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LONDON (AP) — Inflation in countries using the euro set another eye-watering record, pushed higher by a huge increase in energy costs fueled partly by Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Annual inflation in the eurozone’s 19 countries hit 8.6% in June, surging past the 8.1% recorded in May, according to the latest numbers published Friday by the European Union statistics agency, Eurostat. Inflation is at its highest level since recordkeeping for the euro began in 1997.
Energy prices rocketed 41.9%, and prices for food, alcohol and tobacco were up 8.9%, both faster than the increases recorded the previous month.
Demand for energy has risen as the global economy bounced back from the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine made things worse.
European Union leaders agreed to ban most Russian oil imports by the year’s end, driving a price spike. The 27-nation bloc wants to punish Moscow and reduce its reliance on Russian energy, but it’s also adding to financial pain for people and businesses as utility bills and prices at the pump soar.
Russia also reduced deliveries of natural gas used to power industry and generate electricity last month to several EU countries like Germany, Italy and Austria, on top of cutting off gas to France, Poland, Bulgaria and others.
“Importantly, the oil embargo and gas supply squeeze that unfolded over the month of June have caused energy prices to soar,” ING Bank’s senior eurozone economist, Bert Colijn, wrote in a commentary.
Rising consumer prices are a problem worldwide, with the U.S. and Britain seeing inflation hit 40-year highs of 8.6% and 9.1%, respectively. That has led the U.S. Federal Reserve, Bank of England and other central banks worldwide to approve a series of interest rate hikes to combat inflation.
Colijn said the eurozone’s latest “ugly inflation reading” adds pressure on the European Central Bank to act quickly.
The ECB is planning its first interest rate hike in 11 years this month, followed by another increase in September. Bank President Christine Lagarde said this week that she wants to move gradually to tackle soaring consumer prices, to avoid stifling the economic recovery, but is leaving the door open for bigger rate hikes in case inflation surges more than expected.
“I don’t think that we’re going to go back to that environment of low inflation,” Lagarde said at an ECB forum Wednesday in Sintra, Portugal. “I think that there are forces that have been unleashed as a result of the pandemic, as a result of this massive geopolitical shock that we are facing now that are going to change the picture and the landscape within which we operate.”
But central banks run the risk of causing a recession as they make borrowing more expensive.
Inflation in the euro area has been setting monthly records since last year, underscoring how the war’s impact on global energy supplies is making life more expensive for 343 million people.
So-called core inflation was more stable after excluding the volatile energy and food categories. Price increases for goods like clothing, appliances, cars, computers and books held fairly steady at 4.3%, as did prices for services at 3.4%.
The EU data also showed countries neighboring Russia that have been trying to wean themselves off cheap Russian gas are bearing the brunt of rising prices. Annual inflation came in at 22% for Estonia, 20.5% for Lithuania and 19% for Latvia.
Poland, which does not use the euro but is an EU member, reported Friday that inflation rose to 15.6% in June compared with a year earlier, the highest rate in a quarter-century. That was an increase from the annual rate of 13.9% in May.
Analysts noted that the biggest rise in Poland was in gasoline and diesel prices, which went up 46.7% from a year ago. Food prices were up 14.1%.
___
Associated Press reporter Monika Scislowska in Warsaw, Poland, contributed. | https://fox59.com/business/ap-business/inflation-in-19-countries-using-euro-hits-record-8-6/ | 2022-07-01T16:56:31Z | https://fox59.com/business/ap-business/inflation-in-19-countries-using-euro-hits-record-8-6/ | false |
In honor of Independence Day, Arizona Daily Star is providing unlimited access to all of our content from June 28th-July 4th!
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PHOENIX — In a season that has had more twists and turns than Desert Storm — the longest and most looping roller coaster in Arizona — the Phoenix Mercury and forward Tina Charles decided to mutually part ways last week.
“After discussions with Tina and her agent, it was best for both parties to go our separate ways at this time,” Mercury general manager Jim Pitman said. “Due to circumstances both in and out of our control, our season has not gone according to our plan, and we will continue to pursue all avenues for improvement.”
The Mercury (9-12) lost three straight games up to the official divorce between Charles and the team, as she grew frustrated about a lack of touches and craved a more prominent role offensively. She averaged only 14.8 shots per game, her fewest since her rookie season with the Connecticut Sun in 2010.
On NBA TV’s national telecast of the Mercury’s 83-72 win on June 25, commentators remarked that Charles has previously taken plays off defensively, to the ire of her teammates. The statistics back that up, as Charles has a career-worst 0.3 defensive win share (an estimate of the number of wins contributed by a player due to defense) and a 107 defensive rating (an estimate of points allowed per 100 possessions), which is the second-worst defensive rating in her 12-year career.
Charles signed with the Seattle Storm Tuesday, hoping to make the championship push that she did not see with the Mercury.
“I have a small window, and there’s a way that I want to play with the time I have left,” Charles said in her introductory media conference. “There’s a way I want to be coached. Knowing about the culture here, having a good relationship with Sue Bird … it just made sense to me.”
Mercury coach Vanessa Nygaard said that players are focused and “are not happy with how we’ve been playing and so they’re ready” in the pregame media session before the win over the Wings at home. Phoenix will take on the Chicago Sky on Saturday morning on ESPN.
Mercury players were initially unavailable for comments on the Charles news, as forward Brianna Turner gave an emphatic and passionate statement about the overturn of Roe vs. Wade postgame. Then she and teammate Skylar Diggins-Smith immediately walked off the media session platform.
However, one of the Mercury players yelled a disparaging comment about Charles after the win against Dallas, reporters at the game in Dallas said.
“Onto the next,” Mercury wing Diamond DeShields said in the locker room after Monday night’s 83-71 win over the Fever at home. “You really can’t dwell on (the Tina Charles departure), especially now with the way the season is rolling over and over and games are coming up so quickly.”
“I wish Charles the best of luck,” Diggins-Smith said as “Return of the Mack” by Mark Morrison was playing in the locker room. “Literally in this season, you can’t worry about anything else except what’s in the locker room. Man, that’s all I’m concerned about this year and this is a business.”
This roller-coaster season has had more drops than rises.
The challenging year started in the off-season with the February arrest of teammate Brittney Griner, who, as Nygaard mentions after every pregame and postgame media conference, has been wrongfully detained for 130-plus days. A Russian court has set a start date for Griner’s trial for Friday, and she could face 10 years in prison if convicted on charges of large-scale transportation of drugs.
The Mercury struggled to find their footing under their rookie coach, and two of their star players — Diggins-Smith and Diana Taurasi — were seen in a shouting match during a timeout against the Las Vegas Aces in May as the team stumbled to a 2-8 record. The team had various ailments, from Diggins-Smith’s non-COVID illness to Charles’ shoulder and Sophie Cunningham’s elbow injuries, resulting in the starting five accruing heavy minutes up to this point. The now-former trio of Diggins-Smith, Turner and Charles still rank in the top five in the WNBA in minutes per game.
Despite the hurdles, the Mercury sit in the eighth and last playoff spot just past the halfway point of the WNBA regular season. They also are led by now six-time All-Star Diggins-Smith, who the WNBA announced as an All-Star reserve Tuesday.
The team has played with a renewed vigor on defense. On Saturday, they held the Wings to 4 for 21 from 3-point range, and Wings’ players not named Arike Ogunbowale went 1 of 8 from beyond the arc
On Monday night, the Mercury only allowed 13 fourth-quarter points (five came when the game was out of reach) to stymie the Indiana Fever.
“I think this weathering of the storm earlier in the season and seeing it as an opportunity to just start fresh,” DeShields said. “I think collectively, we all kind of just decided that we were done making excuses and it’s time for us to prepare to make a playoff run to secure a spot in the playoffs.
“I think that we’ve had our fair share of just ‘woe is me,’ and just feeling bad about all the things that have come up over the course of the season. I think collectively, we just decided that we were done with that and turned it into a new leaf.”
Nygaard summed up the season to date best, quoting Mark Twain after the Wings’ win: “The reports of our deaths have been greatly exaggerated.”
Photos: University of Arizona's Aari McDonald and Sam Thomas meet up in WNBA game
The Phoenix Mercury still have plenty of star power, even with Tina Charles gone. Guard Skylar Diggins-Smith was named a WNBA all-star reserve earlier this week. | https://tucson.com/sports/phoenix-mercury-starting-fresh-following-their-breakup-with-tina-charles/article_3dc888a8-f940-11ec-b983-3328472aeea7.html | 2022-07-01T16:59:33Z | https://tucson.com/sports/phoenix-mercury-starting-fresh-following-their-breakup-with-tina-charles/article_3dc888a8-f940-11ec-b983-3328472aeea7.html | true |
- In 2021, smart, self-healing technology in Florida helped avoid nearly 250,000 extended customer power outages, saving almost 17 million minutes of customer interruptions.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As Florida heads into another month of hurricane season and afternoon thunderstorms become more common, Duke Energy Florida's smart, self-healing technology continues to benefit customers during power outages.
Much like a GPS can reroute traffic during an accident, self-healing technology can automatically detect power outages and quickly reroute power to restore service faster or avoid the outage altogether.
Last year, this technology helped avoid nearly 250,000 extended customer power outages in Florida, saving almost 17 million minutes of total lost outage time.
"We are working hard to deliver electricity that is reliable, increasingly clean and more secure," said Duke Energy Florida state president Melissa Seixas. "We know that storms are increasing in frequency and intensity, so it's important that we take steps today to protect the grid from the impacts of severe weather and increase reliability for all our customers."
Currently, 53% of Duke Energy Florida customers are served by some form of self-healing or automated restoration technology, a 14% increase as compared to 2020.
Over the years, self-healing technology has provided tremendous benefit to Florida customers during times when Duke Energy experienced major outages on its system due to severe weather.
- Tropical Storm Collin – June 2016. More than 11,000 extended customer power outages avoided, saving over 2 million minutes of customer interruptions.
- Hurricane Hermine – September 2016. More than 27,000 extended customer power outages avoided, saving over 3 million minutes of customer interruptions.
- Hurricane Matthew – October 2016. More than 1,000 extended customer power outages avoided, saving over 159,000 minutes of customer interruptions.
- Hurricane Irma – September 2017. More than 12,000 extended customer power outages avoided, saving over 5 million minutes of customer interruptions.
- Hurricane Michael – October 2018. More than 10,000 extended customer power outages avoided, saving over 1.8 million minutes of customer interruptions.
- Hurricane Eta – November 2020. More than 13,000 extended customer power outages avoided, saving over 1.7 million minutes of customer interruptions.
- Tropical Storm Fred – August 2021. More than 5,000 extended customer power outages avoided, saving over 1.2 million minutes of customer interruptions.
In less than 10 years, Duke Energy Florida expects to have 80% of its customers served by some form of self-healing technology. Click here to view Duke Energy Florida's 2021 self-healing technology data by county.
Additionally, Duke Energy has reduced the average amount of time a customer experiences an outage by approximately 20% over the last five years, according to the System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI), which indicates the amount of time the average customer experiences a sustained outage.
Over the next 10 years, Duke Energy Florida will continue to make strategic investments in strengthening its infrastructure, reducing outage times associated with extreme weather events, reducing restoration costs and improving overall service reliability.
Self-healing technology video.
Duke Energy Florida
Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 10,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 1.9 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida.
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. Its electric utilities serve 8.2 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 50,000 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas unit serves 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. The company employs 28,000 people.
Duke Energy is executing an aggressive clean energy transition to achieve its goals of net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas business and at least a 50% carbon reduction from electric generation by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The 2050 net-zero goals also include Scope 2 and certain Scope 3 emissions. In addition, the company is investing in major electric grid enhancements and energy storage, and exploring zero-emission power generation technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear.
Duke Energy was named to Fortune's 2022 "World's Most Admired Companies" list and Forbes' "America's Best Employers" list. More information is available at duke-energy.com. The Duke Energy News Center contains news releases, fact sheets, photos and videos. Duke Energy's illumination features stories about people, innovations, community topics and environmental issues. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.
Media contact: Audrey Stasko
Cell: 315.877.3031
Media line: 800.559.3853
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SOURCE Duke Energy | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/duke-energy-floridas-innovative-technology-reduces-outages-saves-customers-millions-minutes-interruptions/ | 2022-07-01T17:03:59Z | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/duke-energy-floridas-innovative-technology-reduces-outages-saves-customers-millions-minutes-interruptions/ | false |
WIMBLEDON, England (AP) — Heather Watson has been through a lot at Wimbledon, and now she’s made it through the third round for the first time.
The 121st-ranked Watson, making is her 12th appearance at the All England Club, advanced to the fourth round on Friday by beating Kaja Juvan 7-6 (6), 6-2.
“I know I’m not speechless because I’m blabbing on, but I don’t know what to say,” the 30-year-old Watson said on No. 1 Court. “Playing here at home in front of all you guys, the atmosphere is everything. So, please can all of you come back for my fourth round?”
The pressure on British players at their home Grand Slam can be immense. Watson and every other British player know that well.
Before Andy Murray won the men’s title, the talk among the locals would endlessly focus on Fred Perry and Virginia Wade, the last British singles champions at the All England Club.
Murray ended some of that in 2013, becoming the first British man to win the Wimbledon title since Perry in 1936. Wade, in 1977, remains the last female British champion of the grass-court Grand Slam tournament.
“I actually wasn’t that nervous,” said Watson, who had lost in the first round six times since making her Wimbledon debut in 2010.
In the next round, Watson will face Jule Niemeier of Germany. She beat Lesia Tsurenko 6-4, 3-6, 6-3.
Third-seeded Ons Jabeur also reached the fourth round, defeating Diane Parry 6-2, 6-3, while 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko beat Irina-Camelia Begu 3-6, 6-1, 6-1.
Jabeur, who is known as the “Minister of Happiness” back home in Tunisia, will next face Elise Mertens. The 24th-seeded Mertens beat 2018 Wimbledon champion Angelique Kerber 6-4, 7-5.
Fifth-seeded Maria Sakkari, however, was eliminated. The Greek player, who reached the semifinals at both the French Open and the U.S. Open last year, lost to Tatjana Maria of Germany 6-3, 7-5.
In the men’s draw, three Americans advanced — one to the third round and two to the fourth.
Qualifier Jack Sock finished off a 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (1) victory over another American, Maxime Cressy, in a match that was suspended Thursday after the second set. That made him the eighth American man to reach the third round, the most at any Grand Slam tournament since 1996.
Frances Tiafoe and Tommy Paul were also among those eight, and they already earned themselves a spot in the fourth round.
The 23rd-seeded Tiafoe, who is making his fifth appearance at the All England Club, beat Alexander Bublik 3-6, 7-6 (1), 7-6 (3), 6-4. Paul, seeded 30th, defeated Jiri Vesely 6-3, 6-2, 6-2.
Another one of those Americans, John Isner, set a men’s tour ace record.
The 20th-seeded Isner hit ace No. 13,729 to break the ATP tour record held by Ivo Karlovic of Croatia. He set the record during the third game of his third-round match against Jannik Sinner on No. 2 Court.
Six-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic also reached the fourth round. The top-seeded Serb beat Miomir Kecmanovic 6-0, 6-3, 6-4.
___
More AP Wimbledon coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/wimbledon and https://apnews.com/hub/tennis and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://fox59.com/sports/ap-sports/watson-finally-makes-it-to-the-4th-round-at-wimbledon/ | 2022-07-01T17:04:04Z | https://fox59.com/sports/ap-sports/watson-finally-makes-it-to-the-4th-round-at-wimbledon/ | false |
LOS ANGELES, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- This July 7, 2022, Ringo Starr and his wife Barbara Starkey will be joined on his birthday by family and friends, including current All Starrs Steve Lukather, Edgar Winter, Colin Hay, Warren Ham and Gregg Bissonette, as well as friends Benmont Tench, Jim Keltner, Richard Marx, Matt Sorum, Ed Begley Jr, Linda Perry, Diane Warren, Roy Jr and Alex Orbison.
They will gather together in Los Angeles for Ringo's annual Peace & Love Birthday event, and at Noon give the traditional "Peace and Love" exclamation. This year Artemis Music Space Network, through the International Space Station (ISS) will amplify that message not only to the entire planet but up into Earth's orbit and to the stars.
At Noon Ringo will signal the Artemis Mission Control Center in Houston, Texas to beam his message & music (Ringo's 2021 single release "Let's Change The World" and his "Star Song" (the music the stars made upon his birth as mapped out by Artemis) to the International Space Station (ISS), where it will orbit around the Earth, passing over many countries and much of the Earth's population and beaming back down messages of peace and love while also traveling out to distant stars.
Prior to this musicians, including Langhorne Slim and Sawyer Fredericks, will celebrate Ringo's music with tribute performances.
The global celebrations continue to be confirmed and so far include 26, beginning in Sydney, Australia, where Today's Karl Stefanovic has the first Noon "Peace & Love" event of the day. It then continues with events in Tokyo and Osaka Japan, Moscow, Russia, Athens, Greece, Ticino Switzerland, Halle, Germany, Barcelona and Madrid Spain, Venice, Italy, London, England, Buenos Aires and Chascomús Argentina, Sao Paulo, Brazil, Lima, Peru, Panama City, Panama, San Salvador, El Salvador, Guatemala City, Guatemala, San Jose Costa Rica, and Stateside in New York City, New York, Interlochen, MI (Interlochen Center for the Arts), Cleveland, OH (Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum), Fairfield, IA (Marharshi University) and Los Angeles, California (Ringo usually invites fans to join him in person however this year the gathering in Los Angeles could not be made public to adhere to city ordinances). This year also sees the first "Peace and Love" celebration in South Africa, where people in Yeoville, Johannesburg will gather at Noon and participate at the Friday Hartley Shelter.
In advance of July 7, and continuing through July 10, one of the event sponsors, The Beatles Channel on SiriusXM, will air special programming celebrating Ringo's birthday. Starbucks, one of the events amplifiers, will be playing a special Ringo Playlist in over 10,000 Starbucks stores, and share with cutomers a special Peace & Love message from Ringo at Noon local time at participating locations.
Please watch and share this message from Ringo so people know how to participate.
And remember - Peace & Love
Our Sponsors:
The Sessions - Enrich, Educate, Empower
The Sessions was founded by photographer, author and philanthropist, Jules Follett, and provides the bridge between dreams and reality by Enriching artist lives through Education, focusing on Empowering and sharpening their business skills in the pursuit of excellence. This is done through in person and online panel events, as well as interviews with music industry Artists sharing their story, valuable information and advice from all areas of the business, accessible to all through their YouTube channel in their Artist Series interviews.
SiriusXM The Beatles Channel
The Beatles Channel can be found on SiriusXM channel 18 and on the SXM App. The channel features the band's hits and album tracks, live recordings and rarities, solo works from John, Paul, George and Ringo, records that influenced the band, as well as the music they inspired. SiriusXM have been proud sponsors of Ringo's Peace & Love Birthday events since 2017.
Our Amplifiers and Media Partners:
Artemis Space Network, developed by Artemis Music Entertainment Inc., is a space-based globally accessible commercial platform for art, music and entertainment media enabling artists, producers, creators, curators and their communities to connect musical and artistic works to the inspiration, perspective and opportunity of outer space. They are proudly using their commercial International Space Station (ISS) access to amplify Ringo's Peace & Love message not only to the entire planet but up into the stars.
Starbucks
Founded in Seattle in 1971 Starbucks has grown and now welcomes millions of customers each week and has become a part of the fabric of tens of thousands of neighborhoods all around the world. In everything they do, they are always dedicated to Their Mission: to inspire and nurture the human spirit – one person, one cup, and one neighborhood at a time. Starbucks have supported and amplified Ringo's Peace and Love message since 2018.
Background on Ringo's Peace & Love Birthdays: Since 2008 Ringo has invited everyone everywhere to think, say or post #peaceandlove at Noon their local time on July 7th to fulfill his birthday wish of a wave of Peace and Love encircling the planet. Usually Ringo meets with fans in whatever city he is in, a tradition that began July 7, 2008 when he convened with fans and friends on the streets in front of the Hard Rock Café in Chicago, passing out cupcakes and joining the crowd for "Peace and Love" exactly at Noon. In the ensuing years it has grown enormously and in 2019 there were over 30 Peace & Love events in countries all around the world including Argentina - Buenos Aires; Chascomus, Armenia - Yerevan Australia -Sydney, Bolivia - La Paz, Brazil - Sao Paulo, Columbia -Bogota, Costa Rica - San Jose, Cuba – Habana, Czech Republic – Prague, El Salvador - San Salvador, Estonia – Tallin, Finland – Helsinki, Germany - Hamburg and Halle, Italy – Venice, Japan - Osaka; Tokyo, Panama - Panama City, Paraguay -Asunción, Peru – Lima, Russia – Moscow, Spain - Barcelona; Madrid, United Kingdom - London; Liverpool, United States - Chicago; Minneapolis, Hawaii, Los Angeles, New York City.
2020's pandemic prevented an in-person event, and Ringo instead moved the celebration to be virtual, hosting "Ringo's Big Birthday Show," which featured unseen concert and unique performances by Starr, Paul McCartney, Joe Walsh, Ben Harper and Dave Grohl, Sheryl Crow, Gary Clark Jr and Sheila E. The show was broadcast globally via AXS, YouTube and Ceek and it benefitted Black Lives Matter Global Network, The David Lynch Foundation, Musicares and WaterAid. Meanwhile the #peaceandlove posts came from near and far, with the Mars Rover and The International Space Station being the first to wish Ringo a Happy Birthday "From 260 miles above our home planet, NASA Astronauts wish Ringo Starr a happy 80th birthday! Since our orbiting laboratory operates in Greenwich Mean Time, or GMT, it's officially July 7 – a perfect date to send #PeaceAndLove to everyone across the universe!
2021 found Ringo celebrating with a few friends and family with a photo call at his Peace sculpture, with the world celebrating with their wave of peace and love celebrations globally. Details about 2022 Peace and Love regional gatherings – both in person and zoom – can be found on Ringo's Facebook page, and fans have already confirmed events in Argentina, Costa Rica, Columbia, El Salvador, Germany, Guatemala, Japan, Italy, Panama, Peru, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Switzerland, UK, USA.
HISTORY OF RINGO'S ANNUAL JULY 7 PEACE & LOVE BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS:
2008 - Chicago, IL Hard Rock Cafe
2009 - Online campaign including in store salutes at Noon at all Hard Rock Cafes worldwide
2010 - New York City, NY: Hard Rock Cafe, Times Square
2011 - Hamburg, Germany: Hard Rock Cafe
2012 - Nashville, TN: Hard Rock Café
2013 - Online celebration including a video message from Ringo
2014 - Los Angeles, CA: Capitol Records Tower
2015 - Los Angeles, CA: Capitol Records Tower
2016 - Los Angeles, CA: Capitol Records Tower
2017 - Los Angeles, CA: Capitol Records Tower
2018 - Nice, France: Hard Rock Café
2019 - Los Angeles, CA: Capitol Records Tower
2020 - Los Angeles, CA: Virtual celebration, "Ringo's Big Birthday Show"
2021 - Los Angeles, CA: Beverly Hills Garden Park
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SOURCE Universal Music Enterprises | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/ringo-celebrates-his-birthday-with-his-annual-campaign-peace-amp-love-which-includes-26-celebrations-countries-around-world-this-year-will-also-see-his-message-peace-love-beamed-up-stars-orbit-earth/ | 2022-07-01T17:05:49Z | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/ringo-celebrates-his-birthday-with-his-annual-campaign-peace-amp-love-which-includes-26-celebrations-countries-around-world-this-year-will-also-see-his-message-peace-love-beamed-up-stars-orbit-earth/ | true |
(The Hill) – Denzel Washington, Simone Biles, Megan Rapinoe and former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.) are among those who will be awarded the Medal of Freedom by President Biden.
Seventeen people in total will be recognized with the Presidential Medal of Freedom — the country’s highest civilian honor — at a ceremony next Thursday at the White House.
The medal is presented to “individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors,” the White House said Friday in announcing this year’s recipients.
In addition to “Fences” star Washington, Olympic athletes Biles and Rapinoe, and gun reform advocate Giffords, Biden will posthumously award the medal to Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), who died in 2018 of brain cancer, late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, and former AFL-CIO president Richard Trumka, who died last year.
Also among those being honored: former Sen. Alan Simpson (R-Wyo.), Sisters of Social Service member Simone Campbell, former University of Texas at Brownsville President Julieta García, former Vicar General of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America Alexander Karloutsos, Gold Star father Khizr Khan, civil rights attorney Fred Gray, Sandra Lindsay, a nurse who was the first American to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee founding member Diane Nash, brigadier general Wilma Vaught and civil rights advocate Raúl Yzaguirre.
Previous Medal of Freedom winners included such famed figures as Tom Hanks, former Rep. Shirley Chisolm (D-N.Y.), Oprah Winfrey, Meryl Streep and Michael Jordan.
During his administration, former President Trump took heat from critics for moving to honor a number of prominent conservatives with the Medal of Freedom, including talk-radio host Rush Limbaugh, then-Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) and Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio).
Biden himself has been awarded the honor — in 2017, President Obama surprised his vice president by presenting him with the Medal of Freedom at the annual ceremony. | https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/news/national-news/white-house-announces-medals-of-freedom-for-simone-biles-gabby-giffords-denzel-washington/ | 2022-07-01T17:07:27Z | https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/news/national-news/white-house-announces-medals-of-freedom-for-simone-biles-gabby-giffords-denzel-washington/ | true |
CONKLIN, NY (WIVT/WBGH) – Footage has been released of New York State Trooper Jimmy Rasaphone saving 13-year-old golden retriever, Lilah, from a culvert pipe in Conklin, New York.
NewsChannel 34’s Roy Santa Croce spoke with Trooper Rasaphone and Lilah’s owner about the heroic rescue. More on the story tonight at 6 and 11.
Trooper goes the extra mile to save dog | https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/news/top-stories/exclusive-footage-trooper-rescues-dog-from-culvert/ | 2022-07-01T17:07:57Z | https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/news/top-stories/exclusive-footage-trooper-rescues-dog-from-culvert/ | true |
Wimbledon order of play on Saturday
LONDON, July 1 (Reuters) - Order of play on the main show courts on the sixth day of the Wimbledon championships on Saturday (play starts at 1230 GMT unless stated, prefix number denotes seeding):
CENTRE COURT
11-Coco Gauff (United States) v 20-Amanda Anisimova (United States)
4-Paula Badosa (Spain) v 25-Petra Kvitova (Czech Republic)
27-Lorenzo Sonego (Italy) v 2-Rafa Nadal (Spain)
COURT ONE (1200)
19-Alex de Minaur (Australia) v Liam Broady (Britain)
1-Iga Swiatek (Poland) v Alize Cornet (France)
Nick Kyrgios (Australia) v 4-Stefanos Tsitsipas (Greece)
(Compiled by Dhruv Munjal in Bengaluru, editing by Ed Osmond)
Advertisement | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/reuters/article-10973859/Wimbledon-order-play-Saturday.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | 2022-07-01T17:12:13Z | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/reuters/article-10973859/Wimbledon-order-play-Saturday.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | false |
Company targets unmet medical need in millions of people around the world with drug resistant chronic airway infections
DURHAM, N.C., July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Vast Therapeutics announces promising results with a nitric oxide releasing drug candidate under investigation for infections caused by Mycobacterium abscessus, a multi-drug resistant bacteria for which there are currently no FDA-approved treatments. These resultswere presented by Dr. Mark Schoenfisch at the World Bronchiectasis & NTM Conference. Preclinical data show bactericidal activity in both acute and chronic models of M. abscessus infection with no evidence of drug resistance in the laboratory setting.
Non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease is a serious infection caused by more than 120 types of common environmental mycobacteria including M. abscessus. Most people exposed to these bacteria do not get sick. However, those with underlying lung conditions like bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or cystic fibrosis are at greater risk. Chronic NTM infections can cause perpetual decline in lung function and frequent airway exacerbations.
"NTM infections are especially difficult to treat because mycobacteria grow so slowly and hide within airway cells to avoid the effects of antibiotics. For certain mycobacteria like M. abscessus, antibiotic therapies have simply not proven effective," stated Mark Schoenfisch PhD, Chief Scientific Officer, Vast Therapeutics. "Our data indicate the potential to treat M. abscessus infections using a new therapeutic paradigm based on a nitric oxide releasing prodrug that acts locally and may avoid antimicrobial resistance common to traditional antibiotics. We are encouraged by our data and excited to begin our upcoming first-in-human clinical trial that will bring us closer to treating NTM patients."
NTM is associated with high healthcare costs and high mortality. To date, treatment of NTM pulmonary disease requires multi-month or years of antibiotic therapy using a combination of antibiotic drugs approved for other infections. Such treatment is frequently complicated by limited efficacy, adverse side-effects, and poor tolerability. Mycobacteria that are not eliminated by the drugs readily develop resistance to the antibiotics, resulting in multi-drug resistant bacterial infections.
"I am very interested in the potential role of nitric oxide prodrugs as a therapy for NTM lung disease and other infections," said Dr. Patrick Flume MD, Professor, Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina. "We know a great deal about the safety profile of nitric oxide and its other properties that may prove quite beneficial. These results represent a key development for the future treatment of non-tuberculous mycobacteria. We are in dire need for novel therapies against these infections."
Vast is a life science company focused on breaking the debilitating cycle of infection and chronic inflammation in respiratory diseases. This cycle affects patients across the entire spectrum of human life, ranging from children with rare orphan diseases like Cystic Fibrosis to adults with highly prevalent diseases like COPD. We believe our lead product candidate, known as ALX1, may provide an effective treatment for these patients infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, NTM, and other drug resistant pathogens.
Vast Therapeutics Inc. is an operating subsidiary of KNOW Bio, LLC and is headquartered in Durham, NC.
Contact:
John Oakley
Chief Financial Officer Vast Therapeutics, Inc.
joakley@vasttherapeutics.com
(919) 939-7715
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SOURCE Vast Therapeutics, Inc. | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/vast-therapeutics-presents-promising-preclinical-results-novel-treatment-ntm-disease/ | 2022-07-01T17:13:18Z | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/vast-therapeutics-presents-promising-preclinical-results-novel-treatment-ntm-disease/ | false |
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — A Maryland law taking effect Friday will enable nurse practitioners, nurse midwives and physician assistants who receive special training to perform abortions, as some states seek to expand access to the procedure after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.
Medical professionals other than physicians with the training can begin providing abortions Friday, though it's unclear how many will immediately be eligible. Delaware, Connecticut and Washington also enacted laws this year allowing non-physician clinicians to perform abortions.
Dr. Kyle Bukowski, the chief medical officer for Planned Parenthood of Maryland, is training non-physician clinicians to perform safe abortions in Maryland. Bukowski, who also has done such training in California, believes providing abortion access is one of the most significant jobs he has done as a doctor.
“It feels so important,” said the board-certified OB/GYN, who also delivers babies. “That is the difference between them finishing school or not; leaving an abusive relationship or not; being able to take care of their kids or not, keep their job or not, and to be able to fully give back somebody their autonomy is probably the most important work that you can do as a doctor or as a medical provider.”
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The high court's ruling last week touched off a flurry of action in courthouses as conservative-leaning states seek to ban or restrict the procedure. But other states have sought to expand access, and advocates say that more providers are needed in areas that may see an influx of patients crossing state lines.
“When you talk about 26 states losing access, 36 million women losing access, it’s going to spread out, and so it is all hands on deck,” said Karen Nelson, president of Planned Parenthood of Maryland.
Delaware Gov. John Carney, a Democrat, signed legislation Wednesday to allow physician assistants, certified nurse practitioners and nurse midwifes to perform abortions before viability. The measure includes various legal protections for abortion providers and patients, including out-of-state residents receiving abortions in Delaware.
Fourteen states — California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Virginia and Washington — now allow non-physicians to provide abortions, said Elizabeth Nash, state policy analyst for the Guttmacher Institute in New York, a think tank that supports abortion rights.
“This is a long time coming where states are recognizing that one, for so long the number of abortion providers has been decreasing, and that we need to better ensure access to care, especially as we see states banning abortion," Nash said.
Supporters of Maryland's law say the state could see an influx of patients because of its proximity to Southern states expected to restrict abortion access.
“I think we are in a very unique place," Nelson said. "Some people say we are the southern-most accessible state, and some people are calling us the northern-most Southern state, and the I-95 corridor creates sort of a pipeline here.”
Earlier this year, as Maryland lawmakers were considering the legislation, abortion providers were already seeing some patients from Texas who were seeking alternatives because of the ban there, Nelson said.
The Maryland law was passed partly in anticipation that the Supreme Court would strike down Roe and to increase access in rural parts of the state that don't have providers.
“We passed the bill this year in Maryland after no legislation advancing abortion rights for 30 years, because unfortunately we expected this day to come," said Del. Ariana Kelly, a Democrat who sponsored the measure.
