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California wildfires prompt evacuations amid heat wave
CASTAIC, Calif. (AP) — California wildfires erupted Wednesday in rural areas, racing through bone-dry brush and prompting evacuations as the state sweltered under a heat wave that could last through Labor Day.
Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency with temperatures expected to be 10 to 20 degrees above normal, and urged people to help reduce demand for electricity by turning their thermostats up to 85 degrees if they won’t be at home over the holiday weekend.
The Route Fire in Castaic in northwestern Los Angeles County raged through about 4,625 acres of hills containing scattered houses. Interstate 5, a major north-south route, was closed by a blaze that burned several hundred acres in only a few hours.
Media reports showed a wall of flames advancing uphill and smoke billowing thousands of feet into the air while planes dumped water from nearby Castaic Lake. There were no immediate reports of damage to buildings but a mobile home park with 94 residences was evacuated.
An elementary school also was evacuated. Temperatures in the area hit 107 degrees, and winds gusted to 17 mph, forecasters said.
Eight firefighters were treated for heat-related problems, including six who were sent to hospitals, but all were in good condition, Los Angeles County Fire Department Deputy Chief Thomas Ewald said.
More injuries were expected as crews cope with extreme heat that was expected to stretch into next week, Ewald said during a news conference Wednesday night.
“Wearing heavy firefighting gear, carrying packs, dragging hose, swinging tools, the folks out there are just taking a beating,” he said.
Aircraft would continue to drop water and fire retardant on the blaze overnight, and winds could shift to the north through the night, causing the fire to burn back on itself, Ewald said.
Ewald also said there could be other fires in LA County as the searing heat continues. Bulldozers to cut firebreaks will be staffed around the county Thursday as a precaution, he said.
“This is the fire that’s burning right now. But we have 4,000 square miles of LA County that we have to consider for tomorrow,” he said.
Another fire burned at least four buildings, including a home, and prompted evacuations in the Dulzura area in eastern San Diego County near the Mexican border. It swiftly grew to more than 1,600 acres and prompted evacuation orders for at least 400 homes, authorities said.
State Route 94 was closed. The Mountain Empire Unified School District will be closed Thursday, officials said.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced that the Tecate port of entry with Mexico closed three hours early on Wednesday night because of the fire and wouldn’t reopen until conditions improved to ensure “the safety of the traveling public.” Travelers could continue to use the 24-hour Otay Mesa crossing.
No injuries were immediately reported, but there were “multiple close calls” as residents rushed to flee, said Capt. Thomas Shoots with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
“We had multiple 911 calls from folks unable to evacuate” because their homes were surrounded by the fire, Shoots told the San Diego Union-Tribune.
The National Weather Service said many valleys, foothills, mountains and desert areas of the state remained under an elevated fire risk because of low humidity and high temperatures, which set several records for the day. The hottest days were expected to be Sunday and Monday.
Wildfires have sprung up this summer throughout the Western states. The largest and deadliest blaze in California this year erupted in late July in Siskyou County, near the Oregon state line. It killed four people and destroyed much of the small community of Klamath River.
Scientists have said climate change has made the West warmer and drier over the last three decades and will continue to make weather more extreme and wildfires more frequent and destructive. Across the American West, a 22-year megadrought deepened so much in 2021 that the region is now in the driest spell in at least 1,200 years.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.1011now.com/2022/09/01/california-wildfires-prompt-evacuations-amid-heat-wave/ | 2022-09-01 13:29:00 | 1 | https://www.1011now.com/2022/09/01/california-wildfires-prompt-evacuations-amid-heat-wave/ |
CDC advisers recommend COVID-19 shots for children under 5
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health advisers on Saturday recommended COVID-19 vaccines for infants, toddlers and preschoolers — the last group without the shots.
The advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention unanimously decided that coronavirus vaccines should be made available to children as young as 6 months, offering protection from hospitalizations, deaths and possible long-term complications that are still not clearly understood.
“We’ve taken a major step forward today,” said Dr. Oliver Brooks, one of the members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.
The final signoff was expected later in the day from CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky.
While the Food and Drug Administration OKs vaccines, it’s the CDC that decides who should get them.
The government has been gearing up for the start of the shots early next week, with millions of doses ordered for distribution to doctors, hospitals and community health clinics around the country.
Roughly 18 million kids will be eligible, but it remains to be seen how many will ultimately get the vaccines. Less than a third of children ages 5 to 11 have done so since vaccination opened up to them last November.
Here are some things to know:
WHAT KINDS ARE AVAILABLE?
Two brands — Pfizer and Moderna — got the green light Friday from the FDA and Saturday from the advisory panel. The vaccines use the same technology but are being offered at different dose sizes and number of shots for the youngest kids.
Pfizer’s vaccine is for 6 months through 4 years. The dose is one-tenth of the adult dose, and three shots are needed. The first two are given three weeks apart, and the last at least two months later.
Moderna’s is two shots, each a quarter of its adult dose, given about four weeks apart for kids 6 months through 5. The FDA also approved a third dose, at least a month after the second shot, for kids with immune conditions that make them more vulnerable to serious illness.
HOW WELL DO THEY WORK?
In studies, vaccinated youngsters developed levels of virus-fighting antibodies as strong as young adults, suggesting that the kid-size doses protect against coronavirus infections.
However, exactly how well they work is hard to pin down, especially when it comes to the Pfizer vaccine.
Two doses of Moderna appeared to be only about 40% effective at preventing milder infections at a time when the omicron variant was causing most COVID-19 illnesses. Pfizer presented study information suggesting the company saw 80% with its three shots. But the Pfizer data was so limited — and based on such a small number of cases — that experts and federal officials say they don’t feel there is a reliable estimate yet.
SHOULD MY LITTLE ONE BE VACCINATED?
Yes, according to the CDC’s advisers. While COVID-19 has been the most dangerous for older adults, younger people, including children, can also get very sick.
Hospitalizations surged during the omicron wave. Since the start of the pandemic, about 480 children under age 5 are counted among the nation’s more than 1 million COVID-19 deaths, federal data show.
“It is worth vaccinating, even though the number of deaths are relatively rare, because these deaths are preventable through vaccination,” said Dr. Matthew Daley, a Kaiser Permanente Colorado researcher who sits on the advisory committee.
WHICH VACCINE SHOULD MY CHILD GET?
Either one, says Dr. Peter Marks, the FDA’s vaccine chief.
“Whatever vaccine your health care provider, pediatrician has, that’s what I would give my child,’’ Marks said Friday.
The doses haven’t been tested against each other, so experts say there’s no way to tell if one is better.
One consideration: It takes roughly three months to complete the Pfizer three-shot series, but just one month for Moderna’s two shots. So families eager to get children protected quickly might want Moderna.
WHO’S GIVING THE SHOTS?
Pediatricians, other primary care physicians and children’s hospitals are planning to provide the vaccines. Limited drugstores will offer them for at least some of the under-5 group.
U.S. officials expect most shots to take place at pediatricians’ offices. Many parents may be more comfortable getting the vaccine for their kids at their regular doctor, White House COVID-19 coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha said. He predicted the pace of vaccination to be far slower than it was for older populations.
“We’re going see vaccinations ramp up over weeks and even potentially over a couple of months,” Jha said.
CAN CHILDREN GET OTHER VACCINES AT THE SAME TIME?
It’s common for little kids to get more than one vaccine during a doctor’s visit.
In studies of the Moderna and Pfizer shots in infants and toddlers, other vaccinations were not given at the same time so there is no data on potential side effects when that happens.
But problems have not been identified in older children or adults when COVID-19 shots and other vaccinations were given together, and the CDC is advising that it’s safe for younger children as well.
WHAT IF MY CHILD RECENTLY HAD COVID-19?
About three-quarters of children of all ages are estimated to have been infected at some point. For older ages, the CDC has recommended vaccination anyway to lower the chances of reinfection.
Experts have noted re-infections among previously infected people and say the highest levels of protection occur in those who were both vaccinated and previously infected.
The CDC has said people may consider waiting about three months after an infection to be vaccinated.
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AP reporter Zeke Miller in Washington contributed.
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The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wbrc.com/2022/06/18/cdc-advisers-recommend-covid-19-shots-children-under-5/ | 2022-06-18 18:26:44 | 0 | https://www.wbrc.com/2022/06/18/cdc-advisers-recommend-covid-19-shots-children-under-5/ |
Receives CE Mark for Covid-19 testing
ABERCYNON, Wales, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Imspex Diagnostics Ltd today announced that it has received CE mark for its BreathSpec® instrument for the detection of COVID-19 using non-invasive breath testing and analysis having met the requirements of the European In-Vitro Diagnostics Directive (98/79/EC).
BreathSpec®'s intended use is for the diagnosis of respiratory tract infections with specific utility for SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) in a Point of Care setting by clinicians and non-technical users. In collaboration with University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, University of Warwick, National Hospital of Kandy, Sri Lanka and British Columbia Cancer Foundation, Canada, breath samples were collected, analyzed and shown to correlate to Polymerase Chain Reaction testing, the current standard of testing for Covid-19.
Breathspec® is Imspex's proprietary breath analyzer using a unique combination of gas chromatography (GC) and ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) technologies to deliver fast and accurate results. The key advantage of non-invasive sample collection from patients is particularly beneficial to children and challenged patients with significant time and cost savings versus PCR testing.
"This is a global first for breath-based Covid-19 testing and a major step towards our mission to bring breath-based testing into the mainstream" said John McKinley, CEO of Imspex Diagnostics. "BreathSpec® confirms that the new age of non-invasive testing for Covid-19 and other diseases is now within reach, offering alternative testing pathways for healthcare providers and economies of cost and supply chain to healthcare administrators working across diverse diseases."
Imspex received technical support from the University of South Wales, grant and funding from The Welsh Government, Development Bank of Wales, Angel CoFund, Innovate UK and angel investors.
About Imspex Group
Imspex is a leader in Breathomics, the non-invasive way to address major healthcare challenges. Years of technology development have delivered a range of instruments across multi-industry sectors evidencing Imspex's leadership status. Breath collection and analysis is carried out using Imspex's lead instrument, BreathSpec®. Our mission is to harness the potential of breath-based testing and diagnosis and to provide cutting-edge analytics solutions where early warning signals are needed. Our versatile combination of gas chromatography (GC) and ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) has a proven track record in medical detection and diagnosis scenarios and in diverse industrial locations, including biogas contamination detection, food and beverage processing and wastewater pathogen detection.
Please visit www.Imspex.com
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SOURCE Imspex Diagnostics | https://www.wbtv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/09/imspex-diagnostics-announces-breathspec-instrument/ | 2022-08-09 07:49:58 | 0 | https://www.wbtv.com/prnewswire/2022/08/09/imspex-diagnostics-announces-breathspec-instrument/ |
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines on Monday accused a Chinese coast guard ship of hitting a Philippine coast guard vessel with a military-grade laser and temporarily blinding some of its crew in the disputed South China Sea, calling it a “blatant” violation of Manila’s sovereign rights.
The Chinese ship also maneuvered dangerously close, about 137 meters (449 feet), to block the Philippine patrol vessel BRP Malapascua from approaching Second Thomas Shoal, a submerged reef that has been occupied by Philippine forces, on Feb. 6, the Philippine coast guard said in a statement.
The Philippines has filed nearly 200 diplomatic protests against China’s aggressive actions in the disputed waters in 2022 alone.
China claims the South China Sea virtually in its entirety, putting it on a collision course with other claimants. Despite friendly overtures to Beijing by former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and his successor, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who met Chinese leader Xi Jinping in January in Beijing, tensions have persisted, drawing in closer military alliance between the Philippines and the U.S.
Although the Chinese coast guard had tried to block Philippine coast guard ships in the disputed waters before, this was the first time it used lasers and caused physical suffering among Filipino personnel, Philippine coast guard spokesperson Commodore Armand Balilo told The Associated Press.
“The Chinese ship illuminated the green laser light twice toward the BRP Malapascua, causing temporary blindness to her crew at the bridge,” the Philippine statement said.
A video issued by the coast guard in Manila shows a Chinese coast guard ship cutting across the path of a Philippine vessel from a distance. A green laser-like light is later emitted by the Chinese ship.
The Philippine military said it’s time for China to restrain its forces from committing “any provocative act that will endanger the lives of people.” Spokesman Col. Medel Aguilar told reporters that the Philippine defense chief deemed the Chinese coast guard’s action “offensive and unsafe.”
In Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said a Philippine coast guard vessel trespassed into Chinese waters without permission on Feb. 6. Chinese coast guard vessels responded “professionally and with restraint at the site in accordance with China’s law and international law,” he said, without elaborating and mentioning the use of laser.
“We hope the Philippines will earnestly respect China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea and avoid any actions that may lead to the expansion of the dispute and complication of the situation,” Wang said in reply to a question at a daily media briefing. “China and the Philippines are maintaining communication through diplomatic channels in this regard."
The Philippine vessel was forced to move away from the area, where it was escorting a supply vessel that was delivering food and sailors to a Philippine navy sentry ship, the BRP Sierra Madre, which has been marooned on Second Thomas Shoal since 1999, the coast guard said.
“The deliberate blocking of the Philippine government ships to deliver food and supplies to our military personnel on board the BRP Sierra Madre is a blatant disregard for, and a clear violation of, Philippine sovereign rights in this part of the West Philippine Sea,” the coast guard said, using the name the Philippines has adopted for the stretch of waters close to its western coast.
It was not immediately clear if the Philippine resupply mission pushed through despite the incident.
The Chinese coast guard also blocked Philippine ships escorting a supply vessel from approaching Second Thomas Shoal in August, the coast guard said. At the time, one of the two Chinese ships that were joined by two Chinese civilian vessels removed the cover of its 70mm armament, the coast guard said, adding it would not be deterred by China’s aggression in protecting Philippine sovereignty in the disputed sea.
Aside from China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei also have overlapping claims in the resource-rich and busy waterway, where a bulk of the world’s commerce and oil transits.
The United States lays no claims to the disputed sea but has deployed forces to patrol the waters to promote freedom of navigation and overflight — moves that have angered Beijing, which has warned Washington to stop meddling in what it says is a purely Asian dispute.
The U.S. Navy and Marine Corps held joint exercises in the South China Sea over the weekend at a time of heightened tensions with Beijing over the shooting down of a suspected Chinese spy balloon. The U.S. has been taking steps to rebuild its military might in the Philippines more than 30 years after the closure of its large bases in the country and reinforcing an arc of military alliances in Asia. | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/nation-world/philippines-china-ship-laser-coast-guard/507-c26086f3-306b-4005-a4a9-1144de9271da | 2023-02-13 12:28:54 | 1 | https://www.newscentermaine.com/article/news/nation-world/philippines-china-ship-laser-coast-guard/507-c26086f3-306b-4005-a4a9-1144de9271da |
Gillespie's overpowering offense lit up the scoreboard to topple Bunker Hill 52-29 in Illinois girls basketball on January 16.
You're reading a news brief powered by ScoreStream, a world leader in fan-driven sports results and conversation. Help us collect and deliver more game results from your favorite teams and players by downloading the ScoreStream app. Nearly a million users nationwide share team scores and player performance stats with this convenient free app. | https://pantagraph.com/sports/high-school/basketball/girls/gillespie-delivers-smashing-punch-to-stump-bunker-hill-52-29/article_fbafeb38-b6b8-5c42-88c3-ccf87a94f9e2.html | 2023-01-17 06:12:06 | 0 | https://pantagraph.com/sports/high-school/basketball/girls/gillespie-delivers-smashing-punch-to-stump-bunker-hill-52-29/article_fbafeb38-b6b8-5c42-88c3-ccf87a94f9e2.html |
Moorhead man arrested for shooting in Monticello
MONTICELLO, Minn. (KVRR) – A Moorhead man has been arrested in connection with a shooting in Monticello, Minnesota.
The Wright County Sheriff’s Office says deputies were called to a report of a shooting at a local park and compost site at around 8:30 p.m. Monday.
Deputies found the victim, 44-year-old Jade Nickels, near the entrance of the facility. He had been shot multiple times.
Nickels was transported to a hospital and is believed to be in serious but stable condition.
Witnesses at the scene identified the shooter as 18-year-old Dillon Tilbury of Moorhead, who fled the scene on foot.
Tilbury was eventually found at a home and taken into custody.
He was was arrested for probable cause 1st Degree Assault with a gun and other possible charges. | https://www.kvrr.com/2023/01/17/moorhead-man-arrested-for-shooting-in-monticello/ | 2023-01-17 19:28:19 | 0 | https://www.kvrr.com/2023/01/17/moorhead-man-arrested-for-shooting-in-monticello/ |
Since 2012, Texas Children's has performed more infant lung transplants than any other hospital in the nation
HOUSTON, Oct. 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Twenty years ago this month, the Lung Transplant Program at Texas Children's Hospital was launched. Since October 2002, Texas Children's transplant team has performed 240 pediatric lung transplants.
"We are honored to meet this remarkable milestone — it's not just about the number of transplants our team has performed; it's about how many children's lives have been saved through the Lung Transplant Program here at Texas Children's Hospital," said Mark A. Wallace, President and CEO of Texas Children's Hospital. "I am incredibly proud of the program that our team has created, and I know we will continue to spearhead groundbreaking research and provide exceptional care for each and every child in need of a lung transplant."
Historically, patients on life support and infants have been the most challenging lung transplant cases. Over the last decade, Texas Children's has performed more infant lung transplants than any other hospital in the nation.
One of these neonatal lung transplant patients, Cameron Witsman, was born with congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation (CCAM), a lesion that appears as a mass in a fetus's lung before birth. Despite surgeries to remove the cysts, Cameron's lungs were not able to recover.
At the time, only two hospitals in the United States performed infant lung transplants, and Texas Children's was one of them. Cameron and his mom traveled from their home in Florida to Houston to wait for the call that donor lungs were available. After three weeks, they got that miracle call, and Cameron received the lifesaving transplant he needed.
"After receiving his new lungs and the initial recovery period, Cameron's post-transplant journey, honestly, has been fairly uneventful," says his mom, Caroline. "Cameron isn't a typical teenager; he prefers talking to adults and doing yard work, rather than playing video games. He's an old soul."
Now, 13 years after receiving his lung transplant, Cameron feels compelled to honor his donor by using his lungs and being as active as possible. He loves to ride his bike and play basketball, and he even participated in the virtual Transplant Olympics competition in 2020. He hopes to be able to travel to the games and compete once the event is held in person again.
"Over the last 20 years, we have seen countless medical advancements in the organ transplant field, and we have developed unique transplant strategies for children with a wide variety of diagnoses, from cystic fibrosis to pulmonary hypertension," said Dr. Larry Hollier, Surgeon-In-Chief at Texas Children's Hospital. "Looking ahead, we are excited about building an even stronger program and leading vital research focused on how best to support patients while they wait for a lung transplant and on improving transplant outcomes. Finally, I want to recognize the efforts of my two surgical colleagues, Dr. Jeffrey Heinle and Dr. Dean McKenzie, who, since the founding of this program, were the two primary surgeons performing these life-saving operations regardless of the time of day the call came in."
The program excels in pediatric lung transplantation because Texas Children's expert team leverages state-of-the-art technology and optimizes medical therapies, including tailored immune suppression; physical therapy; nutritional support; and a standardized, robust approach of surveillance and early intervention for acute antibody-mediated rejection. Lung transplant recipients at Texas Children's continue to exceed national expected outcome benchmarks for patient and graft survival.
"Receiving a lung transplant often means that a child has a new lease on life and is able to carry on their daily activities without needing to be hospitalized or on life support," said Dr. Tina Melicoff-Portillo, Medical Director of the Lung Transplant Program at Texas Children's Hospital. "Because of the selfless gift of life from our organ donors, we are able to take on the most complex cases, providing these children the best possible outcomes and future."
The Lung Transplant Program was founded in 2002 under the guidance of Dr. George Mallory, who has since retired. Prior to the program's foundation, children in Texas and throughout the South who needed a lung transplant had to travel very long distances. Now, because of the Lung Transplant Program at Texas Children's, these young patients can receive their care closer to home.
Texas Children's Hospital leads the nation in pediatric solid organ transplants, as reported by the Organ Procurement & Transplantation Network (OPTN), the country's unique public-private registry for organ matching.
ABOUT TEXAS CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL
Texas Children's Hospital, a not-for-profit health care organization, is committed to creating a healthier future for children and women throughout the global community by leading in patient care, education and research. Consistently ranked as the best children's hospital in Texas, and among the top in the nation, Texas Children's has garnered widespread recognition for its expertise and breakthroughs in pediatric and women's health. The hospital includes the Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute; the Feigin Tower for pediatric research; Texas Children's Pavilion for Women, a comprehensive obstetrics/gynecology facility focusing on high-risk births; Texas Children's Hospital West Campus, a community hospital in suburban West Houston; and Texas Children's Hospital The Woodlands, the first hospital devoted to children's care for communities north of Houston. The organization also created Texas Children's Health Plan, the nation's first HMO for children; has the largest pediatric primary care network in the country, Texas Children's Pediatrics; Texas Children's Urgent Care clinics that specialize in after-hours care tailored specifically for children; and a global health program that's channeling care to children and women all over the world. Texas Children's Global Health program leads efforts that advance health care equity through innovative collaboration in care, education and research for underserved populations globally. Texas Children's Hospital is affiliated with Baylor College of Medicine. For more information, go to www.texaschildrens.org. Get the latest news by visiting the online newsroom and Twitter at twitter.com/texaschildrens.
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SOURCE Texas Children's Hospital | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/10/27/texas-childrens-hospital-celebrates-20th-anniversary-its-pioneering-lung-transplant-program/ | 2022-10-27 17:46:58 | 0 | https://www.wafb.com/prnewswire/2022/10/27/texas-childrens-hospital-celebrates-20th-anniversary-its-pioneering-lung-transplant-program/ |
Embark achieved 121% growth, surpassing triple digits for the fifth time in the last six years while expanding into new markets and practice lines across America
DALLAS, Jan. 24, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Business advisory firm Embark is thrilled to announce $105.7 million in total revenue for 2022, a record figure that more than doubles 2021 revenue. At 121% growth, 2022 is also the fifth time in the last six years the firm has realized triple-digit revenue growth. Despite growing economic headwinds, Embark's consistent hyper-growth continues to broaden its footprint across the professional services industry.
Further highlighting its ongoing success, Embark also expanded into Nashville in 2022, making it the firm's eleventh office across eight different states. As one of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S., Embark nearly doubled its headcount from 275 employees at year-end 2021 to 500, with a growth strategy in place to expand its footprint into at least two additional geographical markets in 2023. The firm also increased consultant compensation by 25-50% in 2022, ensuring it continues to attract and retain industry-best talent.
"Our success in 2022 is a reflection of how Embark can deliver extraordinary results across all of our practices, proving we can sustain excellence in any economic environment," said Paul Allen, Founder & Chief Vision Officer at Embark. "By focusing on dynamic and talented consultants that are committed to improving our clients' performance, our business model doesn't have a ceiling, and we look forward to making even more significant strides in 2023."
To support its growth strategy and well-documented commitment to best-in-class client service and hospitality, Embark significantly increased the number of senior Big 4 auditors and consultants to its practices, also adding several management consultants to its fast-growing Business Transformation practice. Likewise, 2022 saw the official launch of Embark's ESG & Sustainability practice, formalizing an existing service that has become a necessity for many of its clients given the rapid rise of ESG reporting requirements for public companies.
Embark's achievements correspond with its emphasis on culture and values. The firm's vision has always been to exceed expectations for both clients and employees. As a result, several organizations have recognized Embark for its exceptional culture at the national and local levels. In 2022 alone, Embark was awarded:
- Great Place to Work certification for the third year in a row
- Inc. 5000 fastest growing companies for the fifth year in a row
- Top 100 Places to Work by the Dallas Morning News, and the city's #1 Mid-Size Company and Best Managers list
- Fortune 50 Best Small & Medium Workplaces In Texas
- #34 in Fortune Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance™ 2022 (Small And Medium)
- #18 in Fortune Best Workplaces in Texas™ 2022 (Small And Medium)
- SMU Dallas 100 Entrepreneur Awards (#31)
- Charlotte Business Journal Best Places To Work
- Phoenix Business Journal Best Places To Work
- Austin Market President Jessica Schuemann: 40 Under 40 (New Braunfels)
- CFO Brady Minyard: Best CFO Honoree (Austin Business Journal)
- Transaction Advisory Practice Leader Drew Solomon: D Magazine 2022 M&A Awards | Due Diligence Dealmaker
"Our culture saturates every facet of our company, and keeps us a visionary in the professional services industry. A genuine commitment to our people and absolute confidence in our approach, vision, and values let us scale the business without compromising our ability to successfully attract talent and emphasize the employee experience," said Allen. As testament to the firm's commitment to its people and vision, Embark moved into new headquarters in 2022, a historic, three-story building in the Deep Ellum district of Dallas, and will complete the build-out in the first half of 2023.
About Embark
Embark is a new kind of business advisory firm, one intent on disrupting the professional services industry with a unique, innovative business model and mindset for the advisory space. Founded in 2010, the firm now services an ever-growing list of top-tier markets, including Dallas, Houston, Austin, Denver, Phoenix, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Salt Lake City, Tampa Bay, Charlotte, and Nashville. Specifically, Embark helps organizations optimize finance, accounting, and technology with specialists from a spectrum of practice areas and industries. The firm has built an unprecedented company culture for elite consultants to transform the way businesses utilize people, processes, & technology. For more information, visit www.embarkwithus.com.
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SOURCE Embark | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2023/01/24/business-advisory-firm-embark-announces-record-1057-million-revenue-year/ | 2023-01-24 14:17:04 | 1 | https://www.kalb.com/prnewswire/2023/01/24/business-advisory-firm-embark-announces-record-1057-million-revenue-year/ |
The most humbling part of working in a nonprofit is the constant reminder of how much I still have to learn.
You would think that almost 20 years of working in youth development, disaster relief, child abuse and neglect, health services, and humanitarian causes would have filled my brain with every possible understanding of how our community functions.
Alas, becoming the executive director at Blessings in a Backpack has taken its place as yet another Yoda to the stumbling Luke Skywalker apprentice I still find myself to be.
I thought I understood food insecurity years ago when I gathered three teen boys from our youth center to prepare a batch of brownies for our charity bake sale. They put up a fight as I dragged them toward the mixers, speaking in lingo I found hard to conjugate with my aging, out-of-touch brain.
However, I did decipher that they felt that an apron was like a dress “tbh” but brownies “went hard” for real, no cap. I nodded, obviously clueless.
As we cracked open eggs, one of them suddenly exclaimed, “So this is what an egg looks like inside!” Pure astonishment.
I thought this was a youthful expression of sarcasm (That I do get. Usually.), so I laughed until I met his eyes and saw his amazement was completely authentic.
“You’ve seen the inside of an egg before,” I assured him. He shook his head hard. The other two followed suit, equally impressed at the golden yolk slipping from its casing.
“What about when your mom makes breakfast?” I asked.
“We don’t have a stove.” Another boy chimed in, “We don’t have a microwave. We do cereal.”
All three began a convo about how usually it was cereal without milk, but that Cinnamon Toast Crunch “hits without it.”
That afternoon of baking gave me a crash course in understanding the kids we served, a very small glimpse into how different their lives were in more ways than I had imagined.
It was thanks to them that over the years I was able to remind our community that not everyone had the luxuries we take for granted, the tools to make food or the knowledge of how to do it.
There are several causes that address these issues (and they are very worthy), but I also wanted to ensure that these children I regularly saw struggle were still fed.
To make one thing clear (because people love to assume a reminder of reality is an attack on progression), I absolutely love programs that do perishable products to promote a healthier lifestyle with true cooking instruction. I advocate, support, throw a party in their honor, love ’em.
However, I cannot state strongly enough how important it is that we also remember the kids who do not have this option yet in their day-to-day existence. Because I almost forgot about them.
I had been out of the hunger and nutrition part for years when I was handed a Blessings Bag from Blessings in a Backpack. These are given out in select schools in Fort Wayne every Friday, ensuring kids had supplemental food to eat over the weekend.
I turned it over in my hands, critical of what I saw before me. These were all ready-to-eat, right-from-the-bag food, and although I knew the bag was created by a nutritionist, I questioned why there was no “hot meal” option. Soup, skillet packs, macaroni and cheese … anyone can make those, right?
The response from teachers, administrators, those who worked and knew, once again humbled me:
“Some of these kids are as young as 5 and are not old enough to be unsupervised at a stove.”
“A parent providing basic needs isn’t always one who is able to create a meal or to help a child do it.”
“Many houses lack running water, electricity for even basic additions needed.”
