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SIPHAMANDLA ZONDI | Decline in civic activism favours dominant political parties
Witnessing the launch of the Reconciliation Barometer on political culture in SA, I could not help but realise we stand at a crossroads between hope and despair.
It is a mixture of mammoth failures we see around us and seeds of agency that could turn this around. It is a sense of helplessness in the face of declining competence of leaders and greater hope in the ability of ordinary people to transform the country.
This launch marked 20 years of efforts by premier think-tank the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation (IJR) at collecting informaabout the health of our democracy. The IJR was founded after the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address issues left hanging in relation to the building of a democratic, united and just society. Its regular barometer has become the chronicle of the state of the nation, the very soul of our country.
Time and again, the IJR data shows trends confirmed by the latest poll. The first is the declining trust of the people in public institutions in SA. As this extended to such crucial institutions as parliament over the years, it raised alarm because parliament is designed to represent the voices and choices of ordinary people.
It is now losing trust among ordinary people. If people lose trust in the guardians of the democratic system like parliament, courts, chapter 9 institutions, who is going to underwrite our democracy?
How will it survive the vagaries of insufficiently constrained power of politicians.
The polls also showed that linked to this trend above is low levels of trust in national leadership. There is declining faith in the conduct and actions of the leaders in getting the country going.
These two may explain the third trend of declining voter turnout in elections, especially after 2004. This means citizens are withdrawing from the political system at an alarming rate.
This is a serious threat to our democracy. It means a small group of mostly fanatical party loyalists could in the near future represent the popular will.
The fourth trend is the declining support for the governing party and very limited growth of the DA in the context of the birth of many small political parties.
This will change the landscape of our parliamentary politics and give smaller parties significant power in the political system.
Yet, there is faith in votes and elections in this population. Most of the people still trust in the power of the vote. This faith in the power of the vote coexists with the lower turnout for voting and low voter registration. I guess it also shows low participation in war committees, provincial legislatures and parliamentary engagement with the population.
The poll does not say what factors drive this sense of despondency. We know from analyses that a large part of the vote that is shifting away from the ANC is not going anywhere else but it is reserved.
We also know that the failure and corruption involving politicians eat away from this faith in political systems.
We also know that there is little open mobilisation of the population. Instead, political parties want to mobilise their bases. The school and post-school curricula do not give this serious attention.
Churches and other fairy formations do not invite citizens to be active citizens on Earth.
But it must be the decimation of civil society structures in communities, from community-based organisations to NGOs to social movements, that have caused the most enduring damage to popular participation in politics.
This weakening and disappearance of NGOs can be traced to the birth of democracy where some organisations thought the battle with authority was over. This was because the new administration was said to be duly appointed or elected. The trend in the decline of civic activism favours dominant political parties in SA.
The poll recommends that efforts at reconciliation must intensify. We need to continue building a society marked by justice, including historical, economic and social justice. It also calls for engaged active citizens to rise. This latter will require support for movements that promote active citizenry now.
Prof Zondi works for the University of Johannesburg and volunteers for the Devoted Citizen NGO.
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https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/opinion/columnists/2024-01-29-siphamandla-zondi-decline-in-civic-activism-favours-dominant-political-parties/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:35Z
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'Fun and nostalgic': The PEEPS Sweet Suite is now taking visitors. Take a peek inside.
Famous marshmallow candy brand PEEPS has teamed up with Home2 Suites by Hilton Easton to create a very special (and very sweet) stay for families ahead of Easter season.
The "PEEPS Sweet Suite" is located close to where the iconic brand was birthed, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania close to another destination spot for families: the Crayola Experience.
For hardcore fans of the brand, this will be worth traveling in for. For the rest of us, here is some of what guests will experience.
PEEPS new flavors: Iee Blue Raspberry, Rice Krispies and more
The PEEPS Sweet Suite experience
"Every detail" of the PEEPS Sweet Suite experience is "a nod to the fun and nostalgia," Brand Manager Caitlin Servian said in a press release.
Avaialble in the suite is the classic collection of PEEPS and also all of the new flavors announced for 2024, which include:
Peeps Rice Krispies Treats
Peeps Icee Blue Raspberry
Peeps Sour Strawberry
Peeps Delights S'mores Graham Cracker
Guests will be given merchandise from the rooms including plushies, slippers, bathrobes and more, according to the release.
There will be an optional "V.I.Peep" experience available, the brand announced, where guests will be able to tour the PEEPS headquarters off site and have a chance of seeing the PEEPSMOBILE in person.
There will also be an Instagram photo op opportunity and a chance to taste "freshly-hatched" PEEPS. You'll have to book a room to find out what that means.
"The PEEPS Sweet Suite isn't just a place to stay, it's a charming destination that captures the joy of the season, aligning perfectly with our signature hospitality and mission to make every guest's visit extraordinary," Home2 Suites by Hilton Easton General Manager Bryan Reichelt said in the press release.
How to book a PEEPS Suite Sweet
The best way to book a stay at the PEEPS Suite Sweet is online through the Hilton Honors website, the Philly Burbs, a part of USA TODAY reported.
Interested individuals or families can book a PEEPS Sweet Suite for either a one- or two-night stay, but hurry up, the rooms are booking up fast.
The available booking window is open from Monday, March 18, through Thursday, March 29. Booking begins at $159.
Damon C. Williams of the Bucks County Courier Times contributed to this story.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: The PEEPS Sweet Suite is now taking visitors. Take a peek inside.
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https://news.yahoo.com/fun-nostalgic-peeps-sweet-suite-223310814.html
| 2024-01-31T23:03:38Z
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OWENSBORO, Ky.— Following a banner year of growth, Green River Distilling Co., part of Bardstown Bourbon Co., will double down in 2024 with the release of its highly anticipated Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey. Distribution is also slated to expand this year, adding eight new markets for a total of 34 states nationwide.
Green River Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is comprised of 95 percent rye and five percent malted barley and offers a distinct taste that leads with orange peel and fresh spearmint that rise through the vanilla and graham cracker base notes. A sound and medium finish offers slight rye spice, herbal tea and soft oak notes. The whiskey is a blend of four-to-six year old barrels that have all been distilled, aged and bottled at Green River Distilling Co.(DSP-KY-10), located in Owensboro, Ky.
“Green River Rye is approachable, easy drinking with a memorable finish. Rich in color and flavor, it truly shines at 95 proof,” said Head Distiller Aaron Harris. “This rye whiskey is a compelling addition to the growing Green River portfolio.”
Green River Kentucky Straight Rye is presented in the brand’s signature packaging – a horseshoe shaped bottle honoring the original labeling from 1885 – tells the story of the brand through glass with 10 notches on the brands horseshoe referencing DSP-KY-10, an ornate tax trip with the original tagline “The Whiskey Without Regrets,” and “The Pride of Owensboro” prominently displayed.
The new rye whiskey joins the flagship Green River Bourbon and Green River Wheated as the third expression in its core lineup. Presented at 95 proof (47.5 ABV) and line-priced with the rest of the portfolio, Green River Rye is offered at suggested retail price of $34.99, beginning February 1.
Green River Distilling Co., located in Owensboro, Kentucky, will mark the launch with a special celebration on February 1, 2024, with bottle sales beginning at 9 a.m. Throughout the day, four specialty VIP tours, led by Head Distiller Aaron Harris and National Brand Ambassador Caryn Wells, will give guests a behind-the-scenes look at Rickhouse B, a barrel strength tasting and a bottle of Green River Kentucky Straight Rye to take home. From 2 – 5 p.m. the community is invited to the distillery for music, food and cocktails featuring the new release. Tours and tastings are available online at greenriverwhiskey.com.
Green River Distilling Co. was purchased by Bardstown Bourbon Company in July 2022. Last year the brand launched Green River Wheated and Full Proof Single Barrel, expanded both within the U.S. and began exporting to Australia. This year, eight new markets will see Green River on the shelves including Nevada, Arizona, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Washington, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Massachusetts. Green River is expecting to achieve nationwide U.S. distribution in the coming years.
Green River Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
MASH BILL: 95 percent Rye, 5 percent Malted Barley
PROOF: 95 proof/47.5% ABV
SRP: $34.99
About Green River Distilling Co.
Originally founded in 1885 by J.W. McCulloch, Green River Distilling Co. (DSP-KY-10) is the 10th oldest licensed distillery in Kentucky. The brand quickly became synonymous with quality and regarded as some of the finest bourbon from Kentucky. Known as “the Whiskey Without Regrets,” the brand enjoys a long, rich history as the official medicinal whiskey of the U.S. Marine Hospital and has been referenced as the most expensive whiskey ever sold – 20 barrels were once traded for an interest in a Colorado gold mine before a distillery fire and prohibition relegated the brand to history. Reestablished in 2022, Green River Distilling Co. is a proud citizen of Owensboro, Kentucky and serves as the westernmost outpost of the Kentucky Bourbon TrailTM. Built off classic mash bills, Green River has a growing portfolio of whiskeys that have all been created onsite offering a smooth and welcoming taste profile to the consumer, a true testament to simplicity and quality going hand-in-hand. Green River is part of Bardstown Bourbon Company, a top 10 distiller in the U.S.
About Bardstown Bourbon Company
Founded in 2014 by Peter Loftin in the heart of the “Bourbon Capital of the World” on 100 acres of active farmland, Bardstown Bourbon Company is pushing the boundaries through innovation while honoring the traditional art of making whiskey. A top 10 distiller in the US, Bardstown Bourbon company is one of the most modern and technically advanced whiskey distilleries producing over 50 mashbills. The distillery produces the award-winning Kentucky bourbon and rye brands, and provides custom collaborative distilling for some of the best whiskey brands in the world. The Bardstown, Ky. campus is the first Napa Valley-style destination on the famed Kentucky Bourbon Trail to combine distilling, culinary, and beverage expertise to create a modern, authentic bourbon experience.
For More Information:
http://www.greenriverwhiskey.com
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https://www.bevnet.com/spirits/2024/green-river-distilling-co-introduces-kentucky-straight-rye-whiskey/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:38Z
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- The purchase price is C$3.5m in cash and the assumption of certain liabilities
- The buyer is Pilot Coffee Roasters, a specialty coffee roaster, online retailer, wholesaler and café operator
- Aegis Brands acquired Bridgehead Coffee in 2019 for C$9.5m
Aegis Brands, backed by Serruya Private Equity, has agreed to sell the assets of Bridgehead Coffee, an Ottawa-based roasting, wholesale and coffeehouse business, to Pilot Coffee Group of Companies.
The purchase price is C$3.5 million in cash and the assumption of certain liabilities. The deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2024.
The proceeds from the transaction will be used to reduce debt and for general working capital purposes.
Based in Toronto, Pilot Coffee Roasters is a specialty coffee roaster, online retailer, wholesaler and café operator.
Aegis Brands acquired Bridgehead Coffee in 2019 for C$9.5 million.
“This strategic divestiture allows us to build on the momentum of the St. Louis brand,” said Steven Pelton, president and CEO of Aegis Brands, in a statement. “In Q4 2023, St. Louis increased same store sales by 9.4% and has further improved on this trend thus far in 2024. We know there is significant growth yet to be realized with this brand and we are focused on creating shareholder value with this great asset.”
With headquarters in Markham, Ontario, Serruya Private Equity is a family-run private equity firm.
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https://www.pehub.com/serruya-backed-aegis-brands-to-sell-bridgehead-coffee/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:39Z
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The Baddies East reunion trailer has been released and it’s an all-out baddie brawl, as expected. While the cast brought the drama, they also brought the looks. The Baddiest East reunion style was top-notch. Baddies newbie Tesehki looked gorgeous in a sparkling silver mermaid cut gown by Glam Boxx and hair laid by celebrity hairstylist and head Bad Boy Jonathan Wright. ET, aka Scarface, looked fab showing off her pearly white new smile and recent BBL in an embellished blue velvet minidress with a plunging neckline by Adonis Fetty (who was also on Zeus Network’s Bad Boys). Head baddie Natalie Nunn served budget-friendly fashions in FashionNova.
Baddies East Reunion Style
This season of Baddies East is coming to end and with heightened anticipation surrounding the Baddies East reunion, the Baddies are sharing their reunion looks. January HB cover star NeNe Leakes tapped into her hosting bag and guided the ladies, alongside Zeus’ Janeisha John, through the evening wearing a neon green dress. She arrived to set in a sexy red look that proved she’s also embracing her Baddie era. Rollie rocked a mullet and Camila rocked a custom spray-painted jacket with Killa Cam on the back.
We recently spoke to Baddies East star Sky Days, formerly of Black Ink Crew, who opened up about her experience on the Zeus Network show. “I wish there were more cameras in the house for those intimate moments, she explained. “We still all converse with one another. Kids call me their aunt. That sh*t makes my soul smile.”
She also hinted that fans will see House B ride for each other at the reunion after facing criticism that they defend one another more during the season. “The love, as I said, has grown and is very real. You’ll see at the reunion.”
Keep scrolling for more Baddies East reunion style:
The Best ‘Baddies East’ Reunion Looks was originally published on hellobeautiful.com
1. Sky Days
Sky Days wore her bright smile and a statement-making red Daniels Leather full-length fur and cap to pull up to the reunion.
2. Scotty
Scotty was serving looks all season thanks to her stylist Darrien Kristopher, who put her in these metallic gold hot pants that hugged every curb.
3. Tesehki
Tesehki will no doubt be the star of the Baddies East reunion when everything is said and done, and she certainly looks like this gorgeous gown by Glamboxx.
4. Natalie Nunn
Natalie Nunn kept it cute, comfortable, and inexpensive in this Fashion Nova fit.
5. ET
Say what you want about ET, but her reunion look is top-notch. From her custom dress by Adonis to the flawless Jonathan Wright install, it’s a shame, that she said the dress was ruined during the melee.
6. Ahna Mac
Ahna’s pink asymmetrical jumpsuit, by J Lorraine Designs, was the perfect razzle dazzle to compliment her blonde tresses.
7. DJ Sky
DJ Sky, who is but isn’t on the cast (Lol), really did her big one in a purple Bape look and her Yeezys. Her tussled lob was also a vibe.
8. Mariah Lynn
Mariah Lynn stepped into her high fashion bag with this geometric Renaissance-inspired look.
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https://theboxhouston.com/playlist/the-best-baddies-east-reunion-looks/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:40Z
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Broadway star Hinton Battle, who played the original Scarecrow at the 1978 "The Wiz", has died at 67. He was a three-time Tony Award winner.
Copyright 2024 NPR
Broadway star Hinton Battle, who played the original Scarecrow at the 1978 "The Wiz", has died at 67. He was a three-time Tony Award winner.
Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.wvxu.org/2024-01-31/broadway-legend-hinton-battle-who-originally-played-scarecrow-in-the-wiz-has-died
| 2024-01-31T23:03:40Z
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The mayoral candidate who got an election re-run in Bridgeport because of allegations of absentee ballot box stuffing said Wednesday that he is staying in the race, despite losing three straight votes to the Democratic incumbent.
“I have met with my supporters and we have decided not to abandon this campaign because all voters have a final say as to who should we elect the next mayor for the great city of Bridgeport,” John Gomes declared.
Gomes said he is eligible to appear on the ballot for the special Feb. 27 general election as the Independent Party candidate, although Mayor Joe Ganim questioned the legitimacy of his candidacy as a minor party contender. Surrounded by supporters, Gomes raised concerns with the recent primary, saying some of his supporters were turned away, among other possible election law violations. His campaign has requested absentee ballots and absentee ballot applications to review.
“I would say that if elected officials continue to turn a blind eye towards the actions in Bridgeport, we will continue this cycle time and time again,” he said.
Get Connecticut local news, weather forecasts and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC Connecticut newsletters.
Gomes has come under pressure to bow out of the protracted and complicated race after Ganim won last week's primary. Ganim is seeking re-election to a third four-year term since having served seven years in prison for corruption during his first stint as mayor from 1991 to 2003.
After his time behind bars, Ganim won the job back in 2015 after apologizing for his misdeeds. Gomes is Ganim’s former acting chief administrative officer for the city.
Gomes and two other candidates — Republican David Herz and petitioning candidate Lamond Daniels — have been urged to step aside by leaders of the City Council and Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont and forgo what will be the fourth election for the city's top seat since September.
Local
Daniels dropped out on Tuesday, saying he didn't "see a rationale for continuing an unwinnable campaign in the new general election.” Herz has said he'd drop out if both Daniels and Gomes do so as well. A message was left seeking comment from Herz about his plans.
Ganim initially won the September primary, which the judge tossed out, and the November general election, which didn't count, by slim margins. Unofficial results from last week's primary showed Ganim winning by a larger margin, 57% to 43% with only 8,775 votes cast in the city of 148,000, located about 60 miles (100 kilometers) east of New York City.
Ganim criticized Gomes for staying in the race, arguing the voters in the Democratic-heavy city have already made it clear from last week's primary showing that they want him reelected.
“There wasn’t a question or a hint, other than some of the fantasies that the Gomes campaign is trying to throw out, to justify asking and forcing the city of Bridgeport to spend another $120,000 for the fourth election in four months,” Ganim said.
The mayor described seeing an older woman with a cane, carefully watching her every step to avoid falling as she walked into a polling place to vote in the do-over primary on a cold winter day.
“I guess Gomes would say, 'That wasn’t good enough, ma’am. I want you to do it again,'” Ganim said.
Superior Court Judge William Clark overturned the September primary following a multiday court hearing in which at least two Ganim supporters accused of being caught on video stuffing absentee ballots into ballot boxes refused to answer questions, invoking their Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Clark set both a new primary and a general election, so long as more than one candidate remained in the race.
“The volume of ballots so mishandled is such that it calls the result of the primary election into serious doubt and leaves the court unable to determine the legitimate result of the primary,” Clark wrote in his ruling.
Ganim, who has denied any knowledge of alleged absentee ballot stuffing, has accused the Gomes campaign of committing election law violations as well. Various investigations are currently under way.
The case spread through right-wing social media platforms and on far-right media, connecting the controversy to the 2020 stolen election claims.
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https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/gomes-says-he-wont-quit-bridgeport-mayoral-race-marred-by-ballot-issues-despite-primary-loss/3207832/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:40Z
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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — A federal judge on Wednesday dismissed Walt Disney Co.’s lawsuit against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.
The lawsuit was filed last April in Florida by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and accused DeSantis of using his political power to punish the company for its right to free speech, CNN reported.
U.S. District Judge Allen Winsor said that the company lacked standing in its lawsuit against DeSantis and his appointees to Walt Disney World’s governing district, WFTV reported.
“Disney lacks standing to sue the Governor or the Secretary,” the judge said in his ruling, which was obtained by Reuters.
“It is true that the laws did not affect all districts, and it is true (at least accepting Disney’s allegations) that Disney faces the brunt of the harm,” Winsor wrote, according to the Tampa Bay Times. “But Disney offers no support for its argument that the court is to undertake line drawing to determine just how many others a law must cover to avoid ‘singling out’ those they affect most.”
The lawsuit came after a feud was ignited between DeSantis and Disney in 2022, WFTV reported. Disney voiced its opposition to Florida’s Parental Rights in Education Act, which is also known as the “Don’t Say Gay” law by its critics. The Parental Rights in Education Act reportedly banned lessons in classrooms on sexual orientation and gender identity in early education. It was a law that DeSantis supported.
DeSantis and some Republican legislators reportedly retaliated against Disney for objecting to the law by taking over the district that had been controlled by Disney for decades, the news outlet reported. They also added five board members to the board that are supporters of the Florida governor.
“This is an important case with serious implications for the rule of law, and it will not end here,” a Disney spokesperson told WFTV. “If left unchallenged, this would set a dangerous precedent and give license to states to weaponize their official powers to punish the expression of political viewpoints they disagree with. We are determined to press forward with our case.”
In a statement to CNN, Jeremy Redfern, DeSantis’ press secretary, said the governor’s office was not surprised by the dismissal of Disney’s lawsuit.
“The days of Disney controlling its own government and being placed above the law are long gone,” Redfern said. “The federal court’s decision made it clear that Gov. DeSantis was correct: Disney is still just one of many corporations in the state, and they do not have a right to their own special government. In short -- as long predicted, case dismissed.”
Another separate lawsuit is pending in an Orlando state court, the news outlet reported.
© 2024 Cox Media Group
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https://www.hot105fm.com/news/trending/judge-dismisses-disney-lawsuit-against-gov-ron-desantis/G6YESGWG2JHVZM76SVPSGF2QL4/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:38Z
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MESA, Ariz. – It’s the eve of the 653rd Regional Support Group’s Best Warrior Competition and Pvt. Jared Haggard awaits anxiously, ready to prove his mettle and worth as the top enlisted Soldier in the brigade.
Getting to this point wasn’t easy – Haggard went through the pain of losing his college scholarship and faced an uncertain future. Luckily, he was able to rebound and achieve one of his childhood dreams, becoming a Soldier.
Haggard, chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear specialist, 208th Transportation Company, 653rd RSG, recalled his upbringing in his native Mesa, where he excelled at high school football and attracted the attention of numerous colleges.
“I attended Dobson High School where I was a four-year varsity linebacker. I had Division One scholarship offers and I chose Arizona Christian University,” Haggard explained. “Then in my first month I had a pectoral tear and lost my scholarship.”
At the age of 19 Haggard found himself having to start from scratch again, his football aspirations dashed.
“It took me a year to recover from the injury … I was in a sling and doing a lot of physical training to get my conditioning back,” he said. “Then my grandfather in Kentucky died so I moved into his place and looked after it until his affairs were settled.”
Haggard lived in Kentucky for a year, working warehouse jobs and trying to get back on his feet performing physically demanding work. Eventually, Haggard moved back to Arizona where he knew he had to make a change.
“I had gotten married and had a daughter who been born breech. This caused hip dysplasia and she needed surgery,” Haggard said. “I knew this was the right time for me to join the Army to help with the surgery, and also because I’d dreamed of it since I was a kid.”
Haggard said both his grandfathers and several of his uncles had served, giving him an emphasis to continue the tradition.
“My body had recovered enough where I was physically able to enlist and put it through that kind of stress,” he said. “I decided with my wife to join the Army Reserve, so we didn’t have to uproot our entire lives.”
Haggard joined the Army through the Mesa Recruiting Station and left for Basic Combat Training at Fort Sill, Okla., in May of 2023, an experience he relished.
“I absolutely loved it … being able to display leadership qualities and seeing how the Army is run was enjoyable for me,” Haggard said. “It taught me how to do things the right way as a leader and lead by example.”
Haggard went on to complete his Advanced Individual Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and returned home to Mesa, where he continues his Army Reserve career and civilian job.
“Right now, I work for Anheuser Busch as a truck loader, but I'm certainly interested in going active duty and making the Army a career,” he added. “I want to get some leadership experience under my belt and become a noncommissioned officer.”
For Haggard it’s one step at a time, and hopefully he said he’ll win the Best Warrior Competition and add another notch to the early stages of his Army Reserve Career.
“I’m looking forward to trying to win the title and represent my unit proudly,” Haggard said. "Then it's on to the next step."
This work, Mesa native recovers from college setback to fulfill Army dream, by Alun Thomas, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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https://www.dvidshub.net/news/462867/mesa-native-recovers-college-setback-fulfill-army-dream
| 2024-01-31T23:03:41Z
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DeWine created the working group in August, after a school bus crash in Clark County's Lawrenceville, about 55 miles (88.51 kilometers) southwest of Columbus, left one child dead and 23 others injured.
“We know that buses are the safest way to transport children to school; that remains true,” he said Wednesday. “But when we have a tragedy like this, I think it's important for us to reexamine what we can do to make the trips that our kids are taking, and grandkids are taking, as safe as we can.”
The working group issued 17 recommendations. Sixteen related to bus driver recruitment and retention, training and education, school bus safety features, road and traffic safety, and emergency response.
Ohio Public Safety Director Andy Wilson said the group stopped short of recommending that the state mandate that all school buses have seat belts, instead leaving the decision to individual school districts.
“As a group — after hearing form the experts, hearing from our bus drivers, looking at the data or the lack of data from states that have mandated seat belts, and listening to the school districts who have tried pilot programs on their buses — we became convinced that the statewide mandate of seat belts on buses is not the most effective use of government resources to keep our kids safe,” he said.
Ohio Department of Education and Workforce Director Stephen Dackin said adding seat belts to a bus costs about $19,000. By contrast, the other twelve safety features the group recommended — including collision avoidance systems, electronic stability control, lighted crossover mirrors and fully illuminated stop arms at the front and rear — would cost about $13,000 per bus.
The final recommendation, involving commercial bus services, addressed a second Ohio bus crash that took place even as the task force was working. In that November accident, a charter bus of high school students was rear-ended by a semi truck on an Ohio highway, killing six and injuring 18.
To address private buses, the working group recommended that school districts adopt policies requiring “thorough evaluation of contracted commercial bus services.”
For public school bus drivers, the group recommended that the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce develop a uniform training curriculum, as well as a regional advanced training program, and that Ohio require six hours of training for drivers each year. The grant program DeWine has in mind would allow the state to offer the training to school districts at no cost, he said.
Other recommendations include improved access to professional development, wellness support and regular performance reviews for bus drivers, expanded engagement with parents and the public, school zone and bus route safety audits, and enhanced penalties for drivers of other vehicles who violate traffic laws in school zones or around school buses.
According to state data, between 2018 and 2023, the other driver was at fault in 68% of school bus crashes involving minor injuries, in 80% of crashes involving serious injuries; and in 75% of crashes involving fatalities.
DeWine said about 13,000 school buses are operating in Ohio at this time, but school districts typically don't replace them all at once, but perhaps at a pace of one or two a year. New buses run about $120,000, Dackin said.
Credit: AP
Credit: AP
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https://www.daytondailynews.com/news/ohio/deadly-school-bus-crash-in-ohio-yields-new-safety-features-and-training-but-no-seat-belt-mandate/4DNJIIPGKVA4VESBLHWLDNWTIY/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:41Z
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NPR's Ari Shapiro talks to Vivian McCall, reporter for The Stranger, about recent raids in Seattle's gay bars. Members of the city's LGBTQ-plus community are looking for answers.
Copyright 2024 NPR
NPR's Ari Shapiro talks to Vivian McCall, reporter for The Stranger, about recent raids in Seattle's gay bars. Members of the city's LGBTQ-plus community are looking for answers.
Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.aspenpublicradio.org/2024-01-31/seattles-queer-community-is-furious-after-gay-bars-were-raided-over-the-weekend
| 2024-01-31T23:03:41Z
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(MENAFN- PR Newswire) RENO, Nev.
, Jan. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In the face of a 25% reduction in renewals among real estate agents in the Reno/Tahoe region over the past year, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - Drakulich Realty (BHGRE - Drakulich Realty) proudly announces its expansion and partnership with Team Stevens, ranked the #6 teams in all of Nevada according to Grit Daily. This move not only bolsters the real estate market, but also provides employment opportunities, stability, and growth in a volatile industry.
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Lee Stevens joins Bryan Drakulich as a partner at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - Drakulich Realty.
BHGRE - Drakulich Realty's strategic partnership with Team Stevens, led by Lee Stevens, is a testament to their commitment to thriving in an environment where others are scaling back. Team Stevens, boasting 25 agents and a track record of selling over 256 homes in the past 12 months, brings a wealth of expertise and success to BHGRE - Drakulich Realty.
"Our decision to join forces with Drakulich Realty started over two years ago with a handwritten letter to Bryan about the transaction we did together. It was a masterclass in real estate, it was a smooth, solution-based deal, with sophisticated thinking, and started the beginning of our journey together," said Lee Stevens. "This partnership is driven by a desire to learn from the best. The collaboration promises to combine the strengths of both teams, creating a synergy that sets new standards in the real estate landscape."
As part of the celebration of this partnership, the teams hosted a Launch Party at Rancharrah on Tuesday, January 23rd. The event marked the union of BHGRE - Drakulich Realty and Team Stevens, and served as a testament to the resilience and growth potential within the industry that has been showing a decline. According to Real Estate News, this is the lowest number of resales since 1995.
"Team Stevens brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and excellence that we are thrilled to have joined us at BHGRE - Drakulich Realty," says Bryan Drakulich. "Lee has been ranked as one of the top agents in the state and his team shares our same commitment to excellent customer service. We're so excited to announce the positive news of this partnership to our teams and the community!"
BHGRE - Drakulich Realty stands out not just as a real estate company but as a lifestyle brand, distinguishing itself with a unique approach that goes beyond traditional real estate services. This innovative mindset is what sets BHG apart, making them the go-to choice for individuals seeking not just a home but a lifestyle. In a time when many are retreating, Better Homes and Gardens Drakulich Realty is stepping forward, embodying the spirit of growth, collaboration, and success. For more information on BHGRE - Drakulich Realty, visit
Media Contact: Dana Reynolds
Phone: 207-749-3653
Email: dana@musegroupmarketing. com
SOURCE Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - Drakulich Realty
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https://menafn.com/1107793806/Better-Homes-And-Gardens-Real-Estate-Drakulich-Realty-Defies-Industry-Trends-With-Growth-Amidst-Challenging-Times
| 2024-01-31T23:03:42Z
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Mayoral candidate says he won’t quit Connecticut race marred by ballot issues, despite primary loss
By SUSAN HAIGH and DAVE COLLINS
Associated Press
A challenger to the mayor of Connecticut’s largest city says he’s staying in Bridgeport’s protracted race for mayor. John Gomes announced Wednesday he’ll appear on next month’s general election ballot, despite losing a do-over Democratic primary ordered by a judge who threw out the results of the last one because of allegations of absentee ballot stuffing. Gomes is eligible to run in the special Feb. 27 general election as a minor party candidate. He’s come under pressure to bow out after incumbent Mayor Joe Ganim won last week’s primary. Ganim is criticizing Gomes for remaining in the race, saying it’s a hardship for voters.
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https://keyt.com/news/2024/01/31/challenger-to-mayor-of-connecticuts-largest-city-staying-in-race-as-independent-after-primary-loss/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:43Z
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Highlights of our 2023 results include:
Earned premiums grew 9% in 2023, reflecting growth in gross premium volume in recent periods. The higher combined ratio in 2023 compared to 2022 was primarily attributable to a higher attritional loss ratio. Operating income from Markel Ventures increased 35%, primarily driven by higher operating margins at our products businesses. Net investment income increased 64% in 2023 due to higher yields across our fixed maturity securities, short-term investments and cash equivalents and an increase in our allocation of cash to money market funds. Net investment gains in 2023 reflect an increase in the fair market value of our equity portfolio resulting from favorable market value movements.
We believe our financial performance is most meaningfully measured over longer periods of time, which tends to mitigate the effects of short-term volatility and also aligns with the long-term perspective we apply to operating our businesses and making investment decisions. We generally use five-year periods to measure our performance. Over the five-year period ended December
31, 2023, our share price increased at a compound annual rate of 6%.
The
compound annual growth in book value per common share over the five-year period ended December
31, 2023 was 11%. We give consideration to the following information when assessing this measure:
Amortization expense - As we grow through acquisitions, our intangible assets grow. GAAP requires that we amortize a portion of these acquired intangible assets, which is a non-cash charge to net income. Amortization of acquired intangible assets for the five-year period ended December 31, 2023 totaled $827.9 million. Unrealized gains and losses on fixed maturity securities - We invest in high credit quality, investment grade securities, with durations that are generally matched to the expected timing of claims-related payments. As such, unrealized gains and losses from our bond portfolio are generally expected to reverse as the securities mature. The fair value of our bond portfolio included cumulative pre-tax unrealized losses of $559.6 million as of December 31, 2023 compared to cumulative pre-tax unrealized gains of $92.4 million as of December 31, 2018. Value of our businesses - Book value does not include changes in the fair value of our acquired businesses or equity method investments, other than decreases arising from an impairment. Acquired businesses include our Markel Ventures, insurance-linked securities and program services businesses.
Insurance Results
Consolidated Underwriting Results
In 2023, underwriting results included $40.1 million of net losses and loss adjustment expenses attributed to the Hawaiian wildfires and Hurricane Idalia (2023 Catastrophes). In 2022, underwriting results included $81.9 million of net losses and loss adjustment expenses attributed to Hurricane Ian and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Excluding these losses, the increase in our consolidated combined ratio in 2023 compared to 2022 was primarily driven by a higher attritional loss ratio across both our underwriting segments.