To enact the law, Democrats who control the Maryland General Assembly overrode a veto by Republican Gov. Larry Hogan.
Hogan, in his veto letter to lawmakers, wrote that the measure “risks lowering the high standard of reproductive health care services received by women in Maryland.”
“Unlike nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, physician assistants, and licensed certified midwives, physicians are uniquely qualified to perform these procedures and resolve any medical complications should they arise," Hogan wrote.
The Maryland law also mandates that $3.5 million in state funding be allocated annually starting in fiscal year 2024 for the training. Hogan declined to release money set aside by lawmakers to provide that much for training in the fiscal year starting Friday.
Bukowski disagrees that the new law risks lowering reproductive health care services.
“As long as they're trained to do it, they can do so safely,” Bukowski said.
Associated Press writer Randall Chase contributed to this report from Dover, Delaware.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://wcfcourier.com/lifestyles/health-med-fit/maryland-law-expanding-who-can-perform-abortion-takes-effect/article_11f61569-3017-598b-9045-3227fc26a15d.html | 2022-07-01T17:13:50Z | https://wcfcourier.com/lifestyles/health-med-fit/maryland-law-expanding-who-can-perform-abortion-takes-effect/article_11f61569-3017-598b-9045-3227fc26a15d.html | false |
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea is suggesting its COVID-19 outbreak began in people who had contact with balloons flown from South Korea.
The highly questionable claim appeared to be an attempt to hold its rival responsible amid increasing tensions.
For years, activists have flown balloons across the border to distribute propaganda leaflets, and North Korea has expressed fury at the activists and at South Korea's leadership for not stopping them.
A state media report Friday said officials were ordered to deal vigilantly with “alien things” and balloons blown across the border.
Global health authorities say the coronavirus is spread by people in close contact who inhale airborne droplets and it's more likely to occur in enclosed spaces than outdoors.
North Korea is believed to have gone through a wave of COVID-19. Amnesty International says North Korea has rejected vaccines from the World Health Organization operation that distributes the shots across the globe. | https://www.kivitv.com/news/national/n-korea-suggests-balloons-flown-from-south-brought-covid-19 | 2022-07-01T17:13:53Z | https://www.kivitv.com/news/national/n-korea-suggests-balloons-flown-from-south-brought-covid-19 | false |
An outbreak of a virulent form of bird flu is having a “devastating impact” on the UK’s seabirds, the RSPB has said.
The conservation charity spoke out amid concerns for the UK’s only roseate tern breeding colony, and separately, following the National Trust closing an important wildlife haven to human visitors.
The RSPB said the strain of bird flu originated in east Asia and has killed tens of thousands of wild birds across the world.
Hundreds have died on Coquet Island, off the Northumberland coast, and the nearby Farne Islands, which are managed by the National Trust.
Samples sent to Defra have now tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
Jim Wardill, RSPB England operations director, said: “Bird flu is having a devastating impact on our seabirds – a population already under huge pressure from human impacts including climate change, lack of prey fish, deaths through entanglement in fishing gear and development pressure.
“Action must be taken now, with UK governments leading on developing and implementing national response plans for HPAI in wild birds.
“It is vital to have a coordinated approach to surveillance and testing, disturbance minimisation and public messaging, along with a joined-up strategy regarding arrangements for the poultry sector.”
Coquet Island is home to around 160 pairs of roseate terns – the UK’s only breeding colony of the species which almost became extinct in the 19th century.
It is closed to the public, making it a haven for wildlife.
Some 20 miles north, the Farnes are another of England’s most important seabird colonies and are home to around 200,000 birds.
Around 45,000 people visit the islands on boat trips every year to take in views of up to 23 species, including 43,000 puffin pairs, as well as a large colony of grey seals.
The tourist trips out of Seahouses will continue, but visitors will no longer be allowed to land on the Farnes from Sunday.
Simon Lee, general manager for the Farne Islands said: “While we have no confirmed test results from the islands, we are now starting to see the terribly sad and distressing impact of avian influenza on our internationally important and threatened seabirds who make the islands their home.
“Seabirds nesting in dense colonies, most of which are threatened, such as Arctic terns, are particularly vulnerable now as they have returned to the islands in their thousands to breed, nesting in close proximity to each other.
“Our ranger teams work tirelessly to monitor and protect these colonies but due to finding significant numbers of dead birds we simply have no other choice but to close the islands.
“We understand how many people love to visit the islands but we must do everything we can to protect and to try to help these much-loved seabirds by limiting the spread of the disease.
“The effect of the disease on the colonies we care for could be devastating due to many species having low reproduction rates, which means the loss of adult birds has a huge impact on populations being able to recover.”
Ranger teams will remain on the islands to monitor the outbreak.
The UK Health Security Agency has advised that the risk to humans is very low, but people should not touch sick or dead birds.
If found, people should report any dead birds to Defra on 0345 9335577. | https://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/uk-world/3452910/bird-flu-could-have-a-devastating-impact-on-uks-seabirds-rspb-warns/ | 2022-07-01T17:14:12Z | https://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/uk-world/3452910/bird-flu-could-have-a-devastating-impact-on-uks-seabirds-rspb-warns/ | false |
TOKYO (AP) — Canadian rock legend Randy Bachman’s long search came to an end Friday when he was reunited in Tokyo with a cherished guitar 45 years after it was stolen from a Toronto hotel.
“My girlfriend is right there,” said Bachman, 78, a former member of The Guess Who and Bachman-Turner Overdrive, as the Gretsch guitar on which he wrote “American Woman” and other hits was handed to him by a Japanese musician who had bought it at a Tokyo store in 2014 without knowing its history.
He said all guitars are special, but the orange 1957 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins he bought as a teenager was exceptional. He worked at multiple jobs to save money to buy the $400 guitar, his first purchase of an expensive instrument, he said.
“It made my whole life. It was my hammer and a tool to write songs, make music and make money,” Bachman told The Associated Press before the handover at the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo.
When it was stolen from the Toronto hotel in 1977, “I cried for three days. It was part of me,” he said. “It was very, very upsetting.” He ended up buying about 300 guitars in unsuccessful attempts to replace it, he said.
Bachman talked frequently about the missing guitar in interviews and on radio shows, and more recently on YouTube programs on which he performed with his son, Tal.
In 2020, a Canadian fan who heard the story of the guitar launched an internet search and successfully located it in Tokyo within two weeks.
The fan, William Long, used a small spot in the guitar’s wood grain visible in old images as a “digital fingerprint” and tracked the instrument down to a vintage guitar shop site in Tokyo. A further search led him to a YouTube video showing the instrument being played by a Japanese musician, TAKESHI, in December 2019.
After receiving the news from Long, Bachman contacted TAKESHI immediately, and recognized the guitar in a video chat they had.
“I was crying,” Bachman said. “The guitar almost spoke to me over the video, like, ’Hey, I’m coming home.’”
TAKESHI agreed to give it to Bachman in exchange for one that was very similar. So Bachman searched and found the guitar’s “sister” — made during the same week, with a close serial number, no modifications and no repairs.
“To find my guitar again was a miracle, to find its twin sister was another miracle,” Bachman said.
TAKESHI said he decided to return the guitar because as a guitar player he could imagine how much Bachman missed it.
“I owned it and played it for only eight years and I’m extremely sad to return it now. But he has been feeling sad for 46 years, and it’s time for someone else to be sad,” TAKESHI said. “I felt sorry for this legend.”
He said he felt good after returning the guitar to its rightful owner, but it may take time for him to love his new Gretsch as much as that one.
“It’s a guitar, and it has a soul. So even if it has the same shape, I cannot say for sure if I can love a replacement the same way I loved this one,” he said. “There is no doubt Randy thought of me and searched hard (for the replacement), so I will gradually develop an affection for it, but it may take time.”
Bachman said he and TAKESHI are now like brothers who own guitars that are “twin sisters.” They are participating in a documentary about the guitar on which they plan to perform a song, “Lost and Found” together.
They also performed several songs at Friday’s handover, including “American Woman.”
Bachman said he will lock the guitar up in his home so he will never lose it again. “I am never ever going to take it out of my house again,” he said. | https://www.koin.com/entertainment-news/rock-star-randy-bachman-reunited-with-beloved-stolen-guitar/ | 2022-07-01T17:16:53Z | https://www.koin.com/entertainment-news/rock-star-randy-bachman-reunited-with-beloved-stolen-guitar/ | false |
South Africa captain Siya Kolisi is braced for a tough physical battle against a Wales team that “does not give an inch” on Saturday.
The world champions are overwhelming favourites to start the three-Test series with victory in Pretoria.
A second game in Bloemfontein – also at altitude – follows seven days later before the series concludes in Cape Town on July 16.
Wales have never beaten the Springboks in South Africa, while their last game three months ago saw them defeated at home by Guinness Six Nations opponents Italy.
“Wales are a side that does not give an inch – they will stand up physically for the whole 80 minutes,” Kolisi said.
“They are also tough people, so they will go toe-to-toe with us.
“The set-pieces are going to be important and they like the high ball, so we respect them, and we know that we have to pitch up on the day and with the right attitude.”
The Springboks will be roared on by a capacity 50,000 crowd at Loftus Versfeld.
And it is the first time for them to play in front of a full house on home soil since they won the World Cup 32 months ago.
The coronavirus pandemic meant crowds were not allowed for last year’s Test series against the British and Irish Lions, which South Africa won 2-1.
Kolisi added: “We are all excited about playing in front of a packed Loftus Versfeld.
“The last time we played at home in front of fans was at Loftus against Argentina before the Rugby World Cup.
“The people have missed us, and we have missed playing in front of them, so we are excited to go out there and hopefully we can make the people proud and build momentum.
“Winning doesn’t take away people’s problems, but it does give them something positive to think about, and that has a much deeper meaning for us as a team.
“Putting smiles on people’s faces is what drives us every weekend, and that is why getting good results is so important for us and why we feel so disappointed when things don’t go well.” | https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/3453522/siya-kolisi-predicts-physical-clash-with-wales-side-that-does-not-give-an-inch/ | 2022-07-01T17:18:22Z | https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/3453522/siya-kolisi-predicts-physical-clash-with-wales-side-that-does-not-give-an-inch/ | false |
Hankook Great Hit Rebate offers savings on popular Hankook products
NASHVILLE, Tenn., July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading global tire maker Hankook Tire announces its latest consumer promotion, the Great Hit Rebate. With the baseball season heating up this summer, Hankook will offer consumers up to $100 in savings on popular passenger, SUV and light truck tires. All rebates should be submitted online at hankookrebates.com, beginning today.
According to the Hankook Tire Gauge Index, summer vacations are back, with 60% of Americans expecting to take a road trip this summer compared to just 43% in June 2020. With the return of the summer road trip, it's an ideal time to consider a new set of tires, and Hankook's Great Hit Rebate will help drivers save on a variety of premium all-season, ultra-high performance and off-road tires.
Consumers who purchase at least four tires from eligible lines between July 1st and August 7th will qualify for the Great Hit Rebate.
Qualifying tires offered through the 2022 Great Hit Rebate include:
For more information about the Hankook Great Hit Rebate, please visit the Hankook rebate website.
About Hankook Tire America Corp.
Hankook Tire America Corp. is a growing leader in the U.S. tire market, leveraging investments in technology, manufacturing and marketing to deliver high-quality, reliable products that are safer for consumers and the environment. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Hankook Tire America Corp. markets and distributes a complete line of high-performance and ultra-high-performance passenger tires, light truck and SUV tires as well as medium truck and bus tires in the United States. Hankook Tire America Corp. is a subsidiary of Hankook Tire & Technology Co., Ltd., a Forbes Global 2000 company headquartered in Seoul, Korea.
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SOURCE Hankook Tire America Corp. | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/hankook-tire-announces-summer-savings-up-100-with-great-hit-rebate/ | 2022-07-01T17:23:55Z | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/hankook-tire-announces-summer-savings-up-100-with-great-hit-rebate/ | false |
LONDON, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- This week, Derrick Adams, the acclaimed New York-based artist, launched Derrick Adams Editions, an online platform offering unique artwork editions in his distinct visual style.
Bridging entrepreneurship and the fine arts sector, Derrick Adams Editions is pleased to present its first edition, FUNTIME UNICORN. It acts as a continuation of Adams' signature iconography and imagery of the Black Unicorn in Adams' iconic "Floaters" series, a collection of bold and vibrant portraits depicting Black people in various states of rest and play atop the popularized plastic pool float.
Created to be physically interacted with, the life-sized FUNTIME UNICORN is thematically and literally playful, an apt manifestation of Adams' belief that joy, love, and play experienced by Black people should be normalized and celebrated in popular culture.
With Adams' art already displayed in various galleries and museums, Derrick Adams Editions is an exciting new space for his artistic creations. Through the new editions business, Adams' intends to create an independent commercial platform and a direct channel to his audience, strengthening their exposure to diverse and innovative artwork.
Derrick Adams, speaking about the FUNTIME UNICORN launch, said:
"FUNTIME UNICORN is the ideal first launch for Derrick Adams Editions. I am always inspired by everyday people, and combining the Black Unicorn motif with the form of playground spring riders epitomizes my vision of Black joy and love. By visually or physical interacting with the work, the audience can recreate the ordinary yet pure and freeing experience."
The vibrant sculptural installations are now available on derrickadamseditions.com, as an edition of 30 with 10 Artist Proofs.
Derrick Adams (1970-) is a Baltimore-born, New York-based artist whose critically admired work spans painting, collage, sculpture, performance, video, and sound installations. His multidisciplinary works probe the influence of popular culture on self-image, the relationship between man and monument, and the African American experience in relation to art history. Alongside numerous solo exhibitions, Adams' work is in the permanent collections of institutions including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art.
Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1852341/Derrick_Adams_Editions_1.jpg
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SOURCE Derrick Adams Editions | https://www.weau.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/acclaimed-artist-derrick-adams-launches-derrick-adams-editions-funtime-unicorn/ | 2022-07-01T17:25:20Z | https://www.weau.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/acclaimed-artist-derrick-adams-launches-derrick-adams-editions-funtime-unicorn/ | false |
INDIANA, Pa., July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- S&T Bancorp, Inc. (S&T) (NASDAQ: STBA), the holding company for S&T Bank with operations in five markets including Western Pennsylvania, Eastern Pennsylvania, Northeast Ohio, Central Ohio and Upstate New York, announced today that a conference call detailing the company's second quarter 2022 earnings will be held live over the Internet at 1:00 p.m. ET on Thursday, July 21, 2022. Christopher J. McComish, chief executive officer, David G. Antolik, president, and Mark Kochvar, chief financial officer, will conduct the conference call. The public is invited to listen.
S&T Bancorp, Inc. intends to release its second quarter earnings before the market opens on Thursday, July 21, 2022.
PERTINENT USER INFORMATION:
To access the webcast, go to S&T Bancorp's webpage at the address listed above and click on "Events & Presentations." Select "2nd Quarter 2022 Conference Call" and follow the instructions. After the live presentation, the webcast will be archived on this website for at least 90 days. A replay of the call will also be available until July 28, 2022, by dialing 1.877.481.4010; the Conference ID is 45770.
Prior to the webcast, please email questions to investor.relations@stbank.com. Also, participants who log into the conference call will have an opportunity to email their questions directly from the webpage beginning at 12:55 p.m. ET until the conclusion of the presentation.
The S&T Bancorp, Inc. Second Quarter Earnings Press Release can be accessed on Thursday,
July 21, 2022 at www.stbancorp.com. Click on "Press Releases."
S&T Bancorp, Inc. is a $9.4 billion bank holding company that is headquartered in Indiana, Pennsylvania and trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol STBA. Its principal subsidiary, S&T Bank was established in 1902 and operates in five markets including Western Pennsylvania, Eastern Pennsylvania, Northeast Ohio, Central Ohio and Upstate New York. S&T Bank recently received the highest ranking in customer satisfaction for retail banking in the Pennsylvania region by J.D. Power. For more information visit stbancorp.com or stbank.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
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SOURCE S&T Bancorp, Inc. | https://www.weau.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/sampt-bancorp-webcast-second-quarter-earnings-conference-call/ | 2022-07-01T17:27:02Z | https://www.weau.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/sampt-bancorp-webcast-second-quarter-earnings-conference-call/ | false |
LOS ANGELES, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Tasty Brands, LP ("Tasty"), an affiliate of Triton Pacific, announced today that its portfolio company, Tasty Hut, LLC, recently completed the acquisition of 27 franchised Pizza Hut restaurants, located across four states in the Appalachian region of the U.S. The aggregate purchase price for the restaurants was $8.7 million, plus transaction costs and expenses. The transaction closed on June 15.
This acquisition serves as an add-on investment with Tasty Hut, LLC and includes seventeen locations in West Virginia; five locations in Kentucky; four Ohio locations; and one Virginia location. The expansion strategically aligns with Tasty Hut's investment and growth strategies and further validates its ability to expand its base of operations into core markets.
"We are very excited to have the opportunity to expand our footprint in this part of the country," said Craig Faggen, Triton Pacific's CEO. "Pizza Hut is a proven leader in the quick service restaurant space and was very supportive of the transaction. Given Tasty Hut's track record of success in West Virgina and the broader Appalachian region, coupled with positive trends in this base of store's historical financial performance, we believe that there is very meaningful opportunity for growth and profitability through ROI-driven asset actions and new store development."
With this acquisition, Tasty Hut, LLC now includes 221 Pizza Hut restaurants across 11 states. In addition to Tasty Hut, LLC, Tasty also includes the portfolio company and Burger King franchisee, Tasty King, LLC. Tasty owns 68 Burger King restaurants in addition to its Pizza Hut locations.
About Tasty Brands, LP
Tasty Brands, LP is a limited partnership established by Triton Pacific exclusively focused on investments in chain restaurant franchisees in North America. Tasty Brands, LP operates 289 restaurants in 14 states and currently employs more than 2,000 people.
About Triton Pacific
Triton Pacific, founded in 2001, is a private equity firm offering income and growth investment programs for both institutional and high net worth investors. The firm focuses on investing in established small and mid-size companies across multiple sectors that exhibit attractive fundamentals, including quick service restaurants.
Some of the statements in this press release may contain forward-looking statements or statements of future expectations based on currently available information. Such statements are naturally subject to risks and uncertainties. Factors such as the development of general economic conditions, future market conditions, consumer preferences for the chain restaurant industry generally and our portfolio company brands specifically, unusual catastrophic loss events such as the current COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic and related government, private sector, and individual consumer responsive actions, changes in the capital markets and other circumstances may cause the actual events or results to be materially different from those anticipated by such statements. Tasty does not make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness or updated status of such statements. You are urged to consider these factors carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements contained herein and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which are qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements made herein speak only as of the date of this press release and Tasty undertakes no obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.
Contact: Damon Elder
Spotlight Marketing Communications
949.427.1377
damon@spotlightmarcom.com
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SOURCE Triton Pacific | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/triton-pacific-affiliate-acquires-portfolio-27-pizza-hut-restaurants/ | 2022-07-01T17:27:34Z | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/triton-pacific-affiliate-acquires-portfolio-27-pizza-hut-restaurants/ | true |
JERUSALEM (AP) — At a tourism conference in Phuket last month, Thailand’s prime minister looked out at attendees and posed a question with a predictable answer.
“Are you ready?” Prayuth Chan-ocha asked, dramatically removing his mask and launching what’s hoped to be the country’s economic reset after more than two years of coronavirus-driven restrictions. When the crowd yelled its answer — yes, according to local media — it might have been speaking for the entire pandemic-battered world.
But a full recovery could take as long as the catastrophe itself, according to projections and interviews by The Associated Press in 11 countries in June. They suggest that the hoped-for rebound is less like a definitive bounce — and more like a bumpy path out of a deep and dark cave.
Some locales, such as the French Riviera and the American Midwest, are contributing to the climb more than others — like shuttered, “zero-COVID” China, which before the pandemic was the world’s leading source of tourists and their spending.
The human drive to bust out and explore is helping fuel the ascent, packing flights and museums despite rising coronavirus infections and inflation. But economic urgency is the real driver for an industry worth $3.5 trillion in 2019 that the United Nations estimates lost about that much during the pandemic. By some estimates, tourism provides work for one in 10 people on Earth.
Many places, particularly those that have loosened safety requirements, are seeing what passes for a go-go summer of sunny optimism and adventure.
“They are saying it’s the summer of revenge travel,” Pittsburgh resident Theresa Starta, 52, said as she gazed across one of Amsterdam’s canals at crowds thronging to the Dutch capital. “Everything seems so bad all around the world, so it’s nice to see some things coming back.”
“The road to a full recovery is very long, but at least we are back on it,” said Sanga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khao San Road Business Association in Bangkok.
Despite the roaring return of travelers, challenges and uncertainty cast shadows over the post-pandemic landscape. Full recoveries are generally not expected until at least 2024. Concerns hovered around a long list of issues, including inflation, supply chain problems, rising infection rates and labor shortages.
Before June was over, chaos had come to define travel in the summer of 2022. Airports and airlines that had cut back during the depths of the pandemic s truggled to meet the demand, resulting in cancelled flights, lost baggage and other, assorted nightmares. Spooked tourists booked trips on shorter notice, making it harder for hotels, tour operators and others to plan, industry insiders said.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine, too, added risk to the uneven recovery and contributed to inflation — a factor that could become a major obstacle even as other pandemic pain recedes.
“It’s really the fall season that is of concern,” said Sandra Carvao, chief of market intelligence and competitiveness at the U.N. World Tourism Organization. If inflation continues to rise, particularly interest rates, “families will have to rethink their spending.”
For all of the lifted virus travel restrictions, safety is not likely to recede as a concern.
“The most important thing for people when they decide to go on vacation is health and safety. Always has been,” said Simon Hudson, a professor of tourism at the University of South Carolina, who is writing a book about the pandemic recovery. “This is going to take awhile.”
Starting with the bright spots, the U.N. reported that during the first quarter of 2022, international arrivals almost tripled over the same three months last year. March this year produced the healthiest results since the start of the pandemic, with arrivals climbing to nearly 50% of 2019 levels. That could rise to as much as 70% of 2019 arrivals by the end of this year, the UNWTO said in projections it revised in May.
That’s produced encouraging signs in certain places, from Israel to the United States, Italy, Mexico and France. Resets like Thailand’s are all the rage. Big plans for 2023 are in the offing in the United States, such as a cruise featuring some of Broadway’s biggest stars.
Those projections are playing out on the ground, generally in places that had aggressive and agile restrictions early-on and adapted by lifting many protections as vaccinations rose and the omicron variant proved less lethal than other variants.
Foreign tourists are flocking to places like the French Riviera, where supply-chain issues are making everything more expensive — including champagne, one restauranteur said.
“It’s been summer here since spring, every single night,” said Elie Dagher, a manager of La Villa Massenet in Nice. Since April, he said, the bistro has been packed with visitors from Scandinavia and the Netherlands, but especially the United Kingdom and the United States.
In Branson, Missouri, known for its country music shows and outdoor attractions, no rebound is necessary. It hosted a record 10 million visitors last year and appears to be on pace to top that, said Lynn Berry, spokeswoman for the Branson Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Jeff Johnson, co-owner of Shepherd of the Hills adventure park, attributes that to a short shutdown in 2020, a loyal customer base drawn from nearby states and cities like St. Louis and Kansas City. “When we reopened,” he said, “it never slowed down.”
In Italy, tourists — especially from the United States — returned this year in droves. The run-up to Easter was especially notable in Rome, reflecting pent-up demand to visit perennial all-star sites like the Sistine Chapel and the Colosseum.
“There’s a huge craving to travel, just like popping a (cork) from a bottle,” said Bernabò Bocca, president of the national hotel association Federalberghi. The moment Italy loosened safety measures in April, “a tsunami of bookings arrived from the United States at a speed never seen before.”
Hopes are high for Thailand, too, in the wake of its announcement last month that the country was dropping virtually all requirements other than proof of vaccination, or in its absence, a negative coronavirus test.
Already the return of tourists has breathed new life into local tourism. Bangkok’s famous backpacker street, Khao San Road, almost deserted last year, is getting up to 5,000 visitors a day — promising numbers but a far cry from the 30,000 daily visitors before the pandemic, according to Ruangwattanakul, the business association president.
Thailand is an instructive look at the struggle to recover, with China a major factor. By 2019, Chinese tourists accounted for a quarter of foreign arrivals in Thailand, but there are no signs that they will return in such numbers.
The fitful nature of the post-pandemic climb could be seen from Israel to India.
“I think we are moving in the right direction,” said restaurant owner Vaibhav Khulbe in Dharmsala, India, where 4 million visitors are expected in country this year, compared to 11 million in 2019.
As elsewhere in the world, Israel is struggling to match its record-setting tourism of 2019, when 4.5 million people visited. Despite lifting all restrictions, Israel expects less than half that — about 2 million visitors — this year, Tourism Ministry officials say. Added to the other concerns, political strife is an issue after a wave of deadly Palestinian violence inside Israel in the spring, along with the collapse of the government last month.
Still, the ministry is reporting a steady, though gradual, climb. An unusual convergence of springtime religious holidays for Jews, Christians and Muslims helped boost visitors in April. By May, the number of visitors had risen to about 57% of the same month two years earlier.
But the recovery has been uneven for many, particularly in the occupied West Bank.
“We were expecting really more people to come at least this month, like May, June, but still it’s very slow,” said Wisam Salsaa, manager of The Walled Off Hotel in Bethlehem, the storied ancient city where President Joe Biden is expected to visit in July during a trip to Israel and Saudi Arabia.
Designed by London-based artist Banksy and brimming with color, the hotel is locally run and well-known — but struggling. It expanded physically during the pandemic but has been forced to whittle its staff from about 50 people to 32 now. In June, its occupancy rate stood at about 30%.
“Tourism here,” Salsaa said, “is very fragile.”
___
The following Associated Press journalists contributed to this story: Barbara Surk in Nice, France; Joey Capelletti in Chicago, Sopheng Cheang in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Mike Corder in Amsterdam, Fanuel Morelli in Rome, Ciaran Giles in Madrid, Ashwini Bhatia in Dharmsala, India, Jim Salter in St. Louis, Mark Stevenson and Maria Verza in Mexico City and Tassanee Vejpongsa in Bangkok. Follow Jerusalem-based AP journalist Laurie Kellman on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/APLaurieKellman | https://pix11.com/news/national-news/ap-national/after-two-pandemic-years-a-summer-travel-bounce-and-chaos/ | 2022-07-01T17:28:03Z | https://pix11.com/news/national-news/ap-national/after-two-pandemic-years-a-summer-travel-bounce-and-chaos/ | false |
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Alabama officials said Thursday that they will move forward with plans to build two supersize prisons despite a bond sale falling more than $200 million short amid a volatile market and pressure from activists.
The Alabama Corrections Institution Finance Authority hoped to sell $725 million in bonds for the construction project, but was only able to sell $509 million. The bond issue is a key funding piece for the $1.2 billion construction price tag.
State Finance Director Bill Poole told reporters that the state had hoped to “sell a little bit more” but officials were pleased with the result. He said the outcome would not impact the construction and the state still anticipated opening the prisons in 2026. He said the state will look at options for the remainder of the money, including seeking additional funding from the Alabama Legislature or conducting another bond issue when conditions are more favorable.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey called the bond sale a “significant and positive step forward in our prison construction process.”
“Our job certainly is not done, however, and we will continue to take steps in the coming months and years to ultimately improve Alabama’s criminal justice system,” she said.
While state officials blamed the result on a volatile market, a group of activists and impact investors had urged buyers to stay away from the the bond offering.
“They didn’t just fall short. They fell well, well, well short,” said Eric Glass, an adviser to Justice Capital, an investment fund that joined the call for a boycott. He said the state did face a volatile market but there is also a recognition among investors that prison construction “is not a good thing to be investing in.”
“I think it fell short because this has been a year-plus campaign around, uplifting and centering the idea that building prisons, whether private or public, shows a lack of creativity,” he added. “It shows inhumanity and cruelty, and we need to start thinking broadly and holistically around the things that that lead to incarceration and improve those.”
Alabama officials are pursuing construction of new prisons to replace aging facilities, calling that a partial solution to the state’s longstanding troubles in corrections. The U.S. Department of Justice has an ongoing lawsuit against the state over prison conditions and has cautioned that new buildings will not solve the problems. Critics of the construction plan argue that the state is ignoring the bigger issues — prison staffing levels and leadership — to focus on buildings.
The two prisons would be located in Elmore and Escambia counties and would house up to 4,000 inmates each. The facilities would replace older prisons that would close.
Dana Sweeney, a statewide organizer for Alabama Appleseed, said he was surprised to hear the state isn’t changing plans despite being $200 million short of the amount needed. “There are a lot of things that $200 million can be spent on, and I would be very, very interested to hear how lawmakers would react to being asked for hundreds of millions of dollars more,” he said.
The Alabama Corrections Institution Finance Authority intends to finalize the bond sale on July 12.
The U.S. Department of Justice has sued Alabama over a prison system it says is riddled with prisoner-on-prisoner and guard-on-prisoner violence. The Justice Department noted in an earlier report that dilapidated facilities were a contributing factor to the unconstitutional conditions but wrote “new facilities alone will not resolve” the matter because of problems in culture, management deficiencies, corruption, violence and other problems.
State officials maintain modern facilities will be safer for staff and inmates and help the prison system provide better health and vocational education services. Poole said those services are “very difficult to deliver in dangerous old facilities.”
“We need to have safer facilities for the benefit of both the incarcerated population and for staff. It is very difficult to recruit staff to work in dangerous conditions,” Poole said. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/alabama-bond-sale-for-mega-prisons-falls-200-million-short/ | 2022-07-01T17:30:14Z | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/alabama-bond-sale-for-mega-prisons-falls-200-million-short/ | true |
Hankook Great Hit Rebate offers savings on popular Hankook products
NASHVILLE, Tenn., July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading global tire maker Hankook Tire announces its latest consumer promotion, the Great Hit Rebate. With the baseball season heating up this summer, Hankook will offer consumers up to $100 in savings on popular passenger, SUV and light truck tires. All rebates should be submitted online at hankookrebates.com, beginning today.
According to the Hankook Tire Gauge Index, summer vacations are back, with 60% of Americans expecting to take a road trip this summer compared to just 43% in June 2020. With the return of the summer road trip, it's an ideal time to consider a new set of tires, and Hankook's Great Hit Rebate will help drivers save on a variety of premium all-season, ultra-high performance and off-road tires.
Consumers who purchase at least four tires from eligible lines between July 1st and August 7th will qualify for the Great Hit Rebate.
Qualifying tires offered through the 2022 Great Hit Rebate include:
For more information about the Hankook Great Hit Rebate, please visit the Hankook rebate website.
About Hankook Tire America Corp.
Hankook Tire America Corp. is a growing leader in the U.S. tire market, leveraging investments in technology, manufacturing and marketing to deliver high-quality, reliable products that are safer for consumers and the environment. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Hankook Tire America Corp. markets and distributes a complete line of high-performance and ultra-high-performance passenger tires, light truck and SUV tires as well as medium truck and bus tires in the United States. Hankook Tire America Corp. is a subsidiary of Hankook Tire & Technology Co., Ltd., a Forbes Global 2000 company headquartered in Seoul, Korea.
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SOURCE Hankook Tire America Corp. | https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_automotive/hankook-tire-announces-summer-savings-up-to-100-with-great-hit-rebate/article_209a4d0e-3f00-5fa8-bbb5-25461cb0f643.html | 2022-07-01T17:31:03Z | https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_automotive/hankook-tire-announces-summer-savings-up-to-100-with-great-hit-rebate/article_209a4d0e-3f00-5fa8-bbb5-25461cb0f643.html | false |
FCA Reports Second-quarter 2022 US Sales
Published: Jul. 1, 2022 at 12:04 PM CDT|Updated: 29 minutes ago
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --
- U.S. total sales decline 16%; retail sales down 24%
- Chrysler brand total U.S. sales increase 95% versus same quarter last year
- Total U.S. sales for the Jeep® Compass rise 54% over same quarter last year
- Total U.S. sales for the Jeep Grand Cherokee rise 12% over same quarter last year
- Jeep Wrangler 4xe remains the best-selling plug-in hybrid vehicle in the U.S.
- Dodge Charger total U.S. sales rise 3% versus same quarter last year
- Ram brand's commercial shipments rise 9% over same period last year
- Total commercial shipments in Q2 2022 rise 13% versus same quarter last year
FCA US LLC had sales of 408,521 vehicles in this year's second quarter. Overall, total U.S. and retail sales for the second quarter declined 16% and 24%, respectively. Total commercial shipments in the second quarter rose 13% versus the same quarter last year.
"We continue to see strong demand for our vehicles. While there are certainly industry supply constraints, our dealers are working hard to satisfy the needs of every customer," said U.S. Head of Sales Jeff Kommor. "The Grand Wagoneer and Wagoneer have successfully launched with sales continuing to grow, sales of the all-new Jeep® Grand Cherokee, Jeep Compass continue to see high sales volumes CYTD, and Ram brand's retail and fleet demand for its commercial products remains incredibly strong."