“Ranges and microwaves are still luxuries that many of our families can’t afford.”
I remembered then; I’m ashamed that I could have ever forgotten.
Those sweet boys had grown up, but their situations are far from evolved in our community when it comes to food insecurity. We cannot forget that among us, in our own ZIP codes, there are still so many who struggle with basic necessities that most of us take for granted to be afforded to all.
I ask that in all of our abundant privilege, we are reminded of their existence.
Is there a place for collaboration to help remedy this? Yes, always.
I believe everyone has their piece in the fight against hunger, from food pantries to assistance programs to education on nutrition and health. Everyone can play a part, and this is how we play ours at Blessings in a Backpack.
All these years of work, and yet I’m so far from Jedi status. But again … it’s humbling to remember why.
Jama Ross of Fort Wayne is executive director of Blessings in a Backpack. | https://www.journalgazette.net/opinion/columnists/grasping-the-depth-of-food-insecurity-is-never-ending/article_83c9b9e0-0ec4-11ee-a013-abcd20dcda0b.html | 2023-06-21 04:33:17 | 0 | https://www.journalgazette.net/opinion/columnists/grasping-the-depth-of-food-insecurity-is-never-ending/article_83c9b9e0-0ec4-11ee-a013-abcd20dcda0b.html |
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. spies caught Russian intelligence officers boasting that they had convinced the oil-rich United Arab Emirates “to work together against US and UK intelligence agencies,” according to a purported American document posted online as part of a major U.S. intelligence breach.
U.S. officials declined to comment on the document, which bore known top-secret markings and was viewed by The Associated Press. The Emirati government on Monday dismissed any accusation that the UAE had deepened ties with Russian intelligence as “categorically false.”
But the U.S. has had growing concerns that the UAE was allowing Russia and Russians to thwart sanctions imposed over the invasion of Ukraine.
The document viewed by the AP includes an item citing research from March 9 with the title: “Russia/UAE: Intelligence Relationship Deepening.” U.S. officials declined to confirm the document’s authenticity, which the AP could not independently do. However, it resembled other documents released as part of the recent leak.
The Justice Department has opened an investigation into the possible release of Pentagon documents that were posted on several social media sites. They appear to detail U.S. and NATO aid to Ukraine and U.S. intelligence assessments regarding U.S. allies that could strain ties with those nations.
Some of the documents may have been altered or used as part of a misinformation campaign, U.S. officials said. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby on Monday urged caution, “since we know at least in some cases that information was doctored.”
Referring to the main successor agency of the Soviet-era KGB, the document seen by the AP says: “In mid-January, FSB officials claimed UAE security service officials and Russia had agreed to work together against US and UK Intelligence agencies, according to newly acquired signals intelligence.” Signals intelligence refers to intercepted communications, whether telephone calls or electronic messages.
“The UAE probably views engagement with Russian intelligence as an opportunity to strengthen growing ties between Abu Dhabi and Moscow and diversify intelligence partnerships amid concerns of US disengagement from the region,” the assessment concluded, referring to the UAE capital.
It’s not clear if there was any such agreement as described in the UAE-Russia document, or whether the alleged FSB claims were intentionally or unintentionally misleading.
But American officials are speaking out increasingly about a surge in dealings between the UAE and Russia.
A U.S. Treasury official, Assistant Secretary Elizabeth Rosenberg, in March singled out the UAE as a “country of focus.” She said businesses there were helping Russia evade international sanctions to obtain more than $5 million in U.S. semiconductors and other export-controlled parts, including components with battlefield uses.
U.S. intelligence officials in recent years have pointed to possible links between the UAE and the Wagner Group, a Russian paramilitary group closely associated with the Kremlin and active in Ukraine and several African countries. In 2020, the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency assessed “that the United Arab Emirates may provide some financing for the group’s operations.”
Andreas Krieg, an associate professor at King’s College in London, on Monday called the UAE “the most important strategic partner for Russia in both the Middle East and Africa.” The head of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, Sergey Naryshkin, held extensive meetings with UAE leaders in Dubai in 2020.
Russia and the UAE share similar outlooks in some key conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa, and the influx of Russians into the UAE since Russia launched its war in Ukraine also has strengthened ties between the two, said Kristian Ulrichsen, a Middle East expert at Rice University’s Baker Institute. But the reference to teaming up against U.S. and British intelligence agencies is surprising, said Ulrichsen.
Russian intelligence officials “probably have an interest in describing something in those terms,” he said. “If that was the way the UAE was describing it, I’d certainly take it … quite differently.”
A U.S. official separately has told the AP that the United States also was worried about Russian money coming into Dubai’s red-hot real estate market.
And in October, federal prosecutors in New York announced charges against two Dubai-based Russian men and others accused of stealing military technology from U.S. companies, smuggling millions of barrels of oil and laundering tens of millions of dollars for the oligarchs surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Prosecutors in that case quoted one of the Dubai-based Russians as assuring his partners “there were no worries” about using a UAE financial institution for the transactions. “This is the (worst) bank in the Emirates,” he was quoted as saying, using an expletive. “They pay to everything.”
In a statement Monday to the AP about the apparent intelligence document, the United Arab Emirates said UAE officials had not seen the document and claims regarding the FSB were “categorically false.”
“We refute any allegation regarding an agreement to deepen cooperation between the UAE and other countries’ security services against another country,” the statement said. “The UAE has deep and distinguished relations with all countries, reflecting its principles of openness, partnership, building bridges, and working to serve the common interests of countries and peoples to achieve international peace and security.”
The leak of the purported document comes as Emirati officials have recalibrated their foreign policy in the Middle East after a series of attacks attributed to Iran. Attacks claimed by Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels hit Abu Dhabi in 2022, killing three people and leading locally stationed American forces to respond with Patriot missile fire.
In the time since, and as Emiratis perceived America’s presence waning in the region after its chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, the UAE reached a détente with Iran. That’s even as the United States maintains multiple military bases and stations thousands of troops and weaponry in the region, including at Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra Air Base. Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port remains the busiest U.S. Navy port of call outside of the continental U.S.
The UAE also remains one of the few places still running daily, direct flights to Moscow after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. That has seen money, megayachts and Russian citizens come into the UAE, an autocratic federation of seven sheikhdoms on the Arabian Peninsula. However, it hasn’t been a full embrace.
Relations between the U.S. and the UAE have seesawed over the past decade, as Abu Dhabi ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan cemented his power. Under the Trump administration, the UAE diplomatically recognized Israel.
In the deal’s wake, the UAE sought but has yet to receive advanced American F-35 fighter jets under President Joe Biden. Meanwhile, the Emirates has criticized Israel over the escalating violence between Israel’s hard-right government under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Palestinians.
___
Gambrell reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. AP Diplomatic Writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report. | https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/news/politics/leaked-us-intel-russia-operatives-claimed-new-ties-with-uae/ | 2023-04-11 16:37:25 | 0 | https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/news/politics/leaked-us-intel-russia-operatives-claimed-new-ties-with-uae/ |
The leading merchant acquirer has already settled $300M in USDC to date
LONDON, June 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Checkout.com unveils its stablecoin settlement solution, leveraging Fireblocks' new crypto payment technology. This offers merchants the flexibility of 24/7 settlement including weekends and holidays — increasing access to cashflow and significantly reducing operational complexity. Checkout.com is the first PSP to have access to Fireblocks' crypto payouts technology. With this access, Checkout.com is also the first to successfully deploy automatic fiat to stablecoin conversion for their merchants as they receive and process funds from customers.
To date, Checkout.com has facilitated settlement of over $300 million using USDC, a fully collateralized and redeemable USD-pegged stablecoin, via its private stablecoins settlement beta program. During the beta, Checkout.com successfully tested, refined and optimized ways for customers' online fiat transactions to be paid to merchants through USDC.
In addition, Checkout.com's integration with Fireblocks marks the crypto technology provider's expansion into the payments space following the acquisition of First Digital earlier this year. Fireblocks' new crypto payment technology is only available to select PSPs with additional payment capabilities and tools for business to be unveiled later this year. Checkout.com is among the early PSP partners to deploy this new technology.
"At Fireblocks, we believe that every business will become a digital assets business with the advent of Web3," said Ran Goldi, Vice President of Payments at Fireblocks. "Traditionally, merchant payouts are limited to 9-5 on weekdays excluding public holidays and are further delayed through batch processing over several business days. Checkout.com's weekend settlement means that merchants are no longer restricted by arbitrary settlement times. With our in-house team's deep knowledge and expertise in digital asset payments, Fireblocks looks forward to our continued collaboration with Checkout.com to bring even more game-changing solutions to the payments space."
Transak Head of Expansion & Partnerships, Joe Start, said, "Weekend settlement helps to free liquidity constraints we have historically faced as a developer integration making decentralised applications accessible. This enables us to process more payments and we are delighted to have worked with Checkout.com on such a significant step forward for the payments industry as a whole."
At the start, Checkout.com's stablecoin settlement supports USDC with plans to expand to a wider range of assets over time. The company's pilot project already includes several crypto exchanges and tech-forward merchants and is actively expanding—with FTX at the forefront of this work.
Adam Jacobs, Head of Payments from FTX said, "Working with Checkout to pioneer stablecoin settlement has been an exciting development for our business and for the entire Web3 space. We're especially excited to see more businesses using crypto natively aligning with our mission to expand the digital currency ecosystem and bring in more institutional crypto holders."
"Stablecoins started as a fiat-denominated asset used by crypto traders to easily move in and out of more volatile crypto assets," explained Jess Houlgrave, Head of Crypto Strategy at Checkout.com. "but we believe they will also play a fundamental role in improving the underlying payment landscape— the fact that we're the first full stack payments provider to successfully pilot an end-to-end solution with weekend merchant-side settlement capability is testament to our commitment to crypto3. We're investing heavily to ensure we can fulfil our mission to enable businesses and their communities to thrive in the digital economy - which we believe includes Web3 and as we see the market reaction, we hope to see more merchants, both crypto native and non crypto native adopt this."
Today's announcement comes on the heels of Checkout.com publishing its Demystifying Crypto report, which found finance leaders surveyed showing significant appetite to hold stablecoins on their balance sheets. Almost 40% of those surveyed said they would like to use decentralised finance for treasury management and settle payments in stablecoins.
For more information—and for merchants interested in potentially settling transactions in stablecoin in the future—visit checkout.com/crypto.
About Checkout.com
Checkout.com is a global payments solution provider that helps businesses and their communities thrive in the digital economy. Purpose-built with performance, scalability and speed in mind, our modular payments platform is ideal for enterprise businesses looking to seamlessly integrate better payment solutions. With more than 1900 people across 19 offices worldwide, we offer innovative solutions that flex to your needs, valuable insights that help you get smart about your payments' performance, and expertise you can count on as you navigate the complexities of an ever-shifting world. It's why businesses like Crypto.com, Frasers Group, Getty Images, Grab, SHEIN, Sony, Binance and Wise trust Checkout.com.
About Fireblocks
Fireblocks is an enterprise-grade platform delivering a secure infrastructure for moving, storing, and issuing digital assets. Fireblocks enables exchanges, lending desks, custodians, banks, trading desks, and hedge funds to securely scale digital asset operations through the Fireblocks Network and MPC-based Wallet Infrastructure. Fireblocks serves over 1,300 financial institutions, has secured the transfer of over $2.6 trillion in digital assets and has a unique insurance policy that covers assets in storage & transit. Some of the biggest trading desks have switched to Fireblocks because it's the only solution that CISOs and Ops Teams both love. For more information, please visit www.fireblocks.com.
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SOURCE Checkout.com | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2022/06/07/checkoutcom-becomes-first-psp-unlock-weekend-settlement-merchants-powered-by-fireblocks-crypto-payouts-debut/ | 2022-06-07 11:59:37 | 1 | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2022/06/07/checkoutcom-becomes-first-psp-unlock-weekend-settlement-merchants-powered-by-fireblocks-crypto-payouts-debut/ |
An Army veteran who stormed the U.S. Capitol building with fellow Oath Keepers on Jan. 6, 2020, was sentenced Friday to more than eight years in federal prison, one day after the group's founder received an 18-year sentence for attempting to disrupt certification of the 2020 election results.
Ohio resident Jessica Watkins was acquitted of a seditious conspiracy charge in November, but jurors found her guilty of conspiring to obstruct Congress' certification of President Joe Biden's election victory.
Judge Amit Mehta called Watkin's actions on that day "assaultive" and said she did not have remorse.
"Your role that day was more aggressive, more assaultive, more purposeful than perhaps others,' and you led others to fulfill your purposes," Mehta said, according to a report by CNN. "And there was not in the immediate aftermath any sense of shame or contrition, just the opposite. Your comments were celebratory and lacked a real sense of the gravity of that day and your role in it."
Watkins apologized for her actions before being sentenced, saying she was "just another idiot running around the Capitol" on Jan. 6.
"And today you're going to hold this idiot responsible," she told Judge Mehta.
SEE MORE: Oath Keepers founder sentenced to 18 years for role in Jan. 6 attack
During the nearly two-month trial in Washington federal court, jurors were shown evidence of Watkins and other Oath Keepers dressed in helmets and military-style gear while marching their way through the crowd outside the Capitol. She also used a walkie-talkie app to communicate to others that they were "in the main dome right now."
Another Oath Keeper and Army veteran, Kenneth Harrelson, will also be sentenced later Friday. He is said to have been the group's "ground team lead" on Jan. 6, and prosecutors are seeking a 15-year prison sentence.
Stewart Rhodes, who founded the far-right group, was sentenced to 18 years on Thursday for seditious conspiracy. The previous longest sentence in the more than 1,000 Capitol riot cases was 14 years for a man who attacked police officers with pepper spray and a chair as he stormed the building.
Trending stories at Scrippsnews.com | https://www.kgun9.com/oath-keeper-and-army-vet-gets-8-5-years-in-prison-for-storming-capitol | 2023-05-26 18:07:01 | 0 | https://www.kgun9.com/oath-keeper-and-army-vet-gets-8-5-years-in-prison-for-storming-capitol |
Vacationers looking to rent a space through Airbnb could be subject to major fees — up to nearly half on top of the total cost in some cities, according to a recent study.
The study from Forbes Advisor shows various fees tacked on to the end of customer’s bills can add up to more than 45 percent to the total cost.
In Atlanta, where the nightly rate is $192, extra costs added an average of 48 percent. And in Phoenix, where the nightly price hit more than $200, an average of 47 percent in fees were tacked on to the bill.
Listings in Fort Myers Beach, Fla.; Davenport, Fla.; and Memphis, Tenn., round out the top five cities where the percentage of added fees is highest.
For the study, Forbes Advisor analyzed more than 32,000 listings in 102 Airbnb markets in February with an average analysis of 320 listings per market.
Then, it searched for properties available from July 14 through July 19, 2023 (five nights), to be occupied by four people.
Airbnb declined to comment on the record to The Hill.
For the best value, the study suggests customers should search for listings in the Midwest and Florida.
Customers face an average of 36 percent of the total cost in additional fees. And more than a quarter of these go toward cleaning and service fees.
The average cleaning fee across the country is $160 for a five-night stay, while five Florida cities, including Fort Myers Beach, boast the highest rates for these services.
Spaces in Cleveland had the lowest average nightly cleaning fees at $32. The highest was $313 in Telluride, Colo. The analysis found that Phoenix, Atlanta, and Orlando, Fla., had the highest average cleaning fees as a percentage of the subtotal.
But 15 percent of listings don’t charge cleaning fees, according to the study’s findings.
For the best value, the study suggests customers should search for listings in the Midwest, including Ohio and Missouri, and Florida. | https://www.wearegreenbay.com/hill-politics/airbnb-has-raised-fees-by-as-much-as-45-in-these-cities/ | 2023-04-26 19:57:59 | 1 | https://www.wearegreenbay.com/hill-politics/airbnb-has-raised-fees-by-as-much-as-45-in-these-cities/ |
BEIJING, Dec. 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- With the further optimization of its COVID-19 containment measures this month, China is looking to boost its economy which has been under pressure for three years due to COVID-19.
China's annual Central Economic Work Conference, held in Beijing last week, demanded making economic stability a top priority and pursuing steady progress for 2023.
And analysts believe that China's economy will rebound and continue to be a reliable and important driving force of the global economy in 2023.
Many local governments arranged charter planes to send business delegations to meet overseas customers, stimulating enterprises to revive business.
Zhang Chunlong, a researcher at the Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Social Sciences, emphasized that regaining order is important, but what is more important is recovering economic confidence and vitality.
"We need to accelerate domestic and international economic circulation and development."
Keeping enterprises operational
In the past three years, the Chinese governments at all levels adopted a series of policies to keep enterprises operational amid recurrent COVID-19 waves.
To protect local chipmakers in eastern metropolis Shanghai, the municipal government allowed them to operate under a "closed-loop" system.
Chip manufacturers there ensured normal outputs despite a COVID-19 outbreak that started on March 28, when the city began to witness a rising number of Omicron infections.
Hua Hong Semiconductor Limited, China's second-largest chip producer, has accommodated more than 6,000 workers spread across five factories in Shanghai since March 27.
Wang Lijing, a Hua Hong worker, told China Media Group (CMG) in April that he's been staying in the factory for the past two weeks.
A Shanghai shipyard also resumed production on April 23 and delivered the world's largest Very Large Ethane Carrier (VLEC) on May 16.
For epidemic prevention and control, the shipyard set independent ventilation systems requiring on-board staff who tested positive for the coronavirus or confirmed as cases of COVID-19 infections to be under quarantine immediately to curb possible further spread of the virus.
Zhang Jian, deputy general-manager of the Jiangnan Shipyard, told CMG, "In the first stage, we resumed the normal delivery process at the wharf, and we plan to reopen all shipyard production lines by the end of May."
With effective COVID-19 measures, China's BYD dethroned Elon Musk's Tesla as the world's biggest electric vehicle (EV) producer by sales in the first half of 2022 with 641,000 sold vehicles.
Jeff Chung, an auto analyst with Citigroup, termed BYD's sales growth "impressive."
Chinese enterprises 'go abroad'
As China further eased COVID-19 restrictions in December, cities dispatched delegations to overseas markets for the first time in three years, to promote trade and secure deals.
East China's Zhejiang Province took the lead in recovering foreign trade and organized a group of around 100 delegates representing 50 enterprises to join in the 36th Asia Fashion Fair in Tokyo, Japan.
"A meeting in person is better than a thousand emails," Li Lin, deputy director of Foreign Trade Development Office, Zhejiang Provincial Department of Commerce, told CMG.
At the same time, cities in east China's Jiangsu Province, including Suzhou and Wuxi, southwest China's Sichuan Province and south China's Guangdong Province also sent delegations abroad for new opportunities.
"Going abroad is a must," said Wang Yuanpei, general manager of Wuxi Jiejin Precision Machinery Co., Ltd.
"International markets have experienced tremendous changes over the past three years and we are eager to communicate with our clients face-to-face to consolidate our relations."
Foreign companies' confidence in China
Foreign enterprises say they still find China an attractive destination for investment despite of COVID-19.
The 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China has further boosted foreign enterprises' confidence in the market, according to a survey released on October 27 by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).
Among the over 500 foreign enterprises surveyed, 96.7 percent affirmed China's development achievements over the past decade and 96.9 percent expressed stronger confidence in the Chinese market.
In Q1 of this year, roughly 90 percent of foreign-funded enterprises were satisfied with China's policies concerning market access, promotion of market competition, access to business premises and financial services.
Also in 2022, China's leading automaker First Automotive Works and German automaker Audi launched a project to produce pure electric vehicles in the northeast Chinese city of Changchun, with a total investment of more than 30 billion yuan ($4.7 billion).
Dr. Juergen Unser, president of Audi China, told CGTN that "the decision is very important to go with our trusted partner FAW into the Jilin Province."
"It clearly demonstrates our continuous commitment to the e-transformation of the Chinese automotive industry."
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SOURCE CGTN | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2022/12/20/cgtn-new-approaches-how-china-stimulates-enterprises-revive-business/ | 2022-12-20 15:46:40 | 1 | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2022/12/20/cgtn-new-approaches-how-china-stimulates-enterprises-revive-business/ |
NEW DELHI — India banned some single-use or disposable plastic products Friday as part of a federal plan to phase out the ubiquitous material in the nation of nearly 1.4 billion people.
For the first stage, it has identified 19 plastic items that aren't very useful but have a high potential to become litter and makes it illegal to produce, import, stock, distribute or sell them. These items range from plastic cups and straws to ice cream sticks. Some disposable plastic bags will also be phased out and replaced with thicker ones.
Thousands of other plastic products — like bottles for water or soda or bags of chips — aren't covered by the ban. But the federal government has set targets for manufacturers to be responsible for recycling or disposing of them after their use.
Plastic manufacturers had appealed to the government to delay the ban, citing inflation and potential job losses. But India's federal environment minister Bhupender Yadav said at a press briefing in New Delhi that the ban had been in the pipeline for a year.
"Now that time is up," he said.
This isn't the first time that India has considered a plastic ban. But previous iterations have focused on specific regions, resulting in varying degrees of success. A nationwide ban that includes not just the use of plastic, but also its production or importation was a "definite boost," said Satyarupa Shekhar, the Asia-Pacific coordinator of the advocacy group Break Free from Plastic.
Most plastic isn't recycled globally and millions of tons pollute the world's oceans, impact wildlife and turn up in drinking water. Scientists are still trying to assess the risks posed by the tiny bits of broken-down plastic, known as microplastics. In 2020, over 4.1 million metric tons (4.5 million U.S. tons) of plastic waste was generated in India, according to its federal pollution watchdog.
The creaky waste management system in the country's burgeoning cities and villages means that much of this waste isn't recycled and ends up polluting the environment. Nearly 13 million metric tons (14 million U.S. tons) of plastic waste was either littered or not recycled by the South Asian nation in 2019 — the highest in the world, according to Our World in Data.
Cutting plastics is key for India meeting its climate goals
Making plastic releases earth-warming greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and India is home to factories that make over 243,000 metric tons (268,000 U.S. tons) of disposable plastic each year. This means that reducing the manufacture and consequent waste of plastic is crucial for India to meet its target of reducing the intensity of emissions in economic activity by 45% in eight years.
A recent study identified over 8,000 chemical additives used for plastic processing, some of which are a thousand times more potent as greenhouse gases than carbon dioxide. Products like single-use packaging, plastic resins, foamed plastic insulation, bottles and containers, among many others, add to global greenhouse emissions.
Most plastic cannot be recycled, only downgraded, and it's often incinerated or used as fuel in waste-to-energy plants, sometimes known as chemical recycling. While plastics are worth three to four times as much for fuel than as scrap, these recycling processes release more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, adding to the greenhouse effect.
"Given the magnitude of the plastic crisis, this is too little. And it's too little both in its scope as well as the coverage," said Shekhar.
Advocates say enforcing the ban will be critical to its success
Ravi Agarwal, the director of Toxics Link, a New Delhi-based advocacy group that focuses on waste management, added that the ban was "a good beginning," but its success will depend on how well it is implemented. The actual enforcement of the law will be in the hands of individual states and city municipal bodies.
India said that the banned items were identified while keeping in mind the availability of alternatives: bamboo spoons, plantain trays, wooden ice-cream sticks. But in the days leading up to the ban, many vendors said that they were confused.
Moti Rahman, 40, is a vegetable vendor in New Delhi. Customers at his cart carefully picked out fresh summer produce Tuesday before he tipped them into a plastic bag. Rahman said that he agrees with the ban, but added that if plastic bags are stopped without a readily available and equally cost-effective replacement, his business will be impacted.
"After all, plastic is used in everything," he said.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.wvasfm.org/business/2022-07-01/india-begins-to-ban-single-use-plastics-including-cups-and-straws | 2022-07-01 21:20:16 | 0 | https://www.wvasfm.org/business/2022-07-01/india-begins-to-ban-single-use-plastics-including-cups-and-straws |
Reigning Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year Ja'Marr Chase Returns to Give First-Time Cruisers a Chance to Get Out to Sea on a Carnival Cruise Ship as Part of the "Board a Rookie. Return a Pro." Campaign
PURCHASE, N.Y., Feb. 1, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Reigning Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Year, Ja'Marr Chase, knows what it's like to make a strong debut – after a fantastic rookie season, he is officially a full-fledged pro, turning in a dominant sophomore campaign and establishing himself as one of the NFL's most exciting young talents. His rise from unproven rookie to bona fide pro is why he has teamed up with Pepsi Zero Sugar for the second year of the "Board a Rookie. Return a Pro." campaign. This year, the superstar wide receiver is giving rookie cruisers the chance to win an unforgettable vacation getaway, where fans can enter to win their first-ever trip on a Carnival ship and return as a pro passenger of the seas.
Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year winners know what it takes to make a strong first impression and Chase is no exception. When he stepped onto the field as a rookie, he set in motion an exciting chapter for his team. Chase, now a pro himself, is looking to help more rookies get up and go this offseason, by setting sail on their first cruise.
"As the reigning Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Year, I know that being a rookie can come with its challenges but can also be inspiring – no matter the context. I'm excited to be working with Pepsi Zero Sugar to help both the next Rookie of the Year and rookie cruisers alike take it to the next level and set sail on a new adventure," NFL Wide Receiver Ja'Marr Chase said.
"Ja'Marr Chase is only in his second year in the league and already embodies what it means to go from being a rookie to established pro," said Scott Finlow, CMO, PepsiCo Global Foodservice. "We're excited to partner with an athlete of this caliber to bring this experience to first-time cruise-goers so fans can feel the energy rush and excitement that comes with being on a Carnival Cruise for themselves."
From now through February 28, fans can visit PepsiRookieCruise.com to enter the sweepstakes for a chance to win their first cruise getaway – to sail at their leisure anytime over the next 12 months – on a Carnival Cruise Line ship. While guests may board as rookies, they'll return cruise-adventure-water-slide-party-try-new-cuisines pros. Official rules and regulations can be found here.
Pepsi is the Official Soft Drink Partner of the NFL and is in its 21st year as the presenting partner of the Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Week and Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year award.
About PepsiCo
PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $79 billion in net revenue in 2021, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo's product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.
Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with PepsiCo Positive (pep+). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the center of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for planet and people. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com, and follow on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCo.
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SOURCE PepsiCo Beverages North America | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2023/02/01/pepsi-zero-sugar-jamarr-chase-team-up-say-bon-voyage-rookie-cruisers/ | 2023-02-01 14:42:27 | 1 | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2023/02/01/pepsi-zero-sugar-jamarr-chase-team-up-say-bon-voyage-rookie-cruisers/ |
WASHINGTON — The fast-changing coronavirus has kicked off summer in the U.S. with lots of infections but relatively few deaths compared to its prior incarnations.
COVID-19 is still killing hundreds of Americans each day, but it is not nearly as dangerous as it was last fall and winter.
“It’s going to be a good summer and we deserve this break,” said Ali Mokdad, a professor of health metrics sciences at the University of Washington in Seattle.
With more Americans shielded from severe illness through vaccination and infection, COVID-19 has transformed — for now at least — into an unpleasant, inconvenient nuisance for many.
“It feels cautiously good right now,” said Dr. Dan Kaul, an infectious diseases specialist at the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor. “For the first time that I can remember, pretty much since it started, we don’t have any (COVID-19) patients in the ICU.”
As the nation marks July Fourth, the average number of daily deaths from COVID-19 in the United States is hovering around 360. Last year, during a similar summer lull, it was around 228 in early July. That remains the lowest threshold in U.S. daily deaths since March 2020, when the virus first began its U.S. spread.
But there were far fewer reported cases at this time last year — fewer than 20,000 a day. Now, it’s about 109,000 — and likely an undercount as home tests aren’t routinely reported.
Today, in the third year of the pandemic, it’s easy to feel confused by the mixed picture: Repeat infections are increasingly likely, and a sizeable share of those infected will face the lingering symptoms of long COVID-19.
Yet, the stark danger of death has diminished for many people.
“And that’s because we’re now at a point that everyone’s immune system has seen either the virus or the vaccine two or three times by now,” said Dr. David Dowdy, an infectious disease epidemiologist at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. “Over time, the body learns not to overreact when it sees this virus.”
“What we’re seeing is that people are getting less and less ill on average,” Dowdy said.
As many as 8 out of 10 people in the U.S. have been infected at least once, according to one influential model.
The death rate for COVID-19 has been a moving target, but recently has fallen to within the range of an average flu season, according to data analyzed by Arizona State University health industry researcher Mara Aspinall.
At first, some people said coronavirus was no more deadly than the flu, "and for a long period of time, that wasn’t true,” Aspinall said. Back then, people had no immunity. Treatments were experimental. Vaccines didn’t exist.
