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ISKENDERUN, Turkey (AP) — Rescuers pulled several people alive from the shattered remnants of buildings on Friday, some who survived more than 100 hours trapped under crushed concrete in the bitter cold after a catastrophic earthquake slammed Turkey and Syria, killing more than 20,000.
The survivors included six relatives who huddled in a small pocket under the rubble, a teenager who drank his own urine to slake his thirst, and a 4-year-old boy offered a jelly bean to calm him down as he was shimmied out.
But the flurry of dramatic rescues — some broadcast live on Turkish television — could not obscure the overwhelming devastation of what Turkey’s president called “the disaster of the century.” Entire neighborhoods of high-rise buildings have been reduced to twisted metal, pulverized concrete and exposed wires, and the magnitude 7.8 quake has already killed more people than Japan’s Fukushima earthquake and tsunami, with many more bodies undoubtedly yet to be recovered and counted.
Four days after the earthquake hammered a sprawling border region that is home to more than 13.5 million people, relatives wept and chanted as rescuers pulled 17-year-old Adnan Muhammed Korkut from a basement in Turkey’s Gaziantep, near the quake’s epicenter. He had been trapped there for 94 hours, forced to drink his own urine to survive.
“Thank God you arrived,” he said, embracing his mother and others who leaned down to kiss and hug him as he was being loaded into an ambulance.
For one of the rescuers, identified only as Yasemin, Adnan’s survival hit home hard.
“I have a son just like you,” she told him after giving him a warm hug. “I swear to you, I have not slept for four days. … I was trying to get you out.”
In Adiyaman, meanwhile, rescue crews pulled 4-year-old Yagiz Komsu from the debris of his home, 105 hours after the quake struck. They then turned to trying to reach his mother, according the HaberTurk television, which broadcast the rescue live. The crowd was asked not to cheer or applaud to avoid scaring the child, who was given a jelly bean, the station reported.
Elsewhere, HaberTurk television said rescuers had identified nine people trapped inside the remains of a high-rise apartment block in Iskenderun and pulled out six of them, including a woman who waved at onlookers as she was being carried away on a stretcher. The crowd shouted: “God is Great!” after she was brought out.
The building was only 600 feet (200 meters) from the Mediterranean Sea and narrowly avoided being flooded when the massive earthquake sent water surging into the city center.
There were still more stories: A German team said it worked for more than 50 hours to pull a woman alive from the rubble of a house in Kirikhan. In the hard-hit city of Kahramanmaras, two teenage sisters were saved, and video of the operation showed one emergency worker playing a pop song on his smartphone to distract them.
And the work continued: One trapped woman could be heard speaking to a team trying to dig her out in video broadcast by HaberTurk television. She told her would-be rescuers that she had given up hope of being found — and prayed to be put to sleep because she was so cold. The station did not say where the operation was taking place.
Even though experts say trapped people can live for a week or more, the chances of finding survivors in the freezing temperatures are dimming.
Still, the rescues Friday provided fleeting moments of joy and relief amid the misery and hardship gripping the shattered region where morgues and cemeteries are overwhelmed and bodies lie wrapped in blankets, rugs and tarps in the streets of some cities.
In Kahramanmaras, a sports hall served as a makeshift morgue to accommodate and identify bodies.
Temperatures remain below freezing across the large region, and many people have no place to shelter. The Turkish government has distributed millions of hot meals, as well as tents and blankets, but was still struggling to reach many people in need.
Across the border, Syrian President Bashar Assad on Friday made his first public appearance in an earthquake-devastated area of the country since the disaster. Assad and his wife, Asmaa, visited survivors at the Aleppo University Hospital, Syrian state media said. He then visited rescuers in one of the hardest-hit areas in the city.
Aleppo, already scarred by years of heavy bombardment and shelling amid the country’s grinding civil war, was among the most devastated cities by the Feb. 6 earthquake.
World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and Dr. Michael Ryan, WHO’s head of emergencies, were expected to arrive in the city later Friday to help support the delivery of assistance.
Assad’s visit came a day after the first U.N. aid trucks reached rebel-held northwestern Syria since the quake, underscoring the difficulty of getting help to people there.
The winter weather and damage to roads and airports have hampered the response on both sides of the border. Some in Turkey have also complained that the government was slow to respond, a perception that could hurt Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at a time when he faces a tough battle for reelection in May.
Turkey’s disaster management agency said more than 18,300 people had been confirmed killed in the disaster so far in Turkey, with nearly 75,000 injured. No figures have been released on how many have been left homeless, but the agency said more than 75,000 survivors have been evacuated to other provinces.
More than 3,300 have been confirmed killed on the other side of the border in Syria, bringing the total number of dead to more than 21,600.
The death toll from the earthquake has eclipsed the more than 18,400 who died in the 2011 earthquake off Fukushima, Japan, that triggered a tsunami and the estimated 18,000 people who died in a temblor near Istanbul in 1999.
Some 12,000 buildings in Turkey have either collapsed or sustained serious damage, according to Turkey’s minister of environment and urban planning, Murat Kurum.
Engineers suggested that the scale of the devastation is partly explained by lax enforcement of building codes, which some have warned for years would make them vulnerable to earthquakes. The problem has been largely ignored, experts said, because addressing it would be expensive, unpopular and restrain a key engine of the country’s economic growth.
Mustafa Turan counted 248 collapsed buildings between the airport and the center of Adiyaman after he rushed to his hometown from Istanbul following the quake.
The journalist said Friday that 15 of his relatives had been killed, and scores of people were sleeping outside or in tents.
“At night, about 4 a.m., it got so cold that our drinking water froze,” he said.
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Alsayed reported from Bab al-Hawa, Syria, and Fraser from Ankara, Turkey. Associated Press journalists Zeynep Bilginsoy and Robert Badendieck in Istanbul; Mehmet Guzel in Antakya, Turkey; Emrah Gurel and Yakup Paksoy in Adiyaman, Turkey; Bassem Mroue and Abby Sewell in Beirut; and David Rising in Bangkok contributed. | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ap-death-toll-rises-rescues-dwindle-in-earthquake-aftermath/ | 2023-02-10 13:30:15 | 1 | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ap-death-toll-rises-rescues-dwindle-in-earthquake-aftermath/ |
EINDHOVEN, Netherlands, June 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DESTEN Inc., a leading developer of advanced lithium-ion battery technology, is proud to announce its partnership with InMotion, an Eindhoven University of Technology adjunct organization focused on sustainable mobility and electric vehicle innovation.
As part of this partnership, and as InMotion's sole lithium-ion cell technology provider, DESTEN will provide InMotion with access to its cutting-edge battery technology, aligning with InMotion's target charging time and their mission to achieve 'Electric Refueling'. This technology represents a major breakthrough, offering a high-performance and fast-charging solution for electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and other applications.
Recently, DESTEN has received the prestigious Edison Award earning the Gold Medal in the EV Battery Enhancement Category for its ultra-fast charging battery technology, highlighting the focus of this partnership.
"We are thrilled to partner with InMotion and support their ambition to develop sustainable mobility solutions, including the goal of racing at Le Mans," said Bader Al-Rezaihan, CEO of DESTEN Inc. "Our ultra-fast charging battery technology has the potential to revolutionize the electric vehicle industry, and we are excited to work with InMotion to bring this technology to the race track and support them in achieving their goals." Thomas Wilhelm Gerhard Damitz, Chief Innovation Officer of DESTEN Inc. noted "We are excited to provide a new cell to InMotion that delivers both ground-breaking ultra-fast charging alongside leading power performance and stability."
InMotion is a student team from TU Eindhoven that is dedicated to developing sustainable mobility solutions, with a focus on electric vehicles. The team has developed several innovative electric race cars, including the Ignition and the Fusion, which have set several world records in their respective categories. With access to DESTEN's advanced battery technology and technical support, InMotion can take its projects to the next level, and compete with traditional combustion engine race cars in the prestigious Le Mans race. DESTEN's cells are already being integrated into a battery pack constructed by InMotion.
"We are excited to welcome DESTEN as our newest partner," said Mike Brozius, Partnership Manager at InMotion. "Their ultra-fast charging battery technology represents a major step forward in the field of electric vehicle innovation, and we are eager to incorporate this technology into our future projects. We aim to develop an electric race car that can compete with traditional combustion engine race cars, and partnering with DESTEN will be instrumental in achieving this goal."
With this partnership, DESTEN and InMotion are working together to promote sustainable mobility and electric vehicle innovation, bringing cutting-edge battery technology to the forefront of the industry.
For more information on DESTEN Inc. and their advanced lithium-ion battery technology, please visit www.desten.com.
For more information on InMotion and their electric vehicle innovations, please visit https://www.inmotion.tue.nl.
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AVALON — Owen Pricket, with the oath of office issued by borough Mayor Martin Pagliughi, officially became the borough's newest patrolman during Wednesday's Borough Council meeting.
Pricket, a Dennis Township resident born in Somers Point, completed basic training at the Cape May County Police Academy last week, finishing second in his class for physical training
After graduating from Cape May County Technical High School in 2018, Pricket studied criminal justice at Atlantic Cape Community College. He commenced his law-enforcement career in 2021, as a Class II police officer with the borough. He was later hired as a full-time officer in December, the borough said Thursday. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/pricket-sworn-in-as-avalon-patrolman/article_a4026bf2-f2f6-11ec-8ec9-7ffd0fff14bf.html | 2022-06-23 14:57:47 | 1 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/pricket-sworn-in-as-avalon-patrolman/article_a4026bf2-f2f6-11ec-8ec9-7ffd0fff14bf.html |
By SHANE LANTZ
Associated Press
SEATTLE (AP) — The Houston Astros ended the Seattle Mariners’ winning streak at 14 games, with Jose Altuve and Yordan Alvarez homering in a 5-2 victory Friday night.
Seattle scratched breakout rookie Julio Rodríguez from the lineup moments before first pitch with left wrist soreness, then lost their first game since July 1. The club was one win shy of matching the 2001 Mariners for the longest winning streak in franchise history.
Houston stretched its AL West advantage over second-place Seattle to 11 games.
“The crowd was into it,” Astros manager Dusty Baker said. “They were trying to urge them on for No. 15. But I’m just glad that we held on and won the game.”
Altuve led off the game with a homer against starter Marco Gonzales, Alvarez added another solo shot in the fourth, his 28th of the year, and Martin Maldonado connected in the fifth for a 3-0 lead.
Alvarez scored Altuve with a sacrifice fly later in the fifth, and Jake Myers had an RBI single in the sixth for a 5-0 advantage.
Gonzales (5-10) was charged with all five runs over 5 2/3 innings, with nine hits allowed.
Ty France hit a solo homer for Seattle in the sixth inning against Jose Urquidy (9-4).
Urquidy threw 105 pitches over six innings, allowing one earned run on four hits with three strikeouts.
Baker was happy to get six innings out of Urquidy against the Mariners, who had already beaten him three times this season.
In his last start against Seattle on June 8, Urquidy allowed seven hits and five runs over 4 1/3 innings in a 5-3 loss.
“He gave us six innings, and it didn’t look like it there for a while, because his pitch count got kind of high,” Baker said. “So yeah, that was big for Urquidy and us.”
Urquidy has now thrown seven straight quality starts.
Eugenio Suarez drew a bases-loaded walk in the eighth to pull the Mariners within three, but shortstop Jeremy Peña made a leaping grab to take away a hit from Kyle Lewis, and Houston pitcher Ryne Stanek struck out Cal Raleigh to end the threat.
“I thought, ‘He has no chance,’” Altuve said of Peña’s leaping grab. “I think that was the play of the game. If that ball goes through, it’s probably a different story.”
The Mariners left nine runners on base.
“Tonight was a ton of intensity,” Seattle manager Scott Servais said. “I loved our at-bats throughout the course of the game. We put a ton of pressure on them, we just couldn’t quite get the big hit.”
J-ROD SITS
The 21-year-old Rodríguez was pulled from the lineup days after a breakout show at the All-Star Home Run Derby.
Servais said that Rodriguez jammed his wrist on a stolen base attempt against Texas on Sunday, and his status is day-to-day.
LEWIS UP, UPTON OUT
Seattle activated outfielder Kyle Lewis from the seven-day injured list after he recovered from a concussion and optioned outfielder Justin Upton to Triple-A. Upton refused the assignment and elected free agency.
Lewis was hit in the head by a pitch from Urquidy on May 28.
TRAINER’S ROOM
Mariners: OF Mitch Haniger (ankle) began a rehab assignment Friday with Class A Everett. Seattle placed Haniger on the IL on April 30, when he suffered a Grade 2 ankle sprain in a game against the Marlins. Haniger has played in just nine games this season.
Astros: OF Michael Brantley (shoulder) could start hitting this week, according Baker. Brantley was placed on the IL on June 28 with shoulder discomfort.
UP NEXT
Astros RHP Justin Verlander faces Mariners RHP Logan Gilbert on Saturday. Verlander has an MLB-best 12 wins this season and a 1.89 ERA. Gilbert’s most recent start came against Texas on July 16, when he allowed four hits and one earned run over five innings.
___
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Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://wtmj.com/sports/2022/07/23/astros-end-mariners-winning-streak-at-14-j-rod-scratched-3/ | 2022-07-23 12:40:10 | 1 | https://wtmj.com/sports/2022/07/23/astros-end-mariners-winning-streak-at-14-j-rod-scratched-3/ |
The Kenosha County Aging & Disability Resource Center offers a regularly scheduled program, “Someone in Your Life has Dementia: A Roadmap for Care.”
The presentation is for anyone caring for an individual living with a form of dementia and will be offered every other month, with the options for both virtual and in-person meetings.
Dementia is a general term used to describe memory loss and the impaired ability to process information and make decisions which interferes with daily life. There are many subtypes of dementia, with Alzheimer’s Disease being the most common form, followed by Vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, Frontotemporal degeneration, mixed dementia and others.
Dementia is not a part of normal aging; however, 50 million people worldwide are living with some form of this syndrome.
Susan Johnson, dementia care specialist with the ADRC, has developed and will facilitate the new presentation. Johnson has a master’s degree in Gerontology and has a passion for improving quality of life for caregiving families. She offers hope and understanding to caregivers, as well as those living with dementia.
The presentation will help prepare and guide caregivers, while building confidence for the road ahead. It will address common caregiver concerns, such as:
Don Moran has dementia and was cared for by his wife, Mary, until he died in January.
Whether recently diagnosed or not, what do you need to know about caring for someone living with dementia?
How do you know what to expect and what your person needs, as the disease progresses?
“Someone in Your Life has Dementia: A Roadmap for Care” will be offered the second Wednesday, every other month, noon to 1 p.m.. The next class will be offered on Dec. 14.
For more information and to register, call the ADRC, 262-605-6646.
10 potential early signs of dementia
10 potential early signs of dementia
According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , “Dementia is not a specific disease, but is rather a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interfere with doing everyday activities.” The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, though there are several types of dementia including frontotemporal dementia (FTD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and vascular dementia (VaD) to name a few. Globally, more than 50 million people have dementia, and an estimated 10 million new cases are reported each year. Projections show that the number of affected individuals will reach 82 million in 2030 and 152 million by 2050.
A dementia diagnosis comes after a series of tests of memory, problem-solving, and other cognitive abilities performed by a health care provider. Blood tests, brain scans, and physicals are carried out to help doctors figure out the underlying cause. Dementia is broken down into early, mid, and late stages, with a worsening of symptoms as the condition progresses.
The long-term effects of dementia can be difficult for both those affected and their caregivers, family, and friends, and can include a lack of family recognition, difficulty walking, and significant memory impairment. The afflicted person becomes completely dependent on others for care. Early diagnosis is especially important and can help with planning both at home, with preventive care and other measures such as reminders, and at work. It also enables dementia patients to access clinical trials and available therapies that may improve cognitive functioning and overall quality of life.
Neural Effects consulted the CDC’s list of warning signs for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease to review what adults should look for before seeking an official medical diagnosis. This list may also prove helpful for those who’ve noticed loved ones who are experiencing one or more early signs of dementia.
shurkin_son // Shutterstock
Memory loss that disrupts daily life
Forgetting recently learned information is one of the earliest signs of dementia. Name recall, as well as remembering important dates and events, becomes difficult for people in the early stages of dementia. Often they need to rely on memory aids, like wall calendars, sticky notes, digital reminders, or help from family members for things like taking medications at the correct time and arriving on the right date to appointments. Asking the same question several times or repeating stories is very common. While this sign is seen often in dementia, it is also a typical sign of aging as well as mild cognitive impairment , which can be, but is not always, an early warning indicator of Alzheimer’s disease. Memory loss may also be a sign of depression; B12 deficiency; kidney, brain, thyroid, or liver disorders; or a side effect of certain medications.
LightField Studios // Shutterstock
Challenges in planning or solving problems
An occasional mix-up while balancing a checkbook can be a common sign of aging. Losing track of monthly bills can be a more serious sign. An inability to concentrate or difficulty following a familiar recipe may warrant a doctor’s visit. Planning may become almost impossible for those in the earliest stages of dementia and indicates a deficit in executive functioning. Difficulties with problem-solving can also signal other health issues ranging from serious conditions like a brain tumor to less insidious conditions such as stress .
Phase4Studios // Shutterstock
Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure
Often in early dementia, the simplest tasks become increasingly difficult. While older people may have trouble with operating a computer or the settings on a television remote—and this can be a normal symptom of aging—those with dementia can’t perform daily tasks that were once a part of their routine. Getting dressed can become a major undertaking. The real difficulty actually comes with the sequence or order of doing things. Writing out the steps to tasks such as preparing a meal and leaving them in easily accessible places can be helpful.
Monkey Business Images // Shutterstock
Confusion with time or place
Often people in the early stages of dementia forget the time and even lose track of months and seasons. While many retired people may forget what day it is because they no longer go to work and live by a calendar, the sort of confusion surrounding time is much more severe in those with dementia. Losing track of where they are or how they got to certain places is common and should be investigated by a doctor. This type of confusion may be acute and occur suddenly or may happen over time. Those afflicted will often experience periods of confusion surrounding time and place and then revert to their old selves. Perception of time and time distortion are also issues for those struggling with dementia. They may believe they haven’t seen a loved one for months or years, when in fact it was only days ago.
Jacob L. // Shutterstock
Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relations
Difficulty understanding visual images and spatial relations can impact depth perception, which can cause an increased risk of falling and can make feeding and bathing more challenging. Driving difficulty due to problems with spatial relations is quite common, and navigating turns and changing lanes can become dangerous. Often people with dementia are forced to give up driving. Reading also becomes a problem, not only because of the visuospatial issues, but also due to an inability to understand words. A 2016 study of visuospatial skills in dementia patients found that those with certain types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, dementia of Lewy bodies, and vascular dementia, performed poorly in comparison to controls when examining space and object perception. The study found that significant impairment of visuospatial functions occurs in the early stages of dementia and worsens as the disease progresses.
photo8313 // Shutterstock
New problems with words in speaking or writing
While aging can cause an occasional problem with finding the right word, communication issues are much more significant in the early stages of dementia. Following conversations and finding the correct words for objects is difficult for those with dementia, and this early warning sign should be brought to a doctor’s attention. Aphasia, a type of language disorder, impacts communication including speech, writing, and language comprehension. According to the Mayo Clinic , “Primary progressive aphasia is a type of frontotemporal dementia.” Of course, there are other medical conditions that can cause language and communication issues including strokes, brain tumors, and brain injuries.
wavebreakmedia // Shutterstock
Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
Misplacing things could mean putting objects in strange places, like placing car keys in the microwave, and it is a common sign of dementia. Those struggling may also have difficulty in retracing their steps to find the things they’ve lost. This lack of ability to retrace steps differentiates this as a sign of dementia versus a normal sign of aging. It can be both dangerous and frustrating. As the disease progresses, the afflicted person may accuse others of stealing things that have been misplaced.
CGN089 // Shutterstock
Decreased or poor judgment
During the early stages of dementia, decision-making is impacted and can cause poor judgment. People may spend money foolishly or have a hard time remembering to feed and walk a pet. They may also pay less attention to grooming and personal hygiene. Those struggling with dementia are especially susceptible to scams involving money. One poor decision should not be considered an indicator of dementia though. Instead, look for a pattern which might include things like constantly wearing summer dresses even though it’s winter, or walking in a busy area and not paying attention to traffic lights.
Monkey Business Images // Shutterstock
Withdrawal from work or social activities
Not wanting to participate in social activities once enjoyed, like golf or going to church, may be a sign of dementia. Because of an inability to follow conversations or participate in hobbies and comprehend them in a familiar way, things like watching a favorite sport or going to family dinners might become less enjoyable. This may cause people with dementia to withdraw. They may sleep more frequently or spend more time sitting in front of the television. Social withdrawal could also be a symptom of depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Nikodash // Shutterstock
Changes in mood and personality
While being sad or experiencing a shift in mood can happen to almost anyone occasionally, mood and personality changes may be early indicators of serious health issues. These can include mental health conditions, hormonal changes, or substance abuse problems. When those with dementia experience these symptoms, they can manifest as fear, suspicion, and getting easily upset or becoming irritable over minor things. Things that never would have bothered them before often will now. They may also lose patience more quickly. The National Institute on Aging recommends doing several things to help navigate these changes in mood and personality, including having a daily routine and using humor when appropriate.
This story originally appeared on N eural Effects and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.
Monkey Business Images // Shutterstock
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ATLANTA — President Joe Biden is visiting Atlanta Sunday ahead of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. He is attending services at Ebenezer Baptist Church to deliver remarks.
You can watch his speech in this story, on11Alive's YouTube Channel or on the 11Alive+ app on Roku and FireTV.
>> Watch the service here:
Here's what we know about the president's visit.
When will the president be in Atlanta?
According to the White House schedule, President Biden will arrive at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport Sunday at 10:15 a.m. He will then head to Ebenezer Baptist Church to give a speech during the 11 a.m. worship service.
The president will then make his way back to the airport and depart Atlanta by 2 p.m.
>> Watch his arrival at Hartsfield-Jackson here:
Why is he here?
President Biden is coming to Atlanta to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He was invited by Sen. Rev. Raphael Warnock, who is the church's current pastor. Sen. Warnock has been the pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church since 2005. The White House said Pres. Biden and Sen. Warnock had a conversation about the significance of this historic event.
Sen. Warnock will share words reflecting on Dr. King's legacy ahead of the president's visit. Sunday also marks what would have been Dr. King's 94th birthday.
Biden will the first sitting president ever to speak at a Sunday service at Ebenezer.
Will traffic be affected?
The route between the Atlanta airport and Ebenezer Baptist Church is likely to be impacted by the president's visit. The church is located at 101 Jackson St. NE in Atlanta, which is typically about a 15-minute drive from the airport. However, delays are to be expected along I-85 and in the historic area now designated at Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/pres-biden-visits-atlanta/85-bfa16d47-c253-4c4c-b55e-008cf79c3168 | 2023-01-15 18:28:38 | 1 | https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/pres-biden-visits-atlanta/85-bfa16d47-c253-4c4c-b55e-008cf79c3168 |
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Californians are voting now through Election Day on whether to approve a state constitutional amendment that would guarantee the right to abortion and contraception, one of several measures on ballots nationwide this November to address reproductive health care following the U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade.
Proposition 1 is expected to pass in the heavily Democratic state and was part of a robust legislative package backed by Gov. Gavin Newsom to ensure California remains a haven for people seeking abortion services. Legislators placed the measure to amend the constitution on the Nov. 8 ballot days just after the court ruled in June that states could decide whether to allow abortion.
Polling shows high support for the measure — at least two-thirds of likely voters said yes in two surveys — with minimal financial opposition from the California Republican Party and others who call the proposition expensive, extreme and unnecessary.
But the measure’s supporters want to send a resounding message that abortion is legal and accessible in California, and they hope a solid win will inspire other states also to enshrine the right in their constitutions.
“The challenge is we had a very short runway, so it really is about awareness. We know when people are aware that abortion is on the ballot, they’re likely to come out and vote for it,” said Jodi Hicks, president of Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, which supports the measure.
California joins Michigan and Vermont in asking voters in November to protect the right to abortion. In Kentucky, voters will be asked to amend the state constitution to declare there is not a right to an abortion. A measure in Montana asks voters whether to require medical care and treatment for infants born alive after an attempted abortion.
The amendment in California would declare that the state “shall not deny or interfere with an individual’s reproductive freedom in their most intimate decisions, which includes their fundamental right to choose to have an abortion and their fundamental right to choose or refuse contraceptives.”
Opponents say the measure was put on the ballot to score political points with women and drive voter turnout in favor of Democrats. They also say the measure contains no gestational or viability limits on abortion, meaning a fetus could be aborted late in pregnancy even though it’s capable of surviving outside the womb.
California law currently restricts abortion to only before a fetus is viable, which is usually defined as around 24 weeks of pregnancy. Abortions in the third trimester are rare, and in California, permitted only if the mother’s life or heath is at risk.
“Californians don’t support late term abortions,” said Catherine Hadro, spokesperson for the No on Prop. 1 campaign.
The measure’s supporters say a constitutional amendment enshrining abortion will have no bearing on limits placed on abortions by lawmakers.
“The constitution has always meant to be a broad framework of rights and the Legislature decides the scope of the laws, this won’t change what is in statute right now,” said Hicks of Planned Parenthood affiliates.
A September survey by the Public Policy Institute of California found 69% of likely voters would support the proposition, including 33% of Republicans. An August poll by the Institute of Governmental Studies at the University of California, Berkeley, found that 71% of registered voters would vote yes.
Nearly 40% of people who said they would vote yes said that abortion should be legal in most, but not all, cases, said Mark Baldassare, president and CEO of the Public Policy Institute of California. It’s not clear how much opponents’ arguments will stick with voters, if at all.
“That’s something people will be asking about between now and Election Day, especially those people who say it should be OK in most cases,” he said.
Before Roe was overturned, the overwhelming majority of abortions in the United States — around 90% — occurred in the first trimester or at 13 weeks or earlier, said Katrina Kimport, associate professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences at the University of California, San Francisco. An estimated 1% of abortions occurred at 21 weeks or later, she said.
Women who have abortions in the third trimester generally fall into one of two categories, she said. They’ve either learned new information, such as a serious health issue with the fetus that could not be ascertained in earlier trimesters, or they faced insurmountable obstacles preventing them from getting an abortion earlier.
The U.S. Supreme Court’s June decision in Dobbs may actually increase the number of women seeking third-trimester abortions, she said.
California’s abortion ballot measure and new state legislation protecting abortion are all “helpful but not sufficient,” said Donna Crane, political science lecturer at San José State University and Menlo College.
That’s because Congress can always pass a federal ban and the conservative U.S. Supreme Court is likely to take up new conflicts that could result in more limitations, said Crane, who served nearly two decades as strategist and lobbyist with NARAL Pro-Choice America in Washington, D.C. and supports Prop. 1.
“California can pass law after law after law,” she said, “and the federal law will always trump us.” | https://www.krqe.com/health/ap-california-to-vote-on-constitutional-right-to-abortion/ | 2022-10-15 11:14:32 | 0 | https://www.krqe.com/health/ap-california-to-vote-on-constitutional-right-to-abortion/ |
Mike Pence responds to question regarding former President Trump's possible arrest
Mike Pence slams potential arrest of Trump during 'crime wave in New York City'
Former Vice President Mike Pence spoke out against the possible arrest of former President Donald Trump, arguing the move would be a "politically charged prosecution."
"It just feels like a politically charged prosecution here. And I, for my part, I just feel like it’s just not what the American people want to see," Pence said when asked about the potential arrest during a Sunday appearance on ABC News’ "This Week."
"I’m taken aback at the idea of indicting a former president of the United States, at a time when there’s a crime wave in New York City, that – the fact that the Manhattan D.A. thinks that indicting President Trump is his top priority."
The former vice president's remarks come after Trump claimed on his Truth Social platform Saturday that he could be arrested on Tuesday, arguing there had been "illegal leaks" of the investigation's details to the press.
MIKE PENCE DEFENDS RECORD IN TRUMP ADMIN TO ABC ANCHOR: 'I KNOW THAT GRATES' ON NATIONAL MEDIA
The case against Trump surrounds alleged hush money payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels just days before the 2016 election, with investigators probing whether Trump falsified documents to hide the reason for the payments.
Trump later called for protests in response to his possible arrest, telling followers: "WE MUST SAVE AMERICA! PROTEST, PROTEST, PROTEST!!!"
Pence defended the right of Trump supporters to protest the possible arrest, so long as they "do so peacefully and in a lawful manner."
Pence also decried protests such as those in the aftermath of George Floyd's death and on Jan. 6, 2021, at the U.S. Capitol, arguing violent demonstrations are a "disgrace."
"The American people won’t tolerate it and those that engage in that kind of violence should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," Pence said. | https://www.foxnews.com/politics/mike-pence-responds-question-regarding-former-president-trumps-possible-arrest | 2023-03-19 19:55:47 | 1 | https://www.foxnews.com/politics/mike-pence-responds-question-regarding-former-president-trumps-possible-arrest |
PHILADELPHIA (AP)Khalif Battle scored 27 points as Temple beat VCU 83-73 on Saturday.
Battle added six rebounds and four steals for the Owls (5-4). Damian Dunn scored 17 points, shooting 6 of 10 from the field and 5 for 6 from the line. Zach Hicks shot 4 for 7 (2 for 5 from 3-point range) and 2 of 4 from the free throw line to finish with 12 points.
Jalen DeLoach led the way for the Rams (5-3) with 16 points, six rebounds and two blocks. Adrian Baldwin Jr. added 16 points, nine assists and four steals for VCU. Jamir Watkins also had 14 points.
Temple entered halftime up 37-33. Battle paced the team in scoring in the first half with 12 points. Battle scored 15 points in the second half to help lead Temple to a 10-point victory.
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar. | https://www.kxnet.com/scoreboard/battle-scores-27-temple-knocks-off-vcu-83-73/ | 2022-12-04 19:51:20 | 1 | https://www.kxnet.com/scoreboard/battle-scores-27-temple-knocks-off-vcu-83-73/ |
Nearly six months into the 118th Congress, several Senators have been absent from Capitol Hill and missing votes.
Both Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., and Senator John Fetterman, D-Pa., have been on medical leave for weeks, but are expected back when the Senate returns next week. But California's senior U.S. Senator, Dianne Feinstein, remains out with no date set to come back.
This week, a growing number of Democrats are calling on Sen. Feinstein to step down after months of being away from Washington.
The 89-year-old Senator hasn't voted or given a speech on the Senate floor since February, when she was hospitalized with a case of shingles. Her absence has created a backlog of President Joe Biden's judicial nominees in the Senate Judiciary Committee, in which she serves as a senior member.
Feinstein, who turns 90 in June, has already announced she will not run for reelection next year. But some prominent Democrats have called on her to leave office before then.
SEE MORE: Sen. McConnell released from inpatient rehab facility after fall
Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., who last month ruled out a bid to succeed Feinstein, tweeted this week in part: "It's time for Sen. Feinstein to resign."
Feinstein "should not be in the Senate," Jon Lovett, a former speechwriter to President Obama and a co-host of the popular left-leaning podcast "Pod Save America," said Tuesday.
Feinstein "is now preventing us from being able to confirm judges," said Lovett on his podcast.
It's not the first time Feinstein's fitness to serve has been called into question. A series of articles in recent years have called into question her mental fitness.
Feinstein is the oldest serving U.S. Senator.
Already, a trio of prominent current Democratic Representatives — Adam Schiff, Katie Porter, and Barbara Lee — have thrown their hats in the ring to succeed Sen. Feinstein.
This week, Eric Early, a perennial Republican candidate in California, also entered the race.
Early faces an uphill battle, as a Republican has not won statewide in California since then-governor Arnold Schwarzenegger won his re-election bid in 2006.
SEE MORE: Sen. Fetterman discharged from Walter Reed after depression treatment
In a statement Wednesday night, Feinstein confirmed there was no set date for her to return to Washington, as she continues to recover from a case of shingles.
In her absence, Feinstein announced she "asked Leader Schumer to ask the Senate to allow another Democratic senator to temporarily serve" on the Judiciary Committee in order to allow Biden's judicial confirmations to resume.
A spokesperson for the Majority Leader told Scripps News he plans to take steps when the Senate returns mid-April "to allow another Democratic Senator to temporarily serve on the Judiciary Committee."
If Feinstein were to resign before her term ends on January 3, 2025, it would be up to Governor Gavin Newsom to fill the vacancy.
Trending stories at Scrippsnews.com | https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/national/concerns-rise-over-sen-feinsteins-lengthy-absence-from-congress | 2023-04-13 22:33:57 | 1 | https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/national/concerns-rise-over-sen-feinsteins-lengthy-absence-from-congress |
Revenue exceeds guidance, with known supply chain challenges impacting results; notable strength in Pacing, Cardiac Surgery, Core Spine in the U.S., and Diabetes in Europe
DUBLIN, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT) today announced financial results for its first quarter of fiscal year 2023, which ended July 29, 2022.
Key Highlights
- GAAP diluted EPS of $0.70 increased 25%; non-GAAP diluted EPS of $1.13 decreased 17%, in-line with expectations
- Revenue of $7.4 billion decreased 8% as reported and 4% organic, ahead of expectations
- Company reiterates FY23 revenue and EPS guidance
The company reported worldwide revenue of $7.371 billion, a decrease of 8% as reported and 4% on an organic basis. The organic comparison excludes a $351 million negative impact from foreign currency translation and a $20 million contribution from the company's recent acquisition of Intersect ENT, which is reported in the Specialty Therapies division in the Neuroscience Portfolio. Unless otherwise stated, all revenue growth rates in this press release are on an organic basis, which excludes the impact of foreign currency translation and revenue from the Intersect ENT acquisition. The company's first quarter organic revenue results reflect the impact of known supply chain shortages, as well as unfavorable comparisons to the prior year given last year's strong ventilator sales and market procedure recovery following the third COVID-19 wave.
As reported, first quarter GAAP net income and diluted earnings per share (EPS) were $929 million and $0.70, respectively, increases of 22% and 25%, respectively. As detailed in the financial schedules included at the end of this release, first quarter non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP diluted EPS were $1.502 billion and $1.13, respectively, decreases of 18% and 17%, respectively. The company's earnings reflect the continued impact to certain procedure volumes and the macroeconomic impacts of inflation and foreign currency translation.
First quarter U.S. revenue of $3.766 billion represented 51% of company revenue and decreased 8% as reported and 9% organic. Non-U.S. developed market revenue of $2.328 billion represented 32% of company revenue and decreased 10% as reported and increased 2% organic. Emerging Markets revenue of $1.276 billion represented 17% of company revenue and decreased 1% as reported and increased 2% organic.
"The company continues to execute in a challenging environment, delivering organic revenue above our guidance," said Geoff Martha, Medtronic chairman and chief executive officer. "As we look ahead, our supply chain is improving, we have several near-term pipeline catalysts approaching, and we are confident in our ability to accelerate growth."
Cardiovascular Portfolio
The Cardiovascular Portfolio includes the Cardiac Rhythm & Heart Failure (CRHF), Structural Heart & Aortic (SHA), and Coronary & Peripheral Vascular (CPV) divisions. Cardiovascular revenue of $2.713 billion decreased 6% as reported and 1% organic, with low-single digit declines in CRHF and CPV and flat year-over-year results in SHA, all on an organic basis.
- Cardiac Rhythm & Heart Failure revenue of $1.393 billion decreased 6% as reported and 1% organic. Cardiac Rhythm Management revenue decreased low-single digits, with high-single digit declines in Defibrillation Solutions partially offset by mid-single digit growth in Cardiac Pacing Therapies, driven by mid-teens growth in Leadless Pacemakers from continued global adoption of Micra™ transcatheter pacing systems. Cardiovascular Diagnostics revenue increased low-single digits, as procedures remain under pressure market-wide. Cardiac Ablation Solutions revenue decreased low-single digits as a result of supply constraints in Western Europe, and COVID lockdowns in China.
- Structural Heart & Aortic revenue of $741 million decreased 6% as reported and was flat year-over-year organic. Structural Heart decreased low-single digits, including low-single digit growth in transcatheter aortic valves (TAVR). Aortic declined mid-single digits given continued supply challenges. Cardiac Surgery increased mid-single digits, driven by strength in extracorporeal life support products and sales of the Avalus™ pericardial aortic surgical valve.