Total sales of the Jeep Grand Cherokee were up 12% and retail sales up 13%. Total U.S. sales for the Jeep Compass rose 54% and its retail sales increased 54% year over year.
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe, the best-selling plug-in hybrid vehicle in the U.S., accounted for 10,861 (20%) of total Jeep Wrangler sales. The Chrysler brand's total U.S. sales rose 95%, with the Chrysler Pacifica up 143% versus the same quarter last year. The Chrysler brand and Pacifica Q2 sales increase was driven by increased fleet sales due a backlog of orders. Pacifica plug-in hybrid accounted for 4,095 (13%) of total Chrysler Pacifica sales.
Total U.S. sales of the Dodge Charger rose 3% versus the same quarter last year.
Ram brand's total commercial shipments are up a combined 9% versus the previous second quarter.
FCA US LLC is a North American automaker based in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It designs, manufactures, and sells or distributes vehicles under the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, FIAT and Alfa Romeo brands, as well as the SRT performance designation. The company also distributes Mopar and Alfa Romeo parts and accessories. FCA US LLC is a subsidiary of Stellantis N.V.
For the methodology of determining FCA US LLC monthly sales click here. These statements are based on current expectations and projections about future events and, by their nature, are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. They relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur or exist in the future and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on them. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed in such statements as a result of a variety of factors, including: volatility and deterioration of capital and financial markets, changes in commodity prices, changes in general economic conditions, economic growth and other changes in business conditions, weather, floods, earthquakes or other natural disasters, changes in government regulation, production difficulties, including capacity and supply constraints, and many other risks and uncertainties, most of which are outside of our control.
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SOURCE FCA US LLC
The above press release was provided courtesy of PRNewswire. The views, opinions and statements in the press release are not endorsed by Gray Media Group nor do they necessarily state or reflect those of Gray Media Group, Inc. | https://www.kait8.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/fca-reports-second-quarter-2022-us-sales/ | 2022-07-01T17:33:28Z | https://www.kait8.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/fca-reports-second-quarter-2022-us-sales/ | false |
CHANDLER, Ariz., July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Geneva Financial Home Loans (Geneva) announces the release of a professionally produced song, 'Good Human', in support of their BE A GOOD HUMAN initiative to inspire change in the world through human action.
The direct lender with locations in 46 states started the 'BE A GOOD HUMAN' initiative in 2019 to highlight the importance of treating others with kindness, respect, and love. Now, the initiative is a driving force behind what it means to work with Geneva. Geneva's #1 Core Value is to "Be Human", their way of adding a personal touch to the Mortgage Origination experience that can't be found anywhere else.
The song, written and produced by Geneva's chief marketing officer, James Polinori, and recorded by incogniX, releases today, July 1st, 2022, on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon, and all streaming platforms with a percentage of iTunes sales going to the Geneva Gives and BE A GOOD HUMAN charitable initiatives.
"Whether in the office or off the clock, everyone at Geneva believes in the importance of giving back and sharing real-life examples of kindness with the people around us" Polinori stated about the release. "This song is our way to continue spreading the message and encourage people to make change in their communities."
Geneva's BE A GOOD HUMAN initiative has provided grants and support for multiple charitable organizations including Autism Speaks, Beat Street AZ, Cloud Covered Streets, RV's For MD's and others.
Stream on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/track/1GMKE0R2ctdtxA9yLyR5uG?si=571f3385804045a3
Charitable Purchase on iTunes for $0.69:
https://open.spotify.com/track/1GMKE0R2ctdtxA9yLyR5uG?si=571f3385804045a3
Founded in 2007 by Aaron VanTrojen, Geneva Financial (NMLS 42056) is a direct mortgage lender headquartered in Chandler, Arizona with more than 130 branch locations in 46 states. Our mission at Geneva Financial is to approach every aspect of our business from the "inside-out". With a culture-forward mindset, we focus on our loan originators and support staff first to ensure an unbeatable experience for our customers.
Our Core Values were created as a daily reminder to operate with the inside-out approach in mind. Core Value #1 is the backbone of all our Core Values, our mission, and our brand vision: Home Loans Powered by Humans®. Learn more about Geneva Financial Home Loans at www.GenevaFi.com
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SOURCE Geneva Financial | https://www.kait8.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/geneva-financial-produces-releases-song-encourage-change-world/ | 2022-07-01T17:33:42Z | https://www.kait8.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/geneva-financial-produces-releases-song-encourage-change-world/ | true |
What is the best Igloo cooler?
Campers, sports enthusiasts and families headed to a picnic or reunion know the importance of a quality cooler. Coolers keep drinks and food cold with reinforced insulation. They come in many sizes and are easily transported from your vehicle.
Igloo is the leading brand of coolers. Their classic style and durability are tested and trusted. Whatever your plans, there is an Igloo cooler for your party or excursion. The best Igloo cooler is the Igloo Polar Cooler, which features a rugged design that stays cold for seven days.
What to know before you buy an Igloo cooler
Types of coolers
Igloo makes soft and hard coolers. Soft coolers are made from fabric with an insulated liner and work best with drinks. They can be carried over the shoulder or as a backpack with some designs. They are lightweight and fold easily, but the contents can shift and mix together.
Hard coolers have a durable polyethylene outer surface that keep food and drinks cold for a longer period than soft coolers. They often have wheels, cupholders and serving trays. They are more expensive and take up more room since they don’t fold down.
Sizes of coolers
Igloo coolers come in many sizes. There are coolers small enough to be a personal lunch tote, and there are ones that can hold dozens of cans and large quantities of food. There are Igloo coolers that hold over 100 quarts and 250 12-ounce cans.
Where are you using the cooler?
Being able to transport food and drinks is one of the main benefits of a cooler. If you are staying close to your vehicle, a cooler with a shoulder strap or traditional handle will be sufficient. For toting the cooler a long distance across relative level pavement, there are plenty of options with wheels and different types of handles. There are also coolers with rugged anti-skid wheels that help transport the cooler over trails and paths.
What to look for in a quality Igloo cooler
Handles
There are different types of handles. Some are bolted through on heavier coolers to provide extra support. Some have a towing handle to pull the cooler behind you or a telescoping handle that can be lowered when not in use. There are handles with a grooved grip to prevent slipping.
Interior lights
Some coolers have built-in LED interior lights that illuminate the interior of the cooler at night.
Cup holders
There are coolers with molded cup holders in the lid to keep your favorite beverage nearby while you fish or sit around the campfire.
Tie-down loops
An innovative feature of larger coolers is tie-down loops. These loops are used for other items to be strapped to the cooler such as umbrellas or camping chairs. You can transport the cooler and these items at one time to save on time and effort.
How much you can expect to spend on an Igloo cooler
Igloo coolers start at under $25 and can cost over $200 for the largest coolers with many features.
- Inexpensive coolers are priced under $25. There are both soft and hard coolers in this price range that have a limited capacity up to 12 cans, or food for up to four people.
- Midrange coolers are priced $25-$100. Both soft and hard coolers are available in this price range. The hard coolers often have features like tie-down loops and latches.
- Expensive coolers cost between $100-$200. The majority are hard coolers with large capacities and extra thick insulation. The best soft coolers fall into this price range too.
- Premium coolers are priced over $200. They may be made of aluminum or stainless steel and have latches. They also come with wide tires and telescoping handles.
Igloo cooler FAQ
How do I get rid of odors inside my cooler?
A. Vanilla extract is the answer to stubborn smells. Soak a paper towel in vanilla and leave it in the cooler overnight. In the morning, wipe down the cooler with the paper towel. Repeat the process if the odor lingers.
What is ice retention?
A. Ice retention is the number of days that ice remains frozen inside a cooler in a room that is 90 degrees. Some Igloo coolers can keep ice frozen for up to a week.
What is the best Igloo cooler to buy?
Top Igloo cooler
What you need to know: This sturdy cooler has a large capacity and can keep ice for up to seven days at temperatures up to 90 degrees.
What you’ll love: Made from polyethylene with Ultratherm insulation, this rugged cooler is ideal for extended outdoor travel. It has a stain and odor-resistant liner. A threaded drain plug hooks up easily to a hose. It has swing-up handles with a tie-down feature.
What you should consider: There were reports of the hinges and latches breaking easily.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Igloo cooler for the money
What you need to know: This recognizable portable cooler is perfect for picnics and short trips with its classic look and surprising capacity.
What you’ll love: The Ultratherm lining keeps contents cold. It holds up to 18 regular-size cans. The handle is molded into the body of the cooler. It has a locking lid that swings open from both sides. It comes in an array of bold colors.
What you should consider: The hood pin can pop open if the cooler is too full.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Igloo Profile 60-Quart Roller Cooler
What you need to know: This cooler is designed for easy pull-behind transportation and short camping trips.
What you’ll love: The telescopic handle and rugged wheels make for easing toting. It has molded side scoop handles for easy lifting. Made from polyethylene with Ultratherm insulation, the cooler keeps contents cold for days.
What you should consider: The cooler is not waterproof. There were some reports of water leaking into the cooler.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wowktv.com/reviews/br/camping-outdoors-br/coolers-br/the-best-igloo-cooler/ | 2022-07-01T17:33:57Z | https://www.wowktv.com/reviews/br/camping-outdoors-br/coolers-br/the-best-igloo-cooler/ | true |
ALLEN, Kentucky — Two officers were killed when a man opened fire on police attempting to serve a warrant at a home in eastern Kentucky Thursday night, authorities said.
Several officers were shot at the scene in Floyd County. Police took 49-year-old Lance Storz into custody late Thursday night, according to media reports.
Two officers were killed at the scene, and five officers were injured, an arrest citation said. An emergency management official was also injured and a police K9 dog was killed, according to the citation.
Storz was arraigned Friday morning by a judge in Pike County. He pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder of a police officer and was jailed on a $10 million bond. One of the charges was originally attempted murder of a police officer, but a judge said at the hearing that was upgraded to murder. He is also facing another attempted murder charge and assault on a service animal.
Few details from police were available Friday morning from the rural area in a mountainous part of eastern Kentucky. State police said in a brief statement that they are investigating an “officer-involved shooting," and gave few other details.
Attorney General Daniel Cameron said in a social media post Friday that he is “heartbroken to learn of the deaths of two law enforcement officers” during the shooting in Floyd County.
“Our law enforcement exhibited unimaginable heroism and sacrifice last night in the face of evil,” Cameron said.
Storz used a rifle to fire multiple rounds at officers around his residence on Main Street in Allen, Kentucky, the citation said.
Kentucky State Police were called to the scene at 6:30 p.m., joining local officers already on the scene.
Floyd County Sheriff John Hunt told local media that the suspect opened fire on deputies who were serving a court-issued warrant Thursday evening related to a domestic violence situation.
“Floyd County and our brave first responders suffered a tragic loss last night. I want to ask all of Kentucky to join me in praying for this community,” Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said in a social media post Friday morning. “This is a tough morning for our commonwealth.”
Hunt said several officers were taken to different hospitals. | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/nation-world/kentucky-shooting-officers-killed/507-e90342a5-ddde-4816-b716-2365cba3849e | 2022-07-01T17:35:32Z | https://www.ktvb.com/article/news/nation-world/kentucky-shooting-officers-killed/507-e90342a5-ddde-4816-b716-2365cba3849e | false |
Central High School’s Kialis Anderson stood alone among Kenosha County athletes this spring on the All-Southern Lakes Conference teams.
The Falcons’ senior sprinter was named the SLC Girls Track and Field Athlete of the Year and was the only Athlete of the Year from the county in any SLC spring sport. Every other sport’s top athlete was from Racine County, four from Union Grove and one each from Burlington and Waterford.
Anderson won the girls’ 100 meters, 200 meters and anchored the Falcons’ winning 4x100 relay at the SLC Track and Field Championships in May. She advanced to the WIAA State Championships in the same events.
Earning honorable mention were senior Bryan Topercer of Central and junior Josh Melka and freshman Morgan Rutherford of Wilmot.
Waterford senior Carter Maffet was named the SLC boys’ Athlete of the Year.
SOFTBALL: Central placed two players and Wilmot had one player on the first team to lead county schools.
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Sophomore pitcher/outfielder Lila McNeill and freshman pitcher Meghan Lampos were selected to the first team and they were joined by junior outfielder Keghan Pye of Wilmot.
Earning second-team honors were Central sophomore catcher Allison Loucas and junior outfielder Delaney Koltanowski.
Honorable mention went to Samantha Erber of Central and Sophia Schmidt, Katie Beagle and Summer Bewick of the Panthers.
Burlington senior pitcher Morgan Klein was the SLC Player of the Year for the second straight year.
BASEBALL: Central senior infielder Jack Rose was the only county player named to the All-SLC first team.
Falcons junior outfielders Nick Argersinger and Adam Switalski each earned second-team honors, as did Wilmot senior infielder Will Kunz.
Honorable mention went to Central sophomore Mason Mitacek and Wilmot junior Hayden Christiansen.
Union Grove junior outfielder Owen Nowak was the SLC Player of the Year.
GIRLS SOCCER: Central had three players on the All-SLC first or second teams to lead county teams.
Falcons sophomore goalkeeper Victorija Minic was the county’s only first-team selection. Sophomore forward Kiley Cummings and senior midfielder Caroline Hill were named to the second team.
Honorable mention went to junior Alyssa Klementzos and sophomore Jordan Roscioli of Central and Wilmot seniors Keira Miscinski and Valerie Zuchls.
Union Grove senior forward Paige Cotton was the SLC Player of the Year.
BOYS TENNIS: Central led the way for the county with three selections on the All-SLC first and second teams.
Sophomore singles player Christos Dovas and the doubles duo of senior Ben Marecek and junior John Kinzler.
The Falcons’ Austin Dority earned second-team honors.
Senior Connor Barribeau and sophomore Jorden Oppenneer of Central and Wilmot senior Ernie Dippold received.
Union Grove freshman Nolan Shaub was the SLC Player of the Year.
BOYS GOLF: Central juniors Dylan Bruni and Connor L’Esperance both earned second-team honors on the All-SLC boys golf team.
Honorable mention went to sophomores Aiden Hawkins of the Falcons and Dane Turner of Wilmot.
Union Grove junior Jacob Brown was the SLC Player of the Year. | https://www.kenoshanews.com/sports/high-school/high-schools-centrals-anderson-voted-slc-girls-track-athlete-of-the-year/article_8106f4de-f8f9-11ec-a7ae-977d6084db4b.html | 2022-07-01T17:36:15Z | https://www.kenoshanews.com/sports/high-school/high-schools-centrals-anderson-voted-slc-girls-track-athlete-of-the-year/article_8106f4de-f8f9-11ec-a7ae-977d6084db4b.html | true |
(WSYR-TV) — The Carnival of Savings is here at Auburn Community Federal Credit Union now through August 31, and it’s been a staple of the credit union for almost a decade now. The tradition offers payments to fit your budget no matter it may be. The ACFCU holds the carnival to celebrate warm weather and help people save.
The Auburn Community Federal Credit Union is committed to keeping their rates competitive and low. Even though federal rates have changed, the ACFCU rates have not.
For more information, visit auburnfcu.com. | https://www.localsyr.com/bridge-street/auburn-community-fcu-holds-carnival-of-savings/ | 2022-07-01T17:36:48Z | https://www.localsyr.com/bridge-street/auburn-community-fcu-holds-carnival-of-savings/ | false |
WFO LAKE CHARLES Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Friday, July 1, 2022
_____
FLASH FLOOD WARNING
Flash Flood Statement
National Weather Service Lake Charles LA
1217 PM CDT Fri Jul 1 2022
...FLASH FLOOD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 345 PM CDT THIS
AFTERNOON FOR EASTERN JEFFERSON AND SOUTHEASTERN ORANGE COUNTIES AND
WEST CENTRAL CAMERON PARISH...
At 1217 PM CDT, Doppler radar and automated rain gauges indicated
heavy rain across the warned area. Between 5 and 9 inches of rain
have fallen. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches are
possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is already occurring
with several reports of significant street flooding being reported
in the Port Arthur and surrounding areas.
HAZARD...Flash flooding caused by thunderstorms.
SOURCE...Radar and automated gauges.
IMPACT...Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas,
highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor
drainage and low-lying areas.
Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...
Beaumont, Port Arthur, Orange, Nederland, Groves, Port Neches,
Bridge City, West Orange, Sabine Pass, Central Gardens, Johnsons
Bayou, Mauriceville, Port Acres, Southeast Texas Regional Airport,
Orangefield, Pinehurst and Sea Rim State Park.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.
_____
Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | https://www.sfgate.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-LAKE-CHARLES-Warnings-Watches-and-17279438.php | 2022-07-01T17:40:00Z | https://www.sfgate.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-LAKE-CHARLES-Warnings-Watches-and-17279438.php | true |
LA Times Today: 80 years later, a San Diego burial for sailor killed at Pearl Harbor
Watch L.A. Times Today at 7 p.m. on Spectrum News 1 on Channel 1 or live stream on the Spectrum News App. Palos Verdes Peninsula and Orange County viewers can watch on Cox Systems on channel 99.
A Navy sailor finally came home to rest in San Diego this month — 80 years after perishing off the coast of Hawaii on the battleship Oklahoma.
That infamous day in history was Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
San Diego Union-Tribune reporter John Wilkens explains how this sailor’s once unidentifiable remains were recently matched through DNA testing.
That infamous day in history was Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
San Diego Union-Tribune reporter John Wilkens explains how this sailor’s once unidentifiable remains were recently matched through DNA testing. | https://www.latimes.com/california/pearl-harbor-san-diego-burial-latt-123 | 2022-07-01T17:41:27Z | https://www.latimes.com/california/pearl-harbor-san-diego-burial-latt-123 | true |
How this bank is transforming banking for Spanish speakers
by Chiara Grimes, CNN Business
For the 44 million Spanish-speaking individuals in the United States, opening a bank account can be an intimidating journey with an array of obstacles.
Seis, a new bank targeting Spanish-speaking people, is trying to reshape the mobile banking experience to be more inclusive of immigrants.
Trevor McKendrick, the company’s founder, said he felt the US banking system was not accommodating to native Spanish speakers.
“I was born and raised in LA and have lots of Mexican friends who have immigrated to the US,” said McKendrick. “They have had many negative experiences with the banking system here, whether it’s because of fear, language barriers or cultural differences — whatever it is — there’s enough Spanish speakers in the US. They deserve their own banking and that’s why we started Seis.”
Seis employs people from the US, Mexico, Honduras, Chile, Colombia, Venezuela and other Latin American countries to interact with customers. Every time a customer contacts the bank, the interaction is always 100% in Spanish with a native Spanish speaker.
“We’re able to build something really specific to them, whereas a big bank operates on kind of a one-size-fits-all mentality and ends up not really prioritizing our customers” said McKendrick.
Spanish-speaking immigrants have long encountered roadblocks with traditionally established banks, he added, like required documentation, and minimum balances, which at most banks range from $300-$500.
Seis allows immigrants to set up a checking account with only a passport — no Social Security number needed. The customer can download the app and apply for an account online, with no minimum balance, requirements or fees.
“You don’t need any money to open the account. We don’t charge for minimum balances. We don’t require you to have a certain number of swipes per month. We have a fee-free ATM network of over 55,000 ATMs where you can withdraw cash with no fee” McKendrick said.
Many Latinos use both their maternal and paternal last names, but traditional US banks often only allow for one last name on an account or application. McKendrick said many Latinos often get transactions declined because the full name used when making a purchase does not match what’s on their debit card.
“You’re in this country, you don’t speak the language yet,” said McKendrick. “And also, you just got declined for this transaction. You’re just totally confused, and don’t even know where to begin troubleshooting it.”
Sergio Manrique, the bank’s Head of Community, said he grew up as the translator for his family when they first immigrated to the US from Mexico City when he was nine years old, and understood the hardships many families like his face.
“It’s awesome to have a product where if you had just arrived, you can understand it, you can use it and be part of the US society,” said Manrique.
Seis also aims to empower its Spanish-speaking customers, whether it be educating them on financial products like their checking account or Visa debit card or on services like building credit.
“Our customers view themselves on… they’re on their own American dream” said McKendrick. “And so, we view ourselves as helping them along that path.”
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://kion546.com/news/2022/07/01/how-this-bank-is-transforming-banking-for-spanish-speakers/ | 2022-07-01T17:42:59Z | https://kion546.com/news/2022/07/01/how-this-bank-is-transforming-banking-for-spanish-speakers/ | false |
Which Cuisinart grill is best?
Grilling foods is one of the most satisfying ways to cook. It’s beautiful to watch the flames, plus the sounds and smells are divine. However, not all grills are created equal, and some are more trouble than they’re worth. Cuisinart grills are a great option for newbies and grillmasters alike. They’re effective and affordable to boot.
The best Cuisinart grill is the Cuisinart 54-Inch Four-Burner Propane Gas Grill. It has a large cooking area, plenty of power and a thermometer on the lid to watch your temperature.
What to know before you buy a Cuisinart grill
Cuisinart grill types
There are a few types of Cuisinart grills to choose from.
- Full-size grills: These beefy backyard monsters are found throughout suburbia. They’re ideal if you cook regularly for your family and friends. They typically run on gas or pellets.
- Portable grills: There are some portable electric grills, which are mostly used in apartments and for tailgating. There are also gas and charcoal grills used for camping.
- Griddles: Cuisinart grills can easily replace griddle-like cooking. They can be full-sized or portable and often cost as much as standard grills. You won’t get the beloved grill marks, but you can cook a wider range of foods. They typically run on gas.
Fuel types
Cuisinart grills are fueled by several sources.
- Gas grills are the most common. They typically use propane, but a handful of grills run on natural gas. It’s easy to use and requires less cleanup.
- Charcoal grills can impart the smoky, woody flavor barbecuing is known for. However, it has a pricey fuel source that takes time to prepare and clean.
- Electric grills are among the most affordable Cuisinart grills. They’re perfect for people in apartments, traveling grillers and tailgaters. However, they’re the least powerful and won’t add the char flavor to your food.
- Pellet grills use little wooden pellets as fuel. These pellets are affordable, are more environmentally friendly and can impart dozens of different flavors to your food. However, they’re harder to clean and maintain.
What to look for in a quality Cuisinart grill
Side table
Cooking requires plenty of counter space to keep things organized. Grills often have zero such space nearby, which is why grills with built-in side tables are better than the rest. Some have one table, while others have two.
Accessories
Grilling requires several accessories, such as cleaning brushes, specialty tongs and spatulas that can handle high heat If you’re buying a grill for the first time, you’ll need to buy said accessories. Some Cuisinart grills include these or give you the option to bundle them in at a discount.
Smoking
Some full-sized grills can also smoke foods, which means using low heat over long periods rather than grilling, which uses high heat over a short period.
Window
Some Cuisinart grills have windows in the lid. This lets you monitor your food without needing to open the grill, which lets out heat and affects your cook times.
How much you can expect to spend on a Cuisinart grill
They range in price from $50-$500. Portable grills shouldn’t cost more than $200, while full-size grills typically cost $250-$500. Cuisinart also offers an ultra-wide grill for $600.
Cuisinart grill FAQ
Can I convert a propane grill into a natural gas grill and vice versa?
A. It’s possible but strongly discouraged, as converting is a complicated process. If done incorrectly, it can lead to life-threatening gas leaks. It’s safer and easier to sell your old Cuisinart grill and buy an appropriate one if you can no longer use the original gas type.
Can I use an electric Cuisinart grill inside as well as outside?
A. Yes, though where you use them each has its own safety consideration: only grill inside in well-ventilated rooms and never grill outside during inclement weather.
What’s the best Cuisinart grill to buy?
Top Cuisinart grill
Cuisinart 54-Inch Four-Burner Propane Gas Grill
What you need to know: Grillmasters need look no further than this capable and spacious grill.
What you’ll love: Each individually controlled burner provides a maximum of 11,000 British thermal units for a total of 44,000 Btu, plus the cast-iron cooking grates help retain heat. It has prep tables on both sides and comes with a three-year limited warranty.
What you should consider: It requires some assembly, and a few consumers had issues with the instructions. Others received dented or otherwise damaged pieces.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Cuisinart grill for the money
Cuisinart 14-Inch Portable Charcoal Grill
What you need to know: If you want to grill on the go, you should add this to your cart.
What you’ll love: It’s compact and only weighs 2 pounds, making it perfect for tailgating. The locking lid has a handle, so it’s safe for easy traveling. A small vent makes regulating your temperature a breeze. It comes in red and black.
What you should consider: The low weight and wobbly legs make it easy to knock over. You will need a screwdriver to assemble it.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon, Home Depot and Wayfair
Worth checking out
Cuisinart Two-In-One Outdoor Electric Grill
What you need to know: This grill is a great choice for apartment dwellers.
What you’ll love: You can use it with the stand for outdoor grilling or without for tabletop grilling. It has five heat settings and a 240-square-inch cooking surface that can fit up to 12 burgers. A grease collection cup below the grill makes cleanup easier.
What you should consider: A few purchasers found it didn’t get hot enough to sear steaks, but it still gets hot enough to cook chicken, burgers and hot dogs.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon, Home Depot, Kohl’s and Macy’s
Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews.
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Jordan Woika writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.texomashomepage.com/reviews/br/patio-br/grilling-outdoor-cooking-br/best-cuisinart-grill/ | 2022-07-01T17:44:35Z | https://www.texomashomepage.com/reviews/br/patio-br/grilling-outdoor-cooking-br/best-cuisinart-grill/ | false |
Venice unveils mandatory day-trippers’ reservation and fee
By FRANCES D’EMILIO
Associated Press
ROME (AP) — Starting in January, Venice will oblige day-trippers to make reservations and pay a fee to visit the historic lagoon city. On many days, the heart of Venice is overwhelmed by visitors, who often far outnumber residents. Venice officials on Friday unveiled new rules for day-trippers, which go into effect on Jan. 16, 2023. Tourists who choose not to stay overnight in hotels or other lodgings will have to sign up online for the day they plan to come and pay a fee. Fees range from 3 to 10 euros ($3.15 to $10.5) depending on advance booking and whether they are visiting in peak season. Transgressors face fines as high as 300 euros ($315). | https://kion546.com/news/ap-national-news/2022/07/01/venice-unveils-mandatory-day-trippers-reservation-and-fee-2/ | 2022-07-01T17:46:09Z | https://kion546.com/news/ap-national-news/2022/07/01/venice-unveils-mandatory-day-trippers-reservation-and-fee-2/ | true |
ISLAMABAD (AP) — The Taliban’s supreme leader offered prayers Friday for Afghanistan’s earthquake victims during a speech to Islamic clerics in Kabul.
The tremor in June killed more than 1,000 people in the eastern part of the country. State radio aired Haibatullah Akhundzada’s speech live Friday from the gathering in Kabul, where thousands of Islamic clerics and tribal elders are gathering for the first time since seizing power in Afghanistan in August. Women were not allowed to attend.
Akhundzada’s appearance added symbolic heft to the meeting and the decisions the group is considering about Afghanistan’s future. The Taliban are under international pressure to be more inclusive as they struggle with Afghanistan’s humanitarian crises.
The powerful earthquake killed more than 1,000 people in eastern Afghanistan, igniting yet another crisis for the struggling country and further underscoring the Taliban’s limited capabilities and isolation. Overstretched aid groups already keeping millions of Afghans alive rushed supplies to the quake victims, but most countries responded tepidly to Taliban calls for international help.
Akhundzada has been the spiritual chief of the Islamist movement but has remained a reclusive figure.
He rose from low-profile to leader of the Taliban in a swift transition of power after a 2016 U.S. drone strike killed his predecessor, Mullah Akhtar Mansour.
After being appointed leader, Akhundzada secured the backing of Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri, who showered the cleric with praise, calling him “the emir of the faithful.”
The endorsement by Osama bin Laden’s heir helped seal his jihadist credentials with the Taliban’s longtime allies.
The Taliban, who have kept a complete lock on decision-making since taking over the country, touted the gathering in the capital of Kabul as a forum to hear a range of voices on issues facing Afghanistan.
But all those who addressed the assembly — and, it appeared, the overwhelming majority of attendees — were Taliban officials and supporters, mostly Islamic clerics.
Women were not allowed to attend, although media reports suggested that the reopening of the girls’ schools would be discussed. The Taliban’s supreme leader earlier this year banned girls after sixth grade from attending school and issued a decree requiring women in public to cover themselves completely, except for their eyes.
The Taliban’s Deputy Prime Minister Abdul Salam Hanafi told state broadcaster RTA on Wednesday that male delegates would represent women. “When their sons are in the gathering it means that they are also involved,” he said.
The gathering was held in the Loya Jirga Hall of Kabul’s Polytechnic University. A Loya Jirga is a gathering of tribal leaders and prominent figures, a traditional Afghan way for local leaders to have their grievances heard by rulers. However, the Taliban notably did not call the gathering a Loya Jirga, instead titling it “the Great Conference of Ulema,” the term in Islam for religious scholars and clerics.
The international cut-off of Afghanistan’s financing has deepened the country’s economic collapse and fueled its humanitarian crises. Millions in the country rely on international aid to have enough food to live.
The meeting comes as finance and central bank officials from the Taliban-led government are meeting with U.S. officials in Qatar to discuss economic and aid issues following last week’s earthquake.
The Washington Post first reported Tuesday that senior Biden administration officials are working with the Taliban leadership on a mechanism to allow Afghanistan’s government to use its central bank reserves to deal with the country’s severe hunger and poverty crises while erecting safeguards to ensure the funds are not misused. | https://www.wric.com/news/u-s-world/taliban-supreme-leader-prays-for-afghanistans-quake-victims/ | 2022-07-01T17:49:02Z | https://www.wric.com/news/u-s-world/taliban-supreme-leader-prays-for-afghanistans-quake-victims/ | true |
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — An emergency stay of Ohio's newly imposed state ban on abortions at the first detectable “fetal heartbeat” was rejected Friday by the state Supreme Court.
At issue was a request by Ohio abortion providers for the interim delay while the court reviews the question of whether the ban should be overturned. The providers argue the law violates the Ohio Constitution’s broad protections of individual liberty.
Their lawsuit followed imposition of the Ohio ban June 24, the same day the U.S. Supreme Court found the U.S. Constitution does not protect a woman’s right to an abortion. A federal judge lifted his stay on Ohio’s abortion restriction later that night.
The Ohio law prohibits abortions after what it terms a “fetal heartbeat” can be detected, which can be as early as six weeks’ gestation, or before many women know they are pregnant. It makes exceptions for the life of the mother and certain severe health risks.
The office of Attorney General Dave Yost, defending the new law, opposed the emergency stay, saying the Ohio Constitution does not recognize the right to an abortion. | https://www.timesunion.com/news/article/Court-denies-request-for-emergency-halt-to-Ohio-17279254.php | 2022-07-01T17:49:12Z | https://www.timesunion.com/news/article/Court-denies-request-for-emergency-halt-to-Ohio-17279254.php | true |
DOVER, Del. (AP) — A jury returned a mixed verdict Friday in the corruption trial of Delaware State Auditor Kathy McGuiness, acquitting her of felony charges but finding her guilty of three misdemeanors.
McGuiness, a Democrat elected in 2018, is the first statewide elected official in Delaware to be prosecuted while in office.
As state auditor, McGuiness is responsible for rooting out government fraud, waste and abuse but was indicted last year on five charges, including felony counts of theft and witness intimidation.
After deliberating for about four hours over two days, jurors acquitted McGuiness of the theft and intimidation charges. They found her guilty of the three lesser charges — conflict of interest, official misconduct and structuring a contract to avoid a procurement rule.
Prosecutors argued McGuiness abused her position in hiring her daughter, structuring payments under a consulting contract to avoid accounting scrutiny, and intimidating employees who were cooperating with investigators.
The defense argued McGuiness was the target of an incompetent and biased investigation spurred by complaints from disgruntled employees as she tried to make changes in her office following her predecessor’s 30-year tenure.
The jury verdict followed a two-week trial that featured about two dozen witnesses and hundreds of exhibits including emails, text messages, payroll records and accounting spreadsheets.
Prosecutor Mark Denney told jurors that McGuiness “used and abused” her position to hire her daughter and give her special privileges unavailable to other part-time workers. He also said she stole money from the state by paying Elizabeth “Saylar” McGuiness, 20, and having access to their joint bank account. Denney also said McGuiness ruled “with an iron fist,” harassing and intimidating employees who she suspected might be cooperating in an investigation of her office.
In addition to hiring her daughter in May 2020 when other part-time workers were leaving because of a lack of work during the coronavirus pandemic, prosecutors argued that McGuiness orchestrated a no-bid communications services contract for My Campaign Group, a consulting firm she had used in a 2016 campaign for lieutenant governor, then kept the payments under $5,000 to avoid having to get them approved by the Division of Accounting.