Insurance Segment
Premiums
The increase in gross premium volume in our Insurance segment in 2023 was driven by more favorable rates and new business growth across many of our product lines, most notably within our personal lines and property product lines. The increase was partially offset by lower premium volume within select lines of our professional liability and general liability product lines, where we are adjusting our writings in response to changes in market conditions and downward pressure on rates. We continue to focus on rate adequacy, particularly within certain classes of our casualty and professional liability product lines, and will not write business that we believe will not meet our underwriting profit targets.
Net retention of gross premium volume was 81% in 2023 compared to 82% in 2022. The decrease was driven by higher cession rates on our personal lines product lines in 2023 compared to 2022. The increase in earned premiums in 2023 was primarily due to higher gross premium volume across most product lines in recent periods.
Combined
Ratio
The Insurance segment's current accident year losses and loss adjustment expenses in 2023 included $39.6 million of net losses and loss adjustment expenses attributed to the 2023 Catastrophes. Current accident year losses in 2022 included $69.2 million of net losses and loss adjustment expenses attributed to Hurricane Ian and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Excluding these losses, the increase in the current accident year loss ratio in 2023 compared to 2022 was primarily attributable to higher attritional loss ratios within our general liability and professional liability product lines in 2023 compared to 2022. Based on the adverse prior accident year loss development trends on these long-tail lines of business and the uncertainty around future loss cost trends, as discussed in further detail below, we increased our attritional loss ratios on certain product classes within our general liability and professional liability product lines in 2023. Consistent with our loss reserving philosophy and to increase the likelihood that the reserves established for our in-force portfolio will ultimately prove to be adequate, we are taking a more cautious approach in our reserving, resulting in higher attritional loss ratios on this business.
Additionally, we recognized losses on our intellectual property collateral protection insurance written within our professional liability product line in 2023 due to higher than anticipated levels of claims and loss experience. Losses on this product line included $65.0 million of credit losses recognized in connection with fraudulent letters of credit that were provided by an affiliate of Vesttoo Ltd. as collateral for reinsurance purchased on two policies, which we believe represents our full exposure to credit losses on the related reinsurance recoverables. We are actively pursuing remedies to make recoveries on the reinsurance recoverables impacted by the fraudulent letters of credit and do not have any other ceded reinsurance contracts with Vesttoo Ltd. or its affiliates.
The Insurance segment's 2023 combined ratio included $104.7 million of favorable development on prior accident years loss reserves, which was primarily attributable to favorable development on our property, marine and energy, professional liability, personal lines and workers' compensation product lines, partially offset by adverse development on our general liability product lines.
Net favorable development in 2023 was net of $330.7 million, or five points, of adverse development on prior accident years on the U.S.-based risks within our general liability and professional liability product lines in 2023. This adverse development was most substantial on our primary casualty contractors' liability and excess and umbrella general liability product lines. Our professional liability product lines experienced net favorable prior accident year development in 2023 with favorable development on our international business being partially offset by adverse development on business with U.S.-based risks. Beginning in the latter half of 2022, select lines within our U.S.-based general liability and professional liability portfolio have been impacted by consecutive quarters of increased frequency of large claims and unfavorable loss cost trends, resulting in consecutive periods of adverse development, primarily on the 2016 to 2019 accident years. The impact of economic and social inflation, including the rising cost to adjust and settle claims and the impact of more pervasive litigation financing trends, has contributed to the loss cost trends leading to these higher than anticipated losses in older accident years for these product lines over the past several quarters.
In response to consecutive quarters of adverse development, in the fourth quarter of 2023, we conducted an extensive reserve study on selected general liability and professional liability product lines, which resulted in further increases to our prior accident year loss reserves in the fourth quarter of 2023. A significant portion of our casualty portfolio is associated with construction business, which has grown meaningfully in recent years. Our study determined that the ultimate claim reporting tail on certain of our casualty construction lines are likely to be longer than we initially anticipated. Within our excess and umbrella general liability and risk-managed errors and omissions professional liability books, we determined that there was a greater than expected propensity for limits below our attachment point to erode, pushing more claims into our layers. Further, reporting of these claims has lagged historical loss development patterns due to the effect of court closures and claims backlogs arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to aggressive tactics by the plaintiffs' bar and delayed claims reporting trends. Although we have achieved significant rate increases since 2019 on many of these lines in response to heightened loss trends, the findings of our study led us to increase our loss development factors and therefore our estimate of the ultimate loss ratios on our primary casualty contractors' liability, excess and umbrella general liability and risk-managed errors and omissions professional liability product lines. This resulted in significant strengthening of reserves on the impacted lines, including on the 2020 to 2022 accident years, where we determined that the incurred loss trends are following a similar loss development trend at the same stage as older accident years. Consistent with our reserving philosophy to hold reserves that are more likely to be redundant than deficient, we increased reserves in areas where there were indications that our reserves may have been deficient, however, in instances where claims trends have been more favorable than we previously anticipated, we will wait to reduce loss reserves until those trends are observed over additional periods of time. For those lines in which we strengthened reserves, although we believe the gross and net reserves are adequate based on information available at this time, we continue to closely monitor reported claims, claim settlements, ceded reinsurance contract attachments and judicial decisions, among other things, and may adjust our estimates as new information becomes available.
The increase in the Insurance segment's expense ratio in 2023 was primarily due to higher personnel costs, professional fees and other general and administrative expenses, which were partially offset by the impact of higher earned premiums.
Reinsurance Segment
Premiums
The decrease in gross premium volume in our Reinsurance segment in 2023 was driven by significantly lower gross premiums within our professional liability product lines, primarily attributable to unfavorable premium adjustments in 2023 compared to favorable premium adjustments in 2022, largely driven by transaction liability business, due to lower volume of deal activity, and the deterioration in the pricing environment on directors and officers liability. Lower premium volume within professional liability also reflects decreases on renewals, due to decreased exposures and participation. The decrease in professional liability premium volume was partially offset by higher gross premiums within our marine and energy product lines due to increases on renewals, arising from increased exposures and more favorable rates, as well as new business.
Significant variability in gross premium volume can be expected in our Reinsurance segment due to individually significant contracts and multi-year contracts.
Net
retention of gross premium volume was 92% in 2023 compared to 95% in 2022. The decrease in net retention was driven by changes in mix of gross premium volume, as our professional liability business is fully retained and our marine and energy business carries a higher cession rate than the rest of the segment.
The decrease in earned premiums in 2023 was primarily due to less favorable premium adjustments in 2023 compared to 2022, primarily attributable to our professional liability and credit and surety product lines, and the non-renewal of a large treaty within our workers' compensation product line.
Combined Ratio
The increase in the Reinsurance segment's current accident year loss ratio in 2023 compared to 2022 was primarily due to less favorable premium adjustments on prior accident years in 2023 compared to 2022,
primarily on our professional liability and credit and surety product lines.
The Reinsurance segment's 2023 combined ratio included $57.1 million of adverse development on prior accident years loss reserves, which was driven by $95.5 million, or nine points, of adverse development on our general liability product lines and $53.7 million, or five points, of adverse development on our public entity product line. These increases in prior accident year reserves in 2023 were partially offset by favorable development across several product lines, including our property and workers' compensation product lines.
Adverse development on our general liability product lines was primarily attributable to large reported loss claims and adverse loss development trends across multiple accident years. Substantially all of the adverse development on our public entity product line was attributable to a segment of this business that we discontinued writing in 2020, which experienced an increased frequency of large claims over the past several quarters, most significantly on the 2014 to 2019 accident years.
Adverse development on both our general liability and public entity product lines included notable strengthening as a result of actions taken in the fourth quarter in response to changes in loss trends observed in the reserve study previously discussed under "Insurance Segment" and the expectation that those loss trends will ultimately emerge within
comparable reinsurance product lines.
Program Services, Insurance-linked Securities and Other Insurance
Program Services and Other Fronting
The increase in operating revenues in 2023 was due to modest increases at both our program services business and other fronting operations as a result of higher gross premium volume in 2023 compared to 2022.
The increase in gross premium volume within our program services operations in 2023 was attributable to expansion of existing programs and growth from new programs. The increase in gross premium volume in our other fronting operating in 2023 was driven by expansion of our property catastrophe programs with Nephila Reinsurers and achieving more favorable rates on this business, as well as growth from a new specialty program with Nephila Reinsurers.
In June 2023, we sold Independent Specialty Insurance Company, a subsidiary within our program services operations, which resulted in a gain of $16.9 million.
Insurance-Linked Securities
The decrease in operating revenues and operating expenses in our Nephila insurance-linked securities operations in 2023 was primarily due to the disposition of our Velocity managing general agent operations in February 2022, which resulted in a gain of $107.3
million, and our Volante managing general agent operations in October 2022, which resulted in a gain of $118.5
million. Following these sales, our Nephila ILS operations are solely comprised of our fund management operations. In 2023, the increase in operating revenues within our fund management operations was primarily due to $31.1 million of management fees recognized upon the release of capital from side pocket reserves. Nephila's net assets under management were $6.8 billion as of December
31, 2023.
Markel CATCo Buy-Out
In March 2022, we completed a buy-out transaction with Markel CATCo Re Ltd. and Markel CATCo Reinsurance Fund Ltd. that resulted in the consolidation of Markel CATCo Re Ltd. In order to complete the transaction, we made $101.9
million in payments, net of insurance proceeds, to or for the benefit of investors that were recognized as an expense during the first quarter of 2022.
Investing
Results
The following table summarizes our consolidated investment performance, which consists predominantly of the results of our Investing segment. Net investment gains or losses in any given period are typically attributable to changes in the fair value of our equity portfolio due to market value movements. The change in net unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale investments in any given period is typically attributable to changes in the fair value of our fixed maturity portfolio due to changes in interest rates during the period.
The increase in net investment income in 2023 was primarily attributable to higher interest income on cash equivalents, fixed maturity securities and short-term investments due to higher yields during 2023 compared to 2022. Throughout 2023, we increased our allocation of cash to money market funds in response to increases in short-term interest rates. Additionally, interest income on our fixed maturity securities increased in part due to higher average holdings of fixed maturity securities in 2023 compared to 2022. During 2023, we continued to increase our allocation of cash and short-term investments to fixed maturity securities in response to increasing interest rates and to support our growing underwriting business.
As of December
31, 2023, 97% of our fixed maturity portfolio was rated "AA" or better.
Markel Ventures Results
The increase in operating revenues in 2023 was driven by higher revenues at our construction services businesses and transportation-related businesses, due to a combination of increased demand, higher prices, and growth, as well as increased production at one of our equipment manufacturing businesses compared to 2022. The increase also reflected a full-year contribution from Metromont, compared to an 11-month contribution in 2022 following its acquisition. These increases in operating revenues were partially offset by the impact of decreased demand at our consumer and building products businesses, consulting services businesses and one of our construction services businesses.
The increases in operating income, EBITDA and net income to shareholders in 2023 were driven by our products businesses, particularly our consumer and building products businesses, which had higher margins in 2023 compared to 2022. In 2022, the operating margins at many of our products businesses were impacted by increased costs of materials, freight and labor, which reflected the impact of broader economic conditions. As conditions stabilized throughout 2023, particularly in regard to materials and freight costs, our operating margins for those businesses improved. The increases in operating income, EBITDA and net income to shareholders at many of our businesses were partially offset by the impact of lower revenues and operating margins at one of our construction services businesses due to decreased demand.
Financial
Condition
Investments, cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and cash equivalents (invested assets) were $30.9
billion at December
31, 2023 compared to $27.4
billion at December
31, 2022. The increase was primarily attributable to operating cash flows, as well as an increase in the fair value of our equity portfolio. Net cash provided by operating activities was $2.8 billion in 2023 compared to $2.7 billion in 2022, reflecting an increase in operating cash flows from Markel Ventures and investments, partially offset by a decrease in operating cash flows from our insurance operations.
At December
31, 2023, our holding company held $3.5
billion of invested assets compared to $3.7
billion of invested assets at December
31, 2022. The decrease was primarily due to repurchases of $445.5 million of our common stock and the retirement of our 3.625% unsecured senior notes due March 30, 2023, partially offset by dividends received from our insurance subsidiaries and an increase in the fair value of equity securities held by our holding company.
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Our
previously announced conference call, which will involve discussion of our financial results and business developments and may include forward-looking information, will be held Thursday, February 1, 2024, beginning at 9:30 a.m. (Eastern Time). Investors, analysts and the general public may listen to the call via live webcast at href="" rel="nofollow" mklgrou . The call may be accessed telephonically by dialing (888) 660-9916 in the U.S., or (646) 960-0452 internationally, and providing Conference ID: 4614568. Any person needing additional information can contact Markel Group's Investor Relations Department at [email protected] . A replay of the call will be available on our website approximately one hour after the conclusion of the call.
Additionally, we will be discussing financial results and related business and investments updates at our shareholders meeting on May 22, 2024 at the University of Richmond Robins Center at 2:00 p.m. (Eastern Time). The shareholders meeting will be part of a two-day event we are calling the 2024 Reunion, which is open to shareholders, employees, and friends of Markel Group. More information on the agenda and registration for the 2024 Reunion is available at mklreunion .
Safe Harbor and Cautionary Statement
This release contains statements concerning or incorporating our expectations, assumptions, plans, objectives, future financial or operating performance and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may use words such as "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "predict," "project" and similar expressions as they relate to us or our management.
There are risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from predicted results in forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ are often presented with the forward-looking statements themselves. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ from those predicted are set forth under "Business," "Risk Factors," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk" in our 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K, or our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, or are included in the items listed below:
the effect of cyclical trends or changes in market conditions on our underwriting, investing, Markel Ventures and other operations, including demand and pricing in the insurance, reinsurance and other markets in which we operate; actions by competitors, including the use of technology and innovation to simplify the customer experience, increase efficiencies, redesign products, alter models and effect other potentially disruptive changes in the insurance industry, and the effect of competition on market trends and pricing; our efforts to develop new products, expand in targeted markets or improve business processes and workflows may not be successful and may increase or create new risks (e.g., insufficient demand, change to risk exposures, distribution channel conflicts, execution risk, regulatory risk, increased expenditures); the frequency and severity of man-made, health-related and natural catastrophes may exceed expectations, are unpredictable and, in the case of some natural catastrophes, may be exacerbated by changing conditions in the climate, oceans and atmosphere, resulting in increased frequency and/or severity of extreme weather-related events; we offer insurance and reinsurance coverage against terrorist acts in connection with some of our programs, and in other instances we are legally required to offer terrorism insurance; in both circumstances, we actively manage our exposure, but if there is a covered terrorist attack, we could sustain material losses; emerging claim and coverage issues, changing industry practices and evolving legal, judicial, social and other claims and coverage trends or conditions, can increase the scope of coverage, the frequency and severity of claims and the period over which claims may be reported; these factors, as well as uncertainties in the loss estimation process, can adversely impact the adequacy of our loss reserves and our allowance for reinsurance recoverables; reinsurance reserves are subject to greater uncertainty than insurance reserves, primarily because of reliance upon the original underwriting decisions made by ceding companies and the longer lapse of time from the occurrence of loss events to their reporting to the reinsurer for ultimate resolution; inaccuracies (whether due to data error, human error or otherwise) in the various modeling techniques and data analytics (e.g., scenarios, predictive and stochastic modeling, and forecasting) we use to analyze and estimate exposures, loss trends and other risks associated with our insurance and insurance-linked securities businesses could cause us to misprice our products or fail to appropriately estimate the risks to which we are exposed; changes in the assumptions and estimates used in establishing reserves for our life and annuity reinsurance book (which is in runoff), for example, changes in assumptions and estimates of mortality, longevity, morbidity and interest rates, could result in material changes in our estimated loss reserves for that business; adverse developments in insurance coverage litigation or other legal or administrative proceedings could result in material increases in our estimates of loss reserves; initial estimates for catastrophe losses and other significant, infrequent events are often based on limited information, are dependent on broad assumptions about the nature and extent of losses, coverage, liability and reinsurance, and those losses may ultimately differ materially from our expectations; changes in the availability, costs, quality and providers of reinsurance coverage, which may impact our ability to write or continue to write certain lines of business or to mitigate the volatility of losses on our results of operations and financial condition; the ability or willingness of reinsurers to pay balances due may be adversely affected by industry and economic conditions, deterioration in reinsurer credit quality and coverage disputes, and collateral we hold, if any, may not be sufficient to cover a reinsurer's obligation to us; after the commutation of ceded reinsurance contracts, any subsequent adverse development in the re-assumed loss reserves will result in a charge to earnings; regulatory actions can impede our ability to charge adequate rates and efficiently allocate capital; general economic and market conditions and industry specific conditions, including extended economic recessions or expansions; prolonged periods of slow economic growth; inflation or deflation; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, commodity and energy prices and interest rates; volatility in the credit and capital markets; and other factors; economic conditions, actual or potential defaults in corporate bonds, municipal bonds, mortgage-backed securities or sovereign debt obligations, volatility in interest and foreign currency exchange rates, changes in U.S. government debt ratings and changes in market value of concentrated investments can have a significant impact on the fair value of our fixed maturity securities and equity securities, as well as the carrying value of our other assets and liabilities, and this impact may be heightened by market volatility and our ability to mitigate our sensitivity to these changing conditions; economic conditions may adversely affect our access to capital and credit markets; the effects of government intervention, including material changes in the monetary policies of central banks, to address financial downturns, inflation and other economic and currency concerns; the impacts that political and civil unrest and regional conflicts may have on our businesses and the markets they serve or that any disruptions in regional or worldwide economic conditions generally arising from these situations may have on our businesses, industries or investments; the impacts of liability, transaction and physical risks associated with climate change; the significant volatility, uncertainty and disruption caused by health epidemics and pandemics, as well as governmental, legislative, judicial or regulatory actions or developments in response thereto; changes in U.S. tax laws, regulations or interpretations, or in the tax laws, regulations or interpretations of other jurisdictions in which we operate, and adjustments we may make in our operations or tax strategies in response to those changes; a failure or security breach of, or cyberattack on, enterprise information technology systems that we, or third parties who perform certain functions for us, use or a failure to comply with data protection or privacy regulations; third-party providers may perform poorly, breach their obligations to us or expose us to enhanced risks; our acquisitions may increase our operational and internal control risks for a period of time; we may not realize the contemplated benefits, including cost savings and synergies, of our acquisitions; any determination requiring the write-off of a significant portion of our goodwill and intangible assets; the failure or inadequacy of any methods we employ to manage our loss exposures; the loss of services of any senior executive or other key personnel, or an inability to attract and retain qualified personnel, for our businesses could adversely impact one or more of our operations; the manner in which we manage our global operations through a network of business entities could result in inconsistent management, governance and oversight practices and make it difficult for us to implement strategic decisions and coordinate procedures; our substantial international operations and investments expose us to increased political, civil, operational and economic risks, including foreign currency exchange rate and credit risk; our ability to obtain additional capital for our operations on terms favorable to us; the compliance, or failure to comply, with covenants and other requirements under our credit facilities, senior debt and other indebtedness and our preferred shares; our ability to maintain or raise third-party capital for existing or new investment vehicles and risks related to our management of third-party capital; the effectiveness of our procedures for compliance with existing and future guidelines, policies and legal and regulatory standards, rules, laws and regulations; the impact of economic and trade sanctions and embargo programs on our businesses, including instances in which the requirements and limitations applicable to the global operations of U.S. companies and their affiliates are more restrictive than, or conflict with, those applicable to non-U.S. companies and their affiliates; regulatory changes, or challenges by regulators, regarding the use of certain issuing carrier or fronting arrangements; our dependence on a limited number of brokers for a large portion of our revenues and third-party capital; adverse changes in our assigned financial strength, debt or preferred share ratings or outlook could adversely impact us, including our ability to attract and retain business, the amount of capital our insurance subsidiaries must hold and the availability and cost of capital; changes in the amount of statutory capital our insurance subsidiaries are required to hold, which can vary significantly and is based on many factors, some of which are outside our control; losses from litigation and regulatory investigations and actions; and a number of additional factors may adversely affect our Markel Ventures operations, and the markets they serve, and negatively impact their revenues and profitability, including, among others: adverse weather conditions, plant disease and other contaminants; changes in government support for education, healthcare and infrastructure projects; changes in capital spending levels; changes in the housing, commercial and industrial construction markets; liability for environmental matters; supply chain and shipping issues, including increases in freight costs; volatility in the market prices for their products; and volatility in commodity, wholesale and raw materials prices and interest and foreign currency exchange rates.
Results from our underwriting, investing, Markel Ventures and other operations have been and will continue to be potentially materially affected by these factors.
By making forward-looking statements, we do not intend to become obligated to publicly update or revise any such statements whether as a result of new information, future events or other changes. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are based on our current knowledge and speak only as at their dates.
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About Markel Group
Markel
Group Inc. is a diverse family of companies that includes everything from insurance to bakery equipment, building supplies, houseplants, and more. The leadership teams of these businesses operate with a high degree of independence, while at the same time living the values that we call the Markel Style. Our specialty insurance business sits at the core of our company. Through decades of sound underwriting, the insurance team has provided the capital base from which we built a system of businesses and investments that collectively increase Markel Group's durability and adaptability. It's a system that provides diverse income streams, access to a wide range of investment opportunities, and the ability to efficiently move capital to the best ideas across the company. Most importantly though, this system enables each of our businesses to advance our shared goal of helping our customers, associates, and shareholders win over the long term. Visit mklgroup to learn more.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Underwriting
In addition to the U.S. GAAP combined ratio, loss ratio and expense ratio, we also evaluate our underwriting performance using measures that exclude the impacts of certain items on these ratios. We believe these adjusted measures, which are non-GAAP measures, provide financial statement users with a better understanding of the significant factors that comprise our underwriting results and how management evaluates underwriting performance.
When analyzing our combined ratio, we exclude current accident year losses and loss adjustment expenses attributed to natural catastrophes and certain other significant, infrequent loss events, for example, the on-going military conflict between Russia and Ukraine that began following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Due to the unique characteristics of a catastrophe loss and other significant, infrequent events, there is inherent variability as to the timing or loss amount, which cannot be predicted in advance. We believe measures that exclude the effects of such events are meaningful to understand the underlying trends and variability in our underwriting results that may be obscured by these items.
When analyzing our loss ratio, we evaluate losses and loss adjustment expenses attributable to the current accident year separate from losses and loss adjustment expenses attributable to prior accident years. Prior accident year reserve development, which can either be favorable or unfavorable, represents changes in our estimates of losses and loss adjustment expenses related to loss events that occurred in prior years. We believe a discussion of current accident year loss ratios, which exclude prior accident year reserve development, is helpful since it provides more insight into estimates of current underwriting performance and excludes changes in estimates related to prior year loss reserves. We also analyze our current accident year loss ratio excluding losses and loss adjustment expenses attributable to catastrophes and, in 2022, the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The current accident year loss ratio excluding the impact of catastrophes and other significant, infrequent loss events is also commonly referred to as an attritional loss ratio within the property and casualty insurance industry.
The components of our consolidated and segment combined ratios, including the non-GAAP measures discussed above, are included in "Insurance Results".
Markel Ventures
Markel Ventures EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. We use Markel Ventures EBITDA as an operating performance measure in conjunction with U.S. GAAP measures, including operating income and net income to shareholders, to monitor and evaluate the performance of our Markel Ventures segment. Because EBITDA excludes interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, it provides an indicator of economic performance that is useful to both management and investors in evaluating our Markel Ventures businesses as it is not affected by levels of debt, interest rates, effective tax rates or levels of depreciation or amortization resulting from purchase accounting. The following table reconciles Markel Ventures operating income to Markel Ventures EBITDA.
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https://menafn.com/1107793807/Markel-Group-Reports-2023-Financial-Results
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Tottenham returned to winning ways on Wednesday evening with an entertaining 3-2 win over Brentford at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. As a result of their latest victory, Spurs have moved ahead of Aston Villa and into fourth place in the Premier League table.
Starting the game well and taking the game to the visitors, it was the west London club who opened the scoring as Neal Maupay bundled the ball home on 15 minutes. Having seen Richarlison go extremely close to a Tottenham equaliser with his curling effort just going wide of the target, Brentford had opportunities to extend their lead through Ethan Pinnock and Ivan Toney.
Ange Postecoglou's team talk at half-time did the trick, though, with Spurs scoring three goals in the space of 11 minutes. Equalising through Destiny Udogie and then going ahead through substitute Brennan Johnson, Richarlison extended his good record in front of goal with another as the Lilywhites gave themselves a two-goal cushion.
That wasn't to be it for the scoring as Toney capitalised on Udogie's mistake to set up a tense finale. However, Tottenham managed to hang on and see out the game to move into the top four.
Here are five things football.london spotted in the game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
READ MORE: Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou admits exchanging messages and calls with Fabio Paratici
READ MORE: Postecoglou discusses Hojbjerg and Gil future and explains how Tottenham can challenge at top
Johnson's breather works to perfection
Following Friday's defeat at the hands of Man City in the FA Cup, Postecoglou always looked set to switch things about in regards to his Tottenham XI with two games on the calendar this week. The most notable change saw James Maddison come into the starting XI in place of Johnson after recovering from the ankle injury that had left him on the sidelines since the start of November.
The head coach's other alteration saw Oliver Skipp replace Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg in the middle of the park. Making just the two switches, it meant Radu Dragusin once again took his place on the bench for the third successive game.
Potentially a good game for him to be handed his first Tottenham start at a time when the calendar is busy and the recent returns to fitness of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven, the January signing unfortunately missed out but he was called upon from the bench in the final few minutes. Radusin was joined on the sidelines at the start of the match by Johnson, who was handed a much-needed breather after barely getting a rest of late due to the list of absent players.
The Wales international's breather would only last 45 minutes, however, as he was introduced at the break with Tottenham far from their best against the Bees. Struggling to find his best form since his switch from Nottingham Forest, the brief rest appeared to do the trick as the youngster was on hand to give Spurs the lead after converting at the back post from Timo Werner's cross.
There was only one way to celebrate for the winger as he replicated Maddison's darts celebration that Maupay had done in the first half, with the duo having a little confrontation about it after the Frenchman had scored. Maddison himself joined in as he and the goalscorer imitated the Brentford forward and shared a joke together.
Richarlison, who could be seen pointing towards Maupay after Johnson had netted, then did exactly the same after his strike as the Spurs players had the last laugh. It was a very promising shift from Johnson and hopefully more is to come from him over the next few months.
New partnership
Tottenham fans have had to wait some time to get their first glimpse of Maddison and Rodrigo Bentancur in action together. Denied the possibility of the pair linking up in midfield at the beginning of the campaign due to the latter's recovery from his long-term ACL injury, the former was then consigned to the sidelines on the day Bentancur made his Tottenham Hotspur Stadium homecoming.
In Maddison's first appearance on home soil last Friday since sustaining his injury in the heavy defeat to Chelsea, the Uruguayan made way at the same time as the summer signing from Leicester City was introduced. Appearing to have struck up a solid understanding on the training pitch at Hotspur Way following footage from the club that was published in late October, Tottenham fans, and Postecoglou for that matter, have had to wait until the team's 25th game of the season for the pair to finally link up together in a Spurs shirt.
Both players teamed up well inside the first minute as Timo Werner was set free down the left only for the flag to go up, with the trio then involved again on 20 minutes as the German's tame shot was pushed wide for a corner. The partnership would only last 45 minutes, though, as Bentancur was replaced at the break by Hojbjerg.
Tottenham fans will have to wait a bit longer to see more of the players together.
Open Tottenham
Starting the game with intent and playing some lovely football to open Brentford up, the visitors were the team to go ahead after Maupay opened the scoring on 15 minutes. It was all too easy from a Tottenham perspective as the Bees ran through on goal with ease after Udogie lost the ball on the halfway line and Maupay managed to bundle it home.
The goal perhaps wasn't that much of a shock as Brentford had opened Tottenham up with ease on two occasions moments earlier. Firstly seeing Skipp get back in time to take the ball off Maupay after Keane Lewis-Potter had burst through and pulled it back to the Frenchman, the west London club then had the ball in the net from Mads Roerslev.
Again, Thomas Frank's men had all the time and space they wanted as Mathias Jensen was played through and he in turn passed the ball to his teammate to arrow the ball into the bottom corner. Tottenham got away with one on that occasion as the midfielder was adjudged to be offside, with the VAR footage showing there was very little in it.
Despite recovering from that early setback and managing to get themselves ahead, Spurs gifted Brentford a glorious opening to get back into the game as Udogie played a blind pass back to Vicario and it fell perfectly for Toney to take a touch and convert. Not good enough defensively on the night with Tottenham giving the visitors a host of chances, Postecoglou will be making sure there is no repeat at Everton on Saturday.
Ange's team talk works
Poor in the first half and handing Brentford a number of chances to extend their lead, Postecoglou's half-time team talk was always going to be vitally important if Tottenham were to come away from the game with all three points. Well, it's fair to say it worked to perfection with his team scoring three goals in 11 minutes after the restart.
Restoring parity in the 48th minute through Udogie, one minute later and the Lilywhites were ahead after Werner had put the ball on a plate for Johnson at the far post. It was to get even better in the 56th minute as Richarlison was on hand to finish from close range after the ball had fallen kindly to him.
Tottenham then had the chance to make it four as Dejan Kulusevski, who had moved back to play in midfield following the half-time changes, opted against shooting on his right foot in such a promising position in the area and Pedro Porro ended up blazing over seconds later. Postecoglou was not best pleased about the Swede passing up that opportunity on his weaker foot and he could be seen swinging his arms about in his technical area.
A number of players who have played under Postecoglou have spoken about the messages he gives to the team and how he has them ready to battle, with his half-time team talk on Wednesday against Brentford clearly another example of how powerful his words are.
Donley plays his part
Tottenham youngster Jamie Donley was to get a bit more game time under his belt for the Lilywhites as he came on for the closing minutes of the Brentford showdown. Introduced in place of Werner in stoppage time, the academy ace was involved on a couple of occasions despite coming on with minutes remaining.
Donley took one for the team in his own half after hauling Maupay to the ground just as the former Brighton & Hove Albion man looked to get past him and start a Brentford attack at a time when they were chasing an equaliser. The versatile attacker was given a booking for his actions but it was something he had to do in order to help Tottenham get over the line.
Moments later the 19-year-old looked to be close to losing possession on the edge of his own box but he managed to draw a foul from Mikkel Damsgaard so Tottenham could eat up a bit more of the limited time remaining. Romero was very pleased with the play from the starlet and could be seen applauding the player before going over to embrace him.
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https://www.football.london/tottenham-hotspur-fc/fixtures-results/johnson-maddison-mock-maupay-angry-28547112
| 2024-01-31T23:03:44Z
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LOUISVILLE, Ky.— Rolling Fork is kicking off 2024 with the release of its newest small-batch rum, “Heart of Gold.” This blend of four lightly aged rums from Barbados and Jamaica was crafted with cocktails in mind, given its flavor profile, versatile alcohol-by-volume of 50.5% and appealing SRP of $39.99.
“It’s been a while since we released a spirit with cocktail in mind,” said Rolling Fork Co-founder Turner Wathen. “For the last few years, we’ve been focused on sourcing, aging and releasing super-premium, aged, cask-strength rums that are primarily crafted for sipping neat or on a rock. The time was right for us to introduce a rum with more universal appeal – a rum that will make a great Rum Sour, Daiquiri or Gold Rush.”
Rolling Fork, known for innovation and experimentation, approached the creation of Heart of Gold Rum with great precision. One cask of three-to-four year-old, pot- and column-distilled rum from Barbados was selected, along with three Jamaica rums (two pot-still rums, one column-distilled rum) ranging in age from one to four years for blending. Each rum was chosen based on what it brings to the final blend, in terms of aromas and flavors. Each of the rums underwent secondary aging in one of Rolling Fork’s hand-selected bourbon casks. The final blend was proofed to 101-proof to make sure the rum doesn’t overpower in cocktails.
“We think bartenders and consumers are going to love having a new option for rum-based cocktails,” says Rolling Fork Co-founder Jordan Morris. “Heart of Gold has a great balance of citrus and berry fruits and subtle vanilla with a finish of mild baking spice and tasty brown sugar. This is a well-rounded cocktail rum that can hold its own with mixers and create high-quality cocktails at a reasonable price.”
Heart of Gold is available now for wholesale purchase in all Rolling Fork markets.
