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AMAGANSETT, N.Y., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Loupe, fine jewelry curators of a more artful you, are hosting a special evening tonight at the Reform Club. One of Hamptons must attend parties will begin at 5pm and ends at 8pm. The Loupe will be showcasing celebrated designers, along with rare and unique pieces, fine foods and specialty cocktails from Aristocrat - all set in the luxe environment of The Reform Club.
NYC-based Kiki McMillan partnered with Los Angeles-based Dee Hewitt to combine and leverage their experience in the fashion and fine jewelry industries. Together with their love for designer jewelry brands, they bring the edge and energy from their respective coasts. The collections are deliriously elegant, sometimes avant-garde, unexpected, and always refined.
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SOURCE The Loupe | https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/loupe-host-special-cocktail-event-tonight-reform-club/ | 2022-08-18T18:48:57Z | https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/loupe-host-special-cocktail-event-tonight-reform-club/ | true |
OCALA, Fla., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- HiBid.com facilitated the sale of over $39.3 million (gross auction proceeds) in assets last week. From August 8th through the 14th, HiBid.com averaged 1.57 million bids on the site per day, with over half a million lots sold in a combined total of 1,409 online-only and webcast auctions.
Currently there are hundreds of auctions on the site, some of which feature classic hot rods and motorcycles, antique vehicles, rare coins and paper currency, and coin collector sets. A 1946 Mercury Street Rod is one of the many noteworthy items up for bidding.
HiBid.com brings buyers and sellers together every day with a wide-ranging selection of items across hundreds of categories that appeal to bidders worldwide. HiBid is fully integrated with Auction Flex 360, providing auctioneers with a comprehensive auction management solution that supports internet-only auctions, webcast auctions, and absentee bidding.
GAP: $39,360,662
Lots Sold: 542,245
Online-Only Auctions: 1,318
Webcast Auctions: 91
Average Bidders Per Day: 967,000
Average Bids Per Day: 1.57 Million
The following list includes a small sample from the hundreds of auctions currently open for bidding on HiBid.com. Site visitors can click the Find Auctions menu at the top of the HiBid.com homepage for links to the Featured and Hot auctions, such as those listed below, or use the search box to find auctions nearby.
Auction Type: Live Webcast
Dates: August 3rd-21st
Seller: Gold Standard Auctions
View Auction Items
Auction Type: Online-Only
Dates: August 2nd-27th
Seller: Vail International, Inc. Auctioneers
View Auction Items
Auction Type: Online-Only
Dates: July 19th-August 25th
Seller: Bill Anderson Auctioneers, LLC
View Auction Items
If you're looking to sell through HiBid.com, click here to describe what you wish to sell, and a local HiBid auctioneer will help you get started.
Interested in receiving updates from HiBid? Sign up to receive newsletter emails, and follow HiBid Auctions on Facebook and LinkedIn.
HiBid is an online auction platform supporting webcast auctions, internet-only auctions, and internet absentee bidding. It is also available as a private-label solution. HiBid is integrated with Auction Flex 360, the market leader in auction software for live and online auctions, with capabilities that include cataloging, clerking, cashiering, accounting, mailing list management, inventory management, and multi-parcel. HiBid and Auction Flex 360 were built from the ground up to function together seamlessly.
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SOURCE Hibid-AuctionFlex | https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/over-39-million-sold-through-hibidcom-last-week-with-vintage-cars-rare-coins-more-now-open-bidding/ | 2022-08-18T18:49:29Z | https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/over-39-million-sold-through-hibidcom-last-week-with-vintage-cars-rare-coins-more-now-open-bidding/ | false |
The much-talked-about Supertech Twin Towers, which remained embroiled in a legal battle for years, are finally getting demolished by this month, on August 28. The twin towers in Noida Sector 93 A will be demolished by order of the Noida Authority, using large-scale explosives.
According to sources, the towers will be demolished at 2:30 pm on Aug 28. The decision was taken during a review meeting of all the stakeholders chaired by Noida Authority Additional CEO Praveen Mishra.
The authority said residents of Emerald Court and ATS Village will be required to vacate their homes and remove their vehicles by 7 a.m. on August 28. There are around 1.396 flats with over 5,000 residents.
"If any resident has more than one vehicle and has no space to park it in the premises, then the authority will make arrangements for parking of such vehicles....The residents can return home after 4 pm after clearance from Edifice Engineering is received," said the authority in a statement.
The authority, however, only permitted Emerald Court and ATS Village security guards to remain on the premises until noon on August 28.
The engineers working with Edifice Engineering, the company tasked to demolish the structure, said all necessary measures to prevent damage to the nearby buildings are being taken up. "The building will collapse like water," said one engineer.
The 40-storied twin towers are the tallest buildings ever to be demolished using controlled explosions. Earlier, the company had demolished 18 storied buildings using the same method.
Uktarsh Mehta, partner with Edifice Engineering said, "We have had a series of meetings with the nearby residents and they are satisfied with the safety measures we are taking. Nets, cloth, and perimeter curtains have been installed to provide three layers of protection from dust and debris to nearby buildings. Any debris falling will be stopped by one of the three layers. The geotextiles installed between the buildings will grab any stray debris."
A whopping 3,500 kg of explosives will be filled in 9,400 strategically dug holes to safely bring down the 100-meter-tall structures.
The explosives were brought from Haryana's Palwal district. The authorities have already secured the approvals needed for the demolition ordered by the Supreme Court.
Noida Police are taking no chances as to the law and order. They have deployed additional force in the vicinity of the twin towers and have restricted entry of unauthorised people.
They have also shut down a 500-meter road stretch in front of the tower for traffic movement.
The Supreme Court last year ruled that Supertech's Apex and Ceyane towers were to be demolished as the structures had been built inside the Emerald Court society's premises in violation of the norms. | https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-supertech-twin-towers-demolition-on-august-28-at-230-pm-2977710 | 2022-08-18T18:51:50Z | https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-supertech-twin-towers-demolition-on-august-28-at-230-pm-2977710 | true |
Click here to download a printable PDF of this week's Word Find. (0.2MB)
The online version of our weekly Puzzles page is sponsored by WaterStreet Creative. With more than 100 years of collective experience in successfully building brands through advertising, design, digital marketing and public relations, the WaterStreet Creative team loves finding creative ways to meet the challenges that are keeping our clients up at night. | https://shepherdexpress.com/puzzles/word-find/word-find-week-of-august-18-2022/ | 2022-08-18T18:52:22Z | https://shepherdexpress.com/puzzles/word-find/word-find-week-of-august-18-2022/ | true |
A Scots student who suffered from headaches for several months has been given the devastating news that his tumour is inoperable.
Jordan Kearney, from Peterhead, was diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer when a large, 4cm mass was discovered after an appointment at an opticians in June.
The 22-year-old was taken into Aberdeen Royal Infirmary where an emergency biopsy was performed and three weeks later he was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM grade 4), leaving mum Maria and Damian devastated.
The tumour is inoperable due to its location and Jordan is undergoing chemo-radiotherapy as his family search for alternative treatments.
Jordan, who was head boy at Peterhead Academy had to defer the last term of his final year at university studying international business management, because of the debilitating headaches he was suffering.
Speaking to Aberdeen Live, Jordan's uncle David Kearney hailed his popular nephew's character and said the family had been overwhelmed with the support he's received.
He said: "It has been an absolutely horrendous eight weeks for him and his parents. He is honestly the loveliest fella that you'll ever meet. He's never been in an argument, I don't even think he's even swore at anybody.
"He's been dealt an extremely bad hand. He was just away to finish university, he's 22 and he's too young to let go. The fight for us now is that there might be some kind of private options.
"They obviously can't operate on it and the alternatives that we've been looking at are incredibly expensive. We weren't sure at first about putting up a fundraising page but within a matter of hours people have flooded the page.
"I'm not a wealthy man but I put in £100 just to get the ball rolling and since around 8.30pm on Wednesday the donations have been pouring in. I think that's a testament to just how well thought of Jordan is in the community."
Jordan, who manages a McDonald's branch in Peterhead, is having his spirits kept high by having his hospital room surrounded by photos of family, friends and pets.
David added: "The response has just been incredible. People themselves are going through hard times and they've thought to put some money in which will be a huge help to him.
"He's not doing that great, he's been going through his chemo and his mum has practically lived at the hospital with him by his side. It's now a case where we've got to put up a fight for him and raise as much money as possible for Jordan."
Donations to Jordan's GoFundMe page can be made here.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here. | https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/scots-student-diagnosed-inoperable-rare-27777820 | 2022-08-18T18:52:33Z | https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/scots-student-diagnosed-inoperable-rare-27777820 | false |
Idris Elba has some explaining to do.
During a joint interview on "The Breakfast Club" radio show with Will Packer, who produced "Beast," the new movie in which Elba stars, the actor said that his 20-year-old daughter, Isan Elba, auditioned to be in the film but didn't get the part.
"She wants to be an actress," he said.
But when Isan auditioned for the role that would involve her interacting with her dad onscreen, Elba and Packer soon learned that she wasn't right for the part.
"It came down to chemistry in the end," Elba said.
Entertainment News
"She's great, but the relationship in the film and the relationship between my daughter was — the chemistry wasn't right for film, weirdly enough. My daughter didn't talk to me for about three weeks."
"The Breakfast Club" co-host DJ Envy said that he understood where Isan was coming from because he would be "kind of upset" too.
"You say that we don't got no chemistry between father and daughter?" fellow co-host Angela Yee joked.
Packer explained that he sees Isan like a niece and he was the one who called her to break the news that she didn't get the part. He said he was proud of Elba for being candid with his daughter and showing her what life is really like as an actor.
"Idris was definitely like, 'Listen, I want you to put her through the ropes. You know, go in, give her a shot, audition.' He auditioned with her. He was very tough on her. And he said, 'Listen, at the end of the day, we're going to make the best decision for the movie. I trust you, trust the director Balt (Baltasar Kormákur).' And she was very good, very close," Packer said.
But at the end of the day, he knew that "some of the nuances of that real-life relationship sometimes doesn't translate on-screen."
However, Elba was proud of Isan for being a good sport and still coming to the premiere.
"She was very gracious about it," Elba said. "You know, we got through that and I'm really proud of her to go through that and then not get the role but still come to the premiere."
Packer added that though Isan didn't land "Beast," fans will "definitely be seeing" her again.
"So you're going to keep her in mind now when you see something and that's part of the casting process. You might not get this, but when I see something you're right for," Yee said.
"100%," Elba interjected.
Packer added, "No doubt."
This story first appeared on TODAY.com. More from TODAY: | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/idris-elbas-daughter-didnt-talk-to-him-for-3-weeks-when-she-didnt-land-a-role-in-his-new-movie/3339208/ | 2022-08-18T18:54:08Z | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/idris-elbas-daughter-didnt-talk-to-him-for-3-weeks-when-she-didnt-land-a-role-in-his-new-movie/3339208/ | false |
Photos and videos posted on social media Thursday show an SUV on the second floor of a Massachusetts mall.
The Braintree Police Department says officers responded around 11:45 a.m. after a Lincoln MKX stopped on the second floor of South Shore Plaza in Braintree.
Video from the scene shows police walking beside the vehicle as it backs up in front of Track 23 and Eros Footwear.
Police told NBC10 Boston no one was injured.
The driver, an older woman, drove over the pedestrian bridge from a parking garage, according to police.
"Due to a recent accident, one of the safety bollards was missing from the entrance," the Braintree Police Department said in a press release.
Police said the sensor doors opened and the woman drove into the mall, then took a left and drove about 60 yards down the corridor.
U.S. & World
Stories that affect your life across the U.S. and around the world.
No charges have been filed against the woman, whose name was not given, but police said they were requesting the Registry of Motor Vehicles to suspend her license. | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/national-international/how-did-an-suv-get-on-the-second-floor-of-south-shore-plaza/3339279/ | 2022-08-18T18:54:38Z | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/national-international/how-did-an-suv-get-on-the-second-floor-of-south-shore-plaza/3339279/ | false |
MIAMI (AP) — FIU football player Luke Knox, who appeared in 23 games at Mississippi before joining the Panthers and was the brother of Buffalo Bills tight end Dawson Knox, has died, the university said Thursday.
Luke Knox died Wednesday evening, school officials said. The cause was not revealed, though the university said police do not suspect foul play.
Knox, who studied business, was 22.
“Words cannot express the heartfelt sorrow we feel because of the passing of our teammate and friend, Luke Knox,” FIU coach Mike MacIntyre wrote on social media. “I had the honor of coaching Luke at Ole Miss and at FIU. While I admired his passion for football, his genuine love for his family and teammates is what I will always remember.”
FIU players were told of Knox’s death late Wednesday. Thursday’s practice was canceled, and grief counselors were brought in to meet with the team and others from the university community.
“You had such a love for life and the game of football,” FIU quarterback Gunnar Holmberg wrote in a social media post Thursday. “Never failed to put a smile on those around you. Grateful for the time we had together. Words can’t explain how you’ll be missed.”
Dawson Knox, Luke Knox’s older brother, is entering his fourth season with the Bills.
“Our hearts go out to Dawson and his family during this time,” Buffalo coach Sean McDermott said Thursday before practice. “We’re right there with him and supporting him and his family. Just tragic news that I woke up to this morning. We love him and we support him.”
Dawson Knox was not on the field for the Bills’ practice.
Luke Knox, who was from Brentwood, Tennessee, primarily played special teams during his time at Ole Miss, and he had 11 tackles in his four seasons there. He switched to tight end in 2021 though appeared as a linebacker on FIU’s roster this season.
MacIntyre was defensive coordinator at Ole Miss during Knox’s time with the Rebels. MacIntyre is in his first season at FIU.
“He had a special way of making everyone around him feel comfortable and confident,” MacIntyre said. “Luke’s family is special to me, and they will continually be in my heart and in my prayers during this difficult time.”
FIU opens its season Sept. 1 against Bryant.
___
More AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/college-football and https://twitter.com/ap_top25 | https://phl17.com/sports/fiu-says-football-player-luke-knox-22-has-died/ | 2022-08-18T18:54:52Z | https://phl17.com/sports/fiu-says-football-player-luke-knox-22-has-died/ | false |
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — When JD Vance founded “Our Ohio Renewal” a day after the 2016 presidential election, he promoted the charity as a vehicle for helping solve the scourge of opioid addiction that he had lamented in “Hillbilly Elegy,” his bestselling memoir.
But Vance shuttered the nonprofit last year and its foundation in May, shortly after clinching the state’s Republican nomination for U.S. Senate, according to state records reviewed by The Associated Press. An AP review found that the charity’s most notable accomplishment — sending an addiction specialist to Ohio’s Appalachian region for a yearlong residency — was tainted by ties among the doctor, the institute that employed her and Purdue Pharma, the manufacturer of OxyContin.
The mothballing of Our Ohio Renewal and its dearth of tangible success raise questions about Vance’s management of the organization. His decision to bring on Dr. Sally Satel is drawing particular scrutiny. She’s an American Enterprise Institute resident scholar whose writings questioning the role of prescription painkillers in the national opioid crisis were published in The New York Times and elsewhere before she began the residency in the fall of 2018.
Documents and emails obtained by ProPublica for a 2019 investigation found that Satel, a senior fellow at AEI, sometimes cited Purdue-funded studies and doctors in her articles on addiction for major news outlets and occasionally shared drafts of the pieces with Purdue officials in advance, including on occasions in 2004 and 2016. Over the years, according to the report, AEI received regular $50,000 donations and other financial support from Purdue totaling $800,000.
Longtime Ohio political observer Herb Asher cast the charity’s shortcomings, including Satel’s links to Big Pharma, as a “betrayal.”
“A person forms a charity presumably to do good things, so when it doesn’t, for whatever reason, that really is a betrayal,” said Asher, an emeritus professor of political science at Ohio State University. “That’s something voters can get their arms around.”
Vance’s campaign said the nonprofit is simply on temporary hold during Vance’s Senate run against Democratic U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan. It also said Vance was unfamiliar with Satel’s connection to Purdue when she was selected for the residency.
“JD didn’t know at the time, but remains proud of her work to treat patients, especially those in an area of Ohio who needed it most,” the campaign said in a statement.
In an email to the AP this week, Satel said that she “never consulted with” or ever “took a cent from Purdue” and that she didn’t know that Purdue had donated money to AEI because the institute maintains a firewall between its scholars and donors. She said she relies “completely on my own experience as a psychiatrist and/or data to form my opinions.”
Phoebe Keller, spokesperson for AEI, said the institute’s scholars “have academic freedom to follow their own research to conclusions without interference from management.”
Purdue Pharma did not respond to a message seeking comment.
Vance has described Our Ohio Renewal’s mission variously over the years as “to bring interesting new businesses to the so-called Rust Belt,” “to fill some of the (area’s) treatment gaps in mental health” and “to combat Ohio’s opioid epidemic.”
He has acknowledged at points that the charity fell short of his vision, though he has more recently suggested it remains active — including listing himself on a financial disclosure filed this week as “honorary chairman” of the canceled organization.
In his book, Vance recounts the hardship and heartbreak he and his family experienced as a result of his mother’s battle with drug addiction, which ravaged Appalachian areas of Ohio, Kentucky and West Virginia when the 38-year-old was growing up. She used both OxyContin and heroin.
Ohio remains one of the hardest-hit states for deadly drug overdoses, with about 14 people dying each day, according to the most recent statistics.
Vance expressed hopes in media interviews about the time Satel arrived in struggling Ironton, Ohio, in September 2018, that she would use her experience to develop better treatment methods for addiction that could be “scaled nationally” or perhaps to produce “a paper or book-length publication” detailing her findings. She has yet to do either.
“I am working on a book,” Satel told the AP in an email exchange this week, nearly three years after she wrapped up her residency.
D.R. Gossett, CEO of the Ironton-Lawrence County Community Action Organization, who helped oversee Satel’s roughly $70,000 residency, said she “helped people who were struggling in southern Ohio” and “to this day, people are thankful for her presence.” That included treating an unspecified number of patients in a region long designated a health care shortage area and what Gossett described as “community planning efforts.”
After the residency ended, Satel’s public remarks suggested she remained as convinced as ever that addiction stems from combined behavioral and environmental forces — not the documented overprescribing and aggressive marketing of OxyContin and other opioids that helped families and state, local and tribal governments ultimately secure a $6 billion national settlement against Purdue in March.
“The data are completely clear that the decline in opioid prescribing had no effect on the overall opioid overdose rate,” she said in the email to the AP, blaming the number of growing overdoses on heroin and fentanyl.
It’s a familiar position for Satel, whose opinion columns in national publications included an October 2004 Times article, “Doctors Behind Bars: Treating Pain is Now Risky Business,” a February 2018 Politico article, “The Myth of What’s Driving the Opioid Crisis – Doctor-prescribed painkillers are not the biggest threat” and the March 2018 Slate article, “Pill Limits Are Not a Smart Way to Fight the Opioid Crisis.”
Jack Frech, a senior executive in residence at Ohio University who headed an Appalachian Ohio welfare agency for more than 30 years, said there is no doubt that the region was targeted with prescription opioids in the early days of the epidemic. He said the path to addiction to heroin and fentanyl for many residents “started with the overabundance of easily accessible pain pills.”
Ryan and his allies are already targeting Our Ohio Renewal in television ads, citing recent Business Insider reporting that called into question the charity’s payments to a Vance political adviser and on public opinion polling.
A year after Satel finished up her residency, a friend emailed Vance in October 2020 to express concern that Satel was headlining an AEI event on the origins of the U.S. opioid crisis “without a splash banner saying how much money AEI takes from Purdue Pharma.”
“Yeah. It’s not good,” Vance replied, according to a copy of the email obtained by the AP. “I have a minor affiliation with AEI. Thinking about dropping it because of this and other things.” He did. Keller, the AEI spokesperson, said Vance ended his nonresident fellowship at the institute that year and did not renew the affiliation.
Medical professionals and others on the front lines of the drug crisis say the scourge of addiction in Appalachia still needs advocates.
“There’s definitely still a major problem,” said Trisha Ferrar, who directs The Recovery Center in Lancaster, at the edge of Appalachian Ohio. “Things are very tough and people who are sick are having a lot of challenges. There’s just a lot of uncertainty in the world right now that kind of adds to that.”
___
Follow AP for full coverage of the midterms at https://apnews.com/hub/2022-midterm-elections and on Twitter, https://twitter.com/ap_politics | https://www.seattletimes.com/business/vances-anti-drug-charity-enlisted-doctor-echoing-big-pharma/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_business | 2022-08-18T18:55:23Z | https://www.seattletimes.com/business/vances-anti-drug-charity-enlisted-doctor-echoing-big-pharma/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_business | false |
IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Nobol Inc. is pleased to announce that we are a participating sponsor at the Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo! #WeCare about your lifestyle, health, and age. Please stop by our booth and get your hands and feet to our new and latest version of the PhysioPedal by Nobol. We will have games, prizes, and giveaways!
PhysioPedal is an Innovative, Self- Peddling, Portable, and Cordless Cycle that provides Assisted Cycling Therapy (ACT) designed to help improve the health of the elderly and individuals who are sedentary, injured, or are doing post-surgery rehabilitation by pedaling for the user. The user steps in, and the machine will get them moving. Nobol Inc. is a Southern California-based manufacturer of innovative home-based medical and health products.
Unlike stationary bikes, which are often manually powered by the user, the PhysioPedal Assisted Cycling Therapy Cycle (ACT) is a form of exercise intervention that improves physical and cognitive functions. The PhysioPedal helps the elderly, the injured, and those with limited voluntary movement improve their health outcomes and overall wellness.
The PhysioPedal is the first step to improving your health!
This event was created specifically for SoCal Baby Boomers and Seniors to explore options and resources available for retirement, learn about new products and services, and connect with others who share the same goal of healthy aging. The expo will showcase various exhibitors from healthcare, financial services, government programs, diet and exercise, Social Security, Medicare, and more! Attendees can also expect 60 exhibits, health screenings, networking, raffles, beauty makeovers, bingo, arts & crafts, job & volunteer opportunities, and educational seminars from industry experts.
The Golden Future 50+ Expo will take place on Saturday, August 20, 2022, 9 am - 1:30 pm at the Hilton Woodland Hills Hotel located at 6360 Canoga Avenue, Woodland Hills, CA 91367. Admission and Parking are Free.
Must park next door at 6400 Canoga Avenue for FREE Parking!
Visit www.goldenfutureseniorexpo.com for a complete schedule. Attendees can pre-register online or at the door.
Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo Los Angeles
September 17, 2022 - Veterans Memorial Building 4117 Overland Avenue Culver City, CA 90230
Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo Los Angeles
October 22, 2022 - Commerce Casino & Hotel Inside the Main Ballroom 6121 Telegraph Road Commerce, CA 90040
Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo Orange County
November 12, 2022 - Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort Inside the Park Ballroom 1855 S Harbor Boulevard Anaheim, CA 92802
Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo Long Beach
December 3, 2022 - Golden Sails Hotel Inside the Crystal & Marina Ballrooms of the PCH Club 6285 E. Pacific Coast Highway Long Beach, CA 90803
Keep updated on our future events, and learn more about PhysioPedal and Nobol here: www.nobol.com
Media Contact: David Vanderveer, (949) 584-4397, d.vanderveer@nobol.com
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SOURCE Nobol Inc. | https://www.wflx.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/come-try-newly-launched-physiopedal-self-pedaling-cycle-by-nobol-annual-golden-future-50-senior-expo-woodland-hills-ca-august-20-2022/ | 2022-08-18T18:59:57Z | https://www.wflx.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/come-try-newly-launched-physiopedal-self-pedaling-cycle-by-nobol-annual-golden-future-50-senior-expo-woodland-hills-ca-august-20-2022/ | true |
Updated August 18, 2022 at 2:31 PM ET
Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids; neither do most insurance policies. That's why advocates are welcoming a new federal rule allowing over-the-counter sales of the devices, hoping the move cuts prices and makes it easier for people with hearing loss to improve their lives.
By mid-October, consumers could see over-the-counter devices in drug stores that are far more affordable than prescription aids that routinely cost thousands of dollars, thanks to the rule the Food and Drug Administration announced on Tuesday. But many people will likely have to bear that cost alone — and that's just one of the challenges still confronting people with hearing loss.
"We're really excited about the market," said Barbara Kelley, executive director of the Hearing Loss Association of America. But, she added, "we think it's going to be confusing for consumers."
Here's a rundown of why the rule is being celebrated, and what problems still exist.
The new rule is a long-awaited breakthrough
"There's 48 million people in this country with some degree of hearing loss," Kelley told NPR, "and there's no such thing as a small hearing loss. It can be completely disruptive to your life."
The new rule's promise to minimize a host of health problems was hailed by Dr. Debara Tucci, director of the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.
"Hearing loss is associated with dementia, increased risk of falling, reduced mobility, depression, social isolation, and anxiety," Tucci said on her federal agency's website.
Wearing hearing aids can make a big difference. As the Hearing Industries Association said in an email to NPR, "8 in 10 who chose to treat their hearing loss report life-changing results."
Prescription hearing aids are often wildly expensive
"The FDA estimates this rule will save consumers on the order of about $1,400 per individual hearing aid or over $2,800 per pair," Brian Deese, director of the National Economic Council, said of the new FDA rule.
That's a substantial saving for an essential item that the Hearing Industries Association says can range from under $1,000 up to $4,000 each.
The industry group notes that the actual devices usually account for only about a third of the total cost, since the process of getting a prescription hearing aid normally includes numerous visits to doctors and specialists who evaluate patients and fit, test and adjust their hearing aids.
One source of potential relief: your tax return. In response to an NPR request, the IRS confirmed that taxpayers can use their flexible spending account to pay for over-the-counter hearing aids or claim a medical deduction for the cost, just as they're currently allowed to do.
"There has never been a 'prescription' requirement for hearing aids" under the tax rules, according to IRS spokesman Bruce Friedland, who adds, "all that is necessary is that they be for a hearing deficiency."
OTC aids could compete with PSAP devices
By creating a new product category, the FDA is giving a regulated alternative to people who in recent years might have turned to PSAPs — or personal sound amplification products.
PSAPs are promoted as a way to amplify a normal person's hearing. But many people who buy them aren't hunters or private detectives — they're just having trouble hearing, whether it's in person or when they're watching TV.
With the change, the PSAP category will still exist, but if their makers want to sell a device as an OTC hearing aid, they'll have to fulfill the FDA's quality and labeling standards.
"The truth is, in that category, there are some very good devices that will cross over to the over-the-counter market and meet the criteria," Kelley said. "The difference is they can now market them to people with hearing loss."
Medicare does not pay for hearing aids
"Medicare doesn't cover hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids," the government program's website states. "You pay 100% of the cost for hearing aids and exams."
Many Americans might be surprised that the federal insurance program doesn't offer help to people who are most likely to need hearing aids. But it's by design.
"Back when the law was enacted in 1965, hearing aids were not only not in there, they were statutorily excluded," Kelley said.
Other components of modern insurance, such as dental and vision coverage, were similarly left out of the original law — although in today's system, some Medicare Advantage plans do include coverage for those costs.
Kelley says several ideas are behind the exclusion, including a belief in 1965 that problems like hearing loss weren't major health issues. Average U.S. lifespans were also shorter — and as we now live longer, many of us are doing so in noisier environments that progressively harm our ability to hear.
Lawmakers made headway to include hearing aids in Medicare coverage in recent years, but a House-approved bill in 2019 failed to advance in the Senate. Attempts to include the requirement in the Democrats' Build Back Better framework also foundered.
Using hearing aids isn't as easy as putting on reading glasses
The new class of over-the-counter hearing aids is meant to help adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. But for anyone who thinks getting an OTC hearing aid will help them as easily as snagging a pair of cheap reading glasses boosts their sight, Kelley warns that it isn't that simple.
"That's a good analogy," she said, "except I'd like to clarify that when we put on glasses, typically they correct our vision. When you put on a hearing aid, it doesn't always correct your hearing."
That's because many hearing loss cases are highly individualized, with problems linked to specific frequencies or environments.
"Hearing loss is unique to each person, and most do not know if their condition is mild, moderate, or greater, caused by another medical issue or something as simple as ear wax," Hearing Industries Association President Kate Carr said in an emailed statement.
While many people might benefit from an OTC product, others might need to see a doctor and an audiologist for more sophisticated care, Carr and others say.
The chance that some consumers might rely on trial-and-error to find a device that works well for them led some commenters on the FDA proposal to ask the agency to ensure they can easily return or exchange OTC hearing aids. The FDA declined to do so, citing existing consumer laws. But its final rule does require manufacturers to clearly state their return policies.
If you buy a hearing aid without a prescription, the Hearing Industries Association says you should hang on to your receipt and be aware of the device's warranty and return details. It also cautions consumers against using devices that over-amplify sound, as too much volume could harm their hearing further.
The rule meets a mandate set in 2017
Despite the limit on Medicare coverage, the OTC rule comes as a highly anticipated victory, arriving five years after Congress voted in in 2017 to require the FDA to create an OTC category for hearing aids.
Regulators were prodded to take action last summer, when President Biden issued a wide-ranging executive order to promote more competition. It tasked the Department of Health and Human Services with proposing an OTC hearing aid rule, setting a new timeline in motion.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.apr.org/science-health/science-health/2022-08-17/over-the-counter-hearing-aids-will-bring-relief-but-with-some-confusion | 2022-08-18T19:00:06Z | https://www.apr.org/science-health/science-health/2022-08-17/over-the-counter-hearing-aids-will-bring-relief-but-with-some-confusion | false |
NEW YORK (AP) — One skyscraper stands out from the rest in the Manhattan skyline. It’s not the tallest, but it is the skinniest — the world’s skinniest, in fact.
The 84-story residential Steinway Tower, designed by New York architecture firm SHoP Architects, has the title of “most slender skyscraper in the world” thanks to its logic-defying ratio of width to height: 1-to-23 1/2.
“Any time it’s 1-to-10 or more that’s considered a slender building; 1-to-15 or more is considered exotic and really difficult to do,” SHoP Architects founding principal Gregg Pasquarelli said. “The most slender buildings in the world are mostly in Hong Kong, and they’re around 17- or 18-to-1.”
The 60 apartments in the tower range in cost from $18 million to $66 million per unit, and offer 360-degree views of the city. It’s located just south of Central Park, along a stretch of Manhattan’s 57th Street known as “Billionaires’ Row.”
At 1,428 feet (435 meters), the building is the second-tallest residential tower in the Western Hemisphere, second to the nearby Central Park Tower at 1,550 feet (470 meters). For comparison, the world’s tallest tower is Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, which stands at 2,717 feet (828 meters).
Steinway Tower is so skinny at the top that whenever the wind ramps up, the luxury homes on the upper floors sway around by a few feet.
“Every skyscraper has to move,” Pasquarelli said. “If it’s too stiff, it’s actually more dangerous — it has to have flexibility in it.”
To prevent the tower from swaying too far, the architects created a counterbalance with tuned steel plates. And while the exterior has the de rigueur reflective glass, it also includes a textured terracotta and bronze facade that creates wind turbulence to slow the acceleration of the building, Pasquarelli said. About 200 rock anchors descend at most 100 feet (30 meters) into the underlying bedrock to provide a deep foundation.
Steinway Tower has a long history as the former location of Steinway Hall, constructed in 1924. JDS Development Group and Property Markets Group bought the building in 2013, and now they’re looking to the future.
“What I’m hoping is that 50 years from now, you’ve only known New York with 111 West 57th St.,” Pasquarelli said. “I hope it holds a special place in all future New Yorkers’ hearts.” ___
AP contributor Aron Ranen contributed to this report. | https://wgntv.com/news/a-look-at-the-worlds-skinniest-skyscraper-steinway-tower/ | 2022-08-18T19:00:46Z | https://wgntv.com/news/a-look-at-the-worlds-skinniest-skyscraper-steinway-tower/ | false |
US cuts water supply for some states, Mexico as drought bites
The huge Lake Mead, which was formed by the damming of the Colorado River, is at historically low levels
Water supplies to some US states and Mexico will be cut to avoid "catastrophic collapse" of the Colorado River, Washington officials said Tuesday, as a historic drought bites.
More than two decades of well below average rainfall have left the river -- the lifeblood of the western United States -- at critical levels, as human-caused climate change worsens the natural drought cycle.
Despite years of warnings and a deadline imposed by Washington, states that depend on the river have not managed to agree on a plan to cut their usage, and on Tuesday, the federal government said it was stepping in.
"In order to avoid a catastrophic collapse of the Colorado River System and a future of uncertainty and conflict, water use in the Basin must be reduced," said Tanya Trujillo, assistant secretary for water and science at the US Interior Department.
Arizona's allocation from the river will fall by 21 percent in 2023, while Nevada will get eight percent less. Mexico's allotment will drop by seven percent.
California, the biggest user of the river's water and the most populous of the western states, will not be affected next year.
The Colorado River rises in the Rocky Mountains and snakes its way through Colorado, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, California and northern Mexico, where it empties into the Gulf of California.
It is fed chiefly by snowpack at high altitudes, which melts slowly throughout the warmer months.
But reduced precipitation and the higher temperatures caused by humanity's unchecked burning of fossil fuels means less snow is falling, and what snow exists, is melting faster.
As a consequence, there is not as much water in the river that supplies tens of millions of people and countless acres of farmland.