- Coronary & Peripheral Vascular revenue of $579 million decreased 7% as reported and low-single digits organic. Coronary & Renal Denervation (CRDN) decreased mid-single digits, given the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) market procedures in many geographies. Peripheral Vascular Health decreased low-single digits, with declines in directional atherectomy and PTA balloons partially offset by growth in drug-coated balloons, vascular embolization, and superficial venous products.
Medical Surgical Portfolio
The Medical Surgical Portfolio includes the Surgical Innovations (SI) and the Respiratory, Gastrointestinal & Renal (RGR) divisions. Medical Surgical revenue of $2.001 billion decreased 14% as reported and 9% organic, with high-single digit declines in both SI and RGR. Excluding the impact of ventilator sales given the increased COVID-19 related demand in the prior year, Medical Surgical revenue decreased 7% organic.
- Surgical Innovations revenue of $1.338 billion decreased 14% as reported and 9% organic. The division had low-double digit declines in Advanced Surgical Instruments given expected acute supply chain shortages of raw materials, and the impact of China COVID lockdowns and provincial value-based procurement (VBP) stapling tenders. These declines were partially offset by strength in Hernia & Wound Management, which increased mid-single digits.
- Respiratory, Gastrointestinal & Renal revenue of $664 million decreased 14% as reported and 9% organic. RGR revenue decreased 3% organic excluding the impact of ventilator sales. Respiratory Interventions decreased mid-twenties, with sales of ventilators declining low-fifties as demand was well below pre-pandemic levels. Patient Monitoring increased low-single digits, with low-single digit declines in Nellcor™ pulse oximetry products offset by mid-single digit growth in Perioperative Complications products. Gastrointestinal revenue decreased low-single digits, with high-single digit declines in esophageal products partially offset by mid-single digit growth in chronic and colorectal products. Renal Care Solutions decreased low-double digits given product holds and supply chain challenges.
Neuroscience Portfolio
The Neuroscience Portfolio includes the Cranial & Spinal Technologies (CST), Specialty Therapies, and Neuromodulation divisions. Neuroscience revenue of $2.115 billion decreased 4% as reported and 2% organic, with mid-single digit declines in CST and Neuromodulation, partially offset by mid-single digit increases in Specialty Therapies, all on an organic basis.
- Cranial & Spinal Technologies revenue of $1.043 billion decreased 7% as reported and 5% organic. Spine & Biologics decreased mid-single digits, with mid-teens declines in Biologics given customer ordering patterns, partially offset by mid-single digit Core Spine growth in the United States. Neurosurgery declined low-single digits, with declines in navigation and robotics partially offset by growth in powered surgical instruments, imaging, and CSF management.
- Specialty Therapies revenue of $667 million increased 4% as reported and organic. Neurovascular increased low double-digits driven by strength in hemorrhagic stroke products. Pelvic Health decreased low-single digits on competitive pressures. ENT was flat year-over-year on an organic basis given supply constraints on several product lines.
- Neuromodulation revenue of $405 million decreased 8% as reported and 5% organic. Brain Modulation decreased low-single digits, as significant declines of replacement devices were partially offset by increased share of initial implants from the continued adoption of the Percept™ PC deep brain stimulation (DBS) system and SenSight™ directional DBS lead system. Pain Therapies decreased high-single digits, with mid-single digit declines in both Interventional and Pain Stim, as well as low-double digit declines in Targeted Drug Delivery on a difficult comparison given a supply recovery in the prior year. The Pain Stim market remained under pressure given healthcare staffing challenges and higher payer pre-authorizations. At the same time, the company continued to win new implant share in Pain Stim on strong adoption of its Vanta™ and Intellis™ with DTM™ SCS neurostimulators.
Diabetes
Diabetes revenue of $541 million decreased 5% as reported and was flat year-over-year organic. U.S. revenue declined mid-teens, given the absence of new product approvals. This was offset by low-double digit organic growth in non-U.S. developed markets and mid-teens organic growth in emerging markets. International sales were driven by mid-twenties growth in sales of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) products and low-double digit growth in consumable sales, offset by low-single digit declines in sales of durable insulin pumps.
Guidance
The company today reiterated its revenue growth and EPS guidance ranges for fiscal year 2023.
The company continues to expect organic revenue growth in its fiscal year 2023 in the range of 4% to 5%. If recent foreign currency exchange rates hold, fiscal year 2023 revenue growth would be negatively affected by approximately $1.4 billion to $1.5 billion versus the previously stated $1.0 to $1.1 billion impact.
The company continues to expect fiscal year 2023 diluted non-GAAP EPS in the range of $5.53 to $5.65, including an estimated 17 to 22 cent negative impact from foreign currency.
"While our markets are facing macroeconomic challenges, we're focused on identifying ways to offset their impact to our financials," said Karen Parkhill, Medtronic chief financial officer. "Looking ahead, we expect organic revenue growth to improve each quarter, with the second half of the fiscal year much stronger than the first. We are optimistic about our future, as we create markets and realize new opportunities."
Webcast Information
Medtronic will host a webcast today, August 23, at 8:00 a.m. EDT (7:00 a.m. CDT) to provide information about its businesses for the public, investors, analysts, and news media. This webcast can be accessed by clicking on the Events icon at investorrelations.medtronic.com and this earnings release will be archived at news.medtronic.com. Medtronic will be live tweeting during the webcast on its Newsroom Twitter account, @Medtronic. Within 24 hours of the webcast, a replay of the webcast and transcript of the company's prepared remarks will be available by clicking on the Events icon at investorrelations.medtronic.com.
Medtronic plans to report its fiscal year 2023 second, third, and fourth quarter results on November 22, 2022, February 21, 2023, and Thursday, May 25, 2023, respectively. Confirmation and additional details will be provided closer to the specific event.
Financial Schedules
The first quarter financial schedules and non-GAAP reconciliations can be viewed by clicking on the Investor Events link at investorrelations.medtronic.com. To view a printable PDF of the financial schedules and non-GAAP reconciliations, click here. To view the first quarter and fiscal year 2023 earnings presentation, click here.
About Medtronic
Bold thinking. Bolder actions. We are Medtronic. Medtronic plc, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is the leading global healthcare technology company that boldly attacks the most challenging health problems facing humanity by searching out and finding solutions. Our Mission — to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life — unites a global team of 95,000+ passionate people across 150 countries. Our technologies and therapies treat 70 health conditions and include cardiac devices, surgical robotics, insulin pumps, surgical tools, patient monitoring systems, and more. Powered by our diverse knowledge, insatiable curiosity, and desire to help all those who need it, we deliver innovative technologies that transform the lives of two people every second, every hour, every day. Expect more from us as we empower insight-driven care, experiences that put people first, and better outcomes for our world. In everything we do, we are engineering the extraordinary. For more information on Medtronic (NYSE:MDT), visit www.Medtronic.com and follow @Medtronic on Twitter and LinkedIn.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to risks and uncertainties, including risks related to competitive factors, difficulties and delays inherent in the development, manufacturing, marketing and sale of medical products, government regulation and general economic conditions and other risks and uncertainties described in the company's periodic reports on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission including the most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K of the company, as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In some cases, you can identify these statements by forward-looking words or expressions, such as "anticipate," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "intend," "looking ahead," "may," "plan," "possible," "potential," "project," "should," "going to," "will," and similar words or expressions, the negative or plural of such words or expressions and other comparable terminology. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results. Medtronic does not undertake to update its forward-looking statements or any of the information contained in this press release, including to reflect future events or circumstances.
NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
This press release contains financial measures, including adjusted net income, adjusted diluted EPS, and organic revenue, which are considered "non-GAAP" financial measures under applicable SEC rules and regulations. References to quarterly figures increasing, decreasing or remaining flat are in comparison to fiscal year 2022.
Medtronic management believes that non-GAAP financial measures provide information useful to investors in understanding the company's underlying operational performance and trends and to facilitate comparisons with the performance of other companies in the med tech industry. Non-GAAP net income and diluted EPS exclude the effect of certain charges or gains that contribute to or reduce earnings but that result from transactions or events that management believes may or may not recur with similar materiality or impact to operations in future periods (Non-GAAP Adjustments). Medtronic generally uses non-GAAP financial measures to facilitate management's review of the operational performance of the company and as a basis for strategic planning. Non-GAAP financial measures should be considered supplemental to and not a substitute for financial information prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and investors are cautioned that Medtronic may calculate non-GAAP financial measures in a way that is different from other companies. Management strongly encourages investors to review the company's consolidated financial statements and publicly filed reports in their entirety. Starting with the quarter ended April 29, 2022, the Company no longer adjusts non-GAAP financial measures for certain license payments for, or acquisitions of, technology not approved by regulators. Historical non-GAAP financial measures have been recast for comparability. Reconciliations of the non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are included in the financial schedules accompanying this press release.
Medtronic calculates forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures based on internal forecasts that omit certain amounts that would be included in GAAP financial measures. For instance, forward-looking organic revenue growth guidance excludes the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, as well as significant acquisitions or divestitures. Forward-looking diluted non-GAAP EPS guidance also excludes other potential charges or gains that would be recorded as Non-GAAP Adjustments to earnings during the fiscal year. Medtronic does not attempt to provide reconciliations of forward-looking non-GAAP EPS guidance to projected GAAP EPS guidance because the combined impact and timing of recognition of these potential charges or gains is inherently uncertain and difficult to predict and is unavailable without unreasonable efforts. In addition, the company believes such reconciliations would imply a degree of precision and certainty that could be confusing to investors. Such items could have a substantial impact on GAAP measures of financial performance.
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SOURCE Medtronic plc | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/medtronic-reports-first-quarter-fiscal-2023-financial-results/ | 2022-08-23 12:01:34 | 1 | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/medtronic-reports-first-quarter-fiscal-2023-financial-results/ |
Mohammed Ibrahim joins leading MSP with over 22 years of professional experience in networking and security
BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., June 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Logicalis US, an international IT solution and managed services provider, today announced the appointment of Mohammed Ibrahim as its new VP of Managed Services. In this role, Ibrahim will oversee a team of 285 operations experts, comprised of help desk, engineering support teams, and solutions architects. Additionally, he will work closely with Logicalis' global and regional teams to ensure proper resource alignment.
"We are proud to have Mohammed's extensive experience and expertise to lead our managed services team," said CEO Jon Groves. "Our customers rely on our managed services support, and we know that Mohammed will deliver what they need to be successful. He represents what it means to be an Architect of Change ™, and we look forward to seeing his leadership drive growth throughout our organization."
Ibrahim joins Logicalis US with more than two decades of experience in networking and security, as well as hybrid cloud and enterprise solution design for complex global structures. Based in Frisco, Tex., Ibrahim attended Bangalore University and holds various technical certifications including as a Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert and AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner.
"Logicalis US has become a leader in the technology sector by exemplifying what it means to be Architects of Change™," said Ibrahim. "I couldn't be happier to join such an innovative team that embraces emerging technologies and highlights the importance of managed services."
About Logicalis US
Award-winning Logicalis US works alongside our customers to recommend, plan, and implement a digital transformation strategy that aligns with their business goals. Through our consulting and managed services and with our longtime strategic partners, we then deliver custom security, network, collaboration, cloud, and data center solutions.
Logicalis employs over 6,400 people worldwide, including highly trained service specialists who design, deploy and manage complex IT infrastructures to meet the needs of over 10,000 corporate and public sector customers. To achieve this, Logicalis maintains strong partnerships with technology leaders such as Cisco, HPE, IBM, EMC, NetApp, Microsoft, VMware and ServiceNow on an international basis. It has specialized solutions for enterprise and medium-sized companies in vertical markets covering financial services, TMT (telecommunications, media and technology), education, healthcare, retail, government, manufacturing and professional services, helping customers benefit from cutting-edge technologies in a cost-effective way.
The Logicalis Group has annualized revenues of over $1.5 billion from operations in Europe, North America, Latin America and Asia Pacific and is one of the leading IT and communications solution integrators specializing in the areas of advanced technologies and services.
The Logicalis Group is a division of Datatec Limited, listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, with revenues of over $4.1 billion.
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SOURCE Logicalis | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2022/06/01/logicalis-us-welcomes-new-vp-managed-services/ | 2022-06-01 19:16:05 | 1 | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2022/06/01/logicalis-us-welcomes-new-vp-managed-services/ |
At age 93, struggling with the effects of a stroke, heart failure and recurrent cancer, Teri Sheridan was ready to end her life using New Jersey’s law that allows medically assisted suicide — but she was bedbound, too sick to travel.
So last Nov. 17, surrounded by three of her children, Sheridan drank a lethal dose of drugs prescribed by a doctor she had never met in person, only online. She died within minutes.
Soon, others who seek Sheridan’s final option may find it out of reach, the unintended result of a federal move to roll back online prescribing of potentially addictive drugs allowed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“How much should one person suffer?” said Sheridan’s daughter, Georgene White, 68. “She wanted to just go to sleep and not wake up.”
Online prescribing rules for controlled drugs were relaxed three years ago under emergency waivers to ensure critical medications remained available during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration has proposed a rule that would reinstate most previously longstanding requirements that doctors see patients in person before prescribing narcotic drugs such as Oxycontin, amphetamines such as Adderall, and a host of other potentially dangerous drugs.
The aim is to reduce improper prescribing of these drugs by telehealth companies that boomed during the pandemic. Given the ongoing opioid epidemic, allowing continued broad use of telemedicine prescribing “would pose too great a risk to the public health and safety,” the proposed rule said. It also cracks down on how doctors can prescribe other less-addictive drugs, like Xanax, used to treat anxiety, and buprenorphine, a narcotic used to treat opioid addiction.
The rule would allow some of these drugs to be prescribed with telemedicine for an initial 30-day dose, though patients would need to be seen in person to get a refill. And patients who have been referred to a new doctor by one they had previously met in person could continue to receive prescriptions for the drugs via telemedicine.
DEA Administrator Anne Milgram called the plan “telemedicine with guardrails.”
The agency, with input from the Department of Health and Human Services, is working to finalize the rule by May 11, when the COVID public health emergency officially ends, an HHS spokeswoman said. If approved by then, the new requirements would take effect in November.
The proposal has sparked a massive backlash, including more than 35,000 comments to a federal portal and calls from advocates, members of Congress and medical groups to reconsider certain patients or provisions.
“They completely forgot that there was a population of people who are dying,” said Dr. Lonny Shavelson, a California physician who chairs the American Clinicians Academy on Medical Aid in Dying, a coalition of doctors who help patients access care under so-called right-to-die laws.
Among the biggest complaints: The rule would delay or block access for patients who seek medically assisted suicide and hospice care, critics said. Many of the comments — including nearly 10,000 delivered in person to DEA offices — came from doctors and patients protesting the effect of the rule on seriously ill and dying patients.
“Please do not make the end of life harder for me,” wrote Lynda Bluestein, 75, of Bridgeport, Connecticut. In March, Bluestein, who has terminal fallopian tube cancer, reached a settlement with the state of Vermont that will allow her to be the first non-resident to use its medically assisted suicide law. By the time she’s ready to use the drugs, she expects to be too ill to travel to see a doctor in person for the prescription, she wrote.
The clash between desperate patients who need treatment and DEA’s efforts to bar telehealth companies from overprescribing dangerous medications was inevitable, said David Herzberg, a historian of drugs at the University of Buffalo.
“The balancing act is so tricky,” he said.
Laws in 10 states and Washington, D.C. allow dying people with a prognosis of six months or less to end their lives with a lethal combination of medications covered by the DEA rule. But such patients are often too sick to visit a doctor in person ¬– or they live hundreds of miles from the nearest willing and qualified provider, Shavelson said.
There are similar issues for the 1.7 million Medicare recipients enrolled in hospice care in the U.S., said Judi Lund Person, who oversees regulatory compliance for the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. Rolling back online prescribing flexibilities could mean a dying patient would wait for days for drugs to ease pain and other symptoms.
“They just don’t have time for that,” she said.
Shavelson and his colleagues called for an exception to the rule for the hundreds of patients a year who qualify for medically assisted suicide. Both the American Medical Association and the California Medical Association sent letters asking the DEA to carve out provisions for doctors prescribing the most dangerous category of drugs to patients receiving hospice or palliative care.
“These patients are extremely fragile and their medical conditions do not allow them to easily access a physician’s office,” wrote Dr. Donaldo D. Hernandez, president of the California group. Such people pose a “reduced risk for abuse” given their clear need for the medications.
Congress directed DEA in 2008 to create exceptions for certain providers to permit remote prescribing, but the agency has not done so, Virginia Democrat Sen. Mark Warner said in a statement last month.
DEA officials did not respond to questions about whether COVID-19 telehealth waivers would remain in effect if the proposed rule isn’t finalized by May 11 or whether the agency will allow exceptions for remote prescribing.
During the pandemic, prescriptions for medically assisted suicide went up, in some cases significantly. In Oregon, for instance, they climbed nearly 49%, to 432 in 2022 from 290 in 2019. The number of deaths under the law in that state rose, too, to 246 from 170. Nationally, at least 1,300 people die each year using the process, according to available state figures.
Telemedicine was key to access during the COVID emergency, said Dr. Robin Plumer, the New Jersey doctor who prescribed the drugs Teri Sheridan took. Plumer has overseen 80 assisted suicide deaths since 2020. Without online prescribing, 35% to 40% of her patients wouldn’t have been able to use the law.
“I feel like we’ve taught people over the past couple of years that telemedicine does work in so many areas and it’s a great improvement for people,” especially for those who are homebound or dying, Plumer said.
“And what?” she said. “They’re suddenly going to yank that away?”
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The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
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This story has been updated to correct the name of the agency to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, not the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency. | https://www.texomashomepage.com/news/dying-patients-protest-looming-telehealth-crackdown/ | 2023-04-24 09:27:11 | 0 | https://www.texomashomepage.com/news/dying-patients-protest-looming-telehealth-crackdown/ |
Lake Butler leaders appoint interim city manager
LAKE BUTLER, Fla. (WCJB) - City of Lake Butler leaders appointed Richard Tillis as interim city manager in special session meeting.Commissioners appointed Tillis in a 3-to-1 vote, with Vice Mayor Annette Redman in dissent.
“I dedicated 11 years previously of my professional life to this city,” shared Tillis. “To see some of these problems surface, really disturbed me.”
This comes after commissioners voted unanimously to remove dale walker from his role as city manager, after citing financial concerns two weeks ago. Commissioner Melissa Hendrix told TV20 she began her research in October of last year.
RELATED: Lake Butler City Commission searches for a replacement city manager
“There were a lot of negatives,” stated Hendrix. “There were a lot of we’re not meeting where w should have been, so that led me to start questioning things and I started with all the expenditures.”
Hendrix said records show Walker paid himself 600 hours of sick and vacation time. Commissioners said the amount totaled approximately $31,000.
“As commissioners we need to make sure we’re on top of this,” shared Hendrix. “We need to know how the money is being spent, and where the dollars are going. It has not been transparent with this past city manager.”
In the meeting, Tillis said he aims to assist with the city’s budget. Commissioners said a Lake City firm is now auditing the city’s finances.
“We’re here for the people. And this money is not our money, it belongs to the people,” shared Hendrix.
Hendrix said they will not know if the thousands given to Walker can be recovered, until the audit is over.
TRENDING STORY: Man in custody of Alachua County Sheriff’s Office after fleeing sexual battery charges
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Copyright 2023 WCJB. All rights reserved. | https://www.wcjb.com/2023/03/08/lake-butler-leaders-appoint-interim-city-manager/ | 2023-03-08 04:52:36 | 0 | https://www.wcjb.com/2023/03/08/lake-butler-leaders-appoint-interim-city-manager/ |
For four months, the Miami Heat have measured themselves against just about everything the NBA has had to throw at them.
Just about.
Because even now, as February turns to March, there remains one challenge that has gone unanswered, a challenge the Heat surmounted last season, a challenge that in many ways they are seeking to avoid during this final six-week stretch of the regular season.
A particularly juicy challenge considering the ties between the teams.
When the Heat face the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night at Wells Fargo Center, it will be the teams’ first meeting of the season. To put that into perspective, by the time the Heat meet the 76ers first time, 62 games into their season, they already will have completed season series against 15 teams.
Oh, and then the Heat host the 76ers on Wednesday night, with an April 8 game in Philadelphia also remaining in the three-game season series.
For all the recent history between the teams, it has been an interminable wait.
To refresh, the Heat ousted the 76ers 4-2 in last season’s Eastern Conference semifinals.
Drawing that series, Philadelphia center Joel Embiid questioned whether the 76ers lacked the requisite toughness to challenge the Heat.
After that series, Heat forward Jimmy Butler mocked the 76ers for prioritizing forward Tobias Harris over him in 2021 free agency.
Then, in the offseason, the 76ers lured veteran power forward P.J. Tucker, a defensive pest during that series, from the Heat in free agency, a move that left Philadelphia penalized by the NBA for the timing of that agreement.
More recently, the 76ers last week added center Dewayne Dedmon a week after the Heat had dealt the veteran big man.
And days after the 76ers added Dedmon, the Heat added veteran center Cody Zeller, ostensibly giving the Heat another big body to throw at Embiid, who once again is playing at an MVP level.
It’s almost as if the NBA was intent on allowing the drama to build.
Which it has.
“We’ve already had a few of those month, or five-week spans where we’re played a team three times,” Heat coach Erik Spoelstra of next facing the 76ers three times in the Heat’s final 21 games. “It is unique, but I think the scheduling for the last couple of years, you’re used to a lot of different scenarios than you didn’t have previous years, previous seasons.
“It’s fine. It’s good. They’re ahead of us, so it’s an opportunity. That’s the way I see it.”
And yet, if the Heat are hopeful of a deep playoff run, they likely also do not want to see the 76ers earlier than necessary.
So basically, to avoid the possibility of facing the 76ers in the first round, it would mean the Heat finishing at least No. 5 in the East, with Philadelphia positioned for a top-three finish in the East.
So beat them . . . or potentially face them even earlier than last postseason.
A year ago, when the teams met in the postseason, James Harden was still trying to find his way alongside Embiid, acquired at midseason from the Brooklyn Nets.
Chemistry in that regard, no longer appears an issue.
“Without a doubt,” Spoelstra said. “That’s been the biggest thing that I’ve seen, is just the continuity. I think a lot of people forgot that Harden didn’t join the team until midseason, and that takes time, to get on the same page. They’re definitely clicking for sure.”
Seemingly just as uneven was the adjustment for Tucker, who had to endure early-season jeers in Philadelphia (now there’s something new) as fans and teammates adjusted to a selfless approach that tends to leave statistics to others.
“Tuck always figures it out,” Spoelstra said, with the Heat ultimately allowing Tucker to depart to protect their position against the luxury tax and salary cap. “I mean if you’re going to judge him by that last line in the boxscore, you are just really mistaken of how he can impact winning.
“Tuck does all those little, intangible things that really impact winning, that most people don’t really recognize.”
The irony of the delayed start to the season series, is the Heat finally appear only now to have their Tucker successor, with the past week’s acquisition of Kevin Love on the buyout market. No, not the same style of player in the least, but the latest veteran rental to man that position in the wake of Jae Crowder and Tucker.
And so, for a season that opened on Oct. 19 for the Heat, there will be another opening night of sorts on Feb. 27, when Heat-76ers tips off Monday for the first time in 2022-23.
The storylines remain.
Now given extra time to percolate and marinate.
IN THE LANE
REUNION TIME: The 76ers’ addition of Dewayne Dedmon on the buyout market means a reunion with 2021-22 Heat teammate P.J. Tucker. Tucker said he could appreciate the 76ers’ interest. “Dewayne brings a versatile, tough big guy that is super vocal,” Tucker said. “He talks just as much as me. He’s loud and he’s got an aggressive voice and he’s been around. He knows how to play. So I think having those kind of guys on the bench to be able to come in on different nights and help us out, it’s gonna be huge for us down the stretch.”
FINDING BALANCE: Upon his arrival to the Heat, Kevin Love attempted to put perspective on his desire, at 34, to still play significant minutes, while also appreciating the need not to allow his ego to get in the way of what already is in place. For that, he used the example of when Mike Krzyzewski coached Team USA. “My ego,” Love said, “is like Coach K used to say with USA Basketball. He said, ‘No, I don’t want you guys to wipe the ego or get rid of it. You’ve got to bring it for the common purpose and the betterment of the team.’ And that’s kind of the mindset that I’m taking here.”
FINDING FRIENDS: Love said fitting in with the Heat also is eased by the easy-going presence of center Bam Adebayo, with the two already trading jibes on Instagram. “I’ve always said Jarrett Allen was the same way,” Love said of his former Cavaliers teammate. “Bam, those guys, they’re my favorite players.” Jarrett saved one zinger for Love’s departure, joking of the scenario of Cleveland’s final game before the All-Star break, “I was told he was going for milk and cigarettes and he just never came back.”
FASHION CHOICES: Among the first things that Love and Cody Zeller had to do upon their Heat arrivals from the buyout market was select the individualized numbering styles for their Heat’s mashup jerseys. Zeller said that could be the limit of his fashion impact in an otherwise wardrobe-driven locker room, “I have the least amount of fashion sense,” the 30-year-old veteran said. “So you’ll see me in a lot of Heat sweats, none of the pregame attire that most of the other guys will be wearing. So I’m pretty simple.”
WINNING TIME: Among the allures of his trade to the Phoenix Suns, Kevin Durant said, was Suns President James Jones having a proven championship record during his playing days with the Heat and Cavaliers. “We got a champion already that’s overseeing us,” Durant said of Jones, the former Heat forward, while also pointing to coach Monty Williams’ success on a Spurs championship staff. “So we got guys that have been there, and that’s half the battle, just knowing what it takes.”
LATEST CHANCE: Initially considered a throw-in from the Los Angeles Lakers in the trade that sent Rui Hachimura out from the Washington Wizards, former Heat guard Kendrick Nunn has found himself in the midst of a revival. He already has a supporter in Washington big man Kristaps Porzingis. “He helps us. He’s physical, plays hard. I’m happy about him joining us and giving us a spark. This guy, he was out for a year, and I know how it is,” Porzingis said, with Nunn missing all of last season with the Lakers due to a knee issue. “When he got traded here, his value was a little bit lower than it would be usually. I’m telling you, this guy’s only going to get better with each game.”
NUMBER
17. Charges taken this season by Kevin Love while with the Cleveland Cavaliers, before joining the Heat this past week. As a matter of perspective, the Heat leader in charges taken this season before Love’s arrival was Caleb Martin, with 12.
() | https://www.twincities.com/2023/02/25/ira-winderman-heat-76ers-allowed-to-percolate-and-marinate-before-rivalry-resumes-monday/ | 2023-02-25 15:25:20 | 0 | https://www.twincities.com/2023/02/25/ira-winderman-heat-76ers-allowed-to-percolate-and-marinate-before-rivalry-resumes-monday/ |
NEW TV SPOT DEBUTED LAST NIGHT DURING 65TH ANNUAL
GRAMMY® AWARDS
DOWNLOAD TV SPOT HERE
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GRAMMY® Award-winning director, filmmaker, and producer Calmatic will helm the reboot of the classic White Men Can't Jump starring multiplatinum six-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated superstar Jack Harlow in his official acting debut. The film exclusively debuts on HULU in the U.S. on May 19, 2023—in addition to Star+ in Latin America and Disney+ under the Star banner in all other territories. Check out the TV spot HERE.
Calmatic made his film directorial debut with the remix of the 90's classic, House Party, produced by LeBron James and Maverick Carter's SpringHill Company in conjunction with New Line Cinema. Starring Jacob Latimore, Tosin Cole, and a wide range of cameos including Kid Cudi and Lebron James, the film opened in theaters nationwide last month and instantly made waves, inciting fan applause and critical praise.
Featuring the filmmaker, Esquire attested, "He gave House Party new life," and enthused, "what ensues is an unforgettable night that includes a bananas Kid Cudi performance, cameos galore, and a koala to be reckoned with." BuzzFeed raved, "Calmatic captured the essence of a fairytale Los Angeles story" in a piece appropriately titled, "7 Reasons Why I think House Party Is The Next Black Classic." Collider sat down with him for an exclusive interview, while BET assured, "Calmatic is the perfect person to spearhead the direction of this L.A.-based film due to being an L.A. native in his own right."
As one of the most influential music video directors of this era, the Los Angeles-born visionary lensed the music video for Lils Nas X's diamond-certified record "Old Town Road" [feat. Billy Cyrus]. He took home both a GRAMMY® Award for "Best Music Video" and an MTV VMA for "Best Direction." His videos have received billions of views, including visuals for Kendrick Lamar, Childish Gambino, Anderson .Paak, Pharrell Williams, and JAY-Z, to name a few. Most recently, he reteamed with Kendrick for the "Rich Spirit" music video, tallying 12 million views since its release late last year. Not to mention, he has been sought after by the likes of Target and Sprite for commercials. His Super Bowl commercial for Turbo Tax landed him "Director of the Year" from Ad Age.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Brittany Bell
britt@theconsultingqueen.com
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SOURCE Calmatic | https://www.kait8.com/prnewswire/2023/02/06/grammy-award-winning-director-calmatic-helm-20th-century-studios-remix-white-men-cant-jump-starring-jack-harlow-streaming-hulu-may-19th/ | 2023-02-06 23:52:58 | 0 | https://www.kait8.com/prnewswire/2023/02/06/grammy-award-winning-director-calmatic-helm-20th-century-studios-remix-white-men-cant-jump-starring-jack-harlow-streaming-hulu-may-19th/ |
Juror says Texas Gov. Abbott’s rush to pardon shooter a ‘travesty’
AUSTIN, Texas - An alternate juror in the trial of a U.S. Army sergeant convicted of murder said Wednesday that Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s rush for a pardon is an "egregious overreach" to wipe aside the jury’s unanimous decision over a 2020 shooting during a Black Lives Matter protest.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Jere Dowell said prosecutors put on a convincing case against Daniel Perry, who was in his car working as a ride-share driver when he shot 28-year-old Garrett Foster, who had been legally carrying an AK-47 while marching with demonstrators through downtown Austin.
As an alternate, Dowell did not have a vote in convicting Perry but said she was in the room for deliberations and she agreed with the verdict handed down Friday.
"I just think it’s a travesty," Dowell said of Abbott already seeking a pardon.
Her comments are the first time a juror has spoken publicly since Abbott, a Republican, announced Saturday he would use the power of his office and seek to wipe away the verdict. Legal experts have called the governor’s move highly unusual and prosecutors condemned it as troubling.
Abbott made his intentions known on Twitter less than 24 hours after the verdict and amid outrage from conservative voices on social media and television over the conviction.
"I just thought it was an egregious overreach of power," Dowell said. "It’s undermining due process. It’s undermining democracy. I was upset, honestly."
Perry, who was on active duty at the time of the shooting, is still awaiting sentencing from a judge. He faces up to life in prison.
Dowell, who said she has not previously supported the three-term governor politically, said she worried that Abbott wading into the case could cause other jurors to second-guess their decisions. She said the verdict was strictly based on evidence, following 17 hours of deliberation, and politics did not factor in.
"If your governor is coming out and saying you made the wrong decision, that may make you think twice about what you said or what you felt," she told AP.
The AP has attempted to reach all jurors who served during the weeklong trial in Austin. Others have declined to speak about the case or not returned messages.
Spokespersons for Abbott did not immediately respond to messages seeking comment Wednesday.
READ MORE
- Daniel Perry murder case: Defense team claims jury misconduct in motion for new trial
- Daniel Perry murder case: Travis County DA asks to present evidence to Board of Pardons and Paroles
- Daniel Perry sentencing might not matter as Gov. Abbott calls for pardon
- Gov. Abbott calls for Daniel Perry pardon after found guilty of murder in death of protester in 2020
The trial had received little national attention prior to Friday’s verdict and Abbott had not previously commented on the case publicly. He has not elaborated on how he reached his conclusion about Perry’s case, and his office on Monday referred questions to his statement on Twitter.
The encounter leading up to the shooting began when Perry turned onto a street and into one of the demonstrations that swept the country after Minneapolis police killed of George Floyd.
In video that was streamed live on Facebook, a car can be heard honking amid the downtown crowd. Then, several shots ring out, and protesters begin screaming and scattering.
Perry drove off, later calling police to report the shooting, and officers arrived to find Foster shot. What led up to the gunfire was a core question in the trial that resulted in Perry’s conviction.
Dowell said her confidence in the verdict was based in part on testimony that Foster’s gun was pointing up — close to his ear — moments before the shooting and that Foster was at least a foot away from Perry’s car.
She said prosecutors also presented text messages between Perry and a friend, exchanged prior to the shooting, discussing other cases in which protesters had been shot and whether it amounted to self-defense.
READ MORE
- Travis County DA reacts to Abbott’s call for pardon of Daniel Perry
- Abbott requests board to look into potential pardon for Daniel Perry
- Final witness takes stand in Daniel Perry murder trial
Witnesses testified that Foster never raised his rifle at Perry, and prosecutors said the sergeant could have driven off rather than opening fire with a handgun. Perry didn’t testify. But his defense attorneys have said Foster pointed his gun at the driver and that the shooting was self-defense.
"I look forward to approving the Board’s pardon as soon as it hits my desk," Abbott tweeted Saturday.
Travis County District Attorney Jose Garza, whose office prosecuted the case, said Wednesday in an interview on CNN that it appeared clear that neither Abbott nor his staff had watched the trial. Garza, who ran as a progressive when he was elected in 2020, has previously been a target of criticism from the governor.
The district attorney said he did not know why Abbott was pushing for the pardon: "I don’t know what’s in the governor’s mind."
Garza has requested to meet with the Texas Board of Pardon and Paroles and present evidence. The board did not immediately respond to questions emailed Wednesday.
Clint Broden, Perry’s attorney, has said they did not petition the governor for a pardon prior to Abbott’s tweet. He has also filed a motion seeking a new trial. | https://www.fox4news.com/news/daniel-perry-trial-juror-comments-greg-abbott-pardon | 2023-04-13 17:52:43 | 1 | https://www.fox4news.com/news/daniel-perry-trial-juror-comments-greg-abbott-pardon |
MIAMI, Feb. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Goya Foods, through its Goya Gives global initiative, partners with Global Empowerment Mission (G.E.M.) to send ongoing shipments of food to the people of Turkey in response to the desperate cries of earthquake victims in Malatya. G.E.M.'s Miami headquarters is consolidating donations from around the country, and Goya's Florida and Texas facilities with daily shipments of food, water, and humanitarian aid to Turkey.
"Our hearts and prayers go out to the over 19,000 victims, their families, the first responders, and the people of Turkey in this historic disaster. Michael Capponi, Founder of G.E.M. was already on the ground within 48 hours in Turkey when we received his call for help. Although we always respond to crises around the world, this is especially heartbreaking due to the sheer number of souls lost," said Bob Unanue, President and CEO of Goya Foods.
Through Goya Gives, Goya is always at the forefront of natural disasters and humanitarian relief efforts, donating millions of pounds of food each year in the United States and worldwide.
To learn more about Goya Gives, please visit: www.goya.com
About Goya Foods
Founded in 1936, Goya Foods, Inc. is America's largest Hispanic-owned food company and has established itself as the leader in Latin American food and condiments. Goya manufactures, packages, and distributes over 2,500 high-quality food products from Spain, the Caribbean, Mexico, Central, and South America. Goya products have their roots in the culinary traditions of Hispanic communities worldwide. The combination of authentic ingredients, robust seasonings, and convenient preparation makes Goya products ideal for every taste and table. For more information on Goya Foods, please visit www.goya.com.
For more information, contact:
Natalie J. Maniscalco
845.659.6506 / natalie@retromedianyc.com
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SOURCE Goya Foods, Inc. | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2023/02/09/goya-gives-global-empowerment-mission-gem-respond-earthquake-victims-turkey/ | 2023-02-09 21:42:32 | 1 | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2023/02/09/goya-gives-global-empowerment-mission-gem-respond-earthquake-victims-turkey/ |
NEW YORK, June 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Advertising Division (NAD) of BBB National Programs closed two Fast-Track SWIFT cases in May 2022. In these cases:
- AT&T Services, Inc. challenged Charter Communications, Inc.'s (Spectrum) claim that AT&T's internet service, without distinction between cable/copper or fiber services, provides unreliable and glitchy internet connectivity, to a consumer-noticeable degree for the activities depicted in the commercial.