Now, Aspinall said, the built-up immunity has driven down the death rate to solidly in the range of a typical flu season. Over the past decade, the death rate for flu was about 5% to 13% of those hospitalized.
Big differences separate flu from COVID-19: The behavior of the coronavirus continues to surprise health experts and it’s still unclear whether it will settle into a flu-like seasonal pattern.
Last summer — when vaccinations first became widely available in the U.S. — was followed by the delta surge and then the arrival of omicron, which killed 2,600 Americans a day at its peak last February.
Experts agree a new variant might arise capable of escaping the population’s built-up immunity. And the fast-spreading omicron subtypes BA.4 and BA.5 might also contribute to a change in the death numbers.
“We thought we understood it until these new subvariants emerged,” said Dr. Peter Hotez, an infectious disease specialist at the Baylor College of Medicine in Texas.
It would be wise, he said, to assume that a new variant will come along and hit the nation later this summer.
“And then another late fall-winter wave,” Hotez said.
In the next weeks, deaths could edge up in many states, but the U.S. as a whole is likely to see deaths decline slightly, said Nicholas Reich, who aggregates coronavirus projections for the COVID-19 Forecast Hub in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“We’ve seen COVID hospitalizations increase to around 5,000 new admissions each day from just over 1,000 in early April. But deaths due to COVID have only increased slightly over the same time period,” said Reich, a professor of biostatistics at University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Unvaccinated people have a six times higher risk of dying from COVID-19 compared with people with at least a primary series of shots, the CDC estimated based on available data from April.
This summer, consider your own vulnerability and that of those around you, especially in large gatherings since the virus is spreading so rapidly, Dowdy said.
“There are still people who are very much at risk,” he said. | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/us-covid-19-summer/507-9f951326-5c07-4f8d-87ea-5898d8f3325a | 2022-07-02 20:01:09 | 1 | https://www.fox43.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/us-covid-19-summer/507-9f951326-5c07-4f8d-87ea-5898d8f3325a |
N. Korea fires more missiles as US flies bombers over South
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea added to its recent barrage of weapons demonstrations by launching four ballistic missiles into the sea on Saturday, as the United States sent two supersonic bombers streaking over South Korea in a dueling display of military might that underscored rising tensions in the region.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said that the four short-range missiles fired from a western coastal area around noon flew about 130 kilometers (80 miles) toward the country’s western sea.
The North has test-fired more than 30 missiles this week, including an intercontinental ballistic missile on Thursday that triggered evacuation alerts in northern Japan, and flew large numbers of warplanes inside its territory in an angry reaction to a massive combined aerial exercise between the United States and South Korea.
The South Korean military said two B-1B bombers trained with four U.S. F-16 fighter jets and four South Korean F-35s jets during the last day of the “Vigilant Storm” joint air force drills that wraps up Saturday. It marked the first time since December 2017 that the bombers were deployed to the Korean Peninsula. The exercise involved around 240 warplanes, including advanced F-35 fighter jets from both countries.
North Korea’s Foreign Ministry late Friday described the country’s military actions this week as an appropriate response to the exercise, which it called a display of U.S. “military confrontation hysteria.” It said North Korea will respond with the “toughest counteraction” to any attempts by “hostile forces” to infringe on its sovereignty or security interests.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said the participation of the B-1Bs in the joint drills demonstrated the allies’ readiness to “sternly respond” to North Korean provocations and the U.S. commitment to defend its ally with the full range of its military capabilities, including nuclear.
B-1B flyovers had been a familiar show of force during past periods of tensions with North Korea. The planes last appeared in the region in 2017, during another provocative run in North Korean weapons demonstrations. But the flyovers had been halted in recent years as the United States and South Korea stopped their large-scale exercises to support the former Trump administration’s diplomatic efforts with North Korea and because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The allies resumed their large-scale training this year after North Korea dialed up its weapons testing to a record pace, exploiting a divide in the U.N. Security Council over Russia’s war on Ukraine as a window to accelerate arms development.
North Korea hates such displays of American military might at close range. The North has continued to describe the B-1B as a “nuclear strategic bomber” although the plane was switched to conventional weaponry in the mid-1990s.
Vigilant Storm had been initially scheduled to end Friday, but the allies decided to extend the training to Saturday in response to a series of North Korean ballistic launches on Thursday, including an ICBM that triggered evacuation alerts and halted trains in northern Japan.
Thursday’s launches came after the North fired more than 20 missiles on Wednesday, the most in a single day. Those launches came after North Korean senior military official Pak Jong Chon issued a veiled threat of a nuclear conflict with the United States and South Korea over their joint drills, which the North says are rehearsals for a potential invasion.
South Korea also on Friday scrambled about 80 military aircraft after tracking about 180 flights by North Korean warplanes inside North Korean territory. The South’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said the North Korean warplanes were detected in various areas inland and along the country’s eastern and western coasts, but did not come particularly close to the Koreas’ border. The South Korean military spotted about 180 flight trails from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., but it wasn’t immediately clear how many North Korean planes were involved and whether some may have flown more than once.
In Friday’s statement attributed to an unidentified spokesperson, North Korea’s Foreign Ministry said the United States and South Korea had created a seriously “unstable atmosphere” in the region with their military exercises. It accused the United States of mobilizing its allies in a campaign using sanctions and military threats to pressure North Korea to unilaterally disarm.
“The sustained provocation is bound to be followed by sustained counteraction,” the statement said.
North Korea has launched dozens of ballistic missiles this year, including multiple ICBMs and an intermediate-range missile flown over Japan. South Korean officials say there are indications North Korea in coming weeks could detonate its first nuclear test device since 2017. Experts say North Korea is attempting to force the United States to accept it as a nuclear power and seeks to negotiate economic and security concessions from a position of strength.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/11/05/n-korea-fires-more-missiles-us-flies-bombers-over-south/ | 2022-11-05 11:33:11 | 0 | https://www.kxii.com/2022/11/05/n-korea-fires-more-missiles-us-flies-bombers-over-south/ |
Fayetteville's Pesto Cafe, which closed in December, will reopen under new management.
Lance Corbin posted on social media last week that the restaurant at 1830 N. College Ave. would return this spring.
"I know lots of locals are missing this Fayetteville favorite since they closed in December," the post states. "Today the keys were turned over to me, and I promise to bring Pesto's back to life, just as delicious as you remember and better than ever."
Corbin is a private chef offering personal chef and consultation services, according to his website. The post did not specify if he bought the restaurant.
Stay tuned for more updates later this year as the popular Italian restaurant is brought back to life.
Chuy's
Chuy's is opening Feb. 28 in Fayetteville, representatives of the restaurant confirmed last week.
The Austin-based Tex-Mex restaurant will be located near Chili's on the north side of town at 642 E. Millsap Road.
It is the second Chuy's in Northwest Arkansas and the first in Washington County.
Chuy's will be open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., the release states.
Restaurant Week
Fayetteville Restaurant Week kicks off Sunday. More than 30 restaurants will be participating, offering limited-time menu items and special giveaways.
Several restaurants like Atlas, Ella's Table, Mockingbird Kitchen and Vetro 1925 will be offering three-course meals at much lower prices.
The week is designed to encourage residents to support the local culinary scene during a generally slow business month, according to Sarah King, vice president of marketing and communications for the city's tourism bureau, Experience Fayetteville. February tends to be a slow month for restaurants, King said in a recent news release.
Visit experiencefayetteville.com/restaurant-week for more information as well as a list of participating restaurants.
Bartleby's
Bartleby's Seitan Stand plans to permanently close at the end of the month.
The Southern-fried seitan food truck announced in a social media post last week that it will be moving onto "bigger and better things," shifting its focus to its retail items and looking for a building to house a future store.
The truck is currently located outside Bentonville Brewing Company at 901 SW 14th St.
Hawk Moth Brewing
Hawk Moth Brewing announced last Wednesday that it will also be moving from its downtown Rogers location.
The local brewery stated in a social media post that the move will allow the company to double its capacity and further its development of non-alcoholic craft beer. As a result, its taproom at 710 N. Second St. will close at the end of February, the post states.
And...
Now for a few more you may have missed.
• R. Landry's New Orleans Cafe will be opening a Van Buren location at 513 Fourth St. The Fort Smith Cajun restaurant stated in a recent social media post that the location would open in a couple months with a limited menu.
• SalTea Sloth is planned near the corner of New Hope and Dixieland roads in Rogers. The nutritional tea shop, which currently has stores in Joplin and Webb City, Mo., will be built at 1607 W. New Hope Road, east of Kum & Go. No opening date has been announced.
• Domino's is on the way in Rogers at 100 W. New Hope Road, the southwest corner of New Hope Road and First Street in Rogers. No opening date has been announced.
• The Northwest Arkansas-based Savoy Tea Co. has expanded in the Kansas City metro area, opening a new shop at 2108 Wyandotte St. in the Crossroads Arts District. Savoy's first K.C. location is at the Lenexa City Center in Lenexa, Kan.
_
We'll be back next week with more restaurant news across Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley. Has one recently opened or closed near you? Does your favorite spot have a new menu? Let us know. Email gmoore@nwaonline.com. | https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2023/feb/17/lets-eat-pesto-cafe-chuys-fayetteville-restaurant/ | 2023-02-17 07:46:20 | 1 | https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2023/feb/17/lets-eat-pesto-cafe-chuys-fayetteville-restaurant/ |
Potentially deadly fungal infections climb during COVID pandemic, WHO says
The World Health Organization on Tuesday warned that reported invasive fungal infections increased significantly among hospitalized patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a release alongside its recently released list of priority fungal pathogens, the U.N. health agency said emerging evidence indicates that the incidence and geographic range of fungal diseases are expanding around the world due to the increases in travel as well as climate change.
"Emerging from the shadows of the bacterial antimicrobial resistance pandemic, fungal infections are growing, and are ever more resistant to treatments, becoming a public health concern worldwide," Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO's assistant director-general of antimicrobial resistance, said in a statement.
The list categorizes the pathogens into three categories, including critical, high and medium priority.
Candida auris is a yeast responsible for many infections. Resistant to most antifungal drugs, this fungus causes several deaths worldwide. (BSIP/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Of the 19 invasive fungal diseases, four were categorized as "critical priority," including Cryptococcus neoformans, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans and Candida auris.
The report says that drug-resistant infections are estimated to cause 1.27 million deaths and contribute to nearly 5 million deaths annually.
A recent study published in the journal Nature estimates that of the 150,000 fungal species described, only about 200 of them are infectious to people.
Aspergillus fumigatus is a fungus that can cause invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in immunocompromised individuals. (BSIP/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Invasive forms of fungal infections often impact severely ill patients and those with underlying conditions.
Photomicrograph of the encapsulated yeast Cryptococcus neoformans. (Image courtesy Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) / Dr Lucille K. Georg) (Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images)
Populations at greatest risk of infection include those with cancer, HIV/AIDS, organ transplants, chronic respiratory disease and post-primary tuberculosis infection.
There are only four classes of antifungal medicines currently available.
The WHO said its ranking by experts — the first fungal priority pathogens list — marks the first effort to prioritize the issue.
It calls for more evidence to inform the response to these threats, including preventing the development of antimicrobial resistance, and address the impact of antifungal use on resistance across the One Health spectrum. | https://www.fox5ny.com/news/potentially-deadly-fungal-infections-climb-covid-pandemic-who-says | 2022-10-29 16:38:17 | 1 | https://www.fox5ny.com/news/potentially-deadly-fungal-infections-climb-covid-pandemic-who-says |
ATLANTA — UPDATE: Special prosecutor Pete Skandalakis has said he determined it was "reasonable" to use deadly force by Atlanta Ofc. Garrett Rolfe in the shooting of Rayshard Brooks at a Wendy's in June 2020.
He said the officers "acted within the scope of their duties" when they began to arrest Brooks at the Wendy's on suspicion of DUI and had "no idea" a struggle would occur and result in the shooting of Brooks.
Skandalakis said they "committed no crimes" and "acted as reasonable officers" and that the use of force was justified.
The charges against Ofc. Rolfe - which included murder - and Ofc. Devin Brosnan stemming from the night of the shooting have been dropped.
Skandalakis said his office would "file in Fulton County an administrative dismissal in which we will be dismissing all the warrants" against Rolfe and Brosnan.
Attorneys representing Brooks' family have scheduled a press conference for 5 p.m. at the Stewart Miller Simmons Trial Attorneys offices.
Danny Porter, the former Gwinnett County District Attorney who was brought on to consult with Skandalakis' office in this case, acknowledged after a question from a reporter that all the analysts involved were white.
Skandalakis said he did not believe race was a factor in the shooting by two white officers of Brooks, a Black man, because the video and audio of the incident "speak for themselves."
Gerald Griggs, the Georgia NAACP president, told 11Alive after the decision was announced that he believed Skandalakis and Porter had gotten it wrong.
"We need to present this case to a grand jury because only the citizens of Fulton County should determine if this case should proceed forward," Griggs said.
Criminal defense attorney Darryl Cohen, also speaking with 11Alive, disagreed. He said he felt former Fulton DA Paul Howard had "overreached and overstepped" in bringing charges against the officers and that the circumstances did not warrant being presented to a grand jury.
Skandalakis presented several video clips of the police encounter with Brooks and then shooting in delivering his findings.
Porter outlined how the decision that deadly force was "reasonable" rested on three key elements:
- That in taking the Taser from Brosnan, Brooks gave Rolfe cause to "reasonably believe the suspect possesses a deadly weapon." He said under case law a Taser can be considered such a weapon.
- That in the struggle with Brooks on the ground before he started running away, he had "overpowered" the officers and they "would have had reasonable belief he was an immediate threat of physical violence."
- That the above two elements constituted probable cause to arrest Brooks believing he had "committed a crime... to involve infliction or threat of infliction of serious bodily harm."
Porter also said he had reviewed APD policy on the use of deadly force and determined Rolfe had not violated it.
"So it's our finding - my finding - in this case that Ofc. Rolfe acted in accordance with Georgia law, that he acted in accordance with Atlanta Police policy on use of deadly force, acted in accordance with controlling case law; and based on the facts and circumstances confronting Rolfe and Brosnan, the use of force was objectively reasonable and they did not act with criminal intent," Porter said.
Brosnan has remained on the Atlanta Police force since the incident, in a reassigned administrative duty, while Rolfe rejoined the force last year, also in administrative duty, after a city board determined his firing had not followed proper protocols.
APD said in a statement they would undergo Georgia POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) recertification and training.
Atlanta Police Department statement
We have faith in the criminal justice system, and we respect the special prosecutor’s decision in this case.
Both Officer Garrett Rolfe and Officer Devin Brosnan are still employed with APD.
They are currently on administrative duty. Both officers will undergo Georgia P.O.S.T. recertification and training.
Mayor Andre Dickens statement
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said in a statement that his "heart continues to ache for the family of Rayshard Brooks."
He was a father whose absence will forever be felt by our community.
“This matter was referred to the special prosecutor last year. I respect the independent role that the special prosecutor played in this case. Today, we received his decision.
“Over the last two years, our country has been engaged in important discussions about policing in America. We must maintain our commitment to the work of creating safe communities through collaboration between police and the people they serve.
“In Atlanta, we hold ourselves to the highest standards. Through engagement with community advocates, the Atlanta City Council, the Atlanta Police Department and others, we have listened and moved forward proactively with significant reforms. The Department has reviewed its standard operating procedures and enhanced training on how to deescalate confrontations. We are continually investing in training to ensure our officers make up the most qualified and proficient force in the country.
“As Mayor, I remain committed to building the bonds of trust between our residents and the public safety personnel who serve us.”
Ofc. Garrett Rolfe statement
Garrett Rolfe is relieved that the criminal charges filed against him by former Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard have finally been dismissed and that he has been exonerated for his actions on June 12, 2020.
As concluded by the Director of the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of the State of Georgia, Pete Skandalakis, who was appointed to handle this case by Georgia’s Attorney General Chris Carr, the evidence and applicable law supports Officer Rolfe’s actions on June 12, 2020. As stated by Director Skandalakis, there is no evidence that Officer Rolfe acted with criminal intent and therefore the charges against him will be dismissed.
Officer Rolfe is thankful for the support he received from the community, members of the Atlanta Police Department, and from citizens and law enforcement across the United States. He hopes that any protests will remain peaceful. He will not be making any statements at this time.
It has been our privilege to represent Garrett Rolfe.
Ofc. Devin Brosnan statement
This was the proper and only decision that could be reached based upon the evidence and Georgia law. As to Officer Brosnan, this decision is long overdue.
More than two years after the incident that resulted in Rayshard Brooks’s death, the State of Georgia has finally arrived at the right decision: that Officer Brosnan’s arrest was never supported by any evidence. Officer Brosnan was assaulted and tased by Mr. Brooks, and as a result suffered a concussion and required medical treatment. Despite his own injuries, he called for and personally rendered aid to Mr. Brooks after the shooting. At no point did he assault or abuse Mr. Brooks.
Officer Brosnan and his family thank the countless members of the public and law enforcement community around the United States who have voiced their support and sent their prayers. Officer Brosnan will not be making any further statements at this time.
Original story below
The special prosecutor in the Rayshard Brooks murder case will announce a decision today regarding the charges against officers in Brooks' 2020 police shooting death.
A press conference by prosecutor Pete Skandalakis is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. at the Prosecuting Attorneys' Council of Georgia office in Morrow. You can watch that here, on the 11Alive YouTube channel, or our Roku and Amazon Fire apps.
The shooting of Brooks came at the peak of the movement in the summer of 2020 for police accountability and set off nights of searing protests in Atlanta, infamously including the burning of the Wendy's where he was shot.
The case against the officers - which includes a murder charge against Officer Garrett Rolfe, who shot Brooks - has proceeded haltingly over the past two years, and been passed between three different prosecutors.
Skandalakis was appointed by Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr last year to review the case after a judge ruled in favor of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis' recusal request.
Video | 11Alive will stream the conference in the player above and below
Willis had argued both during the 2020 campaign for district attorney and in the months after taking office that former DA Paul Howard mishandled and politicized the case, making it impossible for her office to try the case.
Rolfe, who shot and killed Brooks as he ran from him after grabbing his Taser and discharging it back toward the officer, faces a felony murder charge and multiple counts of aggravated assault in the case. Officer Devin Brosnan, who was accused of kicking and stepping on Brooks as he lay dying after being shot, is charged with aggravated assault.
Rolfe was fired immediately after the incident, but reinstated more than a year ago by a city board that had determined the firing did not follow proper procedures. Brosnan has remained with the Atlanta Police Department since the incident.
Earlier this year, lawyers for Rolfe and Brosnan also announced they were suing ex-Fulton DA Howard, the city of Atlanta, former Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and former Atlanta Police Chief Erika Shields over their handling of the Brooks shooting.
The broader trend in these cases and several others in metro Atlanta is the clearing of officers, legally and administratively, in use-of-force and shooting cases.
Already, there have been several setbacks in this case and the other high-profile Atlanta Police use-of-force case that touched a nerve two summers ago. In this case, Rolfe's reinstatement put him back on the force less than a year after he was charged.
Another case, in which six APD officers were charged during the protests for pulling two college students - Messiah Young and Taniyah Pilgrim - out of a car and tasing them as they made an arrest in Downtown Atlanta, was dropped in May.
Brooks' widow, Tomika Miller, meanwhile has a civil suit against the officers and the city that remains unresolved.
Activists and supporters of Brooks' family also continue to push for the former site of the Wendy's in Peoplestown to be turned into a peace center named in his honor. | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/crime/atlanta-police-rayshard-brooks-case-decision-charges-garrett-rolfe-devin-brosnan/85-5132826c-5f80-442a-8094-8050e9af8872 | 2022-08-23 20:48:30 | 1 | https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/crime/atlanta-police-rayshard-brooks-case-decision-charges-garrett-rolfe-devin-brosnan/85-5132826c-5f80-442a-8094-8050e9af8872 |
TX Austin/San Antonio TX Zone Forecast for Saturday, November 19, 2022
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258 FPUS54 KEWX 200850
ZFPEWX
Zone Forecast Product for South Central Texas
National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio TX
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
TXZ192-202200-
Travis-
Including the city of Austin
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of rain showers this morning,
then a chance of rain showers this afternoon. Highs in the mid
40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Near steady temperature around 40. North winds around 5 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Showers with a slight chance of thunderstorms in the
morning, then a chance of showers in the afternoon. Highs in the
mid 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the
evening. Near steady temperature in the mid 40s. Northeast winds
around 5 mph. Chance of rain 30 percent.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning. Not
as cool with highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the lower 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers
in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Highs in the
upper 60s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the lower 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ205-202200-
Bexar-
Including the city of San Antonio
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers. Highs in the
mid 40s. Northeast winds 10 to 15 mph.
.TONIGHT...A slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance of showers
in the evening, then showers after midnight. Near steady
temperature in the lower 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance
of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. Showers likely with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a chance of showers in the
afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the
evening. Near steady temperature in the mid 40s. Northeast winds
5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning.
Highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the lower 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers
in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Highs in the
upper 60s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs around 70.
$$
TXZ183-202200-
Val Verde-
Including the city of Del Rio
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A chance of rain showers, mainly this morning.
Highs in the mid 40s. East winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain
40 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the evening,
then a chance of showers after midnight. Near steady temperature
around 40. Southeast winds around 5 mph. Chance of rain
50 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy with a slight chance of showers in the morning,
then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Highs in the lower 50s.
South winds around 5 mph.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy in the evening, then becoming
mostly cloudy. Lows around 40. Southeast winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY...Mostly cloudy in the morning, then becoming partly
cloudy. Highs in the upper 50s. Southeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy in the evening, then becoming
cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
.WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Highs around 60.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Mostly cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Highs in
the upper 60s. Lows around 40.
.FRIDAY THROUGH SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Highs in the mid 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
$$
TXZ220-202200-
Atascosa-
Including the city of Pleasanton
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers. Near steady
temperature in the mid 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...A slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance of showers
in the evening, then showers after midnight. Near steady
temperature in the lower 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of
rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. Showers likely with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a chance of showers in the
afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the
evening. Near steady temperature in the mid 40s. North winds
around 5 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning.
Highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the mid 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers
in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Highs in the
lower 70s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs around 70.
$$
TXZ187-202200-
Bandera-
Including the city of Bandera
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of rain showers. Highs
in the mid 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Near steady temperature in the upper 30s. Northeast winds 5 to
10 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. A chance of showers with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a chance of showers in the
afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
Chance of rain 50 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of showers. Lows in
the lower 40s. East winds around 5 mph, becoming north after
midnight.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning.
Highs in the mid 50s. North winds around 5 mph, becoming east in
the afternoon.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the
upper 40s. Highs in the upper 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Highs in
the upper 60s. Lows in the lower 40s.
.FRIDAY AND FRIDAY NIGHT...Mostly clear. Highs in the mid 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
.SATURDAY...Mostly sunny. Highs around 70.
$$
TXZ193-202200-
Bastrop-
Including the city of Bastrop
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers this morning, then a
chance of showers this afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. North
winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Lows around 40. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain
70 percent.
.MONDAY...Showers with a slight chance of thunderstorms in the
morning, then showers likely in the afternoon. Highs in the upper
40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers. Near
steady temperature in the mid 40s. North winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning. Not
as cool with highs in the upper 50s. North winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the lower 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers
in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Highs in the
upper 60s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the lower 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ190-202200-
Blanco-
Including the city of Blanco
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of rain showers. Highs
in the lower 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of rain showers in the evening, then rain showers likely after
midnight. Near steady temperature in the upper 30s. North winds
around 5 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. Showers likely with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a chance of showers in the
afternoon. Highs in the mid 40s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the
evening. Lows around 40. Northeast winds around 5 mph, becoming
north after midnight. Chance of rain 30 percent.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning. Not
as cool with highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows around 50.
.THANKSGIVING DAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Highs in
the upper 60s. Lows in the lower 40s.
.FRIDAY AND FRIDAY NIGHT...Mostly clear. Highs in the mid 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
.SATURDAY...Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ172-202200-
Burnet-
Including the city of Burnet
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of rain showers this morning,
then a chance of rain showers this afternoon. Highs in the mid
40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. Showers
likely. Lows in the upper 30s. North winds around 5 mph. Chance
of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. Showers likely, mainly in the morning. Highs in
the mid 40s. Northeast winds around 5 mph. Chance of rain
70 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of showers. Lows
around 40. Southeast winds around 5 mph, becoming northwest
around 5 mph after midnight.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning. Not
as cool with highs in the mid 50s. North winds around 5 mph,
becoming east in the afternoon.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows around 50.
.THANKSGIVING DAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Highs in
the mid 60s. Lows in the lower 40s.
.FRIDAY AND FRIDAY NIGHT...Mostly clear. Highs in the lower 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
.SATURDAY...Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ208-202200-
Caldwell-
Including the city of Lockhart
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers this morning, then a
chance of showers this afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. North
winds around 10 mph with gusts up to 20 mph. Chance of rain
50 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Lows in the upper 30s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain
70 percent.
.MONDAY...Showers with a slight chance of thunderstorms in the
morning, then showers likely in the afternoon. Highs in the upper
40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers. Near
steady temperature in the mid 40s. North winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning. Not
as cool with highs in the upper 50s. North winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the lower 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers
in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Highs in the
upper 60s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the lower 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ206-202200-
Comal-
Including the city of New Braunfels
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers this morning, then a
chance of showers this afternoon. Highs in the mid 40s. Northeast
winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50 percent.
.TONIGHT...A slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance of showers
in the evening, then showers after midnight. Lows in the upper
30s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. Showers likely with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a chance of showers in the
afternoon. Highs in the mid 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the
evening. Near steady temperature in the lower 40s. North winds
around 5 mph. Chance of rain 30 percent.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning. Not
as cool with highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the lower 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers
in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Highs in the
upper 60s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the lower 40s.
Highs around 70.
$$
TXZ224-202200-
De Witt-
Including the city of Cuero
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers this morning, then a
chance of showers this afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. North
winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Near steady temperature in the lower 40s. North winds around
10 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Showers with a slight chance of thunderstorms in the
morning, then showers likely in the afternoon. Highs in the upper
40s. North winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers. Near
steady temperature in the mid 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning.
Highs in the mid 50s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
.WEDNESDAY...Mostly cloudy. Highs in the mid 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the mid 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Cloudy in the morning, then becoming partly
cloudy. A slight chance of showers. Highs around 70.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper
40s. Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ228-202200-
Dimmit-
Including the city of Carrizo Springs
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers. Near steady
temperature in the mid 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...A slight chance of thunderstorms. Showers. Near steady
temperature in the lower 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of
rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. A chance of showers with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a slight chance of showers in
the afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
Chance of rain 50 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of showers. Near
steady temperature in the mid 40s. North winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. Highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds around
5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the
lower 50s. Highs around 60.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy in the morning, then becoming
partly cloudy. Not as cool with highs around 70.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the lower 40s.
Highs in the lower 70s.
$$
TXZ184-202200-
Edwards-
Including the city of Rocksprings
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 40 percent chance of rain showers. Highs
in the lower 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of rain showers. Near
steady temperature in the upper 30s. East winds around 5 mph,
becoming south after midnight.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the morning.
Highs around 50. North winds around 5 mph, becoming east in the
afternoon. Chance of rain 40 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Mostly cloudy. Lows in the upper 30s. South winds
around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY...Mostly cloudy. Highs in the upper 50s. Southeast winds
around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the
upper 40s. Highs in the upper 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Highs in
the mid 60s. Lows around 40.
.FRIDAY AND FRIDAY NIGHT...Mostly clear. Highs in the lower 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
.SATURDAY...Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ209-202200-
Fayette-
Including the city of La Grange
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A chance of showers this afternoon. Highs in the
upper 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Near steady temperature in the lower 40s. North winds 5 to
10 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Showers with a slight chance of thunderstorms in the
morning, then showers likely in the afternoon. Highs in the upper
40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers. Near
steady temperature in the mid 40s. North winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning. Not
as cool with highs in the upper 50s. North winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the mid 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Cloudy in the morning, then becoming partly
cloudy. A slight chance of showers. Highs around 70.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper
40s. Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ219-202200-
Frio-
Including the city of Pearsall
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers. Near steady
temperature in the mid 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...A slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance of showers
in the evening, then showers after midnight. Near steady
temperature in the lower 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of
rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. Showers likely with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a chance of showers in the
afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the
evening. Near steady temperature in the mid 40s. Northeast winds
around 5 mph. Chance of rain 30 percent.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning.
Highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the
lower 50s. Highs in the lower 60s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy in the morning, then becoming
partly cloudy. Highs around 70.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs around 70.
$$
TXZ188-202200-
Gillespie-
Including the city of Fredericksburg
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of rain showers. Highs
in the lower 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of rain showers in the evening, then rain showers likely after
midnight. Near steady temperature in the upper 30s. Northeast
winds around 5 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers. Highs in
the mid 40s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of showers. Lows
around 40. Southeast winds around 5 mph, becoming west after
midnight.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning. Not
as cool with highs in the mid 50s. North winds around 5 mph,
becoming east in the afternoon.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the
upper 40s. Highs in the lower 60s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Highs in
the mid 60s. Lows in the lower 40s.
.FRIDAY AND FRIDAY NIGHT...Mostly clear. Highs in the lower 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
.SATURDAY...Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ223-202200-
Gonzales-
Including the city of Gonzales
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers this morning, then a
chance of showers this afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. North
winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Lows in the lower 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain
70 percent.
.MONDAY...Showers with a slight chance of thunderstorms in the
morning, then showers likely in the afternoon. Highs in the upper
40s. North winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers. Near
steady temperature in the mid 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning.
Highs in the mid 50s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the mid 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the lower 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Cloudy in the morning, then becoming partly
cloudy. A slight chance of showers. Highs around 70.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ207-202200-
Guadalupe-
Including the city of Seguin
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers this morning, then a
chance of showers this afternoon. Highs in the mid 40s. North
winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50 percent.
.TONIGHT...A slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance of showers
in the evening, then showers after midnight. Lows in the upper
30s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY...Showers with a slight chance of thunderstorms in the
morning, then showers likely in the afternoon. Highs in the upper
40s. Northeast winds around 10 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers. Near
steady temperature in the mid 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning.
Highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the lower 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers
in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Highs in the
upper 60s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ191-202200-
Hays-
Including the city of San Marcos
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers this morning, then a
chance of showers this afternoon. Highs in the mid 40s. North
winds 5 to 10 mph with gusts up to 20 mph. Chance of rain
50 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Lows in the upper 30s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain
70 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. Showers likely with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a chance of showers in the
afternoon. Highs in the mid 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the
evening. Near steady temperature in the lower 40s. North winds
around 5 mph. Chance of rain 30 percent.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning. Not
as cool with highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the lower 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers
in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Highs in the
upper 60s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the lower
40s. Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the lower 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ222-202200-
Karnes-
Including the city of Karnes City
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers this morning, then a
chance of showers this afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. North
winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Near steady temperature in the lower 40s. North winds 5 to
10 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Showers with a slight chance of thunderstorms in the
morning, then showers likely in the afternoon. Highs in the upper
40s. North winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers. Near
steady temperature in the mid 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning.
Highs in the mid 50s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the mid 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Cloudy in the morning, then becoming partly
cloudy. A slight chance of showers. Highs around 70.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ189-202200-
Kendall-
Including the city of Boerne
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of rain showers. Highs
in the lower 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of rain showers in the evening, then rain showers likely after
midnight. Lows in the mid 30s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. Showers likely with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a chance of showers in the
afternoon. Highs in the mid 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the
evening. Lows around 40. Northeast winds around 5 mph, becoming
north after midnight. Chance of rain 30 percent.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning. Not
as cool with highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s. Highs
around 60.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the upper 40s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Highs in
the upper 60s. Lows in the lower 40s.
.FRIDAY AND FRIDAY NIGHT...Mostly clear. Highs in the mid 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
.SATURDAY...Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ186-202200-
Kerr-
Including the city of Kerrville
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of rain showers. Highs
in the lower 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of rain showers in the evening, then rain showers likely after
midnight. Near steady temperature in the upper 30s. Northeast
winds around 5 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers. Highs in
the upper 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of showers. Lows
around 40. Southeast winds around 5 mph, becoming west after
midnight.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. Highs in the mid 50s. North winds around
5 mph, becoming southeast in the afternoon.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the
upper 40s. Highs in the upper 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Highs in
the mid 60s. Lows in the lower 40s.
.FRIDAY AND FRIDAY NIGHT...Mostly clear. Highs in the lower 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
.SATURDAY...Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ202-202200-
Kinney-
Including the city of Brackettville
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers. Highs in the
mid 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy. A chance of showers in the evening, then
showers likely with a slight chance of thunderstorms after
midnight. Near steady temperature around 40. East winds around
5 mph, becoming south around 5 mph after midnight. Chance of rain
70 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. A chance of showers in the morning. Highs
around 50. Northeast winds around 5 mph. Chance of rain
30 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Mostly cloudy. Lows in the lower 40s. Southeast
winds around 5 mph, becoming east after midnight.
.TUESDAY...Mostly cloudy. Highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds
around 5 mph, becoming southeast in the afternoon.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the
upper 40s. Highs around 60.
.THANKSGIVING DAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Highs in
the upper 60s. Lows in the lower 40s.
.FRIDAY THROUGH SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Highs in the upper 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
$$
TXZ225-202200-
Lavaca-
Including the city of Hallettsville
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A chance of showers this afternoon. Highs in the
upper 40s. North winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Near steady temperature in the lower 40s. North winds 10 to
15 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Showers with a slight chance of thunderstorms in the
morning, then showers likely in the afternoon. Highs in the upper
40s. North winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers. Near
steady temperature in the mid 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning.
Highs in the upper 50s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
.WEDNESDAY...Mostly cloudy. Highs in the mid 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the mid 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Cloudy in the morning, then becoming partly
cloudy. A slight chance of showers. Highs in the lower 70s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper
40s. Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ194-202200-
Lee-
Including the city of Giddings
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A chance of showers this afternoon. Highs in the
upper 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Near steady temperature in the lower 40s. North winds around
5 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Showers with a slight chance of thunderstorms in the
morning, then showers likely in the afternoon. Highs in the mid
40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the
evening. Near steady temperature in the mid 40s. North winds
around 5 mph. Chance of rain 40 percent.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning. Not
as cool with highs in the mid 50s. North winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Near steady temperature in the mid 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy in the morning, then becoming
partly cloudy. A slight chance of showers. Highs in the upper
60s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the lower 40s.
Highs in the mid 60s.
$$
TXZ171-202200-
Llano-
Including the city of Llano
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of rain showers. Highs
in the lower 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy. Showers likely with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the evening, then a chance of showers after
midnight. Near steady temperature in the upper 30s. East winds
around 5 mph, becoming northwest after midnight. Chance of rain
60 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers. Highs in
the upper 40s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of showers. Lows
around 40. Southeast winds around 5 mph, becoming west after
midnight.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. Not as cool with highs in the upper 50s. North
winds around 5 mph, becoming southeast in the afternoon.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the
upper 40s. Highs in the lower 60s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Highs in
the upper 60s. Lows in the lower 40s.
.FRIDAY AND FRIDAY NIGHT...Mostly clear. Highs in the mid 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
.SATURDAY...Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ217-202200-
Maverick-
Including the city of Eagle Pass
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers. Near steady
temperature in the mid 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Near steady temperature in the lower 40s. Northeast winds around
5 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. A chance of showers in the morning. Highs in
the upper 40s. Northeast winds around 5 mph. Chance of rain
30 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the
evening. Near steady temperature in the mid 40s. Southeast winds
around 5 mph, becoming north after midnight.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. Highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds around
5 mph, becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows around 50.
Highs around 60.
.THANKSGIVING DAY THROUGH FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Highs in the
upper 60s. Lows in the mid 40s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the lower 40s.
Highs around 70.
$$
TXZ204-202200-
Medina-
Including the city of Hondo
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers. Highs in the
mid 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...A slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance of showers
in the evening, then showers after midnight. Near steady
temperature in the lower 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance
of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. Showers likely with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a chance of showers in the
afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
Chance of rain 60 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of showers. Near
steady temperature in the mid 40s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning.
Highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the
lower 50s. Highs in the lower 60s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy in the morning, then becoming
partly cloudy. Highs in the upper 60s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the lower 40s.
Highs around 70.
$$
TXZ185-202200-
Real-
Including the city of Leakey
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of rain showers. Highs
in the lower 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy. A chance of rain showers in the evening, then
rain showers likely with a slight chance of thunderstorms after
midnight. Near steady temperature in the upper 30s. Northeast
winds around 5 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the morning.
Highs in the upper 40s. Northeast winds around 5 mph. Chance of
rain 40 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the
evening. Lows in the lower 40s. Southeast winds around 5 mph,
becoming west around 5 mph after midnight.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. Highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds around
5 mph, becoming southeast in the afternoon.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the
upper 40s. Highs in the upper 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Highs in
the mid 60s. Lows in the lower 40s.
.FRIDAY AND FRIDAY NIGHT...Mostly clear. Highs in the mid 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
.SATURDAY...Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ203-202200-
Uvalde-
Including the city of Uvalde
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers. Highs in the
mid 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Near steady temperature around 40. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the morning.
Highs in the upper 40s. Northeast winds around 5 mph. Chance of
rain 50 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of showers. Lows in
the lower 40s. East winds around 5 mph, becoming north after
midnight.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. Highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds around
5 mph, becoming southeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows in the
upper 40s. Highs around 60.
.THANKSGIVING DAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Highs in
the upper 60s. Lows in the lower 40s.
.FRIDAY THROUGH SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Highs in the upper 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
$$
TXZ173-202200-
Williamson-
Including the city of Georgetown
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of rain showers this morning,
then a chance of rain showers this afternoon. Highs in the mid
40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50 percent.
.TONIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance
of showers in the evening, then showers likely after midnight.
Near steady temperature around 40. North winds around 5 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. Showers likely with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a chance of showers in the
afternoon. Highs in the mid 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A chance of showers, mainly in the
evening. Near steady temperature in the lower 40s. Northeast
winds around 5 mph. Chance of rain 30 percent.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning. Not
as cool with highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs around 60.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the lower 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers
in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Highs in the
mid 60s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the lower 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ221-202200-
Wilson-
Including the city of Floresville
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers this morning, then a
chance of showers this afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s.
Northeast winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50 percent.
.TONIGHT...A slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance of showers
in the evening, then showers after midnight. Near steady
temperature in the lower 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of
rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. Showers likely with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a chance of showers in the
afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. Northeast winds 10 to 15 mph.
Chance of rain 70 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a 40 percent chance of showers. Near
steady temperature in the mid 40s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers in the morning.
Highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY...Cloudy. Lows in the upper 40s.
Highs in the lower 60s.
.WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. A slight chance of showers after
midnight. Lows in the lower 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers
in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Highs around
70.
.THURSDAY NIGHT AND FRIDAY...Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the mid 60s.
.FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 40s.
Highs in the upper 60s.
$$
TXZ218-202200-
Zavala-
Including the city of Crystal City
250 AM CST Sun Nov 20 2022
.TODAY...Cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers. Near steady
temperature in the mid 40s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.
.TONIGHT...A slight chance of thunderstorms. A chance of showers
in the evening, then showers after midnight. Near steady
temperature in the lower 40s. Northeast winds around 5 mph.
Chance of rain 80 percent.
.MONDAY...Cloudy. A chance of showers with a slight chance of
thunderstorms in the morning, then a slight chance of showers in
the afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. Northeast winds around
5 mph. Chance of rain 50 percent.
.MONDAY NIGHT...Cloudy with a slight chance of showers. Near
steady temperature in the mid 40s. Northeast winds around 5 mph,
becoming north after midnight.
.TUESDAY...Cloudy. Highs in the mid 50s. Northeast winds around
5 mph.
.TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY NIGHT...Cloudy. Lows around 50.
Highs in the upper 50s.
.THANKSGIVING DAY...Mostly cloudy in the morning, then becoming
partly cloudy. Not as cool with highs in the upper 60s.
.THURSDAY NIGHT...Partly cloudy. Lows in the lower 40s.
.FRIDAY THROUGH SATURDAY...Mostly clear. Highs in the upper 60s.
Lows in the lower 40s.
$$
_____
Copyright 2022 AccuWeather | https://www.ourmidland.com/weather/article/TX-Austin-San-Antonio-TX-Zone-Forecast-17598745.php | 2022-11-20 10:29:26 | 1 | https://www.ourmidland.com/weather/article/TX-Austin-San-Antonio-TX-Zone-Forecast-17598745.php |
A Helena man was arrested on January 27, 2023, for allegedly making a false report of gunshots inside a residence.
On January 26, 2023, the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a Belgrade residence for reported gunshots inside the residence. Deputies made contact with three people at the residence who confirmed this was a false report.
A swatting call is an anonymous false report from an anonymous caller on an active killing or imminent killing of innocent people. Sheriff Dan Springer says swatting calls are extremely dangerous and puts the general public at risk.
After determining no altercation had occurred and an investigation, the male caller was identified as Ray Saldana Flores.
Flores’ phone was seized through a search warrant. The cell phone was identified in making the phone calls and texts using out-of-service phone numbers on the phone.
Flores’ location was tracked through internet searches and activity placing him in Helena just before the non-emergency call was made.
If we receive more information, we will provide updates. | https://www.kxlf.com/news/crime-and-courts/helena-man-arrested-for-belgrade-swatting-call-false-report-of-gunshots | 2023-02-15 23:57:28 | 0 | https://www.kxlf.com/news/crime-and-courts/helena-man-arrested-for-belgrade-swatting-call-false-report-of-gunshots |
- Heineken® is delighted to partner with Oracle Red Bull Racing driver and Dutch, global F1® superstar Max Verstappen, ahead of what promises to be yet another exceptional racing season
- Verstappen will be an official Heineken® 0.0 ambassador to champion responsible consumption
- The partnership, bringing together two Dutch icons, will aim to engage the next generation of fans through a series of creative activations, including an exciting new gaming initiative: Player 0.0
- Heineken® has promoted 'When You Drive Never Drink' with the help of high-profile motorsport partnerships since entering F1® in 2016
- Heineken® also announces a partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing - bringing together two innovators and giants of the sport
AMSTERDAM, Feb. 20, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With under two weeks to go until the launch of the 2023 season in Bahrain, Formula 1® global partner Heineken® have announced a new worldwide partnership with Dutch, global F1® superstar Max Verstappen, ahead of what promises to be yet another exceptional racing season.
The partnership, bringing together the number one Dutch beer alongside the number one Dutch driver, will aim to engage the next generation of fans through a series of creative and meaningful activities, focusing on responsible consumption.
First up will be Player 0.0 - an exciting new gaming initiative that Heineken® and Verstappen are working on together, to create a new virtual racing experience for fans culminating in winning gamers getting to race against some of the world's best drivers.
The current world champion, Verstappen has also been announced as Heineken®'s official 0.0 ambassador to help encourage responsible consumption, through a series of sponsorship activations including the ongoing 'When You Drive, Never Drink' campaign.
Max Verstappen, current F1® world champion, said: "Being from The Netherlands myself, it is something truly special to partner up with an iconic Dutch Brand like Heineken. People who know me, know that I am very determined and as a driver I do not want to leave any room for error. That's why I am excited to become a part of the 'When You Drive, Never Drink' campaign to help raise awareness for responsible consumption. And being an avid gamer and passionate Sim Racer myself, I'm thrilled to be playing a part in the new gaming initiative being developed called Player 0.0."
Heineken® also officially announces a partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing and Heineken® 0.0 - the perfect pairing to deliver world class entertainment and exceptional fan experiences where performance meets play. The two global brands will also deliver exciting new lifestyle campaign moments in areas including music & gaming, and will also support Heineken®'s responsible consumption campaign, 'When You Drive, Never Drink'. The partnership will aim to engage and connect with fans globally through the number 1 driver and race team in F1®, helping give fans a view behind the curtain of a world class racing team.
Christian Horner, Team Principal Oracle Red Bull Racing, said: "Any great team needs a series of great partners to help support them on their journey, and we're incredibly excited to add Heineken® as one of our global partners with their no alcohol brand Heineken® 0.0 to help take us to the next level. Heineken® 0.0 has become a huge part of the F1® family across the globe, providing exciting and engaging entertainment opportunities for our global fanbase, both at track and at home. We can't wait to work with them once again and see the exciting opportunities we can bring to our fans this season."
These new partnerships complement Heineken®'s existing association with Formula 1®, which has proven highly successful in growing the Dutch brand's global footprint as well as drinking occasions in targeted local markets.
Bram Westenbrink, Global Head Heineken® Brand, said: "We are incredibly excited to partner with not only the current world champion, but also the team behind him in Oracle Red Bull Racing. Max is a Dutch and global icon. He is the perfect ambassador for Heineken 0.0; his passion both on and off the track - in the Sim Racing community, will expand our message into the world of gaming with Player 0.0 and help in our push to encourage responsible consumption".
Since entering the world of motorsport in 2016, Heineken® has been committed to real change around attitudes towards drink driving and re-launched their 'When You Drive, Never Drink' campaign back in May 2022. Heineken® has always advocated responsible consumption, with global motorsport partnerships now providing an effective platform to destigmatize responsible drinking. On top of this, Heineken® has committed to investing 10%+ of all media budgets to supporting these programmes.
Notes to editors
About Player 0.0
Player 0.0 is a new gaming initiative that Heineken® is working on in collaboration with Max Verstappen, to continually innovate and engage fans through the world of sim racing.
Full information on Player 0.0 will be revealed later in 2023, when Heineken® officially launch the global initiative.
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Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2005479/HEINEKEN_4.jpg
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SOURCE Heineken | https://www.wflx.com/prnewswire/2023/02/20/heineken-announces-f1-world-champion-max-verstappen-new-global-00-ambassador-new-partnership-with-oracle-red-bull-racing/ | 2023-02-20 09:05:50 | 0 | https://www.wflx.com/prnewswire/2023/02/20/heineken-announces-f1-world-champion-max-verstappen-new-global-00-ambassador-new-partnership-with-oracle-red-bull-racing/ |
OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP)The Baltimore Ravens ruled out receiver Rashod Bateman and linebacker Justin Houston for Sunday’s road game against the New York Giants.
Bateman will miss a second consecutive game with a foot problem, and Houston is out for a third straight contest with a groin injury.
The Ravens also ruled out guard Ben Cleveland (foot) and listed running back Justice Hill (hamstring) as doubtful.
Bateman was expected to be Baltimore’s top wide receiver this season, but he’s been slowed by this injury and the Ravens have leaned on the improving Devin Duvernay.
—
More AP NFL coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl and https://twitter.com/AP-NFL | https://www.krqe.com/sports/nfl-football/ravens-rule-out-bateman-houston-for-matchup-with-giants/ | 2022-10-15 11:27:32 | 0 | https://www.krqe.com/sports/nfl-football/ravens-rule-out-bateman-houston-for-matchup-with-giants/ |
Team Stewart discusses Griner, WNBA All-Star Game
July 15, 2023 06:37 PM
Hear from Team Stewart members Brittney Griner, Jewell Loyd, Satou Sabally, Kahleah Copper and Sabrina Ionescu on what to expect from the WNBA All-Star Game, the Orange Carpet and the WNBA's new partnership with Mielle. | https://www.nbcsports.com/watch/podcasts/brother-from-another/plum-wnba-players-struggling-to-get-asg-tickets | 2023-07-16 04:33:23 | 1 | https://www.nbcsports.com/watch/podcasts/brother-from-another/plum-wnba-players-struggling-to-get-asg-tickets |
NPR's Ari Shapiro talks with Jake Bittle, the author of The Great Displacement, about how climate change has forced some people in the U.S. to relocate against their will.
Copyright 2023 NPR
NPR's Ari Shapiro talks with Jake Bittle, the author of The Great Displacement, about how climate change has forced some people in the U.S. to relocate against their will.
Copyright 2023 NPR | https://www.kbia.org/2023-02-21/climate-change-has-forced-thousands-to-relocate-in-the-u-s | 2023-02-21 23:31:12 | 1 | https://www.kbia.org/2023-02-21/climate-change-has-forced-thousands-to-relocate-in-the-u-s |
The Duffer Brothers reveal how they mapped out Stranger Things and share exclusive files from the series
SAN FRANCISCO, June 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MasterClass, the streaming platform where anyone can learn from the world's best across a wide range of subjects, today announced that Matt and Ross Duffer, the creators, writers and executive producers of the hit Netflix series Stranger Things, will teach a class on how to develop an original TV series. In this class, the Duffer Brothers will share with MasterClass members how they plotted Stranger Things from beginning to end, revealing how to develop ideas, plan narrative arcs, create unforgettable characters—like Hopper and Eleven—and put it all together into a pitch-ready pilot. The Duffer Brothers' class is now available exclusively on MasterClass, where subscribers get unlimited access to all 150+ instructors with an annual membership.
"The world that Matt and Ross created in Stranger Things has become one of the most viewed series in all of streaming history," said David Rogier, founder and CEO of MasterClass. "In their class, members and fans will get to learn about their process, including the concept development and writing of Stranger Things, while getting a behind-the-scenes look and exclusive access into never-before-seen documents and stories from the series."
In their class, the Duffer Brothers will take members through a step-by-step approach to developing an original TV series, from initial concepting and planning to writing a pilot script and pitching to a network. As they dive into never-before-seen documents including initial brainstorms and plot outlines for Stranger Things, they will demonstrate how to build out ideas, introduce character arcs, tackle worldbuilding and more. Members will get an exclusive look into how the Duffer Brothers think of and write a logline for an imaginary spin-off series featuring Steve and Dustin from Stranger Things—under extreme time constraints. As a bonus, the class will feature an inside look into what it was like to develop the newest season of Stranger Things, which premieres Volume 2 on Netflix Friday, July 1.
"Our class is for anyone who dreams of telling stories for a living," Matt Duffer said. "Writing can be a blast, but at times it can feel overwhelming, even impossible. We have spent months staring at a blank page, with no idea how or where to begin. But after years of struggle, we finally developed a writing process that works for us, a process that we now use every single day on Stranger Things. And that's really why we wanted to teach this class: to share with you everything we wish we'd known all along."
Ross Duffer added, "Finding an effective writing process is a huge step in your journey, but not the only one. What if, like us, you grew up far away from Hollywood, with no connections? How do you get anyone to read—much less buy—your script? In our class, we'll cover that too. We'll show you how to get your foot in the door—and how to get that idea off the page and onto the screen."
Hailing from Durham, North Carolina, the Duffer Brothers attended Chapman University's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts in Orange County, Calif., and have always been passionate about storytelling. Their first feature was the psychological thriller Hidden, which got the attention of M. Night Shyamalan, who hired them to pen several episodes of his series Wayward Pines. Setting their sights on the small screen, they developed a show set in the 1980s that paid homage to the many genre films they grew up loving. A dozen studios rejected their pitch—but then came Netflix. A day after hearing the pitch, they greenlit the show straight to series.
Download stills here: https://brandfolder.com/s/bvbkkbxcfsrgxpp353nt79b
MasterClass is the streaming platform where the world's best come together so anyone, anywhere, can access and be inspired by their knowledge and stories. With an annual membership, members get unprecedented access to 150+ instructors and classes across a wide variety of fields, including Arts & Entertainment, Business, Design & Style, Sports & Gaming, Writing and more. Step into Nas' recording studio, Gordon Ramsay's kitchen and go behind the big screen with James Cameron. Design your career with Elaine Welteroth, get ready to win with Lewis Hamilton, perfect your pitch with Shonda Rhimes and discover your inner negotiator with Chris Voss. Each class features about 20 video lessons, at an average of 10 minutes per lesson. You can learn and discover at a pace that best serves your lifestyle—in bite-size pieces or in a single binge, on mobile, tablet, desktop, Android™ TV, Amazon Fire TV and Roku® players and devices. Cinematic visuals and close-up demonstrations make you feel like you're one-on-one with the instructors, while the downloadable class guides help reinforce your learning. For those looking to learn by doing, Sessions by MasterClass offers a structured, 30-day curriculum where members can roll up their sleeves, get hands-on and learn meaningful skills through step-by-step guidance from world-class instructors and an active community of peers. With MasterClass at Work, companies can keep their employees engaged and boost morale and motivation with immersive, short-form lessons from the world's best.
Twitter @masterclass
Instagram @masterclass
Facebook @masterclassofficial
Twitter @strangerwriters
Instagram @strangerthingstv
Tawnya Bear, MasterClass
press@masterclass.com
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SOURCE MasterClass | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2022/06/30/masterclass-announces-creators-stranger-things-teach-how-develop-an-original-tv-series/ | 2022-06-30 14:09:51 | 1 | https://www.kwch.com/prnewswire/2022/06/30/masterclass-announces-creators-stranger-things-teach-how-develop-an-original-tv-series/ |
U.S. District Court Denies Attempt by Resort Company to Dismiss Case on Summary Judgment
Landmark Suit Against Timeshare Company Set for Jury Trial January 2024
ALISO VIEJO, Calif., April 19, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Timeshare Compliance, the nation's leading timeshare exit company and industry watchdog won a major victory for nearly 800 victimized timeshare owners as a U.S. District Court judge ruled a lawsuit against Hilton's (NYSE: HLT) timeshare giant Diamond Resorts will go forward.
U.S. District Judge Dale Fischer said in an order denying summary judgement to Diamond Resorts that among other reasons, the timeshare company failed to show that Timeshare Compliance's good-faith efforts to help dissatisfied timeshare owners exit their contracts constituted interference in a business relationship or "tortious interference."
"Diamond's arguments were decisively rejected by the court, and Timeshare Compliance will now present its full case to a jury at trial," said Katherine Ferro, in-house counsel who oversees the legal team representing Timeshare Compliance in the suit.
Among the rulings favoring Timeshare Compliance, the court said that Timeshare Compliance's statements to Diamond Resorts' timeshare owners that their heirs automatically inherit their timeshare contracts were not false.
In other words, the lawsuit alleges, Diamond Resorts lied when it told timeshare owners that their heirs wouldn't inherit the contracts, when in fact as Timeshare Compliance correctly informed Diamond owners, the timeshare contract continues, and family members would be on the hook for burdensome fees every year, long after the original owners had passed on.
"The filing showed Diamond Resorts timeshare owners were unaware of the perpetual nature of the timeshare they acquired under high-pressure sales tactics which laden their children with increasing annual maintenance fees in perpetuity," said Ferro.
Moreover, the ruling alleges that Diamond Resorts retaliated against dissatisfied owners who contacted Timeshare Compliance for help by preventing them from participating in a contract modification program and would only work with the owners if they severed their relationship with consumer advocates like Timeshare Compliance.
Timeshare Compliance's Co-Trustees, Rich Folk, and Bo Wilson, both timeshare industry executive veterans who became disgusted with the industry's sales practices said the ruling against Diamond Resorts is a huge victory for hundreds of timeshare owners who have been victims of assumed deceptive sales practices by the resort company.
"Diamond Resorts' desperate hopes of avoiding damaging discovery at trial have been dashed by this ruling," said Rich Folk, Co-Trustee of Timeshare Compliance. "As has already been revealed by this ruling showing how timeshare companies retaliate against victimized owners, now a jury will get to hear in embarrassing detail all the ways timeshare companies misleadingly market their products and punish owners who dare to get help to exit their contracts."
Co-Trustee of Timeshare Compliance, Bo Wilson added; "Timeshare Compliance is confident that a jury hearing testimony from timeshare owners who were freed from their burdensome timeshares, acquired by Diamond's unscrupulous sales techniques, and who are satisfied with the valuable service that Timeshare Compliance provided, will find in favor of Timeshare Compliance. We are confident that the truth will be heard – and timeshare developers like Diamond will be laid bare at trial."
The case will be heard January 23, 2024, in District Court in Los Angeles.
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SOURCE Timeshare Compliance | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2023/04/19/industry-watchdog-timeshare-compliance-wins-key-ruling-federal-court-lawsuit-against-hiltons-diamond-resorts-will-proceed/ | 2023-04-19 13:55:19 | 0 | https://www.kmvt.com/prnewswire/2023/04/19/industry-watchdog-timeshare-compliance-wins-key-ruling-federal-court-lawsuit-against-hiltons-diamond-resorts-will-proceed/ |
FCS coaches at the University of Richmond and VMI believe FCS games against Power Five opposition will be discontinued before long as SEC and Big Ten expansion signal a presumptive change in scheduling philosophy at college football's top tier.
VMI played at Wake Forest Thursday, losing 44-10. Richmond lost at Virginia 34-17 Saturday. The Spiders are scheduled to play at Michigan State next season, and at Virginia again in 2024. Beyond that …
“Yes I do think they’ll go away,” said UR coach Russ Huesman. “I told somebody, ‘Let’s sign as many contracts as we can, try to get that thing up to about 2038, and then when they bail on us, we’ll take the money.’"
The Southeastern Conference will add Texas and Oklahoma, and the Big Ten is bringing USC and UCLA aboard. Larger Power Five leagues seem headed to made-for-TV schedules almost exclusively, weighted by an inventory of Power Five matchups.