But defense attorney Steve Wood argued that chief investigator Franklin Robinson repeatedly made false statements in a search warrant affidavit and grand jury testimony, despite seeing documents with contradicting information. Wood told jurors the prosecution’s investigation was “incomplete, incompetent and biased from the very beginning.”
Wood also refuted allegations that Saylar McGuiness received special treatment, such as having access to her mother’s state vehicle. He noted that other part-time workers also had access to the vehicle, and that investigators failed to interview five others to determine whether they were treated differently than Saylar McGuiness.
He also reminded jurors that Robinson admitted there was “zero evidence” Kathy McGuiness ever received any money from the joint bank account in which her daughter’s paychecks were deposited and which had been set up when she was a child.
Wood also countered the witness intimidation charges, which included allegations that McGuiness was improperly monitoring employees’ emails, by saying there were justifiable reasons for one employee receiving a performance improvement plan and two others being reprimanded.
Much of the trial testimony and evidence involved allegations regarding the contract with My Campaign Group and payments made to Christie Gross, owner of the consulting firm.
Robinson, the investigator, said in a sworn affidavit that payments to My Campaign Group were split in August and September 2020 to keep them under $5,000, the threshold requiring approval from the Division of Accounting. In fact, he and prosecutors had seen a Division of Accounting spreadsheet several weeks earlier indicating that Gross received only one payment each month, both above $5,000 and both approved by the Division of Accounting.
Denney said that, as auditor, McGuiness knew the procurement rules and deliberately took steps to evade them.
“Kathy McGuiness knew just how to play the system, and she did,” he told jurors in closing arguments.
Wood, the defense attorney, pointed to emails among McGuiness, former chief of staff Thomas Van Horn, and administrative officer Shequanna Cousin about a My Campaign Group invoice for $11,250 that had been sent back by the Division of Accounting because the purchase order for the contract had a remaining balance of only $4,350.
With Gross demanding payment for the past due invoice, McGuiness asked Van Horn and Cousin how to they could handle it, “since this is not in my wheelhouse.”
In the end, a decision was made to pay the $4,350 remaining on the purchase order and $4,900 of the $6,900 excess as a “direct claim” voucher outside the purchase order. Such payments are allowed if a change order or “after-the-fact waiver” request is submitted. The $4,900 amount meant that the auditor’s office would not have to wait for approval from the Division of Accounting because the payment approval threshold was $5,000.
Wood said Van Horn and McGuiness assumed that Cousin, who was responsible for payments and waiver requests, would submit the required waiver after returning from vacation, but they didn’t know Cousin had decided to quit and wouldn’t be returning. The waiver never got submitted.
___
This story has been corrected to show that McGuiness was convicted of three misdemeanors, not two. | https://www.timesunion.com/news/article/Delaware-auditor-dodges-felony-charges-guilty-of-17279304.php | 2022-07-01T17:49:24Z | https://www.timesunion.com/news/article/Delaware-auditor-dodges-felony-charges-guilty-of-17279304.php | true |
Which whey protein powder is best?
Anyone looking to pack on some lean muscle mass can benefit from consuming whey protein powder before or after their workout. It is also popular as a meal replacement for people looking to shed a few pounds.
Whey protein powders are easy for most people to digest and come in a wide variety of flavored and flavorless options. Though whey is milk-based protein, there are many lactose-free isolates available, such as Dymatize Nutrition ISO100 Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate. This one is also low in calories and has just a single gram of carbohydrates per serving.
What to know before you buy a whey protein powder
Benefits and disadvantages of whey protein powder
There are many types of protein powders, but whey is one of the most popular for several reasons. It is affordable, easily digested by the body and mixes well into a variety of beverages. It is also rich in amino acids, including the important branch-chain amino acids.
The downside to whey protein powders is that they can cause gastrointestinal issues for some, including bloating, gas and stomach cramps. This happens more so in lactose-intolerant individuals who may be better off with a beef protein powder.
Types of whey protein powder
Whey protein powders are made with one of three types of protein: concentrate, isolate or hydrolysate.
Whey protein concentrate is one of the most common, because it is the most affordable and retains the most of its natural nutritional benefits. It also has some fat and lactose, which helps with the flavor. However, it has the lowest protein content, usually between 70% and 85%.
If you are watching your calorie, fat and carb intake, you will be better off with a whey protein isolate. These have less lactose and fat, and a higher protein content of around 90%.
Hydrolysate, sometimes referred to as hydrolyzed whey, is pre-digested. This allows it to be absorbed more quickly by the body, making it ideal for post workout use. Also, it has more of the natural benefits of whey than isolate, but slightly less so than concentrate.
Features to look for in a quality whey protein powder
Nutritional content
When choosing between various whey protein powders, consider the amount of calories, fat, carbs and protein per serving. The ingredients vary between them, which means they don’t all have the same nutritional content. For example, some powders may have as many as 200 calories per serving, while others have 100 or less. Similarly, some have as many as 15 grams of carbohydrates, while others have zero.
Flavor
Whey protein powders come in flavored and unflavored options. The most common flavors are vanilla, chocolate and cookies and cream. You can also find them in some more interesting varieties, such as birthday cake, apple pie, cookie dough and mint chocolate chip, just to name a few.
Unflavored protein powders are better for mixing into beverages that already have a strong flavor, such as juice or a smoothie. That said, you can also find options that complement the flavor of other beverages well, such as mixing a vanilla protein powder into a berry smoothie or iced coffee.
Added ingredients
Some manufacturers add ingredients to their whey protein powders for additional benefits. For example, you can find options with added medium-chain triglycerides, which is said to play a role in weight management, boost energy and improve endurance. There are also options with added glutamine peptides and essential fatty acids, which can help with muscle growth and absorbing nutrients, respectively.
Ingredient restrictions
Just as important for some as what ingredients are added, are what ingredients a protein powder doesn’t contain. You can find whey protein powders to fit most dietary restrictions, including gluten-, GMO-, sugar-, artificial flavor- and carb-free options.
How much can you expect to spend on a whey protein powder
Most whey protein powders cost between $5-$30 per pound. They are sold in packets as little as one ounce and jars as big as 5 pounds.
Whey protein powder FAQ
Can I mix whey protein in any kind of beverage?
A. While you can mix whey protein into any kind of beverage, you may not want to. You’ll need to consider how well the flavor will mix with whatever drink you are adding it to. For example, you can mix pretty much any flavor with water or milk, but you’ll need to be more selective if adding it to a berry shake or juice.
Is whey protein keto friendly?
A. Most whey proteins are keto friendly because they are naturally low in carbs. That said, if you are being strict about counting your carbs, make sure to read the ingredient label of any whey protein powder you choose, as some do have added sugar and other ingredients that can increase their carb count.
What is the best whey protein powder to buy?
Top whey protein powder
Dymatize Nutrition ISO100 Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate
What you need to know: This low-sugar option is easy to digest and comes in more than a dozen flavors.
What you’ll love: It dissolves quickly and doesn’t leave behind a gritty texture, even when mixed with thin liquids like water.
What you should consider: Some find the artificial flavoring to be overly sweet.
Where to buy: Sold by iHerb and Amazon.
Top whey protein powder for the money
What you need to know: Those following a strict keto diet will appreciate this zero-carb option that contains no added flavors or sweeteners.
What you’ll love: It is high in protein and low in calories, making it ideal for those trying to shed pounds. It is also gluten- and GMO-free.
What you should consider: It has a high per-pound cost.
Where to buy: Sold by iHerb and Amazon.
Worth checking out
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Double Rich Chocolate
What you need to know: With a rich chocolatey flavor and a high 24 grams of protein per serving, this protein powder will appeal to many people.
What you’ll love: It is made with whey protein concentrate and isolate to keep the calorie and carb count down, and it mixes well into liquids without leaving behind a lot of clumps.
What you should consider: It contains artificial flavors.
Where to buy: Sold by iHerb and Amazon.
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Brett Dvoretz writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wric.com/reviews/br/health-wellness-br/supplements-br/best-whey-protein-powders/ | 2022-07-01T17:50:57Z | https://www.wric.com/reviews/br/health-wellness-br/supplements-br/best-whey-protein-powders/ | false |
Texas migrants deaths: Radio chatter shows officer calling for help with ‘too many bodies’
Fifty-three migrants died in the incident involved a tractor-trailer in San Antonio, Texas
Radio chatter from the scene where dozens of migrants died in an abandoned tractor-trailer in San Antonio, Texas reveal how an officer who encountered the scene called for help as he faced "too many bodies."
The abandoned vehicle was discovered on Monday on a desolate road, with dozens of migrants packed inside in the baking Texas heat. Authorities found 48 migrants deceased at the scene. The other 16 were transported to local hospitals, where five died.
TEXAS MIGRANT DEATHS: FOUR ARRESTED, CHARGED IN HUMAN TRAFFICKING OPERATION THAT LEFT 53 DEAD
In police audio provided by Broadcastify, an officer who encountered the scene can be heard requesting help.
"Can I also get one more here, I have too many bodies," he says.
Officers can be heard looking for a heavy set Hispanic male, possible wearing a brown shirt.
Another officer later calls for more help: "Everyone on scene including my DIs are tied up with approximately 20+ victims."
Four men have since been arrested in connection with the incident. The alleged driver of the truck, 45-year-old Homero Zamorano Jr., is facing one count of alien smuggling resulting in death and faces life in prison or the death penalty if he is convicted.
Zamorano was found hiding in the brush near the truck on Monday evening after trying to get away from authorities, the U.S. Attorney said. Border Patrol agents later provided surveillance footage of a man matching Zamorano's description driving the truck through a Laredo Sector checkpoint.
The incident highlighted the dangers of human trafficking operations at the southern border, where migrants regularly lose their lives as they attempt to enter the country illegally while being smuggled by gangs and cartels.
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Texas' Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced Thursday that at least four migrants have been killed in a deadly vehicle crash by a smuggler in Laredo. The driver was evading law enforcement and crashed into the back of a truck; he was smuggling six migrants.
Fox News’ Paul Best and Bill Melugin contributed to this report. | https://www.foxnews.com/us/texas-migrants-deaths-radio-chatter-shows-officer-calling-help-many-bodies | 2022-07-01T17:53:07Z | https://www.foxnews.com/us/texas-migrants-deaths-radio-chatter-shows-officer-calling-help-many-bodies | false |
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A Florida teenager was seriously injured in a shark attack Thursday, according to reports.
WTXL reported that the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office said deputies and rescue personnel had to help a girl who was bitten by a shark while she was scalloping near Grassy Island.
According to authorities, the attack happened in waters that were five feet deep. The type of shark was unknown, but it was said to be around nine feet long.
The Taylor County Sheriff’s Office said that a family member had to beat the shark to make it let go of the girl. She was later airlifted to a local hospital to be treated for serious injuries. | https://cbs4indy.com/news/national-world/florida-girl-attacked-by-9-foot-shark-while-scalloping/ | 2022-07-01T17:54:22Z | https://cbs4indy.com/news/national-world/florida-girl-attacked-by-9-foot-shark-while-scalloping/ | false |
BY DREW COSTLEY
AP Science Writer
The Supreme Court decision to limit how the Environmental Protection Agency regulates carbon dioxide emissions from power plants could make an already grave situation worse for those affected most by climate change and air pollution, advocates say.
Environmental and climate justice advocates from across the United States are decrying the court’s 6-3 ruling, saying it will be felt most by communities of color and poor communities, which are located near power plants at higher percentages than the national average. They are calling on the EPA to find alternate ways to limit carbon dioxide emissions and other forms of air pollution, and for Congress to grant the agency the authority to do so.
The court did not prohibit the EPA from regulating carbon emissions, in fact Chief Justice John Roberts said capping carbon emissions to move the U.S. away from burning coal for electricity “may be sensible for the crisis of the day.”
Despite this, advocates said the ruling puts disadvantaged communities at risk of greater harm due to the effects of climate change and air pollution. They also are concerned about the ability of the EPA to enforce other bedrock environmental laws, like the Clean Water Act.
The Supreme Court decision “denies relief to Black and other communities of color as well as poor communities disproportionately exposed to power plant pollution and vulnerable to climate change,” Monique Harden, assistant director of law and policy at the Deep South Center for Environmental Justice told the Associated Press.
Harden’s organization has done extensive research on the effects of heavy industry on people living along the Mississippi River Chemical Corridor — also known to some as Cancer Alley — a stretch of petrochemical plants and oil refineries.
That corridor touches New Orleans and Baton Rouge, two cities that have experienced intense storm surges and hurricanes worsened by climate change over the last 20 years. And Baton Rouge has a power plant, Big Cajun II, with two coal-fired units that’s owned by Cleco Power.
Thousands of miles west the Supreme Court decision was just as alarming to Darryl Molina Sarmiento, executive director of Communities for a Better Environment. She said the ruling is part of a decades-long effort by the fossil fuel industry to strip the EPA of its ability to protect vulnerable communities, including those that live alongside power plants.
“Because the entire western grid is connected, a polluting power plant in Southeast L.A. can be supplying power to wealthy white communities in Utah,” she said. The same is true when California imports power from coal-fired power plants in Arizona and the low-income communities of color that surround them there are polluted, she said.
On a press briefing with the Green New Deal Network, a nationwide coalition of environmental organizations, U.S. Rep. Jamaal Bowman expressed concern that the decision could set a precedent that will limit regulatory agencies in their ability to protect human health.
“This ruling could potentially undermine all kinds of regulations that are about saving lives and promoting well-being,” he said. “We cannot, we must not and we will not let this court stop us. The Biden administration must declare a climate emergency immediately and use every single power at its disposal.”
Although carbon dioxide is not a health hazard, many other pollutants that are harmful to the respiratory system, like particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, are typically emitted along with them. Recent research has shown that people of color are disproportionately exposed to this type of air pollution.
“It is our responsibility to respond at this time because we cannot allow those who are most vulnerable to pay this price,” said Sen. Ed Markey, who was also on the call. “It’s up to those of us who have been given some power, given some privilege to now stand up, shoulder to shoulder with them, to engage in this fight.”
___
Follow Drew Costley on Twitter: @drewcostley.
___
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives support from several private foundations. See more about AP’s climate initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://wtmj.com/national/2022/07/01/environmental-justice-advocates-slam-supreme-court-ruling/ | 2022-07-01T17:54:37Z | https://wtmj.com/national/2022/07/01/environmental-justice-advocates-slam-supreme-court-ruling/ | true |
Marta Kauffman, co-creator of 'Friends,' 'embarrassed' now by its lack of diversity
Marta Kauffman says she now gets why people have been critical of "Friends."
The co-creator of the hit comedy series told the Los Angeles Times she had initially thought people were unfairly targeting the sitcom about its lack of diversity, but explained she's "learned a lot in the last 20 years."
"Admitting and accepting guilt is not easy," Kaufman said. "It's painful looking at yourself in the mirror. I'm embarrassed that I didn't know better 25 years ago."
"Friends," which ran from 1994 - 2004, starred Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matthew Perry, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer. It had been criticized for a lack of longstanding characters of color.
In 2020, Schwimmer told The Guardian he was "very aware of my privilege as a heterosexual white male" and said "Friends" happened during a "pre-woke" time, when story was not as inclusive.
"Maybe there should be an all-Black 'Friends' or an all-Asian 'Friends,'" said Schwimmer, who played Ross for 10 seasons. "But I was well aware of the lack of diversity and I campaigned for years to have Ross date women of color. One of the first girlfriends I had on the show was an Asian-American woman, and later I dated African-American women. That was a very conscious push on my part."
That didn't go over well with some who pointed out that the all-Black cast comedy "Living Single" aired from 1993 to 1998 (predating "Friends" by a year") and, like "Friends," focused on six young adults and their intertwined lives in New York City.
Kauffman, who created "Friends" with David Crane, told the LA Times that she came to better understand systemic racism in the U.S. after the George Floyd murder and consequently the complaints about the show.
That helped motivate her to pledge $4 million to her alma mater, Brandeis University in Boston, for the establishment of an endowed professorship in the school's African and African American studies department.
Since the endowment was announced, Kauffman said she's "gotten nothing but love."
"It's been amazing. It surprised me to some extent, because I didn't expect the news to go this wide," she said. "I've gotten a flood of emails and texts and posts that have been nothing but supportive. I've gotten a lot of 'It's about time.' Not in a mean way. It's just people acknowledging it was long overdue." | https://www.kcra.com/article/marta-kauffman-co-creator-friends-embarrassed-by-lack-of-diversity/40484054 | 2022-07-01T17:55:41Z | https://www.kcra.com/article/marta-kauffman-co-creator-friends-embarrassed-by-lack-of-diversity/40484054 | true |
You can’t celebrate the Fourth without fireworks! We talk with the Addison Fire Chief about Fireworks Safety, plus learn about how you can see one of the biggest fireworks shows around for free.
For more information, visit AddisonKaboomTown.com.
You can’t celebrate the Fourth without fireworks! We talk with the Addison Fire Chief about Fireworks Safety, plus learn about how you can see one of the biggest fireworks shows around for free.
For more information, visit AddisonKaboomTown.com.
Paid Advertisement | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/firework-safety-for-the-fourth-of-july/287-266d2d56-2edc-4c25-93a4-876764ba8b2f | 2022-07-01T17:57:46Z | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/good-morning-texas/firework-safety-for-the-fourth-of-july/287-266d2d56-2edc-4c25-93a4-876764ba8b2f | false |
Raffel also concerned about safety issues as a result of defects reported from use of Man Wah "knock-offs"
GERMANTOWN, Wis., July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Following its historic $100 million-plus verdict in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, Raffel Systems, LLC, a global producer of controls and comfort systems for motion furniture and a variety of other end markets, today called on Man Wah to cease the theft of the company's patented motion furniture cup-holders and any further infringements.
On June 17, 2022, a federal jury in Milwaukee found Man Wah liable for willful trade dress infringement, misappropriation of trade dress, false patent marking and willful patent infringement related to Raffel's integrated illuminated cup holder for motion furniture. Specifically, the jury awarded Raffel $97.5 million in punitive damages and $8.7 million in actual damages, totaling $106.2 million. The verdict is one of the largest ever in the Eastern District of Wisconsin.
Two outside attorneys for Raffel pointed out additional issues.
"We are concerned that defects reported by consumers of the cup holders that were found by the jury to infringe on Raffel's patents could represent safety risks," said Raffel's lead trial counsel John Scheller of Michael Best & Friedrich LLP.
Meanwhile, Washington, D.C.-based attorney Lanny Davis of the law firm Davis Goldberg & Galper PLLC said, "Man Wah's conduct leading to the jury verdict could constitute unfair competition."
Recent coverage of the jury verdict can be found here and here.
"This case is about right and wrong," Raffel Executive Chairman Paul Stangl said. "As a small company guided by innovation, our intellectual property could not be more important. We will continue our fight to show Man Wah and all the world's biggest companies that intellectual property must be respected."
"There is evidence Man Wah is continuing its practice of turning a blind-eye to intellectual property, such as continuing to sell integrated cup holders that infringe Raffel patents while passing off the product as its own invention," Stangl continued.
About Raffel Systems
Since 1982, Raffel Systems has been the industry innovator in developing electronic controls and comfort solutions for multiple end markets. Headquartered in Germantown, Wisconsin, Raffel is a global manufacturer providing design, engineering, technical sales, and customer service throughout North America, Asia and Europe. Through its Chinese subsidiary, Raffel also has manufacturing, engineering and sales in mainland China.
Media Contact:
Lincoln Zweig
lzweig@dggpllc.com
(202) 906-0292
View original content:
SOURCE Raffel Systems | https://www.cleveland19.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/wisconsin-electronic-controls-innovator-raffel-systems-calls-man-wah-cease-unfair-competition-further-infringements-wake-100-million-plus-verdict-against-man-wah-theft-patented-motion-furniture-cup-holders/ | 2022-07-01T17:58:10Z | https://www.cleveland19.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/wisconsin-electronic-controls-innovator-raffel-systems-calls-man-wah-cease-unfair-competition-further-infringements-wake-100-million-plus-verdict-against-man-wah-theft-patented-motion-furniture-cup-holders/ | true |
Zak Johnson, 17, Harrison Bond, 18, and Harry Gardiner, 18, have all penned their first senior deals on Wearside.
The trio are expected to continue their development at Sunderland with the Under-23 side and they have all been reacting to the news.
A club statement read: “Defender Johnson signs professionally until 2025 just a year into his scholarship, having regularly featured for the Club’s U23s in the Premier League 2 during the 2021-22 season.
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"Johnson also became the youngest outfield player to make a first-team appearance for the Lads in almost 50 years last October, as a late substitute in the Papa John’s Trophy against Manchester United Under-21s, aged just 16 years and 141 days.”
Johnson, who has signed a three-year deal, said: “It feels surreal, and so special to have signed professional terms with my hometown club.
“I’m so excited to get started this season, and this has only given me more drive to keep pushing and improving.”
Goalkeeper Bond puts pen-to-paper on a one-year contract – the club having an option to add a further year.
A regular in the Under-18 side, he has also featured in the Under-23 squads.
Bond added: “I’m delighted to sign a professional contract with the club I’ve grown up at and where I’ve learnt so much. I’m so thankful to Pruds [Mark Prudhoe], who was the first face I saw when I first entered the building, and to have that brief experience with the first team is even more motivation for me.”
Forward Gardiner, who has signed a one-year deal, has been a regular goalscorer with the U18 side.
He too has featured for the Under-23 side and on his deal, said: “It feels amazing to sign professionally here, a really proud moment for myself and my family, who are Sunderland fans.
"Whilst I’ve been fit, I feel that I’ve come on well as a player here and this is just the start.”
The club holds an option for an additional year.
The deals follow new contracts at first team level for Bailey Wright, Lynden Gooch, Anthony Patterson and Patrick Roberts. | https://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/football/sunderland-afc/sunderland-announce-young-trio-sign-first-deals-with-club-3753810 | 2022-07-01T17:59:39Z | https://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/football/sunderland-afc/sunderland-announce-young-trio-sign-first-deals-with-club-3753810 | false |
CHICAGO, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Winston & Strawn LLP announced that the Firm will reimburse travel expenses for personnel who have to travel out-of-state to obtain an abortion.
The Firm initiated this policy following the recent Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade. As a result of that decision, the right to an abortion is now determined under state law.
The Firm communicated this development to all of its personnel.
"Our decision to implement this benefit reflects Winston & Strawn's commitment to equal access to abortion for everyone at the Firm," said Winston Chairman Tom Fitzgerald.
Winston & Strawn LLP is an international law firm with 16 offices in North America, South America, Asia, and Europe. More information about the firm is available at www.winston.com.
Contact:
Michael Goodwin
mgoodwin@stantonprm.com
646-502-3595
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Winston & Strawn LLP | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/winston-amp-strawn-offers-travel-reimbursement-out-of-state-abortion-services/ | 2022-07-01T18:00:40Z | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/winston-amp-strawn-offers-travel-reimbursement-out-of-state-abortion-services/ | false |
Danny Brown, the talented rapper and media figure came forth recently to discuss a harrowing incident that we must warn might be triggering to some. The Detroit wordsmith accused a member of the South African group Die Antwoord of sexual assault during a recent podcast appearance.
Brown, 41, was a guest on the 2 Bears, 1 Cave podcast sharing his tales of life on the road, groupies, and other related factors of his musical career. However, the conversation turned to a darker moment when Brown shared that Ninja, one half of Die Antwoord, tried to come on to him without consent.
The incident occurred at an afterparty after one of Die Antwoord’s shows in Paris, France with Brown saying that Ninja invited him to the event via a private message. However, Brown claims that the energy was off between the pair by way of the direct message and only went downhill from there.
Brown claims that Ninja sat on his lap at the venue and tried to kiss him, and then alleged that Ninja offered a threesome with his Die Antwoord partner and mother of his child, Yolandi Visser.
As the conversation rolls on, Brown explains that Ninja has offered up Visser in similar situations before and that he began to feel threatened to the point he was ready to violently defend himself. Brown says after drinking heavily and wrestling with the anger of being assaulted, he found his wits and decided not to cause Ninja physical harm.
The Danny Brown 2 Bears, 1 Cave interview can be viewed below.
—
Photo: Getty
Danny Brown Accuses Die Antwoord Member Of Sexual Assault was originally published on hiphopwired.com | https://thebeatdfw.com/3617396/danny-brown-accuses-die-antwoord-member-of-sexual-assault/ | 2022-07-01T18:04:48Z | https://thebeatdfw.com/3617396/danny-brown-accuses-die-antwoord-member-of-sexual-assault/ | false |
Busy Philipps Arrested For Protesting Outside Supreme Court Following Roe v. Wade Reversal
CLIP 07/01/22
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Goldie Hawn is opening up about her battle with depression. The 75-year-old actress talked about her mental health on Tuesday’s episode of “Good Morning Britain.” During the show, the mom of three opened up about how difficult it was for her to adjust to life in the spotlight. "When I was young, I became depressed. I was 21 and I was rising to success. I know it sounds terrible, but it's a very, very difficult thing, I didn't necessarily want that,” the Oscar winner said. Goldie talked about her struggles while promoting her organization “MindUp” which focuses on improving mental health in children. | https://www.nbc.com/access/video/goldie-hawn-gets-candid-about-her-past-battle-with-depression/4360385 | 2022-07-01T18:05:48Z | https://www.nbc.com/access/video/goldie-hawn-gets-candid-about-her-past-battle-with-depression/4360385 | false |
In the wake of the sudden resignation of pitching coach Wes Johnson, the Twins have promoted bullpen coach Pete Maki.
Maki becomes the Twins’ pitching coach after joining the organization in 2018 as minor league pitching coordinator. He has been with the major league staff since becoming interim bullpen coach in 2020.
Colby Suggs has been named bullpen coach. Suggs, 30, has been with the Twins in several roles since 2019, most recently as coordinator of run prevention from 2021-2022.
Johnson, who left the University of Arkansas to become the Twins’ pitching coach after the 2018 season, accepted the pitching coach position at LSU last week. His last day with the Twins was Thursday. | https://www.twincities.com/2022/07/01/twins-promote-pete-maki-to-pitching-coach/ | 2022-07-01T18:06:58Z | https://www.twincities.com/2022/07/01/twins-promote-pete-maki-to-pitching-coach/ | true |
The Supreme Court decision to limit how the Environmental Protection Agency regulates carbon dioxide emissions from power plants could make an already grave situation worse for those affected most by climate change and air pollution, advocates say.
Environmental and climate justice advocates from across the United States are decrying the court’s 6-3 ruling, saying it will be felt most by communities of color and poor communities, which are located near power plants at higher percentages than the national average. They are calling on the EPA to find alternate ways to limit carbon dioxide emissions and other forms of air pollution, and for Congress to grant the agency the authority to do so.
The court did not prohibit the EPA from regulating carbon emissions, in fact Chief Justice John Roberts said capping carbon emissions to move the U.S. away from burning coal for electricity “may be sensible for the crisis of the day.”
Despite this, advocates said the ruling puts disadvantaged communities at risk of greater harm due to the effects of climate change and air pollution. They also are concerned about the ability of the EPA to enforce other bedrock environmental laws, like the Clean Water Act.
The Supreme Court decision “denies relief to Black and other communities of color as well as poor communities disproportionately exposed to power plant pollution and vulnerable to climate change,” Monique Harden, assistant director of law and policy at the Deep South Center for Environmental Justice told the Associated Press.
Harden’s organization has done extensive research on the effects of heavy industry on people living along the Mississippi River Chemical Corridor — also known to some as Cancer Alley — a stretch of petrochemical plants and oil refineries.
That corridor touches New Orleans and Baton Rouge, two cities that have experienced intense storm surges and hurricanes worsened by climate change over the last 20 years. And Baton Rouge has a power plant, Big Cajun II, with two coal-fired units that’s owned by Cleco Power.
Thousands of miles west the Supreme Court decision was just as alarming to Darryl Molina Sarmiento, executive director of Communities for a Better Environment. She said the ruling is part of a decades-long effort by the fossil fuel industry to strip the EPA of its ability to protect vulnerable communities, including those that live alongside power plants.
“Because the entire western grid is connected, a polluting power plant in Southeast L.A. can be supplying power to wealthy white communities in Utah,” she said. The same is true when California imports power from coal-fired power plants in Arizona and the low-income communities of color that surround them there are polluted, she said.
On a press briefing with the Green New Deal Network, a nationwide coalition of environmental organizations, U.S. Rep. Jamaal Bowman expressed concern that the decision could set a precedent that will limit regulatory agencies in their ability to protect human health.
“This ruling could potentially undermine all kinds of regulations that are about saving lives and promoting well-being,” he said. “We cannot, we must not and we will not let this court stop us. The Biden administration must declare a climate emergency immediately and use every single power at its disposal.”
Although carbon dioxide is not a health hazard, many other pollutants that are harmful to the respiratory system, like particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, are typically emitted along with them. Recent research has shown that people of color are disproportionately exposed to this type of air pollution.
“It is our responsibility to respond at this time because we cannot allow those who are most vulnerable to pay this price,” said Sen. Ed Markey, who was also on the call. “It’s up to those of us who have been given some power, given some privilege to now stand up, shoulder to shoulder with them, to engage in this fight.”
___
Follow Drew Costley on Twitter: @drewcostley.
___
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives support from several private foundations. See more about AP’s climate initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | https://www.localsyr.com/news/national/environmental-justice-advocates-slam-supreme-court-ruling/ | 2022-07-01T18:10:27Z | https://www.localsyr.com/news/national/environmental-justice-advocates-slam-supreme-court-ruling/ | false |
MOSCOW (AP) — American basketball star Brittney Griner went on trial Friday, 4 1/2 months after her arrest on charges of possessing cannabis oil while returning to play for a Russian team, in a case that has unfolded amid tense relations between Moscow and Washington.
The initial session of the trial, which was adjourned until July 7, offered the most extensive public interaction between Griner and reporters since the Phoenix Mercury center and two-time U.S. Olympic gold medalist was arrested in February at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport.
Griner, 31, was escorted into the courtroom in the capital’s suburb of Khimki while handcuffed and wearing a Jimi Hendrix T-shirt. At a closed-door preliminary hearing Monday, her detention was extended for another six months, to Dec. 20.
Police have said she was carrying vape canisters with cannabis oil when detained at the airport. She could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of large-scale transportation of drugs.
Fewer than 1% of defendants in Russian criminal cases are acquitted, and unlike in U.S. courts, acquittals can be overturned.
The state-owned Tass news agency quoted Griner as saying in court that she understood the charges but would not comment further on them until later.
Two witnesses were questioned by the prosecution: an airport customs official, who spoke in open court, and an unidentified witness in a closed session. according to the state news agency RIA-Novosti. The trial was then adjourned, it said, when two other witnesses did not show up.
Alexander Boykov, an attorney for Griner, told reporters outside court that “I wouldn’t want to talk on the specifics of the case and on the charges and to comment on our position on it because it’s too early for it.”
Boykov also told RIA-Novosti that she has been exercising and taking walks in the detention area. The Russian website Business FM said that Griner, who smiled at times at reporters, said she wishes she could work out more and that she was struggling because she doesn’t understand Russian.
Her case comes at an extraordinarily low point in Moscow-Washington relations. Griner was arrested less than a week before Russia sent troops into Ukraine, which aggravated already high tensions between the two countries. The U.S. then imposed sweeping sanctions on Moscow, and Russia denounced the U.S. for sending weapons to Ukraine.
Elizabeth Rood, U.S. charge d’affaires in Moscow, was in court and said she spoke with Griner, who “is doing as well as can be expected in these difficult circumstances.”
“The Russian Federation has wrongfully detained Brittney Griner,” Rood said. “The practice of wrongful detention is unacceptable wherever it occurs and is a threat to the safety of everyone traveling, working, and living abroad.”
She said the U.S. government, from its highest levels, “is working hard to bring Brittney and all wrongfully detained U.S. nationals home safely.”
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Friday denied politics played a role in Griner’s detention and prosecution.
“The facts are that the famous athlete was detained in possession of prohibited medication containing narcotic substances,” Peskov told reporters. “In view of what I’ve said, it can’t be politically motivated,” he added.
Griner’s supporters had kept a low profile in hopes of a quiet resolution until May, when the State Department reclassified her as wrongfully detained and shifted oversight of her case to its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs — effectively the U.S. government’s chief negotiator.
Griner’s wife, Cherelle, has urged President Joe Biden to secure her release, calling her “a political pawn.”
“It was good to see her in some of those images, but it’s tough. Every time’s a reminder that their teammate, their friend, is wrongfully imprisoned in another country,” Phoenix Mercury coach Vanessa Nygaard said Monday.
The coach hoped that Biden would “take the steps to ensure she comes home.”
Griner’s supporters have encouraged a prisoner swap like the one in April that brought home Marine veteran Trevor Reed in exchange for a Russian pilot convicted of drug trafficking conspiracy.