- T-Mobile Puerto Rico, LLC challenged disclosures made by Liberty Mobile Puerto Rico Inc. in connection with certain wireless network performance claims.
Fast-Track SWIFT is an expedited NAD challenge process designed for single-issue advertising cases.
AT&T challenged a claim made by Spectrum in a television commercial titled "The Choice for Gamers Ad." The commercial depicts, in writing, voiceovers, and visually, that Spectrum is the "winner" in providing internet service that is reliable and free from glitches as compared broadly to "telephone internet companies," without elaboration, limitation, or qualification.
Spectrum objected to NAD's consideration of AT&T's challenge based on its contentions that the claim that AT&T challenged is not expressly stated in the commercial and the evidence of what quality of service AT&T offers across its footprint is complex. Charter also asserted that it permanently discontinued the challenged commercial before it learned of AT&T's challenge and therefore declined to submit evidence in support of the challenged claim. NAD determined that it had jurisdiction over the challenge because Charter's commercial continued to air through the date of the complaint and the challenge was appropriate for Fast Track SWIFT because it presented a single express claim that does not require review of complex evidence.
Because Spectrum provided no evidence to support its superior performance claim, NAD recommended that the advertiser discontinue the claim that AT&T's internet service, without distinction between cable/copper or fiber services, provides unreliable and glitchy internet connectivity to a consumer-noticeable degree for the activities depicted in the commercial.
In its advertiser statement, Spectrum stated that it "is disappointed with NAD's decision to accept this challenge for Fast-Track review" for several reasons but noted that it "remains a strong supporter of self-regulation and will take NAD's recommendations into account in formulating its future advertising."
T-Mobile Puerto Rico challenged as insufficient the "material connection" disclosures made by Liberty Mobile Puerto Rico in connection with claims that Liberty's wireless service has the "best network" and the "best coverage" based on testing from Global Wireless Solutions (GWS).
NAD noted that GWS conducted testing as a paid non-exclusive service to Liberty. Although there is nothing unusual about the relationship between GWS and Liberty, NAD determined that consumers should be made aware of that relationship through a clear and conspicuous disclosure as it may affect the credibility and weight consumers give to the claim if they are aware that Liberty paid GWS for the study. Therefore, NAD recommended that Liberty clearly and conspicuously disclose that Liberty paid GWS for the study which is the source of its wireless network performance claims.
NAD noted that during the challenge, Liberty voluntarily permanently discontinued its description of the GWS testing to support its network performance claims as an "independent study." Liberty's discontinuation of this claim will be treated by NAD for compliance purposes as if NAD recommended its discontinuance. In addition, Liberty began to use the language "Study conducted by GWS paid for by Liberty," which is clear and easily understood, effectively describing the source of the claims.
NAD examined the challenged advertising in its various forms to assess the prominence and sufficiency of Liberty's disclosures. Based on its review, NAD recommended that the disclosure be more prominently located, at or near the very start of the text so that consumers do not read past the essential language. NAD also recommended that Liberty use some mechanism to direct consumers' attention to the disclosure and ensure that the font size of the disclosure is readable in all versions of the advertising.
NAD determined that the challenged advertising was appropriate for Fast-Track SWIFT because the challenge presented the single issue of whether the advertiser's disclosures in connection with its wireless performance claims adequately disclose the connection between GWS and Liberty. NAD also determined that although the ads in question were in Spanish, they did not present any significant or unique linguistic concerns that would prevent NAD's analysis as NAD has analyzed claims made in Spanish-language advertising on several other occasions.
In its advertiser statement, Liberty stated that it "agrees to comply with NAD's recommendations" and that it "appreciates NAD's guidance regarding the types of disclosures it shall make when making network performance claims based on testing completed by a third-party but paid for by the company."
Advertisers are encouraged to learn more about the NAD Fast-Track SWIFT challenge process and how to file a challenge. All BBB National Programs case decision summaries can be found in the case decision library. For the full text of NAD, NARB, and CARU decisions, subscribe to the online archive.
About BBB National Programs: BBB National Programs is where businesses turn to enhance consumer trust and consumers are heard. The non-profit organization creates a fairer playing field for businesses and a better experience for consumers through the development and delivery of effective third-party accountability and dispute resolution programs. Embracing its role as an independent organization since the restructuring of the Council of Better Business Bureaus in June 2019, BBB National Programs today oversees more than a dozen leading national industry self-regulation programs, and continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in arenas such as advertising, child-directed marketing, and privacy. To learn more, visit bbbprograms.org.
About the National Advertising Division: The National Advertising Division (NAD), a division of BBB National Programs, provides independent self-regulation and dispute resolution services, guiding the truthfulness of advertising across the U.S. NAD reviews national advertising in all media and its decisions set consistent standards for advertising truth and accuracy, delivering meaningful protection to consumers and leveling the playing field for business.
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SOURCE BBB National Programs | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/06/28/two-fast-track-swift-cases-national-advertising-division-recommends-advertiser-claims-be-discontinued-one-modification-disclosures-other/ | 2022-06-28 13:35:41 | 0 | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/06/28/two-fast-track-swift-cases-national-advertising-division-recommends-advertiser-claims-be-discontinued-one-modification-disclosures-other/ |
LONDON, UK — British prosecutors said Thursday they have charged actor Kevin Spacey with four counts of sexual assault against three men.
The Crown Prosecution Service said Spacey “has also been charged with causing a person to engage in penetrative sexual activity without consent.”
The alleged incidents took place in London between March 2005 and August 2008, and in western England in April 2013.
Rosemary Ainslie, head of the service’s Special Crime Division, said the charges follow a review of evidence gathered by London’s Metropolitan Police.
Spacey, a 62-year-old double Academy Award winner, was questioned by British police in 2019 about claims by several men that he had assaulted them.
The former “House of Cards” star ran London’s Old Vic Theatre between 2004 and 2015.
Spacey won a best supporting actor Academy Award for the 1995 film “The Usual Suspects” and a lead actor Oscar for the 1999 movie “American Beauty."
His celebrated career came to an abrupt halt in 2017 when actor Anthony Rapp accused the star of assaulting him at a party in the 1980s, when Rapp was a teenager.
Spacey denies the allegations and is currently trying to have a sex abuse lawsuit from Rapp in New York thrown out. When Rapp first spoke publicly of his claim, others went public too. At the time, Spacey issued a statement saying he didn’t remember the encounter but apologized.
A criminal case brought against him, an indecent assault and battery charge stemming from the alleged groping of an 18-year-old man at a Nantucket resort, was dismissed by Massachusetts prosecutors in 2019. | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/nation-world/kevin-spacey-sexual-assault-charges-london/507-86911ec2-ac30-4dd6-8e8d-5a829ba1984a | 2022-05-26 16:41:06 | 1 | https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/nation-world/kevin-spacey-sexual-assault-charges-london/507-86911ec2-ac30-4dd6-8e8d-5a829ba1984a |
NAIROBI – The number of people who died in connection with Kenya’s doomsday cult has crossed the 400 mark as detectives exhumed 12 more bodies on Monday believed to be followers of a pastor who ordered them to fast to death in order to meet Jesus.
Pastor Paul Mackenzie, who is linked to the cult based in a forested area in Malindi, coastal Kenya, is in police custody, along with 36 other suspects. All have yet to be charged.
Coast Regional Commissioner Rhoda Onyancha on Monday said the number of those who died has risen to 403, with 95 people rescued.
Last month, some suspects and people rescued started a hunger strike in prison and at the rescue center, prompting the prosecutor to take them to court for attempting to kill themselves. Most of them agreed to resume eating, but one suspect died in custody.
Some 613 people have so far been reported missing to Kenya Red Cross officers stationed in Malindi town. Detectives are still finding mass graves.
Onyancha said 253 of the 403 bodies had undergone DNA matching. Pathologists had earlier said most of the bodies were decomposed.
Mackenzie moved to the forested area in 2019 after his church was closed over his preaching, which included asking children not to go to school.
He was previously arrested and released on bond over the disappearance of children.
A judicial commission of inquiry formed by President William Ruto to establish what happened and who was liable was quashed by a court order after opposition leader Raila Odinga filed a petition against it.
The president had said what transpired in Malindi was “akin to terrorism” and vowed to crack down on “those using religion to advance their heinous acts”. | https://www.wsls.com/news/world/2023/07/18/kenya-doomsday-cult-deaths-top-400-as-detectives-exhume-12-more-bodies-with-the-pastor-in-custody/ | 2023-07-18 12:31:41 | 0 | https://www.wsls.com/news/world/2023/07/18/kenya-doomsday-cult-deaths-top-400-as-detectives-exhume-12-more-bodies-with-the-pastor-in-custody/ |
Here Is The Best Time To Head Down The Shore For MDW in NJ
It’s that time of year again! It’s Memorial Day Weekend is just about here and I feel like everyone goes through the same thought process. When is the best time to head down the shore on Memorial Day Weekend?
There are a few weekends during the summer that make traveling down the shore almost impossible. Everyone is in such a rush to get to their rental houses, some people are traveling from far away to experience the Jersey Shore, and it just gets stressful! I found a few great tips that will have you skating down the highway and to your shore destination in no time!
Don’t let this worry you, but AAA officials have predicted that over 1 million New Jersey residents will be traveling somewhere that is 50 miles or more away from their homes this coming holiday weekend, according to NJ.com.
It’s important to be smart and take your time while so many people are anxiously arriving down the shore, but a few tips I found thst could help you skate down the shore are simple.
NBC Philadelphia reported that the busiest travel day is going to be TOMORROW (Friday, May 26), which makes sense when you think about it. Everyone has the same idea which is taking off work to “beat the traffic”, but odds are, that plan wasn’t too original.
Therefore, maybe wait until Saturday morning or leave extremely early Friday morning. Another tip is to leave in the early morning or late at night. NBC Philadelphia reported that congestion is going to be at its absolute worst between 3 and 6 pm all weekend.
Also, don’t forget, if you do end up having to leave during the most congested time of day which is 3-6 pm, you could get your tolls paid for you tomorrow on the Atlantic City Expressway, if that is part of your shore commute!
Chickie’s and Pete’s will be paying driver’s tolls from 5-6 pm on Friday, May 26, if you’re traveling Eastbound on the Atlantic City expressway. Have patience this weekend! | https://catcountry1073.com/memorial-day-traffic-new-jersey/ | 2023-05-26 07:25:33 | 0 | https://catcountry1073.com/memorial-day-traffic-new-jersey/ |
The U.S. women’s basketball team will have a lot of new faces when the Americans play in the FIBA World Cup next month in Australia.
Gone to retirement are Sue Bird and Sylvia Fowles, who were key parts of the Americans’ dominance over the last two decades of international competition. Diana Taurasi was not on the training camp roster, but told The Associated Press before she injured her quad that she was a “maybe” to compete in Sydney.
South Carolina’s Aliyah Boston was the lone college player among the 29 invited to the USA Basketball training camp that will begin next month in Las Vegas. She helped South Carolina win its second national championship and was the AP Player of the Year.
The camp will be from Sept. 6-12 with an intrasquad game set for Sept. 10. The Americans will then travel to Australia to train before the World Cup begins.
Joining Boston are nine players from the Tokyo Olympics, including A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart. Players will report to camp at the conclusion of their WNBA seasons. The playoffs begin Wednesday and if the WNBA Finals goes five games it would end on Sept. 20 — right before the World Cup begins.
“That’s the plan. The plan is to take care of business here, continue to play for Seattle as long as possible and then going to Australia for the worlds,” Stewart said. “We are hopping on a plane, that’s what we are doing.”
The World Cup roster is due about 48 hours before the start of the tournament, which runs from Sept. 22-Oct. 1.
“Everything’s on the table,” said USA national team director Briana Weiss, who took over that role from longtime executive Carol Callan. “I think when we’re dealing with a tight timeframe like this, all options are available to you.”
Ariel Atkins, Chelsea Gray and Jewel Loyd were also on the Tokyo Olympic team that won a seventh straight 5-on-5 gold medal. Kelsey Plum, Allisha Gray, Stefanie Dolson and Jackie Young were part of the gold medal-winning squad for the inaugural 3-on-3 competition in Tokyo. They are also part of the training camp roster.
“I am looking forward to welcoming this amazing group of athletes to a productive training camp as we prepare for the 2022 FIBA World Cup,” coach Cheryl Reeve said. “These athletes will report to camp having just completed their WNBA seasons and it says a lot about their competitive drive and commitment to USA Basketball that they will come to Las Vegas prepared to participate at the highest level.”
Elena Delle Donne and Angel McCoughtry also have Olympic and World Cup experience, winning gold at each. Both missed the Tokyo Games because of injuries and are on the U.S. camp roster. McCoughtry started the season with the Minnesota Lynx before having her contract bought out at the start of the season.
___
More AP women’s basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/womens-basketball and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://www.wdtn.com/sports/ap-sports/us-invites-29-players-to-womens-hoops-world-cup-camp/ | 2022-08-17 16:38:06 | 1 | https://www.wdtn.com/sports/ap-sports/us-invites-29-players-to-womens-hoops-world-cup-camp/ |
SINGAPORE, May 16, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- BingX, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is proud to announce its upcoming 5th anniversary and express its heartfelt gratitude to its valued users who have supported and trusted the platform over the past five years. To commemorate this special occasion, BingX is delighted to announce the launch of User Appreciation Month, a month-long celebration with a total prize pool of 10 Million USDT, dedicated to giving back to the community that has been instrumental in its success.
BingX's 5th anniversary and User Appreciation Month represent a significant milestone in the platform's history. Five years ago, BingX was born with a vision to become the gateway for the next billion crypto users, making crypto accessible and friendly to all. It became the first centralized exchange to provide copy trading services for cryptocurrency and developed into a top-notch social trading ecosystem where all users and traders can learn and earn. Now BingX operates in more than 100 countries and regions, and provides services to 5 million users with continuous innovation. It is a time to reflect on the achievements, growth, and positive impact BingX has made in the cryptocurrency industry.
During User Appreciation Month, BingX users can look forward to a series of exciting online campaigns for futures trading, copy trading, and spot trading, respectively. There will be exclusive individual/group trading competitions, generous giveaways, limited-time promotions and more, with a staggering total prize pool of 5 million USDT, 200 BTC and ETH, and BingX NFT. All these aim to reward users for their continued support and provide them with amazing prizes while engaging in fun games such as virtual gold coin collection. Additionally, BingX will organize educational webinars and workshops to empower users with valuable knowledge about cryptocurrency trading, investment, and blockchain technology.
In addition to the online campaigns, BingX is taking this celebration to the next level by embarking on a world tour. BingX representatives will host offline events around the globe and meet local cryptocurrency enthusiasts in countries such as Spain, Russia, Turkey, Vietnam, Mexico, and Argentina. These events will offer a unique opportunity for BingX to connect with its users on a more personal level, gather feedback, and strengthen the bond between the platform and its community.
"BingX has come a long way since its inception, and we owe our success to our passionate and dedicated users. It is their continuous support that has allowed us to innovate, grow, and shape the future of cryptocurrency trading, and we are extremely grateful for their unwavering support throughout our journey," said Elvisco Carrington, PR and Communications Director of BingX. "Our 5th anniversary is a significant milestone, and we want to create a memorable experience and celebrate it by giving back to our valued community and making our users feel truly appreciated."
BingX has always prioritized user satisfaction and strives to provide a seamless and innovative trading experience. The User Appreciation Month is a testament to BingX's commitment to putting users at the forefront and creating a rewarding and enjoyable trading experience. BingX invites all users to join in and make the most of this carnival.
Elvisco added: "As we mark this fifth anniversary, we are celebrating what you and us have accomplished together - grow into the better of us. We will continue to fulfill our vision to become a gateway for the next billion crypto users. As you are with us, we can make positive changes together. With your accompany on this exciting journey, we can't wait for numerous five years to come."
About BingX
BingX is a leading crypto exchange that offers spot, derivatives, copy, and grid trading services to over 100 countries and regions worldwide with over 5 million users. BingX continues to connect users with expert traders and the platform in a safe and innovative way.
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SOURCE BingX | https://www.1011now.com/prnewswire/2023/05/16/bingx-celebrates-5th-anniversary-with-10-million-usdt-reward-pool/ | 2023-05-16 14:59:39 | 1 | https://www.1011now.com/prnewswire/2023/05/16/bingx-celebrates-5th-anniversary-with-10-million-usdt-reward-pool/ |
ALLENTOWN, LEHIGH COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — District Attorney Jim Martin announces a man’s guilty plea in Allentown for a fatal crash that occurred in 2021 that killed two.
According to officials, Lazarus Roldan, 32, of Allentown, pleaded guilty Tuesday to two counts of homicide by vehicle, two counts of aggravated assault by vehicle, and a felony in the second degree for accidents involving death/leaving the scene.
As stated in the release, the guilty plea follows a January 1, 2021 crash that occurred at 2:44 a.m. on South 8th Street and Public Road.
Officers on the scene say two vehicles were involved, a BMW and a Trailblazer. According to police the BMW had four occupants including Kisha Cora, 22, and Aechediel Omar Rivera Cora, 1, who were both later pronounced dead.
Investigators state the BMW was traveling north on South 8th Street and the Trailblazer was traveling on that same street southbound. Police say the Trailblazer lost control and entered the northbound lane, striking the driver’s side of the BMW.
According to the release, once Roland was encountered by an off-duty trooper he fled from the scene.
Roldan is scheduled for sentencing on September 1, 2022. | https://www.pahomepage.com/news/crime-courts/man-pleads-guilty-in-crash-that-killed-woman-baby/ | 2022-06-22 21:34:47 | 0 | https://www.pahomepage.com/news/crime-courts/man-pleads-guilty-in-crash-that-killed-woman-baby/ |
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AL-FAKHEET, West Bank (AP) — After repeatedly rebuilding his home only to have it demolished by Israeli soldiers, Mohammed Abu Sabaha has a new plan to remain on the land — he is moving into a cave.
Abu Sabaha is among some 1,000 Palestinians at risk of expulsion from an arid region of the occupied West Bank that the Israeli military has designated as a live-fire training zone. Israel's Supreme Court upheld their expulsion in May after a two-decade legal battle.
Most residents of the area, known as Masafer Yatta, have remained in place since the ruling, even as Israeli security forces periodically roll in to demolish structures. But they could be forced out at any time, and rights groups fear Israel will do it gradually to evade international scrutiny.
The entrance to Abu Sabaha's cave is surrounded by the ruins of homes and animal pens that the soldiers demolished in earlier raids. The coo and cackle of chickens can be heard from inside a wrecked coop. A set of stone steps leads down into the cave, where he has strung up electrical lights, but it will take time to turn it into a home for his wife, parents and six children.
“We have suffered a lot because of this ruling. Especially the kids, who were born here,” he said, standing in the dimly lit cave. “They fled demolitions, then went back when we rebuilt, so many times.”
When the army isn't demolishing homes it is staging training exercises nearby. Tanks throw up dust clouds and heavy machine-gun fire and explosions echo across the desert hills. Abu Sabaha says his 3-year-old daughter Zeynab tenses up every time she sees them.
“She's always afraid they will come to destroy once again," he said.
The military declared this part of Masafer Yatta a firing and training zone in the early 1980s. Israeli authorities said the residents — Arab Bedouin who practice a traditional form of agriculture and animal herding — only used the area part of the year and had no permanent structures there at the time. In November 1999, security forces expelled some 700 villagers and destroyed homes and cisterns. The legal battle began the following year.
The families say they have been there for decades — from long before Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war — and have nowhere else to live. Some residents have traditionally resided in caves part of the year, as they graze sheep and goats in different areas.
Israel’s Supreme Court sided with the state in May, after the villagers rejected a compromise that would have allowed them to enter at certain times and practice agriculture for part of the year.
Since then, the army has demolished several structures and seized vehicles, setting up roadblocks and checkpoints to limit movement, according to Nidal Younes, head of the local council.
“All of this is within the framework of occupation, to frighten, to scare, to make people’s lives extremely difficult to force them to leave,” he said.
Masafer Yatta is in the 60% of the occupied West Bank known as Area C, where the Israeli military exercises full control under interim peace agreements reached with the Palestinians in the 1990s. Palestinian structures built without military permits — which residents say are nearly impossible to obtain — are at risk of demolition.
Area C is also home to several Jewish settlement outposts that are protected by the army despite being built without Israeli authorization. Nearly 500,000 settlers live in communities across the West Bank, most of which were planned and approved by the government. Many resemble small towns or suburbs, with apartment blocks, shopping malls and factories.
The Palestinians and the international community view the settlements as a major obstacle to resolving the century-old conflict because they absorb and divide up the land on which a future Palestinian state would be established alongside Israel.
Israel officially considers the West Bank disputed territory subject to negotiations, but every government since 1967 has expanded settlements, and the country's dominant right-wing parties are opposed to Palestinian statehood. One of the Supreme Court justices who issued the ruling on Masafer Yatta is a settler.
Eugene Kontorovich, a legal scholar at Israel's Kohelet Policy Forum, a right-wing think tank, said Israel could not allow “private squatters to determine the uses of state land" and was justified in barring people from entering a military firing range.
“The technical, legal justification is that it’s not their land," he added.
Rights groups say several other Palestinian communities across the West Bank could face similar threats of expulsion if the international community does not pressure Israel over Masafer Yatta. Israel has declared firing zones in 20% of the West Bank, affecting some 5,000 Palestinians from 38 communities, according to the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.
Dror Sadot, a spokeswoman for the Israeli rights group B'Tselem, said Israel would likely implement a “quiet transfer” in which it gradually makes life so difficult that families trickle out on their own.
The Association for Civil Rights in Israel, which has been waging a legal battle on behalf of the residents of Masafer Yatta for more than two decades, has filed another petition against the Supreme Court ruling.
Roni Pelli, an attorney with the group, said the “terrible ruling” goes against international law, which prohibits the transfer of civilians out of occupied territory.
“The legal consequence is that international humanitarian law is no longer relevant in the West Bank because the military commander can issue any order he wants,” she said.
“You don’t have to put people on trucks to force them from the land," she added. "I am really, really worried that it might become a humanitarian disaster.”
___
Associated Press reporters Emily Rose in Jerusalem and Nasser Nasser in al-Fakheet, West Bank contributed to this report. | https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Palestinians-left-in-tense-limbo-by-Israeli-17350414.php | 2022-08-04 08:08:49 | 0 | https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Palestinians-left-in-tense-limbo-by-Israeli-17350414.php |
CATLETTSBURG, Ky. — Tuesday was a good night for Boyd County Republicans as they won all contested county races on the general election ballot, according to unofficial totals from the Boyd County Courthouse.
Bobby Jack Woods, a longtime sheriff and former Kentucky State Police trooper, lost his bid for re-election to another four-year term as sheriff. Woods, a Democrat, lost to James "Jamie" Reihs, a Republican.
In the race for Boyd County Clerk, Kevin Johnston, the incumbent and a Republican, defeated David J. "DJ" Rymer, a Democrat, and will get a full four-year term.
Meanwhile, Curtis E. Dotson, a Republican, defeated Patrick M. "Pat" Hedrick, a Democrat, for a four-year term as county attorney.
In the race for Boyd County commissioner, David Salisbury II, a Republican incumbent, defeated Heather Moore-Frame, a Democrat, to win another four-year term on the Boyd County Fiscal Court.
In the other contested commissioner race, Jeremy K. Holbrook, a Republican, defeated Larry Brown, a Democrat and an incumbent commissioner.
In a nonpartisan race for Boyd County District Judge, Devon Reams defeated Anna Ruth.
In the nonpartisan race for Ashland Board of City Commissioners, all four incumbents won and will get another two-year term on the board.
The four winners in that race were Josh Blanton, Marty Gute, Amanda Clark and Cheryl Spriggs.
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EARLY VOTING: Oct. 26-Nov. 5
GENERAL ELECTION: Nov. 8
CANDIDATES IN CONTESTED RACES: Receive a questionnaire by sending an email to acopley@HDMediaLLC.com. | https://www.herald-dispatch.com/elections/boyd-county-republicans-see-success-in-county-level-races/article_08a62f2b-0e02-52ab-9824-164c0623e09b.html | 2022-11-09 04:19:57 | 0 | https://www.herald-dispatch.com/elections/boyd-county-republicans-see-success-in-county-level-races/article_08a62f2b-0e02-52ab-9824-164c0623e09b.html |
CLEVELAND (AP) _ The winning numbers in Saturday evening's drawing of the Ohio Lottery's "Rolling Cash 5" game were:
04-15-28-29-36
(four, fifteen, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty-six)
Estimated jackpot: $100,000
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New clothing, home goods retailer opens in Springfield | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/news/ohio/winning-numbers-drawn-in-rolling-cash-5-game/MS4EUPCVJFFODMK5DPKXVJMNAM/ | 2022-09-25 01:40:25 | 0 | https://www.springfieldnewssun.com/news/ohio/winning-numbers-drawn-in-rolling-cash-5-game/MS4EUPCVJFFODMK5DPKXVJMNAM/ |
Man killed in St. Cloud, police say
Police said they are currently investigating a homicide in St. Cloud.
Investigators are expected to provide additional details Wednesday evening.
St. Cloud Police Chief Douglas Goerke said around 3:21 p.m. on Wednesday, officers responded to an apartment.
A neighbor was informed by a child that her father was injured upstairs.
When the neighbor went upstairs, they found the victim, a man, on the floor.
According to the police chief, they received another 911 call from a woman who received a text message from the suspect.
In the text, the suspect, a woman, claimed she'd killed her husband and said she planned to take her own life, according to Goerke.
St. Cloud police said when they found the victim inside of the apartment, he was pronounced dead.
"We tried to make contact with the occupants of the residence. After several attempts of not receiving any response, our officers were forced to breach the door. Once they breached the door open, they located the male on the floor. They quickly removed him from the living room to an outside patio area and discovered he had succumbed to his injuries," Goerke said.
The police chief said the suspect was inside of the residence with injuries from an attempted suicide.
She was taken to the hospital and is in stable condition.
Goerke said she remains in custody.
According to St. Cloud police, the victim's death is being investigated as a homicide.
"This is an active investigation. At this point, a search warrant is being sought for the residence," Goerke said.
The victim and the suspect have not been identified. | https://www.wesh.com/article/st-cloud-murder-investigation/43032634 | 2023-02-23 01:05:00 | 1 | https://www.wesh.com/article/st-cloud-murder-investigation/43032634 |
Mass shootings lead to widening divide on state gun policies
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Mass shootings have commanded public attention on a disturbingly frequent basis across the U.S. But rather than provoking a unified response from elected officials, each additional shooting seems to be widening the political divide on gun policy among states.
"It's wash, rinse and repeat with these mass shootings," said Michael Anderson, a bartender who survived a mass shooting at a Colorado nightclub. "They happen, and then they happen, and then they happen — and then nothing gets done."
At least nothing that has put a halt to the violence.
In Democratic-led states with already restrictive gun laws, officials have responded to home-state tragedies with even more limits on guns — doubling down on a belief that future shootings can be thwarted by controlling access to lethal weapons.
In many states with Republican-led legislatures, high-profile shootings appear unlikely to prompt any new firearm restrictions this year — reflecting a belief that violent people, not their weapons, are the problem.
"Obviously, no one wants to see these tragedies occur — this loss of life — but how the problem is viewed, and therefore what the response is to that problem, is night and day difference," said Daniel Webster, an American health professor at the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions.
For the third straight year, the U.S. in 2022 recorded over 600 mass shootings in which at least four people were killed or injured, according to the Gun Violence Archive. This year got off to another deadly start, including three California mass shootings in barely a week that killed two dozen people. A Saturday morning shooting in an upscale Los Angeles neighborhood that killed at least three and wounded four added to the grim toll. That despite the fact California has some of the nation's strictest gun laws.
As more communities grieve, legislative sessions are getting underway in many states. Numerous gun-related bills have been filed, but common ground appears lacking.
In Texas, Democratic state Sen. Roland Gutierrez convened a Capitol news conference this past week with relatives of some of the 19 children and two teachers killed last May at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde. They pleaded with lawmakers to raise the age from 18 to 21 to buy semi-automatic rifles and lift restraints against lawsuits alleging negligence by law enforcement officers and public agencies.
"An 18-year-old should not be allowed to purchase an ugly weapon," said Felicia Martinez, whose 10-year-old son Xavier Lopez was killed in the attack. She added: "These laws need to be changed, and they need to be changed today — not tomorrow."
Yet that seems unlikely. Texas House Speaker Dade Phela told reporters earlier this month he didn't foresee enough support in the Republican-led House to pass bills limiting access to guns. Republican Gov. Greg Abbott has said raising the purchasing age for semi-automatic rifles would be "unconstitutional," though several states already have similar restrictions.
Instead, Texas officials responded last summer with $105.5 million for school safety and mental health initiatives.
Missouri seems similarly unlikely to enact stricter gun laws after a 19-year-old killed a teacher, a student and wounded seven others last October at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School in St. Louis. Police said they had previously responded to a call from the 19-year-old's mother to remove a gun from his possession, but they could not do so because Missouri lacks a red-flag law.
If such a law had been in place, "this would not have happened — at least that person, that situation, that gun, that death, all of that could have been prevented," said Janay Douglas, whose 15-year-old daughter fled from the shooter.
Democrats have sponsored legislation allowing authorities to remove guns from people at risk of causing harm. But its prospects are not good.
"I don't think a red flag law — the way I know it to be and the way it's been defined — has any chance of getting through the Missouri Senate, that's for certain," said Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden, a Republican.
Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, has instead proposed $50 million for school safety grants in response to the shooting.
In Oklahoma, which experienced several mass shootings, Republican lawmakers are expected to push for looser gun laws. GOP state Rep. Jim Olsen has filed a bill to lower the age for carrying a firearm from 21 to 18.
"It's a constitutional right," Olsen said. "The immaturity that exists at 18 sometimes also still exists at 22. So, what do we want to do? Raise the age to 25 or 30? I would think not."
By contrast, lawmakers in Democratic-led New York and Illinois moved fairly quickly to enact additional gun restrictions after mass shootings.
An 18-year-old shooter outfitted with body armor and a semi-automatic rifle killed 10 people and injured three others last May at a Buffalo grocery story in a predominantly black neighborhood. Within a month, the legislature and governor enacted laws barring people under age 21 from buying semi-automatic rifles, limiting the sale of bullet-resistant armor and tightening red-flag laws.
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, a Democrat, signed legislation earlier this month spurred largely by an Independence Day parade shooting that killed seven and injured dozens in the Chicago suburb of Highland Park. The law bans the sale or possession of dozens of specific types of semi-automatic guns and high-capacity ammunition magazines. A judge has temporarily blocked it after gun-rights advocates sued.
In Colorado, lawmakers are proposing a variety of new gun restrictions, two months after five people were killed at an LGBTQ nightclub in Colorado Springs. Democratic leaders have been most supportive of proposals to strengthen red flag laws and raise the minimum age to purchase firearms from 18 to 21.
Anderson, who was bartending at Club Q during the shooting, wants politicians to embrace greater gun control and better mental health services.
"After what I've been through and my friends and our community here, you know, doing nothing is not an option," Anderson said.
___
Associated Press writers Acacia Coronado in Austin, Texas; Jesse Bedayn in Denver; Sean Murphy in Oklahoma City; Thomas Peipert in Colorado Springs, Colorado; Sarah Rankin in Richmond, Virginia; Gary Robertson in Raleigh, North Carolina; and Jim Salter in St. Louis contributed to this report. | https://www.krgv.com/news/mass-shootings-lead-to-widening-divide-on-state-gun-policies | 2023-02-20 12:05:58 | 0 | https://www.krgv.com/news/mass-shootings-lead-to-widening-divide-on-state-gun-policies |
Original Prince demo tape up for auction
Published: Jun. 18, 2023 at 7:28 AM EDT|Updated: 1 hour ago
(CNN) - The self-titled demo tape that late musician Prince used to land his first recording contract is up for auction.
Boston-based auction house RR Auction is selling the demo, which was recorded in 1976.
It contains unreleased versions of the songs “Just As Long As We’re Together” and “My Love is Forever,” as well as the never released, “Jelly Jam.”
Prince was just 18 years old when he recorded the tracks. They were all written, sung and arranged by him.
The demo is part of the “Marvels of Modern Music” auction that ends on Thursday.
Prince died in 2016.
His estate is not associated with the auction.
Copyright 2023 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.cleveland19.com/2023/06/18/original-prince-demo-tape-up-auction/ | 2023-06-18 12:38:04 | 1 | https://www.cleveland19.com/2023/06/18/original-prince-demo-tape-up-auction/ |
PHOENIX, AZ — Meet Wgasa, the Phoenix Zoo's new orangutan! The 16-year-old male Bornean orangutan came from the Henry Doorly Zoo in Nebreaska.
According to a press release, he arrived to the Phoenix Zoo at the end of April and has been “getting acquainted with his new companion, Rayma.”
Rayma and Wgasa are normally in their habitat in the mornings by 9 a.m., shared the zoo.
IF YOU GO
- Location: 455 North Galvin Parkway
- Hours till May 31: Monday- Sunday [9 a.m. – 5 p.m.]
- Member early entry at 8 a.m.
MORE ABOUT RAYMA
Rayma made her way from the Milwaukee County Zoo to Phoenix in 2019. Unfortunately, Daniel passed away in July 2021. | https://www.abc15.com/entertainment/events/phoenix-zoo-welcomes-new-bornean-orangutan | 2022-05-11 23:41:05 | 0 | https://www.abc15.com/entertainment/events/phoenix-zoo-welcomes-new-bornean-orangutan |
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin days after a short-lived rebellion by the mercenary chief and his private army, the Kremlin’s spokesman said Monday.
The three-hour meeting took place at the Kremlin on June 29 and also involved commanders from the military company Prigozhin founded, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
Wagner mercenaries have fought alongside Russian troops in Ukraine. Prigozhin has a long-simmering feud with Russia’s top military brass which on June 24 culminated in an armed mutiny in which he led his fighters into Russia.
Prigozhin ended the mutiny after a deal was brokered for him to be exiled to Belarus.
The confirmation of a face-to-face meeting with Putin, who has branded Prigozhin as a backstabbing traitor, adds a new twist to the uncertainty surrounding the mercenary chief. His fate and whereabouts have been unknown since the abortive mutiny, which severely weakened Putin’s authority.
Peskov said that during the June 29 meeting, Putin offered an “assessment” of Wagner’s actions on the battlefield in Ukraine and “of the events of June 24.” The president also “listened to the explanations of the commanders and offered them options for further employment and further use in combat,” the Kremlin spokesman said.
“The commanders themselves presented their version of what happened. They underscored that they are staunch supporters and soldiers of the head of state and the commander-in-chief, and also said that they are ready to continue to fight for their homeland,” Peskov said.
A total of 35 people took part in the meeting, including Wagner commanders and the leadership of the company, namely Prigozhin himself, Peskov said.
Also Monday, Russia’s Defense Ministry published a video featuring the country’s military chief — the first time Gen. Valery Gerasimov was shown since the rebelling aimed to oust him.
During last month’s revolt, Prigozhin repeatedly denounced Gerasimov, who serves as chief of the general staff of the Russian armed forces, and Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu for failing to provide his fighters in Ukraine with ammunition.
Monday’s updates appeared to be an attempt by Moscow to take control of the narrative after a turbulent period.
Meanwhile, a Russian airstrike on a school in southern Ukraine killed four adults as people gathered to receive humanitarian aid, the governor of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region said Monday, branding the incident “a war crime.”
Three women and a man, all in their 40s, died in Sunday’s attack in the town of Orikhiv, Gov. Yuriy Malashko said.
A guided aerial bomb caused an explosion at the school, Malashko said, without providing evidence. Eleven other people were wounded in the attack, he said.
Overall, Russia fired on 10 settlements in the province over the course of a day, he said.
Moscow denies it targets civilian locations. Russia has been accused numerous times of doing so and committing other war crimes since its full-scale invasion of neighboring Ukraine in February 2022.
In March, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin for war crimes, accusing him of personal responsibility for the abductions of children from Ukraine.
Broad investigations are also underway in Ukraine, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland. The International Center for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, located in The Hague, is helping with those investigations.