The states that use the water have been locked in negotiations over how to slash usage, but missed a Monday deadline to cut a deal, so Washington stepped in.
Officials in upstream states hit out Tuesday at what they saw as an unfair settlement, with California exempted from any cuts.
"It is unacceptable for Arizona to continue to carry a disproportionate burden of reductions for the benefit of others who have not contributed," said a statement by Tom Buschatzke, director of the state's Department of Water Resources and Ted Cooke, general manager of the Central Arizona Project.
- Climate change -
Deputy Interior Secretary Tommy Beaudreau said his department -- which oversees US water supplies -- was "using every resource available to conserve water and ensure that irrigators, Tribes and adjoining communities receive adequate assistance."
Plants grow from an exposed lakebed drying out during low water levels due to the western drought on June 28, 2022, on Lake Mead along the Colorado River in Boulder City, Nevada
"The worsening drought crisis impacting the Colorado River Basin is driven by the effects of climate change, including extreme heat and low precipitation," he said.
"In turn, severe drought conditions exacerbate wildfire risk and ecosystems disruption, increasing the stress on communities and our landscapes."
The western United States is suffering under a drought that is now in its 23rd year, the worst episode in more than 1,000 years.
That drought has left swathes of the country dry and vulnerable to hotter, faster and more destructive wildfires.
Communities served by the Colorado River, including Los Angeles, have been ordered to save water, with unpopular restrictions in place on outdoor watering.
Those restrictions are unevenly adhered to, with some lawns -- especially in the plushest parts of Los Angeles and its surroundings -- still remarkably green. | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/afp/article-11117421/US-cuts-water-allowance-states-Mexico-drought-bites.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | 2022-08-18T19:00:47Z | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/afp/article-11117421/US-cuts-water-allowance-states-Mexico-drought-bites.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | true |
.... Can you guess?
You’ll know by now that actors Zoe Kravitz and Channing Tatum are dating.
They’ve kept their relationship largely under wraps, but speaking to the Wall Street Journal Magazine in a new promo for her upcoming film, Kravitz got candid about what the one thing she found most attractive about her partner before they started dating.
“I felt, even from afar, before I knew him, that he was a feminist,” she explains. “[I felt] that he wasn’t afraid of exploring that darkness, because he knows he’s not that.”
“That’s why I was drawn to him and wanted to meet with him. And I was right.”
For content, Kravitz has cast Tatum as the lead in her upcoming film, which marks her directorial debut. The movie, Pussy Island, is a psychological thriller which follows the story of a young waitress, played by Kravitz, who “sets her sights” on wealthy tech mogul Slater King, played by Tatum.
It’s thought that Kravitz believed Tatum would be the perfect fit for the role, despite never having acted in anything of the sort previously. Why? Well, for exactly that reason.
“I think that’s exciting,” she explained. “To watch someone who’s mostly played boy next door, good guy, love interest, all of that,” Kravitz shared. Channing was her first choice – she has been open about being keen to cast “someone who hadn’t played a dark character before.”
Naturally, they’ve been working together a lot on set, which she explains has only brought them closer together – as co-workers and as a couple.
“When you make things with people, it’s a very sacred space,” she explained during her interview. “And when you’re compatible with somebody creatively, it often opens up other channels, because you’re kind of sharing all of yourself.”
“I’m really grateful that this movie has brought him into my life that way,” she added.
Kravitz has starred in dramas spanning Batman and Big Little Lies previously so we are very excited to see what’s to come from Pussy Island. The movie is set to be released this autumn, but we’ll share more as we have it. Watch this space… | https://www.marieclaire.co.uk/life/sex-and-relationships/zoe-kravitz-channing-tatum-attraction-793240 | 2022-08-18T19:01:38Z | https://www.marieclaire.co.uk/life/sex-and-relationships/zoe-kravitz-channing-tatum-attraction-793240 | true |
High school completion leads to increased earnings and contribution to local economy, plus higher postsecondary enrollment rates
Scholarships offered to Florida residents who can graduate through their public library for free
POMPANO BEACH, Fla., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Career Online High School today announced that 1,000 Florida adults have earned their high school diplomas through their local libraries. A leader in adult high school education, COHS has been delivered in FL libraries since 2015. It is available to residents ages 19+ through scholarships in 200+ library locations throughout the state. Learn more at the FL COHS website.
The potential impact of 1,000 new graduates in terms of earnings, contribution, and postsecondary enrollment is shown in this infographic. The program—which includes an entry-level certificate in areas like manufacturing, health care, professional skills, and childcare—aligns to The Florida 2030 Blueprint, which emphasizes building a talent pipeline, increasing employability skills and postsecondary completion, and reducing childhood poverty.
"COHS is an important pathway to improved financial, education, and career prospects for the more than 2.5 million FL adults who did not complete high school," said district Superintendent of Schools Dr. Howard Liebman. "Over 76% of our graduates plan to pursue further education through local community colleges, state universities, and vocational programs."
FL postsecondary institutions include:
- Miami Dade College
- Broward College
- Florida State College at Jacksonville
- Hillsborough Community College
- Tallahassee Community College
- Complete list here
For residents, finishing high school through their libraries has proven the stepping stone to career progression:
Latoya Freelove (Broward County Libraries): "I felt incomplete without my high school diploma. I wanted to do this to have a better future for my child and myself. I feel more optimistic. I'm now a Supervisor at the United States Postal Service."
Jasmine Camacho (Largo Public Library): "I'm currently working as a CNA. I want to sign up for college to become an RN and get my bachelor's."
- FL residents: Learn more at fl.careeronlinehs.org.
- Libraries: Visit shcoe.org.
COHS is part of Smart Horizons Career Online Education, the world's first accredited online school district. COHS was designed to reengage adults in the education system and prepare them for the workplace or postsecondary education. 13,500+ students have graduated from the district and COHS is available in 2,000+ U.S. library locations. shcoe.org.
Media Contact: media@shcoe.org
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SOURCE Smart Horizons Career Online Education | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/1000-florida-adults-graduate-high-school-through-public-libraries-career-online-high-school/ | 2022-08-18T19:02:46Z | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/1000-florida-adults-graduate-high-school-through-public-libraries-career-online-high-school/ | true |
MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – Water supply has been an ongoing problem for communities in West Texas. Companies and organizations gathered recently to discuss new advancements in working with the oil and gas industry to prevent this problem from worsening at a convention held by the Produced Water Society.
Steve Coffee, president of the organization, explained that at the event multiple discussion panels were held creating an open and inviting space for people across different industries to voice their opinions on a multitude of topics. “Really this is a forum for communication, education and sharing of ideas,” he said.
Encore Green Environmental, a company focused on binding together unprecedented environmental and industrial results, attended the convention to promote their water purifying machine and technology. It specializes in taking the excess water pulled up from oil drilling that may be unusable because of the contamination it contains and filtering it through a streamline process that then outputs clean, useable water.
One of the biggest beneficiaries of this process are local farmers who are arguably some of the hardest hit during a severe drought. Encore Green Environmental’s water purifying machine gives farmers access to a whole new abundance of water to use on land and crops that they wouldn’t have had the ability to use before.
“Right now, Texas has a water problem. We are in the middle of a huge drought and yet we have so much water around that we can’t use.” Cody Wilson, a West Texas farmer expressed his frustration with the current drought conditions while fully endorsing Encore Green Environmental’s water purifying machine.
He knows that if more farmers understood what this technology could do for their industry the impact would be massive.
“I told everybody that once we plug this thing in and it works, we could have thousands of new acres of farmable land overnight and a ton of farmers interested in using this clean produced water to irrigate with,” he said.
This farmer’s story is just one of many, but that’s why the Produced Water Society has created a space for these types of discussions to happen allowing different companies and organizations to come together and solve one of the biggest issues West Texas currently faces. | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/convention-tackles-drought-concerns/ | 2022-08-18T19:03:11Z | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/convention-tackles-drought-concerns/ | false |
Students reveal 'tough' reality of exams post pandemic
- Published
Students in Norfolk who have opened their A-level results have been describing how tough they found it to study during the pandemic.
Thousands of young people have received exam results after anxiously waiting to find out the next step in their career
This year's cohort are the first to sit traditional exams following multiple Covid lockdowns.
'Felt like we were going in kind of knowing nothing'
Millie Clark has just finished studying for her A-levels in history, music and french.
The 18-year-old who received two A*s and an A is planning to study music at Cambridge University.
She says sitting exams after Covid restrictions disrupted previous years of exams "felt like we were going in kind of knowing nothing."
"We hadn't even done GCSE's beforehand, so that was really scary." she said.
Exams weren't the only things disrupted by Covid as so were extra-curricular activities and clubs.
She said it was "difficult with music extracurricular stuff, not being able to play together as year groups."
"It's been difficult but it's been worth it." she said.
'The doubts creep in'
"The past few days was not much sleep, just stressing over this," says 18-year-old Flynn Robbins.
The teenager, from Thorpe St Andrew, is planning to study for a masters degree in aerospace engineering at Sheffield University after securing A-grades in chemistry and maths with a A* in physics.
"I've just been really worried that I somehow messed up, even though I think I knew in my head that I got enough, but the doubts creep in," he said.
By studying aerospace engineering he hopes to work as an aerodynamicist for Formula 1.
"My ultimate goal is to join an F1 team as an aerodynamicist working in that department designing the aerodynamics of an F1 car, that's what I want to do," he said.
'There's always been ways round it'
For 18-year-old Mia Bartram, getting to results day has been harder than most after studying practical A-levels.
She said: "It was difficult in periods like when we had lockdown and stuff, especially as all the subjects I take are in the workshop and we are very hands-on-based,".
After receiving top grades in all her subjects she said the school have "combatted it well" as 3D design, photography, art, craft and design were difficult to do from home.
The teenager said "all the hard work's paid off" after securing a place to study sustainable product design at Falmouth University.
'2020 was just such a different kind of learning environment'
After studying A-levels in computer science, physics and maths, 18-year-old James Livesey has had to make the decision between going to university or starting an apprenticeship.
The teenager, from Norwich, was offered a degree apprenticeship with the BBC in software engineering and said: "I'm going to go for that because it's such a sought-after opportunity so that's my main choice."
He said he was really "glad" with his grades after achieving an A* and two As, but found studying during a pandemic a "nightmare".
"Honestly, 2020 was just such a different kind of learning environment and everything and it did throw a spanner in the works." he said.
Find BBC News: East of England on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you have a story suggestion email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk | https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-norfolk-62591439 | 2022-08-18T19:07:06Z | https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-norfolk-62591439 | true |
The companies of mega-rich celebrities, including billionaires Kanye West and Jay-Z, received millions in government PPP loans – and in virtually every case the A-listers have been let off the hook for paying back the full amount.
For the first time, DailyMail.com can reveal the exact amounts that these wealthy companies got through the Payment Protection Program, which was set up for desperate businesses hit by the Covid pandemic.
In all but two of the cases we examined, the company was ‘forgiven’ despite the star owners being multi-millionaires. The status of the others is unknown.
The loan program cost US taxpayers $953billion, with the University of Texas estimating that 15 percent of PPP claims – around $76billion – were fraudulent.
It was claimed that after the first round of PPP loans, up to 90 percent of ethnic minority business owners were unsuccessful at getting the loan and were at the ‘end of a line’, according to an Associated Press survey, which showed a disproportionate amount of white people in rich areas being approved for a loan.
Yet celebs and their businesses had no problems.
Kanye West’s Yeezy LLC, based in La Palma, California, borrowed $2,363,585, with $1,772,689 being spent on payroll for 106 staff.
ProPublica, which has published the amount and status of every federal loan, states that Yeezy’s loan status is ‘not disclosed.’
Yeezy’s Adidas sneaker line’s profits increased during the pandemic from $1.3 billion in 2020 to $1.7 billion in 2021, a rise of 31 percent.
Kanye West himself has a net worth of about $2billion.
A subsidiary, Yeezy Schloss LLC, borrowed $15,625 for one employee and was forgiven all but $147.
A loan will be forgiven, including the one percent interest, through a complicated calculation based on the amount, how many employees were maintained during the coronavirus crisis and on what hours/wages were compared to pre-covid.
Kanye’s one-time sister-in-law Khloe Kardashian’s denim brand Good American LLC had a loan of $1,245,405 approved on April 14, 2020, mostly for the payroll of 57 workers.
The full amount, plus interest, was forgiven.
Khloe’s net worth is reportedly $60million.
The company is said to be worth $12.7 million and made $1million in sales on its first day of business in 2016.
Jay-Z is associated to two firms approved for a loan two years ago.
Malibu Entertainment is linked to his streaming platform Tidal and took $2,106,398 to secure 95 jobs and was let off of repaying the full amount.
His champagne brand Armand De Brignac Holdings – where he holds a 50 percent stake – borrowed $293,119 for payroll, which was fully disbursed. It is not stated if the loan was paid back.
Sean Combs’s cable network, Revolt Media and TV LLC, took $1,929,252 for 134 jobs, which was forgiven.
The two rappers are among the highest paid celebrities in the world, with Jay-Z worth $1.3billion, while Combs, aka Puff Daddy or Diddy, is just behind with a net worth of $900million.
NFL legend Tom Brady is set to become the game’s first ever billionaire when he eventually retires with part of his income coming from the wellbeing site TB12, based on the Tom Brady diet, which he co-founded with body coach Alex Guerrero.
The company, TB12 Inc, was given $960,855 to help secure 80 jobs. The full amount, plus interest of nearly $12,000, is fully forgiven.
Jeff Koons is America’s richest artist, but his firm Jeff Koons LLC still applied for $1,091,200 to keep 53 jobs, which was fully forgiven.
Reese Witherspoon’s clothing company, Draper James LLC, was given $975,472 in the first PPP round for payroll and rent, and had the loan wiped out.
Some rock bands succeeded in their firms being bailed out by government, as the music scene was forced to shutdown.
Pearl Jam Touring Inc had its $629,335 loan forgiven after saving 28 jobs.
Green Day Inc and Green Day Touring Inc succeeded with three loans between them, worth $452,302 for 39 jobs, with it all nearly being forgiven, less $66,000.
The movie industry was also badly hit by lockdowns. Legendary director’s firm Francis Ford Coppola Presents LLC was approved for a loan of $7,147,038, which covered the wages of 469 workers and didn’t have to be repaid.
Political figures also cashed in on the government program.
Jared Kushner’s family were granted three PPP loans for their various businesses.
The Kushner family’s newspaper publisher Observer Holdings, LLC was approved in the first round of loans on April 27, 2020. The company got a $800,407 loan used toward payroll, utilities, rent and saved 41 jobs.
The loan, including interest, was forgiven in full.
The Kushner family hotel business Princeton Forrestal, LLC was approved for a $1,569,977 loan also in April 2020. The funds went to payroll, saving 196 jobs. The loan, including interest, was cleared.
Esplanade Livingston, LLC, which owns the land housing Kushner’s family’s Westminster Hotel in New Jersey, was granted a $630,735 loan, which went to paying 56 employees. The entire loan was forgiven.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband Paul Pelosi has a 8.1percent share in EDI Associates, a restaurant business which took out two PPP loans.
EDI Associates, based in San Rafael, was granted a $711,708 loan. The loan went to the salaries of 52 employees.
EDI Associates, this time based in Sonoma, California, applied for a loan in February 2021, and was granted $996,392.
In both cases, the loans, including interest, were forgiven.
Earlier this month, President Joe Biden signed a bill that will give the Justice Department more time to investigate and prosecute those who fraudulently collected PPP loans.
In March, Biden vowed, ‘We’re going after the criminals who stole billions in relief money meant for small businesses and millions of Americans.’ | https://fromthetrenchesworldreport.com/americas-wealthiest-took-millions-in-ppp-loans-and-nearly-all-have-been-forgiven/305940 | 2022-08-18T19:08:08Z | https://fromthetrenchesworldreport.com/americas-wealthiest-took-millions-in-ppp-loans-and-nearly-all-have-been-forgiven/305940 | false |
Attorneys earn Best Lawyers in America, Ones to Watch honors
HOUSTON, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Four attorneys from the Houston-based litigation boutique Bissinger, Oshman, Williams & Strasburger LLP, have earned recognition among the nation's top lawyers.
Name partners David Bissinger, Jason Williams, and John Strasburger were selected to the 2023 Best Lawyers in America legal guide, with associate Erin Bullard recognized on the companion Ones to Watch listing.
Messrs. Bissinger, Williams, and Strasburger, along with Ms. Bullard, were all honored for their commercial litigation practices. Mr. Strasburger earned additional recognition in the areas of bankruptcy litigation and mass tort defense.
Mr. Bissinger represents clients in litigation related to energy and technology matters, securities, trade secrets and employment covenants, executive compensation, corporate fiduciary, banking, and real estate. He also serves as an arbitrator in commercial disputes. His work has also been recognized by Texas Super Lawyers and America's Top 100 High Stakes Litigators.
Mr. Williams' practice focuses on energy, corporate fiduciary, securities, and construction litigation, and he also has experience in mergers and acquisitions litigation. He has also earned Texas Super Lawyers recognition. A former chairman of the Houston Bar Association's Securities Litigation and Arbitration Section and co-chair of the LegalLine Committee, he also serves on the board of Houston Achievement Place.
Mr. Strasburger has unique experience in complex commercial disputes involving private equity, trade secrets and employment covenants, and trading and supply-contract matters. His practice also includes corporate-governance matters. He has handled banking, real estate, and construction litigation, successfully defending numerous catastrophic tort cases and litigated related insurance-coverage disputes arising from these cases.
Ms. Bullard represents corporate clients and individuals in a wide range of complex civil litigation, including claims of covenants not to compete, trade secrets, financial fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, breach of contract, fraudulent transfer, and negligence. Her work has also been recognized by Texas Super Lawyers Rising Stars.
The oldest peer-review attorney guide in the country, Best Lawyers® also is among the most respected. Selection is made by the Best Lawyers research team, with decisions based in part upon feedback from lawyers within the same geographical region with a shared practice focus. Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch recognition is reserved for attorneys who have been in private practice for five to nine years.
About Bissinger, Oshman, Williams & Strasburger
Bissinger, Oshman, Williams & Strasburger LLP is a Houston-based business trial and transaction firm focused on providing impactful, cost-effective solutions to complex disputes and transactions requiring careful attention, extensive experience, and a high level of sophistication. For more information, visit https://www.bowslaw.com.
Media Contact:
Rhonda Reddick
800-559-4534
rhonda@androvett.com
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SOURCE Bissinger, Oshman, Williams & Strasburger | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/four-bissinger-oshman-williams-amp-strasburger-attorneys-among-nations-top-commercial-litigators/ | 2022-08-18T19:08:26Z | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/four-bissinger-oshman-williams-amp-strasburger-attorneys-among-nations-top-commercial-litigators/ | false |
WINTER GARDEN, Fla., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Store Space Self Storage is proud to announce the hiring of Stephen Harris as President of Construction at Store Space. Harris, an award-winning commercial construction executive and developer with more than 25 years of experience, has actively built and developed more than 14 million sq. ft. of retail, hospitality, office, residential, and mixed-use projects during his career.
"It's great to welcome Stephen into the Store Space family," said Rob Consalvo, COO, and President of Store Space. "Having someone with his extensive background and past history of success to head our construction division will prove invaluable as we continue to scale our development pipeline."
Harris, who joined Store Space in May, cited the company's growth trajectory and plans for increased ground-up development as one of the driving factors in his decision. In addition to Harris, the Store Space Construction Division has also added Shimon Kanter, Vice President of Development, J. Scott Masterson, Vice President of Construction, and Scott Claflin, Senior Director of Cap-Ex.
"This is a very dynamic company, with opportunities for growth and expansion on the immediate horizon," Harris said. "I'm really excited to be here."
Prior to joining Store Space, Harris was Vice President of Development at Washington Prime Group Inc. in Columbus, OH, where he directed multiple top-tier redevelopment projects valued at up to $1.2 billion while working closely with executive leadership to create strong returns on investment.
He was the executive developer of the $550 million expansion project of the Ala Moana Center in Honolulu, Hawaii, which boosted the value of the property to approximately $6 billion, making it the most valuable shopping center in America in 2019.
Harris' awards include the 2018 Best Retail Architecture in USA, International Property Award, Ala Moana Center (Associated with General Growth Properties/Brookfield), as well as multiple awards from the NAIOP (National Association of Industrial and Office Properties) and ICSC (Innovating Commerce Serving Communities).
Throughout his career, Harris has consistently been a top producer and leader in construction and development. He is an avid reader, a licensed architect, and graduated cum laude from San Diego State University.
Store Space is a self-storage operator and third-party management company. Located in Winter Garden, FL, the Company currently owns, has under purchase agreement, and operates more than 100 properties in 20 states. The Company fuels growth and value with its experience-driven operations, state-of-the-art proprietary platforms, and strategic digital marketing programs. If you have an acquisition opportunity or would like to discuss third-party management, contact us at inquiries@storespace.com, or visit us at www.storespace.com.
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SOURCE Store Space Self Storage | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/harris-award-winning-construction-exec-joins-store-space/ | 2022-08-18T19:08:47Z | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/harris-award-winning-construction-exec-joins-store-space/ | false |
Resecurity claims spot on Inc. 5000 for the second year in a row, raking #2477 and reporting 234% revenue growth over the past three years
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Resecurity, Inc., a cybersecurity company based in Los Angeles, California, was recently recognized by Inc. magazine's annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the nation's fastest-growing private companies. Ranked as one of the fastest-growing private cybersecurity companies, Resecurity was number 2477 on the list for achieving 234 percent of revenue growth in past three years.
The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy's most dynamic segment—its independent small businesses. Intuit, Zappos, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000. Among the 5,000, the average median three-year growth rate soared to 230 percent and total revenue reached $317.2 billion. Together, those companies added more than one million jobs over the past three years.
The recognition comes after a record year for the company, including a recent acquisition of Cybit Sec, a vulnerability assessment and penetration testing company, and the launch of their latest product offering, the Digital Identity Protection Platform. Resecurity has fueled its growth with strategic investments into R&D, expanding its international and channel sales presence, and scaling its industry partnerships.
"The Inc. 5000 list is home to some of the most innovative companies in the market today. Resecurity is proud to have earned a top spot on this prestigious list. This growth is a testament to cybersecurity's critical role in the future. We're committed to accelerating this growth with strategic partnerships and investments in R&D, allowing us to help more individuals and enterprises combat ever-evolving cyber threats," said Gene Yoo, Resecurity CEO.
Resecurity's SaaS solution combines XDR/endpoint protection, cyber threat intelligence and digital risk management, enabling customers ranging from Fortune 500 corporations to governments to protect their ecosystem. The innovative platform allows administrators to reduce potential blind spots and security gaps by quickly seeing in-depth analysis and specific artifacts obtained through the dark web, botnets activity, network intelligence and high-quality threat intelligence data.
"The accomplishment of building one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., in light of recent economic roadblocks, cannot be overstated," says Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. "Inc. is thrilled to honor the companies that have established themselves through innovation, hard work, and rising to the challenges of today."
Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000.
Companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2018 to 2021. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2018. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent--not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies--as of December 31, 2021. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2018 is $100,000; the minimum for 2021 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine company rankings were calculated to four decimal places.
Resecurity is a cybersecurity company that delivers a unified platform for endpoint protection, risk management, and cyber threat intelligence. Known for providing best-of-breed data-driven intelligence solutions, Resecurity's services and platforms focus on early-warning identification of data breaches and comprehensive protection against cybersecurity risks. Founded in 2016, it has been globally recognized as one of the world's most innovative cybersecurity companies with the sole mission of enabling organizations to combat cyber threats regardless of how sophisticated they are. Most recently, Resecurity was named as one of the Top 10 fastest-growing private cybersecurity companies in Los Angeles, California by Inc. Magazine. An Official Member of Infragard, AFCEA, NDIA, SIA, FS-ISAC, the American Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia (AmChamKSA) and Mexico (AmChamMX). To learn more about Resecurity, visit https://resecurity.com.
The world's most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including web sites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Vision Conference is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit www.inc.com.
For more information on the Inc. 5000 Vision Conference, visit http://conference.inc.com/.
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SOURCE Resecurity | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/resecurity-named-one-americas-fastest-growing-private-cybersecurity-companies-by-inc-magazine/ | 2022-08-18T19:10:10Z | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/resecurity-named-one-americas-fastest-growing-private-cybersecurity-companies-by-inc-magazine/ | true |
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, BlueHalo expands its Albuquerque, New Mexico campus–opening the doors to its new 73,000-square-foot research and development, manufacturing, and office space within Sandia Science and Technology Park (SS&TP). Local, state, and federal partners were on hand for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the occasion alongside BlueHalo executives and team members.
"We are fortunate to have strong partnerships with leaders from across New Mexico and the local Albuquerque community as we partner to transform the state into a hub of space technology," said Jonathan Moneymaker, BlueHalo Chief Executive Officer. "These partnerships–along with our investments in leading facilities and a strong workforce–will enable BlueHalo to not only meet the demand for current products and programs but to collaborate, innovate, and develop our nation's next technological breakthroughs critical to National Security."
The opening of the new facility comes as BlueHalo announced last month an additional lease of the neighboring 1300 Eubank SE property, bringing the company's total Albuquerque footprint to over 200,000 square feet. This state-of-the-art campus will accommodate continued technology innovation and rapid transition to manufacturing for BlueHalo products across multiple mission areas, including Advanced Radio Frequency (RF) Systems; Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) and Directed Energy; Laser Communications; and Space-Qualified Electronics and Systems, such as Stabilized Precision Optics and Tracking (SPOT) products.
"It is no accident that New Mexico has become the national leader in a wide range of new and emerging defense technologies. The success of homegrown companies like BlueHalo is the direct result of strategic investments over many years in the sustained success of program management and acquisition entities housed within our state's national defense labs and military installations," said U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM). "BlueHalo's rapid growth in particular—as evidenced by this brand-new, dedicated manufacturing facility—is emblematic of how successful we have been in building a thriving local innovation ecosystem both inside and outside the fence line at Kirtland Air Force Base and in close partnership with the Air Force Research Lab. I am so proud to see how far this work has come, and I commend everyone who has gone above and beyond to ensure our service members are equipped with the best defense technologies in the world."
BlueHalo currently employs 300 professionals on its SS&TP campus, including researchers, engineers, hardware and software developers, and security and intelligence experts. The new facility will create more than 70 additional jobs with an average salary of $90,000.
"Blue Halo's expansion at the Sandia Science and Technology Park demonstrates again that New Mexico's partnerships can help drive innovation and develop vital, breakthrough technologies," said New Mexico Economic Development Secretary Alicia J. Keyes. "The State is proud to support this company and I congratulate Blue Halo as it moves forward creating 70 new jobs, bringing its skilled Albuquerque workforce to almost 400 employees."
Since BlueHalo first announced its plan to renovate the Gibson SE facility in March, company leaders have worked with commercial realtor David Hill of NAI SunVista and the architecture firm of Dekker/Perich/Sabatini along with construction consultant David Doyle and Jeff Slopek and Matt Martinez of Klinger Constructors, LLC to transform the facility. In addition to expanded office space, the new location features highly-equipped research and development labs, a sensitive compartmented information facility (SCIF), and 37,000 square feet of high-bay manufacturing space.
"The new BlueHalo facility and Albuquerque expansion is a testament to the technology innovation and dedication of our employees, partners, and customers," said Katie Selbe, BlueHalo Chief Operating Officer. "The expanded capacity we gain, combined with our firm commitment to the development of inspired engineering innovation, people, and mission will poise BlueHalo to continue leading the transformation and facilitate the delivery of new technologies across multiple mission areas of national defense."
"The future of directed energy and aerospace will be built in Albuquerque," said Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller. "A lot of folks across government, business, and throughout this city's talented workforce have worked hard to ensure that. BlueHalo's continuing investment in this community is bringing more high-quality research and manufacturing jobs and it is another clear indicator that Albuquerque has the infrastructure and talent to lead in this high-growth industry."
BlueHalo is purpose-built to provide industry-leading capabilities in the domains of Space Superiority, Space Technology, Directed Energy/Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS), Autonomy, Advanced Radio Frequency (RF), Cyber, and Signals Intelligence (SIGINT). BlueHalo focuses on inspired engineering to develop, transition, and field next-generation capabilities to solve the most complex challenges of our customers' critical missions and reestablish our national security posture in the near-peer contested arena. www.bluehalo.com
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SOURCE BlueHalo | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/bluehalos-continued-growth-drives-campus-expansion-with-opening-new-state-of-the-art-rampd-manufacturing-facility/ | 2022-08-18T19:10:21Z | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/bluehalos-continued-growth-drives-campus-expansion-with-opening-new-state-of-the-art-rampd-manufacturing-facility/ | false |
TEXAS, USA — H-E-B will be hosting a one-day hiring event for potential employees for full- and part-time positions.
This is the company's largest ever one-day hiring event. For those wanting immediate positions, there will be on-the-spot interviews at the career fairs at every H-E-B, Central Market and Mi Tienda store in Texas.
H-E-B has been giving out jobs for years now as one of the biggest companies in Texas.
The career fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 23. To find open positions at store in your area visit careers.heb.com/careerfair. An online application must be submitted before interviews are conducted.
If you're in the Midland area, H-E-B locations include the one on Andrews Highway and West Wadley Ave in Midland. If you're in Odessa there's locations on East 42nd St. and West University Blvd.
For more information about the event visit https://newsroom.heb.com/h-e-b-to-host-one-day-career-fair-at-stores-across-texas/. | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/find-your-future-career-at-h-e-b/513-5fc1d3c1-4789-4f7c-9674-35b6daa6b446 | 2022-08-18T19:12:42Z | https://www.kcentv.com/article/news/local/find-your-future-career-at-h-e-b/513-5fc1d3c1-4789-4f7c-9674-35b6daa6b446 | false |
Wichita Falls Knows About The Hotter’N Hell Hundred, Did You Know About the Hotter Than Hell Bull?
What randomness did I stumble onto today?
One of those days where I am just struggling to find some original content for you guys. I just posted a story on Luke Wade performing at the Hotter'N Hell Hundred this year. I was curious to see if Getty Images had any photos posted of our big Wichita Falls event and I was shocked at the result. Bulls, nothing but bull pictures.
Yes, I was very confused at the results. What the hell? Go home Getty Images you're drunk. However, they did give me what I technically asked for. Turns out, over in Australia, they have a bull called Hotter Than Hell 2. Turns out Hotter Than Hell was also a Bull from Bradenburg Buckin Bulls and this one is the sequel. All the photos below are of Hotter Than Hell 2.
Looks like our Hotter Than Hell 2 bull has participated in three Professional Bull Riding events over in Australia. I have been told eight seconds on top of bull is a good time to have. Our boy here Hotter Than Hell 2 has an average buck off time of 4.31. Is that good? I don't do a lot of rodeos. It sounds good to me. Hotter Than Hell 1 had a buck off time of 3.86 so even better.
Just thought some local Wichita Falls folks would think it's funny across the world a bull exists named Hotter Than Hell. | https://newstalk1290.com/wichita-falls-knows-about-the-hottern-hell-hundred-did-you-know-about-the-hotter-than-hell-bull/ | 2022-08-18T19:13:33Z | https://newstalk1290.com/wichita-falls-knows-about-the-hottern-hell-hundred-did-you-know-about-the-hotter-than-hell-bull/ | false |
Ririe, ID – Camp Hayden is hosting the families of sixteen children with special needs at Aspen Grove Inn and RV Park August 19th thru August 21st. Camp Hayden provides incredible adventures for these families by adapting activities and adventures so that individuals with physical or mental disabilities can take part in a fun/safe environment. Past activities have included horseback rides, inflatable waterslides, zip lining, ATV rides, a plane flyover that dropped candy from the sky and water activities.
“We cannot wait for our 4th year of Camp Hayden,” said Amy Smith, Board President of Campy Hayden. “Every year we’re able to serve more families at our camp, adapt new and exciting activities for our campers and have a bigger impact on the special needs community. We have some amazing activities planned this year and I cannot wait to see it all come together for our 2022 camp. The amount of work, planning and fundraising that go into creating these camps is significant, but when we get to camp it is 100% worth everything that goes into it. Rising costs have added some new challenges this year, but we’re fortunate to have a great community of donors that rise to the occasion when we need them.”
Camp Hayden’s first camp took place in 2018 at the Big Elk Creek YMCA Camp, after Camp Hayden volunteers rebuilt the camp after it was left in disrepair and out of use for 4 years. Camp founder Jason and Kami Chapa spent 3 summers rebuilding the camp and making it wheelchair accessible, with donations from some incredible local businesses. Camp was canceled for 2020 due to the COVID19 pandemic, but was back for 2021 and will continue take place at least once per year under normal circumstances.
About Camp Hayden: Camp Hayden creates accessible adventures for the families of children with special needs through support and empowerment. Camp Hayden provides shared, safe adventures, and active support for families to feel connected and an integral part of the memories they create at Camp Hayden. Camp Hayden is a 501C3 organization who is incredibly efficient with the donations they receive from local donors. Camp Hayden is looking for land and/or monetary donations to create their own permanent camp location to support the local community in a bigger way year-round. To learn more about Camp Hayden, or to make a donation, visit www.camphayden.org. | https://www.postregister.com/star/news/camp-hayden-hosts-fourth-annual-special-needs-camp-at-ririe-rv-park-august-19th-21st/article_7f6dc63f-7fc4-5755-8078-1b9e0fa02ae6.html | 2022-08-18T19:14:48Z | https://www.postregister.com/star/news/camp-hayden-hosts-fourth-annual-special-needs-camp-at-ririe-rv-park-august-19th-21st/article_7f6dc63f-7fc4-5755-8078-1b9e0fa02ae6.html | false |
These are the Top 10 ‘cowboy culture’ phrases often used in the UK
Nearly three quarters (73 per cent) of adults would give up their 9-5 life tomorrow, to be a cowboy - or girl - in America instead.