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Then, members of elite leagues will also perhaps play some games against other FBS opponents that don’t reduce schedule strengths of the Power Five programs as they aim for spots in an expanded College Football Playoff.
FBS teams can have as many as 85 scholarships. FCS teams are limited to 63, and most don’t use that many.
Elimination of FCS games against Power Five opponents would cut major paydays for the FCS programs. Richmond earned a guarantee of $430,000 for playing at U.Va., and VMI picked up $380,000 for visiting Wake Forest. William & Mary’s Friday game at Charlotte of the FBS and Conference USA, won 41-24 by the Tribe, brought W&M $300,000.
“I’m one of those guys who believes they’re going to fade out,” VMI eighth-year coach Scott Wachenheim said of FCS games vs. Power Five teams. “I do think they’ll only play each other.
"On these games, I have a love-hate relationship with them. I love it because it helps fund our program, honestly, and it gives our kids the chance to compete on the highest stage against schools they thought should have recruited them.
“The difficulty is, if you come out of these games with injuries, it hurts you the rest of the year.”
Huesman, in his sixth year as Richmond’s coach, expressed no worry that games against Power Five opponents carry a greater risk of injury for FCS players.
“When you play these teams, they play so clean,” he said. “They’re really good athletes. There’s not a lot of people stumbling, bumbling over each other. I get more nervous going against the scout team injury-wise because people are on the ground and people are falling down, falling into somebody.
“I know people talk about, ‘Well, man, you’re going to get hurt,' and ‘They’re going to hurt you.’ Well, we lift weights, and we run, and we’ve got good athletes. The health issue has never, ever been a concern of mine.”
Huesman added that he believes most FCS coaches feel the same way about injuries against Power Five teams.
William & Mary visits Virginia next season and Brian Mann, the Tribe’s director of athletics, said there may not be too many of those Power Five games in W&M’s future, but sounded confident that the Tribe will be able to find FBS competition.
“I think there’s always going to be an opportunity for us to stretch and try to play somebody who’s at a level above us that wants games,” said Mann. “We’re lucky with the region of the country we’re in, there are schools that are always going to populate every level.
"I think there’s always going to be opportunities. Maybe it won’t always be schools in the ACC, or the Big Ten, or whatever (Power Five conference) it may be, but I think there will always be opportunities.
“And I hope they stay because I think it’s a great thing for our guys, and certainly it’s good for our (fans), too, and I love that.” | https://richmond.com/sports/college/fcs-games-against-power-five-opposition-running-fade-pattern-coaches-believe/article_0f6c485a-d137-5765-94b7-8032411a2d58.html | 2022-09-05 14:52:38 | 0 | https://richmond.com/sports/college/fcs-games-against-power-five-opposition-running-fade-pattern-coaches-believe/article_0f6c485a-d137-5765-94b7-8032411a2d58.html |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Over the past year, the U.S. Treasury Department has used its sanctions powers to impose wide-ranging financial penalties on Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine — turning Russia into the most sanctioned country in the world.
Now, the federal agency is facing increasing pressure, including from legislation introduced Tuesday in the Senate, to use those tools with similar vigor against the people, financial institutions and companies that have participated in the explosion of fentanyl use and distribution in the U.S.
“As a matter of policy we are dealing with drug cartels who have tremendous economic gain to be made,” said Paul DelPonte, executive director of the nonprofit National Crime Prevention Council, which is pushing for tougher action against those behind the scourge of drug overdose and death. “There are a lot of hands involved in this crime.”
Fentanyl is the deadliest drug in the U.S. today. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 71,000 people died from overdosing on synthetic opioids such as fentanyl in 2021, up from almost 58,000 in 2020.
Mexico and China are the primary source countries for fentanyl and fentanyl-related substances trafficked directly into the U.S., according to the Drug Enforcement Administration, which is tasked with combating illicit drug trafficking. Nearly all the precursor chemicals that are needed to make fentanyl are coming from China.
Growing tensions between the U.S. and China on multiple fronts have made efforts to stop the importation of illicit fentanyl more difficult, a Congressional Research Service report states. China officially suspended its counternarcotic and law enforcement cooperation with the U.S. last August.
Treasury hasn’t been idle. The department has imposed sanctions on fentanyl producers and traffickers in recent years — and as recently as this month issued a set of sanctions on a group of Mexican and Chinese fentanyl distributors. But with the number of overdose deaths exploding in recent years, there are calls for more action, including a national emergency declaration similar to the one at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Such a declaration could lead to tougher sanctions, DelPonte said.
“It would empower the CDC to collaborate with people at Treasury, for instance, to save some very young innocent people.”
Lawmakers are making a bipartisan effort to get that declaration, with legislation sponsored by the leaders and ranking members of the Senate Banking and Armed Services Committees that was introduced Tuesday. That bill would compel the Biden administration to prioritize the fight against fentanyl trafficking and prod Treasury to use its sanctions authority to quell the proliferation of the drug in the U.S.
Declaring international fentanyl trafficking a national emergency, the legislation would require Treasury to sanction drug cartels It also would impose reporting requirements and enable the president to confiscate sanctioned property of fentanyl traffickers to use for law enforcement efforts.
“This legislation takes decisive action to cut off the deadly flow of fentanyl at the source,” said Sen Tim Scott of South Carolina, the ranking Republican on the Banking Committee and a potential GOP presidential candidate.
Committee Chairman Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, said he hears “over and over that we need new, more powerful tools to prevent the flow of fentanyl into our neighborhoods.” Fentanyl was involved in 81% of 2020 overdose deaths in Ohio, according to the Ohio Department of Health.
“This bipartisan bill will add effective new sanctions to target the illicit fentanyl supply chain, from China through Mexico, to help stop increasingly dangerous forms of this drug before they ever reach our communities,” Brown said.
In his February State of the Union address, President Joe Biden outlined how his administration would crack down on trafficking. Since then, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has conducted historically large seizure operations, and Treasury and the Justice Department have sanctioned and charged Mexican Sinaloa cartel members that use Chinese precursor chemicals to produce fentanyl.
But critics say that’s not enough.
“When it comes to drug-trafficking, we haven’t enforced sanctions against banks seriously,” said David Asher, a senior fellow at the conservative Hudson Institute specializing in U.S. foreign policy and law enforcement.
”If we can sanction Russian oligarchs and banks, why can’t we do the same thing to Mexican drug lords and their bankers and bank accounts and banks — especially when we know who they are.”
Treasury had no comment on the proposed new legislation.
Vanda Felbab-Brown, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, called for wider sanctions on Chinese firms.
“I don’t think sanctions will change the behavior of the Chinese government, to willingly enforce drug laws within China,” she said, “But I do believe there is potential that sanctions will impact Chinese industry actors if sanctions are done in fairly large numbers.”
“Sanctions are a tool that would most motivate Chinese industry actors to start observing best practices, to ensure that they’re not selling to cartels,” she said.
Jessie Abell, a vice president at Sayari — a commercial platform that compiles publicly available data on firms, said Chinese chemical and trading companies that supply Mexican criminal organizations with fentanyl precursors often operate within extended networks of related companies, making it possible to track the criminal organizations.
Publicly available data “can uncover these illicit networks and illuminate how they adapt,” she said. | https://www.wric.com/health/more-sanctions-for-deadly-fentanyl-if-bill-wins-passage/ | 2023-04-26 16:42:23 | 1 | https://www.wric.com/health/more-sanctions-for-deadly-fentanyl-if-bill-wins-passage/ |
LOS ANGELES, June 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The team at Our Best Life Companies is thrilled to announce two major internal promotions as part of an ongoing effort to expand their mission. Chief Administrative Officer Wanda Perez is being promoted to Chief Operating Officer and Chief Investment Officer Timothy Vandecar will be accepting the position of Chief Financial Officer.
Wanda has been instrumental in the day-to-day business operations of OBL-- even before the company integrated multiple practices. Her 15-plus years of experience in the dental industry has given her invaluable knowledge of all things practice-management. Her deep personal connection and attention to the team and patients at each individual OBL practice make her a natural choice to become the COO of the company.
Timothy, In his time as CIO, leveraged his many years of experience in healthcare banking to drive OBL's expansion strategy through practice acquisition, de novo launches, and asset management. This expanded role will have Timothy overseeing all financial aspects of business operations as OBL moves into Q2 and continues its strategic growth plan.
Both Wanda and Timothy's commitment to sustainable practice growth and support of daily operations are key components of OBL's mission: to provide the best dental care, foster the best team members, and reach as many patients as possible.
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SOURCE Our Best Life Companies | https://www.wflx.com/prnewswire/2022/06/15/announcing-exciting-staff-developments-our-best-life-companies/ | 2022-06-15 17:51:58 | 0 | https://www.wflx.com/prnewswire/2022/06/15/announcing-exciting-staff-developments-our-best-life-companies/ |
ATLANTA (AP) — ATLANTA (AP) — Cousins Properties Inc. (CUZ) on Thursday reported a key measure of profitability in its fourth quarter. The results topped Wall Street expectations.
The Atlanta-based real estate investment trust said it had funds from operations of $100.2 million, or 66 cents per share, in the period.
The average estimate of four analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research was for funds from operations of 65 cents per share.
Funds from operations is a closely watched measure in the REIT industry. It takes net income and adds back items such as depreciation and amortization.
The company said it had net income of $24.1 million, or 16 cents per share.
The real estate company posted revenue of $194.5 million in the period. Its adjusted revenue was $193.7 million, which fell short of Street forecasts. Three analysts surveyed by Zacks expected $193.8 million.
For the year, the company reported funds from operations of $408.8 million, or $2.72 per share. Revenue was reported as $753.5 million.
Cousins Properties expects full-year funds from operations to be $2.52 to $2.64 per share.
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This story was generated by Automated Insights (http://automatedinsights.com/ap) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on CUZ at https://www.zacks.com/ap/CUZ | https://www.sfgate.com/business/article/cousins-properties-q4-earnings-snapshot-17775116.php | 2023-02-09 23:24:31 | 1 | https://www.sfgate.com/business/article/cousins-properties-q4-earnings-snapshot-17775116.php |
ROCKVILLE, Md. — Rockville City Police Department are searching for a group of boys that they say are linked to the death of a Canada goose Sunday evening.
The New Mark Commons community is offering a $1,000 reward, hoping to find the three boys involved in the animal cruelty.
On July 24, around 8 p.m., police said they found a dead Canadian goose along the bank of a lake within a private community, New Mark Commons.
According to officials, three groups - between the ages of 12 to 15 - were seen nearby where the family of 4 geese was squawking in distress. Three of the geese swam frantically away, and the boys were observed sprinting towards the bridge near New Mark Esplanade.
Right after the group of boys fled the scene, the fourth goose, one of the parents, was found dead in the lake with severe injuries, police said in a news release.
Officials described one of the boys as Black with a slender build and wearing a bright yellow shirt or light jacket, possibly a hoodie.
Another boy was also described as black or having a dark complexion. Police did not describe the third boy.
The Canadian goose family is protected by Federal and State Laws, and they have been living 'peacefully' in the community for several years.
Anyone who witnessed the animal cruelty has videos or knows the whereabouts of the three boys is urged to call 240-314-8933 or email Officer Mowell at FMowell@rockvillemd.gov. | https://www.fox43.com/article/life/animals/group-of-boys-accused-of-killing-goose-in-rockville/65-054a96c0-693c-4da9-8adf-27b2b2600853 | 2022-07-31 15:40:11 | 0 | https://www.fox43.com/article/life/animals/group-of-boys-accused-of-killing-goose-in-rockville/65-054a96c0-693c-4da9-8adf-27b2b2600853 |
Overland Park Fire Department investigating housefire that killed 2, injured 1
By Greg Payne
Click here for updates on this story
OVERLAND PARK, Kansas (KCTV) — Johnson County Fire investigators are working to determine the cause of an overnight fire that killed two people and forced another person to be hospitalized.
“It’s really shocking,” says Alex Dombrowski.
Dombrowski lives at the end of the block, but he woke up to the news of the tragic incident in his neighborhood, after a message from a relative.
“We live probably just far enough away that we didn’t hear anything in the middle of the night. So, I just came on down to see what happened,” says Dombrowski.
Fire crews responded at around 1:30 a.m. for a house fire on Westgate Street in Overland Park just off West 103rd Street.
When firefighters arrived, they found an active fire with reports of people trapped inside. Crews immediately began a search and rescue operation while trying to extinguish the blaze. They found two people dead inside and a third who was transported to an area hospital.
That person was in stable condition and has since been released. Three others within the home were able to escape as well.
“You don’t expect it, it’s an occurrence that is few and far between in this neighborhood. Pretty rare to have fire trucks go through the neighborhood or even the police for that matter, so any event like this is pretty shocking,” says Dombrowski.
Fire crews say there wasn’t a single working fire alarm within the home, which is the reason they plan to conduct a neighborhood smoke alarm canvas later this week in the area.
“Immediately started doing a mental inventory, ‘alright I got one in our room and the next room the kitchen and the garage’. So, you just start taking into account what you have and what you don’t have, says Dombrowski.
Fire crews say if you are unable to get an alarm to contact your local department.
At this time the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform. | https://kion546.com/cnn-regional/2022/06/21/overland-park-fire-department-investigating-housefire-that-killed-2-injured-1/ | 2022-06-21 16:11:49 | 0 | https://kion546.com/cnn-regional/2022/06/21/overland-park-fire-department-investigating-housefire-that-killed-2-injured-1/ |
NEW YORK, June 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- S&P Global Commodity Insights announces the call for nominations for the Platts Global Energy Awards now in its 24th year.
Often described as "the Oscars of the energy industry," the Platts Global Energy Awards program recognizes corporate and individual innovation, leadership, and exemplary performance in 19 categories.
This year's theme, "Connected. Committed. Charged." was chosen to spotlight the attributes and attitudes of successful leaders and organizations.
For 2022, several awards categories have been updated to address important trends in the market. The Awards of Excellence are now the Energy Transition Awards to reflect the industry's focus on what it recognizes as an essential shift towards a more sustainable, lower greenhouse-gas-emissions future for the generations to come.
In these volatile, uncertain and challenging times, two new awards have been created to recognize companies that have made significant commitments to their local, regional and global communities:
- Corporate Impact Award-Critical Response will honor the organization that provides the most exemplary immediate and critical response to an emergency; and,
- Corporate Impact Award-Sustained Commitment will laud a company demonstrating sustained efforts that are being impactful to the communities served.
Sue Avinir, Head of Conferences & Advisory Solutions, S&P Global Commodity Insights, said: "Over the past 24 years, we have recognized thousands of companies from around the globe for their important innovations, leadership, and performance. We are proud to continue the tradition and showcase industry leaders who are genuinely committed and connected to the evolution of both the energy industry and the energy markets, and who are leading the charge to energy transition."
Winners of the S&P Global Commodity Insights Platts Global Energy Awards are determined by an independent judging panel of international energy experts whose background and experience include regulation, policymaking, corporate leadership, trading and strategic consulting. Neither S&P Global Commodity Insights nor its sponsors submit votes or select winners.
Nominations will be accepted through August 19, 2022 and the finalists will be announced on September 22, 2022.
The in-person, Platts Global Energy Awards ceremony will be held on Thursday, December 8, 2022, at the Cipriani Wall Street in New York City.
Access the entire list of categories and nomination and event details at the Platts Global Energy Awards pages of the S&P Global Commodity Insights website.
Event sponsorships are still available by contacting Globalenergyawards@spglobal.com.
Media Contacts:
Global: Alex Ortolani, + 1 917-618-0709, alex.ortolani@spglobal.com
Americas/EMEA: Kathleen Tanzy, + 1 917-331-4607, kathleen.tanzy@spglobal.com
Asia/EMEA: Melissa Tan, + 65-6597-6241, Melissa.tan@spglobal.com
About S&P Global Commodity Insights
At S&P Global Commodity Insights, our complete view of global energy and commodities markets enables our customers to make decisions with conviction and create long-term, sustainable value.
We're a trusted connector that brings together thought leaders, market participants, governments, and regulators and we create solutions that lead to progress. Vital to navigating Energy Transition, S&P Global Commodity Insights' coverage includes oil and gas, power, chemicals, metals, agriculture and shipping.
S&P Global Commodity Insights is a division of S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI). S&P Global is the world's foremost provider of credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help many of the world's leading organizations navigate the economic landscape so they can plan for tomorrow, today. For more information visit https://www.spglobal.com/commodityinsights
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SOURCE S&P Global Commodity Insights | https://www.wflx.com/prnewswire/2022/06/07/nominations-open-2022-platts-global-energy-awards-sampp-global-commodity-insights/ | 2022-06-07 03:20:26 | 1 | https://www.wflx.com/prnewswire/2022/06/07/nominations-open-2022-platts-global-energy-awards-sampp-global-commodity-insights/ |
Many states have enacted or contemplated limits or outright bans on transgender medical treatment, with conservative U.S. lawmakers saying they are worried about young people later regretting irreversible body-altering treatment.
Here’s a look at some of the issues involved.
WHAT IS TRANSGENDER MEDICAL TREATMENT?
Guidelines call for thorough psychological assessments to confirm gender dysphoria — distress over gender identity that doesn’t match a person’s assigned sex — before starting any treatment.
That treatment typically begins with puberty-blocking medication to temporarily pause sexual development. The idea is to give youngsters time to mature enough mentally and emotionally to make informed decisions about whether to pursue permanent treatment. Puberty blockers may be used for years and can increase risks for bone density loss, but that reverses when the drugs are stopped.
Sex hormones — estrogen or testosterone — are offered next. Dutch research suggests that most gender-questioning youth on puberty blockers eventually choose to use these medications, which can produce permanent physical changes. So does transgender surgery, including breast removal or augmentation, which sometimes is offered during the mid-teen years but more typically not until age 18 or later.
Reports from doctors and individual U.S. clinics indicate that the number of youth seeking any kind of transgender medical care has increased in recent years.
HOW OFTEN DO TRANSGENDER PEOPLE REGRET TRANSITIONING?
In updated treatment guidelines issued last year, the World Professional Association for Transgender Health said evidence of later regret is scant, but that patients should be told about the possibility during psychological counseling.
Dutch research from several years ago found no evidence of regret in transgender adults who had comprehensive psychological evaluations in childhood before undergoing puberty blockers and hormone treatment.
Some studies suggest that rates of regret have declined over the years as patient selection and treatment methods have improved. In a review of 27 studies involving almost 8,000 teens and adults who had transgender surgeries, mostly in Europe, the U.S and Canada, 1% on average expressed regret. For some, regret was temporary, but a small number went on to have detransitioning or reversal surgeries, the 2021 review said.
Research suggests that comprehensive psychological counseling before starting treatment, along with family support, can reduce chances for regret and detransitioning.
WHAT IS DETRANSITIONING?
Detransitioning means stopping or reversing gender transition, which can include medical treatment or changes in appearance, or both.
Detransitioning does not always include regret. The updated transgender treatment guidelines note that some teens who detransition “do not regret initiating treatment” because they felt it helped them better understand their gender-related care needs.
Research and reports from individual doctors and clinics suggest that detransitioning is rare. The few studies that exist have too many limitations or weaknesses to draw firm conclusions, said Dr. Michael Irwig, director of transgender medicine at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston.
He said it’s difficult to quantify because patients who detransition often see new doctors, not the physicians who prescribed the hormones or performed the surgeries. Some patients may simply stop taking hormones.
“My own personal experience is that it is quite uncommon,” Irwig said. “I’ve taken care of over 350 gender-diverse patients and probably fewer than five have told me that they decided to detransition or changed their minds.”
Recent increases in the number of people seeking transgender medical treatment could lead to more people detransitioning, Irwig noted in a commentary last year in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. That’s partly because of a shortage of mental health specialists, meaning gender-questioning people may not receive adequate counseling, he said.
Dr. Oscar Manrique, a plastic surgeon at the University of Rochester Medical Center, has operated on hundreds of transgender people, most of them adults. He said he’s never had a patient return seeking to detransition.
Some may not be satisfied with their new appearance, but that doesn’t mean they regret the transition, he said. Most, he said, “are very happy with the outcomes surgically and socially.”
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Follow AP Medical Writer Lindsey Tanner at @LindseyTanner.
___
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. | https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/transgender-treatment-regret-detransition/2023/03/05/6d6324d0-bb5d-11ed-9350-7c5fccd598ad_story.html | 2023-03-05 15:24:58 | 1 | https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/transgender-treatment-regret-detransition/2023/03/05/6d6324d0-bb5d-11ed-9350-7c5fccd598ad_story.html |
Acclaimed providers at Cumming practice remain as it joins forces with Olansky
ATLANTA, April 19, 2022 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Beginning this month, Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics – Atlanta's premier full-service dermatology practice – will be joining forces with Georgia Dermatology Center in Cumming. The union of two acclaimed, trusted dermatology practices gives patients added confidence and convenience when choosing the right source for their skin-related medical needs.
"Olansky and Georgia Dermatology Center have a long history of working together to achieve the best patient outcomes," says Dr. Jodi Ganz, Managing Partner for Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics. "Having Georgia Dermatology Center merge with us is an honor, and we're confident this collaboration will have an extremely positive impact on patients."
Located in the same complex as Northside Hospital Forsyth, Georgia Dermatology Center's trusted and acclaimed providers, staff, and top-tier level of service will remain the same. Dr. Alexander Gross, a true thought leader in the field, will continue to lead the charge, powered by his award-winning background. Dr. Gross' leadership includes serving as a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and as past president of the Georgia Society of Dermatology. His compassion for patients can be seen by his tireless volunteerism for charitable organizations such as the American Cancer Society and Gateway Center. The latter is an Atlanta homeless shelter that has its own medical clinic.
Dr. Gross adds to Olansky expertise in both general dermatology and cosmetic procedures. He will be offering the addition of services such as thread lifts and tumescent liposuction of the leg, thigh, midsection, neck, and face. Georgia Dermatology Center's already impressive suite of services will be bolstered by several additions from the Olansky team. These include more aesthetics offerings and Mohs surgery, an advanced surgical procedure that removes skin cancer effectively using only local anesthesia.
Additionally, the merger will allow patients to take advantage of a larger group of accepted insurance options. This widens the scope of patient access without incurring out-of-network fees.
The full transition of the merger will span across 2022 as more enhancements and patient opportunities unfold.
"We're excited to grow in this manner, and we're working closely with Dr. Gross, formulating plans for the future," says Dr. Ganz. "However, at the end of the day, it's the patients who benefit the most, and that's our overall goal."
Appointments can be made by calling 404-355-5484.
Georgia Dermatology Center, 1505 Northside Blvd., Suite 1500, Cumming, Georgia.
Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics is your dermatology solution. Our ability to provide full-service dermatology to patients of all ages is a distinct benefit to choosing our 40-year-old practice. We offer medical, surgical, cosmetic, and aesthetic services to our patients, and even same-day appointments when possible. This makes us not only a convenient solution for your family, but a comprehensive one as well. With services including our in-house Mohs surgery for skin cancer, advanced laser therapy for psoriasis or our aesthetic services for skin rejuvenation, Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics can handle all of your skin concerns. For more details, visit our website at OlanskyDermatology.com or call 404-355-5484.
Interviews are available upon request.
Media Contact
Jon Waterhouse, Lenz, 6787709561, jwaterhouse@lenzmarketing.com
SOURCE Olansky Dermatology & Aesthetics | https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_stocks/georgia-dermatology-center-merges-with-olansky-dermatology-aesthetics/article_781b75d3-fc1f-54ca-9897-cc6c95be912c.html | 2022-04-19 14:37:44 | 1 | https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_stocks/georgia-dermatology-center-merges-with-olansky-dermatology-aesthetics/article_781b75d3-fc1f-54ca-9897-cc6c95be912c.html |
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — KJ Simpson had 23 points and 10 rebounds, both career highs for the sophomore, to lead Colorado to an 78-66 upset victory over No. 11 Tennessee on Sunday.
Tristan de Silva added 14 points for the Buffaloes, who shot 43.5% from the field, compared with the Volunteers’ 25.4%.
“Today was about Colorado, and (Simpson) was terrific,” Buffaloes coach Tad Boyle said. “KJ I thought really took the game in his own hands down the stretch there and really controlled the tempo. The 23 points, he’ll have other nights like that for sure, but the 10 rebounds were fantastic.”
Josiah-Jordan James and Tyreke Key led Tennessee with 15 points apiece.
“We definitely didn’t come into this game with the right mindset,” James said. “This is a good lesson for us. It’s a long basketball season. Of course I’m disappointed and upset that we lost, but I’m also excited just to see how this team responds.”
The Vols (1-1) could not overcome a poor shooting performance to rally in the second half after giving up the lead for good with 18:12 to play. The Buffaloes (2-1) led by as many as 14 down the stretch as part of a dominant second half in which they outscored Tennessee 46-32.
“They deserved to win,” Vols coach Rick Barnes said. “They, I thought, controlled the game pretty much from start to finish.”
Simpson had 15 second-half points.
“We just wanted to focus on coming out the second half with even more energy than we did in the first,” he said. “We just wanted to really dial in and focus on coming out even better than we did in the first.”
Tennessee held a 34-32 lead at halftime after shooting just 23.1% from the field. Colorado trailed by as many as eight points before halftime.
Key paced the Vols in the first half with 12 points, with all but three points coming from the free-throw line.
Colorado’s bench outscored Tennessee’s 52-34.
The victory was the Buffaloes’ first over the Vols after dropping the previous four matchups between the schools.
POLL IMPLICATIONS
Tennessee likely will drop dramatically when the next poll is released, as the 10 teams ahead of it all have wins in their first two games.
BIG PICTURE
Colorado: After a disappointing loss Friday to Grambling State, the Buffaloes held the Vols to 66 points after surrendering an average of 74.5 points per game while splitting their first two of the season.
Tennessee: The Vols need to find their shooting touch from the field as the season progresses. They shot 40% in their season-opening win over Tennessee Tech but struggled against Colorado.
UP NEXT
Colorado: Faces UMass on Thursday at the Myrtle Beach Invitational.
Tennessee: Hosts Florida Gulf Coast on Wednesday before heading to the Bahamas for the Battle 4 Atlantis the following week.
___
AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball and https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://twitter.com/AP_Top25 | https://www.conchovalleyhomepage.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-simpson-leads-colorado-to-78-66-upset-of-no-11-tennessee/ | 2022-11-14 20:01:08 | 0 | https://www.conchovalleyhomepage.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-simpson-leads-colorado-to-78-66-upset-of-no-11-tennessee/ |
NEW YORK (AP) — NEW YORK (AP) — Paramount Global (PARAA) on Thursday reported a loss of $1.12 billion in its first quarter.
On a per-share basis, the New York-based company said it had a loss of $1.74. Earnings, adjusted for one-time gains and costs, came to 9 cents per share.
The company posted revenue of $7.27 billion in the period.
_____
This story was generated by Automated Insights (http://automatedinsights.com/ap) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on PARAA at https://www.zacks.com/ap/PARAA | https://www.ourmidland.com/business/article/paramount-global-q1-earnings-snapshot-18078207.php | 2023-05-04 11:49:10 | 0 | https://www.ourmidland.com/business/article/paramount-global-q1-earnings-snapshot-18078207.php |
SANTA TECLA, El Salvador (AP) — A day after the bloodletting — 62 gang killings that convulsed El Salvador — the crackdown began.
Before dawn on Sunday, March 27, just hours after congress approved a state of emergency, heavily armed police and soldiers entered the packed, gang-controlled neighborhood of San Jose El Pino.
Freed from having to explain an arrest or grant access to a lawyer, they went door to door, dragging out young men. They established a perimeter with barbed wire barricades where they controlled who entered and who left, demanding identification and searching everyone.
President Nayib Bukele has responded to the surge in gang killings with mass arrests in poor neighborhoods like San Jose El Pino, each day posting the growing arrest total and photos of tattooed men. The highly publicized roundups are not the result of police investigations into the murders in late March, but propel a tough-on-crime narrative that critics are calling “punitive populism.”
In just over two weeks, more than 10,000 alleged gang members have been arrested — a huge number for a small country of 6.5 million people. They can be held for 15 days without charges, one of the measures decried by international human rights groups and the U.S. government.
“They came in with everything,” said 36-year-old Héctor Fernandez on his way to his factory job on a recent morning. “Whoever didn’t open the door, they knocked it down. They were looking for the guys. I think they took almost all of them, but others managed to get out.”
Critics say the mass arrests are more show than substance. They note that amid all of the chest-thumping rhetoric and slickly produced videos of roughly handled prisoners, authorities are not talking about the investigations or arrests of those suspected of actual involvement in the March 26 killings. But many Salvadorans are pleased to see action against gangs that have long-terrorized their communities.