Russian news media have repeatedly raised speculation that she could be swapped for Russian arms trader Viktor Bout, nicknamed “the Merchant of Death,” who is serving a 25-year sentence on conviction of conspiracy to kill U.S. citizens and providing aid to a terrorist organization.
Russia has agitated for Bout’s release for years. But the wide discrepancy between Griner’s case — which involves alleged possession of vape cartridges containing cannabis oil — and Bout’s global dealings in deadly weapons could make such a swap unpalatable to the U.S.
Others have suggested that she could be traded along with Paul Whelan, a former Marine and security director serving a 16-year sentence on an espionage conviction that the U.S. has repeatedly described as a setup. | https://www.localsyr.com/sports/sports-news/trial-for-us-basketball-star-begins-in-moscow-area-court/ | 2022-07-01T18:14:32Z | https://www.localsyr.com/sports/sports-news/trial-for-us-basketball-star-begins-in-moscow-area-court/ | false |
Picked-up pieces while burning the midnight oil in the research lab with Jarren Duran …
▪ Happy Fourth of July weekend. The Fourth is an American favorite and hopefully you are reading this while sprawled on the sand at Craigville Beach in Centerville.
This holiday is not filled with tons of great local sports memories. Maybe that’s no surprise when you remember that George Steinbrenner was born on the Fourth of July.
Dave Righetti no-hit the Red Sox at Yankee Stadium on a brutally hot July 4 in the summer of 1983. Hall of Famer Wade Boggs struck out, swinging, for the final out of Righetti’s masterpiece. It was the first Yankee no-hitter since Don Larsen’s perfect game in the 1956 World Series. Billy Martin was at both games, playing second base behind Larsen in ‘56 and managing the Yankees for Steinbrenner in ‘83.
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“I have vivid memories of that,” Boggs said over the phone this past week. “It was hotter than all blazes. Jerry Mumphrey was supposed to be playing center field, and he normally shades me to left-center.” (Don’t you love how these guys remember and talk about everything like it was yesterday?)
“He came down with something that day and they put Dave Winfield in center, and for some reason Winfield shaded me to right-center and I hit two rockets that would have been doubles if Mumphrey was playing, but for some silly reason Winfield shaded me toward right-center and ran them both down.
“When I was walking to the plate in the ninth, I was thinking to myself, ‘If I get a hit, I’m not leaving New York alive.’ I struck out on a pretty ugly slider. Righetti wasn’t fun to face. He had a [Ron] Guidry slider. On that last pitch, he dropped down a little more and I saw it behind me and swung and missed and the rest is history.”
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Other Fourth of July highlights/lowlights in Boston sports:
On July 4, 1960, the ragtag Boston Patriots of the brand-new American Football League held their first-ever workout at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. There were 350 players at the tryouts, including 12 quarterbacks and nine centers.
“Players came from every corner of the country,” the late, great Gino Cappelletti recalled later. “Some were professional wrestlers. Some had played in the NFL 10 years ago and were trying to make a comeback. There were a few rookies, a few draft choices, but other than that, it was a comedy of people who showed up to play. Some guys had never played before.”
On July 4, 1970, Tony and Billy Conigliaro both homered against the Cleveland Indians at Fenway Park.
On July 4, 2013, the Bruins traded Tyler Seguin, Rich Peverley, and Ryan Button to Dallas for Loui Eriksson, Joe Morrow, Reilly Smith, and Matt Fraser. In 2017, the Celtics signed Gordon Hayward on the Fourth of July. None of this worked out particularly well.
Raiders legend Al Davis was born in Brockton on July 4, 1929. Yankees broadcaster John Sterling was born on July 4, 1938. Ed Armbrister and Brendan Donnelly were born on July 4.
Slim pickings, for sure.
Bottom line: Very little happens in local sports on July 4. Three of our four major sports teams are out of season. The weekend belongs to Joey Chestnut, the Boston Pops, and folks sprawled on blankets at Craigville.
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▪ Quiz: Only five of the top 25 career major league strikeout leaders were lefthanded pitchers. Name them (answer below).
▪ Why do the Red Sox continue to indulge and protect Chris Sale? When MassLive asked Sale after Thursday’s rehab start whether he has changed his stance on vaccinations, Sale said, “No. I just had a lot of fun. Let’s not ruin that, all right? I’m enjoying this process …. Tomorrow’s going to come. We’ll figure that [expletive] out then, man.”
Swell. Sale makes $30 million per year and has won 11 games in the last four seasons. He’s making Pablo Sandoval look like the free agent steal of the century and yet the Sox still love him.
▪ Don’t look now, but the hated Houston Astros might be the best team in baseball. The Stros just completed nine consecutive games against the first-place Yankees and Mets and went 7-2.
▪ Now that the Avalanche have won the Stanley Cup, let’s have a celebration at City Hall Plaza for 23-year-old Colorado defenseman Cale Makar, who played two seasons and won a Hobey Baker Award for UMass.
I say this in jest, of course, but it still stings a little to think of how needy we were in June of 2001 when thousands turned out to celebrate Ray Bourque winning a Stanley Cup with the Avalanche after being traded to Colorado by Harry Sinden.
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In those days, championship-starved New England hadn’t won a title in 15 full years (1986 Celtics), so we vicariously celebrated with a great Bruin who had to leave town to win a Cup.
▪ Greedy NESN knows no bounds when it comes to dreaded “drop-ins” during Red Sox telecasts. It’s embarrassing. Just about everything is “sponsored.” I’m waiting for Chick-fil-A to start sponsoring foul balls: “Rafael Devers fouls one to the backstop. That Fowl Ball is brought to you by Chick-fil-A.”
▪ The Utah Jazz hiring 34-year-old Will Hardy as head coach gives Division 3 Williams College three connections to the NBA. Miami sharpshooter Duncan Robinson played for the Ephs before going to Michigan and former Williams player Rafael Stone (’94) is general manager of the Houston Rockets.
▪ George Clooney is producing a documentary that will focus on the crimes of Richard Strauss, a former sports doctor at Ohio State who was accused of sexually abusing more than 300 athletes over two decades in Columbus. Strauss died by suicide in 2005.
Grandstanding Republican Congressman Jim Jordan was an assistant wrestling coach at Ohio State while Strauss was team doctor, and several wrestlers have accused Jordan of knowing about the abuse and doing nothing to stop it. Jordan has denied knowledge of the situation and refused to cooperate with investigations.
▪ Does anyone else have a quarrel with the wording of the Jordan’s Furniture guarantee of free purchases if the Red Sox “sweep the world championship”? The phrasing feels intentionally deceptive. Are there consumers who don’t realize that they won’t cash in unless the Sox win the World Series in four straight games? There’s a gigantic difference between winning the World Series and sweeping four straight.
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▪ If Novak Djokovic played big league baseball, he would somehow find his way onto the Red Sox roster. One of the greatest tennis players of all time has no intention of getting vaccinated and is prepared to miss two of the four Grand Slam events (US Open and Australian Open) if regulations stay as they are. At least he is not taking down 24 teammates with him.
▪ Hope we have not seen the last of 40-year-old Serena Williams on a tennis court, but it makes you wonder when the GOAT loses a first-round Wimbledon match to the 115th-ranked player.
▪ The New York tabloids did not disappoint the day after Kyrie (“I got no place else to go!”) Irving accepted his one-year option with the Nets. The back page of the vaunted Post shouted, “KY ANXIETY … setting up another drama-filled year” while the Daily News gave us, “HE’S ALL IN! … so nothing can possibly go wrong now.”
▪ Former Red Sox outfielder Mike Greenwell is running for Lee County commissioner in Fort Myers, Fla. Greenwell, 58, last played for the Red Sox in 1996 and should have been American League MVP in 1988 when he finished second to Oakland A’s cheater Jose Canseco.
▪ Great summer reading: Pick up “The Church of Baseball,” in which Hollywood director Ron Shelton goes A to Z on the making of “Bull Durham” in 1988. The film’s authenticity comes in part from the fact that Shelton played five seasons of minor league ball and made it to Triple A Rochester in the Orioles system, where he played with Don Baylor and Bobby Grich.
If you remember Annie Savoy’s quote in the movie about trades — “Bad trades are part of baseball. Who can forget Frank Robinson for Milt Pappas, for God’s sake?” — you’ll love Shelton’s years-later encounter with Pappas, who was not pleased with the line and wouldn’t shake Shelton’s hand.
▪ Sam Bowie, Greg Oden, Chris Sale. Connect the dots.
▪ Quiz answer: Randy Johnson (second), Steve Carlton (fourth), CC Sabathia (17th), Mickey Lolich (22nd), Frank Tanana (25th, soon to be replaced by Clayton Kershaw).
Dan Shaughnessy is a Globe columnist. He can be reached at daniel.shaughnessy@globe.com. Follow him on Twitter @dan_shaughnessy. | https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/07/01/sports/historically-july-4-hasnt-been-big-day-fireworks-sports-other-thoughts/ | 2022-07-01T18:14:47Z | https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/07/01/sports/historically-july-4-hasnt-been-big-day-fireworks-sports-other-thoughts/ | true |
DETROIT (AP) — The inaugural class of the Detroit Apple Developer Academy, a free program that teaches students the fundamentals of coding, design, marketing and project management, celebrated its unique accomplishment during a ceremony Thursday.
The academy in Detroit for people interested in a career in the app economy is the first in North America and was launched as part of Apple’s Racial Equity and Justice Initiative.
“Can you believe it? That you’re here at this moment where all your hard work has paid off,” Lisa Jackson, the tech giant’s vice president of environment, policy and social initiatives, asked the graduates. “I do want to be among the first to say congratulations.”
The 90 grads range in age from 18 to 64 and include a high school student, a pastor and a mother and son.
The academy is supported by Michigan State University and the Gilbert Family Foundation and Rocket Companies. Michigan State supplies the program’s instructors and mentors, while the Gilbert Family Foundation and Rocket Companies provide money and space.
“As a Black man in America, it is hard to find opportunities like this that gives you the skills to get started in tech,” said graduate Mario Crippen, a 28-year-old from Detroit. He added that he was thankful for the “chance to change the narrative around Black tech and making my son proud of his dad.”
Crippen and his classmates received 10 months of training, with all equipment needed for iOS development provided. Graduates developed new apps now available on — or soon coming to — the iPhone app store that address a range of consumer needs, including travel, health and wellness and more.
Apple opened its first Developer Academy in Brazil nearly a decade ago and has more than a dozen other academies around the world, including in Brazil, Indonesia and Italy. It announced the Apple Developer Academy in Detroit in January 2021.
The Detroit graduation comes after a federal judge last year ordered Apple to dismantle a lucrative part of the competitive barricade guarding its app store. The judge didn’t brand Apple as a monopolist or require it to allow competing stores to offer apps for iPhones, iPads and iPods.
Those were two of the biggest objectives sought by Epic Games, the maker of the popular Fortnite video game that filed what it would hoped would be a landmark antitrust case after defying an exclusive payment system that funnels 15% to 30% of all in-app digital transactions on iPhones to Apple.
Both sides are appealing the decision.
Academy grads have earned jobs at companies such as General Motors, Ford and Rocket Mortgage. One was accepted into Michigan State’s engineering college, an accomplishment that earned a shoutout from school President Samuel Stanley during Thursday’s ceremony.
“I’m going to be the first to welcome you to MSU,” Stanley said, pointing to Paul Campbell, who completed his high school requirements in the morning while attending academy classes in the afternoon.
The Detroit Apple Developer Academy is accepting applications from people 18 and older for the upcoming class on a rolling basis. | https://www.kxnet.com/news/business-beat/ap-business/grads-of-first-us-apple-developer-academy-feted-in-detroit/ | 2022-07-01T18:16:06Z | https://www.kxnet.com/news/business-beat/ap-business/grads-of-first-us-apple-developer-academy-feted-in-detroit/ | false |
First monkeypox case in Wisconsin resident confirmed
MADISON, Wis. (WBAY) - The state health department says it’s identified the first case of monkeypox in a Wisconsin resident.
The patient is a resident of Dane County. They’re isolating themselves, and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) says there’s a low risk for the general public.
Last month, the Oconto County Health Department said a visitor from outside the state was confirmed to be infected with monkeypox. The county’s health department said it was a limited exposure.
The DHS says as of Friday, there are 396 confirmed cases of monkeypox or orthopoxvirus in the U.S.
“While it’s likely that additional cases will be found among Wisconsinites, we are relieved that this disease does not spread easily from person to person,” DHS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ryan Westergaard said.
Brad Spakowitz talked about the monkeypox outbreak and symptoms of the disease earlier this week on Action 2 News at 4:30.
Copyright 2022 WBAY. All rights reserved. | https://www.wbay.com/2022/07/01/first-monkeypox-case-wisconsin-resident-confirmed/ | 2022-07-01T18:17:42Z | https://www.wbay.com/2022/07/01/first-monkeypox-case-wisconsin-resident-confirmed/ | true |
Match Coverage
NCFC LIVE: Canaries begin pre-season with Dereham Town trip
- Credit: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd
Norwich City begin their preparations for the 2022/23 Championship season tonight with a short trip up the A47 to Aldiss Park to face Dereham Town - and you can follow updates live with our matchday blog.
Dean Smith's side will kickstart their warm-up matches with an encounter against the non-league side, in-front of a strong crowd hoping to witness a positive performance for their side.
Sporting their new home strip, the hope is that an emphatic performance will help continue to shift the narrative after a tough end to last season's campaign that culminated in Premier League relegation.
Norwich will be without a core of senior players who are enjoying an extended break after playing international fixtures last month, including Teemu Pukki, Tim Krul and Grant Hanley among others.
Dereham are a step four side who will play their football in the Northern Premier League Midlands Division after being moved from the Ismithian North Division. They are managed by ex-City youth player Adam Gusterson.
Smith is expected to rotate his squad heavily throughout this fixture, with improving fitness being the key aim as Norwich build-up to their opening Championship fixture away to Cardiff on July 30.
These teams last met in pre-season in 2014, when Kyle Lafferty's goal secured a 1-0 win for Neil Adams' side.
Most Read
- 1 Norwich City transfer rumours: Placheta poised for Championship loan move
- 2 So it begins again - City hoping for winning start in opening friendly at Dereham Town
- 3 'Seriously special' - City fans rave over new home kit
- 4 Norwich City unveil their new home kit
- 5 City gem Aarons advised not to follow the money
- 6 NCFC LIVE: Canaries begin pre-season with Dereham Town trip
- 7 Anglian Home Improvements to become Barclay Stand sponsors
- 8 New Norwich City deal will allow pre-match Carrow Road light shows
- 9 City's first home game selected for TV coverage
- 10 Teemu Pukki's future: The inside track from Finland
- You can join in with the debate and follow live updates from Aldiss Park throughout the evening with our Canaries correspondent Connor Southwell | https://www.pinkun.com/sport/norwich-city/canaries-ncfc-dereham-town-friendly-live-updates-9114540 | 2022-07-01T18:18:52Z | https://www.pinkun.com/sport/norwich-city/canaries-ncfc-dereham-town-friendly-live-updates-9114540 | true |
PRAGUE (AP) — The European Union’s executive arm on Friday pledged to draft an emergency plan this month aimed at helping member countries do without Russian energy in the wake of the Kremlin’s war in Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the initiative would build on EU moves to ditch Russian coal, oil and natural gas and would complement a bloc-wide push to accelerate the development of renewable energy such as wind and solar power.
“We are preparing emergency plans for Europe,” von der Leyen said in the Czech town of Litomysl, where she marked the start of the country’s six-month stint as holder of the rotating EU presidency. “Energy prices are high. People -- rightly so -- expect us to do something about it.”
She said the contingency plan, due around mid-July, would focus on two key points including having a “clear idea" of where to cut back on Russian energy supply and to do it “in a smart way” as well as to rally around EU countries facing supply squeezes.
“We need a good, common plan that the energy flows, or the gas flows, where it is needed most,” von der Leyen said.
She said the plan would be developed in coordination with the Czech government, whose prime minister highlighted the political pressure across the EU to act.
“Energy prices are suffocating our economy,” Premier Petr Fiala said alongside von der Leyen. “This is our biggest test for the coming months.”
The commission announced in May a plan dubbed REPowerEU to abandon Russian energy amid the Kremlin’s war in Ukraine, proposing a nearly 300 billion-euro ($312 billion) package that includes more efficient use of fuels and faster rollout of renewable power.
“The next step is to make available to the EU member states the 300 billion euros that come along with REPpowerEU, and therefore, of course, we count on your presidency to reach rapidly agreement on the adoption of the REPowerEU regulation,” von der Leyen told the Czech premier.
This investment initiative is meant to help the 27 EU countries start weaning themselves off Russian fossil fuels this year. The goal is to deprive Russia, the EU’s main supplier of oil, natural gas and coal, of tens of billions in revenue and strengthen EU climate policies.
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Jonathan Stearns in Brussels contributed. | https://www.mrt.com/news/article/EU-prepares-emergency-plan-to-do-without-Russian-17279395.php | 2022-07-01T18:19:00Z | https://www.mrt.com/news/article/EU-prepares-emergency-plan-to-do-without-Russian-17279395.php | true |
Deshaun Watson’s disciplinary hearing concluded Thursday with the NFL adamant about an indefinite suspension of at least one year and the quarterback’s legal team arguing there’s no basis for that punishment, two people with knowledge of the case told The Associated Press.
Both sides presented their arguments over three days before former U.S. District Judge Sue Robinson in Delaware, according to both people who spoke on condition of anonymity because the hearing isn’t public.
Watson was accused of sexual misconduct by 24 women and settled 20 of the civil lawsuits.
Robinson, who was jointly appointed by the league and the NFL Players’ Association, will determine whether Watson violated the NFL’s personal conduct policy and whether to impose discipline.
Post-hearing briefs are due the week of July 11 so it’s uncertain when Robinson will make a ruling. The Cleveland Browns are hoping to know Watson’s availability before training camp starts July 27.
If either the union or league appeals Robinson’s decision, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell or his designee “will issue a written decision that will constitute full, final and complete disposition of the dispute,” per terms of Article 46 in the collective bargaining agreement.
A person familiar with the case told the AP the league believes it presented evidence to warrant keeping Watson off the field this season. The person said the league’s investigation determined Watson committed multiple violations of the personal conduct policy and he would be required to undergo counseling before returning.
A person familiar with Watson’s defense told the AP they expect a suspension. Asked what would be acceptable, the person said: “our goal is to get him back on the field this year.”
Two separate Texas grand juries declined to indict Watson on criminal complaints stemming from the allegations.
Watson has denied any wrongdoing and vowed to clear his name.
This is the first hearing for Robinson, who was the first female Chief Judge for the District of Delaware. Previously, Goodell had the authority to impose discipline for violations of the personal conduct policy.
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More AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL | https://www.kxnet.com/sports/ap-sources-nfl-adamant-on-indefinite-suspension-for-watson/ | 2022-07-01T18:19:49Z | https://www.kxnet.com/sports/ap-sources-nfl-adamant-on-indefinite-suspension-for-watson/ | true |
LISBON, Portugal (AP) — A United Nations conference warned Friday that measures needed to protect the world’s oceans are lagging and urged countries to accelerate their implementation.
More than 6,000 senior officials, scientists and activists from more than 120 countries attended a five-day U.N. Ocean Conference in Lisbon, Portugal.
A declaration published on the final day said delegates were “deeply alarmed by the global emergency facing the ocean,” whose sustainability is “critical” for the planet.
The declaration said that “action is not advancing at the speed or scale required to meet our goals.”
“Greater ambition is required at all levels to address the dire state of the ocean,” it concluded.
The oceans are under threat from global warming, pollution, acidification and other problems.
A key step is a new international agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction, also known as the Treaty of the High Seas.
That treaty aims to establish a comprehensive legal framework for the high seas, which cover some 70% of the earth’s surface and provide food and livelihoods for billions of people.
After 10 years of talks, however, negotiating countries still haven’t clinched a deal, frustrating activists. A fifth round of talks is scheduled for August in New York.
Greenpeace said words were not enough.
Laura Meller from the environmental group’s Protect the Oceans campaign, said that “if declarations could save the oceans they wouldn’t be on the brink of collapse.”
The crunch will come at next month’s talks, when governments aim to finalize the global ocean treaty that, at a minimum, seeks to ensure the protection of 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030.
“Anything less than that is just not enough,” Meller said.
French President Emmanuel Macron and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres attended part of the conference.
Guterres blamed the “egoism” of some countries for the failure to strike a global oceans agreement so far.
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Follow all of AP’s climate coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/climate | https://www.mrt.com/news/article/UN-talks-urge-faster-steps-to-secure-17279343.php | 2022-07-01T18:20:21Z | https://www.mrt.com/news/article/UN-talks-urge-faster-steps-to-secure-17279343.php | false |
LOCKPORT, N.Y. — Live to be 100 and some things may not last.
"Can you hear her OK, dad?" Bruce Kinyon asked his dad, Roy Kinyon.
"Talk again," Roy Kinyon said.
However, Roy Kinyon's love of baseball has always remained. It's all thanks to his older brother, Ralph.
"He wanted to pitch for the Yankees, so everyday I was out catching them so he could pitch for the Yankees," Roy Kinyon said.
Roy Kinyon, a 100-year-old from Lockport, spent so much time trying to make his brother better that he got better. His high school baseball team won the Niagara Orleans Championship two years in a row before he went off to play with Krull Park in the summer of 1942.
"Right at the end of the season, that's when the Bisons offered him to come up for a tryout," Bruce Kinyon said.
"I said, 'Oh, I'd like it, but I'm going to join the Navy tomorrow,' so I left for the Navy," Roy Kinyon said.
A lifelong dream was abandoned all because Roy Kinyon knew his number would soon be called. In 1945, he was on the frontlines at the Battle of Iwo Jima.
"You don't regret it all?" 2 On Your Side's Danielle Church asked Roy Kinyon.
"Oh no. Do you ever have chills go up your back? On the fifth day, the flag went up. Then the Japanese blew it up. The flag went up a second time, and all the ships around the island blew their horns. That's when I got the chills," Roy Kinyon said.
It was his first thrill. This Independence Day at Sahlen Field will be Roy's next one.
"I'd say it's my second thrill. My second thrill," Roy Kinyon said.
It's when Roy will become a professional baseball player.
"We will give him a one-day contract here. Roy will sign it in front of everyone in the stands before the first pitch," said Brad Bisbing, assistant general manager of the Buffalo Bisons. "He will be able to get his jersey with his name and number on the back, and then be able to do the first pitch."
Roy Kinyon's loved ones will be in the stands.
"There's going to be about 30 of us at the game to support him," Bruce Kinyon said. "We'll all be wearing the Roy Kinyon '100' hats from his birthday party."
The only ones who won't be there, because they passed a while ago, are Roy's brother Ralph and his wife of 65 years, Theresa, a nurse who once took care of him at Buffalo General.
"This one nurse would come give me shots and it wouldn't hurt," Roy Kinyon said. "We married a year later."
This Independence Day, to America, Roy Kinyon will forever be a hero. But in Buffalo, he'll be known for what he's always wanted.
"He'll forever be a Bison," Bisbing said. | https://www.thv11.com/article/sports/baseball/100-year-old-navy-veteran-gets-one-day-contract-with-buffalo-bisons/71-d7806cfc-04ee-4910-ba5f-c2ffd03b924a | 2022-07-01T18:30:47Z | https://www.thv11.com/article/sports/baseball/100-year-old-navy-veteran-gets-one-day-contract-with-buffalo-bisons/71-d7806cfc-04ee-4910-ba5f-c2ffd03b924a | false |
You need to enable JavaScript to run this app. | https://sportspyder.com/mlb/new-york-yankees/articles/39955970 | 2022-07-01T18:31:12Z | https://sportspyder.com/mlb/new-york-yankees/articles/39955970 | false |
DELRAY BEACH, Fla., June 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- On behalf of River Oaks Properties ("River Oaks"), a Texas-based owner-operator of Class-A shopping centers, Pegasus Investments Real Estate Advisory Inc. ("Pegasus") is pleased to announce the recent acquisition of the newly constructed Shop Delray, a 33,000 square foot, open-air neighborhood shopping center in Palm Beach County, Florida. Acquired by River Oaks from Banyan Development for approximately $25.5 million, Shop Delray is a trophy-quality retail asset located at the corner of W Atlantic Avenue and Lyons Road, where West Delray Beach and Boca Raton intersect.
Anchored by Joseph's Classic Market, a family-owned Italian specialty market, Shop Delray is 100% leased to an exciting mix of restaurant, lifestyle, medical service, and retail tenants, including Warren American Whiskey Kitchen, Club Pilates, Nekter, Ripe, and Mattress Xperts. Shop Delray was developed by real estate industry veterans Ross Feurring and Jason Scherr of Boca Raton, Florida-based Banyan Development.
Shop Delray is the second of several recent core retail acquisitions by River Oaks as it continues to roll out its national expansion initiatives. Founded in 1959 by Gerald Rubin, Executive Chairman, and run by its President Adam Frank, River Oaks has developed an extensive portfolio of nearly 200 shopping center and retail assets comprising over 6 million square feet. River Oaks is a long-term, generational holder of real estate and plans to continue its strategy of acquiring trophy quality assets in affluent markets throughout the Southeast and Southwest United States.
"Shop Delray is a great example of the type of real estate we want to continue to acquire, and I am currently focused on finding additional trophy-quality assets for us to add to our portfolio," said Adam Frank, President of River Oaks Properties. "Our competitive advantage is that we use our own equity and can act very quickly when we find a deal we like," Frank continued. "We have decades of experience making prudent, long-term decisions, and we are excited to continue acquiring irreplaceable assets in core, growth markets like South Florida," added Gerald Rubin, Founder and Executive Chairman of River Oaks Properties.
"The acquisition represents an emerging trend in the marketplace whereby private, family office-led capital is making its way into exceptional growth markets throughout the state of Florida," said Daylin Ackerman, Senior Vice President at Pegasus. "Shop Delray is one of the most irreplaceable shopping center assets our firm has ever underwritten. We are thrilled that a high-quality investor like River Oaks was able to capitalize on the property's once-in-a-generation change of ownership," added David B. Chasin, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Pegasus. Shop Delray was sourced and acquired on an off-market basis, according to Chasin, who established a relationship with developers Ross Feurring and Jason Scher of Banyon Development while visiting Shop Delray on a holiday vacation in December 2020.
River Oaks has tapped Pegasus Asset Management Inc., an affiliate of Pegasus, to continue the management of Shop Delray on behalf of River Oaks. "River Oaks is one of the most impressive ownership groups we have worked with, and we are excited to be a part of their team as they continue to grow their national footprint of best-in-class, irreplaceable retail assets," said Seth Bell, Managing Director of Pegasus Asset Management.
Founded in 1959, River Oaks Properties has become one of the largest shopping center developers in the El Paso area. Our strategic investments in rapidly growing, high-traffic areas, commitment to quality construction and proactive style of property management have allowed us to develop an extensive portfolio of more than 200 properties and an unparalleled reputation for excellence. With dedicated teams for construction, accounting, property management and leasing and a comprehensive approach to property development, we've built long-term investments and reliable partnerships with local and national businesses.
Banyan Development is a real estate development company focused on commercial development and real estate investment in the Florida marketplace. The principals have extensive experience in various markets in the US over the last 4 decades and between them have developed over 3 million square feet of retail, office, industrial and residential real estate including Mainstreet @ Boynton, Shop Delray, Lake Worth & Polo Road, University Commons, 2200 Butts, Wellington Green Square and Commons (Wellington, Florida). Banyan Development currently has several retail centers in various stages of development in Florida as well as office, self-storage and mixed-use projects.
The Pegasus platform is comprised of commercial real estate advisory companies Pegasus Investments Real Estate Advisory Inc., Pegasus Asset Management Inc., and Pegasus Capital Markets Inc. Founded in 1988 and having completed several billion dollars in transaction volume, Pegasus' 35 real estate professionals provide boutique advisory solutions with institutional pedigree and best practices. Pegasus provides commercial real estate wealth management and advisory services to a wide range of clients, including family offices, high-net-worth investors, developers, institutions, national retailers, lenders, and real estate professionals in the areas of acquisition, disposition, financing, management, leasing, and development. Pegasus Asset Management has over 200 properties under management across 3 million square feet consisting primarily of high-quality, single- and multi-tenant net leased retail and shopping centers properties. Leveraging its relationships with over 750 tenants within its portfolio, the company delivers custom-tailored, strategic management services to its portfolio of clients which include private and institutional owners of income-producing commercial real estate nationwide.
Press Contact:
Aaron Garcia
Marketing Director
agarcia@pegasusinvestments.com
(310) 691-1350
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SOURCE Pegasus Investments Real Estate Advisory Inc. | https://www.ktre.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/shop-delray-acquired-by-generational-real-estate-investment-company-river-oaks-properties/ | 2022-07-01T18:31:25Z | https://www.ktre.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/shop-delray-acquired-by-generational-real-estate-investment-company-river-oaks-properties/ | true |
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(KDVR) – Imagine leaving your job decades ago, but still getting paid huge sums of money each year.
That’s exactly what life is like for former New York Mets player Bobby Bonilla.
Bonilla retired from Major League Baseball in 2001, but more than 20 years later, the 59-year-old is still banking $1.19 million every July 1 — a day baseball fans refer to as “Bobby Bonilla Day.”
Thanks to an agreement he made with the Mets in 2000, Bonilla earns $1,193,248.20 each year until 2035, when he’ll be 72 years old. That’s more than some of baseball’s young stars will make in a year.
But why do the Mets still pay Bonilla?
In 2000, the Mets agreed to buy out Bonilla’s contract, negotiating to defer payment of the remaining $5.9 million at 8% interest until 2011, at which point he would earn annual installments of nearly $1.2 million each year, ESPN reported. In total, Bonilla will earn $29.8 million by July 1, 2035.
Why would the Mets agree to such a deal? According to ESPN, the then-owners of the team believed their money could be put to better use by investing with Bernie Madoff — for real — and making a profitable annual return which would negate the 8% they promised Bonilla.
The Mets have taken some flak for the infamous deal over the years, but current Mets owner Steven Cohen doesn’t seem too sore about it.
“I hope everybody is enjoying my favorite day of the year, Bobby Bonilla Day,” Cohen tweeted Friday morning.
When Bonilla signed his five-year, $29 million contract with the Mets in 1991, he became the highest-paid National League player at the time. He left the team after the 1995 season but returned in 1999.
Bonilla last played in the majors in 2001, when he signed with the St. Louis Cardinals. Plagued by injuries, he played his final game in October 2001. | https://www.mychamplainvalley.com/news/national-news/its-bobby-bonilla-day-mets-pay-retired-outfielder-1-19m-again-2/ | 2022-07-01T18:35:22Z | https://www.mychamplainvalley.com/news/national-news/its-bobby-bonilla-day-mets-pay-retired-outfielder-1-19m-again-2/ | false |
PARIS (AP) — A European military task force that helped Mali’s government fight Islamic extremists has formally withdrawn from the West African country amid tensions with its ruling military junta.
The French military, which spearheaded the Takuba task force, announced Friday that it officially ended its work Thursday. The move was tied to France’s decision earlier this year to withdraw troops from Mali after nine years helping Malian forces fight violent extremists who had threatened to seize power.
The Takuba force was composed of several hundred special forces troops from 10 countries: Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, and Sweden. It aimed at training and protecting Malian combat forces.
Despite the withdrawal, the French military called the force a “strategic and tactical success” and an example of “what Europeans are able to achieve together in complex security environments,” saying that lessons learned from Takuba could be used in future joint operations.
In announcing its pullout, France accused Mali’s authorities of neglecting the fight against Islamic extremists. France is maintaining a military presence in neighboring West African nations facing threats from extremist violence.
The departure of the European force comes after the U.N. Security Council voted Wednesday to maintain the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Mali, while condemning its military rulers for using mercenaries who are accused of committing human rights and humanitarian violations.
Russia and China abstained from the French-drafted resolution, which extends the mandate of the mission until June 30, 2023, with its current ceiling of 13,289 military personnel and 1,920 international police.
Mali’s junta, which seized power in August 2020, has grown closer to Russia as Moscow has looked to build alliances and gain sway in Africa.
Insurgents remain active in Mali and extremist groups affiliated with al-Qaida and the Islamic State group have moved from the arid north to more populated central Mali, stoking animosity and violence between ethnic groups in the region. | https://www.mychamplainvalley.com/news/world-news/ap-international/european-force-battling-extremists-withdraws-from-mali/ | 2022-07-01T18:36:38Z | https://www.mychamplainvalley.com/news/world-news/ap-international/european-force-battling-extremists-withdraws-from-mali/ | false |
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Police said they are searching for a person in connection to a Friday morning shooting in southwest Little Rock that left one person injured.
According to the Little Rock Police Department, the shooting happened on Baseline Road near Herrick Lane around 11 a.m.
Authorities said the victim in the shooting has been taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. The condition of the victim is not known at this time.