Zaporizhzhia province is home to Europe’s largest nuclear power plant, which Russian forces seized early in the war, and is one of four regions of Ukraine that Putin illegally annexed last year. Retaking the province is one of the targets of a Ukrainian counteroffensive.
Russian aerial assaults continued across Ukraine between Sunday and Monday, according to a summary from the Ukrainian presidential office.
In the Donetsk region, the Russians used aircraft, missile systems and heavy artillery to shell residential areas of 6 cities and villages, injuring one person, the office reported.
The Russian army attacked residential areas of Kherson, the regional capital of a province of the same name. A 66-year-old woman was injured, the presidential office said.
___
Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | https://pix11.com/ap-international/ap-russian-air-strike-on-ukraine-aid-distribution-at-school-branded-a-war-crime/ | 2023-07-10 11:23:11 | 0 | https://pix11.com/ap-international/ap-russian-air-strike-on-ukraine-aid-distribution-at-school-branded-a-war-crime/ |
AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Decent, Inc., an Austin-based PEO providing small businesses affordable benefits, payroll, and human resource solutions, has doubled its network of direct primary care providers through a new partnership with One Medical. It means Decent members can now enroll in health plans that feature unlimited visits at One Medical's Texas offices at no cost to them* – while saving more than 35 percent on their health insurance costs.
Direct primary care, or DPC, is a membership model of primary care that removes the need for claims and other administrative work tied to traditional health insurance's fee-for-service structure. DPC is the cornerstone of Decent's innovative approach to fixing healthcare for their small business clients.
"We believe the best type of healthcare is where nothing gets in the way between the provider and patient relationship," said Nick Soman, Founder and CEO of Decent. "That's the foundation of direct primary care, and we're proud to offer small businesses some of the first health plans built around this high-touch style of patient care."
Initially founded in 2018 to fill the gap of health insurance options for the self-employed, Decent re-launched in 2021 as a professional employer organization (PEO) for small businesses, expanding its services to include payroll, employee management, compliance, and more.
Of the nearly 500 PEOs in the U.S., Decent is the only PEO that administers its own health insurance plan, which leans heavily on DPCs for patient engagement and cost control. DPC is gaining momentum in the U.S. as physician burnout and health care costs climb. Over the last five years, DPC membership rates have increased 241%, according to Hint Health's 2022 Trends in Direct Primary Care report. Texas was one of eight states with the highest DPC membership increase in one year.
"Small businesses have been hit hard by rising prices. As a PEO, we're making it possible for companies and start-ups to access the same level of benefits and HR solutions typically only available at larger enterprises, helping them retain and recruit top talent," said Soman.
Healthcare costs are typically the second-highest employee expense and continue to outpace wage growth, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation, limiting small businesses' ability to offer health care benefits. In 2021, annual premiums averaged $7,739 for single coverage and $22,221 for families. Premiums for small business health plans are expected to rise higher than in the prior two years.
Decent offers an employer benefits package that includes One Medical providers as an in-network choice for direct primary care. One Medical has ten clinics across Austin, Dallas, and Houston and is expanding.
To learn more about Decent, visit www.decent.com or contact hello@decent.com.
*Labwork and prescriptions will be billed to insurance (as well as services performed by 3rd parties); copays and deductible will apply.
About Decent
Decent, Inc. is a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) based in Austin, Texas, offering affordable employee benefits, including healthcare, payroll, and HR solutions for small businesses and start-ups throughout Texas. To learn more, visit www.decent.com.
About One Medical
One Medical is a U.S. national human-centered and technology-powered primary care organization with seamless digital health and inviting in-office care, convenient to where people work, shop, live, and click. One Medical's vision is to delight millions of members with better health and better care while reducing costs, within a better team environment. One Medical's mission is to transform health care for all through a human-centered, technology-powered model. Headquartered in San Francisco, 1Life Healthcare, Inc. is the administrative and managerial services company for the affiliated One Medical physician-owned professional corporations that deliver medical services in-office and virtually. 1Life and the One Medical entities do business under the "One Medical" brand.
CONTACT
Ellen Decareau
Decent, Communications Lead
Ellen@Decent.com
(512) 300-3334
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SOURCE Decent | https://www.wsaz.com/prnewswire/2022/10/17/decent-adds-one-medical-doubling-its-direct-primary-care-network-texas-small-businesses/ | 2022-10-17 16:17:42 | 1 | https://www.wsaz.com/prnewswire/2022/10/17/decent-adds-one-medical-doubling-its-direct-primary-care-network-texas-small-businesses/ |
UVALDE, Texas (KXAN) — Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District police chief Pete Arredondo will resign from his seat on the Uvalde City Council, according to a local newspaper’s report.
“After much consideration, I regret to inform those who voted for me that I have decided to step down as a member of the city council for District 3. The mayor, the city council, and the city staff must continue to move forward without distractions. I feel this is the best decision for Uvalde,” Arredondo told the Uvalde Leader-News.
The resignation announcement comes amid demands for Arredondo step down from the position after questions were raised about his response to the Robb Elementary school shooting where 19 students and two teachers were killed.
According to a statement obtained by NBC News from the City of Uvalde, it had not received a letter of resignation from Arredondo yet.
“While it is the right thing to do, no one from the City has seen a letter or any other documentation of his resignation, or spoken with him,” the city said in the statement.
Delays in the law enforcement response at Robb Elementary School have become the focus of federal, state and local investigations.
Arredondo testified during a private Texas House committee hearing June 21, but he did not answer any questions from reporters as he left the chamber.
According to reports, Arredondo remains on administrative leave from the UCISD police department since June 22.
There is no indication Arredondo will resign from the UCISD position. Lt. Mike Hernandez was named as the interim chief while Arredondo is on leave.
On June 7, Arredondo did not attend the Uvalde City Council meeting, despite being newly elected to the role. | https://www.krqe.com/news/national/uvalde-cisd-police-chief-reportedly-resigning-from-city-council/ | 2022-07-02 21:17:23 | 0 | https://www.krqe.com/news/national/uvalde-cisd-police-chief-reportedly-resigning-from-city-council/ |
Kevin D. Martin Jul 14, 2022 Jul 14, 2022 Updated 44 min ago 💬 Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save Kevin D. Martin, 65, of Courtdale Avenue, Courtdale, died Wednesday, July 13, 2022, in Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.Funeral arrangements are pending from Hugh B. Hughes & Son Inc. Funeral Home, 1044 Wyoming Ave., Forty Fort. Start a dialogue, stay on topic and be civil. If you don't follow the rules, your comment may be deleted. User Legend: ModeratorTrusted User Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save Tags Funeral Arrangement Kevin D. Martin Wilkes-barre General Hospital Hugh B. Hughes & Son Inc Pend Fort Recent Obituaries Achhammer Sr., Carl M. Achhammer Sr., Carl Maximillian Bedrin, Karen Burkoski, Patrick A. Farrell, Kevin M. Hurrey, Joanne Homschek Kopec, Michael J. Krenitsky, Stella Minnick Krull Jr., Joseph B. Lefkoski, Ruth A. Lucchino, Peter D. Maguire, Dorothy (Stark) Maharty, Lois Jean Martin, Kevin D. McCormack, Catherine J. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. Local Obituaries Each day's obituaries, delivered to your inbox. Please enter a valid email address. Sign up Manage your lists | https://www.citizensvoice.com/zz-dnp/kevin-d-martin/article_32cc6144-1847-5871-b948-bf799030b2d9.html | 2022-07-15 03:41:21 | 1 | https://www.citizensvoice.com/zz-dnp/kevin-d-martin/article_32cc6144-1847-5871-b948-bf799030b2d9.html |
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — R’Bonney Gabriel, a fashion designer, model and sewing instructor from Texas who competition officials said is the first Filipino American to win Miss USA, was crowned Miss Universe on Saturday night.
Gabriel closed her eyes and clasped hands with runner-up Miss Venezuela, Amanda Dudamel, at the moment of the dramatic reveal of the winner, then beamed after her name was announced.
Thumping music rang out, and she was handed a bouquet of flowers, draped in the winner’s sash and crowned with a tiara onstage at the 71st Miss Universe Competition, held in New Orleans.
In the Q&A at the last stage of the competition for the three finalists, Gabriel was asked how she would work to demonstrate Miss Universe is “an empowering and progressive organization” if she were to win.
“I would use it to be a transformational leader,” she responded, citing her work using recycled materials in her fashion design and teaching sewing to survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence. “It is so important to invest in others, invest in our community and use your unique talent to make a difference.”
Rights to the pageant — once partly owned by former President Donald Trump — were bought last year by a Thai business tycoon and transgender activist for $20 million from IMG Worldwide LLC, a New York-based sports and talent marketing company.
Chakrapong “Anne” Chakrajutathib, who controls JKN Global Group Public Co. Ltd., is a reality show star in Thailand who is outspoken about being a transgender woman.
Chakrajutathib said when the purchase was announced in October that she wanted to “evolve the brand for the next generation.”
According to Miss Universe, Gabriel is a former high school volleyball player and graduate of the University of North Texas. A short bio posted on the organization’s website said she is also CEO of her own sustainable clothing line.
“We all have something special, and when we plant those seeds to other people in our life, we transform them and we use that as a vehicle for change,” Gabriel said.
Nearly 90 contestants from around the world took part in the competition, organizers said, involving “personal statements, in depth interviews and various categories including evening gown & swimwear.”
The second runner-up was Miss Dominican Republic, Andreina Martinez.
Miss Curacao, Gabriela Dos Santos, and Miss Puerto Rico, Ashley Carino, rounded out the top five finalists.
Last year’s winner was Harnaaz Sandhu of India. | https://www.wfla.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-miss-usa-rbonney-gabriel-wins-miss-universe-competition/ | 2023-01-15 18:53:59 | 0 | https://www.wfla.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-miss-usa-rbonney-gabriel-wins-miss-universe-competition/ |
New 18-part video program focuses on sex as a biological variable in preclinical research to address knowledge gaps in scientific inquiry and accuracy
NEW YORK, June 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cohen Veterans Bioscience (CVB) is proud to introduce an unprecedented new video series that provides the practical knowledge necessary for researchers to incorporate sex as a biological variable into their current and future research. Titled Addressing Sex as a Biological Variable in Preclinical Pharmacology and Neuroscience Research: Accounting for Neglected Factors and Applying Practical Solutions to Enhance Rigor and Reproducibility, the 18-part video training program was developed to help strengthen the translation of basic research findings to human care.
Developed under the leadership of Dr. Chantelle Ferland-Beckham, PhD, Senior Director of External Affairs and head of educational programming for CVB, the video series was created in response to a 2015 National Institutes of Health (NIH) policy aiming to transform research design, analysis, and reporting in the preclinical sphere by ensuring that both male and female organisms were included in early-stage animal research. A similar policy was enacted nearly 20 years earlier (in 1993) mandating the inclusion of women in human studies. Prior to 2015, most biomedical research was conducted solely in male animals. As a result, females were historically underrepresented in preclinical research studies.
"Research based solely on males can translate poorly to female human populations," said Dr. Ferland-Beckham. "This is particularly troubling in the field of neuroscience, where there are many well-established differences in basic biology between men and women. Research in brain disorders often shows sex differences in the prevalence, progression, and responses to treatment. By determining how males and females are both similar and different across biological systems, we drive the discovery of health solutions that better fit the entire population," Dr. Ferland-Beckham added.
For many researchers, navigating the new policy has led to confusion and revealed a knowledge gap that has hindered them from fully adopting the policy. This new video series aims to overcome that knowledge gap. Across the 18 videos, researchers will be able to review what is known about sex differences in the fields of neuroscience and pharmacology and learn why research inclusive of both sexes is important for advancing patient-centered treatments and spurs innovation by opening new areas of potential discovery.
Dr. Magali Haas, MD, PhD, CEO of CVB noted, "Females have historically not been part of the equation when it comes to the important health discoveries that have shaped clinical care. The assumption that women and men were fundamentally similar beyond the reproductive system left major gaps in our understanding, at the detriment of informing sex-appropriate medical care. When we factor biological sex into the design, analysis and reporting of all research studies, we ensure that we aren't making decisions for 100% of the population based on half of the data."
The videos are available now on the Global Preclinical Data Forum's website (https://www.preclinicaldataforum.org/addressing-sex-as-a-biological-variable-training/), a joint global initiative of CVB and the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology to address modern issues in preclinical science that contribute to poor research quality and hinder progress in clinical care. Many of the activities of the Global Preclinical Data Forum center around providing training to early career researchers on how to ensure that the science they conduct abides by rigorous standards of experimental design, methodology, analysis, interpretation and reporting.
Dr. Ferland-Beckham added: "When we have confidence that the research on which we base our knowledge is conducted in such a way that others can reliably reproduce and extend the findings, then our ability to further scientific discovery and maximize efforts increases. CVB believes that training the next generation of the scientific workforce in these principles is key to improving the success rate of clinical research and development. We are proud to be able to add this training series on sex as a biological variable to our toolbox of resources that will further improve the basic starting material for all research in brain health."
The creation of these training videos was made possible through a generous grant from the National Institute of General Medicines (Grant Number: 5 R25 GM133017-03), awarded to Cohen Veterans Bioscience (Principal Investigator: Chantelle Ferland-Beckham, PhD), and through the direct contributions of an advisory board of internationally recognized experts in the fields of sex differences, neuropharmacology and research design and analysis.
Cohen Veterans Bioscience (CVB) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) biomedical research organization dedicated to fast-tracking the development of diagnostic tests and personalized therapeutics for the millions of veterans and civilians who suffer the devastating effects of trauma-related and other brain disorders. CVB promotes best practices in research for evidence-driven, reproducible, and effective solutions. To support & learn more about our research efforts visit www.cohenveteransbioscience.org.
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SOURCE Cohen Veterans Bioscience | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/20/sex-science-video-series-strengthen-basic-research/ | 2022-06-20 14:42:35 | 0 | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/20/sex-science-video-series-strengthen-basic-research/ |
ATLANTA (AP) — Roslyn Pope, a college professor and musician who wrote “An Appeal for Human Rights,” laying out the reasons for the Atlanta Student Movement against systemic racism in 1960, has died. She was 84.
Pope died Jan. 18 in Arlington, Texas, where she moved from Atlanta to be with her daughters after her health began to fail in 2021, according to her family’s obituary.
The document Pope wrote as a 21-year-old senior at Spelman College launched a nonviolent campaign of boycotts and sit-ins by Black college students protesting discrimination not just in voting but in education, jobs, housing, hospitals, movies, concerts, restaurants and law enforcement.
“We do not intend to wait placidly for those rights, which are already legally and morally ours, to be meted out to us one at a time,” the Appeal declared. “We plan to use every legal and non-violent means at our disposal to secure full citizenship rights as members of this great Democracy of ours.”
Atlanta’s white-owned newspapers wouldn’t publish it, and Georgia’s segregationist leaders tried to dismiss it, saying it couldn’t possibly be the work of college students. But The New York Times ran it on a full page, as did other publications across the U.S. It was read into the Congressional Record as a testament to how segregation was stifling the ability of people to coexist with equality and dignity.
“She really kicked off our movement and made it acceptable,” Charles Black, who was a Morehouse College student when he joined Pope and others organizing the campaign, recalled Monday.
Pope showed that change doesn’t depend on “great men” like the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., and that a few committed people can make a real difference, Black said. “Because of her words, everybody understood what we were trying to do, and that’s why we had such broad, community-wide support.”
Born Oct. 29, 1938, in Atlanta, Pope was exceptional from an early age. She belonged to an all-Black Girl Scout troop and was sent as Georgia’s representative to a national camp in Cody, Wyoming, that no Black Scout had attended before.
“I was one little dark person among 50 white faces,” she recalled in an AP interview in 2020. “It became national news. Nobody in Atlanta could fathom that such a thing could happen.”
Pope was elected student body president at her segregated Booker T. Washington high school and at college. Her piano playing at Friendship Baptist Church led to a performance with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and later, a Merrill scholarship to study music during her junior year in Paris.
The experience was life-changing after growing up in a society where race laws restricted her every move, she told the AP.
In Paris, “there were no boundaries — no places I couldn’t go, no programs I couldn’t take advantage of, no limits to my existence. I could eat where I wanted — I couldn’t do that in Atlanta. It felt like shackles had been taken off me. It was just unbelievable.”
Along with movement co-founder Lonnie King, a Morehouse student who had been in the Navy, she felt suffocated after returning to the segregated South. “We just could not pretend that being treated as inferior was all right,” she said.
Pope said she was sharing her misery with future state lawmaker and NAACP chairman Julian Bond at an off-campus drugstore when King walked in waving a newspaper: Four Black students had been arrested at a sit-in the day before in Greensboro, North Carolina.
“It just clicked,” she said. “’Why aren’t we doing that?’ we said to each other. And before the day was over, we decided to start a movement. We would no longer bear the mantle of inferiority.”
Working in secret, they recruited other students at Morehouse, Spelman, Clark and Morris Brown colleges, Atlanta University and the Interdenominational Theological Center. The six university presidents got wind of their efforts and tried to quash it. When the students refused, they were told to write up a clear explanation of what they hoped to accomplish.
King appointed Pope to a committee to draft the document, and after the young men let days pass without contributing, told her to “write the damn thing,” Black said.
And so Pope did, longhand. She and Bond then spent the night at the dining room table of Spelman professor Howard Zinn, who offered his typewriter. “Julian Bond was typing while I handed him the pages,” Pope said. “We were there all night because we didn’t have a lot of time.”
While the students’ campaign of civil disobedience would eventually break Atlanta’s stalemate over civil rights and hasten the end of racist Jim Crow laws and policies across the U.S., Pope remained a mostly private figure.
She earned a masters in English at Georgia State University and then a doctorate in humanities at Syracuse University, all while raising two daughters, Rhonda and Donna Walker, after a brief marriage to John W. Walker.
She later taught religious studies and led the music department at Penn State University, but said she faced a losing battle there against white prejudice, so she moved to Bishop College in Dallas. After that historically Black college closed, she taught literature and humanities at the University of Texas at Arlington. She later worked in advertising for 20 years at Southwestern Bell before retiring to Atlanta.
“She was a very quiet and unassuming person, not the kind of person you would expect to achieve that kind of status and leadership, necessarily, but she did,” said Black, who described Pope as a “sage.”
“The fact that she was able to put that document in the frame of human rights rather than civil rights was rather prophetic and very forward thinking. Civil rights can be voted in and out of existence, but human rights are inherent in our mere existence, and she recognized that early on,” he said.
Pope said she was thrilled in 2020 to share her experiences with students at Decatur High School as they researched the student movement and the related imprisonment of Martin Luther King for a Georgia Historical Society marker. The same students then campaigned to bring down a nearby Confederate monument.
The Appeal “is just as relevant now as it was when I wrote it,” she told them. “I’m glad that I could do something. It might have been a small contribution, but I contributed.”
The Friendship Baptist Church plans a Feb. 17 service in her memory, and a celebration of Pope’s contributions to racial equality will be held at Spelman College on March 9, Black said. | https://www.kark.com/news/national/ap-roslyn-pope-author-of-appeal-for-human-rights-dies-at-84/ | 2023-02-13 20:34:24 | 0 | https://www.kark.com/news/national/ap-roslyn-pope-author-of-appeal-for-human-rights-dies-at-84/ |
Police: More than 100 teens involved in massive fight at amusement park
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV/Gray News) - Police were called to an amusement park in Missouri after a large brawl broke out over the weekend.
KCTV reports that the Worlds of Fun amusement park celebrated its 50th season on Saturday but by the end of the day, it was forced to remove dozens of teens for unruly behavior.
The Clay County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were called to the park for reports of a fight that involved over 100 teens.
Security said they tried to break up the crowd and move the group out of the park, but the fight continued.
A deputy ended up being punched in the face by a girl who was arrested and turned over to her parents.
According to Kansas City police, the group was eventually moved to the parking lot. However, they started fighting again.
Deputies and Worlds of Fun security were able to clear the group about an hour after they were first called.
Rumors of one of the juveniles involved having a gun were not able to be verified, police stated.
Authorities said none of the teens involved in the fight appeared to be accompanied by an adult.
Copyright 2023 KCTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wistv.com/2023/04/11/police-more-than-100-teens-involved-massive-fight-amusement-park/ | 2023-04-11 19:46:19 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/2023/04/11/police-more-than-100-teens-involved-massive-fight-amusement-park/ |
One of humankind’s original sins has been to adversely alter nature and its complex balances, usually without awareness and understanding, but too often with misguided intention.
The spread of Homo sapiens across the globe itself inescapably burdened the rest of life on Earth. The poorly thought out movement of plants and animals to habitats beyond their native ones is a colossal additional burden we also can’t help imposing.
Many species don’t survive in their new human-selected locations, but some have a period of wild, unopposed success. The natural factors keeping them in balance with the rest of life are missing, so they vigorously spread and outcompete the native species essential to the natural habitat.
Having recognized the harm done in enabling many invasive species to overrun much of North America and the rest of the world, some people would take up chemical and physical arms against them in an effort to undo that original sin. Too late. These species can’t be put back in the bottle of their original habitat, and scorched earth efforts do much additional harm to nature.
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As we’ve said before, the most effective response is to put resources into preserving natural habitat and promoting native species. People still routinely make important decisions about plants on their properties without regard to their burden or benefit on wildlife of all kinds.
A bill approved by a state Senate Environment and Energy Committee last month would finally return New Jersey to sensible engagement on this issue, applying some resistance to the continued use of the most problematic invasive plants. That should nudge residents and businesses toward making better garden, landscaping and maybe eventually lawn choices.
The legislation would ban trade in more than two dozen non-native plants to start, unless the state issues a special permit for it. Familiar plants under the ban would include tree of heaven, porcelain berry, English ivy, Amur honeysuckle, purple loosestrife, Japanese crabapple and Bradford pear (known for its brief showy white blossoms in spring and limbs that break off in the wind).
Environmentalists who testified at the committee hearing said about 200 invasive plants have already overrun the state, so the banned list should be much larger. Under the bill, the list will be enlarged in an orderly way by the N.J. Department of Agriculture.
To advise the department on possible changes to the regulation and additions to the restricted plants, the state’s Invasive Species Council will be revived. That panel was created by Gov. Jim McGreevey in 2004 and then disbanded by Gov. Chris Christie a decade ago.
The New Jersey Landscape and Nursery Association said the industry supports the bill. Executive Director Lori Jenssen said in a statement to the committee, “Providing that the legislation allows for a reasonable transition and the departments in charge of administering the program provide the proper guidance, the industry will be able to adjust.”
The association expects the new law to help curb invasive species, and said it would like a seat on the revived Invasive Species Council. “We as an industry understand that things change and that New Jersey is not alone in trying to curb invasive species,” Jenssen said.
Actually, New Jersey at the moment is practically alone in not trying to curb them. Environmentalists said it is one of just five states nationally that has no statewide regulations or strategy to ban or contain invasive species.
The issue has bipartisan support and so enactment in some form looks likely. The Senate bill is sponsored by Democrats, and Republicans introduced a bill in the Assembly last year to restore the Invasive Species Council.
Legislation to reduce and prevent new plantings of invasive species is good and long overdue. Legislators could improve it before passage by including a program to encourage those blocked from using problem plants to choose from among the good, beneficial native alternatives.
Ordinary citizens and businesses have a great deal of habitat under their control, and most do so little to ensure that it supports New Jersey’s rich wildlife diversity. They could do more than government to benefit nature in the state by making simple adjustments to the plantings around them. | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/our-view-new-jersey-sensibly-might-quit-helping-invasive-plants/article_a0e726a8-9e84-11ed-9a39-3b3f6830d892.html | 2023-01-30 08:33:00 | 0 | https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/our-view-new-jersey-sensibly-might-quit-helping-invasive-plants/article_a0e726a8-9e84-11ed-9a39-3b3f6830d892.html |
(The Hill) — Moderna said Friday it is suing Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech, alleging patent infringement over the COVID-19 vaccine.
The move sets up a showdown between two major vaccine makers that together have helped blunt the impacts of the pandemic in the United States and other countries.
“We believe that Pfizer and BioNTech unlawfully copied Moderna’s inventions, and they have continued to use them without permission,” Moderna Chief Legal Officer Shannon Thyme Klinger said in a statement.
Moderna is seeking compensation from Pfizer for the use of technology that Moderna says it pioneered.
The move also marks that Moderna views the pandemic as being in a different phase. The company said that it previously pledged not to enforce it patents while the pandemic continued. But, it said, “in March 2022, when the collective fight against COVID-19 entered a new phase and vaccine supply was no longer a barrier to access in many parts of the world, Moderna updated its pledge.”
It now says that while it will not enforce its patents in 92 low and middle-income countries, it will in other parts of the world.
“We have not been served and are unable to comment at this time,” Pfizer’s media relations department wrote in an email.
Moderna said that Pfizer infringed on work on its mRNA vaccine technology dating back as early as 2010, well before the pandemic began.
“This foundational platform, which we began building in 2010, along with our patented work on coronaviruses in 2015 and 2016, enabled us to produce a safe and highly effective COVID-19 vaccine in record time after the pandemic struck,” Moderna CEO Stéphane Bancel said in a statement.
Moderna said it is seeking compensation but not to block the use of the Pfizer vaccine.
“Recognizing the need to ensure continued access to these lifesaving vaccines, Moderna is not seeking to remove [the Pfizer vaccine] from the market and is not asking for an injunction to prevent its future sale,” Moderna said. | https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/news/national-news/moderna-sues-pfizer-biontech-over-covid-19-vaccine-patents/ | 2022-08-26 14:06:12 | 1 | https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/news/national-news/moderna-sues-pfizer-biontech-over-covid-19-vaccine-patents/ |
Alejandra Marquez Janse is a producer for NPR's evening news program All Things Considered. She was part of a team that traveled to Uvalde, Texas, months after the mass shooting at Robb Elementary to cover its impact on the community. She also helped script and produce NPR's first bilingual special coverage of the State of the Union – broadcast in Spanish and English. | https://www.nepm.org/national-world-news/national-world-news/2023-06-09/veteran-astronaut-peggy-whitson-says-more-private-space-flights-are-in-the-horizon | 2023-06-09 22:45:21 | 1 | https://www.nepm.org/national-world-news/national-world-news/2023-06-09/veteran-astronaut-peggy-whitson-says-more-private-space-flights-are-in-the-horizon |
By MICHAEL R. SISAK and JENNIFER PELTZ (Associated Press)
NEW YORK (AP) — Three men convicted in a post-9/11 terrorism sting have been ordered freed from prison by a judge who deemed their lengthy sentences “unduly harsh and unjust” and decried the FBI’s role in radicalizing them in a plot to blow up New York synagogues and shoot down National Guard planes.
Onta Williams, David Williams and Laguerre Payen — three of the men known as the “Newburgh Four” — were “hapless, easily manipulated and penurious petty criminals” caught up more than a decade ago in a scheme driven by overzealous FBI agents and a dodgy informant, U.S. District Judge Colleen McMahon said in her ruling Thursday.
“The real lead conspirator was the United States,” McMahon wrote in granting the men’s request for compassionate release, effective in three months.
She said that it was “heinous” of the men to agree to participate in what she called the government’s “made for TV movie.” But, the judge added, “the sentence was the product of a fictitious plot to do things that these men had never remotely contemplated, and that were never going to happen.”
She excoriated the government for sending “a villain” of an informant “to troll among the poorest and weakest of men for ‘terrorists’ who might prove susceptible to an offer of much-needed cash in exchange for committing a faux crime.”
The U.S. attorney’s office declined to comment on the judge’s decision. A message seeking comment was sent to the FBI.
Citing concerns for the men’s health and her own qualms about the case, McMahon cut the 25-year mandatory minimum sentences she imposed on them in 2011 to time served plus 90 days. She said that would allow time for probation officials to prepare and for Payen’s lawyer to line up supportive housing for the man, who has a severe mental illness.
“We are tremendously pleased that our clients are on their way home — even if it’s fourteen years too late,” said Amith R. Gupta, part of a group of lawyers representing Payen and the Willamses, who are not related. Gupta in his statement described the three as destitute men “entrapped for their race, religion, and working-class backgrounds by a government looking to spread fear of Muslims and justify bloated budgets.”
Kathy Manley, who represented Payen, said the prosecution “should never have happened, but now at least the men will soon be out of prison.” Samuel Braverman, who represented Payen at trial, called the ruling “incredibly brave and just.”
The fourth man, James Cromitie, wasn’t part of the compassionate release request and is expected to complete his prison sentence in 2030.
Cromitie’s attorney, Kerry Lawrence, plans to speak with him about pursuing similar action on his behalf.
“I’m confident he would be entitled to relief for the same reasons articulated by Judge McMahon for the other defendants,” Lawrence said.
Payen, Cromitie and the Williamses were arrested in 2009, during a period of heightened public and law enforcement concern about the threat of terror strikes hatched within the U.S. by supporters of foreign extremists.
Officials portrayed Cromitie as the ringleader of a “chilling plot” among “extremely violent men” loyal to a Pakistani terrorist group — though the government later decided not to present any evidence about foreign terrorist organizations at trial. A court complaint described him as a man seething with anti-American and antisemitic sentiment and eager to translate those feelings into bloody action.
Prosecutors said the defendants had spent months scouting targets and securing what they thought were explosives and a surface-to-air missile, aiming to shoot down planes at the Air National Guard base in Newburgh, New York, and blow up synagogues in Riverdale, a heavily Jewish part of the Bronx. They were arrested there after allegedly planting bombs that were, in fact, packed with inert explosives supplied by the FBI.
From the start, relatives said the four were men who were down on their luck after doing prison time.
The men’s lawyers soon raised questions about entrapment — a legal defense that argues that people were enticed into illegal conduct they wouldn’t have otherwise committed.
The defense lawyers said federal informant Shaheed Hussain tried to stir up the men with rhetoric and went on to choose the targets, offer hefty payment, buy the defendants groceries, and provide the fake bombs and missile. The defense portrayed Hussain as a self-serving manipulator who was trying to please the government after his own, unrelated fraud conviction.
Jurors deliberated for eight days before convicting the men in 2010. Three years later, they lost an appeal.
A possible phone number for Hussain rang unanswered Thursday night.
Hussain also worked with the FBI on other stings, including one that targeted an Albany pizza shop owner and an imam — and involved a loan using money from a fictitious missile sale. Both men, who said they were tricked, were convicted of money laundering and conspiring to aid a terrorist group.
A few years later, Hussain was in the public eye again when a stretch limo crashed in rural Schoharie, New York, killing 20 people. Hussain owned the limo company, operated by his son Nauman Hussain.
After it emerged that the limo had failed a safety inspection a month before the crash and that the slain driver didn’t have a commercial license, Nauman Hussain was charged with criminally negligent homicide and manslaughter. His lawyer blamed a repair shop for the vehicle’s problems and said his client was being treated like a scapegoat.
Nauman Hussain was convicted this May and is serving five to 15 years in prison. | https://www.mcall.com/2023/07/28/judge-orders-release-of-3-of-newburgh-four-and-assails-fbis-role-in-a-post-9-11-terror-sting/ | 2023-07-28 17:29:24 | 0 | https://www.mcall.com/2023/07/28/judge-orders-release-of-3-of-newburgh-four-and-assails-fbis-role-in-a-post-9-11-terror-sting/ |
Prepare to be scared.
Paramount released the official trailer for Orphan: First Kill, the highly anticipated prequel to the 2009 film Orphan, July 13. In the preview, Julia Stiles plays Katie Mauerova, a mother reunited with her daughter Esther (Isabelle Fuhrman), who was missing for four years.
"Be prepared for changes," a figure warns Katie. "Four years is a long time. What she needs right now is her family."
But when Katie and her husband Richard (Rossif Sutherland) bring Esther home, the family faces unexpected challenges. Esther is oddly aggressive towards Katie, grabbing her mother's wrists and behaving abnormally. Katie initially shrugs it off, saying, "I think something is going on with Esther."
Even Esther's brother Gunnar (Matthew Finlan) notices something is off, pointing out that Esther's artistic talents have progressed tenfold since she disappeared. "How is that possible?" Richard questions. "Four years ago she was only drawing stick figures."
Soon enough, detectives and Esther's therapists begin to see signs that Esther isn't really who she says she is, sending the young girl into a murderous rage.
But everyone's right—Esther's not who she claims to be.
The 2009 movie Orphan reveals that Esther is a 33-year-old woman who escaped an Estonian psychiatric hospital and terrorized families, posing as a young girl before killing them. That is, until Vera Farmiga's character Kate figures out Esther's scheme and kills her.
More than a decade has passed since Isabelle, who was 12 when they filmed the first movie, originated the role. Now, she's back, with teen actor Kennedy Irwin serving as a body double.
Orphan: First Kill premieres in select theaters and on Paramount+ Aug. 19. | https://www.eonline.com/news/1337780/the-orphan-first-kill-trailer-is-a-chilling-look-at-esther-s-origins | 2022-07-13 16:03:27 | 1 | https://www.eonline.com/news/1337780/the-orphan-first-kill-trailer-is-a-chilling-look-at-esther-s-origins |
Award-winning healthcare PR agency to collaborate with healthcare data leader to amplify thought leadership and company milestones
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Dec. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Amendola, a nationally recognized, award-winning healthcare technology and life sciences public relations and marketing firm, announced today that MDClone, a digital health company and leader in synthetic data, has selected the firm to amplify client successes, thought leadership, and industry best practices.
Amendola is implementing comprehensive PR and media plans to demonstrate MDClone's industry-leading technology and services, new offerings, accomplishments, customer wins, and industry partnerships.
"Healthcare organizations have a strong need for real-world data to inform research initiatives, but often struggle to access it due to restrictive privacy laws and fragmented, incomplete patient records," said Erin Giegling, vice president of marketing, MDClone. "Our partnership with Amendola will enable us to educate the industry on the value of accessing healthcare data by showcasing our ability to help clients deliver better outcomes through privacy-enabled shared data sets."
"MDClone is dedicated to empowering healthcare organizations with the tools, processes, and services they need to translate data into better outcomes," said Amendola CEO Jodi Amendola. "We are excited to collaborate with MDClone to amplify its accomplishments in enabling health systems and life sciences companies to maximize data utility while maintaining patient privacy."
MDClone was founded in Israel in 2016. The MDClone ADAMS Platform includes innovative data publishing capabilities that further enhance the protection of patient privacy. MDClone's unique technology enables any user of a healthcare organization to organize, access, and protect the privacy of patient data, empowering healthcare workers to rapidly transform ideas into actionable insights and take action.
Recently, MDClone was awarded Best Healthcare Big Data Platform by the MedTech Breakthrough Awards in 2021 and 2022. MDClone was also selected as a Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum in 2021 for the powerful MDClone ADAMS Platform.
MDClone is backed by some of the most prominent investors in the U.S. and Israel, including: aMoon, Lightspeed, OrbiMed, Warburg Pincus, and Viola Growth.
Amendola is an award-winning, insights-driven public relations and marketing firm that integrates media relations, social media, content and lead gen programs to move healthcare, life sciences/pharma and healthcare IT decision-makers to action. The agency represents some of the industry's best-known brands as well as groundbreaking startups that are disrupting the status quo. Nearly 90% of its client base represents multi-year clients and/or repeat client executives. Amendola's seasoned team of PR and marketing pros understand the ongoing complexities of the healthcare ecosystem and provide strategic guidance and creative direction to drive positive ROI, boost reputation and increase market share. Making an impact since 2003, Amendola combines traditional and digital media to fuel meaningful and measurable growth. For more information about the industry's "A-Team," visit www.acmarketingpr.com, and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.
MDClone offers an innovative, self-service data analytics environment powering exploration, discovery, and collaboration throughout healthcare ecosystems cross-institutionally and globally. The powerful underlying infrastructure of the MDClone ADAMS Platform allows users to overcome common barriers in healthcare in order to organize, access, and protect the privacy of patient data while accelerating research, improving operations and quality, and driving innovation to deliver better patient outcomes. Founded in Israel in 2016, MDClone serves major health systems, payers, and life science customers in the United States, Canada, and Israel. Visit mdclone.com for more information.