“It’s for everyone’s safety,” Fernandez said, nervously looking around to see if anyone was watching. He said he minds his own business and hasn’t had trouble with the Mara Salvatrucha, the gang that controls his neighborhood. “I leave, (police and soldiers) search me. I go to work, come back in the evening, they search me. I pass and go home.”
Bukele, a highly popular master of social media, has filled his platforms with photos of handcuffed and bloodied gang members, orders to his security cabinet and attaboys from his supporters. At the same time, he has lashed out at human rights organizations and international agencies critical of some measures.
“If we don’t rid our country of this cancer now, then when will we ever do it?” Bukele said to a parade ground of soldiers — and the world — in a video he released last week. “We will go and find them wherever they are. Regardless of who protests. Regardless of how angry the international community gets.”
Gangs control swaths of territory through brutality and fear. They’ve driven thousands to emigrate to save their own lives or the lives of their children who are forcibly recruited. Their power is strongest in El Salvador’s poorest neighborhoods where the state has long been absent. They are a drain on the economy, extorting money from even the lowest earners and forcing businesses that can’t or won’t pay to close.
The wave of violence at the end of March — it stretched across the country and its victims included a municipal maintenance worker, a taxi driver, a farmer– demanded a government response. Bukele chose a state of emergency provided for in the constitution.
But El Salvador’s security forces and justice system had the legal tools to investigate and prosecute those involved in the killings without the suspension of fundamental rights, critics say. What they did not have was the carte blanche that has yielded the media spectacle of the past two weeks, starring Bukele as savior-in-chief.
“There are a lot of doubts about whether the measures that Bukele’s government has taken to confront the wave of murders are really aimed at investigating the crimes and responding to the victims,” said Leonor Arteaga, a Salvadoran who is program director at the Due Process of Law Foundation in Washington.
Instead, she said, it seems Bukele is using the situation “to advance his authoritarian plans and in his intention to control all critical voices and squash any dissident.”
Bukele’s office did not respond to a request for comment.
Abraham Ábrego, director of the strategic litigation program at Cristosal, a non-governmental organization in El Salvador, said his group was working to document arbitrary arrests and other abuses.
Bukele has shown himself to be masterful at building and controlling narratives, he said. “There is a term that we use called ‘punitive populism,’ which is using the state’s powers of criminal persecution to show strength, to show toughness,” Ábrego said.
On Tuesday, the head of a national police union said some high-ranking police officials had pressured officers to make false statements justifying some arrests to meet arrest quotas, including in a small remote town with no gang presence.
Omar Serrano, vice rector at Central American University José Simeón Cañas, said that like previous administrations, the president has opted for a more militarized approach to dealing with the gangs.
“This is not going to solve the country’s serious problems,” Serrano said. The government line is that the problem of the gangs is one of national security, “when deep down it is a social problem.”
After the congress approved the state of emergency, Bukele returned to lawmakers multiple times for changes to the country’s criminal code. Among other things, they lengthened sentences, reduced the age of criminal responsibility to 12 and established prison sentences of 10 to 15 years for journalists who disseminate gang messages that could cause anxiety or panic among the people.
He had already ordered his head of prisons to keep all gang members confined to their cells 24 hours a day and to reduce their meals to twice daily. “Message for the gangs: because of your actions, now your ‘homeboys’ will not be able to see a ray of sunlight,” Bukele wrote on Twitter.
Human Rights Watch, the international advocacy organization that Bukele has taken to mocking as “Homeboys Rights Watch,” said the government had overreached.
“The Salvadoran government should adopt rights-respecting measures to protect people from heinous gang violence, dismantle these groups, and bring those responsible for crimes to justice,” said Juan Pappier, senior Americas researcher at Human Rights Watch. “Instead, Bukele’s government has enacted overbroad, harshly punitive laws that undermine the fundamental rights of all Salvadorans.”
But Salvadorans seem to be ambivalent about the crackdown. In a leafy park in front of Santa Tecla’s municipal market and short distance from San Jose El Pino, Adela Maravilla Ceballos walked with her groceries on a recent morning.
“It’s good what they’re doing, they took long enough,” the 52-year-old homemaker said. “These guys don’t understand anything else. Who is going to be against security? Only the criminals.”
Still, some of the images had bothered her. Her two sons went to the United States years ago looking for better opportunities.
“I am a mother and sometimes it hurts me when they grab them and hit them and I see how they cry,” she said.
___
Sherman reported from Mexico City. AP writer E. Eduardo Castillo in Mexico City contributed to this report. | https://www.wane.com/news/el-salvador-presidents-mass-arrests-punitive-populism/ | 2022-04-14 14:24:54 | 1 | https://www.wane.com/news/el-salvador-presidents-mass-arrests-punitive-populism/ |
LARGO, Fla. — One person was hospitalized after a fire broke out at a hotel in Largo early Monday morning.
Largo Fire Rescue said crews arrived at Home2 Suites Extended Stay Hotel on Ulmerton Road around 5:35 a.m. There, they found the fire on the exterior of the building.
Crews then evacuated everyone inside and extinguished the fire. Officials said the incident was taken over by hotel management after.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
This is a developing story and will be updated when more information is available. | https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/region-pinellas/hotel-fire-causes-evacuation-1-transported-to-hospital | 2023-07-31 17:24:26 | 1 | https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/region-pinellas/hotel-fire-causes-evacuation-1-transported-to-hospital |
BEIJING, July 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Glory Star New Media Group Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: GSMG) ("Glory Star" or the "Company"), a leading digital media platform and content-driven e-commerce company in China, today announced it received notification from the Listing Qualifications Department of The Nasdaq Stock Market ("Nasdaq") that it has regained compliance with the minimum bid price requirement of US$1.00 per share under the Nasdaq Listing Rules (the "Listing Rules").
On July 25, 2022, Nasdaq provided confirmation to the Company that for at least 10 consecutive business days, from July 11 to July 22, 2022, the closing bid price of the Company's ordinary shares has been at $1.00 per share or greater. Accordingly, the Company has regained compliance with Listing Rule 5550(a)(2) and this matter is now closed.
About Glory Star
Since its establishment in 2016, Glory Star has been laser focused on developing an ecosystem for its users that incorporates quality content, e-commerce, social networking, and gaming. The Company continues to integrate its cutting edge blockchain technologies, massive user base from its CHEERS ecosystem, quality content offerings, and its well-established e-commerce platform, and through the right application of 5G, AR, VR and NFT technologies to develop a metaverse boasting a wide range of "online + offline" and "virtual + reality" scenarios. Glory Star's CHEERS Video and e-Mall platforms provide a solid foundation for it to rapidly develop different entertainment and shopping applications for the metaverse. Glory Star also provides a suite of tools for its users to facilitate the development of new content by creators. The Company is remaining at the forefront of disrupting the way new media and e-commerce is operated. For more information, please visit http://ir.gsmg.co/.
Safe Harbor Statement
Certain statements made in this release are "forward looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words "estimates," "projected," "expects," "anticipates," "forecasts," "plans," "intends," "believes," "seeks," "may," "will," "should," "future," "propose" and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside the Company's control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors, among others, are: the ability to manage growth; ability to identify and integrate other future acquisitions; ability to obtain additional financing in the future to fund capital expenditures; fluctuations in general economic and business conditions; costs or other factors adversely affecting the Company's profitability; litigation involving patents, intellectual property, and other matters; potential changes in the legislative and regulatory environment; a pandemic or epidemic; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could affect the Company's ability to continue successful development and launch of its metaverse; the possibility that the Company may not succeed in developing its new lines of businesses due to, among other things, changes in the business environment, competition, changes in regulation, or other economic and policy factors; the possibility that the Company's new lines of business may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; other factors, risks and uncertainties set forth in documents filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") from time to time, including the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on March 8, 2022. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Such information speaks only as of the date of this release.
Contacts
Glory Star New Media Group Holdings Limited
Yida Ye
Email: yeyida@gsmg.co
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SOURCE Glory Star New Media Group Holdings Limited | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/07/26/glory-star-new-media-group-holdings-limited-regains-compliance-with-nasdaq-minimum-bid-price-requirement/ | 2022-07-26 21:18:49 | 1 | https://www.wistv.com/prnewswire/2022/07/26/glory-star-new-media-group-holdings-limited-regains-compliance-with-nasdaq-minimum-bid-price-requirement/ |
PIDIE, Indonesia (AP) — Children in school uniforms and toddlers with their parents lined up Monday for polio vaccinations in the Sigli town square on the northern tip of the Indonesian island of Sumatra, after four children were found infected with the highly contagious disease that was declared eliminated in the country less than a decade ago.
The virus was first detected in October in a 7-year-old boy suffering from partial paralysis in the province of Aceh near Sigli, and since then three other cases have been detected, prompting the mass immunization and information drive.
Official say that polio immunization rates in the conservative province are well behind the rest of the country, with efforts hampered by widespread disinformation the vaccine is incompatible with religious beliefs, among other things. The government has also been prioritizing COVID-19 vaccinations since they became available.
The campaign that started Monday aims to vaccinate some 1.2 million children in the province, said Maxi Rein Rondonuwu, the Health Ministry’s director general for disease control and prevention.
“There is no cure for polio, the only treatment is prevention and the tool for prevention is vaccination,” Rondonuwu said, adding that the child is still able to walk, albeit with a limp.
With some 275 million people, Indonesia is the world’s fourth most populous, and the largest Muslim-majority nation.
Aceh is particularly conservative, and is Indonesia’s only province allowed to practice Shariah, which was a concession made by the national government in 2006 to end a war with separatists.
False rumors that the polio vaccine contains pork or alcohol, prohibited according to Muslim beliefs, have proliferated, especially in rural areas, complicating vaccination efforts, said the head of the Aceh Health Office, Hanif, who only goes by one name like many Indonesians.
“We cannot work alone, we need support from all parties, including religious leaders, to that people understand the importance of immunization,” said Hanif.
Azhar, the father of the 7-year-old who contracted polio, said he had opted not to immunize his son after other villagers where he lived told him the vaccines may cause harmful chemicals or non-halal substances.
“My neighbors said that my son don’t need to be immunized and I didn’t want my son get sick because of harmful chemicals that are against Islam,” the 45-year-old said.
For Dewi Safitri, a mother of three who was getting them vaccinated on Monday, it was simply a matter of not knowing it was necessary.
She said she was convinced after health workers spelled out the risks of paralysis or death if her children were to go unvaccinated.
“I didn’t even know about immunization,” she said.
The World Health Assembly adopted a resolution for the global eradication of polio in 1988 and since then, wild poliovirus cases have decreased by more than 99%, according to the World Health Organization.
It was eliminated in Indonesia in 2014, and is today only still endemic in two countries — Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Polio primarily affects children under the age of 5, according to the WHO. Unvaccinated people of any ages can contract the disease, however, and sporadic cases continue to crop up.
In September in New York, for example, the state stepped up its polio-fighting efforts after the disease was detected in the wastewater in the New York City area.
Officials began checking for signs of the virus there after the first case of polio in the United States was identified in July in Rockland County, which is north of the city. It was confirmed in a young adult who was unvaccinated.
The statewide polio vaccination rate is 79% but Rockland’s rate was lower, and New York health officials urged all unvaccinated residents, including children by 2 months of age, to get vaccinated immediately.
Last week, new poliovirus cases were found in Afghanistan, Algeria, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia and Nigeria, according to the WHO’s Global Polio Eradication Initiative.
Of the three other children in Indonesia from the same village as the initially confirmed case none had their basic vaccinations, Rondonuwu said.
“It has to be reported as an outbreak, because it had been declared eradicated in Indonesia, but it turns out that there is still wild polio virus,” he said.
Rondonuwu said his ministry is keeping a close watch on the cases by doing door-to-door screening to ensure that there are no additional infections that have not been reported.
The polio virus is transmitted person-to-person, generally through the “fecal-oral” route, according to the WHO. In Indonesia, authorities have also pointed to unsanitary conditions as a probable cause of the new infections after finding out that some local residents still defecate directly into a river where children are often found playing.
Across Indonesia, polio vaccination coverage has been slipping since the outbreak of COVID-19. Despite the challenges of reaching people in the archipelago nation of five main islands and thousands of smaller ones, 73.4% of Indonesians are now fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and 87.5% have at least one shot.
For polio, 86.8% of babies were vaccinated in their first year in 2020 nationwide, which fell to 80.7% in 2021 as the country was forced to focus most of its health facilities and workers on addressing the pandemic.
By comparison, only 50.9% of the infants born in Aceh in 2021 received a polio vaccination. It was the second lowest on a national scale after West Papua, where only 43.4% of babies were vaccinated.
The nationwide decline was part of a broader drop in basic immunizations, such as for measles and rubella, according to UNICEF.
Dicky Budiman, an Indonesian epidemiologist from Australia’s Griffith University, said the discovery of polio in Aceh must be responded to seriously because “the threat is real for Indonesia,” noting that basic immunization coverage is still low, putting the country in a high-risk category.
“This is what the government really has to pursue, because it’s dangerous if we don’t,” Budiman said.
“We must move immediately by strengthening basic immunization or there will be a potential additional health disaster for Indonesia.”
___
Karmini reported from Jakarta, Indonesia. | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/ap-polio-is-back-in-indonesia-sparking-vaccination-campaign/ | 2022-11-28 19:58:42 | 1 | https://www.wowktv.com/news/u-s-world/ap-polio-is-back-in-indonesia-sparking-vaccination-campaign/ |
DUBLIN, Aug. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Aptiv PLC (NYSE: APTV), a global technology company focused on making mobility safer, greener, and more connected, will present at the J.P. Morgan 2022 Auto Conference, August 9 at 3:05 p.m. Eastern Time.
A simultaneous webcast will be available on the Aptiv Investor Relations website at ir.aptiv.com.
About Aptiv
Aptiv is a global technology company that develops safer, greener and more connected solutions enabling a more sustainable future of mobility. Visit aptiv.com.
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SOURCE Aptiv PLC | https://www.cleveland19.com/prnewswire/2022/08/02/aptiv-present-jp-morgan-auto-conference/ | 2022-08-02 21:09:55 | 0 | https://www.cleveland19.com/prnewswire/2022/08/02/aptiv-present-jp-morgan-auto-conference/ |
Company transitioning to three operating segments to drive sustainable growth
AUSTIN, Minn., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announced a new strategic operating model, aligning its businesses to be more agile, consumer and customer focused, and market driven. Effective Oct. 31, 2022, the beginning of fiscal 2023, the company is transitioning to three operating segments – Retail, Foodservice and International. The One Supply Chain team will continue to oversee the company's global supply chain.
"Hormel Foods is a distinctly different company than it was a decade ago, with a food forward, growth-oriented portfolio of leading brands and products that are aligned with our customer and consumer needs," said Jim Snee, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer at Hormel Foods. "Our new operating model is a culmination of our recent strategic actions, which included numerous portfolio-building acquisitions, including the Planters® snacking business, the creation of One Supply Chain, the modernization of our technology and ecommerce capabilities, and most recently, our transformational efforts at Jennie-O Turkey Store. This new alignment will empower our 20,000 global team members, with a more refined organizational structure that is accountable, nimble and focused on creating the Hormel Foods of the future."
The new operating model will support the company's six strategic priorities:
- Expand leadership in foodservice;
- Protect and grow its core brands;
- Aggressively develop its global presence;
- Amplify scale in snacking and entertaining;
- Enhance growth of its ethnic and food forward portfolios; and,
- Continue to transform the company.
The company's largest operating segment – Retail – will include its most iconic brands, many that hold a No. 1 or No. 2 market share in their respective categories. The retail segment will be focused on Hormel Foods powerhouse consumer brands in the retail marketplace. These brands include the recently acquired Planters® and Corn Nuts®, in addition to SPAM®, SKIPPY®, Columbus®, Applegate®, Hormel® Natural Choice®, Jennie-O®, Hormel® Black Label®, Herdez®, WHOLLY® and Justin's®. The new Retail segment will be led by Deanna Brady, who will be executive vice president of Retail. Brady currently oversees the company's Refrigerated Foods segment.
The Retail segment will be powered by a new center of excellence called Brand Fuel. Over the last several years, the company has focused on the importance of leveraging its innovation, consumer insights and technology to enable connections with consumers where and how they shop. Brand Fuel will be a food forward hub, housing brand management expertise, world-class marketing capabilities and insights-led innovation, and will further enable data-driven decisions for the enterprise. This center will also house the Digital Experience Group, the company's ecommerce and digital content team that supports the company's brands and businesses in the virtual marketplace.
The Foodservice operating segment will serve leading foodservice establishments, including restaurants, hotels, educational and health care institutions, convenience stores and entertainment venues. The company's sales into the foodservice channel have continued to experience growth due to its portfolio of branded, value-added products and market leadership positions in the pizza toppings and bacon categories. The new Foodservice operating segment will combine the company's domestic foodservice businesses and will remain focused on partnering with customers to deliver culinary solutions for today's dynamic environment. This segment will be led by Mark Ourada as group vice president of Foodservice.
The International segment will continue to focus on aggressively growing its presence outside the United States. This includes growing global brands such as SPAM® and SKIPPY®, accelerating growth and investment in China, Brazil and Indonesia, and further leveraging its partnerships in the Philippines, South Korea and Europe. The company recently announced a new R&D and innovation center will be opening in China in fiscal year 2023 to serve as its food forward innovation and culinary creation hub for the Asia-Pacific region. Swen Neufeldt will continue to lead the company's international business as group vice president, president of Hormel Foods International Corporation.
Hormel Foods will begin operating under the new model Oct. 31, 2022. Earnings will be reported under this structure beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2023. Changes to the company's operating segments have no impact on historical consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows. Recast financial information will be provided at a later date to aid in comparability to historical financial data.
Updates on the new strategic operating model will be provided on the fiscal third-quarter earnings call, scheduled for Sept. 1, 2022, and during the company's presentation at the Barclays Global Consumer Staples Conference, scheduled for Sept. 6, 2022.
Hormel Foods worked with Bain & Company, one of the world's top global management consulting firms, on the initiative.
ABOUT HORMEL FOODS — Inspired People. Inspired Food.™
Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minn., is a global branded food company with over $11 billion in annual revenue across more than 80 countries worldwide. Its brands include Planters®, SKIPPY®, SPAM®, Hormel® Natural Choice®, Applegate®, Justin's®, WHOLLY®, Hormel® Black Label®, Columbus®, Jennie-O® and more than 30 other beloved brands. The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named on the "Global 2000 World's Best Employers" list by Forbes magazine for three years, is one of Fortune magazine's most admired companies, has appeared on the "100 Best Corporate Citizens" list by 3BL Media 13 times, and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. The company lives by its purpose statement — Inspired People. Inspired Food.™ — to bring some of the world's most trusted and iconic brands to tables across the globe. For more information, visit www.hormelfoods.com.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This news release contains "forward-looking" information within the meaning of the federal securities laws. The "forward-looking" information may include statements concerning the Company's outlook for the future as well as other statements of beliefs, future plans, strategies, or anticipated events and similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Words or phrases such as "should result," "believe," "intend," "plan," "are expected to," "targeted," "will continue," "will approximate," "is anticipated," "estimate," "project," or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical earnings and those anticipated or projected, which factors include, but are not limited to, risks related to the deterioration of economic conditions; the COVID-19 pandemic; risks associated with acquisitions and divestitures; potential disruption of operations including at co-manufacturers, suppliers, logistics providers, customers, or other third-party service providers; risk of loss of a material contract; the Company's inability to protect information technology systems against, or effectively respond to, cyber-attacks or security breaches; deterioration of labor relations, labor availability or increases to labor costs; general risks of the food industry, including food contamination; outbreaks of disease among livestock and poultry flocks; fluctuations in commodity prices and availability of raw materials and other inputs; fluctuations in market demand for the Company's products; risks of litigation; potential sanctions and compliance costs arising from government regulation; compliance with stringent environmental regulation and potential environmental litigation; and risks arising from the Company's foreign operations. Please refer to the cautionary statements regarding "Risk Factors" and "Forward-Looking Statements" that appear in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, which can be accessed at hormelfoods.com in the "Investors" section, for additional information. In making these statements, the Company is not undertaking, and specifically declines to undertake, any obligation to address or update each or any factor in future filings or communications regarding the Company's business or results. Though the Company has attempted to list comprehensively these important cautionary risk factors, the Company wishes to caution investors and others that other factors may in the future prove to be important in affecting the Company's business or results of operations. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which represent current views as of the date made.
Media Contact:
media@hormel.com
507-434-6352
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SOURCE Hormel Foods Corporation | https://www.wbay.com/prnewswire/2022/08/09/hormel-foods-announces-new-strategic-operating-model/ | 2022-08-09 11:00:45 | 0 | https://www.wbay.com/prnewswire/2022/08/09/hormel-foods-announces-new-strategic-operating-model/ |
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For 24/7 mental health support in English or Spanish, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s free help line at 800-662-4357. You can also reach a trained crisis counselor through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
Less than 24 hours after a gunman killed eight people at an Allen outlet mall, Gov. Greg Abbott took to Fox News’ airwaves and quickly swatted down questions about gun reform.
“We’ve seen an increased number of shootings in states with easy gun laws as well as states with very strict gun laws,” Abbott told “Fox News Sunday” host Shannon Bream during the broadcast.
From there, Abbott steered the conversation away from guns, as he has done following mass shootings in Santa Fe, El Paso and Uvalde — three of seven mass shootings in Texas since the governor took office in 2015 — and supplanted it with a push for more mental health services in the state.
“And what Texas is doing in a big-time way, we are working to address that anger and violence by going to its root cause which is addressing the mental health problems behind it,” Abbott said during the national interview on Sunday. “People want a quick solution. The long-term solution here is to address the mental health issue.”
To date, Texas has invested $25 billion during Abbott’s watch as part of a statewide behavioral health plan to address the state’s floundering mental health system as demand continues to grow with the state’s booming population. It’s a tremendous dollar amount to be sure, but one that has done little to lift Texas nationally when it comes to mental health offerings.
In 2022, the state ranked dead last when it comes to access to mental health services, according to Mental Health America, a nonprofit advocacy group.
Today, 98% of Texas’ 254 counties were wholly or partially designated by the federal government as “mental health professional shortage areas.”
Also unclear is how all this funding is supposed to reach potentially violent shooters. While studies consistently show that most mental illness doesn’t lead to mass violence, there’s been a psychiatric component linked to all seven mass shootings in Texas during Abbott’s term as governor.
“While mental health is undoubtedly a critical piece of the puzzle when it comes to preventing mass shootings, it is also essential to address the opportunity for individuals to acquire firearms,” said state Rep. Ray Lopez.
The San Antonio Democrat this year proposed House Bill 2148 that would have studied veteran deaths caused by suicide to find the percentage of veterans who were diagnosed with mental health problems or were receiving medication at the time of their death. The bill never made it to the House floor.
“The reality is that firearms can potentially end up in the hands of anyone and everyone, including those who are mentally unstable, experiencing distress or lack maturity,” Lopez said. “This presents a significant challenge that must be tackled in order to ensure public safety.”
Guns and mental illness
Despite polling that shows 76% of Texas voters favor some gun restrictions, Republicans here — who have controlled the Texas Legislature since 2003 — have steered clear of gun restrictions.
In fact, since 2000, Texas lawmakers have approved more than 100 bills that loosened gun restrictions.. And just this week, an attempt to raise the minimum age to buy semi-automatic rifles appears to have failed after it lost its momentum when it was left off the Texas House’s agenda ahead of a key deadline.
Mental illness has been considered a factor in all seven mass shooting events in Texas since 2015.
Shortly after Micah Johnson killed five Dallas police officers during a Black Lives Matter protest, it was revealed the 25-year-old gunman, a former Army soldier, had shown signs of post-traumatic stress disorder but he was not formally diagnosed with the condition.
In 2012, five years before Devin Kelley shot and killed 26 church members in Sutherland Springs, he escaped from a mental health facility while in the Air Force, after he had attacked his wife and stepson and made threats to superiors.
Patrick Crusius was reportedly in a “psychotic” state after he was arrested for killing 23 people in an El Paso Walmart in 2019. His lawyers say their client has a history of mental disabilities.
Seth Ator, who was killed after he fatally shot seven people in Midland and Odessa in 2019 had failed a gun background check because of a “mental defect” court ruling in his past and purchased the AR-15 he used in 2019 from another person, who was later sentenced to federal prison for the transaction.
Dimitrios Pagourtzis, accused of killing 10 people in the 2018 Santa Fe High School shooting has yet to be prosecuted because he has been confined at a state psychiatric hospital after it was determined he has been — so far — incompetent to stand trial.
Although Salvador Ramos, the 18-year-old shooter who killed 21 people at Robb Elementary exhibited signs of depression and committed acts of violence toward animals, there is no evidence he ever received a psychiatric diagnosis or any mental health assistance in a town that was starved for mental health services before the deadly attack nearly a year ago.
And this week, officials say that Mauricio Garcia, who killed seven people in Allen was removed from Army basic training because of “mental health concerns.”
Since Abbott has been governor and particularly after mass shootings, there’s been an increase in dollars set aside for more mental health services. But mental health experts say the funding of services isn’t the only answer to mass shootings. And they point to how what Texas actually funds is actually more reactive than preventive.
“There have been some increases in various mental health programs since [the shooting in] Uvalde. It has not been to the level to impact structural barriers that many Texans face trying to access care,” said Alison Mohr Boleware, policy director for the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health.
The state’s mental health system is ranked low because access is limited in rural areas of the state due to a lack of providers, plus the quality is uneven, costs are high and too many people are currently uninsured. About 20% of Texans do not have health insurance.
Still, Abbott has not elaborated on how his push to fund more mental health services is supposed to reach potential mass shooters and prevent future catastrophes. His office did not respond to questions about how more mental health programs are supposed to do that.
A closer look at that funding
This year, a Texas Health and Human Services Commission report confirmed that Abbott has invested more into the state’s mental health systems, with their budgets increasing year over year.
The report states that mental health funding has increased by about $1.1 billion from the 2018-19 biennium to the 2022-23 biennium.
“Funding supports a variety of programs at multiple agencies and articles, including outpatient and inpatient mental health services at the Health and Human Services Commission, behavioral health services provided through Medicaid and CHIP, and payments made to providers to promote and improve access to services,” the report states.
“Governor Abbott has always worked diligently to fully fund and expand mental health programs and services for Texans,” said Andrew Mahaleris, a spokesperson for the governor. Abbott made addressing statewide mental health needs an emergency item in the 2019 legislative session. That year, he signed into law the Texas Child Mental Health Consortium and the Child Psychiatric Access Network, which is designed to intervene and treat children and adolescents showing signs of emotional distress.
.
“The expansion of mental health services continues to be a priority of the Governor and legislature, as current budget discussions look at increasing mental health funding from $8.9 billion to more than $11 billion,” Mahaleris said.
While the funding has increased and some preventive services have been created, the best example being the state’s Child Mental Health Consortium, nothing seems to be slowing the rate of mass shootings in Texas.
Mental health experts say their profession isn’t the only answer to mass shootings and that state leaders need to expand their focus.
“It’s important to note that the majority of people with mental health conditions are not violent, and focusing on mental health only can increase that stigma,” Boleware said.
Greg Hansch, the executive director for the Texas chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, said the state needs to look beyond child and community services, saying investments need to be made where distressed adults intersect with government and hospitals.
“A strong effort has been made to fund mental health in Texas, but we still have a long way to go,” Hansch said. “The state would be well served to focus more attention on increasing funding for first-episode psychosis treatment, crisis services, [mental health] workforce initiatives and jail diversion.”
Also, a lot of money has gone to upgrading the state’s psychiatric hospital system. This inpatient system treats the most seriously mentally ill patients in the state, most of which come from the state’s jails. Of the $25 billion set aside for mental health in the state budget over the past nine years, at least $4 billion has been spent renovating, constructing and staffing state hospitals.
Both Hansch and the Hogg Foundation’s Boleware point to how Texas needs a more specific plan that includes how to recruit more health care workers, intervenes more directly and provides such universal access that everyone in this vast state can easily find services, not just children and those accused of a crime in large urban areas.
“We recognize that there is a need for more funding going to prevention, early intervention and supports for anyone who needs to access, rather than only focusing on funding for those in the highest level of crisis,” Boleware said. “Unfortunately, funding alone does not ensure equitable access to services across the state.”
Disclosure: Hogg Foundation for Mental Health has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune’s journalism. Find a complete list of them here.