About Rolling Fork
Rolling Fork Spirits was founded by Turner Wathen and Jordan Morris in 2017 as independent blenders and bottlers of rum. Rolling Fork Spirits offers unique expressions of rums without additives. Located at Starlight Distillery in Borden, Indiana, Rolling Fork uses hand-selected, casks (bourbon, rye, port, cognac and more) and rick house aging to develop unique flavor profiles in the region synonymous with American whiskey. The Rolling Fork portfolio includes Heart of Gold Small Batch Rum, the Lost Cask Collection and Rolling Fork Series. SRPs range from $35 to $299 per 750ml bottle.
Rolling Fork has been recognized in the most prestigious spirits competitions in the U.S., being named “Independent Bottler of the Year” in the 2023 ASCOT Awards, in which they also won Best Rum for their 9-Year Barbados Rum and received a Double Platinum medal. Rolling Fork Lost Cask 17-Year Barbados Rum was named Rum of the Year in the 2023 New Orleans Spirits Competition at Tales of the Cocktail. All Rolling Fork spirits adhere to the motto: No finer spirits can be made.
For More Information:
https://rollingforkrum.com
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https://www.bevnet.com/spirits/2024/rolling-fork-launches-heart-of-gold-small-batch-rum/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:45Z
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Ga. gang member accused of using machine gun to open fire on FBI agents sentenced to 20 years
A Columbus, Ga. man who fired at federal agents was sentenced to more than 20 years in prison, according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Justice.
Federal officials said that Joshuia Johnathon Luke Brown aka “Black” was convicted on Sept. 18, 2023 of a variety of charges, including conspiracy with intent to distribute controlled substances and forcibly assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon.
According to what was presented in court, Brown and co-defendant Jarvis Smith were under federal surveillance in July 2022 as part of an investigating into armed drug trafficking in the Columbus community.
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While under surveillance, agents saw Brown and Smith involved in a drug transaction on Winston Road. When Smith got out of his car, an agent conducted what USDOJ called mobile surveillance before he stopped a few streets away.
Then, officials said Smith and Brown got out of the car and pointed their weapons at the agent, firing multiple rounds at the car.
USDOJ said bullets hit the passenger door, roof and rear bumper of the FBI vehicle, with one round going through the back of the agent’s passenger seat and another entering a private residence, going through a window and “shattering a painting on the wall.”
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“FBI and Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office units attempted to stop Smith’s car; Smith and Brown were able to elude law enforcement in a lengthy pursuit by car and on foot. Smith was taken into custody on July 28. After a manhunt that last several days, Brown turned himself in on Aug. 10,” according to USDOJ.
Brown was described by justice officials as a member of a “hybrid criminal street gang” in Columbus called US World, that they say “is affiliated with other national criminal gangs.” Separately, Smith was said to be “a confirmed member of the Bloods criminal street gang.”
“Joshuia Brown used a machine gun to spray a hail of bullets at law enforcement in the middle of the day in a residential neighborhood, striking an FBI agent’s car as well as a nearby private residence,” U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary said. “Brown will now have more than 26 years in federal prison to consider his utter disregard for human life.”
While Smith pled guilty to charges of forcible assault on a federal officer, possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking crime and possessing a firearm by a prohibited person on Aug. 9, 2023, he has not been sentenced yet, according to USDOJ.
Brown was sentenced to serve more than 26 years in prison, USDOJ reported on Tuesday. Smith will have a sentencing hearing on Feb. 20, and neither man is eligible for parole.
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IN OTHER NEWS:
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https://news.yahoo.com/ga-gang-member-accused-using-220527620.html
| 2024-01-31T23:03:44Z
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- Following this transaction, Keith Markley will become CEO of DDC Cabinet Technology, effective February 5
- DH Capital was financial advisor to DDC on the deal
- Based in St. Louis, Missouri, TSCP invests in the middle market
Thompson Street Capital Partners and Cequel III have acquired a controlling stake in DDC Capital Technology, a San Diego-based provider of data center cabinet and cooling solutions.
Co-founders Chris Orlando and Mark Ortenzi, who launched the DDC Cabinet business in 2011, will continue as minority investors.
“The market for providing cooling infrastructure to high power density, AI-based computing environments is experiencing explosive growth, and DDC’s proprietary solution is well positioned to be a dominant technology provider within the category,” said Tom St. Geme, director at TSCP in a statement. “This is an exciting time to be part of DDC’s continued plans for expansion.”
Following this transaction, Keith Markley will become CEO of DDC Cabinet Technology, effective February 5.
Hogan Lovells US LLP acted as legal advisor to Cequel III and Kirkland & Ellis LLP as legal advisor to Thompson Street. VLP Law Group LLP acted as legal advisor and DH Capital, a division of Citizens JMP Securities, LLC as financial advisor to DDC.
Based in St. Louis, Missouri, TSCP invests in the middle market.
Cequel III targets lower-mid-market companies.
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https://www.pehub.com/tscp-and-cequel-iii-invest-in-ddc-capital-technology/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:45Z
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NPR's Ari Shapiro speaks with constitutional scholar Philip Bobbitt about the effort from House Republicans to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.
Copyright 2024 NPR
NPR's Ari Shapiro speaks with constitutional scholar Philip Bobbitt about the effort from House Republicans to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.
Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.wvxu.org/2024-01-31/constitutional-scholar-says-gop-charges-against-mayorkas-dont-meet-impeachment-bar
| 2024-01-31T23:03:46Z
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SOWETAN | DA leader’s comments offensive
Our politicians should never be allowed to get away with making reckless and insensitive statements laced with racial undertones.
One such politician that we must take to task is DA leader John Steenhuisen for his unacceptable behaviour at the weekend when he ridiculed people’s circumstances for cheap politicking.
Addressing his party’s so-called crime awareness rally outside Soshanguve police station on Saturday, Steenhuisen took aim at the ill-advised Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi’s crime wardens programme by disturbingly targeting its beneficiaries.
Not only did heSteenhuisen target the jobless, unemployed, mostly black youth from townships in Gauteng, who took part in the programme by disparagingly mocking their circumstances, he also relied on stereotypes to further denigrate them.
“What did Panyaza Lesufi do? He took your tax money to buy ill-fitting PEP stores uniforms for untrained cadres and pretended that they were crime wardens. What kind of person pulls a drunkard out of a shebeen, gives him a uniform and a weapon and then unleashes them onto a community,” Steenhuisen was quoted as saying.
His insensitive and highly offensive comments were posted on his party’s official X [formerly Twitter] account where he has been deservingly receiving a backlash. At the time of writing this editorial, neither Steenhuisen nor his party had apologised for his stupid remarks.
They can therefore be understood first to reflect Steenhuisen’s attitude and the posture of his party towards those who are trapped in poverty and are forced by their economic circumstances to buy uniforms at PEP stores.
This was also perhaps underscored by the cheering he received from those in attendance when he launched such an unwarranted assault on the poor.
Second, the comments have exposed how Steenhuisen is far removed from the reality of most South Africans, who are black, and rely on shebeens he so despises to survive.
Also, problematic and dangerous is Steenhuisen’s generalisation that assumes every unemployed person, especially from a township, is a drunkard. Steenhuisen’s comments are deplorable, more so coming at a time when parties are trying to win over voters the political temperature is high in the run-up to the elections.
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https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/opinion/columnists/2024-01-29-sowetan-da-leaders-comments-offensive/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:44Z
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Dear Doc Jargon,
My wife’s unit is deploying soon and said she was just glad they were going somewhere other than back into the moon dust. I know she meant she was glad not to be going to the Middle East. I’m familiar with that region being referred to as the sand box, but I have no idea what she meant when she said moon dust.
Signed,
Moon Gazer
Dear Moon Gazer,
You are right, the region that includes Iraq and Afghanistan is often referred to as the sandbox; however, the sand has a quality that is powdery and flour-like in consistency. Because of the fine, silty, sticky and abrasive feel, it was dubbed moon dust after the description of the dust on the lunar surface as was discovered during the Apollo 11 mission in 1961.
The real moon dust was so abrasive it is said to have worn away seals on sample containers and to have eaten away at layers of the boots of the astronauts who made the historic first steps on it’s surface. The dust on the moon is also electrostatically charged and sticks to everything it touches. Though not electrostatically charged, the dust found in the Middle East also has a tendency to stick to everything and turn it all a dusty red color.
I hope that helps you understand the term and its application.
Sincerely,
Doc Jargon
This work, Doc Jargon explains moon dust, by Collen McGee, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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https://www.dvidshub.net/news/462868/doc-jargon-explains-moon-dust
| 2024-01-31T23:03:47Z
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EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — For the first time in her 65-year history, Barbie will be decked out in the colors of this year’s Super Bowl champion.
Ahead of the Feb. 11 game between the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers, Mattel Creations announced its first Super Bowl Champion doll, which will be decked out in the colors of the winning team.
According to a news release, the world’s most famous doll will be one of three items offered after the big game. There will also be a Fisher-Price Little People Collector and a UNO Fandom deck available for purchase.
Toy manufacturer Mattel is returning to what it says was a winning game plan last year, and adding some new plays, in a bid to sell collectible toys tied to this year’s Super Bowl. https://t.co/j79io1DTML
— Forbes (@Forbes) January 30, 2024
The toys can be pre-ordered, but they will only be issued in the uniform jersey and hat of the winning team, USA Today reported. The Barbie doll will have a $30 price tag, and so will the Little People collectible. The UNO Fandom deck will be sold for $12.
The Little People figurines will feature three players from the winning team, plus a “super fan,” Mattel said in its release.
The Fandom deck will feature the winning team’s official logo, cards featuring players from the champions and a collectible foil card in each pack.
“As football fans across the country get ready for The Big Game, we’re thrilled to offer San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs superfans the chance to commemorate a historic win with these special collectibles from our Fisher-Price, Barbie, and UNO brands,” Lisa McKnight, Mattel’s executive vice president and chief brand officer, said in a statement. “Whichever team reigns supreme on February 11th, Mattel Creations is the place to find that must-have piece of Super Bowl LVIII memorabilia worthy of any collection.”
Last year’s Little People Collector line from Super Bowl LVII included Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, tight end Travis Kelce, defensive tackle Chris Jones and a Kansas City super fan.
The Barbie and Fisher-Price items are officially licensed NFL products. Fans and collectors can preorder the items through Feb. 25 at MattelCreations.com/thebiggame. Items will begin shipping in August, Mattel said.
People who preorder the losing team will have their money refunded.
Orders are only valid for U.S. customers.
The Fandom deck will be available in March.
Last year, Mattel asked fans to vote for their Super Bowl favorite by preordering sets featuring the Chiefs or Eagles, Forbes reported. While the Eagles got more preorders, the Chiefs got the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
© 2024 Cox Media Group
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https://www.hot105fm.com/news/trending/super-bowl-lviii-mattel-creating-barbie-doll-commemorate-big-game/ZMZWHWSLKVEVRI2CE33NEILQXE/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:46Z
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Scientists have found that spiderwebs can be used to capture environmental DNA, which reflects the animal population of an area. The technique may help track the biodiversity of an ecosystem.
Copyright 2024 NPR
Scientists have found that spiderwebs can be used to capture environmental DNA, which reflects the animal population of an area. The technique may help track the biodiversity of an ecosystem.
Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.aspenpublicradio.org/2024-01-31/spiderwebs-could-offer-a-snapshot-of-an-ecosystem-study-shows
| 2024-01-31T23:03:48Z
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Convictions reversed in murder trial over Minneapolis real estate agent, court rules
By STEVE KARNOWSKI
Associated Press
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Supreme Court has reversed the murder and kidnapping convictions of a former probation officer who was sentenced to life without parole for her role in the death of a Minneapolis real estate agent. The high court ruled Wednesday that Elsa Segura is entitled to a new trial because prosecutors failed to provide sufficient evidence to sustain convictions on two of the four charges, and that the trial judge gave the jury erroneous instructions about determining her criminal liability. A jury in 2021 found Segura guilty in the New Year’s Eve 2019 killing of Monique Baugh, who was lured to a phony home showing.
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https://keyt.com/news/2024/01/31/convictions-reversed-in-murder-trial-over-minneapolis-real-estate-agent-court-rules/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:49Z
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Ron Barceló is proud to introduce Barceló Imperial Porto Cask into their premium portfolio of Dominican rums from the cane fields of the Dominican Republic to the bottle, Barceló Imperial has a history of prestige and excellence making it one of the most awarded Dominican rums in the world.
Barceló Imperial Porto Cask, part of the exceptional Rare Blends Collection of Barceló rums, is born from the nectar of the finest selection of Dominican sugar cane from Barceló-own cane fields. The result of aging reserve rums in oak barrels with different degrees of toast has allowed extraordinarily prolific spirits which are organoleptically complex to be conceived, giving way to Barceló Imperial Porto Cask.
Once the blend is achieved, the Porto Cask expression is aged in authentic Tawny 10 port wine barrels to provide the complexity and unique flavor that distinguishes this exuberant spirit.
Light and silky in style, Barceló Imperial Porto Cask is an exquisite spirit, born to fascinate the most demanding palates. It is harmony for the senses and a portfolio addition to be celebrated on any occasion.
Barceló Imperial Porto Cask is best enjoyed neat at room temperature or chilled in a short glass. The expression pairs perfectly with fine cigars, aged cheeses, elegant dessert, dark chocolate and selected cuts of red meats.
Established by Spaniard Julían Barceló in the Dominican Republic, Ron Barcelo has remained synonymous with unrivaled rum excellence since 1930. From its inception as Barcelo & Co. to its current iteration as Ron Barcelo SRL, the brand’s commitment to crafting exceptional rums has been unwavering.
Renowned as the fourth-largest rum exporter globally, Ron Barcelo leads the industry with a steadfast commitment to sustainability, achieving carbon neutrality and earning esteemed certifications such as Climate Neutral Now.
For More Information:
https://ronbarcelo.com/en/
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https://www.bevnet.com/spirits/2024/ron-barcelo-introduces-barcelo-imperial-porto-cask/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:51Z
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(MENAFN- PR Newswire) MORRISVILLE, N.C., Jan. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Pyxus International, Inc. (OTC Pink: PYYX) ("Pyxus International" or the "Company"), a global value-added agricultural company, today announced it will release its financial results for its third quarter of fiscal year 2024 on Wednesday, February
14, 2024.
Pyxus will hold an earnings conference call and webcast at 9 a.m. EST to discuss its financial results. Investors and analysts interested in participating in the call are invited to dial (929) 477-0448 or (888) 256-1007 and use conference ID 1556396. To join the Company's live webcast, click here .
Prior to the event, Pyxus will issue a press release disclosing its financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2023. This information, as well as a third quarter results presentation, will be available on the Company's investor relations webpage .
For those unable to join the live audio webcast, the archived recording will be available on the Company's investor relations webpage shortly after the call.
Any replay, rebroadcast, transcript, or other reproduction of this conference call, other than the replay accessible by calling the number above, has not been authorized by Pyxus International and is strictly prohibited. Investors should be aware that any unauthorized reproduction of this conference call may not be an accurate reflection of its contents.
About Pyxus International, Inc.
Pyxus International, Inc. is a global agricultural company with over 150 years of experience delivering value-added products and services to businesses and customers. Driven by a united purpose-to transform people's lives, so that together we can grow a better world-Pyxus International, its subsidiaries and affiliates, are trusted providers of responsibly sourced, independently verified, sustainable, and traceable products and ingredients. For more information, visit .
SOURCE Pyxus International, Inc.
MENAFN31012024003732001241ID1107793809
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https://menafn.com/1107793809/Pyxus-International-Inc-Announces-Third-Quarter-Fiscal-Year-2024-Financial-Results-Earnings-Call
| 2024-01-31T23:03:50Z
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Updated January 31, 2024 at 5:33 PM ET
The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady on Wednesday but signaled that rates could fall in the coming months if inflation continues to cool.
Policy makers have kept their benchmark interest rate between 5.25% and 5.5% — the highest in over two decades — since July.
Fed chairman Jerome Powell told reporters Wednesday that interest rates are unlikely to go any higher, and that he and his colleagues are beginning to contemplate cutting rates.
"If the economy evolves broadly as expected, it will likely be appropriate to begin dialing back policy restraint at some point this year," Powell said.
He cautioned, however, that the economy remains unpredictable and said the central bank would proceed cautiously.
"The economic outlook is uncertain and we remain highly attentive to inflation risks," Powell said.
The Fed has been pleasantly surprised by the rapid drop in inflation in recent months. Core prices in December — which exclude food and energy prices — were up just 2.9% from a year ago, according to the Fed's preferred inflation yardstick. That's a smaller increase than the 3.2% core inflation rate that Fed officials had projected in December.
If that positive trend continues, the Fed may be able to start cutting interest rates as early as this spring. First, though, Powell said he and his colleagues will need to see additional evidence that inflation is easing.
And he sounded doubtful about a rate cut at the Fed's next meeting in March as many investors in Wall Street had hoped for.
"Based on the meeting today, I would tell you that I don't think it's likely the committee will reach a level of confidence by the time of the March meeting," Powell said. "But that's to be seen."
The comments disappointed investors, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbling 317 points.
Investors are still hopeful about a rate cut by the following Fed meeting in May, with markets putting the likelihood of that at better than 90%.
Good omens in the economy
Both the economy and the job market have performed better than expected over the last year, despite the highest interest rates since 2001. The nation's gross domestic product grew 3.1% in 2023, while employers added 2.7 million jobs
Unemployment has been under 4%for nearly two years. And average wages in December were up 4.1% from a year ago.
While that strong economy is welcome news for businesses and workers, it also raises the risk of reigniting inflation. As a result, Fed policymakers say they'll be cautious not to cut interest rates prematurely.
"We have history on this," Atlanta Fed president Raphael Bostic told the Rotary Club of Atlanta this month. "In the '70s, the Fed started removing accommodation too soon. Inflation spiked back up. Then we had to tighten. Inflation came down. Then we removed it again. Inflation went back up. And by the time we were done with that, all Americans could think about was inflation."
The Fed is determined not to repeat that '70s show. At the same time, waiting too long to cut interest rates risks slowing the economy more than necessary to bring inflation under control.
A report from the Labor Department Wednesday showed employers' cost for labor rose more slowly than expected in the final months of last year. Labor costs increased just 0.9% in the fourth quarter. That's a smaller increase than the previous quarter, suggesting labor costs are putting less upward pressure on prices.
Fed officials promised to keep an eye on upcoming economic data and adjust accordingly.
Copyright 2024 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.aspenpublicradio.org/2024-01-31/the-federal-reserve-holds-interest-rates-steady-but-signals-rate-cuts-may-be-coming
| 2024-01-31T23:03:51Z
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Green Cove Springs woman gets time in federal prison for intent to sell meth, fentanyl, and cocaine
A woman from Green Cove Springs will spend the next six years in federal prison after she pleaded guilty to intent to distribute several different illegal drugs.
>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<
According to court documents, on Jan. 30, 2023, deputies with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office pulled Alyssa Avery, 32, over in a rental vehicle when they learned she didn’t have a valid driver’s license. During the traffic stop a CCSO canine alerted detectives to possible drugs in the vehicle.
Read: Former law enforcement officer sentenced to over 20 years in prison for multiple armed robberies
During a search, deputies found over 20 grams of fentanyl in 17 sealed baggies, 60 grams of pure crystal methamphetamine, over 13 grams of cocaine, and over 16 grams of cocaine base. A digital scale was also found.
Read: Man sentenced to federal prison for attempting to sell 15 pounds of meth in Jacksonville
Court documents also showed that Avery had been released from prison just a month prior for trafficking methamphetamine.
On Wednesday, a U.S. District judge sentenced Avery to six years in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine base, and cocaine. She pleaded guilty on Oct. 19, 2023.
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https://news.yahoo.com/green-cove-springs-woman-gets-220434649.html
| 2024-01-31T23:03:51Z
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From the occupied West Bank, an emergency hotline assists rescue efforts in Gaza By Aya Batrawy Published January 31, 2024 at 5:39 PM EST Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Listen • 5:17 NPR visits an emergency hotline center in the West Bank assisting first responders in the Gaza Strip. Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.wvxu.org/2024-01-31/from-the-occupied-west-bank-an-emergency-hotline-assists-rescue-efforts-in-gaza
| 2024-01-31T23:03:52Z
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Is the future of mailing...electric?
Earlier this month, the United States Postal Service unveiled its plan to incorporate charging stations and electric delivery vehicles. The plan accounted for a $40 billion investment to improve its “processing, transportation, and delivery networks.”
Two days later, Canoo announced that USPS had purchased six of its battery-electric vehicles.
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“The multi-purpose platform with steer-by-wire technology and a unique low-profile suspension system allows for a readily configurable right-hand drive system while maintaining desired roll and ride stability,” said Tony Aquila, Investor, Executive Chairman, and CEO of Canoo.
The pod-like van is an LDV 190 model with features such as a bird’s eye view camera, blind spot monitoring, and park distance warning. The vehicle is a two-seater weighing 4,740 pounds, with a payload of 1,763 pounds. Images of the vehicle on the Canoo website are considered pre-production level.
“Final production vehicle features, specifications, and performance metrics are subject to change and will vary based on version and configuration,” the website said. Other companies like Canoo have tagged along the “electrification and modernization” process of USPS.
U.S. & World
Last year, Ford Motor Company announced its collaboration with the Postal Service to provide 9,250 E-Transit vans through the end of 2024. The goal was to procure a total of 21,000 EVs and develop about 45,000 battery-electric Next Generation Delivery Vehicles by 2028.
“The work USPS is doing to electrify those vehicles is making EVs commonplace on every road and street in our country,” said John Podesta, Senior Advisor to the President for Clean Energy Innovation and Implementation. “While [also] reducing air pollution and increasing comfort and safety for the dedicated public servants who deliver our mail.”
Information about where the Canoo pod-like EV vans will be deployed is unavailable. Canoo operates in California, Texas, Oklahoma, and Michigan.
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https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/national-international/going-electric-usps-fleet-features-pod-like-vans-to-improve-delivery-networks/3207789/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:53Z
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Fort McCoy’s Virtual Battle Space simulations training facility, which is part of the Fort McCoy Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security (DPTMS), is one of many simulations areas at the installation that offers training service members a multitude of training capabilities, said Training Support Officer Rob Weisbrod with DPTMS.
Simulations training is a large part of operations during exercises at Fort McCoy, Weisbrod said, and the Virtual Battle Space simulator, also called Virtual Battle Space 3 (VBS3), is one that is utilized significantly by troops at Fort McCoy, especially Army Reserve and National Guard Soldiers.
One recent example of the facility being used by troops included dozens of Soldiers who were students with the Basic Leader Course at the Fort McCoy Noncommissioned Officer Academy. Dozens of Soldiers trained with the map reading and land-navigation capability of VBS3.
During that training, it trains Soldiers on the fundamentals of map reading; determining grid coordinates, terrain identification; and determining distance and elevation, intersection, and
resection.
Another example is when Army Reserve Soldiers completed gunnery training during Operation Cold Steel at Fort McCoy a few years ago. Operation Cold Steel was the Army Reserve’s first large-scale live-fire training and crew-served weapons qualification and validation exercise.
During that training, team members with the VBS3 facility played a direct role in training through use of the Mounted Machine Gun Trainer Plug-in Vehicle Crew Evaluator software program. The VBS3 software program allowed hundreds of Soldiers to see Fort McCoy ranges in virtual reality and helped each of the three-person gunnery crews practice for their actual range missions, said Mike Latour, senior consultant with contractor Booz Allen Hamilton Inc., which supports the DPTMS VBS3 facility.
“The program is great because it allows (the crew) to see what it’s like to be in their vehicles, see how to choose their targets, and helps them understand the scoring they will have during actual live-fire sessions,” Latour said about the training in a previous news article.
Weisbrod said the training approach with VBS3 is the traditional crawl, walk, run method. A description about VBS3 states that a “unit can accomplish individual performance measures of a task at a progressive pace appropriate to Soldier skill level and experience. Using the after-action report process in VBS3, the trainer can review performance of a task from several perspectives including aerial view, gun position, and first person.”
The description also states VBS3 “provides realistic semi-immersive environments, with large terrain areas, hundreds of simulated military and civilian entities and a range of generic, geo-typical terrain areas.” And, “VBS3 is tailored for tactical and combined arms training and mission rehearsal, and can be used for a wide range of semi-immersive simulation purposes, including visualization … (and) training development.”
Additionally, “VBS3 missions can be played back for all others to view using the after-action review process. VBS3 allows Soldiers to see what other Soldiers saw, to see sectors of fire, and to hear communications at any given point in the mission.”
“The VBS3 is a great capability for training,” Weisbrod said. “We’re proud to have it as part of our suite of simulations offerings.”
In addition to VBS3, some of the other simulations training facilities at Fort McCoy include the Engagement Skills Trainer, Warrior Skills Trainer, Mobile Marksmanship Trainer, Call for Fire Trainer, Virtual Clearance Training Suite, 660 Interactive Truck Driver Trainer, Joint Light Tactical Vehicle Interactive Driver Trainer, Rough Terrain Container Handler Simulator, and the All-Terrain Lifter Army System.
Fort McCoy’s motto is to be the “Total Force Training Center.”
Located in the heart of the upper Midwest, Fort McCoy is the only U.S. Army installation in Wisconsin.
The installation has provided support and facilities for the field and classroom training of more than 100,000 military personnel from all services nearly every year since 1984.
Learn more about Fort McCoy online at https://home.army.mil/mccoy, on Facebook by searching “ftmccoy,” and on Twitter by searching “usagmccoy.”
Also try downloading the Digital Garrison app to your smartphone and set “Fort McCoy” or another installation as your preferred base. Fort McCoy is also part of Army’s Installation Management Command where “We Are The Army’s Home.”
This work, Fort McCoy’s Virtual Battle Space facility adds additional training capabilities at installation, by Scott Sturkol, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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https://www.dvidshub.net/news/462869/fort-mccoys-virtual-battle-space-facility-adds-additional-training-capabilities-installation
| 2024-01-31T23:03:53Z
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Even before pornographic and violent deepfake images of Taylor Swift began widely circulating in the past few days, state lawmakers across the U.S. had been searching for ways to quash such nonconsensual images of both adults and children.
But in this Taylor-centric era, the problem has been getting a lot more attention since she was targeted through deepfakes, the computer-generated images using artificial intelligence to seem real.
Here are things to know about what states have done and what they are considering.
Artificial intelligence hit the mainstream last year like never before, enabling people to create ever-more realistic deepfakes. Now they're appearing online more often, in several forms.
There's pornography — taking advantage of celebrities like Swift to create fake compromising images.
There's music — A song that sounded like Drake and The Weeknd performing together got millions of clicks on streaming services — but it was not those artists. The song was removed from platforms.
And there are political dirty tricks, this election year — Just before January's presidential primary, some New Hampshire voters reported receiving robocalls purporting to be from President Joe Biden telling them not to bother casting ballots. The state attorney general's office is investigating.
But a more common circumstance is porn using the likenesses of non-famous people, including minors.
Deepfakes are just one area in the complicated realm of AI that lawmakers are trying to figure out whether and how to handle.
At least 10 states have enacted deepfake-related laws already. Scores of more measures are under consideration this year in legislatures across the country.
Georgia, Hawaii, Texas and Virginia have laws on the books that criminalize nonconsensual deepfake porn.
California and Illinois have given victims the right to sue those who create images using their likenesses.
Minnesota and New York do both. Minnesota's law also targets using deepfakes in politics.
University at Buffalo computer science professor Siwei Lyu said work is being done on several approaches, none of them perfect.
One is deepfake detection algorithms, which can be used to flag deepfakes on places like social media platforms.
Another — which Lyu said is in development but not yet being used widely — is to embed codes in content people upload that would signal if they’re reused in AI creation.
And a third mechanism would be to require companies offering AI tools to include digital watermarks to identify content generated with their applications.
He said it makes sense to hold those companies accountable for how people use their tools, and companies in turn can enforce user agreements against creating problematic deepfakes.
Model legislation proposed by the American Legislative Exchange Council addresses porn, not politics. The conservative and pro-business policy group is encouraging states to do two things: Criminalize possession and distribution of deepfakes portraying minors in sex acts, and allow victims to sue people who distribute nonconsensual deepfakes showing sexual conduct.
“I would recommend to lawmakers to start with a small, prescriptive fix that can solve a tangible problem,” said Jake Morabito, who directs the communications and technology task force for ALEC. He warns that lawmakers should not target the technology that can be used to create deepfakes, as that could shut down innovation with important other uses.
Todd Helmus, a behavioral scientist at RAND, a nonpartisan thinktank, points out that leaving enforcement up to individuals filing lawsuits is insufficient. It takes resources to sue, he said. And the result might not be worth it. “It's not worth suing somebody that doesn’t have any money to give you,” he said.
Helmus calls for guardrails throughout the system and says making them work probably requires government involvement.
He said OpenAI and other companies whose platforms can be used to generate seemingly realistic content should make efforts to prevent deepfakes from being created; social media companies should implement better systems to keep them from proliferating, and there should be legal consequences those who do it anyway.
Jenna Leventoff, a First Amendment lawyer at the ACLU, said that while deepfakes can cause harm, free speech protections also apply to them, and lawmakers should make sure they don't go beyond existing exceptions to free speech, such as defamation, fraud and obscenity, when they try to regulate the emerging technology.
Last week, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed the issue, saying social media companies should create and enforce their own rules to prevent the spread of misinformation and images like the ones of Swift.
A bipartisan group of members of Congress in January introduced federal legislation that would give people a property right to their own likeness and voice — and the ability to sue those who use it in a misleading way through a deepfake for whatever reason.
Most states are considering some kind of deepfake legislation in their sessions this year. They're being introduced by Democrats, Republicans and bipartisan coalitions of lawmakers.
The bills getting traction include one that would make it a crime to distribute or create sexually explicit depictions of a person without their consent in GOP-dominated Indiana. It passed in the House unanimously in January.
A similar measure introduced this week in Missouri is named “The Taylor Swift Act.” And another one cleared the Senate this week in South Dakota, where Attorney General Marty Jackley said some investigations have been handed over to federal officials because the state does not have the AI-related laws needed to file charges.
“When you go into somebody’s Facebook page, you steal their child and you put that into pornography, there’s no First Amendment right to do that,” Jackley said.
For anyone with an online presence, it can be hard to prevent being a deepfake victim.
But RAND's Helmus says that people who find they have been targeted can ask a social media platform where images are shared to remove them; inform the police if they're in a place with a law; tell school or university officials if the alleged perpetrator is a student; and seek mental health help as needed.
___
Associated Press reporters from around the U.S. contributed to this article.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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https://www.actionnewsjax.com/entertainment/what-know-about-how/ZHRQG4KCZVIO27ABT2RBDI52GM/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:53Z
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GUSHA XOLANI NGANTWENI | National dialogue must rewire our politics and governance
All tiers of governments need faces of change
SA needs a multiparty, multisector national convention to negotiate our second transition. Other voices supporting the idea include former statistician general Ntate Pali Lehohla. He counsels us to postpone the upcoming elections rather than “elect and regret”.
Seemingly political elites do not understand the rationale for a convention; otherwise, we would have held it by now. They show no sufficient vigilance against the wrong direction that we are taking as a nation. In my party, the ANC, the leadership has long been in denial about its overall failures. They would rather retain the diminished power that the party may have after the next elections than admit to internal deficiencies that negatively impact its governance at an inclusive convention.
Such an admission will strengthen the party. A venue-based national dialogue must rewire both our politics and governance outcomes. It must highlight the failures and limitations of our political and governance systems. The Multiparty Charter for SA is the closest we have come to such a convention. But its approach is fundamentally flawed. Member parties of the charter are united by excluding the ANC and the EFF from power.
How do you achieve that, when those two parties together garnered over 65% of voter support in 2019 and about 55% in 2021? Around the 2009 to 2021 elections, the ANC committed governance failures that would have unequivocally lost it power in other democracies. The Codesa resolutions that ushered our transition, and the mixed ANC governance record are due for a thorough review.
We now know that our regular elections are insufficient as a tool for rotating governments. At the sixth five-year cycle, 13 opposition parties per the 2019 national election results told us that the will of the voters was not for an opposition-led dispensation. However, the ANC’s track record, of caring and fighting for the marginalised, make it the best party to lead all our governments, with the parties that already constitute the elected opposition at each level, innovatively embedded inside it and its governments.
If we fail to hold a convention before our imminent elections, our society will further suffer horribly. Among others, we will play into the hands of the ANC’s bad elements and those parties that are salivating to share power with it should it lose its majority, but whose partnership with the ANC will worsen governance and further alienate critical constituencies, harming our collective progress. A national convention agenda will have burning national issues.
