare earth deposit discoveries around the world have more than a million tons of rare earth content in them,” Weems said. “We’re not guaranteeing that it does. We’re just saying, based on the limited data we have, it looks like it very well may have those kinds of volumes.”
Ranie Lands, a geologist at the Wyoming State Geological Survey, told the Star-Tribune via email that the agency has no independent way of verifying the size of the Halleck Creek deposit. It’ll take the company several years to verify those findings, Weems said.
But each round of drilling will bring it closer, starting with the samples it plans to extract between the end of this month and late October and finish analyzing by early 2023.
Most rare earth elements, considered essential to national function and vulnerable to supply chain disruption, are classified by the U.S. as critical minerals.
With the bulk of the country’s rare earths imported from China, establishing a domestic supply chain is a priority for the Biden administration and a target for subsidies intended to accelerate that development.
Western Rare Earths hopes that federal backing will help it turn the Halleck Creek project into a mine that supports hundreds of southeastern Wyoming jobs within a decade.
It’s also partnering with researchers in an effort to bring down the costs and environmental impacts of processing, challenges that have historically deterred U.S. investment in rare earths mining. (Rare Element Resources is also investing heavily in supply chain improvements.)
Meanwhile, Western Rare Earths has identified another advantage: The prevalence of radioactive elements at Halleck Creek — unlike most other mineable rare earths deposits — appears to fall well below the hazardous threshold. It still has to confirm that, too.
“There’s a lot of drilling in our future,” Weems said.
Which will be followed, he noted, by reclamation.
If all goes to plan, the very high concentration of rare earths and very low levels of radiation could enable Western Rare Earths to secure fewer permits, take fewer precautions and process smaller volumes of rock compared with many of its competitors. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/rare-opportunity-southern-wyoming-rare-earth-deposit-shows-promise/article_cc022e70-32a3-11ed-83cc-7bb0b14fa58e.html | 2022-09-14T14:03:19Z | wyomingnews.com | control | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/rare-opportunity-southern-wyoming-rare-earth-deposit-shows-promise/article_cc022e70-32a3-11ed-83cc-7bb0b14fa58e.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Wyoming lawmakers expect to navigate constitutional roadblocks on the path to creating a statewide school choice program.
Members of the Legislature’s Joint Education Committee heard the prohibitions and education obligations laid out in the Wyoming Constitution on Thursday as part of their meeting at the state Capitol. Legislative Service Office Operations Administrator Tania Hytrek told members of the committee that these could leave the state at risk of litigation if a school choice program were developed, and she presented relevant case law from other parts of the country.
Hytrek said it is a complicated issue due to the state’s unique 40-year history of school finance litigation, and the fact that the Legislature has not previously undertaken the act of creating a school choice program. There are different options, such as voucher programs, education savings account programs, individual tuition tax credits and public charters that could be considered.
“There are policy choices that the Legislature can make to minimize some of these risks – tying the educational standards to those required by public schools is one. Another may be setting aside funds that are not School Foundation Program dollars,” she said. “But what we cannot answer is if and when such a program were challenged, what the outcome would be under Article 3, Section 36 and Article 16, Section 6, nor do we know the outcome under the lengthy school finance history.”
Public funds and obligations
Regarding the expenditure of public funds, there are four specific sections that Hytrek said are relevant to the discussion of school choice programs.
According to Article 1, Section 19 of the Wyoming Constitution, “No money of the state shall ever be given or appropriated to any sectarian or religious society or institution.”
Article 3, Section 36 outlines that, “No appropriation shall be made for charitable, industrial, educational or benevolent purposes to any person, corporation or community not under the absolute control of the state, nor to any denominational or sectarian institution or association.”
There are also guidelines in Article 7, Section 8 that provisions have to be made by general law for the “equitable allocation of such income among all school districts in the state.” No appropriation can be made to any district or school that has not been maintained for at least three months, and no part of any public school fund can be used for an educational institution at any level that is controlled by a church or religious organization.
Hytrek noted that “the state or any county, township, town, school district or any other political subdivision” can’t loan, give credits or make a donation to any “individual, association or corporation, except for the necessary support of the poor.”
These don’t speak to the constitutional education obligations that have been set as the standard in the Campbell County school district cases, as well as Washakie County School District #1 v. Herschler. Hytrek said there may be arguments made that the Legislature hadn’t met its obligation to provide a uniform system of public instruction, or funds were being taken away from public schools.
“I would raise three basic issues in this realm,” she said. “The first is with adequacy and equity of funding, the second is fulfillment of the basket of educational goods and services, and the third is the impact on Wyoming’s public school finance system.”
Among the legal requirements that Hytrek presented, Rep. Cathy Connolly, D-Laramie, had her own concerns. She said she had dealt with stakeholders in the past who wanted to create charter schools that didn’t include special-education students or had extracurricular activities during the school hours that parents had to pay for. She said private schools having rules and regulations about who they admit or exclude could violate the Constitution.
“Any school that takes public money is obligated to educate all children equally and equitably,” she said.
School choice defense
Two national school choice advocates came before the Education Committee to show avenues to create a school choice program that works for Wyoming, as well as relevant case law if it resulted in litigation.
Corey DeAngelis, senior fellow at the American Federation For Children, said the state has an open field when it comes to enacting different types of school choice programs. He recommended pulling funding from the general fund or another appropriation not for public schools, or funding the program privately through a tax credit scholarship, or a tax credit funded education savings account program.
“Nineteen states expanded or enacted school choice programs that allow the funding to follow the child to a private school in 2021,” he said. “And in 2022, just a couple of months ago, Arizona passed the biggest school choice victory in U.S. history. Every single family, regardless of income, will be able to take their children’s state-funded education dollars to the education providers that they’re choosing.”
Sen. Bo Biteman, R-Ranchester, asked whether these states faced legal battles after passing the legislation. Other legislators were doubtful if they could take action considering the extensive constitutional requirements, public education being guaranteed as a fundamental right and the funding systems in place connected to the mineral extraction industry.
DeAngelis said it was more likely than not that the states that enacted a program faced litigation because “teachers unions, in order to protect the status quo, will use every lever they can to try to trap kids in their schools, even if families want an exit option.”
However, he said the school choice movement has been successful at the Supreme Court level, and it is a friendly environment.
In Carson v. Makin, the court held that Maine’s exclusion of religious options from the state’s high school “tuitioning program” was a violation of the First Amendment in the U.S. Constitution, and took away a parent’s choice to select a religious school for their student. Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue also held that states can’t prohibit families from selecting religious-affiliated schools in school choice programs.
EdChoice attorney Leslie Heiner, who has been involved with school choice litigation for the last 20 years, also saw an opportunity for Wyoming to take action.
She said the U.S. Constitution is supreme, and the two recent school choice cases declared that state constitutions that have provisions that are discriminatory against religious people or religious entities “are repugnant to the U.S. Constitution, and they cannot stand.” She also provided examples of other states that have been successful in providing equity and equality, as well as the right to choose an education institution.
“Each state is unique, there’s no question about it. But the one thing I’ve learned after all these years is that the school choice programs can be structured in a way that meets your constitutional obligations,” she said. “So yes, Wyoming has nuance, but it’s not fatal.” | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/school-choice-faces-constitutional-roadblocks/article_7b6eaeca-32a3-11ed-810d-c7ceadaac10d.html | 2022-09-14T14:03:37Z | wyomingnews.com | control | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/school-choice-faces-constitutional-roadblocks/article_7b6eaeca-32a3-11ed-810d-c7ceadaac10d.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
BUFFALO — It wasn’t quite the tourism season local business owners expected.
After a record season in Johnson County in 2021 in the wake of COVID-19, flooding in Yellowstone National Park and the park’s subsequent closure threw travel plans into disarray and threatened to derail tourism in the area.
But while business owners said Yellowstone’s brief closure had a definite impact, tourism remained strong.
“I think that there’s been a significant amount of people traveling this year,” said David Stewart, owner of the Historic Occidental Hotel and Blue Gables Motel. “I mean, it’s not a blowout, but it’s definitely been a good season.”
In mid-June, when officials evacuated Yellowstone National Park and shut its gates in the face of massive flooding, local hotels and campgrounds saw a raft of cancellations. Two months on, business owners said walk-in customers have largely made up for those cancellations, though not entirely.
Stewart said that the Occidental — a “destination” stop that often attracts repeat visitors — was able to carry on largely as normal, while Blue Gables saw a decrease from the previous year.
Likewise, traffic at the Deer Park Campground has been down compared with last year, said Ann Kavanagh, the campground’s owner.
“We did lose a lot of previous reservations for that period, because people were running scared and afraid they wouldn’t be able to get in somewhere else,” Kavanagh said.
The story was the same across the state, where hotel room demand was down 10% and hotel revenue was down almost 18%, according to the Wyoming Office of Tourism.
“This large decrease in June correlates with the drop in visitation to Yellowstone caused by the flooding,” wrote Piper Singer Cunningham, communications manager for the tourism office, in an email to the Bulletin.
Yellowstone was expecting a banner year with 150th anniversary events planned throughout the summer. The 150th anniversary came on the heels of a record year in 2021, when almost 4.9 million people visited.
Buffalo is a popular stop between the Black Hills and Yellowstone and often sees visitors heading in that direction.
But in June of this year — the month of the flooding — Yellowstone’s visitation fell by 43% compared with June 2021. By July, most of the park was open, yet the number of visitors fell by half, from almost 1.3 million in 2021 to about 650,000 in 2022.
That hasn’t necessarily led to the downfall of local tourism, though.
“We don’t even hear about Yellowstone now, and the people coming in now, most of them aren’t even concerned because they weren’t planning to go there anyway,” Kavanagh said. “There’s a lot of Wyoming that people come to see that doesn’t involve Yellowstone.”
While this summer still felt busy — especially with the COVID- 19 summer of 2020 still fresh in people’s minds — sales were noticeably down at the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum, said Sylvia Bruner, the museum’s director.
In July, the museum store made $9,076 in sales. That’s more than in July 2020, when the store made $8,255, but almost $2,000 less than the 2021 banner year, as well as $1,000 less than 2019, before the pandemic.
Bruner attributed the decline to Yellowstone’s closure and said she’d heard from other attractions in the area that their sales were similarly affected.
“I suspect it’s a pretty broad effect for tourism in general, but it’s definitely a bummer,” she said.
One bright spot was the northern border’s reopening.
Passage into and out of Canada was severely restricted during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but travel has begun to pick up again. Business owners reported an abnormally large number of Canadians visiting Buffalo this summer.
Montana’s border crossings registered more than 170,000 people traveling into the U.S. from Canada in June and July of this year, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. That’s compared to fewer than 20,000 in June and July of 2021.
Longmire Day’s in-person return was also a shot in the arm for local tourism.
Jennifer McCormick, executive director of the Longmire Foundation, previously told the Bulletin that around 2,000 people traveled to Buffalo to enjoy the annual celebration of the Longmire book series and television series, the first time since 2019 the event wasn’t virtual.
Business owners said they appreciated that extra business.
“Anytime you have an event like that, it makes a difference,” Stewart said. “I’m thankful for the Longmire crowd that comes.” | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/tourism-ok-across-region-despite-yellowstone-closure/article_8c2202e6-32a1-11ed-8ffa-6f681d463fdf.html | 2022-09-14T14:03:43Z | wyomingnews.com | control | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/tourism-ok-across-region-despite-yellowstone-closure/article_8c2202e6-32a1-11ed-8ffa-6f681d463fdf.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Park County commissioners are opposing a proposal to rename Squaw Teats — a pair of peaks in the county’s very southeastern corner — as Crow Woman Buttes.
CASPER — More than 40 Wyoming places now have new names, after a federal effort to remove a slur aimed at Indigenous women from federal landmarks.
The term “squaw” has historically been used, often derogatorily, as an ethnic and sexist slur. The Department of the Interior, under the leadership of Laguna Pueblo member Secretary Deb Haaland, issued an order last year calling for more than 650 public places in the United States that use the term to be renamed.
The department also replaced the term with “sq———” in official communications.
“I feel a deep obligation to use my platform to ensure that our public lands and waters are accessible and welcoming. That starts with removing racist and derogatory names that have graced federal locations for far too long,” Haaland said in a statement Thursday.
Haaland is the first Indigenous person to serve in a cabinet position in the U.S.
Forty-one places in Wyoming now have new names. About a third of those are creeks, including the waterway west of Casper that has now been dubbed Platte Creek, for the river it empties into.
A Carbon County canyon with the offensive name is now known as Continental Divide Canyon. The site known as “Sq——— Teats” outside Meeteetse is now Crow Woman Buttes.
Several new site names in Wyoming also borrow terms from Indigenous languages, such as Kuchunteka’a Toyavi for a peak in Park County, Pannaite Naokwaide for a well-traveled creek in the Bridger-Teton National Forest and Tuka Naa’iya Po’I Hunu’u for a canyon in Teton County.
The new names will go into effect immediately, according to a statement from the department Thursday.
Haaland’s order created a task force that included representatives from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service and other federal agencies. Local naming boards were able to make recommendations, but most of the renaming happened on the federal level.
Tribal governments of “nearly” 70 tribes also participated in nation-to-nation consultations, resulting in “several hundred” recommendations for new names, Thursday’s statement said.
Many of the new names come from nearby landmarks, including mountains, streams or springs.
A full list of names changed under this order, as well as a map with each location, is available on the U.S. Geographical Survey website.
Before the Interior’s order, just one federal place with the derogatory term in its name — a lake in Yellowstone National Park — had been changed in Wyoming, to Indian Pond in 1981.
In June, a Yellowstone peak named after an Army lieutenant who led a massacre of Native Americans was renamed to First Peoples Mountain, after an unanimous vote by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names.
“Names that still use derogatory terms are an embarrassing legacy of this country’s colonialist and racist past,” said John Echohawk, executive director of the Native American Rights Fund, in a statement following Haaland’s announcement. “It is well-past time for us, as a nation, to move forward, beyond these derogatory terms, and show Native people — and all people — equal respect.” | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/wyoming-places-undergo-name-changes/article_b10da2ae-32a1-11ed-9ba9-fbca2008dad1.html | 2022-09-14T14:04:02Z | wyomingnews.com | control | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/news/wyoming-places-undergo-name-changes/article_b10da2ae-32a1-11ed-9ba9-fbca2008dad1.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
After flirting with yet another FCS scare for the first 3½ quarters, the University of Wyoming put the possibility of an upset loss to rest with a strong finish Saturday afternoon at War Memorial Stadium.
The Cowboys’ previous three games against FCS opponents were decided by less than a touchdown, but that wouldn’t be the case against Northern Colorado. Leading by only six midway through the fourth quarter, UW scored 17 consecutive points over the final seven minutes to beat the Bears 33-10.
“I’m not sure,” sophomore Joshua Cobbs said when asked about the source of the Cowboys’ struggles against FCS teams. “But we banded together and came out here and busted it open, so I think that’s the most important thing.”
Cobbs had one of the key plays that allowed the Pokes (2-1) to turn a close contest into a rout during the closing moments.
Following a three-and-out by UNC (0-2) in which Wyoming got pressure on the quarterback on three straight incompletions, the Cowboys took over at midfield with a chance to extend a 16-10 lead. They ran the ball four times for 24 yards to start the drive, and had another running play called on second-and-two from the Bears’ 34-yard line.
Junior quarterback Andrew Peasley checked to a pass, however, and Cobbs hauled in a one-handed, 17-yard reception just inside the sideline. A replay review confirmed that Cobbs landed one foot in bounds, with the catch setting up a 35-yard field goal by sophomore kicker John Hoyland that extended UW’s lead to nine points.
“I thought that was big,” Peasley said. “That’s just kind of a call with us. That’s a run play, and I’m checking to (Cobbs) to give him a chance. I thought I missed the ball a little too much to the sideline, and he made a spectacular catch. It was good. It sparked everyone.”
Added Cobbs: “We practice that a lot in practice – coming down, and making sure you stay in bounds for the catch. To be able to do something like that is always exciting.”
The Pokes forced a turnover on downs when UNC got the ball back, and junior running back Titus Swen busted a 22-yard touchdown run on the first play of the next possession to stretch the lead to 16 points with 3:45 remaining. Swen added his third rushing touchdown of the day from one yard out following an interception by sophomore linebacker Shae Suiaunoa that was returned to the 3-yard line, extending UW’s advantage to 23 points with just under two minutes left.
This marked one of three takeaways for the Cowboys, who won the turnover battle 3-0. Miles Williams forced a fumble that was recovered by fellow safety Wyett Ekeler on UNC’s final drive of the game, while sophomore cornerback Cam Stone picked off Northern Colorado quarterback Dylan McCaffrey early in the second quarter for his first career interception.
“It felt good,” Stone said of his interception. “I was actually thinking, ‘Why would he throw that?’ I wouldn’t have thrown it, but I was happy that it came my way.”
While UW finished the game strong, it got off to a rocky start on the offensive side of the ball. UNC – which allowed 512 yards and 46 points to FCS Houston Baptist the previous week – held the Cowboys to just 133 yards in the first half, while keeping them out of the end zone.
The Cowboys only got in the red zone once in the first two quarters, making it to the Bears’ 6-yard line on their first possession before being held to a field goal. They appeared to make it to the UNC 15-yard line just past the midway point of the second quarter on a seven-yard gain by Swen. However, a block in the back penalty pushed the Pokes back to a first-and-16 from the 28-yard line, and they failed to move the chains again on the drive.
“There were some good things, and there was some resolve, but there are certainly things (we need to get better at),” UW coach Craig Bohl said. “We have a young football team, and we have a long way to go. There are things to improve.”
Hoyland provided all of UW’s nine points in the first half, connecting on field goal attempts from 23, 39 and 41 yards, while the defense allowed no points and just 68 yards. All three of UNC’s first downs in the first two quarters came during the opening drive, which ended on a turnover on downs. The Bears proceeded to punt on four of their next five possessions, with Stone’s interception occurring on the other drive.
Northern Colorado got its first points of the game on a field goal midway through the third quarter, after calling a successful fake punt from its 44-yard line to extend the drive. However, this setback seemed to inject a sense of urgency into UW’s offense, which answered back with a 10-play, 75-yard scoring drive.
With UNC honing in on the Pokes’ run-heavy attack, UW turned to the air. Peasley connected with Cobbs for a 15-yard gain across the middle on the second play of the drive, and junior wideout Wyatt Wieland hauled in a 26-yard catch despite defensive pass interference on the next snap.
Swen scored from six yards out seven plays later, UW’s first rushing touchdown of the season, to stretch the lead to 16-3.
“It was good,” Peasley said. “I said, ‘Where was this at in the first quarter?’ You could tell in the huddle that I was looking at dudes like, ‘Let’s go,’ and we were fired up. I think we just need to come out every game in the beginning with a mindset of, ‘We have to score.’ We have to get in there and get in the red zone, and finish plays.”
The Bears cut the lead to six again 12 seconds into the fourth quarter, as receiver Trevis Graham found quarterback Jacob Sirmon for a touchdown on a fourth-down reverse pass from the 6-yard line, but they were held to a total of 18 yards the rest of the way and didn’t score again.
UW out-gained UNC 293-147, with pressure on the quarterback making a difference down the stretch. Redshirt freshman defensive end Oluwaseyi Omotosho recorded three sacks, while Suiaunoa and sophomore linebacker Easto Gibbs added one sack each.
The Cowboys will go for their third consecutive win in Friday’s Mountain West opener against Air Force. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. at War Memorial Stadium.
Josh Criswell covers the University of Wyoming for WyoSports. He can be reached at jcriswell@wyosports.net or 307-755-3325. Follow him on Twitter at @criswell_sports. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/sports/pokes-pull-away-from-unc-after-rocky-start/article_4044566e-32a4-11ed-b19e-8707d2902b71.html | 2022-09-14T14:04:21Z | wyomingnews.com | control | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/sports/pokes-pull-away-from-unc-after-rocky-start/article_4044566e-32a4-11ed-b19e-8707d2902b71.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
University of Wyoming junior tight end Treyton Welch, right, misses a catch during the Cowboys’ 33-10 victory over Northern Colorado on Saturday at War Memorial Stadium in Laramie.
University of Wyoming’s junior quarterback Andrew Peasley (6) runs out of the pocket and continues to look for a pass downfield during a football game at War Memorial Stadium in Laramie on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022.
University of Wyoming junior tight end Treyton Welch, right, misses a catch during the Cowboys’ 33-10 victory over Northern Colorado on Saturday at War Memorial Stadium in Laramie.
University of Wyoming’s junior quarterback Andrew Peasley (6) runs out of the pocket and continues to look for a pass downfield during a football game at War Memorial Stadium in Laramie on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022.
Coming off a performance in which it allowed Tulsa to throw for 460 yards and three touchdowns, the University of Wyoming’s passing defense was a driving force in Saturday’s 33-10 win over Northern Colorado.
The Cowboys – who entered the game ranked last in the Mountain West in both passing yards allowed and opponent’s completion percentage – forced a pair of interceptions, while holding the pass-happy Bears to 132 yards on 16 of 36 passing. UNC threw for 425 yards, four touchdowns and an interception on 65% passing the previous week against Houston Baptist.
Sixty-two of the Bears’ 132 passing yards came on three completions, while only one of their other 33 attempts went for more than nine yards.
“As a whole, we took (our struggles stopping the pass) into a great deal of consideration this week,” sophomore cornerback Cam Stone said. “Me personally, I expected way more for myself, and I was going to show it. I think we did that, and I think I did that. It’s all about consistency now.”
The Cowboys’ pressure on the quarterback also played a key role in Northern Colorado’s inability to establish the passing game.
They recorded a season-high five sacks and 10 quarterback hurries, with UNC failing to find a rhythm with either Dylan McCaffrey or Jacob Sirmon behind center. Junior defensive tackle Cole Godbout led the Pokes with three quarterback hurries, while redshirt freshman defensive end Oluwaseyi Omotosho – who recorded his first career sack Saturday – took down the quarterback three times.
“I think it played a big factor,” Omotosho said. “We were all getting pressure, and we were game planning for those tackles, specifically. I think that pressure did a great deal.”
FCS close calls
Coming into Saturday, the Pokes’ previous three games against FCS opponents had been decided by five points or less – with UW needing a last-minute touchdown to avoid an upset in two of these matchups.
While that wasn’t the case against UNC, it appeared this trend might continue until the latter stages of the fourth quarter. The Bears closed the gap to six with 14:48 remaining, and after forcing a three-and-out on the ensuing possession, they got the ball back with a chance to take the lead. That’s as close as it would get, though, as UNC’s final four drives resulted in a punt, a turnover on downs, an interception and a fumble.
UW coach Craig Bohl, who won three consecutive national championships at North Dakota State from 2011-13, is well-versed in the types of challenges that FCS teams can present.
“What you have is it’s an opportunity for players to prove that they belong on a different stage, so you’re going to get max effort,” Bohl said. “We told our guys that. I think sometimes you go, ‘Yeah, the old coach doesn’t know what the heck he’s talking about,’ but every game that we’ve had has been somewhat challenging. We anticipated that today, and we certainly got that.”
Familiar foe
The Cowboys’ receivers had plenty of familiarity with one player in the opposing secondary, with UNC senior Cameron Murray transferring in from during the off-season after four years with Wyoming.
Murray finished with seven tackles, all solo stops, and one pass breakup.
“We used to work out together every day in the (Indoor Practice Facility) after practice, so it was a fun matchup,” sophomore receiver Joshua Cobbs said.
Injury update
While the Cowboys came away with a win Saturday, they might have incurred a loss in the injury department.
Veteran offensive tackle Frank Crum, one of only two returning starters on the offensive line, was helped off the field during the second quarter after suffering an injury. He did not return, and it was unclear immediately after the game what his status was for Friday’s game against Air Force.
Josh Criswell covers the University of Wyoming for WyoSports. He can be reached at jcriswell@wyosports.net or 307-755-3325. Follow him on Twitter at @criswell_sports. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/sports/uw-pass-defense-makes-strides-in-dominant-performance/article_77c1282e-32a4-11ed-b3b7-8bd054e7c347.html | 2022-09-14T14:04:27Z | wyomingnews.com | control | https://www.wyomingnews.com/rawlinstimes/sports/uw-pass-defense-makes-strides-in-dominant-performance/article_77c1282e-32a4-11ed-b3b7-8bd054e7c347.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
...AIR QUALITY ALERT REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 1 PM MDT THIS
AFTERNOON...
The following message is transmitted on behalf of the Wyoming
Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division and the
Wyoming Department of Health.
WHAT...Air Quality Alert for Wildfire Smoke.
WHERE...Much of southeast Wyoming. Some locations impacted include
but are not limited to Douglas, Lusk, Wheatland, Torrington, Pine
Bluffs, Cheyenne, Laramie, Shirley Basin, and Muddy Gap.
WHEN...Through 1 PM MDT Today.
IMPACTS...Heavy smoke from distant wildfires.
HEALTH INFORMATION...The Wyoming Department of Health recommends the
elderly, young children, and individuals with respiratory problems
avoid excessive physical exertion and minimize outdoor activities
during this time. Wildfire smoke is made up of a variety of
pollutants, including particulate matter and ozone, which can cause
respiratory health effect. Although these people are most
susceptible to health impacts, the Department of Health also advises
that everyone should avoid prolonged exposure to poor air quality
conditions.
CURRENT CONDITIONS...The Wyoming Department of Environmental
Quality, Air Quality Division offers near real-time air quality data
for Wyoming's monitoring stations and health effects information to
help the public interpret current conditions. Current air quality
conditions across the state of Wyoming can be found at
http://www.wyvisnet.com/ | https://www.wyomingnews.com/today-tomorrow/article_7c7a55fe-3432-11ed-84ab-ff17aa71c5a1.html | 2022-09-14T14:04:39Z | wyomingnews.com | control | https://www.wyomingnews.com/today-tomorrow/article_7c7a55fe-3432-11ed-84ab-ff17aa71c5a1.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
CHEYENNE – Through his days as a fan, a player and a coach, there isn’t much Chad Goff hasn’t seen happen during a football game.
That changed Friday when senior Dom Kaszas returned not one, but two punts for touchdowns during the first quarter of the Thunderbirds’ win at Thunder Basin. The first return spanned 50 yards, while the second covered 80 yards and gave No. 1-ranked East a 14-0 lead over the third-ranked Bolts.
“I rarely look at the statistics when we get them,” Goff said. “But I was told one of his TDs was labeled wrong, so I reached out to the statistician. I wanted to make sure our punt return team got credit for both, because – in all my years – I can’t remember someone returning two in a game, let alone two in a quarter.”
Kaszas’ contributions to the victory weren’t limited to special teams. He also caught five passes for 108 yards and intercepted a pass.
Those efforts helped the T-Birds leave Gillette with a 52-42 victory. They also earned Kaszas Prep Athlete of the Week honors from WyoSports’ Cheyenne staff.
Kaszas earned all-state honors for Class 4A state champion Sheridan last season. He led the Broncs in receiving, but his 37.8 yards per game ranked just outside the 4A top 10. Kaszas was a threat in the passing game, but made his name on special teams, where he ranked third in the state in kickoff return average (27.9 yards per attempt) and fourth in punt return average (18.1 ypa). He returned one of each for a touchdown.
“Both teams I’ve been on have been good with their schemes and execution,” Kaszas said. “They emphasize that you have to block and then get around the edge. Once you get around the corner they set, being fast helps. Returns are at least 80% on the guys in front of me.
“I know where things are supposed to develop. Once you read the defense and see what happens, that’s when speed and instincts take over.”
Kaszas has skills that can’t be coached, Goff said. The coach also echoed Kaszas’ sentiments about East’s return team.
“He broke a tackle and then broke two more tackles. That’s the kind of stuff that makes him special,” Goff said. “If you take (Kaszas’) speed and athleticism and combine it with the way the kids in front of him work hard to make great blocks, those are game-changers. Those other 10 guys in front of him and how they’re coached by coach (Jesse) Blunn is what made Friday such a special night.
“As a group, we’ve had great returns all year long. All 11 players on those units are doing a great job.”
Kaszas currently ranks sixth in 4A in receiving average at 60.3 yards per game. He leads the state in punt and kickoff return average at 41.5 and 30.5 yards per attempt, respectively.
“He hasn’t just been special on special teams,” Goff said. “He has had some great catches on offense. He sees cuts really well when he has the ball. He is so good about putting his foot in the ground and turning.
“He makes it look so fast and effortless. And he’s contributing on defense.”
Kaszas moved to Cheyenne after his mother and stepfather got jobs here. He embraced the change, despite the fact he was going into his senior year.
“I had a great group of friends up in Sheridan, and I miss them, but these guys took me in from day one and made me feel like I’ve lived here for years,” said Kaszas, who moved to Sheridan in elementary school. “I knew a couple of guys here outside of competing against them in sports before we decided to move.
“I started to get to know a couple more before we got here. It’s been a really smooth transition.”
Others recognized for their efforts include:
n Madisyn Baillie and Brooklynn Sullivan, volleyball, Cheyenne Central: Baillie had 13 kills and 11 digs in the Lady Indians’ five-set win over visiting Scottsbluff, Nebraska.
Sullivan added 21 digs and 13 kills.
n Izzy DeLay and Brinkley Lewis, girls swimming and diving, Central: DeLay won all six individual events she swam on the week, including wins in the 200-yard individual medley and 100 breaststroke at the Cheyenne Invitational.
Lewis won diving at all three meets she competed in.
n Quincy Dereemer, Ashli Smedley and Genesis Tyler, girls tennis, Central: Dereemer and Tyler went 2-0 during duals with Torrington and Rawlins. They were the Lady Indians’ No. 1 doubles tandem in one dual and No. 2 in another.
Smedley, Central’s No. 1 singles player, also went 2-0.
n Elysiana Fonseca, Gracin Goff, Boden Liljedahl and Bradie Schlabs, volleyball, East: Fonseca posted 13 kills and five blocks during the Lady Thunderbirds’ four-set win Tuesday at Scottsbluff, Nebraska.
Goff dished out 28 assists, while Liljedahl finished with 29 digs.
Schlabs recorded 20 assists, 12 digs and 10 kills.
n Cam Hayes, football, East: The junior quarterback completed 16 of 32 passes for 235 yards and three touchdowns to help the Thunderbirds to a 52-42 win at Thunder Basin. He also rushed for 58 yards and two touchdowns.
n Sydni Sawyer, girls swimming, East: The junior won three events and placed second in another during the week.
Jeremiah Johnke is the WyoSports editor. He can be reached at jjohnke@wyosports.net or 307-633-3137. Follow him on Twitter at @jjohnke. | https://www.wyomingnews.com/wyosports/high_school/prep_athlete/dom-kaszas-impacted-easts-win-in-all-three-phases/article_fcde0e1a-3398-11ed-b413-8b5ca5d6be15.html | 2022-09-14T14:04:45Z | wyomingnews.com | control | https://www.wyomingnews.com/wyosports/high_school/prep_athlete/dom-kaszas-impacted-easts-win-in-all-three-phases/article_fcde0e1a-3398-11ed-b413-8b5ca5d6be15.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Societe Generale Research discusses its current bias on EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/JPY.
"Yesterday’s reaction was exaggerated thanks to the ‘inflation is peaking’ narrative which fuelled the soft-landing story and helped equities rally. Where do we go now? The dollar got a lift, but I don’t think this latest surge can take us very far. The market has pushed up pricing of terminal Fed Funds buy almost 50bp in a week, to above 4%, but the Dollar Index is pretty much where it was a week ago. It still seems more likely that EUR/USD, GBP/USD and most of the major crosses settle for a period of choppy range-trading, with volatility staying elevated, rather than we see the start of a new dollar uptrend," SocGen notes.
"The yen, will remain very difficult to trade. It’s been doing a good job of tracking long-term US rates, and a very poor job of reacting to any moves in Japanese rates, assets, or economic developments. The Government would like the market to stop selling it, and a verbal intervention campaign has begun. But a change in monetary policy doesn’t seem imminent," SocGen adds.
For bank trade ideas, check out eFX Plus. For a limited time, get a 7 day free trial, basic for $79 per month and premium at $109 per month. Get it here. | https://www.forexlive.com/news/eurusd-gbpusd-usdjpy-where-do-we-go-now-socgen-20220914/ | 2022-09-14T14:07:11Z | forexlive.com | control | https://www.forexlive.com/news/eurusd-gbpusd-usdjpy-where-do-we-go-now-socgen-20220914/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
FOP leader threatens no-confidence vote for interim chief if detective who said n-word isn’t reinstated
CINCINNATI (WXIX) - The executive board of the union that represents Cincinnati police unanimously voted Monday night to demand that Interim Police Chief Teresa Theetge immediately reinstate a veteran detective who was stripped of his gun, badge and police powers last week for saying the “n-word.”
“If this idiotic decision isn’t reversed, the next vote the Cincinnati FOP takes will be one of no confidence in our interim chief,” said police union president, retired Sgt. Dan Hils, in a news release Tuesday.
This is the third time in the past year a Cincinnati police officer has been investigated for saying the racial slur.
It happened while Detective Joehonny Reese, who is Black, was working an off-duty detail at a nightclub earlier this month, Hils says.
The vote among police union leaders came just hours Hils called on CPD officials to reinstate Reese in a news release sent out on behalf of the FOP by a public relations firm.
“As of Tuesday morning, Detective Reese, a veteran officer who helps keep our city safe, was folding pants at a desk, still stripped of his badge and his gun,” reads another news release sent out Tuesday on behalf of the FOP again by Ryan Stubenrauch with Communications Counsel.
The release included a picture of Reese at CPD’s supply room.