Of 2,000 adults polled, the current cost of living crisis in the UK has left 50 per cent more likely to dream of leaving the country for a simpler, homestead life.
While 29 per cent would happily swap their lives in Britain for life on a ranch.
It also emerged 30 per cent are so enamoured with the idea of cowboy life, they want to go on a ranching holiday, and 50 per cent enjoy watching western movies and TV shows.
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Season 4 gathers Yellowstone fans to their screens
When it comes to what attracts people to life on a ranch, 34 per cent equate the cowboy look - hat, boots, checked shirt and jeans - with the cowboy lifestyle over any other aspect of ranch life.
While 26 per cent named the most appealing aspect of ranch life as the great outdoors, plumping for the fresh air and wide-open spaces above a large ranch house or life on the land.
The study into Brits’ attitudes into modern Western living was commissioned by Paramount+, to celebrate season 4 of the critically-acclaimed series Yellowstone, which saw 11 million viewers tune in when it aired in the US earlier this year.
The study, carried out via OnePoll, also revealed the top 10 phrases from cowboy culture Brits use in everyday life, with ‘howdy’ at the top of the list.
‘Howdy partner’, ‘make hay while the sun shines’, ‘peckish’ and ‘yellow belly’ completed the top five.
Real-life Westerner takes the streets of London
Set in Montana, Yellowstone chronicles the Dutton family, led by patriarch John Dutton - played by Kevin Costner - who controls the largest contiguous cattle ranch in America.
Amid shifting alliances, unsolved murders, open wounds, and hard-earned respect – the ranch is in constant conflict with those it borders – an expanding town, an Indian reservation, and the United States' first national park.
A real-life Western entertainer Todd Various took to the streets of London to perform his award-winning rope spinning and whip cracking show.
Passers-by on Kensington High Street cheered as Todd cracked his 8ft cord whip, stopped traffic and delighted crowds with his signature wedding rope trick.
Top 10 ‘cowboy culture’ phrases used by Brits
- Howdy
- Howdy, partner
- Make hay while the sun shines
- Peckish
- Yellow belly
- Play second fiddle
- Been through the mill
- Whole hog
- Above board
- Cow rustling | https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/read-this/these-are-the-top-10-cowboy-culture-phrases-often-used-in-the-uk-3811180 | 2022-08-18T19:16:48Z | https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/read-this/these-are-the-top-10-cowboy-culture-phrases-often-used-in-the-uk-3811180 | true |
The company announces initial investment of $9.5 million and an estimated $14 million expected over 5 years
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Conterra Ultra Broadband Holdings, Inc. ("Conterra Networks") today announced its continued investment in fiber network growth across Tom Green and Brown counties with its initial investment of $9.5 million and an estimated $14 million expected over 5 years.
Conterra designs and builds its 100% fiber network with symmetrical service, speeds of up to 10 Gbps, and 99.99% network reliability. The local team manages the all-fiber network, which is now available to approximately 3,646 businesses and growing in Tom Green and Brown counties.
"San Angelo is a community on the move. Being at the cutting edge of communication technology and a leader in infrastructure deployment is a big part of our growth strategy," said Walt Koenig, President and CEO of San Angelo Chamber of Commerce. "Conterra Networks is an incredible partner whose investments in San Angelo are making this strategy a reality."
Businesses on Knickerbocker Road will soon have access to Conterra's network. Through Conterra's estimated $14 million investment, Conterra is dedicating $1.4 million of that to Knickerbocker Road. Construction activity has begun and fiber services will be available to approximately 255 local businesses. Customers throughout the community may now sign up for presale as construction continues on Knickerbocker Road.
"Being a part of the San Angelo and Brownwood communities has been fantastic," said Craig Gunderson, President and CEO of Conterra Networks. "We are truly grateful for the outstanding reception we have received. Toward that end, we are now extending our network along Knickerbocker to reach even more businesses."
The expansion is part of the company's growing network infrastructure across the United States. To date, Conterra Networks has 13,250 fiber miles, 2,700 schools served, and over 7,500 on-net locations.
To learn more about Conterra Networks and the expansion efforts in Tom Green and Brown counties, visit www.conterra.com.
Founded in 2001, and now operating 13,250 fiber miles, Conterra Networks is one of the largest remaining independent broadband infrastructure companies in the United States based on its optical fiber and fixed wireless network assets and annual recurring revenues. The company is owned by affiliates of APG and Fiera, along with significant participation by the company's senior management team. For more information about Conterra Networks, please visit www.conterra.com.
Media Contact
Name: Jacquelyn Llorca
Phone: 704-936-1755
Email: marketing@conterra.com
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SOURCE CONTERRA ULTRA BROADBAND, LLC | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/conterra-networks-continues-invest-fiber-network-growth-across-tom-green-brown-counties/ | 2022-08-18T19:21:16Z | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/conterra-networks-continues-invest-fiber-network-growth-across-tom-green-brown-counties/ | false |
House of the Dragon is turning up the heat.
The later teaser for the Game of Thrones prequel series, released Aug. 18, sees dragons soar above the shores of Westeros, where soldiers fight on both boats and land in the war named the Dance of the Dragons.
"The road ahead is uncertain," King Viserys Targaryen (Paddy Considine) says, "but the end is clear." The king is confident that "whomever may dare to challenge us" will be defeated, noting that the Targaryen's army is bigger and their dragons are stronger.
Previous previews of the HBO series teased the power struggle at the center of the show, which sees two of King Viserys' children fighting over who will sit on the Iron Throne. While King Viserys' daughter Rhaenyra (Milly Alcock plays the teen version, while Emma D'Arcy plays the character as an adult) is initially named the heir, the king later welcomes a son, Aegon (Tom Glynn-Carney), who is conceived after Rhaenyra is declared the heir.While this doesn't sound like a problem in the modern world, in the world of Westeros, it's unheard of that a woman would be crowned instead of a man, sparking debates over who deserves to be crowned.
As such, Rhaenyra works to prove herself worthy of the title as people begin taking sides.
The series will depict how the Dance of the Dragons plays out, and will offer even more insight into the demise of the House Targaryen, which was briefly touched upon in Games of Thrones.
In the O.G. series, Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke), a.k.a. Mother of Dragons, is one of the few Targaryens still alive as the rest were killed in the war. Her rise to power is significant because of her family's history and it marked the return of dragons, which were previously thought to be extinct.
Now, the bloody battle that decimated the Targaryens and their dragons is being brought to life in the HBO series, premiering Aug. 21 on HBO. | https://www.eonline.com/ca/news/1342588/hbo-unveils-fiery-new-house-of-the-dragon-teaser?cmpid=rss-000000-rssfeed-365-topstories&utm_source=eonline&utm_medium=rssfeeds&utm_campaign=rss_topstories | 2022-08-18T19:21:32Z | https://www.eonline.com/ca/news/1342588/hbo-unveils-fiery-new-house-of-the-dragon-teaser?cmpid=rss-000000-rssfeed-365-topstories&utm_source=eonline&utm_medium=rssfeeds&utm_campaign=rss_topstories | true |
MONTZ, La. (WGNO) —On August 17, Louisiana State Police began investigating a deadly crash in St. Charles Parish. According to troopers, a single-vehicle crash on U.S 61 near Evangeline Road killed 52-year-old James Kennedy of Sorrento.
According to reports, on Wednesday afternoon, Kennedy was driving a 2019 Hyundai Elantra north on U.S 61 near Evangeline Road when drove off to the center of the highway and crossed the southbound lanes of U.S 61. Investigators say that vehicle continued beyond the southbound lanes and traveled off the roadway.
After traveling off the roadway, Kennedy’s vehicle struck a utility pole. Troopers say that he suffered from fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on the scene.
Louisiana State Police say that Kennedy was buckled at the time of the crash and police do not think that Kennedy was impaired at the time of the incident. Although impairment is not suspected, LSP took toxicology samples that are processing. | https://www.myarklamiss.com/louisiana-news/man-killed-on-louisiana-highway-after-striking-a-pole/ | 2022-08-18T19:22:18Z | https://www.myarklamiss.com/louisiana-news/man-killed-on-louisiana-highway-after-striking-a-pole/ | false |
ROME (AP) — The king of TikTok, Khaby Lame, finally has another title: Italian.
The 22-year-old influencer, who ranks as the most popular TikToker with 148 million followers, took his oath of citizenship Wednesday in Chiavasso, a municipality outside Turin, according to the local government.
Lame moved to Italy from his native Senegal when he was an infant but only was granted citizenship now because of strict Italian citizenship laws.
His situation – and those of thousands of other young people who were born in Italy or raised there by non-Italians- made headlines after Lame became the most-followed TikTok creator in June. The attention being paid to “Italy’s TikTok king” highlighted that he wasn’t actually Italian.
In response, Italy’s deputy interior minister, Carlo Sibilia, tweeted June 24 that Lame’s citizenship application recently was approved.
“Dear @KhabyLame, I wanted to let you know that the decree granting you #Italiancitizenship was issued in early June by the Interior Ministry. Soon you will be contacted by the local office notifying you about your oath. Good luck,” Sibilia tweeted.
The assurances suggested that Lame’s application had worked its way through the pipeline under normal procedures and didn’t receive any special treatment because of his newfound TikTok fame.
Under Italian law, children born to non-Italians and raised in Italy can apply for citizenship in their 18th year, a regulation that critics say discriminates against thousands of children who are culturally Italian but are denied citizenship.
Critics say the law inhibits integration and leaves some children stateless.
Center-left lawmakers in Italy routinely try to change the regulations to grant citizenship earlier. In the United States, for example, children born on U.S. soil get American citizenship regardless of their parents’ nationalities.
But Italy’s right-wing has long insisted citizenship should only pass through Italian blood lines. The most recent proposal has called for letting children of immigrants who were born in Italy or arrived before they turned 12 to apply after they completed at least five years of schooling in Italy.
The Chiavasso city hall filmed the short ceremony in which Lame became an Italian and asked him what had changed.
“It is not that before, before signing, I didn’t feel Italian, so very little has changed,” Lame said. “But now I am officially Italian, on paper.”
Lame rose to TikTok fame with charming videos of his reactions to everyday life in which he never says a word. His following surged during the pandemic, when he was fired from his factory job and used the extra time on his hands to make and upload more videos.
Asked how his life had changed from growing up poor to finding global fame, Lame said his family was poor but happy during his childhood and nowadays, “It’s another reality, it’s completely another world.
“Which I am still not used to, but I am gradually adapting,” he said. | https://www.wane.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/top-tiktoker-khaby-lame-finally-gets-italian-citizenship/ | 2022-08-18T19:23:14Z | https://www.wane.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/top-tiktoker-khaby-lame-finally-gets-italian-citizenship/ | true |
MARLIN, Texas — A Central Texas family has safely reunited thanks to an emergency smartphone app, officials said.
Around 11:45 p.m. Wednesday night, first responders were dispatched to Highway 6 on reports of a vehicular crash.
Police said the young man - who is reported to work 12-plus-hour shifts - had driven off a bridge while on his way home.
After his father was unable to reach him that morning, police said he used the Life360 app on their cell phones to locate his son's exact location.
Running 25 feet down into the creek, police said the father pried the door open with a tire tool to rescue his son.
His son is reported to have only suffered minor scrapes and bruises.
"Without the Life360 app on their phones, this could have had a very different ending," the Marlin Volunteer Fire Department said in a statement.
To learn more about the app, click here. | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/central-texas-father-scales-over-20-feet-into-creek-to-rescue-son-report | 2022-08-18T19:23:36Z | https://www.kxxv.com/news/local-news/central-texas-father-scales-over-20-feet-into-creek-to-rescue-son-report | true |
Cirium Airline On-Time Performance Report revealed Azul as the most punctual Global Mainline Airline
SÃO PAULO, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Azul, the largest airline in Brazil in terms of number of flights and cities served, was ranked by Cirium, a leading aviation data analysis company, as the most on-time airline in the world in July. According to "The Airline On-Time Performance Report", Azul's on-time performance was 89.02% in the global ranking for "The most on-time Global Airlines – Mainline", leading all the airlines analyzed in Asia/Pacific, North America, Europe, Africa, Middle East and Latin America. The analysis tracked 99.4% of Azul's 25,003 flights during the month of July.
"Once again I am incredibly proud of my more than 13,000 colleagues for delivering an industry leading experience for our customers. This is the 2nd time in the previous 5 months that we have been number 1 in the world and we have been in the top 5 in every month since March. This achievement perfectly coincides with the historically high satisfaction scores we are seeing from our customers.", says John Rodgerson, President of Azul. "The culture we have within the company, the spirit of working together as one team was key to this achievement"
Currently, Azul operates 900 daily flights to more than 150 destinations, on more than 240 routes with a flexible fleet of 160 aircraft ranging from Cessna Caravans to A330neo widebody aircraft for its international operations to the United States and Portugal.
About Azul
Azul S.A. (B3: AZUL4, NYSE: AZUL), the largest airline in Brazil by number of flight departures and cities served, offers more than 900 daily flights to more 151 destinations. With a passenger operating fleet of more than 160 aircraft and more than 12,000 crewmembers, Azul has a network of more than 240 non-stop routes. In 2020 Azul was awarded best airline in the world by TripAdvisor, the first time a Brazilian Flag Carrier ranked number one in the Traveler's Choice Awards. For more information visit www.voeazul.com.br/ir.
Media Relations Tel: +55 11 4831 1245 imprensa@voeazul.com.br
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SOURCE Azul Airlines | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/azul-was-most-on-time-airline-world-july/ | 2022-08-18T19:25:14Z | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/azul-was-most-on-time-airline-world-july/ | false |
BEIJING, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- After winning the fight against absolute poverty and completing the first centenary goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects, the phrase "common prosperity" has gained prominence as China is determined to better the lives of more people.
"Chinese-style modernization is modernization featuring common prosperity and happiness for all, not just a few," President Xi Jinping said in his recent inspection in northeast China's Liaoning Province.
During his two-day visit which started Tuesday, President Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, called for coordinating the COVID-19 response with economic and social development, balancing development and security imperatives, fully and faithfully implementing the new development philosophy, and firmly promoting high-quality development.
China's northeast – comprising the three provinces of Heilongjiang, Jilin and Liaoning – was once a thriving powerhouse on the back of traditional industries including steel, automobile and aircraft manufacturing, shipbuilding and petroleum refining. However, afflicted by deep rooted problems including an aging population, dwindling investment and talent outflow, the region gradually showed a sharp decline in its economic performance indicators.
In 2003, the CPC Central Committee launched a revitalization strategy for the region and in 2016, renewed an action plan of focused supportive measures.
Efforts should be made to promote common prosperity for all, advance the modernization of China's system and capacity for governance, and deepen the Party's full and rigorous self-governance, to set the stage for the 20th National Congress of the CPC, Xi told Liaoning officials during the visit.
Innovation-driven development
While visiting a robotics company on Wednesday in Shenyang, the provincial capital of Liaoning, President Xi pounded extra importance on independent innovation, which will facilitate the change of China from an economy of quantity to an economy and manufacturer of quality.
Xi called for immediate efforts to promote self-reliance in science and technology and a greater boost to secure the country's grip on core technologies in key fields and equipment manufacturing, while affirming the progress made by the company in independent innovation and industrialized development.
He highlighted the efforts to create a new pattern of development that is focused on the domestic economy but features a positive interplay between domestic and international economic flows, stressing that China would continue opening up to the world.
"We have full confidence in the revitalization of the northeastern region," he said on Tuesday in Jinzhou City, calling for accelerating industrial restructuring and meeting the requirements of reform and development in the new era.
In 2020, Liaoning Province, along with the other two northeastern provinces, achieved positive economic growth, a sign of the country's economic resilience against the backdrop of the world's worst pandemic in decades.
A sound business environment has also been formed. Official data in Liaoning shows that the number of market entities in the province reached 4.58 million, up 9.1 percent year-on-year. The number of scientific and technological small and medium-sized enterprises reached 18,158, up 34.6 percent year on year.
Xi: CPC is always with the people
President Xi also paid a visit to a local community in Huanggu District of Shenyang City, where he called for the renovation of old residential communities an important work to improve the quality of people's life, not just the living environment and amenities, but of community services as well.
More efforts should be made so that the people feel the CPC serves the people wholeheartedly and is always with the people, Xi said on Wednesday.
Considering China's aging population and increasing life expectancy of the elderly, aged care services should continue to expand, Xi said.
Xi also called for enhanced child care and development.
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SOURCE CGTN | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/cgtn-china-highlights-revitalizing-northeast-drive-common-prosperity/ | 2022-08-18T19:26:02Z | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/cgtn-china-highlights-revitalizing-northeast-drive-common-prosperity/ | true |
CLAY COUNTY, Iowa (KCAU) – An Iowa woman found dead in a ditch outside her home died as the result of multiple dog bite injuries, authorities have confirmed.
According to a release from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, authorities received a 911 call Monday afternoon from a person who believed he had come across a motorcycle incident south of Rossie, Iowa.
The caller said he found a woman in the ditch but could not get close to her due to several big dogs near her. Deputies arrived and found the woman, identified as 43-year-old Mindy Kiepe, dead. Kiepe, 43, was a resident of rural Rossie, Iowa.
The incident occurred just a short distance from her farm residence driveway, authorities said.
Kiepe was taken to the Iowa State Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy. The State Medical Examiner ruled on Wednesday that Kiepe’s death was due to multiple dog bite injuries and not a motorcycle crash.
After further investigation, it was determined that five Great Danes owned by Kiepe had caused her death. With the assistance of a veterinarian, the five dogs were euthanized.
Additional details about the incident, including what may have prompted the dogs to fatally bite Kiepe, have not been released. The Sheriff’s Office declined to provide further information to Nexstar’s KCAU. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/sheriff-5-dogs-euthanized-after-iowa-woman-found-dead-in-a-ditch-with-multiple-bites/ | 2022-08-18T19:27:16Z | https://www.wowktv.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/sheriff-5-dogs-euthanized-after-iowa-woman-found-dead-in-a-ditch-with-multiple-bites/ | true |
LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. — Editor's note: The above video is from March 30.
The Lancaster County District Attorney's Office announced on Thursday that two investigations into fatal crashes near the intersection of Lancaster Road (Route 72) and Lititz Road in East Hempfield Township have recently concluded.
The first incident occurred on Feb. 9, when a juvenile passenger of a Ford Taurus was killed after being struck by a tractor trailer around 6:15 p.m., according to previous FOX43 reporting.
The investigation revealed that the tractor trailer traveling southbound on Lancaster Road was moving slower than the posted speed limit, and the operator of the Ford Taurus attempted to cross the intersection when the truck was approximately 80 feet away. Police determined that this was too close for the truck operator to be able to react and avoid the collision.
As a result of the investigation, Maxwell Miller, 19, of Lititz, the operator of the Taurus, has been cited for stop sign violation, according to police.
Douglas White, 65, of Georgia, the operator of the tractor trailer, has been cited with a traffic citation for equipment violations that did not contribute to the cause of the collision, also according to the police.
An autopsy was performed on the juvenile passenger who died in the crash, and it revealed that they died of the injuries they suffered in the collision.
Both dash camera footage from the truck and a witness from the scene corroborate the findings of the police reconstruction.
The second incident, which occurred on March 29, killed a passenger of a blue Mercedes sedan, also according to previous FOX43 reporting.
While traveling east on Lititz Road, police say, the sedan entered the intersection and was struck by a tractor trailer traveling north on Lancaster Road. The truck was approximately 80 to 90 feet away, which was determined to be too close for the truck operator to react and avoid the collision, as in the Feb. 9 incident.
As a result of this investigation, Bruce Hubbs, 76, of Lancaster, the operator of the Mercedes-Benz, was also cited for a stop sign violation, according to police. The operator of the truck committed no traffic violation, police say, and was not cited.
The Lancaster County Coroner’s Office performed an autopsy on the passenger of the Mercedes sedan and determined that they also died of injuries they sustained in the crash.
And again, as in the Feb. 9 incident, dash camera footage from a witness' vehicle captured the collision and corroborated the findings of the police reconstruction.
"In both incidents, neither of the truck operator's conducts played a role in causing the collisions: the truck drivers were not distracted or speeding, and their blood contained no illegal substances or alcohol," the Lancaster County District Attorney's Office said Thursday. "The operators of the passenger vehicles in both crashes were cited with stop sign violations, their conduct was not criminal in nature. Accordingly, no criminal charges were filed."
These two incidents, however, are not the only ones that have occurred at the intersection of Lancaster Road (Route 72) and Lititz Road in East Hempfield Township.
In late March, FOX43 published a story on concerns residents had been expressing about the safety of the intersection.
Adam Pobee, one of the East Hempfield Township residents told FOX43 at the time that the intersection made him uneasy.
"Going through both lanes of traffic—that's been a big concern," he said. "Those car haulers are hauling down 72 a lot so that's kind of dangerous as far as pulling out here."
According to the latest crash data from PennDOT, 93 crashes occurred on Route 72 at Lititz Road between 2011 and 2020. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/police-conclude-investigations-two-fatal-crashes-lititz-lancaster-roads/521-4d70c4d9-e610-4f32-b352-ab908c9a5922 | 2022-08-18T19:27:43Z | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/local/police-conclude-investigations-two-fatal-crashes-lititz-lancaster-roads/521-4d70c4d9-e610-4f32-b352-ab908c9a5922 | true |
Want to avoid dying prematurely? A new study suggests reducing salt intake would lead to a longer life.
According to a study published last week in the European Heart Journal, those who always add salt to their meals had a 28% higher risk of premature mortality than those who rarely or never added salt. Additionally, the life expectancy among those at age 50 is more than two years lower for those who always add salt.
“Most of our salt consumption comes from salt added to food prepared by the industry, for example in common products such as bread and cheese, but also ready-made foods and other items,” wrote study co-author Annika Rosengren. “Adding salt is a source of profit by increasing preference for salty foods and making food products more palatable to people already used to a diet high in salt. A reduction in added salt in food produced by the industry is very unlikely to cause harm, while oversalting common products reduces the opportunity for people to choose for themselves and contributes to the development of hypertension.”
The Food and Drug Administration recommends that adults consume no more than a teaspoon a day of salt. The FDA added that 70% of most adults’ consumption of sodium comes from prepared foods.
Rosengren recommends upping the intake of fruit and vegetables to reduce salt intake.
“So far, what the collective evidence about salt seems to indicate is that healthy people consuming what constitutes normal levels of ordinary salt need not worry too much about their salt intake,” she said. “Instead, to counterbalance potentially harmful effects of salt, and for many other reasons, a diet rich in fruit and vegetables should be a priority on the individual, as well as the population, level.”
One thing the study could not establish is what is the optimal level of salt intake.
The FDA offers the following tips for reducing sodium levels in food.
- Read the Nutrition Facts label Compare and choose foods to get less than 100% DV (less than 2,300 mg) of sodium each day.
- Prepare your own food when you can Limit packaged sauces, mixes, and “instant” products (including flavored rice, instant noodles, and ready-made pasta).
- Add flavor without adding sodium Limit the amount of table salt you add to foods when cooking, baking, or at the table. Try no-salt seasoning blends and herbs and spices instead of salt to add flavor to your food.
- Buy fresh Choose fresh meat, poultry, and seafood, rather than processed varieties. Also, check the package on fresh meat and poultry to see if salt water or saline has been added.
- Watch your veggies Buy fresh, frozen (no sauce or seasoning), or low sodium or no-salt-added canned vegetables.
- Give sodium the “rinse” Rinse sodium-containing canned foods, such as beans, tuna, and vegetables before eating. This removes some of the sodium.
- “Unsalt” your snacks Choose low sodium or no-salt-added nuts, seeds, and snack products (such as chips and pretzels)—or have carrot or celery sticks instead.
- Consider your condiments Sodium in condiments can add up. Choose light or reduced-sodium condiments, add oil and vinegar to salads rather than bottled dressings, and use only a small amount of seasoning from flavoring packets instead of the entire packet.
- Reduce your portion size Less food means less sodium. Prepare smaller portions at home and consume less when eating out—choose smaller sizes, split an entrée with a friend, or take home part of your meal.
- Make lower-sodium choices at restaurants Ask for your meal to be prepared without table salt and request that sauces and salad dressings be served “on the side,” then use less of them. You can also ask if nutrition information is available and then choose options that are lower in sodium. | https://www.kxlf.com/news/national/study-questions-whether-adding-table-salt-causes-premature-mortality | 2022-08-18T19:30:29Z | https://www.kxlf.com/news/national/study-questions-whether-adding-table-salt-causes-premature-mortality | true |
MILWAUKEE (AP) — David Vassegh thought it would be make good TV to take a ride on Bernie Brewer’s slide before the Los Angeles Dodgers played in Milwaukee on Wednesday night.
It didn’t go quite according to plan.
The Dodgers television and radio reporter said he broke two bones in his right wrist and cracked six ribs when he tumbled and crashed into the padding at the end of his slide down “Bernie’s Chalet,” where Brewers mascot Bernie Brewer takes up residence behind the American Family Field left-field stands. Bernie celebrates Milwaukee homers with trips down the giant, white slide.
“I’ll learn not to do my own stunts from now on,” Vassegh quipped before the Dodgers’ Thursday afternoon game in Milwaukee.
Vassegh is the host of the “Dodger Talk” show that follows Dodgers radio broadcasts and periodically works as a reporter on Los Angeles’ telecasts as well. He was working in his television capacity when he went down the slide twice about four hours before the Dodgers’ Wednesday night game.
The first time, he was filmed at the top of the slide, and everything went fine. Then he went down again, so he could get footage of him coming down.
That’s when the problem occurred. Vassegh went sideways, and his right arm crashed into the padding.
“That time, it went a lot faster,” Vassegh said. “It was a lot slicker the second time. That’s where it got a little out of control at the end.”
Vassegh went to an urgent care facility and was back at work by the fifth inning. Vassegh had his right arm in a cast as he conducted a postgame interview with Dodgers catcher Austin Barnes.
“That one was for you,” Barnes told Vassegh after homering in the Dodgers’ 2-1 victory. “I know you had a little accident today on the slide, so we all rallied for you.”
Vassegh was back on the job Thursday, though he says he probably will need surgery when he gets home.
Bernie Brewer greeted him with flowers and a sign that read “0 Days Since Last Incident.” He also gave Vassegh a “Slide Instruction Manual” that read “It’s really not that hard.” Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner sent out a tweet poking fun at Vassegh over the situation.
Vassegh said he received over 200 texts from friends and players since taking his tumble.
“It’s been an outpouring of support — and also comedy at the same time,” Vassegh said.
___
More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://www.wane.com/sports/ap-sports/dodgers-tv-reporter-injured-sliding-down-bernies-chalet/ | 2022-08-18T19:31:05Z | https://www.wane.com/sports/ap-sports/dodgers-tv-reporter-injured-sliding-down-bernies-chalet/ | true |
BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — The Colorado Buffaloes are well aware of all the preseason chatter. It might be hard to hear, but it's giving them extra incentive.
The media has picked the Buffs to finish last in the Pac-12. No player is on first or second teams for preseason all-conference selections. Their predicted win total for the season hovers at 3 1/2, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
Less-than-lofty expectations are out there because the Buffaloes remain unsettled at quarterback and saw their leading rusher and two top receivers transfer. Colorado is also trying to replace the heartbeat of their defense.
“We understand the critics. We understand what’s out there. But we don’t pay attention to it," Buffaloes offensive lineman Casey Roddick said. “This team is a sleeping giant because we are laser-focused on what needs to happen.”
At the top of the priority list: Picking a quarterback.
Brendon Lewis started all 12 games in an up-and-down 2021 season that led to offensive coordinator Darrin Chiaverini being relieved of his duties. Lewis finds himself in a QB competition this summer with J.T. Shrout, the Tennessee transfer who didn’t play last year after suffering a knee injury in training camp.
Both are vying to run an offense that averaged a league-low 257.4 yards.
“Because of the competitive nature of the position, it’s going to make them better," said coach Karl Dorrell, whose team went 4-8 last season after going to a bowl game in his first year. "They’re talented players and they’re ready to take that next step.”
Among those to leave Boulder was tailback Jarek Broussard, who had been the team's leading rusher the past two seasons. He went to Michigan State to play for former Colorado coach Mel Tucker. Alex Fontenot, the Buffaloes' leading ground gainer in 2019, figures to split tailback duties with Deion Smith.
Another spot with plenty of turnover was receiver. Brenden Rice — son of NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice — transferred to Southern California. Dimitri Stanley went to Iowa State and La’Vontae Shenault wound up at Alabama State.
To make up for the holes, the Buffaloes brought in graduate transfer R.J. Sneed from Baylor. They also have back senior wideout Daniel Arias.
On defense, they're looking to replace inside linebacker Nate Landman, who finished tied for the fifth-most tackles all-time at Colorado and is currently with the Atlanta Falcons. Josh Chandler-Semedo, a transfer from West Virginia, could step in.
And the Buffaloes realize there are no shortcuts to turning around the preseason perception — just old-fashioned work.
“You’ve got to earn respect. You’ve got to earn wins,” Dorrell said. "You’ve got to prove that each and every week.”
O-LINE SHUFFLE
Offensive lineman Tommy Brown won a national title with the Crimson Tide in 2020. Then he left Alabama and the SEC for Colorado and the Pac-12.
“I knew this place has potential and that it would just take a few more pieces,” Brown said.
NUMBERS GAME
Colorado has 11 starters back, including offensive tackle Frank Fillip, defensive end Terrance Lang, defensive tackle Jalen Sami and safety Isaiah Lewis. They were all honorable-mention selections on the preseason All-Pac-12 team.
COACHING CHANGES
Dorrell added six new full-time assistant coaches. Mike Sanford takes over at offensive coordinator for Chiaverini as the Buffs try to ignite the offense. Sanford was brought in from Minnesota, where he was the Gophers’ offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach. The Buffaloes play at Minnesota on Sept. 17.
RALPHIE VI
A fan vote and fundraiser led to Ralphie VI, Colorado’s live buffalo mascot, getting the nickname “Ember." It beat out the runner-up, “Blitz.”
Ralphie leading the team onto the field before the game and at halftime is a longstanding tradition.
THE SCHEDULE
The Buffaloes start the season by hosting TCU on Sept. 2. They play at Air Force the following week, marking their first visit to the Colorado Springs-based school for a football game since 1974. Pac-12 play begins Sept. 24 when Colorado hosts UCLA.
___
AP freelance writer Michael Kelly contributed to this report.
___
More AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/college-football and https://twitter.com/ap_top25. Sign up for the AP’s college football newsletter: https://bit.ly/3pqZVaF. | https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4631190 | 2022-08-18T19:31:22Z | https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4631190 | false |
LONDON (AP) — Thousands of train workers in Britain staged a new round of strikes Thursday, paralyzing rail service across the country in an escalating dispute over pay and working conditions exacerbated by a deepening cost-of-living crisis.
Only around one in five trains ran across the U.K. as a result of the walkout by union members, who have already staged multiple strikes in recent months. A strike planned for Friday is expected to affect most of the London Underground subway network as well as bus service in the capital, while another walkout on Saturday is set to disrupt national train travel again.
Mick Lynch, leader of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union, said rail workers, like socores of ther public sector employees in the U.K., are struggling to cope with soaring food and fuel prices.
He warned of “a wave of solidarity action” affecting multiple sectors after official figures showed Wednesday that the country’s inflation rate jumped to a new 40-year high of 10.1% in July, higher than analysts’ forecast of 9.8%.
Unions representing postal, port and aviation workers have also announced strikes as the cost-of-living crisis bites into wages. In Scotland, garbage collectors and recycling workers in the capital city of Edinburgh began a 11-day strike on Thursday, saying a pay rise offer of 3.5% was far from enough to battle rising bills.
“People in this country are fed up with low pay. Many millions of people have not had a proper pay deal for decades,” Lynch said Thursday at the picket line in London’s Euston train station. “So public sector workers in health care, education, transport, all sort of services, have been subjected to pay cuts and rampant inflation.”
He blamed the Conservative government’s alleged “anti-union agenda” for prolonging the labor dispute and said railway workers would continue strike actions until a settlement is reached with train companies, which are privately owned but heavily regulated.
Lynch alleged that U.K. officials have used taxpayer funds to bail out the companies so they don’t lose income from strikes, thereby removing incentives for executives to negotiate.
The government has argued it spent huge amounts in public funding to protect rail workers’ jobs during the coronavirus pandemic, and officials want to cut costs and staffing to make the train system financially sustainable for the future. They say a fair pay offer was presented to rail workers.
A Department for Transport spokesperson said union leaders were “opting to inflict misery and disrupt the day-to-day lives of millions” for the sixth time since June instead of working to reach a deal.