The following five are critical to have a look at: If we do not unite across the political spectrum, we will remain victims of political disintegration. The latter traps us with governing parties everywhere that have terrible blind spots and that have no sufficient leadership depths. Our Western electoral model as is, is overrated for a young post-colonial African nation. The model needs an African touch, political communalism.
The plethora of parties is a trick for their leaders to have salaried seats, not always to improve governance. The convention must encourage many state-salaried political leaders and salaried employees of political parties to exit active politics and for the state, the private sector, and civil society to employ them in roles that they qualify for.
So that the unity project goes ahead without their hindrance. All our governments need faces of change that will positively impact our many crises and problems, is labour-driven, inclusive, decentralised, rapid and sustained economic growth. To achieve that, business confidence must be high. Crime suffocates local economies, communities, and families.
The state lacks adequate resources to fund more crime prevention and the criminal justice system. The system needs wider community service, including at least 250,000 police reservists. Education is the famed great equaliser. There are major interventions needed, from early childhood development up to doctorates. Our people need more training that equips them to work for themselves or as competent employees.
We need a massive roll-out of short learning interventions that reach larger numbers of young people. We must intellectualise indigenous African languages, with some schools, colleges, and universities designated as African-language medium-only institutions. We are a majority indigenous African nation. Colonisation and apartheid systematically attacked our very civilisation.
That assault continues, now presided over by us Africans. We will never erase Western influence in our society, but we must decolonise and re-Africanise as far as possible. There is enormous scope to do so. Everyone in SA must learn to a level of fluency, one African language from the nine listed as official languages.
A national convention must resolve these issues, inspire our collective energies, and set a tone for shared prosperity and reconciliation in our next 30 years. To give political parties, the state, the business sector and civil society the space to prepare and dialogue, our elections should only be in August at the earliest.
- Ngantweni is a member of the ANC uMzimvubu Branch/Ward 27 Nyandeni, OR Tambo, Eastern Cape He writes in his private capacity
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https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/opinion/columnists/2024-01-30-gusha-xolani-ngantweni-national-dialogue-must-rewire-our-politics-and-governance/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:53Z
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Tottenham Hotspur grabbed a 3-2 win against Brentford on Wednesday night to move into the Premier League top four.
Ange Postecoglou's side came into the match looking to get back on track after their FA Cup defeat to holders Manchester City on Friday night and they were taking on a Brentford side boosted by the return of striker Ivan Toney following the end of his ban. Tottenham made two changes with James Maddison making his first start in more than two-and-a-half months and Oliver Skipp came in alongside him in the midfield, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Brennan Johnson both dropping to the bench.
The host started brightly but found themselves behind 15 minutes in with a mess of a goal. Destiny Udogie gave the ball away on the halfway line and Toney was sent away down the right and his shot was pushed out by Vicario only for Cristian Romero's block on Maupay's effort to help bounce the ball down and over the keeper's dive.
After a poor first half whatever Postecoglou said at the break worked as Spurs came out firing with two goals in 74 seconds. The Australian made two half-time changes with Hojbjerg and Johnson replacing Rodrigo Bentancur and Skipp.
First Udogie linked up well with Timo Werner and although the Italian's first shot was blocked, he tapped in the second. Then soon after the kick-off Werner flew down the left flank and hit a low ball across for Johnson to knock home. Then on 56 minutes, it was 3-1 as Richarlison buried a loose ball after Maddison's effort was blocked to make it seven goals in seven Premier League matches for the Brazilian.
Then came another defensive mess for Udogie as the young Italian left-back hit a pass back while falling to Toney, who was in acres of space in the Spurs box to collect the ball and bury his shot. Tottenham held on to grab all three points and a place back in the top four.
Guglielmo Vicario
Saved Toney's initial effort in the build-up to Brentford's early goal and was unfortunate with Maupay's deflected follow-up. Couldn't do much about Toney's clinical finish in the second half. Pushed over a late Dasilva effort. 6
Pedro Porro
Got up and down the right flank without having too much impact on Tottenham's attack. Brentford tested him down his side a few times and he had to battle away. 7
Cristian Romero
Switched off for the early Brentford goal and had to react when he realised Maupay was behind him. Not one of his best games even if he did put in some important late headers. 6
Micky van de Ven
Also had a busy night but did well with much of what came his way as Brentford launched the ball down the flanks and into the box. 7
Destiny Udogie
A real mixed bag from the young Italian. First he gifted Brentford the ball for their early goal and he was all over the place for their next couple of attacks. Then he scored at the other end after his initial shot was blocked and was involved in the next two Spurs goals. However, a poor back pass set up Toney to score Brentford's second. Involved in all five goals on the night in some capacity otherwise his score would really be in the basement. 5
Oliver Skipp
Made an early interception in his own box to stop Maupay getting a shot away at goal. Then got in the way of the same player with a vital touch in the Spurs area 10 minutes before the break. Probably Spurs' best player in the first half but Postecoglou wanted to go more attacking in the second half so he was sacrificed in a double change. 7
Rodrigo Bentancur
Similar to his performance against City, the Uruguayan looked off the pace at times and still seems to be finding his sharpness. 6
James Maddison
Understandably rusty in the first half he grew into the game and his blocked effort led to Richarlison's goal in the second period. Came off towards the end with cramp. 7
Dejan Kulusevski
Fought away without too much quality in the final third from the Swede. 6
Richarlison
Had the ball in the net not long before the break but was adjudged to have fouled Collins just before. He then got his seventh goal in seven Premier League matches when he fired home the loose ball from Maddison's blocked effort. Battled away in a tough role up top and was one of Spurs' better players on the day. 8
Timo Werner
After a first half with some poor final balls, he sprung to life early in the second half. First he linked up well with Udogie for the Italian's goal and then he grabbed an assist by racing down the flank and firing the ball across to Johnson at the back post to score. Tired after that but had more than played his part. 8
Subs
Brennan Johnson
Dropped to the bench but returned with a bang with a close range finish minutes after coming on. He then played a lovely flick into the path of Kulusevski who should have hit an early shot in the box rather than waiting and seeing his effort blocked. 7
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg
Brought on as the holding midfielder in an attacking trio in the centre of the park and he helped try to bring some order as Spurs raided forward. 7
Radu Dragusin
Replaced Maddison for the final stages. N/A
Jamie Donley
Came on for added time and worked hard. N/A
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https://www.football.london/tottenham-hotspur-fc/fixtures-results/tottenham-player-ratings-vs-brentford-28547365
| 2024-01-31T23:03:54Z
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Deal on Ukraine aid and border security stalls in Congress as time runs short to bolster Ukraine
By STEPHEN GROVES, LISA MASCARO and MARY CLARE JALONICK
Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — With time slipping to bolster Ukraine’s defenses, Senate negotiators struggled Wednesday to finalize a bipartisan deal that would pair policy changes at the U.S. southern border with wartime aid for Kyiv as their carefully negotiated compromise ran into strong resistance from House Republicans and Donald Trump.
Senate negotiators have kept a close hold on the details of a bipartisan package on border enforcement and immigration policies that was supposed to unlock Republican support in Congress for aiding Ukraine. But conservatives view the tens of billions of dollars in proposed support with growing skepticism, unmoved by arguments about the larger stakes for global security. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg was making the case for the aid on Capitol Hill Wednesday, including at the Heritage Foundation, a power center for Trump’s allies in Washington.
President Joe Biden, who is pushing for a deal alongside Republican and Democratic leaders in the Senate, faces a daunting task in convincing Republicans to defy Trump’s wishes and embrace the deal — especially in the midst of an election year.
Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, had looked to February as a potential deadline to approve another tranche of military aid for Ukraine. But the $110 billion national security package that congressional leaders say is essential to buttressing American allies around the globe, including Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, has been swept up in the fight over border policies.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian troops are running short of weapons, including air defenses and artillery to defend against Russia’s ongoing attack. The Pentagon reported last week it is out of money for Ukraine and unable to send the ammunition and missiles needed to fend off Russia’s invasion.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer warned in a morning floor speech that “the survival of Ukraine is on the line.”
“The only way we’ll rise to the occasion is if both sides are serious about finding a bipartisan compromise,” he said, adding, “We have not concluded negotiations so we will keep going to get this done.”
Even if the Senate is able to finish the deal and pass it, resistance is strong in the House, where Trump, the likely Republican presidential nominee, holds significant sway over lawmakers. Trump’s opposition has left Republican leaders increasingly questioning whether the border legislation should be jettisoned from the package in a last-ditch effort to get the Ukraine funding through Congress.
“It’s time for us to move something, hopefully including a border agreement, but we need to get help to Israel and to Ukraine quickly,” said Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell.
Johnson discussed the idea of splitting up parts of the national security package in a Tuesday meeting with the speakers of the parliaments of Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania, but did not commit to any course of action, according to a person familiar with the meeting who spoke anonymously about the private discussion.
The speaker has long been skeptical of sending economic assistance to Kyiv, though he has said he wants to halt Russian President Vladimir Putin’s advance in Europe. But a large portion of Johnson’s conference in the House is more firmly against the aid.
Stoltenberg, the longest-serving chief in NATO’s history, pleaded Wednesday for lawmakers to act.
“I met many politicians from both parties. And I saw broad support for Ukraine,” Stoltenberg told CNN Wednesday. “But then, of course, there’s this link to the border issue which I respect is an important and difficult issue, but I believe it’s possible to find a way forward to support Ukraine regardless of how the border issue is handled.”
In a speech Wednesday at the Trump-aligned Heritage Foundation, Stoltenberg warned that Putin’s ambitions don’t just end with Ukraine. He said the Russian president is intent on “reestablishing Russia’s sphere of influence and shaping an alternative world order.”
As Russian forces and drone attacks pummel the region, the Ukrainians will face increasingly difficulty defending their cities and populations from incoming assaults.
Yet Republicans also want to cut portions of the package that would not go directly to Ukraine’s defenses. Of the $61 billion in the package for Ukraine, a portion, about $16 billion, would go toward economic, security and operational assistance.
The U.S. economic aid has been keeping the Ukrainian government functioning, paying for public works and employees and the services they provide, but Republicans chafe at the expenditures. They prefer the U.S. focus its spending on military hardware to win the war.
The economic assistance for Ukraine is expected to be trimmed back in the final supplemental package, according to a person familiar with the situation and granted anonymity to discuss it. The person said changes in the amount of humanitarian aid for Gaza, which was stripped from the package by House Republicans, is also being discussed.
Senate Republicans initially insisted on pairing border policy changes with Ukraine aid as part of a strategy to push the package through Congress. But so far, compromising on border policies has only made things more difficult.
Johnson, who has consulted with Trump on border policy in recent weeks, told fellow Republicans in a closed-door meeting on Tuesday morning that one of the Senate border proposal’s key compromises is a “non-starter” in the House. He pointed to a presidential authority to deny migrants the ability to apply for asylum at the border once illegal crossings rise above 4,000 daily, according to those in the meeting.
The speaker wants the expulsion authority to be mandatory no matter the number of crossings. While he has said he has not passed final judgement on the bill, he is poised to reject any compromise.
In a 30-minute floor speech Wednesday, Johnson laid blame on Biden’s handling of the border and rallied Republicans to insist on hardline border measures, even though those policies have virtually no chance of passing the Senate.
“If we take a step back, if we consider the current catastrophe at the border, we can all see that our country is at a critical decision,” he said.
___
Associated Press writer Tara Copp contributed.
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https://keyt.com/news/2024/01/31/deal-on-ukraine-aid-and-border-security-stalls-in-congress-as-time-runs-short-to-bolster-ukraine/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:55Z
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Lawrenceburg, Indiana-based Ross & Squibb Distillery, in partnership with NFL legend Chris Long and his Foundation’s Waterboys initiative, announced the completion of their combined efforts to bring a lasting source of clean, safe water to a community of 1,600 people in arid southern Kenya.
In summer 2023, a deep borehole well was dug in the Oloile community in Kajiado County, Kenya, by The Chris Long Foundation’s Kenya implementing partner, Well Aware, to a depth of 80 meters, yielding 100,000 liters of water per day. In November, construction of a storage tank, distribution points and refillable water trough was completed, ensuring the well’s long-term success in terms of maintenance and sustainability.
“Thanks to the generous support from Ross & Squibb Distillery, Waterboys is bringing life-changing, clean water to the Oloile community in Kenya,” said two-time Superbowl champion and founder of Waterboys, Chris Long. “This well represents hope, health, and a future for the residents who have faced severe water crises for decades. We’ve seen firsthand how clean water can transform lives – reducing illness, supporting education, and fostering economic growth.”
The Oloile community consists of more than 100 households and one primary school and is home to about 1,600 residents. For decades, the community has been experiencing a dangerous water crisis as the rainy season has become unreliable over time with the region experiencing droughts that would last up to two years. As a result of these recent efforts, Oloile has shifted from a “water-lacking” community to one that is “water-filled and fulfilled.”
“We are grateful we were able to make such a big difference in the lives of so many through this successful partnership with Waterboys and the Chris Long Foundation,” said Allison O’Brien, Brand Manager for Ross & Squibb. “We are fortunate to have a clean water source supplying our Ross & Squibb Distillery in Indiana, and we take pride in our mission to help others get access to safe water. We are looking forward to continuing this great work through new projects in the future.”
About Luxco
Founded in St. Louis in 1958 by the Lux Family, Luxco is a leading producer, supplier, importer and bottler of beverage alcohol products. Our mission is to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Merged with MGP Ingredients, Inc. in 2021. Luxco operates as MGP’s Brands Division and manages all MGP/Luxco brands. This extensive and award-winning spirits portfolio includes well-known brands from four distilleries: Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers, home of Ezra Brooks, Rebel, Blood Oath, David Nicholson and Daviess County; Lebanon, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, maker of Yellowstone Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Minor Case Straight Rye Whiskey and Bowling & Burch Gin; Jalisco, Mexico-based Destiladora González Lux, producer of 100% agave tequilas, El Mayor, Exotico and Dos Primos; and Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Rossville Union Straight Rye Whiskey are produced. The innovative and high-quality brand portfolio also includes Penelope Bourbon, Everclear Grain Alcohol, Pearl Vodka, Saint Brendan’s Irish Cream, The Quiet Man Irish Whiskey, Green Hat Gin and other well-recognized brands. For more information about the company and its brands, visit luxco.com.
About the Chris Long Foundation and Waterboys
The Chris Long Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded by two-time Super Bowl Champion and 2018 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, Chris Long. We mobilize champions, service providers, and experts to help communities access clean water, address basic needs for youth and families, and inspire others to make an impact at home and abroad. Our vision is access and opportunity everywhere. To date, the Waterboys initiative has provided clean water to over 550,000 people in need at home and abroad. Visit chrislongfoundation.org and waterboys.org to learn more.
For More Information:
https://waterboys.org/
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https://www.bevnet.com/spirits/2024/ross-squibb-distillery-completes-first-project-to-combat-water-scarcity-in-kenya/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:57Z
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New reports show a big academic recovery after schools reopened. But not for all students. Stanford professor Sean Reardon tells NPR's Mary Louise Kelly how the pandemic worsened education inequality.
Copyright 2024 NPR
New reports show a big academic recovery after schools reopened. But not for all students. Stanford professor Sean Reardon tells NPR's Mary Louise Kelly how the pandemic worsened education inequality.
Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.aspenpublicradio.org/2024-01-31/u-s-students-are-starting-to-catch-up-in-school-unless-theyre-from-a-poor-area
| 2024-01-31T23:03:57Z
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(MENAFN- EIN Presswire)
Solara Labs proudly announces its FSSC 22000 certification, a global standard endorsed by the Global Food Safety Initiative.
The certification is a testament to our commitment to the highest standards of safety in our products. At Solara Labs, we emphasize a comprehensive approach that extends beyond global benchmarks.” - Alan Bonfil, Scientific and Regulatory Affairs, QA/QCMIAMI GARDENS, FL, UNITED STATES, January 31, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- Solara Labs, a leading nutraceutical company headquartered in South Florida, proudly announces that it has attained FSSC 22000 certification. This certification is a globally-recognized standard endorsed by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) that simultaneously meets key standards of ISO 22000 and ISO 9001. The achievement is a testament to Solara Labs' commitment to maintaining the highest quality standards in the production of dietary supplements.
"Our team at Solara Labs is thrilled to have achieved FSSC 22000 certification, a recognition that underscores our dedication to delivering products of the utmost quality and safety to our customers worldwide," says Dr. Jose Rocca, President and CEO of Solara Labs. "This accomplishment is a result of years of hard work, a commitment to continuous improvement, and a continued focus on meeting and exceeding the stringent global food safety standards."
FSSC 22000 certification not only demonstrates Solara Labs' commitment to manufacturing excellence, but also positions the company as an industry leader dedicated to quality and transparency to its customers. The company's partners can now have even greater confidence in Solara Labs' products knowing that they are manufactured in compliance with one of the most respected and rigorous food safety standards globally.
As Solara Labs looks towards the future, this milestone serves as a foundation for continued growth and innovation. The company remains steadfast in its mission to improve the health and well-being of individuals through the development and production of high-quality dietary supplements.
For more information about Solara Labs and its FSSC 22000 certification, please visit solaralabs.
About Solara Labs: Solara Labs is a boutique manufacturer of dietary supplements for the nutrition industry. They specialize in complex formulations and unique delivery formats, including an industry-leading fast-melt technology. Their experience in nutraceutical formulation development has made them the trusted R&D arm of leading brands seeking differentiation in the marketplace. They also have their own four brands which showcase the breadth and sophistication of their technology and expertise: EZ Melts®, Renzo's®, BariMelts®, and Prominent Nutrition®. Companies interested in working with Solara Labs are encouraged to submit a project inquiry at solaralabs
Alan Bonfil
Solara Labs
+1 313-784-0366
...
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https://menafn.com/1107793810/Solara-Labs-Attains-FSSC-22000-Certification-Reinforcing-Commitment-To-Global-Food-Safety-Standards
| 2024-01-31T23:03:57Z
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Human skull found in Pa. pond is that of man charged in wife’s 2004 attempted murder
A human skull found in a pond in Berks County, Pennsylvania is that of a man who disappeared in 2004 after he was charged with his wife’s attempted murder, authorities said Wednesday.
The skull was found by a young boy in a retention pond in Amity Township in April 2022, the Berks Weekly reported at the time.
No additional skeletal remains were ever found in the pond, authorities said.
On Thursday — nearly two years after the child’s gruesome discovery — authorities in Berks County said the skull likely belonged to Roger Hart, a man who vanished 20 years ago after he was charged with attempting to kill his wife, according to multiple reports.
Authorities accused Hart of trying to kill his wife at their Pottstown home in April 2004. He fled the scene and was never captured by police.
His vehicle was later discovered near the Amity Township pond. His wallet and car keys were inside the car, local television station WFMZ reported.
A witness also reported spotting a person matching his description “exit this vehicle and enter an adjoining wooded area,” officials said, according to NBC Philadelphia. Hart was never seen again.
The case began to unravel two years ago, after the discovery in the pond.
Investigators sent the skull to experts at Mercyhurst University in Erie for analysis, who concluded the skull had belonged to a male and that it had been “exposed to the elements for a period greater than 10 years.”
Based on those findings, as well as DNA analysis conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police Forensic Laboratory and the FBI Laboratory Division in Quantico, Va., authorities concluded the skull is that of Hart.
Since no other skeletal remains were ever found, officials have not been able to determine the cause of death.
The investigation is ongoing, officials said.
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https://news.yahoo.com/human-skull-found-pa-pond-220600670.html
| 2024-01-31T23:03:57Z
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Lawmakers grilled the CEOs of top social media companies in a hearing today By Dara Kerr Published January 31, 2024 at 5:21 PM EST Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Listen • 3:45 During a contentious hearing, lawmakers demanded that social media companies do better to protect children online. Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.wvxu.org/2024-01-31/lawmakers-grilled-the-ceos-of-top-social-media-companies-in-a-hearing-today
| 2024-01-31T23:03:58Z
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What to Know
- The spotlight returns to Gobbler’s Knob in western Pennsylvania this week, when handlers of a groundhog named Punxsutawney Phil will announce his verdict on seeing his shadow — six more weeks of winter or an early spring.
- Groundhog Day is part of a tradition rooted in European agricultural life and marks the midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.
- By all accounts, Punxsutawney Phil predicts more winter far more often than he predicts an early spring.
The spotlight will be on Gobbler’s Knob in western Pennsylvania early on the morning of Friday, Feb. 2, 2024, when handlers of a groundhog named Punxsutawney Phil will announce whether he saw his own shadow and predicts six more weeks of winter or an early spring.
Thousands are expected to attend the annual event that exploded in popularity after the 1993 Bill Murray movie, “Groundhog Day.”
You can watch the festivities live on this page the morning of Feb. 2.
Get Connecticut local news, weather forecasts and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC Connecticut newsletters.
It's part of a tradition rooted in European agricultural life, marking the midpoint between the shortest day of the year on the winter solstice and the spring equinox. It's also a time of year that figures in the Celtic calendar and the Christian holiday of Candlemas.
And in eastern and central Pennsylvania, where people of German descent have been watching the groundhog's annual emergence from hibernation for centuries, there's a tradition of groundhog clubs and celebrations that are independent of Phil.
Some dismiss the Punxsutawney event as an unworthy rival to their own festivities, which they say forecast more accurate weather predictions. There have been weather-predicting groundhogs in at least 28 U.S. states and Canadian provinces, and less formal celebrations far and wide.
One thing it's not: serious business.
“We know this is silly; we know this is fun,” said Marcy Galando, executive director of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club. “We want people to come here with a sense of humor.”
What are Groundhog Day's origins?
Celtic people across Europe marked the four days that are midway between the winter solstice, the spring equinox, the summer solstice and the fall equinox. What the Celts called Imbolc is also around when Christians celebrate Candlemas, timed to Joseph and Mary's presentation of Jesus at the Temple in Jerusalem.
Ancient people would watch the sun, stars and animal behavior to guide farming practices and other decisions, and the practice of watching an animal’s emergence from winter hibernation to forecast weather has roots in a similar German tradition involving badgers or bears. Pennsylvania Germans apparently substituted the groundhog, endemic to the eastern and midwestern United States.
Historians have found a reference in an 1841 diary to groundhog weather forecasts in early February among families of German descent in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, according to the late Don Yoder, a University of Pennsylvania professor whose 2003 book about Groundhog Day explored the Celtic connection.
Yoder concluded the festival has roots in “ancient, undoubtedly prehistoric, weather lore.”
Why is Groundhog Day celebrated in Punxsutawney?
Punxsutawney is an area where Pennsylvania Germans settled — and in the late 1880s started celebrating the holiday by picnicking, hunting and eating groundhogs.
Members of Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, organized in 1899, care for Phil at a customized space beside Punxsutawney Memorial Library — where there's a window with a view into the creature's burrow.
The Punxsutawney groundhog makes predictions but he's not always predictable. The designated groundhog emerged before sunrise in 1929 and didn't come out until late afternoon in 1941.
The Bill Murray movie caused such a resurgence of interest that two years after it came out, event organizers voiced concern about rowdy crowds drinking all night, people climbing trees and others stripping to their underwear. In 1998, a groundhog club leader wearing a $4,000 groundhog suit reported being assaulted by a half-dozen young men.
Alcohol is now prohibited at Gobbler's Knob, Phil's spot some 80 miles northeast of Pittsburgh.
Does Phil have competition in Pa.?
The early festivities in Punxsutawney were followed in 1907 by folks in Quarryville, a farming area in Lancaster County in Pennsylvania's southeastern corner. The roughly 240 members of the Slumbering Groundhog Lodge there report the winter forecast from Octoraro Orphie, or least via his well-preserved remains.
Quarryville Lodge board chair Charlie Hart said the organization has dinners and other social events throughout the year but is largely focused on Groundhog Day.
Hart credits Orphie as a far better forecaster than Phil.
“Octoraro Orphie has never been wrong," Hart said. "This is the 116th year, and in the previous 115 he has been right on the money every year.”
Whistle pigs on the menu?
The groundhog is a member of the squirrel family and related to chipmunks and prairie dogs. It's also known as a woodchuck, a whistle pig — or in the parlance of Pennsylvania Dutch, a language with German roots, a “grundsau.”
Groundhogs are herbivores that are themselves edible to humans, although they are not widely consumed. Their lifespan in the wild is typically two or three years.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission says about 36,000 hunters reported killing more than 200,000 groundhogs last year.
Game Commission spokesperson Travis Lau found groundhogs a bit stinky to clean, with thick skin.
“It was actually really good, no doubt about it — and to my taste, more like beef than venison is,” Lau said. “The whole family ate it and liked it, and everybody had apprehensions."
Some cooks advise groundhogs are best taken when they are young and after clover is in bloom, since a clover diet is thought to improve the meat's taste.
When did groundhog clubs and lodges first spring up?
Starting in the 1930s, groundhog lodges opened in eastern Pennsylvania. They were social clubs with similarities to Freemasonry.
Intended to preserve Pennsylvania's German culture and traditions, clubs would sometimes fine those who were caught speaking anything but their Pennsylvania Dutch language at meetings. They were traditionally all-male groups and 15 such clubs remain active.
They all share the unifying feature of a groundhog's weather prognostication, said William W. Donner, a Kutztown University anthropology professor and author of “Serious Nonsense,” a book about such lodges and other efforts to preserve German heritage.
“I think it's just one of these traditional rituals that people enjoy participating in, that maybe take them away from modern life for 15 minutes,” Donner said.
What's Phil's record for getting his weather prediction right?
Some well-meaning efforts have sought to determine Phil's accuracy, but what “six weeks of winter” means is debatable. Claims that a groundhog has or has not seen its shadow — and that it's able to communicate that to a human — are also fair territory for skeptics and the humor impaired.
By all accounts, Phil predicts more winter far more often than he predicts an early spring.
Groundhogs are mostly solitary creatures who start to emerge in midwinter to find a mate. The science behind whether they can make any accurate weather predictions is problematic at best.
Among the skeptics is the National Centers for Environmental Information, within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The government agency last year compared Phil's record with U.S. national temperatures over the prior decade and concluded he was right only 40% of the time.
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https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/national-international/groundhog-day-phil-punxsutawney/3207846/
| 2024-01-31T23:03:59Z
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WASHINGTON — (AP) — Former President Donald Trump met with leaders of the Teamsters Union in Washington Wednesday as he tried to chip away at President Joe Biden's organized labor support heading into a likely general election rematch.
Trump participated in a roundtable with the union's executive board, its president and members as he works to win over the blue-collar workers who helped fuel his 2016 victory and who are expected to play a major role in November, particularly in critical Midwestern swing states like Wisconsin and Michigan.
Speaking to reporters after what he called “a very productive meeting," Trump acknowledged the union typically backs Democrats, but said of a possible endorsement, “Stranger things have happened."
“Usually a Republican wouldn’t get that endorsement,” he said. “But in my case it’s different because I’ve employed thousands of Teamsters and I thought we should come over and pay our respects."
“As you know, a big part of the voting bloc votes for me."
Union members tend to vote Democratic, with 56% of members and households backing Biden in 2020, according to AP VoteCast. And Biden has already received significant organized labor backing with early endorsements from the AFL-CIO and others. But Trump is hoping to cut into that support as he casts himself as pro-worker and tries to exacerbate divisions between union leaders and some rank-and-file members.
Days before the meeting, he called on members of the United Auto Workers to oust their president, Shawn Fain, after the group endorsed Biden.
“Shawn Fain doesn’t understand this or have a clue,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social network. “Get rid of this dope & vote for DJT. I will bring the Automobile Industry back to our Country.”
Trump aides, before Wednesday's meeting, said the fact that it was taking place was a win in and of itself. For the first time, the union has been holding a series of roundtable discussions with candidates from both parties as it weighs its decision, expected following the summer party conventions.
“Our members want to hear from all candidates of all parties about what they plan to do for working people as president,” Teamsters president Sean O’Brien had said in a statement. “Our union wants every candidate to know that there are 1.3 million Teamsters nationwide whose votes will not be taken for granted. Workers’ voices must be heard.”
O’Brien later described the conversation with Trump as “pleasant” and “direct,” but said the union was a long way from making a decision. He said it has additional questions for Trump and for Biden, who has yet to set a similar meeting. He said the Teamsters will poll members over the coming weeks.
He acknowledged that Trump has the support of many members.
“There's no doubt about (it)," he said, “there is union support for President Trump. And there's always union support for President Biden,” But even as he praised Biden's record he, added: “What you've done in the past doesn't guarantee your future with us. We want to know what you're going to do for our members moving forward.”
Biden has long billed himself as the most labor-friendly president in history, and went so far as to turn up on a picket line in the Detroit area during an autoworkers' strike last fall. Campaign spokesperson Lauren Hitt said Biden "looks forward to meeting with the Teamsters and earning their endorsement," but that the timing of a meeting remains to be announced.
On Thursday, Biden will travel to Michigan, where he plans to meet with United Auto Workers members, according to a campaign official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss details of a trip that had not been formally announced.
Earlier this month, the Teamsters' O’Brien met privately with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago club, where the two discussed issues including right-to-work laws that allow those in unionized workplaces to opt out of paying dues and fees. They also posed for a side-by-side photo, both flashing thumbs-up signs, that Trump posted online.
In an interview with Fox Business after the meeting, O’Brien said, “We put our cards on the table. It was a very matter-of-fact meeting."
“He claimed he was, you know, 100% ... supportive of unions, but history obviously, you take a look back and there’s certain issues that we have with him,” the union president said.
During Trump's presidency, the National Labor Relations Board reversed several key rulings that had made it easier for small unions to organize, strengthened the bargaining rights of franchise workers and provided protection against anti-union measures for employees.
The Supreme Court's conservative majority — including three justices that Trump nominated — overturned a decades-old pro-union decision in 2018 involving fees paid by government workers. The justices in 2021 rejected a California regulation giving unions access to farm property so they could organize workers.
While the Teamsters endorsed Biden in 2020 and Hillary Clinton in 2016, O'Brien stressed the union has “a very diverse membership. And our members vote.”
Art Wheaton, director of labor studies at Cornell University, said that in the past unions almost automatically endorsed Democratic candidates. But this year, he said, unions like the Teamsters have required candidates to outline their positions and show how they will support rank-and-file workers.
The message to candidates: “If you don’t help labor and you don’t help my position, you’re not going to get my endorsement,” Wheaton said.
He estimates about 30% to 40% of Teamsters members voted for Trump in 2020, even though the union endorsed Biden.
“You need to do your due diligence and listen, and let them have the option and ability to say what they want,” said Wheaton.
This is not the first time Trump has tried to woo union members. In September, he traveled to Michigan while his Republican rivals separately held a debate and tried to win over autoworkers by lambasting Biden's electric vehicles push in the midst of a strike. During his speech, Trump urged the UAW to endorse him, directly appealing to Fain from the floor of a non-unionized auto parts plant.
Fain instead called Trump a “scab,” a derogatory term for workers who cross union picket lines and work during a strike, as he endorsed Biden.
“This November we can stand up and elect someone who stands with us and supports our cause, or we can elect someone who will divide us and fight us every step of the way,” Fain said.
Teamsters members include UPS drivers, film and television workers, freight operators, members of law enforcement and other government workers.
Biden already has the backing of the AFL-CIO, the American Federation of Teachers and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, which rolled out their endorsements together last June.
While overall union membership rates nationwide fell to an all-time low in 2023, the country's largest unions have nonetheless built sprawling get-out-the-vote efforts, which Biden is counting on to help turn out his supporters in pivotal swing states.
The campaign of former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Trump’s last remaining GOP rival, did not respond to a request for comment about whether she intends to meet with the Teamsters.
O'Brien said they hadn't received a response from her. Given what he called her past anti-union comments, he said, “It doesn't surprise at all.”
___
Krisher reported from Detroit. Associated Press writer Seung Min Kim contributed to this report.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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https://www.actionnewsjax.com/news/after-teamsters/MFQ3Q7HGKBXSUOBP5ZMZF6VJR4/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:00Z
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Early money heavily on Kansas City Chiefs to repeat as Super Bowl champions
By MARK ANDERSON
AP Sports Writer
LAS VEGAS (AP) — Minutes after beating Baltimore 17-10 on Sunday to clinch a spot in the Super Bowl, Travis Kelce had a message to send.
“The Chiefs are still the Chiefs,” Kelce said.
Bettors agree.