Reese was one of two officers working an off-duty assignment at Energy Nightclub when they were confronted by a white teenager, who had reportedly just been removed from the bar by security, according to Hils.
The teen threatened and berated the bar’s security staff and the two officers. Hils said the teen called the officers “fake n-words” and tried to assault them.
Reese told the teen he “wouldn’t be an n-word,” Hils said, saying the officers gave him “numerous chances” to leave without being arrested.
The teen was tased and arrested after he tried to attack the officers, according to Hils.
FOX19 NOW has requested comment from a police department spokesman and will update this story once we hear back.
We received the following prepared statements from the city on Monday when Hils first announced Reese’s status:
“As the Chief for the Cincinnati Police Department, it is my duty and responsibility to ensure that every allegation of misconduct by any member of this organization be investigated,” Interim Police Chief Teresa Theetge said.
“Regardless of the circumstances, a complete and thorough investigation will be conducted by our Internal Investigations Section (IIS). Under my leadership, it is standard practice to temporarily suspend police powers until an investigation into the use of a racial slur is complete.”
City Manager Sheryl Long said: “I fully support Cincinnati Police throughout this disciplinary hearing process, as expressly defined in the collective bargaining agreement between the FOP and City. We hold our sworn officers to a high standard, which is why it’s very important that the disciplinary process proceeds.
“Every case must go through the same, thorough investigation and critical review in order to avoid undermining the legitimacy of the process. I expect any decision will strictly adhere to the City’s disciplinary procedures.
Last month, some members of Cincinnati City Council proposed a “zero tolerance policy” for any police officer who used a racial slur, no matter the circumstances.
The policy has yet to be adopted by council members or implemented by CPD.
A veteran Cincinnati police officer, Rose Valentino, was recently put on desk duty with suspended police powers and then fired after saying the racial slur on duty following an April incident with a teenager outside Western Hills High School.
Another veteran officer, Kelly Drach, served a 56-hour suspension in May after admitting to using the racial slur on duty twice on two separate occasions in late 2021 on phone calls with fraudulent telemarketers.
Two other officers who said the racial slur in 2018 but received very different initial discipline took the city of Cincinnati and its now-former police chief to federal court over the summer.
A jury could not decide whether the city and former chief Eliot Isaac intentionally discriminated against the officers and deadlocked.
U.S. District Court Judge Susan Dlott declared a mistrial in the case on July 22 and scheduled a second trial for Aug. 16.
However, the latest court records in the case show the court has arranged for a mediation.
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Copyright 2022 WXIX. All rights reserved. | https://www.wave3.com/2022/09/13/fop-leader-threatens-no-confidence-vote-interim-chief-if-detective-who-said-n-word-isnt-reinstated/ | 2022-09-14T14:12:47Z | wave3.com | control | https://www.wave3.com/2022/09/13/fop-leader-threatens-no-confidence-vote-interim-chief-if-detective-who-said-n-word-isnt-reinstated/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Who rides Transfort, and where are they going? Here's a look at the data
If you're out and about in Fort Collins, you’re bound to see a Transfort bus or two.
Though routes have been cut significantly following driver shortages and the COVID-19 pandemic, MAX and Transfort buses are still making their way around town and the city is even planning to expand services.
But seeing the buses on their routes might lead you to wonder: Who are the people actually using Fort Collins’ public transportation? And where are they going?
The Coloradoan dug into Transfort ridership data — which encompasses MAX ridership, as well — and spoke to city staff to answer these questions.
Here’s what we found.
More:‘We just do not have the staff’: Transfort reduces services again amid staffing shortages
Most Transfort riders have some connection to Colorado State University
Data from 2021 showed that 62% of Transfort riders had some affiliation with Colorado State University, and 50% of riders were students. Just 5% of riders worked for the city.
And while it’s good that so many students are riding public transportation, Drew Brooks, the city’s Transfort director, said he’s heard of nationwide data indicating that transit systems in college towns are having some of the hardest times rebounding from pandemic-era declines in usage.
“You've got students who are now juniors who had two years of pandemic and didn't have the same travel patterns and things that they might have had if they had started in a nonpandemic environment,” Brooks said, adding that some students at CSU now might not even know they can ride public transit.
That said, people 18 to 25 represented 51% of all surveyed riders in Fort Collins.
Almost 40% of surveyed riders didn’t have a license or access to a car, and most riders were white. However, Transfort ridership was more diverse last year than the general Fort Collins population.
MAX, West Elizabeth Street are Transfort's busiest routes
MAX, a bus rapid transit system that runs largely on its own street between the city's south and downtown transit centers, is easily the busiest single route, according to Brooks.
But the routes that make up the West Elizabeth Street corridor are the next busiest, Brooks said, and are busier than MAX when ridership on all of them is combined.
“If you combine all those routes that serve campus on the west side, where there’s so much student housing and the foothills campus and all of that, that's our busiest corridor by far,” Brooks said.
After that, he said MAX is busiest, followed by the North College corridor, served by routes 8 and 81. According to a city study released in December, transit routes serving North College had the fastest-growing ridership in the city prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Regardless of corridor or route, the average passenger takes a trip about 2.5 miles long and rides Transfort 3.5 days per week.
Most riders are starting their trip at home, per the survey, and heading to either work or the university. People boarding the buses at night were primarily headed home, though 30% were going to the university.
Hundreds of thousands use Transfort monthly, but numbers are still low
Although Transfort ridership is up significantly over the past two years, it's still well below pre-pandemic levels, according to data shared with the Coloradoan.
"We're definitely seeing ridership coming back, but I would say slowly,” Brooks said. Compared with 2021, ridership in August was up 14%. But compared with 2019, it was still down 55%.
During its busiest month in 2019, November, Transfort buses hosted more than 500,000 riders. Other months that year were consistently seeing at least 300,000 riders.
Its busiest month this year saw just 269,000 riders.
Brooks said there are likely dozens of reasons why ridership has remained lower than before the pandemic, but reduced service is one of the largest factors. He estimated that the reduced routes have “at least a 15% impact on ridership levels” simply because so many routes and times of service aren’t being covered as the system struggles to hire and retain drivers.
“I think we can safely argue that if we had better frequency on more routes, we would probably see significantly higher ridership,” he told the Coloradoan.
In addition to reduced routes and student ridership being slow to return, Brooks said the shift to remote work is another factor in decreased ridership, and one that may not return to pre-pandemic times.
Brooks said if ridership continues at the rate it's growing today, he believes that it’ll be “four to five years” before Transfort returns to pre-pandemic levels, though he hopes to be back to full staff and service before then.
“To change the travel patterns and get everybody back, that might take some time, and some of that may not come back,” he said. “There might be just a new normal.”
Have a say in Fort Collins:City seeks applicants for boards and commissions
Molly Bohannon covers city government for the Coloradoan. Follow her on Twitter @molboha or contact her at mbohannon@coloradoan.com. Support her work and that of other Coloradoan journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today. | https://www.coloradoan.com/story/news/2022/09/14/transfort-in-fort-collins-a-look-at-ridership-numbers/67003953007/ | 2022-09-14T14:15:41Z | coloradoan.com | control | https://www.coloradoan.com/story/news/2022/09/14/transfort-in-fort-collins-a-look-at-ridership-numbers/67003953007/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Honda’s electrification push won’t be limited to cars. The company on Tuesday announced that it will launch 10 electric motorcycles globally by 2025, and make its motorcycle lineup carbon neutral by 2040.
Honda already sells a line of small scooters aimed at fleet operators, and that are already used by the Japanese and Vietnamese postal services. The company plans to expand availability of these models to other markets, and introduce two personal-use derivatives for the European and Asian markets between 2024 and 2025.
Between 2022 and 2024, Honda plans to introduce five larger electric moped models, again in European and Asian markets. Those will be followed by three even larger models for Japan, Europe, and the United States between 2024 and 2025.
Finally, Honda plans to launch an electric motorcycle for kids. This model is also slated for 2024 or 2025, and also appears destined for the U.S.
Honda said it will equip future electric motorcycles with solid-state batteries, utilizing technology the company is also eyeing for cars. Battery swapping is also part of the company’s plans; Honda in 2021 joined fellow Japanese motorcycle manufacturers Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha in a consortium to develop battery-swapping standards for motorcycles.
In addition to electric models, Honda said it will continue to improve the fuel efficiency of its internal-combustion bikes, and investigate alternative fuels to reach its carbon neutrality goal.
There was at least one false start for these efforts. Honda originally said in 2008 that it would launch an electric motorcycle in 2010. That left room for companies like Zero and Energica to focus on electric bikes.
BMW Motorrad said in 2018 that it saw electric powertrains as the future for motorcycles. And even some traditional motorcycle makers like Harley-Davidson beat Honda to market with a fully fleshed-out electric bike.
Honda has stepped up its electric vehicle investment too. It now plans 30 EVs by 2030, globally, with two electric sports cars in development.
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- VW ID.Xtreme concept turns the ID.4 into a rugged off-roader | https://www.wpri.com/automotive/internet-brands/honda-plans-10-new-electric-motorcycle-models-by-2025-including-one-for-kids/ | 2022-09-14T14:15:52Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/automotive/internet-brands/honda-plans-10-new-electric-motorcycle-models-by-2025-including-one-for-kids/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Rocky Mountain's Ethan Thomason picks BYU football over several other Power 5 programs
After weighing the pros and cons of playing college football at some of the top programs in the country, Rocky Mountain High School’s Ethan Thomason chose BYU.
Thomason, a 6-foot-8, 325-pound offensive tackle, announced his decision before school Wednesday at French Field in front of family, friends, high school coaches, teachers and teammates.
The earliest he and other high school seniors can sign national letters of intent with college football programs is Dec. 21.
Thomason had previously narrowed down his list of suitors to five: BYU, Nebraska, Oklahoma State, Stanford and Utah.
He is rated the No. 5 prospect in Colorado in the 2023 recruiting class and held offers from at least 15 schools in Power 5 conferences, including the likes of likes of Michigan State, Tennessee, Texas Tech and Virginia.
Top prospect:How Rocky Mountain High School's Ethan Thomason became a big-time college football prospect
Thomason graded each school in a variety of areas, including the strength, conditioning and nutritional programs; coaching staff; offensive line coach and academics. He plans to major in business during college.
His father, Scott, helped him navigate the recruiting process and accompanied him on official visits this summer to BYU, Stanford and Utah and unofficial visits last summer to several others.
Thomason is on track to graduate from high school in December, with plans to begin his two-year mission with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in January or February.
BYU, a private university of more than 33,000 students in Provo, Utah, is owned and operated by the LDS Church.
If he is able to complete his church mission as planned, he could enroll in classes at BYU for the spring 2025 semester and begin participating in offseason workouts with the football team that winter and spring practices.
Thomason’s mother, Beverly, is from Utah and still has family in the state. She played college basketball for two years apiece at Dixie State, where she met Ethan’s father (he was on the football team), and Southern Utah.
Having family in the area was important to Thomason, the second-oldest of six children. Ultimately, though, his choice came down to “a feeling of comfort and which place feels like home.”
And that was BYU.
Kelly Lyell reports on CSU, high school and other local sports and topics of interest for the Coloradoan. Contact him at kellylyell@coloradoan.com, follow him on Twitter @KellyLyell and find him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/KellyLyell.news. | https://www.coloradoan.com/story/sports/high-school/football/2022/09/14/byu-football-commitments-rocky-mountain-ethan-thomason-chooses-cougars/69493336007/ | 2022-09-14T14:15:54Z | coloradoan.com | control | https://www.coloradoan.com/story/sports/high-school/football/2022/09/14/byu-football-commitments-rocky-mountain-ethan-thomason-chooses-cougars/69493336007/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LONDON (AP) — Inflation in the United Kingdom slowed slightly last month as a drop in gasoline and diesel fuel prices gave consumers the first glimmer of hope that Britain’s cost-of-living crisis may be beginning to ease.
The consumer price index rose 9.9% in the 12 months through August, the Office for National Statistics said Wednesday. That’s down from the 40-year high of 10.1% reported last month and was lower than economists’ expectations of 10%.
Britain has been hard hit by worldwide price shocks triggered by the war in Ukraine, with consumer prices rising at a faster pace than other major economies over the past year. Lower gasoline costs also slowed U.S. inflation for a second straight month in August, but consumer prices that jumped 8.3% from a year earlier were still painfully high — much like in the U.K.
British Prime Minister Liz Truss last week moved to ease the pain, announcing a cap on household gas and electricity prices to head off an 80% increase in home energy costs this winter. Before that announcement, the Bank of England had estimated that inflation would peak at 13.1% later this year and trigger a recession.
“The headline rate of CPI inflation fell in August for the first time since last September and now looks set to drop sharply next year, thanks partly to the government’s energy price cap,” said Samuel Tombs, chief U.K. economist for Pantheon Macroeconomics.
Tombs estimates that the inflation rate will now peak at around 11% next month and may drop to the Bank of England’s 2% target by the end of next year. The bank postponed its upcoming meeting until next week to honor the mourning period for Queen Elizabeth II, and it’s expected to carry out another interest rate hike to tame inflation like other central banks around the world.
Gasoline prices fell 7.5%, to 175.2 pence ($2.01) a liter, in August as oil prices dropped on international markets, the statistics office said. While the decline brought welcome relief to drivers, the cost of fuel is still 32% higher than it was a year ago.
Similarly, in the U.S., the average cost of a gallon of gasoline has dropped to $3.71, down from just above $5 in mid-June.
But there was no relief on other energy costs in the U.K. Electricity prices rose 54% in the period, and natural gas prices rose almost 96%.
At the grocery store, a jump in the cost of milk, cheese and eggs drove food prices up 13.1% in the year through August, the statistics office said. | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-uk-inflation-dips-slightly-in-august/ | 2022-09-14T14:17:22Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-uk-inflation-dips-slightly-in-august/ | 0 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | 28 |
LONDON (AP) — Inflation in the United Kingdom slowed slightly last month as a drop in gasoline and diesel fuel prices gave consumers the first glimmer of hope that Britain’s cost-of-living crisis may be beginning to ease.
The consumer price index rose 9.9% in the 12 months through August, the Office for National Statistics said Wednesday. That’s down from the 40-year high of 10.1% reported last month and was lower than economists’ expectations of 10%.
Britain has been hard hit by worldwide price shocks triggered by the war in Ukraine, with consumer prices rising at a faster pace than other major economies over the past year. Lower gasoline costs also slowed U.S. inflation for a second straight month in August, but consumer prices that jumped 8.3% from a year earlier were still painfully high — much like in the U.K.
British Prime Minister Liz Truss last week moved to ease the pain, announcing a cap on household gas and electricity prices to head off an 80% increase in home energy costs this winter. Before that announcement, the Bank of England had estimated that inflation would peak at 13.1% later this year and trigger a recession.
“The headline rate of CPI inflation fell in August for the first time since last September and now looks set to drop sharply next year, thanks partly to the government’s energy price cap,” said Samuel Tombs, chief U.K. economist for Pantheon Macroeconomics.
Tombs estimates that the inflation rate will now peak at around 11% next month and may drop to the Bank of England’s 2% target by the end of next year. The bank postponed its upcoming meeting until next week to honor the mourning period for Queen Elizabeth II, and it’s expected to carry out another interest rate hike to tame inflation like other central banks around the world.
Gasoline prices fell 7.5%, to 175.2 pence ($2.01) a liter, in August as oil prices dropped on international markets, the statistics office said. While the decline brought welcome relief to drivers, the cost of fuel is still 32% higher than it was a year ago.
Similarly, in the U.S., the average cost of a gallon of gasoline has dropped to $3.71, down from just above $5 in mid-June.
But there was no relief on other energy costs in the U.K. Electricity prices rose 54% in the period, and natural gas prices rose almost 96%.
At the grocery store, a jump in the cost of milk, cheese and eggs drove food prices up 13.1% in the year through August, the statistics office said. | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-uk-inflation-dips-slightly-in-august/ | 2022-09-14T14:17:22Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/business-news/ap-business/ap-uk-inflation-dips-slightly-in-august/ | 1 | 0 | green-iguana-35 | 28 |
ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Irene Papas, the Greek actress and recording artist renowned for her dramatic performances and austere beauty that earned her prominent roles in Hollywood movies as well as in French and Italian cinema over six decades has died. She was 93.
The Greek Culture Ministry confirmed her death Wednesday.
“Magnificent, majestic, dynamic, Irene Papas was the personification of Greek beauty on the cinema screen and on the theater stage, an international leading lady who radiated Greekness,” Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said in a statement.
Papas became known internationally following performances in “The Guns of Navarone” in 1961 and “Zorba the Greek” in 1964, acting alongside Hollywood stars Gregory Peck and Anthony Quinn. In all, she starred in more than 50 movies.
Born Irene Lelekou in a mountainous village near the southern Greek city of Corinth, Papas was the daughter of two schoolteachers. Her father was also a drama teacher.
Papas left home at 18 to marry Greek film director Alkis Papas despite her family’s disapproval. They divorced four years later. After the death of American Actor Marlon Brando in 2004, Papas revealed in an Italian newspaper interview that the two had been romantically involved.
A supporter of the Greek Communist Party, Papas was a vocal opponent of the military dictatorship that governed the country between 1967 and 1974 and lived much for life outside Greece, including in Rome and New York.
Papas was also known for her appearance in ancient Greek tragedies. Many of her iconic international movie roles were earned portraying Greek characters. But she also starred with Kirk Douglas in the 1968 crime drama “Brotherhood” and with James Cagney in the 1956 Western “Tribute to a Bad Man.”
Greek arts institutions thanked Papas for her support for younger actors. The Athens-based Greek Film Center described her as “The greatest Greek international film star,” adding: “Her image is a timeless imprint of Greek female beauty.” | https://www.wpri.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-greeces-irene-papas-who-earned-hollywood-fame-dies-at-93/ | 2022-09-14T14:18:03Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-greeces-irene-papas-who-earned-hollywood-fame-dies-at-93/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LONDON (AP) — Queen Elizabeth II’s lying-in-state will be an occasion of regal symbolism, strong emotion — and an extremely long line.
Marshaling the hundreds of thousands of people who want to view the late monarch’s coffin will test Britain’s famous queuing skills to their limit.
Authorities overseeing the mammoth logistical challenge have consulted queue management experts and behavioral scientists to create not so much a line as a temporary community. It features 10 miles (16 kilometers) of “queuing infrastructure,” including moveable barriers and more than 500 portable toilets along a route leading to Parliament’s Westminster Hall, where the coffin will rest.
Hundreds of stewards, police officers and first-aid volunteers, 30 multi-faith pastors and two sign language interpreters are assigned to look after the welfare of people waiting in line.
The queen’s coffin is scheduled to travel Wednesday from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall, where it will lie in state from 5 p.m. (1600 GMT) until 6:30 a.m. (0530 GMT) on Monday, the day of her funeral.
Hours before the coffin had arrived, the line of mourners already stretched from Parliament across nearby Lambeth Bridge and snaked along the south bank of the River Thames. The designated route stretches for 6.9 miles (11 kilometers) past the National Theatre, Shakespeare’s Globe, the Tate Modern art gallery and Tower Bridge to Southwark Park in south London, which can accommodate another 3 miles (4.8 km) of zigzagging queues.
Officials say they can’t predict how many people will line up to pay their respects at Westminster Hall, but it is likely to be many more than the 200,000 who visited the Queen Mother Elizabeth’s coffin over three days in 2002. Transit operator Transport for London estimates that more than 1 million people will travel to the city center to be part of commemorations through Monday.
Transport for London Commissioner Andy Byford called it “the biggest event and challenge that TfL has faced in its history.”
The government has warned that navigating the line will be a feat of endurance.
“You will need to stand for many hours, possibly overnight, with very little opportunity to sit down as the queue will be continuously moving,” it said in a set of detailed instructions for those wanting to come.
People will be able to check the line’s length and waiting times on the Department for Digital, Culture Media and Sport’s social media accounts. Those joining will be given numbered wristbands so they take food or toilet breaks without losing their place. A separate accessible line has been set up for people unable to stand for long stretches.
As ever in Britain, jumping the queue is a definite no-no. Officials hope mourners’ sense of fairness will make the line largely self-policing. Given the vagaries of British weather, people are advised to carry both an umbrella and sunscreen.
The government is offering other helpful hints: Bring food and drink, but be sure to consume it before reaching the front. Bring a portable power pack to keep phones charged.
When they reach Parliament, people will pass through airport-style security scans. Prohibited items include large bags, liquids, spray paint, knives, fireworks, flowers, candles, stuffed toys and “advertising or marketing messages.”
Those in the queue on Wednesday were convinced all the hassle would be worth it.
“To give up my day queuing is nothing compared to what she’s done for 70 years,” Gina Carver from Tunbridge Wells in southern England said of the late queen. “And she does feel like our grandmother.”
___
Follow AP coverage of Queen Elizabeth II at https://apnews.com/hub/queen-elizabeth-ii | https://www.wpri.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-huge-line-to-view-monarchs-coffin-is-queue-fit-for-a-queen/ | 2022-09-14T14:18:10Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-huge-line-to-view-monarchs-coffin-is-queue-fit-for-a-queen/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The White House on Tuesday described a new bill that would impose a nationwide ban on abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy as “wildly out of step” with the country, pushing back hard on the legislation introduced by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.).
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement that the ban “would strip away women’s rights in all 50 states.”
“This bill is wildly out of step with what Americans believe,” she said. “The President and Vice President are fighting for progress, while Republicans are fighting to take us back.”
The Supreme Court overturned the Roe v. Wade decision establishing a constitutional right to abortion over the summer, ushering in new bans on abortion in a number of states.
Democrats have sought to harness grassroots anger over the court’s decision and the strict new laws to their benefit by making abortion rights a big issue in the midterm elections.
Jean-Pierre said that Biden and Democrats in Congress are committed to restoring Roe v. Wade. The White House has pushed for Congress to codify Roe but passing such a measure would take a larger Democratic majority in the Senate to overcome a legislative filibuster.
“President Biden and Congressional Democrats are committed to restoring the protections of Roe v. Wade in the face of continued radical steps by elected Republicans to put personal health care decisions in the hands of politicians instead of women and their doctors, threatening women’s health and lives,” Jean-Pierre said.
She called Graham’s bill “an extreme piece of legislation” while briefing reporters later on Tuesday.
“The first thing is the senator’s proposal would keep in place the most extreme, the most extreme state level abortion bans that ban all abortions and have no exemptions for health,” she said.
Additionally, she bashed Graham for previously saying that the issue of abortion should be left up to the states.
“That’s from his own his own mouth and now he wants to do a national ban,” she said.
Graham’s bill includes exceptions for rape, incest and risk to life of the mother.
Graham vowed on Tuesday that Congress will vote for the bill if Republicans take back the House and the Senate in the upcoming midterm elections. The bill won’t move in the current Democratic-controlled Congress.
Updated at 2:36 p.m. | https://www.wpri.com/hill-politics/white-house-blasts-graham-abortion-bill-as-wildly-out-of-step-2/ | 2022-09-14T14:19:05Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/hill-politics/white-house-blasts-graham-abortion-bill-as-wildly-out-of-step-2/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden, a gearhead with his own vintage Corvette, will showcase his administration’s efforts to promote electric vehicles during a visit to the Detroit auto show.
The Democratic president, who recently took a spin in his pine-green 1967 Stingray with Jay Leno for a segment on CNBC’s “Jay Leno’s Garage,” may get the chance to slide behind the wheel of a new vehicle Wednesday during his stop in Detroit. He doesn’t get many chances anymore in the driver’s seat; he’s not allowed to drive on public roads as president.
But he’s mostly going to the North American International Auto Show to talk shop, plugging the huge new climate, tax and health care law that offers tax incentives for buying electric vehicles.
While Biden has been taking credit for the recent boom in electric vehicle battery and assembly plant announcements, most were in the works long before the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law on Aug. 16. Biden’s 2021 infrastructure legislation could have something to do with it — it provides $5 billion over five years to help states create a network of EV charging stations.
Biden was set in Detroit to announce approval of the first $900 million in infrastructure money to build EV chargers across 53,000 miles of the national highway system and 35 states.
Under the newest law, electric vehicles must be built in North America to be eligible for a new federal tax credit of up to $7,500. Batteries for qualifying vehicles also must be made in North America, and there are requirements for battery minerals to be produced or recycled on the continent. The credits are aimed at creating a U.S. electric vehicle supply chain and ending dependence on other countries, mainly China.
Passage of the measure set off a scramble by automakers to speed up efforts to find North American-made batteries and battery minerals from the U.S., Canada or Mexico to make sure EVs are eligible for the credit.
In April, Ford started building electric pickup trucks at a new Michigan factory. General Motors has revamped an old factory in Detroit to make electric Hummers and pickups.
Long before legislators reached a compromise on the legislation, each company announced three EV battery factories, all joint ventures with battery makers. A GM battery plant in Warren, Ohio, has already started manufacturing. A government loan announced in July will help GM build its battery factories.
Ford said last September it would build the next generation of electric pickups at a plant in Tennessee, and GM has announced EV assembly plants in Lansing, Michigan; Spring Hill, Tennessee; and Orion Township, Michigan. In May, Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler, said it would build another joint venture battery factory in Indiana, and it has announced a battery plant in Canada.
Hyundai announced battery and assembly plants in May to be built in Georgia, and Vietnamese automaker VinFast announced factories in North Carolina in July. Honda and Toyota both announced U.S. battery plants after the act was passed, but they had been planned for months.
Biden has been talking for a long time about the importance of building a domestic EV supply chain and that may have prodded some of the companies to locate factories in the U.S. But it’s also advantageous to build batteries near where EVs will be assembled because the batteries are heavy and costly to ship from overseas.
And auto companies are rolling out more affordable electric options even despite battery costs. The latest came last week from General Motors, a Chevrolet Equinox small SUV. It has a starting price around $30,000 and a range-per-charge of 250 miles, or 400 kilometers. Buyers can get range of 300 miles, or 500 kilometers, if they pay more.
The Equinox checks the North American assembly box. It will be made in Mexico. The company won’t say where the battery will be made but it is working on meeting the other criteria for getting the tax credit.
___
Krisher reported from Detroit. | https://www.wpri.com/news/breaking-news/ap-top-news/ap-car-guy-biden-to-tout-electric-vehicles-at-detroit-auto-show/ | 2022-09-14T14:19:24Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/breaking-news/ap-top-news/ap-car-guy-biden-to-tout-electric-vehicles-at-detroit-auto-show/ | 0 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | 27 |
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden, a gearhead with his own vintage Corvette, will showcase his administration’s efforts to promote electric vehicles during a visit to the Detroit auto show.
The Democratic president, who recently took a spin in his pine-green 1967 Stingray with Jay Leno for a segment on CNBC’s “Jay Leno’s Garage,” may get the chance to slide behind the wheel of a new vehicle Wednesday during his stop in Detroit. He doesn’t get many chances anymore in the driver’s seat; he’s not allowed to drive on public roads as president.
But he’s mostly going to the North American International Auto Show to talk shop, plugging the huge new climate, tax and health care law that offers tax incentives for buying electric vehicles.
While Biden has been taking credit for the recent boom in electric vehicle battery and assembly plant announcements, most were in the works long before the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law on Aug. 16. Biden’s 2021 infrastructure legislation could have something to do with it — it provides $5 billion over five years to help states create a network of EV charging stations.
Biden was set in Detroit to announce approval of the first $900 million in infrastructure money to build EV chargers across 53,000 miles of the national highway system and 35 states.
Under the newest law, electric vehicles must be built in North America to be eligible for a new federal tax credit of up to $7,500. Batteries for qualifying vehicles also must be made in North America, and there are requirements for battery minerals to be produced or recycled on the continent. The credits are aimed at creating a U.S. electric vehicle supply chain and ending dependence on other countries, mainly China.
Passage of the measure set off a scramble by automakers to speed up efforts to find North American-made batteries and battery minerals from the U.S., Canada or Mexico to make sure EVs are eligible for the credit.
In April, Ford started building electric pickup trucks at a new Michigan factory. General Motors has revamped an old factory in Detroit to make electric Hummers and pickups.
Long before legislators reached a compromise on the legislation, each company announced three EV battery factories, all joint ventures with battery makers. A GM battery plant in Warren, Ohio, has already started manufacturing. A government loan announced in July will help GM build its battery factories.
Ford said last September it would build the next generation of electric pickups at a plant in Tennessee, and GM has announced EV assembly plants in Lansing, Michigan; Spring Hill, Tennessee; and Orion Township, Michigan. In May, Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler, said it would build another joint venture battery factory in Indiana, and it has announced a battery plant in Canada.
Hyundai announced battery and assembly plants in May to be built in Georgia, and Vietnamese automaker VinFast announced factories in North Carolina in July. Honda and Toyota both announced U.S. battery plants after the act was passed, but they had been planned for months.
Biden has been talking for a long time about the importance of building a domestic EV supply chain and that may have prodded some of the companies to locate factories in the U.S. But it’s also advantageous to build batteries near where EVs will be assembled because the batteries are heavy and costly to ship from overseas.
And auto companies are rolling out more affordable electric options even despite battery costs. The latest came last week from General Motors, a Chevrolet Equinox small SUV. It has a starting price around $30,000 and a range-per-charge of 250 miles, or 400 kilometers. Buyers can get range of 300 miles, or 500 kilometers, if they pay more.
The Equinox checks the North American assembly box. It will be made in Mexico. The company won’t say where the battery will be made but it is working on meeting the other criteria for getting the tax credit.
___
Krisher reported from Detroit. | https://www.wpri.com/news/breaking-news/ap-top-news/ap-car-guy-biden-to-tout-electric-vehicles-at-detroit-auto-show/ | 2022-09-14T14:19:24Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/breaking-news/ap-top-news/ap-car-guy-biden-to-tout-electric-vehicles-at-detroit-auto-show/ | 1 | 0 | green-iguana-35 | 27 |
IZIUM, Ukraine (AP) — His hand on his heart, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy watched as his country’s flag was hoisted Wednesday above the recently recaptured city of Izium, a rare foray outside the capital that highlighted Moscow’s embarrassing retreat in the face of a lightning Ukrainian counteroffensive.
Russian forces left the war-scarred city last week as Kyiv’s soldiers pressed a stunning advance that has reclaimed large swaths of territory in the country’s northeastern Kharkiv region.
As Zelenskyy looked on and sang the national anthem, the Ukrainian flag was raised in front of the burned-out city hall building in the largely devastated town, where apartment buildings are blackened by fire and pockmarked by artillery strikes. The center of one residential building had collapsed, a gaping hole and piles of rubble where homes used to be.
“The view is very shocking but it is not shocking for me,” Zelenskyy said in brief comments to the press, “because we began to see the same pictures from Bucha, from the first de-occupied territories … the same destroyed buildings, killed people.”
After Russian forces withdrew from Bucha, on the outskirts of the capital of Kyiv, in the early weeks of the war, the bodies of civilians were found dumped in the streets, yards and mass graves. Many bore signs of torture. Moscow’s recent rout in the northeast was its largest military defeat since that withdrawal from the Kyiv area.
Prosecutors said they have found six bodies with traces of torture in recently retaken villages in the Kharkiv region.
“We have a terrible picture of what the occupiers did. … Such cities as Balakliia, Izium are standing in the same row as Bucha, Borodyanka, Irpin,” said Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin, listing the names of places where the Ukrainians have alleged Russian forces committed atrocities.
Local authorities have made similar claims in other places formerly held by Russia, but it was not immediately possible to verify their information. They have so far not provided evidence of atrocities on the scale that was seen in Bucha.
The head of the Kharkiv prosecutor’s office, Oleksandr Filchakov, said bodies were found in Hrakove and Zaliznyche, villages around 60 kilometers (35 miles) southeast of Kharkiv.
He said investigators were also learning of residents being killed and buried by Russian troops in another retaken town, Balakliia.
On the northern outskirts of Izium, the remains of Russian tanks and vehicles lay shattered along the road.
Zelenskyy said that as Ukrainian soldiers retook villages, “the life comes back.”
In the wake of the recent gains, a new front line has started to emerge along the Oskil River that largely traces the eastern edge of the Kharkiv region, a Washington-based think thank said Wednesday.
“Russian troops are unlikely to be strong enough to prevent further Ukrainian advances along the entire Oskil River because they do not appear to be receiving reinforcements, and Ukrainian troops will likely be able to exploit this weakness to resume the counteroffensive across the Oskil if they choose,” the Institute for the Study of War said.
The counteroffensive has also left more weapons in Ukrainian hands.
Russian forces likely left behind dozens of tanks, armored personnel carriers and other heavy weaponry as they fled Ukraine’s advance in the east of the country, a Ukrainian think tank said Wednesday.
The Center for Defense Strategies said one single Russian unit that was around Izium left behind more than three dozen T-80 tanks and about as many infantry fighting vehicles known by the acronym BMP. Another unit left behind 47 tanks and 27 armored vehicles.
The center said Russian forces tried to destroy some of the abandoned vehicles through artillery strikes as they fell back. Typically, armed forces destroy equipment left behind so their opponent can’t use it.
However, the chaos of the Russian withdrawal apparently saw them leave untouched ammunition and weapons behind.
In other areas, Russia continued its attacks, causing the death toll to keep rising in a war that has dragged on for nearly seven months.
Russian shelling of seven Ukrainian regions over the past 24 hours killed at least seven civilians and wounded 22 more, Ukraine’s presidential office reported on Wednesday morning.
Two people were killed and three wounded after Russia attacked Mykolaiv with S-300 missiles overnight, said regional Gov. Vitaliy Kim. Settlements near the front line in Mykolaiv region remain under constant fire.
The Nikopol area, which is across a river from the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, was shelled three times during the night, but no injuries were immediately reported, said regional Gov. Valentyn Reznichenko. Nikopol city itself was shelled two times and left almost 3,000 families without electricity. Reznichenko said the electricity has been partially restored.