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This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune | https://blackchronicle.com/texas-25-billion-mental-health-investment-hasnt-curbed-shootings/ | 2023-05-10 22:30:12 | 1 | https://blackchronicle.com/texas-25-billion-mental-health-investment-hasnt-curbed-shootings/ |
HANGZHOU, China, Sept. 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CellOrigin Biotech (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd. announced it has made a global strategic collaboration agreement with Qilu Pharma to develop, manufacture and commercialize proprietary "off-the-shelf" induced pluripotent stem cell- (iPSC) derived Chimeric Antigen Receptor Macrophages (CAR-iMAC) for cancer immunotherapy.
The collaboration will take advantages of technologies and expertise from both parties, as well as integrate capabilities of R&D, manufacturing and marketing to develop CAR-iMAC clinical products aiming for solid tumors.
"Innovation and offering the best products that benefit patients are the core values that CellOrigin Biotech and Qilu Pharma both appreciate," said Dr. Jin Zhang, the Co-Founder of CellOrigin Biotech and a Principal Investigator of Zhejiang University, one of the top universities in China. "This is what brings us together."
"We are very excited to collaborate with Qilu Pharma because of its prestige in the field of Chinese pharmaceutical industry, as well as its tremendous track records on drug development," said Dr. Jiansong Tong, the Chief Executive Officer at CellOrigin Biotech. "Meanwhile, we will continue to seek other potential collaborators to jointly develop our innovative anti-tumor CAR-iMac cell products."
"CellOrigin Biotech is a startup company established by a group of outstanding scientists who have tremendous experiences both in R&D research and cGMP manufacture. It focused on developing innovative technologies in cell therapy and building valuable pipeline of products. It is an ideal strategic partner for novel cell therapy, and it is our pleasure to collaborate with such a great biotech company," said Qilu Pharma.
About CellOrigin Biotech
CellOrigin Biotech (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd. is dedicated to the development of genetically engineered pluripotent stem cell- (iPSC) derived immune cell therapies (such as macrophages, NK cells), with its own proprietary intellectual property. The founders are experienced leaders from Zhejiang University, Harvard University and top pharmaceutical and biotech companies around the world. They apply cutting-edge technologies in editing and differentiating iPSCs to immune cells in order to deliver novel allogeneic off-the-shelf cell therapies for the treatment of cancer patients around the world.
About Qilu Pharma
Qilu Pharma is a leading vertically integrated pharmaceutical companies in China focused on discovering, developing, manufacturing and commercializing innovative medicines. With a diverse pipeline of noval therapeutics, 10 manufacturing sites and more than 36,000 employees worldwide, Qilu is dedicated to transforming scientific innovation by internal R&D across 5 R&D platforms based in the US (Seattle WA, Boston MA, San Francisco CA) and China (Shanghai, Jinan), and external partnership globally into healthcare solutions to address unmet medical needs. To date, Qilu has launched 200+ products with 30+ products "First to launch" in China and 3 products "D181 launch" in US with approximately US$5.2 billion sales revenue in 2021. For more information, please visit http:en.qilu-pharma.com.
View original content:
SOURCE CellOrigin | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/09/26/cellorigin-biotech-announces-global-strategic-collaboration-with-qilu-pharma-develop-off-the-shelf-car-imac-cell-therapy/ | 2022-09-26 05:46:02 | 1 | https://www.kold.com/prnewswire/2022/09/26/cellorigin-biotech-announces-global-strategic-collaboration-with-qilu-pharma-develop-off-the-shelf-car-imac-cell-therapy/ |
12-year-old and uncle arrested for robberies in Albuquerque
12-year-old and uncle arrested for robberies in Albuquerque
THIS, A SUSPICIOUS DEATH. RIGHT NOW, NO ONE IS IN CUSTODY. A 12 YEAR OLD. THAT’S RIGHT. 12. AND HIS UNCLE NOW FACE CHARGES IN FIVE ARMED ROBBERIES. DETECTIVES SAY THEY ARRESTED THE NEPHEW AT HIS MIDDLE SCHOOL, THEN ARRESTED JASON ROPER. ROPER FACES MANY CHARGES, INCLUDING CHILD ABUSE. HIS SUSPECTED YOUNG ACCOMPLICE
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12-year-old and uncle arrested for robberies in Albuquerque
Albuquerque Police Department robbery detectives arrested a 12-year-old and his uncle Jason Roper in connection to multiple robberies.The 12-year-old was arrested at his middle school. After questioning, The uncle was arrested after APD questioned the nephew.Roper is accused of driving himself and his nephew in a black Cadillac to businesses with the purpose of robbing them, according to APD. Roper is charged with two counts of armed robbery and five counts of conspiracy to commit armed robbery. He is also facing a child abuse charge.The nephew is facing armed robbery charges and attempt to commit a felony.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —
Albuquerque Police Department robbery detectives arrested a 12-year-old and his uncle Jason Roper in connection to multiple robberies.
The 12-year-old was arrested at his middle school. After questioning, The uncle was arrested after APD questioned the nephew.
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Roper is accused of driving himself and his nephew in a black Cadillac to businesses with the purpose of robbing them, according to APD.
Roper is charged with two counts of armed robbery and five counts of conspiracy to commit armed robbery. He is also facing a child abuse charge.
The nephew is facing armed robbery charges and attempt to commit a felony. | https://www.koat.com/article/12-year-old-uncle-arrested-robberies-albuquerque/41455348 | 2022-09-30 05:22:35 | 0 | https://www.koat.com/article/12-year-old-uncle-arrested-robberies-albuquerque/41455348 |
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CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina is accustomed to increased attention in the years leading up to presidential elections, with the state hosting the South’s first voting contests for several of the last cycles.
But even by those standards, 2024 feels different.
Democrats elevated South Carolina to the top of their presidential primary calendar, leapfrogging Iowa and New Hampshire. Republicans, meanwhile, could potentially have two homegrown South Carolina presidential candidates in the race, a prospect that has already caused friction among the state’s GOP circles of supporters.
A look at why so many political roads to 2024 will lead to South Carolina:
THE DEMOCRATS
Earlier this month, the Democratic National Committee approved its 2024 calendar, an effort to give a prominent voice to a more diverse electorate.
President Joe Biden had endorsed a plan placing South Carolina first on the party’s calendar for the coming presidential cycle, followed by New Hampshire, Nevada, Michigan and Georgia.
Biden’s recognition of the role South Carolina played in reviving his 2020 campaign, after less-than-stellar performances in earlier-voting states, has been clear since his victory celebration three years ago in February.
“You brought me back,” Biden told supporters. His win built momentum that helped him plow through the Super Tuesday votes that followed.
Last year, in a fundraiser for South Carolina Democrats, Vice President Kamala Harris offered her gratitude, saying, “We see how South Carolina Democrats set President Joe Biden and me on a path to the White House. … Thank you, South Carolina.”
The Biden administration has keep close ties with the state, where Biden's roots run deep and include family vacations to the state, as well as friendships with late Sens. Fritz Hollings and Strom Thurmond, and lawyer Dick Harpootlian, a former state party chairman who is now a state senator.
On Monday, Harris will return to South Carolina to discuss the administration's advancements on broadband internet expansion, a top priority of Rep. Jim Clyburn, one of Biden's closest allies and the lone Democrat in South Carolina's congressional delegation. Other Cabinet officials visited last year.
While South Carolina Democrats have not won a statewide race since 2006, they have begun selling buttons, mugs and apparel flaunting the state’s new status, with the tagline “South Carolina Democrats Pick Winners.” But the party is undergoing a period of transition, with chair Trav Robertson announcing this past week he would not seek another term after six years in the job.
Looking ahead, Robertson noted the regional financial impact that could be felt from the early position of South Carolina, where media markets — and the campaign advertising dollars spent in them — bleed into surrounding states.
“We have long advocated that South Carolina’s position in this process has been extremely beneficial to North Carolina and Georgia and to Tennessee,” Robertson told The Associated Press. “The impact of this is going to be felt for a generation.”
___
HOMEGROWN GOP CANDIDATES
Nikki Haley's official launch to her 2024 presidential campaign, in downtown Charleston two weeks ago, was steeped in references to her six years as South Carolina's governor.
“It's a great day in South Carolina!” Haley said, a nod to her gubernatorial catchphrase that she for a time required state Cabinet agencies to use when answering public phone lines.
Haley, the first woman and Indian American to lead the state, also cloaked herself in references to accomplishments during her time in office, including creating jobs. She mentioned leading the state “beyond hate and violence," a reference to the shooting of an unarmed Black motorist by a white police officer and the slayings of nine Black parishioners by a self-avowed white supremacist.
She did not explicitly mention the removal of the Confederate battle flag from the Statehouse grounds in 2015 after the church shootings, a move that she pushed for after years of publicly supporting keeping the flag up.
With former President Donald Trump already in the 2024 race, Haley — who served two years as his U.N. ambassador — became the first major Republican to challenge him for the nomination.
Some of South Carolina’s top Republicans, including Gov. Henry McMaster, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, have endorsed Trump, whose 2016 victory in South Carolina’s primary helped solidify GOP support behind his campaign.
Haley has lined up support from at least one member of the state’s congressional delegation, Rep. Ralph Norman. Rep. Nancy Mace, whom Haley endorsed for reelection last year, has said that, for now, “my powder is dry” when it comes to the 2024 White House race.
But Tim Scott, South Carolina's junior senator, has been making moves that seem to put him on the verge of formalizing his own 2024 bid. The day after Haley's launch, Scott was in Charleston himself, speaking at a Charleston County GOP dinner his team characterized as part of a “listening tour.” Days later, both he and Haley were in Iowa, which holds the GOP's first 2024 votes.
Scott's potential entry into the race has led to some awkwardness among the state's Republicans, many of whom have been supporters of both him and Haley.
Catherine Templeton, who served in Haley's administration, said Haley and Scott are calling the state's Republicans seeking support, a process she characterized as “uncomfortable.”
“Generally, a Scott Republican and a Haley Republican are pretty similar creatures, but it is a game of addition, so both candidates are being deferential,” Templeton said. "They are saying, ‘If I can’t be your first, I’d like to be your second.’ You won’t find them criticizing each other, but ultimately, it is uncomfortable to choose between friends.”
Templeton won't say whom she plans to support and says she expects a similar waiting game among GOP voters and donors in South Carolina.
“People are waiting to see what Tim does before they make a decision," she said. "But Nikki is in either way.”
___
WHAT ELSE IS GOING ON?
The 2024 season in only getting started in South Carolina, just as in the other early states. Next month, the state plays host to one of the first leadoff, multicandidate events, when Palmetto Family sponsors its Vision '24 conference in Charleston.
So far, one announced candidate — Haley — is scheduled to attend, though potential ones, including Scott and former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, are set to come. Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, former Vice President Mike Pence and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are among those yet to RSVP.
___
Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP | https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/politics/article/in-2024-campaign-kingmaker-role-again-for-south-17806642.php | 2023-02-26 13:47:59 | 1 | https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/politics/article/in-2024-campaign-kingmaker-role-again-for-south-17806642.php |
An Oak Cliff bookstore has reopened its community fridge after being told to shut down by the City of Dallas earlier on July 10.
The owner of the Pan-African Connection, Akwete Tyehimba, said she was told to discontinue her food distribution efforts and to remove the cold storage, known as "The People’s Fridge," from the front of her store.
For decades, she’s been running the Pan-African Connection bookstore, which now sits at the corner of South Marsalis Avenue and Ann Arbor Avenue. It’s a popular place for items such as books, skincare products and authentic African collectibles. It’s also known for its education programs, outreach, and food distribution. So, a recent encounter with a City of Dallas employee came as a surprise.
On its website, Code Compliance does outline guidelines and recommendations for feeding the homeless. However, Tyehimba said most people she serves are not homeless; rather, they are the working poor.
“I was hurt because I see the faces of the families that come here to pick up the food,” she said. “It hurts because we're not, we're just not serving those that need it.”
In a memo to NBC 5 last week, the city cited concerns about food safety with items being left out in the summer heat and if it was permissible with the certificate of occupancy. The city said neither the property owner nor the business was issued violations and that Code Compliance was going to look into the rules further and would let the business know its findings.
The city says the property owner and businesses were informed that they would receive a written notice of findings after Code Compliance sat with the property owner to identify and work through solutions on how any findings could be brought up to standard.
According to the City of Dallas, no findings have been issued and the fridge returns with a revised set of regulations.
To enhance food safety, the pantry will no longer accept cooked food donations, which previously included contributions from local restaurants. The regulations also stipulate that only uncut produce may be donated.
The move seeks to ensure the quality and safety of the food offered to those in need. Unopened, nonperishable goods are still accepted.
Akwete Tyehimba posted on social media Saturday that the fridge will be opening again:
"Thank PAC & Social Media Family! The Fridge & Table will start back operating Tomorrow Morning ! Here's a list of items allowed, please no cooked foods or items you wouldn't feed your family!
Drop offs are allowed 24/7.
This is a take what you need, leave what you don't situation. We don't care about your living or legal status. Grab what you need and leave some for your neighbors."
DONATION LIST:
- Community Foundation
- No Cooked Food Accepted
- Uncut Fruits/Veggies
- Rice
- Dry Beans
- Granola
- Nuts
- Cereal
- Oats
- Pancake Mix
- Milk
- Spices & Fi
- Canned It
- Bread
- Raw Shell
- Peanut Butter
- Honey
For more information about the Pan African Connection, email info@paccares.com. | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/the-peoples-fridge-back-open-after-concerns-of-safety/3306058/ | 2023-07-30 01:07:49 | 0 | https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/the-peoples-fridge-back-open-after-concerns-of-safety/3306058/ |
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — A measure to help the Pennsylvania Turnpike recover more unpaid tolls was signed into law Thursday, legislation that could trigger the suspension of thousands of vehicle registrations early next year.
Gov. Tom Wolf gave final approval to legislation aimed at getting owners or operators of some 25,000 vehicles to pay their overdue bills for turnpike travel.
After the law takes effect in two months, the process will start with the Turnpike Commission notifying registrants they are seeking to have their registrations suspended. At least a month later, the toll agency can ask the Transportation Department to start the process, and PennDOT said it will give the owners six weeks' notice.
“The customer is given several notices and opportunities to pay the tolls they owe before their registration is suspended,” PennDOT spokeswoman Alexis Campbell said.
The legislation also reduces how much in collective unpaid tolls are needed to trigger registration suspension, from $500 to $250, and the number of unpaid tolls required to start the enforcement process goes down from six violations to four invoices. The turnpike can also go back five years after the violation in suspending registrations, a change from three years.
The Turnpike Commission said the new law clarifies existing criminal penalties for intentionally evading tolls and adds new language to prevent altering, obstructing, covering, distorting, manipulating or removing a license plate to avoid tolls. Another new provision says tinted plate covers are illegal.
The Turnpike Commission's pandemic-era conversion to all electronic tolling resulted in a jump in unpaid tolls, an amount that reached $104 million during the 2020-21 fiscal year, The Associated Press reported in September 2021. A year later the problem grew by nearly 50% to $155 million.
Turnpike chief executive Mark Compton said the ability to take action against toll scofflaws more quickly will “maximize chances of collecting from those who think it is OK to ride free. We are here to tell you, it isn't.”
The bill gives the turnpike explicit authority to track down people when their automatically generated turnpike bills are returned undeliverable, using the U.S. Postal Service, debt collectors and skip-tracing practices used to find people.
The Turnpike Commission is required to give an annual report about unpaid tolls to the Legislature. A report on the feasibility of alternative toll payment options is due in a year. | https://www.mrt.com/news/article/Wolf-signs-law-to-yank-toll-scofflaws-vehicle-17555789.php | 2022-11-03 16:42:41 | 1 | https://www.mrt.com/news/article/Wolf-signs-law-to-yank-toll-scofflaws-vehicle-17555789.php |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Six GOP members-elect remained opposed to Rep. Kevin McCarthy as he sought to secure enough support late Friday to become the next speaker of the House.
Supporters were working to win a couple of them over, which would almost certainly give McCarthy the majority he needs to finally win the job after four days of voting and the most rounds of ballots for a House speaker since before the Civil War.
The six have been quite critical of McCarthy, though about-faces are not uncommon in Washington. Even if some vote present, it could give McCarthy the margin he needs to win.
A look at the holdouts:
— Andy Biggs of Arizona is the former chairman of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus. He not only challenged McCarthy during an initial, internal GOP vote for House speaker, but he was also a nominee himself in the first round of voting Tuesday. He won only 10 votes.
Biggs was reelected to a fourth term in the House after serving 14 years in the Arizona Legislature. In Congress, he’s built a reputation as a staunch supporter of Donald Trump and as a border enforcement hawk, filing articles of impeachment in the last Congress against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. McCarthy took up the cause in his push to become House speaker, saying that if Mayorkas didn’t resign, GOP-led investigations could lead to impeachment proceedings.
Biggs was also one of four lawmakers referred to the House Ethics Committee after they defied subpoenas from the House panel that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.
— Matt Gaetz of Florida has been perhaps McCarthy’s most strident critic, to the point that Rep. Mike Bost, R-Ill, jumped up and chided Gaetz on the House floor for his harsh denunciations of McCarthy during Friday’s debate. Gaetz has consistently depicted McCarthy as a Washington insider, calling McCarthy “the LeBron James of special interest fundraising in this town.”
Gaetz is a close ally of Trump who broke with him early when it comes to McCarthy. The House Ethics Committee announced an investigation into Gaetz in April as federal prosecutors probed sex trafficking allegations against him. Gaetz has vehemently denied any wrongdoing.
“If you want to drain the swamp, you cannot put the biggest alligator in charge of the exercise,” Gaetz said of McCarthy.
— Lauren Boebert of Colorado is another Trump loyalist who established herself as a partisan rabble-rouser in Washington during her first term. She won a second term this year in a race that was much closer than expected, as her aggressive use of social media and willingness to engage in personal feuds was put to the test against a Democratic challenger who presented himself as a nonpartisan problem solver.
Boebert noted this week that “her favorite president,” a reference to Trump, has called on the anti-McCarthy holdouts to “knock this off,” but suggested an alternative.
“I think it actually needs to be reversed. The president needs to tell Kevin McCarthy, ‘Sir, you do not have the votes and it’s time to withdraw,’” she said.
— Bob Good of Virginia won office in 2020 after GOP voters ousted the Republican incumbent, Denver Riggleman, who had angered social conservatives by officiating a gay marriage.
Good, a former athletics official at evangelical Liberty University, was one of the first to say he would be opposing McCarthy, and that opposition continued into Friday when he wrote an op-ed in The New York Times declaring that he won’t back down.
“Throughout this process, one thing has become clear: Kevin McCarthy has failed to secure the trust of the entire Republican conference to be the leader who will fight to change the status quo in Washington. It is time for Republicans to move on,” Good wrote.
— Matt Rosendale of Montana is entering his second term in the House and says his constituents are lobbying him to change the leadership in Congress. He has backed former Trump’s false statements about fraud in the 2020 election and recently voted against U.S. support for Ukraine in its war against Russia, citing what he said are more pressing security needs along the southern border.
“I’ve said all along I’m not going to be supporting anyone for speaker that has played a part in the leadership team that has managed the demise of our country over the last 10 years,” Rosendale said.
— Eli Crane of Utah is a former Navy SEAL who went on five wartime deployments and served for 13 years. In November, he defeated the Democratic incumbent, Tom O’Halleran, who had held the seat since 2017. He was the lone Republican freshman on Friday to refuse support for McCarthy.
Crane has run a small business turning spent machine gun ammunition into bottle openers and had the endorsement of Trump. He focused his campaign on securing the U.S.-Mexico border and election integrity. | https://who13.com/news/politics/ap-politics/ap-a-look-at-the-final-gop-holdouts-mccarthy-hopes-to-sway/ | 2023-01-07 20:56:39 | 0 | https://who13.com/news/politics/ap-politics/ap-a-look-at-the-final-gop-holdouts-mccarthy-hopes-to-sway/ |
FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — C.B. Embry Jr., who recently stepped down from the Kentucky Senate due to a long battle with cancer, has died at age 81, a funeral director said Friday.
Embry died Thursday night, said Charlotte Martin, director of Smith Funeral Home in Morgantown.
Embry, a Morgantown Republican, announced his impending retirement earlier this year due to cancer but traveled while undergoing treatment to Frankfort during the legislative session so he could cast votes and uphold his duty to his constituents. Embry formally submitted his resignation letter Monday to Senate President Robert Stivers.
Embry was first elected to the Senate in 2014 and served on several committees, including his most recent position as chair of the Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection Committee. He previously served in the House.
“C.B. Embry was a true gentleman and the consummate public servant, taking the duty and responsibility to represent the people until the very end,” Stivers said in a statement Friday.
Funeral arrangements are pending, Martin said. | https://www.mrt.com/news/article/Former-Kentucky-state-Sen-C-B-Embry-Jr-dies-at-17477959.php | 2022-09-30 16:21:37 | 0 | https://www.mrt.com/news/article/Former-Kentucky-state-Sen-C-B-Embry-Jr-dies-at-17477959.php |
The head of the FIA says the motorsports governing body has no interest in signing an early renewal of its contract with Liberty Media and the 10 Formula One teams, who have stated their wish to sweeten the deal while the series is basking in global popularity.
The eighth and current Concorde Agreement — which sets the rules and regulations for F1 as well as how television revenue and prize money is distributed — began in 2021 and runs through the 2025 season. In a May conference call with Wall Street analysts, the CEO of Liberty Media, which holds the commercial rights to F1, indicated a desire for a new agreement much sooner than that.
“There’s a consensus among the teams and the FIA and ourselves that now might be a good time to try and strike while the iron is hot and renew and extend the Concorde Agreement,” the CEO, Greg Maffei, said on the call. “I hope we have a more positive relationship, and everybody sees the benefit of going early and providing certainty for all involved.”
But in a wide-ranging interview with The Associated Press, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said he sees no reason to renegotiate now.
“The Concorde is something that we have to address, but it has to fit all sides. You have the stakeholders, the partners, you have the FIA, you have Liberty Media, and you have the 10 teams, and and we have on top of that 18 months,” Ben Sulayem told AP this week. “So our house is not on fire. We need to talk to each other and get the best for all of us.”
Ben Sulayem also cautioned against any maneuvers that could potentially weaken the FIA’s governance of F1.
“If you want a strong FIA, we have to work together and we have to empower the FIA because FIA is the regulator, they are the owners of the championships. They are the judges,” he told AP. “When you go to the United States, speaking for example, you can speak to the big OEMs and the reason we can is because it is an FIA championship. If it’s not an FIA championship, it will end up like the WWF (World Wrestling Federation) with no regulator, no governing body. You need a governing body.
“You really think that these multinational corporations are going to waste their money on something that they don’t trust?” he asked. “We have the time, we will not be rushing it because we have 18 months. We want a better overall agreement for FIA, for Liberty and for the teams. We are on the right track, but it is a marathon.”
Ben Sulayem, a former rally racer, was elected to his four-year term as president less than a week after the controversial 2021 season finale in Abu Dhabi. That race ended with an unprecedented procedural change following a late caution that allowed Max Verstappen to win his first world championship in a race that had been dominated by Lewis Hamilton, who was seeking a record eighth title. Ben Sulayem replaced Jean Todt and is the first Arab president of the FIA.
Among the topics he discussed with AP was the firestorm he inherited. Not only did he have to spearhead the investigation into the Abu Dhabi race, but he said he was blindsided to learn the FIA and F1 were embroiled in a patent lawsuit over use of the halo device that protects the driver cockpit.
“I knew nothing. I didn’t know about some of the financials. I honestly didn’t know anything,” he said.
Ben Sulayem immediately went to work. But there have been bumps — a silly spat with Hamilton last season over the star driver’s wish to wear jewelry while competing — and earlier this season there seemed to be a target on Ben Sulayem throughout the paddock after he publicly cautioned on Twitter against overvaluing the financial worth of F1.
His tweets led Formula One and Liberty Media’s lawyers to send a warning letter to the FIA World Motor Sport Council that the president had overstepped and “interfered with our (commercial) rights in an unacceptable manner.”
Ben Sulayem also expressed support for a bid to join F1 from Andretti Global, expansion most F1 teams oppose. He wondered to AP about his acceptance as FIA president, and shared a cautionary tale told to him by former F1 head Bernie Ecclestone.
“Bernie Ecclestone said it’s amazing how the president, it’s like a ball being thrown to the Italians, and the French and back to the British,” said Ben Sulayem, an Emirati. “And that’s the presidency, it was not allowed to leave that certain area. And you come with my background, and my skin color, it took me 12 years, going nonstop to get here.”
He took umbrage with the secretive politics of F1 and said “any of the top management could have picked up the phone. I’m accessible. Did anyone do that? No. They went on attack,’ he told AP.
“I like dignity, and respect and values has to be in any deal. I believe all of this was just unnecessarily counterproductive,” he said. “Was anything achieved by all this? Did it change anything? No. I tell you what I became: stronger.”
___
AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://www.pahomepage.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-fia-not-interested-in-early-renegotiations-of-bedrock-formula-one-agreement-president-tells-ap/ | 2023-07-06 13:40:44 | 1 | https://www.pahomepage.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-fia-not-interested-in-early-renegotiations-of-bedrock-formula-one-agreement-president-tells-ap/ |
- MSC Cruises' new U.S. flagship docks at Pier 88 in Manhattan ahead of traditional maritime Naming Ceremony, scheduled for Wednesday evening
- MSC Seascape visits city to celebrate the cruise line's growing commitment to the U.S. market as the third largest and fastest-growing cruise brand
- Naming Ceremony will also celebrate new year-round MSC Cruises service from NYC with major ongoing economic impact for the city
NEW YORK CITY, Dec. 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The world's newest cruise ship lit up the pre-dawn sky this morning when MSC Cruises' new U.S. flagship—MSC Seascape—sailed past the Statue of Liberty and up the Hudson River to dock at Pier 88 at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal.
CLICK HERE for photos and video of the ship's arrival in New York City.
MSC Seascape is one of the largest cruise ships ever to dock in Manhattan, at more than 170,000 gross tons with a capacity of 5,877 guests. She is also one of the more environmentally advanced cruise ships at sea, featuring a wide range of latest generation environmental technologies and solutions.
MSC Seascape's arrival in New York marks the end of a 17-day journey from the shipyard where she was built in Italy.
The ship is in New York for a traditional maritime Naming Ceremony, which will take place on Wednesday evening and include wishes of good luck for her many future sailings from Hollywood legend and celebrated Godmother of the MSC Cruises fleet Sophia Loren. The ceremony will conclude with the customary breaking of a bottle of champagne against her hull.
MSC Cruises, which is part of the Geneva, Switzerland-based Cruise Division of MSC Group, chose New York for MSC Seascape's Naming Ceremony to celebrate the brand's growing commitment to the U.S. market and upcoming launch of service from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, which will result in local job creation with MSC Meraviglia operating year-round on a variety of itineraries covering Florida, The Bahamas, the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada, and New England.
Rubén A. Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA, said: "We have ambitious growth plans in the U.S. and New York City plays a critical role in that expansion. We already host a large number of guests from the tri-state area on our ships sailing from Florida and around the world, and we are excitedto bring a modern and glamorous ship like MSC Meraviglia to New York next year to give cruisers a wide choice of itineraries, whether they're looking for sunny Caribbean skies or Canada's beautiful autumns. Having the brand new MSC Seascape here this week is our way of celebrating a fantastic future of cruising for New York City."
MSC Seascape will depart New York on Thursday en route to Miami, where she will offer two different 7-night itineraries for her inaugural season in the Caribbean:
- Eastern Caribbean: Calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Nassau in The Bahamas, San Juan in Puerto Rico, and Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic
- Western Caribbean: Calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Cozumel in Mexico, George Town in the Cayman Islands and Ocho Rios in Jamaica
MSC Cruises is the world's third largest and the fastest growing cruise brand. Its fleet of 21 modern and highly innovative cruise ships is deployed globally and calls at more than 150 destinations across 70 different countries and five continents. Each year, MSC Cruises ships welcome over four million guests from more than 170 nationalities.
The Cruise Division of MSC Group is committed to building some of the most innovative cruise ships in the world, and this innovation also applies to environmental performance. With a long-term objective to achieve net carbon neutral operations by 2050, each new ship represents another step toward this goal, alongside other investments to help accelerate the development of next-generation environmental technology. MSC Seascape is no exception and features the latest-generation environmental technologies and equipment that will minimise their impact. This includes hybrid exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS) and cutting-edge selective catalytic reduction systems (SCR), achieving a 98% reduction of sulphur oxide (SOx) emissions and reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 90%. The wastewater treatment system has been designed in line with the International Maritime Organization's MEPC 227(64) Resolution and achieve purification standards that are higher than most wastewater treatment facilities ashore.
MSC Cruises is the world's third largest cruise brand as well as the market leader in Europe, South America, the Gulf region and Southern Africa. It is also the fastest growing global cruise brand with a strong presence in the Caribbean, North America and the Far East markets.