“We urge union bosses to do the right thing by their members and let them have their say on Network Rail’s very fair deal, which will deliver the reforms our rail system urgently needs,” the spokesperson said. “It’s time to get off the picket lines and back around the negotiating table.”
Some 40,000 rail workers including cleaners and maintenance staff walked off their jobs for three days in June to demand better pay, job security and working conditions, leading to the U.K.’s biggest transit strike in three decades.
Several other rail strikes have followed since, and no resolution has been reached between the government and workers. | https://www.ksn.com/news/business/ap-business/trains-paralyzed-again-in-uk-as-unions-stage-more-strikes/ | 2022-08-18T19:33:03Z | https://www.ksn.com/news/business/ap-business/trains-paralyzed-again-in-uk-as-unions-stage-more-strikes/ | false |
GRAPHIC: Florida man survives alligator attack caught on camera
TAMPA, Fla. (WFTS) - A Florida man is on the mend after a life-threatening experience in the water.
J.C. La Verde was able to fight off an alligator attack, and although he has at least another surgery in the future, he said he’s thankful to be alive.
“If you want to see this in any other way than a legit miracle, it’s silly of you,” La Verde said.
La Verde is accustomed to dangerous situations.
His current career as a firefighter and paramedic, as well as his background as a U.S. Air Force pararescue, has allowed him to handle stressful situations.
Little did he know, he would be in the center of one.
“That thing was huge. That thing wasn’t a little gator. It would be funny if it was a little gator,” he said.
Two weeks ago, he was shooting an instructional video for his company DefeatX.
His friend, who was shooting from above with a drone, captured an estimated 12-foot alligator, heading straight for La Verde.
“With the right stroke, all I felt was scales, teeth and then right there, I’m like, ‘Oh, OK,’” La Verde said. “So, what I think I did, what it felt like I did, was that I immediately tried to open its jaws, because I knew I was in a gator.”
La Verde then put his hands in the alligator’s mouth and the two struggled.
“When I felt the teeth, I immediately knew, and then as I opened it, I knew that I either turned it or it turned me,” he said. “But it was confused, just as I was confused, and then it just let go.”
He swam to the dock, hoisted himself up and was driven to the hospital by a good Samaritan. All the while, calling 911 himself and explaining what had just happened.
“I am not going to put extra stress on somebody that is already driving a bloody man somewhere,” La Verde said. “Like if I can ease that load off of this lady.”
La Verde underwent an emergency six-hour surgery and will need another one in the future.
Currently, he wears a helmet to protect the right side of his head.
Through it all, he remains humble and grateful.
“Find your god. Find him. It’s silly. I get that that’s scary, I do,” he said. “But life is a scary place, so you can carry that load by yourself or have someone carry it for you.”
La Verde is the 18th person to be attacked by an alligator in Florida this year.
Copyright 2022 WFTS via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wkyt.com/2022/08/18/graphic-florida-man-survives-alligator-attack-caught-camera/ | 2022-08-18T19:33:52Z | https://www.wkyt.com/2022/08/18/graphic-florida-man-survives-alligator-attack-caught-camera/ | false |
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — The Mississippi Department of Human Services is hiring a different law firm to try to recover millions of dollars in welfare money that was misspent in the state’s largest public corruption case in decades.
The state Personnel Board on Thursday approved a contract for the department to hire the Jones Walker firm, which has about 370 attorneys in multiple states, the department said in a news release.
Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch, a Republican, also approved the contract for the civil litigation.
The move comes weeks after Department of Human Services leaders chose not to renew a contract with Brad Pigott of Jackson, an attorney in solo private practice who had been the U.S. attorney for southern Mississippi when Democrat Bill Clinton was president.
In May, Pigott filed a lawsuit on behalf of the Department of Human Services against retired NFL quarterback Brett Favre and three former pro wrestlers along with several other people and businesses to try to recover millions of misspent welfare dollars that were intended to help some of the poorest people in the U.S.
The lawsuit said the defendants “squandered” more than $20 million in money from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families anti-poverty program.
Critics characterized the department’s decision not to renew Pigott’s contract as a politically motivated firing of a connected Democrat who was seeking information about people close to Republicans.
Republican Gov. Tate Reeves said in a statement Thursday that the Jones Walker firm has “the full-service capabilities to handle the sweeping scale of this case.”
“This work is just beginning, and it may take years — but we will follow the facts wherever they go and pursue it for as long as it takes,” Reeves said.
Pigott’s one-year contract with the Department of Human Services lapsed days after he filed a subpoena for records from the University of Southern Mississippi Athletic Foundation.
Pigott was seeking records related to $5 million in welfare money the university foundation received to build a volleyball facility, and included communications between the foundation and Republican former Gov. Phil Bryant.
In July, Democratic U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson of Mississippi asked the U.S. Justice Department to investigate Bryant in connection with the welfare fraud case. Thompson’s request came after a defendant in the case said in a July 11 court document that she steered $1.1 million in welfare money to Favre at the direction of Bryant. Bryant has denied the accusations.
The allegation was made by Nancy New, who pleaded guilty in April along with her son, Zachary New, to charges of misusing public money. The mother and son, who ran a nonprofit group and an education company in Mississippi, agreed to testify against others. Criminal charges are pending against other people, including a former Department of Human Services director who was appointed by Bryant.
Favre, who lives in Mississippi, has not been charged with any criminal wrongdoing and has repaid the money. He has said that he didn’t know the money he received came from welfare funds and has denied the auditor’s allegations that he was paid for events he didn’t attend.
Mississippi Auditor Shad White, a Republican, has said the welfare fraud his office uncovered amounts to the state’s largest public corruption case in two decades. He said July 23 on Twitter: “Firing Pigott is a mistake. From the beginning of this case, I said having a bipartisan team look at this case is important.” | https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/nation/mississippi-changes-legal-team-to-handle-welfare-fraud-case/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_all | 2022-08-18T19:34:44Z | https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/nation/mississippi-changes-legal-team-to-handle-welfare-fraud-case/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_all | true |
Senator Bob Casey joins AARP Discussion
HARRISBURG, Pa., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey joined AARP Pennsylvania for a roundtable conversation highlighting how older Pennsylvanians will benefit from the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which was signed into law by President Biden earlier this week.
"The Inflation Reduction Act is a game-changer for our seniors: it will make prescription drugs more affordable, cap annual out-of-pocket Medicare costs at $2,000 and will even cap the cost of insulin at $35 a month under Medicare Part D," said U.S. Sen. Bob Casey. "Today's discussion showed how much this new law will help Pennsylvania seniors who have struggled with high health care costs. Our work to lower costs for seniors and families continues, and I am proud to join AARP in that fight."
Gathered in AARP Pennsylvania's Harrisburg Office, State Director Bill Johnston-Walsh and Volunteer State President Joanne Grossi, along with Senator Casey and special guests Ginny Boynton of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, and Susan Washinger, Community Organizer with PHAN (Pennsylvania Health Access Network) discussed how the bill will help lower prescription drug and health care costs for families across the state.
After decades of calling on Congress to make prescription drugs more affordable, AARP won the fight for Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices and help seniors save money on their medications. The historic new law will lower health care costs for seniors, including capping the cost of insulin at $35 per month for people who use Medicare Part D.
The bill will not only save money for millions of seniors, but it will also save lives by:
- Finally, allowing Medicare to negotiate the price of prescription drugs
- Limiting the cost of insulin to $35/month for people on Medicare
- Penalizing drug companies for raising their prices higher than inflation
- Giving people in Medicare drug plans peace of mind knowing they won't have to pay more than $2,000 a year for their medications
- Making many vaccines, such as shingles, available at no cost in Medicare.
"This was a historic victory on behalf of AARP Pennsylvania's 1.8 million members, but the fight isn't over," said Joanne Grossi, AARP PA's Volunteer State President. "Big drug companies will spend millions trying to overturn the new law so they can keep charging Americans the highest prices in the world. AARP will keep fighting big drug companies' out-of-control prices. We won't back down and we are proud to have Senator Casey join us in this fight."
Contact: TJ Thiessen, tthiessen@aarp.org, 202-374-8033
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SOURCE AARP Pennsylvania | https://www.cleveland19.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/aarp-pennsylvania-convenes-discussion-lower-prescription-drug-costs-after-inflation-reduction-act-signed-into-law/ | 2022-08-18T19:34:59Z | https://www.cleveland19.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/aarp-pennsylvania-convenes-discussion-lower-prescription-drug-costs-after-inflation-reduction-act-signed-into-law/ | true |
Why Steve Martin’s career is worth celebrating
Steve Martin has been an entertainer for over 60 years. As he was getting ready to wind down his multifaceted career, “Only Murders in the Building” became Hulu’s most-watched original comedy. Then came a tour and a new book and an upcoming documentary. Martin seems to be busier than ever.
But in a recent interview, the comedic legend commented that it might be time to let his career slow down naturally. With the last episode of Season 2 of “Only Murders in the Building” airing on Aug. 23, now is the perfect time for a Steve Martin-themed watch party.
In this article: Ibanez B50 5-String Banjo, Melissa and Doug Deluxe Magic Set and Hasbro Clue
Why Steve Martin is an entertainment icon
Martin began his career as a magician
In 1960, Steve Martin worked at Disney’s famed Magic Shop. This early training set the groundwork for bits he would later incorporate into his stand-up routine. During his stint, he learned how to perform magic, how to juggle and how to create balloon animals.
He wrote for some of the best shows on TV
From 1967 to 1973, Martin was a comedy writer. During that time, he wrote for some of the biggest television shows, including “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour,” “The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour” and “The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour.”
Martin has appeared as a guest on numerous TV shows
Besides working behind the scenes, Martin forged an unforgettable identity as an outrageous performer. Back when careers were made with guest appearances, he was on such notable shows as “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” “Saturday Night Live” and “The Muppet show.”
He incorporated simple props into his stand-up act
From very early in his career, Steve Martin was a master at incorporating simple props into his stand-up routine. One of his earliest and most memorable bits included struggling to make an unrecognizable puppy out of balloons. But inflatable creatures weren’t his only go-to sight gags. Martin also wore a fake arrow through his head and played a banjo between jokes.
Martin understood the importance of a great catchphrase
Throughout his career, Steve Martin has created countless phrases that have become part of pop culture. Arguably, his biggest was an exaggerated “Well, excuse me!” Another unforgettable phrase came from when Martin played one of the Festrunk brothers on “Saturday Night Live” with Dan Aykroyd where he would proclaim, “We’re two wild and crazy guys!”
His humor was rooted in philosophy
Martin’s twisted take on humor reportedly originated when he was studying philosophy in college. He realized the absurdity of non sequiturs. The more he built up a punchline, the harder he would turn away from what was expected. Getting rid of logic opened the doors to allow him to let his jokes land anywhere, keeping the audience off balance.
Martin utilizes all of his tools and skills
Besides taking balloon animals and making them part of his stand-up act, Martin incorporated other skills he learned into various aspects of his impressive career. For instance, in his breakout movie, “The Jerk,” Martin’s character is asked to help put an end to the inhumane act of cat juggling. And during one of his many appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” he performed one of the most comically absurd magic acts ever seen on television. Martin appeared as The Great Flydini, a magician who had the uncanny ability to make anything appear out of the fly in his pants.
He is serious about his comedy
The illusion of being exceptionally skilled is you make it look effortless, and Steve Martin makes what he does seem like second nature. He understands his job and how important it is to be prepared. Martin reportedly spends months working up material for a brief live appearance, just to make sure he can give his best performance.
Martin is an accomplished musician (with five Grammy awards)
While Martin has released several noteworthy comedy albums, such as the platinum-selling, award-winning “Let’s Get Small,” and his Billboard Top-20 hit “King Tut,” the prolific recording artist has won more Grammy awards for his serious music in country, bluegrass and American roots genres.
He writes more than comedy
Although he is known for his comedy writing, Martin has also had success as a screenwriter, a playwright, penned notable essays, collaborated with “New Yorker” cartoonists and written such acclaimed novellas as “The Pleasure of My Company” and “Shopgirl.”
At 77, Martin is still writing relatable and wildly entertaining material
In this age of fleeting attention spans, it’s hard to keep a career going for a few years, let alone several decades. Steve Martin’s expansive repertoire of work remains engaging, relevant and entertaining.
What you need to throw a Steve Martin-themed watch party
If you’re serious about being an entertainer of Martin’s caliber, you need a banjo. This model from Ibanez has a mahogany back, neck and sides, so it looks as good as it sounds.
Sold by Amazon
Melissa and Doug Deluxe Magic Set
Martin’s first job was performing as a magician. With this fun kit from Melissa and Doug, you can follow in his footsteps and be the life of the party.
Sold by Amazon, Kohl’s and Macy’s
Schylling How To Make Balloon Animals Kit
Want to learn how to make a balloon puppy? This kit gives you everything you need to make balloon animals. It comes with balloons, instructions and a pump.
Sold by Macy’s
You can’t be a wild and crazy guy without your bling. This oversized gold medallion will let potential partners know you’re a swinging guy.
Sold by Amazon
Can it really be a Steve Martin-themed party without someone wearing an arrow through the head? The answer is no.
Sold by Amazon
You don’t have to incur the wrath of PETA to juggle. Entertain your friends humanely by keeping three of these plush cats rotating in the air.
Sold by Amazon
If you and your friends want to live “Murders in the Building,” this popular board game will let you do just that. Figure out the perpetrator, place and weapon involved in the crime before the other players to win the game.
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.ksn.com/reviews/br/home-br/party-supplies-br/steve-martin-may-soon-retire-heres-what-you-need-to-throw-a-watch-party-and-celebrate-his-legacy/ | 2022-08-18T19:38:46Z | https://www.ksn.com/reviews/br/home-br/party-supplies-br/steve-martin-may-soon-retire-heres-what-you-need-to-throw-a-watch-party-and-celebrate-his-legacy/ | true |
No 1 Player in America on the Gators "One of the Best Vibes."
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ST. LOUIS, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Construction Risk Partners (CRP), a subsidiary of BRP Group, Inc. ("BRP Group" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: BRP), is pleased to announce the addition of Mark Gloriod to the team as a Partner.
Mr. Gloriod will lead CRP's geographic expansion into the mid-west. He will be responsible for building a team and book of business while collaborating with colleagues from CRP and BRP. He brings more than 25 years of experience in construction and insurance to CRP, and expertise in multiple lines of insurance coverage with an emphasis on property/casualty placements, wrap-ups, and builders' risk. He also has an extensive background in broking, underwriting, and claims management.
Most recently, Mr. Gloriod led Aon's Central Region Broking Team in addition to being an Account Executive on a $2M+ revenue book of business. He was responsible for program design, risk management, and broking of large construction clients and projects in casualty and builder's risk.
"Mark has the perfect mix of experience, culture, and entrepreneurship to help CRP expand our geographic footprint. We are extremely proud to welcome Mark to the CRP and BRP family," said Joe Charczenko, Partner, Construction Risk Partners.
"I am extremely excited to join CRP and start the next chapter of my career to help them expand into the Midwest," said Mr. Gloriod.
Construction Risk Partners is the leading specialist broker for owners, developers, general contractors, engineers, and subcontractors that need to mitigate financial risks related to construction activity. Our expertise and specialization in construction allows us to tailor our financial products and services to align perfectly. We offer insurance, surety, bonding, default insurance as well as our industry's most respected Loss Prevention and Wrap-Up services. Learn more at www.constructionriskpartners.com.
BRP Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: BRP) is an independent insurance distribution firm delivering tailored insurance and risk management insights and solutions that give our Clients the peace of mind to pursue their purpose, passion and dreams. We are innovating the industry by taking a holistic and tailored approach to risk management, insurance and employee benefits, and support our Clients, Colleagues, Insurance Company Partners and communities through the deployment of vanguard resources and capital to drive our growth. BRP Group represents over 1,200,000 Clients across the United States and internationally. For more information, please visit www.baldwinriskpartners.com.
This press release may contain various "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which represent BRP Group's expectations or beliefs concerning future events. Forward-looking statements are statements other than historical facts and may include statements that address future operating, financial or business performance or BRP Group's strategies or expectations. In some cases, you can identify these statements by forward-looking words such as "may", "might", "will", "should", "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "estimates", "predicts", "projects", "potential", "outlook" or "continue", or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and beliefs and involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, developments and business decisions to differ materially from those contemplated by these statements.
Factors that could cause actual results or performance to differ from the expectations expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those described under the caption "Risk Factors" in BRP Group's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and in BRP Group's other filings with the SEC, which are available free of charge on the Securities and Exchange Commission's website at: www.sec.gov, including those risks and other factors relevant to the business, financial condition and results of operations of BRP Group and factors related to the potential effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on BRP Group's business, financial condition and results of operations. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated. All forward-looking statements and all subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to BRP Group or to persons acting on behalf of BRP Group are expressly qualified in their entirety by reference to these risks and uncertainties. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and BRP Group does not undertake any obligation to update them in light of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable law.
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SOURCE Construction Risk Partners | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/construction-risk-partners-welcomes-mark-gloriod-partner/ | 2022-08-18T19:40:56Z | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/construction-risk-partners-welcomes-mark-gloriod-partner/ | false |
Premium pet food brand's new creative campaign celebrates the raw, unfiltered love between pet parents and their pets
OAK CREEK, Wis., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Stella & Chewy's, the category leader in the raw pet food space, announced today that it is launching the brand's first-ever national ad campaign, "All You Need Is Raw." The new creative embodies the raw, unfiltered love pet parents have for their pets and how food, especially raw and natural food, plays a key role in how pet parents show their love.
Whether it's a cat hanging from a curtain without a care in the world or a dog sleeping on the couch like no one's watching, the creative is a bold and candid celebration of the raw, unfiltered behaviors that make our pets who they are. The campaign also marks the launch of a new tagline for the brand, "All You Need is Raw," which embodies Stella & Chewy's belief that raw is all pets are, and raw is all they need.
"The raw pet food space continues to rapidly expand as more pet parents strive to feed their pets as they would themselves – with real and less processed foods," said David Campbell, CMO of Stella & Chewy's. "With this new campaign, we aim to raise awareness of the Stella & Chewy's brand and portfolio, which offers a range of dog and cat food products to meet varying pet parent needs."
The omni-channel campaign, led by Chicago-based creative agency Highdive Advertising, and directed by Ian Kibbey and Corey Creasey of Terri Timely, consists of multiple :15 and :30 second spots and will include cable TV, connective TV/Video, audio, social media, experiential, custom content, mobile rich media and influencer relations.
"We're so excited for this partnership with Stella & Chewy's," said Mark Gross, CCO and co-founder of Highdive Advertising. "As many of us at Highdive are pet parents or lovers ourselves, we appreciate Stella & Chewy's commitment to providing pets with healthier, less processed foods. For their first-ever national brand campaign, we knew we had to go bold and candid with these spots to show exactly how raw pets can be — and why we simply love them for it. We thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with the Stella & Chewy's team to bring this campaign to life and can't wait for what's to come."
The paid media strategy, developed and implemented by the award-winning Exverus Media, employs advanced data and analytics to measure brand awareness, sales performance and online conversions of each media element. The holistic media strategy and approach was designed to rapidly grow household penetration and bring new consumers into Stella & Chewy's family of growing products of raw dog and cat food and treats.
"Our consumer insight is that pet parents want shared experiences with their pets. So the media placements had to support 'co-viewing' opportunities: think Animal Planet and Bravo, pet music playlists on Spotify and pet Reddit communities," said Tasha Day, VP of Media at Exverus Media.
To learn more about Stella & Chewy's range of premium raw and natural pet food for dogs and cats, visit www.allyouneedisraw.com or follow the company on Facebook or Instagram.
Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, Stella & Chewy's strives to provide the highest quality raw and natural pet food with an emphasis on nutrition, palatability, safety and convenience. The company's dog and cat products include frozen patties and morsels, freeze-dried dinners and meal mixers, baked kibble, stews, broths and treats. Stella & Chewy's proudly created Journey Home Fund; a charity that promotes adult and senior pet adoptions. For more information about the company, products and the nearest retailer, visit stellaandchewys.com or call 877-477-8977.
Founded in 2016, Highdive (highdiveus.com) is an independently owned, full-service creative agency headquartered in Chicago. Built for brands that want best-in-class creative but don't want the baggage that usually comes with it, the agency has a singular promise: to create the healthiest client and agency relationships in the world. Led by four seasoned advertising executives who set out to create an agency made up exclusively of top performers across every discipline, Highdive is breaking the traditional agency model to deliver work so powerful it can't be ignored for brands including Jeep, Ram Trucks, Lays, Beam Suntory, NHL, Nike, Boost Mobile, Airheads, Fruit-tella, and Rocket Mortgage. On a rapid growth trajectory, Highdive has been recognized as Advertising Age Small Agency of the Year, Midwest, three times and 2020 Advertising Age National Small Agency of the Year. Highdive also ranked number one on Adweek's 2020 Fastest Growing Agencies List.
Named by Ad Age as a Media Agency of the Year, Los Angeles-based Exverus is a strategic media consultancy that starts with a brand's passions and objectives and translates them for today's media landscape. Designed specifically to meet the needs of culture-creating brands in high-growth mode, Exverus partners with clients to deliver integrated campaigns that get people talking, build brand value and drive sales. For more information, follow @exverus or visit www.exverus.com.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Stella & Chewy's
Betsy Radue
262.893.7276
bradue@stellaandchewys.com
Zeno Group for Stella & Chewy's
Sami Davis
312.934.3180
Sami.Davis@zenogroup.com
Stella & Chewy's Credits
David Campbell, CMO
Sudheer Kosaraju, VP, Brand Marketing
Debra Yoo, Senior Brand Manager
Roy Torres, Creative Director
Highdive Credits
Creative
Mark Gross, Co-Founder, Chief Creative Officer
Chad Broude, Co-Founder, Chief Creative Officer
Katie Bero, Creative Director
Brian Culp, Creative Director
Rebecca Wilson, Senior Designer
Dave Muhlenfeld, Copywriter
Account
Megan Lally, Managing Partner
Kristin Woodke, Group Account Director
Jamie Lazaroff, Senior Account Executive
Production
Jen Passaniti, Head of Production, Executive Producer
Will St. Clair, Executive Producer
Marianne Newton, Executive Producer
Strategy
Mike Harris, Lead Strategist
Business Affairs
Kelley Beaman, Director of Business Affairs
Annie Paganini, Production Manager
Production Partner Credits
Park Pictures
Directors: Terri Timely
Producer: David Lambert
Executive Producers: Jackie Kelman Bisbee, Anne Bobroff
Head of Production: Chelsea Schwiering
Cutters
Editor: Billy Montrose
Executive Producer: Patrick Casey
Music Credits
Marmoset
Graphics/ Titles Credits
Sarofsky
Erin Sarofsky- Executive Creative Director
Steven Anderson- Executive Producer
Stefan Draht- Creative Director
Duarte Elvas- Creative Director
Will Townsend- Producer
Joel Signer- Producer
Mollie Davis- Animator/Designer
Travis Hawthorne- Animator/Designer
###
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SOURCE Stella & Chewy’s | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/stella-amp-chewys-launches-first-ever-national-ad-campaign-all-you-need-is-raw/ | 2022-08-18T19:43:38Z | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/stella-amp-chewys-launches-first-ever-national-ad-campaign-all-you-need-is-raw/ | true |
WFO AUSTIN/SAN ANTONIO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Thursday, August 18, 2022
_____
SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio TX
208 PM CDT Thu Aug 18 2022
...Strong thunderstorms will impact portions of Williamson, northern
Hays, Travis, Blanco, Gillespie, southern Llano, northern Bastrop,
Lee, northwestern Kendall and Burnet Counties through 245 PM CDT...
At 207 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms along
a line extending from near Doss to near Sandy to 6 miles south of
Thorndale. Movement was southeast at 20 mph. Individual storm cells
have been capable of producing downburst winds near or in excess of
40 mph, though not ever storm will.
HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph.
SOURCE...Radar indicated.
IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
unsecured objects.
Locations impacted include...
Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Taylor,
Buda, Fredericksburg, Elgin, Bastrop, Burnet, Marble Falls,
Kingsland, Giddings, Dripping Springs, Blanco, Granger, Bertram,
Lexington and Round Mountain.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.
LAT...LON 3091 9783 3087 9762 3074 9727 3046 9715
3056 9696 3032 9674 3029 9664 3014 9682
3009 9841 3016 9920 3050 9931 3050 9897
3072 9896 3072 9844 3103 9791
TIME...MOT...LOC 1907Z 335DEG 18KT 3047 9921 3035 9854 3052 9719
MAX HAIL SIZE...0.00 IN
MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH
_____
Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | https://www.michigansthumb.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-AUSTIN-SAN-ANTONIO-Warnings-Watches-and-17382561.php | 2022-08-18T19:44:24Z | https://www.michigansthumb.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-AUSTIN-SAN-ANTONIO-Warnings-Watches-and-17382561.php | true |
Terminating Supporters Fails to Dissuade Workers from Organizing
CHICAGO, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Workers at the Verano/Zen Leaf Dispensary in the neighborhood of Pilsen have voted by a margin of more than 90 percent to join Teamsters Local 777. The vote in favor of unionization comes in spite of the fact that the company fired union supporters during the campaign.
"These workers are brave, unwavering, and incredibly inspiring," said Jim Glimco, Local 777 President. "They stood by one another during this campaign, and now over 1 million Teamsters throughout North America are going to stand by them as they fight for their first contract. This union is too strong to back down – not today, not next week, not ever."
Jim Doane was one of the union supporters who was terminated during the organizing drive. Even though he lost his job, he continued to fight for a union at Zen Leaf Pilsen. He's now organizing other cannabis workers with the Teamsters.
"One thing I learned from this experience is that we should have started sooner because it is extremely possible for cannabis workers to form and join a union," Doane said. "I want the entire industry organized. Zen Leaf promised great jobs. It delivered…jobs. Every job in cannabis should support a middle-class lifestyle. Anyone in this country who works 40 hours a week deserves a middle-class lifestyle."
"It's an honor for the staff at Zen Leaf Pilsen to be a part of our movement," said Peter Finn, Teamsters Food Processing Division Director. "These men and women recognize what cannabis workers all throughout the country are recognizing – the Teamsters are the strongest union for cannabis workers and the best positioned to turn jobs into careers."
Founded in 1937, Teamsters Local 777 represents workers in a wide variety of industries throughout the Chicago area. For more information, go to https://www.teamsters777.org/.
Contact:
Matt McQuaid, (202) 624-6877
mmcquaid@teamster.org
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SOURCE Teamsters Local 777 | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/zen-leaf-chicago-workers-join-teamsters-local-777/ | 2022-08-18T19:44:24Z | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/zen-leaf-chicago-workers-join-teamsters-local-777/ | true |
WFO HOUSTON/GALVESTON Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Thursday, August 18, 2022
_____
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING
The National Weather Service in League City has issued a
* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...
Southeastern Liberty County in southeastern Texas...
* Until 245 PM CDT.
* At 222 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Daisetta, or
9 miles northeast of Liberty, moving southeast at 10 mph.
HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and penny size hail.
SOURCE...Radar indicated.
IMPACT...Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.
* Locations impacted include...
Northeastern Liberty, Ames, Daisetta, Hardin and Devers.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a
building.
_____
Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | https://www.michigansthumb.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-HOUSTON-GALVESTON-Warnings-Watches-and-17382588.php | 2022-08-18T19:44:55Z | https://www.michigansthumb.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-HOUSTON-GALVESTON-Warnings-Watches-and-17382588.php | true |
OCALA, Fla., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- HiBid.com facilitated the sale of over $39.3 million (gross auction proceeds) in assets last week. From August 8th through the 14th, HiBid.com averaged 1.57 million bids on the site per day, with over half a million lots sold in a combined total of 1,409 online-only and webcast auctions.
Currently there are hundreds of auctions on the site, some of which feature classic hot rods and motorcycles, antique vehicles, rare coins and paper currency, and coin collector sets. A 1946 Mercury Street Rod is one of the many noteworthy items up for bidding.
HiBid.com brings buyers and sellers together every day with a wide-ranging selection of items across hundreds of categories that appeal to bidders worldwide. HiBid is fully integrated with Auction Flex 360, providing auctioneers with a comprehensive auction management solution that supports internet-only auctions, webcast auctions, and absentee bidding.
GAP: $39,360,662
Lots Sold: 542,245
Online-Only Auctions: 1,318
Webcast Auctions: 91
Average Bidders Per Day: 967,000
Average Bids Per Day: 1.57 Million
The following list includes a small sample from the hundreds of auctions currently open for bidding on HiBid.com. Site visitors can click the Find Auctions menu at the top of the HiBid.com homepage for links to the Featured and Hot auctions, such as those listed below, or use the search box to find auctions nearby.
Auction Type: Live Webcast
Dates: August 3rd-21st
Seller: Gold Standard Auctions
View Auction Items
Auction Type: Online-Only
Dates: August 2nd-27th
Seller: Vail International, Inc. Auctioneers
View Auction Items
Auction Type: Online-Only
Dates: July 19th-August 25th
Seller: Bill Anderson Auctioneers, LLC
View Auction Items
If you're looking to sell through HiBid.com, click here to describe what you wish to sell, and a local HiBid auctioneer will help you get started.
Interested in receiving updates from HiBid? Sign up to receive newsletter emails, and follow HiBid Auctions on Facebook and LinkedIn.
HiBid is an online auction platform supporting webcast auctions, internet-only auctions, and internet absentee bidding. It is also available as a private-label solution. HiBid is integrated with Auction Flex 360, the market leader in auction software for live and online auctions, with capabilities that include cataloging, clerking, cashiering, accounting, mailing list management, inventory management, and multi-parcel. HiBid and Auction Flex 360 were built from the ground up to function together seamlessly.
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SOURCE Hibid-AuctionFlex | https://www.kait8.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/over-39-million-sold-through-hibidcom-last-week-with-vintage-cars-rare-coins-more-now-open-bidding/ | 2022-08-18T19:45:47Z | https://www.kait8.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/over-39-million-sold-through-hibidcom-last-week-with-vintage-cars-rare-coins-more-now-open-bidding/ | false |
For many years, the Black Thought solo album felt like an imaginary object, long rumored yet never revealed. It went by several names — Masterpiece Theatre, The Talented Mr. Trotter — and had many soft launches. The Philly rapper born Tariq Trotter had of course already displayed his otherworldly dexterity as frontman and co-founder of The Roots, and, beginning in 2018, emerged as a willing and capable soloist with a series of freewheeling EPs. But for most rappers, a debut album is a statement of artistic purpose. For a rapper in a group, it is also a chance to establish a fully independent identity. Even as Black Thought the solo artist steadily took shape, his album — the album — remained elusive.
Cheat Codes, Trotter's new collaboration with the producer Danger Mouse, is that quintessential Black Thought album, the one long awaited by diehards, the first of his recent projects to transcend his supreme skill as a rhymer and define his music beyond his intense technique. As a soloist, Trotter has tended to write like a world traveler, making offhand references to the chupacabra or Bach, Amon-Ra or the hajj, his raps crowded but fluid as if he were sloshing on foot through a quagmire. Here, he finally locates himself within his songs: as a hometown hero who brought rap game theory to national TV yet remains cognizant of the Black struggle, who is trying to reconcile the world he's entered with the one he's from. If there are two Americas, Trotter has straddled both, and Cheat Codes shares lessons learned during his travels, with a clear frame of mind that is new ground even for one of rap's peerless performers.
As the voice of the legendary Roots crew, Trotter is both representative and accessory. The group is built around his indelible lyricism, but he has always been deferential to the collective, its ideas and organization. The Roots is also a live band, and moving through those arrangements requires a specific potency and stamina. Books on rapping have lauded his gifts as a performer: In How to Rap, Kool G Rap champions Trotter's breath control and execution in a Roots staging of his song "Men at Work." Watching the clip, you are immediately struck by the physicality of his recitation, how forcefully and consistently he rattles off phrases, like a boxer working a speed bag. Yet that asset can also be a strange kind of liability in hip-hop. "Sometimes MCs' flows can so dominate their styles that they overshadow other elements of craft," Adam Bradley writes of Trotter in Book of Rhymes: The Poetics of Hip-Hop. "Set within the complex soundscapes offered up by the rest of the group, Black Thought's liquid flow at times nearly washes away his meaning."
The Roots released their last album in 2014 and followed Jimmy Fallon to The Tonight Show the same year, and a sense emerged that rapping might have become a secondary concern for Black Thought, admittedly a less ferocious presence at the head of a late-night house band. When Funk Flex invited him to participate in his ongoing freestyle series on Hot 97 in 2017, the rapper seemed to take the opportunity as a challenge — a way to reassert himself as not only an ambassador of the culture but a lethal technician. The performance was a viral moment that renewed conversations about barring out, and within the epic polemic were hints of a coming return: "Them brothers said, 'Don't go from written bars filled with rage / To primetime television and your gilded cage / Then forget there's people in the world still enslaved.'
Six months later came Streams of Thought Vol. 1, the first of a trio of single-producer EPs that diverge sharply from The Roots' live instrumentation and conceptual arcs. As far back as 2001, Trotter seemed to already understand how he wanted his solo work to function: "The difference between a Black Thought album and a Roots album is the texture," he told MTV News, promising that his eventual debut would stick to samples. Streams of Thought delivered that vision via esteemed beatmakers 9th Wonder, Salaam Remi and Sean C, but mainly as a sparring exercise: Trotter's presence on those mini-releases is raw and loose, and they're better understood as small monuments to his talent than for their substance.