The early money is heavily on Patrick Mahomes and Kansas City to repeat as Super Bowl champions when the Chiefs face the San Francisco 49ers on Feb. 11. That caused sportsbooks to drop the opening number that favored the Niners by 2 or 2 1/2 points to 1 or 1 1/2 points.
FanDuel Sportsbook opened the Niners as 2 1/2-point favorites, and that number was 1 1/2 on Wednesday.
Caesars Sportsbook had San Francisco as a 3-point favorite last week in a hypothetical matchup with the Chiefs. But then Kansas City followed a 27-24 upset victory over Buffalo by shutting down Lamar Jackson as Kelce dominated and Taylor Swift cheered from a stadium suite.
The 49ers had to rally from 24-7 down at home to beat Detroit 34-31. That was the second week in a row San Francisco had to come back to win after previously defeating Green Bay 24-21.
“So they haven’t looked good,” said Adam Pullen, Caesars assistant trading director. “Jackson had a few errors, but I think the Chiefs had a more impressive win. So I think that led to us opening at 2, opening even lower than what we predicted the week before. The money’s been pretty steady on the Chiefs so far, so we’re at 1 1/2.”
BetMGM public relations manager John Ewing said 71% of the bets and 78% of the money has come on the Chiefs on the betting spread, pushing the number on the 49ers from 2-point favorites to just a point. It was even more pronounced on the money line, with 84% of the bets and 79% of the money going to KC.
Surprised?
“No, not given the recent play by Kansas City as underdogs here in the last two games in the postseason, winning both of those and looking good doing it,” Ewing said. “So we are not surprised that they’re getting the action right now.”
PROS STILL CARRY THE DAY
Professional bettors, otherwise known as sharps, affect betting lines for all sports. The casual gambler? Not so much.
But the Super Bowl is one event where the casuals make up a much larger share of the money.
It still doesn’t matter.
“Public money won’t move the line,” Ewing said. “Generally, the public likes to bet with their heart.”
LAS VEGAS’ SUPER DEBUT
Pullen moved to Las Vegas in 1990 shortly after UNLV’s basketball team won the national championship and the city was all about the Rebels.
The Super Bowl being in Vegas wasn’t on anyone’s radar at that time.
“It’s come a long way from being just UNLV Runnin’ Rebel basketball and boxing to what it is now hosting every major sporting event,” Pullen said. “So, yeah, that’s pretty crazy.”
GOING BIG
A Michigan bettor put $1 million at Caesars on the 49ers on the money line at minus-120. Another bettor at that sportsbook placed $100,000 on the coin toss to come up tails at minus-105.
___
AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL
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https://keyt.com/news/2024/01/31/early-money-heavily-on-kansas-city-chiefs-to-repeat-as-super-bowl-champions-2/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:01Z
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LEBOGANG MAILE | State, community must join forces to abolish hostels
Ultimately, it will see the demolition of the current physical structures
The provision of housing in Gauteng is far more complex than many people care to admit.
With the development of every human settlement comes a number of challenges, such as our province’s growing number of migrant labourers, the illegal invasions of government property and land earmarked for new settlements that obstructs development, and delivering services which are already overstretched.
While the Gauteng government has made significant strides in providing access to adequate housing, one of our most complicated challenges is how we overhaul the province’s hostel system and improve the living conditions of hostel dwellers.
Hostels are a legacy of apartheid, which were first introduced by the mines to accommodate black migrant labourers cheaply. Most of them were built for single males and organised by ethnicity.
Everyday hostel dwellers are confronted with extreme difficulties such as collapsing infrastructure, unhygienic conditions, overcrowding, poor safety and security, high levels of informality, a lack of basic services and general negative perceptions towards hostels.
Recognising that the province’s hostels are informal settlements of a special kind, we have meticulously started the first phase of implementing the Gauteng Hostel Redevelopment Programme.
The plan is being rolled out in phases. Ultimately, it will see the demolition of the current physical structures and buildings that define hostels and replace them with multi-story walk-up units or family units.
The Gauteng provincial government recognises that the success of the programme is dependent on the buy-in from residents of the 65 public-owned hostels in the province.
In principle, hostel leaders are in agreement with the government that together we need to develop a social compact that eradicates hostels and ultimately results in the development of residence that will see an end of the squalid living conditions of so many men, women and children.
The programme will also promote social cohesion and community integration. This is because it will ensure consistent and sincere community and stakeholder participation from project conceptualisation to implementation, all the way till handing over to beneficiaries.
In Johannesburg, the Gauteng department of human settlements owns six hostels. Crucial interventions, which have been implemented, include routine cleaning and environmental upkeep, major repairs and bulk infrastructure upgrading.
Detailed planning for a 2,000-unit precinct development, which will house beneficiaries from the six hostels in the inner city, is being drawn up. It will be finalised by the end of the 2024/25 fiscal year.
It is an undeniable fact that the overhauling of the province’s hostels has been slow and is going to take time.
For this programme to work and achieve its objectives, it will require all three spheres of government, the private sector, and communities (a multi-stakeholder approach that creates transformative partnerships) to work together to ensure its success one step at a time.
- Maile is Gauteng MEC for human settlements and infrastructure development.
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https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/opinion/columnists/2024-01-30-lebogang-maile-state-community-must-join-forces-to-abolish-hostels/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:00Z
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(MENAFN- EIN Presswire)
WEST CHESTER, PENNSYLVANIA, UNITED STATES, January 31, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- Zommick McMahon Commercial Real Estate is proud to announce its 75th anniversary in the business. John McMahon, broker of record in three states, has been at the helm of this prestigious company for over 20 years.
Zommick McMahon Commercial Real Estate has been serving clients regionally and nationally for 75 years with their expertise in commercial real estate. They offer a wide range of services including sales, leasing, property management and consulting.
As they celebrate this milestone anniversary, here are five reasons why Zommick McMahon Commercial Real Estate stands out from its competition:
- Experience: With 75 years in the industry, Zommick McMahon has a wealth of knowledge and experience that sets them apart from others.
- Personalized service: The team at Zommick McMahon takes pride in providing personalized service to each client. They understand that every client's needs are unique and strive to find tailored solutions for their real estate needs.
- Strong relationships: Over the decades, Zommick McMahon has built strong relationships with clients, partners and vendors which have contributed to their success as a leading commercial real estate company.
- Expertise: The brokers at Zommick McMahon have extensive knowledge about local markets as well as national trends. This allows them to provide valuable insights and guidance to their clients.
- Innovative approach: In an ever-evolving industry, Zommick McMahon stays ahead of the curve by using innovative strategies and technology to achieve optimal results for their clients.
John McMahon comments on this significant milestone saying "It's truly an honor to be celebrating our 75th anniversary. We owe our success to our loyal clients who have trusted us throughout these years.
For more information on Zommick McMahon Commercial Real Estate, please visit their website at or contact John McMahon at (610) 220-9777 or via email at ....
About Zommick McMahon Commercial Real Estate:
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https://menafn.com/1107793811/Meet-John-Mcmahon-Broker-Extraordinaire-At-Zommick-Mcmahon-Real-Estate-Inc
| 2024-01-31T23:04:03Z
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The dueling contests surrounding the Nevada Republican's nominating process has led to voter confusion. And with it, an outcome many in the state saw as inevitable: Trump is the de facto winner.
Copyright 2024 NPR
The dueling contests surrounding the Nevada Republican's nominating process has led to voter confusion. And with it, an outcome many in the state saw as inevitable: Trump is the de facto winner.
Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.wvxu.org/2024-01-31/nevadas-gop-nominating-process-is-confusing-and-already-yielded-a-likely-winner
| 2024-01-31T23:04:04Z
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KC man who took mom to Capitol on Jan. 6 and confronted police in tunnel pleads guilty
A Kansas City man who took his mother to the Capitol on Jan. 6 and participated in a concerted “heave-ho” movement against a police line during the riot pleaded guilty Wednesday to obstructing officers during a civil disorder, a felony.
Kyle Kumer, 43, entered the guilty plea at a hearing in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Judge Carl J. Nichols set his sentencing for May 17.
The violation carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years’ supervised release.
Kumer is the 28th Missouri resident of the 36 charged to date to plead guilty in connection with the Capitol riot.
He was charged in June with civil disorder, a felony; and three misdemeanors — entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds; and impeding passage through the Capitol grounds or buildings. The three misdemeanors were dropped as part of his plea agreement.
A statement of offense Kumer signed as part of the plea agreement said that by at least 2:30 p.m. on Jan 6, he and his mother were on the West Plaza of the Capitol building. Barricades had been removed and dozens of officers were trying to contain the crowd, it said.
Over the next 20 minutes, the two worked their way up to the Lower West Terrace and onto the inaugural stage set up for President Joe Biden’s upcoming inauguration. While there, Kumer joined in chants of “Whose House? Our House!” while pumping his fists in the air.
Around 2:56 p.m., it said, Kumer and his mother made their way through the mob on the Lower West Terrace and approached the entryway to the tunnel leading into Capitol. As he entered, it said, he held his phone over the crowd and appeared to take a photo of the scene, which included the police line.
At about 3:08 p.m., as the two moved further into the tunnel, the crowd began to push in unison against the police line.
“Kumer turned his body so that his back was pushing up against the rioters between him and the police and began to push against them. As he pushed, Kumer called out, “Let’s go! C’mon! Let’s go!” to the rioters around them to encourage them to join the push against the police.”
Many rioters left around 3:10 p.m., the statement said, but Kumer and his mother stayed. About a minute later, Kumer joined in another group push was launched against police.
“This group push effort caused MPD Officer D.H. to be crushed between the crowd and the door,” it said. Kumer and his mother continued to remain in the tunnel, even though many exited, leaving them ample space to get out.
Kumer joined in another group push around 3:16 p.m, the statement said, and about two minutes later police succeeded in pushing them back to the tunnel entrance. Kuer and his mother were among the last rioters to be cleared from inside the tunnel, it said.
“While in the area immediately outside the entrance to the tunnel, Kumer observed MPD Officer M.F. being dragged into the crowd,” the statement said. “He was also nearby when Officer M.F. was rescued and returned to the tunnel by his fellow officers. Kumer also observed another rioter rip a stolen U.S. Capitol police shield out of the hands of a nearby police officer as he stood near the entrance of the tunnel.”
While the statement gives only the officer’s initials, the number on his helmet in a photo included with the charging documents is the badge number of Michael Fanone, who was beaten, tased and robbed of his badge, police radio and 17-round magazine as rioters tried to remove his gun from its holster. Fanone suffered a heart attack and traumatic brain injury from the assault.
The probable cause statement filed with Kumer’s charges said that after the riot, the FBI received two tips saying Kumer was at the Capitol that day. One tipster was a relative who said Kumer had posted photos and video from the Capitol on his Facebook page but took them down a few days later. The tipster gave authorities screenshots taken from Kumer’s Facebook page that discussed his experience at the Capitol, along with a video of the Lower West Terrace.
Around Nov. 17, 2021, the affidavit said, authorities interviewed Kumer at his home in Kansas City. Kumer admitted he was at the Capitol on Jan. 6 and showed them videos and photos taken on his cellphone. He also admitted to entering the tunnel and helping the crowd push against the police line, it said, but denied entering the Capitol.
“Kumer claimed he was pushing against the crowd to protect his elderly mother from injury,” the affidavit said. “Kumer stated he brought his elderly mother to the tunnel to fully experience the moment.”
At the time of his arrest, Kumer was on the staff at Northland Church KC, according to the church’s website. But after the charges were made public, his photo in a section called “Meet Our Team” had been removed.
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https://news.yahoo.com/kc-man-took-mom-capitol-223627332.html
| 2024-01-31T23:04:04Z
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(MENAFN- GlobeNewsWire - Nasdaq) NEW YORK, Jan. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Waldencast plc, (NASDAQ: WALD) (“Waldencast” or“the Company”), a global multi-brand beauty and wellness platform, announced today that Manuel Manfredi will join the Company as Chief Financial Officer on April 1, 2024. Philippe Gautier, currently Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer is leaving the Company, effective today. Michel Brousset, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Company who had previously assumed the combined roles of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer prior to the appointment of Mr. Gautier, will serve as the Company's interim Chief Financial Officer through March 31, 2024.
Manuel Manfredi comes to Waldencast with a proven track record of performance having led financial organizations in the beauty and consumer products industries for nearly 25 years. Most recently, he served as Chief Financial Officer at L'Oréal Spain and Portugal, a role he has occupied since 2022. Previously he served as Chief Financial Officer for Italy (2019-2022), Chief Financial Officer for Spain (2015-2019) and in other senior financial roles at L'Oréal, managing multi-billion-dollar businesses across Europe and North America. While at L'Oréal, he played a key role in the acquisition and integration of a new cosmetics brand, executed several transformation projects of the finance, commercial, and back-office functions, and helped unlock value and growth through strong industry and operational expertise. Mr. Manfredi began his finance career at Procter & Gamble Europe in 1998, and holds a Business Management degree from the Universidad of Sevilla.
Michel Brousset, Waldencast's Founder and Chief Executive Officer states,“We are very pleased that Manuel Manfredi is joining us on the Waldencast journey. I believe he is the perfect choice as our ongoing Chief Financial Officer. Manuel has a deep understanding of our industry and culture and possesses significant experience that I believe will be highly valuable to us as we seek to increase financial rigor, enhance our capabilities to drive growth and profitability, and build high performing cross-functional teams to help us deliver on our ambition to build out a world class portfolio of beauty and wellness brands.”
“I would like to thank Philippe Gautier for his many contributions, dedication, and professionalism during his tenure at Waldencast,” continued Mr. Brousset.“He was instrumental in strengthening our financial team, as well as leading the important work needed to build the foundations of our internal controls and reporting. We wish him well in his new endeavors,” he concluded.
Mr. Manfredi, stated:“I am excited to join Waldencast and work with the team to drive value and deliver on the Company's financial and operational objectives. I am excited by the Company's vision and look forward to leading the financial organization and participating in the success of this incredible growth company for many years into the future.”
About Waldencast
Founded by Michel Brousset and Hind Sebti, Waldencast's ambition is to build a global best-in-class beauty and wellness operating platform by developing, acquiring, accelerating, and scaling conscious, high-growth purpose-driven brands. Waldencast's vision is fundamentally underpinned by its brand-led business model that ensures proximity to its customers, business agility, and market responsiveness, while maintaining each brand's distinct DNA. The first step in realizing its vision was the business combination with Obagi Skincare and Milk Makeup. As part of the Waldencast platform, its brands will benefit from the operational scale of a multi- brand platform; the expertise in managing global beauty brands at scale; a balanced portfolio to mitigate category fluctuations; asset light efficiency; and the market responsiveness and speed of entrepreneurial indie brands. For more information please visit:
Obagi Skincare is an industry-leading, advanced skin care line rooted in research and skin biology, refined with a legacy of 30 years' experience. First known as leaders in the treatment of hyperpigmentation with the Obagi Nu-Derm® System, Obagi products are designed to diminish the appearance of premature aging, photodamage, skin discoloration, acne, and sun damage. More information about Obagi Skincare is available on the brand's website
Founded in 2016, Milk Makeup quickly became a cult-favorite among the beauty community for its values of self-expression and inclusion, captured by its signature Live Your Look, its innovative formulas and clean ingredients. The brand creates vegan, cruelty-free, clean formulas from its Milk Makeup HQ in Downtown NYC. Currently, Milk Makeup offers over 300 products through its US website , and its retail partners internationally. More information about Milk Makeup is available on the brand's website
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
All statements in this release that are not historical, are forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements about: expectations regarding the Chief Financial Officer appointments, including the anticipated timings thereof; expectations with respect to the Company's industry and the markets in which it operates; any other future expectations, beliefs, plans, strategies, objectives, events, conditions, financial performance, prospects or future events; and any assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Words such as“anticipate,”“believe,”“continue,”“could,”“estimate,”“expect,”“intend,”“may,”“plan,”“predict,”“project,”“should,” and“will” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.
These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside the control of the Company, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, including, among others: (i) the inability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the business combination with Obagi Skincare and Milk Makeup, (ii) failure by the Company to regain compliance with Nasdaq's continued listing standards or failure to obtain a further extension from the Panel or failure by the Company to satisfy the terms of any extension granted, all of which may result in the Company's securities being delisted from Nasdaq, (iii) the ability of the Company to file required financial results in a timely manner, (iv) the Company's ability to successfully remediate the material weaknesses in the Company's internal control over financial reporting, (v) the potential for delisting, legal proceedings or government investigations or enforcement actions, including those relating to the subject of the Audit Committee (the“Audit Committee”) of the Company's Board of Directors' review or inability to finalize financial results in a timely manner, (vi) the Company's ability to obtain additional waivers from the Administrative Agent and the lenders under its credit facilities for any continuing or future defaults or events of default, (vii) volatility of Waldencast's securities due to a variety of factors, including Waldencast's inability to implement its business plans or meet or exceed its financial projections and changes, (viii) the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations, and identify and realize additional opportunities, (ix) the ability of Waldencast to implement its strategic initiatives and continue to innovate Obagi Skincare's and Milk Makeup's existing products and anticipate and respond to market trends and changes in consumer preferences, (x) any shifts in the preferences of consumers as to where and how they shop, and (xi) social, political and economic conditions. These and other risks, assumptions and uncertainties are more fully described in the Risk Factors section of our 2022 20-F (File No. 01-40207), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the“SEC”) on January 16, 2024, and in our other documents that we file or furnish with the SEC, which you are encouraged to read. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Waldencast expressly disclaims any current intention, and assumes no duty, to update publicly any forward-looking statement after the distribution of this release, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.
Contacts:
Investors
ICR
Allison Malkin / Lyn Walther
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Media
ICR
Brittney Fraser/Alecia Pulman
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https://menafn.com/1107793812/Waldencast-Names-Manuel-Manfredi-As-Chief-Financial-Officer
| 2024-01-31T23:04:04Z
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What did you make of that game, it had a bit of everything?
I think we started the game well, started with good intensity and good tempo, obviously they score and then we lost our way, we lost focus, i was a bit frustrated with our inability to stay disciplined, just too many stops and starts, it kind of plays into their hands, lots of set pieces and throw ins. We spent more time talking to the referee than playing the game. I was a bit frustrated we lost our real clear focus.
Second half I think for 25-30 minutes we were outstanding, scored three great goals and probably should have had a couple more. Then give a goal away which gives them a little bit of impetus in the game. And again after that it was a lot of stops, free-kicks, throw-ins which we had to deal with, and for the large part we dealt with them OK. In the end, from our perspective, great character shown by the lads to get the win.”
What changed in the second half?
Like I said, we just needed to get back to concentrating on what’s important to us, not spending time arguing with the referee or the opposition, or doing things that aren’t going to help us achieving our objective. Go out and just play our football. And I thought we did, and for that 25-30 minute spell I thought we were outstanding.
There was a lot of needle, with the darts celebrations, did that fire your team up?
I hope not because that’s exactly what I’m talking about. I’m not a fan of it, I don’t like the whole bravado, pushing people around. If you’re that brave about things, my players and their players, get into a UFC cage and I’ll see how brave they are. We’re out there to play football. And that’s what I want our guys to do, focus on playing football. And they shouldn’t get motivated by things that aren’t really that important to us. Like I said, we got sucked in first half. Second half was much better.
READ MORE: Tottenham player ratings vs Brentford as Richarlison and Werner impress and Udogie has mixed day
READ MORE: Postecoglou discusses Hojbjerg and Gil future and explains how Tottenham can challenge at top
What did you make of Timo Werner tonight?
I thought he was great. First half we probably didn’t support him enough in that left channel, he was a little bit isolated. Second half we got some better service to him. He’s a quality player, I think he’s proven at this level, and as he gets stronger and fitter and understands our game a little bit better, I think he’ll become even more effective and I know there’s goals in him as well that will come for Tottenham, so I thought he was good.
With the injury crisis receding, you've got options on the bench now, it must make a difference to you to be able to chuck on the likes of Brennan Johnson?
Yeah it does. I think it’s something that’s hampered us a little bit. Because if you want to change a game or throw some fresh energy on, it’s still the same sort of quality coming into the game. I think it probably did Brennan a little bit of good as well, because he’s played a lot for us recently. He could sit and watch the game a bit, maybe get a little bit of a different perspective. He was good when he came on, good that he got his goal. Pierre helped us start of the second half, getting a foothold in the game.
What did you make of James Maddison tonight, he seemed to grow into the game and was it just cramp at the end?
Yeah it was just cramp and I think that's a fair assessment. He got more and more into the game and I think he's one of the guilty ones who spent more time in the first half chatting to the ref than getting on the ball. That's not what we want him to do. We want him to play football and I thought in the second half his quality shone through and when he's like that, and I'm sure that game will do him the world of good, it just gives us so much more flow through that central area.
What did you make of Destiny Udogie this evening, it felt like a bit of a mixed bag from him?
Mistakes will happen mate. He's a young man learning the game. He worked hard, he was instrumental in the first goal, driving through and obviously he scored. Just his drive and he continues to present himself. I've got no issues with Destiny and I thought he was good. He made a mistake but you know what I've made more mistakes today like that, let alone in a career.
When you say about your team getting sucked in, a lot of that was around Neal Maupay, do you have any problem with him doing what he did tonight?
I don't have a problem with it because he's not my player. I don't really care what others do and that was the issue. For me we concentrate on how are we going to become the team we want to become and what obstacles do we need to overcome? Part of that is the maturity and laser focus to not veer away from the importance... a lot of our game is based on fluency and tempo. All those kind of things and there is always going to be natural stoppages in games, particularly against a team like Brentford who a lot of their game structure is around set-pieces and long throws, but what you don't want to do is add to that with our wastage of time.
You're back in the top four, does that set you up for big push in second half of the season?
It doesn't make a difference. We've been there or thereabouts the whole season, so it's nothing different for us. There is still a lot of growth in this team and nights like tonight, nights like Friday night just shows me we still have a long way to go. Within that context the fact this team still produces and gets results is a credit to them, but we need to keep improving in a whole lot of areas. It is good some guys got some game time tonight.
Pape is back today, which is good for us. Good for Radu to get some time. It is a short turnaround, we have probably got the shortest turnaround with the 12.30 on Saturday so we'll need some fresh bodies. It will be a tough game so looking forward to it.
Anything likely to happen tomorrow on deadline day?
No, as I said yesterday unlikely and I guess less likely than yesterday.
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https://www.football.london/tottenham-hotspur-fc/news/every-word-postecoglou-said-udogie-28547953
| 2024-01-31T23:04:04Z
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Artificial intelligence continues to showcase its abilities. AI software can create music and even find tumors, but people are also using it for harm.
Experts estimate 98% of so-called deep fakes, for example, are pornography. The victims are almost entirely women, and many are minors.
Last year, 13 deep fake victims died by suicide.
“If you’re a 13- or 14-year-old and you go into a school and all of a sudden people are laughing and snickering and you discover someone’s taken your face and put it on the internet doing horrific things, how are you going to react?” Rep. Holly Cheeseman (R-East Lyme) said.
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Cheeseman is one of two lawmakers looking to make deep fakes a priority this session. Her focus is on AI-generated pornographic images.
Sen. James Maroney (D-Milford) shares Cheeseman’s concern but he also wants to address the use of deep fakes to spread misinformation and disinformation.
A robocall featuring an imitation of President Joe Biden’s voice tried to convince Democratic voters not to participate in last week’s New Hampshire primary.
Local
“We’re not going to prevent this, unfortunately, we know that,” Maroney said. “We need to criminalize it and try our best to prevent it.”
Maroney said the laws would apply to the content creators, not the social media platforms and websites that are used for distribution.
He also said laws around misinformation would be effective during a period before an election, possibly 90 days, aimed at information that is meant to confuse or mislead voters. The proposal would also require disclosure when content is created using artificial intelligence.
Both lawmakers want to focus on the harm AI-generated content can cause on victims. One legal expert said the First Amendment could make that difficult, though.
“Generally we recognize that false information is protected by the First Amendment as much as true information,” Quinnipiac University School of Law Professor Wayne Unger said.
That means lawmakers can’t just restrict the message of AI-generated content. States do have some ability to regulate pornography, banning child pornography and requiring people to consent to images being released.
But even there, Unger said it’s not clear how those laws apply to fake images or video created by artificial intelligence.
“The question here is whether fake child pornography is still protected by the First Amendment and ultimately, we do not know,” Unger said.
There’s also a question about who, if anyone, can regulate the internet.
Connecticut’s laws are only effective activity inside its borders. States also typically cannot regulate the internet even if they work together.
The internet is a major source of interstate commerce, something the federal government regulates.
Deep fakes can be produced anyway in the world, though. The First Amendment limits Congress’ ability to restrict what people see and view online.
“The general rule here is you do have an implicit right to receive information under the First Amendment so long as that information is generally acceptable and protected by the first amendment,” Unger said.
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https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/politics/heres-what-is-being-done-to-prevent-so-called-deep-fakes-in-connecticut/3207841/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:05Z
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Eyewitness to killing of Run-DMC’s Jam Master Jay tells jury: ‘Then I see Jay just fall’
By JENNIFER PELTZ..
Associated Press
For about 15 years, Uriel Rincon told authorities he didn’t recognize the gunman who killed Run-DMC’s Jam Master Jay and wounded Rincon himself in the rap star’s recording studio.
But on Wednesday, Rincon pointed across a Brooklyn federal courtroom and identified Karl Jordan Jr. as the shooter in one of the world’s most infamous killings in hip-hop history. Jordan and Ronald Washington, an accused accomplice, have pleaded not guilty to murder.
Rincon told jurors in the men’s trial that Jam Master Jay, born Jason Mizell, was in his studio’s lounge area on the evening of Oct. 30, 2002, playing a football video game and talking business with him and another aide, when the door opened. In walked Jordan, the rap star’s godson, Rincon said.
“He kind of walked directly to Jay and gave — like, half a handshake, with an arm. And at the same time, that’s when I hear a couple of shots,” Rincon testified. He said he was looking down at his ringing phone as the gunfire erupted, then looked up again.
“And then I see Jay just fall,” he said.
Then, Rincon said, he felt pain in his left leg and realized that he’d been shot and that the 37-year-old hip-hop luminary was gravely wounded.
“I’m trying to tend to my wound, and at the same time, I’m trying to give Jay attention — asking him: Is he OK? Can he talk? Whatever — and he is just not responding,” Rincon testified.
He said that during the shooting, Washington was at the studio door, telling the other aide to get on the ground and stay there. Both suspects fled down a hallway toward the building’s back door and fire escape, he said.
The rap star had a gun, which was sitting by his side on a sofa armrest during the 10-to-15-second encounter, Rincon said.
Rincon, who goes by Tony, was the first eyewitness to testify in the long-awaited trial over the death of Mizell. The DJ helped rap gain a wider audience through his role in Run-DMC, the 1980s powerhouse group that notched the genre’s first gold and platinum albums and was known for such hits as “It’s Tricky” and its take on Aerosmith’s “Walk This Way.”
The trial opened Monday, and on Tuesday, Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall ruled that Jordan’s rap lyrics — which include first-person accounts of violence and drug dealing — can’t be used against him at trial, as prosecutors sought.
Jordan, known as “Little D,” and Washington, who’s nicknamed “Tinard” and was a childhood friend of Mizell’s, were arrested in 2020. Prosecutors say the two had been planning a cocaine deal with the rap star and killed him because they were about to get cut out.
Washington’s lawyers have said authorities had no clue who killed Mizell and that they brought a case held together only with “tape and glue.” Jordan’s attorneys have said he was at his then-girlfriend’s home at the time of the shooting.
While questioning Rincon Wednesday, defense lawyers emphasized that he repeatedly told investigators that he hadn’t quite seen and couldn’t identify the gunman. He maintained the same even while giving the Daily News of New York a 2007 interview.
Rincon said he “omitted the truth” because he was scared for himself and his mother, particularly after — according to him — Jordan approached them at Mizell’s funeral to ask Rincon whether he’d seen the gunman. (He said no.)
Rincon said he also struggled to fathom what had happened.
“I didn’t understand what I saw,” Rincon said, about how someone he knew — and who knew Mizell — could have killed him. “That’s why it was hard for me to grasp.”
He finally named Jordan and Washington to authorities around 2017. At the time, he also told investigators that Mizell had uttered “Oh” and an expletive as the shots were fired.
When asked why he finally did so, Rincon said he thought of Mizell’s surviving family.
“I felt that his wife and his children needed closure, and I felt that they should know what took place,” said Rincon, who gave composed but heavy-hearted testimony, at times speaking softly or taking heavy breaths. Washington, 59, and Jordan, 40, showed no visible emotion as he pointed to them out in court.
Rincon had started doing various tasks at Mizell’s studio at 17 and considered him a music-business mentor. A college student in his mid-20s at the time of the shooting, Rincon sought counseling afterward and moved out of state, he said.
“Are you still scared today?” asked Mark DeMarco, a lawyer for Jordan.
“Of course,” Rincon said.
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https://keyt.com/news/2024/01/31/eyewitness-to-killing-of-run-dmcs-jam-master-jay-tells-jury-then-i-see-jay-just-fall/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:07Z
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FRANKFORT, Ky. — (AP) — Abortion rights supporters mounted another push Wednesday to restore abortion access in Kentucky, but the Democratic lawmaker sponsoring the legislation acknowledged the odds are overwhelmingly against them in the Republican-dominated legislature.
A near-total abortion ban has been in place in Kentucky since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. The so-called trigger law banned abortions except when carried out to save the mother's life. It does not include exceptions for pregnancies caused by rape or incest.
The bill unveiled Wednesday by Democratic Rep. Lindsey Burke would roll back Kentucky's abortion laws to the time before Republicans claimed majority status in the House after the 2016 election. Since then, GOP lawmakers who dominate the legislature have passed a series of bills putting more restrictions on abortion, culminating in the near-total ban under the trigger law — which passed in 2019 and took effect when Roe v. Wade was struck down.
Republican supermajorities in Kentucky's legislature skipped over the abortion issue last year and so far have not taken up abortion-related measures in this year's session, which continues until mid-April.
“I think the truth is that there’s very little appetite for change, at least among the supermajority,” Burke acknowledged at a news conference Wednesday.
But she predicted that grassroots activism to restore abortion access would eventually pay dividends. Activists point to the outcome of a statewide vote in 2022 when Kentuckians rejected a ballot measure backed by GOP lawmakers that would have denied any constitutional protections for abortion
“The more these groups get mobilized, the more they speak to their lawmakers, I think we will get to a place where action will be required,” Burke said. "And I will look forward to that day.”
Abortion opponents gathered for a recent rally at Kentucky's Capitol, where they “stood together as one voice, united in love for every precious life,” said Addia Wuchner, executive director of Kentucky Right to Life.
Burke was joined by Democratic colleagues and abortion-rights supporters at the news conference. Jackie McGranahan, a senior policy strategist for the American Civil Liberties Union of Kentucky, said the ban fails to recognize that some pregnancies are unplanned, complicated and risky.
“Repealing the current abortion ban in Kentucky is not about promoting one choice over another," she said. "It’s about recognizing that pregnancy can be complicated. And it’s our duty to ensure individuals have the autonomy to make decisions that are best for their health, their families and their future.”
A Senate bill introduced early in this year's session would relax the state’s abortion ban by allowing the procedure when pregnancies are caused by rape or incest, or when pregnancies are deemed nonviable or medical emergencies threaten the mother. The Democratic-sponsored bill has made no headway.
That bill won an endorsement from Hadley Duvall, who dominated discussion about abortion during last year's campaign for Kentucky governor. Now a college senior in her early 20s, Duvall became pregnant as a seventh grader but ultimately miscarried. Her stepfather was convicted of rape. She recounted those traumatic events in a campaign ad for Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear that attacked his Republican challenger's longstanding support for the state's abortion ban. Beshear won a resounding reelection victory last November.
Kentucky's Supreme Court last year refused to strike down the near-total abortion ban. The justices ruled on narrow legal issues but left unanswered the larger constitutional questions about whether access to abortion should be legal in the Bluegrass State.
In late 2023, a Kentucky woman sued to demand the right to an abortion, but her attorneys later withdrew the lawsuit after the woman learned her embryo no longer had cardiac activity.
Elsewhere, legislatures in some other states with strict abortion bans are facing pressure to clarify or loosen their exemptions but it’s unclear if they will do so.