Officials with the LRPD said officers are searching the area of the shooting for a person believed to be involved. The department has not released any information on a possible suspect at this time.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates. | https://www.kark.com/news/police-investigating-midday-shooting-in-southwest-little-rock/ | 2022-07-01T18:38:09Z | https://www.kark.com/news/police-investigating-midday-shooting-in-southwest-little-rock/ | true |
BRAINTREE, Mass. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday afternoon's drawing of the Massachusetts Lottery's "Numbers Midday" game were:
4-6-1-7
(four, six, one, seven)
BRAINTREE, Mass. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday afternoon's drawing of the Massachusetts Lottery's "Numbers Midday" game were:
4-6-1-7
(four, six, one, seven) | https://www.sfchronicle.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Numbers-Midday-game-17279618.php | 2022-07-01T18:48:56Z | https://www.sfchronicle.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Numbers-Midday-game-17279618.php | false |
Stocks edged mostly higher on Wall Street in afternoon trading Friday, regaining some ground after a downbeat start, though the major indexes were still on pace to finish in the red for the week.
The S&P 500 rose 0.3% as of 2:03 p.m. Eastern. The benchmark index had been down 0.9% in the early going. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 95 points, or 0.3%, to 30,870 and the Nasdaq slipped 0.1%.
The latest choppy trading comes a day after the S&P 500 closed out its worst quarter since the onset of the pandemic in early 2020. Its performance in the first half of 2022 was the worst since the first six months of 1970.
The S&P 500 has been in a bear market since last month, meaning an extended decline of 20% or more from its most recent peak. It’s now down 21% from the peak it set at the beginning of this year.
The market’s deep slump this year reflects investors’ anxiety over surging inflation and the possibility that higher interest rates could bring on a recession.
Bond yields fell significantly. The yield on the 10-year Treasury, which helps set mortgage rates, fell to 2.89% from 2.97% last Thursday. The yield on the 2-year Treasury slipped to 2.83% from 2.92%.
The market’s latest gyrations precede a long holiday weekend. Financial markets in the U.S. will be closed on Monday for Independence Day.
Wall Street remains concerned about the risk of a recession as economic growth slows and the Federal Reserve aggressively hikes interest rates. The Fed is raising rates to purposefully slow economic growth to help cool inflation, but could potentially go too far and bring on a recession.
Economic data over the last few weeks has shown that inflation remains hot and the economy is slowing. The latter has raised hopes on Wall Street that the Fed will eventually ease off its aggressive push to raise rates, which have been weighing on stocks, especially pricier sectors like technology. Analysts don’t expect much of a rally for stocks until there are solid signs that inflation is cooling.
The latest economic update on Friday for the manufacturing sector shows a continued slowdown in growth in June that was sharper than economists expected. On Thursday, a report showed that a measure of inflation that is closely tracked by the Fed rose 6.3% in May from a year earlier, unchanged from its level in April.
Earlier this week, a worrisome report showed that consumer confidence slipped to its lowest level in 16 months. The government has also reported that the U.S. economy shrank at an annual rate of 1.6% in the first quarter and weak consumer spending was a key part of that contraction.
Kohl’s dove 16.9% after the department store’s potential sale fell apart amid the shaky retail environment as consumers lose confidence and cut spending. Kohl’s had entered exclusive talks with Franchise Group, the owner of Vitamin Shop and other retail outlets, for a deal that was potentially worth about $8 billion.
Other retailers, restaurant chains and companies that rely on direct consumer spending helped lift the market. Amazon rose 2.2%, Home Depot gained 1.5% and Starbucks rose 3.3%.
Banks also notched gains. Wells Fargo rose 1.2%.
Technology stocks were among the biggest losers. Chipmaker Micron shed 3.9% after giving investors a disappointing profit forecast amid concerns about falling demand. That weighed heavily on other chipmakers. Nvidia fell 4.3%. | https://www.wfla.com/business/ap-business/asian-shares-mostly-lower-after-pessimistic-tankan-survey/ | 2022-07-01T18:50:13Z | https://www.wfla.com/business/ap-business/asian-shares-mostly-lower-after-pessimistic-tankan-survey/ | true |
WFO HOUSTON/GALVESTON Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Friday, July 1, 2022
_____
AREAL FLOOD ADVISORY
Flood Advisory
National Weather Service Houston/Galveston TX
1250 PM CDT Fri Jul 1 2022
...FLOOD ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 145 PM CDT THIS AFTERNOON...
* WHAT...Urban and small stream flooding caused by excessive
rainfall is expected.
* WHERE...In Harris County, Houston near I-10 and the North/East
Loop.
* WHEN...Until 145 PM CDT.
* IMPACTS...Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas.
Ponding of water in urban or other areas is occurring or is
imminent.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...
- At 1250 PM CDT, Doppler radar and automated rain gauges
indicated heavy rain due to thunderstorms. This will cause
urban and small stream flooding. Up to 3 inches of rain have
fallen.
- Additional light rainfall is expected over the area. This
additional rain further slow drainage of earlier heavy rain.
- Some locations that will experience flooding include...
Galena Park, Jacinto City, Greater Fifth Ward, Second Ward,
Near Northside Houston, Downtown Houston, southeastern
Greater Heights, eastern Memorial Park, Pleasantville Area,
Denver Harbor / Port Houston, Settegast, Kashmere Gardens, El
Dorado / Oates Prairie, Houston Gardens, Clinton Park Tri-
Community, Magnolia Park, East Houston, Northshore and
Hunterwood.
- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.
_____
Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | https://www.chron.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-HOUSTON-GALVESTON-Warnings-Watches-and-17279536.php | 2022-07-01T18:50:16Z | https://www.chron.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-HOUSTON-GALVESTON-Warnings-Watches-and-17279536.php | false |
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday afternoon's drawing of the Indiana Lottery's "Daily Three-Midday" game were:
9-1-1, SB: 2
(nine, one, one; SB: two)
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday afternoon's drawing of the Indiana Lottery's "Daily Three-Midday" game were:
9-1-1, SB: 2
(nine, one, one; SB: two) | https://www.ourmidland.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Daily-Three-Midday-game-17279498.php | 2022-07-01T18:51:00Z | https://www.ourmidland.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Daily-Three-Midday-game-17279498.php | true |
FNKO vs. VZIO: Which Stock Should Value Investors Buy Now?
Investors with an interest in Consumer Products - Discretionary stocks have likely encountered both Funko-A (FNKO) and VIZIO Holding Corp. (VZIO). But which of these two stocks offers value investors a better bang for their buck right now? We'll need to take a closer look.
Everyone has their own methods for finding great value opportunities, but our model includes pairing an impressive grade in the Value category of our Style Scores system with a strong Zacks Rank. The proven Zacks Rank emphasizes companies with positive estimate revision trends, and our Style Scores highlight stocks with specific traits.
Funko-A has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy), while VIZIO Holding Corp. has a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold) right now. This means that FNKO's earnings estimate revision activity has been more impressive, so investors should feel comfortable with its improving analyst outlook. However, value investors will care about much more than just this.
Value investors also tend to look at a number of traditional, tried-and-true figures to help them find stocks that they believe are undervalued at their current share price levels.
The Value category of the Style Scores system identifies undervalued companies by looking at a number of key metrics. These include the long-favored P/E ratio, P/S ratio, earnings yield, cash flow per share, and a variety of other fundamentals that help us determine a company's fair value.
FNKO currently has a forward P/E ratio of 12, while VZIO has a forward P/E of 204.60. We also note that FNKO has a PEG ratio of 0.58. This popular metric is similar to the widely-known P/E ratio, with the difference being that the PEG ratio also takes into account the company's expected earnings growth rate. VZIO currently has a PEG ratio of 8.18.
Another notable valuation metric for FNKO is its P/B ratio of 2.77. The P/B ratio is used to compare a stock's market value with its book value, which is defined as total assets minus total liabilities. For comparison, VZIO has a P/B of 4.07.
Based on these metrics and many more, FNKO holds a Value grade of B, while VZIO has a Value grade of C.
FNKO is currently sporting an improving earnings outlook, which makes it stick out in our Zacks Rank model. And, based on the above valuation metrics, we feel that FNKO is likely the superior value option right now.
Zacks Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
It’s a little-known chemical company that’s up 65% over last year, yet still dirt cheap. With unrelenting demand, soaring 2022 earnings estimates, and $1.5 billion for repurchasing shares, retail investors could jump in at any time.
This company could rival or surpass other recent Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Boston Beer Company which shot up +143.0% in little more than 9 months and NVIDIA which boomed +175.9% in one year.
Free: See Our Top Stock and 4 Runners Up >>Click to get this free report
Funko, Inc. (FNKO): Free Stock Analysis Report
VIZIO Holding Corp. (VZIO): Free Stock Analysis Report
To read this article on Zacks.com click here.
Zacks Investment Research
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/fnko-vs.-vzio%3A-which-stock-should-value-investors-buy-now-0 | 2022-07-01T18:53:20Z | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/fnko-vs.-vzio%3A-which-stock-should-value-investors-buy-now-0 | true |
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea suggested Friday its COVID-19 outbreak began in people who had contact with balloons flown from South Korea — a highly questionable claim that appeared to be an attempt to hold its rival responsible amid increasing tensions over its nuclear program.
Activists for years have flown balloons across the border to distribute hundreds of thousands of propaganda leaflets critical of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and North Korea has often expressed fury at the activists and at South Korea’s leadership for not stopping them.
Global health authorities say the coronavirus is spread by people in close contact who inhale airborne droplets and it’s more likely to occur in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces than outdoors. South Korea’s Unification Ministry said there was no chance South Korean balloons might have spread the virus to North Korea.
Ties between the Koreas remain strained amid a long-running stalemate in U.S.-led diplomacy on persuading North Korea to abandon its nuclear ambitions in return for economic and political benefits. South Korean and U.S. officials have recently said North Korea is ready for its first nuclear test in five years amid its torrid run of weapons tests this year.
The state media report said North Korea’s epidemic prevention center had found infection clusters in the town of Ipho near its southeastern border with South Korea and that some Ipho residents with feverish symptoms traveled to Pyongyang. The center said an 18-year-old soldier and a 5-year kindergartener had contact with “alien things” in the town in early April and later tested positive for the omicron variant.
In what it called “an emergency instruction,” the epidemic prevention center ordered officials to “to vigilantly deal with alien things coming by wind and other climate phenomena and balloons” along the inter-Korean border and trace their sources to the last. It also stressed that anyone finding “alien things” must notify authorities immediately so they could be removed.
The reports did not specify what the “alien things” were. But laying the blame on things flown across the border likely is a way to ease public complaints about its handling of the pandemic while repeating its objections to the ballooning activities of North Korean defectors and activists in South Korea, observers say.
Leafletting campaigns were largely halted after South Korea’s previous liberal government passed a law criminalizing them, and there were no public balloon attempts made in early April.
An activist who is standing trial for past activities flew balloons carrying propaganda leaflets across the border in late April after halting them for a year. Park Sang-hak floated balloons twice in June, switching the cargo on those attempts to COVID-19 relief items such as masks and painkillers.
Police are still investigating the recent leafleting activities by the activist, Cha Duck Chul, a deputy spokesperson at the South’s Unification Ministry, told reporters Friday.
Cha also said the consensus among South Korean health officials and World Health Organization experts is that infections via contact with the virus on the surface of materials is virtually impossible.
In its previous dubious statements on COVID-19, North Korea also claimed the virus could spread through falling snow or migratory birds. Its pandemic-related restrictions even included strict bans on entering seawater.
Analyst Cheong Seong-Chang at South Korea’s Sejong Institute said North Korea wants its people to believe the coronavirus originated from leaflets, U.S. dollars or other materials carried across the border by the balloons.
Cheong said North Korea will likely sternly punish anyone taking such South Korean items covertly. He said North Korea could also try to shoot down incoming South Korean balloons, a move that would prompt South Korea to return fire and would sharply escalate animosities between the countries.
North Korea is infuriated by the leafletting campaign because it’s designed to undermine Kim’s authoritarian rule over a population that has little access to outside information. In 2014, North Korea fired at propaganda balloons flying toward its territory and South Korea returned fire, though there were no casualties.
North Korea’s latest announcement on the virus contradicts the outside view that it spread after North Korea briefly reopened its northern border with China to freight traffic in January and it surged further following a military parade and other large-scale events in Pyongyang in April. Some outside experts have accused Kim of being largely responsible for the outbreak because he organized those events to boost public loyalty to the ruling Kim family amid economic hardships.
After maintaining a widely disputed claim to be coronavirus-free for more than two years, North Korea on May 12 admitted to the COVID-19 outbreak, saying an unspecified number of people in Pyongyang were diagnosed with the omicron variant.
North Korea has since reported about 4.7 million fever cases out of its 26 million population but only identified a fraction of them as COVID-19. It says 73 people have died, an extremely low fatality rate. Both figures are believed to be manipulated by North Korea to keep its people vigilant against the virus and prevent any political damage to Kim.
___
Associated Press writer Kim Tong-hyung contributed to this report. | https://www.wfla.com/news/international/ap-international/n-korea-suggests-balloons-flown-from-south-brought-covid-19/ | 2022-07-01T18:53:42Z | https://www.wfla.com/news/international/ap-international/n-korea-suggests-balloons-flown-from-south-brought-covid-19/ | false |
Funny old world: The week's offbeat news
Issued on:
Paris (AFP) – From why we follow our noses to trying to match Putin's pecs. Your weekly roundup of offbeat stories from around the world.
Show him what we've got
World leaders are meant to rise above all this, but the heads of the G7 couldn't resist a pop at Vladimir Putin's penchant for bare-chested he-man photo shoots at their summit in Germany.
Asked if they wanted to take their jackets off for a group photo, Britain's Boris Johnson declared: "We have to show we're tougher than Putin."
"We're going to get the bare-chested horseback riding display," quipped Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
"We've got to show them our pecs," Johnson interjected, raising the stakes, before someone sensibly hustled the leaders out of the room.
With typical disdain, Putin dismissed the barbs: "I don't know if they wanted to undress to the waist or even lower, but anyway, it would have been a disgusting sight."
Beeting up Moscow
Kyiv has declared "victory in the borshch war" after UNESCO put Ukraine's beetroot soup on its list of endangered cultural heritage. Needless to say, it didn't go down well in Moscow.
Several countries including Poland claim the soup as theirs, and Moscow immediately accused Kyiv of appropriation.
"Borshch has no nationality! Just like bread, potatoes and cabbage," an outraged Moscow pensioner told AFP.
"This is xenophobia," Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said, clearly fearful that Chicken Kiev could soon become Chicken Kyiv.
But in time-honoured cloak-and-dagger fashion, Moscow may have pulled off a culinary coup of its own. Surely Russian salad didn't turn up on the menu of the NATO summit in Madrid by accident. Touche!
Nose for friendship
Diplomats attempting to resolve tricky international disputes over soup and the like, please note. Try sniffing each other's armpits.
New research suggests people with similar body odours are more likely to hit it off, seeming to prove "good chemistry" really helps develop friendships.
Israeli scientists used a rigorous set of lab and human sniff tests to show that we are more like dogs -- who "constantly sniff themselves and each other to... decide who is friend or foe" -- than we would like to think.
What's more, the closer people's smell, the more they reported liking and understanding one another.
Not so fast, Elon
Bad news for Elon Musk's plans to colonise Mars. Scientists are warning that even if they get there, astronauts' bone mass could be so diminished by years of weightlessness that they would have difficulty walking on the Red Planet.
- Oh Joe... -
US President Joe Biden briefly set off alarm bells in Moscow when he announced that neutral Switzerland was about to join NATO.
Realising his mistake, Biden -- no stranger to verbal gaffes -- quickly said: "Switzerland, my goodness.
"I'm getting really anxious here about expanding NATO," he joked, before adding "Sweden" for the record.
burs-fg/lcm
© 2022 AFP | https://www.rfi.fr/en/international-news/20220701-funny-old-world-the-week-s-offbeat-news | 2022-07-01T18:54:03Z | https://www.rfi.fr/en/international-news/20220701-funny-old-world-the-week-s-offbeat-news | false |
North Korea suggests balloons flown from South brought COVID-19
SEOUL, South Korea - North Korea suggested Friday its COVID-19 outbreak began in people who had contact with balloons flown from South Korea — a highly questionable claim that appeared to be an attempt to hold its rival responsible amid increasing tensions over its nuclear program.
Activists for years have flown balloons across the border to distribute hundreds of thousands of propaganda leaflets critical of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and North Korea has often expressed fury at the activists and at South Korea’s leadership for not stopping them.
Global health authorities say the coronavirus is spread by people in close contact who inhale airborne droplets and it’s more likely to occur in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces than outdoors. South Korea’s Unification Ministry said there was no chance South Korean balloons might have spread the virus to North Korea.
Ties between the Koreas remain strained amid a long-running stalemate in U.S.-led diplomacy on persuading North Korea to abandon its nuclear ambitions in return for economic and political benefits. South Korean and U.S. officials have recently said North Korea is ready for its first nuclear test in five years amid its torrid run of weapons tests this year.
RELATED: North Korea's latest weapons launch ends in failure, South Korea says
The state media report said North Korea’s epidemic prevention center had found infection clusters in the town of Ipho near its southeastern border with South Korea and that some Ipho residents with feverish symptoms traveled to Pyongyang. The center said an 18-year-old soldier and a 5-year kindergartener had contact with "alien things" in the town in early April and later tested positive for the omicron variant.
In what it called "an emergency instruction," the epidemic prevention center ordered officials to "to vigilantly deal with alien things coming by wind and other climate phenomena and balloons" along the inter-Korean border and trace their sources to the last. It also stressed that anyone finding "alien things" must notify authorities immediately so they could be removed.
The reports did not specify what the "alien things" were. But laying the blame on things flown across the border likely is a way to ease public complaints about its handling of the pandemic while repeating its objections to the ballooning activities of North Korean defectors and activists in South Korea, observers say.
Leafletting campaigns were largely halted after South Korea's previous liberal government passed a law criminalizing them, and there were no public balloon attempts made in early April.
An activist who is standing trial for past activities flew balloons carrying propaganda leaflets across the border in late April after halting them for a year. Park Sang-hak floated balloons twice in June, switching the cargo on those attempts to COVID-19 relief items such as masks and painkillers.
Police are still investigating the recent leafleting activities by the activist, Cha Duck Chul, a deputy spokesperson at the South’s Unification Ministry, told reporters Friday.
Cha also said the consensus among South Korean health officials and World Health Organization experts is that infections via contact with the virus on the surface of materials is virtually impossible.
In its previous dubious statements on COVID-19, North Korea also claimed the virus could spread through falling snow or migratory birds. Its pandemic-related restrictions even included strict bans on entering seawater.
Analyst Cheong Seong-Chang at South Korea’s Sejong Institute said North Korea wants its people to believe the coronavirus originated from leaflets, U.S. dollars or other materials carried across the border by the balloons.
Cheong said North Korea will likely sternly punish anyone taking such South Korean items covertly. He said North Korea could also try to shoot down incoming South Korean balloons, a move that would prompt South Korea to return fire and would sharply escalate animosities between the countries.
North Korea is infuriated by the leafletting campaign because it’s designed to undermine Kim’s authoritarian rule over a population that has little access to outside information. In 2014, North Korea fired at propaganda balloons flying toward its territory and South Korea returned fire, though there were no casualties.
North Korea's latest announcement on the virus contradicts the outside view that it spread after North Korea briefly reopened its northern border with China to freight traffic in January and it surged further following a military parade and other large-scale events in Pyongyang in April. Some outside experts have accused Kim of being largely responsible for the outbreak because he organized those events to boost public loyalty to the ruling Kim family amid economic hardships.
After maintaining a widely disputed claim to be coronavirus-free for more than two years, North Korea on May 12 admitted to the COVID-19 outbreak, saying an unspecified number of people in Pyongyang were diagnosed with the omicron variant.
FILE IMAGE - This general view shows the empty streets near the Pyongyang Railway Station as people stay away due to a lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19 in Pyongyang, North Korea, on May 27, 2022. (Photo by KIM WON JIN/AFP via Getty Images)
North Korea has since reported about 4.7 million fever cases out of its 26 million population but only identified a fraction of them as COVID-19. It says 73 people have died, an extremely low fatality rate. Both figures are believed to be manipulated by North Korea to keep its people vigilant against the virus and prevent any political damage to Kim.
RELATED: US to establish permanent military base in Poland
___
Associated Press writer Kim Tong-hyung contributed to this report. | https://www.fox29.com/news/north-korea-suggests-balloons-flown-from-south-brought-covid-19 | 2022-07-01T18:55:00Z | https://www.fox29.com/news/north-korea-suggests-balloons-flown-from-south-brought-covid-19 | true |
CHICAGO, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Hirzel Law, PLC, is pleased to announce the launch of its fourth office location in Chicago, Illinois. Hirzel Law presently represents hundreds of community association and real estate clients in Michigan and Illinois. The new location strengthens Hirzel Law's Midwestern presence as a leader in homeowners association and real estate law. "We are excited about our expansion into Chicago and the opportunity it presents for the continued growth of our law firm," said Managing Member, Kevin Hirzel.
"The Chicago office location will help better serve our Illinois HOA and real estate clients," said Hirzel. The idea for the Chicago office came about when Member Adam Toosley, who has managed over 2000 litigation cases in the past 20 years as an Illinois attorney, joined the firm last year. The firm is also pleased to announce that Michael Shifrin, an experienced Illinois community association and real estate attorney, will also be joining Hirzel Law as of-counsel. "Hirzel Law is looking forward to serving the demand that is needed for condominium associations, homeowners associations, and other real estate clients in the Chicago market," said Hirzel.
"All of us at Hirzel Law are passionate in our commitment to providing peace of mind to our clients." As part of our ongoing commitment to educating our clients to set them up for success, Hirzel Law has also launched The Illinois Condo and HOA Law blog, which has various articles on hot topics in the condominium and HOA industry.
Hirzel Law, PLC is an award-winning and responsive law firm that focuses on condominium, HOA, and real estate law. Kevin Hirzel has been interviewed on community association and real estate issues by various national media outlets, such as CBS, CNBC, Dan Abrams Live, Dr. Drew Midday Live, Fox Business News, Fox News, Newsmax, and the Wall Street Journal. The attorneys at Hirzel Law, PLC have received numerous recognitions from Best Lawyers, the Community Association Institute's College of Community Association Lawyers, Leading Lawyers, and Super Lawyers. Hirzel Law was founded in 2018 and is headquartered in Farmington, Michigan, while also maintaining offices in Grand Rapids, Michigan and Traverse City, Michigan.
Contact Hirzel Law online or call the new Chicago, Illinois office at (312) 646-2770 to learn how our condominium, HOA, and real estate attorneys can assist with your Illinois community association or real estate matters.
Hirzel Law, PLC is an award-winning law firm with offices in Chicago, Farmington, Grand Rapids, and Traverse City. Hirzel Law, PLC represents condominium associations, homeowners associations, and summer resorts throughout Michigan and Illinois. The firm also represents individual and corporate clients in various real estate matters.
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SOURCE Hirzel Law, PLC | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/hirzel-law-plc-opens-chicago-office-serve-illinois-condominium-associations-homeowners-associations-real-estate-law-clients/ | 2022-07-01T18:55:02Z | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/hirzel-law-plc-opens-chicago-office-serve-illinois-condominium-associations-homeowners-associations-real-estate-law-clients/ | false |
BOISE, Idaho (AP) — In Arizona, Republicans are fighting among themselves over whether a 121-year-old anti-abortion law from the pre-statehood Wild West days, when Arizona was still a frontier mining territory, should be enforced over a 2022 version.
In Idaho, meanwhile, it is not clear whether a pair of laws from the early 1970s making it a felony to “knowingly aid” in an abortion or to publish information about how to induce one will be enforced alongside the state’s newer, near-total ban.
The U.S. Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade has advocates, prosecutors and residents of red states facing a legal morass created by decades of often conflicting anti-abortion legislation.
Politicians and state government attorneys are trying to sort out which laws and which provisions are in force. And abortion rights advocates who are going to court to protect the right to terminate a pregnancy are finding themselves doing battle on multiple fronts.
Lawyers in Idaho Attorney General Lawrence Wasden’s office are going through all the state’s abortion statutes with a fine-tooth comb, said Wasden spokesman Scott Graf.
“Following last week’s decision, part of our subsequent work is to now review Idaho’s existing abortion-related laws and examine them through a post-Roe legal lens,” Graf said. “That work has commenced and will continue in the weeks ahead.”
In West Virginia, the American Civil Liberties Union has filed a lawsuit challenging an abortion ban that was put on the books in 1882. The organization says the law conflicts with newer ones and so should be void.
“We will not stand by while this state is dragged back to the 1800s,” the organization’s legal director, Loree Stark, said in a statement. “Every day that uncertainty remains about the enforceability of this statute is another day that West Virginians are being denied critical, lifesaving health care.”
In Wisconsin, Attorney General Josh Kaul filed a lawsuit Tuesday challenging a 173-year-old abortion ban, arguing that modern generations never consented to it. The 1849 law prohibits abortion in every instance except to save the pregnant person’s life — conflicting with Wisconsin laws from the mid-1980s that ban the procedure after a fetus reaches the point that it could survive outside the womb with medical intervention.
Arizona GOP officials disagree over which abortion laws are enforceable. Attorney General Mark Brnovich announced Wednesday that a pre-statehood law banning all abortions is now enforceable, but Republican Gov. Doug Ducey has said a law he signed in March takes precedence over the 1901 ban.
When the Idaho Legislature passed a “trigger law” in 2020 that would automatically prohibit nearly all abortions 30 days after the fall of Roe, lawmakers took some steps to avoid conflicts by making it clear that the law would supersede other bans. Lawmakers put similar language in another ban passed earlier this year, saying the 2020 law would take precedence.
But they may have overlooked a few clauses in the decades-old statutes.
The 2020 trigger law says specifically that the person seeking the abortion can’t be charged with a crime, instead focusing prosecution efforts on the abortion provider. That would seem to override a 1973 law that makes it a felony for a person to undergo an abortion, but it’s not clear if another portion of the older law making it a felony to knowingly aid in an abortion could still be enforceable.
“It’s hard to see how much of it survives, because of all the conflicts,” Twin Falls County prosecutor Grant Loebs said of the nearly three dozen anti-abortion laws on the books in Idaho.
It will be up to individual county prosecutors, at first, to decide how to proceed, said Loebs, who is also president of the Idaho Prosecuting Attorneys Association. From there, judges will figure it out.
Ultimately, he expects Idaho legislators will have a lot of fine-tuning to do in the years ahead.
“I think every state doing this is going to have the same problems,” Loebs said.
It all means a lot of juggling for abortion rights advocates.
Planned Parenthood is suing over both of Idaho’s newer laws. It has asked the Idaho Supreme Court to hear arguments in both cases on the same day in early August in hopes of getting a ruling before the trigger law takes effect. | https://www.wdtn.com/news/ap-top-headlines/post-roe-states-struggle-with-conflicting-abortion-bans/ | 2022-07-01T18:56:07Z | https://www.wdtn.com/news/ap-top-headlines/post-roe-states-struggle-with-conflicting-abortion-bans/ | false |
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — A West Virginia man has been arrested for allegedly making bomb threats that forced the evacuation of a posh resort, state police said Friday.
Joseph Toler, 62, of Danville, was arrested Thursday on three counts each of terroristic threats and false reporting of an emergency incident.
A caller to the Summers County 911 center last Saturday reported that bombs had been placed at The Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs and at a retirement home in Charleston. Law enforcement evacuated and searched both locations. No explosive devices were found, state police said in a statement.
Toler was being held on $75,000 bond at the South Central Regional Jail pending arraignment. Jail records didn’t indicate whether Toler has an attorney who could speak on his behalf. | https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/WVa-man-accused-of-threats-to-posh-resort-17279627.php | 2022-07-01T18:58:23Z | https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/WVa-man-accused-of-threats-to-posh-resort-17279627.php | true |
LONDON (AP) — WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has appealed the British’s government decision to order his extradition to the U.S.
The appeal was filed Friday at the High Court. It's the latest twist in a decade-long legal saga sparked by his website’s publication of classified U.S. documents.
Assange’s supporters staged protests before his 51st birthday on Saturday. His wife Stella Assange was among people who gathered outside the Home Office on Friday to call for his release from prison.
Assange has been serving time in a British prison since 2019 when he was removed from the Ecuadorian embassy in London.
Julian Assange has battled in British courts for years to avoid being sent to the U.S., where he faces 17 charges of espionage and one charge of computer misuse. | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/julian-assange-appeals-to-uk-court-against-extradition-to-us | 2022-07-01T18:59:06Z | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/julian-assange-appeals-to-uk-court-against-extradition-to-us | true |
HARWINTON, Conn. (AP) — Wildlife biologists in Connecticut had to rescue a bear cub that got its head stuck in a plastic container, state wildlife officials said.
The misadventure happened June 23 when a mother bear with three cubs knocked over a garbage can in the town of Harwinton in Litchfield County, and one of the cubs stuck its head in a clear plastic jar that had spilled out.
“Given the warm weather and tight fit of the container, it was important to try and free the cub quickly,” the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s Fish and Wildlife Division posted on Facebook.
Wildlife biologists waited for the cub to come down from the tree it was perched in and then tranquilized it and removed the container.
The bear was unhurt and quickly found its mother waiting nearby, the wildlife officials said.
DEEP spokesperson Will Healey said the incident shows why residents should make sure their garbage is property disposed of and secured. “We all need to do our part to keep bears and other wildlife safe and wild,” he said. | https://www.wfla.com/strange/ap-strange-news/bear-cub-rescued-after-getting-head-stuck-in-plastic-jug/ | 2022-07-01T18:59:11Z | https://www.wfla.com/strange/ap-strange-news/bear-cub-rescued-after-getting-head-stuck-in-plastic-jug/ | true |
BOISE, Idaho (AP) — In Arizona, Republicans are fighting among themselves over whether a 121-year-old anti-abortion law from the pre-statehood Wild West days, when Arizona was still a frontier mining territory, should be enforced over a 2022 version.
In Idaho, meanwhile, it is not clear whether a pair of laws from the early 1970s making it a felony to “knowingly aid” in an abortion or to publish information about how to induce one will be enforced alongside the state’s newer, near-total ban.
The U.S. Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade has advocates, prosecutors and residents of red states facing a legal morass created by decades of often conflicting anti-abortion legislation.
Politicians and state government attorneys are trying to sort out which laws and which provisions are in force. And abortion rights advocates who are going to court to protect the right to terminate a pregnancy are finding themselves doing battle on multiple fronts.
Lawyers in Idaho Attorney General Lawrence Wasden’s office are going through all the state’s abortion statutes with a fine-tooth comb, said Wasden spokesman Scott Graf.
“Following last week’s decision, part of our subsequent work is to now review Idaho’s existing abortion-related laws and examine them through a post-Roe legal lens,” Graf said. “That work has commenced and will continue in the weeks ahead.”
In West Virginia, the American Civil Liberties Union has filed a lawsuit challenging an abortion ban that was put on the books in 1882. The organization says the law conflicts with newer ones and so should be void.
“We will not stand by while this state is dragged back to the 1800s,” the organization’s legal director, Loree Stark, said in a statement. “Every day that uncertainty remains about the enforceability of this statute is another day that West Virginians are being denied critical, lifesaving health care.”
In Wisconsin, Attorney General Josh Kaul filed a lawsuit Tuesday challenging a 173-year-old abortion ban, arguing that modern generations never consented to it. The 1849 law prohibits abortion in every instance except to save the pregnant person’s life — conflicting with Wisconsin laws from the mid-1980s that ban the procedure after a fetus reaches the point that it could survive outside the womb with medical intervention.
Arizona GOP officials disagree over which abortion laws are enforceable. Attorney General Mark Brnovich announced Wednesday that a pre-statehood law banning all abortions is now enforceable, but Republican Gov. Doug Ducey has said a law he signed in March takes precedence over the 1901 ban.
When the Idaho Legislature passed a “trigger law” in 2020 that would automatically prohibit nearly all abortions 30 days after the fall of Roe, lawmakers took some steps to avoid conflicts by making it clear that the law would supersede other bans. Lawmakers put similar language in another ban passed earlier this year, saying the 2020 law would take precedence.
But they may have overlooked a few clauses in the decades-old statutes.
The 2020 trigger law says specifically that the person seeking the abortion can’t be charged with a crime, instead focusing prosecution efforts on the abortion provider. That would seem to override a 1973 law that makes it a felony for a person to undergo an abortion, but it’s not clear if another portion of the older law making it a felony to knowingly aid in an abortion could still be enforceable.
“It’s hard to see how much of it survives, because of all the conflicts,” Twin Falls County prosecutor Grant Loebs said of the nearly three dozen anti-abortion laws on the books in Idaho.
It will be up to individual county prosecutors, at first, to decide how to proceed, said Loebs, who is also president of the Idaho Prosecuting Attorneys Association. From there, judges will figure it out.