There is immediately a greater focus and intent to Cheat Codes, beginning with the production. The flips are simple and elegant, the drums understated. There is enough space within the loops for Trotter's voice to probe through. Where Sean C compared the beats he made for Streams of Thought Vol. 3 to the '70s feel of Jay-Z's American Gangster, Cheat Codes curates soul, psych rock and funk samples from the same era into a weirder, more warped palette. Danger Mouse constructed these beats with Black Thought and his skill set specifically in mind, and the rapper moves through them deliberately, without compromising what are some of his most writerly verses. Together, the two cohere around a mission to build a classicist album fit for the form's elder statesmen.
Relentless motion is clearly in Trotter's DNA, a trait he traces back to childhood: "My birthplace taught me not to stop / I'm more advanced than my classmates / I came into the game on a fast break," he raps on "No Gold Teeth." Many songs on Cheat Codes are built around a single extended verse, though compared to his knotty Hot 97 filibuster they're compact and restrained, there to be not merely heeded but understood. Take the wavy "Identical Deaths," in which Black Thought is interviewed by God and keeps his cool, making gentle swoops from bar to bar as if trying to carefully pen a letter in cursive. On the title track, he works through the mindset of the "young gunners" running stickups in Philly, only to zoom out at the end and account for the larger systems that created them, using the mic like a bullhorn.
Virtuosity is too often presented as a shorthand for lyricism, and though some rappers have earned notoriety from the former, beneath the surface their verses are often empty. Trotter isn't immune to using technical hyper-proficiency to mask bombast, but even his most ill-defined rhymes carry a certain gravitas in their momentum, the deeply alliterative wordplay generating its own mystique. However, none of his previous releases have matched this novelistic charm with attentive storytelling the way Cheat Codes does. With "Because," he paints a vivid picture of the limited options that lead many into the carceral system. The winding verses of "Sometimes" and "Violas & Lupitas" are packed with little vignettes, and sometimes a bar will contain an entire scene: "Juke joint party lights lit the Harlem nights / Peas and rice made a Judas out of Garveyites."
There is still plenty of rapping about how great he is at rapping, but the verses more often turn on nuggets of personal discovery ("Richard Wright, Black Boy that grew into a Blacker man") and accumulated wisdom. Where Vol. 3 of Streams of Thought often felt aimlessly political, a concept record without a real agenda, the perspective here is tighter and more self-affirming. On "The Darkest Part," he mulls injustice, freedom, and the weight of the soul ("I came to take back that other two-fifths of a man"). Later, on "Saltwater," he distinguishes himself as a seasoned OG, not a lecturer; his rapping is surly but not disillusioned, observant but not sanctimonious. Even the songs that do fixate on the rap game as a sporting arena do so astutely: In the elongated verse of "Close to Famous," he measures the extent of his influence and the skill and experience gap between him as a veteran and rap's overnight sensations. Much of his case, like the album overall, is constructed around the idea that he can read any room and speak its language.
Trotter is not our only rapper-scholar, but his position in the culture is close to unique. "Bring the Cambridge, the Websters, the Oxfords ... Product of the Last Poets and the Watts Prophets," he raps on "Belize," presenting his career as a bridge between street intellectuals and academic authorities, rap as cipher and rap as literature. The notion of a full-length collaboration between Black Thought and Danger Mouse long predates his years on network television or the dynamic if arguably vain showcase of Streams of Thought, but the results nonetheless are a culmination of that history. Listening now, it can feel like all those years the album went unmade are what made it possible.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.kunm.org/npr-news/2022-08-18/cheat-codes-is-the-solo-album-black-thought-couldnt-have-made-until-now | 2022-08-18T19:46:21Z | https://www.kunm.org/npr-news/2022-08-18/cheat-codes-is-the-solo-album-black-thought-couldnt-have-made-until-now | true |
Young people turning away from alcohol is generally welcomed as a positive trend. But it's bad news both for booze companies, and governments that are watching lucrative alcohol tax revenues dry up along with the populace.
Japan's National Tax Agency is clearly concerned: It's taking an unorthodox approach to try to get young Japanese adults to drink more, in an online contest dubbed Sake Viva!
The project asks young people to submit business plans to lure a new generation into going on the sauce, saying Japan's sake, beer and liquor makers are facing challenges that the pandemic has made even worse.
Contest runs against Japan's non-drinking trend
Japan's alcohol consumption has been in a downward arc since the 1990s, according to the country's health ministry. In the past decade, the government adopted a sweeping plan to counter societal and health problems linked to alcohol, with a focus on reaching the relatively small portion of the population who were found to account for nearly 70% of Japan's total alcohol consumption.
Coronavirus restrictions have kept many people from visiting Japan's izakaya (pub) businesses, and people simply aren't drinking enough at home, the tax agency said.
"The domestic alcoholic beverage market is shrinking due to demographic changes such as the declining birthrate and aging population," as well as lifestyle shifts away from drinking, according to a website specially created for the contest.
New products that reflect the changing times; sales that use virtual "AI and Metaverse" concepts; promotions that leverage products' place of origin — those are just a few of the ideas the site lists as ways to get Japan's young adults to embrace alcohol.
Backlash hits the plan to boost alcohol businesses
The contest is aimed at "revitalizing the liquor industry and solving problems." But it has hit a sour note with many people online, prompting pointed questions about why a government that has previously encouraged people to drink responsibly or abstain is now asking for help in getting young people to drink more.
Writer and journalist Karyn Nishi highlighted the controversy, saying Japan was going in the opposite direction most modern governments are pursuing and stressing that alcohol is inherently dangerous. As discussions erupted about the contest on Twitter, one popular comment praised young people who aren't drinking, saying they believe the social costs imposed by alcohol aren't outweighed by tax revenues.
Critics also questioned the initiative's cost to taxpayers. The contest and website are being operated by Pasona Noentai, an agriculture and food-related arm of a massive Japanese corporation called Pasona Group.
The pro-drinking contest will run for months, ending this fall
The Sake Viva! contest is open to people from 20 to 39 years old, with submissions due on Sept. 9. An email to contest organizers seeking comment and details about the number of entries was not answered before this story published.
Pro-drinking contest submissions that make it to the final round will be judged in person in Tokyo on Nov. 10.
The date underlines the dichotomy many now see in the government's alcohol policies: When Japan enacted the Basic Act on Measures against Alcohol-related Harm, it established a week devoted to raising alcohol abuse awareness, with a start date of Nov. 10.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.ijpr.org/npr-news/2022-08-18/japan-launches-a-contest-to-urge-young-people-to-drink-more-alcohol | 2022-08-18T19:47:34Z | https://www.ijpr.org/npr-news/2022-08-18/japan-launches-a-contest-to-urge-young-people-to-drink-more-alcohol | true |
Disneyland's "Magic Key" annual passes can now be renewed— at an increased price.
The passes are offered in four tiers, each with different perks. "Inspire" is the top tier at $1,599. It's followed by "Believe" at $1,099, "Enchant" at $699 and "Imagine" at $449.
The "Enchant" pass is for Southern California residents only.
The prices are between $50 and $200 more than last year, according to USA TODAY.
The annual passes are not available to everyone. Disney says people who held "Magic Key" passes last year are the only ones eligible to renew this year. | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/disneyland-raises-prices-on-annual-passes | 2022-08-18T19:47:35Z | https://www.wrtv.com/news/national/disneyland-raises-prices-on-annual-passes | false |
STEVE INSKEEP, HOST:
News stories about Waziristan repeat a few stock phrases. Waziristan is said to be one of Pakistan's lawless tribal areas, in the mountains near Afghanistan where men rule, women have no rights and American drones fly overhead searching for militants.
Akbar Ahmed argues the stock phrases miss a lot. He's a scholar of Islam, a former Pakistani ambassador, and a former administrator of Waziristan. His new book "The Thistle and the Drone" argues that drone strikes are the wrong way to pacify tribal zones.
What are some things that you think Americans completely do not get about Waziristan?
AKBAR AHMED: Two or three really fundamental issues that they don't get. One, that the people of Waziristan, the ordinary people, are really suffering. One day they're bombed by the drones, the second day by their own military for all kinds of terrorist activity. Third day by suicide bombers. And in the end, there's so much despair that a large section of the population has actually left. They're living as destitute refugees in neighboring towns. It's a very difficult situation.
INSKEEP: Well, this is reminding me of another buzz phrase that is commonly mentioned in news articles about this part of the world. Waziristan may be described as a lawless area, or part of the lawless tribal areas of Pakistan. Is that an accurate description?
AHMED: Not entirely. It was on one level, yes, lawless. On another level, it was very much a society which had certain balances within it. There was a tribal leadership based in lineage. There was a religious leadership. There were representatives of a central government what I was in charge of Waziristan. There was, by and large, law and order and it held. I was there for over two years.
What you are seeing today is a breakdown of these pillars of authority. You're seeing the tribal leaders being killed, something like 400 have been killed in Waziristan; mosques and madrassas are being attacked, so that a lot of the religious leaders, who advocate compassion and bringing people together or peace, they have been killed. And, of course, the central government representative or political agent has been made impotent.
INSKEEP: Now, you just used a phrase that not many people alive would be able to use. You said when I was in charge of Waziristan. When was that?
AHMED: I was in charge of Waziristan late in the 1970s up to 1980, as political agent. The political agent was a post created by the British to deal with the tribal areas. It was one of their most brilliant administrative innovations, where one officer was given tremendous authority. He, in fact, represented civil, executive, financial, judicial, all authority rolled into one.
This is what Americans in Afghanistan never understood because they fought the battle in the Afghanistan entirely through the military. They were not using political officers who understood the language, the culture and the tribes.
This whole debate about drones, for example, is just missing this aspect of the debate completely. So we hear the debates about keeping Americans safe, keeping boots off the ground, etc., etc., and the best way of dealing with this is to use drones. But what is happening on the other side, and the voices from that side of the world, are not being heard at all.
INSKEEP: OK, let's talk about that a little bit because there's this society that was under pressure or falling apart, if I'm not mistaken, even before the United States developed drones with weapons on them. When did things begin to fall apart along the border with Afghanistan, inside Pakistan?
AHMED: I would say, Steve, that in the tribal areas, society sort of chugged along over the last decade or two. But after 9/11, things became really very bad very quickly. Now remember, even before then, these areas were largely left to their own devices, which meant few hospitals if any, few schools if any. The last thing you need is to throw bombs at them and throw missiles and hit them with drones because you are then shattering whatever remains of that society.
INSKEEP: Well, let's talk about what happens when you begin raining drone fire on a region like Waziristan. And let's talk about it first from the proponents' point of view. What are the advantages, if you are a foreign power like the United States, to using drones rather than sending thousands of troops into a region?
AHMED: The American argument is plain and it's clear. And it's a strong argument, that none of our troops are involved, there's no danger to them. We're sitting in the Midwest somewhere, we press a button and people are killed across the world, and we achieve what we want to achieve which is to kill the bad guys.
The reality is that for every one, quote-unquote, "bad guy" who's taken out, there may be a hundred ordinary mothers, children, relatives who are killed. So when the drone falls, it doesn't just fall one day and goes away for the next 10 days. Steve, what happens is in fact, the drones are hovering and buzzing overhead round-the-clock, so that kids cannot sleep. They're traumatized.
They're terrorizing entire generations because they say we're living in fear; fear of where this will strike next. And I think as someone very concerned about trying to bring some sense of peace and order and humanity to the situation, we really have to step back and begin to say: Is this the most effective way of dealing with terrorism, and is it working?
INSKEEP: Are there some pretty well-documented bad guys who've been killed this way?
AHMED: Yes. But how many other bad guys have emerged, Steve? If you kill five or 10 or 15 or 30, you may have then alienated 100,000, 200,000, 300,000. Someone has to do the mathematics.
INSKEEP: One other thing, Professor Ahmed, we began by talking about Waziristan, this zone that if Americans have any knowledge of it at all, probably look at it askance. Strange people, very remote, a religion that is scary to a lot of people, a view of civil rights and women's rights and humans' rights that is just not in accord with the United States at all. They don't invite a lot of American sympathy. It sounds like you do have a great sympathy for that people. Why?
AHMED: I do because they're my people. My wife is from Swat. That's the people that have produced Malala Yousafzai. I'd like to know how many Americans would stand up, 15-year-old girls, and challenge the Taliban on their territory.
INSKEEP: Remind people who Malala Yousafzai...
AHMED: Malala Yousafzai was this young girl in Swat, whose only crime was that she was determined not to only educate herself but other girls. And she was shot. And in spite of that, she continues her campaign. And the Taliban have said when she comes back, we'll finish the job. So it's an ongoing battle. It's a battle that people there are very aware of and they have joined it.
My daughter is there doing exactly the same thing. She's from Swat. My wife is from Swat. So I know these people. So to simplify that entire region and dismiss them as potentially terrorists or not in sympathy with modernity is just sheer ignorance.
So I think we need to, again, revise our strategy, focus on things that can strengthen those elements in society that will create the kind of vision where we in the United States and they over there are able to be more compatible.
INSKEEP: Akbar Ahmed is author of "The Thistle and the Drone: How America's War on Terror Became a Global War on Tribal Islam."
Thanks very much for coming by.
AHMED: Thank you so much, Steve.
INSKEEP: It's MORNING EDITION from NPR News. I'm Steve Inskeep.
RENEE MONTAGNE, HOST:
And I'm Renee Montagne. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR. | https://www.wlrn.org/2013-03-12/how-the-war-on-terror-became-a-war-on-tribal-islam | 2022-08-18T19:48:46Z | https://www.wlrn.org/2013-03-12/how-the-war-on-terror-became-a-war-on-tribal-islam | true |
'Feel like we are living a total dream!' Jordan Banjo puts on a loved-up display with his wife Naomi Courts as they jets off on a safari honeymoon
He finally got married last week to his fiancée Naomi Courts after the ceremony had been cancelled due to the pandemic.
And Jordan Banjo and his new wife couldn't contain their smiles as they jetted off on a lavish safari honeymoon to celebrate their nuptials on Thursday.
The Diversity dancer, 28, put on a romantic display as the couple posed up a storm for several selfies on the getaway.
Romantic: Jordan Banjo and his new wife Naomi Courts couldn't contain their smiles as they jetted off on a lavish safari honeymoon on Thursday following their wedding last week
The newlyweds gave fans a glimpse of their busy schedule as they boarded a private plane with all their luggage.
Jordan joked: 'First night done, off we go.... travelling light', as they loaded their four suitcases and several holdall bags onto the flight.
The Britain's Got Talent champion cut a casual figure for the journey in a grey hoodie and blue shorts as his partner cozied up to him.
Loved-up: The Diversity dancer, 28, put on a romantic display as the couple posed up a storm for several selfies on the getaway including one with several elephants in the background
Naomi looked effortlessly chic in a brown bodycon dress which she added a nude shirt over the top.
Once arriving at their luxurious treetop villa, the couple headed out to see some animals and watch the sunset.
The pair documented seeing zebras and several elephants, Jordan wrote: 'First drive out and the crazy experience of my life!'
'Feel like we are living a total dream': The newlyweds gave fans a glimpse of their busy schedule as they boarded a private plane with all their luggage
Wow: Jordan joked: 'First night done, off we go.... travelling light', as they loaded their four suitcases and several holdall bags onto the flight
Naomi share a gallery of clips and photos to her Instagram Stories and uploaded a stunning selfie to her grid.
She said: 'We made it! It’s been a dream of ours to do a safari and honestly I’ve never felt so grateful and sooo lucky in my life.
'This is the most exciting but surreal trip and one we will deffo treasure for a life time! Feel like we are living a total dream right now! Look at us hanging out with a couple of ellie’s'.
Exciting: The Britain's Got Talent champion cut a casual figure for the journey in a grey hoodie and blue shorts as his partner cozied up to him
'Honeymoon time': Naomi looked effortlessly chic in a brown bodycon dress which she added a nude shirt over the top
Jordan announced his engagement to mother-of-two Naomi in January 2020 when he proposed during a trip to the Maldives after almost five years together.
Speaking to The Sun he said: 'Nay loves the idea of Mimi being a little flower girl and Cas being a page boy.
'It will be really nice to have them at the wedding because not everyone has children at the wedding, they normally come after. I'm super excited.
'The crazy experience of my life!': Once arriving at their luxurious treetop villa, the couple headed out to see some animals as they documented seeing zebras and several elephants
'Everyone in Diversity had kids after they got married, we did that the other way round.'
Last January Jordan revealed he popped the question to Naomi in the Maldives, six months after welcoming their second child, Mimi.
In a sweet Instagram post, the dancer and his partner - who also share Cassius - cuddled up to each other at the four-star SAii Lagoon resort as the brunette flashed her diamond engagement ring.
Celebrating: The couple enjoyed a lavish meal by their private pool followed by cocktails
'This is the most exciting but surreal trip': Naomi couldn't contain her excitement as she documented the trip on her Instagram
The couple appeared on cloud nine as they took snaps on the beach, where a fire display with the words: 'WILL U MARRY ME' was lit up.
In another photo, Naomi put her eye-watering band on full display, which was complete with a pear-shaped stone and a sculpted swirl design.
Street dancer Jordan captioned the images: 'Well she didn't say no', alongside ring and heart emojis.
Exciting: Jordan announced his engagement to mother-of-two Naomi in January 2020 when he proposed during a trip to the Maldives after almost five years together
The pair were finally one step closer to marriage after Jordan admitted his proposal plans failed twice.
He told The Sun in April 2019: 'At this rate we're going to end up with 13 kids and not going to be married. I was ready to propose when I found out she was pregnant with Cass.
'So I thought, "OK, I'll wait until he's a little older and then I'll take Naomi away and surprise her with a proposal".
Amazing: The couple appeared on cloud nine as they took snaps on the beach, where a fire display with the words: 'WILL U MARRY ME' was lit up (pictured after their 2020 engagement)
'Then when I started thinking about doing it again this year I found out she was pregnant again. Now she's convinced we're not going to get married.'
Jordan and Naomi met at famous nightclub Sugar Hut in 2013, but embarked on a relationship two years later.
In January 2018, the couple revealed they were expecting their first child together, with the Essex-based beauty admitting she took 'nine pregnancy tests' out of shock.
Happy family: Jordan and Naomi met at famous nightclub Sugar Hut in 2013, but embarked on a relationship two years later and now have two children Mimi, 20 months, and Cassius, three, together (pictured last January)
She told OK! at the time: 'I wanted to be sure so I went out and bought eight more tests. I sat with them laid out in front of me on the bathroom floor, staring at them in disbelief.
'We always said we wanted kids together, we just didn't think it would happen this soon. We're over the moon, though!'
Eight months after welcoming Cass, the pair announced they were pregnant with their second baby, with their daughter arriving in the July.
Beautiful: After he proposed last year Jordan took to Instagram to show off the stunning engagement ring
Loved-up: The smitten couple were holidaying in The Maldives when Jordan proposed last year
The I'm A Celeb star previously dated Little Mix's Jesy Nelson from mid 2012 until March 2013.
Jordan rose to fame in 2009 when he won Britain's Got Talent with big brother Ashley as part of their dance troupe Diversity.
Since being in the spotlight, he has hosted the 2013 edition of Got to Dance, participated in I'm A Celeb in 2016 and presented BBC's The Greatest Dancer with Alesha Dixon.
Happy days: Before Naomi fell pregnant for the second time, the presenter said he was ready to get hitched | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-11124763/Jordan-Banjo-jets-lavish-safari-honeymoon-wife-Naomi-Courts.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | 2022-08-18T19:50:05Z | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-11124763/Jordan-Banjo-jets-lavish-safari-honeymoon-wife-Naomi-Courts.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | false |
The blather about 2022 not having enough games is a bit overblown. It's not the most crowded year on record, but there are loads of great releases on the horizon, and we're quite fond of some games that have already released.
Take a look yourself, and you'll find something good to play.
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Xenoblade Chronicles 3
You don't need to have played other "Xenoblade" games to enjoy this extremely complex JRPG, but long time fans will definitely benefit. This installment improves on the previous game in nearly every imaginable way.
Rated T for Teen. Available on Nintendo Switch.
Horizon: Forbidden West
Unlike "Xenoblade," this is a direct sequel, so you'll want to start with the first game to fully understand what's happening. But once you're through that wonderful last-gen title, you'll get to see just how wild the story gets, and how much better it is with a glider at hand.
Rated T for Teen. Available on PlayStation.
Elden Ring
Personally speaking, I'm not much of a fan of Soulslike games, but there's no denying that "Elden Ring" is one of the biggest releases of the year. Digg's own Jared Russo absolutely adores this open-world take on the Fromsoft formula, and so do millions of other folks.
Rated M for Mature. Available on Xbox, PlayStation and PC.
Ghostwire: Tokyo
Made by the folks behind "The Evil Within," this original title has you going up against loads of supernatural beings haunting an emptied-out Shibuya. We'd like a bit more variety in the quest design, but it's still a great way to spend a weekend or two. And those combat animations? Forget about it!
Rated M for Mature. Available on PS5 and PC.
Stray
Everybody loves the cat game, and there's no debate about it. The stealth and escape sequences can be a bit tedious at times, but the moody aesthetic and adorable moments make it easy to love.
Rated E10+ for Everyone 10+. Available on PlayStation and PC.
Two Point Campus
While the earlier "Two Point Hospital" is similar conceptually, we feel a lot better about making the best college campus instead of thinking about hospitals for hours on end. Multiple times in the past few weeks, I've had to stop myself from playing so I could get some sleep. That's how you know they did a good job.
Rated T for Teen. Available on Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation and PC.
Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
Even if you've played previous "Lego Star Wars" games, you'll want to play this one too. It covers all of the numbered films this time, and it has proper voice acting instead of just hilarious miming. It's well-suited for multiplayer family fun, but there's plenty of joy to be had alone too.
Rated E10+ for Everyone 10+. Available on Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation and PC.
Nintendo Switch Sports
"Wii Sports" was, hands down, the best game ever to be released on the Wii. Unsurprisingly, there's still a lot to love with these relatively simple motion games well over a decade later. If you have a Switch, it's worth picking up for the bowling and soccer games in this updated package.
Rated E10+ for Everyone 10+. Available on Nintendo Switch.
Citizen Sleeper
Clearly inspired by table top gaming, this narrative-heavy game relies on dice rolls to interact with the world. The visuals are minimalistic, but the stripped-down look really helps to evoke the dire situation your character is in.
Rated T for Teen. Available on Nintendo Switch, Xbox and PC.
Norco
This southern gothic take on the point-and-click adventure game is definitely making end of year lists for some of us. It's playing in the same space as "Kentucky Route Zero" and "Disco Elysium," but the dystopian NOLA setting is starkly different from other games in recent memory.
Unrated, probably not a game for kids. Available on PC. | https://digg.com/digg-picks/link/best-games-in-2022-so-far-SfEEXoiR80 | 2022-08-18T19:50:02Z | https://digg.com/digg-picks/link/best-games-in-2022-so-far-SfEEXoiR80 | false |
Can Foot Locker (FL) Keep the Earnings Surprise Streak Alive?
Looking for a stock that has been consistently beating earnings estimates and might be well positioned to keep the streak alive in its next quarterly report? Foot Locker (FL), which belongs to the Zacks Retail - Apparel and Shoes industry, could be a great candidate to consider.
When looking at the last two reports, this shoe store has recorded a strong streak of surpassing earnings estimates. The company has topped estimates by 12.81%, on average, in the last two quarters.
For the last reported quarter, Foot Locker came out with earnings of $1.60 per share versus the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.47 per share, representing a surprise of 8.84%. For the previous quarter, the company was expected to post earnings of $1.43 per share and it actually produced earnings of $1.67 per share, delivering a surprise of 16.78%.
Price and EPS Surprise
Thanks in part to this history, there has been a favorable change in earnings estimates for Foot Locker lately. In fact, the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) for the stock is positive, which is a great indicator of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with its solid Zacks Rank.
Our research shows that stocks with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time. In other words, if you have 10 stocks with this combination, the number of stocks that beat the consensus estimate could be as high as seven.
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a version of the Zacks Consensus whose definition is related to change. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Foot Locker currently has an Earnings ESP of +3.47%, which suggests that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This positive Earnings ESP when combined with the stock's Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) indicates that another beat is possibly around the corner. We expect the company's next earnings report to be released on August 19, 2022.
Investors should note, however, that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss, but a negative value does reduce the predictive power of this metric.
Many companies end up beating the consensus EPS estimate, though this is not the only reason why their shares gain. Additionally, some stocks may remain stable even if they end up missing the consensus estimate.
Because of this, it's really important to check a company's Earnings ESP ahead of its quarterly release to increase the odds of success. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
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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/can-foot-locker-fl-keep-the-earnings-surprise-streak-alive-0 | 2022-08-18T19:51:04Z | https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/can-foot-locker-fl-keep-the-earnings-surprise-streak-alive-0 | false |
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TEHRAN, Iran — Tehran’s contemporary art museum has issued an apology and temporarily closed to handle a pest infestation, raising concerns after footage of insects scuttling across world-famous work spread widely on social media.
A video went viral earlier this week showing two paper-eating silverfish squirming under the glass of a 1978 industrial photograph by influential German photographers Bernd and Hilla Becher. The sighting of the wingless pearl gray bugs provoked shock and disgust on social media.
The museum apologized to the public on Wednesday, insisting that the “proper maintenance” of its prized works “is of the utmost concern to all of us.” As soon as the infestation became apparent, it said, experts rushed to the museum and carefully cleaned the exhibited artworks.
Insects have not damaged the Becher photograph or any other pieces, the museum said, adding that it would close for two days so pest control technicians could tackle the problem.
Ebadreza Eslami Koulaei, the museum’s manager, told Iran’s semiofficial ISNA news agency that experts were closely monitoring the works, because “when you see one insect, you should predict maybe there are more.”
“When works are taken out from their boxes to be brought to galleries, there is a possibility such incidents happen,” he said.
Many of the renowned contemporary Western works on display had been hidden in the museum vault for decades. Iran’s Shiite clerics who came to power in 1979 packed away the art to avoid offending Islamic values and catering to Western sensibilities.
Iran’s Western-backed shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, and his wife, the former Empress Farah Pahlavi, had built the museum and acquired the multibillion-dollar collection during the oil boom of the late 1970s.
The sensational art — cubist, surrealist, impressionist, even pop art — has gradually resurfaced in recent years as cultural restrictions eased in the Islamic Republic. | https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/famed-iran-art-museum-closes-to-deal-with-insect-infestation/2022/08/18/62fa3e02-1f22-11ed-9ce6-68253bd31864_story.html | 2022-08-18T19:53:25Z | https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/famed-iran-art-museum-closes-to-deal-with-insect-infestation/2022/08/18/62fa3e02-1f22-11ed-9ce6-68253bd31864_story.html | true |
Hyde will lead ERIE's diversity, equity and inclusion team, bringing experience from Koppers, Inc., where he led global inclusion and diversity initiatives
ERIE, Pa., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Erie Insurance (ERIE) has named Lance Hyde to the role of Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), effective August 22. Hyde will report to ERIE's Chief Diversity and Community Development Officer Chris Marsh in the position and lead the company's DEI team and related enterprise initiatives.
Hyde brings more than 15 years of experience in diversity and inclusion practices, including significant supplier diversity and sustainability expertise, to the leadership role at ERIE. He joins the company after serving as Director of Global Inclusion and Diversity at Pittsburgh-based Koppers International.
"I am excited to welcome Lance to the ERIE Family and the Erie community," said Marsh. "With his demonstrated collaborative work style and results-driven approach, I'm confident Lance is well-equipped to help lead ERIE through our next evolution of DEI."
At Koppers, Hyde helped develop the company's global inclusion and diversity strategy while partnering with business unit leaders to create a robust supplier diversity program. Prior to joining Koppers, Hyde served in various leadership positions at EQT Corporation, including diversity manager and director of supplier diversity. While at EQT, he managed all D&I functions, including building HR diversity responsibilities, expanding and supporting Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and serving on the EQT Foundation. He worked closely with human resources to create and implement a successful "D&I Recruit and Retain" strategy and participated in global industry conferences to attract diverse talent to the industry and company.
Recognized nationally for his DEI thought leadership and supplier diversity expertise, Hyde has participated in more than 50 panel discussions on a variety of topics throughout his career and has been featured in national and regional media.
Hyde earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from California State University, East Bay in Hayward, Calif. and a master's in Business Administration from Waynesburg University in Waynesburg, Pa. He received the Timothy and Caroline Thyreen Service Leadership Award from Waynesburg University in 2021 and the Supplier Diversity Professional of the Year Award from the National Minority Supplier Development Council in 2019 for his accomplishments in supplier diversity initiatives with EQT.
According to A.M. Best Company, Erie Insurance Group, based in Erie, Pennsylvania, is the 11th largest homeowners insurer, 13th largest automobile insurer and 13th largest commercial lines insurer in the United States based on direct premiums written. Founded in 1925, Erie Insurance is a Fortune 500 company and the 19th largest property/casualty insurer in the United States based on total lines net premium written. Rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best, ERIE has more than 6 million policies in force and operates in 12 states and the District of Columbia. News releases and more information are available on ERIE's website at www.erieinsurance.com.
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SOURCE Erie Indemnity Company | https://www.kbtx.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/erie-insurance-names-diversity-equity-inclusion-leader-lance-hyde-vp-role/ | 2022-08-18T19:55:43Z | https://www.kbtx.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/erie-insurance-names-diversity-equity-inclusion-leader-lance-hyde-vp-role/ | false |
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Breaking through the limits of traditional diagnostics, a new experience for technicians and DIYers of OBDII diagnostic device is now official available. An effective device with excellent user experience has been refined with the Mucar CDE900, and a limited time special offer for half price on the Mucar CDE900 is available on August 22nd . The first 100 customers will also get an extra gift.
Most traditional OBD devices can only perform the basic functions.
After in-depth investigating, MUCAR brought out a comprehensive design on product positioning, user habits, software optimization, and operation experience, to create a brand new product for our users: CDE900.
CDE900 adopts Android 6.0 intelligent system. The device runs faster with 2G memory and 16G storage. It also supports up to 256G expanded memory card. Equipped with 1500mAh capacity battery without OBD interface power supply, users can turn on the device to check the historical diagnosis report. It's ready for the next repair and maintenance anytime.
It supports 16 languages, full function of OBD2 and EOBD2 optimizing communication protocol to cover vehicles after 1996, lifetime free OTA upgrade with WiFi function. The CDE900 also offers an optional life-time extension function beyond traditional OBDII and EOBD devices: ECM+SRS+TCM+ABS. When you need it, you can pay for the additional functions anytime. Even if you choose to pay for the additional 4 system features, this product is still more cost-effective than its peers.
In the past, OBD devices only adopted physical buttons and ordinary LCD screen, which cannot be used after the buttons are damaged in the complex diagnostic environment. CDE900 optimizes this situation with modifications:
1. A 4-inch capacitive touch screen, maximizing the proportion. Users can operate on the screen directly.
2. Physical buttons are maintained, to ensure stable operation while using it.
CDE900 adopts a color screen display with a new icon UI design to manage functions, making the function display more intuitive and vivid. Up to 120 data streams can be read at the same time, without missing abnormal data of multidimensional data comparison.
The Mucar CDE900 is available for half price for a limited time on August 22nd. The first 100 customers will also get an extra gift. To learn more, visit:
For Media Enquiries:
Jackie Lin
Email: linjiajie@thinkcar.com
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SOURCE Mucar Tech | https://www.kbtx.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/first-launch-breaking-through-limits-traditional-diagnostics-mucar-cde900/ | 2022-08-18T19:55:49Z | https://www.kbtx.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/first-launch-breaking-through-limits-traditional-diagnostics-mucar-cde900/ | false |
Tangedco among 27 discoms to be barred from trading on exchanges for non-payment of dues
As on August 17, Tangedco had dues of ₹924.81 crore according to PRAAPTI portal
Tangedco is one of the 27 discoms across 13 States to be restricted from trading on power exchanges on account of non-payment of dues.
The Power System Operation Corporation on Thursday told three power exchanges — India Energy Exchange, Power Exchange India Limited and Hindustan Power Exchange — that buy and sell transactions in all the products of the power market shall be entirely restricted till further notice from the power delivery date on August 19. The action is based on the Electricity (late payment surcharge and related matters) Rules, 2022 notified by the Centre in June.
As on August 17, Tangedco had dues of ₹924.81 crore according to PRAAPTI portal, under the Ministry of Power. “The portal didn’t give us time to react, which we had asked for. In 2-3 days, the payment will be made and it is only to the tune of ₹228 crore. So, it may not affect us much,” a senior official from Tangedco said.
According to information on the State Load Despatch Centre, the morning peak demand on Thursday was 14,804 MW. Tamil Nadu saw an all-time high demand of 17,563 MW on April 29, 2022.
Experts said that with the wind season going to end and the demand set to increase in the upcoming festive season, Tangedco should resolve the issue to avert a crisis.
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- Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name, to avoid rejection. | https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tangedco-among-27-discoms-to-be-barred-from-trading-on-exchanges-for-non-payment-of-dues/article65785099.ece | 2022-08-18T19:55:59Z | https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tangedco-among-27-discoms-to-be-barred-from-trading-on-exchanges-for-non-payment-of-dues/article65785099.ece | true |
(The Hill) – The nonpartisan Cook Political Report is changing its rating of Pennsylvania’s Senate race from a “toss up” to “lean Democrat” fewer than three months before the November midterms.