In the Luhansk region, where some of the Russian troops went after retreating from the Kharkiv region, mobile internet has been shut down, according to the region’s governor Serhiy Haidai, and intense shelling of Ukrainian forces continues.
The fighting continued in the neighboring Donetsk region, where shelling killed five civilians and wounded 16 more. Together, Luhansk and Donetsk make up the Donbas.
“Every night in Donbas is restless. The civilians should leave the region. It’s a matter of life and death,” Donetsk governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said.
___
Arhirova reported from Kyiva. Associated Press journalist Jon Gambrell in Kyiv contributed.
___
Follow AP war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | https://www.wpri.com/news/breaking-news/ap-top-news/ap-zelenskyy-visits-liberated-but-devastated-city-of-izium/ | 2022-09-14T14:20:14Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/breaking-news/ap-top-news/ap-zelenskyy-visits-liberated-but-devastated-city-of-izium/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
- Learn about how top automakers and leading electric mobility companies will lead us to a fully electrified world
- Consumer Reports keynote reveals study findings on what's driving and hindering EV adoption
- Top financial and mobility industry analysts explore what's next for electrified transportation
AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Electrify Expo, North America's largest electric vehicle festival, is set to host the EV Industry's brightest minds for a full day of keynotes, expert panels, fireside chats, and networking with other industry leaders on November 11, 2022, (https://www.electrifyexpo.com/industry-day), at Circuit of the Americas, (COTA) in Austin Texas. The industry-only day will feature top industry analysts, the latest research findings among consumers in America, and C-suite executives from top automotive manufacturers and mobility companies. These experts will discuss key challenges, insights, and future trends in e-mobility as we head into an all-electric future. Industry Day in Austin will be held within the 75,000 sq ft Events Center at COTA.
"The EV industry is at a crossroads, and the decisions executives make today will determine their companies' ability to adapt to new market challenges presented by electrification," said Peter MacGillivray, vice president of B2B and Industry Growth at Electrify Expo. "How people and things move throughout cities and the country is changing more rapidly than at any other time in the past century, and it's the people and thought leaders here at Electrify Expo Industry Day Austin that will determine what "the right moves" ultimately will be."
Electrify Expo Industry Day will kick off with a networking session and head into a keynote session, revealing unique insights into consumer opinions and what drives EV adoption. Breakout sessions are also available, covering both automotive and micromobility, as well as EV infrastructure, powersports, venture capital, and legislation. Upon the conclusion of the speaking sessions, attendees of Industry Day have exclusive access to a preview of Electrify Expo, including 150+ exhibits, multiple demo courses, and industry networking.
Media Registration: https://www.electrifyexpo.com/exhibits-press#Press
Industry Registration: https://www.electrifyexpo.com/industry-day
Friday, November 11, 2022
About Electrify Expo
Electrify Expo is North America's largest outdoor electric vehicle festival showcasing the latest e-mobility products, including EVs, e-motorcycles, e-bikes, e-scooters, e-skateboards, e-boats, e-surfboards, and more from top brands around the world. The festival addresses one of the most challenging barriers to mass adoption of electric vehicles with meaningful hands-on experiences, demonstrations, and test rides. Electrify Expo meets the soaring demand for companies to share new technologies, new modes of mobility and put products in the hands of consumers in a meaningful way. Electrify Expo will feature more than 1M+ square feet of exhibit space in Los Angeles County, Seattle, New York, Miami, and Austin.
Electrify Expo Media Contact
Mission Control Communications
electrifyexpo@missionc2.com
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SOURCE Electrify Expo | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/electrify-expo-industry-day-lineup-announced-austin-november-11-2022-future-evs-micromobility-sustainability-energy-infrastructure/ | 2022-09-14T14:20:24Z | wbko.com | control | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/electrify-expo-industry-day-lineup-announced-austin-november-11-2022-future-evs-micromobility-sustainability-energy-infrastructure/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. inflation is showing signs of entering a more stubborn phase that will likely require drastic action by the Federal Reserve, a shift that has panicked financial markets and heightens the risks of a recession.
Some of the longtime drivers of higher inflation — spiking gas prices, supply chain snarls, soaring used-car prices — are fading. Yet underlying measures of inflation are actually worsening.
The ongoing evolution of the forces behind an inflation rate that’s near a four-decade high has made it harder for the Fed to wrestle it under control. Prices are no longer rising because a few categories have skyrocketed in cost. Instead, inflation has now spread more widely through the economy, fueled by a strong job market that is boosting paychecks, forcing companies to raise prices to cover higher labor costs and giving more consumers the wherewithal to spend.
On Tuesday, the government said inflation ticked up 0.1% from July to August and 8.3% from a year ago, which was down from June’s four-decade high of 9.1%
But excluding the volatile categories of food and energy, so-called core prices jumped by an unexpectedly sharp 0.6% from July to August, after a milder 0.3% rise the previous month. The Fed monitors core prices closely, and the latest figures heightened fears of an even more aggressive Fed and sent stocks plunging, with the Dow Jones collapsing more than 1,200 points.
The core price figures solidified worries that inflation has now spread into all corners of the economy.
“One of the most remarkable things is how broad-based the price gains are,” said Matthew Luzzetti, chief U.S. economist at Deutsche Bank. “The underlying trend in inflation certainly has not shown any progress toward moderating so far. And that should be a worry to the Fed because the price gains have become increasingly demand-driven, and therefore likely to be more persistent.”
Demand-driven inflation is one way to say that consumers, who account for nearly 70% of economic growth, keep spending, even if they resent having to pay more. In part, that is because of widespread income gains and in part because many Americans still have more savings than they did before the pandemic, after having postponed spending on vacations, entertainment, and restaurants.
When inflation is driven mainly by demand, it can require more drastic action from the Fed than when it’s driven mainly by supply shocks, such as an oil supply disruption, which can often resolve on their own.
Economists fear that the only way for the Fed to slow robust consumer demand is to raise interest rates so high as to sharply increase unemployment and potentially cause a recession. Typically, as fear of layoffs rises, not only do the jobless reduce spending. So, too, do the many people who fear losing their jobs.
Some economists now think the Fed will have to raise its benchmark short-term rate much higher, to 4.5% or above, by early next year, more than previous estimates of 4%. (The Fed’s key rate is now in a range of 2.25% to 2.5%.) Higher rates from the Fed would, in turn, lead to higher costs for mortgages, auto loans and business loans.
The Fed is widely expected to raise its benchmark short-term rate by a substantial three-quarters of a point next week for a third consecutive time. Tuesday’s inflation report even led some analysts to speculate that the central bank could announce a full percentage point hike. If it did, that would amount to the largest increase since the Fed began using short-term rates in the early 1990s to guide consumer and business borrowing.
Even though headline inflation barely rose last month, underlying inflation, which reflects broader economic trends, worsened. A measure that the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland uses to track median inflation, which essentially ignores categories with the biggest price swings, rose 0.7% in August. That was the biggest monthly increase since records began in 1983.
Higher prices have yet to cause much of what economists call “demand destruction” — a pullback in spending that could quell inflation. Though higher gas prices have caused Americans to drive less, there isn’t much evidence of significant cutbacks elsewhere.
Restaurant prices, for example, jumped 0.9% in August and have risen 8% in the past year. But that hasn’t noticeably discouraged people from going out. Restaurant traffic has surpassed pre-pandemic levels on Open Table, an app that tracks reservations, and was still increasing into September.
Overall, consumers have largely kept up their spending, even with rampant inflation, though perhaps through gritted teeth. In July, spending rose 0.2% after adjusting for higher prices.
The spread of inflation into services, such as rental costs and health care, largely reflects the impact of higher wages. Hospitals and doctors’ offices have to pay more for nurses and other staff. And as more Americans find jobs or get raises, they’re able to move out from family homes or split from roommates. Rental costs have increased 6.7% in the past year, the most since 1986.
Wages and salaries jumped 6.7% in August from a year earlier, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s wage tracker, the biggest increase in nearly 40 years. And Luzzetti noted that the same data shows a record wage premium for people who switch jobs, compared with those who stay put. That means employers are still offering big raises to try to fill jobs.
Economists had hoped that rising services prices would be offset by falling costs for goods such as new and used cars, furniture, and clothing, after those items spiked in the pandemic. As supply chain backups improved, a better flow of such goods were expected to bring prices down.
Yet so far, that hasn’t happened.
“We’ve seen shipping costs come down, we’ve seen supply chain congestion ease a little bit, production has improved and inventories have risen,” said Laura Rosner-Warburton, senior economist at MacroPolicy Perspectives. “So all of that suggests some supply side improvement. And yet companies are still putting through large price increases for those goods, and that’s problematic.”
Such trends could renew the debate over how much corporations’ ability to raise prices has been fueled by a lack of competition, a phenomenon referred to as “greedflation.” But most economists attribute the ability of companies to still charge more to consumers’ willingness to pay.
“It appears that retailers are now raising prices because they can, not because they have to. Consumer demand is still too strong,” said Aneta Markowska, chief economist at Jefferies, an investment bank, in a research note. | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-driven-by-consumers-us-inflation-grows-more-persistent/ | 2022-09-14T14:21:15Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-driven-by-consumers-us-inflation-grows-more-persistent/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
'We can learn quite well but without making those relationships stronger in some really crucal circumstances. When your children don't like you, or their partners hate what their seeing them turning a child abject.\nKaren Gledwyn - Principal Teacher Edu... (142.75 seconds). (Ireland / BAFTA / BANFF - IBC Media Teac...: Learning Through Part. Principal,... |) See it (IAC Whether you’ve just gotten deep into the bold new “Rings of Power” series on Prime Video, you’re more of a J.R.R. Tolkien purist or you simply have a fondness for all things Middle Earth, you have likely imagined what it would be like to dwell in a Hobbit-style home.
Well, you can now dip your toes (hairy or otherwise) into Shire-inspired living by renting a Hobbit house on Vrbo for a night or two. Check out these charming, quirky, wholly unique vacation rentals available around U.S. and beyond.
Luxury Hobbit House — East Sussex, UK
This two-bedroom, two-bathroom Hobbit house is nestled in the heart of the Rother Valley in the East Sussex countryside. Relax with a glass of wine (did we mention it’s located on a vineyard?) or explore the outdoors with activities like kayaking, biking or tennis. Soak in the hot tub or take a short walk to the majestic Bodiam Castle and the sweeping views of the High Weald valleys.
You can rent this Hobbit house from $382 per night for up to four people.
The Shire of Montana — Trout Creek, Montana
This unique Hobbit house is tucked into a remote Northeast Montana valley. Charming and magical, it also offers modern amenities for a comfortable and memorable stay. The 1,000-square-foot cottage has a king bedroom and a tiny guest bedroom. The wood-burning stove will keep you comfortable, as the underground cottage stays at 55 degrees. The house is surrounded by a magical village that comes to life at night and overlooks the scenic Whitepine Ranch.
You can book this stateside Hobbit house for up to three people from $595 per night.
Hobbit House with Private Spa — Dordogne, France
In a large clearing in the middle of a French forest, this striking semi-buried house has one bedroom and two baths but room enough for five people. You’ll love the natural light streaming through the plexiglass domes in the bedroom and living room. Then, wander along the private terrace to find the secret spa beneath the jasmine arbor in the middle of the woods.
Rent this Hobbit house from $268 per night for up to five people.
Hobbit’s Nest Treehouse in the Shire at Lost Pines — Bastrop, Texas
This unconventional treehouse in the Lost Pines Forest, about 30 miles outside of Austin, is surrounded by nature. With gorgeous treetop views of the sunsets, this one-bedroom, one-bathroom home feels like it’s in another world. You can amble the shaded trails to observe wildlife, take an exhilarating outdoor shower or visit nearby Bastrop State Park’s trails and swimming pool.
You can rent this Hobbit house from $250 per night for up to four people.
Lake Michigan Half House — Charlevoix, Michigan
This cozy “Half House” was built within walking distance of the quaint village of Charlevoix by architect Earl Young. Overlooking Lake Michigan, the whimsical stone cottage has two bedrooms and one bathroom, plus everything you need for a comfortable vacation. You can enjoy strolls on the sandy beach, tour the lighthouse or watch the sunset from the porch.
Book this Hobbit house from $195 for up to four people.
Couples Hideaway Hobbit House — Fairview, Texas
Painstaking detail has gone into this romantic getaway that’s minutes from Allen and downtown McKinney, Texas. From the round doors to the handmade furniture and carefully selected crafts, it is truly a unique place to stay. Sit on the patio, enjoy the garden, or dine in the fine restaurants nearby.
You can book this Hobbit house from $175 for up to two people.
Cedar Bluff Hobbit House — Beaver Lake, Arkansas
You can find a little bit of Middle Earth in Arkansas in this custom-built underground geodesic dome cottage that features four bedrooms and two baths. The open living room is beneath a 4-foot-tall tower with a clear dome that fills the space with natural sunlight. You can watch wildlife at the shire or head out to explore many nearby attractions.
You can rent this Hobbit house from $350 for up to eight people.
The Sassafras — Johnson City, Tennessee
Close to plenty yet away from it all, this enchanting “modern Hobbit house” rests on a cliff overlooking a rock quarry pond. Enjoy the fresh air by the pond or cuddle by the fireplace. With touches of luxury throughout, you can unplug and indulge.
Rent this Hobbit house from $175 per night for up to two people.
Hobbit House in the Shire — Shenandoah, Virginia
It may be above-ground, but this whimsical property is anything but the usual vacation home. Instead, it offers an elegant atmosphere with a contemporary touch, equipped with everything you need for a comfortable holiday. Guests have access to in-house surround sound, a wood-burning fireplace, an outdoor grill, a screened-in porch and a hot tub. It’s hard to imagine Bilbo Baggins ever leaving Bag End on his journey if it was this tricked out.
Book this Hobbit house from $259 per night for up to four people.
Le Dôme (The Dome) — Chartrier-Ferrière, Corrèze, France
A chic, contemporary take on a Hobbit house, this stone-walled property features a living room that’s shaped like a half moon and three large windows with direct access to the terrace. Le Dôme is hidden in south-central France in a forest of truffle oaks. A heated pool and spa, 75-inch television and high-tech kitchen are some of the modern amenities you can enjoy.
This Hobbit house is available from $307 per night for up to four people.
Brazos River Waterfall Treehouse — Weatherford, Texas
Deep in the forest just an hour outside of Dallas, this two-bedroom treehouse is seated on the banks of the Brazos River and gives off a mix of Hobbit and Ewok vibes. Enjoy the wooded views from the deck, relax to the sound of the nearby waterfall, spend a day kayaking or soak beneath the stars in the hot tub.
Rent this Hobbit house from $415 per night for up to six people.
Which Hobbit house would you love to stay in?
This story originally appeared on Simplemost. Checkout Simplemost for additional stories. | https://www.fox17online.com/11-amazing-hobbit-homes-rent-vrbo | 2022-09-14T14:21:28Z | fox17online.com | control | https://www.fox17online.com/11-amazing-hobbit-homes-rent-vrbo | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The products and services mentioned below were selected independent of sales and advertising. However, Simplemost may receive a small commission from the purchase of any products or services through an affiliate link to the retailer's website.
A nostalgic lunchtime classic is getting a sweet makeover just in time for candy season.
Kraft Heinz and Frankford Candy are launching Gummy Lunchables Cracker Stackers and the Gummy Lunchables Pepperoni Pizza Kit. And yes, these look just like classic Lunchables, but come in gummy candy form! Available nationwide now at Five Below stores or online at Amazon and FrankfordCandy.com, the new treats will be rolling out to other retailers nationwide in the coming months.
Each Gummy Lunchables Cracker Stackers package includes enough ingredients to build four fruit-flavored cracker stacker sandwiches, with eight gummy crackers and two “slices” each of gummy pepperoni, gummy ham, gummy Swiss cheese and gummy cheddar cheese.
The Gummy Lunchables Pepperoni Pizza Kit includes three fruity and gummy pizza crusts, 12 gummy mozzarella cheese pieces, 15 gummy pepperoni slices and one liquid pizza sauce packet, which is enough to build three pizzas.
While the suggested retail price is listed at $5, these items are currently priced at $30 for a two-pack on Amazon and $6 on Frankford Candy’s website. They should cost around $5 at Five Below, however, so you may want to check there first.
The Gummy Lunchables are actually just the latest additions to the Kraft Heinz gummies lineup from Frankford Candy. You can also find Kraft Mac & Cheese Gummies, Oscar Mayer Gummy Hot Dogs and Oscar Mayer Gummy Bacon.
The Kraft Mac & Cheese gummies are macaroni-shaped gummies with a suggested price of $4 for a 5.64-ounce package, while a five-count blister pack of gummy hot dogs is $5 and a package of five strips of gummy bacon is also $5. All three are available at Five Below stores, on Amazon.com and on FrankfordCandy.com.
You’ll also be able to buy a 40-count package of individually wrapped mini gummy hot dogs at Target, Walgreens, Publix and other retailers nationwide this month. Each gummy hot dog comes in two pieces — the hot dog bun and the meat — for around $7.
While these are the only Kraft Heinz gummy treats available, Frankford Candy has a few other interesting sweets you can buy as well, like Dunkin’s iced coffee-flavored jelly beans and skull-shaped hot chocolate bombs for Halloween.
Of course, fall marks the unofficial start of candy season thanks to Halloween, so you’ll find all sorts of candy and gummies in stores and online for the next few months.
For example, you’ll encounter Peeps marshmallow ghosts, skulls, pumpkins and monsters. Also, Twix and Snickers have turned “Ghoulish Green,” Skittles Shriekers are back and General Mills has Monster Mash Fruit Snacks.
Which new candy treats are you most excited to try?
This story originally appeared on Simplemost. Checkout Simplemost for additional stories. | https://www.fox17online.com/lunchables-has-gummy-cracker-stackers-pizza-kits | 2022-09-14T14:21:34Z | fox17online.com | control | https://www.fox17online.com/lunchables-has-gummy-cracker-stackers-pizza-kits | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
JERUSALEM (AP) — Palestinian gunmen opened fire on Israeli troops near a checkpoint in the occupied West Bank Wednesday, killing an Israeli army officer, the Israeli military said. Palestinian officials said that troops killed the gunmen.
The Palestinian Health Ministry said that two Palestinians were killed by the Israeli army, without providing additional details.
The military said soldiers spotted two individuals approaching the separation barrier in the northern West Bank and that it dispatched soldiers to the area. It said the two suspects were armed with automatic weapons and began shooting at troops, who returned fire.
The Israeli army confirmed that Maj. Bar Falah, 30, was killed by the gunmen in the shootout.
The official Palestinian news agency Wafa reported that the Israeli army was holding the bodies of the two men. It identified them as Ahmad Abed, 23, and Abd al-Rahman Abed, 22, both from a village near the city of Jenin.
The Israeli military confirmed that Ahmad Abed was a member of the Palestinian Authority security services.
The Palestinian militant group Hamas praised the attack, hailing the two gunmen as “heroic martyrs.”
Wednesday’s violence was the latest in a long string of incidents involving deadly confrontations between soldiers and Palestinians in the West Bank in recent months, particularly around the city of Jenin, which has become a bastion for armed struggle against Israel.
Israel has been carrying out nightly arrest raids in West Bank cities, towns and villages since a spate of attacks against Israelis in the spring killed 19 people.
Israeli fire has killed scores of Palestinians during that time, making it the deadliest year in the occupied territory since 2016.
The Israeli military says the vast majority of those killed were militants or stone-throwers who endangered the soldiers. But several civilians have also been killed during Israel’s monthslong operation, including a veteran journalist and a lawyer who apparently drove unwittingly into a battle zone. Some local youths who took to the streets in response to the invasion of their neighborhoods have also been killed.
Israel says the arrest raids are meant to dismantle militant networks that have embedded themselves. The Palestinians say the operations are aimed at maintaining Israel’s 55-year military occupation of territories they want for an independent state.
Israel captured the West Bank, along with east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip, in the 1967 Mideast war and the Palestinians seek those territories for a future state. | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-israeli-officer-2-palestinian-militants-killed-in-shootout/ | 2022-09-14T14:21:44Z | wpri.com | control | https://www.wpri.com/news/us-and-world/ap-israeli-officer-2-palestinian-militants-killed-in-shootout/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
MEXICO CITY, Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mexarrend, leader in developing alternative credit solutions in Latin America, announces that it has received the final approval of a credit line with Banco Azteca for $600 million pesos, backed by Real Estate collateral. The Company is in the process of final documentation, and the disbursement is planned for the next couple of weeks. Thus, Mexarrend concludes the successful refinance of its October 2022 bond maturity.
Additionally, as previously disclosed, the Company has been using its committed warehousing facilities with Credit Suisse and HSBC over the last weeks and is planning additional disbursements using its existing portfolio originated over the last months. The abovementioned, demonstrates the effectiveness of these committed financing structures for the growth plans of the Company, maintaining a healthy balance sheet structure and continued access to financing in the market. In parallel, Mexarrend is working on the second disbursement with the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation ("DFC") during October.
Just as in the past year, Mexarrend remains active in its Lending-as-a-Service business, with planned transactions for September and a solid pipeline during the fourth quarter of 2022. This allows positive cash flow transactions for the Company, generating fee-business and diversifying its revenue mix.
Mexarrend has a healthy financial position and has demonstrated its strength and access to financing during turbulent times. The Company is focused on growing its portfolio and financial solutions, strengthening its position as a leader in alternative financing for SMEs and promoting financial inclusion in Mexico and the region.
Mexarrend, S.A.P.I. de C.V., has grown to become one of the largest independent leasing (asset-based lender) companies in Mexico in the last 25 years. The Company specializes in offering financing solutions to rapidly growing and underserved small and medium-sized enterprises ("SMEs") for the acquisition of productive assets and equipment to support growth. Mexarrend provides reliable and competitive funding sources through its four main products: capital leases, financing, operating leases, and renting.
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SOURCE Mexarrend, S.A.P.I. de C.V. | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/mexarrend-announces-refinancing-bond-maturing-october-2022/ | 2022-09-14T14:22:32Z | wbko.com | control | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/mexarrend-announces-refinancing-bond-maturing-october-2022/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Multivitamins may be linked to better cognition in older adults, study says
(CNN) - A new study shows taking a daily multivitamin might help with brain function.
Over the course of three years, scientists talked to thousands of people 65 years old and older, and the ones who took a multivitamin slowed down cognitive aging by 60%, or nearly two years.
What’s more, there were even more benefits for people who had a history of heart disease.
Now scientists are questioning why multivitamins help.
They don’t have a clear answer yet. But it may be because multivitamins help out people who don’t have enough micronutrients, like vitamin C or magnesium, and that gets worse as people age.
Researchers said they’re not telling older adults to start taking multivitamins right away and recommended they talk to their doctor first.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.witn.com/2022/09/14/multivitamins-may-be-linked-better-cognition-older-adults-study-says/ | 2022-09-14T14:22:56Z | witn.com | control | https://www.witn.com/2022/09/14/multivitamins-may-be-linked-better-cognition-older-adults-study-says/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Agreement envisions expansion of cutting-edge clinical services.
HOUSTON, Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- United Imaging, a global leader in advanced medical imaging and radiotherapy equipment, announced that The Center for Quantitative Cancer Imaging at Huntsman Cancer Institute, part of the University of Utah health care system in Salt Lake City, has installed its first of two United Imaging PET/CT scanners, which brings state-of-the-art molecular imaging technology to the CQCI clinical research lab. Huntsman Cancer Institute is designated as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI).
According to Jeffrey Yap, Ph.D, Director of the Center for Quantitative Cancer Imaging at Huntsman Cancer Institute and Research Professor in the Department of Radiology at the University of Utah, "It was clear to us that United Imaging brings the best technology to help us deliver the the highest image quality, using FDA-approved PET radiopharmaceuticals as well as investigational compounds that we are evaluating in clinical trials. The passion we share for changing healthcare will significantly enhance our ability to use these molecular imaging technologies to deliver 'precision medicine' by utilizing the biologic information that we measure non-invasively to tailor the treatment for each individual patient." PET/CT imaging allows the initial evaluation and monitoring of the disease throughout treatment rather than requiring patients to undergo surgery or tissue sampling.
U.S. News and World Report recently announced its list of the top cancer programs in the nation and Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah was recognized again as one of the best in the country, ranking 33rd for cancer care out of more than 4,000 cancer centers.
"It's an extremely exciting time for us," commented Jeffrey M. Bundy, Ph.D, CEO of United Imaging Healthcare Solutions. "Our business is rapidly growing. We just finished our IPO. We're confident that we are improving healthcare in the United States. And, we're honored that an institution like Huntsman Cancer Institute, which has a strong tradition of innovation, chose us to change healthcare with them. We take that responsibility seriously and expect great mutual success."
United Imaging is celebrating its 11th year as a global business, and has achieved FDA clearance on well over two dozen scanners in the past few years as it continues to gain steam. It recently debuted on the STAR Market of the Shanghai Stock Exchange as its largest IPO of 2022. A highly vertically integrated company, United Imaging has structured itself to control innovation and quality to the highest standard in all its modalities. Its mission is Equal Healthcare for All™, which guides its innovation standards and its global culture. Its uMI® (molecular imaging) portfolio is cutting edge and enables clinical flexibility with digital technology that helps prevent obsolescence.
ABOUT UNITED IMAGING
At United Imaging, we develop and produce advanced medical products, digital healthcare solutions, and intelligent solutions that cover the entire process of imaging diagnosis and treatment. Founded in 2011, our company has subsidiaries and R&D centers across the world. Our North American headquarters in Houston includes our corporate offices, factory, product showroom, service training center, and service parts distribution center. With a cutting-edge digital portfolio and a mission of broader access to healthcare for all, we help drive industry progress and bold change. To learn more, visit united-imaging.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @UnitedImagingHC.
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SOURCE United Imaging Healthcare Co., Ltd. | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/united-imaging-announces-clinical-system-installations-huntsman-cancer-institute-university-utah/ | 2022-09-14T14:25:51Z | wbko.com | control | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/united-imaging-announces-clinical-system-installations-huntsman-cancer-institute-university-utah/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Adds four executives to support growth in the public entity program, commercial property, and national account space
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Venbrook Group, LLC ("Venbrook"), one of the largest independent insurance, benefits, claims, and risk services firms in the U.S., today announced the appointment of Louis Pippin as Chief Claims Officer, Venbrook Claims Services. Venbrook Claims Services offers clients a single supplier option for Third Party Administrator (TPA) and Independent Adjusting (IA) claims to mitigate and reduce risks and losses on a global basis.
With nearly 30 years of experience and an extensive background in the areas of multi-line P&C liability lines, case management, cost control, compliance standards, and related service delivery of claims and claims handling, Pippin comes to Venbrook with vast expertise in claims management. Most recently with McLarens where he spent five years developing the commercial property claims program, Pippin also held positions at State Insurance Fund and Midlands Claims Administrators, Inc.
"Joining Venbrook was an easy decision," said Pippin. "It's an exciting company with an entrepreneurial ethos which is exactly what is needed to build a state-of-the-art 21st century claims organization. I couldn't be happier to oversee the claims business and continue to build on Venbrook's success."
"Louis brings a wealth of experience to the increasingly complex world of claims management," said Jason D. Turner, Venbrook founder and CEO. "Under his guidance, the Venbrook Claims Services team will provide an end-to-end service for our clients, allowing our managers to focus on geography and cost savings, regardless of claim type. We are excited to have him spearheading our claims division."
Additionally, Venbrook announced four key promotions to the leadership team:
- Sarah Novakovich becomes Chief Operating Officer, Venbrook Claims Services
- Angelique King becomes Executive Vice President, Carl Warren & Company
- Marc Pittinaro becomes Executive Vice President, Venbrook Claims Services
- Suzie Spencer becomes Vice President, Business Development for Carl Warren & Company
Venbrook Group, LLC is a holdings company with subsidiaries engaged in retail broking, wholesale broking, programs, and claims services. Venbrook caters to a national client base across myriad industries with divergent needs. Venbrook's team of experts and industry specialists' partner with their clients to manage their risks, create security, promote growth and add value by delivering best-in-class insurance products and programs.
Venbrook continues to build partnerships to expand its insurance platform while continuing to invest in its infrastructure and talent. Venbrook is headquartered in Los Angeles with various locations across the country. For more information, please visit www.venbrook.com.
For media inquiries only, please contact Rhonda Turner Gardner at rhonda@housecommunications.com or 408.316.9077
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SOURCE Venbrook Group, LLC | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/venbrook-names-louis-pippin-chief-claims-officer-expand-third-party-administration-capabilities-across-country-internationally/ | 2022-09-14T14:26:04Z | wbko.com | control | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/venbrook-names-louis-pippin-chief-claims-officer-expand-third-party-administration-capabilities-across-country-internationally/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
New leaders bring decades of experience building platforms at high-growth companies
AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Wheel, the health tech company powering the next generation of healthcare, today announced Sameer Merchant as Chief Technology Officer and Steve Manning as Senior Vice President, Product. The new executives will be focused on expanding Wheel's white-labeled enterprise platform to help companies build high-quality, consumer-driven healthcare experiences and unlock more virtual-first care delivery opportunities for their patients. Merchant and Manning will also grow Wheel's product and engineering organization.
Wheel's platform enables companies to build cohesive, connected, and personalized patient experiences across virtual care, labs, and pharmacies. As virtual-first care becomes the norm, Merchant and Manning will accelerate development of Wheel's enterprise platform and expand its capabilities as the underlying infrastructure for the industry. By doing so, Wheel will accelerate everyone's ability to access high quality care on-demand — at any time, from anywhere, and on their own terms.
Wheel empowers the most innovative companies in healthcare to deliver high-quality virtual care by providing both the technology infrastructure and access to a nationwide clinician network. Over the past four years, the company has built a strong business by delivering care to millions of patients while providing clinicians with a new and better way to work in healthcare.
"The healthcare industry is at a critical inflection point as companies race to deliver comprehensive, virtual-first care experiences for their patients," said Michelle Davey, CEO and Co-Founder of Wheel. "Sameer and Steve's professional track record, coupled with their philosophy on how to develop and deliver an exceptional platform experience, will be critical as we unlock even more virtual-first care delivery opportunities for our clients."
Merchant and Manning have worked together over the last 20 years building tech platforms and leading high-growth companies across a range of industries including early-stage startups and public companies. Prior to Wheel, they served as VP and Global Head of Product Development and Senior Director, Product Management at Autodesk, a technology software and platform company. There they led a team of over 900 product and engineering experts and drove platform growth and product integration strategy. They also founded, launched, and scaled AdMarvel, the industry's first mobile advertising platform, which was eventually acquired by Opera Software.
"What excites me about Wheel is the opportunity to invest in the platform powering the future of care," said Sameer Merchant, Chief Technology Officer at Wheel. "By expanding our enterprise platform, we'll accelerate our client's ability to build and deliver high quality, comprehensive healthcare offerings for their patients."
As a clinician-focused organization, 4 in 5 clinicians agree Wheel's platform is designed with their experience in mind and 2 in 3 clinicians say working with Wheel has decreased their burnout. Merchant and Manning will continue to invest in the platform experience for Wheel clinicians so they can focus on providing great patient care.
"I was drawn to Wheel by its commitment to provide clinicians with a new and better way to work in healthcare," said Steve Manning, Senior Vice President, Product at Wheel. "By investing in the platform experience for clinicians, we can make it even easier for them to focus on what matters most: delivering great patient care."
For those interested in learning more about Wheel, please visit wheel.com.
Wheel is the health tech company powering the next generation of healthcare. Wheel provides companies and clinicians with everything they need to deliver care virtually. Today Wheel powers virtual-first care for the most forward-thinking organizations in healthcare — including digital health companies, clinical lab networks, retailers, and tech companies. To learn more about Wheel, visit wheel.com.
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SOURCE Wheel | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/wheel-welcomes-veteran-technology-product-leaders-build-enterprise-platform-powering-future-care/ | 2022-09-14T14:26:31Z | wbko.com | control | https://www.wbko.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/wheel-welcomes-veteran-technology-product-leaders-build-enterprise-platform-powering-future-care/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
- Major new research from The Josh Bersin Company spotlights where U.S. healthcare must refocus organizational redesign efforts to reverse the effects of the Great Resignation, impending retirement boom, and attrition to plug a nursing gap due to exceed 2.1 million positions within 2-3 years
- High-performing healthcare organizations revealed to have more technical skills, transformation skills and systemic people management skills than their slower-adapting counterparts
- Thanks to automation and technology augmentation that absorb tasks not specific to nursing (i.e. admin and medication delivery), healthcare providers need 20% fewer nurses today and offer more fulfilling work
- New Global Workforce Intelligence Project uses the world's largest database of information on job roles, skills, career pathways, and HR program maturity, reflecting the real workforce and HR practices in 10s of thousands of companies globally, and features interviews with top healthcare leaders
OAKLAND, Calif., Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Josh Bersin Company, a research and advisory firm focused on HR and workforce strategies, has published groundbreaking research, revealing the real extent to which U.S. healthcare organizations must radically adapt to reverse the effects of mass resignations, impending retirements, a shortage of new nurses entering the field, and an aging population in need of more care.
While the study, The Global Workforce Intelligence (GWI) Project, shows the gap in nursing may only register as a net new demand of 200,000 nurses, market factors will create an actual gap of more than 2.1 million care providers by 2025. In response, analyst Josh Bersin and team recommend a combined approach of systemic people solutions and extensive organizational redesign to address the problem.