In Kentucky, Burke revealed two other bills Wednesday. One would provide legal protections for private medical information and providers when patients go to other states to undergo abortions. The other bill seeks to provide more Kentucky women with information about maternal and postpartum depression.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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https://www.actionnewsjax.com/news/health/activists-renew-push/QPLAYQCEYO73OPMJ46Q3DLBMTU/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:07Z
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SOWETAN | Not too late to fix NSFAS mess
The administrative and leadership problems at NSFAS are not without consequences.
Our story on how a huge historical debt burden is impacting universities around the country is but one example of this. Several universities detailed how nonpayment of outstanding student fees were hampering their operations, including the quality of learning and teaching.
The University of Pretoria, for example, revealed that it has frozen building maintenance and refurbishing student residences as result of the nonpayment of debt dating back several years. Rhodes University, on the other hand, said it had to reprioritise its budget owing to the nonpayment by NSFAS.
The scheme, which has been beset by scandals recently including irregular appointments of companies for the direct payment of student allowances, is crippling universities, and making life harder for the very students it is meant to fund for education.
The trickle-down effect is that many students funded by NSFAS whose fees are outstanding are either deprived of seeing their results or made to jump through hoops before registering.
It does not matter how much higher education minister Blade Nzimande pleads with universities to allow students with outstanding fees to register. The fact is that the universities themselves rely on this money to fund their academic programmes, operations and create a conducive environment for students to study.
What Nzimande needs to focus his energy on is sorting out the mess at NSFAS. It is evident that poor leadership at NSFAS is the cause of all the problems including governance failures that have come to light recently.
Much of what we see playing out today – whether it is the cries of students whose allowances have not been paid since last year or escalating debt to universities – takes root from poor leadership.
Those entrusted with leading and administering this very important institution with a mandate to broaden access to post-school education and training to mostly poor students, are failing them.
The troubles at NSFAS have been allowed to persist for far too long. It is not too late for Nzimande to turn this around for the good of students and public universities.
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https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/opinion/columnists/2024-01-30-sowetan-not-too-late-to-fix-nsfas-mess/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:09Z
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Attorneys delivered opening statements Wednesday in the trial of Michael Jason Meade, the now-retired Franklin County Sheriff's Office SWAT deputy charged with murder after he shot and killed 23-year-old Casey Goodson Jr. in Dec. 2020.
Meade is white and Goodson was a Black man.
Meade's attorneys say he pursued Goodson after seeing him handling a gun in a vehicle, while the two were stopped at an intersection.
The prosecutors say Goodson was driving home from a dentist appointment and picking up sub sandwiches when Meade chased him down.
The defense and the prosecution outlined the cases they intend to present to the jury over the next few weeks before Judge David Young in Franklin County Common Pleas Court. The statements showed where each side differs on some key elements of the case, though they do agree on some facts. Goodson was wearing ear buds, he was carrying a bag of sub sandwiches as he walked into his home on Estates Place in North Linden and a gun was found with Goodson after he was shot six times by Meade.
Special prosecutor Gary Shroyer said Meade shot Goodson in the back through a storm door as he walked into his grandmother's house. Shroyer argued the shooting was not justifiable, because Goodson wasn't a threat to anyone. He claims Goodson was oblivious to Meade's commands.
"Casey did not pose a reasonable threat to the defendant or anyone else at the time he pulls his trigger. Because the evidence in our case shows Casey wasn't even facing him," Shroyer said.
Defense attorney Kaitlyn Stephens said Meade pursued Goodson because he thought he was a danger because of the weapon he saw. He said Goodson pointed the gun at him when they drove past each other and said that Goodson ran from him after after making eye contact with him. Meade fired the gun as Goodson walked into the house, after Goodson turned toward him and pointed his gun at him, making Meade fear for his life.
"It is every officer's worst nightmare to stare down the barrel of a gun. Both of them will tell you that leveling the gun in the direction of an officer is absolutely an immediate threat," Stephens said.
The defense is disputing whether or not all six shots were in Goodson's back.
Stephens said Meade pulled the trigger once while Goodson was turned toward him, but the other bullets struck Goodson because the rifle's rapid fire feature fires in six-round bursts.
Shroyer said all six shots were in Goodson's back and emphasized how Goodson fell, face forward with his palms down on the floor.
Each side says they have medical experts who can confirm which direction Goodson was facing when the first bullet hit him.
The attorneys are also offering differing perspectives on why Goodson's gun was lying next to him after he was shot.
Shroyer said Goodson had a concealed carry permit and was legally allowed to carry the weapon, and implied it likely fell from the holster when Goodson was shot in the back and fell forward.
"Casey's gun was found on the floor, with its safety still engaged. The gun had not been fired. He also had a soft-sided holster in the front of his pants. The holster does not have a strap to hold the gun in place. It's just you put it there. There's nothing there to hold it in," Shroyer said.
Stephens, though, said the weapon was found outside of a holster, within arm's reach of Goodson's body, because Goodson had the gun out when he went into the house as Meade followed.
She argues that these circumstances would mean Meade was justified in shooting Goodson.
"Ladies and gentlemen, the suspect turns toward the officer, looks in Jason's direction as he lifts his hand up, leveling the barrel of the gun toward my client. And in that split second, Jason steps to the left and fires in accordance with his training, one shot until he sees the suspect fall," Stephens said.
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https://www.wvxu.org/2024-01-31/opening-statements-delivered-in-murder-trial-of-ex-franklin-co-deputy-who-killed-casey-goodson-jr
| 2024-01-31T23:04:10Z
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(MENAFN- GlobeNewsWire - Nasdaq) NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN
TORONTO, Jan. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- REVIVE THERAPEUTICS LTD. ( CSE: RVV; OTCQB: RVVTF ) (“ Revive ” or the“ Company ”) announces that it has completed the first tranche of its previously announced private placement (see January 24, 2024 press release) (the“ Offering ”) by issuing 26,100,000 units (each, a“ Unit ”), at a price of $0.035 per Unit, for gross proceeds of $913,500.
Each Unit consisted of one common share (“ Common Share ”) in the capital of the Company and one-half (1/2) of a Common Share purchase warrant (“ Warrant ”) of the Company. Each whole Warrant entitles the holder thereof to acquire one additional Common Share at a price of $0.05 per Common Share for a period of thirty-six (36) months from the closing date (the“ Closing Date ”) of the Offering.
The company intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering for clinical work on long COVID and other possible indications, advancement of government studies, possible repayment of certain arm's length payables, and general working capital purposes.
In connection with the Offering, the Company paid finder's fees and issued finder warrants to Canaccord Genuity Corp. and EMD Financial Inc. consisting of an aggregate of $73,080 in cash and 2,088,000 finder warrants entitling the holders to purchase up to an aggregate of 2,088,000 Units of the Company (the“ Compensation Units ”), at a price of $0.05 per Compensation Unit, for a period of eighteen (18) months following the Closing Date.
All securities issued pursuant to the Offering are subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day expiring on June 1, 2024.
About Revive Therapeutics Ltd.
Revive Therapeutics is a life sciences company focused on the research and development of therapeutics for infectious diseases and rare disorders, and it is prioritizing drug development efforts to take advantage of several regulatory incentives awarded by the FDA such as Emergency Use Authorization, Orphan Drug, Fast Track, and Breakthrough Therapy designations. Currently, the Company is exploring the use of Bucillamine for the potential treatment of public health medical emergencies and rare inflammatory disorders. Revive is also advancing the development of Psilocybin-based therapeutics through various programs. For more information, visit .
On Behalf of the Board of Directors,
“Michael Frank, CEO”
For further information, please contact:
Michael Frank
Chief Executive Officer
Revive Therapeutics Ltd.
Tel: 1-888-901-0036
Email: mfrank@revi veth era
Website:
Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the CSE policies) accepts responsibility for this release's adequacy or accuracy.
Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains 'forward-looking information' within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words“may”,“could”,“intend”,“expect”,“believe”,“will”,“projected”,“estimated” and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on Revive's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Forward looking information in this press release includes information with respect to the Offering and the Company's cannabinoids, psychedelics and infectious diseases programs. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions that have been made by Revive at the date of the information and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Given these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, you should not unduly rely on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is made as of the date hereof, and Revive is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein. Reference is made to the risk factors disclosed under the heading“Risk Factors” in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the three months ended September 30, 2023 (“ MD&A ”), dated November 29, 2023, which is available on the Company's profile at .
This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the“ 1933 Act ”) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available. Any public offering of securities in the United States must be made by means of a prospectus containing detailed information about the issuer and its management, as well as financial statements.
MENAFN31012024004107003653ID1107793813
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https://menafn.com/1107793813/Revive-Therapeutics-Ltd-Announces-Closing-Of-The-First-Tranche-Of-Its-Private-Placement-For-Gross-Proceeds-Of-913500
| 2024-01-31T23:04:10Z
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'A long time coming': Man charged in 2017 killing near Fordland
More than five years after the shooting death of a man near Fordland, a Douglas County grand jury has filed first-degree murder charges against Howard J. Applegate.
The 28-year-old Ava resident also faces felony charges of armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, concealing, and endangering the welfare following the October 2017 death of Lance Terrill, 34, whose body was found outside a mobile home near Highway Z around midnight.
Two children were reportedly in the mobile home when authorities arrived, and there were multiple bullet holes in the structure of the residence. It was initially reported in 2017 that a suspect may have fled the state.
Before Applegate was recently indicted for allegedly killing Terrill, a Seymour native, he had been in Douglas County jail for a series of felony charges, including first-degree assault, burglary and tampering with physical evidence.
No other details from the arrest pertaining to a potential motive or previous relationship were made available.
Douglas County Sheriff Chris Degase said multiple neighboring law enforcement agencies helped piece the case together to provide adequate evidence for an indictment, including the Webster County and Christian County sheriff's offices.
“It has been a long time coming that has involved hundreds of man hours by all three departments. The close working relationship with these surrounding sheriffs helped make this arrest possible," DeGase said. "I know these charges will not bring Lance back but hopefully it will give Lance’s family some justice and closure.”
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Howard J. Applegate charged in 2017 killing near Fordland
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https://news.yahoo.com/long-time-coming-man-charged-220032463.html
| 2024-01-31T23:04:10Z
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MIAMI — A federal judge has dismissed the Walt Disney Company's lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Disney sued after DeSantis and state lawmakers removed its self-governing status in 2023.
Backed by Republican lawmakers, DeSantis dissolved a special district near Orlando that for more than fifty years had governed Walt Disney World. He acted after Disney's CEO opposed a law limiting how sex orientation and gender identity can be discussed in the schools. The Parental Rights in Education Act was labeled "Don't Say Gay" by opponents.
At DeSantis' request, Florida's GOP-controlled legislature created a new special district, the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, controlled by the Republican Governor's appointees. Disney sued in federal court, saying DeSantis was retaliating against the company, punishing it for exercising its First Amendment right to freedom of speech. Disney also canceled plans for a $1 billion campus in Florida.
In a 17-page order, U.S. District Judge Allen Winsor dismissed the case, saying Disney lacks standing to sue the governor. The judge also said while Disney could sue the new DeSantis-appointed board, it hadn't shown evidence that actions by the new board had harmed the company. In addition, Winsor said the law prohibits plaintiffs from bringing a free speech challenge to constitutionally enacted laws.
A DeSantis spokesman hailed the decision saying, "the Corporate Kingdom is over. The days of Disney controlling its own government and being placed above the law are long gone. Disney is still just one of many corporations in the state and they do not have a right to their own special government."
Disney says it will "press forward with its case." In a statement after the ruling, a company spokesperson said, "If left unchallenged, this would set a dangerous precedent and give license to states to weaponize their official powers to punish the expression of political viewpoints they disagree with."
Disney and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board are also embroiled in lawsuits in state court.
Copyright 2024 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.marfapublicradio.org/2024-01-31/a-federal-judge-dismisses-disneys-lawsuit-against-florida-gov-ron-desantis
| 2024-01-31T23:04:12Z
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Broadway star Hinton Battle, who played the original Scarecrow at the 1978 "The Wiz", has died at 67. He was a three-time Tony Award winner.
Copyright 2024 NPR
Broadway star Hinton Battle, who played the original Scarecrow at the 1978 "The Wiz", has died at 67. He was a three-time Tony Award winner.
Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.kunr.org/2024-01-31/broadway-legend-hinton-battle-who-originally-played-scarecrow-in-the-wiz-has-died
| 2024-01-31T23:04:12Z
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Sonic x Shadow Generations, a remake of the 2011 original with additional content, was revealed at the January State of Play showcase. It will be coming to PlayStation platforms this autumn.
Sega made a surprise appearance at Sony’s State of Play presentation with an enhanced remake of Sonic Generations, now titled Sonic x Shadow Generations. This game will include all the content from the original release, as well as add Shadow as a new playable character alongside the two iterations of Sonic.
The trailer opened with footage of both modern and classic Sonic gameplay from the original before Shadow appeared to steal the spotlight. Shadow’s gameplay appears to be exclusively in the 3D style and features him racing through sci-fi-looking stages and facing off against a mix of robotic enemies, as well as the massive bosses the series is known for. It is unclear how many new stages Shadow will have in this release, or if any other major improvements to the game will be included.
Sonic t Shadow Generations will be the second console Sonic game in less than a year following the release of Sonic Superstars in October 2023. Sonic Generations was originally released to celebrate Sonic’s 20th anniversary by combining both the classic 2D style gameplay with modern 3D stages. The original game is still widely viewed as a great entry in the franchise that is sadly unavailable on modern platforms aside from PC.
Sonic x Shadow Generations will arrive on PlayStation 4 and 5 sometime in autumn 2024.
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https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/sonic-x-shadow-generations-revealed/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:12Z
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LifestyleLori Harvey makes her Sports Illustrated modelling debutSteve Harvey’s daughter Lori Harvey makes her Sports Illustrated modelling debut.February 1, 2024 — 8.43amSaveLog in, register or subscribe to save articles for later.Save videos for laterAdd videos to your saved list and come back to them any time.Got itLoadingReplayReplay videoPlay videoPlay video
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https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/lifestyle/lori-harvey-makes-her-sports-illustrated-modelling-debut-20240201-p5f1ky.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed
| 2024-01-31T23:04:12Z
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Federal judge dismisses Disney’s free speech lawsuit against DeSantis
By MIKE SCHNEIDER
Associated Press
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — A federal judge on Wednesday dismissed Disney’s free speech lawsuit against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, leaving the company’s remaining hopes of regaining control of the district that governs Walt Disney World to a separate state court challenge.
U.S. District Judge Allen Winsor in Tallahassee said in his decision that Disney lacked standing in its First Amendment lawsuit against the Republican governor, the secretary of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and DeSantis’ appointees to the Disney World governing district. The separate lawsuit is still pending in state court in Orlando.
Disney had argued that legislation signed by DeSantis and passed by the Republican-controlled Legislature that transferred control of the Disney World governing district from Disney supporters to DeSantis appointees was in retaliation for the company publicly opposing the state’s so-called don’t say gay law. That 2022 law banned classroom lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in early grades and was championed by DeSantis, who recently suspended his campaign for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination.
Disney supporters had run the district, which provides municipal services such as firefighting, planning and mosquito control, for more than five decades after the Legislature created it in 1967.
Winsor, who was appointed to the bench by President Donald Trump in 2019, said in his decision that Disney didn’t have standing to sue the governor or agency secretary because DeSantis already had picked the appointees to the board of the governing district.
“Because Disney seeks injunctive relief, it must allege an imminent future injury … and it has not alleged facts showing that any imminent future appointments will contribute to its harm,” the judge wrote.
In dismissing the claim against the DeSantis appointees to the district’s board, Winsor wrote that when a law on its face is constitutional, plaintiffs can’t make free-speech claims challenging it because they believe lawmakers acted with unconstitutional motives.
“Because that is what Disney seeks here, its claim fails as a matter of law,” he wrote.
Disney plans to appeal the decision.
“This is an important case with serious implications for the rule of law, and it will not end here,” the company said. “If left unchallenged, this would set a dangerous precedent and give license to states to weaponize their official powers to punish the expression of political viewpoints they disagree with.”
The governor’s press secretary, Jeremy Redfern, said the judge’s decision supported DeSantis’ belief that Disney doesn’t have a right to its “own special government.”
“The days of Disney controlling its own government and being placed above the law are long gone,” Redfern said.
___
Follow Mike Schneider on X: @MikeSchneiderAP.
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https://keyt.com/news/2024/01/31/federal-judge-dismisses-disneys-free-speech-lawsuit-against-desantis-second-lawsuit-still-pending/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:13Z
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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Animal Care and Protective Services in Duval County is asking the community to help Cheese Whiz, Chevy, Roxie, and their friends.
>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<
For Wish List Wednesday, blocks of Velveeta-style cheese, large and extra-large wire dog crates, and airline-style creates are some of the items needed.
The Velveeta-style cheese is used to get the dogs to take their medicines easier. Large wire dog crates are needed for in-shelter dogs who live in offices. ACPS also sends these crates home with community members who are holding onto strays. The airline-style crates are used for keeping dogs that suffer from separation anxiety and to travel in.
All donations can be sent to and dropped off at 2020 Forest St. in Jacksonville.
[SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter]
Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
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https://www.actionnewsjax.com/news/local/animal-care-protective-services-creates-wish-list-wednesday-dogs-need/RCN5I5BPN5CZTKVFHB7R4A6AC4/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:13Z
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https://zifmstereo.co.zw/edwards-believes-hat-trick-hero-adebayo-can-be-really-difficult-for-premier-league-teams-to-play-against-4500411/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:12Z
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NPR's Ari Shapiro talks to Vivian McCall, reporter for The Stranger, about recent raids in Seattle's gay bars. Members of the city's LGBTQ-plus community are looking for answers.
Copyright 2024 NPR
NPR's Ari Shapiro talks to Vivian McCall, reporter for The Stranger, about recent raids in Seattle's gay bars. Members of the city's LGBTQ-plus community are looking for answers.
Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.wvxu.org/2024-01-31/seattles-queer-community-is-furious-after-gay-bars-were-raided-over-the-weekend
| 2024-01-31T23:04:16Z
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(MENAFN- GlobeNewsWire - Nasdaq) NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES
TORONTO, Jan. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Water Ways Technologies Inc. (TSXV: WWT) (FRA: WWT) (" Water Ways " or the " Company "), a global provider of Israeli-based agriculture technology, providing water irrigation solutions to agricultural producers announces that the current 2024 order backlog of its Canadian subsidiary, Heartnut Grove WWT Inc. ("WWT CANADA" based in Mt. Brydges Ontario, exceeded CAD$3 as of January 31, 2024. The orders are for agricultural, irrigation supplies and irrigation projects.
The orders on hand are to be delivered in Q1 and Q2 of 2024.
Ohad Haber, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, "Our business in North America is improving. We have targeted new clients and new projects which will substantiate our business objective to focus on the North American market."
About Water Ways Technologies
Water Ways Technologies Inc., through its subsidiaries, is a global provider of Israeli-based agriculture technology, providing water irrigation solutions to agricultural producers. Water Ways Technologies competes in the worldwide irrigation water systems market, focusing on developing solutions with commercial applications in the micro and precision irrigation segments of the overall market. At present, Water Ways Technologies' primary revenue stream is derived from the following business units: (i) Projects Business Unit; and (ii) Component and Equipment Sales Unit. Water Ways Technologies is capitalizing on the opportunities presented by micro and intelligent irrigation. The Company also produces a positive mark on society by making these technologies more widely available, particularly in developing markets such as Africa and Latin America and developed markets such as China and Canada. Water Ways Technologies irrigation projects include vineyards, cotton fields, apple and orange orchids, blueberries, medical Cannabis, fresh produce cooling rooms and more.
For more information, please contact
Ronnie Jaegermann
Director
T: +972-54-4202054
E: ...
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements contained in this press release constitute "forward-looking information" as such a term is defined in applicable Canadian securities legislation. The words "may", "would", "could", "should", "potential", "will", "seek", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions as they relate to Water Ways. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking information. Such statements reflect Water Ways' current views and intentions with respect to future events, and current information available to Water Ways, and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Material factors or assumptions were applied in providing forward-looking information. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking information to vary from those described herein should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize. Should any factor affect Water Ways in an unexpected manner, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, the actual results or events may differ materially from the results or events predicted. Any such forward-looking information is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Moreover, Water Ways does not assume responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such forward-looking information. The forward-looking information included in this press release is made as of the date of this press release and Water Ways undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, other than as required by applicable law. Water Ways' results and forward-looking information and calculations may be affected by fluctuations in exchange rates. All figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated.
MENAFN31012024004107003653ID1107793814
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https://menafn.com/1107793814/Water-Ways-Canadian-Subsidiary-Increases-Its-Order-Backlog-For-2024-To-Over-CAD32M
| 2024-01-31T23:04:16Z
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ANTHONY TURTON | SA water sector faltering while Australia thrives
State’s hostility towards private capital renders sector uninvestable
SA and Australia, countries with historical ties to the British Empire, face significant water management challenges. Despite common legal and parliamentary systems, the two nations diverge in their approaches to water sector governance, leading to markedly different outcomes in economic prosperity.
It is evident that contemporary SA is grappling with a scenario resembling a failed state, particularly evident in the breakdown of the electricity and water services sector. Why is the SA water sector faltering while its Australian counterpart thrives?
Addressing the collapse of the SA water sector. The origins can be traced back to the British Empire’s consideration of federalism during the Anglo-Zulu War. While federalism found success in Canada and Australia, it failed to take root in SA.
Fast forward to the present, SA operates as a unitary state with a centralised water policy and national water law. This leaves little room for local variation. The sector faces high levels of unaccounted-for water, leakages, and poor management.
The absence of justiciable water rights and the separation of water from land ownership hinder private sector involvement.
Australia’s federal structure facilitates a diverse array of state policies and laws, promoting adaptability to local conditions. Boasting over 30 distinct water authorities, each tailored to meet local needs, Australia thrives on a justiciable water right system that allows private ownership.
Australia’s innovative and market-oriented approach has resulted in well-managed utilities with robust balance sheets. The ability to raise capital from the bond market reduces reliance on public funds for bailouts. Groundwater plays a vital role, accounting for about 40% of the total resource, while innovative technologies, such as seawater desalination, are embraced.
Contrastingly, SA’s water sector faces challenges. A lack of innovative approaches, coupled with a rigid, cookie-cutter methodology has stifled local imagination. The state’s hostility towards private capital has rendered the water sector generally uninvestable. While some large water boards still maintain strong balance sheets, the growing debt burden from non-payment by municipalities poses a threat.
Limited development of groundwater at utility scale, coupled with a reluctance to replicate successful initiatives, further compounds the challenges. Seawater desalination, where it exists, is confined to small package plants in distressed municipalities along the coast.
Australia stands out for its innovative solutions. Building codes align with water conservation, ensuring rainwater harvesting and aquifer recharge are actively pursued.
The weakness of SA’s water sector lies in the highly centralised approach, resulting in ineffective, one-size-fits-all solutions. Local authorities often lack imagination, relying heavily on taxpayers and hinder innovation.
Prof Turton works at Centre for Environmental Management at the University of the Free State.
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https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/opinion/columnists/2024-01-31-anthony-turton-sa-water-sector-faltering-while-australia-thrives/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:16Z
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Matt Gaetz Is Trying to Get Republicans to Absolve Trump of Insurrection
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Representative Matt Gaetz is trying to drum up support for a resolution stating that Donald Trump did not engage in insurrection.
Gaetz first began shopping the resolution around via email last week, according to the Daily Mail. He started handing out hard copies on Wednesday, requesting people to sign on as co-sponsors by the end of the following day.
The resolution would express “That it is the sense of the House of Representatives that former President Donald J. Trump did not ‘engage in insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or give aid or comfort to the enemies thereof.’”
Rep. Matt Gaetz circulating this resolution declaring Trump “did not engage in insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or give aid or comfort to the enemies thereof” to offices for co-sponsorship.
First reported by @_phillipsmorgan pic.twitter.com/aVXPA9Yv2l— Andrew Solender (@AndrewSolender) January 31, 2024
If the resolution makes it to the House floor, it would force Republicans to show their hand, and whether they are ultimately loyal to Trump or to their country. Gaetz’s resolution already has multiple far-right, pro-Trump cosponsors including Marjorie Taylor Greene and Andy Biggs.
Of course, the resolution doesn’t magically get rid of the indictments Trump still faces. He was indicted for his role in the January 6 insurrection and charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy to corruptly obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of and attempt to obstruct an official proceeding, and conspiracy against the right to vote. He was set to go on trial in March, but that has been put on hold until a Washington, D.C., appeals court determines whether Trump has presidential immunity from legal proceedings.
Trump has also been booted from the primary ballots in Colorado and Maine, after the Colorado state Supreme Court and the Maine Secretary of State determined he was guilty of insurrection, rendering him constitutionally ineligible to run for president. Many Republicans are livid over his disqualification and have accused the Democratic Party (which is not involved in the decision process) of election interference.
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https://news.yahoo.com/matt-gaetz-trying-republicans-absolve-221327853.html
| 2024-01-31T23:04:16Z
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Jorge Rubiano arrived alone in Chicago, but his pain and trauma came with him.
For months, he tried to find steady work. For months, he's been sleeping in a crowded temporary shelter, worrying about his wife and mother back in Colombia. Are they safe? Did I make the right decision?
He recalls a frightening phone call with his wife in Colombia, cut short when the bus she was riding on was being robbed.
Rubiano, 43, is also haunted by memories of his harrowing journey to Chicago, during which he says he was kidnapped for a month, before escaping.
He left his country, he says, over a land dispute in which the government threatened his life.
"I'm still in between two dangers," Rubiano says in Spanish. "If I return it's very possible they kill me, and if I stay I don't know what can happen here."
More than 30,000 migrants and asylum seekers have arrived in Chicago since August of 2022 — most of them from South and Central America. They are fleeing the collapse of their economies, a lack of food and jobs, and violence back home.
Many came here on a bus from Texas, sent by Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, who said Chicago — and other so-called sanctuary cities that embrace immigrants — would provide much-needed relief "to our small, overrun border towns."
The buses haven't stopped since.
Migrants fleeing hardship, danger, fear and loss
Interviews with more than 30 people reveal the emotional toll migrants face, and the efforts of individuals and organizations that are trying to fill the gaps of a frayed mental health system.
Some of those efforts are catching the attention of leaders in other big U.S. cities also coping with large influxes of newly-arrived migrants.
For many, their journeys here were terrifying. A young girl who fell into a river, her pregnant mother struggling to hold her small hand, so the current wouldn't whisk her away. Women who were forced to have sex with gang members to get from country to country. People who walked over the dead in the jungle, or are wracked with guilt over the sick and injured left behind.
Their stories have unfolded across Chicago: in the quiet space of a therapist's office, at an informal healing circle in the back of a store, with a nurse at a folding table propped up outside a police station.
But for many migrants, taking care of their mental health might not be a priority.
"They're in survival mode," says Sharon Davila, a school-based social worker who has screened migrant families. "They need their basic needs met. The number one thing is they're looking for jobs."
Just getting in front of a therapist or a social worker can be extremely difficult for even the most savvy and persistent. With a shortage of mental health workers, wait lists for an appointment can be months long.
Layer on being new to this country, speaking a different language, and having no health insurance. Getting help can seem impossible.
Therapist Susie Moya worries about a mental health crisis brewing for many migrants.
"Right now it's on the back burner," says Moya, who has worked with migrants on Chicago's Lower West Side. "But I'm thinking a year from now when these families are settled in. Who is going to be providing that support?"
Informal support, with a side of soup
It's a Monday night in the back room of an insurance agency on the Southwest Side. About 20 migrants have arranged their chairs in a circle. Each person takes a turn describing how they feel on a scale of one to 10, as social worker Veronica Sanchez gently encourages them to share why.
Warm homemade chicken soup and arepas await them for dinner.
A woman says her husband got deported, and she's heartbroken that she left her children behind. A man says he worked several days that week, but never got paid. Another says he is grateful to God for bringing him to America, but he misses his mom, dad and brothers.
Finding work and reuniting with family is important, Sanchez tells them. But right now she's concerned about their mental health.
"Maybe we have answers. Maybe we don't. But when you open up a safe space where you can share your sorrows... you don't feel so alone," Sanchez says in Spanish.
Sanchez understands the migrants' desperation. She comes from a long line of pottery makers in Mexico. Sanchez was just four years old when her father left to work in Cicero, a suburb outside Chicago. She didn't see her father for almost seven years, until they were reunited as a family in Cicero.
Those memories fuel her work with the healing circle. "When I was talking to them, it really came from the heart," Sanchez says. "I was seeing the migrants' faces, that they were so scared."
Informal support groups like this one have popped up around Chicago in shelters, storefronts, churches and schools, led by volunteers or mental health professionals.
Many of these support groups don't last long. Volunteers get burned out. Migrants prioritize other needs. Or the city moves them from place to place.
The costs of ignoring loss and trauma
Some volunteers and mental health providers emphasize that not every migrant might be experiencing severe trauma.
But for many, trauma can have lasting impact. Trauma can change the wiring in a person's brain and make someone more vulnerable to depression and anxiety.
Daily or ongoing stressors can add up to what Chicago psychologist Laura Pappa calls "little t trauma" — like not feeling welcomed right away.
"A lot of people come here seeking the American dream and they realize that that's not there," says Pappa, who came to the U.S. from Argentina as a teen. "A lot of people were not expecting that, how hard it is on this side. I've had a lot of parents who've come alone and ask themselves, was it worth it?"
It can be hard to persuade migrants to seek help, however. There's a stigma about the need for mental health care in many immigrant communities, particularly among Latino men, Pappa says.
But, she adds, the stigma is easing as talking about emotions becomes more common.
Training the front-line workers in shelters
One effort to provide faster help involves training hundreds of peoplewho don't have a medical background, but work in city-run shelters. These front-line workers, such as case managers and shelter supervisors, are learning to lead support groups called Café y Comunidad charlas — coffee and community talks.
The initiative is led by the Coalition for Immigrant Mental Health, the University of Chicago's Crown Family School, and Lurie Children's Center for Childhood Resilience.
The idea is to help migrants feel less isolated and try to prevent the most extreme outcomes, such as suicide.
"We have to help people the minute they arrive," explainsAimee Hilado, an assistant professor at UC's Crown School and chair of the coalition. "That's actually going to promote healing down the line."
Case manager Albert Ayala has led a charla in the ballroom of a downtown shelter. He recalls moments of joy, such as when a woman said she was searching for love — and hands shot up hoping to catch her attention.
Ayala says he's watched migrants who arrive scared and shy blossom after attending a charla.
"We try to tell them we're no different from you," says Ayala, who is Mexican American. "Your dream is possible."
Leaders in Philadelphia and San Jose have reached out asking how to replicate the effort, Hilado says.
Outside his shelter, Rubiano, the migrant from Colombia, says he hasn't attended one of these support groups. He says he tries to keep busy working on his English skills. And he recently found a full-time job in a supermarket.
He longs for his family, and for the chance to bring them here — once there is a stable life he can offer them.
WBEZ is part of the Mental Health Parity Collaborative, a group of newsrooms covering stories on mental health care access and inequities in the U.S. The Collaborative's partners include The Carter Center, the Center for Public Integrity and newsrooms in select states across the country.
WBEZ's Manuel Martinez contributed to this report.
Copyright 2024 WBEZ
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https://www.marfapublicradio.org/2024-01-31/for-chicagos-new-migrants-informal-support-groups-help-ease-the-pain-and-trauma
| 2024-01-31T23:04:18Z
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Donald Trump has yet to officially clinch the Republican presidential nomination, but he's already begun to tease about a running mate. The NPR Politics Podcast dives into who might be on his list.
Copyright 2024 NPR
Donald Trump has yet to officially clinch the Republican presidential nomination, but he's already begun to tease about a running mate. The NPR Politics Podcast dives into who might be on his list.
Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.kunr.org/2024-01-31/trump-says-vp-pick-wont-impact-the-race-so-whats-he-looking-for-in-a-running-mate
| 2024-01-31T23:04:18Z
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Sony held its first State of Play presentation of 2024 today, giving us an overview of many of the games we can expect to release on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation VR2 over the course of the next year. The games shown off included single-player exclusives like Stellar Blade, Rise of the Ronin, a remake of Until Dawn, and Death Stranding 2. Konami also showed up to highlight two new Silent Hill games, one of which was shadow-dropped today.
Over 15 games were shown off during the January 2024 State of Play. In case you weren’t able to tune into that show live or just want to see a comprehensive overview of what was shown, we’ve recapped every announcement made during this State of Play.