Ultimately, he expects Idaho legislators will have a lot of fine-tuning to do in the years ahead.
“I think every state doing this is going to have the same problems,” Loebs said.
It all means a lot of juggling for abortion rights advocates.
Planned Parenthood is suing over both of Idaho’s newer laws. It has asked the Idaho Supreme Court to hear arguments in both cases on the same day in early August in hopes of getting a ruling before the trigger law takes effect. | https://www.wfla.com/top-stories/ap-top-headlines/post-roe-states-struggle-with-conflicting-abortion-bans/ | 2022-07-01T18:59:38Z | https://www.wfla.com/top-stories/ap-top-headlines/post-roe-states-struggle-with-conflicting-abortion-bans/ | false |
LUXEMBURG, Wis. (WFRV) – Four men were arrested in Luxemburg after trying to cash fraudulent checks at two different banks.
According to a release, on June 29, officers received a call about a man attempting to cash a fraudulent check at the Bank of Luxemburg-Dykesville location, but he was gone before officers arrived.
Shortly after, the Bank of Luxemburg-Casco called stating that the same man was now at their location. The release states that after he left, he was picked up by three other people waiting in an SUV down the road.
The Kewaunee County Sheriff’s Department, with help from a Wisconsin State Patrol officer, pulled the vehicle over and placed the four men under arrest for Uttering a Forged Writing.
Officers say that an investigation involving the four men had been ongoing at the time, making attempts like this at several locations across Wisconsin over the past two weeks.
The men were placed under arrest and charged with the following:
- Raymond Crowe: Age 63 – Green Bay, WI
- Uttering a forged writing (check)
- Laquentin Kerbo: Age 30 – Hampton, GA
- Uttering a forged writing (check) Party to a Crime
- OWI
- Full extradition warrant out of Atlanta, GA
- Dennis Nelson: Age 30 – Atlanta, GA
- Uttering a forged writing (check) Party to a Crime
- Terrance Austin: Age 34 – Hampton, GA
- Uttering a forged writing (check) Party to a Crime
Local 5 will update this story if more information becomes available. | https://www.wearegreenbay.com/news/local-news/four-men-arrested-in-kewaunee-co-for-attempting-to-cash-fraudulent-checks-at-multiple-banks/ | 2022-07-01T19:01:35Z | https://www.wearegreenbay.com/news/local-news/four-men-arrested-in-kewaunee-co-for-attempting-to-cash-fraudulent-checks-at-multiple-banks/ | false |
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ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (AP) — Atlantic City's largest casino employer said Friday a new contract it reached with the city's main employee union provides for “historic” raises.
Caesars Entertainment owns a third of Atlantic City's nine casinos: Caesars, Harrah's and Tropicana.
It reached an agreement late Thursday night with Local 54 of the Unite Here union on a tentative deal to avoid a strike that had been threatened for the July Fourth weekend, traditionally one of the busiest times of the year for the casinos. (The Borgata also reached a deal earlier Thursday.)
In a statement issued Friday, Caesar Entertainment said it has operated in Atlantic City for over 40 years “with an unwavering commitment to the community and its residents.”
“Under the proposed agreement, our 3,500 Unite Here team members will see historic wage increases and evidence that they are heard, that when issues arise, they are taken seriously and addressed,” it said.
“The Fourth of July holiday weekend historically marks the beginning of our busiest season,” the company said. “We are optimistic, knowing we go into it with a landmark agreement clearly demonstrating our commitment to reinvest in our valued team members and ensuring we are poised to deliver extraordinary service and experiences for the 2022 summer season.”
Terms of the deal were not released; union president Bob McDevitt said the details need to be presented to workers for a ratification vote before being announced. He also said he did not want to prejudice talks with Hard Rock, which still faces a 12:01 a.m. Sunday strike deadline if a new pact is not reached before then.
But McDevitt told The Associated Press Thursday night that the deal is “the best contract we've ever had.”
The union said it was seeking “significant” wage increases in a new contract to help workers keep pace with rapidly rising prices for gasoline, food, rent and other expenses, as well as to compensate them for helping the casinos get through the worst of the coronavirus pandemic.
___
Follow Wayne Parry on Twitter at www.twitter.com/WayneParryAC | https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/Caesars-Atlantic-City-casino-pact-grants-17279567.php | 2022-07-01T19:03:31Z | https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/Caesars-Atlantic-City-casino-pact-grants-17279567.php | true |
Carnivorous plant that traps prey underground is the 1st of its kind to be discovered
Scientists have discovered a carnivorous plant that grows prey-trapping contraptions underground, feeding off subterranean creatures such as worms, larvae and beetles.
The newly found species of pitcher plant was unearthed in the Indonesian province of North Kalimantan, on the island of Borneo. Like other pitcher plants, Nepenthes pudica has modified leaves, known as pitfall traps or pitchers, that its prey fall into before being consumed. (One species is so large it can trap rats.)
No other species of pitcher plant known to science catches its prey underground.
The plant forms specialized underground shoots with small, white, chlorophyll-free leaves, the researchers said. The pitchers are much larger than the leaves and have a reddish color.
"This species places its up-to-11-cm-long (4.3-inch-long) pitchers underground, where they are formed in cavities or directly in the soil and trap animals living underground, usually ants, mites and beetles," said lead study author Martin Dančák of Palacký University Olomouc, Czech Republic, in a news release.
Only three other groups of carnivorous plants are known to trap underground prey, but they all use very different trapping mechanisms and, unlike Nepenthes pudica, can catch only minuscule organisms, the researchers said.
"Interestingly, we found numerous organisms living inside the pitchers, including mosquito larvae, nematodes and a species of worm, which was also described as a new species," said Václav Čermák of Mendel University in Brno, Czech Republic, who was also part of the research team.
Luck played a role in its discovery. The scientists noticed plants on the mountain they were exploring that very closely resembled Nepenthes but produced no pitchers. An initial search showed a deformed pitcher protruding from the soil.
"At first, we thought it was an accidentally buried pitcher and that local environmental conditions had caused the lack of other pitchers," said Ľuboš Majeský of Palacký University Olomouc, who was part of the research team.
"Still, as we continued to find other pitcherless plants along the ascent to the summit, we wondered if a species of pitcher plant might have evolved towards loss of carnivory, as seen in some other carnivorous plants."
But then, when taking photos, Majeský said he tore a moss cushion from a tree base; revealing a bunch of pitchers with a rich maroon hue.
This discovery is important for nature conservation in Indonesian Borneo, which is a biodiversity hotspot.
"We hope that the discovery of this unique carnivorous plant might help protect Bornean rainforests, especially prevent or at least slow the conversion of pristine forests into oil palm plantations," said Wewin Tjiasmanto of Indonesian conservation group Yayasan Konservasi Biota Lahan Basah in Surabaya, who helped discover the new species.
The research published in the journal PhytoKeys. | https://www.koat.com/article/carnivorous-plant-1st-of-its-kind-discovered/40484480 | 2022-07-01T19:04:38Z | https://www.koat.com/article/carnivorous-plant-1st-of-its-kind-discovered/40484480 | true |
CAMDEN, N.J., July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) today reported 43,175 vehicle sales for June 2022, a 0.7 percent increase compared with June 2021 (42,877). The automaker also reported year-to-date sales of 263,795, a 17.9 percent decrease compared with the same period in 2021. Subaru continues to face inventory challenges as the result of microchip and supply chain issues affecting automakers across the globe.
"As we close the first half of 2022, we need to thank our retailers for their industry leading sales efficiency," said Thomas J. Doll, President and CEO of Subaru of America, Inc. "We are looking forward to the second half of 2022 and are confident our retailers will continue providing an industry leading experience to our customers."
In June, Outback was a top performer by volume with 13,135 sales. Crosstrek sales for June 2022 increased 66.4 percent, while Impreza saw a 28.2 percent increase compared to June 2021. For the first half of the year, the BRZ sports car posted a 130.7 percent increase, while both Crosstrek and Ascent carlines posted an increase of nine percent compared to Q2 2021.
"Our priority for the second half of the year is to continue navigating supply chain challenges to best meet the strong demand for Subaru vehicles," said Jeff Walters, Senior Vice President of Sales. "As the summer travel season is in full swing, we continue to see a desire for our adventure-friendly vehicles including the Outback, Ascent and Forester."
Also in June, SOA released its fourth annual Corporate Impact Report, showcasing the automaker's commitment to being More Than a Car Company® in the 2021 calendar year. Additionally, SOA announced it was named a 2022 Civic 50 Honoree for the second year in a row by Points of Light, the world's largest organization dedicated to volunteer service.
Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Subaru Corporation of Japan. Headquartered at a zero-landfill office in Camden, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 630 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. is the only U.S. automobile manufacturing plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. SOA is guided by the Subaru Love Promise, which is the company's vision to show love and respect to everyone, and to support its communities and customers nationwide. Over the past 20 years, SOA and the SOA Foundation have donated more than $270 million to causes the Subaru family cares about, and its employees have logged nearly 78,000 volunteer hours. As a company, Subaru believes it is important to do its part in making a positive impact in the world because it is the right thing to do. For additional information visit media.subaru.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Dominick Infante
Director, Corporate Communications
(856) 488-8615
dinfante@subaru.com
Diane Anton
Corporate Communications Manager
(856) 488-5093
danton@subaru.com
Jessica Caufield
Corporate Communications Specialist
(856) 488-3173
jcaufi@subaru.com
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SOURCE Subaru of America, Inc. | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/subaru-america-inc-reports-june-q2-2022-sales/ | 2022-07-01T19:05:03Z | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/subaru-america-inc-reports-june-q2-2022-sales/ | true |
It may be time to get a little less defensive and shift toward buying some crushed stocks as recession fears intensify, according to Andrew Slimmon, an equity portfolio manager at Morgan Stanley Investment Management.
“We are gradually reducing our defensive exposure, and we are gradually buying some of these consumer discretionary stocks that are down” 50% or 60%, Slimmon said by phone. He said that he’s also “gradually” trimming energy exposure after the sector’s strong gains this year.
A defensive position heading into 2022, with “heavy exposure” to areas such as staples, utilities and healthcare, has worked relatively well in this year’s slump, said Slimmon. But once a market view emerges that the Federal Reserve is mostly through raising interest rates in its effort to battle inflation, “that positioning is not going to work.”
In Slimmon’s view, the market will bottom when investors think inflation has peaked and the Fed is mostly done hiking its benchmark rate. Last week, San Francisco Federal Reserve President Mary Daly signaled her support for another big rate increase in July to help curb the surge in the cost of living in the U.S.
The S&P 500
SPX,
The Dow Jones Industrial Average
DJIA,
“We’re just not through the downside of this yet,” he said. “I think we’re getting close.”
U.S. stocks were trading modestly lower in early afternoon Friday, with the S&P 500 down 0.1%, the Dow falling around 0.2% and the Nasdaq off about 0.3%, according to FactSet data, at last check.
“Areas that have been clobbered, like consumer discretionary stocks,” will at some point see a “huge recovery,” Slimmon said.
The S&P 500’s consumer discretionary sector
SP500.25,
That’s partly because people made a lot of home-related purchases earlier in the pandemic, and they’re now spending their money on travel instead, according to Slimmon. Plus, mortgage rates are going up, making it more difficult to purchase homes. It’s “a triple whammy of bad news,” he said.
Shares of the SPDR S&P Homebuilders ETF
XHB,
Weakness is the stock market has rotated from concerns about price-to-earnings ratios being too high in the face of rising rates, to worries that the U.S. may be in or nearing a recession, according to Slimmon. Investors now worry that stocks are vulnerable to company earnings estimates being revised lower, he said.
The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s “GDPNow” tracker estimates that the U.S. economy shrank 1% in the second quarter, according to a June 30 report from the Atlanta Fed.
But Slimmon expects that a recession would be “short and shallow,” citing strong corporate balance sheets. If that’s the case, he said, then it’s time to consider which stocks to buy that stand to participate “more in the upside.”
It’s very hard to pick a bottom with stocks beaten down so much, but when they turn, “they can go up a lot,” he said. By contrast, he’s wary of demand destruction in the energy sector, which ended the first half of this year with double digit gains.
The S&P 500’s energy sector
SP500.10,
“The time to buy energy was a year and a half ago,” said Slimmon. “I own energy stocks, but we’re trimming into strength.” | https://www.marketwatch.com/story/why-this-morgan-stanley-portfolio-manager-is-gradually-getting-less-defensive-in-stocks-as-recession-fears-rise-11656693290 | 2022-07-01T19:05:10Z | https://www.marketwatch.com/story/why-this-morgan-stanley-portfolio-manager-is-gradually-getting-less-defensive-in-stocks-as-recession-fears-rise-11656693290 | false |
NEW YORK, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --
WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues to investigate potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE: SCHW) resulting from allegations that Schwab may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.
SO WHAT: If you purchased Schwab securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=6945 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.
WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On July 1, 2021, Schwab disclosed that the Company had been "responding to an investigation by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) arising from a compliance examination." The investigation primarily concerned "historic disclosures related to the Schwab Intelligent Portfolios® (SIP) digital advisory solution." Schwab further disclosed its "second quarter 2021 financial results will include a liability and related non-deductible charge of $200 million."
On this news, Schwab's share price dropped $0.77 per share, or approximately 1%, to close at $72.80 on July 2, 2021.
On June 13, 2022, the SEC announced that it "charged three Charles Schwab investment adviser subsidiaries" who "agreed to pay $187 million to harmed clients to settle the charges." The SEC charged Schwab with misleading investors that used its robo-adviser product, Schwab Intelligent Portfolios. Instead of the touted "disciplined portfolio construction methodology" that sought "optimal return[s]", Schwab's "own data showed that under most market conditions, the cash in the portfolios would cause clients to make less money even while taking on the same amount of risk."
On this news, Schwab's share price dropped $1.98 per share, or approximately 3%, to close on June 13, 2022 at $60.24.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
Fax: (212) 202-3827
lrosen@rosenlegal.com
pkim@rosenlegal.com
cases@rosenlegal.com
www.rosenlegal.com
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SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A. | https://www.kait8.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/rosen-respected-investor-counsel-encourages-charles-schwab-corporation-investors-inquire-about-securities-class-action-investigation-schw/ | 2022-07-01T19:05:24Z | https://www.kait8.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/rosen-respected-investor-counsel-encourages-charles-schwab-corporation-investors-inquire-about-securities-class-action-investigation-schw/ | false |
MONACO, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The 19th Ritossa Family Office Investment Summit, held under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, brought together dignitaries of the world's leading families this week to discuss how to invest for a better future.
Global leaders, entrepreneurs, prestigious family offices, private investors, Sheikhs, royal families, and leading businesses from 55+ countries representing more than $4.5 trillion convened with a powerful sense of purpose. The closed-door event's theme "Connecting Minds & Investing for a Better Future" featured discussion and debate regarding how to make our world a better place. Previous Summits have raised $2.8US billion in investments for leading global start-ups, entrepreneurs, funds, and philanthropic endeavors and early indications are that the Monaco event will be a similar great success.
"Global family offices are committed to investing for the greater good of mankind and believe that those who wield economic power must do everything within their power to serve as a pioneering global forum for action. I'm incredibly grateful that the Summit was held under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco and deeply appreciate H.R.H. Prince Michel de Yougoslavie, H.R.H. Prince AbdulAziz Bin Faisal AlSaud, and our Summit Chairman - Markus Lehner, as well as every member of our "family of family offices," and all the entrepreneurs who attended and contributed thought leadership insights," said Sir Anthony Ritossa, Chairman of Ritossa Family Office & Host of Ritossa Global Family Office Investment Summits, UAE.
"It is an honour and a pleasure to be the 19th Ritossa Family Office Investment Summit Grand Ambassador in Monaco. I have taken part in many events in the past years and have always been amazed at the quality of the participants and at the wealth of information that was circulated," said H.R.H. Prince Michel de Yougoslavie, Grandson of King Umberto of Italy and Prince Paul of Yugoslavia, Monaco.
"Recent times have changed everyone's life faster than ever before because our world has changed from one moment to another. Sir Anthony is guiding his family office conferences best through these times, and that's why they are the world's No 1. summits in all aspects. Therefore, I was even more delighted to serve again as the Chairman of the 19th Ritossa Family Office Investment Summit in Monaco," said Markus Lehner, Chairman of the 19th Ritossa Family Office Investment Summit, Principal of the Markus Lehner Organisation, and Founder of Lehner Investments, Monaco.
Key discussion points at the Summit included:
Monaco's Unique Economy with a Focus on its World-Famous Financial Marketplace
Under the expert leadership of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II, Monaco is thriving as an international financial marketplace with strong credit dynamics, new regulations for residency, and an efficient platform for estate planning. Among its advantages are its lack of debt, balanced budget, favorable tax structures, popularity for entrepreneurs, strong private banks, and support of family offices.
Fighting our Climate Crisis, Today
As part of the quest to make the world a better place and an ocean that's part of the planet we call home, there are new commercially viable processes for the cultivation of micro algae for biofuels and related carbon credits. Its goal is to make net-zero emissions goals a reality and it has the partnerships in place to drive change at a rapid pace.
Family Office Investor Insights
When investing in today's dynamic environment, attendees agreed that it's important to be able to navigate the political climate. We are deep into a geopolitical recession which will last longer than an economic recession. Although we are on an unavoidable path, there are significant investment opportunities that hold the promise of outsized future returns, including areas such as technology. Additionally, infrastructure is a hedge against inflation, Being nimble is essential since markets have a short memory and what is happening now is what matters.
Investment Strategies in the Web 3.0 Era
The time now to invest in the next generation of cryptocurrency and its long-term benefits are evident across many industries, including real estate, gaming, healthcare, among others. The combined valuation of cryptocurrencies has reached US$3.2T but many coins are volatile and are not backed by assets. Unicoin is a next generation of cryptocurrency that is dividend paying and asset backed. Blockchain is equalizing the world in that it can be used to help humanity. Ultimately, finance is about trust.
Legacy & Socially Responsible Investing
Family offices must align their investments with their values. Investing in impactful start-ups that help improve lives is important as is taking into consideration the United Nations Sustainability Goals. We all have choices to make and possess the ability to have a positive impact at some level. Projects related to water desalinization, renewable energy, sustainable housing, and climate change are examples where investment dollars have a needed impact.
AI & Machine Learning
The U.S. leads China in areas such as enterprise software but China remains ahead in speech recognition and industrial robots. A cornerstone of artificial intelligence is the fact that the more intelligent you are the better you can make decisions. AI can write rules that represent the truth. AI makes life easier and facilitates humanity. It is faster and enables us to identify the best way to do things across industries – at fraction of a second.
Family Offices – The Eternal Flame
Challenges may arise when family members do not see eye-to-eye yet certain truths remain the same throughout the years. Human capital lasts over generations and education is critical. We must give the next generation responsibility and let them earn and build wealth independently. Leading family offices stress the importance of investing in education for the next generation. Ambition, leadership, governance, and discipline are critical to success. It's important to be flexible, take a long-term view, understand what you're investing in, have a vision, and invest in great founders dedicated to building their business.
How Champions, Invest Like Champions
An Ultra Exclusive Fireside Chat entitled "How Champions, Invest Like Champions" featured racing legends Mika Hakkinen (The Flying Finn), a 2-Time F1 Champion from Finland; Juan Pablo Montoya (JPM), a F1 Legend from Colombia; and Sebastian Montoya, a Rising Star, FREC from Colombia. Among the areas in which they're investing are the metaverse, online gaming, and cryptocurrency. In all aspects of life, they embrace the concept of teamwork, looking at the world in new ways, learning, and understanding. Importantly, F1 is seeking to make next generation drivers carbon neutral.
Spotlight on Iconic Global Family Office Investors & Co-Investments
Leading families believe in following smart investors and view relationships as important. Focus areas for investment include biotech, fintech, space, India-only, logistics, funds such as activist strategies, and secondaries. Patience is key, a long-term horizon is advisable, and innovative thinking is a trademark of a great manager. Because family offices have on-the-ground, local knowledge, they are valuable in terms of presenting opportunities. It's best to seek partnerships with those you have synergy with and who have skin in the game as an investor. Trust is a Number One priority.
Increased Giving for a Better Tomorrow
Trends include family offices' tireless generosity in challenging times, increased sophistication, and the next generation leading the way. Areas of giving include children, healthcare, women's empowerment, sustainable economy, economic development, education, refugee support, and foster homes. Families agree that philanthropy is a privilege and not an obligation. We must be careful to use philanthropy to create a better community. While historically there was separation between business and philanthropy, we no longer need to make a choice as the two intersect. Today, it is possible to be economically profitable while making a difference.
For more details on upcoming invitation-only Global Family Office Investment Summits, please visit www.RitossaFamilySummits.com
Media Contact:
Charlotte Luer
+1-239-404-6785
charlotte@ritossafamilyoffice.com
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-19th-ritossa-family-office-investment-summit-in-monaco-celebrates-connecting-minds--investing-for-a-better-future-301579778.html
SOURCE Ritossa Family Office | https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_stocks/the-19th-ritossa-family-office-investment-summit-in-monaco-celebrates-connecting-minds-investing-for-a/article_fa5ecccb-7edd-550d-bfd1-cf8146ea4428.html | 2022-07-01T19:05:25Z | https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_stocks/the-19th-ritossa-family-office-investment-summit-in-monaco-celebrates-connecting-minds-investing-for-a/article_fa5ecccb-7edd-550d-bfd1-cf8146ea4428.html | false |
NEW YORK, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Internova Travel Group, one of the largest travel services companies in the world, announced that Simon Brooks has been named President of Bonotel Exclusive Travel.
Bonotel is a leading inbound marketing and distribution partner of branded and boutique luxury hotel rooms to international business-to-business clients and has very strong relationships with most of the major tour operators worldwide. Bonotel is part of the Travel Leaders Group division of Internova. Brooks will report to Travel Leaders Group President John Lovell, starting on July 5.
"We've known Simon for a long time and are excited to bring him on board," said J.D. O'Hara, CEO of Internova Travel Group. "From his many years at British Airways, he brings a deep and extensive knowledge of the travel industry and an expansive network of contacts. He is a proven leader, and we are confident that he will be a great fit for this business."
In his new role, Brooks will leverage his industry knowledge to identify trends in the marketplace, create new content, build on Bonotel's current relationships with hotels and resorts, boutique properties, villas and other accommodations throughout North America, and market them to tour operators and travel advisors worldwide.
"Having worked closely with many clients and suppliers, Simon will also help ensure that our network of more than 70,000 travel advisors can benefit from Bonotel's preferred rates and services," O'Hara added.
Previously, Brooks was Chief Commercial Officer for a sports events business, The Icons Series, where he led all sales and revenue generation activities. He also had responsibility for client and supplier relationships.
Brooks has over two decades of commercial leadership experience in the airline industry. Having led teams in the Leisure and Corporate sectors in the UK, his most recent position was the Senior Vice President of Sales North America for British Airways, leading the Atlantic Joint Business team alongside American Airlines and Iberia. Earlier in his career, Brooks held numerous airline operations positions in Eastern Europe opening new destinations for British Airways.
Bonotel Exclusive Travel, part of Travel Leaders Group, a division of Internova Travel Group, is a leading inbound marketing and distribution partner of both branded and boutique luxury hotel rooms to a longstanding base of international B2B clients. The Company works with a network of more than 10,000 hotel partners and provides seamless electronic distribution to more than 1,500 international tour operators through the Company's IT platform. Bonotel was founded in 1991 and is headquartered in Las Vegas, NV.
Internova Travel Group is one of the largest travel services companies in the world with a collection of leading brands delivering high-touch, personal travel expertise to leisure and corporate clients. Internova manages leisure, business and franchise firms through a portfolio of distinctive divisions. Internova represents more than 70,000 travel advisors in over 6,000 company-owned and affiliated locations predominantly in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, with a presence in more than 80 countries.
CONTACT:
Elizabeth Gaerlan
egaerlan@internova.com
212-944-1125
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SOURCE Internova Travel Group; Bonotel Exclusive Travel | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/internova-travel-group-names-simon-brooks-president-bonotel-exclusive-travel/ | 2022-07-01T19:07:17Z | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/internova-travel-group-names-simon-brooks-president-bonotel-exclusive-travel/ | false |
Fern Whelan hoping new PFA initiative can help boost diversity in women’s game
By PA Staff published
Former England defender Fern Whelan hopes to help young girls believe “the dream can be achieved” with a new Professional Footballers’ Association initiative addressing ethnic minority under-representation in the women’s game.
With the ‘See It Achieve It’ campaign, the PFA aims to create a network for current Women’s Super League players from ethnic minority backgrounds, in which they will receive peer-to-peer mentoring and be given bespoke support, and it says increasing the visibility of diverse role models is a primary goal.
The union says there are 29 black, Asian or mixed heritage players out of 300 in the WSL, while the figure in the England squad for this summer’s home Women’s Euros is three out of 23.
⚽️ @fernwhelan5: “I'm really excited to launch See It. Achieve It. The players we have on board will be sharing inspiring stories about their pathways into the women's professional game and providing mentorship to aspiring female footballers”#seeitachieveitpic.twitter.com/9L8JHcIJV0— Professional Footballers' Association (@PFA) July 1, 2022
Spearheading the campaign is Whelan, who became the PFA’s first women’s football equality, diversity and inclusion executive last September.
The former Liverpool, Everton, Notts County and Brighton player, who won three England caps and retired in 2020, told the PA news agency: “Before I got the job at the PFA it had already become apparent to me that representation and diversity across the Women’s Super League and the Lionesses was not what it could be.
“We want that representation to increase. When I first got into the role, it was something where I thought ‘what can personally I try to do about this, how can we at the PFA do something about it?’
“It was identified to me that the EDI team at the PFA was already, as part of their overall strategy, trying to increase representation in all parts of the game – women’s, men’s, coaching, players – and for me, See It Achieve It could fit in in terms of inspiring the next generation of young girls to want to get into the game from diverse backgrounds.
“I think for me the most important part of it is celebrating the current role models that we have in the game – I think you can’t underestimate the power of role models in football.
“So we want people to be able to see players in positions, playing in the WSL, playing for the Lionesses, that is someone they can identify with, and makes them think it’s possible, the dream can be achieved. We’re trying to get young girls across the country to dream really.”
The launch has included videos featuring stories from current England players Nikita Parris and Demi Stokes and former Lioness Anita Asante.
Whelan recalls the impact made on her by an encounter with former England winger Rachel Yankey when she was in a centre of excellence in her early teens.
“I went to a training session when I was really young and I don’t think I’d seen many black players,” Whelan said.
“Our manager at the time brought Rachel Yankey to a training session, and for me that was pivotal, massive, because I saw her and thought ‘that could be me in the future’, and I always related back to that when I was a youngster, I always thought back upon it.
“Now we have the media around it to really showcase what these players are about, the journeys they have been on, and the quality they possess. At the PFA, we want to tell those stories.”
The PFA said that alongside the campaign, it is implementing “a three-year strategy to improve diversity levels within the entire women’s football pyramid”.
In May the Football Association announced plans, supported by the Premier League, designed to create a wider and more diverse talent pool for the women’s game, with better accessibility among five identified areas of improvement.
There is to be a wider national network of what will be called Emerging Talent Centres for girls aged eight to 16, and the FA’s director of women’s football Baroness Sue Campbell has expressed her confidence that the plans and the ‘Discover My Talent’ project launched last summer will help create a “significant shift” in terms of diversity at the top end of the English women’s game.
Whelan said: “I do think access has been a problem. When we did a video (for the PFA campaign), I spoke to Nikita, and myself and her used to get taken to training by our manager and by our coach because we couldn’t get to training, because they were on the outskirts of the city, and accessibility was a main problem.
“The talent pathway is going through a restructuring, there’s a lot of work being done for that, and hopefully it will be really positive in allowing as many girls as possible to play.”
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Here’s a collection curated by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists of what’s arriving on TV, streaming services and music platforms this week.
MOVIES
— Netflix’s “The Sea Beast” brings a “Moby Dick”-like tale down to kid size. The rollicking ocean adventure, directed by “Big Hero 6” filmmaker Chris Williams, is about an orphan British girl (voiced by Zaris-Angel Hator) who stows away on a ship hunting sea beasts. The veteran animator Williams, who co-directed “Moana,” returns to the high-seas for a swashbuckling tale made with the kind of accomplished animation often only found on the big screen. It debuts Friday, July 8.
— The Criterion Channel has a new film series sure to knock you out. “In the Ring: Boxing On-Screen” brings together 16 bobbing-and-weaving movies, from the 1927 Alfred Hitchcock silent “The Ring” to Martin Scorsese’s 1980 masterpiece “Raging Bull.” The series, streaming in July, argues that boxing and cinema grew in tandem, and remain uniquely suited to one another. Two highlights: “The Set-Up,” Robert Wise’s sweaty 1949 noir with Robert Ryan as a washed-up boxer whose manager sets him up to take a dive; and Leon Gast’s 1996 documentary classic “When We Were Kings,” about the Muhammad Ali-George Foreman 1974 bout, the “Rumble in the Jungle.”
— AP Film Writer Jake Coyle
MUSIC
— Neil Young isn’t finished opening his vaults. On Friday, July 8, he’s releasing the shelved Crazy Horse album "Toast,” a set they recorded in 2001 at Toast Studios in San Francisco. “‘Toast’ is an album that stands on its own in my collection,” Young wrote last year. “Unlike any other, ‘Toast’ was so sad that I couldn’t put it out. I just skipped it and went on to do another album in its place. I couldn’t handle it at that time.” The seven songs on “Toast” explore a broken relationship. In the last song, “Boom Boom Boom,” Young sings: “All I got is a broken heart, and I don’t try to hide it when I play my guitar.”
— Quick, what was the name of the first album Elton John ever recorded? If you answered “Empty Sky,” close, but wrong. It’s actually “Regimental Sgt. Zippo,” a 12-track album that the then-unknown teenager John — credited as Reg Dwight — recorded in 1968 at age 19 with lyricist Bernie Taupin that was shelved. It had a limited release on Record Store Day in 2021, but now it will be available on LP, CD and streaming. Beatles harmonies, harpsichords and flute-like sounds permeate the album, which The Guardian says has a “naïve, endearing charm” and the title track has a trippy animated video.
— Journey’s “Let It Rain” is one of the singles ahead of the band’s next studio album, “Freedom,” set for release Friday, July 8 “that brings back the grand scale of the group’s greatest moments, along with updated and bold new directions and sounds,” says the band. It’s their first project of new material since 2011’s “Eclipse.” The new record also features the tracks “You Got the Best of Me” and “The Way We Used to Be.”
— AP Entertainment Writer Mark Kennedy
TELEVISION
— Writer and commentator Baratunde Thurston goes big with a region-by-region trek in “America Outdoors,” debuting Tuesday on PBS. In an effort to understand Americans’ “complicated relationship” with the natural world, the six-part series visits with people including wilderness pilots in Idaho; Appalachian coal miners who have turned to beekeeping; Black surfers in Los Angeles, and an ultramarathoner in California’s Death Valley. Getting in touch with nature and those attuned to it proved to be one of “the best things I could do with my time,” Thurston says.
— In the Hulu comedy “Maggie,” a professional psychic who sees her own future is in for a rough romantic ride. Maggie, played by Rebecca Rittenhouse, gets glimpses of a maybe not-so-happily-ever life after she gives a reading to customer Ben (David Del Rio). Her forecast has them married and parents, but then he moves into her apartment building with a present-day girlfriend. Will love and, more importantly, hilarity ensue? Nichole Sakura, Leonardo Nam and Chris Elliott co-star in the 13-episode series debuting in full on Wednesday.
— Think you’re competitive? The 28 contestants on “The Challenge: USA” have already proven their mettle — in one fashion or another — on “Survivor,” “The Amazing Race,” “Big Brother” and “Love Island.” Players will face mental and physical contests in the series arriving with a 90-minute episode on Wednesday on CBS (streaming on Paramount+). T.J. Lavin hosts the first network broadcast of MTV’s international reality franchise, with “Survivor” winners Tyson Apostol, Ben Driebergen and Sarah Lacina among those vying for the $500,000 grand prize.
— AP Television Writer Lynn Elber
___
Catch up on AP’s entertainment coverage here: https://apnews.com/apf-entertainment. | https://www.seattlepi.com/entertainment/article/New-this-week-The-Sea-Beast-early-Elton-John-17279530.php | 2022-07-01T19:13:47Z | https://www.seattlepi.com/entertainment/article/New-this-week-The-Sea-Beast-early-Elton-John-17279530.php | false |
Annual MSP 501 Rankings Names Netsurit as a Best-in-Class Global IT Managed Services Provider
NEW YORK, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Netsurit has been named as one of the technology industry's top-performing providers of managed services in the prestigious 2022 Channel Futures MSP 501 rankings. Netsurit delivers remarkable results for its customers, ensuring business-critical apps and infrastructure are always on, secure, and resilient. Netsurit helps organizations accelerate growth, increase productivity, and drive business excellence through digital transformation and innovation.