Troublingly, the standard approach of recruiting, retaining and reskilling employees is revealed by the research to be woefully insufficient to resolve the projected talent shortage—and will leave approximately 800,000 critical roles open. The study concludes that technological automation, human augmentation, and the reengineering of clinical delivery to reduce the demand for nursing will be among the solutions needed.
The study also shows that high-performing healthcare organizations have four to five times more transformation/organizational redesign and technology roles than their less advanced counterparts, and have invested in software development rather than individual tech solutions. The GWI Project found that advanced healthcare systems need 20 percent fewer nurses and administrative roles to deliver patient care.
The findings from the GWI research are qualitative as well as quantitative, deep-diving into emerging best practice through AI-enabled database analysis and interviews with CHROs of top U.S. healthcare companies, including Providence Health, Bon Secours Mercy Health, and Stanford. This is the first time that this methodology, which uses Eightfold's talent intelligence, has been applied on such a vast scale in the healthcare sector.
Key findings suggest that:
- Up to 48 per cent of the work required to successfully close gaps in clinical capability today could be achieved through redesign of work, jobs, and employment models, rather than traditional approaches to recruiting and training people
- Healthcare organizations that have invested in more strategic, transformative, organizational change skills—including IT-enabled business process redesign skills—already have a 20 percent lower need for nurses compared to the industry average
- Most organizations do not have the internal structure or expertise to redesign work. That's a problem because according to this research, up to 1 million nursing jobs can be streamlined through automation, technology enablement, or offloading work to non-clinical workers.
"The findings are groundbreaking in their scale and in their unequivocal implications. If healthcare organizations continue doing what they've always done, they simply won't be able to close the current resource gap. They need to change the work itself, redesign employment models, and rethink how people are deployed to opportunities. And, rather than implement point technology systems to help process existing workloads, there needs to be more ground-level reinvention of healthcare process and tasks and smarter use of digital alternatives to automate or augment more of the everyday work of key people."
"The labor shortage is a real crisis for healthcare. We can't address it if we don't think and act fundamentally differently. Beyond attracting, developing, and retaining talent in new ways, we need to fundamentally transform the work. This means deconstructing every role and operational process to its lowest level to determine how we might improve our caregivers' experience while optimizing capacity, cost, quality, and our patients' experience. It requires the digitization of simple, automatable tasks and the use of AI to better predict demand and manage talent deployment. And, it compels us to think about diversifying sources of talent to expand the available healthcare workforce. These aren't solutions one healthcare company can solve by itself. But, together, our industry can continue to thrive, creating health for a better world."
"Most healthcare organizations are very advanced in recruiting new people because turnover of nurses and other clinicians has been incredibly high, and healthcare used to be considered a decade behind other industries in its ability to manage people and talent. Now, driven by necessity, we see more innovation and strategic practices than in any other industry. Building career pathways within and outside of the organization, fostering health and wellbeing of nurses to retain them in the industry, and holistically redesigning work, jobs, and organizational models are all part of the solution. Without a doubt, healthcare is at a crossroads, and the c-suite needs to collaborate to address the clinical capacity issue together."
The Josh Bersin Company, through workforce strategies and approaches and maturity by industry, coupled with C-level conversations with hundreds of executives, provides detailed insights into how companies in a given market sector are advanced or behind in addressing a whole series of business challenges. In the current analysis, The Josh Bersin Company's analysts took this data set and "rolled it backwards" to see how various nursing roles are growing or shrinking in the workforce. The team determined that this workforce segment will be dramatically short in the next three years and identified what potential groups could be recruited, retained, reskilled, and which roles redesigned to fill this gap.
A final perspective compares and contrasts trends and outcomes between subdomains of an industry, or between vertical sectors, distilling what the most advanced employers look like vs. the rest of the industry.
Where most other HR research draws on limited payroll data, job postings and/or small survey samples, the Global Workforce Intelligence (GWI) Project uses Eightfold's extensive talent intelligence database combined with The Josh Bersin Company's comprehensive global HR leadership insights to understand jobs, job roles, skills, and career pathways, as well as organizational data. Combined, the dataset reflects the real workforce and HR practices actively in use today in healthcare (and other sectors) and what will potentially be essential in the future, across tens of thousands of companies around the world.
"Industry leaders understand how difficult it is to make accurate talent decisions without fully understanding the skills, capabilities, and trends in which every organization needs to evolve to be successful," said Kamal Ahluwalia, President at Eightfold AI. "Using Eightfold AI data to contribute to the research of The Josh Bersin Company team is both a privilege and a route to immediate impact on today's workforce."
The in-depth GWI Project industry analysis will be unveiled in full at September 13-16's HR Technology Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, where Josh Bersin will present a keynote address.
To learn more about the Global Workforce Intelligence Project, visit joshbersin.com.
The Global Workforce Intelligence Project uses the world's largest AI-driven database of workforce job role, skills, career pathways, and HR program maturity. In addition to reviewing over 1.4 million people profiles of healthcare workers in more than 300 different companies, the GWI Project also features qualitative interviews from over 20 top healthcare organizations.
The Eightfold Talent Intelligence platform is a vast set of 2.1 billion employee profiles, enriched by public social data and company public data, arranged in a time series format. Using Eightfold AI's proprietary AI algorithms, all the publicly available employees in a given set of companies can be looked at over time, and deep learning applied to infer the job skills, job clusters/families, levels, and career pathways across that period. The data can be further interrogated by company, location, organization size, and a wide variety of other factors to find relationships. In healthcare, for example, it is possible to statistically compute the supply/demand for nurses and other clinical workers for the coming years. Salary data is being added for future analysis.
The Josh Bersin Company provides a wide range of research and advisory services, including a corporate membership program, to help HR leaders and professionals tackle the ever-evolving challenges and needs of today's workforce. The firm's research team covers all topics in HR, talent, and L&D, including diversity, equity, and inclusion; employee experience; remote and hybrid work; wellbeing; HR strategy and capabilities; learning and career mobility; HR technology; organization design and development; and talent acquisition and mobility. With the Global Workforce Intelligence (GWI) Project, The Josh Bersin Company also serves to expand its support of market-leading businesses by helping them navigate the challenges of industry convergence while remaining future-focused.
Under the company's umbrella is the Josh Bersin Academy, the world's first global development academy for HR and talent professionals and a transformation agent for HR organizations. The Academy, which has seen more than 50,000 program enrollments since its 2019 launch, offers content-rich online courses, a carefully curated library of tools and resources, and a global community that helps HR and talent professionals stay current on the trends and practices needed to drive organizational success in the modern world of work. Visit www.joshbersin.com or email info@bersinpartners.com.
Eightfold AI's market-leading Talent Intelligence Platform™ helps organizations retain top performers, upskill and reskill their workforce, recruit talent efficiently, and reach diversity goals. Eightfold's patented deep learning artificial intelligence platform is available in more than 155 countries and 24 languages, enabling cutting-edge enterprises to transform their talent into a competitive advantage. For more information, visit www.eightfold.ai
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SOURCE The Josh Bersin Company | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/global-workforce-intelligence-project-identifies-new-healthcare-operating-model-address-impending-nursing-gap-21-million-care-providers/ | 2022-09-14T14:27:32Z | witn.com | control | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/global-workforce-intelligence-project-identifies-new-healthcare-operating-model-address-impending-nursing-gap-21-million-care-providers/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The acquisition will complement Profile's robust horticultural product lines to round out the company's raw material offerings
BUFFALO GROVE, Ill., Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Profile® Products announced the acquisition of Nivetha Exporters, a leading international producer of high-quality coco coir products. The transaction includes all Nivetha product lines, as well as the company's best-in-class facilities in Southern India and dedicated employee base. As part of the acquisition, Nivetha has been renamed to CoirSci.
"This acquisition is the next step in our evolution to round out our strong portfolio of offerings and ensure our customers can easily and readily find the substrate solution they need for their horticultural operations, all from one manufacturer," said Jim Tanner, CEO of Profile Products. "Nivetha has a strong industry reputation as a reliable coco coir supplier, and we are excited to work with their innovative team to deliver on that consistency for our grower and blender customers."
The acquisition augments Profile's robust raw material selection that now includes peat, coir and HydraFiber®, engineered fiber solution, as well as controlled release fertilizer products. Customers will be able to leverage the expertise of Profile and Nivetha to efficiently develop a media mix solution that's right for their business.
This is the third acquisition in two years for Profile Products' rapidly growing horticultural division and follows on the heels of the company's expanded manufacturing capacity of HydraFiber, the company's flagship horticultural product. Through these investments, Profile Products is strengthening its position as a reliable supplier in a market where it is increasingly difficult to find recurring, sustainable materials.
"We are proud to join a purpose-driven and sustainability-minded company that shares our vision of strategic growth through key partnerships," said Vivek Sivanandum, owner of Nivetha. "Through our combined expertise and capital, we have the opportunity to provide more choices, invest in additional research and development, and form new synergies that will increase value for our customers and our team."
Nivetha joins Profile's extensive global portfolio, which includes proven technologies for erosion control, horticulture, sports field conditioning, and golf course construction and maintenance.
Based in Buffalo Grove, Ill., PROFILE Products LLC is a leading developer and manufacturer of highly engineered specialty agriscience materials that promote environmental sustainability while delivering superior performance for horticulture, erosion control, sports turf and other specialty applications. It's Profile's mission to consistently help our customers establish sustainable green space through water and soil management and plant establishment. We accomplish this by bringing our knowledgeable people, proven products, groundbreaking technology and personal services on-site to holistically meet real world applications—assuring success in any environment. For more information call (800) 508-8681, email info@profileproducts.com or visit profileproducts.com.
Nivetha manufactures high-quality coco coir products with factory operations at two different locations in Southern India. Since 1996, the business has proven its promise to manufacture and reliably supply quality coco products to its global clients. For more information visit nivetha.in.
Contact: Jenna Jaynes
Swanson Russell
402-437-6406
jennaj@swansonrussell.com
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SOURCE PROFILE Products LLC | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/profile-products-acquires-nivetha-exporters-expands-horticulture-portfolio-with-access-coconut-coir/ | 2022-09-14T14:30:15Z | witn.com | control | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/profile-products-acquires-nivetha-exporters-expands-horticulture-portfolio-with-access-coconut-coir/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
New version of Westlaw enables lawyers to conduct research more than twice as fast and reduces risk of missing relevant cases
MINNEAPOLIS and ST. PAUL, Minn., Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Thomson Reuters today introduced Westlaw Precision, a new version of Westlaw designed to dramatically improve research speed and quality by enabling lawyers to target precisely what they are looking for: legal issues, issue outcomes, fact patterns, motion types, motion outcomes, causes of action, party types, and more. In addition to precise searching, new capabilities include expanded KeyCite functionality and optimized workflow tools.
"Our customers tell us difficult legal research can often take more than 10 hours per case," said Mike Dahn, head of Product Management, Westlaw, Thomson Reuters. "It's time consuming because they are often looking for something very precise, but traditional searching rarely allows for such precision. Our customers needed more precision in searching to substantially reduce research time. To do that, we made the largest-ever investment in our editorial operations, and the result is Precision Research."
Addressing research challenges through precision in search
"Editorial excellence has long been at the heart of Westlaw," said Leann Blanchfield, head of Primary Law, Editorial, Thomson Reuters. "To enable more precision in search, we added more than 250 new attorney editors to mark up and classify case law in more useful ways for our customers. For more than 100 years, we have classified legal issues with the West Key Number System. Now we are also classifying cases by issue outcome, fact pattern, motion type, motion outcome, cause of action, and party type. This enables customers to specify precisely what they want and retrieve it quickly."
"If you're working on a breach-of-contract case, for example, you may be searching for cases decided at motion to dismiss, where the breach claim involved failure to deliver goods, and the motion was granted because the breach-of-contract claim was insufficiently alleged," Blanchfield added. "What complicates your research process is that 'failure to deliver goods' can be stated several ways, such as 'refused to deliver the magnesium alloy' or 'the capacitors never arrived.' And finding there was no breach of contract could be noted in dozens of ways too. You need a precise level of specificity to get it right."
In testing with more than 100 practicing attorneys, those who used Precision Research found relevant cases more than twice as fast as those using traditional search methods. At the end of their research sessions, those who used Precision Research also found nearly twice as many relevant cases as those who researched with traditional methods.
Multiple law firms, including Shearman & Sterling LLP and Larson LLP, state courts, and corporations were part of the beta program and are using Westlaw Precision.
"What Westlaw Precision does is it takes the critical quality information that Westlaw already brings to the table and elevates it to a new level," said Meredith Williams-Range, chief knowledge and client value officer, Shearman & Sterling, LLP. "One of the reasons we choose to continuously partner with Thomson Reuters and to be early adopters for the products that you bring to us is because you are changing the game that others are just not even coming to play in."
Unparalleled speed and accuracy for searching, filtering, and browsing
Precision Research is one of six new research capabilities offered in Westlaw Precision. The other five are:
- KeyCite Cited With: Shows related cases that have a pattern of being cited together even if neither cites the other
- KeyCite Overruled in Part: Indicates, via a new red-striped flag, that a case has been overruled in part and enables navigation directly to the language in the case discussing the point of law that has been overruled
- Graphical View of History: Displays a graphical visualization of research history, mapping out each step and highlighting the searches and documents with more research interaction
- Keep List/Hide Details: Allows users to save cases of interest and hide cases they have determined are not relevant to current research
- Outline Builder: Enables users to organize research with ease by dragging and dropping text into a customizable outline. Linked and formatted citations and KeyCite information integrate automatically, and the outline can easily be exported to begin drafting a brief
"Our testing demonstrated the value of Westlaw Precision, but we are just getting started," said Dahn. "The editorial work we have done for more than a century has enabled us to do big things with artificial intelligence and machine learning in the last decade, and our additional investment in new editorial markup and classification lays the foundation for a new wave of innovation. While Westlaw Precision offers significant speed and quality benefits now, we will continue to provide even faster and better research in the future."
Each iteration of Westlaw has delivered more confidence, efficiency, and accuracy in legal research, and Westlaw Precision continues that tradition, guided by the long history of editorial excellence and innovations that Thomson Reuters is known for.
To learn more, visit the Westlaw Precision product page.
Thomson Reuters
Thomson Reuters is a leading provider of business information services. Our products include highly specialized information-enabled software and tools for legal, tax, accounting and compliance professionals combined with the world's most global news service – Reuters. For more information on Thomson Reuters, visit tr.com and for the latest world news, reuters.com.
CONTACT
Jeff McCoy
+1.763.326.4421
jeffrey.mccoy@thomsonreuters.com
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SOURCE Thomson Reuters | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/thomson-reuters-debuts-westlaw-precision/ | 2022-09-14T14:32:02Z | witn.com | control | https://www.witn.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/thomson-reuters-debuts-westlaw-precision/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Updated September 14, 2022 at 10:21 AM ET
It's one thing to be homeless, but it's certainly another to be homeless as a child on the streets of New York with a mother suffering from severe mental illness.
That's what David Ambroz faced for much of his childhood – and now he has described that harrowing experience and how he overcame it in his new memoir, "A Place Called Home."
On a brutally cold night in New York when he was about four years old, Ambroz said he thought he might die.
"My sister and brother stopped speaking. We couldn't control our bowel movements and we started having fuzzy thoughts and collapsing," he told Morning Edition host Rachel Martin. "We sat on tops of grates so the subway air pushed out was warm until we couldn't. So there's moments of neglect. That certainly was a moment I thought my Mom, through her mental illness, might do that, might lead us to death."
A difficult realization that Ambroz and his siblings must enter foster care
There were many trying times that followed that cold night. When Ambroz was about 12, he and his older siblings, Alex (13) and Jessica (14), realized they needed to leave their mother and enter foster care.
"Right before I entered foster care was one particularly clear moment in my mind," he recalls. "My mom really lost control and became destabilized, and she brutally beat me to near-death, and that is when I put us in foster care for the final time."
"I was able to stand up and realize that my mom was going to kill me," Ambroz said.
Foster care certainly had its challenges for Ambroz and his siblings, but they had shelter, access to food, and some stability – and perhaps most important to the author, they began going to school on a regular basis.
"School was everything," he said. "I think schools today, and even then, have become so much more than a place where we learn – they are a place where kids are fed, where we access health care and where we're cool or we're warm, we're safe."
"I loved school [and] I mean, I would live for that free lunch. Teachers saw what was going on and did just a little bit more to help my siblings and I get through the day or the moment," Ambroz recalled.
Ambroz finds happiness and ways to support others
He credits foster care and the compassion he received from teachers as part of the reason he was able to turn his life around and get on the right track – and today, he's found happiness.
"I have the best life," he said. "I'm so happy. I'm in a home that I own. I have a beautiful foster son who's in graduate school [at Cornell University]. My brother and sister are thriving. They have advanced degrees and beautiful, healthy families. I care for my mom. She's no longer homeless, but she's still, you know, fighting her demons ... and I'm an active member of my community."
In the mid-1990s, he became a leading advocate for child welfare, and remains one to this day. In 2016, he was recognized by then-President Obama as an American Champion of Change, and Obama had this to say about him: "You will fall in love with David Ambroz, his beautifully-told, gut-wrenching story, and his great big heart."
Ambroz now lives in Los Angeles, where he works for Amazon as head of community engagement for the Western U.S.
He calls it "the best damn job you could possibly imagine."
"I'm literally charged with doing good in the community ... they want me to go out and do good in the community. And I think about that every day," Ambroz said.
"How could this kid that lived in Grand Central go out today with the resources of this company and try and change lives? And literally, my measurement of my success is that impact. How is that possible? And that's why I remain optimistic."
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.klcc.org/npr-books/npr-books/2022-09-13/a-place-called-home-is-a-vivid-account-of-david-ambrozs-harrowing-childhood | 2022-09-14T14:37:50Z | klcc.org | control | https://www.klcc.org/npr-books/npr-books/2022-09-13/a-place-called-home-is-a-vivid-account-of-david-ambrozs-harrowing-childhood | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
More than ten residents of Klamath County have reported to the clerk’s office that the group came to their door and asked them questions about their voter registration and voting record. They sometimes referred to themselves as “an integrity group.”
Klamath County Clerk Rochelle Long said some residents assumed that the group was from the local elections office.
"And we explained we don't go door to door. We don't ask you those questions," she said. "And then they said sometimes they felt like a little intimidated, like these people would not leave."
The group's actions have been perceived as threatening by some residents.
"I think people, they felt intimidated, and some of them were kind of mad that they were coming to their door," Long said. "So I don't know how many doors have been gone to, but we just wanted to make people aware that if a group comes to your door, and they're asking you questions about your voter registration and stuff, it's not from our office."
Long said her office doesn’t have many details, including identifying information about the group's members. But she said the incidents are being tracked and have been reported to the Secretary of State’s Office and the FBI. She said the group’s conduct may be illegal. The clerk will soon have information on its website about election violation laws, including what qualifies as an election violation and how to report it.
Ben Morris, communications director for the Oregon Secretary of State, confirmed that the office had been notified about the incidents but said he had no additional information. He said an investigation would be conducted "only if some election law has been violated." Otherwise, "next steps would really be public education, which I think the clerk is taking the lead on," he said.
Long emphasized that voters do not have to answer these questions and can tell the group to leave. If someone has questions about their voter registration, they should call the clerk’s office directly. And if they feel threatened, they should call the police.
Copyright 2022 Jefferson Public Radio. To see more, visit Jefferson Public Radio. | https://www.klcc.org/politics-government/2022-09-14/citizens-group-interrogating-voters-in-klamath-county | 2022-09-14T14:38:02Z | klcc.org | control | https://www.klcc.org/politics-government/2022-09-14/citizens-group-interrogating-voters-in-klamath-county | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
PENDLETON, Ore.-
2022 marks the 112th anniversary of the Round-Up. The rodeo dates back to 1910 and has happened every year since, except for two, once during World War II, and in 2020, due to COVID.
According to the Round-Up website the event is a "week-long celebration of western heritage that includes parades, concerts, a night pageant, and more, thrilling tens of thousands of cowboys and cowgirls every year."
Find ticket, schedules, and event information for the Pendleton Round-Up here. | https://www.nbcrightnow.com/news/pendleton-round-up-celebrates-112th-anniversary-this-week/article_96bcfcf6-342c-11ed-aa5f-13e83dbcabd4.html | 2022-09-14T14:38:42Z | nbcrightnow.com | control | https://www.nbcrightnow.com/news/pendleton-round-up-celebrates-112th-anniversary-this-week/article_96bcfcf6-342c-11ed-aa5f-13e83dbcabd4.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
YAKIMA, WA - Since yesterday was National Programmer Day I looked into schools around Yakima that have STEM learning for younger students. At the West Valley Innovation Center the school puts a spin on learning by offering a different style of education when it comes to teaching its students.
"What is exciting is that they can still meet all of their math and their ELA, and their social studies standards and everything else they need to graduate through this particular pathway," said Devina Khan instructional Designer at West Valley Innovation Center.
At the innovation center as a student, you can focus on different subjects you're interested in and choose a pathway.
The innovation center offers pathways to choose from such as computer science and I.T., STEM Engineering, Health Sciences, Robotics, and Agriculture Science.
The center has about 200 students with 25 to 30 students on each pathway.
"As a teacher, I'm constantly driven and they are so excited so it's a win-win for both of us," said Khan. "For me, it's like, wow it's so exciting to see kids so excited and for them, they want to keep producing."
Khan told me knowing the fact that every student has a different way of learning helped West Valley School District create the Innovation Center.
"Everything is not for everybody and there are certain people, certain students who will thrive in this kind of an environment and some students will not," said Khan. "But the students who have chosen to come here have all given us some really great feedback on how they just love coming to school and they feel like they belong here."
Even students who didn't like math before coming to the innovation center are thriving.
"Sometimes they don't even realize that they've met algebra standards because they were so busy creating a game and that required so many different equations to take place but they problem solve and get it done because it's exciting," said Khan.
If you are interested in the West Valley Innovation Center for STEM education, click HERE. | https://www.nbcrightnow.com/news/stem-education-for-students-at-the-west-valley-innovation-center/article_6916a8dc-342d-11ed-8ba1-bfb0a1d3cb0b.html | 2022-09-14T14:38:48Z | nbcrightnow.com | control | https://www.nbcrightnow.com/news/stem-education-for-students-at-the-west-valley-innovation-center/article_6916a8dc-342d-11ed-8ba1-bfb0a1d3cb0b.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
OLYMPIA, Wash.-
September is Suicide Prevention Month and the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) is offering a Suicide Prevention Toolkit.
The WDVA encourages everyone to get involved in suicide prevention by:
Reaching Out: contact those who may be struggling.
Listening: let those who may be struggling know they're not alone.
Seek Help: call 988 and use resources like the WDVA toolkit.
The Washington State Legislature has provided funding to bolster suicide prevention efforts. The WDVA has increased its Suicide Prevention team from one employee, to eight, with four Peer Specialists located throughout the state.
The Peer Specialists are qualified to provide consultations and connections to resources for veterans or their family members who may be struggling mentally.
The WDVA is also:
Reviving its SAFER homes task force to raise awareness and increase suicide prevention education.
Creating a statewide database of suicide prevention resources.
Co-creating a "Prevent Veteran Suicide" license plate with the Department of Licensing.
Creating educational materials to promote the new 988 National Suicide Prevention hotline. | https://www.nbcrightnow.com/news/wdva-offering-suicide-prevention-month-toolkit/article_d86b21ba-3430-11ed-bfa6-5f73f449d476.html | 2022-09-14T14:38:54Z | nbcrightnow.com | control | https://www.nbcrightnow.com/news/wdva-offering-suicide-prevention-month-toolkit/article_d86b21ba-3430-11ed-bfa6-5f73f449d476.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
What kind food you want served ton...: Biteclub Food - A Sizzlin... on Jul 4...\nSundance Resport - New Fridge...: Eat for Life – Why... (Lowfat cookoo boo) by Margarita ... on How To S... @ Sunday July at 47 AM Pm Pt July at A M I Eating Health T... on Laughter Is Mood Boost! | How laugh more The United States meets the World Health Organization’s criteria for circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus after cases were discovered in New York in recent weeks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed.
The United States joins a list of more than 30 nations. Only seven nations outside of Africa are on the list.
“Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus occurs when local immunity to poliovirus is low enough to allow prolonged transmission of the original weakened virus in the oral polio vaccine,” the CDC said.” As the virus circulates and more genetic changes occur, the virus can regain its ability to infect the central nervous system and cause paralysis. It’s important to note that (circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses) are not caused by a child receiving the polio vaccine. Oral polio vaccine has not been used or licensed in the U.S. since 2000 but continues to be used in some countries.”
The CDC said a paralytic case of polio was reported in Rockland County, New York. The person was not vaccinated, the CDC said. There has also been poliovirus detected in wastewater in several New York counties.
Unlike the polio vaccine distributed in the U.S., which uses inactive strains of the virus, the oral vaccine consists of a mixture of live attenuated poliovirus strains. The oral vaccine is widely used in poorer nations to reduce severe diseases.
However, the oral vaccine can cause illnesses and transmission in some cases.
The CDC said that there is no updated guidance and that the vaccines used in the U.S. continued to be recommended for children or adults.
“I think it is concerning, it is very concerning. I hope for a lot of people this is a wake-up call. I hope for people who are unvaccinated, who have unvaccinated children and friends that this is a wake-up call,” Dr. Daniel Griffin, instructor of clinical medicine at Columbia University, told CNN. “This is really letting everyone know that the poliovirus is here. It's circulating. It's coming up in the wastewater because there are people that are infected with this virus, they are shedding this virus.” | https://www.fox17online.com/news/national/circulating-oral-vaccine-derived-poliovirus-confirmed-in-the-us-health-officials-say | 2022-09-14T14:39:10Z | fox17online.com | control | https://www.fox17online.com/news/national/circulating-oral-vaccine-derived-poliovirus-confirmed-in-the-us-health-officials-say | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
访问 www3-shoujin.ch (邃河社) McDonald's employees will have an opportunity to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.
The fast-food chain announced it would close all restaurants in the United Kingdom on Monday— from 12 a.m. to 5 p.m.
"The entire McDonald’s system is deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She dedicated her life to serving the United Kingdom & the Commonwealth, uniting us at times of both celebration & challenge. We offer our heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family," McDonald's said following the queen's death.
Queen Elizabeth II's funeral will take place at Westminster Abbey in London on Monday.
The royal family and world leaders will be in attendance for the funeral. It will also be televised across the globe.
Queen Elizabeth II was the UK's longest-reigning sovereign. The last funeral for a UK monarch was in 1952, following the death of King George VI. | https://www.fox17online.com/news/national/mcdonalds-restaurants-in-uk-to-close-for-queens-funeral | 2022-09-14T14:39:16Z | fox17online.com | control | https://www.fox17online.com/news/national/mcdonalds-restaurants-in-uk-to-close-for-queens-funeral | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
BELLEVUE, Wash. — September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. It’s estimated 10,000 children in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer this year.
Some local moms are raising awareness and also extending their thanks to blood donors for giving a lifesaving gift.
A group of eight mothers came together to donate blood in Bellevue on Tuesday.
“A lot of times cancer moms will get together to donate blood, but it’s usually just pairs,” said Christine O’Connell with the Kick Childhood Cancer Guild. “Our kids, kids who are fighting cancer, cannot do it without help from donors. They need blood, they need platelets often during treatment. Treatment can go on for months, years for some kids.”
All of the moms who showed up to donate blood at Bloodworks Northwest on Tuesday have children who have battled cancer. Not all of them won their fight with the disease.
“My son Ewan Lill was diagnosed in 2016 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, started treatment and went through treatment for nearly two years and unfortunately he died in 2018 because of the disease,” said Jenny Harrington Lill, who is also a researcher at Fred Hutch. “During that time he received over 80 blood products and transfusions which allowed for us to have more time with him, so we’re very grateful, and this is my way of paying it back and also paying it forward.”
“So many people don’t know it takes about 20 minutes, just 20 minutes to donate blood, you can donate every 56 days,” said O’Connell. “It’s childhood cancer awareness month, so come out and donate for kids.” | https://www.krem.com/article/news/health/local-moms-urge-everyone-donate-blood-childhood-cancer-awareness-month/281-e95cb4d0-f13b-4905-8bfd-215825a06c52 | 2022-09-14T14:39:49Z | krem.com | control | https://www.krem.com/article/news/health/local-moms-urge-everyone-donate-blood-childhood-cancer-awareness-month/281-e95cb4d0-f13b-4905-8bfd-215825a06c52 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
BOISE, Idaho — No grand openings are scheduled yet, but those wondering if In-N-Out Burger will ever set up shop in Idaho have a little reassurance. Plans for locations in Boise and Meridian are still moving forward.
The Boise Planning and Zoning Commission on Monday approved a conditional use permit for a drive-up and restaurant at 140 N. Milwaukee St., across the ring road from the south end of the Boise Towne Square mall parking lot, on the current site of a now-vacant Pier 1 Imports store. The conditional use permit for In-N-Out includes a variance for parking that would encroach three feet into the side setback.
The drive-through would be able to accommodate a line of up to 33 cars and would wrap around the rear of the building in a horseshoe design, with two lanes leading up to the first turn, according to the In-N-Out project description on file with the City of Boise. The restaurant also will have seating for up to 74 people inside, and another 20 at five outdoor patio tables with umbrellas.
For parking, In-N-Out will have 19 spaces on its property and share another 13 spaces with other nearby businesses. Construction, once it begins, is expected to take six months and will include demolition of the building that now stands at the site.
The Ada County Highway District is requiring In-N-Out to pay a traffic impact fee and obtain a permit for any work in the right-of-way before the construction, repair or installation of any driveways or other roadway improvements. ACHD estimates the In-N-Out development will generate more than 1,800 additional vehicle trips per day in the area, which includes parts of Cole Road, Franklin Road and Emerald Street as well as Milwaukee.
In-N-Out also plans to build a restaurant and drive-through at The Village at Meridian. The company applied for a permit in March. Plans indicate it would seat 84 people inside and 32 people outside, have a drive-through that could accommodate up to 40 cars, and would have 40 employees. City records indicate the application has gone through the necessary reviews and complies with zoning.
In-N-Out opened its first restaurant in 1948 in Baldwin Park, California. Along with locations in California, the chain has a presence in several other states, including Oregon, Utah, Nevada, Colorado, Arizona and Texas.
Watch more 'Growing Idaho':
See the latest growth and development news in our YouTube playlist: | https://www.krem.com/article/news/local/in-n-out-burger-boise-meridian-closer-to-reality/277-a4cd440f-ff0c-4374-8381-5a1c34f348f4 | 2022-09-14T14:39:55Z | krem.com | control | https://www.krem.com/article/news/local/in-n-out-burger-boise-meridian-closer-to-reality/277-a4cd440f-ff0c-4374-8381-5a1c34f348f4 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
As the Senate prepared to move on a bill that would protect same-sex marriage, Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) on Monday pushed back against GOP objections that it is unnecessary.
Some Republicans have said the Respect for Marriage Act, which would make marriage a constitutional right regardless of a couple’s sex, race, ethnicity or national origin, is moot because the U.S. Supreme Court has already protected marriage equality.
“The same court that overturned Roe vs. Wade puts in jeopardy a number of other Supreme Court cases: the case that affirmed same-sex marriage, the case that affirmed interracial marriage,” Baldwin, the lead Democratic negotiator for the new bill, said on CNN.
Lawmakers sprung to action after Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, in his opinion on the court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, argued that the justices should also reconsider cases like Obergefell v. Hodges, which secured same-sex marriage as a constitutional right, and Griswold v. Connecticut, which gave married couples the right to access contraceptives.
Millions of U.S. couples, Baldwin said, “are legitimately concerned about the legitimacy of their marriage.”
Democrats are still working to secure 10 GOP votes to ensure the bill can overcome a Republican filibuster. Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), a sponsor of the bill, is a “yes” vote, along with Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio). Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) previously told reporters that he “probably will” vote for the bill.
Negotiators are considering an amendment to address GOP concerns about creating legal problems for religious groups, which could expand Republican support for the bill.
Baldwin said that, before the amendment, she had “five [Republicans] on the record and three more soft, not-quite-on-the-record” in her push toward the needed 10 votes.
Her fellow Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson (R) initially indicated he’d support the proposal but later backtracked and dismissed the bill as “just Democrats opening up a wound that doesn’t need to be opened up.”
The Respect for Marriage Act would formally repeal the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act, which narrowly defined marriage as a union between one man and one woman — legislation that remains in place despite being negated in part by the Supreme Court.
Repealing the outdated legislation would be a strong and “very affirming statement” from Congress, Baldwin said.
“We often think, when we say the word marriage, of the wedding rights, but with a marriage certificate comes very important rights and responsibilities that people rely on, say, hospital visits and, you know, all sorts of things that are really important. So this is timely right now.”
Baldwin said Johnson has “gone back and forth quite a bit on this issue” and added that she hopes he’ll revert back to supporting the bill after seeing the new amendment.
“This is a real issue to millions of couples across the United States. This is not being done for political purposes. We have, already, a nice bipartisan group working very hard to pass it,” Baldwin said.
The House passed its Respect for Marriage Act 267-157 in July, with 47 Republicans joining all Democrats voting in favor.
The bill could pass the Senate this month, and Baldwin says she expects the Senate to vote on it next week.
This story was updated at 1:50 p.m. | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/hill-politics/baldwin-pushes-back-on-gop-arguments-against-same-sex-marriage-legislation/ | 2022-09-14T14:40:02Z | siouxlandproud.com | control | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/hill-politics/baldwin-pushes-back-on-gop-arguments-against-same-sex-marriage-legislation/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
SNOHOMISH COUNTY, Wash. — Garbage is piling up at Snohomish County solid waste facilities due to challenges transporting it to regional waste centers via railway.