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach won’t launch until 2025
We got our first look at the sequel to Death Stranding since The Game Awards 2022 at today’s State of Play. In yet another mind-bending trailer, we got an extended look at Sam Porter Bridges and Fragile’s next adventure and our first glimpse of gameplay. We also got our first look at Elle Fanning’s character Although it’s hard to make sense of it all just yet, it’ll certainly hype you up for Hideo Kojima’s next game.
We learned that this sequel will officially be titled Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, confirming previous leaks hinting that was the case. Kojima Productions also gave the game a 2025 release window, so expect this to be a big exclusive for Sony next year. Kojima also confirmed he is working on another game, a return to the stealth action genre, with PlayStation Studios.
Stellar Blade releases this April
One of 2024’s big PS5 exclusives is Stellar Blade, a single-player action game from developer Shift Up. Although we didn’t see much of the game in 2023, it returned in full force at this State of Play. Stellar Blade’s trailer gave us an overview of the game’s premise, world, characters, quest system, exploration, enemies, skill and upgrade systems, combat, and more. At the end of its segment, we got confirmation that Stellar Blade will launch on April 26 for PS5.
A free Silent Hill game launches on PS5 today
Silent Hill had a surprisingly big presence during this State of Play. It began with the reveal of a first-person game titled Silent Hill: The Short Message, which is a free experience that will be released today. We then got our first in-depth look at the remake of Silent Hill 2 since 2022, and it looks like a chilling and eerie reimagining of one of the horror genre’s most iconic games. Konami did not confirm a release date for the remake though.
Until Dawn is coming to PS5 and PC
In the wake of the announcement that a Until Dawn movie is on the way, Sony also confirmed a rebuilt version of Supermassive’s PS4 choice-driven horror game is on the way. It is being developed by a new studio named Ballistic Moon and will be released for PS5 and PC sometime later this year.
Everything else
- Helldivers 2 got a launch trailer.
- Sonic x Shadow Generations was announced and will come out this autumn.
- Zenless Zone Zero was confirmed for PS5.
- Foamstars got a launch trailer.
- Dave the Diver comes to PlayStation consoles this April and is crossing over with Godzilla in May.
- V Rising is coming to PS5 when it exits early access later this year.
- Judas, the next game from the creator of BioShock, got a new trailer.
- Metro Awakening VR was announced for PSVR2 and will launch later this year.
- Legendary Tales was announced for PlayStation VR2 and will release on February 8.
- Dragon’s Dogma 2 got a new trailer.
- Rise of the Ronin received an extended gameplay showcase ahead of its March 22 launch.
- A Final Fantasy VII Rebirth State of Play will take place on February 6.
Editors' Recommendations
- Sonic x Shadow Generations brings back Sonic Adventure 2 nostalgia this fall
- PlayStation State of Play, January 2024: How to watch and what to expect
- PlayStation Plus is the perfect stocking stuffer for RPG fans this year
- PlayStation boss Jim Ryan is stepping down, with successor yet to be named
- Everything announced at the September 2023 State of Play
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https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/state-of-play-january-2024-everything-announced-ps5/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:18Z
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Dire predictions about lengthy waits at electric car charging stations have failed to materialise these summer holidays, experts say, even though the use of public chargers more than doubled across Australia.
Representatives from two of the country’s biggest providers, Chargefox and Evie Networks, told AAP electric cars experienced their “biggest week ever” for public charging this holiday season, and use across the period soared by 150 per cent.
But Electric Vehicle Council energy and infrastructure head Ross De Rango said the success should not lead businesses or governments to become complacent as battery-powered cars continued to grow in popularity.
The news came after sales of electric cars more than doubled in Australia during 2023, and after some drivers suffered 90-minute charging delays during the 2023 summer holiday break.
AAP
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https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/australia-news-live-pm-welcomes-inflation-falling-to-4-1-per-cent-labor-spruiks-stage-3-tax-cut-changes-20240201-p5f1jc.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed
| 2024-01-31T23:04:18Z
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Florida sheriff’s deputy takes his own life outside agency headquarters
SEBRING, Fla. (AP) — Officials say a sheriff’s deputy in central Florida took his own life outside the agency’s headquarters. The Highlands County Sheriff’s Office says 56-year-old Paul Robitaille worked as a detention deputy in the county courthouse in Sebring and had been with the agency since March 2007. Investigators say Robitaille asked his supervisor for a break Wednesday morning, spoke briefly with another deputy outside the courthouse and then was found dead a short distance away. Officials say he shot himself with his service weapon. He leaves behind a wife and three children. One is a part-time sheriff’s deputy for the same agency.
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https://keyt.com/news/2024/01/31/florida-sheriffs-deputy-takes-his-own-life-outside-agency-headquarters/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:19Z
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JACKSONVILLE, Fla — As Duval County School District has done in the past, high schools will continue to follow an early dismissal schedule during the last week of the 2023-24 school year.
This is due to commencement ceremonies and other end-of year events. Additionally, all schools will have an early dismissal on the last day of school.
“This schedule is a key part of our end-of-year planning, ensuring a smooth transition into summer,” said DCPS in a news release.
This schedule is not typically reflected on the school calendar.
The specific dismissal times for all high schools during the last week as well as the last day, will be announced later in the spring, once transportation logistics are finalized.
Click here for more.
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https://www.actionnewsjax.com/news/local/duval-county-school-district-important-updates-early-release-times-high-school/ZAMHQ3NVP5BXTEVIVBBGZYPBKE/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:19Z
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https://zifmstereo.co.zw/man-utd-xi-vs-wolves-confirmed-team-news-predicted-lineup-injury-latest-premier-league-2024-b1135580-html/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:20Z
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A bill that restricts the use of cellphones by students in classrooms unanimously passed the Senate Tuesday and will now head to the House. The bill requires school districts and charter schools to develop rules around the use of wireless communication devices.
In addition to cell phones, Senate Bill 185 would restrict students from using tablets, laptops, and gaming devices during instructional time unless approved by a teacher for educational purposes.
There are exceptions, like in the event of an emergency, if a student requires a device to manage their health care and for students who use such devices as part of an individualized education program.
Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond), the bill’s author, said this bill is a way to reduce distractions and improve student outcomes.
“There’s all kinds of data out there that show that (these devices are) distractive to learning, and as we try to increase outcomes in the state, this is one way I believe that we can accomplish that,” he said.
READ MORE: How do I follow Indiana’s legislative session? Here’s your guide to demystify the process
Join the conversation and sign up for the Indiana Two-Way. Text "Indiana" to 765-275-1120. Your comments and questions in response to our weekly text help us find the answers you need on statewide issues, including our project Civically, Indiana and our 2024 legislative bill tracker.
Raatz said there is still ample opportunity for educators to utilize technology in their classrooms. He said many districts already have rules about technology in some degree, but the bill will create uniform guidelines across the state.
“A lot of school districts have policies in place,” he said. “I think this sets a minimum requirement. They could go farther if they want to, but it sets the standards on ways they have to do it.”
Kirsten is our education reporter. Contact her at kadair@wfyi.org or follow her on Twitter at @kirsten_adair.
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https://www.wvxu.org/2024-01-31/senate-passes-bill-to-restrict-cell-phone-use-in-class-now-heads-to-house
| 2024-01-31T23:04:22Z
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“We achieved year over year growth in both revenues and earnings again this quarter despite navigating through difficult market conditions and pushing ahead with our various investment initiatives,” said Darren Kirk, Exco's President and CEO.“I want to thank all Exco employees for their hard work and commitment to working safely”.
Consolidated sales for the first quarter ended December 31, 2023 were $156.7 million compared to $139.1 million in the same quarter last year – an increase of $17.6 million, or 13%. Foreign exchange rate movements increased sales $0.4 million in the quarter primarily due to the strengthening EURO compared to the Canadian dollar.
The Automotive Solutions segment reported sales of $83.0 million in the first quarter – an increase of $12.8 million, or 18% from the same quarter last year. There was virtually no impact of foreign exchange on sales for the quarter. The sales increase was driven by new program launches and higher vehicle production volumes. Combined North American and European vehicle production was up approximately 5% compared to a year ago. The revenue impact of the UAW strike action which was resolved by late October was approximately $2 million. Adjusting for the strike impact, sales were up at all four of the segment's locations compared to the prior year quarter. Looking forward, industry growth may be tempered by rising interest rates, elevated vehicle average transaction prices, rising dealer inventory levels, and emerging indicators of a global recession. Vehicle sales however remain encouraging (particularly in North America), dealer inventory levels are well below historical norms and OEM incentives are rising. Exco's sales volumes will nonetheless benefit from recent and future program launches that are expected to provide ongoing growth in our content per vehicle. Quoting activity also remains encouraging and we believe there is ample opportunity to achieve our targeted growth objectives.
The Casting and Extrusion segment reported sales of $73.7 million in the quarter – an increase of $4.9 million, or 7% from the same period last year. Similar to the automotive segment, there was virtually no foreign exchange impact in the quarter. Demand for our extrusion tooling was lower in the quarter as the continued impact of higher interest rates and recessionary conditions in certain end markets such as building and construction and recreational vehicles caused an overall reduction in tooling demand from extruders. Demand for extrusion tooling for automotive and sustainable energy markets remains strong and growing, but the building and construction market is the largest driver of extrusion tooling. Demand for certain capital equipment sold by Castool within the extrusion markets (such as containers and die ovens) remains firm as extruders focus on various efficiency and sustainability initiatives. Exco's Management remains focused on standardizing manufacturing processes, enhancing engineering depth and centralizing critical support functions across its various plants. As well, Management is focused on developing the benefits of its new greenfield locations in Morocco and Mexico which provide the opportunity to gain market share in Europe and Latin America through better proximity to local customers. These initiatives have reduced lead times, enhanced product quality, expanded product breadth and increased capacity. In the die-cast market, which primarily serves the automotive industry, demand and order flow for new moulds, associated consumable tooling (shot sleeves, rods, rings, tips, etc.) and rebuild work increased as industry vehicle production recovers and new electric vehicles and more efficient internal combustion engine/transmission platforms are launched. In addition, demand for Exco's additive (3D printed) tooling continues its strong contribution as customers focus on greater efficiency with the size and complexity of die-cast tooling continuing to increase with the rising adoption of giga-presses. Sales in the quarter were also aided by price increases, which were implemented to protect margins from higher input costs. Quoting activity remains robust and our backlog for die cast moulds remains at record levels.
The Company's first quarter consolidated net income increased to $5.6 million or earnings of $0.15 per share compared to $4.5 million or earnings of $0.12 per share in the same quarter last year. The effective income tax rate was 23.6% in the current quarter compared 22.7% in the same quarter last year. The change in income tax rate in the quarter was impacted by geographic distribution and foreign tax rate differentials.
The Automotive Solutions segment reported pretax profit of $8.1 million in the quarter – an increase of $0.9 million, or an increase of 12% over the same quarter last year. The increase in pretax profit is largely attributable to higher sales and better absorption of overheads. Production volumes continue to experience challenges with supply chain constraints but the impact to our operations of these factors continues to decline, leading to the improved scheduling of labour and reduced expedited shipping costs. Together with higher volumes from new program launches, this has allowed the segment to benefit from improved efficiencies and better absorption of fixed costs. Offsetting these factors were higher raw material prices, rising labour costs in all jurisdictions and foreign exchange headwinds. Labour costs in Mexico have been particularly challenging in recent years and will see added pressure in fiscal 2024 given the significant rise in minimum wage levels. Although production volumes have largely stabilized from a macroeconomic and global perspective, volumes in the quarter were impacted by the UAW strike action and December holiday shutdowns at certain OEMs. These shutdowns reduced profitability as labour levels were maintained and production inefficiencies were incurred for specific parts and programs. Apart from these specific impacts, Management is cautiously optimistic that its overall cost structure should improve margins in coming quarters. Pricing discipline remains a focus and action is being taken on current programs where possible, though there is typically a lag of a few quarters before the impact is realized. As well, new program awards are priced to reflect management's expectations for higher future costs.
The Casting and Extrusion segment reported $3.6 million of pretax profit in the quarter – an increase of $1.7 million or 88% from the same quarter last year. The pretax profit improvement is due to higher sales volumes, program pricing improvements, favorable product mix and efficiency initiatives within the Large Mould group; improved efficiency in the Extrusion die business, including improvements at Halex and the elimination of prior year one-time outsourcing costs needed at several extrusion operations while in-house heat treatment equipment was replaced. As well, there was improved absorption and efficiencies at Castool's heat treatment operation, stabilizing raw material and labour costs, and lower Castool Morocco start up costs. Offsetting these cost improvements were cash start-up losses at Castool's new operations in Mexico and a $0.8 million increase in segment depreciation associated with recent capital expenditures. Management remains focused on reducing its overall cost structure and improving manufacturing efficiencies and expects such activities together with its sales efforts should lead to improved segment profitability over time.
The Corporate segment in the first quarter recorded expenses of $2.2 million compared to $1.5 million last year due to higher foreign exchange losses relating to the strengthening Canadian dollar on balance sheet accounts, as well as higher short and long-term incentive plan costs. As a result of the foregoing, consolidated EBITDA in the quarter was $18.1 million (11.5% of sales) compared to $15.2 million (10.9% of sales) last year.
Operating cash flow before net changes in working capital was $16.5 million in the quarter compared to $14.2 million in the prior year quarter. The $2.3 million improvement was driven by a $1.1 million increase in net income, a $1.0 million increase in depreciation and amortization, and a $0.4 million increase in interest expense. Non-cash working capital consumed $3.6 million of cash in the quarter compared to $3.4 million in the same quarter last year. The non-cash working capital movements were driven by lower accounts payable and accruals partially offset by accounts receivable collections. Investment in fixed assets of $11.9 million compared to $7.4 million in the prior year quarter. Included in the current quarter was $4.2 million in growth capital. The increased total investment related to timing of equipment purchases and the completion of major projects. Exco ended the quarter with $99.7 million in net debt. The Company had $36.9 million in available liquidity under its banking facilities at December 31, 2023.
Outlook
In late fiscal 2021, Exco announced it was targeting a compounded average annual growth rate (excluding acquisitions) of approximately 10% for revenues and slightly higher levels for EBITDA and Net Income through fiscal 2026, which was anticipated to produce approximately $750 million annual revenue, $120 million annual EBITDA and annual EPS of roughly $1.90 by the end of this timeframe. Exco has made significant progress towards achieving these targets since they were announced and continues to believe its revenue and EBITDA targets remain obtainable. However, management has since revised its EPS target lower – to approximately $1.50 – to reflect the significant rise in interest rates as well as elevated levels of depreciation due to higher than planned capital expenditures associated with future growth initiatives. These revenue, EBITDA and revised EPS targets are expected to be achieved through the launch of new programs, general market growth, and also market share gains consistent with the Company's operating history. Capital expenditures are expected to be approximately $48 million for fiscal 2024.
Despite current macro-economic challenges, including tightening monetary conditions and strike-related production shut-downs in some North American OEM plants in September and October 2023, the overall outlook is very favorable across Exco's segments into the medium term. Consumer demand for automotive vehicles remains robust in most markets, despite supply constraints, a worldwide shortage of semiconductor chips and, to a lesser extent, availability of other raw materials, components and labour. Dealer inventory levels have been increasing, while average transaction prices for both new and used vehicles are near record highs and the average age of the broader fleet has continued to increase. This bodes well for higher levels of future vehicle production and the sales opportunity of Exco's various automotive components and accessories as supply chains normalize. In addition, OEM's are increasingly looking to the sale of higher margin accessory products as a means to enhance their own levels of profitability. Exco's Automotive Solutions segment derives a significant amount of activity from such products and is a leader in the prototyping, development and marketing of the same. Moreover, the rapid movement towards an electrified and hybrid fleet for both passenger and commercial vehicles is enticing new market entrants into the automotive market while causing traditional OEM incumbents to further differentiate their product offerings, all of which is driving above average opportunities for Exco.
With respect to Exco's Casting and Extrusion segment, the intensifying global focus on environmental sustainability has created significant growth drivers that are expected to persist through at least the next decade. Automotive OEMs are utilizing light-weight metals such as aluminum, in particular, to reduce vehicle weight and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. This trend is evident regardless of powertrain design - whether internal combustion engines, electric vehicles or hybrids. As well, a renewed focus on the efficiency of OEMs in their own manufacturing process is creating higher demand for advanced tooling that can enhance their profitability and sustainability goals. Certain OEM manufacturers have begun utilizing much larger die cast machines to cast entire vehicle sub-frames using aluminum-based alloy rather than stamping, welding, and assembling separate pieces of ferrous metal. Exco is in discussions with several traditional OEMs and their tier providers who appear likely to follow this trend. Accordingly, Exco is positioning its operations to capitalize on these changes. Beyond the automotive industry, Exco's extrusion tooling supports diverse industrial end markets which are also seeing increased demand for aluminum driven by environmental trends, including energy efficient buildings, solar panels, etc.
On the cost side, inflationary pressures have intensified post COVID while prompt availability of various input materials, components and labour has become more challenging. The intensity of these dynamics have generally moderated in recent quarters with the exception of labour costs in Mexico, which continue to see significant increases. We are offsetting these dynamics through various efficiency initiatives and taking pricing action where possible although there is typically several quarters of lag before the counter measures yield results.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Israeli/Palestine conflict have added additional uncertainty to the global economy. And while Exco has essentially no direct exposure to these countries, Ukraine does feed into the European automotive market and Europe has traditionally depended on Russia for its energy needs. Similarly, the conflict in the Middle East creates the potential for a renewed rise in the price of oil and other commodities as well as logistics costs and could weigh on consumer sentiment.
Exco itself is also looking inwards with respect to ESG and sustainability trends to ensure its operations are sustainable. We are investing significant capital to improve the efficiency and capacity of our operations while lowering our carbon footprint. Our Sustainability Report is available on our corporate website at: .
For further information and prior year comparison please refer to the Company's First Quarter Financial Statements in the Investor Relations section posted at . Alternatively, please refer to .
Non-IFRS Measures: In this News Release, reference may be made to EBITDA, EBITDA Margin, Pretax Profit, Free Cash Flow and Maintenance Fixed Asset Additions which are not defined measures of financial performance under International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). Exco calculates EBITDA as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and EBITDA Margin as EBITDA divided by sales. Exco calculates Pretax Profit as segmented earnings before other income/expense, interest and taxes. Free Cash Flow is calculated as cash provided by operating activities less interest paid and Maintenance Fixed Asset Additions. Maintenance Fixed Asset Additions represents management's estimate of the investment in fixed assets that are required for the Company to continue operating at current capacity levels. Given the Company's elevated planned capital spending on fixed assets for growth initiatives (including additional Greenfield locations, energy efficient heat treatment equipment and increased capacity) through the near term, the Company has modified its calculation of Free Cash Flow to include Maintenance Fixed Assets and not total fixed asset purchases. This change is meant to enable investors to better gauge the amount of generated cash flow that is available for these investments as well as acquisitions and/or returns to shareholders in the form of dividends or share buyback programs. EBITDA, EBITDA Margin, Pretax Profit and Free Cash Flow are used by management, from time to time, to facilitate period-to-period operating comparisons and we believe some investors and analysts use these measures as well when evaluating Exco's financial performance. These measures, as calculated by Exco, do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are not necessarily comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.
Quarterly Conference Call – Thursday February 1, 2024 at 10:00am (Toronto time):
To access the listen only live audio webcast, please log on to , or a few minutes before the event. Those interested in participating in the question-and-answer conference call may register at to receive the dial-in numbers and unique PIN to access the call. It is recommended that you join 10 minutes prior to the event start (although you may register and dial in at any time during the call).
For those unable to participate on February 1, 2024, an archived version will be available on the Exco website until February 15, 2024.
MENAFN31012024004107003653ID1107793815
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https://menafn.com/1107793815/Exco-Technologies-Limited-Announces-Results-For-First-Quarter-Ended-December-31-2023
| 2024-01-31T23:04:22Z
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Nightclub security guard killed in ‘targeted’ attack while leaving work, Ohio cops say
A man was found dead in a car outside of an Ohio nightclub, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.
Police did not identify the victim, but Facebook posts from friends and family said the victim was Darnell Pate.
Pate was a security guard at Napoleon’s Bar in Dayton and was leaving work when he was shot, according to WHIO.
“We 100% believe this was a targeted attack,” Montgomery County Sheriff Rob Streck told WHIO.
Deputies say the incident occurred around 3 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 29. Upon arrival, they found gunshot wounds to his body, the release said.
According to county dispatch records obtained by the Dayton Daily News, a man called 911 and told dispatchers he discovered his car with gunshots.
Minutes later, the bar owner reported a person sitting in the parking lot with their lights on, according to the Dayton Daily News. The bar owner called again shortly after because he thought the person wasn’t breathing, the newspaper reported.
“Darnell was resilient, lovable, and beloved by anyone who knew him,” John Dixon, who identified himself as Pate’s cousin, wrote on Facebook.
Pate’s death is under investigation, according to the sheriff’s office.
Pate was the former interim chief of police in New Vienna, according to the Ohio Attorney General’s website. He was fired from the role in 2022 after criminal charges were filed against him stemming for a warrantless arrest, according to WXIX.
Napping child is shot with gun their dad left under the pillow, Indiana cops say
Officers need canoe to catch man accused of threatening to kill ex, Michigan cops say
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https://news.yahoo.com/nightclub-security-guard-killed-targeted-223858128.html
| 2024-01-31T23:04:23Z
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Updated January 31, 2024 at 5:33 PM ET
The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady on Wednesday but signaled that rates could fall in the coming months if inflation continues to cool.
Policy makers have kept their benchmark interest rate between 5.25% and 5.5% — the highest in over two decades — since July.
Fed chairman Jerome Powell told reporters Wednesday that interest rates are unlikely to go any higher, and that he and his colleagues are beginning to contemplate cutting rates.
"If the economy evolves broadly as expected, it will likely be appropriate to begin dialing back policy restraint at some point this year," Powell said.
He cautioned, however, that the economy remains unpredictable and said the central bank would proceed cautiously.
"The economic outlook is uncertain and we remain highly attentive to inflation risks," Powell said.
The Fed has been pleasantly surprised by the rapid drop in inflation in recent months. Core prices in December — which exclude food and energy prices — were up just 2.9% from a year ago, according to the Fed's preferred inflation yardstick. That's a smaller increase than the 3.2% core inflation rate that Fed officials had projected in December.
If that positive trend continues, the Fed may be able to start cutting interest rates as early as this spring. First, though, Powell said he and his colleagues will need to see additional evidence that inflation is easing.
And he sounded doubtful about a rate cut at the Fed's next meeting in March as many investors in Wall Street had hoped for.
"Based on the meeting today, I would tell you that I don't think it's likely the committee will reach a level of confidence by the time of the March meeting," Powell said. "But that's to be seen."
The comments disappointed investors, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbling 317 points.
Investors are still hopeful about a rate cut by the following Fed meeting in May, with markets putting the likelihood of that at better than 90%.
Good omens in the economy
Both the economy and the job market have performed better than expected over the last year, despite the highest interest rates since 2001. The nation's gross domestic product grew 3.1% in 2023, while employers added 2.7 million jobs
Unemployment has been under 4%for nearly two years. And average wages in December were up 4.1% from a year ago.
While that strong economy is welcome news for businesses and workers, it also raises the risk of reigniting inflation. As a result, Fed policymakers say they'll be cautious not to cut interest rates prematurely.
"We have history on this," Atlanta Fed president Raphael Bostic told the Rotary Club of Atlanta this month. "In the '70s, the Fed started removing accommodation too soon. Inflation spiked back up. Then we had to tighten. Inflation came down. Then we removed it again. Inflation went back up. And by the time we were done with that, all Americans could think about was inflation."
The Fed is determined not to repeat that '70s show. At the same time, waiting too long to cut interest rates risks slowing the economy more than necessary to bring inflation under control.
A report from the Labor Department Wednesday showed employers' cost for labor rose more slowly than expected in the final months of last year. Labor costs increased just 0.9% in the fourth quarter. That's a smaller increase than the previous quarter, suggesting labor costs are putting less upward pressure on prices.
Fed officials promised to keep an eye on upcoming economic data and adjust accordingly.
Copyright 2024 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.marfapublicradio.org/2024-01-31/the-federal-reserve-holds-interest-rates-steady-but-signals-rate-cuts-may-be-coming
| 2024-01-31T23:04:24Z
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Here we go again, folks. First it was Amazon Fire TV, with a large (and apparently unescapable) ad that invaded the home screen. And Chromecast with Google TV reportedly is starting to do the same sort of thing, at least if a singular post on Reddit is any indication.
I haven’t been able to replicate the experience on my Chromecast with Google TV. That might or might not be indicative of anything. For one, I don’t use the Chromecast as my usual device of choice (though it does end up in my gear bag on most trips). For another, I run a Pi-hole ad-blocker on my entire home network — and still very much think it’s a thing you should use if you have any sort of connected TV or streaming device. Finally, and more likely, this new home screen ad hasn’t seen a widespread rollout just yet.
In any event, nobody should be surprised by this turn of events, even if we don’t like it. Google’s job is to make money. And it does so by selling advertising. Same goes for Amazon Fire TV. Same goes for Roku. And you can absolutely make the argument that Amazon, Google, and Roku are now advertising companies first, and anything else second.
Google, for its part, just announced $9.2 billion in revenue from YouTube advertising in the fourth quarter of 2023 (up from $7.9 billion in the fourth quarter of 2022.) “We’re pleased with the NFL Sunday Ticket signups in our first season,” Philipp Schindler, Google senior vice president and chief business officer, said during the earnings call.
But it was advertising — not pure subscription numbers — that stood out in the mention of YouTube TV and NFL Sunday Ticket. By literally cornering the market on out-of-market Sunday NFL games, Google is able to sell that many more ads. Lucrative ones, no doubt.
“Advertisers can buy from an NFL lineup as part of our YouTube Select portfolio,” Schindler continued. “And this actually allows advertisers to reach football fans across YouTube’s pretty unique breadth of NFL content, independently of whether you are viewing live NFL games or on YouTube TV or Primetime Channels or watching NFL highlights or postgame commentary on YouTube channels.”
Roku makes things even more clear. It made $787 million in revenue on advertising in the third quarter of 2023, but only $125 million on hardware. It’s an advertising company first. Everything else second.
Which brings us to the obvious question: Is there a streaming device you can buy that won’t bombard you with advertising? The answer is “yes,” and it also happens to be the streaming box that we think is the best you can buy — Apple TV 4K.
You’re still going to get a lot out of Apple TV 4K even if you’re not in the Apple ecosystem. (I used it for years while I was still on Android phones.) In addition to hardware and software that practically lasts forever, you get a home screen that does not contain any display advertising. Not all ads are created equal, and display ads are the sort we’re talking about here. You’ll see the occasional (somewhat annoying) notification for a hot new show or movie on Apple TV. And you’ll eventually see a notification for a sporting event while you’re watching said game. It happens. And I still chuckle anytime it tells me to hop over to a “close” soccer match. They’re almost all close.
But Apple TV 4K does not have display ads. You won’t be tempted by a crispy chicken wrap. Or any other wrap. And definitely not any chicken. You’ll not see a home screen with much more than row upon row of app icons. The top row will give a couple show previews, but that’s hardly the same thing as a display ad.
That could one day change. Never say never, especially when potential revenue is concerned. But Apple, generally speaking, isn’t a company to sully its products with display ads, whether it’s on home screens or hardware. You’ll not find an ad attacking you from within the notifications of an iPhone, nor will you find a sticker affixed to the body of a MacBook letting the world know whose processor is inside. (Not even when Apple was still using Intel chips.)
For now, though? If you want the cleanest, ad-free user experience, there’s only one option. It’s not Google TV. It’s not Fire TV. It’s not Roku. And it’s none of the built-in TV operating systems.
It’s Apple TV 4K. Full stop.
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https://www.digitaltrends.com/home-theater/only-streaming-hardware-without-ads/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:24Z
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1 Methanex-produced methanol represents our equity share of volume produced at our facilities and excludes volume marketed on a commission basis related to the 36.9% of the Atlas facility and 50% of the Egypt facility that we do not own.
2 Methanex average non-discounted posted price represents the average of our non-discounted posted prices in North America, Europe, China and Asia Pacific weighted by sales volume. Current and historical pricing information is available at .
3 The Company has used Average realized price ("ARP") throughout this document. ARP is calculated as revenue divided by the total sales volume. It is used by management to assess the realized price per unit of methanol sold, and is relevant in a cyclical commodity environment where revenue can fluctuate in response to market prices.
4 Note that Adjusted net income, Adjusted net income per common share, and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP measures and ratios that do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and therefore are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Refer to the Additional Information - Non-GAAP Measures section on page 14 of our fourth quarter MD&A dated January 31, 2024 for a description of each non-GAAP measure.
A reconciliation from net income attributable to Methanex shareholders to Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income and the calculation of Adjusted net income per common share is as follows:
We recorded net income attributable to Methanex shareholders of $33 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to net income of $24 million in the third quarter of 2023. Net income in the fourth quarter of 2023 was higher compared to the prior quarter primarily due to a higher average realized price, higher sales of Methanex-produced methanol and lower mark-to-market impact of share-based compensation due to changes in Methanex's share price, offset by lower income from the gas contract settlement recognized in the third quarter of 2023. Income from gas contract settlement was excluded from Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted net income in the third quarter of 2023. We recorded Adjusted EBITDA of $148 million for the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to $105 million for the third quarter of 2023. We recorded Adjusted net income of $35 million for the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to Adjusted net income of $1 million for the third quarter of 2023. Adjusted EBITDA was higher in the fourth quarter of 2023 primarily due to a higher average realized price and higher sales of Methanex-produced methanol. We sold 2,862,000 tonnes in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to 2,720,000 tonnes for the third quarter of 2023. Sales of Methanex-produced methanol were 1,712,000 tonnes in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to 1,473,000 tonnes in the third quarter of 2023. Production for the fourth quarter of 2023 was 1,779,000 tonnes compared to 1,545,000 tonnes for the third quarter of 2023. Fourth quarter production was higher compared to the third quarter due to higher production in Chile, New Zealand, Geismar and Medicine Hat which was partially offset by lower production in Egypt. The Geismar 3 plant is in the process of starting up, with total capital costs expected to come within budget of $1.25 - 1.3 billion. The remaining cash expenditure of approximately $60 to $110 million, including approximately $20 million of spending accrued in accounts payable, is fully funded with cash on hand. Geismar 3 has one of the lowest CO2 emissions intensity profiles in the industry and significantly enhances our cash generation capability. We expect the plant to ramp up to full rates over the month of February. In the fourth quarter of 2023 we paid a quarterly dividend of $0.185 per common share for a total of $12.5 million. At December 31, 2023, we had a strong liquidity position including a cash balance of $458 million, or approximately $451 million excluding non-controlling interests and including our share of cash in the Atlas joint venture. We also have access to an undrawn $300 million revolving credit facility providing financial flexibility.
PRODUCTION HIGHLIGHTS
1 The operating capacity of our production facilities may be higher or lower than original nameplate capacity as, over time, these figures have been adjusted to reflect ongoing operating efficiencies at these facilities. Actual production for a facility in any given year may be higher or lower than operating capacity due to a number of factors, including natural gas availability, feedstock composition, the age of the facility's catalyst, turnarounds and access to CO2 from external suppliers for certain facilities. We review and update the operating capacity of our production facilities on a regular basis based on historical performance.
2 The operating capacity of New Zealand is made up of the two Motunui facilities and the Waitara Valley facility. The Waitara Valley plant is idled indefinitely due to natural gas constraints.
3 The operating capacity of Trinidad is made up of the Titan (100% interest) and Atlas (63.1% interest) facilities. Refer to the Trinidad section below.
Key production and operational highlights during the fourth quarter include:
United States
Geismar produced 587,000 tonnes in the fourth quarter compared to 574,000 tonnes in the third quarter of 2023.
New Zealand
New Zealand produced 344,000 tonnes in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to 226,000 tonnes in the third quarter of 2023. Production in the fourth quarter was higher compared to the third quarter due to the restart of Motunui 2 after the scheduled turnaround. Waitara Valley remains idled indefinitely. We estimate production for 2024 to be between 1.0 - 1.1 million tonnes. 2024 natural gas supply is expected to be impacted by a combination of our suppliers' planned natural gas infrastructure maintenance outages as well as lower than expected output from existing wells. While upstream investment has been made by our gas suppliers in New Zealand over the past two years, recent gas production results have been lower than originally expected which has contributed to the revised forecast for lower production in 2024.