Media Contact:
Marcia Rhodes, mrhodes@acmarketingpr.com
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SOURCE Amendola Communications | https://www.wbtv.com/prnewswire/2022/12/13/mdclone-engages-amendola-strategic-pr-marketing-services/ | 2022-12-13 16:34:37 | 0 | https://www.wbtv.com/prnewswire/2022/12/13/mdclone-engages-amendola-strategic-pr-marketing-services/ |
CHICAGO, Oct. 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Hub International Limited (Hub), a leading global insurance brokerage and financial services firm, announced today that it has acquired the assets of Guide Insurance Services, Inc. (Guide Insurance Services). Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
With offices in Lynden, Colville and Republic, Washington, Guide Insurance Services has been providing commercial and personal insurance solutions to individuals and businesses in the region. Owners Joel Kok & Brett Kok, and the Guide Insurance Services team will join Hub Northwest.
Guide Insurance Services was represented by Marsh Berry for the transaction.
About Hub's M&A Activities
Hub International Limited is committed to growing organically and through acquisitions to expand its geographic footprint and strengthen industry and product expertise. For more information on the Hub M&A experience, visit WeAreHub.com.
About Hub International
Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Hub International Limited is a leading full-service global insurance broker and financial services firm providing risk management, insurance, employee benefits, retirement and wealth management products and services. With more than 15,000 employees in offices located throughout North America, Hub's vast network of specialists brings clarity to a changing world with tailored solutions and unrelenting advocacy, so clients are ready for tomorrow. For more information, please visit www.hubinternational.com.
CONTACT:
Media: Jessica Wiltse
Phone: 312-596-7573
jessica.wiltse@hubinternational.com
M&A: Clark Wormer
Phone: 312-279-4848
Clark.wormer@hubinternational.com
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SOURCE Hub International Limited | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2022/10/05/hub-international-enhances-commercial-personal-insurance-capabilities-with-acquisition-assets-guide-insurance-services-inc-washington/ | 2022-10-05 13:34:48 | 1 | https://www.wlbt.com/prnewswire/2022/10/05/hub-international-enhances-commercial-personal-insurance-capabilities-with-acquisition-assets-guide-insurance-services-inc-washington/ |
RENO, Nev. (AP) — Opposition from friends, not foes, is creating potential roadblocks to President Joe Biden’s green energy agenda on federal lands in the blue-leaning, Western swing state of Nevada.
Two lithium mines and a geothermal power plant in the works in the biggest U.S. gold-mining state are under attack from conservationists, tribes and others who otherwise generally support Biden’s efforts to expedite the transition from fossil fuels to renewables.
The conflicts put a spotlight on an emerging reality as the Biden administration tries to meet its goal of having the U.S. power grid run on clean energy by 2035.
Renewable or not, the actual mining of the resources faces many of the same regulatory and environmental hurdles the government has encountered for decades when digging for coal or drilling for oil.
Whether it’s tapping hot underground water to generate electricity with steam-powered turbines or extracting lithium to make electric car batteries, the operations still must comply with laws designed to protect wildlife habitat, cultural and historical values, and guard against pollution or other degradation of federal lands.
During a recent failed attempt to overturn a Nevada water permit for a mine near the Oregon line above the biggest known lithium deposit in the nation, opponents raised some of the same concerns leveled four decades ago about some of the largest gold mines in the world.
Specifically, the Great Basin Resource Watch and others say the lithium mine will produce toxic waste. More generally, they still accuse regulators of rubber-stamping industry plans without a thorough review of the potential harms.
“Everything seems to be in the hands of the mining company,” Sarah Wochele, a mining justice organizer for the Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada, said at last month’s appeal hearing. “And we just ignorantly praise new technology, new technology.”
Ramped up domestic production of lithium is key to Biden’s blueprint for a greener future, a critical element for electric vehicle batteries. Worldwide demand for the lightest metal on Earth is projected to increase six-fold by 2030 compared to 2020.
The big deposit bordering Oregon where Lithium Nevada plans to begin construction in December is “vital to our national security and nation’s need for lithium to support green energy development and achieve climate change objectives,” the company said in recent court filings.
But in addition to concerns about toxic waste, the mine sits on federal land local tribes say is a sacred site where dozens of their ancestors were massacred by the U.S. Cavalry in 1865.
Another big lithium mine still on the drawing board, halfway between Reno and Las Vegas, is home to a rare desert wildflower the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed for listing under the Endangered Species Act.
Meanwhile, the geothermal power plant faces both cultural and environmental challenges in a case pending before the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
The San Francisco-based appellate court could rule any day on a lawsuit seeking to halt the development in a high-desert oasis 100 miles (161 kilometers) east of Reno where a rare toad currently protected under the Endangered Species Act lives in the same hot springs where Native Americans have worshipped for thousands of years.
The Interior Department’s Bureau of Land Management approved Ormat Nevada’s geothermal project last November over the objections of another Interior agency, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Since then, USFWS has taken the rare step of declaring the Dixie Valley toad endangered on a temporary emergency basis — something it’s done only one other time in 20 years.
This month, the Center for Biological Diversity and the Fallon Paiute-Shoshone Tribe amended their lawsuit against the Reno-based Ormat and the Bureau of Land Management in U.S. District Court in Reno to include the April listing.
The updated version alleges both are in violation of the Endangered Species Act because they’ve failed to halt construction “despite USFWS’s unambiguous finding that the project poses an imminent and existential risk to the Dixie Valley toad.”
The government hasn’t responded yet, but the case continues in district court on a parallel track with the appellate court. And the ongoing legal battles underscore the difficulty of turning Biden’s vision of a cleaner energy future into reality.
Administration officials insist they’ve known all along that implementing their plans to slow the warming of the Earth wouldn’t be easy.
“Catalyzing the clean energy economy and seeing renewable energy projects through to completion is no small task,” said Tyler Cherry, press secretary for Interior Secretary Deb Haaland.
“Indeed, these are complex, large-scale projects that require a robust public process,” he wrote in an email July 12 to the AP in response to a request for comment.
The three-judge panel at the 9th Circuit that heard oral arguments on the geothermal case in June said they couldn’t consider the April listing of the toad because it came after the appeal was filed in January.
But the judges acknowledged USFWS had raised similar objections in earlier opinions, warning about the likelihood the geothermal plant’s operations could push the toad to the brink of extinction.
The Justice Department lawyer representing the bureau, Michelle Melton, said federal law required the bureau to consider USFWS’s criticisms but it wasn’t bound by them.
The emergency listing of the toad doesn’t change the bureau’s position that the project will have no significant impact on the tribe or the toad, she said.
“Fish and Wildlife has a different opinion,” Melton said. “It was not a surprise to BLM that Fish and Wildlife felt that way.”
Ormat Vice President Paul Thomsen said the emergency listing overstates the potential impact of the project on the toad partly because it makes false assumptions about underground faults in the geothermal reservoir it intends to tap.
“There are sufficient safeguards in place to avoid endangering the toad,” he wrote June 6 in comments to USFWS.
The 9th Circuit judges appeared sympathetic last month to some of the opponents’ arguments. But they noted that the lower court judge had weighed the pros and cons and determined the public was best served by allowing the temporary injunction blocking construction to expire 90 days after it was issued in February.
They pointed to Judge Robert C. Jones’ conclusion that the electricity produced at the geothermal plant would significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to other energy production facilities and that “depriving the public of a source of carbon-free” electricity is not in the public’s best interest.
Scott Lake, a lawyer for the Center for Biological Diversity, said the benefits of renewable energy resources are “something the tribe and the center actually agree with.”
“But nothing in the record establishes a public interest in, or a compelling need, for this particular project … on a tribal sacred site and in such a way that threatens the entire existence of the Dixie Valley toad,” he said. | https://www.wane.com/news/business/ap-business/nevada-court-fights-raise-caution-flags-on-green-energy-push/ | 2022-07-24 18:43:01 | 0 | https://www.wane.com/news/business/ap-business/nevada-court-fights-raise-caution-flags-on-green-energy-push/ |
JOHNSON COUNTY, Ind. – Wednesday’s winter storm provided some Hoosiers with a rare weather phenomenon called “thundersnow.”
Viewers in the Trafalgar area reported hearing thunder and seeing lightning while snow was falling. The National Weather Service confirmed the phenomenon in Johnson and Brown counties. Additional reports came in from Elwood in Madison County, Portland in Jay County and Hartford City in Blackford County later in the morning.
The NWS described the occurrence as “something unusual,” with lightning sensors picking up thundersnow in the area.
We typically associate thunder and lightning with thunderstorms accompanied by rain. Under certain conditions, however, snow can actually accompany a thunderstorm.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), thundersnow can occur when there is strong instability combined with abundant moisture above the Earth’s surface—such as a warm front.
NOAA said the conditions for thundersnow are similar to what happens during a typical thunderstorm. It’s rarer for this to happen with snow, however, because temperatures tend to be colder when snow falls, both at higher and lower points of the atmosphere.
“However, in some winter storms, shallow layers of warm air are lifted and continue to rise on their own – increasing snowfall and causing enough electric charge separation for lightning to occur,” the agency said.
The result: lightning and thunder accompanied by snow. NOAA also noted that thundersnow is typically associated with increased snowfall amounts. | https://fox59.com/weather/winter-storm/some-hoosiers-heard-thundersnow-during-the-winter-storm-heres-what-it-means/ | 2023-01-25 15:58:48 | 0 | https://fox59.com/weather/winter-storm/some-hoosiers-heard-thundersnow-during-the-winter-storm-heres-what-it-means/ |
Woman arrested after leaving child in car with meth
FULTON COUNTY, Ark. (KAIT) - Sheriff’s deputies arrested a Fulton County woman after they said she left her child and a bag of meth in her car during a visit with her parole officer.
On Wednesday, Oct. 5, 49-year-old Nikkie Camp met with her probation and parole officer.
According to the probable cause affidavit, Camp “appeared to be under the influence” and tested positive for methamphetamine.
The officer then noticed a small child left unattended in Camp’s vehicle.
“A search of Nikkie’s vehicle revealed a small green pouch at the feet of the child,” the court document stated. The bag reportedly contained a “white crystalline substance,” which later tested positive for methamphetamine.
The officer also reported finding a bottle of fake urine under the driver’s seat.
When investigators went to Camp’s home, the affidavit stated they found “multiple items of paraphernalia” within reach and easily accessible to a small child and infant in the home.
On Oct. 6, a judge found probable cause to charge Camp with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and first-degree endangering the welfare of a minor.
She’s being held on a $10,000 cash/surety bond.
Copyright 2022 KAIT. All rights reserved. | https://www.kait8.com/2022/10/11/woman-arrested-after-leaving-child-car-with-meth/ | 2022-10-11 01:32:45 | 1 | https://www.kait8.com/2022/10/11/woman-arrested-after-leaving-child-car-with-meth/ |
NEW YORK, June 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The New York State Trial Lawyers Association (NYSTLA) recently celebrated its first Law Day in two years. Mike Rose, a founding partner at Hach & Rose, LLP, gave a speech entitled "The Partners in Justice" and presented an award to New York Governor Kathy Hochul at the celebration.
The in-person event had been postponed due to COVID-19, and while members were unable to convene in person during the pandemic, they continued working virtually to promote legislation for the benefit of their clients. As Mike Rose noted in his speech, one of the biggest victories the NYSTLA achieved during the pandemic was the repeal of the COVID immunity executive order, which was issued by then Governor Andrew Cuomo. By successfully blocking the legislation, the NYSTLA helped to protect New Yorkers from hazardous conditions in healthcare facilities.
Mike Rose also praised the integral role the NYSTLA played in the codification of two new laws: the "Speaking Agents" law, which overrules the former limitations on employees' out-of-court statements, and the Insurance Disclosure Act, which requires defendants in civil cases to divulge information about insurance coverage that could be used to settle a judgment. Defendants have 90 days from the date they answer a complaint to disclose this information.
"Without NYSTLA's vigilance and hard work, our clients' voices would never be heard in Albany," Mike Rose said of the organization.
The NYSTLA's roots can be traced back to more than 60 years ago. Initially founded by a group of 20 trial lawyers who desired a forum for plaintiff's attorneys, the association grew over the decades to approximately 3,500 members.
The association's mission is "to promote a safer and healthier society, to assure access to the civil justice system by those who are wrongfully injured and to advance representation of the public by ethical, well-trained lawyers." The NYSTLA is dedicated to ensuring that victims of personal injury are able to freely exercise their constitutional rights in the civil justice system.
Today, Hach & Rose attorney Halina Radchenko is the president of the NYSTLA. During Halina's tenure as president, three new laws have been passed, including the Insurance Disclosure Act and the Adult Survivors Act (ASA). The NYSTLA is currently advocating for the passage of two other laws that would benefit plaintiffs, the Grieving Families Act, which would allow families to recover emotional, non-financial damages if their loved one was killed due to wrongful death, and the Consumer Good Faith Act. The Grieving Families Act was recently passed by both the New York Senate and State Assembly, and is expected to be signed into law by Governor Hochul.
About Hach & Rose, LLP
At Hach & Rose, LLP, our New York sexual abuse lawyers are committed to protecting victims of sexual abuse. We will be ready to investigate your case and work to uncover whether the perpetrator or negligent third-party could be held accountable through criminal charges, a civil lawsuit, or both. If you or a loved one suffered any form of sexual abuse, don't wait until it is too late to get justice. Call us at (646) 969-3383 or reach out to us online for a 100% free and confidential consultation.
Media Contact: Hach & Rose, LLP, (646) 663 - 3012
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SOURCE Hach & Rose, LLP | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/06/21/hach-amp-rose-llp-nystla-celebrates-its-first-law-day-two-years/ | 2022-06-21 18:41:01 | 0 | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/06/21/hach-amp-rose-llp-nystla-celebrates-its-first-law-day-two-years/ |
NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Higher Education Department officials launched a new campaign encouraging New Mexicans to consider college or career training.
The department plans to release radio spots and commercials at movie theaters, telling them to “reach higher.”
“New Mexico has the most generous and inclusive tuition-free college program in the nation, but too few residents know about the opportunities available to them in their own backyard,” said Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez. “There’s still time to enroll in college and career training programs, and we encourage all New Mexicans to consider attending one of the 29 participating public colleges and universities that offer tuition-free college through the Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships.”
They also launched a new website so prospective students can learn about the state’s universities and colleges, scholarships, and how to apply.
“With tuition-free college and high-quality education programs, New Mexico makes education beyond high school a family tradition. Every New Mexican should be proud that they live in a state that believes in their personal and professional growth and will meet them halfway if they put in the hard work of earning a degree or preparing for a career,” said Higher Education Deputy Secretary Dr. Patricia Trujillo.
More information can be found here. | https://www.krqe.com/news/education/new-mexico-higher-education-department-starts-college-recruitment-campaign/ | 2023-07-26 02:17:06 | 1 | https://www.krqe.com/news/education/new-mexico-higher-education-department-starts-college-recruitment-campaign/ |
Hosted by the Trade Office of the UAE Embassy in Washington, DC, the 60-person Utah delegation met with Emirati political and business leaders following a visit to Israel
WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Trade Office of the UAE Embassy in Washington, DC hosted Utah Governor Spencer J. Cox and a high-level state delegation to Abu Dhabi and Dubai last week. The mission focused on establishing new business opportunities and partnerships in priority sectors, building on growing ties between the Beehive State and the Emirates.
Joining Governor Cox was First Lady Abby Cox, House Speaker Brad Wilson, Senate President J. Stuart Adams, and over 60 Utah government officials, business executives, and community leaders.
The trip was organized in collaboration with the State of Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, World Trade Center Utah, and the U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council. Utah is the fastest growing U.S. state per capita, making for an excellent trading partner with the UAE.
"This trade mission led by Governor Spencer Cox is an essential element of establishing trade and commercial ties between our two dynamic economies – the state of Utah and the United Arab Emirates," said Saud Al Nowais, Commercial Counselor for the UAE Embassy to the U.S. "The Utah delegation saw firsthand the potential that exists when partnering with Emirati businesses and innovators and we agreed the opportunities for partnership are limitless."
The Utah delegates engaged with Emirati counterparts with expertise in healthcare and life sciences, aerospace and defense, transportation, and water security. The group also toured the Louvre Abu Dhabi and met with representatives from the local faith community. Just over two years ago, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced the construction of a temple in Dubai, the first of its kind to be built in the Middle East. Utah is home to the largest Mormon population in the U.S., comprising more than 60 percent of the state's residents.
After visiting the Dubai Future Foundation, Governor Cox tweeted: "The UAE is teaching artificial intelligence and coding. In Utah, tech accounts for 68,184 employees – and Silicon Slopes is on the cutting edge of information technology."
Delegates also discussed opportunities in the innovation economy with UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work H.E. Omar Sultan Al Olama. In a meeting with H.E. Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, they reviewed opportunities for U.S. collaboration in projects related to water and renewable energy. With large areas of arid desert and limited water resources, climate is a priority for both the UAE and Utah. The state legislators also H.E. Mariam AlMheiri, UAE Minster of Climate Change and Environment.
Governor Cox noted the delegation arrived in the UAE following meetings in Israel. He emphasized the unlimited bilateral and multilateral commercial opportunities now possible between Utah, the Emirates, and Israel due to the Abraham Accords, the diplomatic normalization agreement signed two years ago between the UAE and Israel.
CONTACT:
Lamiyae Jbari
ljbari@uaeembassy-usa.org
202 243 2464
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SOURCE Embassy of the United Arab Emirates | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/21/utah-trade-mission-led-by-governor-spencer-j-cox-visits-united-arab-emirates-develop-economic-partnerships-joint-cooperation-projects/ | 2022-09-21 17:47:32 | 0 | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/09/21/utah-trade-mission-led-by-governor-spencer-j-cox-visits-united-arab-emirates-develop-economic-partnerships-joint-cooperation-projects/ |
ATLANTA, Aug. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Grayshift, LLC, a leading and trusted provider of mobile digital forensics solutions, today announced Reveal Early Access, an innovative, cloud-native digital forensics solution that dramatically accelerates digital investigations, streamlines the investigative workflow and facilitates ease of use and speed of collaboration for public safety agencies. The company also released several enhancements to its flagship product GrayKey for greater access and extraction of modern mobile devices. With GrayKey and Reveal, Grayshift delivers on its promise to reshape the digital forensics industry.
Initially available to U.S.-based law enforcement agencies, Reveal by Grayshift is the first cloud-native platform for accessing, analyzing, and managing forensic evidentiary data for public safety agencies. Reveal provides law enforcement investigative staff with a cloud-native digital forensics solution that:
- Expedites investigations achieving Time to First Fact (TTFF) in less than 5 minutes
- Simultaneously extracts and processes data to share with the investigative team
- Improves efficiencies with evidence sharing inside and outside of your agency
- Saves time, money, and resources so teams can solve investigations faster
According to David Brown, Detective with the Jacksonville, North Carolina Police Department, "The almost immediate access to mobile data, when using Reveal, could literally be the key to saving lives in child abduction or kidnapping type cases. Grayshift has not only moved the bar but also changed the game in quick access to mobile data. When working homicide cases, where time is valuable, Reveal will allow investigators to view mobile data in minutes versus hours in other tools."
James Howe, police officer in Columbus, Ohio, added, "Reveal has cut down our processing time significantly…anyone who has worked on violent crime investigations knows how important those crucial first hours can be in solving a case or it going cold. This is a cutting-edge tool that every forensic unit should have in their arsenal."
Grayshift continues to lead the market in access and extraction for modern mobile devices, regularly adding same-day support as major mobile updates are released. The company's GrayKey technology offers the fastest brute force available in the industry for locked mobile devices and supports a rapidly growing number of leading Android devices.
"As demonstrated by the incredible adoption rate of GrayKey, the digital forensics industry is ripe for innovation," said Braden Thomas, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of Grayshift. "As the industry's first cloud-native forensic analysis solution, Reveal delivers a modern approach to analysis and is the first step in delivering an end-to-end solution to our customers. Legacy technologies simply cannot keep pace with the demands placed on our law enforcement partners. We invite our customers to try Reveal Early Access free of charge and see the technology evolve first-hand as we rapidly add new features and functionality."
"GrayKey has been foundational for expanding our product portfolio, which now includes analysis of extracted data," said David Miles, Co-Founder, and CEO of Grayshift. "Law enforcement agencies need solutions like GrayKey and Reveal that deliver a superior and more efficient way to access and analyze digital evidence. Reveal puts critical evidence at the fingertips of detectives and investigators within minutes."
Free licenses of Reveal Early Access are available to qualified users at www.grayshift.com/reveal. Annual licensing for GrayKey begins at USD $9,995.
Grayshift is a leading provider of mobile device digital forensics, specializing in lawful access and extraction. Grayshift solutions are purpose-built to help law enforcement and government investigative agencies swiftly resolve critical investigations and ensure public safety. The company's innovative GrayKey technology provides same-day access, complete control, and comprehensive data extraction from mobile devices. Designed and assembled in the United States, GrayKey is trusted by 1200 agencies across 40 countries world-wide. For more information, visit www.grayshift.com.
CONTACT:
Jody Ma Kissling
(833) 472-9539
media@grayshift.com
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SOURCE Grayshift | https://www.wcjb.com/prnewswire/2022/08/02/grayshift-introduces-reveal-industrys-first-cloud-native-mobile-device-forensic-analysis-solution-delivers-powerful-new-features-graykey/ | 2022-08-02 17:34:51 | 1 | https://www.wcjb.com/prnewswire/2022/08/02/grayshift-introduces-reveal-industrys-first-cloud-native-mobile-device-forensic-analysis-solution-delivers-powerful-new-features-graykey/ |
SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Nov. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lear Corporation (NYSE: LEA), a global automotive technology leader in Seating and E-Systems, today reported results for the third quarter 2022.
Third Quarter 2022 Highlights
- Sales increased 23% to $5.2 billion, compared to $4.3 billion in the third quarter of 2021
- Net income (loss) of $92 million and adjusted net income of $140 million, compared to $(27) million and $32 million, respectively, in the third quarter of 2021
- Core operating earnings of $235 million, compared to $98 million in the third quarter of 2021
- Earnings (loss) per share of $1.54 and adjusted earnings per share of $2.33, compared to $(0.44) and $0.53, respectively, in the third quarter of 2021
- Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities of $252 million and free cash flow of $112 million, compared to $(4) million and $(157) million, respectively, in the third quarter of 2021
- Selected by General Motors to exclusively supply the Battery Disconnect Unit (BDU) on all full-size SUVs and trucks built on the automaker's Ultium battery EV platform through 2030
- Received more than twice as many J.D. Power 2022 U.S. Seat Quality and Satisfaction StudySM awards than any other seat supplier, with two best in segment and seven total awards
- Awarded a 2022 Automotive News PACEpilot award for ConfigurE+ with zonal safety technology, the first wireless and electronics-based system that identifies seat location and occupant status to activate safety features
- Joined the Climate Group's RE100 initiative, committing to source 100% of the electricity used across global operations from renewable sources by 2030
- Returned $71 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases
- Cash and cash equivalents of $842 million and total available liquidity of $2.8 billion at quarter end
"Lear delivered improved financial results in the third quarter, reflecting higher industry volumes and our strong new business backlog," said Ray Scott, Lear's President and Chief Executive Officer. "We expect further improvement in both business segments in the fourth quarter. We continue to win electrification awards in E-Systems, highlighted by our most significant award to date to supply our BDU across all full-size SUVs and trucks built on General Motors' Ultium EV battery platform through 2030. In Seating, we once again won more than twice as many J.D. Power seat quality awards than any other seating supplier. We continue to focus our efforts on operational efficiencies, developing innovative solutions for our customers, and increasing earnings and cash flow."
In the third quarter, global vehicle production increased by 29% compared to a year ago, with North America up 24%, Europe up 20% and China up 35%. Global production increased on a Lear sales-weighted basis(2) by approximately 25%.
Sales in the third quarter increased 23% to $5.2 billion compared to a year ago. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange, commodities and acquisitions, sales were up 26%, reflecting increased production on key Lear platforms and the addition of new business in both business segments. Sales growth over market in the third quarter was one percentage point, driven primarily by the impact of new business in both business segments largely offset by negative platform mix. Year-to-date sales growth over market was four percentage points.
Core operating earnings were $235 million, or 4.5% of sales, compared to $98 million, or 2.3% of sales, in 2021. The increase in earnings resulted primarily from higher production on key Lear platforms and the addition of new business, which were partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange. In the Seating segment, margins and adjusted margins were 5.7% and 6.6% of sales, respectively. In the E-Systems segment, margins and adjusted margins were 3.5% and 3.9% of sales, respectively.
Earnings per share were $1.54. Adjusted earnings per share were $2.33, up from $0.53 in 2021, primarily reflecting higher operating earnings.
In the third quarter of 2022, net cash provided by operating activities was $252 million, and free cash flow(1) was $112 million.
(1) For more information regarding our non-GAAP financial measures, see "Non-GAAP Financial Information" below.
(2) The production change on a Lear sales-weighted basis is calculated using Lear's prior year regional sales mix and third quarter fiscal calendar. Management believes this provides a more meaningful comparison of the Company's global revenue growth relative to global vehicle production.
Share Repurchases
During the third quarter of 2022, we repurchased 187,192 shares of our common stock for a total of $25.0 million. At the end of the third quarter, we had a remaining share repurchase authorization of approximately $1.3 billion, which expires on December 31, 2024, and reflects approximately 15% of our total market capitalization at current market prices.
Since initiating the share repurchase program in 2011, we have repurchased 53.0 million shares of our common stock for a total of $4.8 billion at an average price of $91.42 per share. This represents a reduction of approximately 50% of our shares outstanding since the time we began the program.
2022 Financial Outlook
Our 2022 financial outlook has not changed from our prior outlook and is summarized below:
The industry volume assumptions underlying Lear's 2022 financial outlook are derived from several sources, including internal estimates, customer production schedules and the most recent S&P Global Mobility production estimates for Lear's vehicle platforms.
The financial outlook is based on a full year average exchange rate of $1.05/Euro and 6.69 RMB/$.
Certain of the forward-looking financial measures above are provided on a non-GAAP basis. The Company does not provide a reconciliation of such forward-looking measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP because to do so would be potentially misleading and not practical given the difficulty of projecting event-driven transactional and other non-core operating items in any future period. The magnitude of these items, however, may be significant.
Third Quarter 2022 Conference Call and Webcast Information
A conference call and webcast will be held to discuss Lear's third quarter 2022 financial results and related matters on November 1, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. EDT. The webcast link for the conference call will be available through Lear's investor relations webpage at ir.lear.com. In addition, the conference call can be accessed by dialing 1-877-883-0383 (domestic) or 1-412-902-6506 (international) with Conference I.D. 9206262. The webcast replay will be available two hours following the call.
Non-GAAP Financial Information
In addition to the results reported in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP) included throughout this press release, the Company has provided information regarding "pretax income before equity (income) loss, interest, other (income) expense, restructuring costs and other special items" (core operating earnings or adjusted segment earnings), "pretax income before equity (income) loss, interest, other (income) expense, depreciation expense, amortization of intangible assets, restructuring costs and other special items" (adjusted EBITDA), "adjusted depreciation and amortization," "adjusted net income attributable to Lear" (adjusted net income), "adjusted diluted net income per share attributable to Lear" (adjusted earnings per share) and "free cash flow" (each, a non-GAAP financial measure). Other (income) expense includes, among other things, non-income related taxes, foreign exchange gains and losses, gains and losses related to certain derivative instruments and hedging activities, gains and losses on the disposal of fixed assets and the non-service cost components of net periodic benefit cost. Adjusted depreciation and amortization represents depreciation expense and amortization of intangible assets adjusted for intangible asset impairment charges. Adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per share represent net income (loss) attributable to Lear and diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Lear, respectively, adjusted for restructuring costs and other special items, including the tax effect thereon. Free cash flow represents net cash provided by (used in) operating activities less capital expenditures.
Management believes the non-GAAP financial measures used in this press release are useful to both management and investors in their analysis of the Company's financial position and results of operations. In particular, management believes that core operating earnings, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted depreciation and amortization, adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per share are useful measures in assessing the Company's financial performance by excluding certain items that are not indicative of the Company's core operating performance or that may obscure trends useful in evaluating the Company's continuing operating activities. Management also believes that these measures provide improved comparability between fiscal periods. Management believes that free cash flow is useful to both management and investors in their analysis of the Company's ability to service and repay its debt. Further, management uses these non-GAAP financial measures for planning and forecasting future periods.
Core operating earnings, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted depreciation and amortization, adjusted net income, adjusted earnings per share and free cash flow should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net income (loss) attributable to Lear, diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Lear, cash provided by (used in) operating activities or other income statement or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP or as a measure of profitability or liquidity. In addition, the calculation of free cash flow does not reflect cash used to service debt and, therefore, does not reflect funds available for investment or other discretionary uses. Also, these non-GAAP financial measures, as determined and presented by the Company, may not be comparable to related or similarly titled measures reported by other companies.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding anticipated financial results and liquidity. The words "will," "may," "designed to," "outlook," "believes," "should," "anticipates," "plans," "expects," "intends," "estimates," "forecasts" and similar expressions identify certain of these forward-looking statements. The Company also may provide forward-looking statements in oral statements or other written materials released to the public. All statements contained or incorporated in this press release or in any other public statements that address operating performance, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements are discussed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021, its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended April 2, 2022 and July 2, 2022, and its other Securities and Exchange Commission filings. Future operating results will be based on various factors, including actual industry production volumes, the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine war on the Company's business and the global economy, supply chain disruptions, commodity prices, changes in foreign exchange rates, the impact of restructuring actions and the Company's success in implementing its operating strategy.
Information in this press release relies on assumptions in the Company's sales backlog. The Company's sales backlog reflects anticipated net sales from formally awarded new programs less lost and discontinued programs. The Company enters into contracts with its customers to provide production parts generally at the beginning of a vehicle's life cycle. Typically, these contracts do not provide for a specified quantity of production, and many of these contracts may be terminated by the Company's customers at any time. Therefore, these contracts do not represent firm orders. Further, the calculation of the sales backlog does not reflect customer price reductions on existing or newly awarded programs. The sales backlog may be impacted by various assumptions embedded in the calculation, including vehicle production levels on new programs, foreign exchange rates and the timing of major program launches.
The forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date hereof, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update, amend or clarify them to reflect events, new information or circumstances occurring after the date hereof.
About Lear Corporation
Lear, a global automotive technology leader in Seating and E-Systems, enables superior in-vehicle experiences for consumers around the world. Lear's diverse team of talented employees in 38 countries is driven by a commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability. Lear is Making every drive better™ by providing the technology for safer, smarter, and more comfortable journeys. Lear, headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, serves every major automaker in the world and ranks 186 on the Fortune 500. Further information about Lear is available at lear.com or on Twitter @LearCorporation.
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SOURCE Lear Corporation | https://www.ktre.com/prnewswire/2022/11/01/lear-reports-third-quarter-2022-results/ | 2022-11-01 12:04:01 | 0 | https://www.ktre.com/prnewswire/2022/11/01/lear-reports-third-quarter-2022-results/ |
DUBAI — As the war in Ukraine grinds on, the United States is looking internationally to partners to weaken Russia's influence. It's also seeking to blunt China's growing reach.
In the Mideast, President Joe Biden has reached out to Gulf allies like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar in an attempt to align interests. While visiting Saudi Arabia last summer, he tried to reassure Arab leaders of U.S. commitment to the region's security. But Gulf nations aren't rushing to side with Washington.
Here's a look at key issues affecting U.S.-Gulf ties into 2023.
There are tensions over an oil pact with Russia
The Saudi-led Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries has stuck to a pandemic-era pact with Russia to curb production and keep oil prices up. The agreement has helped Russia retain some of its spending power despite Western sanctions in response to the war in Ukraine.
A decision by the group known as OPEC+ to cut production in November by 2 million barrels a day prompted bipartisan outrage in Washington at the time.
The Saudis insist the OPEC+ decision was based on global market forecasts. They point to the price of oil, trading at under $80 a barrel, as proof that the decision did not send prices soaring in light of China's sluggish economic growth.
The Saudi leadership should not be expected to "take decisions that are harmful to the stability of global oil markets in order to take a short-term position, a tactical position for or against one side in the [Ukraine] war," says Mohammed Alyahya, former editor-in-chief at the Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya English website and current fellow at Harvard's Belfer Center.
"What's happening right now is an expansion of relations with all sides," he says, adding that it's mistaken to assume Saudi Arabia is pivoting away from the U.S. toward Russia or China.
Saudi Arabia's crackdown on critics remains a concern
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been praised for pushing through social changes, but he's also overseen an unprecedented crackdown on critics.
President Biden — who authorized release of the CIA's findings about the crown prince's culpability in the 2018 killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Turkey — raised the issue of Khashoggi's murder with Prince Mohammed in their face-to-face meeting last July. The crown prince, who was elevated to the post of prime minister last year, denies having a role in Khashoggi's death. The Biden administration said his post as prime minister grants him immunity in U.S. civil courts, which prompted a judge to dismiss a case filed against him by Khashoggi's fiancée.
Meanwhile, the kingdom continues to silence critics. In past months, Saudi courts issued decades-long prison terms against a number of people, apparently over their criticism on Twitter of the prince's policies.
Last year also saw the largest mass execution in recent memory in Saudi Arabia — of 81 prisoners convicted on a range of crimes. Activists say around half were minority Shiites involved in violent protests.
Gulf states have taken on a mediating role between rivals
Saudi Arabia has emerged twice as a mediator in prisoner exchanges between Russia and other nations since the war in Ukraine began.
The kingdom said the crown prince used his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin and governments around the world to facilitate the release of 10 foreign fighters captured by Russians in Ukraine. Saudi Arabia also claimed a role, along with the United Arab Emirates, in facilitating a high-stakes prisoner swap last month between Washington and Moscow, which saw the release of U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner in exchange for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout.
Facilitating talks among rivals is a policy long employed by Oman and Qatar, which have mediated in conflicts stretching from Afghanistan to Yemen. Qatar maintains close ties with the Taliban leadership, some of whom reside in Doha. Qatar also hosts talks between U.S. officials and the Taliban, which took control of Afghanistan in 2021.
Gulf nations don't see it as being in their national interest to take sides in rivalries between the U.S. and other world powers, says Elham Fakhro, a Bahraini research fellow at Britain's University of Exeter. There's no upside for them in ostracizing Russia, for example, or losing out from trade benefits with China, whose leader Xi Jinping visited Saudi Arabia last month.
Fakhro says Gulf countries are committed to keeping dialogue open with all sides. Carving out a mediator role helps them show the value in doing so.
"To several of the Gulf states, this is really about ensuring their survival," Fakhro says, referring to the need to keep strong ties with China, the Gulf's top buyer of oil, and Russia, a major energy and grains exporter.
The U.S. remains an irreplaceable security partner
For decades, U.S.-Gulf ties have centered most closely around security. The U.S. maintains an airbase in Qatar that's been used in the fight against Islamic State militants. The Navy's Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, patrols the Persian Gulf to deter Iran.
Despite whopping arms sales, joint military exercises with Gulf Arab states and a strong U.S. military presence in the region, there's "mistrust" and a sense in the Gulf that the U.S. hasn't been a consistent security partner since the Obama administration, Fakhro says.
That mistrust stems from the now-tattered international accord which had curbed Iran's nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of U.S. sanctions. Gulf states and Israel say the deal was flawed and did not curb Iran's missile program nor address Iran-backed militias and its paramilitary Revolutionary Guard.
The return to power in Israel of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu raises the specter of heightened regional tensions with Iran.
There are signs, however, that U.S.-Saudis ties are not as strained as they were just two months ago. The Wall Street Journal reports cooperation has improved on containing Iran, as efforts to revive the nuclear deal remain stalled. And the Biden administration has continued some support for the Saudi-led coalition fighting Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen.
Last summer, the Biden administration approved around $5 billion in military sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE to improve their air defenses. It came several months after the UAE's capital Abu Dhabi was rattled by Houthi missiles and drones. The attack was reminiscent of a larger strike in 2018 against Saudi Aramco's main oil processing facility.
The UAE Ambassador to Washington, Yousef Al Otaiba, made clear last month "the U.S. remains our most important partner."
Alyahya notes U.S. soft power is also unmatched, particularly among hundreds of thousands of Saudis who've studied abroad and are "voracious consumers of U.S. pop culture."
"The United States ... maybe stumbles every once in a while," Alyahya says. "But the U.S. is still the most important and most powerful country in the world."