The mounting garbage is prompting health, safety and environmental concerns for customers and staff, according to the county.
Waste facilities are experiencing trouble finding enough freight containers to transport garbage to regional waste facilities. The issue is also impacting other solid waste facilities throughout the Puget Sound area and into western Canada.
If the county continues to experience challenges transporting the waste in the coming weeks, some solid waste facilities may have to close temporarily until the excess refuse can be dealt with.
Transportation challenges have impacted waste facilities in Snohomish County intermittently for the past eight months. In early January, solid waste transfer stations began having issues finding enough railway containers to transport waste, and garbage began to pile up over the next five months. In May, the county had to close solid waste facilities for two days to remove excess garbage that built up due to a lack of available transport to landfills.
In April, Snohomish County approved an emergency contract with Waste Management to help the solid waste division remove excess refuse at local transfer stations.
The agreement expires in October. Garbage has been at a sustainable level through the summer months, but has recently begun to pile up again due to railway staffing challenges and intermodal container shortages.
The county is working with Republic Services, Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway (BNSF), Waste Management, local solid waste haulers and federal officials to find a solution, Snohomish County Public Works Director Kelly Snyder said.
“We are experiencing significant delays in rail service by BNSF to the landfill, but safety will remain our number one priority throughout this emergency,” Snohomish County Solid Waste Director David Schonhard said. “We are working on every possible option to reduce the refuse at our facilities without shutdowns, but it is difficult. We appreciate our customers’ patience during this uncertainty.”
Compounding the challenges is the possibility of a nationwide strike of more than 100,000 railway workers that could come to a head after Sept, 15. The strike could exacerbate ongoing waste transportation issues and interrupt other vital services nationwide.
In the meantime, county officials are urging residents to seek out ways to divert waste from landfills. Snohomish County suggests finding ways to recycle reusable items and donating household items, books or clothing that are reusable to thrift stores or selling them on community classifieds or online marketplaces rather than throw them away. | https://www.krem.com/article/news/local/snohomish-county-solid-waste-facility-potential-closures/281-f40ef014-cc02-4f33-9a73-844459a2eeb4 | 2022-09-14T14:40:07Z | krem.com | control | https://www.krem.com/article/news/local/snohomish-county-solid-waste-facility-potential-closures/281-f40ef014-cc02-4f33-9a73-844459a2eeb4 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
INDEX, Wash. — Despite the Bolt Creek Fire threatening homes along US 2 between Skykomish and Index, only about half the people asked to evacuate have actually done so.
Kim Protasiewicz was loading up at a grocery store Monday outside Index before locking back down. Her home is under Level 3 mandatory evacuation orders, but she says she’s not leaving.
“It’s our home, we want to stay and protect it. There’s a few other people doing the same thing. If our house is going to burn we’re going to stay and watch it burn I guess,” Protasiewicz said.
The Bolt Creek Fire burned up to 8,000 acers over the weekend.
On Monday, schools were closed as residents are hoping relief will come soon.
“We did get prepared, we did. And we’ve been keeping sprinklers going, hoses going. We had a lot of debris coming down, so we kept an eye on that,” Protasiewicz said.
Maggie Buck lives in Gold Bar – right on the line of evacuations. She said she’s ready to counter should the fire decide to jab.
“We just pack up the most important stuff and just leave the rest to chance. If it goes it goes. We got our lives, we got our dogs, that’s the most important things. Everything else can be recovered after that,” Buck said.
While crews work to contain the blaze those who live near the fire say they’ll remain ready to go until the final flame is out.
The fire is approximately 2% contained. Heavy smoke is making it difficult for firefighters and air support, however. Crews still hadn't been able to put water on the flames or get a good sense of how many acres were burning because of winds and the smoke.
Aerials: Smoke from the Bolt Creek Fire | https://www.krem.com/article/news/local/wildfire/about-half-of-people-in-level-3-evacuation-zone-havent-left-as-bolt-creek-fire-burns-near-us-2/281-9f1dbfa8-ed00-4ccc-a588-405455f35770 | 2022-09-14T14:40:19Z | krem.com | control | https://www.krem.com/article/news/local/wildfire/about-half-of-people-in-level-3-evacuation-zone-havent-left-as-bolt-creek-fire-burns-near-us-2/281-9f1dbfa8-ed00-4ccc-a588-405455f35770 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LONDON, UK — Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to flock to London’s medieval Westminster Hall from Wednesday to pay their respects to Queen Elizabeth II, whose coffin will lie in state for four days until her funeral on Monday.
Here's a look at what to expect for the occasion, including its traditions, the waiting route and what mourners will see:
HOW LONG WILL THE QUEEN LIE IN STATE?
People who want to view the queen’s coffin can do so 24 hours a day from 5 p.m. local time (1600GMT) Wednesday until 6:30 a.m. on Monday, the day of the state funeral.
WHAT DOES LIE IN STATE MEAN?
The closed coffin will be draped with a royal flag and adorned with royal regalia including the Imperial State Crown — the same crown the queen wore for her 1953 coronation.
The coffin will be placed on a catafalque, or a raised platform, in the center of Westminster Hall. Royal guards will stand 24 hours a day at each corner of the platform.
When the coffin was in Scotland earlier this week, it was topped with the Crown of Scotland and a wreath of white flowers.
WHAT WILL QUEEN ELIZABETH BE BURIED IN?
The queen’s coffin is constructed out of English oak, lined with lead and was made decades ago, experts say.
Sarah Hayes, manager for the Coffin Works museum in Birmingham, England, says former Prime Minister Winston Churchill, the queen’s husband Prince Philip and Princess Diana had such coffins made for them, she said.
“It’s to preserve the body for as long as possible, it’s really about slowing down the process of decomposition,” she said. This is especially important for the queen because her coffin will be eventually placed in a church, not buried in the ground, she added.
The coffin is made of oak from the royal family’s Sandringham Estate according to royal tradition, Hayes said.
WHAT OUTFIT WILL THE QUEEN BE BURIED IN?
The queen's final outfit hasn't been disclosed by the royal family. But in an interview with Metro, Natural Diamond Council head of communications Lisa Levinson said the queen will be buried with only a few jewels adording her.
While the queen owns an extensive, 300-piece jewelry collection, Levinson said she could be buried with two pieces: her Welsh gold wedding band and a pair of pearl earrings.
It's unclear where her engagement ring will go, although it could be passed on to Anne, the Princess Royal.
HOW LONG IS THE WAIT TO SEE THE QUEEN?
British officials have published two waiting routes along the River Thames that the public need to join before they can enter Westminster Hall. The main queue begins on the Albert Embankment and stretches east for miles past the London Eye, the Tate Modern and Tower Bridge. There is a separate, accessible route that people who need it can join from the Tate Britain museum.
Mourners have been warned about long waits, possibly overnight. Hundreds of extra toilets and water fountains will be placed along the route, and some venues along the way, including Shakespeare’s Globe, will open around the clock to provide refreshments and rest breaks. Airport-style security checks are in place near the front of the line before people can enter Parliament.
WHAT IS WESTMINISTER HALL?
The lying in state takes place at Westminster Hall, a 900-year-old building with an impressive timber roof. Built in 1097, it's the oldest surviving building of the Palace of Westminster.
The hall has been at the heart of British history for a millennium: It was where numerous kings and queens hosted lavish coronation banquets, and where Guy Fawkes and Charles I were tried in the 17th century. More recently, ceremonial addresses were presented in the hall to Elizabeth during her silver, golden and diamond jubilees.
WHO GETS TO LIE IN STATE?
In the U.K., lying in state is reserved for the sovereign, queen consorts, and sometimes prime ministers.
Queen Mary, King George VI and King George V were among royals who lay in state at Westminster Hall. Winston Churchill was the only British prime minister to have a lying-in-state ceremony in the 20th century.
The last person to lie in state in Britain was Elizabeth’s mother, known as the Queen Mother. Some 200,000 people paid their respects to her over three days when she died in 2002.
WHEN DID THE TRADITION START?
The tradition of lying in state stretches back to the 17th century when Stuart monarchs lay in state for a number of days.
Edward VII set the modern tradition of royal lying in state in Westminster Hall. He lay in state in 1910.
WHERE WILL THE QUEEN OF ENGLAND BE BURIED?
After the state funeral, the coffin will be taken to Windsor, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) west of London. The queen will be laid to rest in the King George VI Memorial Chapel, within St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle, where her mother and father were interred and her sister Princess Margaret's ashes were placed.
Prince Philip’s coffin, which is currently in St. George's Chapel's Royal Vault, is expected to be moved to the memorial chapel to join the queen’s.
St. George's is where many of Britain’s royals were baptized, married and buried throughout history. It has long been the resting place for the royals, and 10 former sovereigns were buried there. | https://www.krem.com/article/news/nation-world/queen-funeral-arragnements/507-00be33f1-7cc4-4410-9224-72a55594ed27 | 2022-09-14T14:40:38Z | krem.com | control | https://www.krem.com/article/news/nation-world/queen-funeral-arragnements/507-00be33f1-7cc4-4410-9224-72a55594ed27 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LONDON, UK — Queen Elizabeth II left Buckingham Palace for the last time Wednesday, her coffin borne to the Houses of Parliament by a horse-drawn gun carriage and trailed by grieving family members.
The coffin will lie in state for four days until the late monarch's funeral on Monday, with hundreds of thousands of people expected to file past. Eight pall bearers carried the oak and lead-lined coffin into Westminster Hall, placing it on a raised platform known as a catafalque.
With the Royal Standard and crown of state resting on top of the coffin and artillery firing salutes at one-minute intervals, the solemn procession was designed to underscore the queen’s seven decades as head of state as the national mourning process shifted to the grand boulevards and historic landmarks of the U.K. capital.
King Charles III, his sons Princes William and Harry and other members of the royal family walked behind the gun carriage.
Thousands of people who had waited for hours along The Mall outside the palace and other locations to line the route held up phones and cameras, and some wiped away tears, as the solemn procession passed. Applause broke out as it went through Horse Guards Parade.
The coffin was draped in the Royal Standard and topped with the Imperial State Crown – adorned with almost 3,000 diamonds -- and a bouquet of flowers and plants including pine from the Balmoral Estate, where Elizabeth died last week.
An escort of two officers and 32 troops from the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards in red uniforms and bearskin hats walked on on either side of the gun carriage.
Big Ben tolled, a gun salute boomed from Hyde Park and the martial strains of a military band accompanied the procession.
The 38-minute procession ended at the historic Westminster Hall at Parliament.
Thousands more were standing or sitting in line along the banks of the River Thames waiting their turn to file past the coffin when it lies in state for four days before the queen’s state funeral on Monday.
The crowds are the latest manifestation of a nationwide outpouring of grief and respect for the only monarch most Britons have ever known, who died at her beloved Balmoral summer retreat on Thursday at age 96, ending a 70-year reign.
Joan Bucklehurst, a 50-year-old retail worker from Cheshire in northwestern England, said the queen “meant so much for everybody.”
“She was amazing, yeah,” she added, choking up with emotion. “So, we had to be here. We’ve been here a few times when there have been special occasions, but this one, I couldn’t miss this.”
Maj. Gen. Christopher Ghika, of the Household division, who organized the ceremonial aspects of the queen’s funeral said it was a sad day, “but it’s our last opportunity to do our duty for the queen and it’s our first opportunity to do it for the king, and that makes us all very proud.”
London’s Heathrow Airport halted flights to prevent overhead planes disturbing the procession.
The airport said in a statement that the changes would “ensure silence over central London as the ceremonial procession moves from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall.”
Troops involved in the procession have been preparing since the queen died. So have the horses of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery.
Sgt. Tom Jenks, from the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, said that the horses have undergone special training, including how to handle weeping mourners, as well as flowers and flags being thrown onto streets as the procession passes by.
Since the early morning, people staked out prime viewing positions behind metal barriers along the Mall and other streets along the route. They stood or sat on folding chairs, umbrellas at the ready, takeout coffees in hand.
Crowds have lined the route of the queen’s coffin whenever it has been moved in its long journey from Scotland back to London.
On Tuesday night, thousands braved a typical London drizzle as the state hearse, with interior lights illuminating the sovereign’s flag-draped casket, drove slowly from a military air base into the heart of London.
Earlier, in Edinburgh, some 33,000 people filed in silent respect past her coffin as it lay for 24 hours at St. Giles’ Cathedral.
Hundreds of thousands are expected to do the same in London when the queen lies in state at the 900-year-old Westminster Hall, the oldest building in Parliament, for four days before her state funeral on Monday.
The hall is where Guy Fawkes and Charles I were tried, where kings and queens hosted magnificent medieval banquets, and where ceremonial addresses were presented to Queen Elizabeth II during her silver, golden and diamond jubilees.
Chris Bond, from Truro in southwest England, was among those lining up along the banks of the River Thames. He also attended the lying in state of the queen’s mother in 2002.
“Obviously, it’s quite difficult queuing all day long, but when you walk through those doors into Westminster Hall, that marvellous, historic building, there was a great sense of hush and one was told you take as much time as you like, and it’s just amazing,” he said.
“We know the queen was a good age and she served the country a long time, but we hoped this day would never come,” he added.
Chris Imafidon, secured the sixth place in the queue.
“I have 1,001 emotions when I see her,” he said. “I want to say, God, she was an angel, because she touched many good people and did so many good things.” | https://www.krem.com/article/news/nation-world/queen-procession-buckingham-palace-to-lying-in-state/507-019c0da4-4acb-416f-ba5d-5ae7546f5aa5 | 2022-09-14T14:40:44Z | krem.com | control | https://www.krem.com/article/news/nation-world/queen-procession-buckingham-palace-to-lying-in-state/507-019c0da4-4acb-416f-ba5d-5ae7546f5aa5 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
OMAHA, Neb. — Freight railroads and their unions are facing increasing pressure from business groups and the White House to settle their contract dispute before Friday's looming strike deadline.
The pressure stems from concerns that halting railroad deliveries of raw materials and finished products that so many companies rely on would be, in the words of the head of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, an “economic disaster.”
A White House official said President Joe Biden and members of his cabinet were in touch with the unions and railroads Monday as part of their efforts to avert a strike. And for the second time in the past week, Labor Secretary Marty Walsh sat down at the negotiating table Sunday to urge the parties to reach a deal. Another meeting is set for Wednesday, union and Labor Department officials told CNN.
Walsh postponed a planned to trip to Ireland this week to remain close to the talks.
A Labor Department spokesperson said Monday that it’s crucial that the parties remain at the negotiating table and come to an agreement because “a shutdown of our freight rail system is an unacceptable outcome for our economy and the American people.”
Suzanne Clark, the head of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, said Monday that “a national rail strike would be an economic disaster — freezing the flow of goods, emptying shelves, shuttering workplaces and raising prices for families and businesses alike.”
The chamber joined a number of other business groups, including a coalition of 31 agricultural shipping trade groups, in sending letters to Congress urging lawmakers to be prepared to step in and block a strike if the two sides can't reach an agreement by the end of the week. The chamber said if it comes to that, Congress should impose the terms recommended by a Presidential Emergency Board that Biden appointed this summer.
The Association of American Railroads trade group put out a report last week estimating that shutting down the railroads would cost the economy $2 billion a day.
As of Monday, the coalition negotiating on behalf of the nation's biggest freight railroads — including Union Pacific, CSX, Norfolk Southern, BNSF and Kansas City Southern — had announced eight of the 13 tentative agreements needed to avert a strike by some 115,000 rail workers.
The deals that have been announced so far have closely followed the Presidential Emergency Board’s recommendations that called for 24% raises over five years, $5,000 in bonuses and one additional paid leave day a year. But the two biggest unions representing conductors and engineers have been holding out because they want the railroads to go beyond those recommendations and address some of their concerns about strict attendance policies and working conditions.
The railroads have said they would begin curtailing shipments of hazardous materials and some other goods Monday in advance of a possible work stoppage at the end of the week. That would ensure that containers of those dangerous goods aren't left stranded along the tracks.
The heads of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers — Transportation Division union that represents conductors, and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen union that represents engineers, criticized that decision as a move to increase pressure on shippers and Congress to intervene.
The federal law governing railroad contract talks won't allow a strike or lockout before Friday.
TEGNA's Val Lick and Associated Press reporter Josh Boak contributed to this report. | https://www.krem.com/article/news/nation-world/us-railroad-contract-talks/507-b6b096ef-59a7-45d8-b219-aa19ba3705e0 | 2022-09-14T14:40:50Z | krem.com | control | https://www.krem.com/article/news/nation-world/us-railroad-contract-talks/507-b6b096ef-59a7-45d8-b219-aa19ba3705e0 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The Justice Department has issued roughly 40 subpoenas in the past week in connection with its investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 election by former President Trump and his allies, The New York Times reported Monday.
An attorney for Bernard Kerik, the former New York Police commissioner who emerged as a vocal Trump supporter and claimed there was widespread fraud in the 2020 election, confirmed Kerik was one of the individuals to receive a subpoena.
Attorney Timothy Parlatore said the subpoena was served early last week when a team of FBI agents arrived at Kerik’s home. Parlatore would not share the subpoena, but described it as broad.
“Basically, give us anything and everything related to anybody that is tangentially related to the Trump campaign including a long, long laundry list,” he said.
The New York Times reported that Boris Ephsteyn, who served as an adviser to the 2020 Trump campaign and helped with challenges to the election results, had his phone seized as evidence, as did Mike Roman, who was part of a plan to submit alternative electors to then-Vice President Mike Pence on Jan. 6, 2021.
Dan Scavino, a top White House aide throughout Trump’s four years in office, was also subpoenaed, the Times reported.
The Justice Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Stanley Woodward, an attorney for Scavino, declined to comment
The Times reported that the subpoenas seek information related to a plan concocted by Trump associates to submit slates of alternative electors from states like Georgia, Pennsylvania and Arizona, which President Biden narrowly won in 2020. The goal was to submit names of electors who would cast their support for Trump instead of Biden, potentially upending the result.
Congress ultimately certified Biden as the winner on Jan. 6, 2021, after a mob of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol complex in a bid to derail the proceedings.
The progress in the Justice Department’s investigation into the events surrounding Jan. 6 and the 2020 election come as the agency is also investigating Trump’s handling of classified materials after leaving office.
The FBI last month searched Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida after it for months tried to secure sensitive documents the former president had taken with him after leaving office.
The House committee investigating the Jan. 6 riots is also expected to resume its work following the summer recess. It has previously held several public hearings highlighting Trump’s false claims of election fraud, efforts to pressure Pence to overturn the election, and the violence that unfolded on Jan. 6.
Rebecca Beitsch contributed. | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/hill-politics/doj-issues-40-subpoenas-in-jan-6-probe-report/ | 2022-09-14T14:41:26Z | siouxlandproud.com | control | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/hill-politics/doj-issues-40-subpoenas-in-jan-6-probe-report/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Where can you visit the Queen's coffin?
The Queen’s coffin will be lying in state in Westminster Hall at the Palace of Westminster from 5pm today (14 September). At 3pm the casket will arrive at the palace, where the Archbishop of Canterbury will conduct a short service.
How long will I be able to visit?
The hall will be open 24 hours a day to the public until 6.30am on Monday, the day of Her Majesty's funeral. The queue may close early to ensure as many visitors as possible can enter the palace before the lying in state period comes to an end.
Where can I queue?
Members of the public will need to join a queue to have the opportunity of attending the lying in state. The queue is expected to be very long, with waits of around 35 hours. People have been warned that you may need to stand for the entirety of the process (possibly overnight), with very little opportunity to sit down, as the queue will keep moving.
The queue will start where Albert Embankment meets Lambeth Bridge, on the south side of the River Thames, it will then snake down to Southwark Park, covering an overall distance of more than four-and-a-half miles. | https://www.tatler.com/article/a-guide-to-seeing-the-queen-lying-in-state-from-queueing-to-dress-code | 2022-09-14T14:41:41Z | tatler.com | control | https://www.tatler.com/article/a-guide-to-seeing-the-queen-lying-in-state-from-queueing-to-dress-code | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Across the country, the public has gathered to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II following the news of her death last Thursday. On Sunday at 8pm, the nation will undertake a moment of silence for Her Majesty, ahead of her funeral the next day. Tatler explores some of the touching tributes that have already been dedicated to the late monarch in the aftermath of her passing.
Rainbows and song
A string of rainbows appeared above Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace in a poignant moment just minutes after the news of the Queen's death was broken. Interpreted by mourners as a natural salute to the passing of Britain’s longest-serving monarch, after they appeared in the sky, crowds broke into a sombre rendition of ‘God Save the Queen’. Yesterday, in another moment of symbolic beauty, a single shard of sunlight lit Her Majesty's coffin as it was carried through crowds in Edinburgh on its long journey to Buckingham Palace.
Cabbies line The Mall
In a mark of respect for Queen Elizabeth II, London’s famous black cabs lined up silently along The Mall on Thursday night. In April 2021, cab drivers did the same following the death of the Queen's husband of 73 years, the late Duke of Edinburgh. Many people took to Twitter in response to the tribute: ‘Good old cabbies. They always get it so right. God bless them’, one wrote, with another saying: ‘They are the heart and soul of any city’. One black cab driver described the late monarch as ‘a London girl… she’s one of your own, she’s one of ours.’ | https://www.tatler.com/article/all-the-special-tributes-marking-the-queens-death | 2022-09-14T14:41:41Z | tatler.com | control | https://www.tatler.com/article/all-the-special-tributes-marking-the-queens-death | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
On Tuesday evening, crowds of mourners gathered around Buckingham Palace as Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin returned from Scotland, greeted by cheering crowds. The Royal Family (with the exception of Princess Anne, who travelled with her mother’s body from Scotland) gathered en masse for the momentous occasion, looking on from the Palace as the hearse drove Her Majesty through the gates of her London home for the last time.
From flowers to marmalade sandwiches, this is how the public is paying their respects to the late monarch
Among the assembled family were the King and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, publicly reunited for the first time since the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations earlier this summer. Today, Prince Harry joined his elder brother, the Prince of Wales, and his father, as Elizabeth II’s son and grandsons united in a procession escorting the Queen’s coffin to Westminster Hall. | https://www.tatler.com/article/princes-william-and-harry-king-charles-iii-queens-coffin-procession | 2022-09-14T14:41:43Z | tatler.com | control | https://www.tatler.com/article/princes-william-and-harry-king-charles-iii-queens-coffin-procession | 0 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
On Tuesday evening, crowds of mourners gathered around Buckingham Palace as Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin returned from Scotland, greeted by cheering crowds. The Royal Family (with the exception of Princess Anne, who travelled with her mother’s body from Scotland) gathered en masse for the momentous occasion, looking on from the Palace as the hearse drove Her Majesty through the gates of her London home for the last time.
From flowers to marmalade sandwiches, this is how the public is paying their respects to the late monarch
Among the assembled family were the King and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, publicly reunited for the first time since the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations earlier this summer. Today, Prince Harry joined his elder brother, the Prince of Wales, and his father, as Elizabeth II’s son and grandsons united in a procession escorting the Queen’s coffin to Westminster Hall. | https://www.tatler.com/article/princes-william-and-harry-king-charles-iii-queens-coffin-procession | 2022-09-14T14:41:43Z | tatler.com | control | https://www.tatler.com/article/princes-william-and-harry-king-charles-iii-queens-coffin-procession | 1 | 0 | green-iguana-35 | null |
There are reports of discord within the Spanish court this week, after it emerged that the former monarch, King Juan Carlos, is planning to attend Her Majesty The Queen’s funeral next Monday.
A distant cousin of the Queen, King Juan Carlos was invited to attend the service at Westminster Abbey by the Foreign Office, alongside his estranged wife, Queen Sofía (who is also related to Her Majesty).
However, on Friday, it emerged via Spanish news website El Debate that his son King Felipe VI’s royal household had expressed their desire for the former king to decline the invitation, as part of continuing efforts to distance the monarch from the scandals of his father.
On Monday, though, it was announced that he would indeed be joining King Felipe and his wife Queen Letitzia in attending the funeral.
King Juan Carlos stood down in 2014 in favour of his eldest son, after a series of political, financial and personal scandals enveloped him. Since 2020, he has been living in self-imposed exile in the UAE, and has only been seen with his son once in the ensuing two years.
At Easter, he was reunited with his other children, Infanta Elena and Infanta Cristina, and five of his eight grandchildren, when they visited him in Abu Dhabi. The visit came just weeks after he had written an ‘open letter’ to his son announcing his plan to remain in Abu Dhabi but return to Spain ‘with frequency’ in coming years.
Juan Carlos ascended to the throne in November 1975 following the death of General Franco, after being chosen by him as his successor following the reinstitution of the monarchy. His grandfather, Alfonso XIII was the last King of Spain before the abolition of the monarchy in 1931. He became popular for dismantling the Francoist regime and reinstituting a democracy, yet in the 2000s he became embroiled in a series of scandals, including a corruption investigation that involved his daughter Cristina and her husband, Iñaki Urdangarin, as well as the elephant-hunting trip, which took place during the midst of the financial crisis. In 2014, after almost 40 years of rule, this led to him stepping down in favour of his son, King Felipe VI. | https://www.tatler.com/article/why-former-spanish-kings-attendance-at-the-queens-funeral-is-troublesome-for-his-son | 2022-09-14T14:41:44Z | tatler.com | control | https://www.tatler.com/article/why-former-spanish-kings-attendance-at-the-queens-funeral-is-troublesome-for-his-son | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Earlier this week, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark marked her Golden Jubilee – a celebration of 50 years on the throne. Conscious of the timing, the celebrations were more muted than expected, and she additionally held a minute’s silence for her late cousin, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who similarly celebrated a milestone Jubilee this year, when she surpassed 70 years on the throne.
It must have been a poignant moment for the Danish royal, as she now becomes Europe’s longest serving monarch – as well as its only reigning queen.
As popular in her native Denmark as the late Queen Elizabeth was here, Queen Margrethe was aged 31 when she ascended the throne in 1972. Dubbed ‘Aunt Daisy’, the 82-year-old monarch is known for her sense of humour, chain-smoking and fun-loving approach to life, and was even photographed riding a rollercoaster earlier this year.
Her reign has been uncontroversial and non-political, and she’s enjoyed working within the arts while serving as monarch, including assisting set design on the 2021 film, Ehrengard.
Married for over 50 years to former French diplomat, Henri de Laborde de Monpezat, she was among the first to offer her condolences to Queen Elizabeth following the loss of the Duke of Edinburgh, as a fellow widow.
While there is a dearth of reigning queens in Europe currently, the next generation is set to have plenty. Princess Elisabeth of Belgium, Princess Leonor of Spain, Princess Catharina-Amalia of the Netherlands and Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden are all the heirs to the throne in their respective countries, while Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway, who is second in line, will be the country’s second ever queen. | https://www.tatler.com/article/why-the-queens-death-is-history-making-for-queen-margrethe-ii-of-denmark | 2022-09-14T14:41:45Z | tatler.com | control | https://www.tatler.com/article/why-the-queens-death-is-history-making-for-queen-margrethe-ii-of-denmark | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Stephen Curry says Americans should treat President Trump — and his potential 2024 White House bid — as a serious “threat.”
“Take Trump seriously? Of course,” the Golden State Warriors star and NBA Finals MVP told Rolling Stone magazine for a cover story published Monday for its October issue.
“Most of his rhetoric — before he was president, during his last four years, and even now, if he tries to run again — has a tone of divisiveness that doesn’t have a place in our country,” he said.
“As serious and as loud as the threat is of him or whoever else is running for office,” Curry, 34, continued, “there’s a similar urgency and a loudness that’s necessary on the other side.”
It’s not the first time that Curry has spoken out against the 45th president. After Under Armour CEO Kevin Plank called the then-commander in chief an “asset” to the country in a 2017 interview, Curry told the San Jose Mercury News, “I agree with that description, if you remove the ‘et’ from asset.”
That same year, Curry said he didn’t want his team to make a traditional stop at the White House to celebrate their NBA championship title. Following Curry’s remarks, Trump tweeted that the White House invitation had been “withdrawn.”
Curry, a board member of When We All Vote, Michelle Obama’s voter registration and engagement organization, opened up about his activism to Rolling Stone.
“You’re growing and evolving on the same page as these national, politicized conversations, but it doesn’t have to be sides,” he said.
“What I try to do is be real, but also activate conversation that is sometimes uncomfortable,” the NBA All-Star said.
“The current events of the Trump era, I don’t wake up and say, ‘I wanna go at that conversation,’” Curry told the magazine.
“Some of this stuff falls on your doorstep and people want a perspective or comment, and sometimes you cough that up unsolicited.”
Curry said that while he didn’t regret not speaking out more in 2016 when the NBA weighed moving its All-Star game from North Carolina in protest of a controversial law requiring that transgender people use the bathroom corresponding to their biological sex, he could’ve “been a lot stronger” on the issue.
“We get attacked as athletes sometimes when you don’t want to say something — ‘I need to get more educated,’ there’s all these lines that people use,” Curry said.
“It kind of seems like you’re soft or like you’re equivocating or avoiding whatever the situation is.”
Curry also revealed that former President Obama — a frequent golfing partner and well-known basketball fanatic — once scolded him for repeating on a 2018 podcast a conspiracy theory that questioned whether astronauts really landed on the moon.
Following the podcast interview, Curry recalled, “I got an email. It was a pretty stern, direct one from President Obama.”
After telling him that humans did step foot on the moon, Curry said Obama instructed him, “You’ve got to do something about this.”
Following Obama’s advice, Curry hosted an Instagram Live discussion with an astronaut for his more than 45 million followers, and auctioned off a pair of custom-made space-themed sneakers, with proceeds going to STEM education programs.
Curry said back in June, after clenching his fourth NBA championship and telling the cameras, “What are they gonna say now?” he received a congratulatory call from Obama.
The ex-president suggested tweaking the boast slightly, telling Curry, “What the f— are they gonna say now?” | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/hill-politics/stephen-curry-says-trump-should-be-treated-as-serious-threat/ | 2022-09-14T14:42:57Z | siouxlandproud.com | control | https://www.siouxlandproud.com/hill-politics/stephen-curry-says-trump-should-be-treated-as-serious-threat/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Fort Dix hosted a Water Survival course for up to 22 aircrew members from the 514 AMW during their upcoming UTA weekend. This training includes water survival orientation and in water training. The training equipment included 1 life raft anchored in the water and 1 blown up on the shore. Students will get outfitted with a life preserver, and will swim from the shore to the life raft and then enter it. Once all members are in the raft, we will discuss the raft maintenance and equipment to help them survive during whatever the environmental conditions give them. Throughout the time, they have instructors in a safety raft (small oar paddled inflatable raft) and up to two PWCs (jet skis) with rescue sleds equipped on the back. During this training if there is an emergency, the PWCs will approach the scene and their safety team will load personnel onto the rescue sled to quickly move them to shore. There was also a medical team on-site if needed, and up to 8 instructor/support staff.
(Images provided by the Fort Dix (TSC) Training Support Center / Dan Amburg)
This work, Fort Dix – 514 AMW Amphibious Lake Survival TAC 03B Training 9 Sept 2022 [Image 12 of 12], by Kevin C Mcdevitt, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright. | https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7416346/fort-dix-514-amw-amphibious-lake-survival-tac-03b-training-9-sept-2022 | 2022-09-14T14:44:38Z | dvidshub.net | control | https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7416346/fort-dix-514-amw-amphibious-lake-survival-tac-03b-training-9-sept-2022 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Alan Guillen, right, from Brownsville, Texas, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) intelligence department, and Hull Maintenance Technician 2nd Class Joshua Weber, from Stockton, California, assigned to Ford’s engineering department, demonstrate pipe-patching in the hangar bay, during Tailored Ship’s Training Availability (TSTA),August 15, 2022. Ford is in port Naval Station Norfolk preparing for workups for a scheduled deployment this fall. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nolan Pennington)
This work, DC RODEO [Image 9 of 9], by PO2 Nolan Pennington, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright. | https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7416388/dc-rodeo | 2022-09-14T14:45:59Z | dvidshub.net | control | https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7416388/dc-rodeo | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Sailors assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) demonstrate pipe-patching in the hangar bay, during Tailored Ship’s Training Availability (TSTA), August 15, 2022. Ford is in port Naval Station Norfolk preparing for workups for a scheduled deployment this fall. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nolan Pennington)
This work, DC RODEO [Image 9 of 9], by PO2 Nolan Pennington, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright. | https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7416389/dc-rodeo | 2022-09-14T14:46:05Z | dvidshub.net | control | https://www.dvidshub.net/image/7416389/dc-rodeo | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The second annual Polo for Pegasus tournament is Saturday, Sept. 17, 2022, in the Wenas Valley.
The polo tournament is a fundraising event for the Pegasus Project, a nonprofit organization founded in 2003. The organization provides therapeutic riding and physical therapy using equine movement for children and adults with physical and mental special needs.
The first of three matches begins at 11 a.m. at the privately owned polo grounds at 3905 S. Wenas Road, Selah.
Each match will feature polo players from all over the country and world.
Tickets must be purchased in advance for the 21 and over event. A general admission ticket is $50 and includes entrance to the grass seating area (bring your own blanket or lawnchairs) and a chance participate in the divot stomp between the second and third matches. Parking is included.
Food will be available to purchase and there will be a no-host beer and wine lounge. For an additional cost, the Prosser House restaurant will have their Cigar Under the Stars tent. Boutiques and vendors will be on the grounds.
The attire for women is summer dresses and large hats and there will be a best hat contest. Men are encouraged to dress in dress or polo shirts with dress shorts or pants.