The development comes against the backdrop of the social media campaign that Democratic candidate John Fetterman has waged against opponent Mehmet Oz (R) that has sought to portray the celebrity as a carpetbagger from New Jersey who is out of touch with voters.
Fetterman’s campaign has enlisted big New Jersey names like former “Jersey Shore” cast member Nicole “Snooki” LaValle and musician Steven Van Zandt to troll the celebrity doctor while raising funds off of an April video in which Oz mispronounces the name of a regional grocery store while speaking to voters about inflation as he shops for crudité ingredients.
“Fancy French appetizer plates aside, a simple glance at Oz compared to the hoodie-and-shorts clad tattooed Fetterman, and it’s not surprising to discern who comes across as more authentic and relatable to voters,” the nonpartisan election handicapper wrote.
Its update on the Pennsylvania race also comes despite the fact that Oz has former President Trump’s endorsement for a seat currently held by a Republican, retiring Sen. Pat Toomey. Additionally, Oz has had more time to meet with voters on the trail than Fetterman, who suffered a stroke earlier this year.
Meanwhile, the Cook Political Report shifted its Senate race ratings in Colorado from “likely Democrat” to “lean Democrat” and in Utah from “solid Republican” to “likely Republican.”
It also said it was rating Senate control as a “toss up,” noting that the landscape had changed since prior to the start of the primaries, when it believed Republicans were more than likely to flip control of the upper chamber.
The nonpartisan election handicapper noted that Trump would likely be to blame if Republicans lost their opportunity to seize the Senate given that he waded into several competitive battleground states, stopping stronger candidates from running. | https://www.wivb.com/news/pennsylvania-senate-race-cook-political-report-shifts-race-to-lean-democrat/ | 2022-08-18T19:57:13Z | https://www.wivb.com/news/pennsylvania-senate-race-cook-political-report-shifts-race-to-lean-democrat/ | false |
Teleperformance Earns Great Employer Workplace Status for third Consecutive Year
NEW YORK, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Teleperformance, a leading global group in digitally integrated business services, announced that its Malaysia operations received the prestigious Great Place to Work® award. By being certified as a Great Place to Work® in Malaysia, Teleperformance has set a new standard for Malaysian Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry companies.
Teleperformance's Malaysia (TP Malaysia) operations scored strong for overall trust in the company by its over 2,600 Malaysian team members. It operates three facilities in Malaysia and provides work from home services, with 76% of its staff currently utilizing them.
Jose Bezanilla, CEO Great Place to Work® China commented, "In Great Place to Work®, we have special respect and admiration for companies and leadership teams that kept their priorities clear on their people, while navigating the tough times of the pandemic. Teleperformance is a clear example of this, making it again to the top recognition as Best Workplaces™ in Asia keeping Trust as a key element of their working culture. Congratulations!
"This is the third consecutive year that Teleperformance Malaysia is being certified as a great workplace. For a multilingual hub home to many nationalities and cultures such as ours, this is a great achievement," said Sam Chong, CEO Teleperformance Malaysia. "Thank you to our support teams, managers and leadership team for doing your part in ensuring that TP Malaysia remains a diverse and inclusive workplace for employees of all nationalities. This is possible because of all of you, the lifeblood of TP Malaysia."
With a top global priority of people care, over 97% of Teleperformance employees worldwide currently work in independently certified great employer operations.
The company welcomes applicants from across the country to apply for exciting work options. Interested applicants can apply here.
Teleperformance (TEP – ISIN: FR0000051807 – Reuters: TEPRF.PA - Bloomberg: TEP FP), the global leader in outsourced customer and citizen experience management and related digital services, serves as a strategic partner to the world's largest companies in many industries. It offers a One Office support services model including end-to-end digital solutions, which guarantee successful customer interaction and optimized business processes, anchored in a unique, comprehensive high touch, high tech approach. Nearly 420,000 employees, based in 88 countries, support billions of connections every year in over 265 languages and around 170 markets, in a shared commitment to excellence as part of the "Simpler, Faster, Safer" process. This mission is supported by the use of reliable, flexible, intelligent technological solutions and compliance with the industry's highest security and quality standards, based on Corporate Social Responsibility excellence. In 2021, Teleperformance reported consolidated revenue of €7,115 million (US$8.4 billion, based on €1 = $1.18) and net profit of €557 million.
Teleperformance shares are traded on the Euronext Paris market, Compartment A, and are eligible for the deferred settlement service. They are included in the following indices: CAC 40, STOXX 600, S&P Europe 350, MSCI Global Standard and Euronext Tech Leaders. In the area of corporate social responsibility, Teleperformance shares are included in the Euronext Vigeo Euro 120 index since 2015, the EURO STOXX 50 ESG index since 2020, the MSCI Europe ESG Leaders index since 2019, the FTSE4Good index since 2018 and the S&P Global 1200 ESG index since 2017.
For more information: www.teleperformance.com Follow us on Twitter: @teleperformance
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SOURCE Teleperformance | https://www.kbtx.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/teleperformance-certified-great-place-work-malaysia/ | 2022-08-18T19:57:43Z | https://www.kbtx.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/teleperformance-certified-great-place-work-malaysia/ | true |
How to make the best pizzelle
“Pizzelle” means “round, flat and small,” and pizzelle are traditional Italian cookies that are round and flat like a pizza. They’re made with flour, sugar, butter and eggs, whisked together with flavorings such as anise, lemon, vanilla and cocoa, then baked in a special device.
“Pizzelle” is the plural form of the name; a single cookie is a “pizzella.”
What is a pizzelle maker?
Traditional pizzelle makers were heavy cast-iron skillets used over an open fire. A few aluminum pizzelle makers are still made to be used over a heat source, but modern pizzelle makers are electric and plug into the nearest outlet.
Pizzelle makers have two sides, joined by a hinge at the back. Inside are two removable metal cooking plates that nest inside the lids. The sides are held together by a mechanism that locks the two-part handle.
How does a pizzelle maker work?
You pour the batter into the mold on the base plate, close the lid and wait a few minutes while the batter bakes. When the dough is crisp, remove the pizzelle and add whatever fillings you wish.
How do you use a pizzelle maker?
Prepare
Start by brushing oil or melted butter on the pizzelle maker’s metal cooking plates.
- Handheld: If you’re using a handheld version, set your stove on medium heat and wait until water sizzles when sprinkled on the burner before you start cooking. Without a timer or preset temperature, you’ll have to work out your best cooking times.
- Electric: If you’re using an automated electric pizzelle maker with the cooking time and temperature preset, plug it in, turn it on and wait for the indicator light to tell you it’s ready.
Load
Drop a spoon of batter onto the hot plate, close the lid and your pizzelle are crisp, brown and ready to eat in only a few minutes. Some pizzelle makers take less than two minutes.
Fill
Pizzelle taste even better when filled with something sweet, such as mascarpone, ricotta, custard or fruit fillings.
Dip
Some cooks like to dip their cookies into melted chocolate.
Dust
You can add a fine dusting of powdered sugar to make your crispy dessert even more fun to eat.
How do you get patterns in your pizzelle?
One of the charming things about the world’s oldest cookie is that the plates that press the batter between them have ridged designs that bake right into the cookie. Those designs were originally religious images, family crests and galloping horses, but later became floral patterns, snowflakes and abstract geometric patterns, too.
What you need to buy for making pizzelle
Whiskware Batter Mixer and Dispenser
The clever product takes all the mess out of handling batter for pizzelle, waffles, pancakes and crepes. Add your ingredients, toss in the blender ball and shake. The wide opening makes it easy to add ingredients and the heat-resistant silicone spout won’t melt if it accidentally touches the griddle.
Sold by Amazon
The cone roller turns pizzelle into waffle cones, curled Norwegian krumkake and more. Use this handy 9-inch tool to roll up your thin cookies while they are still warm and fill them with ice cream, jams, jellies and more.
Sold by Amazon
The Bakers Dozen Heavy Duty Disposable Pastry Bags
You get a pack of 100 16-inch heavy-duty anti-burst plastic bags for an easy way of adding fillings to your pizzelle-based cannolis.
Sold by Amazon
Suuker Three-Piece Pastry Filling and Decorating Tips
These stainless steel tips are handy for injecting fillings into waffle cones, cupcakes and doughnuts.
Sold by Amazon
Wilton Cupcakes, Cones and Cannolis Baking Rack
This special cooling rack holds a dozen pizzelle, cannolis and waffle cones while you add your own special fillings.
Sold by Amazon
Kingzhuo 50-Piece Paper Waffle Cone Holders
These cone holders are made of kraft paper and are perfect for serving pizzelle to your family and friends. They have flat bottoms so they can stand on their own on a tray.
Sold by Amazon
Best pizzelle makers
Top pizzelle makers under $50
Cucina Pro Piccolo Pizzelle Baker
The extra-thick baking plates distribute the heat evenly for making four crispy, browned 3-inch pizzelle cookies at a time. The nonstick surfaces make for easy cleaning and a steam guard protects your hands when you open the lid.
Sold by Amazon
This little press bakes two 4-inch cookies at a time. You can customize your pizzelle by choosing from five shades of browning from dark, hard and crisp to light, soft and chewy. A rolling pin, measuring scoop and recipe book are included.
Sold by Wayfair, Amazon and Kohl’s
This mini press has two traditional Italian pizzelle patterns to choose from and makes one 4-inch pizzella at a time. Use it also as a grill for making burgers and breakfast sandwiches.
Sold by Amazon
Top pizzelle makers $50-$100
Chef’s Choice Toscano Pizzelle Maker
This cookie maker has instant recovery times so you don’t have to wait between batches. Just remove your two pizzelle and add more batter. Its 900 watts of power are greater than most pizzelle makers.
Sold by Amazon
Nordic Ware Krumkake Iron and Pizzelle Maker
You can make old-school dessert traditions from two countries with this cookie press that embosses patterns of flowers and leaves on Italian pizzelle or thin Scandinavian cone cookies. The aluminum body is safe to use on all gas and electric stovetops.
Sold by Amazon
Top pizzelle makers over $100
Toastmaster Pizzelle and Cookie Maker
This cookie maker makes two 4-inch pizzelle at once on easy-to-clean non-stick surface plates that have an overflow trough to contain any spill.
Sold by Amazon
Use this to make two thin 4-inch cookies in half the time required by hand irons. This 7-pound iron pizzelle maker has cast aluminum plates, cool plastic handles and bakes with 800 watts of power.
Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wearegreenbay.com/reviews/br/kitchen-br/cookware-br/best-pizzelle-maker/ | 2022-08-18T19:58:25Z | https://www.wearegreenbay.com/reviews/br/kitchen-br/cookware-br/best-pizzelle-maker/ | true |
PARIS (AP) — After a summer of drought, heat waves and forest fires, violent storms are whipping France and neighboring countries and have flooded Paris subway stations, snarled traffic and disrupted the president’s agenda.
Winds over 100 kph (60 mph) were recorded at the top of the Eiffel Tower during a flash flood Tuesday, and similar winds were forecast Wednesday in the southeast.
Hail hammered Paris and other regions in Tuesday’s sudden storm. Rainwater gushed down metro station stairwells and onto platforms, and cars sloshed along embankments where the Seine River broke its banks.
In southern France, thunderstorms overnight and Wednesday flooded the Old Port of Marseille and the city’s main courthouse and forced the closure of nearby beaches.
As scattered storms swept across Belgium on Wednesday, one flooded parts of the historic town of Ghent following weeks of unrelenting drought.
London and other parts of southern England were lashed with torrential rain and thunderstorms after one of the driest summers on record which gave the country its first-ever 40 degree Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) temperature last month.
There was widespread flash flooding as the downpours fell on parched ground.
Despite the rain, much of Britain is still officially in drought. Thames Water, which supplies 15 million people in and around London, says a ban on watering lawns and gardens will take effect Aug. 24.
Much of Western Europe has experienced a season of extreme weather that scientists link to human-made climate change.
Amid the storm warnings, French President Emmanuel Macron postponed an event Wednesday on the French Riviera to mark the 78th anniversary of a key Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied France. It was rescheduled for Friday.
The dramatic downpours put an end to weeks of historic heat that left much of France parched, rivers dry and dozens of villages without running water.
Across much of Europe this summer, a series of heat waves has compounded a critical drought, creating prime wildfire conditions.
Rainfall in recent days has eased the burden on firefighters facing France’s worst fire season in the past decade, though emergency authorities said scattered wildfires continued to burn Wednesday in southwest France.
___
Follow all AP stories about the environment at https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment | https://www.mychamplainvalley.com/news/world-news/ap-international/first-drought-now-downpours-as-storms-slam-france-england/ | 2022-08-18T19:59:50Z | https://www.mychamplainvalley.com/news/world-news/ap-international/first-drought-now-downpours-as-storms-slam-france-england/ | false |
BOSTON (AP) — Doctors and other staffers at Boston Children’s Hospital are being threatened with violence over its surgical program for transgender youths, administrators said, and other U.S. children’s hospitals are also being harassed online.
Boston Children’s is home to the first pediatric and adolescent transgender health program in the United States. It became the focus of far-right social media accounts, news outlets and bloggers last week after they found informational YouTube videos published by the hospital weeks ago about surgical offerings for transgender patients.
The hospital swiftly removed the videos. It said in a statement Tuesday that it is working with law enforcement to protect its staff and patients and to “hold the offenders accountable,” adding that it rejects the “false narrative” spreading online.
Some of the same social media accounts are now shifting their attention — and that of their millions of followers — to similar gender care programs at children’s hospitals in Pittsburgh and Phoenix. Those hospitals did not immediately respond to email and phone messages seeking comment.
Transition treatment is under attack in many states, with some labeling it a form of child abuse or barring Medicaid coverage. Critics argue that safety should be well established before subjecting youths to potentially irreversible treatments.
But many medical groups support allowing varying types of medical treatment for transgender youths, citing evidence that it can improve their well-being, although rigorous long-term research on benefits and risks is lacking.
Republican candidates have also been disparaging transgender people in midterm election campaigns in a strategy designed to motivate the conservative base and sway swing voters, political observers say.
C.P. Hoffman, senior policy counsel at the National Center for Transgender Equality, said this is the first time they’ve heard of intense, targeted online attacks on children’s hospitals, though other organizations that provide services to trans people have faced significant harassment.
“It really makes one worry about the safety of trans youth and their families and the individuals who provide services to them,” they said.
The Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition also condemned the attacks as baseless claims continuing an assault on trans youth and trans health care that is spreading across the U.S.
“Attacking children and those who care for them for seeking appropriate medical care is an indefensible position and at its core, an ill-fated attempt to erase transgender people from public life,” the coalition said in a statement.
The critics cited the videos and snippets of previous language on the hospital’s website to claim that Boston Children’s Hospital was improperly performing gender-affirming surgeries, such as hysterectomies, on minors and “young” children. The response was swift and relentless, with a barrage of users demanding the hospital be shut down and calling the surgeries “mutilation,” “barbarism” and “child abuse,” while accusing its doctors of engaging in malpractice or illegal activity.
The hospital said it has received “a large volume” of hostile online messages, phone calls and harassing emails, including the threats of violence.
“We are deeply concerned by these attacks on our clinicians and staff fueled by misinformation and a lack of understanding and respect for our transgender community,” the hospital said in its statement.
The hospital has updated language across its websites to emphasize that to qualify for most gender-affirming surgical procedures, patients must be at least 18 and meet certain criteria, including undergoing intensive medical and mental health evaluations and submitting letters of support.
Some of the online critics pointed to information that once appeared on the hospital’s website that said to qualify for vaginoplasty at Boston Children’s, one must be at least 17 and meet certain criteria, as well as language for chest reconstruction and breast augmentation that remains on the website that says patients must be at least 15 and meet certain criteria.
Vaginoplasty is the creation of a vagina from existing genital tissue. A gender-affirming hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus and fallopian tubes, which can precede a phalloplasty, the surgical creation of a penis.
The hospital said it does not perform genital surgeries as part of gender-affirming care on a patient under age 18. It said that for surgical consultation, a patient must be 17 years old and 18 to 35 years old at the time of surgery.
The World Professional Association for Transgender Health, a global group that sets standards for medical care of trans youths and adults, recently lowered its recommended minimum age for starting gender transition treatment, including sex hormones and surgeries.
The new standards support starting hormones at age 14, two years earlier than before, and some surgeries at age 15 or 17, a year or so earlier than previous guidance. The group acknowledged potential risks but said it is unethical and harmful to withhold early treatment.
The Endocrine Society generally recommends starting those treatments a year or two later but is also updating its guidance. The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association and the American Psychiatric Association are among other groups that support allowing medical treatment for transgender youths but don’t offer age-specific guidance. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/childrens-hospitals-harassed-over-transgender-care-programs/ | 2022-08-18T20:01:42Z | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/childrens-hospitals-harassed-over-transgender-care-programs/ | true |
PONTIAC, Mich. (AP) — Thundering gas-powered muscle cars, for decades a fixture of American culture, will be closing in on their final Saturday-night cruises in the coming years as automakers begin replacing them with super-fast cars that run on batteries.
Stellantis’ Dodge brand, long the performance flag-bearer of the company formerly known as Fiat Chrysler, is officially moving toward electricity. On Wednesday night, Dodge unveiled a battery-powered Charger Daytona SRT concept car, which is close to one that will be produced in 2024 as the sun sets on some petroleum models.
Stellantis says it will stop making gasoline versions of the Dodge Challenger and Charger muscle cars and the Chrysler 300 large car by the end of next year. The Canadian factory that makes them will be converted to electric vehicles. Other automakers are moving — or have moved — in the same direction.
General Motors has said it will build an all-electric Chevrolet Corvette. Tesla says its Model S Plaid version is the fastest production vehicle made, able to go from zero to 60 mph (97 kilometers per hour) in under 2 seconds. Audi, Mercedes, Porsche and other European automakers already have high-performance electric models on sale. And Polestar, an electric-performance spinoff from Volvo, just announced a new Polestar 6 roadster for 2026.
One reason for the industry shift is that electric vehicles are simply faster off the starting line. Their handling is typically better, too, because their heavy batteries create a low center of gravity.
Stricter government pollution requirements are another factor, too. As automakers in the U.S. face more stringent fuel-economy requirements adopted by the Biden administration and produce a broader range of EV vehicles, they will have to jettison some of their gas-fueled muscle-car models.
Tim Kuniskis, CEO of the Dodge brand, said the possibly of government fines for not meeting gas-mileage requirements hastened the shift to the electric Charger. “Compliance fines and things like that associated with a big cast-iron supercharged V8, yes, it’s tough,” he said.
Still, it will take a few years for the gas-powered classics to go away.
“Over the next several years, I think we’ll continue to have some internal combustion stuff, probably through most of the decade,” said Sam Abuelsamid, a research analyst at Guidehouse Insights. “But increasingly, the focus is going to be on the electric ones.”
Under new gas-mileage standards that were unveiled in April, the fleet of new vehicles will have to average around 40 miles per gallon in 2026, up from 25.4 mpg now, the EPA says. The standards are likely to become even stronger in the future, a trend that will compel U.S.-based automakers to shed some gasoline muscle cars if they are to avoid fines.
Of all major automakers, the EPA says, Stellantis had the lowest average fuel economy — 21.3 miles per gallon — and the highest average carbon dioxide emissions. So the company likely will have to eliminate some models to avoid fines. Its limited-edition Charger SRT Widebody, with a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat V-8, for instance, gets only 12 mpg in city driving and 21 mpg on the highway.
To many gearheads, the thought of a muscle car without noise and smells is heresy. But Kuniskis says Dodge is working hard to make the electric experience match internal combustion. The Charger, he said, will generate its own air flow to make an exhaust noise that rivals gas performance cars. And the transmission will shift gears.
When the electric Charger was driven through a garage door and entered a building Wednesday night at a racetrack in Pontiac, Michigan, it roared just like a gas muscle car.
Electric vehicles, Kuniskis said, have the potential to perform better than gas muscle cars with fast acceleration. But he said they are kind of sterile. “It doesn’t have the emotion. It doesn’t have the drama. It doesn’t have the kind of dangerous feeling that ICE (an internal combustion engine) has when it’s loud and rumbling and shifting and moving the car around.”
Kuniskis wouldn’t say how fast the electric Charger will go from zero to 60 mph, but said it would be faster than the company’s current petroleum performance cars. He also wouldn’t say the range-per-charge for the new Challenger, but added that range isn’t as important as making it a true muscle car.
Rick Nelson, the owner of Musclecar Restoration & Design in Pleasant Plains, Illinois, near Springfield, cautioned that switching from loud fuel-burning engines to quiet electricity may be a hard sell to old-timers who grew up with the sounds and smells of racing.
Nelson, 61, said he restored his first car while a teenager and spent hours at drag strips. He acknowledged that the switch to electricity is inevitable and is needed to attract a new generation that has become used to quiet speed. Still, he said, electric muscle cars won’t have manual shifters, and he’ll miss the smell of racing fuel at the track.
Already, Nelson said, businesses are cropping up to put electric powertrains in classic muscle cars. He has been in touch with an engineer at Tesla about retrofitting batteries and electric motors into some classics.
“Guys like me are just going to frown on it and laugh at it,” Nelson said of electric muscle cars. “But this isn’t about my generation.”
Kuniskis says the shift to electricity doesn’t mean the end of the muscle car. It’s just a new era.
“It’ s OK,” he said. “Let us show you what the future looks like.” | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/gas-powered-muscle-cars-drive-into-the-sunset-turn-electric/ | 2022-08-18T20:01:56Z | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/gas-powered-muscle-cars-drive-into-the-sunset-turn-electric/ | false |
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GENEVA (AP) — Europe's embrace of millions of Ukrainians who fled Russia's invasion showed that it's possible to welcome large numbers of asylum-seekers, and the approach should be replicated to receive those fleeing other nations, the head of the U.N. refugee agency said.
In an interview with The Associated Press, U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi described the European Union's response as “exemplary," noting that nearly 4 million Ukrainians, mainly women and children, have registered with the bloc's temporary protection system since the start of the war nearly six months ago.
That stands in stark contrast to EU efforts in recent years to keep migrants from Africa and the Middle East from reaching Europe's shores. Some European leaders have sought to differentiate between the plight of Ukrainians and that of other refugees — a distinction that Grandi condemned as “racist.”
“If that’s possible for such a large number of people, and since that has proven so effective, why not use some of these approaches also for other people that are coming to knock at Europe’s doors?” Grandi asked.
Though it was created decades ago, the EU's emergency protection system was activated for the first time this year in response to the flight of more than 6 million Ukrainians over the course of just a few months — the largest exodus of refugees the continent has seen since World War II. It allows Ukrainians to move around the bloc, gives them the right to work, and helps them to access housing, education and health care.
It has been credited with helping Europe avoid setting up refugee camps to house Ukrainians — like the ones that have existed in Greece for years and where thousands of asylum-seekers arriving by boat have often languished.
In the wake of the 2015-2016 refugee crisis, when more than 1 million people, mainly from Syria, arrived in Europe by land or sea, leaders erected fences within the EU to keep many from moving deeper into the continent. The bloc has also spent billions to keep people, including those fleeing persecution and conflict but also poverty, from reaching its shores, giving money to countries like Turkey, Libya and Morocco to stop migrants before they set out.
The number of irregular crossings into Europe fell from its peak in 2015 to under 200,000 in 2021, according to Europe's border and coast guard agency, although it is on the rise again this year. While such crossings often attract significant attention, more than 80% of the world’s refugees are hosted by developing countries, according to UNHCR.
“Heads of government in Europe spent hours, days negotiating where, who should take a hundred people floating on a boat in the Mediterranean," Grandi said, referring to European leaders' inability to agree on how to resettle those who have arrived in recent years in Greece, Italy, Malta and Spain. "And then contrary to that, millions (of Ukrainians) embraced, accepted, allowed to have access to services in a very effective manner.”
Asked about the different responses, Grandi said he did not think the European governments' policies themselves were racist.
But he added: “Declarations that I have heard from some politicians saying the Ukrainians are real refugees ... and the others are not real refugees. That’s racist. Full stop.”
Grandi did not specify what statements he was referring to, but Greek Migration Minister Notis Mitarachi was criticized by human rights organizations and opposition lawmakers when he used that phrase to refer to Ukrainians fleeing the war earlier this year.
Other European politicians have made similar statements — with some arguing that many people seeking asylum are looking for a better life, rather than fleeing wars, and thus may not qualify for that protection under international law. Some have also defended the differing treatment by saying they have a duty to help fellow Europeans but shouldn’t be responsible for taking in refugees from other continents.
Grandi acknowledged that the issue is complex and some of those heading to Europe are economic migrants. But he stressed effective systems exist to evaluate asylum claims.
Roughly half of Ukrainians who have left the country so far have returned — and many more may eventually do so, although Grandi said some have ended up fleeing a second time.
Still, with no end to the war in sight, the U.N. refugee agency has said the total number of Ukrainians who have left their homeland at some point could reach more than 8 million by December. There are also currently 6.6 million Ukrainians displaced within the country, according to the International Organization for Migration.
Some 2 million Ukrainians have ended up in Russia, whether they chose to or not. An AP Investigation earlier this year revealed many were forced to head there and subjected to human rights abuses along the way. Grandi acknowledged his agency's access in Russia was limited. Of the 1,500 accommodation sites for Ukrainians in the country, UNHCR teams had only been able to visit nine so far, he said.
While the war in Ukraine has attracted global attention and support for those displaced by it, Grandi pleaded with world leaders to remember the other 12 humanitarian crises for which his agency is struggling to raise funds. He especially noted the Horn of Africa, where a prolonged drought and protracted conflicts have not only forced millions from their homes but have also pushed countries ever closer to famine.
“The big problem that we have at the moment is that it tends to marginalize all other crises in which people suffer," Grandi said.
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Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
Follow the AP’s coverage of global migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration | https://www.mrt.com/news/article/The-AP-Interview-Refugee-head-sees-lesson-in-17382478.php | 2022-08-18T20:02:30Z | https://www.mrt.com/news/article/The-AP-Interview-Refugee-head-sees-lesson-in-17382478.php | true |
DENVER (AP) — Denver’s district attorney says she is opening a grand jury investigation into the actions of three police officers who wounded six bystanders while shooting at an armed suspect in a crowded downtown Denver nightlife zone last month.
The officers had already been placed on administrative leave pending a separate internal investigation into the July 17 shooting, which happened as dozens of patrons left bars that were closing for the night in the city’s Lower Downtown neighborhood.
“The public’s interest in this particular shooting incident is understandably high,” District Attorney Beth McCann said in a statement announcing the new investigation on Tuesday. “For the community to trust in the outcome from this incident, it is important that independent members of the community review the facts, evidence and law regarding whether these officers should be criminally charged.”
Police have said the three officers, whose names have not been made public, fired seven times in the confrontation with suspect Jordan Waddy, who police say was armed. The gunfire erupted as a nearby group of partygoers left a bar and gathered at a food truck.
The officers were following Waddy, 21, after they saw him punch another man during a fight, police have said.
Bodycam footage released by Denver police on Tuesday appears to show Waddy holding a pistol and throwing it to the ground as the officers opened fire. Police previously said Waddy was holding a firearm before the shooting.
At least one officer shot at Waddy while facing a crowd of people gathered behind the suspect, the footage shows. When the shots were fired, the crowd scattered. Some people fell to the ground in a rush to escape and others ducked behind the food truck or crawled on all fours.
Waddy, who suffered non life-threatening injuries, was arrested on suspicion of felony menacing and possession of a handgun by a previous offender. Court records said he is represented by a lawyer from the public defender’s office, which does not comment on cases.
Six bystanders were injured and authorities have said all received hospital treatment for non life-threatening injuries.
Siddhartha Rathod, an attorney representing the injured bystanders, welcomed the investigation announced by McCann.
Willis Small IV, 24, said in an interview that he was near the food truck when he felt a bullet or bullet fragment penetrate his left foot. Small looked down to see a hole through his shoe, hopped to his car and drove to the hospital.
Yekalo Weldehiwet, 26, was outside the bar after celebrating his fiance’s brother’s 23rd birthday when a bullet shattered a bone in his upper arm. His right arm went limp, “like a noodle,” he said, and he held it with his left arm as he sprinted away.
Bailey Alexander, 24, who was waiting in line at the food truck with her boyfriend, said she felt blood rushing down her body after a bullet or bullet fragment went through her upper back and exited her right arm. Alexander’s boyfriend held her up by the waist as they fled.
Speaking to reporters last month, Denver police Cmdr. Matt Clark said that officials “are deeply concerned for those who were injured during the incident and are working to provide all resources and support to them as they heal.”
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Jesse Bedayn is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Bedayn on Twitter. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/probe-opened-into-denver-police-shooting-that-injured-6/ | 2022-08-18T20:02:39Z | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/probe-opened-into-denver-police-shooting-that-injured-6/ | false |
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Tehran’s contemporary art museum has issued an apology and temporarily closed to handle a pest infestation, raising concerns after footage of insects scuttling across world-famous work spread widely on social media.
Insects, which may attack and eat away at paintings, pose a serious threat to the American and European minimalist masterpieces now for the first time on display at the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art since the 1979 Islamic Revolution ousted Iran’s Western-backed monarchy.
A video went viral earlier this week showing two paper-eating silverfish squirming under the glass of a 1978 industrial photograph by influential German photographers Bernd and Hilla Becher. The sighting of the wingless pearl gray bugs provoked shock and disgust on social media.
The museum apologized to the public on Wednesday, insisting that the “proper maintenance” of its prized works “is of the utmost concern to all of us.” As soon as the infestation became apparent, it said, experts rushed to the museum and carefully cleaned the exhibited artworks.
Insects have not damaged the Becher photograph or any other pieces, the museum said, adding that it would close for two days so pest control technicians could tackle the problem.
Ebadreza Eslami Koulaei, the museum’s manager, told Iran’s semiofficial ISNA news agency that experts were closely monitoring the works, because “when you see one insect, you should predict maybe there are more.”
“When works are taken out from their boxes to be brought to galleries, there is a possibility such incidents happen,” he said.
Many of the renowned contemporary Western works on display had been hidden in the museum vault for decades. Iran’s Shiite clerics who came to power in 1979 packed away the art to avoid offending Islamic values and catering to Western sensibilities.
Iran’s Western-backed shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, and his wife, the former Empress Farah Pahlavi, had built the museum and acquired the multibillion-dollar collection during the oil boom of the late 1970s.
The sensational art — cubist, surrealist, impressionist, even pop art — has gradually resurfaced in recent years as cultural restrictions eased in the Islamic Republic.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://wtmj.com/national/2022/08/18/famed-iran-art-museum-closes-to-deal-with-insect-infestation/ | 2022-08-18T20:02:51Z | https://wtmj.com/national/2022/08/18/famed-iran-art-museum-closes-to-deal-with-insect-infestation/ | false |
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The Big Ten's new $7 billion media rights deal will string the conference's top football games across three major networks each week, creating an NFL-style television schedule on Saturdays.
The Big Ten announced Thursday it has reached seven-year agreements with Fox, CBS and NBC to share the rights to the conference's football and basketball games.
The deals go into effect in 2023, expire in 2030 and eventually will allow the conference's soon-to-be 16 member universities to share more than $1 billion per year, pushing the total value of the agreements past $7 billion, a person familiar with the terms told The Associated Press.
The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because Big Ten and network officials were not disclosing financial details publicly, but the deal is believed to be the richest ever on an annual basis for a college sports property. The large increase in revenue to the conference won't kick in until the third year of the deal and gradually will increase over the final five years.
“I think what it does, it affords us the opportunity to make sure that we can continually do the things we need to do to take care of our student-athletes, to fortify our institutions, to build our programs,” Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren told the AP.
The deal sets a new benchmark in the college sports arms race, which is based heavily on TV money. The Southeastern Conference has a deal with ESPN that starts in 2024 and is also worth upward of $7 billion, but over 10 years. That deal was announced before the conference moved to expand to 16 schools with the additions of Texas and Oklahoma.
The Big Ten currently has 14 members, stretching from Rutgers and Maryland on the East Coast to Nebraska across the Midwest, and covering some of the biggest media markets in the country, including New York, Philadelphia and Chicago.
In 2024, Southern California and UCLA are scheduled to join the Big Ten, adding the Los Angeles market to its footprint.
Former Fox Sports President Bob Thompson said adding teams from the second-largest media market in the country (5.8 million homes) had to make the conference even more appealing to TV networks.
Plus, the West Coast schools should help increase what conference can make off its cable network in that part of the country.
“The economics of that alone are rather large," Thompson said. “If you get 3 million people all of sudden get the Big Ten network as part of their expanded basic (cable package), that's $3 million a month. Compared to what they had been getting which is like $3 million a year.”
With ESPN out of the equation for Big Ten football after a 40-year relationship, the league is set to lock down three prominent time slots with its network partners.
Fox, which has shared the rights to the Big Ten with ESPN since 2017 and owns a majority stake in BTN, will continue to feature noon Eastern time as its primary game of the day.
Fox and its cable network FS1 will have the rights to more than two dozen football games, at least 45 men's basketball games and women's basketball games.