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.knkx.org/2023-01-12/security-underpins-u-s-ties-with-gulf-states-like-saudi-arabia-but-tensions-linger | 2023-01-12 15:10:25 | 1 | https://www.knkx.org/2023-01-12/security-underpins-u-s-ties-with-gulf-states-like-saudi-arabia-but-tensions-linger |
WASHINGTON (AP) — House investigators reported Thursday that a federal contractor that provided identity verification services for the Internal Revenue Service exaggerated the amount of money being lost to pandemic fraud in an apparent attempt to increase demand for its product and that it also overstated its capacity to provide services.
The investigation of ID.me, which uses facial recognition to verify identities in some cases, was launched in April after critics of the software company said it could be a target of cyberthreats and presented privacy concerns. Other advocates were critical of a private company taking on what should be a core government task of verifying people’s identities to receive benefits.
The report found that in 14 states that contracted with ID.me for identity verification services — including California, Texas, and Florida — wait times for ID.me video chats reached an average of more than four hours, though the firm claimed it answered calls in far less time, potentially delaying pandemic relief funds to millions of Americans.
The report said ID.me asserted that there were significantly higher levels of pandemic fraud compared to other assessments that were based on expert analysis in an apparent effort to boost interest in its services.
The committees cited ID.me CEO Blake Hall’s assertion that “America has lost more than $400 billion to fraudulent claims,” though the Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General has identified $45.7 billion in potential unemployment fraud.
Terry Neal, a spokesperson for ID.me, said “calling ID.me’s estimate too high or baseless is premature and we welcome additional oversight on this important matter.” Neal pointed to statements from officials in five states, including California, that credit ID.me with helping to prevent billions in fraud.
The report was commissioned by the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis and the Committee on Oversight and Reform after privacy advocates and lawmakers made calls for the company to be investigated.
“It is deeply disappointing that a company that received tens of millions in taxpayer dollars to help Americans obtain these benefits may have hurt their ability to access that critical relief,” said Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., who chairs the coronavirus crisis subcommittee.
Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-N.Y, who chairs the oversight committee, said she was “deeply concerned about ID.me providing inaccurate information to federal agencies in order to be awarded millions of dollars in contracts.”
Neal said “we regret the long wait times that individuals endured while we fought to clear fraud out of the system. This situation was short-lived and temporary and caused by historic fraud.”
“Excluding specific episodes, wait times have generally been below 30 minutes as they are today,” Neal said.
Earlier this year, the IRS announced it would suspend its use of ID.me’s facial recognition technology to authenticate people who create online accounts after the practice was criticized by privacy advocates and lawmakers.
ID.me’s website states that the IRS, Social Security Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs and U.S. Patent and Trademark Office still maintain contracts with the federal government, and 14 states still maintain contracts with the firm.
Critics of the company, including the American Civil Liberties Union, have said outsourcing a core government function creates privacy problems.
“ID.me collects a rich stew of highly sensitive personal information about millions of Americans, including biometric data,” the ACLU’s website states, including government documents, social security numbers, military service records, and data from credit card bureaus and banks. | https://www.cenlanow.com/business/ap-irs-contractor-gets-more-scrutiny-in-congressional-report/ | 2022-11-18 17:35:54 | 0 | https://www.cenlanow.com/business/ap-irs-contractor-gets-more-scrutiny-in-congressional-report/ |
Washington became the first state to start deducting money from workers' paychecks to fund long-term care benefits. (This story first aired on All Things Considered on July 25, 2023.)
Copyright 2023 NPR
Washington became the first state to start deducting money from workers' paychecks to fund long-term care benefits. (This story first aired on All Things Considered on July 25, 2023.)
Copyright 2023 NPR | https://www.knau.org/2023-07-30/washingtons-new-tax-could-be-a-solution-to-fund-long-term-care | 2023-07-30 12:54:34 | 1 | https://www.knau.org/2023-07-30/washingtons-new-tax-could-be-a-solution-to-fund-long-term-care |
‘Scream’ stars defend Neve Campbell after pay dispute: ‘Straight up sexism’
Original “Scream” stars Matthew Lillard and Jamie Kennedy have voiced their support for Neve Campbell after the actor walked away from the sixth film in the horror franchise because of a salary dispute.
On Sunday, Lillard stood up for Campbell via Twitter after advocating for her in an interview last week. In the first “Scream” film, Lillard starred as high school student Stu Macher opposite Campbell’s protagonist, Sidney Prescott.
“The fact that Neve Campbell isn’t getting paid her worth is straight up sexism,” the “Scooby-Doo” actor tweeted. “I think it’s horrible. There. I said it.”
“I have had to work extremely hard in my career to establish my value, especially when it comes to Scream,” Neve Campbell said in a statement.
Lillard’s latest comments came on the heels of a Twitter Spaces conversation he had last Tuesday with Midnite Movie Club, during which he compared Campbell’s trajectory in the “Scream” franchise to Tom Cruise’s in the “Top Gun” movies.
“Did Tom Cruise take less money for [‘Top Gun: Maverick’]? F— no dude,” Lillard said. “So why is a woman supposed to take less? Why wouldn’t you pay her more as the series goes on? ... Was ‘Scream 5' a hit or not a hit? It was a smash hit. Did they make a s— ton of money? Yes.”
The “Robot Chicken” voice actor, who also made cameos in a couple of the “Scream” sequels, called the circumstances of Campbell’s departure infuriating while hailing his former cast mate as “a female lead of one of the most successful horror franchises.”
Neve Campbell, Skeet Ulrich, Rose McGowan and other “Scream” stars are back for a virtual reunion today benefiting the National Breast Cancer Coalition.
“Should Neve Campbell be paid for the work she’s done in five movies of a franchise?” he said. “Yes.”
Kennedy, who played Randy Meeks in four of the five “Scream” films, also defended Campbell last week in a YouTube video, crediting his former co-star as “the original final girl.” In the horror genre, the term “final girl” refers to a brave female character — such as Campbell’s Sidney Prescott — who survives against all odds to confront the killer at the end of the movie.
“Sidney Prescott is the center of ‘Scream,’” Kennedy said.
“Neve Campbell is the face of ‘Scream.’ ... The franchise gets rebooted. The franchise is more popular than ever. ... How can you make ‘Scream’ without Sidney Prescott? ... It’s her story, her POV, her pain. Everything is her. She’s the heroine.”
Actor Matthew Lillard, who got moviegoers’ attention as the murderous prankster Stuart in “Scream” (1996), has purchased a house in the Hollywood Hills for $325,000.
Earlier this month, Campbell confirmed in a statement that she would not be returning for “Scream 6" after contract negotiations for the next installment went south. Other legacy “Scream” stars — including Courteney Cox and Hayden Panettiere — are set to reprise their roles for the forthcoming film, which is slated to open on March 31, 2023. Jenna Ortega of “Scream 5" is also set to return.
“As a woman I have had to work extremely hard in my career to establish my value, especially when it comes to ‘Scream,’” Campbell said.
“I felt the offer that was presented to me did not equate to the value I have brought to the franchise.”
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'Surrounded by her family' | Richmond PD chief says Ofc. Seara Burton being moved to hospice
Officer Seara Burton was injured less than two weeks before her wedding, when a suspect shot her at a traffic stop.
Richmond Ofc. Seara Burton was critically injured in a shooting on Wednesday, Aug. 10.
She was taken off life support on Thursday, Sept. 1, a little over three weeks after being shot at close range during a traffic stop. Most recently, she was transferred to hospice care and is surrounded by family, Richmond Police Chief Michael Britt said on Saturday.
The shooting has left the Richmond community, police department and the state of Indiana shaken.
Latest updates Burton transferred to hospice
Burton was transferred to a hospice facility in the Richmond area on Saturday. The news comes three days after police announced Burton would be taken off life support.
Major Jon Bales announced Burton would be taken off life support on Thursday, Sept. 1. He said her injuries had been determined to be "unrecoverable" and that she would live on through organ donation.
"Seara will live on and continue to be a hero with her selfless gift of organ donation. Officer Burton will continue to serve others long after her passing," Bales said Wednesday.
When taken off life support, Burton continued fighting.
On Friday, Richmond Police Chief Michael Britt said Burton hadn't passed and that she "continues to remind us just how strong she is."
And, on Saturday, Britt announced she would be transferred from the Intensive Care Unit at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton to a hospice facility in the Richmond area.
"She will continue receiving excellent care and be surrounded by her family. The family is grateful for all of the community support but does request privacy at this time. Please be respectful of the family’s wishes while they spend this precious time with Seara," Britt said in the update.
"We want to honor her" Community unites in face of tragedy
It was the news a police department and community had been praying wouldn’t come. As word spread Wednesday afternoon, people came to the Richmond police station to pay respects.
“I came to light a candle and leave a flower for her,” said Richmond resident Karla Chasteen, a retired police officer who remembers the danger of the job.
“You always expect it to happen in the big city, you don’t expect it to happen in our small town,” said Chasteen.
It was a feeling shared by other Richmond residents, many asking the question, “How could it happen here?”
“For it to hit so close to home, it was shocking,” said Jennifer Lopez, who works in a local restaurant.
Lopez has followed news of Burton’s condition since she was shot three weeks ago.
“To die doing your duty, to protect your community, it’s just ... I have no words,” said Lopez.
Hours after the devastating news, a local boutique held a live auction on Facebook, with items donated from local businesses, all to raise money for a fund in Burton’s name.
“We want to honor her and her sacrifice for our community,” said Luxe Lizzy Boutique owner Lori Troutwine. Troutwine said her father had once been Richmond’s police chief and hired Burton to be an officer with the department.
“So this is really close to my heart,” Troutwine said, adding that Wednesday’s fundraiser had already been planned when they got the news Burton was not going to recover.
“We’re crushed,” said Troutwine.
There was never a thought to reschedule the fundraiser, though. The group of women who helped with it, pushed through their own grief to support Burton.
“We have cried throughout, but the bottom line is we’re honoring Seara,” said Troutwine. “The fact that there’s so much support is so heartwarming. The fact that there’s so much good, still out there.”
"We're all just hurting" Community, police mourn on day Burton was taken off life support
For the many who came to the police station Thursday night, there were just no words. Only bowed heads, tears and quiet contemplation.
Dozens brought flowers and other mementos of support for Burton.
The woman in the larger-than-life picture in front of them is on their mind. Burton, standing proudly in her police uniform with her K-9 partner Brev at her side.
“She protects our community, you know?" said Deanna Ripberger.
“I think we’re all just hurting,” added Marquita Clemons, who brought her family to pray for Burton’s healing, despite word received Wednesday that she wasn’t expected to survive her injuries.
“I’m so sad that this has happened to her," said Clemons. "This is a senseless act."
“I don’t know what to say, but it’s a tragedy. My heart goes out to everyone,” said Wayne Ripberger.
“She’s got a lot of support that’s for sure," added Deana. "A huge, huge support system. This community has really come together.”
Miami Valley Hospital released video of the honor walk for the officer:
Burton was engaged to be married
The shooting happened less than two weeks before Burton's wedding day. In the face of tragedy, her fiancée Sierra Neal has shown incredible strength.
In a post a few days after the shooting, Neal said, "Seara is the strongest person I know and she continues to prove that every single day. She is the most beautiful human inside and out and anyone who has ever been lucky enough to know her will tell you the same."
Neal ended her post with, "Seara Burton I love you more than anything in this entire world and I am so very proud of you. You are my person."
And on what would have been their wedding day, Neal posted a video on TikTok of her walking in a white dress toward Burton's hospital room.
In the video, "Something in the Orange" by Zach Bryan plays in the background as Neal walks toward the room, surrounded by hospital staff standing in support of her and Burton.
"This walk was supposed to look a lot different, but I will always be thankful we still got to celebrate. Even if it is not legal on paper, you are my wife. I love you Seara," Neal wrote in the caption for the video.
A photo hangs on the door of Burton's room, showing the Richmond officer and her K-9 partner Brev, who was with her when she was shot on Wednesday, Aug. 10.
The video has been viewed more than five million times and has nearly 500,000 likes. It's gained attention from people across the country, offering their prayers for Burton, Neal and their families.
Recounting Aug. 10 shooting
Burton was shot at around 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 10. The day after the shooting, Britt said Burton was in "extremely critical" condition after suffering a gunshot wound to her head.
At the time, she was helping other officers with a traffic stop. When her K-9 partner, Brev, went to check 47-year-old Phillip M. Lee's moped, Burton went to talk to Lee. That's when he allegedly pulled out a gun and shot several rounds toward officers.
Court documents say Lee was aiming at the officers' "head and facial areas."
Burton was shot at close range and the officer next to her was nearly shot in the head. Other officers returned fire, and Lee shot at them as he ran away.
“He just pulled the gun and fired. He was just so close to her. She didn’t stand a chance. It’s just not fair to her. It’s not fair to her family," said Michelle Partin, who is Lee's neighbor and witnessed the shooting. “He fired one shot and pop and there was a slight pause and then pop, pop, pop where [officers] returned fire and there was anywhere from 10 to 15 shots.”
Burton was taken to the Dayton hospital in "very critical condition, fighting for her life," said Britt. | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/richmond-police-officer-seara-burton-to-be-taken-off-life-support/531-32b1205f-19ec-494f-990d-002daf6de1e5 | 2022-09-04 17:08:14 | 0 | https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/richmond-police-officer-seara-burton-to-be-taken-off-life-support/531-32b1205f-19ec-494f-990d-002daf6de1e5 |
Colorado Rep. Joe Neguse applauds for Gil Espinoza, right, for his service in Vietnam. Gene Schiferl is on the left. Rep. Joe Neguse commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War by speaking and pinning Vietnam veterans at American Legion Post 32 in Longmont.(Cliff Grassmick/Staff Photographer)
Vietnam Vet, Dave Morden, gets a pin from Rep. Joe Neguse for his service in Vietnam. Rep. Joe Neguse commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War by speaking and pinning Vietnam veterans at American Legion Post 32 in Longmont.(Cliff Grassmick/Staff Photographer)
Rep. Joe Neguse commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War by speaking and pinning Vietnam veterans at American Legion Post 32 in Longmont.(Cliff Grassmick/Staff Photographer)
American Legion Post 32, honor guard member, Pat Lennon, chats with Colorado Rep. Joe Neguse on July 8, 2022. Colorado Rep. Joe Neguse commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War by speaking and pinning Vietnam veterans at American Legion Post 32 in Longmont.(Cliff Grassmick/Staff Photographer)
Colorado Rep. Joe Neguse congratulates Vietnam vet, Gil Espinoza, on July 8, 2022. Rep. Joe Neguse commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War by speaking and pinning Vietnam veterans at American Legion Post 32 in Longmont.(Cliff Grassmick/Staff Photographer)
Colorado Representitive, Joe Neguse, talks with Vietnam vet Tom Lindahl on July 8, 2022. Rep. Joe Neguse commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War by speaking and pinning Vietnam veterans at American Legion Post 32 in Longmont.(Cliff Grassmick/Staff Photographer)
Rep. Joe Neguse commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War by speaking and pinning Vietnam veterans at American Legion Post 32 in Longmont.(Cliff Grassmick/Staff Photographer) | https://www.dailycamera.com/2022/07/08/photos-rep-joe-neguse-meets-with-vietnam-veterans-in-longmont/ | 2022-07-08 22:33:08 | 1 | https://www.dailycamera.com/2022/07/08/photos-rep-joe-neguse-meets-with-vietnam-veterans-in-longmont/ |
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The Lineup | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/the-lineup/arrest-and-arraignment-the-lineup/3539209/ | 2023-04-05 01:57:19 | 0 | https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/the-lineup/arrest-and-arraignment-the-lineup/3539209/ |
The digital-first car insurance company deepens its relationship with Experian's auto insurance shopping solution to deliver a seamless embedded car insurance experience
CHICAGO, April 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Clearcover Insurance Company, the next-generation car insurance company, today announces it has launched an innovative embedded insurance solution in which consumers receive final, bindable quotes when they shop via Experian's® auto insurance comparison shopping service. This initiative supports Clearcover's strategy to fuel growth in its distribution channels and complements Experian's consumer-centric approach to its products.
"We're redesigning the insurance playbook by streamlining processes and building new experiences and capabilities," said Clearcover CEO Kyle Nakatsuji. "We are grateful to Experian for putting their trust in us to develop solutions that improve their users' experiences."
Clearcover is investing in technology to meet market demand and support its mission to become the digital auto insurer of choice for modern drivers. Its partner-centric API allows users to comparison shop for auto insurance to find better rates without leaving the Experian site for final quotes. Launched last year, Experian's auto insurance offering furthers its mission to financially empower consumers by helping them potentially save hundreds of dollars on their current policy.*
"Working with a tech-enabled carrier is a win-win," said Rakesh Patel, General Manager of Experian Insurance Services™ at Experian. "Clearcover is uniquely positioned to tailor the underlying embedded experience so that our customers can quickly and easily shop for auto insurance policies all in one place. When we can empower consumers to make positive changes effortlessly, Experian is achieving its goal of financial power for all."
"This integration is part of our customer-centric mission to provide hassle-free insurance," said Clearcover Chief Product and Innovation Officer Adam Fischer. "Our goal to empower consumers to make the smartest decisions at every step aligns with Experian's mission to help its customers improve their financial well-being."
On the heels of securing $153 million in Series E financing last November, Clearcover ramped up efforts to invest in and integrate new technologies and business strategies.
"Experian and Clearcover have a long-standing relationship," said Clearcover Head of Partner Distribution Chris Ritter. "This collaboration is a natural progression and we're looking forward to ensuring they have some of the smartest solutions on the market."
Clearcover, which currently offers auto policies in 19 states, is advancing an industry that continues to adapt and change. The company ranked No. 50 on the 2022 Deloitte Technology Fast 500 list and was named by InsurTech Magazine as a "Top 10 Insurtech Platform to Watch in 2022."
For more information on partnering with Clearcover, please visit clearcover.com/embedded.
To comparison shop for auto insurance at Experian, visit experian.com/auto.
About Clearcover
Clearcover is the next-generation insurance company that provides customers with the technology they need to confidently make the smartest decisions at every step. Clearcover is challenging the status quo with hassle-free insurance that redefines what it means to put the customer first, delivering affordable car insurance with one of the industry's fastest claims experiences. Clearcover includes Clearcover, Inc., which was founded in 2016 by Kyle Nakatsuji and Derek Brigham, Clearcover Insurance Company (NAIC #16524) and Clearcover Insurance Agency. Clearcover has raised more than $480 million in funding to date. In 2022, the insurance fintech ranked No.50 on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500™ and No. 151 on the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Privately Held Companies in America. Clearcover has also been featured by Glassdoor as one of the nation's "Best Places to Work." For more information, visit Clearcover.com.
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SOURCE Clearcover Insurance Company | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2023/04/26/clearcover-teams-with-experian-deliver-an-embedded-insurance-solution/ | 2023-04-26 19:01:53 | 0 | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2023/04/26/clearcover-teams-with-experian-deliver-an-embedded-insurance-solution/ |
Hospital CEO Sentenced for Repeat Drunk Driving Offence
March 14, 2023 4:00AM EDT
The CEO of McLaren Thumb Region and McLaren Caro Region hospitals was sentenced to 270 days in jail for her third offence drunk driving conviction.
Connie Koutouzos was sentenced in Huron County after pleading guilty in January to operating while intoxicated. She was charged about a year ago in March after Huron County deputies found her sleeping in her vehicle on Sebewaing Road in Sheridan Township near Bad Axe.
Her previous drunk driving convictions occurred in the UP and Wisconsin.
Koutouzos will serve the first 30 days in jail over several weekends. If she doesn’t violate her probation, the rest of the sentence will be held in abeyance. | https://www.wsgw.com/hospital-ceo-sentenced-for-repeat-drunk-driving-offence/ | 2023-03-14 12:26:27 | 1 | https://www.wsgw.com/hospital-ceo-sentenced-for-repeat-drunk-driving-offence/ |
- The action has no impact on closed mortgages.
- Company has arranged financing to fund critical operations.
PLANO, Texas, June 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- First Guaranty Mortgage Corp. ("FGMC" or "the Company") today announced that the Company and affiliate Maverick II Holdings, LLC filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware to protect the business while exploring all available restructuring options. The Company has begun notifying its regulators and other pertinent parties.
The action has no impact on closed mortgages, which are already serviced by third parties.
The Company has taken action to accommodate the maximum number borrowers who have started but not yet completed the loan process. FGMC is finalizing debtor-in-possession financing that will enable it to close and fund approved consumer loans, under existing terms and conditions. In addition, the Company has further identified one or more potential partners to provide optionality to support the pipeline of in-process loans.
The debtor-in-possession financing, once approved by the Court, will also support the Company's operations, including go-forward payments to employees and vendors in the ordinary course and in accordance with bankruptcy provisions. Additionally, FGMC is in the process of developing an employee incentive and retention program, which requires Court approval.
"While we have made considerable efforts to address our ongoing financial challenges related to the state of the mortgage market, we ultimately must do what is best for our borrowers and consumers," said Aaron Samples, chief executive officer of FGMC. "After careful review and consideration, the Company determined that pursuing the protections of chapter 11 is the right and responsible path at this time. As part of this process, the Company retained a portion of its workforce to manage the day-to-day business. We are requesting that the court approve a variety of motions that will promote a smooth transition for all pertinent parties while also preserving value for the benefit of the Company's stakeholders."
The chapter 11 filing was necessitated by significant operating losses and cash flow challenges experienced by the Company due to unforeseen historical adverse market conditions for the mortgage lending industry, including unanticipated market volatility. The sharp and unexpected decline in performance reflects the intense pressure on mortgage originations due to the dramatic collapse of the mortgage refinance market and the weakening mortgage purchase market, which has suffered from a lack of housing inventory and increasing affordability issues. These factors have resulted in significant losses on the Company's total mortgage revenues and overall liquidity constraints.
Federal law prohibits the Company from paying amounts owed with respect to obligations arising prior to the June 30, 2022, filing date, without a court order. Entities owed funds may be eligible to file a claim. For information about the claims filing process, please visit http://www.kccllc.net/FGMC.
Media Contact: fgmccommunications@fticonsulting.com
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SOURCE First Guaranty Mortgage Corp. | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/06/30/first-guaranty-mortgage-corp-files-chapter-11-bankruptcy-protection/ | 2022-06-30 12:32:13 | 0 | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2022/06/30/first-guaranty-mortgage-corp-files-chapter-11-bankruptcy-protection/ |
NEW YORK, Aug. 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- InvestorsObserver issues critical PriceWatch Alerts for WDAY, JD, AAPL, ALB, and AMD.
Click a link below then choose between in-depth options trade idea report or a stock score report.
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- WDAY: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-options-lp-2/?symbol=WDAY&prnumber=082620224
- JD: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-options-lp-2/?symbol=JD&prnumber=082620224
- AAPL: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-options-lp-2/?symbol=AAPL&prnumber=082620224
- ALB: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-options-lp-2/?symbol=ALB&prnumber=082620224
- AMD: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-options-lp-2/?symbol=AMD&prnumber=082620224
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InvestorsObserver provides patented technology to some of the biggest names on Wall Street and creates world-class investing tools for the self-directed investor on Main Street. We have a wide range of tools to help investors make smarter decisions when investing in stocks or options.
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SOURCE InvestorsObserver | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/08/26/thinking-about-trading-options-or-stock-workday-jdcom-apple-albemarle-corp-or-advanced-micro-devices/ | 2022-08-26 14:57:34 | 1 | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/08/26/thinking-about-trading-options-or-stock-workday-jdcom-apple-albemarle-corp-or-advanced-micro-devices/ |
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LISBON, Portugal (AP) — A spate of wildfires is scorching parts of Europe, with firefighters battling blazes in Portugal, Spain and southern France on Wednesday amid an unusual heat wave that authorities are linking to climate change.
In Portugal, Civil Protection commander André Fernandes said that multiple fires have caused the evacuation of more than 600 people. About 120 people needed medical treatment, with two people — one civilian and one firefighter — suffering serious injuries, Fernandes said.
Water-dumping planes helped 1,300 firefighters combat the worst of the blazes in the nation’s central area, while another 1,000 worked to bring other fires under control.
The European heat wave is also sparking flames in Spain and France — and in Turkey at the other end of the Mediterranean.
More than 800 firefighters battled two wildfires in the region outside Bordeaux in southwest France, according to the regional emergency service. The fires began Tuesday near the towns of Landiras and La Teste-de-Buch, and firefighters hadn't been able to contain them by Wednesday morning.
About 6,500 people have been evacuated from campgrounds and villages in the forested area. The number of injuries is unclear. The two fires have destroyed more than 1,800 hectares (4,400 acres) of terrain, the emergency service said.
Images from firefighters showed flames racing through thickets of trees and grassland, fanned by strong winds, and smoke blackening the horizon.
The regional administration banned activity in forested areas at risk. Several regions in southern France are on fire alert because of hot, dry weather and high winds. Wildfires swept through the Gard region in southeast France last week.
Portugal has long experienced fatal forest fires. In 2017, wildfires killed more than 100 people. No one has died from a wildfire since then as Portugal improved its forest management and firefighting strategies.
Last year, Portugal recorded its lowest number of wildfires since 2011. But a mass of hot and dry air blown in by African winds are driving temperatures in the Iberian Peninsula beyond their usual highs.
The Atlantic country, which has been on alert of wildfires since last week, is sweltering under a spike in temperatures that is forecast to send thermometers in the central Alentejo region to 46 C (115 F) on Wednesday and Thursday. Authorities said that 96% of the country was classified at the end of June as being in either “extreme” or “severe” drought.
More than 3,000 hectares (7,400 acres) had been consumed alone in the district of Leiria, just north of Lisbon, Mayor Goncalo Lopes told Portuguese state broadcaster RTP.
Neighboring Spain hit highs of 43 C (109.4 F) in several southern cities on Tuesday.
Over 400 people were evacuated on Tuesday because of a wildfire that has consumed 3,500 hectares (8,600 acres) in western Spain.
European Union officials issued a warning last week that climate change is behind the extremely dry and hot summer so far on the continent, urging local authorities to brace for wildfires.
Cayetano Torres, spokesman for Spain’s national weather forecaster, said that the “unusual” heat wave and lack of rainfall in recent months has created ideal circumstances for fires.
“These are perfect conditions for the propagation of fires, which when you add to that some wind, you have have guaranteed propagation,” he said.
In southwestern Turkey, a blaze erupted in an area close to the village of Mesudiye, near the Aegean Sea resort of Datca, and was moving in the direction of some homes in the area, according to the provincial governor’s office. It said at least nine water-dropping helicopters and five planes were deployed to battle the fire.
Last summer, blazes that were fed by strong winds and scorching temperatures tore through forests in Turkey’s Mediterranean and Aegean regions. The wildfires, which killed at least eight people and countless animals, were described as the worst in Turkey’s history.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s government came under criticism for its inadequate response and preparedness to fight large-scale wildfires, including a lack of modern firefighting planes.
___
Joseph Wilson reported from Barcelona, Spain. Angela Charlton in Paris, Renata Brito in Barcelona, and Suzan Frazer in Istanbul, contributed to this report.
___
Follow all AP stories on climate change issues at https://apnews.com/hub/climate | https://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Firefighters-battle-wildfires-from-Portugal-to-17301895.php | 2022-07-13 14:23:32 | 0 | https://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Firefighters-battle-wildfires-from-Portugal-to-17301895.php |
DENVER — For National Park Service fisheries biologist Jeff Arnold, it was a moment he'd been dreading. Bare-legged in sandals, he was pulling in a net in a shallow backwater of the lower Colorado River last week, when he spotted three young fish that didn't belong there. “Give me a call when you get this!” he messaged a colleague, snapping photos.
Minutes later, the park service confirmed their worst fear: smallmouth bass had in fact been found and were likely reproducing in the Colorado River below Glen Canyon Dam.
They may be a beloved sport fish, but smallmouth bass feast on humpback chub, an ancient, threatened fish that’s native to the river, and that biologists like Arnold have been working hard to recover. The predators wreaked havoc in the upper river, but were held at bay in Lake Powell where Glen Canyon Dam has served as a barrier for years — until now. The reservoir’s recent sharp decline is enabling these introduced fish to get past the dam and closer to where the biggest groups of chub remain, farther downstream in the Grand Canyon.
There, Brian Healy has worked with the humpback chub for more than a decade and founded the Native Fish Ecology and Conservation Program.
“It’s pretty devastating to see all the hard work and effort you’ve put into removing other invasive species and translocating populations around to protect the fish and to see all that effort overturned really quickly,” Healy said.
As reservoir levels drop, non-native fish that live in warm surface waters in Lake Powell are edging closer to the dam and its penstocks — submerged steel tubes that carry water to turbines, where it generates hydroelectric power and is released on the other side.
If bass and other predator fish continue to get sucked into the penstocks, survive and reproduce below the dam, they will have an open lane to attack chub and other natives, potentially unraveling years of restoration work and upending the Grand Canyon aquatic ecosystem — the only stretch of the river still dominated by native species.
On the brink of extinction decades ago, the chub has come back in modest numbers thanks to fish biologists and other scientists and engineers. Agencies spend millions of dollars annually to keep intruders in check in the upper portion of the river.
Under the Endangered Species Act, government agencies are required to operate in ways that will not “jeopardize the continued existence” of listed animals. That includes infrastructure.
Even before the discovery of smallmouth bass spawning below the dam, agencies had been bracing for this moment. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation recently enlisted a team of researchers at Utah State University to map the nonnative fish in Lake Powell and try to determine which could pass through the dam first.
A task force quickly assembled earlier this year to address the urgency the low water poses for native fish. Federal, state and tribal leaders are expected to release a draft plan in August containing solutions for policymakers who intend to delay, slow and respond to the threat of smallmouth bass and other predators below the dam.
There are a variety of solutions, but many will require significant changes to infrastructure.
In the meantime, National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey and Arizona Game and Fish Department are moving quickly to try to contain the issue. During an emergency meeting, they decided to increase their monitoring efforts in other shallow areas and block off the entire backwater where the smallmouth bass were found so they can't swim out into the river.
“Unfortunately, the only block nets we have are pretty large mesh, so it will not stop these smaller fish from going through, but it will keep the adults from going back out,” Arnold said, noting it's the best they can do with available resources.
Experts say leaving more water in Lake Powell would be the best solution to ensure cool water can be released through the dam, although it's tough to do in a river under so much stress.
Last month, the Department of the Interior notified the seven western states that depend on Colorado River water that they must devise a way to conserve up to 4 million acre-feet of water in 2023 — more than Arizona and Nevada’s share combined -- or face federal intervention. It is unclear where that conserved supply would be stored, but Healy says he hopes Lake Powell is being considered.
“If we want to protect some of the values for which Grand Canyon National Park was established, we need to really think about how water is stored,” Healy said. “That issue needs to be at the table.” | https://www.abc15.com/news/national/biologists-fears-confirmed-on-the-lower-colorado-river | 2022-07-06 23:46:43 | 1 | https://www.abc15.com/news/national/biologists-fears-confirmed-on-the-lower-colorado-river |
BALTIMORE, April 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the American Urological Association (AUA), in partnership with the Society of Urodynamics, Female Pelvic Medicine & Urogenital Reconstruction (SUFU), released the 2023 clinical practice guideline amendment for the surgical treatment of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI).
SUI is a common problem experienced by many women. About 1 in 3 women suffer from SUI at some point in their lives, and the chance of having urinary incontinence increases with age.
The updated guideline has 24 recommendations that provide a clinical framework for the assessment and treatment of SUI in women.
Topics discussed in the guideline include:
- Patient Evaluation
- Cystoscopy and Urodynamics Testing
- Patient Counseling
- Treatment
- Special Cases
- Outcomes Assessment
"The recommendations in this guideline are fundamental to the delivery of the most effective treatment for our female patients with SUI," said Kathleen C. Kobashi, MD, Chair of the Department of Urology at Houston Methodist Hospital. "The guidelines advocate for the importance of proper patient evaluation, as well as for careful consideration around which treatment options are best suited for a given individual. Importantly, they also focus on the crucial nature of assiduous counseling regarding the risks, benefits, and alternatives available for treatment. We believe this guideline will help practicing urologists provide comprehensive, evidence-based, and effective care for SUI."
This amendment is the result of 24 new studies reviewed since the initial SUI guideline publication in 2017. It was distributed to peer reviewers of varying backgrounds as part of the AUA's extensive peer review process before being approved by the AUA Board of Directors and SUFU Executive Committee.
"SUFU values our long-standing relationship with the AUA, which has resulted in the production of numerous guidelines in our field," said SUFU President David Ginsberg, MD. "This recent amendment to the stress urinary incontinence guideline provides clinicians with the most up to date guidance and recommendations for the evaluation and treatment of women with SUI."
The full updated guideline is now available at https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/stress-urinary-incontinence-(sui)-guideline
A summary of the Guideline also appears at:
- Kobashi KC, Vasavada S, Bloschichak A, et al. Updates to surgical treatment of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI): AUA/SUFU guideline (2023). J Urol. 2023;209(6): https://www.auajournals.org/doi/full/10.1097/JU.0000000000003435
About the American Urological Association: Founded in 1902 and headquartered near Baltimore, Maryland, the American Urological Association is a leading advocate for the specialty of urology, and has more than 23,000 members throughout the world. The AUA is a premier urologic association, providing invaluable support to the urologic community as it pursues its mission of fostering the highest standards of urologic care through education, research and the formulation of health policy.
Contact:
Corey Del Bianco, Corporate Communications & Media Relations Manager
443-909-4033
cdelbianco@AUAnet.org
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SOURCE American Urological Association | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2023/04/25/aua-sufu-release-an-amendment-female-stress-urinary-incontinence-guideline/ | 2023-04-25 16:18:58 | 1 | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2023/04/25/aua-sufu-release-an-amendment-female-stress-urinary-incontinence-guideline/ |
NEW YORK, Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Gross Law Firm issues the following notice to shareholders of Co-Diagnostics, Inc..
Shareholders who purchased shares of CODX during the class period listed are encouraged to contact the firm regarding possible lead plaintiff appointment. Appointment as lead plaintiff is not required to partake in any recovery.
CONTACT US HERE:
CLASS PERIOD: This lawsuit is on behalf of a class of all persons and entities who purchased the publicly traded securities of Co-Dx during the period of May 12, 2022 through the close of the market on August 11, 2022 (4:00 p.m. ET).
ALLEGATIONS: The complaint alleges that during the class period, Defendants issued materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) demand for the Company's Logix Smart™ COVID-19 test had plummeted throughout the quarter ended June 30, 2022, and (ii) as a result, defendants' positive statements about the demand for its Logix Smart™ COVID-19 test lacked a reasonable basis.
DEADLINE: October 17, 2022 Shareholders should not delay in registering for this class action. Register your information here: https://securitiesclasslaw.com/securities/co-diagnostics-inc-loss-submission-form-2/?id=31380&from=4
NEXT STEPS FOR SHAREHOLDERS: Once you register as a shareholder who purchased shares of CODX during the timeframe listed above, you will be enrolled in a portfolio monitoring software to provide you with status updates throughout the lifecycle of the case. The deadline to seek to be a lead plaintiff is October 17, 2022. There is no cost or obligation to you to participate in this case.
WHY GROSS LAW FIRM? The Gross Law Firm is nationally recognized class action law firm, and our mission is to protect the rights of all investors who have suffered as a result of deceit, fraud, and illegal business practices. The Gross Law Firm is committed to ensuring that companies adhere to responsible business practices and engage in good corporate citizenship. The firm seeks recovery on behalf of investors who incurred losses when false and/or misleading statements or the omission of material information by a company lead to artificial inflation of the company's stock. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
The Gross Law Firm
15 West 38th Street, 12th floor
New York, NY, 10018
Email: dg@securitiesclasslaw.com
Phone: (646) 453-8903
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SOURCE The Gross Law Firm | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/shareholder-alert-gross-law-firm-notifies-shareholders-co-diagnostics-inc-class-action-lawsuit-lead-plaintiff-deadline-october-17-2022-nasdaq-codx/ | 2022-09-07 11:37:40 | 0 | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/shareholder-alert-gross-law-firm-notifies-shareholders-co-diagnostics-inc-class-action-lawsuit-lead-plaintiff-deadline-october-17-2022-nasdaq-codx/ |
MILWAUKEE — The Yankees held the fort without Anthony Rizzo for more than two weeks, winning eight of 14 games during his latest absence.