A polo team includes four players, mounted on horses. The field is 300 yards long and 160 yards wide. Each match lasts 90 minutes and is made up of six time periods, 7.5 minutes each. There is a 10-minute half time break. Goals are scored when an approximately three-inch ball across the goal line between goal posts 24 feet apart.
For more information and tickets, visit https://bit.ly/YH-Rpegasuspolo. | https://www.yakimaherald.com/explore_yakima/polo-for-pegasus-event-this-saturday-in-the-wenas-valley/article_fa323d9a-33b0-11ed-9710-f37c1657cf38.html | 2022-09-14T14:47:30Z | yakimaherald.com | control | https://www.yakimaherald.com/explore_yakima/polo-for-pegasus-event-this-saturday-in-the-wenas-valley/article_fa323d9a-33b0-11ed-9710-f37c1657cf38.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
America's successful war on poverty
America's child poverty rate plunged in 2021, hitting a record low and accelerating a decadelong decline. That's the main message from Census Bureau data released Tuesday.
Why it matters: Millions of children aren't growing up in poverty today, thanks in very large part to government poverty-reduction programs.
- The most recent decline can be linked directly to the increase in the child tax credit that was implemented in July 2021 but then expired at the end of that year — which means that next year's number is likely to see a rare increase.
Between the lines: A reduction in child poverty goes hand in hand with a reduction in the number of poor parents — specifically mothers.
- By the numbers: The number of women heads of households in poverty declined to 4.95 million in 2021 from 7.8 million in 2020, per the census supplemental poverty measure, on top of the 3.4 million children who were taken out of poverty.
What they're saying: The report is a "kids story but it's also a women's story," said Kate Gallagher Robbins, a senior fellow at the National Partnership for Women & Families.
The big picture: Government spending on low-income children has been steadily increasing over the past 30 years, through programs like Medicaid, refundable tax credits, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or food stamps.
Go deeper: The NYT's Jason DeParle has a deep dive into the various forces bringing poverty down in America even before the trend was accelerated by pandemic-related aid. | https://www.axios.com/2022/09/14/child-poverty-rate-census | 2022-09-14T14:50:13Z | axios.com | control | https://www.axios.com/2022/09/14/child-poverty-rate-census | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
What to Know Today
Inside Newark’s effort to protect students from neighborhood gun violence. From June through the end of August, more than 600 fatal shootings were reported nationwide involving children under age 18 as either victims or suspects, according to the Gun Violence Archive. And though federal data from 1992 to 2019 shows that less than 3 percent of youth homicides occurred on school grounds, the reverberations inside schools are being carefully considered as communities across the country find innovative ways to combat neighborhood violence. In Newark, New Jersey, a tight-knit network of local groups are leading anti-violence efforts in partnership with the city, Chalkbeat reports. “No way somebody is going to be able to pull off the same level of cognitive performance if they have [murder] running through their minds,” said Daniel Semenza, who directs research on interpersonal violence at Rutgers University’s New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center.
Meanwhile, in Texas… Travis County leaders announced next steps in their efforts to prevent gun violence. A briefing for commissioners Tuesday included the National Institute of Criminal Justice Reform and the Health Alliance for Violence Prevention in the second of three updates planned after the Uvalde school shooting.
Homicides up 39 percent this year in Birmingham. The city police department’s year-to-date public safety stats show 102 murders so fari this year, versus 73 at the same point in 2021. According to AL.com, which is partnering with the Birmingham Times on a joint series about gun violence, that’s the city’s highest homicide rate since 1991. Their project will examine factors contributing to violent crime and amplify the voices of those working to reduce it.
Philadelphia city worker, mother of 3, caught in crossfire. Police say Tiffany Fletcher was hit in an afternoon gun battle between teenagers outside the Mill Creek Recreation Center, where she worked. Fletcher’s friends, family, and community members — including at least 30 participants in a “Pedal 4 Peace” bike ride around West Philadelphia — gathered on Saturday to honor the 41-year-old. “Beautiful young woman, raised her family, took care of her kids, worked for the community,” said Derrick Long, a local pastor who helped raise Fletcher. “She could have got jobs elsewhere. She wanted to give back. And she gave her life for that. She gave her life for that.”
The Trace adds three new staffers. We’re very excited to announce the arrival of Mensah Dean, Fairriona Magee, and Sunny Sone to our team. Mensah and Fairriona started this week, and Sunny will join us next week — keep an eye out for their first newsletter next Thursday! More about each of them:
- Mensah Dean, whose beat coverage has spanned education, courts, city hall and criminal justice for more than two decades, joins us from the Philadelphia Inquirer, where he was part of a team whose coverage of gun violence was named a 2022 Pulitzer Prize Finalist. Mensah will serve as our Philadelphia reporter — his latest report in the Inquirer examines the effectiveness of the city government’s anti-gun violence spending surge amid a staggering year of bloodshed.
- Fairriona Magee is joining The Trace as our first public health beat reporter, reporting from her home state of Georgia. Fairriona’s previous work has primarily examined health disparities in marginalized communities and environmental justice. At The Trace, Fairriona will view gun violence through the lens of public health, evaluating the latest research and interrogating new interventions to shootings.
- Finally, Sunny Sone will serve as our new associate newsletter editor. Sunny was most recently a copy editor and digital producer at The Intercept, and previously worked as a digital and engagement editor at the Texas Observer. You’ll get to know them here and in The Weekly (which you can subscribe to here).
Data Point
$17 million — Grant funding now available to New Jersey law enforcement, via the American Rescue Plan, to acquire and expand technology to reduce gun violence and car thefts, the state’s Department of Law & Public Safety announced yesterday. | https://www.thetrace.org/newsletter/newark-nj-travis-county-tx-gun-violence/ | 2022-09-14T14:50:22Z | thetrace.org | control | https://www.thetrace.org/newsletter/newark-nj-travis-county-tx-gun-violence/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Johns Hopkins is reducing its COVID data tracking
Johns Hopkins University is scaling back how much and how frequently it tracks COVID-19 pandemic metrics due to a slowdown in local data reporting, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Why it matters: There will be less attention on COVID case numbers and deaths, which could leave Americans in the dark about future surges.
Details: The university's data dashboard — which helped track case numbers, deaths and other metrics — will begin a slowdown on Sept. 21 since there is less reporting data available in the U.S. and around the world, WSJ reports.
- The dashboard will now update with daily global case numbers, deaths and vaccine data, instead of every hour.
- Testing numbers will be dropped from the dashboard completely since more people have shifted to using at-home tests, which aren't tracked by health authorities, per WSJ.
- It will also collect data from other sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Johns Hopkins did not immediately return Axios' request for comment.
What they're saying: “We have seen a dramatic shift in the way that state and local governments not only collect this data but share it publicly,” Beth Blauer, data head for the university's Coronavirus Resource Center, told WSJ. “That deeply constrains the way that we can actually report.”
The big picture: Americans are still keeping an eye on the pandemic even if they're ready to move past it. The Axios/Ipsos Coronavirus Index found 65% disagreed that the pandemic is over, while 33% agreed.
- “Most Americans have turned the page on the COVID pandemic, even as most acknowledge the virus is likely to be with us for the long term," Cliff Young, president of Ipsos U.S. Public Affairs, told Axios.
- "While interest in easy preventatives, like the new Omicron-specific booster, remains high, most people are taking COVID risks in stride."
What we're watching: Democrats are acting cautious about mentioning COVID-19 with the midterms ahead since they don't want to highlight the public health threat before people head to the polls, Axios' Adriel Bettelheim writes.
Go deeper: | https://www.axios.com/2022/09/14/johns-hopkins-covid-data-tracking-cases | 2022-09-14T14:50:25Z | axios.com | control | https://www.axios.com/2022/09/14/johns-hopkins-covid-data-tracking-cases | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Who is Robert Sarver, the suspended Phoenix Suns owner?
Robert Sarver, a banker and Arizona native, bought the Phoenix Suns in 2004 for $401 million — an NBA record at the time.
Early life: Sarver was raised in Tucson and started working for his father's company American Savings and Loans at 16.
- In 1984, two years after graduating from U of A, he founded National Bank of Tucson, which later became National Bank of Arizona, which he sold in 1994.
- He was then involved in multiple real estate and banking endeavors, most notably becoming chairman, president and CEO of Western Alliance Bancorporation.
Of note: Sarver retired from Western Alliance in June after the company cited him as a publicity risk because of the NBA investigation, The Arizona Republic reported.
Buying the Suns: Legendary UofA basketball coach Lute Olson, a longtime friend of Sarver's, helped facilitate his pursuit of the Suns by connecting him with former UofA basketball player Steve Kerr.
- Sarver and Kerr, who became a minority owner in the team, flew to New York to meet with then-NBA commissioner David Stern. A few months later, the deal was done, The Tucson Citizen reported at the time.
State of play: Even before this investigation, Sarver was not well-liked in Phoenix.
- With the exception of the past two seasons, the team has mostly struggled under his ownership, something many fans attribute to his failure to spend money to keep and recruit talent.
- He's also been criticized for bad hiring decisions. The Suns have been through nine coaches and seven general managers during his tenure.
1 funny thing: Sarver's lack of public support came to a head in late 2018 when the team asked the city of Phoenix to spend $150 million of taxpayer money on arena renovations.
- Phoenix resident Greta Rogers, who was 89, roasted Sarver for asking for a handout when he wouldn't even invest in his own team, telling the council, "He's so tight he squeaks when he walks."
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Get a free daily digest of the most important news in your backyard with Axios Phoenix. | https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2022/09/14/robert-sarver-phoenix-suns-owner-suspended-misconduct | 2022-09-14T14:51:06Z | axios.com | control | https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2022/09/14/robert-sarver-phoenix-suns-owner-suspended-misconduct | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The products and services mentioned below were selected independent of sales and advertising. However, Don't Waste Your Money may receive a small commission from the purchase of any products or services through an affiliate link to the retailer's website.
Fall is all about warmth and coziness, and a blanket scarf gives you so many ways to bundle up while looking stylish. Just like it sounds, this is an oversized scarf that’s large enough to double as a blanket.
You can wrap, tie or drape a blanket scarf in countless ways. And when you find a fantastic deal on soft, pretty, highly-rated scarves, you can stock up on a variety to wear all autumn long.
The YSense Wear Long Plaid Blanket Scarf is a 79-by-23-inch tasseled scarf that’s soft, medium-weight, and comes in a rainbow of color schemes. And right now, it is deeply discounted, making it the perfect time to expand your fall wardrobe.
These blanket scarves are made of cashmere-like acrylic, so they are soft and fuzzy next to your skin. They’re also lightweight enough to wear on a balmy fall day but warm enough to layer on even in winter.
The size and shape of the scarves make them ideal for wrapping around yourself as a shawl, tying stylishly at the neck or draping and belting as a trendy poncho. You can even stretch it out on the grass for a picnic at the pumpkin patch.
You can currently choose from a dozen colors of this blanket scarf:
- Pink
- Blue/Gray
- Blue/Green
- Red
- Camel
- Green
- Gray
- Light Pink/Blue
- Multicolored
- Pink/Purple
- Purple
- Wine Red
With so many colors and patterns, you can use these to complete every outfit in your fall wardrobe . Dress them up for a formal occasion, or wrap them over jeans or leggings and your favorite fall sweaters.
This blanket scarf collection has nearly 7,200 ratings and 4.7 stars. Customers who reviewed the scarves say they love the products because they’re very soft, warm and attractive.
“This scarf is so pretty,” wrote reviewer Mint Julep 16, who shared a photo. “I love it. It is wide and the colors are just as depicted online. Very happy with my awesome purchase.”
“Can be worn in many ways and with many different colors,” wrote Joan E. Smedberg, who purchased the purple scarf and said it was a beautiful color combination, “Great scarf for the money!”
“I enjoyed the size and light weight of it,” Shopperholic shared. “I also was able to tie the corners of the ends together and used (them) as sleeves to cover arms and it was perfect to keep the chill off.”
This top-rated blanket scarf collection is popular even at its usual price of $29.99. However, it is currently on sale for $9.99 — an impressive 67% off!
There’s no way of knowing when the sale will end, so grab the colors you love now to stay cozy and fashionable all fall.
This story originally appeared on Don't Waste Your Money. Checkout Don't Waste Your Money for product reviews and other great ideas to save and make money. | https://www.wtxl.com/blanket-scarf-is-sale-9-99-right-now | 2022-09-14T14:52:04Z | wtxl.com | control | https://www.wtxl.com/blanket-scarf-is-sale-9-99-right-now | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The United States meets the World Health Organization’s criteria for circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus after cases were discovered in New York in recent weeks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed.
The United States joins a list of more than 30 nations. Only seven nations outside of Africa are on the list.
“Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus occurs when local immunity to poliovirus is low enough to allow prolonged transmission of the original weakened virus in the oral polio vaccine,” the CDC said.” As the virus circulates and more genetic changes occur, the virus can regain its ability to infect the central nervous system and cause paralysis. It’s important to note that (circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses) are not caused by a child receiving the polio vaccine. Oral polio vaccine has not been used or licensed in the U.S. since 2000 but continues to be used in some countries.”
The CDC said a paralytic case of polio was reported in Rockland County, New York. The person was not vaccinated, the CDC said. There has also been poliovirus detected in wastewater in several New York counties.
Unlike the polio vaccine distributed in the U.S., which uses inactive strains of the virus, the oral vaccine consists of a mixture of live attenuated poliovirus strains. The oral vaccine is widely used in poorer nations to reduce severe diseases.
However, the oral vaccine can cause illnesses and transmission in some cases.
The CDC said that there is no updated guidance and that the vaccines used in the U.S. continued to be recommended for children or adults.
“I think it is concerning, it is very concerning. I hope for a lot of people this is a wake-up call. I hope for people who are unvaccinated, who have unvaccinated children and friends that this is a wake-up call,” Dr. Daniel Griffin, instructor of clinical medicine at Columbia University, told CNN. “This is really letting everyone know that the poliovirus is here. It's circulating. It's coming up in the wastewater because there are people that are infected with this virus, they are shedding this virus.” | https://www.wtxl.com/news/national/circulating-oral-vaccine-derived-poliovirus-confirmed-in-the-us-health-officials-say | 2022-09-14T14:52:08Z | wtxl.com | control | https://www.wtxl.com/news/national/circulating-oral-vaccine-derived-poliovirus-confirmed-in-the-us-health-officials-say | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
CHICAGO — The United States may be hurtling toward a freight rail strike, one that spill over into passenger service in much of the country. Railroads are cutting shipments, Amtrak has stopped some passenger routes. The sticking point isn't pay. It's the tough lifestyle railroading imposes on people who drive trains, long shifts, lots of nights away, and the need to be on-call, able to get to work in two hours or less, for weeks on end.
On a normal day about 7,000 freight trains crisscross, according to the Association of American Railroads the United states, hauling most of the stuff that makes the economy work. But, this whole system could shut down later this week, because the people who drive these trains for a living are so angry, according to Dennis Pierce who's president of the engineer's union, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen.
"I have never seen this level of anger," Pierce says. "Animosity, acrimony, you pick the word, he says. "That means they're pissed off, 'cause they are." He says even though freight train engineers and conductors haven't had a raise in three years, that's not the issue. "They do not have days off. They do not have a schedule." They're on call, Pierce says, for weeks on end.
Engineers and conductors want more predictable, and flexible, schedules
Railroad engineers and conductors are paid well, typically about $100,000 a year. Even so, former engineer Millie Hood who drove trains 38 years for Burlington Northern Santa Fe says the occupation is brutal. "Yeah, it sucks the life right out of you," Hood says. "You're constantly thinking about the job. when I got off work, I'd go home and go to sleep and I immediately know when I get up that they could call me to go to work."
Engineers and conductors want more predictable, and flexible, schedules. Two unions representing engineers and conductors have been bargaining with the railroads along with 10 other unions representing other railroad workers, for close to three years.
The upshot of all that talking is a compromise hammered this summer out by a Presidential Emergency Board appointed by President Biden. It would offer rail workers the biggest pay hike in decades boosting railroad wages 24% by 2024. But it doesn't get at the work schedule issues, and Pierce says the railroads can do better.
"Union Pacific reported its best year ever last year," Pierce says. "And that's like 160 years-worth of best years, billions of dollars in profits. They can afford everything their employees are asking for. ... "Like hiring enough employees to cover for employees absences when engineers or conductors need time off on short notice."
Still, all the other railroad unions have tentatively signed off on the proposal currently on the table. The engineers and conductors are holding out and they could trigger a strike Friday morning.
A railroad strike could mean "people are not going to be able to make it home"
That would cause immediate problems for manufacturers, says Lee Sanders with the American Bakers Association. This is nationwide. And a broad range of manufacturers who get parts, packaging and raw material delivered by rail would be effected.
"If we don't get the ingredients that we need to our plants, we won't be able to make the products that we need to get our wholesome products to the consumers," Sanders says.
So, empty shelves are a possibility. Farmers are worried too about shipping grain. Dangerous chemicals have already stopped moving. Especially valuable goods are next, and passengers are getting stranded too.
Amtrak is already shutting down some of its long-distance routes. Like the Southwest Chief, from Chicago to Los Angeles, the Silver Star, from New York to Miami and the Empire Builder from Chicago to Portland and Seattle. That's because, outside of the Northeast, most Amtrak trains use tracks that are owned and operated by the big freight railroads. So, if there's a strike, those trains can't run.
At Union Station in Kansas City, Tia Henderson and her baby daughter waited Tuesday for their regular train to St. Louis.
"People need to travel back and forth. People that don't have as much finances, that don't have a car," Henderson says. "So I feel like them stopping that'll be a horrible thing to do because people are not going to be able to make it home."
So a railroad strike could cost billions of dollars and derail lots of travel plans. It's a political nightmare for the party in power. The Biden administration is leaning on the railroads, and holdout unions to come to an agreement.
If they don't and there's a strike, or a lock out, Congress will likely move to force the two sides to accept a deal, and go back to work.
Copyright 2022 KCUR 89.3 | https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-09-14/how-a-freight-train-strike-could-throw-kansas-citians-plans-to-travel-by-train-off-track | 2022-09-14T14:55:09Z | kcur.org | control | https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-09-14/how-a-freight-train-strike-could-throw-kansas-citians-plans-to-travel-by-train-off-track | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
LONDON (AP) — Queen Elizabeth II left Buckingham Palace for the last time Wednesday, her coffin borne to the Houses of Parliament by a horse-drawn gun carriage and trailed by grieving family members.
The coffin will lie in state for four days until the late monarch’s funeral on Monday, with hundreds of thousands of people expected to file past. Eight pallbearers carried the oak and lead-lined coffin into Westminster Hall, placing it on a raised platform known as a catafalque.
With the Royal Standard and crown of state resting on top of the coffin and artillery firing salutes at one-minute intervals, the solemn procession from Buckingham Palace was designed to underscore the queen’s seven decades as head of state as the national mourning process shifted to the grand boulevards and historic landmarks of the U.K. capital.
King Charles III, his sons Princes William and Harry and other members of the royal family walked behind the gun carriage.
Thousands of people who had waited for hours along The Mall outside the palace and other locations to line the route held up phones and cameras, and some wiped away tears, as the procession passed. Applause broke out as it went through Horse Guards Parade.
The coffin was draped in the Royal Standard and topped with the Imperial State Crown – adorned with almost 3,000 diamonds — and a bouquet of flowers and plants including pine from the Balmoral Estate, where Elizabeth died last week.
An escort of two officers and 32 troops from the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards in red uniforms and bearskin hats walked on either side of the gun carriage. Big Ben tolled, a gun salute boomed from Hyde Park and the martial strains of a military band accompanied the procession.
The 38-minute procession ended at Westminster Hall, where Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby led a service attended by Charles and other royals after the coffin was brought in. The choir of Westminster Abbey and the Choir of His Majesty’s Chapel Royal sang the words of a psalm.
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you,” Welby said as he read from the Book of John.
Thousands of people were standing or sitting in line along the banks of the River Thames waiting their turn to file past the coffin and pay their respects.
The crowds are the latest manifestation of a nationwide outpouring of grief and respect for the only monarch most Britons have ever known, who died at her beloved Balmoral summer retreat on Thursday at age 96, ending a 70-year reign.
Joan Bucklehurst, a 50-year-old retail worker from Cheshire in northwestern England, said the queen “meant so much for everybody.”
“She was amazing, yeah,” she added, choking up with emotion. “So, we had to be here. We’ve been here a few times when there have been special occasions, but this one, I couldn’t miss this.”
Maj. Gen. Christopher Ghika, of the Household division, who organized the ceremonial aspects of the queen’s funeral said it was a sad day, “but it’s our last opportunity to do our duty for the queen and it’s our first opportunity to do it for the king, and that makes us all very proud.”
London’s Heathrow Airport halted flights to prevent overhead planes from disturbing the procession.
The airport said in a statement that the changes would “ensure silence over central London as the ceremonial procession moves from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall.”
Troops involved in the procession have been preparing since the queen died. So have the horses of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery.
Sgt. Tom Jenks, from the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, said that the horses have undergone special training, including how to handle weeping mourners, as well as flowers and flags being thrown onto streets as the procession passes by.
Since the early morning, people staked out prime viewing positions behind metal barriers along the Mall and other streets along the route. They stood or sat on folding chairs, umbrellas at the ready, takeout coffees in hand.
Crowds have lined the route of the queen’s coffin whenever it has been moved in its long journey from Scotland back to London.
On Tuesday night, thousands braved a typical London drizzle as the state hearse, with interior lights illuminating the sovereign’s flag-draped casket, drove slowly from a military air base into the heart of London.
Earlier, in Edinburgh, some 33,000 people filed in silent respect past her coffin as it lay for 24 hours at St. Giles’ Cathedral.
Hundreds of thousands are expected to do the same in London when the queen lies in state at the 900-year-old Westminster Hall, the oldest building in Parliament, for four days before her state funeral on Monday.
The hall is where Guy Fawkes and Charles I were tried, where kings and queens hosted magnificent medieval banquets, and where ceremonial addresses were presented to Queen Elizabeth II during her silver, golden and diamond jubilees.
Chris Bond, from Truro in southwest England, was among those lining up along the banks of the River Thames. He also attended the lying in state of the queen’s mother in 2002.
“Obviously, it’s quite difficult queuing all day long, but when you walk through those doors into Westminster Hall, that marvelous, historic building, there was a great sense of hush and one was told you take as much time as you like, and it’s just amazing,” he said.
“We know the queen was a good age and she served the country a long time, but we hoped this day would never come,” he added.
Chris Imafidon secured the sixth place in the queue.
“I have 1,001 emotions when I see her,” he said. “I want to say, God, she was an angel, because she touched many good people and did so many good things.” | https://www.wspa.com/news/world-news/procession-of-queens-coffin/ | 2022-09-14T14:57:20Z | wspa.com | control | https://www.wspa.com/news/world-news/procession-of-queens-coffin/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
President Biden on Monday pitched his “cancer moonshot” initiative as a bipartisan pursuit that should bring Americans together, comparing it to former President Kennedy’s famous “moonshot” initiative.
“Cancer does not discriminate red and blue. It doesn’t care if you’re Republican or a Democrat. Beating cancer is something we can do together, and that’s why I’m here today,” Biden said at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston.
His speech was delivered on the 60th anniversary of Kennedy’s “moonshot” speech at Rice University in Houston, during which he outlined his plan for the U.S. to become an international leader in space exploration.
“Unwilling to postpone, President Kennedy set a goal to win the space race against Russia and advance science and technology for all of humanity,” he said.
“Together, we can choose to move forward with unity, hope and optimism. And I believe we can usher in the same unwillingness to postpone, the same national purpose that will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, to end cancer as we know it and even cure cancers once and for all,” he added.
Biden called the initiative “bold, ambitious” and “completely doable.”
The initiative, which he relaunched in February, aims to cut the cancer death rate in half over the next 25 years and improve the lives of caregivers and cancer survivors.
Biden announced on Monday the appointment of Renee Wegrzyn as the inaugural director of the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health, an agency created in March focused on developing biomedical technologies to improve health outcomes.
Additionally, he signed an executive order launching a national biotechnology and biomanufacturing initiative that ensures that advanced biotechnology invented in the U.S. is also manufactured in the U.S. | https://www.wspa.com/hill-politics/biden-pitches-cancer-moonshot-as-bipartisan-pursuit/ | 2022-09-14T15:00:59Z | wspa.com | control | https://www.wspa.com/hill-politics/biden-pitches-cancer-moonshot-as-bipartisan-pursuit/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The Justice Department has issued roughly 40 subpoenas in the past week in connection with its investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 election by former President Trump and his allies, The New York Times reported Monday.
An attorney for Bernard Kerik, the former New York Police commissioner who emerged as a vocal Trump supporter and claimed there was widespread fraud in the 2020 election, confirmed Kerik was one of the individuals to receive a subpoena.
Attorney Timothy Parlatore said the subpoena was served early last week when a team of FBI agents arrived at Kerik’s home. Parlatore would not share the subpoena, but described it as broad.
“Basically, give us anything and everything related to anybody that is tangentially related to the Trump campaign including a long, long laundry list,” he said.
The New York Times reported that Boris Ephsteyn, who served as an adviser to the 2020 Trump campaign and helped with challenges to the election results, had his phone seized as evidence, as did Mike Roman, who was part of a plan to submit alternative electors to then-Vice President Mike Pence on Jan. 6, 2021.
Dan Scavino, a top White House aide throughout Trump’s four years in office, was also subpoenaed, the Times reported.
The Justice Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Stanley Woodward, an attorney for Scavino, declined to comment
The Times reported that the subpoenas seek information related to a plan concocted by Trump associates to submit slates of alternative electors from states like Georgia, Pennsylvania and Arizona, which President Biden narrowly won in 2020. The goal was to submit names of electors who would cast their support for Trump instead of Biden, potentially upending the result.
Congress ultimately certified Biden as the winner on Jan. 6, 2021, after a mob of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol complex in a bid to derail the proceedings.
The progress in the Justice Department’s investigation into the events surrounding Jan. 6 and the 2020 election come as the agency is also investigating Trump’s handling of classified materials after leaving office.
The FBI last month searched Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida after it for months tried to secure sensitive documents the former president had taken with him after leaving office.
The House committee investigating the Jan. 6 riots is also expected to resume its work following the summer recess. It has previously held several public hearings highlighting Trump’s false claims of election fraud, efforts to pressure Pence to overturn the election, and the violence that unfolded on Jan. 6.
Rebecca Beitsch contributed. | https://www.wspa.com/hill-politics/doj-issues-40-subpoenas-in-jan-6-probe-report/ | 2022-09-14T15:01:53Z | wspa.com | control | https://www.wspa.com/hill-politics/doj-issues-40-subpoenas-in-jan-6-probe-report/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
EL PASO, Texas (Border Report) – Manuel Padilla spent part of his day off from work with his wife and daughter handing out water, blankets and granola bars to the migrants staying in tents and on sidewalks along Overland Street.
“We saw the Facebook posts and we felt bad. We decided to go to Sam’s and grab some stuff. We’re trying to give back as much as we can,” the El Paso car salesman said on Tuesday. Around him, women looked after restless children, men sent text messages on their mobile phones and volunteers stopped in vehicles to drop off bottled water, sodas and clothes.
The scene played out Tuesday in a city that has seen the U.S. Border Patrol release more than 1,000 paroled migrants in its Downtown since last Wednesday. A perfect storm of increased migration, a Border Patrol processing center three times above its normal capacity, nonprofit shelters starving for beds and volunteers, and a sudden surge of arrivals from Venezuela ineligible for expulsion have led to the releases.
City officials are trying to relieve the pressure by busing people out of town as soon as possible. On Monday, they awarded a charter bus company a $2 million contract, and Office of Emergency Management personnel could be seen on Overland Street on Tuesday recruiting migrants for the next bus to New York City.
But at least one border expert believes more will be needed, as the El Paso, Texas-Juarez, Mexico, corridor is likely to see even more migration in months to come.
“It’s absolutely going to continue. It’s going to get worse before it gets better,” said Victor M. Manjarrez Jr., director of the Center for Law and Human Behavior at the University of Texas at El Paso. “The flow continues and when there is no consequence, when there is success, you call back home and people start asking, how do we replicate that?”
The former U.S. Border Patrol sector chief in El Paso and Tucson, Arizona, said the mass arrival of the Venezuelans to a Texas city where few of them have friends or relatives does not happen by chance. “Once we had a big surge of Polish nationals in Naco, Arizona. Why Naco? Well, that’s what they (smugglers) were advertising on TV in Warsaw: ‘If you want to go to the United States, the gateway right now is Naco, Arizona.’”
Regardless of who is pointing the Venezuelans to El Paso and why they chose to come now, the fact is that political and economic upheaval in that South American country is justifiably driving many out of their homeland, another UTEP educator says.
The Venezuelan conundrum
More than 1.5 inches of rain fell in El Paso late Monday. Water runoff forced many of the single adults and families with children along Overland Street to crowd into small tents or move to the side of the street with fewer water puddles.
Luis Javier, a Venezuelan migrant, said he and his two small boys were able to weather the storm. “We went through the same thing in Panama. It rained for two days but we did not have a tent,” he said, adding that he’s been living on the streets of El Paso since being released from immigration custody on Monday. “They gave us the paper and now we’re going to give the best of ourselves in this country.”
Luis Javier talked about leaving his country because of low wages and political favoritism. He believes he had no choice but to leave, but if he had to do it over again, he would not have brought his children. “That jungle (in Panama) is terrible. You suffer hunger, you see people dying around you, you hear of women who were raped. Even a young man 25 years old died of a heart attack. You must be mentally fit as well as physically fit to make it out,” he said.
Liliavi, a child psychologist, said she endured a similar journey – plus discrimination and financial abuse in Mexico – to escape the low wages. Already, she had migrated from Venezuela to Brazil when she and other members of her family decided to go all in on the United States.
“They have different fees for different nationalities. If you are from Haiti or Cuba, you pay a transportation fee, if you are from Venezuela, it’s a different fee,” she said. “The people who transport you take advantage of the needs of the migrant in every country.”
Abel Molina, a taxi driver from Venezuela, said he came to the United States because gasoline shortages and the cost of parts for his vehicle made it impossible for him to make a living. In addition, basic food items and medication are so expensive that Venezuelans must choose between buying milk and poultry, or clothes and new shoes.
“My wages were $28 a month. If I needed a new tire, that’s $100. Where was I going to get that?” he said. “You had very long lines at gas stations, and when it was your turn, they told you they had run out of gas. We’re here looking for a better future, and I hope to be reunited with my daughter in Kansas.”
UTEP Liberal Arts Dean Anadeli Bencomo, a native of Venezuela, said it’s hard to believe how things have taken a turn for the worse in her homeland in recent years.
She said many Latin American nations now require visas from Venezuelans, which not all are able to get and which has reduced the number of flights out of the capital of Caracas. That is one of the factors forcing Venezuelans to travel on foot or procure alternate transportation.
“There are many crises going on in Venezuela. There is no single solution for that situation. Classes are online because the government can’t pay for school (expenses), people are lacking opportunities and young professionals are leaving,” she said. “I don’t know if they will return because there is no confidence in the political and economic system. There is no single magical solution to stop the migration.”
The migrants interviewed on Tuesday said they were grateful to the Biden administration for letting them into the country. They also expressed fears of being denied asylum and sent back to their home countries.
“We are afraid of being deported. If we go back to our country, they will put us in jail because they are always trying to find out who wants to leave the country. We will become political prisoners,” said migrant Karina Yaosca. | https://www.wwlp.com/border-report-tour/venezuelan-migrants-endure-life-in-tents-in-downtown-el-paso/ | 2022-09-14T15:02:11Z | wwlp.com | control | https://www.wwlp.com/border-report-tour/venezuelan-migrants-endure-life-in-tents-in-downtown-el-paso/ | 0 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | 20 |
EL PASO, Texas (Border Report) – Manuel Padilla spent part of his day off from work with his wife and daughter handing out water, blankets and granola bars to the migrants staying in tents and on sidewalks along Overland Street.
“We saw the Facebook posts and we felt bad. We decided to go to Sam’s and grab some stuff. We’re trying to give back as much as we can,” the El Paso car salesman said on Tuesday. Around him, women looked after restless children, men sent text messages on their mobile phones and volunteers stopped in vehicles to drop off bottled water, sodas and clothes.
The scene played out Tuesday in a city that has seen the U.S. Border Patrol release more than 1,000 paroled migrants in its Downtown since last Wednesday. A perfect storm of increased migration, a Border Patrol processing center three times above its normal capacity, nonprofit shelters starving for beds and volunteers, and a sudden surge of arrivals from Venezuela ineligible for expulsion have led to the releases.
City officials are trying to relieve the pressure by busing people out of town as soon as possible. On Monday, they awarded a charter bus company a $2 million contract, and Office of Emergency Management personnel could be seen on Overland Street on Tuesday recruiting migrants for the next bus to New York City.
But at least one border expert believes more will be needed, as the El Paso, Texas-Juarez, Mexico, corridor is likely to see even more migration in months to come.
“It’s absolutely going to continue. It’s going to get worse before it gets better,” said Victor M. Manjarrez Jr., director of the Center for Law and Human Behavior at the University of Texas at El Paso. “The flow continues and when there is no consequence, when there is success, you call back home and people start asking, how do we replicate that?”
The former U.S. Border Patrol sector chief in El Paso and Tucson, Arizona, said the mass arrival of the Venezuelans to a Texas city where few of them have friends or relatives does not happen by chance. “Once we had a big surge of Polish nationals in Naco, Arizona. Why Naco? Well, that’s what they (smugglers) were advertising on TV in Warsaw: ‘If you want to go to the United States, the gateway right now is Naco, Arizona.’”