CBS, starting in 2024, will replace the Southeastern Conference game of the week at 3:30 p.m. Eastern — that is moving to ABC — with a Big Ten game.
CBS will carry 14-15 Big Ten football games a season from 2024-29, including a Black Friday game. Unlike with its longtime SEC deal, CBS will not be guaranteed the first selection of football games each week with the Big Ten. Fox, CBS and NBC will hold a draft for games, allowing each network some opportunities for first selection in a given week.
In 2023, CBS will carry seven Big Ten games while it still has the SEC on CBS at 3:30 p.m. Eastern. The network will continue to be the home of Big Ten men's basketball, including the conference tournament semifinals and finals, and it will begin airing the women's basketball tournament championship.
“When we did our financial analysis, and looked at the major markets — even before USC and UCLA — and the national footprint of the Big Ten, it was a very attractive deal for us," said Sean McManus, chairman of CBS Sports. "And I think the money is fair. It’s unprecedented. They’re the largest deals in the history of college football."
Starting in 2023, NBC will launch “Big Ten Saturday Night” in prime time and broadcast 15-16 games per season. The agreement with NBC also includes eight football games and dozens of men’s and women’s basketball games per season to be exclusively streamed on Peacock, the network’s online subscription service. NBC also has a separate, longstanding broadcast deal with Notre Dame, which remains unaffiliated with a conference.
Each network will air the Big Ten’s championship football game at least once during the length of the deals, with Fox securing the rights to four (2023, ’25, ’27 and ’29).
Warren spent more than two decades working as an executive in the front office of three NFL teams. He said the Big Ten's vision for its new broadcast deal was modeled after an NFL Sunday, with three consecutive marquee games across three different networks, airing from noon to nearly midnight Eastern.
“I just thought where we were in the Big Ten, we had a very unique opportunity because we have the institutions that could do it," Warren said. "We have the fan avidity. We have the breadth, we have the historical foundation, that we were in a position to really do something unique with three powerful brands in Fox, CBS and NBC.”
The Big Ten's alignment with three traditional networks shows that while streaming might be the future, linear television is not dead.
“It may be dying in certain aspects. You could say things like scripted dramas. Sitcoms. But for sports and news, it’s never been stronger,” Thompson said.
“The conferences or leagues are a little reticent to make that big of a jump from the wide, wide distribution of broadcast television," he added. "Now you’re going to jump to the streaming service, which in the big scheme of things, the numbers are still relatively small in terms of how many people watch and use them.”
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Follow Ralph D. Russo at https://twitter.com/ralphDrussoAP and listen at http://www.appodcasts.com
___
More AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/college-football and https://twitter.com/ap_top25. Sign up for the AP’s college football newsletter: https://bit.ly/3pqZVaF | https://www.mrt.com/sports/article/B1G-deal-Big-Ten-lands-7-billion-NFL-style-TV-17381649.php | 2022-08-18T20:03:08Z | https://www.mrt.com/sports/article/B1G-deal-Big-Ten-lands-7-billion-NFL-style-TV-17381649.php | true |
Which Herschel backpack style is best?
Herschel has been making modern bags with vintage-inspired accents for over a decade. Based in Canada, Herschel creates a timeless collection of duffle bags, tote bags, crossbody bags, hip packs and backpacks.
Herschel backpacks come in a range of styles and sizes in solid colors and select prints. The designs are similar to those of hiking gear, but they have functional everyday features. The Herschel Retreat Backpack is a stylish backpack with versatile size options and stylish accents.
What to know before you buy a Herschel backpack
Construction
Herschel backpacks are usually made from canvas or ripstop nylon. Both are durable materials designed for frequent use. Ripstop nylon uses a grid pattern in the sewing to reinforce the bag against rips and tears.
All backpacks with interior tech sleeves have padding to protect laptops and tablets. Most have fleece lining, too.
Closure method
Herschel backpacks use a zipper or a drawstring closure in the main compartment.
- Zipper closures are easy to use and ensure that everything is sealed securely inside the bag. It’s considered the most convenient backpack closure method, and designers use it often.
- Drawstring closures open and close faster than zipper closures. Since a drawstring closure does not completely seal off the compartment, items can fall out of the bag if not secured well.
Size
Herschel backpacks come in mini, mid-volume, standard and extra-large sizes. The dimensions for each of these sizes depend on the style of the backpack. For example, the Herschel Classic Backpack is about 11 inches tall and 8 inches wide in the mini size and about 18 inches tall and 13 inches wide in the extra-large size.
Herschel sells backpacks for adults and children, but the only real difference is the size. Most of the backpacks geared toward adults could easily be used by children and vice versa.
What to look for in a quality Herschel backpack
Extra pockets
Even mini backpacks can fit all the essentials, and they usually sport a front-zippered pocket. This pocket is great for charging cords, hand sanitizer and other easy-to-reach items. In same vein, a water bottle pocket on the side can go a long way when you’re on the go. Exterior or interior water bottle pockets usually have an elastic string to keep the bottle snug and in place. Exterior water bottle pockets separate your bottle from any papers or tech supplies you might store inside the backpack.
Comfortable backing
Contoured shoulder straps are more comfortable than the average shoulder strap. The curves follow the natural line of the shoulder, putting less pressure on the weaker points of your body.
Air-mesh backing is also helpful since it is breathable and dries quickly. It also provides some cushioning around the contents of the backpack, so you don’t have a sharp corner of a book or laptop poking into your back.
Themed prints
Herschel backpacks are best-known for their array of timeless solid colors, but the company also releases special-edition backpacks with tie-ins to sports or pop culture.
There is an extensive line of backpacks with professional baseball and basketball team emblems. There is also a line of backpacks inspired by “The Simpsons” television series and a “Star Wars” backpack inspired by “The Mandalorian” series.
How much you can expect to spend on a Herschel backpack
Depending on the size and style, a Herschel backpack costs $40-$110 with the average price between $65-$85.
Herschel backpack FAQ
Do Herschel backpacks use real leather?
A. The leather-like straps on Herschel backpacks are not genuine leather. They are constructed from synthetic leather.
Is there a top grab handle?
A. All Herschel backpacks have a convenient carry handle on the top. Most of these handles don’t have padding.
Can you wash the backpack?
A. You can hand-wash your Hershel backpack for spot cleaning with a mild soap, but it should not go in the washing machine. Do not put your backpack in the dryer.
What’s the best Herschel backpack to buy?
Top Herschel backpack
What you need to know: Available in several sizes and colors, this canvas backpack features a drawstring closure and faux leather straps that snap shut using a magnet.
What you’ll love: It’s spacious and stylish with clean lines. There’s a padded fleece laptop sleeve inside and a front storage sleeve. The shoulder straps are padded and contoured for comfort.
What you should consider: There are no water bottle pockets.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Top Herschel backpack for the money
What you need to know: Available in eight colors, this canvas backpack features zipper closures and measures 17.5 by 11.75 by 6 inches in size.
What you’ll love: The rounded top and clean lines make this backpack quite attractive. It has a 15-inch padded and fleece-lined laptop sleeve in the main compartment. There’s a rectangular front zippered pocket and a key clip. It has an extra fleece-lined compartment for sunglasses.
What you should consider: There’s a water bottle pocket on the inside but not on the outside.
Where to buy: Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods
Worth checking out
What you need to know: Available in two sizes and several colors, this canvas backpack features zipper closures with gold-tone hardware.
What you’ll love: It has a sleek, single-color exterior design, a zippered front pocket, and a key clip. The zippers have pebbled pulls for easier use. There’s a padded laptop sleeve in the main compartment. It has contoured shoulder straps and an air mesh back.
What you should consider: The zipper isn’t as durable as the rest of the backpacks, which impacts the bag’s longevity.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://www.wowktv.com/reviews/br/fashion-accessories-br/backpacks-br/best-herschel-backpack/ | 2022-08-18T20:03:28Z | https://www.wowktv.com/reviews/br/fashion-accessories-br/backpacks-br/best-herschel-backpack/ | true |
WASHINGTON, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Amtrak released its FY21 Sustainability Report that showcases sustainability projects across Amtrak's regions and operations. Throughout the report are details of Amtrak's measured progress against annual and long-term sustainability goals that encompass greenhouse gas emissions, diesel fuel and electricity usage.
"Driving sustainability at Amtrak means transforming the customer experience, reducing our carbon footprint and expanding service to new markets across America," said Stephen Gardner, CEO at Amtrak. "Recognizing the urgency to act now, Amtrak is out to change the way our country moves."
Today, intercity travel on Amtrak is cleaner and more sustainable than most alternatives. On average, Amtrak service is 46% more energy efficient than travel by car and 34% more efficient than domestic air travel. On the electrified Northeast Corridor, Amtrak travel emits up to 83% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to car travel and up to 72% less greenhouse gas emissions than flying. Our fully electrified service also provides the environmental benefit of zero tail pipe emissions which improves air quality in the dense urban areas we serve.
Highlights from the report include:
- Cleaner, more climate-friendly equipment: A significant share of Amtrak's Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)-provided funding will support the procurement of new train equipment. On the NEC and various State-Supported routes, this equipment will include new trainsets, including some dual-power equipment that can run on electric or diesel and other dual-power equipment that can run on battery or diesel. On Long-Distance routes, IIJA funds will support the continued procurement of fuel-efficient, Tier 4-compliant ALC-42 locomotives, which emit 89% less nitrogen oxide and 95% less particulate matter than the diesels that they are replacing.
- Expansion of energy-efficient passenger rail service: Large increases in population and travel demand, demographic shifts, congestion and changing travel preferences mean that Amtrak's legacy route network does not fully meet the changing needs of the traveling public. For example, Texas and Florida, the nation's second and third most populous states, have a combined population of just over 50 million, but those two states are served by just six Amtrak routes, some of which do not operate every day. In FY21, Amtrak released a corridor vision called Amtrak Connects US, to develop and expand intercity passenger rail corridors. Providing intercity passenger rail service to the 50 largest metropolitan areas, Amtrak's vision aims to add service to 160 new communities, create 39 new routes and enhance 25 routes. A historic investment in expanding passenger rail, IIJA funding signifies the important role trains play in the future of sustainable transportation.
- Improved capacity, reliability and performance on existing routes: Guided by the Northeast Corridor Commission's Connect NEC 2035 service development plan, the IIJA investments will make the Western Hemisphere's busiest, highest-speed rail corridor an even more efficient, effective and resilient mode of transportation—taking countless cars off the road, driving down carbon emissions and showing what sustained, robust funding for rail could achieve in other parts of the country.
- Acela solar-powered gates: In 2021, Amtrak designed and deployed innovative, solar powered technology to improve security on our Northeast Corridor (NEC) Right of Way (ROW), prior to the upcoming launch of the historic new Acela service, advancing safety and sustainability together.
"Providing high-quality, low-carbon rail service that takes people out of cars and planes is one of the most efficient ways to drive emissions reductions," said Dennis Newman, Executive Vice President, Strategy, Planning & Accessibility at Amtrak. "Through more and better service, we will give additional people a chance to pitch-in and fight the climate crisis by choosing rail."
For more information about Amtrak's approach to sustainability, please visit amtrak.com/sustainability.
View original content:
SOURCE Amtrak | https://www.ktre.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/amtrak-releases-fy21-sustainability-report/ | 2022-08-18T20:03:35Z | https://www.ktre.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/amtrak-releases-fy21-sustainability-report/ | true |
Look Inside Pink Floyd Legend David Gilmour’s $18M Home Now Up for Sale
David Gilmour's oceanfront $18 million home in East Essex is now for sale. Take a look inside the Pink Floyd legend's six-bedroom, three-bathroom home.
Gilmour bought the 19th-century Victorian ladies' bathhouse in 2015, demolished it three years later and built a home with its very own private studio. The $18 million house's studio was previously the painting studio of artist Ida Verner and was rebuilt as a recording studio in 2011 according to its listing.
The house, known as the Medina House, has a courtyard, a three-bedroom cottage and parking for seven cars. It's definitely secure as The Mirror reports that the CCTV system has biometric fingerprint access. The home also features heated floors, a sunken garden, orangery, gym, sauna and even a wine store.
The waterfront mansion finished construction in 2020, and just two years after it was done being built the Pink Floyd guitarist and his wife have decided to sell it according to Jam Press. Here's a tour of the massive and unique UK compound for sale. | https://1019therock.com/pink-floyd-david-gilmour-18m-home-sale/ | 2022-08-18T20:03:46Z | https://1019therock.com/pink-floyd-david-gilmour-18m-home-sale/ | true |
Another anti-graft figure leaves top post in Guatemala
GUATEMALA CITY (AP) - One of the last remaining official pillars of Guatemala's effort to root out corruption leaves his post this week, following the ouster or departure of a series of other anti-graft campaigners who had shaken the Central American nation's governing class.
Jordán Rodas Andrade was a relatively little-known law professor from a university in Guatemala's sixth-largest city when he was elected as human rights prosecutor by Congress five years ago. He surprised many by allying himself with an anti-corruption effort that targeted many of the nation's most powerful figures.
"People are fed up with corruption," Rodas said in an interview this week as his five-year term neared its end on Saturday. The ombudsman's post is meant to protect Guatemalans' constitutional rights - a task that can bring it into conflict with other officials.
His repeated court efforts to block government actions so irked then-President Jimmy Morales that he dubbed Rodas "Amparito" - "little injunction." One of those temporarily blocked Morales´ attempt to expel the leader of the United Nations anti-corruption mission in Guatemala, whose investigations were touching some of Morales´ relatives.
In 2019, Morales finally forced out the U.N.-backed anti-corruption mission that had worked with local prosecutors to root out graft and had led to the imprisonment of several senior officials, including former President Otto Perez Molina.
Under current President Alejandro Giammattei, several Guatemalan prosecutors who worked with that mission and judges who handled those cases have been forced out.
Guatemalan Ombudsman Jordan Rodas poses for photos during an interview, days before to leaves office due to his term coming to an end, in Guatemala City, Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
Juan Francisco Sandoval, who led the Attorney General's anti-corruption office was fired in July 2021 and fled to the United States. He said his office had started investigating Giammattei. Authorities later announced they had an order to arrest him. In response, the U.S. government suspended cooperation with the Attorney General's Office.
Rodas said that Giammattei is obsessed with power and has succeeded in co-opting other branches of government and concentrating it "as if he were an emperor."
"I thought that we had hit bottom with Jimmy Morales, but no. Surprise!," he said. Giammattei has denied allegations of corruption and bristled at U.S. pressure to choose a different attorney general.
Congress has chosen Alejandro Córdova as Rodas' successor. A former Supreme Court justice, he had been flagged by the Attorney General´s anti-corruption office for meeting with a businessman who has since been arrested for alleged corruption and influence peddling involving selection of judges. Córdova was not investigated. He has the support of the president and the ruling party´s lawmakers.
Rodas´ departure comes three months after Giammattei reappointed Attorney General Consuelo Porras, who has been a key figure in prosecuting or firing anti-corruption crusaders. The U.S. government canceled her visa and put her on a list of allegedly corrupt actors in the region.
Jorge Santos, coordinator of the Guatemala Human Rights Defenders Protection Unit, a nongovernment organization, said Rodas had expanded the ombudsman's reach, establishing offices to investigate disappearances, especially of people at the hands of security forces, and to defend freedom of expression and human rights activists, Santos said.
"The challenge for the new ombudsman is his great closeness to figures in power and whose impunity continues," he said. "We hope to see his independence from those figures."
Rodas' independence gained him political prominence, as well as a long list of enemies. Opponents in Congress made several failed attempts to start a process that could have removed him from office. And lawmakers held his office´s funding hostage for months making it impossible to pay his staff´s salaries.
Rodolfo Neutze, a lawmaker from the conservative Commitment, Renewal and Order party, said Rodas had failed to strengthen the institution and divided Guatemalan society.
"At the present time, many people believe that the ombudsman office is at the service of the leftists or the criminals or anti-family ideas," Neutze said. "He did some good things that nobody knows about, but he will be remembered for supporting causes that polarized the country."
His outspokenness has come with threats, from an ultra-right group defending soldiers accused of crimes against humanity and from targets of corruption investigations who have warned that he - like several former anti-corruption prosecutors - will be the one charged with crimes.
Rodas said he worries for his family´s well-being, but not for himself. He didn't rule out entering politics, but has not announced anything.
"I don´t need to go into exile. When I finish I want to dedicate myself to academia where I come from. There´s going to be Jordán for awhile."
Guatemalan Ombudsman Jordan Rodas speaks during an interview, days before to leaves office due to his term coming to an end, in Guatemala City, Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
Guatemalan Ombudsman Jordan Rodas speaks during an interview, days before to leaves office due to his term coming to an end, in Guatemala City, Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
Guatemalan Ombudsman Jordan Rodas talks with one of his deputies on the phone, during an interview, days before to leaves office due to his term coming to an end, in Guatemala City, Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)
Guatemalan Ombudsman Jordan Rodas, right, accompanies Special Prosecutor of the Office Against Impunity Juan Francisco Sandoval, center, during a press conference after the country's attorney general removed him from his post, in Guatemala City, Friday, July 23, 2021. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo) | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-11124945/Another-anti-graft-figure-leaves-post-Guatemala.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | 2022-08-18T20:04:07Z | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-11124945/Another-anti-graft-figure-leaves-post-Guatemala.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | true |
EL CAJON, Calif. (KGTV) — A small plane made a hard landing near San Diego on Thursday.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the plane landed on Greenfield Drive and came to rest under the Interstate 8 overpass around 10:30 a.m.
It's unclear what caused the pilot to land on the roadway.
The pilot was taken to the hospital to be evaluated. There are no reports of injuries on the ground.
In a tweet, El Cajon Police advised the public to avoid the immediate area due to the police and fire department response.
This story was originally reported by Jermaine Ong on 10news.com. | https://www.ksby.com/news/national/plane-lands-on-southern-california-roadway | 2022-08-18T20:06:38Z | https://www.ksby.com/news/national/plane-lands-on-southern-california-roadway | false |
WASHINGTON, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Amtrak released its FY21 Sustainability Report that showcases sustainability projects across Amtrak's regions and operations. Throughout the report are details of Amtrak's measured progress against annual and long-term sustainability goals that encompass greenhouse gas emissions, diesel fuel and electricity usage.
"Driving sustainability at Amtrak means transforming the customer experience, reducing our carbon footprint and expanding service to new markets across America," said Stephen Gardner, CEO at Amtrak. "Recognizing the urgency to act now, Amtrak is out to change the way our country moves."
Today, intercity travel on Amtrak is cleaner and more sustainable than most alternatives. On average, Amtrak service is 46% more energy efficient than travel by car and 34% more efficient than domestic air travel. On the electrified Northeast Corridor, Amtrak travel emits up to 83% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to car travel and up to 72% less greenhouse gas emissions than flying. Our fully electrified service also provides the environmental benefit of zero tail pipe emissions which improves air quality in the dense urban areas we serve.
Highlights from the report include:
- Cleaner, more climate-friendly equipment: A significant share of Amtrak's Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)-provided funding will support the procurement of new train equipment. On the NEC and various State-Supported routes, this equipment will include new trainsets, including some dual-power equipment that can run on electric or diesel and other dual-power equipment that can run on battery or diesel. On Long-Distance routes, IIJA funds will support the continued procurement of fuel-efficient, Tier 4-compliant ALC-42 locomotives, which emit 89% less nitrogen oxide and 95% less particulate matter than the diesels that they are replacing.
- Expansion of energy-efficient passenger rail service: Large increases in population and travel demand, demographic shifts, congestion and changing travel preferences mean that Amtrak's legacy route network does not fully meet the changing needs of the traveling public. For example, Texas and Florida, the nation's second and third most populous states, have a combined population of just over 50 million, but those two states are served by just six Amtrak routes, some of which do not operate every day. In FY21, Amtrak released a corridor vision called Amtrak Connects US, to develop and expand intercity passenger rail corridors. Providing intercity passenger rail service to the 50 largest metropolitan areas, Amtrak's vision aims to add service to 160 new communities, create 39 new routes and enhance 25 routes. A historic investment in expanding passenger rail, IIJA funding signifies the important role trains play in the future of sustainable transportation.
- Improved capacity, reliability and performance on existing routes: Guided by the Northeast Corridor Commission's Connect NEC 2035 service development plan, the IIJA investments will make the Western Hemisphere's busiest, highest-speed rail corridor an even more efficient, effective and resilient mode of transportation—taking countless cars off the road, driving down carbon emissions and showing what sustained, robust funding for rail could achieve in other parts of the country.
- Acela solar-powered gates: In 2021, Amtrak designed and deployed innovative, solar powered technology to improve security on our Northeast Corridor (NEC) Right of Way (ROW), prior to the upcoming launch of the historic new Acela service, advancing safety and sustainability together.
"Providing high-quality, low-carbon rail service that takes people out of cars and planes is one of the most efficient ways to drive emissions reductions," said Dennis Newman, Executive Vice President, Strategy, Planning & Accessibility at Amtrak. "Through more and better service, we will give additional people a chance to pitch-in and fight the climate crisis by choosing rail."
For more information about Amtrak's approach to sustainability, please visit amtrak.com/sustainability.
View original content:
SOURCE Amtrak | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/amtrak-releases-fy21-sustainability-report/ | 2022-08-18T20:06:56Z | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/amtrak-releases-fy21-sustainability-report/ | false |
MILWAUKEE- A Youtube personality made an unexpected discovery last week while shooting a video in Milwaukee.
The Milwaukee Police Department says the Youtuber, identified as Matthew Nunez, found the skeletal remains of a yet-to-be-identified body while filming inside a building at 231 W. Burleigh Street on August 11th. The Medical Examiner’s report says Nunez went to Police District 5 and told officers he located a body inside the building.
The remains, later identified by the ME’s office to belong to an unidentified man, were located on the second floor of the building. According to reports, the man appeared to have been wearing athletic sweatpants and a winter coat. There was no gun nor drugs located on the body.
An investigation into the identity of the remains is ongoing. If you have any tips you’re being asked to contact Milwaukee Police at 414-935-7252. | https://wtmj.com/news/2022/08/18/skeletal-remains-found-in-vacant-building-on-milwaukees-north-side-ask-for-help-providing-an-id/ | 2022-08-18T20:07:29Z | https://wtmj.com/news/2022/08/18/skeletal-remains-found-in-vacant-building-on-milwaukees-north-side-ask-for-help-providing-an-id/ | true |
Union Pacific Railroad and Twin Cities Public Television Partner on Multilingual Rail Safety Campaign
OMAHA, Neb., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Union Pacific Railroad and Twin Cities Public Television (TPT) are teaming up to make rail safety a universal language, launching new English- and Spanish-language safety multi-media materials aimed at families and educators as the "Back to School" season kicks off nationwide.
"With more than 140,000 miles of track and 212,000 rail crossings in the U.S., chances are you and your child will come across at least one on the way to and from school, whether it's on foot or by car," said Union Pacific Assistant Vice President and Chief Safety Officer Connie Roseberry. "Now, is the perfect time to talk about staying safe around the tracks, just as you would remind a child to look both ways when crossing the street. We're proud of our work with TPT to provide families a fun, engaging way to talk about rail safety, and give educators free, downloadable tools for their classroom."
According to data from Safe Kids Worldwide, more than 40% of rail-related injury incidents occur between 3-9 p.m. Sharing three simple rail safety tips with loved ones can help keep students safe around the tracks:
- Limit Technology Use: Phones, watches and games can become a dangerous distraction. Put devices and ear buds away until you safely cross the tracks.
- Wait for Trains to Pass: Never try to race a train, always wait for it to pass. Wait until all warning devices are clear before crossing.
- Always Obey Signs: Only cross railroad tracks at designated crossing areas. Do not walk on or near the tracks, and do not go around warning devices.
New videos and social media infographics that drive home these safety tips are being featured over the next two months on PBS and Univision/Televisa stations in Chicago, Illinois; San Antonio and Houston, Texas; Portland, Oregon; Los Angeles, California; and Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota.
This is the third year Union Pacific and TPT have worked together to deliver multilingual safety messages through the Community Ties Giving Program, but the first time the message has been expanded nationwide, through a regional partnership grant.
Visit www.UP.com/safety or www.UP.com/seguridad to download English- and Spanish-language learning guides, or dance to the Train Safety Cha Cha jingle.
Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at www.up.com.
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SOURCE Union Pacific Corporation | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/new-english-spanish-lessons-aim-make-rail-safety-universal-language-teachers-students-their-families/ | 2022-08-18T20:07:49Z | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/new-english-spanish-lessons-aim-make-rail-safety-universal-language-teachers-students-their-families/ | false |
Seven out of 10 Germans using less energy due to soaring prices -survey
BERLIN, Aug 18 (Reuters) - Seven out of 10 Germans are using less energy due to decades-high inflation in Europe's largest economy while half are spending less on leisure activities, according to a new survey.
The share of those using less energy is up from 63% in April this year, according to Infratest dimap's survey of 1,273 citizens for broadcaster ARD.
Annual inflation accelerated to 8.5% in July from 7.8% in April, driven by a 35% rise in energy costs.
Lower-income households are changing their habits most, according to the survey, with two-thirds reducing their daily shopping and spending on leisure activities and holidays compared with half of households with an average income.
(Reporting by Sarah Marsh; Editing by Leslie Adler) | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/reuters/article-11124917/Seven-10-Germans-using-energy-soaring-prices-survey.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | 2022-08-18T20:07:57Z | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/reuters/article-11124917/Seven-10-Germans-using-energy-soaring-prices-survey.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | true |
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Thursday afternoon's drawing of the New Mexico Lottery's "Pick 3 Day" game were:
8-6-0
(eight, six, zero)
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Thursday afternoon's drawing of the New Mexico Lottery's "Pick 3 Day" game were:
8-6-0
(eight, six, zero) | https://www.seattlepi.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Pick-3-Day-game-17382565.php | 2022-08-18T20:08:14Z | https://www.seattlepi.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Pick-3-Day-game-17382565.php | false |
Teleperformance Earns Great Employer Workplace Status for third Consecutive Year
NEW YORK, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Teleperformance, a leading global group in digitally integrated business services, announced that its Malaysia operations received the prestigious Great Place to Work® award. By being certified as a Great Place to Work® in Malaysia, Teleperformance has set a new standard for Malaysian Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry companies.
Teleperformance's Malaysia (TP Malaysia) operations scored strong for overall trust in the company by its over 2,600 Malaysian team members. It operates three facilities in Malaysia and provides work from home services, with 76% of its staff currently utilizing them.
Jose Bezanilla, CEO Great Place to Work® China commented, "In Great Place to Work®, we have special respect and admiration for companies and leadership teams that kept their priorities clear on their people, while navigating the tough times of the pandemic. Teleperformance is a clear example of this, making it again to the top recognition as Best Workplaces™ in Asia keeping Trust as a key element of their working culture. Congratulations!
"This is the third consecutive year that Teleperformance Malaysia is being certified as a great workplace. For a multilingual hub home to many nationalities and cultures such as ours, this is a great achievement," said Sam Chong, CEO Teleperformance Malaysia. "Thank you to our support teams, managers and leadership team for doing your part in ensuring that TP Malaysia remains a diverse and inclusive workplace for employees of all nationalities. This is possible because of all of you, the lifeblood of TP Malaysia."
With a top global priority of people care, over 97% of Teleperformance employees worldwide currently work in independently certified great employer operations.
The company welcomes applicants from across the country to apply for exciting work options. Interested applicants can apply here.
Teleperformance (TEP – ISIN: FR0000051807 – Reuters: TEPRF.PA - Bloomberg: TEP FP), the global leader in outsourced customer and citizen experience management and related digital services, serves as a strategic partner to the world's largest companies in many industries. It offers a One Office support services model including end-to-end digital solutions, which guarantee successful customer interaction and optimized business processes, anchored in a unique, comprehensive high touch, high tech approach. Nearly 420,000 employees, based in 88 countries, support billions of connections every year in over 265 languages and around 170 markets, in a shared commitment to excellence as part of the "Simpler, Faster, Safer" process. This mission is supported by the use of reliable, flexible, intelligent technological solutions and compliance with the industry's highest security and quality standards, based on Corporate Social Responsibility excellence. In 2021, Teleperformance reported consolidated revenue of €7,115 million (US$8.4 billion, based on €1 = $1.18) and net profit of €557 million.
Teleperformance shares are traded on the Euronext Paris market, Compartment A, and are eligible for the deferred settlement service. They are included in the following indices: CAC 40, STOXX 600, S&P Europe 350, MSCI Global Standard and Euronext Tech Leaders. In the area of corporate social responsibility, Teleperformance shares are included in the Euronext Vigeo Euro 120 index since 2015, the EURO STOXX 50 ESG index since 2020, the MSCI Europe ESG Leaders index since 2019, the FTSE4Good index since 2018 and the S&P Global 1200 ESG index since 2017.
For more information: www.teleperformance.com Follow us on Twitter: @teleperformance
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SOURCE Teleperformance | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/teleperformance-certified-great-place-work-malaysia/ | 2022-08-18T20:08:47Z | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/teleperformance-certified-great-place-work-malaysia/ | false |
England remain positive despite late S Africa charge
LONDON, Aug 18 (Reuters) - Spinner Jack Leach says England will continue to play their positive brand of cricket despite a late flurry of runs from South Africa that moved the touring side into a commanding position on the second day of the first test at Lord´s.
The home side´s bowlers, led by captain Ben Stokes, dragged England back into the contest on Thursday when they had South Africa six wickets down with a lead of only 45.
But Marco Jansen (41 not out) and Keshav Maharaj (41) put on 72 in about 12 overs to wrestle back control and take the visitors' advantage to 124 as they reached 289 for seven at the close.
"We are behind in the game, but we´ve stuck at it really well," Leach told SkySports. "We are always trying to take wickets, that´s our mindset. We could have had a few more, but we just have to keep at it.
"I felt like we were creating half-chances and we have to believe we can take them. It´s the way it goes, we are just thinking about how to impact the game in front of us and not about the scoreboard."
Leach (1-42) bowled with good control and found prodigious spin, picking up the wicket of Aiden Markram (16).
"I felt like I had nothing to lose and could just go for it, spin the ball hard and see what is in the surface," he said.
"I feel that belief in me now. I have confidence having played enough test cricket. You get that confidence through performances.
"When I get into a rhythm, I feel I have more control and energy. It´s about not rushing things. If you feel excitement and nerves you can rush through your run-up."
The test is the first of three in the series with matches to come at Old Trafford and The Oval.
(Reporting by Nick Said, editing by Ed Osmond) | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/reuters/article-11124961/England-remain-positive-despite-late-S-Africa-charge.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | 2022-08-18T20:09:02Z | https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/reuters/article-11124961/England-remain-positive-despite-late-S-Africa-charge.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490 | false |
Police: Mother facing charges after 3-year-old son found dead with drugs in system
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV/Gray News) - A Kansas City woman is facing charges after police say they found her child unresponsive inside a home earlier this week.
According to court records, the Kansas City Police Department responded to reports of a child who died at a residence on Wednesday.
First responders reportedly found a 3-year-old boy unresponsive and covered up on a bed. Officers said they removed a blanket and saw the boy not moving with discolored feet.
KCTV reports the officers also noted seeing a raised, discolored scab on the boy’s back that indicated a possible infection.
Authorities said the 3-year-old’s body was taken to Children’s Mercy Hospital, where lab results indicated he had amphetamines in his system.
The boy’s mother, Michaela Chism, reportedly told police that she had stayed at the residence for about two weeks. She said the people in the home, including herself, consumed controlled substances, including methamphetamine and fentanyl.
Police said Chism told investigators that one evening she woke up and began watching TV and noticed her son was not moving. She went to check on him, and he was unresponsive.
According to court documents, Chism told police her son had died on the couch and was moved to a bedroom when police were initially called to the home for a welfare check.
Authorities said they obtained a search warrant and detectives found drug paraphernalia throughout the residence, crystal-like substances and multiple prescription pill bottles.
Police report Chism has been charged with first-degree child endangerment and first-degree child endangerment involving drugs in the case that remains under investigation.
Copyright 2022 KCTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.kait8.com/2022/08/18/police-mother-facing-charges-after-3-year-old-son-found-dead-with-drugs-system/ | 2022-08-18T20:09:30Z | https://www.kait8.com/2022/08/18/police-mother-facing-charges-after-3-year-old-son-found-dead-with-drugs-system/ | false |
Beshear: 17 monkeypox cases now confirmed in Kentucky
LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ)
8/18/22
All 17 monkeypox cases identified in Kentucky have been confirmed, Gov. Andy Beshear said in his Thursday press conference. This confirmation comes one day after Fayette County had its first confirmed case.
The cases were confirmed as 16 men and one woman.
So far, monkeypox has been found in seven counties:
- 1 in Barren
- 1 in Fayette
- 10 in Jefferson
- 1 in Kenton
- 1 in McCracken
- 1 in Montgomery
- 2 in Warren
Beshear added to avoid close contact with people who have skin rashes and legions; talk to a provider if you believe you have monkeypox symptoms or have been in contact with someone infected; and get a vaccine if you can.
8/17/22
The first case of monkeypox has been confirmed in Fayette County, according to the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department.
The department is working with the person and any possible contacts to make sure all guidance and health precautions are followed, but no other information on the case will be released.
To date, 17 cases of monkeypox have been identified in Kentucky, according to the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Four of those cases are confirmed and thirteen are probable.