For the past 16 years, managed service providers (MSPs) from around the globe have submitted applications to be included in this prestigious and definitive listing. The Channel Futures MSP 501 survey examines organizational performance based on annual sales, recurring revenue, profit margins, revenue mix, growth opportunities, innovation, technology solutions supported, and company and customer demographics.
"Seeing what our global team has achieved throughout the last year makes me unbelievably proud," said Orrin Klopper, CEO, Netsurit. "I want to express my deepest gratitude to our people, our clients, and our partners for making this happen."
This year's list once again attracted a record number of applicants, making it one of the most competitive in the survey's history. Winners are recognized on the Channel Futures website and will be honoured at a special ceremony at the Channel Futures MSP Summit + Channel Partners Leadership Summit, Sept. 13-16, in Orlando, Florida.
"The 2022 Channel Futures MSP 501 winners are the highest-performing and most innovative IT providers in the industry today," said Allison Francis, senior news editor for Channel Futures. "The 501 has truly evolved with the MSP market, as showcased by this year's crop of winners."
Channel Futures is pleased to name Netsurit to the 2022 MSP 501. "These providers are most certainly driving a new wave of innovation in the industry and are demonstrating a commitment to moving the MSP and entire channel forward," said Kelly Danziger, general manager of Informa Tech Channels.
Netsurit is a global Managed Services Provider that delivers remarkable results. We ensure your business-critical apps and infrastructure are always on, secure, and resilient. Netsurit helps you accelerate growth, increase productivity, and drive business excellence through digital transformation and innovation.
With headquarters in New York and Johannesburg, Netsurit provides Managed Services for organizations of all sizes. Its culture is based on the tenet, "Supporting the Dreams of the Doers."
CONTACT: Jolandi Marais, +27725019996, jolandim@netsurit.com
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SOURCE Netsurit | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/netsurit-recognized-global-elite-msp-12th-time/ | 2022-07-01T19:14:07Z | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/netsurit-recognized-global-elite-msp-12th-time/ | true |
TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Eegee's is offering a limited-time flavor geared toward fans of "Stranger Things."
To pay tribute to the release of the second half of season 4 on Netflix today, Eegee's rolled out its "Upside Down" flavor at all locations.
Those who buy the frozen drink will also get a special edition "Stranger Things" sticker.
The "Upside Down" flavor, which is available until July 8 and only in-store — not via online orders — has some stiff competition in the form of the watermelon Flavor of the Month, which is traditionally the most popular Eegee's flavor.
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Phil Villarreal is the senior real-time editor for KGUN 9. He is also a digital producer and host of "Phil on Film" seen weekly on Good Morning Tucson, Phil moved to KGUN after 17 years with the Arizona Daily Star. He is married and has four children. Share your story ideas and important issues with Phil by emailing phil.villarreal@kgun9.com or by connecting on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. | https://www.kgun9.com/news/local-news/eegees-pays-homage-to-stranger-things-with-new-limited-time-flavor | 2022-07-01T19:14:42Z | https://www.kgun9.com/news/local-news/eegees-pays-homage-to-stranger-things-with-new-limited-time-flavor | false |
MADISON, Wis. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday afternoon's drawing of the Wisconsin Lottery's "Pick 3 Midday" game were:
4-6-1
(four, six, one)
MADISON, Wis. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Friday afternoon's drawing of the Wisconsin Lottery's "Pick 3 Midday" game were:
4-6-1
(four, six, one) | https://www.seattlepi.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Pick-3-Midday-game-17279729.php | 2022-07-01T19:15:01Z | https://www.seattlepi.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Pick-3-Midday-game-17279729.php | false |
Video shows Piquet adding homophobic slur against Hamilton
By MAURICIO SAVARESE
AP Sports Writer
SAO PAULO (AP) — More video in Brazilian media shows retired Formula One champion Nelson Piquet using homophobic language and more racial slurs about Lewis Hamilton. The website Grande Prêmio published video late Thursday of Piquet speaking in Portuguese that was apparently filmed last year. The 69-year-old Brazilian uses homophobic language to say the British driver wasn’t focused to challenge Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg for the 2016 title, which the German won. There was also a fourth instance of a racial slur about Hamilton, who is Black. For earlier slurs that came to wider attention this week, Piquet has already been widely condemned by F1, drivers, teams, and governing body, the FIA. | https://kion546.com/sports/ap-national-sports/2022/07/01/video-shows-piquet-adding-homophobic-slur-against-hamilton/ | 2022-07-01T19:16:30Z | https://kion546.com/sports/ap-national-sports/2022/07/01/video-shows-piquet-adding-homophobic-slur-against-hamilton/ | true |
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JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — A Mississippi judge has set a Tuesday hearing in a lawsuit by state’s only abortion clinic, which seeks to block a law that would ban most abortions. A temporary restraining order would allow the clinic to remain open, at least while the lawsuit is pending.
The law is set to take effect two days after the hearing. It says abortion will be legal in Mississippi only if the pregnant woman’s life is in danger or if a pregnancy is caused by a rape reported to law enforcement. It does not have an exception for pregnancies caused by incest.
Mississippi was one of several states with a “trigger” law contingent on the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, its 1973 ruling that legalized abortion nationwide.
Mississippi's trigger law was passed in 2007 and has never been challenged in court. The clinic’s lawsuit cites a 1998 Mississippi Supreme Court ruling that said the state constitution invokes a right to privacy that “includes an implied right to choose whether or not to have an abortion.”
The suit was filed Monday in Hinds County Chancery Court, three days after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in a case that originated in Mississippi.
The clinic, Jackson Women’s Health Organization, has continued to see patients, but owner Diane Derzis said it will close if the near-ban on abortions takes effect.
All four Hinds County chancery judges recused themselves from the case. They cited rules that say judges should not handle cases that might present a conflict, but they did not specify what the conflicts would be.
Supreme Court Chief Justice Michael Randolph late Thursday appointed another chancery judge, Debbra K. Halford, to hear the case. Halford is from a chancery court district in the southwestern part of the state.
The hearing Tuesday is scheduled to take place in Hinds County Chancery Court. If Halford grants the clinic's request for a temporary restraining order to block the new law from taking effect, that decision could be quickly appealed to the state Supreme Court. | https://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Mississippi-judge-sets-hearing-on-challenge-to-17279488.php | 2022-07-01T19:17:13Z | https://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Mississippi-judge-sets-hearing-on-challenge-to-17279488.php | false |
LAS VEGAS, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 14, 2022, Patriot Holdings launched its third fund, Patriot Fund III, to acquire land and develop state-of-the-art self-storage, small bay industrial, and industrial facilities in high demand locations.
Patriot Holdings is a commercial real estate private equity group based in Las Vegas, NV and Keene, NH. Founded in 2007 by Jeremiah Boucher, Patriot Holdings owns and operates over $280MM (AUM) of commercial real estate, representing over 70 properties comprised of over 2,000,000 square feet of commercial property.
Patriot Holdings is raising its third fund concurrently with its Fund II, which is focused on acquiring and improving existing self-storage and industrial facilities. Its first fund of $15 million received a surplus of interest and was closed to new investors on May 31, 2020.
"We see a tremendous opportunity today to not just acquire existing facilities, but to develop facilities from the ground up in locations with limited competition, with a demographic profile that matches the profiles of our most successful self-storage and industrial facilities already in the market," said Jeremiah Boucher, CEO at Patriot Holdings.
Boucher continues, "The purpose of this fund is to segment the investors that are interested in longer term projects with long term value appreciation opportunities, as opposed to more cash flow focused funds like our first and second fund."
Patriot Holdings has grown a vertically integrated team in-house with over 50 real estate professionals across several key divisions. By developing an in-house engineering, construction, and market research team, Patriot can develop properties at affordable budgets and on schedule in an environment of rising building costs.
"We've been developing commercial real estate for over a decade," said Tim Wilkins, Managing Member of Patriot Holdings. "This is the first time we will do it in a formal fund structure, as opposed to individual syndications, but this is nothing new for us in terms of process and execution."
Patriot Holdings' self-storage brand, All-Purpose Storage, is the fastest growing self-storage brand in New England and was ranked as 68 out of 100 in Inside Self-Storage's Top-Operators List in 2021.
The company plans to close its Fund III by the end of 2022 and has already begun selecting plots of land that are ideal for future development.
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SOURCE Patriot Holdings | https://www.wsaz.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/patriot-holdings-launches-25mm-fund-iii-dedicated-development-projects-high-demand-areas/ | 2022-07-01T19:19:24Z | https://www.wsaz.com/prnewswire/2022/07/01/patriot-holdings-launches-25mm-fund-iii-dedicated-development-projects-high-demand-areas/ | true |
There's an influential minority of Americans who envision the United States as a Christian nation. Lately, this group has been making significant progress in its mission. Recent rulings from the U.S. Supreme Court reversing Roe v. Wade and protecting prayer in schools are chief among these victories.
These legal wins for the Christian Right, though, are happening at a time when a growing majority of Americans are strongly opposed to their views.
"This is the most disproportionate power that the Christian Right has had in my lifetime," says Robert Jones, CEO and founder of the Public Religion Research Institute — a nonpartisan group that conducts research on the intersection of politics, culture and religion.
Church and state
More and more white evangelical Christians are now talking about the U.S. as a Christian nation in ways that verge on or outright embrace Christian nationalism — the idea that the U.S. is a Christian nation and its laws should be rooted in the Bible.
On the Sunday after the Supreme Court reversed a decades-old ruling that legalized abortions in the U.S., Republican congresswoman Lauren Boebert spoke to a crowd at a church in Colorado. Among other things, Boebert complained that faith communities have long had to deal with laws in the U.S. that they don't agree with.
"The church is supposed to direct the government," she said. "The government is not supposed to direct the church. That is not how our founding fathers intended it. And I am tired of this separation of church and state junk. It's not in the Constitution."
Of course, the Constitution does explicitly ban the establishment of a specific religion. It's in the First Amendment.
But Timothy Head, executive director of the Faith and Freedom Coalition, says he thinks that part of the Constitution was written to keep the government from interfering with religion.
"Not to keep anybody that holds a religious view out of government," he said. "All of us have certain kinds of worldviews. Some of those are based on college professors, or your favorite philosophers, or a comedian somewhere. It just so happens that some people base their worldview on biblical teachings."
Jones said even though the Christian Right is currently as emboldened as it's ever been in a long time, it is not winning over public opinion.
"White evangelicals in particular have lost a lot of ground," Jones said.
Moral minority
Since at least 2008, white evangelicals have been shrinking in population size, and median age – now 56 – has been climbing. During the Christian Right's heyday in the 1970s and 80s, though, Jones says it was aligned with most of the country.
"When they said things like 'We are the moral majority,' there was a kind of truth to that – even if it wasn't a demographic truth," he said. "If you look at some of the issues, for example, like same-sex marriage, most of the country agreed with them."
But those days are gone. Jones said about seven in 10 Americans support same-sex marriage now – and that number also keeps growing. And about six in 10 Americans say abortion should be legal in the U.S.
Amelia Fulbright, a progressive pastor at the Congregational Church of Austin, said religious communities should not expect to see their particular theology reflected in the country's laws.
"I don't think it is the role of faith communities to use politics to impose their worldview on others," she says.
Fulbright has spent almost a decade advocating for the rights of LGBTQ people, as well as abortion rights, in Texas. She said in the past few years Republican state lawmakers have been crossing a line — making the case for laws by citing Christian ideas.
"There is not even an effort to conceal that these are theological ideas – that there is just a full-throated unapologetic attempt to impose a certain Christian worldview on everyone else.
Fulbright said for years she relied on the Supreme Court to block laws in Texas that were explicitly rooted in Christian theology. But since Republicans secured a conservative majority on the court, Fulbright and others say those guardrails have been knocked down.
A spiritual battle
Tim Whitaker, creator of a group called The New Evangelicals, says this is how the Christian Right has decided to respond to waning public opinion — instead of embracing changing views.
"White evangelicalism rejects pluralism – completely," he said. "They do not see themselves as coexisting with other religious views or other sexuality ethic views. They see it as a spiritual battle and they are on God's side."
Whitaker, who created his group to counteract less tolerant strains of evangelicalism, said decades of this sort of campaigning has amounted to an immense amount of influence, particularly in the Republican Party.
"When they start getting a taste – a small taste – of just making room for other viewpoints, that's perceived as a loss of power," he said. "And then they campaign on that."
Donald Trump put three anti abortion-rights justices on the Supreme Court in his four years in office, delivering on an essential campaign promise to the Christian Right. These groups have also galvanized power in state legislatures across the country.
Head dismissed the assertion that Christian conservatives are trying to push their views on everyone.
"I don't think that religious views or Christian people should be given special positions," he said, "but they also shouldn't be excluded from the public discourse either."
And while Whitaker said not all Christian conservatives support extreme views like Christian nationalism, an influential number of them do.
"It truly does concern for the future of the country because ultimately Christian nationalism is not about democracy," he says. "It's really about – I hate to use such blunt language – but it's really more about theocracy."
Jones said he also sees the Christian Right beginning to part with democratic norms. For example, many Christian conservatives have been supporting voting restrictions and backing Trump's election lies. Jones said it's one of the ways they can make sure their country is a Christian nation.
"I think we are seeing the last kind of desperate grasp – that by the way includes violence – that is kind of a desperate attempt to kind of hold on to that vision of the country and to hold on to power," he says.
Ultimately, Jones said, this period in American history could be a hingepoint for democracy.
"I think if we can protect our democratic institutions and we can weather these attacks on it, then I think there is light at the other end of the tunnel," he said. "But I do think we are in for some dark days."
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.wbaa.org/2022-07-01/the-christian-right-is-winning-in-court-while-losing-in-public-opinion | 2022-07-01T19:21:01Z | https://www.wbaa.org/2022-07-01/the-christian-right-is-winning-in-court-while-losing-in-public-opinion | true |
This rebroadcast originally aired on September 01, 2021.
International affairs expert Tom Nichols says democracy is under assault. What’s causing it? Not media, not special interests, not the political parties. He says the enemy is all of us, joyfully marinating in a culture of narcissism.
You, you, you. Nichols says that kind of sales pitch didn’t always work in America.
“When washing machines were first developed, they were marketed as ‘you deserve it.’ That actually backfired because there were a lot of women who felt that was wasn’t appropriate,” he says. “Now, it’s all about you. You are worth it. You deserve it. And don’t let anybody tell you otherwise.”
Today, On Point: Does America have a culture of narcissism? If so, how is that poisoning politics and threatening democracy?
Guests
Tom Nichols, national security scholar at the U.S. Naval War College. Author of “Our Own Worst Enemy: The Assault from Within on Modern Democracy.” (@RadioFreeTom)
Jack Beatty, On Point news analyst. (@JackBeattyNPR)
Interview Highlights
On what’s causing a sense of fragility around our democracy at the moment
Tom Nichols: “I don’t think it’s just a sense of fragility. I think that’s a real fragility, and it’s happening not just in the United States, but around the world. One of the reasons that I wrote the book is that I didn’t think this was just a kind of flash in the pan problem because of one election, or the past two or three years. When you look around at places like Italy, India, Poland, the United Kingdom, Brazil, all of them are in the grip, or have been in the grip recently, of populist movements that are based on just unfocused rage, voting as revenge, voting as punishment of other people.
“One of the things you hear a lot of is a quote I used in the book … is the voter who said she had voted for President Trump, that she was unhappy now because he wasn’t hurting the people he was supposed to be hurting. All of these attitudes are completely uncivic. You can’t sustain a democracy on weaponized voting on … ‘our president vs. your president.’ And basically, electing people for entertainment value.
“And so I think that fragility is real because I think people no longer think seriously about politics and take politics seriously. They don’t participate. That’s another problem. That even when we talk about, my God, the country is in such a mess and what are we going to do? In 2020, we patted ourselves on the back for getting about 65% of the public out. And only about half of the youth vote. And we thought we’d done a great job.”
On American affluence
Tom Nichols: “People bristle because they say, Well, we’re not really an affluent society. Well, yes, we are. There is income inequality, which is a political problem and a different problem. But that’s different than rising living standards. We are a country that’s been at peace, even though people again scoff at that and say, but we were in Afghanistan, we were in Iraq. But we, particularly since the Vietnam War, we have asked almost nothing of society, since we outsource this to brave volunteers who do it as a tiny minority of the country. And they carry that burden for us.
“And we have gotten used to remarkably high living standards. I mean, we are the country that loses our mind if the Wi-Fi goes out. We’re the people that get upset when we stand in line at the DMV for a car that our parents would have thought was a technological miracle and a luxury. And the way this happens is that there’s a thing, a term I didn’t coin, but it’s hedonic adaptation. It’s people get used to a very high standard. It’s kind of like if you slept in a king bed all your life, queen beds suddenly seem like a real imposition.
“And they’re terribly uncomfortable. It’s that people have gotten used to these things in part because they have come so easily. And on top of this, of course, there’s a culture of narcissism, which we’ll come back to it. But in a sense, we live in a situation where … you’ve lived with a lot of convenience and long life and health. My dad had a heart attack in 1974, and there was practically a wake that convened at my house that day. Because they were certain that you have a heart attack, that’s the end for you. My father lived another 35 years.
“So this combines with the narcissism problem. And for 40, 50 years now — and this is empirical — social psychologists have tracked this around the world. We are becoming a more narcissistic society. We are becoming more a society of loners. We are people who do things alone. We don’t care about other people. We think about ourselves. We believe that our views are the most important thing in the world. We are performative.
“This was a word that even Christopher Lasch talked about when he wrote a landmark book about narcissism over 40 years ago. That we’ve become a performative culture where we think that nothing that doesn’t happen in the public eye matters. And when you put all of that together, democracy simply becomes this kind of annoyance. Where you just expect everything to work. And you don’t think you really have to participate in it very much if it doesn’t please you.”
On how a lack of civility among Americans creates further divides
Tom Nichols: “I wrote the book because of the shopping cart issues. That was it. The last shopping cart I moved, I said someone ought to write a book, and that was it. But you know that’s a small part and I’m laughing about that. But there is something to that, the kind of daily lack of basic cooperativeness and incivility really is an indicator of how much we just don’t care about each other anymore. I mean, it really is. I mean, in your daily life, and when people say, What can we do about this? I say, Be the example that you want to set. Hold a door for somebody. It’s amazing how little rituals of of civic life can improve that.
“But, you know, when talking about things like medical care, I mean, I accept all of the education, housing, medical care. You know, these costs are out of control and these are policies that we actually can fix. These are all within our grasp. What I took issue with, and part of the reason I wrote the book, was that people, voters, you know, ordinary citizens of democracies, jumped from, ‘These are bad policies that need a better solution.’ To, ‘this entire constitutional experiment is completely screwed up. And we should just dump it. And somebody strong should come in and hurt people I don’t like and reward me.’ And that is not the answer.
“I actually point out in the book, part of [this] … was actually talked about by a guy named Philip Converse, and then Fenno’s Paradox. Richard Fenno’s observation first that people don’t really understand political ideologies and they use parties as kind of markers for location of their general wants and desires. But also that people don’t want to throw the bums out. They want you to throw your bums out.
“Everybody talks about how much they hate Congress, and yet they love their own congressperson. They reelect them. You know, the United States reelects its members of Congress like 95% rates. … A bad year for the Senate is when only about 85% making it. You know, one of the reasons I wrote this is because after Trump was elected, there was this constant talk about a populist revolt, a populist uprising. And I kept looking around and saying, if you were a Martian … you’d see no evidence of this.
“And in fact, I think it tells you something that the people who elected Trump ostensibly on policies like the deficit, and health care and education, he did nothing for any of those things, exacerbated them, handed tons of money to the rich, made income inequality worse. And they loved him for it. Because it’s about a culture war among people who want their self, that for politics is self actualization and soothing their internal resentments about their own problems with their life. And when that is what democracy becomes about, it’s no longer a democracy. Then it just becomes a war of all against all, because you can never satisfy those kinds of resentments and angry, weaponizing of politics.”
On how to fix our culture of narcissism
Tom Nichols: “I’m not sure I have a good solution. But a couple of your callers have said, Well, the answer is in our institutions, like education. And I have to be Debbie Downer here and tell you the most liberal people in the United States, which is to say the people that are really driving this in the United States and in Western Europe, are middle aged folks. Again, people closer to my age. When I went to school, that was the golden age of public education. I had civics. I didn’t go to a private school. I came from a working class family in a working class factory town. And I had to memorize Supreme Court cases in eighth grade.
“You know, most of us of that age had that education. And yet this generation of safe people, 55 to 75, they’re the ones that are sitting around passing around Facebook memes about Barack Obama being born in Africa. So education can teach you facts. It cannot teach you virtue. That has to come from within families, that has to come within communities. It has to come from being a participant in the life of your community in some way. Even again, if it’s just putting a shopping cart back.
“… We have never been a more educated public. We have universal high school graduation. We have remarkably high rates of college attendance and graduation. And that’s not helping anything right now. So education is great, but virtue is the answer. And I think we have to, again, look within ourselves. We should, as one last solution, take on small projects that people of both parties can do and succeed at. Stop trying to solve the Constitution all in one shot and in one election, and take this piece by piece and get used to working with each other again.”
Book Excerpt
Excerpted from Our Own Worst Enemy: The Assault from Within on Modern Democracy by Tom Nichols. Copyright (c) 2021 by Tom Nichols. Used with permission of the publisher. All rights reserved.
From The Reading List
USA Today: “Trump is not ruining democracy, we are. And it’s been anguishing to confront: Tom Nichols” — “I’ve written about a lot of unpleasant, even frightening, subjects. For most of my career, I have been a specialist in national security affairs, a cheerless area of study.”
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.nprillinois.org/2022-07-01/rebroadcast-whos-to-blame-for-americas-polarized-politics-tom-nichols-says-all-of-us | 2022-07-01T19:21:16Z | https://www.nprillinois.org/2022-07-01/rebroadcast-whos-to-blame-for-americas-polarized-politics-tom-nichols-says-all-of-us | false |
Ravens' Jaylon Ferguson died from combined effects of fentanyl, cocaine: Report
The agency reportedly ruled Ferguson's death accidental
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Jaylon Ferguson was found dead last month as a result of the combined effects of fentanyl and cocaine, according to a report.
A spokesperson for the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death to The Baltimore Sun. The agency said the death had been ruled an accident after an autopsy.
Initial reports suggested that the 26-year-old’s death was being investigated as a possible overdose, prompting Ferguson’s family to issue a statement to ask the public to avoid speculation.
JAYLON FERGUSON’S FAMILY TRIES TO QUASH RUMORS SURROUNDING RAVENS LINEBACKER’S DEATH
"We wholeheartedly appreciate the calls, text and post of support from his many friends and fans upon learning of his tragedy," the statement said.
"Despite the speculation in earlier reports, at this point in time the case of Jaylon’s death has yet to be determined. This is one of the darkest moments in our lives and we are still utterly shocked. We ask that you please respect our privacy as we navigate through this difficult time."
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The Ravens declined to comment on the results of Ferguson’s autopsy, telling The Baltimore Sun, "Our priority is focused on the man Jaylon was and the positive impact he made on so many as a father, son, fiancé, friend and teammate."
The Ravens selected Ferguson in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft out of Louisiana Tech. He played 14 games during his rookie season and had 31 tackles, 2.5 sacks and a fumble recovery.
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In 2020, Ferguson played in 14 games and had 30 tackles, two sacks and a fumble recovery as well. In 2021, he only played in 10 games and had six sacks during that season.
Fox News’ Ryan Gaydos contributed to this report. | https://www.foxnews.com/sports/ravens-jaylon-ferguson-died-fentanyl-cocaine | 2022-07-01T19:23:47Z | https://www.foxnews.com/sports/ravens-jaylon-ferguson-died-fentanyl-cocaine | false |
Seeking parole, Pistorius meets with girlfriend’s father
CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) — South African former track star Oscar Pistorius has met with the father of Reeva Steenkamp, the woman he shot to death in 2013, as part of his parole process, the Steenkamp family’s lawyer told The Associated Press on Friday.
Lawyer Tania Koen said in a text message that Pistorius and Barry Steenkamp met face-to-face on June 22 as part of what’s known in South Africa as a victim-offender dialogue. It gives victims of crimes or their relatives a chance to meet with the offenders, if they choose to, before the offender can be eligible for parole.
Koen confirmed the meeting but declined to give any more details. She wrote in her message: “The dialogue is a private and confidential matter, hence we ask that our clients’ privacy be respected.”
Pistorius, once a double-amputee track star who made history by running at the Olympics, became eligible for parole last year, eight years after killing his girlfriend in his home in the South African capital, Pretoria. Pistorius, who is now 35, was ultimately convicted of murder in 2015 after a long and dramatic trial and numerous appeals. He was sentenced to 13 years and five months in prison.
He has served most of his sentence at a prison in Pretoria but was moved to a facility in the southern city of Gqeberha, the Steenkamps’ home town, ahead of the meeting with Barry Steenkamp.
A parole hearing for Pistorius was scheduled for last year but it was canceled because he hadn’t yet met with Steenkamp’s parents.
In South Africa, those convicted of a serious crime must serve at least half their sentence before they are eligible for parole. Pistorius had already served time in jail after being initially convicted of culpable homicide — a charge similar to manslaughter — before an appeal by prosecutors resulted in that being overturned and him being convicted of murder.
Pistorius must still attend a parole hearing, where department of corrections officials will decide if he should be released early. Pistorius’ lawyer, Julian Knight, said last year that he had been “a model prisoner” and met the requirements for parole.
Pistorius was born with a congenital condition that led to both his legs being amputated below the knee when he was a baby. He became a multiple Paralympic sprinting champion running on carbon-fiber blades, and even qualified to compete against the world’s best able-bodied athletes at the 2012 London Olympics.
But his image as one of the most inspiring figures in sports was shattered when he shot the 29-year-old Steenkamp multiple times through a toilet door in his house in the early hours of Valentine’s Day 2013. He claimed he mistook her for a dangerous intruder but was convicted of a charge comparable to second-degree murder because he acted so recklessly by firing through the toilet door with his 9mm pistol.
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Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.ktre.com/2022/07/01/seeking-parole-pistorius-meets-with-girlfriends-father/ | 2022-07-01T19:25:22Z | https://www.ktre.com/2022/07/01/seeking-parole-pistorius-meets-with-girlfriends-father/ | false |
Germany, Nigeria sign accord for return of Benin Bronzes
Berlin — Germany and Nigeria on Friday signed an agreement paving the way for the return of hundreds of artifacts known as the Benin Bronzes that were taken from Africa more than 120 years ago — an accord that Nigerian officials hope will prompt other countries to follow suit.
Governments and museums in Europe and North America have increasingly sought to resolve ownership disputes over objects that were looted during colonial times.
A British colonial expedition looted vast quantities of treasures in 1897 from the royal palace of the Kingdom of Benin, in what is now southwestern Nigeria, including numerous bas-reliefs and sculptures.
The artifacts ended up spread far and wide. Hundreds were sold to collections such as the Ethnological Museum in Berlin, which has one of the world’s largest groups of historical objects from the Kingdom of Benin, estimated to include about 530 items, including 440 bronzes. Many of them date from the 16th to the 18th centuries.
Two pieces held by the Berlin museum — a commemorative head of a king and a relief slab depicting a king with four attendants — were handed over as German and Nigerian officials signed their “joint political declaration” at the German foreign ministry in Berlin.
“This is just the beginning of more than 1,000 pieces from the Kingdom of Benin that are still in German museums, and they all belong to the people of Nigeria,” German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said. “It was wrong to take the bronzes; it was wrong to keep them for 120 years.”
The bronzes “are some of Africa's greatest treasures, but they are also telling the story of colonial violence,” Baerbock said.
The Nigerian government, which in recent years has stepped up its demands for the return of the Benin Bronzes, said the accord would pave way for the return of 1,130 pieces. It described it as the “single largest repatriation of artifacts anywhere in the world.”
“Germany has taken the lead in correcting the wrongs of the past,” Nigerian Culture Minister Lai Mohammed said. He added that he expects the move to "become a harbinger of more repatriation of cultural property.”
Germany last year announced its intention to return the Benin Bronzes that ended up there.
Officials didn't give a timeline for the return of the remaining artifacts on Friday, but Berlin's Ethnological Museum said a agreement on the rest of the bronzes it holds will follow later this year. The authority that oversees the museum says it expects to keep some on long-term loan. Baerbock said she is looking forward to seeing bronzes “on holidays in Germany.”
Friday's agreement provides for museum cooperation between Germany and Nigeria. Germany is helping Nigeria set up a new museum in Benin City where bronzes will be displayed in the future, Baerbock said.
“It is my sincere hope that other European countries ... will follow in your footsteps,” Nigeria's state minister for foreign affairs, Zubairu Dada, said of Friday's accord.
The Smithsonian removed 10 Benin Bronze pieces from display at its National Museum of African Art in Washington, D.C., and announced a new ethical return policy this year. Other U.S. museums have also begun discussions about returning such objects, while France declared last year that it would return the so-called Abomey Treasures to Benin as part of a wider effort to make amends for colonial wrongs.
Hundreds of objects from the Kingdom of Benin remain in the British Museum in London, which has resisted calls to return them.
“The British Museum remains committed to thorough and open investigation of Benin collection histories,” the museum said in an emailed statement Friday.“This includes fully acknowledging and understanding the colonial history which forms the key context for the development of the Museum’s Benin collections.”
Frank Jordans in Berlin and Chinedu Asadu in Lagos, Nigeria contributed to this report. | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/world/2022/07/01/germany-nigeria-benin-bronzes/7786054001/ | 2022-07-01T19:26:24Z | https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/world/2022/07/01/germany-nigeria-benin-bronzes/7786054001/ | false |
AMARILLO, Texas, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Maxor Specialty Pharmacy, a division of Maxor National Pharmacy Services (Maxor), is proud to announce that they have been granted the Rare Disease Pharmacy Center of Excellence from the Utilization Review Accreditation Commission (URAC).
URAC recognizes the high level of support and skills required to service patients, and this unique designation was developed to ensure best-in-class practices for patients with rare and orphan diseases. With only a few specialty pharmacies holding this designation to date, Maxor Specialty Pharmacy is positioned to be a trusted partner not only for patients, but for providers, and rare disease drug manufacturers.
"Maxor Specialty is honored to receive the Rare Disease designation. Our team is committed to excellence regarding patient care for Rare and Orphan Diseases. We are excited to demonstrate our unique approach to provide value to all stake holders and support optimal therapeutic outcomes for our patients," shared Jessie Heaton, Vice President of Maxor Specialty Pharmacy.
"Our patients have complex needs and complex treatment plans. We strive to go above and beyond while providing highly specialized care for these individuals," said Christa Larkin, Senior Vice President, PBM and Specialty Operations. "This is an important milestone and recognition for our specialty business."
At Maxor Specialty, we take a different approach to specialty and infusion pharmacy care. We believe improving outcomes – both clinical and financial – is a journey, and we're all in it together. Because we're a full-service pharmacy, we're better positioned than other specialty services to build connections throughout the healthcare continuum and create flexible, customized treatment plans that result in the best possible care. It's a holistic, collaborative approach that brings together providers, patients and manufacturers like never before – leading to lower costs and better outcomes for all.
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Long pending cases: Govt to rank consumer courts on disposal speed
NEW DELHi: To reduce the pendency of consumer cases, the Centre has decided to rank the performance of consumer courts in terms of the speed at which they will dispose of cases filed before 2000 in a span of five months till November, a senior Consumer Affairs Ministry official said on Friday.
The performance of state and district commissions, also called consumer courts, will be rated during July-November this year and the result will be published on the occasion of the National Consumer Day commemorated on December 24, the official said.
At present, there are 629 district commissions and 35 state commissions with the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission at the apex.
"The age of pending consumer cases is extremely high. There are 4,029 pending cases filed before the year 2000. A campaign has been launched to reduce the huge pendency of very old cases," the official told.
At the end of the campaign in November, the performance of commissions as well as states will be ranked and for which the process of weightage of marks will be shared soon, the official said.
Pendency of very old cases remains high in states like Maharashtra, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu, the official added.
The performance ranking of commissions in Union territories (barring Delhi) and northeastern states will be made separately, as the number of consumer cases filed in these states is low when compared to other parts of the country.
The plan is to rate in three categories -- aspiring, performer and achiever.
The Consumer Protection Act provides for the disposal of cases within 3-5 months.
Currently, there is about 5.50 lakh pending consumer cases in the country, which includes 4,029 pending cased filed before the year 2000, the official said.
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1 July 2022 7:15 PM GMT | http://www.millenniumpost.in/nation/long-pending-cases-govt-to-rank-consumer-courts-on-disposal-speed-484260 | 2022-07-01T19:34:08Z | http://www.millenniumpost.in/nation/long-pending-cases-govt-to-rank-consumer-courts-on-disposal-speed-484260 | true |
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