Regardless of who is pointing the Venezuelans to El Paso and why they chose to come now, the fact is that political and economic upheaval in that South American country is justifiably driving many out of their homeland, another UTEP educator says.
The Venezuelan conundrum
More than 1.5 inches of rain fell in El Paso late Monday. Water runoff forced many of the single adults and families with children along Overland Street to crowd into small tents or move to the side of the street with fewer water puddles.
Luis Javier, a Venezuelan migrant, said he and his two small boys were able to weather the storm. “We went through the same thing in Panama. It rained for two days but we did not have a tent,” he said, adding that he’s been living on the streets of El Paso since being released from immigration custody on Monday. “They gave us the paper and now we’re going to give the best of ourselves in this country.”
Luis Javier talked about leaving his country because of low wages and political favoritism. He believes he had no choice but to leave, but if he had to do it over again, he would not have brought his children. “That jungle (in Panama) is terrible. You suffer hunger, you see people dying around you, you hear of women who were raped. Even a young man 25 years old died of a heart attack. You must be mentally fit as well as physically fit to make it out,” he said.
Liliavi, a child psychologist, said she endured a similar journey – plus discrimination and financial abuse in Mexico – to escape the low wages. Already, she had migrated from Venezuela to Brazil when she and other members of her family decided to go all in on the United States.
“They have different fees for different nationalities. If you are from Haiti or Cuba, you pay a transportation fee, if you are from Venezuela, it’s a different fee,” she said. “The people who transport you take advantage of the needs of the migrant in every country.”
Abel Molina, a taxi driver from Venezuela, said he came to the United States because gasoline shortages and the cost of parts for his vehicle made it impossible for him to make a living. In addition, basic food items and medication are so expensive that Venezuelans must choose between buying milk and poultry, or clothes and new shoes.
“My wages were $28 a month. If I needed a new tire, that’s $100. Where was I going to get that?” he said. “You had very long lines at gas stations, and when it was your turn, they told you they had run out of gas. We’re here looking for a better future, and I hope to be reunited with my daughter in Kansas.”
UTEP Liberal Arts Dean Anadeli Bencomo, a native of Venezuela, said it’s hard to believe how things have taken a turn for the worse in her homeland in recent years.
She said many Latin American nations now require visas from Venezuelans, which not all are able to get and which has reduced the number of flights out of the capital of Caracas. That is one of the factors forcing Venezuelans to travel on foot or procure alternate transportation.
“There are many crises going on in Venezuela. There is no single solution for that situation. Classes are online because the government can’t pay for school (expenses), people are lacking opportunities and young professionals are leaving,” she said. “I don’t know if they will return because there is no confidence in the political and economic system. There is no single magical solution to stop the migration.”
The migrants interviewed on Tuesday said they were grateful to the Biden administration for letting them into the country. They also expressed fears of being denied asylum and sent back to their home countries.
“We are afraid of being deported. If we go back to our country, they will put us in jail because they are always trying to find out who wants to leave the country. We will become political prisoners,” said migrant Karina Yaosca. | https://www.wwlp.com/border-report-tour/venezuelan-migrants-endure-life-in-tents-in-downtown-el-paso/ | 2022-09-14T15:02:11Z | wwlp.com | control | https://www.wwlp.com/border-report-tour/venezuelan-migrants-endure-life-in-tents-in-downtown-el-paso/ | 1 | 0 | green-iguana-35 | 20 |
President Biden on Monday bemoaned the state of U.S. airports as he touted the ways a bipartisan infrastructure law passed last year would help upgrade terminals, improve the passenger experience and reduce emissions.
Biden traveled to Boston to highlight a $62 million investment in Logan Airport through the infrastructure law. The funding will be used to modernize the international terminal of the airport and to improve roadways that keep planes circulating.
The investments will create nearly 6,000 jobs, Biden said, and will help add more ticket counters in the airport, cut down time for passengers trying to make connections and reduce the time planes spend idling on the tarmac, cutting emissions in the process.
Biden hailed the investments as part of a badly needed overhaul of American airports.
“Not a single solitary American airport, not one, ranks in the top 25 in the world,” Biden said with frustration. “The United States of America, not one airport ranks in the top 25 in the world. What in the hell is the matter with us? It means commerce. It means income. It means security. And we don’t even rank in the top 25.”
Biden warned that the lack of infrastructure investment in recent decades had allowed competing countries like China to catch up with America economically. But he argued that the U.S. was finally investing again with the $1 trillion law passed last year with bipartisan support.
The bill includes billions of dollars in funding for airports, some of which has already been allocated both to smaller municipal airports and major ones like Logan.
“Right now with this infrastructure law, America is really getting on the move again,” Biden said. “We’re moving, and your life is going to change for the better.”
Biden has been traveling around the country in recent months to highlight projects funded by the infrastructure law, often joined by Democrats making the case to constituents that they’ve been able to get results for their communities with limited majorities in Congress.
The president will also give a speech while in Boston on his administration’s “cancer moonshot” initiative, which aims to cut the death rate from cancer in half over the next 25 years. | https://www.wwlp.com/hill-politics/biden-pledges-to-improve-outdated-us-airports/ | 2022-09-14T15:02:39Z | wwlp.com | control | https://www.wwlp.com/hill-politics/biden-pledges-to-improve-outdated-us-airports/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The Justice Department has issued roughly 40 subpoenas in the past week in connection with its investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 election by former President Trump and his allies, The New York Times reported Monday.
An attorney for Bernard Kerik, the former New York Police commissioner who emerged as a vocal Trump supporter and claimed there was widespread fraud in the 2020 election, confirmed Kerik was one of the individuals to receive a subpoena.
Attorney Timothy Parlatore said the subpoena was served early last week when a team of FBI agents arrived at Kerik’s home. Parlatore would not share the subpoena, but described it as broad.
“Basically, give us anything and everything related to anybody that is tangentially related to the Trump campaign including a long, long laundry list,” he said.
The New York Times reported that Boris Ephsteyn, who served as an adviser to the 2020 Trump campaign and helped with challenges to the election results, had his phone seized as evidence, as did Mike Roman, who was part of a plan to submit alternative electors to then-Vice President Mike Pence on Jan. 6, 2021.
Dan Scavino, a top White House aide throughout Trump’s four years in office, was also subpoenaed, the Times reported.
The Justice Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Stanley Woodward, an attorney for Scavino, declined to comment
The Times reported that the subpoenas seek information related to a plan concocted by Trump associates to submit slates of alternative electors from states like Georgia, Pennsylvania and Arizona, which President Biden narrowly won in 2020. The goal was to submit names of electors who would cast their support for Trump instead of Biden, potentially upending the result.
Congress ultimately certified Biden as the winner on Jan. 6, 2021, after a mob of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol complex in a bid to derail the proceedings.
The progress in the Justice Department’s investigation into the events surrounding Jan. 6 and the 2020 election come as the agency is also investigating Trump’s handling of classified materials after leaving office.
The FBI last month searched Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida after it for months tried to secure sensitive documents the former president had taken with him after leaving office.
The House committee investigating the Jan. 6 riots is also expected to resume its work following the summer recess. It has previously held several public hearings highlighting Trump’s false claims of election fraud, efforts to pressure Pence to overturn the election, and the violence that unfolded on Jan. 6.
Rebecca Beitsch contributed. | https://www.wwlp.com/hill-politics/doj-issues-40-subpoenas-in-jan-6-probe-report/ | 2022-09-14T15:03:30Z | wwlp.com | control | https://www.wwlp.com/hill-politics/doj-issues-40-subpoenas-in-jan-6-probe-report/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
To strengthen its competitiveness and increase efficiency, Essity is today announcing the following changes to its organizational structure and Executive Management Team, valid as of December 31, 2022.
STOCKHOLM, Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In the new organizational structure Essity will comprise of four business units:
- Consumer Goods Americas
- Consumer Goods EMEA
- Professional Hygiene
- Health & Medical
Consumer Goods Americas will include consumer tissue, baby care, feminine care and incontinence products retail in the United States, Canada and Latin America. Andres Gomez, currently Vice President Sales and Marketing Hygiene Andean and Caribbean within Essity, will be appointed President Consumer Goods Americas.
The Consumer Goods business unit headed by Volker Zöller remains unchanged but will be renamed Consumer Goods EMEA.
The business unit Professional Hygiene will also include the Latin America Professional Hygiene business. Pablo Fuentes, current President Essity Latin America, will assume the role of President for this business unit. He succeeds Don Lewis, who has decided to leave Essity as previously announced.
The business unit Health & Medical Solutions will also include the Latin America medical business and be renamed Health & Medical, headed by Ulrika Kolsrud.
Furthermore, the global unit Global Operational Services will be transformed into – Digital and Business Services. This unit will be headed by a Chief Digital Officer.
Global Procurement, currently part of global unit Global Operational Services will be integrated into Global Supply Chain, headed by Donato Giorgio.
Robert Sjöström, currently President Global Operational Services, will take up a new role within Essity and leave the Executive Management Team. He will continue to report to Essity's President and CEO Magnus Groth as Senior Advisor Strategic Projects.
"These changes will streamline our organization which will increase our efficiency and capability to leverage innovation and digitalization across Essity and strengthen the focus on our consumer products categories in the Americas", says Magnus Groth, Essity President and CEO.
All changes come into effect December 31st, 2022. The recruitment of the position Chief Digital Officer starts now.
"I would like to wish Andres, Pablo and Robert the best of luck in their new roles and look forward to working with them as we continue to build an even stronger Essity for the future", says Magnus Groth.
Vinda, Essity Australasia and Knix will not be affected by the above changes. Essity Group Functions and global unit Global Brand, Innovation & Sustainability remain unchanged.
For further information, please contact:
Per Lorentz, Vice President Corporate Communications, +46 733 13 30 55, per.lorentz@essity.com
Johan Karlsson, Vice President Investor Relations, +46 705 11 15 81, johan.ir.karlsson@essity.com
This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com
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SOURCE Essity | https://www.wave3.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/essity-presents-new-organization-changes-executive-management-team/ | 2022-09-14T15:04:03Z | wave3.com | control | https://www.wave3.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/essity-presents-new-organization-changes-executive-management-team/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Martin Short delivered a barb aimed at former President Trump’s handling of classified documents while appearing Monday at the Emmy Awards.
“Really, what an audience you are,” the “Only Murders in the Building” star exclaimed as he took to the Primetime Emmy Awards stage in Los Angeles to present the award in the best variety talk series category.
“I wish I could box you up and take you home, like classified White House documents,” Short, 72, quipped to laughs from the audience at the 74th annual awards show.
Trump’s legal team fought a request from the Department of Justice to allow its review of classified materials taken from Mar-a-Lago, the ex-president’s Florida resort home, to continue in a Monday court filing. The investigation, Trump’s lawyers said in the filing, “at its core is a document storage dispute that has spiraled out of control.”
While Short’s quip came during a largely politics-free night at the Emmys, the performer has said in the past that he’s purposely avoided Trump-related zingers. In a 2018 Netflix special with fellow comedian Steve Martin, Short said the pair opted not to make mention of the then-commander in chief.
“Steve and I have great respect for the fact that we don’t just want a liberal audience,” the actor told The Daily Beast.
“So that’s why we deliberately do not mention Donald Trump,” he said at the time.
“But as far as the Trump presidency, I wouldn’t even call it a presidency. It’s an asterisk. It’s a typo,” Short said.
“I mean, every day it’s worse and 10 years from now the history books will be having a field day with it and the shame of the people who supported him, if they’re still around, in the sense of being in the public eye, will be like the people who supported [late Sen. Joseph McCarthy (R-Wis.)],” he said. | https://www.wwlp.com/hill-politics/martin-short-quips-at-trump-investigation-during-emmy-awards-speech/ | 2022-09-14T15:04:21Z | wwlp.com | control | https://www.wwlp.com/hill-politics/martin-short-quips-at-trump-investigation-during-emmy-awards-speech/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
The White House is preparing contingency plans to keep supply chains moving in the event rail workers go on strike at the end of the week.
Press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters that the administration is working with shippers, truckers and air freight workers “to see how they can step in and keep goods moving in case of this rail shutdown.
“The administration has also been working with relevant agencies to assess what supply chains and commodities are most likely to face severe disruptions and available authorities to keep goods moving,” Jean-Pierre added.
The companies that operate railways for freight trains and the unions who work those rails have until Friday to agree to a new contract. Without a deal, workers could go on strike, crippling supply chains that depend on freight trains.
A strike could also impact passenger rail service. Amtrak does not own the railways where its trains operate in certain parts of the country but instead operates on those owned by freight companies. On Monday, the company canceled some long-distance routes in anticipation of a potential strike.
Five of the 12 unions representing rail workers have reached tentative agreements with railroads to enact the Presidential Emergency Board recommendations, which call for 24 percent pay raises, back pay and cash bonuses.
But the bulk of rail workers belong to unions that haven’t yet struck a deal with companies.
Should the workers vote to strike, Congress could intervene to halt it.
Jean-Pierre on Tuesday also confirmed that Biden personally called union leaders and company officials on Monday to urge them to find a solution and avoid a strike.
“We have made crystal clear to the interested parties the harm that American families, businesses and farmers and communities would experience if they were not to reach a resolution,” Jean-Pierre said. | https://www.wwlp.com/hill-politics/white-house-preparing-contingencies-in-event-of-rail-worker-strike/ | 2022-09-14T15:05:19Z | wwlp.com | control | https://www.wwlp.com/hill-politics/white-house-preparing-contingencies-in-event-of-rail-worker-strike/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
TAMPA, Fla., Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Immunologix Laboratories announced today that Dr. Pierre Jolicoeur has been appointed Chief Operating Officer. A seasoned scientist and trusted operational leader, Dr. Jolicoeur will help drive strategic growth and operational excellence across the company.
"Dr. Pierre Jolicoeur is an outstanding addition to the Immunologix team," said Michael Anderson, President and CEO. "Pierre is an exceptional business leader and has demonstrated aptitude for fostering a team environment coupled with technical expertise. As an accomplished executive with extensive industry knowledge, Pierre will be instrumental in scaling our trajectory and ensuring success for our clients." Lauren Stevenson, Chief Scientific Officer & Head, Translational Sciences, adds "I'm very excited to partner closely with Dr. Jolicoeur to bring our scientific strategy and vision to fruition by uniting our high science with streamlined, client-centric operations that delivers impeccable quality."
Dr. Pierre Jolicoeur holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology and brings over 25 years of Bioanalytical and vaccine experience, building new business segments in regulated industries as well as launching operations in multiple countries. As such, Dr. Jolicoeur is well positioned to leverage his unique experience to oversee the operational activities of this best-in-class CRO. Jolicoeur said, "I am incredibly energized to help lead our team at Immunologix in the next phase of innovation and growth along with continued execution and delivery. This organization is led by renowned scientific experts and integrates Translational Sciences with the laboratory in ways never seen before. This unique scientific network promotes creative thinking and helps design project-specific approaches aimed at expediting the drug development process."
Founded in 2012, Immunologix Laboratories is a contract research organization located in Tampa FL that offers GLP and GCP compliant laboratory capabilities focused on ligand binding-based bioanalysis specializing in pharmacokinetic, immunogenicity, and biomarker assays in support of preclinical and clinical studies. Immunologix Translational Sciences Division provides dedicated scientific resources to advise, develop, and implement scientific strategies and practical solutions for innovator development programs.
Media Contact:
Name: John Ryan
Job Title: Executive Director, Business Development
Email address: jryan@immunologixlabs.com
Website: https://www.immunologixlabs.com/
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SOURCE Immunologix Laboratories | https://www.wave3.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/immunologix-laboratories-appoints-dr-pierre-jolicoeur-chief-operating-officer-coo/ | 2022-09-14T15:05:30Z | wave3.com | control | https://www.wave3.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/immunologix-laboratories-appoints-dr-pierre-jolicoeur-chief-operating-officer-coo/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
(NewsNation) — There’s a new development in a missing case that dates back more than 50 years.
A Texas toddler, named Melissa Highsmith, is believed to have been kidnapped by her babysitter in 1971. Now, someone claims to have seen her in Charleston, South Carolina, 1,000 miles from where she was taken.
The anonymous tipster said that a person resembles the age-progression photo released by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
Melissa’s brother, Jeff Highsmith, told NewsNation he first heard about the development on Facebook.
“We believe she’s still alive. And obviously, somebody else does too in South Carolina,” Jeff said during a Tuesday appearance on “NewsNation Prime.”
Jeff and his wife Rachel have been actively searching for Melissa via podcasts and TV interviews. They’re hopeful that people will continue to share any coverage relating to her.
On Aug. 23, 1971, Melissa was just 21 months old when she was abducted by someone claiming to be a babysitter, according to NCEC. Melissa’s mother, who was recently separated, had placed an ad in a newspaper in Fort Worth, Texas, looking for someone to care for her child.
Someone picked up the toddler, who was in the care of her mother’s roommate at the time. The roommate said the woman who picked up Melissa “seemed nice” and was “dressed to impress, wearing white gloves.”
“It’s always been what I feel my life’s goal, to find my siste r… We want to bring Melissa home to my parents before they take their last breath. And I really believe we’re going to. I really believe that God’s gonna open the door and we’re gonna find her soon,” Jeff said. | https://www.wwlp.com/news/national/missing-toddler-may-have-been-spotted-51-years-later/ | 2022-09-14T15:05:51Z | wwlp.com | control | https://www.wwlp.com/news/national/missing-toddler-may-have-been-spotted-51-years-later/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
HART COUNTY, Ga. (WSPA) – Recovery crews have been unable to retrieve the body of the pilot who crashed into a lake in Georgia on Saturday, despite knowing exactly where the plane is located.
“We have exhausted all of our local resources within the area,” said Capt. Chris Carroll of the Hart County Sheriff’s Office.
The pilot and the plane, a Beech BEFF aircraft, were “on an IFR flight plan,” according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), meaning the pilot was operating the small plane under instrument flight rules — commonly used when conditions are less than ideal for operating a plane using visual cues.
The plane had departed from Punta Gorda, Florida, on Saturday morning before crashing into Lake Hartwell, on the border of Georgia and South Carolina.
Divers located the plane Saturday afternoon tangled in tree branches 120 feet underwater.
“It just so happened it’s in one of the deepest parts of the lake,” said Hart County Sheriff Mike Cleveland. “The plane is in the trees. I’ve been told the plane flipped over. The top is on the bottom. The doors to the plane are jammed so we’re not able to retrieve the body out of the plane.”
“Divers were able to go down and sent the ROV [remote-operated vehicle] back down,” added Carroll. “They were able to push the ROV into the rear window of the plane where it can be driven through the front to try to look around in the cockpit area. At that time was when we were able to determine there was a person in the plane.”
Cleveland said the NTSB has given the county permission to lift the plane so they can remove the pilot’s body.
Carroll said the sheriff’s office is considering bringing a crane or air bags to move the aircraft to a more accessible location.
“Once it’s lifted, we’ll have to move it to a shallow area to get the body out of it,” he said.
The NTSB told Nexstar’s WSPA that there is no time frame for the recovery of the aircraft. A spokesperson said the agency “is working with a salvage company and the insurance company on recovery efforts.”
Right now, the investigation is still in the “fact-gathering stage,” the NTSB said. A spokesperson said the typical investigation could take anywhere from 12-24 months to “complete and determine cause.”
A preliminary report will be released in the coming weeks. | https://www.wwlp.com/news/national/plane-pilots-body-stuck-in-tree-branches-120-feet-underwater-after-crash-at-lake-recovery-crews-say/ | 2022-09-14T15:05:57Z | wwlp.com | control | https://www.wwlp.com/news/national/plane-pilots-body-stuck-in-tree-branches-120-feet-underwater-after-crash-at-lake-recovery-crews-say/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Award-winning Healthcare IT PR Agency and Care Operations Automation Leader Partner to Bring World-Class Operations to Health Systems
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Amendola, a nationally recognized, award-winning healthcare and technology public relations and marketing agency, announced that Qventus, the leader in AI-powered software for care operations automation, has selected the firm to amplify client successes and industry best practices.
Qventus knows manual operational processes are holding health systems back from improving resource utilization, reducing staff workload, and growing strategic revenue. To address these challenges, health systems across the country are automating their care operations — the operational activities involved in the delivery of care, such as OR access and growth, discharge planning, and more. Qventus provides AI-powered automation software that simplifies everything from growing OR revenue to improving discharge planning and transitions of care.
"It can be challenging for health systems to understand the enormous strategic, operational, and financial value they can attain by automating care operations. We needed an agency with a deep knowledge of healthcare IT to help us tell the story of what's possible," said Greg Schneider, Chief Marketing Officer, Qventus. "Amendola is a proven PR leader in the healthcare and healthcare IT space. They have the expertise, energy and industry connections to tell our story."
Qventus, which is based in Mountain View, Calif., earlier this year raised $50 million in growth capital, an investment that will allow it to expand its technology to additional hospitals and health systems across the United States.
"Eliminating waste and achieving greater operational efficiencies is essential for hospitals and health systems to remain fiscally sound. Qventus has shown it can help its clients accomplish that," said agency CEO Jodi Amendola. "Working with companies whose services truly benefit the industry makes our job more rewarding and fulfilling."
Amendola, which beat out multiple agencies in an extensive review, is implementing a comprehensive media and communications plan for Qventus that will showcase the company's current technology and services, new offerings, accomplishments, customer wins, and industry partnerships.
Amendola is an award-winning, insights-driven public relations and marketing firm that integrates media relations, social media, content and lead gen programs to move healthcare, life sciences/pharma and healthcare IT decision-makers to action. The agency represents some of the industry's best-known brands as well as groundbreaking startups that are disrupting the status quo. Nearly 90% of its client base represents multi-year clients and/or repeat client executives. Amendola's seasoned team of PR and marketing pros understand the ongoing complexities of the healthcare ecosystem and provide strategic guidance and creative direction to drive positive ROI, boost reputation and increase market share. Making an impact since 2003, Amendola combines traditional and digital media to fuel meaningful and measurable growth. For more information about the industry's "A-Team," visit www.acmarketingpr.com, and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Qventus is the leading provider of AI-based software for care operations automation. Integrating with EHRs, the Qventus platform uses AI, machine learning, and behavioral science to power best-practice solutions for inpatient, perioperative, emergency department, and command center settings. As a partner to leading health systems and hospitals across the country, including Boston Medical Center, M Health Fairview, Saint Luke's Health System, ThedaCare, and UAMS Health, Qventus delivers proven outcomes, including 30-50% fewer excess days, 1 full day reduction in length of stay, and over 2 new cases added per operating room per month. For more, visit www.qventus.com.
Media Contact:
Marcia G. Rhodes
Amendola Communications
mrhodes@acmarketingpr.com
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SOURCE Amendola Communications | https://www.wave3.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/qventus-engages-amendola-strategic-pr-marketing-services/ | 2022-09-14T15:08:07Z | wave3.com | control | https://www.wave3.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/qventus-engages-amendola-strategic-pr-marketing-services/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Halper Sadeh LLC, an investor rights law firm, is investigating the following companies for potential violations of the federal securities laws and/or breaches of fiduciary duties to shareholders relating to:
Gemini Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: GMTX)'s merger with Disc Medicine, Inc. Pre-merger Gemini shareholders are expected to own approximately 28% of the combined company. If you are a Gemini shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
Ra Medical Systems, Inc. (NYSE: RMED)'s merger with Catheter Precision, Inc. If you are a Ra Medical shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
CarLotz, Inc. (NASDAQ: LOTZ)'s sale to Shift Technologies, Inc. for 0.692158 shares of Shift common stock for each share of CarLotz common stock. If you are a CarLotz shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
Halper Sadeh LLC may seek increased consideration for shareholders, additional disclosures and information concerning the proposed transaction, or other relief and benefits on behalf of shareholders.
Shareholders are encouraged to contact the firm free of charge to discuss their legal rights and options. Please call Daniel Sadeh or Zachary Halper at (212) 763-0060 or email sadeh@halpersadeh.com or zhalper@halpersadeh.com.
Halper Sadeh LLC represents investors all over the world who have fallen victim to securities fraud and corporate misconduct. Our attorneys have been instrumental in implementing corporate reforms and recovering millions of dollars on behalf of defrauded investors.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Halper Sadeh LLC
Daniel Sadeh, Esq.
Zachary Halper, Esq.
(212) 763-0060
sadeh@halpersadeh.com
zhalper@halpersadeh.com
https://www.halpersadeh.com
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SOURCE Halper Sadeh LLP | https://www.wave3.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/shareholder-update-halper-sadeh-llc-investigates-gmtx-rmed-lotz/ | 2022-09-14T15:08:57Z | wave3.com | control | https://www.wave3.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/shareholder-update-halper-sadeh-llc-investigates-gmtx-rmed-lotz/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
An accused serial murderer dubbed the “shopping cart killer” has now been linked to the death of a sixth woman in Virginia — whose death was previously suspected to be a result of cardiac arrhythmia.
Anthony Eugene Robinson, 35, has already been charged with the slayings of two women whose bodies were found in a vacant lot in Harrisonburg in 2021.
The accused killer has also been named a suspect in three other murders in the state and in Washington DC.
Now, authorities in Prince George’s County are trying to determine if Robinson played a role in the Feb. 2018 death of 30-year-old Skye Allen, whom he dated.
Allen’s mother, Stacey Allen, told NBC Washington she never believed that her daughter died from a heart condition after she found the young woman unconscious and struggling for breath inside the bedroom she shared with Robinson on Valentine’s Day.
Doctors at Prince George’s Hospital Center said Skye died of cardiac arrhythmia, but her mother said she suspected Robinson of wrongdoing — and even asked him directly if he killed Skye.
“I asked him, ‘Did you do something to my daughter?’ He said, ‘No,'” the mother claimed.
In Nov. 2021, more than three years after her daughter’s death, Stacey Allen said she was contacted by a detective from Rockingham County, Virginia, asking about Robinson.
The man had been arrested in connection with the killings of Allene Redmon, 54, of Harrisonburg, and Tonita Smith, 39, of Charlottesville, who were killed around Oct. 24 and Nov. 14, respectively.
Their bodies were discovered together on Nov. 23 in a vacant lot next to a shopping cart that cops said had been used to transport the bodies, earning Robinson his macabre moniker.
In Dec. 2021, the remains of two more women were uncovered in a large plastic container near another shopping cart next to the Moon Inn hotel in Fairfax County, Virginia. They were identified as Cheyenne Brown, 29, and Stephanie Harrison, 48.
Fairfax County police have said publicly that they have linked Robinson to the killing of the two women. Police said Robinson was staying at the Moon Inn Hotel at the time and has been linked to Brown via cellphone and video evidence, the Washington Post reports.
Since then, Robinson also has been tied to the death of 40-year-old Sonya Champ, whose body was found in a shopping cart in Northeast D.C. in Sept. 2021.
So far, Robinson has not been charged in the killings of Brown, Harrison or Champ.
Authorities said Robinson found his victims on dating apps like Plenty of Fish and Tagged, met them at hotels, where he hurt and then killed them, before transporting their bodies in shopping carts.
On Monday, a Virginia judge ruled there was sufficient probable cause for a grand jury to consider first-degree murder charges against Robinson for the deaths of Smith and Redmon, reported WTOP.
Robinson’s defense attorney argued that the killings were not premeditated and asked the judge to downgrade the charges to second-degree murder — but prosecutors disagreed, accusing the defendant of luring the victims to their deaths, and then disposing of them.
“He used them for what he wanted, then left them rotting with the maggots,” persecutor Marsha Garsh told the court.
Judge John Stanley Hart sided with the prosecution, saying that the circumstantial evidence against Robinson was “strong” and pointed to “a methodical plan to kill.”
Authorities in Prince George’s County said they have opened an investigation into Skye Allen’s death, but the case is certain to present challenges because the woman’s body was cremated in 2018. | https://nypost.com/2022/09/14/shopping-cart-killer-anthony-robinson-linked-to-sixth-death/ | 2022-09-14T15:09:30Z | nypost.com | control | https://nypost.com/2022/09/14/shopping-cart-killer-anthony-robinson-linked-to-sixth-death/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
President Joe Biden spoke with King Charles III on Wednesday for the first time since Queen Elizabeth II’s death last week.
The call came before Biden leads a U.S. delegation to London next week for the queen’s funeral.
“The President recalled fondly the Queen’s kindness and hospitality, including when she hosted him and the First Lady at Windsor Castle last June,” the White House said in a statement.” He also conveyed the great admiration of the American people for the Queen, whose dignity and constancy deepened the enduring friendship and special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom. President Biden conveyed his wish to continue a close relationship with the King.”
Charles, Elizabeth and Biden were among dignitaries who met at a G7 reception in June 2021.
In November, Biden met with Charles in person at the COP26 Climate Summit.
“President Biden and Prince Charles discussed the importance of global cooperation in tackling climate change,” a White House official said about the meeting. “They underlined the need for ambitious commitments and concrete actions among partners worldwide and discussed Prince Charles’ initiatives to engage the private sector on sustainability. President Biden reaffirmed the strength of the enduring ties between the United Kingdom and the United States, and he thanked the United Kingdom for hosting COP26.
“He commended the Royal Family for its dedication to climate issues, particularly Prince Charles’ environmental activism over the last half-century.” | https://www.katc.com/news/national/president-biden-speaks-with-king-charles-iii-for-1st-time-since-queens-death | 2022-09-14T15:10:45Z | katc.com | control | https://www.katc.com/news/national/president-biden-speaks-with-king-charles-iii-for-1st-time-since-queens-death | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Call it a twofer: pharmacies and health care centers across the country are offering the latest COVID booster shot, along with this year's flu vaccine.
"Both of those are needed. Both of those should be scheduled as soon as possible and ideally at the same time, so that one doesn't fall into the trap of getting one and forgetting to get back to get the other," said Dr. Andrew Pekosz, co-director of the Johns Hopkins Center of Excellence for Influenza Research and Surveillance at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
It is the coming flu season that is worrying public health experts, in part because other parts of the world are offering a sneak peek of what to expect.
"It was Australia's worst flu season in five years and came earlier than any other flu season with the exception of the '09 pandemic," Dr. Pekosz said.
That is one of the concerns now: this year's flu season may start earlier than usual.
According to the CDC, as of early September, Georgia was seeing moderate flu activity. In Texas and New Mexico, the CDC says flu activity level is already high in those two states. Flu season normally doesn't get underway until October, while peaking in January and February.
Dr. Bruce Y. Lee is a professor at CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy and executive director of PHICOR (Public Health Informatics, Computational and Operations Research). He is also a senior contributor to Forbes magazine.
"The belief is that because people have been taking precautions and social distancing, wearing masks and making sure they wash their hands, that's actually helped keep the flu virus down,” Dr. Lee said, “but now that many people aren't maintaining a lot of those precautions - and also the fact that people haven't been exposed to the flu over the past couple of years - leave people a lot more susceptible."
That includes the elderly and children, who doctors warn can be especially vulnerable to the flu.
"The best thing you can do to get your child ready to stay healthy and in school is to get them vaccinated and boosted,” said Dr. Keri Althoff with the Department of Epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. "It is a lot. As a parent of three kids, I can't take them all together because then they all scream. I know this pain. But it is really important to keep your child healthy and in school."
It comes as both COVID and flu caseloads loom this fall for hospitals and health care providers. Health experts say getting vaccinated could help prevent a fall and winter strain on the nation's medical system.
"We've learned a lot about managing cases though the COVID-19 pandemic, so certainly there is an awareness of what emergency rooms and other places, other health care providers need to do to deal with these surges,” Dr. Pekosz said, “but it is a big unknown and the sooner we sort of have an inkling of whether or not there is a larger surge of flu cases, the better off we'll be in being able to prepare our health care system in dealing with these cases." | https://www.katc.com/news/national/public-health-experts-bracing-for-the-coming-flu-season | 2022-09-14T15:10:49Z | katc.com | control | https://www.katc.com/news/national/public-health-experts-bracing-for-the-coming-flu-season | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
South Jersey man faces trial in Plainsboro co-worker's 2019 murder
More than three years after Carolyn Byington was found dead inside her Plainsboro apartment while on a lunch break from work, the man accused of her killing is set to stand trial.
Kenneth Saal, of Lindenwold, Camden County, who was charged two months after Byington's death with her murder and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, is scheduled to go on trial in December, according to the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office.
Saal and Byington were co-workers at a Princeton area company. Byington was a 2011 graduate of Ridge High School who earned her bachelor’s degree at Lafayette College where she studied international affairs, anthropology and sociology.
On June 10, 2019, Byington, 26, was found dead inside her apartment after she had gone home on her lunch break. She died from numerous stabbings and blunt-force trauma, authorities said.
Co-workers asked Plainsboro police to conduct a wellness check at her home after Byington failed to return to work at Engine US, a marketing solutions company where she worked as a market research project manager. Around 5:57 p.m., police responded to her apartment where she was found dead.
Saal, who worked as a staff accountant at Engine US since July 2016, was arrested and charged with Byington's murder in August 2019. Court records show Saal was tied to Byington's death through DNA evidence.
A police investigation determined Saal allegedly visited Byington's apartment several times before the day she was fatally stabbed.
Earlier:South Jersey man charged in Plainsboro co-worker's killing has new attorney
Earlier:Man accused in Plainsboro woman's murder offered 30-year prison deal
Co-workers reported Saal’s demeanor changed after Byington’s death. He allegedly lied about where he was at the time Byington was on her lunch break, and he allegedly asked a co-worker if he could be arrested based on “circumstantial evidence.”
Saal allegedly told his boss on June 10, 2019 he was getting repair work done on his car and would be late returning to work. His boss later learned Saal had not been at an auto repair shop. Other co-workers also allegedly reported seeing cuts on Saal’s hands in the days after Byington’s death.