All along though, they longed for his return and it’s finally happening for Sunday’s series finale against the Milwaukee Brewers because he adds a quality left-handed bat to help make up for the absences of two other regulars who still are on the injured list, left fielder Andrew Benintendi and utility player Matt Carpenter.
BUY YANKEES TICKETS: STUBHUB, VIVID SEATS, TICKETSMARTER, TICKETMASTER
“With Carpenter down and Benintendi down, (Rizzo) adds that formidable left-handed bat,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. “He’s in the middle of a 30-homer season. He’s a leader on the field. He’s kind of an anchor for us over there at first base. So we’re getting one of our cornerstones back.”
Rizzo will start out batting second behind leadoff hitter Aaron Judge, who went into Sunday with 57 homers for the season but none in his last three games.
The Yankees farmed out outfielder Estevan Florial to open up a roster spot for Rizzo, who went into the day batting .225 with 30 homers, 71 RBI and an .832 OPS in 117 games.
“He’s one of the best first baseman in the game for a reason,” Judge said of Rizzo. “He’s a consistent part of this team and this lineup all year long. A couple back things have popped throughout the year, but he’s a guy who shows up every single day ready to play.
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“To get him back in the lineup, he’s a guy that can work the count and hit for power. He’s got 30 home runs this year, so he’s definitely going to be a big boost.
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Randy Miller may be reached at rmiller@njadvancemedia.com. | https://www.nj.com/yankees/2022/09/yankees-get-anthony-rizzo-back-drop-outfielder-were-getting-one-of-our-cornerstones-back.html | 2022-09-18 18:20:52 | 0 | https://www.nj.com/yankees/2022/09/yankees-get-anthony-rizzo-back-drop-outfielder-were-getting-one-of-our-cornerstones-back.html |
The Biden administration said Wednesday it is considering the first-ever lease sale for offshore wind energy in the Gulf of Mexico, a key part of a push to deploy 30 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030 to help fight climate change.
The proposed sale, which could take place as soon as this summer, includes areas offshore Lake Charles, Louisiana and Galveston, Texas, for roughly 3.6 gigawatts of electricity, enough to power about 1.3 million homes.
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management plans to open a 60-day public comment period on Friday. The area offshore Lake Charles could be modified and possibly shrunk based on the comments received, and BOEM may decide to offer only one of two lease areas proposed off Galveston.
The Gulf is the nation’s primary offshore source of oil and gas, generating about 97% of all oil and gas production on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf, according to BOEM.
The National Ocean Industries Association, which represents both traditional oil and gas offshore energy companies and wind power, said that offshore wind, along with regular and predictable offshore oil and gas leasing, can help the Gulf of Mexico expand its “remarkable and irreplaceable energy portfolio.”
The Biden administration set a goal of deploying 30 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030 using traditional technology that secures wind turbines to the ocean floor, enough to power 10 million homes. Additionally it announced plans in the fall to develop floating platforms in the deep ocean for wind towers that could vastly expand offshore wind in the United States, with up to 15 gigawatts of electricity from floating sites by 2035 to power 5 million homes.
Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, who announced the proposed sale Wednesday, said there is “no time to waste in making bold investments to address the climate crisis.” Building a strong domestic offshore wind industry is key to meeting that challenge head on, she said.
Scientists say clean electricity such as wind power must replace electricity from burning coal and gas as soon as possible to reduce the severity of climate disturbance.
Danish wind developer Ørsted is already investing in infrastructure and vessels in the Gulf region for its planned U.S. offshore wind farms. Hayes Framme, the head of new markets and supply chain for Ørsted, applauded the proposed sale and said the company is assessing these new opportunities. The Gulf of Mexico has long experience in the offshore energy industry and that will benefit projects in the new lease areas, Framme added.
The Interior Department recently held lease sales for offshore wind projects in New York and New Jersey, North Carolina and South Carolina, and the first-ever Pacific sale off the shore of California.
Wind speeds in the Gulf of Mexico are not as strong as along the California coast or the Northeast coast of the U.S. Just one mile per hour or meter per second difference in the speed of the wind makes a big difference in the power generated by a wind turbine. Multiplied over a field of turbines, these siting decisions mean real differences in the profitability of a project.
But the wind does blow at just the right time along the Texas coast — in the early evening as solar energy is fading, according to Crystal Shen, a senior project engineer in the renewables group at UL Solutions. A wind farm in the Gulf would be close to towns and cities that need a lot of power, including Houston, and diversifying sources of electricity could relieve congestion on the grid, she added.
Other big factors for deciding where to build include how much port and transmission infrastructure there is, and whether the seafloor allows for drilling, Shen said. The waters in the Gulf are shallow enough for traditional technology that secures wind turbines to the ocean floor. The proposed lease areas total nearly 302,000 acres.
Josh Kaplowitz, vice president for offshore wind at the industry group American Clean Power, said the proposed sale will continue the legacy of energy production in the Gulf of Mexico, providing Americans with an affordable clean energy supply.
The sale remains tentative. Interior said it will decide whether to proceed after the public comment period in late April.
___
Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives support from several private foundations. See more about AP’s climate initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/ap-biden-considers-1st-offshore-wind-auction-in-gulf-of-mexico/ | 2023-02-23 18:54:02 | 1 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/ap-biden-considers-1st-offshore-wind-auction-in-gulf-of-mexico/ |
NEW YORK, June 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Jakubowitz Law announces that a securities fraud class action lawsuit has commenced on behalf of shareholders of Teladoc Health, Inc. (NYSE: TDOC).
To receive updates on the lawsuit, fill out the form:
https://claimyourloss.com/securities/teladoc-health-inc-loss-submission-form/?id=28332&from=4
The lawsuit seeks to recover losses for shareholders who purchased Teladoc between October 28, 2021 and April 27, 2022.
Shareholders interested in acting as a lead plaintiff representing the class of wronged shareholders have until August 5, 2022 to petition the court. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.
According to a filed complaint, Teladoc Health, Inc. issued materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) increased competition, among other factors, was negatively impacting Teladoc's BetterHelp and chronic care businesses; (ii) accordingly, the growth of those businesses was less sustainable than Defendants had led investors to believe; (iii) as a result, Teladoc's revenue and adjusted EBITDA projections for FY 2022 were unrealistic; (iv) as a result of all the foregoing, Teladoc would be forced to recognize a significant non-cash goodwill impairment charge; and (v) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.
Jakubowitz Law is vigorous in pursuit of justice for shareholders who have been the victim of securities fraud. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
JAKUBOWITZ LAW
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SOURCE Jakubowitz Law | https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2022/06/10/tdoc-shareholder-alert-jakubowitz-law-reminds-teladoc-shareholders-lead-plaintiff-deadline-august-5-2022/ | 2022-06-10 10:24:32 | 1 | https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2022/06/10/tdoc-shareholder-alert-jakubowitz-law-reminds-teladoc-shareholders-lead-plaintiff-deadline-august-5-2022/ |
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — A former student at the University of Puerto Rico has been sentenced to more than a year in federal prison after authorities accused him of breaking into women’s Snapchat accounts and sharing their nude images with others.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office said Thursday that Iván Santell-Velázquez pleaded guilty to cyberstalking in July as part of a plea agreement. A judge on Wednesday ordered him to serve 13 months in prison and two years of supervised release.
Santell-Velázquez also was accused of breaking into multiple university email accounts and of targeting 15 women from 2019 to 2021.
Authorities said Santell-Vázquez sent the nude images to other people who then published them online. | https://www.mrt.com/news/article/Puerto-Rico-ex-student-faces-prison-in-17507612.php | 2022-10-13 21:26:27 | 0 | https://www.mrt.com/news/article/Puerto-Rico-ex-student-faces-prison-in-17507612.php |
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- AnChain.AI, the leading blockchain security and risk monitoring solutions provider, today announced the launch of AnChain.AI University, its new professional certification program learning center. Trusted by leading government regulators, financial institutions, enterprises, and crypto businesses, AnChain.AI is now bringing its investigative expertise to industry professionals at all levels of cryptocurrency exposure.
The curriculum builds upon a foundation established by the AnChain.AI team's track record of Web3 security thought leadership and advocacy, including guest lectures and training sessions delivered to government regulators, policymakers, and top universities including Harvard and UC Berkeley. By popular demand, AnChain.AI has even further expanded its training offerings, and is now delivering them to all professionals in the space.
AnChain.AI University launches in the wake of a wave of cryptocurrency hacks, including the recent $570 Million Binance Hack, further highlighting the criticality of proactive security hardening. The program debuts with two certification tracks: Fundamentals of Blockchain & Cryptocurrency and Cryptoasset AML & Forensic Investigation, tailored to advance the skills of security researchers, investigators & compliance professionals, regardless of their prior experience with cryptocurrency. Upon completion of each certification program, learners will receive a certification in the form of a Soulbound Token (SBT) reflecting their mastery of the material.
"As Web3 continues to drive innovation, the threat posed by bad actors escalates as well. The level of expertise required to manage risk and conduct due diligence is higher than ever before," said Dr. Victor Fang, CEO & Co-founder of AnChain.AI, "We are committed to creating a safer and more transparent Web3 ecosystem, and providing both technology solutions as well as training is critical to this effort."
Each certification program will leverage AnChain.AI's expertise in Web3 security, cryptoasset investigation, blockchain forensics, providing a multitude of certification courses designed to prepare industry professionals for the myriad challenges presented by the digital asset ecosystem. Curriculums have been designed with the latest and most critical blockchain security threats in mind, ensuring that all material closely reflects the day-to-day challenges faced in the field.
AnChain.AI University's courses can be delivered both in-person and virtually, with additional certifications including Smart Contract Security arriving in late 2022. Ready to get started? Schedule a training session for your team at info@anchain.ai, or sign up for early access to the self-paced training course at the AnChain.AI University homepage.
AnChain.AI (San Francisco) is an AI-powered cybersecurity company enhancing Web3 security, risk, and compliance strategies. AnChain.AI was founded in 2018 by cybersecurity and enterprise software veterans from FireEye and Mandiant. Backed by both Silicon Valley and Wall Street VCs, and selected in the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator, the company is trusted by 100+ customers from over 10+ countries in these sectors: VASPs, enterprises, financial institutions, and government, including the U.S. SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission). Featured by CBS News, MIT Tech Review, Coindesk, and DEFCON, AnChain.AI's AML engine screens over $1 billion in daily crypto transactions.
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE AnChain.AI | https://www.wbtv.com/prnewswire/2022/10/24/anchainai-launches-crypto-investigation-certification-program-security-amp-compliance-professionals/ | 2022-10-24 19:01:10 | 0 | https://www.wbtv.com/prnewswire/2022/10/24/anchainai-launches-crypto-investigation-certification-program-security-amp-compliance-professionals/ |
French’s unveils Canada’s next favorite summer treat: Ketchup-flavored ice pops
LOS ANGELES - French’s, known for its iconic tomato ketchup has unveiled the most questionable summer treat — unless, maybe, you’re Canadian.
"Frenchsicle," a ketchup-flavored ice pop created by French’s, the condiment maker, will be releasing the new summer snack for a limited time only.
If this sounds appealing to you, there’s a catch. You’ll have to trek to the Great White North to get your hands on the polarizing treat.
The ice-treat is currently only available in Vancouver, British Columbia, Toronto, Ontario and Leamington, Ontario at various popups until June 24.
"Hey Canadian friends, your favorite condiment just got a whole lot cooler," French’s wrote in a social media post.
It’s well known that ketchup chips are already a staple in a Canuck’s kitchen. In fact, a survey commissioned by French's found a majority of Canadians (79 percent) say they like or love ketchup.
The popularity of the condiment in the world’s most polite nation is the reason ketchup ice pops will soon be the next big thing.
"I love creating innovative treats that appeal to Canada's diverse tastes," says Happy Pops founder Leila Keshavjee. "I started Happy Pops to bring all-natural, handcrafted flavour to Canadians, so French's locally-grown ketchup is a perfect pairing. I can't wait for people to try this condiment-turned-popsicle."
If you’re lucky enough to live near Canada or willing to make the trek, here are the popups where the treat will be available:
- 15 York Street (Maple Leaf Square), Toronto, ON: June 23 - 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- 12 W Park Lane, Leamington, ON: June 24 – 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. | https://www.fox5ny.com/news/frenchs-unveils-canadas-next-favorite-summer-treat-ketchup-flavored-popsicles | 2022-06-23 01:48:55 | 1 | https://www.fox5ny.com/news/frenchs-unveils-canadas-next-favorite-summer-treat-ketchup-flavored-popsicles |
Ecuadorean woman who revived during her wake is dead after a week in intensive care at a hospital
QUITO, Ecuador (AP) — A 76-year-old woman who had been declared dead and surprised her relatives by knocking on her coffin during her wake earlier this month has died after seven days in intensive care, her family said Saturday.
Gilberto Barbera Montoya, the woman’s son, told The Associated Press that doctors at the state hospital where she was rushed after the incident said that she died on Friday evening.
Ecuador’s health ministry confirmed in a statement that Bella Montoya died from an ischemic stroke after spending a week in intensive care. It added that Montoya had remained under “permanent surveillance,” but didn’t provide further information on the medical investigation surrounding the case.
Barbera Montoya said that he hadn’t yet received any report from the authorities on the medical explanation of what happened and warned that things “are not going to stay like this.” He added that a sister of the deceased woman had formally complained about the incident, seeking to identify the doctor who declared her dead to begin with.
Bella Montoya reportedly woke up and started knocking on June 9 after spending five hours inside her coffin at a funeral home in Babahoyo, about 208 kilometers (about 129 miles) southwest of Quito.
The remains of Montoya, who was a retired nurse, are back at the same funeral home where she woke up. Her son told the AP that she will be buried at a public cemetery.
A technical committee has been formed to review how the hospital issues death certificates, the country’s ministry of health said last week.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.1011now.com/2023/06/17/ecuadorean-woman-who-revived-during-her-wake-is-dead-after-week-intensive-care-hospital/ | 2023-06-17 19:36:55 | 1 | https://www.1011now.com/2023/06/17/ecuadorean-woman-who-revived-during-her-wake-is-dead-after-week-intensive-care-hospital/ |
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — As the lead trauma surgeon at a military hospital in Ukraine’s capital, Petro Nikitin has his hands deep in a war churning hundreds of kilometers (miles) away. The 59-year-old doctor’s work to repair the bodies of some of the most badly injured soldiers is all-consuming.
“I only operate,” Nikitin said, taking a short pause as his team continued surgery on a patient. “I do nothing else in my life now. I don’t see my children, who have been evacuated, I don’t see my wife, who has been evacuated, I live by myself, and all I do is treat the wounded.”
While the Ukrainian military does not provide casualty figures, some Western sources estimate more than 100,000 Ukrainian troops have been killed or wounded since Russia invaded the country almost 15 months ago.
Fighting has been particularly fierce in recent weeks around the eastern city of Bakhmut, scene of the war’s longest and bloodiest battle, where Ukrainian forces have recently clawed back more territory from Russian forces.
A major Ukrainian counteroffensive is expected in coming weeks, with more people likely to end up on operating tables in Nikitin’s hospital, which like other Ukrainian military hospitals, is short-staffed because physicians were pulled away to work in field hospitals closer to the front. The Associated Press agreed not to identify the Kyiv hospital for security reasons.
On Feb. 25, 2022, the day after Russian troops invaded, Nikitin posted a photo on Facebook that showed him listening to an Israeli specialist in treating gunshot wounds. Surgeons from around the world had agreed to participate in an online training on combat-related injuries that Nikitin hastily organized as president of Ukraine’s chapter of an international association of trauma specialists.
“Every one of us had relevant experience before the invasion, but not in such volume,” Nikitin said. “The high numbers of traumas is something new for us.”
Gunshot wounds turned out to be rare. “I don’t even remember the last time I extracted a bullet,” the surgeon said. But during the long days and months, he has become familiar with a range of traumatic injuries: explosive weapons such as landmines, artillery shells and grenades frequently harm many parts of the body at the same time.
“We receive people with damaged legs, chests, stomachs and arms all at once,” Nikitin said. “In such cases, we have to decide what part of the injury should be our priority.”
The military hospital is one of several in Kyiv. As a top-level trauma center, it receives the most complex cases, typically ones involving patients who were stabilized at the front and spent time in a field hospital before their transfer to the capital, Nikitin said.
“We don’t do first aid here. We don’t save lives. That’s done by the medics,” he said. “What we try to do is return these people to a normal life.”
Dealing with wounds involving damage to soft tissue, bone and the structures that bind nerves and veins are the most difficult for his surgical team, Nikitin said. Sometimes they are forced to amputate a soldier’s arm or leg, which “from a moral point of view” is always a gut-wrenching decision, he said.
“Because you understand that your surgery will lead to a disability of the person, it brings no satisfaction to the doctor or to the patient,” he said. “It’s emotionally hard not only for the patient, but for the surgeon.”
Nikitin typically gets to the hospital at 7:45 a.m. and stays until the work is done, sometimes not leaving until about 11 p.m. His wife and children fled Ukraine in March 2022 as Russian forces closed in on Kyiv. He accompanied his family to the border, but then returned to the city.
As the Russian and Ukrainian armies both prepare for possible spring offensives, his schedule has lightened to about three surgeries a day.
Most of the patients he treated recently were wounded in fighting for Bakhmut and elsewhere in Donetsk province, or in northern Ukraine’s Chernihiv and Sumy provinces, which are shelled regularly.
A soldier Nikitin operated on recently was Mykyta, a Bakhmut native who was wounded in the lower leg while fighting for his hometown and celebrated his 20th birthday shortly after his surgery. The AP is withholding his last name in accordance with military guidelines.
His last memory of Bakhmut forms a “terrible” image in his mind, the young soldier said.
“It’s the city where I spent my childhood, and the city is destroyed,” he said from his hospital bed. “The city is on fire.”
Compared with the massive trauma suffered by some patients, Mykyta’s wound did not look so severe, but he still might lose his lower leg, Nikitin said.
Attempts to graft skin over the wound proved unsuccessful, and doctors tried again on Tuesday. Nikitin said he felt optimistic after the surgery but it would take three weeks to know whether the latest skin graft worked.
“If it does not work out, the next step will be amputation,” the surgeon said.
Mykyta is also missing 20 centimeters (about 8 inches) of bone, which will be Nikitin’s next task if the graft is successful. The bone treatment will take more than a half-year.
“In seven months, I can tell you if he will ever walk again,” he said.
___
David Rising contributed to this story.
___
Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine: https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | https://www.qcnews.com/news/world-news/ap-ukrainian-trauma-surgeon-operates-on-soldiers-all-day-long-amid-russias-war/ | 2023-05-18 10:32:42 | 0 | https://www.qcnews.com/news/world-news/ap-ukrainian-trauma-surgeon-operates-on-soldiers-all-day-long-amid-russias-war/ |
In the days since Tennessee officials released video footage of Memphis police officers brutally beating Tyre Nichols, law enforcement has faced a new wave of criticism.
Some of it has focused on how authorities initially described the incident – and what the videos actually show.
According to a statement from the Memphis Police Department the day after Nichols was beaten, officers pulled over a suspect on suspicion of reckless driving and "a confrontation occurred." The suspect fled, police followed and "another confrontation occurred."
(The statement notes that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation was looking into the stop "due to the suspect's condition.")
Video footage released Friday, taken from officers' body cameras and a street surveillance camera, shows a different story. In the videos, police quickly yank Nichols from his car, shout obscenities and threats, and then pepper spray him. Nichols flees, and when police finally catch him a second time, officers kick him, hit him with a baton and repeatedly punch him in the head while he's being restrained.
For some, the discrepancy between the initial police statement and what was captured on video brought to mind previous instances in which law enforcement's initial statement about a violent encounter was vague, misleading or false.
Critics say the unclear and obfuscatory language police sometimes use to describe violent incidents to the public can further damage trust with communities that may already be skeptical of law enforcement.
"To the extent that you're putting out statements that are indicating one thing and then the video footage released later on shows completely the opposite, that definitely is problematic for trying to build police-community relations," Andrea Headley, a professor at Georgetown University's McCourt School of Public Policy, told NPR.
Footage of high-profile incidents has bred skepticism of police accounts
On May 25, 2020, the Minneapolis Police Department said officers responded to a forgery in progress and arrested a suspect. "Officers were able to get the suspect into handcuffs and noted he appeared to be suffering medical distress," a press release read. "Officers called for an ambulance."
The man was George Floyd, and video footage of the incident captured by a bystander showed former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin kneeling on Floyd's neck for more than nine minutes while Floyd repeatedly pleaded, "I can't breathe!" Floyd died that day.
When the New York Police Department disclosed Eric Garner's death in 2014, a police spokesperson said a man was "being placed in custody, went into cardiac arrest and died," according to a New York Daily News article at the time.
But video shot by a bystander showed former NYPD officer Daniel Pantaleo putting Garner in a chokehold until he went unconscious. New York City's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner later ruled Garner's death a homicide.
In 2018, the Alameda County Sheriff's Office first said that 23-year-old Dujuan Armstrong died of a drug overdose inside the Santa Rita Jail in Dublin, Calif. But as the Guardian reported, body-camera footage released later showed that officers put Armstrong in a restraining jacket and a spit mask before he became unresponsive. An autopsy found that Armstrong died of asphyxiation due to the restraints.
Headley, the Georgetown professor, said police have a number of reasons for issuing vague statements early on in use-of-force investigations, including the possibility that the authors of the statements may not have all the facts.
For example, John Elder was the Minneapolis Police Department's public information director in 2020 and wrote the initial statement about Floyd's death. He told the Los Angeles Times that he got his information from sergeants and computer-aided dispatch, and that he hadn't seen any video footage of the encounter before writing the press release.
"This had literally zero intent to deceive or be dishonest or disingenuous. Had we known that this [situation] was what we saw on the video, that statement would have been completely different," Elder told the newspaper.
Headley also said statements could be vague because investigators are still gathering evidence, or police leadership may not want to admit to a mistake or damage morale by condemning an officer's actions too quickly.
"But I think really where the conflict comes in is when there are discrepancies in the report or in the statements that are put out that don't match the evidence when it comes out. And when the language that is used is particularly one that tries to abdicate responsibility," she said.
Even after violent incidents, there are ways police departments can try to build trust, Headley suggested.
She said she worked with one agency that would bring in community leaders for an explanation of an incident before discussing it with the media. Departments can also acknowledge if they are still looking into what happened, she said, including if they haven't reviewed any video evidence yet.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.apr.org/2023-01-31/police-statements-tell-the-first-version-of-an-incident-then-video-footage-comes-out | 2023-01-31 11:02:10 | 1 | https://www.apr.org/2023-01-31/police-statements-tell-the-first-version-of-an-incident-then-video-footage-comes-out |
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King shares pulse on Jets camp amid Payton remarks
July 28, 2023 09:37 AM
Peter King joins Mike Florio and Myles Simmons live from his training camp tour to provide insight on the Jets training camp, including Nathaniel Hackett’s transition, Aaron Rodgers’ dynamic and Dalvin Cook. | https://www.nbcsports.com/watch/nfl/profootballtalk/pft-draft-players-facing-biggest-year-of-career | 2023-07-28 16:51:26 | 0 | https://www.nbcsports.com/watch/nfl/profootballtalk/pft-draft-players-facing-biggest-year-of-career |
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Ai-Ling Lin | https://www.kbia.org/tags/ai-ling-lin | 2023-04-07 17:35:28 | 0 | https://www.kbia.org/tags/ai-ling-lin |
By GIADA ZAMPANO and FRANCES D’EMILIO
Associated Press
VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI ‘s body, his head resting on a pair of crimson pillows, lay in state in St. Peter’s Basilica on Monday as tens of thousands queued to pay tribute to the pontiff who shocked the world by retiring a decade ago.
On the eve of the first of three days of viewing, Italian security officials had said at least 25,000-30,000 people would come on Monday. But by the end of the first day’s viewing, some 65,000 persons had passed by the bier, the Vatican said.
As daylight broke, 10 white-gloved Papal Gentlemen — lay assistants to pontiffs and papal households — carried the body on a cloth-covered wooden stretcher after its arrival at the basilica to its resting place in front of the main altar under Bernini’s towering bronze canopy.
A Swiss Guard saluted as Benedict’s body was brought in through a side door after it was transferred in a van from the chapel of the monastery grounds where the increasingly frail, 95-year-old former pontiff died on Saturday morning.
His longtime secretary, Archbishop Georg Gaenswein, and a handful of consecrated laywomen who served in Benedict’s household, followed the van by foot for a few hundred yards in a silent procession toward the basilica. Some of the women stretched out a hand to touch the body with respect.
Before the rank-and-file faithful were allowed into the basilica, prayers were recited and the basilica’s archpriest, Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, sprinkled holy water over the body, and a small cloud of incense was released near the bier. Benedict’s hands were clasped, a rosary around his fingers.
Just after 9 a.m. (0800 GMT), the doors of the basilica were swung open so the public, some of whom had waited for hours in the pre-dawn damp, could pay their respects to the late pontiff, who retired from the papacy in 2013 — the first pope to do so in 600 years.
Faithful and curious, the public strode briskly up the center aisle to pass by the bier with its cloth draping after waiting in a line that by midmorning snaked around St. Peter’s Square.
Benedict’s body was dressed with a miter, the peaked headgear of a bishop, and a red cloak.
Filippo Tuccio, 35, said he came from Venice on an overnight train to view Benedict’s body.
“I wanted to pay homage to Benedict because he had a key role in my life and my education,” Tuccio said.
“When I was young I participated in World Youth Days,” he said, referring to the jamborees of young faithful held periodically and attended by pontiffs. Tuccio added that he had studied theology, and “his pontificate accompanied me during my university years.”
“He was very important for me: for what I am, my way of thinking, my values,” Tuccio continued.
Among those coming to the basilica viewing was Cardinal Walter Kasper, like Benedict, a German theologian. Kasper served as head of the Vatican’s Christian unity office during Benedict’s papacy.
Benedict left an “important mark” on theology and spirituality, but also on the history of the papacy with his courage to step aside, Kasper told The Associated Press.
“This resignation wasn’t a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength, a greatness because he saw that he was no longer up to the challenges of being pope,” Kasper said.
Kasper, who was among the cardinals who elected Benedict to the papacy in 2005, added that the resignation gave “a more human vision to the papacy: that the pope is a man and is dependent on his physical and mental strengths.”
Public viewing was set for 10 hours on Monday, and 12 hours each on Tuesday and Wednesday before Thursday morning’s funeral, which will be led by Pope Francis, at St. Peter’s Square.
As Benedict desired, the funeral will marked by simplicity, the Vatican said when announcing the death on Saturday.
Workers on Monday were setting up an altar in the square for the funeral Mass. Also being arranged were rows of chairs for the faithful who want to attend the funeral. Authorities said they expected about 60,000 to come for the Mass.
On Monday, the Vatican confirmed widely reported burial plans. In keeping with his wishes, Benedict’s tomb will be in the crypt of the grotto under the basilica that was last used by St. John Paul II, before the saint’s body was moved upstairs into the main basilica ahead of his 2011 beatification, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said.
At two sides of the piazza’s colonnade, viewers went through the usual security measures required for tourists entering the basilica — passing through metal detectors and screening bags through an X-ray machine.
Marina Ferrante, 62, was among them.
“I think his main legacy was teaching us how to be free,” she said. “He had a special intelligence in saying what was essential in his faith and that was contagious” for other faithful. “The thing I thought when he died was that I would like to be as free as he was.”
While venturing that the shy, bookworm German churchman and theologian and the current Argentine-born pontiff had different temperaments, Ferrante said: “I believe there’s a continuity between him and Pope Francis and whoever understands the real relationship between them and Christ can see that.”
An American man who lives in Rome called the opportunity to view the body “an amazing experience.” Mountain Butorac, 47, who is originally from Atlanta, said he arrived 90 minutes before dawn.
“I loved Benedict, I loved him as a cardinal (Joseph Ratzinger), when he was elected pope and also after he retired,” Butorac said. “I think he was a sort of people’s grandfather living in the Vatican.”
With an organ and choir’s soft rendition of “Kyrie Eleison” (“Lord, have mercy” in ancient Greek) in the background, ushers moved well-wishers along at a steady clip down the basilica’s center aisle.. Someone left a red rose.
A few VIPs had a moment before the general public to pay their respects, including Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, the far-right leader who in the past has professed admiration for the conservative leanings of Benedict.
Italian President Sergio Mattarella also came to view the body. The Vatican has said only two nations’ official delegations — from Italy and from Benedict’s native Germany — were invited formally to the funeral, since the pope emeritus was no longer head of state.
Sister Regina Brand was among the mourners who came to the square before dawn.
“He’s a German pope and I am from Germany,” she said. “And I am here to express my gratitude and love, and I want to pray for him and to see him.”
___
Trisha Thomas and Nicole Winfield contributed to this report.
___
Follow AP’s coverage of Pope Benedict XVI: https://apnews.com/hub/pope-benedict-xvi
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://wtmj.com/national/2023/01/02/more-than-60000-view-benedict-xvis-body-at-vatican/ | 2023-01-02 20:06:16 | 1 | https://wtmj.com/national/2023/01/02/more-than-60000-view-benedict-xvis-body-at-vatican/ |
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Republican governor hopeful Jim Pillen scored the endorsement Thursday of the Nebraska Cattlemen, a top advocacy group for the state's ranchers.
Pillen, a veterinarian and the owner of a hog farm operation, is running to replace current Gov. Pete Ricketts, a fellow Republican who leaves office in January because of term limits.
Brenda Masek, the chairwoman of the Nebraska Cattlemen's political action committee, said Pillen has “walked in our shoes” as an agricultural producer and would be a strong advocate for the industry at the Capitol.
“Jim understands the concerns of the agriculture industry because he experiences them firsthand," Masek said in a statement.
Pillen is running against state Sen. Carol Blood, a Democrat and former Bellevue city council member who was born and raised on a farm and has worked on various agricultural issues in the Legislature.
Pillen won Nebraska's Republican primary last month out of a crowded field that included an opponent backed by former President Donald Trump. Before he won the primary, Pillen secured support from Ricketts and the Nebraska Farm Bureau. | https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/GOP-governor-hopeful-Pillen-endorsed-by-Nebraska-17216097.php | 2022-06-02 23:28:33 | 0 | https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/GOP-governor-hopeful-Pillen-endorsed-by-Nebraska-17216097.php |
- LBMA's Gold Bar Integrity (GBI) initiative will utilize optical AI to authenticate gold bar provenance
- The new security measures come as the precious metals markets face pervasive human rights, environmental, and economic scrutiny
- Alitheon selected to identify and authenticate provenance of gold bars of all sizes to avoid counterfeit or illegally sourced metals
BELLEVUE, Wash., Feb. 1, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Alitheon has been recognized by the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), the world's leading independent standards authority for the global precious metals industry, as one of only five companies to support LBMA's Gold Bar Integrity (GBI) initiative. As the precious metals markets face increasingly pervasive human rights, environmental, and economic threats, the aim of the GBI Initiative is to combat illicit trade and reduce the entrance of fraudulent bars into the global gold supply chain.
Alitheon, the only U.S.-based company to be selected, will identify, authenticate, and trace each individual bar, be it a small minted bar or a large investment-grade cast bar. Its technology solution is used to ensure provenance by irrefutably identifying counterfeited and illegally-sourced precious metals throughout the supply chain.
FeaturePrint® uses a standard off-the-shelf camera or mobile phone to take an image of any object such as a gold bar and other precious metals. Alitheon's machine vision algorithms are then applied to identify and convert various details of the object into a unique digital fingerprint. This digital fingerprint enables irrefutable identification, authentication, and traceability, and mitigates the need to add any sort of visible or invisible markers, tags, or stickers to the bars.
"Alitheon's FeaturePrint technology is easy to implement and even easier for our customers to authenticate our products," said Robin Kolvenbach, Co-CEO at Argor-Heraeus. "Because of this technology, there is no need to add anything else to our bars like stickers or markers."
In addition to authenticating gold and precious metals, Alitheon's patent-protected FeaturePrint is also used for identification, authentication, and track & trace across a range of applications including luxury goods, art and collectibles, computer boards, automotive parts, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, and more. As companies adopt rising corporate social responsibility (CSR) standards, solutions that can guarantee the ethical and legal provenance of gold and precious metals will become increasingly centerfold.
"We applaud LBMA and its members as together we work to secure the world's gold and precious metals reserves and supply chains," said Roei Ganzarski, CEO at Alitheon. "Companies and consumers are used to having data at their fingertips. Now they can be sure the gold bar or gold product they are buying is authentic, ethically sourced, and legal, from a simple photo taken on their phone."
About Alitheon
Alitheon® is a Bellevue, Washington-based leader in advanced optical AI and creator of FeaturePrint®, a patented system that digitizes for items and products, what fingerprints are for people – a one-of-a-kind, unique identifier that does not require you to mark, modify or add anything to the item. Using just a camera, FeaturePrinting enables identification, authentication, and traceability of individual items out of millions of similar objects. The technology stops counterfeits, eliminates gray markets, and minimizes misidentification of parts. FeaturePrint is currently used across precious metals, automotive, pharmaceuticals, aerospace & defense, medical equipment, precious metals, and luxury goods & collectibles.
Media Contact
Mission Control Communications for Alitheon
alitheon@missionc2.com
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SOURCE Alitheon | https://www.1011now.com/prnewswire/2023/02/01/london-bullion-market-association-selects-alitheon-bring-authentication-traceability-global-gold-precious-metal-markets/ | 2023-02-01 12:41:05 | 0 | https://www.1011now.com/prnewswire/2023/02/01/london-bullion-market-association-selects-alitheon-bring-authentication-traceability-global-gold-precious-metal-markets/ |
Red Cross requests access to Ukraine prison after POWS die
Russia launched nighttime attacks on several cities in Ukraine, Ukrainian officials said Saturday as they and officials in Moscow blamed each other for the deaths of dozens of Ukrainian prisoners of war in a separatist-controlled area of the country’s east.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross have a duty to react after shelling of a prison complex in Donetsk province killed the POWS.
“It was a deliberate Russian war crime, a deliberate mass murder of Ukrainian prisoners of war,” Zelensky said in a video address late Friday. “There should be a clear legal recognition of Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism.”
Both sides alleged the attack on the prison was premeditated and intended to silence the Ukrainian prisoners and to destroy evidence, including of possible atrocities.
Russia claimed Ukraine’s military used U.S.-supplied precision rocket launchers to target the prison in Olenivka, a settlement controlled by the Moscow-backed Donetsk People’s Republic.
Separatist authorities and Russian officials said the attack killed 53 Ukrainian POWs and wounded another 75.
While the West sees the Ukraine conflict as a turning point in global history, Chinese observers see it as more proof of the coming post-American world.
The International Committee of the Red Cross, which has organized civilian evacuations in the war and worked to monitor the treatment of POWS held by Russia and Ukraine, said it has requested access to the prison “to determine the health and condition of all the people present on-site at the time of the attack.”
“Our priority right now is making sure that the wounded receive life-saving treatment and that the bodies of those who lost their lives are dealt with in a dignified manner,” the Red Cross said in a statement.
Elsewhere in eastern Ukraine, Russian rockets hit a school building in Kharkiv, the country’s second-largest city, overnight, and another attack occurred about an hour later, Mayor Ihor Terekhov said Saturday. There were no immediate reports of injuries.
The bus station in the city of Sloviansk also was hit, according to Mayor Vadim Lyakh. Sloviansk is near the front line of fighting as Russian and separatist forces try to take full control of the Donetsk region, one of two eastern provinces that Russia has recognized as sovereign states.
In southern Ukraine, one person was killed and six injured in shelling that hit a residential area in Mykolaiv, a significant port city, the region’s administration said Saturday on Facebook.
The Justice Department says a Russian operative has been charged with using political groups in the United States to advance pro-Russia propaganda.
Friday’s attack on the prison reportedly killed Ukrainian soldiers who were captured in May after the fall of Mariupol, another port city where troops famously held out against a monthslong Russian siege.