Trinidad
Atlas produced 283,000 tonnes (Methanex interest) in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to 287,000 tonnes in the third quarter of 2023. In October, Methanex signed a two-year natural gas supply agreement with the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago (NGC) for its currently idled, wholly owned, Titan methanol plant (875,000 tonnes per year capacity) to restart operations in September 2024. Simultaneously, the Atlas plant (Methanex interest 63.1% or 1,085,000 tonnes per year capacity) will be idled in September 2024, when its legacy 20-year natural gas supply agreement expires.
Chile
Chile produced 403,000 tonnes in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to 168,000 tonnes in the third quarter of 2023. Production was higher in the fourth quarter compared to the third quarter as both plants ran at full rates with full gas deliveries from Argentina. Both plants are expected to run at full rates from the end of September 2023 through April 2024, the Southern hemisphere summer months. We estimate production for 2024 will be between 1.1 - 1.2 million tonnes which is underpinned by year-round natural gas supply from Chile for about 30 – 35% of our requirements with the remaining 65 – 70% from Argentina during the non-winter period allowing us to operate both plants at full rates. Natural gas development and related infrastructure investments in Argentina continue to progress and we are working with our natural gas suppliers on extending the period of full gas availability to our plants.
Egypt
Egypt produced 40,000 tonnes (Methanex interest - 20,000 tonnes) in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to 320,000 tonnes (Methanex interest - 160,000 tonnes) in the third quarter of 2023. Production was lower in Egypt due an unplanned outage in mid-October caused by a mechanical failure in the synthesis gas compressor. The unit was removed from service and repaired on an expedited schedule at the manufacturer overseas. The repairs were completed and the unit has now arrived back on site and we expect to be able to start up the plant in the first half of February.
Canada
Medicine Hat produced 142,000 tonnes in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to 130,000 tonnes in the third quarter of 2023.
2024 Production Outlook
We expect production for 2024 to be higher than 2023 with the Geismar 3 start-up and to be approximately 8.1 million tonnes (Methanex interest). 2024 production guidance is based on the mid-point of Chile and New Zealand production guidance, G3 ramp up through February, Egypt restart in the first half of February, and all other plants operating at full rates. Actual production may vary by quarter based on timing of turnarounds, gas availability, unplanned outages and unanticipated events.
CONFERENCE CALL
A conference call is scheduled for February 1, 2024 at 11:00 am ET (8:00 am PT) to review these fourth quarter results. To access the call, dial the conferencing operator fifteen minutes prior to the start of the call at (646) 960-0479, or toll free at (888) 510-2296. The conference ID for the call is #7014770. A simultaneous audio-only webcast of the conference call can be accessed from our website at /investor-relations/events and will also be available following the call.
ABOUT METHANEX
Methanex is a Vancouver-based, publicly traded company and is the world's largest producer and supplier of methanol to major international markets. Methanex shares are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange in Canada under the trading symbol "MX" and on the NASDAQ Global Market in the United States under the trading symbol "MEOH".
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION WARNING
This fourth quarter 2023 press release contains forward-looking statements with respect to us and the chemical industry. By its nature, forward-looking information is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond the Company's control. Readers are cautioned that undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information as actual results may vary materially from the forward-looking information. Methanex does not undertake to update, correct or revise any forward-looking information as a result of any new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law. Refer to Forward-Looking Information Warning in the fourth quarter 2023 Management's Discussion and Analysis for more information which is available from the Investor Relations section of our website at , the Canadian Securities Administrators' SEDAR+ website at and on the United States Securities and Exchange Commission's EDGAR website at .
NON-GAAP MEASURES
The Company has used the terms Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income, and Adjusted net income per common share throughout this document. These items are non-GAAP measures and ratios that do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP. These measures represent the amounts that are attributable to Methanex Corporation shareholders and are calculated by excluding the mark-to-market impact of share-based compensation as a result of changes in our share price, the impact of the Egypt gas contract revaluation and the impact of certain items associated with specific identified events. Refer to Additional Information - Non-GAAP Measures on page 14 of the Company's MD&A for the period ended December 31, 2023 for reconciliations to the most comparable GAAP measures. Unless otherwise indicated, the financial information presented in this release is prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board ("IASB").
For further information, contact:
Sarah Herriott
Director, Investor Relations
Methanex Corporation
604-661-2600
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MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
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https://menafn.com/1107793816/Methanex-Reports-Higher-Fourth-Quarter-2023-Earnings-As-Methanol-Prices-Strengthen-Geismar-3-In-Start-Up-Process
| 2024-01-31T23:04:25Z
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NationalMillions snap up tickets ahead of Powerball's $200 million jackpotMillions are expected to purchase a ticket ahead of tonight's record-breaking $200 million Powerball jackpot.February 1, 2024 — 7.37amSaveLog in, register or subscribe to save articles for later.Save videos for laterAdd videos to your saved list and come back to them any time.Got itLoadingReplayReplay videoPlay videoPlay video
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| 2024-01-31T23:04:24Z
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Georgia district attorney prosecuting Trump has been subpoenaed over claims of improper relationship
By KATE BRUMBACK
Associated Press
ATLANTA (AP) — A defense attorney who has alleged that Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis has had an inappropriate romantic relationship with a special prosecutor hired for the Georgia election interference case against former President Donald Trump has called the two to testify at a hearing next month. Lawyer Ashleigh Merchant, who represents Trump co-defendant Michael Roman, filed a motion Jan. 8 seeking to toss the indictment and to remove Willis and special prosecutor Nathan Wade from the case. She alleges they were involved in a secret relationship that resulted in Willis profiting improperly from the prosecution.
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https://keyt.com/news/2024/01/31/georgia-district-attorney-prosecuting-trump-has-been-subpoenaed-over-claims-of-improper-relationship/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:25Z
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MASILO LEPURU | Mashinini’s words ring true today – ‘the ANC is defunct, and the PAC is dead’
There is a need for a more revolutionary movement outside party politics
January 27 marked the birthday of Tsietsi Mashinini, who in terms of South African history and politics, symbolises the idea of black power.
Black power, as embodied by the activists of 1976, was an important challenge to white power as epitomised by the apartheid regime. The dialectic of black power and white power as historical and political antagonists in South African history and politics since the arrival of European conquerors in 1652, reached its apex with the 1976 confrontation.
While the movement of black power, as symbolised by the leadership of Mashinini and his comrade Khotso Seatlholo, did not lead to the ultimate defeat of white power, it has contributed significantly to the problem of ideology and political vision in South African politics and history. Ideologically speaking, this black power movement as spearheaded by Mashinini and Seatlholo, with the significant contribution of many black women, was a continuation of the Azanian political tradition.
This tradition was pioneered by the adoption of the name Azania in the 1960s by the Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC) under the leadership of Robert Sobukwe. This famous adoption was made with the view to distinguish the PAC from the ANC and its alliance in the Congress of the People, which adopted the Freedom Charter in 1955.
In essence, these dissimilar adoptions embodied the core of the national question in “South Africa”, namely to whom does the land belong? According to the Azanian tradition of Sobukwe and Steve Biko, Azania is the rightful name for the territory now called SA and this territory belongs solely to the indigenous people. The congress tradition on the other hand claimed that “SA belongs to all who live in it, black and white”. The black power movement of Mashinini in line rejected this.
It is in this sense that black power and the Azanian political tradition converged in 1976 under the leadership of Mashinini and Seatlholo.
While Mashinini was in exile, he famously declared that “the ANC is defunct, and the PAC is dead”. While the historical context of the 1970s may be different, it is interesting to analyse its significance in post-apartheid SA.
When Mashinini made this declaration, the apartheid regime had already declared its own war against the liberation movement. The apartheid regime was neither defunct nor dead. Its military and political power were on full display and viciously applied against the brave efforts of the indigenous conquered people to resolve the historic injustice of land dispossession and the restoration of the Azanian self-determination and sovereignty. The current historical context is both similar and different.
The historical context as far as the Azanian political tradition of Sobukwe and Biko is concerned, is still one of white supremacy. The only difference is one of regime rather than structure. The structure remains one of white settler colonialism as characterised by land dispossession. The regime is no longer that of apartheid but of post-apartheid under the congress tradition of the ANC.
The Azanian tradition of the PAC and BCM lost to the congress tradition of the ANC in 1994. But what is the position of the PAC and the ANC today as we remember the birth of Mashinini? Can we still argue as Mashinini did in the 1970s that indeed the ANC is defunct and the PAC is dead? As far as the possible attainment of political power in parliament to implement the political vision of the Azanian tradition of Sobukwe and Biko, we can confidently agree with Mashinini that the PAC is as good as dead.
While I disagree with this vision (aligning myself with Anton Lembede’s uncompromising vision of Afrika for the Afrikans), it is nonetheless the vision of the Azanian political tradition of Sobukwe and Biko. With the formation of the MK party, we can also agree with Mashinini that indeed the ANC is defunct.
Factionalism has rendered both the PAC and the ANC dead-end as far as the pursuit of black power in conquered Azania is concerned.
While there are those who defend the value of the formation of the MK party under the banner of Radical Economic Transformation, it should be clear to those who are committed to the politics of black power that we need a more radical alternative to what African politics in the form of party politics is offering today.
- Lepuru is a researcher and founding director of the Institute for Kemetic and Marcus Garvey Studies
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https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/opinion/columnists/2024-01-31-masilo-lepuru-mashininis-words-ring-true-today-the-anc-is-defunct-and-the-pac-is-dead/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:22Z
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JACKSONVILLE, Fla — A push to reverse one of the key portions of the school safety law passed in the wake of the Parkland shooting is moving in the Florida House.
The bill would lower the age to purchase a long gun from 21 back down to 18, but a father who lost his daughter in the Valentine’s Day shooting is pleading with lawmakers to reconsider.
Two weeks from today will mark the sixth anniversary of the Parkland shooting, which claimed the lives of 17 at Marjory Stonemason Douglas High School in 2018.
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Later that same year, school safety legislation passed in honor of the victims passed with bipartisan support and was signed into law.
“Each of these safety laws that Florida has passed as a state is written in the blood of the Parkland victims,” said Tony Montalto with Stand With Parkland.
One of those victims was Montalto’s 14-year-old daughter, Gina.
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For a second year in a row, Montalto has traveled to Tallahassee to fight efforts to reverse one of the key pieces of that initial school safety bill, which raised the age to purchase long guns from 18 to 21.
Last year, the legislation was passed off the floor, but died in the Senate.
Montalto testified in the bill’s first hearing in the House this week.
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“I am here today because an 18-year-old purchased a weapon and later terrorized my local high school killing 17 and wounding 17 others,” Montalto told the committee.
Florida is an outlier among not just Republican-led states, but all states on this issue.
It’s just one of seven that prohibits 18 to 20-year-olds from purchasing long guns like shotguns and rifles.
The bill sponsor, State Representative Bobby Payne (R-Palatka) voted for the school safety bill in 2018.
But during his close in the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Payne argued other safety measures in that 2018 bill and in others passed since, make Florida’s schools some of the safest in the nation.
“The real belief is that restoring the rights of young adults to purchase a long gun, for not only self defense, but spotting, is very important in my rural area,” said Payne.
While Payne argued the limitation is violative of 18 to 20-year-olds’ constitutional rights, Florida’s age restriction has held up to court challenges in recent years.
And with no companion bill filed in the Senate, Montalto is optimistic the bill will be defeated for a second year in a row.
“You have no further to look than the State of Texas, which did not attack that basket of laws in the way that we did, which didn’t look at this in a comprehensive way. They’ve had two school shootings since the Parkland tragedy. Here in Florida, we’ve had none,” said Montalto.
Representative Payne acknowledged the bill likely has a difficult road ahead due to the lack of a Senate sponsor, but told Action News Jax he files bills he believes in, regardless of what the Senate may be doing.
Payne’s bill has one more stop before reaching the House floor.
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https://www.actionnewsjax.com/news/local/father-parkland-victim-urges-florida-lawmakers-reject-bill-lowering-age-purchase-firearms/775KGSNM7ZFSJEJDHRCU5O3ADM/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:26Z
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In the interview with Dr. Reiner Fuellmich, the propaganda researcher Jason Christoff vividly displays methods of mind control. He reveals to what extent these strategies influence us in our daily lives and how we can face those and escape from them.
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| 2024-01-31T23:04:27Z
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Scientists have found that spiderwebs can be used to capture environmental DNA, which reflects the animal population of an area. The technique may help track the biodiversity of an ecosystem.
Copyright 2024 NPR
Scientists have found that spiderwebs can be used to capture environmental DNA, which reflects the animal population of an area. The technique may help track the biodiversity of an ecosystem.
Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.wvxu.org/2024-01-31/spiderwebs-could-offer-a-snapshot-of-an-ecosystem-study-shows
| 2024-01-31T23:04:28Z
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Placer County cyclist seriously hurt after being struck by silver sedan — CHP looking for driver
The California Highway Patrol is looking for a hit-and-run suspect in Placer County accused of striking a bicyclist who suffered major life-threatening injuries Tuesday after he was ejected from his bike.
Officers from the CHP’s Auburn office were called at 1:30 p.m. to Crosby Herald and Wise roads in rural Lincoln for a report of a crash. A bicyclist was struck in the eastbound lane of Wise Road, the CHP said in a news release.
The motorist drove away before officers arrived, the CHP said. Witnesses said the driver in a silver sedan fled south on Crosby Herald Road with its right front mirror detached, the CHP said.
Anyone with surveillance footage of the area is asked to call the CHP at 916-663-3344 or their non-emergency dispatch line at 916-861-1300.
“Your assistance is crucial in resolving this case and bringing justice to the affected party,” the CHP said.
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https://news.yahoo.com/placer-county-cyclist-thrown-being-224400141.html
| 2024-01-31T23:04:29Z
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(MENAFN- GlobeNewsWire - Nasdaq) TORONTO, Jan. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Constellation Software Inc. (TSX:CSU) announced today that it has completed an amendment and restatement of its existing credit facility agreement. The facility limit has been increased from U.S. $840 million to U.S. $1.08 billion, with a syndicate of existing and new institutions. The agreement has also moved from a secured to an unsecured facility structure, which continues to be available for general corporate purposes including acquisitions and working capital.
About Constellation Software Inc.
Constellation Software acquires, manages and builds vertical market software businesses.
Contact:
Jamal Baksh
Chief Financial Officer
416-861-9677
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https://menafn.com/1107793817/Constellation-Software-Inc-Enters-Amended-And-Restated-Credit-Agreement
| 2024-01-31T23:04:31Z
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John Podesta will take over for John Kerry as top international adviser on climate change
By COLLEEN LONG and MATTHEW DALY
Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — White House senior adviser John Podesta will replace John Kerry as the top U.S. official on international climate change. Kerry announced earlier this month that he would step down from the top climate job to work on President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign. According to the White House Wednesday, Kerry is likely to depart in the spring, and his responsibilities will then be folded into Podesta’s role as senior adviser to the president for international climate policy. Podesta’s new responsibilities will be to fight climate change on behalf of the administration on the global stage.
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https://keyt.com/news/2024/01/31/john-podesta-will-take-over-for-john-kerry-as-the-us-special-climate-change-envoy-ap-source-says/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:31Z
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Transport officials have been forced into making further adjustments to ease traffic congestion in Sydney’s inner west, after the NSW roads minister conceded tweaks made to the troubled Rozelle interchange had transferred the gridlock further up Victoria Road.
Morning radio was alight with angry callers on Thursday morning as Victoria Road was at a standstill and city-bound traffic crawled along the Anzac Bridge in back-to-school traffic.
“It’s a complete disaster, it’s worse than before Christmas,” one commuter, Matt, told 2GB’s Ben Fordham, saying it had taken him an hour and a half to travel 15 kilometres on Wednesday, and the problem had only got worse.
“It’s not sustainable … there’s a fundamental problem with the design of this thing.”
The worst of the delays were experienced between Gladesville and Drummoyne, with many callers angry about changes to the traffic light timing from Lyons Road onto Victoria Road. One caller, Zac, said the changes were causing problems for commuters.
“For many, it makes the morning commute worse,” he said.
Commuter John Verhelst told the Herald it took him half an hour to travel between the Gladesville and Iron Cove bridges.
Roads Minister John Graham, who was at the traffic management centre earlier this week as officials prepared for the surge in traffic, said the Rozelle interchange was working, but the changes made to ease congestion over the break were having an “unacceptable impact further up the road”.
“The problem has been transferred further up the road, and we’ll now have to really focus in on that issue to make this a better commute for people,” he said. “It’s a delicate balance and the transport management team are really working closely looking at exactly how these lights change.”
Inner West Council Mayor Darcy Byrne foreshadowed the chaos in a social media post on Wednesday, calling on Transport for NSW to “do more to mitigate the impacts” on commuters.
He suggested installing a sign directing city-bound commuters towards the free Iron Cove Link tunnel, releasing daily traffic data “to see if the situation is improving”, and moving the bus lane on Victoria Road to the outside lane, as strategies for reducing the congestion.
Motorists reported spending an hour travelling from Gladesville to Drummoyne. Buses were delayed by five to 10 minutes, with commuters telling Fordham the bus lane was congested with cars trying to jump the queue.
Delays were also significant on City West Link approaching Anzac Bridge.
This week marks the first real test of the troubled interchange this year, as most return to school and the office.
Transport officials decided against installing traffic signals in the interchange tunnels, where vehicles from the Iron Cove Link and the M4 motorway merge, as a way of controlling the rate of vehicles travelling through the new $3.9 billion spaghetti junction.
Nor will traffic signals be installed further west along the M4 – also part of WestConnex.
Greens MP for Balmain Kobi Shetty told the Herald this week the government had wasted an opportunity over the holidays to make a meaningful difference to reduce congestion.
“The [roads] minister told us last year that everything was on the table, and it looks like they are backing away from any option that is going to transform the design to alleviate congestion around Rozelle,” she said. “They are trying to push a huge capacity of vehicles through the eye of a needle.”
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https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/nsw/worse-than-before-christmas-commuters-vent-as-rozelle-returns-to-gridlock-20240201-p5f1j9.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed
| 2024-01-31T23:04:31Z
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SOWETAN | Prioritise pupils' safety on trips
The tragic death of grade 7 pupil Latoya Temilton has once again brought into sharp focus the safety and care of our children during school excursions.
Latoya, 12, of Laerskool Queenswood in Pretoria drowned while on a day trip to Wag ’n Bietjie Resort on January 20.
It is deeply disturbing and frightening that a child gets dropped off at school for a trip and doesn’t come home alive.
As parents we drop off our children at school entrusting their safety in the hands of teachers and other qualified adults while not in our care.
It is therefore hard to imagine how Latoya’s parents must have felt upon hearing of the tragedy that had befallen them.
Granted, Gauteng education MEC Matome Chiloane has appointed a law firm to investigate this incident, but the fact remains this tragedy should not have happened. We wholeheartedly support the investigations to bring closure to the family of Latoya on what happened.
We cannot help but draw parallels between this and the unnecessary loss of life of Parktown Boys High School pupil Enoch Mpianzi in January 2020.
He too drowned on a school trip. The principal, Malcolm Williams, was fired, but then later reinstated. The family laid a civil claim but it was later withdrawn after an “amicable agreement” was reached with the department of education.
Both these devastating incidents highlight the importance of holding accountable those in whose care children are left during school camps. In an ideal world, it shouldn’t have to involve courts and legal proceedings.
The onus should be on the authorities to step up and account for these avoidable tragedies. Accidents do happen. This we know. And sometimes all it takes is honesty and transparency about what happened – basic acts of humanity– to give bereaved parents closure.
But more importantly, what these tragedies ought to teach us is that there is a need to develop clear guidelines for schools on how they should ensure the safety of pupils while on school trips or camps. We send our children on these trips to gain leadership and life skills. The one thing these children should not learn is the trauma of dealing with the death of a classmate. A lesson that will haunt them for the rest of their lives.
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https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/opinion/columnists/2024-01-31-sowetan-prioritise-pupils-safety-on-trips/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:31Z
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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Rise Doro apartment complex is expected to be demolished as early as Thursday or Friday according to the city after it caught fire Sunday night.
>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<
The city has contracted with ELV8 to facilitate the demolition.
According to Courtney Gordon, COO of RISE the demolition could begin as early as Thursday morning
Local businesses like Intuition Ale Works have been unable to open and street access on East Adams has been blocked off as the instability of the structure makes it a risk to public safety.
“As a seven-story structure with significant damage, the Rise Doro apartments pose an immediate threat to the surrounding area and businesses. The building has been condemned and the demolition process is moving forward safely and swiftly,” said Mayor Donna Deegan in a statement provided to Action News Jax Wednesday.
Despite the quick demolition, the State Fire Marshall’s Office told Action News Jax in a statement, “This fire investigation remains open and ongoing at this time.”
Action News Jax was told by sources within the office that the investigation can continue even in the absence of the structure, as investigators can still test samples of debris, and conduct interviews with witnesses and other involved parties long after demolition.
READ: City spokesperson said fire is under control, but what’s next for the RISE Doro apartments?
Gordon also noted insurance adjusters were on the ground Wednesday.
But as of Wednesday, there was still no clear answer as to how the fire that erupted in the building Sunday night began.
According to city permitting records, a pressure test of the fire safety system failed on October 13th of last year.
Ten days later it was given a partial pass and then on December 22nd, it passed inspection.
According to the Private Provider Association of Florida, state law requires inspections of those fire safety systems to be conducted by government inspectors.
According to JFRD, the final pressure test was scheduled for this week, and eight residents were expected to move in as early as this weekend.
The sprinkler system did not activate according to JFRD, and due to the incomplete construction, the fire was able to spread more easily into void spaces, which hampered firefighters’ efforts to directly douse the flames.
Gordon told Action News Jax it’s still too early to know when a rebuild may begin, but a downtown apartment complex is still the goal.
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https://www.actionnewsjax.com/news/local/florida-fire-marshall-still-investigating-rise-doro-fire-demolition-begin-before-end-week/3DJR2SMC4BFVZIQKXJJ2MF6SY4/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:32Z
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Moving into 2024 its worth giving you the heads up on 6 battles impacting everyone this year.
The outcome will change our lives.
To be “forewarned is forearmed”. Fore knowledge allows preparation and gives us time to alter the outcome- if we chose to.
But only through the knowledge of actual empirical measurable facts can we make the best decisions.
My experience over the past 20 years however is that these crucial facts are not out in the open so I am asking you to dig for them for the benefit of your wealth, health, family and faith.
This
is why we have to dig.
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https://www.brighteon.com/af9a672b-7d0d-40d2-b8f0-ae0e02c9faba
| 2024-01-31T23:04:33Z
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Donald Trump has yet to officially clinch the Republican presidential nomination, but he's already begun to tease about a running mate. The NPR Politics Podcast dives into who might be on his list.
Copyright 2024 NPR
Donald Trump has yet to officially clinch the Republican presidential nomination, but he's already begun to tease about a running mate. The NPR Politics Podcast dives into who might be on his list.
Copyright 2024 NPR
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https://www.wvxu.org/2024-01-31/trump-says-vp-pick-wont-impact-the-race-so-whats-he-looking-for-in-a-running-mate
| 2024-01-31T23:04:34Z
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Police: 13-year-old Florida runaway found safely in Indianapolis
A 13-year-old Florida girl was found safely in Indianapolis Tuesday after running away from home with an older teenager and two adults more than a month ago, according to the Indiana State Police.
The girl was reported as a runaway by her family on Christmas Day. Investigators later learned she left her home with a 17-year-old boy, who she met on social media. The 17-year-old and two men drove to Florida, picked the girl up and brought her back to Indiana, according to police.
Indiana investigators were contacted by law enforcement in Florida, who had information the girl was in Indianapolis. The Indiana State Police served a warrant at a residence on the northeast side of Indianapolis and located the girl inside.
More: Animal Care: Search for second dog in fatal attack continues in east-side neighborhood
She was unharmed and turned over to the custody of the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center to await reunification with her family in Florida, according to police.
The 17-year-old boy was arrested after the girl was located, although police did not say on what charge or charges. The two adults who assisted in picking up the girl in Florida have not been arrested.
The investigation is still ongoing as Indiana police work with the Marion County Prosecutor's Office and authorities in Florida.
Contact Jake Allen at jake.allen@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter @Jake_Allen19.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Florida runaway girl, 13, found in Indianapolis, police say
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https://news.yahoo.com/police-13-old-florida-runaway-220558123.html
| 2024-01-31T23:04:36Z
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Winter is broken: Record high reached before noon in the Twin Cities
Highs in the 50s to near 60 degrees across southern Minnesota
Welcome to the warmest Jan. 31 on record for at least the last 150 years.
The temperature at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport blew past the previous record high of 46 degrees before noon Wednesday. As of this post time during the noon hour, it’s already 48 degrees in the Twin Cities.
It’s already 54 degrees in Madison in southwestern Minnesota near the Buffalo Ridge.
A few southwestern Minnesota towns could hit 60 degrees Wednesday afternoon.
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Our record warmth to close out January is all part of the warmest winter on record so far for most Minnesota locations. The Midwest Regional Climate Center continues to show many Minnesota locations recording the warmest winter on record to date.
Here’s the Twin Cities chart:
Temperatures will cool slightly the rest of this week but still hover around 20 degrees warmer than average.
Highs through this weekend will favor the mid-40s south with 30s north.
The first week of February looks likely to run about 20 degrees warmer than average. Medium-range forecast maps suggest we may get some more seasonal air masses in here after that.
Stay tuned.
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https://www.mprnews.org/story/2024/01/31/winter-is-broken-record-high-reached-before-noon-in-the-twin-cities
| 2024-01-31T23:04:37Z
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Abuja BDC operators shut down operations over dollar scarcity
The Bureau De Change operators said online banking and cryptocurrency are responsible for the dollar scarcity.
Recommended articles
According to a statement by the chairman of the association, Abdulahi Dauran, on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, the decision was influenced by the scarcity of dollars in its area of operations.
Meanwhile, the Bureau De Change operators blamed the dollar scarcity on online business transactions and cryptocurrency penetration.
The Nigerian currency has been on a free fall since the decision of President Bola Tinubu to float the naira as part of his reforms in the financial sector.
Due to the continuing plummeting value of the naira, the demand for the dollar has been on the increase, as some Nigerians tried to hedge against the currency devaluation.
However, the largest chunk of these transactions don't go through the conventional systems, with a plethora of online platforms providing these services.
Also, the recent lifting of the ban placed on cryptocurrency assets in the country by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has provided citizens with an alternative means to preserve their money.
Consequently, if the BDC operators' claims are anything to go by, these factors have led to less demand for the physical dollar, which they heavily rely upon to carry out their daily transactions.
Pulse reports that the naira sunk to its lowest, reaching an alarming record low of ₦1,4900 per dollar on the official market on Tuesday, January 30, 2024.
Concerned by the development, the Senate on Wednesday summoned the CBN governor, Olayemi Cardoso, to appear before it to explain the state of the economy and the free flow of naira at the forex market.
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https://www.pulse.ng/business/abuja-bdc-operators-shut-down-operation-over-dollar-scarcity/sg2e8dl
| 2024-01-31T23:04:37Z
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© 2024 NVIDIA Corporation. All rights reserved. NVIDIA and the NVIDIA logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of NVIDIA Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
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https://menafn.com/1107793818/NVIDIA-Sets-Conference-Call-For-Fourth-Quarter-Financial-Results
| 2024-01-31T23:04:37Z
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NHL players Carter Hart of the Philadelphia Flyers, Michael McLeod and Cal Foote of the New Jersey Devils and Dillon Dube of the Calgary Flames have been charged with sexual assault in connection with an alleged assault by several members of Canada's 2018 world junior team.
Attorneys representing Hart, McLeod, Foote and Dube said Tuesday that each player has been charged with sexual assault by police in London, Ontario. They denied any wrongdoing on behalf of their clients.
Hart's lawyers, Megan Savard and Riaz Sayani, said their client is facing one count of sexual assault, adding, "He is innocent and will provide a full response to this false accusation in the proper forum, a court of law."
Legal teams representing McLeod and Dube said the players would be pleading not guilty.
"(We) will vigorously defend the case," McLeod's attorneys, David Humphrey and Seth Weinstein, said in a statement. "We ask that the public respect Mr. McLeod's privacy, and his family's privacy. Because the matter is now before the court, we will not comment further at this time."
Dube's lawyers, Louis Strezos and Kayleigh Davidson, said their client "maintains his innocence (and) will defend the allegations in court."
Foote's lawyer, Julianna Greenspan, said her client was "innocent of the charge and will defend himself against this allegation to clear his name."
"What is most critical at this time is the presumption of innocence, and the right to a fair trial that everyone in Canada is entitled to," Greenspan said in a statement emailed to The Associated Press. "As the matter is before the court, I ask that Cal's and his family's privacy be respected."
A Devils spokesperson said the organization is aware of the reports and have been told to refer all inquiries to the league. A Flyers spokesman echoed a similar sentiment, saying the team "will respond appropriately to this very serious matter when the outcomes of the investigations are made public."
"We have now become aware of the charge of sexual assault that has been laid against Dillon Dube," the Flames said in a statement. "We take this matter very seriously. Because the matter is now pending legal proceedings, we will have no further comment at this time."
The NHL was not expected to address the situation Tuesday. Commissioner Gary Bettman is set to speak at the league's upcoming All-Star Weekend.
The latest developments in the case come two days after former NHL player Alex Formenton surrendered to police to face charges. Attorney Daniel Brown said Formenton is innocent "and asks that people not rush to judgment without hearing all of the evidence."
All five players have taken leave from their current clubs over the past 10 days. Their agents have not spoken publicly since.
London police have scheduled a news conference for Monday to address the situation. A spokesperson for police told the AP by email no updates on the investigation will be provided before the news conference.
Investigation followed a settlement in a lawsuit
London police launched their investigation in 2022 after it was disclosed that Hockey Canada had settled a lawsuit with a woman who said she was sexually assaulted by eight members of that gold medal-winning team after a Hockey Canada Foundation fundraising gala. London is approximately halfway between Toronto and Detroit.
According to court documents, the woman, then 20, alleged that a man, identified only as "John Doe #1," took her from a bar to a hotel room and invited seven other people into the room to perform undisclosed sexual acts, intimidating her and preventing her from leaving. The woman said in the lawsuit the men directed her to take a shower and asked her to say on video that she was sober.
The woman sought $3.55 million in damages and dropped the lawsuit after reaching a settlement with Hockey Canada.
The NHL has also been investigating
The NHL opened its own investigation in 2022 and has pledged to make those findings public. Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly last week said the league would issue a statement if and when it is appropriate.
The Flyers said Hart requested and was granted a leave of absence for personal reasons. General manager Daniel Briere declined to provide details when asked follow-up questions related to the 25-year-old No. 1 goaltender's departure.
The Devils did not give a reason when announcing McLeod and Foote were granted indefinite leaves of absence. McLeod, who turns 26 on Saturday, is in the middle of his fourth full season with the team, while Foote — son of former NHL player Adam Foote — has spent much of this season in the American Hockey League and appeared in four games for New Jersey.
The Flames said Dube was on indefinite leave to tend to his mental health. As part of their statement Tuesday, they said they "had no knowledge of pending charges at the time Dillon's request for a leave of absence was granted."
The 25-year-old Dube has played for Calgary since 2018.
Copyright 2024 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
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https://www.wuwf.org/2024-01-31/4-nhl-players-charged-with-sexual-assault-in-a-2018-case-in-canada-their-lawyers-say
| 2024-01-31T23:04:37Z
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New York governor nominates new police leader to agency that has struggled to diversify its ranks
By MAYSOON KHAN
Associated Press/Report for America
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — New York Gov. Kathy Hochul nominated Steven G. James as the top leader of the state police force. If the state Senate agrees, he would be the second Black person confirmed to hold the rank of superintendent and the third to lead the 5,000-member force, which has struggled for years to diversify its ranks. Hochul said at the nomination event that the selection was very intentional. James has served with the state police for more than 32 years, most recently serving as deputy superintendent for employee relations. James said in a prepared statement that he felt lucky for the “once in a lifetime” opportunity.
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https://keyt.com/news/2024/01/31/new-york-governor-nominates-new-police-leader-to-agency-that-has-struggled-to-diversify-its-ranks/
| 2024-01-31T23:04:37Z
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