With this first case confirmed in Fayette County, ABC 36 talked to people about their concerns — and some say they’re worried about the potential spread.
“It sounds a little scary, like chickenpox for adults, and kind of after everything that’s happened with COVID it makes me want to stay inside a little bit,” said Jordi McCormick.
“It’s a little concerning; I am just getting here and who knows if it gets bad, then I’ll be here and my family is all back in Chicago and stuff, but especially living in dorms, there’s going to be a lot of people everywhere so I don’t really know how it’ll work,” added Thomas McCormick.
Thursday, the health department is hosting a monkeypox vaccine clinic from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Central Baptist Church. The vaccine is free but is in limited supply.
Monkeypox symptoms include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Exhaustion
- Muscle aches and backache
- Headache
- Respiratory symptoms (e.g. sore throat, nasal congestion or cough)
You may experience all or only a few symptoms
- Sometimes, people have flu-like symptoms before the rash
- Some people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms
- Others only experience a rash
Symptoms usually start within three weeks of exposure to the virus. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they will usually develop a rash one to four days later.
To protect yourself and others, visit the CDC’s website for advice. | https://www.wtvq.com/beshear-17-monkeypox-cases-now-confirmed-in-kentucky/ | 2022-08-18T20:10:56Z | https://www.wtvq.com/beshear-17-monkeypox-cases-now-confirmed-in-kentucky/ | true |
Part of human foot, in a shoe, found floating in Yellowstone hot spring
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. - Yellowstone National Park officials are investigating after a park employee spotted part of a foot, in a shoe, floating in a hot spring in the southern part of the park, officials said Thursday.
Tuesday's discovery at Abyss Pool led to the temporary closure of the West Thumb Geyser Basin and its parking lot. The area has since reopened.
The park did not have any other information about the investigation to make public on Thursday, park spokesperson Morgan Warthin said.
RELATED: 'They will kill you': Tourists warned to move away from bison fight in Yellowstone
Abyss Pool, located west of the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake, is 53 feet deep and the temperature is about 140 degrees Fahrenheit, park officials said. It is on the south side of the southern loop through the park.
In such hot springs, superheated water cools as it reaches the surface, sinks, and is replaced by hotter water from below. The circulation prevents the water from reaching the temperature needed to set off an eruption like happens with geysers in the park, according to the park's website.
RELATED: Yellowstone National Park to partly reopen after catastrophic flooding | https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/yellowstone-human-foot-shoe-floating-abyss-pool-hot-spring | 2022-08-18T20:11:27Z | https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/yellowstone-human-foot-shoe-floating-abyss-pool-hot-spring | true |
WFO HOUSTON/GALVESTON Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Thursday, August 18, 2022
_____
SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Houston/Galveston TX
251 PM CDT Thu Aug 18 2022
...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of central Liberty
County through 315 PM CDT...
At 250 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near
Hardin, or 13 miles southwest of Thicket, moving southeast at 10 mph.
HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph and pea size hail.
SOURCE...Radar indicated.
IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is
possible.
Locations impacted include...
Northeastern Liberty, Hardin and Moss Hill.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.
Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to
localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.
Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm.
Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe
shelter inside a building or vehicle.
LAT...LON 3014 9461 3009 9476 3027 9483 3030 9473
3020 9463
TIME...MOT...LOC 1950Z 329DEG 7KT 3024 9476
MAX HAIL SIZE...0.25 IN
MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH
...FLOOD WARNING IN EFFECT FROM THIS AFTERNOON UNTIL FURTHER
NOTICE...
* WHAT...Minor flooding is occurring and moderate flooding is
forecast.
* WHERE...Rio Grande below Presidio 5SE.
* WHEN...From this afternoon until further notice.
* IMPACTS...At 9.0 feet (2.7 meters), the river reaches minor flood
stage, and low lying areas begin to flood.
At 11.0 feet (3.4 meters), minor flooding continues along the
river. Irrigation pumps may need to be removed. No threats to
residences or other structures are known to occur.
At 13.0 feet (4.0 meters), the river reaches moderate flood
stage. Farmland near the river will be inundated. Water may
begin flooding low lying areas of FM 170.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...
- At 2:15 PM CDT Thursday the stage was 12.5 feet (3.8 meters).
- Recent Activity...The maximum river stage in the 24 hours
ending at 2:15 PM CDT Thursday was 12.5 feet (3.8 meters).
- Forecast...The river is expected to rise to a crest of 13.3
feet (4.1 meters) late this afternoon. It will then fall
below flood stage tomorrow morning.
- Flood stage is 9.0 feet (2.7 meters).
- Flood History...No available flood history.
- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Below are the latest river stages and forecasts (feet):
Fld Observed Thu Fri Fri Fri
Location Stg Stg Day/Time 7pm 1am 7am 1pm
Rio Grande
Presidio 5SE 9.0 12.5 Thu 2pm 13.1 10.9 8.6 6.6
Below are the latest river stages and forecasts (meters):
Presidio 5SE 2.7 3.8 Thu 2pm 4.0 3.3 2.6 2.0
_____
Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | https://www.sheltonherald.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-HOUSTON-GALVESTON-Warnings-Watches-and-17382660.php | 2022-08-18T20:12:30Z | https://www.sheltonherald.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-HOUSTON-GALVESTON-Warnings-Watches-and-17382660.php | true |
ROME (AP) — Italian environmental activists staged a second museum protest in as many months, gluing their hands Thursday to the base of one of the Vatican Museums’ most important ancient sculptures, the Laocoon.
The statue wasn’t damaged, said the environmental group Last Generation. Vatican gendarmes removed the three protesters, and they were processed at an Italian police station. It wasn’t clear if Vatican criminal prosecutors would eventually take up the case since they have jurisdiction in Vatican City.
The protesters are demanding the Italian government increase its solar and wind power, stop exploring for natural gas and reopening old coal mines in Italy. They affixed a banner to the statue’s base reading “No gas, no coal.”
Last month, protesters glued their hands to the glass window protecting Sandro Botticelli’s painting “Spring” in the Uffizi Galleries in Florence. In that case, they were detained and ordered to stay out of Florence for three years, Italian media said.
Last Generation said the group targeted the Laocoon statue, which is believed to have been carved in Rhodes in 40-30 B.C., because of the symbolic story behind it.
According to legend and the Vatican Museums’ own website, Laocoon warned his fellow Trojans against accepting the wooden horse left by the Greeks during the Trojan War. The group said the climate crisis is the modern-day warning that is being unheeded by political leaders. | https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/climate-protesters-target-the-vaticans-laocoon-statue/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_world | 2022-08-18T20:13:30Z | https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/climate-protesters-target-the-vaticans-laocoon-statue/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_world | true |
Ukraine's Zelenskyy meets with Turkish president and UN chief in Lviv
The three leaders met to discuss how they could ratchet down the war between Russia and Ukraine
Turkey's president and the U.N. chief met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday in a high-stakes bid to ratchet down a war raging for nearly six months, boost desperately needed grain exports and secure Europe's biggest nuclear power plant. But little progress was reported.
The gathering, held far from the front lines in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, near the Polish border, marked the first visit to Ukraine by Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan since the outbreak of the war, and the second by U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres.
Erdogan has positioned himself as a go-between in efforts to stop the fighting. While Turkey is a member of NATO — which backs Ukraine in the war — its wobbly economy is reliant on Russia for trade, and it has tried to steer a middle course between the two combatants.
RUSSIA SAYS IT WON'T USE NUCLEAR WEAPONS IN UKRAINE, DESPITE THREATENING RHETORIC
At the meetings, Turkey agreed to help rebuild Ukraine's infrastructure, including roads and bridges, and Zelenskyy asked Guterres to seek U.N. access to Ukrainian citizens deported to Russia, according to the Ukrainian president's website. Zelenskyy also requested U.N. help in freeing captured Ukrainian soldiers and medics.
On the battlefield, meanwhile, at least 17 people were killed and 42 wounded in heavy Russian missile strikes on Ukraine’s Kharkiv region on Wednesday night and Thursday morning, Ukrainian authorities said.
Russia's military claimed that it struck a base for foreign mercenaries in Kharkiv, killing 90. There was no immediate comment from the Ukrainian side.
Heightening international tensions, Russia deployed warplanes carrying state-of-the-art hypersonic missiles to the country’s Kaliningrad region, an enclave surrounded by two NATO countries, Lithuania and Poland.
The three leaders' agenda included the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in southern Ukraine. Moscow and Kyiv have accused each other of shelling the complex, and the fighting has raised fears of a nuclear catastrophe.
Zelenskyy has demanded that Russian troops leave the plant and that a team from the U.N.'s International Atomic Energy Agency be allowed in.
Zelenskyy and the U.N. chief agreed Thursday on arrangements for an IAEA mission to the plant, according to the president's website. But it was not immediately clear whether the Kremlin would consent to the proposed terms. As for a pullout of troops, a Russian Foreign Ministry official said that would leave the plant "vulnerable."
Concerns about the plant mounted Thursday when Russian and Ukrainian authorities accused each other of plotting to attack the site and then blame the other side.
UKRAINE WARNS RUSSIA IT INTENDS TO TAKE BACK CRIMEA
Earlier this month, Erdogan met in Russia with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the fighting. And last month, Turkey and the U.N. helped broker agreements clearing the way for Ukraine to export 22 million tons of corn and other grain stuck in its Black Sea ports since Russia invaded Feb. 24. The agreements also sought to clear roadblocks to exports of Russian food and fertilizer to world markets.
The war has significantly worsened the global food crisis because Ukraine and Russia are major suppliers of grain. Developing countries have been hit particularly hard by shortages and high prices, and the U.N. has declared several African nations in danger of famine.
Yet even with the deal, only a trickle of Ukrainian grain exports has made it out. Turkey said more than 622,000 tons of grain have been shipped from Ukrainian ports since the deal was reached.
At a news conference Thursday in Lviv, Guterres touted the success of the grain export agreements but added, "There is a long way to go before this will be translated into the daily life of people at their local bakery and in their markets."
The discussions about an overall end to the war that has killed untold thousands and forced over 10 million Ukrainians to flee their homes were not expected to yield anything substantive.
In March, Turkey hosted talks in Istanbul between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators, but the effort to end the hostilities failed, with the two sides blaming each other.
Erdogan has engaged in a delicate balancing act, maintaining good relations with both Russia and Ukraine. Turkey has provided Ukraine with drones, which have played a significant role in the fighting, but it has refrained from joining Western sanctions against Russia over the war.
Turkey is facing a major economic crisis, with official inflation near 80%, and is increasingly dependent on Russia for trade and tourism. Russian gas covers 45% of Turkish energy needs, and Russia’s atomic agency is building Turkey’s first nuclear power plant.
Sinan Ulgen of the Istanbul-based EDAM think tank characterized Turkey’s diplomatic policy as being "pro-Ukraine without being anti-Russia."
"Turkey believed that it did not have the luxury to totally alienate Russia," Ulgen said. | https://www.foxnews.com/world/ukraines-zelenskyy-meets-turkish-president-un-chief-lviv | 2022-08-18T20:14:44Z | https://www.foxnews.com/world/ukraines-zelenskyy-meets-turkish-president-un-chief-lviv | true |
Weather Permitting: Looks like a soggy weekend in the Fayetteville area
If you follow high school football in the Cape Fear region, you might want to double-check your team's season-opening game time.
Several schools have shifted their usual Friday night games to either Thursday or Saturday, thanks to an approaching low pressure system. It looks like rain is a near-certainty across the region Friday evening.
That's bad news for games, but good news for the lingering dry spots in the region. Much of the eastern Carolinas remain abnormally dry, and some spots in southern Cumberland County are still officially in a drought. Late-season crops could use some water.
For the rest of us, look for damp and cooler-than-average conditions through the weekend.
In the tropics, things are still quiet, but conditions seem to be slowly shifting back to a more active state. For those wondering, the last time we got this far into the season without a hurricane was 2013.
Here's the setup: Thursday is close to a carbon-copy of previous days, with weak Canadian high pressure holding over the Carolinas. This has kept things sunny, a bit drier and cooler than usual for mid-August.
Things will change on Friday. The high will retreat offshore, with a more moist air flow moving in from the southwest. Temperatures won't be much warmer, say mid- to upper 80s, but the humidity will be notably higher.
Later in the day, a weak low pressure system is expected to track north from Georgia, triggering showers across the region. The exact track isn't clear, but it looks like widespread showers, some heavy, will move into the Cape Fear region by late afternoon. Clouds will hold highs below 85, with lows in the 70s.
The weekend: The low will slide offshore, but things will remain muggy, with dew points returning to the mid-70s. Ran chances are limited to scattered afternoon showers, with highs in Fayetteville of about 85 on Saturday, a bit warmer on Sunday. Rain chances are a bit higher on Sunday as well.
Down the road: Look for a couple of frontal boundaries to reach the Cape Fear region next week, each bringing an increased chance of rain. Best chance looks like Monday, with an additional shot arriving mid-week. Highs will remain a bit cooler than usual.
In the tropics: The last time the Atlantic was still hurricane-free at this point was 2013. That year Humberto was the first storm, and it didn't arrive until Sept. 11.
Conditions remain less-than-optimal, with a heavy Sahara dust layer and upper level low pressure lopping the tops off of a steady stream of African waves. With the traditional peak of the season approaching, look for conditions to improve.
Got a weather question? Chick Jacobs can be reached at ncweatherhound@gmail.com or NCWeatherhound on Twitter. | https://www.fayobserver.com/story/news/2022/08/18/looks-like-soggy-weather-weekend-fayetteville-area/7833905001/ | 2022-08-18T20:17:56Z | https://www.fayobserver.com/story/news/2022/08/18/looks-like-soggy-weather-weekend-fayetteville-area/7833905001/ | false |
WASHINGTON, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Amtrak released its FY21 Sustainability Report that showcases sustainability projects across Amtrak's regions and operations. Throughout the report are details of Amtrak's measured progress against annual and long-term sustainability goals that encompass greenhouse gas emissions, diesel fuel and electricity usage.
"Driving sustainability at Amtrak means transforming the customer experience, reducing our carbon footprint and expanding service to new markets across America," said Stephen Gardner, CEO at Amtrak. "Recognizing the urgency to act now, Amtrak is out to change the way our country moves."
Today, intercity travel on Amtrak is cleaner and more sustainable than most alternatives. On average, Amtrak service is 46% more energy efficient than travel by car and 34% more efficient than domestic air travel. On the electrified Northeast Corridor, Amtrak travel emits up to 83% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to car travel and up to 72% less greenhouse gas emissions than flying. Our fully electrified service also provides the environmental benefit of zero tail pipe emissions which improves air quality in the dense urban areas we serve.
Highlights from the report include:
- Cleaner, more climate-friendly equipment: A significant share of Amtrak's Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)-provided funding will support the procurement of new train equipment. On the NEC and various State-Supported routes, this equipment will include new trainsets, including some dual-power equipment that can run on electric or diesel and other dual-power equipment that can run on battery or diesel. On Long-Distance routes, IIJA funds will support the continued procurement of fuel-efficient, Tier 4-compliant ALC-42 locomotives, which emit 89% less nitrogen oxide and 95% less particulate matter than the diesels that they are replacing.
- Expansion of energy-efficient passenger rail service: Large increases in population and travel demand, demographic shifts, congestion and changing travel preferences mean that Amtrak's legacy route network does not fully meet the changing needs of the traveling public. For example, Texas and Florida, the nation's second and third most populous states, have a combined population of just over 50 million, but those two states are served by just six Amtrak routes, some of which do not operate every day. In FY21, Amtrak released a corridor vision called Amtrak Connects US, to develop and expand intercity passenger rail corridors. Providing intercity passenger rail service to the 50 largest metropolitan areas, Amtrak's vision aims to add service to 160 new communities, create 39 new routes and enhance 25 routes. A historic investment in expanding passenger rail, IIJA funding signifies the important role trains play in the future of sustainable transportation.
- Improved capacity, reliability and performance on existing routes: Guided by the Northeast Corridor Commission's Connect NEC 2035 service development plan, the IIJA investments will make the Western Hemisphere's busiest, highest-speed rail corridor an even more efficient, effective and resilient mode of transportation—taking countless cars off the road, driving down carbon emissions and showing what sustained, robust funding for rail could achieve in other parts of the country.
- Acela solar-powered gates: In 2021, Amtrak designed and deployed innovative, solar powered technology to improve security on our Northeast Corridor (NEC) Right of Way (ROW), prior to the upcoming launch of the historic new Acela service, advancing safety and sustainability together.
"Providing high-quality, low-carbon rail service that takes people out of cars and planes is one of the most efficient ways to drive emissions reductions," said Dennis Newman, Executive Vice President, Strategy, Planning & Accessibility at Amtrak. "Through more and better service, we will give additional people a chance to pitch-in and fight the climate crisis by choosing rail."
For more information about Amtrak's approach to sustainability, please visit amtrak.com/sustainability.
View original content:
SOURCE Amtrak | https://www.wbay.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/amtrak-releases-fy21-sustainability-report/ | 2022-08-18T20:18:11Z | https://www.wbay.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/amtrak-releases-fy21-sustainability-report/ | false |
MADISON, Wis. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Thursday afternoon's drawing of the Wisconsin Lottery's "Pick 4 Midday" game were:
3-2-8-9
(three, two, eight, nine)
MADISON, Wis. (AP) _ The winning numbers in Thursday afternoon's drawing of the Wisconsin Lottery's "Pick 4 Midday" game were:
3-2-8-9
(three, two, eight, nine) | https://www.ourmidland.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Pick-4-Midday-game-17382523.php | 2022-08-18T20:19:00Z | https://www.ourmidland.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Pick-4-Midday-game-17382523.php | false |
WFO DALLAS / FT. WORTH Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Thursday, August 18, 2022
_____
AREAL FLOOD ADVISORY
Flood Advisory
National Weather Service Fort Worth TX
256 PM CDT Thu Aug 18 2022
...FLOOD ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 430 PM CDT THIS AFTERNOON...
* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.
* WHERE...A portion of central Texas, including the following
county, Milam.
* WHEN...Until 430 PM CDT.
* IMPACTS...Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...
- Doppler radar indicated heavy rain due to thunderstorms near
Rockdale and Thorndale. Low lying and/or poor drainage areas
will experience minor flooding in the advisory area. Between
1 and 2 inches of rain have fallen. Additional rainfall
amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible.
- Some locations that will experience flooding include...
Rockdale and Thorndale.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood
deaths occur in vehicles.
Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.
_____
Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | https://www.sfgate.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-DALLAS-FT-WORTH-Warnings-Watches-and-17382673.php | 2022-08-18T20:20:26Z | https://www.sfgate.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-DALLAS-FT-WORTH-Warnings-Watches-and-17382673.php | true |
Leading IT Services Franchise Reaches $100 Million Revenue Milestone
AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CMIT Solutions, the nation's leading managed service provider (MSP) of information technology (IT) services to the small and medium-sized business community, has achieved a significant milestone. The company has reached $100 million in systemwide revenue.
In 2019, CMIT Solutions had $68 million in systemwide revenue and was on a growth trajectory to reach $100 million by 2026. In 2020, the then new CEO, Roger Lewis, rallied the organization around a new vision statement. Lewis says, "We set a goal to become a $100 million MSP servicing the IT needs of small and medium-sized businesses as a unified brand by the end of 2023." For this to become a reality, Lewis implemented a series of growth strategies, including pivoting marketing to focus extensively on lead generation by creating in-depth marketing programs which measure influenced revenue. Next, the company brought MSP sales training in house and introduced repeatable, scalable processes throughout the organization. The entire system's mindset shifted to marketing and growing the business. These programs paid huge dividends resulting in CMIT Solutions' achievement of this milestone within the third quarter of 2022, more than a year ahead of the vision statement timeline Lewis set for the system.
In his congratulatory speech to the system franchisees, Lewis stated, "I'm incredibly inspired by each and every one of you. Your perseverance, your heart, and the many, many ways you support one another. It is unbelievable. It is unstoppable! You've earned this moment. $100 million dollars! Congratulations!"
According to Paul Dippell, an MSP industry analyst, reaching $100 million in revenue puts CMIT Solutions within the ranks of the top 25 revenue-grossing MSPs, specifically for small and medium-sized businesses.
"This achievement is the direct result of our franchisees' dedication to their customers. Every day, CMIT Solutions' local teams go the extra mile to support the businesses in their communities," said Lewis. "I'm looking forward to continuing this momentum and seeing how far we go in the coming years as we strengthen our reputation as the leading brand within the IT MSP space."
The system has honed its focus on continued growth with strategic marketing and sales programs combined with strong technology provider partnerships. A monthly marketing playbook was introduced to the system to provide franchisees with a fully developed guide to assist in further spreading awareness of CMIT Solutions within each local community. These efforts aid in the brand's ability to connect with clients and motivate franchise candidates.
A proven franchise model has contributed to the triumph that CMIT Solutions has achieved in recent years. So far within 2022, the company has been recognized as a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur magazine and several of its women franchise owners were recognized in CRN's Women of the Channel list. With 250-plus locations nationwide, CMIT Solutions' momentum shows no signs of slowing down.
CMIT Solutions is widely recognized as the frontrunner among IT service providers for the small and mid-sized organizations in the United States and Canada. Offering a broad spectrum of proactive computer maintenance, monitoring, cybersecurity, and virtual technology packages, along with quick response support when unexpected crises occur, CMIT Solutions has carved out its niche as an industry innovator specializing in working with businesses in franchisees' local communities.
To learn more about CMIT Solutions and its services, please visit: www.cmitsolutions.com.
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE CMIT Solutions | https://www.wagmtv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/cmit-solutions-hits-revenue-goal-years-ahead-target-date/ | 2022-08-18T20:21:54Z | https://www.wagmtv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/cmit-solutions-hits-revenue-goal-years-ahead-target-date/ | false |
CAIRO (AP) — More than 70 people have been killed and 14,500 homes destroyed by Sudan’s seasonal downpours and floods, a senior official said Thursday.
The death toll since the rainy season kicked off in May stood at 77 people, Brig. Gen. Abdul-Jalil Abdul-Rahim, spokesman for Sudan’s National Council for Civil Defense, told The Associated Press.
The provinces most affected include North Kordofan, Jazira, South Kordofan, South Darfur and River Nile, he added.
On Monday, the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said that more than 136,000 people have been affected by floods in the eastern Sudan and Kordofan states. The UN agency said it expected this figure to increase as the counting was still underway and heavy rains had been forecast.
Sudan’s rainy season usually lasts until September, with floods peaking just before then.
Last year, flooding and heavy rain killed more than 80 people and swamped tens of thousands of houses across the country. In 2020, authorities declared Sudan a natural disaster area and imposed a three-month state of emergency across the country after the deluge killed around 100 people and inundated over 100,000 houses. | https://fox59.com/news/national-world/ap-international/sudan-seasonal-floods-kill-77-people-destroy-14500-homes/ | 2022-08-18T20:22:02Z | https://fox59.com/news/national-world/ap-international/sudan-seasonal-floods-kill-77-people-destroy-14500-homes/ | true |
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WFO HOUSTON/GALVESTON Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Thursday, August 18, 2022
_____
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING
Severe Weather Statement
National Weather Service Houston/Galveston TX
243 PM CDT Thu Aug 18 2022
...THE SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FOR SOUTHEASTERN LIBERTY COUNTY
WILL EXPIRE AT 245 PM CDT...
The storm which prompted the warning has weakened below severe
limits, and no longer poses an immediate threat to life or property.
Therefore, the warning will be allowed to expire. However gusty
winds are still possible with this thunderstorm.
...Strong thunderstorms will impact portions of eastern Burleson,
Grimes, Brazos, northeastern Washington and west central Montgomery
Counties through 330 PM CDT...
At 244 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms along
a line extending from 9 miles northwest of Snook to Millican to near
Anderson. Movement was southeast at 20 mph.
HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph.
SOURCE...Radar indicated.
IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around
unsecured objects.
Locations impacted include...
College Station, Bryan, Navasota, Washington, Somerville, Montgomery,
Snook, Millican, Anderson, Kyle Field, Dobbin, Independence, Dacus,
Plantersville, Wellborn, Roans Prairie, Richards and Carlos.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.
Torrential rainfall is also occurring with these storms and may lead
to localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded
roadways.
Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with these storms.
Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe
shelter inside a building or vehicle.
LAT...LON 3073 9660 3071 9660 3071 9658 3070 9656
3074 9646 3072 9627 3076 9595 3034 9567
3026 9611 3032 9652 3073 9661
TIME...MOT...LOC 1944Z 330DEG 17KT 3062 9653 3044 9622 3046 9591
MAX HAIL SIZE...0.00 IN
MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH
...Strong thunderstorms will impact portions of southern Williamson,
north central Caldwell, central Hays, Travis, Bastrop, Lee and
northeastern Fayette Counties through 330 PM CDT...
a line extending from Bear Creek to 7 miles west of Fedor to near
Giddings. Movement was southeast at 25 mph.
Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Kyle,
Taylor, Buda, Elgin, Bastrop, Giddings, Dripping Springs, Wimberley,
Granger, Lexington, Anderson Mill, Windemere, Tanglewood Forest,
Austin Bergstrom Int Airport and Leander.
LAT...LON 2998 9809 3034 9794 3056 9788 3078 9738
3074 9727 3046 9715 3056 9697 3054 9692
3046 9690 3039 9679 3026 9668 3025 9673
3020 9674 3016 9679 3014 9676 3017 9669
3015 9668 3014 9665 3011 9663 3007 9663
TIME...MOT...LOC 1944Z 320DEG 20KT 3019 9797 3033 9717 3013 9688
_____
Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | https://www.middletownpress.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-HOUSTON-GALVESTON-Warnings-Watches-and-17382644.php | 2022-08-18T20:22:17Z | https://www.middletownpress.com/weather/article/TX-WFO-HOUSTON-GALVESTON-Warnings-Watches-and-17382644.php | false |
(The Hill) – Scientists at Northwestern University say they have devised a method for breaking apart some of the infamously unbreakable toxins known as “forever chemicals.”
These chemicals, called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), earned the “forever” qualifier due to their propensity to linger in the human body and the environment. There are thousands of types of PFAS, none of which are naturally occurring and many of which can take decades to degrade.
But a group of chemists at Northwestern say they have developed a simple method that employs low temperatures and inexpensive reagents to break down two major classes of PFAS, while leaving behind only harmless byproducts.
They published their findings — which they acknowledged as a “seemingly impossible” but potentially “powerful solution” — in Science on Thursday afternoon.
“PFAS has become a major societal problem,” lead author William Dichtel, a professor of chemistry at Northwestern, said in a statement. “Even just a tiny, tiny amount of PFAS causes negative health effects, and it does not break down.”
Scientists have already found connections between PFAS exposure and a long list of illnesses, including testicular cancer, thyroid disease and kidney cancer.
Notorious for their presence in jet fuel firefighting foam and industrial discharge, PFAS are also found in many household products, including nonstick pans, waterproof apparel and cosmetics.
“We can’t just wait out this problem,” Dichtel said. “We wanted to use chemistry to address this problem and create a solution that the world can use. It’s exciting because of how simple — yet unrecognized — our solution is.”
The reason that PFAS are usually so indestructible is that they are made up of many carbon-fluorine bonds, which are the strongest such bonds in organic chemistry, the authors explained.
But the researchers said they identified a weakness that enabled them to disrupt this formidable attachment.
While PFAS contain long “tails” of powerful carbon-fluorine bonds, at one end of these molecules is often a “head group” of charged oxygen atoms, the authors explained.
By heating the compounds in a solvent called dimethyl sulfide with a common reagent called sodium hydroxide, the scientists said they “decapitated the head group” — exposing a vulnerable, reactive PFAS tail.
“Although carbon-fluorine bonds are super strong, that charged head group is the Achilles heel,” Dichtel said.
This head group “falls off and sets off a cascade of reactions that ultimately breaks these PFAS compounds down to relatively benign products,” the professor explained at a live-streamed press conference this week.
The byproducts include fluoride ions and “small carbon-containing products that are in many cases found in nature already and do not pose serious health concerns,” he added.
Dichtel’s team successfully degraded 10 types of PFAS from two classes: perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids — PFCAs — and perfluoroalkyl ether carboxylic acids, or PFECAs.
Among the compounds they were able to break down were perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, and GenX — two of the most infamous types of PFAS.
“The importance of this understanding is that it really provides for the first time a way to map these reactions out,” Dichtel said at the press conference.
Dichtel and first co-author Brittany Trang, who recently completed her PhD in his laboratory, worked alongside Ken Houk, an organic chemistry professor at the University of California, Los Angeles and Yuli Li, a student at China’s Tianjin University, who employed powerful computational methods to simulate PFAS degradation.
Understanding the path to degradation, according to Dichtel, is important to the future development of “actual practical methods to remove these pollutants” from contaminated water.
Dichtel said he could envision this type of technique being integrated in the future with technologies that extract PFAS from water, such as reverse osmosis. Reverse osmosis pulls contaminants out of water by forcing the offending molecules through a semi-permeable membrane — and while this process purifies the water, the PFAS is left behind as waste.
But an approach like the one devised in Dichtel’s laboratory could be applied to this waste stream and break down concentrated quantities of PFAS, he explained.
Acknowledging that other PFAS degradation methods have been emerging, Dichtel said that the uniqueness of their method lies in its inexpensive nature and low temperature requirements.
Now that they’ve successfully broken down these 10 types of PFAS, the scientists said they plan to test out the strategy on others.
They next plan to focus on another large class of PFAS called perfluoroalkyl sulfonates, which include common compounds like perfluorooctane sulfonic acid, according to Dichtel.
With each class, however, comes a different head group that the scientists need to figure out how to decapitate. But if they “can knock that sulfonated head group off the molecule,” the compounds should degrade through similar pathways, the professor explained.
Although it’s difficult to anticipate exactly what will be required to eliminate that head group, Dichtel said that they are exploring several different possibilities. And identifying that mechanism would be one step closer to figuring out how to break down the thousands of types of PFAS that are lurking in the environment.
“PFAS pollution is so pervasive, and it is in it is in more than just drinking water,” Dichtel added. “It’s in soils, it’s in dust, it’s airborne — we really polluted the whole world with this stuff.” | https://www.wdtn.com/news/scientists-unveil-method-to-destroy-certain-forever-chemicals/ | 2022-08-18T20:24:56Z | https://www.wdtn.com/news/scientists-unveil-method-to-destroy-certain-forever-chemicals/ | false |
Zoe Kravitz has some second thoughts about the way she responded to Will Smith slapping Chris Rock onstage at the 2022 Oscars.
In a since-deleted photo caption on social media from the Academy Awards earlier this year, she wrote: "Here's a picture of my dress at the show where we are apparently assaulting people on stage now." The 33-year-old actress doubled down in a second post, "And here is a picture of my dress at the party after the award show - where we are apparently screaming profanities and assaulting people on stage now."
Now, Kravitz is addressing criticism she received from the flippant remarks in a cover story interview for WSJ. Magazine's Fall 2022 Women's Fashion Issue.
"It's a scary time to have an opinion or to say the wrong thing or to make controversial art or statements or thoughts or anything," she says.
"It's mostly scary because art is about conversation," Kravitz adds. "That should, in my opinion, always be the point. The internet is the opposite of conversation. The internet is people putting things out and not taking anything in."
The actress and director admits that she has "very complicated feelings around it," but acknowledges: "I wish I had handled that differently. And that's OK."
Ultimately, she said, she's reminded that she's an artist and that "being an artist is not about everybody loving you or everyone thinking you're hot."
"It's about expressing something that will hopefully spark a conversation or inspire people or make them feel seen," she says. "I think I'm in a place right now where I don't want to express myself through a caption or a tweet. I want to express myself through art."
The Batman star is doing just that with her debut turn in the director's chair for the film Pussy Island. "I'm learning a lot about what it takes to make a movie and how many fires are constantly being put out before the actors show up to set," she shares. "I'm just kind of sitting back and learning and trying to not constantly be in a state of panic. If you zoom out too much and think about the whole thing at once, it causes a lot of anxiety but if you focus on the present moment, it's really fun."
The project introduced her to her now-boyfriend, Channing Tatum -- whose company, Free Association, is co-producing the project. Although the duo didn't know one another before the film, they've since become close personally and professionally. When reflecting on her decision to cast the 42-year-old actor for the film, Kravitz says that she wanted Tatum for the role because he "hadn't played a dark character before."
The private couple recently showed off their love for one another in a rare display of public affection during a romantic date in Italy this week.
Keeping relatively tight-lipped about their relationship in her WSJ interview, Kravitz does tease, "I guess what I'll say is when you make things with people it's a very sacred space, and when you're compatible with somebody creatively it often opens up other channels, because you're kind of sharing all of yourself. I'm really grateful that this movie has brought him into my life that way."
RELATED CONTENT: | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/entertainment-tonight/zoe-kravitz-reflects-on-backlash-following-will-smith-oscars-comment-its-a-scary-time-to-have-an-opinion/603-86598939-d748-4cbe-a316-2f45fac8c945 | 2022-08-18T20:30:03Z | https://www.wfaa.com/article/entertainment/entertainment-tonight/zoe-kravitz-reflects-on-backlash-following-will-smith-oscars-comment-its-a-scary-time-to-have-an-opinion/603-86598939-d748-4cbe-a316-2f45fac8c945 | true |
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