Moscow opened a probe into the attack, sending a team to the site from Russia’s Investigative Committee, the country’s main criminal investigation agency. The state RIA Novosti agency reported that fragments of U.S.-supplied precision High Mobility Artillery Rocket System rockets were found at the site.
The Ukrainian military denied making any rocket or artillery strikes in Olenivka, and it accused the Russians of shelling the prison to cover up the alleged torture and execution of Ukrainians there.
The Institute for the Study of War, a think tank based in Washington, said the competing claims and limited information prevented assigning responsibility for the attack but that the “available visual evidence appears to support the Ukrainian claim more than the Russian.”
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NPR's Ari Shapiro talks with historian Jules Gill-Peterson of Johns Hopkins University about the long history of laws targeting drag in the U.S.
Copyright 2023 NPR
This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.
We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.
Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play. | https://www.ctpublic.org/2023-03-06/bills-targeting-drag-have-a-long-history-in-the-u-s-says-historian | 2023-03-06 21:40:28 | 0 | https://www.ctpublic.org/2023-03-06/bills-targeting-drag-have-a-long-history-in-the-u-s-says-historian |
The founders worked in industries that generated hundreds of millions of pounds of plastic waste every year and saw a better alternative.
GOLDEN, Colo., Oct. 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 90 companies joined Cleantech Open's 2022 accelerator program, 77 participated in regional competitions across the US, and 18 finalists progressed to compete at the national level at the Global Forum, hosted at VERGE22 in San Jose, California on October 25-27, 2022. Renegade Plastics was named the US National Winner of Cleantech Open's 2022 CTO Global Forum for commercializing a novel non-toxic and recyclable polypropylene fabric that can replace unsustainable PVC fabrics and agricultural plastics films.
Tony Ehrbar, CEO of Renegade Plastics, commented, "Cleantech Open has been an amazing accelerator program supporting us with strategy development, customer discovery, and introductions to investors. In addition, our mentors helped us sharpen our approach, and the consulting and advice received from Cleantech Open's ecosystem was second to none. It will set us up for success in building a circular economy for the plastic fabrics industry."
"Cleantech Open finds, funds, and fosters the most promising cleantech startups on the planet," said Renegade Plastics Co-Founder, Curran Hughes. "We are grateful to meet and learn from them to achieve our shared goal for a green global economy."
Renegade Plastics has introduced fabrics that are better for our people and planet. Their mission is to dramatically curtail plastic waste and greenhouse gas emissions from non-consumer plastics production with an evolutionary alternative. They have exclusive rights to polypropylene-based fabrics that allow them to eliminate toxic PVC fabrics today, and replace them with a fabric that is non-toxic, recyclable, low-carbon and 30-40% lighter weight with little to no loss of strength. Due to its high UV, thermal, and chemical resistance, Renegade Plastics' materials also have a usable life, 2-10 times longer than PE fabrics. This longevity results in less virgin plastic used over time and fewer plastic particles negatively affecting the environment. By displacing unsustainable products now, Renegade Plastics is paving the way to a more sustainable future, one yard of fabric at a time.
"For the past 17 years, we have supported over 1,900 entrepreneurs through business training, mentoring, and networking. We want to congratulate Renegade Plastics on their achievement and look forward to seeing the team succeed in replacing unsustainable textiles and films with non-toxic and recyclable alternatives," said Ken Hayes, Executive Director, Cleantech Open.
Renegade Plastics is providing a toxic-free, recyclable fabric solution for the outdated dangerous flexible PVC plastics used in numerous industries from billboards to sports equipment. Renegade has exclusive rights to a polypropylene-based replacement for PVC coated fabrics that can improve the environment from farms to school bus seats to fabric structures. By replacing these materials now, Renegade is establishing the foundation for a circular plastic fabric economy.
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SOURCE Renegade Plastics Corporation | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/10/29/renegade-plastics-is-us-national-winner-2022-cleantech-open-global-forum/ | 2022-10-29 03:00:25 | 0 | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/10/29/renegade-plastics-is-us-national-winner-2022-cleantech-open-global-forum/ |
NEW YORK (AP) — “Navalny,” a look at a Russian opposition leader following an attempt on his life, has won the Oscar for best documentary feature.
Director Daniel Roher’s portrait of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny has shadowy operatives, truth-seeking journalists, conspiracy theories and Soviet-era poisons. It is a film with obvious political poignance following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Roher accepted his statuette by saying he dedicated it to Navalny and to all political prisoners around the world. “Alexei, the world has not forgotten your vital message to us all: We must not be afraid to oppose dictators and authoritarianism wherever it rears its head. Navalny’s wife, Yulia, said: “Alexei, I am dreaming of the day you will be free and our country will be free. Stay strong, my love.”
Navalny is a media savvy, anti-corruption campaigner in his mid-40s who has for many years been a headache for Russian President Vladimir Putin. He’s released numerous reports about corruption in Russia and the Putin administration and become a popular and rallying figure among like-minded Russians.
Roher was able to sit down with Navalny during his brief stay in Berlin in 2020 and early 2021 as he was recovering from being poisoned and seeking the truth behind the unsuccessful murder attempt. The media has called Navalny the Kremlin’s fiercest critic. And he is seemingly undaunted by the intimidation and the arrests he’s endured.
The film was a hit at the Sundance Film Festival, where it won both the documentary audience award and the festival favorite award.
“’Navalny,’ first and foremost, is about the passion, drive and inspiring heroism of Alexey Navalny, who even as we celebrate this award continues to languish in a penal colony,” said Amy Entelis, an executive vice president at CNN Worldwide. The film, presented by CNN Films and HBO Max, represents CNN’s first Oscar.
“Navalny” beat the other documentary nominees “All That Breathes’; “All the Beauty and the Bloodshed”; “Fire of Love”; and “A House Made of Splinters.”
___
For more coverage of this year’s Oscars, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/academy-awards | https://www.wane.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/navalny-about-dissident-fighting-kremlin-wins-doc-oscar/ | 2023-03-13 19:20:45 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/navalny-about-dissident-fighting-kremlin-wins-doc-oscar/ |
GALVESTON, TEXAS -- Want to add some magic to your holiday season? When you step into Ice Land at Moody Gardens, you will be transported to a winter wonderland made entirely from ice!
The 18,000-square foot attraction in Galveston, Texas, is filled with two million pounds of ice hand carved into incredible, detailed sculptures. This year's theme is Caribbean Christmas, so visitors are taken on an underwater journey filled with coral reefs, sharks, tropical fish and even a surfing Santa.
Carving all of the ice is a long process that can take around 40 days and a team from Harbin, China, uses chainsaws, chisels and ice picks to create intricate details.
"The holiday season is usually pretty warm here in Texas, so to create a venue here at nine degrees is quite a challenge, but it's the perfect way to celebrate the holidays," said Jerri Hamachek with Moody Gardens.
There's even a special tribute to the 2022 World Series Champions, the Houston Astros, carved from ice.
Visit moodygardens.com to learn more! | https://abc7ny.com/moody-gardens-ice-land-galveston-texas-holiday-events-in-houston/12590876/ | 2022-12-19 22:24:42 | 1 | https://abc7ny.com/moody-gardens-ice-land-galveston-texas-holiday-events-in-houston/12590876/ |
Transaction Adds RIA M&A Market Leader to Waller Helms Platform
CHICAGO and NEW YORK, May 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Waller Helms Advisors ("WHA"), the specialist investment bank focused on insurance, healthcare, wealth, and financial technology, has agreed to acquire Park Sutton Advisors LLC ("PSA"), the leading investment bank focused on M&A advisory for the wealth and investment management sector. Founded in 2008 and led by Steven Levitt, PSA completed 25 wealth management transactions in 2021 and has maintained this momentum in 2022.
"This combination is game changing," commented James Anderson, CEO of WHA. "The addition of Park Sutton significantly enhances our capabilities in the wealth and investment management sector and creates a specialist firm with 11 Managing Directors who successfully advised on over 50 transactions in 2021. Steve, along with Dan Erichson, CFA and John Eubanks, CFP, has built an enviable practice and we believe the combination with Waller Helms will allow the team to better serve clients in this rapidly transforming sector. We look forward to welcoming them and all our new colleagues from Park Sutton to Waller Helms."
"We are proud of what we have built at Park Sutton and are excited for this next chapter. We chose to partner with Waller Helms out of a variety of attractive options based on our shared business philosophies and common belief in the importance of a strong, client-centric culture. The partners of WHA have distinguished backgrounds and many have worked together for two decades. This alignment makes for a very strategic combination, and I personally am excited to help build the combined business for many years to come," said Steven Levitt, Founder and Managing Director of PSA.
The combination of WHA's and PSA's leading Insurance and Wealth Management advisory practices mirrors consolidation trends between these two significant industries. When coupled with WHA's accelerating Healthcare Services and FinTech / HCIT M&A practices, the combined firm will sit at the epicenter of several of the most active industries for M&A in the market today. The collective expertise, relationships and scale will position WHA to better serve a wide range of companies and investors active in these attractive, converging sectors. Steve, Dan, and John join WHA as Managing Directors and Partners.
The Transaction is subject to FINRA Approval.
McDermott, Will, & Emery provided legal advice to WHA. Griffin Financial provided financial advice and Godfrey & Kahn provided legal advice to PSA.
About Waller Helms Advisors
Waller Helms Advisors, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a specialist investment bank focused on the insurance, healthcare, investment and financial technology sectors. The firm advises clients on mergers and acquisitions as well as private and public capital raising. WHA works with closely-held businesses, sponsor-backed firms and publicly-traded companies ranging in size from start-ups to Fortune 500 enterprises. For more information, visit www.wallerhelms.com.
About Park Sutton Advisors
Park Sutton Advisors, based in New York, New York, is a leading boutique investment bank specializing in financial services with a focus on wealth management amongst other sectors. PSA provides experienced, confidential advice and the absolute highest level of personal attention to our clients. The firm delivers uniquely tailored solutions and seek to ensure a long-term strategic fit, rather than focusing solely on near-term results. For more information, visit www.parksuttonadvisors.com.
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SOURCE Waller Helms Advisors | https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2022/05/25/waller-helms-advisors-acquire-park-sutton-advisors/ | 2022-05-25 15:38:01 | 1 | https://www.wkyt.com/prnewswire/2022/05/25/waller-helms-advisors-acquire-park-sutton-advisors/ |
Zoo signs prompt thoughts on abortion
I just got back from a week’s trip to Indianapolis to see family. While there, we went to the Indy Zoo, which by the way is very nice. In any case, all throughout the park there were signs for save this animal or save that animal. Hey, I’m all for treating our animal friends right. However, I didn’t see one sign that said save the human babies. So I started thinking, if I asked everybody in that park about saving the animals, probably 100% of them would be all for it. But if asked how many would want to save the human baby, I wager only 50% would be for it. It sickens me to think how morally corrupt we have become as a society. We don’t have the right to shoot an endangered animal, but we can gladly go ahead and kill our own babies. Wow! People like to say, “My body, my choice.” I agree! So, don’t get pregnant. That is your choice. Once you are pregnant, you are now two people. You have lost that right to choose. Then people wonder why our country is falling apart.
James Knerr
Emmaus
Attacks on transgender community are immoral
Every time I read about “transgender care bans” in states controlled by Republican politicians, I wonder what kind of morality would lead to the words “care” and “ban” appearing next to each other. These politicians and their supporters like to talk about safety as if there’s a real and present danger of transgender girls assaulting their daughters in restrooms and locker rooms, but there is no serious evidence that such a danger exists. Think, though, about the risk for a transgender girl forced to use the boys’ locker room in junior high or high school. That’s where a real concern about safety ought to come to mind.
Let’s be clear: This anti-trans movement exists because Republicans need something to galvanize their base. The anti-abortion movement shows strong signs of backfiring, but they’ve hit upon something new, no matter if it’s a boogeyman issue with no real substance, or if it seriously endangers innocent people. Call it for what it is: These “care bans” and other attempts to wipe out the existence of transgender people just for political gain are immoral and unacceptable.
John Groff
Allentown
St. Luke’s nurse made ER visit easier
Ashley K. is an emergency room nurse at St. Luke’s University Hospital, Fountain Hill. This young lady was a ray of sunshine. My husband wasn’t feeling well and we ended up at the hospital. Ashley K. Introduced herself to us, listened to our concerns, told us exactly what she was going to do, and checked on us frequently.
We explained about some medication that was a concern of ours, it had been ordered for him. If she didn’t tell us what the pill was, we might have had a worse problem. Thank you, Ashley K., for being our ray of sunshine and for listening to us. Even though my husband was admitted, she definitely made our day at the ER much easier. Thank you Ashley.
Bonnie Thomasik
Salisbury Township
Founding Fathers rebelled against unfair debt
In a recent letter to the editor, the writer suggested that the Founding Fathers would have found student debt cancellation laughable. Yet, the Founding Fathers launched the American Revolution in part because they didn’t want to pay the tax debt they owed to the British government.
Of course, the Founders would have argued that they didn’t pay because they thought the tax burden on the colonies was excessive and unfair. I would agree. I would also argue that the tuition burden on college students is excessive and unfair. Our society depends on having college-educated citizens (teachers, doctors, accountants, etc.). But states like Pennsylvania have steadily withdrawn financial support for higher education and placed an ever greater economic burden on college students. At the same time, college tuition has increased at rates far beyond inflation.
Some degree of college debt forgiveness is indeed fair and necessary. Without the excessive debt burden, our college grads can more easily thrive and participate in our economy and society.
Kim Shively
Bethlehem Township
‘Blame’ Biden for economic recovery
On July 14, I read a Morning Call article authored by E. J. Antoni of The Heritage Foundation. The article claimed that President Biden has fostered a failing, weak economy. I take great exception to this claim and can cite some good reasons that we should view the economy as quite strong and that Biden has indeed presided over a strong economic recovery.
The first point that we should note is that we have seen steady and strong job growth throughout the Biden years. When Biden took office, our unemployment rate was well over 6% – now it resides near an all-time low of almost 3%. Much was made about inflation in the article. Certainly, this has been a serious blow to our standard of living. However, it can be said that the inflation rate is now on a downward trend and that we are doing quite well with respect to other countries (USA – 3%, Great Britain – 6.5%, Germany – 6.4%, France – 4.5%). In addition, a strong argument can be made that the major determiner of high inflation in the country is corporate greed – not the president.
Thomas Emerson
Emmaus
Manson follower shouldn’t have been given education
I was shocked to see that Leslie Van Houten was released from prison. She was sentenced to death and then instead given life in prison. What really appalled me was the fact that she earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in prison at our expense. They were useless to a person that was supposed to remain in prison and even now that she is free, who will hire a 73-year-old convicted murderer? Those funds should have been given to someone who is poor and really wants to further their education and become an asset to society.
Peggy Mack
Washington Township
The Morning Call encourages community dialogue on important issues. Submit a letter to the editor at letters@mcall.com. | https://www.mcall.com/2023/07/23/letters-to-the-editor-pregnant-women-have-no-right-to-choose-abortion/ | 2023-07-24 02:01:10 | 1 | https://www.mcall.com/2023/07/23/letters-to-the-editor-pregnant-women-have-no-right-to-choose-abortion/ |
NEW YORK, July 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Jakubowitz Law announces that a securities fraud class action lawsuit has commenced on behalf of shareholders of Energy Transfer LP (NYSE: ET).
To receive updates on the lawsuit, fill out the form:
https://claimyourloss.com/securities/energy-transfer-lp-loss-submission-form/?id=30076&from=4
This lawsuit is on behalf of persons who purchased or otherwise acquired common shares of Energy Transfer stock between April 13, 2017 and December 20, 2021, both dates inclusive.
Shareholders interested in acting as a lead plaintiff representing the class of wronged shareholders have until August 2, 2022 to petition the court. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.
According to a filed complaint, Energy Transfer LP issued materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (a) Energy Transfer had inadequate internal controls and procedures to prevent contractors from engaging in illegal conduct with regards to drilling activities, and/or failed to properly mitigate known issues related to such controls and procedures; (b) Energy Transfer, through its subsidiary Rover Pipeline, LLC, hired a third-party contractor to conduct Horizontal Directional Drilling Activities for the Rover Pipeline Project, whose conduct of adding illegal additives in the drilling mud caused severe pollution near the Tuscarawas River when a large inadvertent release took place on April 13, 2017; (c) Energy Transfer continually downplayed its potential civil liabilities when the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ("FERC") was actively investigating the Energy Transfer's wrongdoing related to the April 13 release and consistently provided it with updated information about FERC's findings on this matter.
Jakubowitz Law is vigorous in pursuit of justice for shareholders who have been the victim of securities fraud. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
JAKUBOWITZ LAW
1140 Avenue of the Americas
9th Floor
New York, New York 10036
T: (212) 867-4490
F: (212) 537-5887
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SOURCE Jakubowitz Law | https://www.wcjb.com/prnewswire/2022/07/22/et-shareholder-alert-jakubowitz-law-reminds-energy-transfer-shareholders-lead-plaintiff-deadline-august-2-2022/ | 2022-07-22 10:23:55 | 1 | https://www.wcjb.com/prnewswire/2022/07/22/et-shareholder-alert-jakubowitz-law-reminds-energy-transfer-shareholders-lead-plaintiff-deadline-august-2-2022/ |
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) _ The winning numbers in Sunday evening's drawing of the Iowa Lottery's "Pick 3 Evening" game were:
6-3-7
(six, three, seven)
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) _ The winning numbers in Sunday evening's drawing of the Iowa Lottery's "Pick 3 Evening" game were:
6-3-7
(six, three, seven) | https://www.expressnews.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Pick-3-Evening-game-17582297.php | 2022-11-14 09:43:43 | 1 | https://www.expressnews.com/lottery/article/Winning-numbers-drawn-in-Pick-3-Evening-game-17582297.php |
Washington Co. residents urged to report outages following morning storm
WASHINGTON CO., Kan. (WIBW) - Residents in Washington Co. have been urged to report outages following an early-morning storm that brought down power lines.
Officials with Washington Co. Emergency Management have urged residents to report power outages affecting their areas following an early-morning storm on Thursday, June 29.
The Emergency Management Department has asked residents to comment their locations and utility provider on a post on its Facebook page to ensure service is restored.
Officials noted that power poles along Eagle Rd. between 7th and 8th St. have been brought down by the storm. Residents have been asked to avoid the area as crews restore power and clear the roadway.
Anyone who needs to report a power outage should do so HERE or call 785-325-2134.
Copyright 2023 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2023/06/29/washington-co-residents-urged-report-outages-following-morning-storm/ | 2023-06-29 14:59:06 | 1 | https://www.wibw.com/2023/06/29/washington-co-residents-urged-report-outages-following-morning-storm/ |
Extended stay brand grows California presence with six additional properties on the way
ROCKVILLE, Md., Aug. 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MainStay Suites, a midscale extended stay brand franchised by Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), welcomed the largest hotel in its system with the opening of the MainStay Suites Orange County John Wayne Airport. Making its brand debut in the greater Los Angeles market, the 176-room hotel is one of several MainStay Suites opening in California, with properties planned in Beaumont, Fresno, Rancho Mirage, Oceanside, Riverside, and Victorville.
Located at 2701 Hotel Terrace Drive in Santa Ana, CA, the property places guests near Disneyland, Newport Beach and Huntington Beach, and is a short drive to Downtown Los Angeles. Additional area attractions include Fasion Island, Balboa Island, The "Little American Business" LAB, the Lyon Air Museum, Discovery Cube Orange County, Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park, Heritage Museum of Orange County, Downtown Santa Ana Historic District, and Orange County Museum of Art. For business travelers, major companies nearby include an Amazon distribution center, Canon, Ricoh, Abbot Lab, Kia, Hyundai, Mazda, FedEx, and Broadcom. The hotel is also minutes from John Wayne Airport and the University of California, Irvine.
"Our midscale MainStay Suites brand is thriving, with the largest hotel opening in the system making its official entrance into the Los Angeles market," said Anna Scozzafava, vice president and general manager, extended stay brands, Choice Hotels. "However, we're not stopping there as the brand continues to expand in California with future openings from Fresno to Oceanside. We look forward to welcoming guests to the MainStay Suites Orange County John Wayne Airport, so they can be near all the Hollywood action, whether staying for leisure, business, or a mix of both. At the same time, like all MainStay properties, this hotel was carefully curated to help guests maintain their lifestyles when they are on the road for days, weeks, or months."
The MainStay Suites Orange County John Wayne Airport, which includes a courtyard in the center of the property, was purposefully designed for longer-staying guests, featuring spacious, apartment-style suites with fully equipped kitchens. Hotel amenities also include a fitness room, business center and meeting rooms, on-site marketplace, and guest laundry facility.
Choice Hotels has operated in the extended stay segment since its infancy, currently featuring the newly refreshed Suburban Studios and WoodSpring Suites brands in economy extended stay and MainStay Suites and Everhome Suites in midscale extended stay. A leader in the segment, Choice has enhanced the extended stay operating model and offers best-in-class design, industry-leading tailored support and dedicated sales training.
For more information about Choice's extended stay development opportunities, visit choicehotelsdevelopment.com.
About MainStay Suites®
MainStay Suites is an extended-stay hotel option that allows guests to live like home whether they're away for a week or a month. Each property offers a unique and distinctive experience for customers at an affordable price. Travelers can maintain their lifestyle during their stay with attractive amenities including residential style suites, free high-speed internet access, free continental breakfast, fitness center and weekly housekeeping and guest laundry services. There are over 70 MainStay Suites properties open across the United States, with 140 currently in the pipeline. To learn more, visit www.choicehotels.com/mainstay.
About Choice Hotels®
Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is one of the largest lodging franchisors in the world. With nearly 7,000 hotels, representing nearly 600,000 rooms, in 35 countries and territories as of June 30, 2022, the Choice® family of hotel brands provides business and leisure travelers with a range of high-quality lodging options from limited service to full-service hotels in the upscale, midscale, extended-stay and economy segments. The award-winning Choice Privileges® loyalty program offers members a faster way to rewards, with personalized benefits starting on day one. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com.
Forward-Looking Statement
This communication includes "forward-looking statements" about future events, including anticipated hotel openings. Such statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including construction delays, availability and cost of financing and the other "Risk Factors" described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, any of which could cause actual results to be materially different from our expectations.
Addendum
This is not an offering. No offer or sale of a franchise will be made except by a Franchise Disclosure Document first filed and registered with applicable state authorities. A copy of the Franchise Disclosure Document can be obtained through contacting Choice Hotels International at 1 Choice Hotels Circle, Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20850, development@choicehotels.com.
© 2022 Choice Hotels International, Inc. All rights reserved.
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SOURCE Choice Hotels International, Inc. | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/08/10/largest-mainstay-suites-hotel-opens-brand-debuts-greater-los-angeles-area/ | 2022-08-10 20:09:13 | 0 | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/08/10/largest-mainstay-suites-hotel-opens-brand-debuts-greater-los-angeles-area/ |
A Michigan judge threw out felony charges Tuesday against seven people in the Flint water scandal, including two former state health officials blamed for deaths from Legionnaires’ disease.
The dismissal was significant but not a complete surprise after the Michigan Supreme Court in June said a different judge acting as a one-person grand jury had no authority to issue indictments.
Judge Elizabeth Kelly rejected efforts by the attorney general’s office to just send the cases to Flint District Court and turn them into criminal complaints, a typical path to filing felony charges in Michigan. It was a last-gasp effort to keep things afloat.
“Anything arising out of the invalid indictments are irreconcilably tainted from inception. … Simply put, there are no valid charges,” Kelly said.
Kelly’s decision doesn’t affect former Republican Gov. Rick Snyder. That’s only because he was charged with two misdemeanors — willful neglect of duty — and his case is being handled by another judge. But he, too, was indicted in a process declared invalid by the Supreme Court. His next hearing is Oct. 26.
In 2014, Flint managers appointed by Snyder took the city out of a regional water system and began using the Flint River to save money while a new pipeline to Lake Huron was being built. But the river water wasn’t treated to reduce its corrosive qualities. Lead broke off from old pipes and contaminated the system for more than a year.
The Michigan Civil Rights Commission said it was the result of systemic racism, doubting that the water switch and the brush-off of complaints in the majority-Black city would have occurred in a white, prosperous community.
The attorney general’s office lashed out at the courts after its latest defeat, declaring that “well-connected, wealthy individuals with political power and influence” had prevailed over Flint residents.
“There are not adequate words to express the anger and disappointment felt by our team, who have spent years on this case only to see it thwarted based upon a new interpretation of a nearly century-old law,” the statement said.
Prosecutors, however, didn’t mention that the Supreme Court’s summer opinion was unanimous. The attorney general’s office didn’t indicate what’s next, only that it will “continue its pursuit of justice for Flint.”
Besides lead contamination, the Flint River water was blamed for an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease, which typically spreads through cooling systems.
Former state health director Nick Lyon and former chief medical executive Eden Wells were charged with involuntary manslaughter in nine deaths linked to Legionnaires’. They were accused of failing to timely warn the Flint area about the outbreak.
Lyon’s attorneys praised Kelly’s decision and urged the attorney general’s office to close a “misguided prosecution.”
“This misuse of the criminal justice system has to stop,” Chip Chamberlain and Ron DeWaard said. “Misleading statements about what Director Lyon did or didn’t do contribute nothing to a constructive public dialogue and do not represent justice for anyone.”
Besides Lyon and Wells, charges were dismissed against Snyder’s longtime fixer in state government, Rich Baird; former senior aide Jarrod Agen; former Flint managers Gerald Ambrose and Darnell Earley; and Nancy Peeler, a former health department manager.
Michigan’s six-year statute of limitations could be a problem in some cases if the attorney general’s office wants to file charges again. The deadline, however, would be longer for charges faced by Lyon and Wells.
Prosecutors in Michigan typically file felony charges in District Court after a police investigation. A one-judge grand jury was extremely rare and had mostly been used in Detroit and Flint to protect witnesses, especially in violent crimes, who could testify in private.
Prosecutors Fadwa Hammoud and Kym Worthy chose that path in the Flint water probe to hear evidence in secret and get indictments against Snyder and others.
But the state Supreme Court said Michigan law is clear: A one-judge grand jury can’t issue indictments. The process apparently had never been challenged.
Chief Justice Bridget McCormack called it a “Star Chamber comeback,” a pejorative reference to an oppressive, closed-door style of justice in England in the 17th century.
An effort to hold people criminally responsible for Flint’s lead-in-water disaster has lasted years and produced little.
Before leaving office in 2019, then-Attorney General Bill Schuette, a Republican, had pledged to put people in prison. But the results were different: Seven people pleaded no contest to misdemeanors that were eventually scrubbed from their records.
After Dana Nessel, a Democrat, was elected, she got rid of special counsel Todd Flood and put Hammoud, the state’s solicitor general, and Worthy, the respected Wayne County prosecutor, in charge.
Flint activist Melissa Mays said residents have been let down.
“This team of people who promised justice for Flint didn’t file the right paperwork,” she said. “It’s not like they went to trial and lost; we never even had a chance to get that far. … The attorney general’s team owes us to try again and do it right, but in my gut it’s going to go nowhere. It was just a show.”
Flint was poisoned, Mays said, “but not one person is behind bars.”
There is no dispute that lead affects the brain and nervous system, especially in children. Experts have not identified a safe lead level in kids.
Facing a wave of lawsuits, the state agreed to pay $600 million as part of a $626 million settlement with Flint residents and property owners who were harmed by lead-tainted water. Most of the money is going to children.
Flint in 2015 returned to a water system based in southeastern Michigan. Meanwhile, roughly 10,100 lead or steel water lines had been replaced at homes by last December.
The city had 100,000 residents in 2010, but the population fell roughly 20% to 81,000 by the 2020 census, following the water crisis, according to the government.
___
Follow Ed White at http://twitter.com/edwritez | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/national/ap-judge-tosses-charges-against-7-people-in-flint-water-crisis/ | 2022-10-04 22:33:51 | 0 | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/national/ap-judge-tosses-charges-against-7-people-in-flint-water-crisis/ |
Biden administration launches environmental justice office
WARRENTON, N.C. (AP) - President Joe Biden’s top environment official visited what is widely considered the birthplace of the environmental justice movement Saturday to unveil a national office that will distribute $3 billion in block grants to underserved communities burdened by pollution.
Forty years after a predominantly Black community in Warren County, North Carolina, rallied against hosting a hazardous waste landfill, Michael Regan, the first Black man to serve as administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, announced he is dedicating a new senior level of leadership to the environmental justice movement they ignited.
The Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights — comprised of more than 200 current staff members in 10 U.S. regions — will merge three existing EPA programs to oversee a portion of Democrats’ $60 billion investment in environmental justice initiatives created by the Inflation Reduction Act. The president will nominate an assistant administrator to lead the new office, pending Senate confirmation.
“In the past, many of our communities have had to compete for very small grants because EPA’s pot of money was extremely small,” Regan said in an interview. “We’re going from tens of thousands of dollars to developing and designing a program that will distribute billions. But we’re also going to be sure that this money goes to those who need it the most and those who’ve never had a seat at the table.”
Biden has championed environmental justice as a centerpiece of his climate agenda since his first week in office, when he signed an executive order pledging 40% of the overall benefits from certain federal clean energy investments to disadvantaged communities overwhelmed by pollution.
Now, Regan said, this new office intertwines environmental justice with the central fabric of the EPA, equating it to other top offices like air and water, and cementing its principles in a way that will outlive the administration.
North Carolina in 1978 designated Warren County, a small, predominantly Black farming community along the Virginia border, as a disposal site for truckloads of soil laced with highly carcinogenic chemical compounds that later contaminated the water supply.
As the first trucks rolled into town in 1982, hundreds of residents flooded the streets, blocking their path to the landfill. Though they were unable to shut down the operation after six weeks of nonviolent protests and more than 500 arrests, their efforts have been lauded by civil rights leaders as the impetus for a global uprising against environmental racism in minority communities.
Wayne Moseley, 73, was one of the initial protesters arrested on the first day of the demonstration. The Raleigh resident commuted to Warren County to march on behalf of his mother, whose health prevented her from participating. He called Saturday’s ceremony “a homecoming” for himself and many other protesters he hadn’t seen for 40 years.
“We became a family, no Black or white, no rich or poor — we were all one,” Moseley said. “The state was hell-bent on putting that dump site here. I knew we couldn’t stop it, but we could elevate the consciousness of not only the state but the nation.”
Dollie Burwell, a protest leader known in the community as “the mother of the movement,” honored the bravery of her late daughter Kimberly Burwell, who was only 8 years old when she joined her mother on the frontlines.
“She stood up and led so many children in the protests,” Burwell said of her daughter during the ceremony. “She was not afraid of being arrested. But she was afraid of her family and friends getting cancer” from carcinogenic compounds in the soil.
Government officials have routinely targeted low-income communities of color like Warren County to host hazardous waste facilities since the early 1900s. And the neglect of critical infrastructure in predominantly Black communities, ranging from Flint, Michigan, to Jackson, Mississippi, has led to problems still seen today.
An April study by the University of California, Berkeley and Columbia University found that the majority of Black and Latino neighborhoods that received low scores in a discriminatory federal housing program known as redlining were home to twice as many oil wells as majority white communities. According to the Clean Air Task Force, Black Americans are 75% more likely than white Americans to live near a factory or plant and nearly four times as likely to die from exposure to pollutants.
The Rev. Dr. William Barber II, a prominent social activist and leader of the Poor People’s campaign, said he sees Regan’s announcement as “a great starting point” and will continue to demand more of the Biden administration.
“Our votes are not support. Our votes are our demands,” Barber said in an interview. “This is not about right versus left, it’s about right versus wrong. This is about a lifestyle versus disability because when you poison the land and the water, you hurt people’s everyday life.”
Regan, who is from Goldsboro, North Carolina, said he grew up listening to local civil rights leaders like Barber and Burwell — the early inspirations for his work at the EPA.
“I’m taking all of these experiences (from my childhood) and matching that with the vision of the president,” Regan said. “We’re using this opportunity to not only honor those who came before us, but we’re building on the work that they started. We’re standing on their shoulders and trying to reach higher heights.”
Just 45 days out from the midterm election, Regan is among several Cabinet members visiting North Carolina this month to promote the president’s achievements, including the visits of Vice President Kamala Harris on Sept. 1 and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen next Tuesday in Durham. Democrats have set their sights on the Southern swing state as a potential pickup in the narrowly divided U.S. Senate and other key offices.
___
This version has been updated to clarify that Regan is the first Black man to serve as EPA administrator.
___
Hannah Schoenbaum 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 her on Twitter @H_Schoenbaum.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.cleveland19.com/2022/09/25/biden-administration-launches-environmental-justice-office/ | 2022-09-25 04:38:10 | 0 | https://www.cleveland19.com/2022/09/25/biden-administration-launches-environmental-justice-office/ |
Maine begins process of instituting sports betting by releasing proposed rules
The first sports betting wagers are still months away in ME
Maine launched the formal process of instituting sports betting Wednesday by releasing proposed rules, but it will be months before the first wagers are placed, officials said.
The law adopted by state lawmakers went into effect in August, but the director of the Maine Gambling Control Unit said it was important to move slowly to get the rules right.
A timeline laid out by Milt Champion suggested licenses could be issued between April and January. He said he could not be more specific until the public weighs in over coming weeks.
A public hearing is scheduled for Jan. 31.
"I know this is a hot topic. I know everybody wants it out during the Super Bowl or during March Madness. But let’s face it. It’s just not going to happen" that quickly, he told reporters.
MAINE LAWYER WHO REPRESENTED GUANTANAMO BAY DETAINEES MAY LOSE LICENSE AFTER CRIMINAL CHARGES
Democratic Gov. Janet Mills gave control of the mobile and online sports betting market to Native American tribes in Maine, providing an olive branch after her veto threat scuttled their proposal for greater sovereignty.
Mobile and online wagering is expected to account for 85% of the sports betting market in Maine, providing a conduit for revenue for the tribes. Each tribe can select its own vendor, meaning there could be up to four licenses for the Penobscot Nation, Passamaquoddy tribes at Indian Township and Pleasant Point, Houlton Band of Maliseets and Mi’kmaq.
Maine’s existing casinos in Bangor and Oxford also can request licenses along with off-track betting parlors.
MAINE FISHERMAN MUST NOW REPORT HOW MANY LOBSTERS THEY CATCH
Thirty-six states already legalized sports gambling since a U.S. Supreme Court decision in 2018 opened the door to wagering on sports.
In New England, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island allow sports betting, and Massachusetts is awaiting launch after legalization, said Dan Wallach of the Sports Wagering and Integrity Program at the University of New Hampshire School of Law.
In Maine, sports betting is expected to generate between $3.8 million and $6.9 million in revenue for the state, on top of $64 million from casinos and other legal gambling in 2022, Champion said.
Champion said Wednesday that Maine did not recreate the wheel with its proposed rules. Maine examined rules already in place in other states and modeled the state's rules after those, he said.
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He said he’d like to see bets being placed this summer, when tourists are visiting the state, but he said there are no guarantees.
It depends on factors including how the public comment period plays out and the length of a review by the attorney general, he said. | https://www.foxnews.com/sports/maine-begins-process-instituting-sports-betting-releasing-proposed-rules | 2023-01-11 22:54:25 | 1 | https://www.foxnews.com/sports/maine-begins-process-instituting-sports-betting-releasing-proposed-rules |
CLEVELAND (WJW) — A Cleveland mother is facing a murder charge in the death of her 16-month-old child, whom the woman reportedly left home alone while taking a vacation.
Homicide detectives have charged Kristel Candelario.
A court complaint says she admitted she went on vacation to Puerto Rico and Detroit, and she left her daughter alone and unattended.
The complaint says the mother was gone from June 8 to June 16, and on June 16, she found her daughter unresponsive.
The child died at a home on West 97th Street.
Police say a preliminary investigation revealed the child was extremely dehydrated.
Prosecutors sought a high bond for Candelario, and it was set at $1 million during her arraignment Tuesday, Cleveland Municipal Court records show.
Candelario is due back in court for a pre-trial on Wednesday, June 28. | https://www.cbs42.com/news/national/child-dies-after-being-left-at-home-while-mom-goes-on-vacation-police-say/ | 2023-06-23 20:39:05 | 0 | https://www.cbs42.com/news/national/child-dies-after-being-left-at-home-while-mom-goes-on-vacation-police-say/ |
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