Police dash cam footage allegedly showed a vehicle matching Saal’s traveling in Plainsboro around 2 p.m. June 10, about 6 miles from the office where Saal and Byington worked.
In April, the Plainsboro Township Committee adopted an ordinance named for Byington requiring apartment managers to change door locks once a domestic violence victim obtains a restraining order against the assailant.
The ordinance sets fines for non-compliance of up to $1,000 for the first offense, $1,500 for the second offense and $2,000 for the third offense.
Email: srussell@gannettnj.com
Suzanne Russell is a breaking news reporter for MyCentralJersey.com covering crime, courts and other mayhem. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today. | https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/crime/2022/09/14/lindenwold-nj-man-trial-plainsboro-carolyn-byington-murder/69492049007/ | 2022-09-14T15:12:06Z | mycentraljersey.com | control | https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/crime/2022/09/14/lindenwold-nj-man-trial-plainsboro-carolyn-byington-murder/69492049007/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Flemington vacant gas station eyed for new restaurant
FLEMINGTON - The Filling Station may be finally filled.
Plans have been filed with the borough to convert the vacant gas station at 144 Main St., which was home to the borough's popular summer beer garden in recent years, into a restaurant called Millie's Buncheonette.
The borough acquired the abandoned Hineline gas station at the corner of Main and William streets through a tax foreclosure. But because of environmental problems, the borough had difficulties selling the property for several years.
In October 2021, the borough sold the .38-acre property to Tidbits NJ of Lambertville for $220,000. Tidbits NJ is owned by Lambertville resident Michael Bird.
Plans call for a 2,336-square foot addition to the existing 1,168-square foot building that served as a two-bay garage. The L-shaped addition will be built to the rear and north of the existing building.
The plans provide for 48 seats at tables inside the restaurant, 11 seats at counters and 16 outdoor seats. There will be seven parking spaces.
The conversion of the vacant gas station, which generated no property taxes, into a restaurant has been long-awaited. Because the property was a former gas station and garage, the site had to undergo remediation overseen by the state Department of Environmental Protection. Nine monitoring wells have been installed on the property and six monitoring wells have been installed off-site.
Local:Route 12 in Flemington eyed for townhome development
The proposal has to be approved by the borough planning board but no date has been set for the public hearing.
The beer garden was started in 2016 by the Flemington Community Partnership as an effort to bring people to downtown Flemington. Volunteers built a raised garden bed lining the property, built benches, stained 10 picnic tables, repainted the building and constructed conduit poles to string lights for a tenting effect.
It quickly became a popular destination, attracting hundreds on weekend evenings.
Email: mdeak@mycentraljersey.com
Mike Deak is a reporter for mycentraljersey.com. To get unlimited access to his articles on Somerset and Hunterdon counties, please subscribe or activate your digital account. | https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/hunterdon-county/2022/09/14/flemington-nj-main-street-restaurant-millies-bruncheonette/69492005007/ | 2022-09-14T15:12:10Z | mycentraljersey.com | control | https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/hunterdon-county/2022/09/14/flemington-nj-main-street-restaurant-millies-bruncheonette/69492005007/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Appeal hearing set in Edison zoning approval of Charlie Brown's redevelopment
EDISON – The Township Council will decide next month whether a developer's plan to build seven duplex homes at the Plainfield Road site of the shuttered Charlie Brown's will proceed.
An Oct. 12 hearing has been set for a resident's appeal of the Zoning Board of Adjustment's approval of the project which neighbors, who wanted single-family homes built at the site, have been fighting for more than a year.
The hearing comes after resident Nick Fagan mentioned the deadline for the council to act on the appeal is Nov. 1, and there are only three council meetings scheduled before that date.
Council President Joe Coyle said the October date will give council members enough time to go through the packet of information.
Township Attorney Louis Rainone said the appeal process is similar to the state Appellate Division’s in which the council will rely on the existing record established at zoning board hearings, including transcripts.
Rainone said the appellant has the right to be heard at the hearing, as well as the applicant.
"And the arguments are based upon the record. You can't add new testimony," Rainone said.
Township resident Joel Bassoff sent a letter to the township clerk last month requesting the council reverse, vacate or deny the use variance granted by the zoning board in late June to Markim Developers to build the duplex homes on the Plainfield Road site.
Local:JCC of Middlesex County looks to expand with new home for Edison synagogue
In the notice of appeal, Bassoff states the applicant failed to show the use variance will not substantially impair the intent and purpose of the zone plan and failed to prove the site is suitable for a multi-family townhouse among other arguments.
The notice also states the zoning board impaired the intent and purpose of the zoning ordinance and master plan, usurped the Township Council's authority in determining the appropriate zoning regulations for the parcel and engaged in illegal spot zoning.
Bassoff's appeal was not unexpected. Residents fought plans to build townhouses on the 2-acre site at 222 Plainfield Road for more than a year. The property, located adjacent to a neighborhood of single-family homes and the Metuchen Golf and Country Club, is zoned for a golf course and had been used by the restaurant for years before the business closed about two years ago.
The zoning board's approval allows Markim Developers to build seven two-bedroom, age-restricted duplexes for the project called The Links at Edison. The plan was modified from a 2021 proposal which called for 23 three-story, three-bedroom townhouses on the property, as well as an earlier plan this year for eight duplexes.
The plans show each unit with a garage, equipped with an electric vehicle charging station, dining room, family room, powder room, kitchen and dinette on the first floor. A main bedroom with a walk-in closet and bathroom, a second bedroom, sitting area, another bathroom and laundry area are planned for the second floor, along with an office area in the attic and a basement. The units will have elevators in the kitchen behind the staircase. The zoning board restricted the attic from being converted into a bedroom.
The project, which is designed to prohibit children under age 19 if allowed by law, is planned for a section of heavily traveled Plainfield Road near Woodrow Wilson Middle School and Woodbrook Elementary School in Edison and St. Joseph High School in nearby Metuchen.
Email: srussell@gannettnj.com
Suzanne Russell is a breaking news reporter for MyCentralJersey.com covering crime, courts and other mayhem. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today. | https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/middlesex-county/2022/09/14/edison-nj-charlie-browns-redevelopment-appeal/69491813007/ | 2022-09-14T15:12:11Z | mycentraljersey.com | control | https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/middlesex-county/2022/09/14/edison-nj-charlie-browns-redevelopment-appeal/69491813007/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Metuchen Public Library establishes civil rights collection thanks to 'true icon'
METUCHEN – A revered community member, the late Martin Spritzer, a former Metuchen Borough attorney, was committed to the cause of civil rights from the start of his law career.
His advocacy now fittingly continues through a contribution to the Metuchen Public Library from the Martin Spritzer Fund, which establishes a collection of more than 120 books and two dozen DVDs dedicated to civil rights and America’s historic struggles against racism.
The collection, which will continue to expand, provides appropriate civil rights-focused content spanning the past and present in the genres of nonfiction, biography, and fiction for children, young adults, and adults.
The contribution was celebrated along with Spritzer’s memory during a dedication ceremony at the Metuchen Public Library on Saturday.
To commemorate the occasion, Sen. Patrick Diegnan, Assemblymembers Robert Karabinchak and Sterley Stanley honored Spritzer with a Joint Legislative Resolution from the Senate and General Assembly.
Diegnan presented a framed copy of the resolution to Spritzer’s son, Evan, who attended the event in person, and daughter, Dinah, who participated virtually.
“Martin has been described as a true icon in Metuchen, so it seems apropos that his legacy be allowed to endure at the public library in the borough he loved,” Diegnan said. “A community advocate and mentor to many, Martin made a profound impact on Metuchen and beyond. This donation allows his dedication to the cause of civil rights to reach others in a fitting place where visitors come to learn and grow.”
The chair of more than 10 organizations including the Metuchen-Edison Race Relations Council and the Middlesex County Human Relations Commission, Spritzer served as borough attorney for 16 years. He was integral in the establishment of the Metuchen Community Pool, Metuchen YMCA expansion and Main Street development.
Real estate:Here are the latest home sales in the Central Jersey market
A graduate of Highland Park High School (1945), Spritzer was also an alumnus of Rutgers University (1948) and Harvard Law School (1951). After settling in Metuchen, Spritzer practiced law in the borough and neighboring Edison for 42 years.
NAACP Metuchen-Edison Branch President Reginald Johnson said the Ivy League-educated Spritzer “sacrificed a more lucrative career to serve the underdog,” noting Spritzer was critical in improving race relations and uniting the community.
Mayor Jonathan Busch said Spritzer was a dedicated activist who played a significant role in ushering Metuchen through the Civil Rights Era. He called Spritzer a “steady hand during the ’60s and ’70s, a period of great change in Metuchen.”
Borough Council President Jason Delia said Spritzer’s contributions to Metuchen helped create “the inclusive and welcoming community that we all get to be a part of today.”
Attendees of Saturday’s event received a first look at the special collection made possible through the generosity of the Martin Spritzer Fund, and learned about civil rights and human relations in Metuchen, past and present.
Spritzer defended the right for a moment of silence to be conducted at government meetings and was fittingly honored with one at a borough council meeting days after his passing.
Spritzer died in December 2019 at the age of 92 at Galloway Ridge, a retirement home in Fearrington Village, Pittsboro, North Carolina, where he remained active in Democratic politics. Spritzer served on the Chatham County Human Relations Commission and chaired the Fearrington Village Democratic Club.
Beyond community service, Spritzer’s biggest cause was family. In addition to raising two children, Spritzer and his wife, Lola, to whom he was wed for 64 years, had four grandchildren.
“As a child it looked to me that my father’s principal occupation was me,” Evan Spritzer said, noting that as a byproduct of growing up around influential borough leaders, such as former mayors Donald Wernik and John Wiley, “a certain moral energy became a big part of my upbringing.”
The mission statement of the Martin Spritzer Fund, which is to raise “awareness for equity, civil rights and anti-racism,” and a quote from Spritzer, which reads, “you have to be fair to all of the people,” is stamped inside every book of the library collection bearing his name.
Metuchen Public Library Director Hsi Hsi Chung said the Martin Spritzer Fund’s contribution will “enhance our collection to educate and inform the community about important social issues.”
A webpage on the library website is devoted to the books and DVDs which compose the Martin Spritzer collection. The webpage also contains a link to biographical information about Spritzer.
Spritzer's countless contributions over 30 years resulted in numerous accolades, including Gov. Thomas Kean’s appointment of him in 1988 to the statewide Martin Luther King Commemorative Commission.
“In many ways,” said Wiley, who was among a dozen speakers during Saturday’s ceremony, “this community owes Martin a great deal.” | https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/middlesex-county/2022/09/14/metuchen-nj-public-library-martin-spritzer-civil-rights/69491846007/ | 2022-09-14T15:12:16Z | mycentraljersey.com | control | https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/middlesex-county/2022/09/14/metuchen-nj-public-library-martin-spritzer-civil-rights/69491846007/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Bridgewater becomes home to another pharmaceutical company
BRIDGEWATER – Another national pharmaceutical firm is moving to the township.
Lexicon Pharmaceuticals will relocate its New Jersey offices from Allen Road in Bernards to the Somerset Corporate Center at the intersection of routes 22 and 202/206 opposite the Bridgewater Commons.
The company, with its corporate headquarters in The Woodlands, a suburb of Houston, will occupy 20,000 square feet in the development owned by SJP Properties.
The company is scheduled to occupy the space no later than the first quarter of 2023.
The Route 202/206 corridor has become the home for several cutting-edge pharmaceutical companies including Sanofi, Regeneron, Solaris Pharma, Aspen Pharmacare, Hisun Pharmaceutical and Amneal Pharmaceutical.
Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, listed on NASDAQ, uses gene science to develop drugs for people with serious, chronic conditions, studying nearly 5,000 genes to pinpoint potential drug development. The company is developing medications to treat heart failure and diabetes neuropathy.
Other tenants of the Somerset Corporate Center are Qualcomm, Oracle, Cognizant, iconectiv, Merrill Lynch, Messer, Bausch Health, Mazda, Caliber and Kering Eyewear.
Also see:World's largest biotech firm wants to expand its Branchburg operations. Here's what's planned
“Somerset Corporate Center is perfectly situated to attract top talent from the surrounding area given its unparalleled highway access,” said Alexander Erdos, senior vice president of leasing and marketing, at SJP Properties. “Labor is key for established life science companies such as Lexicon, and they also recognize the importance of ownership quality as it correlates directly to tenant experience.”
SJP has transformed the campus, which has five office buildings totaling 1.2 million square feet, into a work/play/stay destination to help tenants continue to attract top talent. Other tenants in the property include a 170,000-square-foot Life Time athletic facility, Life Time Work, Tommy’s Tavern + Tap restaurant and the AC Hotel by Marriott.
Email: mdeak@mycentraljersey.com
Mike Deak is a reporter for mycentraljersey.com. To get unlimited access to his articles on Somerset and Hunterdon counties, please subscribe or activate your digital account. | https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/somerset-county/2022/09/14/lexicon-pharmaceuticals-bridgewater-nj-somerset-corporate-center/69491993007/ | 2022-09-14T15:12:21Z | mycentraljersey.com | control | https://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/somerset-county/2022/09/14/lexicon-pharmaceuticals-bridgewater-nj-somerset-corporate-center/69491993007/ | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Comptroller Peter Franchot on Tuesday announced that the state of Maryland has closed its books on Fiscal Year 2022 with a revenue surplus of $2 billion in its general fund. The comptroller said this is the second straight year that the state’s coffers have seen a massive unanticipated influx of revenues in the year-end report.
Officially, the state closed Fiscal Year 2022 with a balance of $5.5 billion in the General Fund. Of this amount, the General Assembly allocated $3.5 billion for fiscal year 2023 operations. As mandated by statute, $870 million of the $2 billion fund balance was transferred to the Rainy Day Fund and the Fiscal Responsibility Fund, leaving a final balance of $1.121 billion in unassigned revenues.
This is the first year that part of the unassigned balance is automatically transferred to the state’s reserve accounts. About $500 million will be redirected to the Rainy Day Fund, boosting its balance to $1.66 billion, while $370 million will go to the Fiscal Responsibility Fund, which supports capital investments in K-12 public schools, community colleges and public higher education institutions, as well as pay increases for eligible state government employees represented by collective bargaining units.
The growth in revenue was largely driven by an increase in personal income tax receipts among the wealthiest taxpayers and the sustained impact of federal stimulus aid coursing through the state’s economy.
“Maryland remains fiscally strong and can afford to invest in priority areas like education, transportation, healthcare and public safety,” said Franchot. “However, we know these good times won’t last forever, so it’s important that we prepare now for the economic downturn that we’re starting to see signs of by bolstering our reserve accounts.”
In remarks delivered at Wednesday’s Board of Public Works meeting, Franchot emphasized that the positive closeout report is welcome news that should be taken with caution, due to the volatile global economy.
“We continue to feel the ripple effects from the COVID-related fiscal policies, but it’s important to note that those ripples will grow smaller and less significant in the years ahead,” Franchot said. “In simpler terms, future governors and legislatures should not bank on billion-dollar surpluses to be the norm as we cannot, and never have, defied the laws of economic gravity.
“With the Federal Reserve tightening monetary policy, as well as inflation continuing to have broad impact on the cost of living and the cost of doing business for Marylanders, it’s more likely than not that our state and our nation are headed for choppy economic and fiscal waters in the coming years,” Franchot added.
Due to that fiscal uncertainty, the comptroller urged policymakers to deposit the full unassigned balance of $1.121 billion into the Rainy Day Fund to better prepare for an economic disaster.
“We must heed the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. Many residents and businesses who desperately needed help did not receive a dime of assistance from state government, either because they weren’t eligible for the programs or because the money ran out,” Franchot said. “We can’t let that happen again, and until we know what our economic conditions will be like a year from now, it would be imprudent to spend this money.”
Maryland reported a $2.5 billion fund balance in the Fiscal Year 2021 closeout report, which was a direct reflection of federal stimulus funding that significantly increased personal and business income, and expanded consumer spending. | https://www.wboc.com/news/maryland-comptroller-says-state-ends-fy2022-with-2b-revenue-surplus/article_671de14c-3439-11ed-8745-675fc033936a.html | 2022-09-14T15:13:35Z | wboc.com | control | https://www.wboc.com/news/maryland-comptroller-says-state-ends-fy2022-with-2b-revenue-surplus/article_671de14c-3439-11ed-8745-675fc033936a.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
SHOWA (2 Sons-Health Outer World, formerly Spawn House Outer Real World, ORAA!!) is the band of Riku Muto, cremony vocals (the Japanese band) + Rituals Mental, bass player (former Barkmarket from Spain. S.H is a band from Japan. One album “Father Of Evrthing”, three EP : ” P. O (the best work that ever Riku made iunderstand Love Heals is breaking the stigma surrounding mental/brain health illnesses, recognizing ‘Mental Health is Health' with an upcoming event, Break the Stigma on September 22.
Zak Williams will be the 2022 keynote speaker for the event. He is a global mental health advocate, entrepreneur, professional speaker, and son of beloved actor and comedian, Robin Williams. Zak focuses his time expertise and resources on sharing his personal story to support initiatives seeking to remove the stigma and address the challenges and discrimination associated with mental/brain health and related issues.
Doug Meijer and Todd Chance will serve as hosts of this impactful and meaningful event. Doug will share his journey to reduce stigma and share the reason, why he wears pink.
The event will start at 7 p.m. at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Unfortunately, tickets are sold out, so no further tickets are available.
Learn more about iunderstand and the services they provide at iunderstandloveheals.org. | https://www.fox17online.com/morning-mix/iunderstand-love-heals-break-the-stigma-event-emphasizes-mental-health-is-health | 2022-09-14T15:13:39Z | fox17online.com | control | https://www.fox17online.com/morning-mix/iunderstand-love-heals-break-the-stigma-event-emphasizes-mental-health-is-health | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
SALISBURY, Md. - A Salisbury man has been sentenced to 15 years behind bars for a holding up a convenience store on Christmas Day 2021.
A Wicomico County Circuit Court judge on Sept. 2 sentenced Lamont King, 58, to 20 years suspend all but 15 years in prison.
Prosecutors said that on Dec. 25, 2021, King entered the Shore Stop, located on Parsons Road in Salisbury, and demanded that the clerk hand over cash and cigarettes. He then pulled out a revolver-style starter pistol. The clerk gave King the cash out of both registers and two handfuls of cigarettes before King ran out of the business. The clerk then quickly called 911 and provided
operators with a description of King. Within moments of the 911 call, officers from the Salisbury Police Department located King riding his bicycle in very close proximity to the Shore Stop and despite his attempts to evade them, officers detained King.
After detaining King, officers located the stolen cash, cigarettes, and starter pistol on his person. | https://www.wboc.com/news/salisbury-man-goes-to-prison-for-christmas-day-armed-robbery/article_ba9189ae-342b-11ed-adf6-37556cbbb681.html | 2022-09-14T15:13:39Z | wboc.com | control | https://www.wboc.com/news/salisbury-man-goes-to-prison-for-christmas-day-armed-robbery/article_ba9189ae-342b-11ed-adf6-37556cbbb681.html | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
If you're not quite ready to break out of the pumpkin spice everything, and those sweaters and boots are still packed away, there are plenty of ways to get into the fall spirit, like shopping at the Merchants and Makers Autumn Market in Holland this weekend.
More than 100 makers will be present selling food, jewelry, clothes, and many other varieties of handmade goods.
There will also be food and beverages available for purchase, including Beecher's Pretzels, Spice Boys, Voyage Bowls, and Stud Muffin's Cupcakes.
The market will collect canned goods for a local non-profit at the door. Food donations and a portion of the door fees will be donated to the Community Action House.
Merchants and Makers will take place on September 18 at the Holland Civic Center from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. The entrance fee is $3, and kids get in free.
Learn more by visiting merchantsandmakers.com. | https://www.fox17online.com/morning-mix/merchants-and-makers-autumn-market-is-coming-to-holland-on-sept-18 | 2022-09-14T15:13:45Z | fox17online.com | control | https://www.fox17online.com/morning-mix/merchants-and-makers-autumn-market-is-coming-to-holland-on-sept-18 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Mike Lindell, CEO of MyPillow, claims the FBI served him a search warrant and seized his cellphone when he was at a Hardee's drive-thru in Minnesota.
Lindell said agents questioned him about his connection Tina Peters. She's the county clerk and recorder in Mesa County, Colorado, who was indicted on allegations of election tampering.
Lindell and Peters are major supporters of former President Donald Trump. They falsely claimed the 2020 presidential election was rigged to prevent Trump from winning re-election.
The New York Times reports that the search warrant said the government was seeking “all records and information relating to damage to any Dominion computerized voting system.”
The FBI wouldn't provide specifics about the investigation. However, a spokesperson confirmed to CNN it did execute a search warrant authorized by a federal judge. | https://www.fox17online.com/news/national/mypillow-ceo-says-fbi-seized-his-phone | 2022-09-14T15:13:57Z | fox17online.com | control | https://www.fox17online.com/news/national/mypillow-ceo-says-fbi-seized-his-phone | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
President Joe Biden spoke with King Charles III on Wednesday for the first time since Queen Elizabeth II’s death last week.
The call came before Biden leads a U.S. delegation to London next week for the queen’s funeral.
“The President recalled fondly the Queen’s kindness and hospitality, including when she hosted him and the First Lady at Windsor Castle last June,” the White House said in a statement.” He also conveyed the great admiration of the American people for the Queen, whose dignity and constancy deepened the enduring friendship and special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom. President Biden conveyed his wish to continue a close relationship with the King.”
Charles, Elizabeth and Biden were among dignitaries who met at a G7 reception in June 2021.
In November, Biden met with Charles in person at the COP26 Climate Summit.
“President Biden and Prince Charles discussed the importance of global cooperation in tackling climate change,” a White House official said about the meeting. “They underlined the need for ambitious commitments and concrete actions among partners worldwide and discussed Prince Charles’ initiatives to engage the private sector on sustainability. President Biden reaffirmed the strength of the enduring ties between the United Kingdom and the United States, and he thanked the United Kingdom for hosting COP26.
“He commended the Royal Family for its dedication to climate issues, particularly Prince Charles’ environmental activism over the last half-century.” | https://www.fox17online.com/news/national/president-biden-speaks-with-king-charles-iii-for-1st-time-since-queens-death | 2022-09-14T15:14:03Z | fox17online.com | control | https://www.fox17online.com/news/national/president-biden-speaks-with-king-charles-iii-for-1st-time-since-queens-death | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
With soaring utility prices mounting great pressure on the hospitality industry and winter right around the corner, the owner of a beloved Herne Bay café has aired her fears of losing her "dream shop". Gingerbreads Snack Bar, found on Stanley Road, has been a feature of the coastal town for some 20 years, but as gas and electricity bills skyrocket, owner and single mum Emma Webb has growing fears of closure.
It has recently been confirmed that the energy price cap will soar to £3,549 a year in October for domestic properties. However, businesses will not enjoy such a cap, and are beginning to feel the pressures brought about by the utility crisis.
Some businesses have reported seeing their energy bills triple over the last year. Meanwhile, others have raised concerns about simply getting customers through the door, as the cost of living crisis has left countless families with very little month to month spending money.
Read more: New café serving 'posh beans on toast' to open in Tunbridge Wells
For Emma, it has been a combination of the two factors, so she has now resorted to creating a GoFundMe page to help Gingerbreads get the financial boost it so desperately needs at this time. Since going live at the start of the week, the page has amassed nearly £400 in donations, but the café still has a way to go before reaching the set goal of £7,000.
‘To not succeed in something I love doing is devastating’
Emma, who has now been running the café for six years, begins by discussing the role Gingerbreads has played within the community from its ideal location near a local school. She said: “It’s amazing, everyone comes and meets you in the morning, we have meetings.
“Carers come in with their kids, doctors come in, all the parents, the children. I feel I’m quite loved in Herne Bay, and I do feel lucky. It’s a lovely little place, people love coming here.”
However, the pressures have started to build. Emma continues: “The last year’s been quite bad, I thought I was in control of it at the beginning, but no, it’s just getting worse and worse.
“The toughest part is just how expensive the world’s got for a little shop. I’m a single mum, I’ve got my own house, my own bills and things, I should be coming to work and making profit, getting a nice income.
“Overall, I’m just a bit heart-broken with it all, it’s my little dream shop. To not succeed in something that I love doing, when I have succeeded in the beginning, is devastating really.
“I’m starting to have to pay to come to work, it’s not how it should be. Before I think of selling, or closing down, getting another job, I’ve got to try just to see how it goes, do whatever I can I guess.”
‘I don’t want to lose Gingerbreads’
Emma continued on to talk about the response from the local community as the business has begun to struggle. She said: “I think everyone’s quite shocked I wasn’t doing as well as what they thought I was doing.
“They don’t want to lose Gingerbreads, I don’t want to lose Gingerbreads. Just everything is restricting people to spend money and come out.”
Like many other businesses at this time, Emma has had to raise prices to compete with rising bills, but has reservations around doing so. “I put my prices up about a month ago, but I only put them up about 25p,” she said
“I don’t want to charge too much, I know I need to put things up a bit more but on the other hand, everything’s gone up but people’s wages, so people can’t spend extra. If I put my prices up in the shop, people can’t afford that. Everyone’s in the same boat at the moment.”
Emma finished by saying: “I just need some help to stay open. So just come in, shop local, use Gingerbreads, I just need more customers to come back in.”
The GoFundMe page for Gingerbreads Snack Bar can be found here.
Read next: | https://www.kentlive.news/news/kent-news/herne-bay-single-mum-heartbroken-7583912 | 2022-09-14T15:14:39Z | kentlive.news | control | https://www.kentlive.news/news/kent-news/herne-bay-single-mum-heartbroken-7583912 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
Kent County Council has revealed how it plans to spend the more than £35million it is poised to receive from the Government to improve bus travel. It is in line to receive £35,070,139 to be used between this coming financial year to 2024/25.
This is a slice from the Government's £1.2billion for improving bus services in line with its National Bus Strategy. To bid for that funding, the council along with any other local authority, had to publish a Bus Service Improvement Plan by October last year.
And by April this year, Kent County Council and local bus operators had to form a so-called 'enhanced partnership agreement', to govern all bus services in the county.
Read more: Council refuses to reverse 'catastrophic' decision to axe routes
As KentLive reported two weeks ago, council leader Roger Gough said at a cabinet meeting the funding from the Department for Transport was not about "preserving the status quo" and the revenue elements could not be used to "sustain existing structures and existing routes".
Mr Gough said some of the money, could for example, be used for "demand responsive transport". The Government states the money can be used to fund infrastructure, ticketing, innovation, information, vehicle, accessibility and environmental considerations.
The council's scrapping of subsidies for bus services, along with the axing of services by operators, has hit the headlines in recent weeks. Parents of children relying on the buses to go to school have been angered by the difficulties pupils will not face accessing their schools.
At a meeting on Thursday (September 8), the council revealed how it intends to spend the £35million
- Special fares and promotions to support the network and identified groups £2,000,000
- Development of a Superbus scheme – i.e bus priority with reciprocal benefits £5,500,000
- Highway Interventions to aid bus punctuality and to support PIPs (personal independence payments) £1,500,000
- Support bus companies in enhancing ETMs (electronic ticketing machines) to develop more innovative ticketing solutions £1,393,245
- Feasibility studies and delivery of bus priority measures (two schemes) £11,000,000
- Infrastructure schemes to support BRT – i.e. Pencester Road, Dover infrastructure £2,000,000
- Provision of multi-operator ticketing £289,500
- Drive a data led approach for network planning £240,000
- Delivery of a MaaS back office system (an 'on demand, mobility service') £1,450,000
- Introduction of new or improved services to build on a base network level in Oct this year £7,500,000
- Delivery of a demand responsive transport (DRT) back office system £80,000
- Bus Gate Enforcement – capital equipment costs £450,000
- Appointment of a dedicated roadworks/parking enforcement officer £250,000
- Continued support of Community Transport sector through facilitation role £100,000
- Development of Kent Connected journey planner £200,000
- Review of link between parking facilities and charges vs bus use £150,000
- Key technological advancements (off bus) i.e. real time information (RTI) displays £700,000
- Develop use of QR codes at bus stops to report issues and link to information £325,000
Sign up to get the latest stories from Kent direct into your inbox here.
Read next: | https://www.kentlive.news/news/kent-news/how-kent-county-council-spend-7584179 | 2022-09-14T15:14:49Z | kentlive.news | control | https://www.kentlive.news/news/kent-news/how-kent-county-council-spend-7584179 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
With The Queen’s funeral set to take place next Monday (September 19), the date has officially been announced as a bank holiday. As such, bin collections next week are set to change for the vast majority of Kent, as collection dates shift across the county.
Currently, the UK is in the middle of a 10 day national mourning period which culminates with Her Majesty’s funeral on Monday. This is to be held at Westminster Abbey and will be broadcast throughout the nation.
Having passed away at the age of 96 last Thursday (September 8), Queen Elizabeth II made history as the UK’s longest-reigning monarch after 70 years on the throne. As the nation mourns, a number of changes will be felt throughout Kent, from the postponement or cancellation of events to altered operating hours for businesses, the closure of schools and more.
Read more: Kent County Council's breakdown of how £35m will be spent on bus travel
Among these, will be the changes to bin collections throughout next week, which will be noticed throughout the county. The Kent district councils have now each confirmed exactly what will be happening with waste collection next week.
Details on when your bins will be collected are listed below.
Ashford
Household waste collection is to be suspended on Monday, September 19 in Ashford. As a result, waste collections for the week commencing Monday 19 September will take place on the following day to resident’s normal collection day.
Clinical collections that are due to take place Monday 19 September will now take place on Tuesday 20 September. The revised collection calendar can be found here.
Canterbury
Canterbury City Council has said: “Waste collection dates to be pushed back a day due to the announced bank holiday. Bin collections due on Monday 19 September will take place on Tuesday 20 September, and so on throughout the week, with Friday’s collection happening on Saturday 24 September.”
Dartford
A spokesperson for Dartford Borough Council has said: “There’ll be no collections on Monday, collections will take place a day later with Friday pick-ups happening on Saturday instead.”
Dover
Dover District Council has confirmed that details regarding collections next week are yet to be confirmed, with an update due to be issued later this week.
Folkestone & Hythe
Folkestone & Hythe District Council has said: “Household and garden waste collections will be moved back by 24 hours for all residents - meaning your bins will be emptied a day later than usual this week.
“Household and garden waste collections will return to normal from Monday 26 September. Clinical waste collections are unaffected and will continue as normal.”
Gravesham
A spokesperson for Gravesham Borough Council has said: “We won’t have any collections on Monday. All collections will be a day later than usual. All back to normal the following week.”
Maidstone
Due to the Bank Holiday for The Queen’s State Funeral taking place on Monday 19 September, waste, recycling and garden collections for Maidstone will be moved back a day, which will affect collections all next week.
Collections that were due to take place on Monday 19 September will move to Tuesday 20, and this will continue throughout the week, with Friday’s collections taking place on Saturday 24 September.
Cllr Martin Round, Maidstone Borough Council Lead Member for Environmental Services said: “Altering the day people have their rubbish collected is not something we usually do as ordinarily our refuse collectors work on a Bank Holiday however, these are exceptional circumstances.
“Our dear Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral is such an historic moment we need to give all of our staff and contractors the opportunity to pay their respects. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, and collections will return to their normal day from Monday 26 September.”
Medway
A spokesperson for Medway Council has said: “Following His Majesty King Charles III’s declaration that the day of Queen Elizabeth II’s State Funeral (Monday, 19 September) will be a national bank holiday, our council services and buildings will be closed to allow our staff to pay their respects.
“We will continue to provide essential out of hours emergency support and a number of our services are available on our website. Our household waste and recycling collections on Monday will be postponed until the following week. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.”
Information on what services will be affected can be found here.
Sevenoaks
Sevenoaks District Council has said: “Residents are being asked to put their refuse out one day later than usual after the Bank Holiday to mark Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral. There will be no collections on Monday 19 September and all collections that week will take place a day later until Saturday 24 September.
“Residents are requested to put their black and clear sacks out by 7am and their garden waste out at 6.30am on their collection day.For more information visit www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/bankholiday .”
Swale
A spokesperson for Swale Borough Council said: “To allow staff to pay their respects and commemorate the reign of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, council services will be closed on Monday 19 September for the State Funeral. This includes waste and recycling collections, which will be postponed by one day for the week so there will be no collections on Monday 19 September
“Collections will return to normal on Monday 26 September.”
Thanet
Thanet District Council has said: “Monday 19 September has been designated a bank holiday to allow people to pay their respects and to commemorate the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. This decision has been taken as a mark of respect and to allow council operatives the opportunity to take part in the final day of national mourning.”
Waste and recycling collections will be suspended.
Households who normally receive a weekly black waste collection on Mondays will have their waste collected on Saturday 17 September.
All other affected households will have their waste collected on Saturday 24 September. Letters will be sent to households who receive a weekly collection.
Tonbridge
Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council has been approached for comment on revised waste collection dates.
Tunbridge Wells
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has said: “Our waste contractor will be collecting bins on Monday 19 September. It is usual for collections to take place on bank holidays in the borough. We have asked that recycling and waste crews pause collections and observe the national two minute’s silence.”
Read next: | https://www.kentlive.news/news/kent-news/kent-bank-holiday-bin-collection-7586379 | 2022-09-14T15:14:59Z | kentlive.news | control | https://www.kentlive.news/news/kent-news/kent-bank-holiday-bin-collection-7586379 | 1 | 1 | green-iguana-35 | null |
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