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC Cruises is one of the two brands that sit within the Cruise Division of MSC Group, the world's leading and privately held shipping and logistics conglomerate with over 300 years of maritime heritage. MSC Cruises – the contemporary brand - has a modern fleet of 21 vessels combined with a sizeable future global investment portfolio of new vessels, terminals and other assets. The fleet is projected to grow to 23 cruise ships by 2025, with options for six more vessel orders in place through 2030.
MSC Cruises offers its guests an enriching, immersive and safe cruise experience inspired by the Company's European heritage, where they can enjoy international dining, world-class entertainment, award-winning family programs, and the very latest user-friendly technology on board. To learn more about MSC Cruises' itineraries and experience on board its ships, click here.
The line's number one priority has always been the health and safety of its guests and crew, as well as the communities at the destinations its ships serve. In August 2020, MSC Cruises implemented a new comprehensive and robust health and safety protocol to become the first major line to return to sea. To learn more about MSC Cruises' health & safety protocol, click here.
MSC Cruises has long been committed to environmental stewardship, with a long-term goal to achieve net zero emissions for its operations by 2050. The Company is also a significant investor in next-generation environmental marine technologies, with the objective to support their accelerated development and availability industry-wide. To learn more about the Company's environmental commitment, click here.
Finally, to learn more about the MSC Foundation, MSC Group's own vehicle to lead, focus and advance its conservation, humanitarian and cultural commitments, click here.
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SOURCE MSC Cruises | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/12/05/worlds-newest-cruise-ship-arrives-new-york-city-msc-cruises-welcomes-msc-seascape-fleet/ | 2022-12-05 20:38:12 | 1 | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/12/05/worlds-newest-cruise-ship-arrives-new-york-city-msc-cruises-welcomes-msc-seascape-fleet/ |
CONWAY, N.H. (AP) — Bakery owner Sean Young was thrilled when high school art students covered the big blank wall over his doorway last spring with a painting of the sun shining over a mountain range made of sprinkle-covered chocolate and strawberry donuts, a blueberry muffin, a cinnamon roll and other pastries.
The display got rave reviews, and Young looked forward to collaborating with the school on more mural projects at his roadside bakery in Conway, New Hampshire.
Then the town zoning board got involved, deciding that the pastry painting was not so much art as advertising, and so could not remain as is because of its size. Faced with modifying or removing the mural, or possibly dealing with fines and criminal charges, Young sued, saying the town is violating his freedom of speech rights.
The painting could stay right where it is it if showed actual mountains, instead of pastries suggesting mountains, or if the building wasn’t a bakery.
“They said it would be art elsewhere,” Young told The Associated Press in an interview. “It’s just not art here.”
“The town should not have the right to police art,” he said.
The controversy has residents of this town of 10,000 grappling with big questions about creativity and liberty as it tries to preserve its rural character. Like other White Mountain communities that draw skiers, nature lovers and shoppers, Conway is under development pressure, making the sign dispute fraught with worries that any concession to commerce could change what they hold dear.
Many — including the zoning board members — applauded the students’ colorful work, but said rules must be followed, even if they’re old and outdated. At about 90 square feet (8.6 square meters), the mural is four times bigger than the sign code allows.
Following a longstanding democratic tradition of New England town meetings, residents deliberated how to define a sign before ultimately voting down changes last week. The local newspaper said the proposed wording wasn’t clear. Ultimately, a judge may have to resolve what remains an open debate in town.
“Those kids put their heart in it,” retiree Steve Downing said. He thinks the painting should stay.
“Everyone has to comply with the ordinance,” said Charlie Birch, a former U.S. Forest Service worker. “And even though it was done by the students, which was well done, and I give them a lot of credit for it … if you have the ordinance, ‘One for all,’ that’s where we are. You can’t really make any exceptions, otherwise everybody else will want the exception.”
Art teacher Olivia Benish, who worked with three students on the project, apologized to the board in September for not doing “due diligence” to make sure the mural would comply. She didn’t respond to requests for an interview. But she told the board members that there has to be a way to give students the opportunity to create positive public works of art “without upsetting the law and the powers that be,” according to the town minutes.
The lawsuit Young filed in January argues that the town is unconstitutionally discriminating against him. He asked a judge to prevent the town from enforcing its sign code.
And now other businesses have been drawn into the controversy.
Long before the pastry painting was installed, the town had allowed other murals at a local shopping center, but in December the town found that three of those artworks are, indeed, signs that violate size limits. They go before the zoning board on Wednesday.
Young, who is being represented by the Virginia-based Institute for Justice, asked for $1 in damages. Meanwhile, he’s selling T-shirts as a high school art department fundraiser, saying “This is Art” with the artwork on the front, and “This is a Sign” of a roadside “Leavitt’s Country Bakery” sign on the back.
“As Conway officials have confirmed, the town does not consider a painting to be a “sign” if it does not convey what town officials perceive to be a commercial message,” the lawsuit says. “But the town’s perception is that any mural depicting anything related to a business is a ‘sign.’ This is governmental discrimination based on the content of the speech” and the speaker’s identity, it said.
The lawsuit says the town’s sign definition is “incredibly broad,” with no mention of murals in the code: A sign in Conway is “any device, fixture, placard, structure or attachment thereto that uses color, form, graphic, illumination, symbol, or writing to advertise, announce the purpose of, or identify the purpose of any person or entity, or to communicate information of any kind to the public, whether commercial or noncommercial.”
Board member Luigi Bartolomeo said he thinks the pastry painting is art, not advertising. He read the definition out loud a t the board’s meeting in August, and said he agrees with a local attorney who called it “unconstitutionally vague.”
“I think it’s a very badly written piece of code here,” said Bartolomeo, who recently retired. But Board Chairperson John Colbath said the board has to work with the ordinance, which was approved by voters, and that there is a process to change that.
“If they had done a seasonal mural on the wall — covered bridges and sunflowers and what have you — and it did not represent what your business is in, then it would be more likely to be a well-respected piece of art and not construed as a sign,” Colbath said at the August meeting.
He said to Young, “I understand the art thing — and you look and you see a mountain — but the general public sees donuts on the front of the bakery.”
“I think most of the people said it’s art,” Young responded.
In its denial of Young’s appeals, the board concluded that the bakery won’t be negatively affected without the display.
“This supposed distinction between murals and signs shouldn’t matter,” attorney Betsy Sanz of the Institute said in a news release. “After all, nothing in the First Amendment distinguishes between art and commercial signs — or commercial speech of any kind.”
The town and Young agreed in February to pause court proceedings — and any potential fines or charges — pending a vote on a revised definition that would allow the painting to stay. But it failed in last week’s elections, with 805 to 750 voting against it, according to the town clerk’s office. The judge now wants to hear from both sides by May 10.
“We’re ready to keep going,” Young said.
Town Manager John Eastman declined an interview, referring questions to town lawyer Jason Dennis, who said he would soon meet with town officials to discuss next steps.
The Conway Daily Sun offered its analysis in an editorial last week: “Voters smartly concluded that the proposed new definition of signs would only further complicate enforcement. That said, it is not a stretch to conjecture that most voters are fine with the murals at Leavitt’s Country Bakery and Settlers Green. We suggest the town figure out a way to back off enforcement until a clearer definition can be written, one that accommodates ‘art.'” | https://www.kark.com/news/national-news/is-this-art-or-an-ad/ | 2023-04-18 11:27:26 | 0 | https://www.kark.com/news/national-news/is-this-art-or-an-ad/ |
HARRISBURG, Ill., June 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Clearwave Fiber will begin building the company's state-of-the art, all-fiber Internet network in Lansing, KS. This latest expansion marks the company's first network presence in Kansas and underscores its goal to bring the most advanced and fastest Internet available to more than 500,000 homes and businesses across the United States by 2027.
Clearwave Fiber's Vice President of Kansas, Stormy Supiran, stressed the importance of the company's investment to consumers and the broader local community. "We are committed to providing underserved communities with the high-speed connectivity that is essential for families, businesses, and local economies; without these essential services, many of the communities we are targeting may struggle to survive," said Supiran. "We are excited to extend services to Lansing, and we look forward to becoming long-term partners to the community."
Clearwave Fiber partnered with the City of Lansing to deliver ultra-fast broadband service to residents through the use of Federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. "We are pleased to partner with Clearwave Fiber to provide our citizens with the reliability and speed that an al-fiber internet connection will provide. This is truly an investment into the future of our community," said Lansing City Administrator, Tim Vandall.
Featuring gigabit download and upload speeds, Clearwave Fiber will bring ten times more speed to consumer doorsteps at a time when fast, reliable Internet is becoming increasingly critical to modern households. "More and more, we see households where multiple bandwidth-intensive activities occur simultaneously and many consumers' Internet connections just aren't up to the task," said Clearwave Fiber's Midwest President, Byron Cantrall. "The Clearwave Fiber network solves that problem."
For many consumers, Internet touches every facet of daily life. Remote work, telehealth, and virtual learning all require robust, reliable connections. A 2021 study by Deloitte indicated that 55% of U.S. households include one or more remote workers, and 43% include at least one household member attending virtual classes.
Clearwave Fiber is slated to being construction this month. For more information, visit clearwave.com/home.
Clearwave Fiber is an Internet service provider based in Savannah, GA that operates a more than 2,000 route-mile fiber network serving cities across the Midwest and Southeast regions of the United States. Delivering advanced telecommunications solutions with an emphasis on exceptional customer care and community engagement, they provide fiber to business, enterprise, and residential customers in more than 90 municipalities in Illinois and Kansas.
View original content to download multimedia:
SOURCE Clearwave Fiber | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/06/27/clearwave-fiber-begins-buildout-fiber-internet-lansing-ks/ | 2022-06-27 14:06:14 | 0 | https://www.kfyrtv.com/prnewswire/2022/06/27/clearwave-fiber-begins-buildout-fiber-internet-lansing-ks/ |
Egypt is our Pet of the Day! She is a Australian Shepherd/Australian Cattle Dog mix available at the Lexington Humane Society's Main Adoption Center on Old Frankfort Pike. Adopt today!
- Learn more about Richmond Road Veterinary Clinic: https://bit.ly/40mydNx
- Learn more about Tates Creek Animal Hospital: https://bit.ly/3HnAzmH | https://www.lex18.com/community/pet-of-the-day/pet-of-the-day-egypt | 2023-05-22 17:48:15 | 0 | https://www.lex18.com/community/pet-of-the-day/pet-of-the-day-egypt |
SOCCER
BOYS
CLASS 6A
At Fort Smith Southside
First round
Thursday
Rogers 2, Little Rock Southwest 0
Springdale Har-Ber 1, Bryant 0, OT
Cabot 2, Fort Smith Southside 0
Springdale 2, Little Rock Central 0
Second round
Today
MATCH 5 Conway vs. Rogers, 10 a.m.
MATCH 6 Bentonville vs. Springdale Har-Ber, noon
MATCH 7 Fayetteville vs. Cabot, 2 p.m.
MATCH 8 Little Rock Catholic vs. Springdale, 4 p.m.
Semifinals
Saturday
MATCH 9 Winner of Match 5 vs. Winner of Match 6, noon
MATCH 10 Winner of Match 7 vs. Winner of Match 8, 4 p.m.
CLASS 5A
At Valley View/Greene Co. Tech/Paragould/Nettleton
First round
Thursday
Pulaski Academy 3, Benton 0
Van Buren 6, Greene Co. Tech 0
Hot Springs Lakeside 4, Maumelle 0
Valley View 3, Harrison 2, OT
Mountain Home 4, Searcy 2
Hot Springs 4, Vilonia 3
Russellville 5, Batesville 0
Lake Hamilton 2, Little Rock Christian 0
Second round
Today
MATCH 9 Pulaski Academy vs. Van Buren, noon (at Nettleton)
MATCH 10 Hot Springs Lakeside vs. Valley View, noon (at Valley View)
MATCH 11 Mountain Home vs. Hot Springs, 4 p.m. (at Nettleton)
MATCH 12 Russellville vs. Lake Hamilton, 4 p.m. (at Valley View)
Semifinals
Saturday
MATCH 13 Winner of Match 9 vs. Winner of Match 10, noon (at Valley View)
MATCH 14 Winner of Match 11 vs. Winner of Match 12, 4 p.m. (at Valley View)
CLASS 4A
At Joe T. Robinson/Bauxite/Mills
First round
Thursday
Clarksville 8, Crossett 1
Joe T. Robinson 2, Morrilton 0
Dardanelle 3, Warren 1
Harding Academy 3, Hope 2
Brookland 3, Nashville 2
Berryville 4, Star City 0
De Queen 4, LISA Academy West 0
Farmington 5, Hamburg 2
Second round
Today
MATCH 9 Clarksville vs. Joe T. Robinson, noon (at Robinson)
MATCH 10 Dardanelle vs. Harding Academy, noon (at Bauxite)
MATCH 11 Brookland vs. Berryville, 4 p.m. (at Robinson)
MATCH 12 De Queen vs. Farmington, 4 p.m. (at Bauxite)
Semifinals
Saturday
MATCH 13 Winner of Match 9 vs. Winner of Match 10, noon (at Robinson)
MATCH 14 Winner of Match 11 vs. Winner of Match 12, 4 p.m. (at Robinson)
CLASS 3A
At Bergman
First round
Thursday
Green Forest 7, Hermitage 0
Mountain View 4, Danville 0
Central Ark. Christian 5, Eureka Springs 1
Subiaco Academy 3, Buffalo Island Central 1
Crowley's Ridge 10, Benton Harmony Grove 0
Haas Hall Bentonville 4, Episcopal Collegiate 2
Cossatot River 2, Conway Christian 1
Decatur 3, Maumelle 1
Second round
Today
MATCH 9 Green Forest vs. Mountain View, noon (at Weichert Realty Field)
MATCH 10 Central Ark. Christian vs. Subiaco Academy, noon (at Fed Ex Field)
MATCH 11 Crowley's Ridge vs. Haas Hall Bentonville, 4 p.m. (at Weichert Realty Field)
MATCH 12 Cossatot River vs. Decatur, 4 p.m. (at Fed Ex Field)
Semifinals
Saturday
MATCH 13 Winner of Match 9 vs. Winner of Match 10, noon (at Fed Ex Field)
MATCH 14 Winner of Match 11 vs. Winner of Match 12, 4 p.m. (at Fed Ex Field)
GIRLS
CLASS 6A
At Fort Smith Northside/Southside
First round
At Fort Smith Northside
Thursday
Rogers Heritage 3, Jonesboro 0
Fort Smith Northside 1, Conway 0
Bentonville West 2, Bryant 1, 2OT
Rogers 5, North Little Rock 0
Second round
At Fort Smith Northside
Today
MATCH 5 Mount St. Mary vs. Rogers Heritage, 10 a.m.
MATCH 6 Fayetteville vs. Fort Smith Northside, noon
MATCH 7 Bentonville vs. Bentonville West, 2 p.m.
MATCH 8 Little Rock Central vs. Rogers, 4 p.m.
Semifinals
At Fort Smith Southside
Saturday
MATCH 9 Winner of Match 5 vs. Winner of Match 6, 10 a.m.
MATCH 10 Winner of Match 7 vs. Winner of Match 8, 2 p.m.
CLASS 5A
At Nettleton/Greene Co. Tech/Valley View/Paragould
First round
Thursday
Pulaski Academy 9, Sheridan 0
Siloam Springs 2, Greene Co. Tech 1
El Dorado 9, Vilonia 0
Russellville 2, Searcy 1
Valley View 5, Greenwood 0
Maumelle 2, Hot Springs Lakeside 0
Harrison 6, Paragould 0
Little Rock Christian 2, Benton 0
Second round
Today
MATCH 9 Pulaski Academy vs. Siloam Springs, 10 a.m. (at Nettleton)
MATCH 10 El Dorado vs. Russellville, 10 a.m. (at Valley View)
MATCH 11 Valley View vs. Maumelle, 2 p.m. (at Valley View)
MATCH 12 Harrison vs. Little Rock Christian, 2 p.m. (at Nettleton)
Semifinals
Saturday
MATCH 13 Winner of Match 9 vs. Winner of Match 10, 10 a.m. (at Valley View)
MATCH 14 Winner of Match 11 vs. Winner of Match 12, 2 p.m. (at Valley View)
CLASS 4A
At Bauxite/Joe T. Robinson/Mills
First round
Thursday
Dardanelle 4, Warren 0
Joe T. Robinson 7, Hope 0
Gentry 5, Hamburg 1
Brookland 7, Bauxite
Harding Academy 10, Mena 0
Shiloh Christian 7, Star City 0
De Queen 2, Heber Springs 1
Prairie Grove 4, Stuttgart 0
Second round
Today
MATCH 9 Dardanelle vs. Joe T. Robinson, 10 a.m. (at Robinson)
MATCH 10 Gentry vs. Brookland, 10 a.m. (at Bauxite)
MATCH 11 Harding Academy vs. Shiloh Christian, 2 p.m. (at Robinson)
MATCH 12 De Queen vs. Prairie Grove, 2 p.m. (at Bauxite)
Semifinals
Saturday
MATCH 13 Winner of Match 9 vs. Winner of Match 10, 10 a.m. (at Robinson)
MATCH 14 Winner of Match 11 vs. Winner of Match 12, 2 p.m. (at Robinson)
CLASS 3A
At Bergman
First round
Thursday
Life Way Christian 4, Maumelle Charter 0
Cave City 5, Centerpoint 0
Episcopal Collegiate 6, Thaden 0
Danville 4, Conway St. Joseph 1
Riverview 7, Benton Harmony Grove 0
Green Forest 6, Baptist Prep 0
Cossatot River 4, Conway Christian 1
Central Ark. Christian 4, Decatur 0
Second round
Today
MATCH 9 Life Way Christian vs. Cave City, 10 a.m. (at Weichert Realty Field)
MATCH 10 Episcopal Collegiate vs. Danville, 10 a.m. (at Fed Ex Field)
MATCH 11 Riverview vs. Green Forest, 2 p.m. (at Weichert Realty Field)
MATCH 12 Cossatot River vs. Central Ark. Christian, 2 p.m. (at Fed Ex Field)
Semifinals
Saturday
MATCH 13 Winner of Match 9 vs. Winner of Match 10, 10 a.m. (at Fed Ex Field)
MATCH 14 Winner of Match 11 vs. Winner of Match 12, 2 p.m. (at Fed Ex Field) | https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2023/may/12/soccer-schedule/ | 2023-05-12 07:56:13 | 0 | https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2023/may/12/soccer-schedule/ |
The Supreme Court is considering whether to block lower court decisions that have have reached a variety of verdicts about the drug mifepristone.
Copyright 2023 NPR
The Supreme Court is considering whether to block lower court decisions that have have reached a variety of verdicts about the drug mifepristone.
Copyright 2023 NPR | https://www.kasu.org/justice-crime/justice-crime/2023-04-19/fate-of-abortion-pills-remains-in-doubt-as-supreme-court-ponders-lower-court-verdicts | 2023-04-19 20:56:41 | 0 | https://www.kasu.org/justice-crime/justice-crime/2023-04-19/fate-of-abortion-pills-remains-in-doubt-as-supreme-court-ponders-lower-court-verdicts |
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WASHINGTON (AP) — Rep. Jeff Jackson of North Carolina has used it to explain the complex fight over raising the debt limit. Rep. Robert Garcia of California has used it to engage with members of the LGBTQ+ community. And Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania has used it to give an overview of Election Day results.
As pressure against TikTok mounts in Washington, the more than two dozen members of Congress — all Democrats — who are active on the social media platform are being pushed by their colleagues to stop using it. Many defend their presence on the platform, saying they have a responsibility as public officials to meet Americans where they are — and more than 150 million are on TikTok.
“I’m sensitive to the ban and recognize some of the security implications. But there is no more robust and expeditious way to reach young people in the United States of America than TikTok,” Democratic Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota told The Associated Press.
Yet the lawmakers active on TikTok remain a distinct minority. Most in Congress are in favor of limiting the app, forcing a sale to remove connections to China, or even banning it outright. The U.S. armed forces and more than half of U.S. states have already banned the app from official devices, as has the federal government. Similar bans have been imposed in Denmark, Canada, Great Britain and New Zealand, as well as the European Union.
Criticism of TikTok reached a new level last week as CEO Shou Zi Chew testified for more than six hours at a contentious hearing in the House. Lawmakers grilled Chew about the implications of the app for America's national security and the effect on the mental health of its users. And the tough questions came from both sides of the aisle, as Republicans and Democrats alike pressed Chew about TikTok’s content moderation practices, its ability to shield American data from Beijing, and its spying on journalists.
“I've got to hand it to you," said Rep. August Pfluger, R-Texas, as members questioned Chew over data security and harmful content. “You’ve actually done something that in the last three to four years has not happened except for the exception of maybe (Russian president) Vladimir Putin. You have unified Republicans and Democrats.”
While the hearing made plain that lawmakers view TikTok as a threat, their lack of first-hand experience with the app was apparent at times. Some made inaccurate and head-scratching comments, seemingly not understanding how TikTok connects to a home Wi-Fi router or how it moderates illicit content.
Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Wis., who is active on the app and opposes a nationwide ban, called the hearing “cringeworthy."
“It was just so painful to watch,” he told the AP on Friday. “And it just shows the real problem is Congress doesn’t have a lot of expertise, whether it be social media or, for that matter, more importantly, technology.”
Garcia, who said he uses TikTok more as a consumer, said most of his colleagues who are proposing a nationwide ban told him they had never used the app. “It gets hard to understand if you’re not actually on it,” the freshman Democrat said. “And at the end of the day, a lot of TikTok is harmless people dancing and funny videos.”
“It’s also incredibly rich educational content, and learning how to bake and learning about the political process,” he said.
Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., who has more than 180,000 followers on the app, held a news conference with TikTok influencers before the hearing. He accused Republicans of pushing a ban on TikTok for political reasons.
“There are 150 million people on TikTok and we are more connected to them than Republicans are,” Bowman said. “So for them, it’s all about fear-mongering and power. It’s not TikTok, because, again, we’ve looked the other way and allowed Facebook and other platforms to do similar things.”
Critics of TikTok in Congress say their opposition is rooted in national security, not politics. TikTok is a wholly owned subsidiary of Chinese technology firm ByteDance Ltd., which appoints its executives. They worry Chinese authorities could force ByteDance to hand over TikTok data on American users, effectively turning the app into a data-mining operation for a foreign power. The company insists it is taking steps to make sure that can never happen.
“The basic approach that we’re following is to make it physically impossible for any government, including the Chinese government, to get access to U.S. user data,” general counsel Erich Andersen said during an interview with the AP on Friday at a cybersecurity conference in California.
TikTok has been emphasizing a $1.5 billion proposal to store all U.S. user data on servers owned and maintained by the software giant Oracle. Access to U.S. data would be managed by U.S. employees through a separate entity run independently of ByteDance and monitored by outside observers.
Republican Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina took the unusual step of releasing a public statement urging all members of Congress to stop using TikTok, including from his home state — seemingly a jab at Jackson, who is one of the more active members with more than 1.8 million followers.
“I was just saying if we’re having a discussion about TikTok then I think we ought to at least reduce the pull factor by elected officials who can simply come off of it,” Tillis said this week, when asked about his statement. “I don’t have a TikTok account. So that was an easy separation for me.”
Loud warnings about TikTok have also been coming from the Biden administration. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and FBI Director Christopher Wray have told Congress in recent weeks that TikTok is a national security threat. Blinken told lawmakers the threat “should be ended one way or another."
But some members are unconvinced.
“It’s like turning your cell phone off on an airplane. You’re supposed to do. And if it was super dangerous, I don’t think we will be allowed to have the phone on the plane,” Rep. Greg Landsman, D-Ohio, said Wednesday, “So if it was super dangerous for members of Congress to have this app on their phone, you have to imagine the administration or our government would say absolutely not, you can’t have it on a government phone.”
Concerns about what kind of content Americans encounter online, or how their data is collected by technology companies, also aren’t new. Congress has been wanting to curtail the amount of data tech companies collect on consumers through a national privacy law, but those efforts have stalled repeatedly over the years.
Supporters of TikTok on Capitol Hill are urging their colleagues to educate themselves about social media as a whole so Congress can pass legislation that deals with broader issues of data privacy, instead of hyper-focusing on a ban of TikTok, which could risk political backlash and a court fight over the reach of the First Amendment.
“We are uninformed and misinformed. We don’t even understand how social media works. We don’t know anything about data brokers and how data brokers sell our data to foreign countries and foreign companies right now,” Bowman said. “So ban TikTok tomorrow, this stuff is still going to be happening.”
___
Associated Press writer Haleluya Hadero in Sausalito, California, contributed to this report. | https://www.expressnews.com/news/politics/article/members-of-congress-on-tiktok-defend-app-s-reach-17874935.php | 2023-04-03 04:42:10 | 0 | https://www.expressnews.com/news/politics/article/members-of-congress-on-tiktok-defend-app-s-reach-17874935.php |
NEW YORK, June 20, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --
WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of LivePerson, Inc. (NASDAQ: LPSN) between May 10, 2022 and March 16, 2023, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important June 23, 2023 lead plaintiff deadline in the securities class action filed by the Firm.
SO WHAT: If you purchased LivePerson securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the LivePerson class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=13260 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than June 23, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions. Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) LivePerson failed to address any material weaknesses with internal controls; (2) LivePerson's third quarter financial statements, ended in September 30, 2022 failed to disclose WildHealth's suspension of Medicare reimbursement; (3) as a result, LivePerson's fourth quarter 2022 revenue would be affected; and (4) as a result, defendants' statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.
To join the LivePerson class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=13260 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.
No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm or on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm.
Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm's attorneys are ranked and recognized by numerous independent and respected sources. Rosen Law Firm has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for investors.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
-------------------------------
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The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
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Tel: (212) 686-1060
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SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A. | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2023/06/20/rosen-leading-national-firm-encourages-liveperson-inc-investors-secure-counsel-before-important-june-23-deadline-first-filed-securities-class-action-commenced-by-firm-lpsn/ | 2023-06-20 17:35:23 | 1 | https://www.kswo.com/prnewswire/2023/06/20/rosen-leading-national-firm-encourages-liveperson-inc-investors-secure-counsel-before-important-june-23-deadline-first-filed-securities-class-action-commenced-by-firm-lpsn/ |
PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. — A major milestone for a police officer in Tennessee who's been battling COVID-19 for months. He was brought to Palm Beach County as a last resort and received a treatment that helped save his life.
Sean Finn took his first steps after spending four months fighting to survive at HCA Florida JFK Hospital, and fighting to overcome the effects from COVID-19.
"I mean it's a true miracle. There's no other word for it," said Lauren Finn, Sean's wife.
Lauren Finn is celebrating her birthday by her husband's side. She's been balancing time at the hospital and back home with their two young daughters in Tennessee.
"I feel good. I'm just trying to figure out how to get me home," said Sean Finn.
Sean is a police officer in Franklin, Tennessee.
Both Sean and Lauren were not vaccinated and started feeling sick around Christmas. Lauren had mild symptoms, but Sean was admitted into the hospital on New Year's Day.
Seven days later, he was placed on a ventilator.
"On January 14, they moved me from Tennessee and they flew me to JFK," Sean said.
He came here for life-saving treatment a last resort and was hooked up to an ECMO machine, essentially an artificial lung.
"It's similar to a dialysis machine, but instead of cleaning out toxins, the ECMO machine gives oxygen and takes out carbon dioxide," said Dr. Daniel Bali.
At one point, Lauren gathered family members, thinking the end could be near.
"We all had a care meeting and then it was that day he started opening his eyes," Lauren said.
Sean spent more than 80 days on the ECMO, and amazingly, he was taken off the machine this week.
"Everybody says this is the new normal and everything now. Well my new normal is what you're looking at, but it's been a blessing in disguise," Sean said.
This young couple receiving support from family and their community as this virus continues to linger.
"The biggest thing I learned it doesn't care if you're young, healthy, sick," Sean said.
Sean is hoping to be discharged soon, but he will still need rehab to build up his strength.
Doctors say a lung transplant is still possible, but his progress is inspiring. | https://www.wptv.com/coronavirus/police-officer-with-covid-19-receives-life-saving-treatment-in-palm-beach-county | 2022-04-15 22:16:25 | 0 | https://www.wptv.com/coronavirus/police-officer-with-covid-19-receives-life-saving-treatment-in-palm-beach-county |
By MARIA CHENG
AP Medical Writer
LONDON (AP) — A leading adviser to the World Health Organization described the unprecedented outbreak of monkeypox in developed countries as “a random event” that might be explained by sexual behavior at two recent raves in Europe.
Dr. David Heymann, who formerly headed WHO’s emergencies department, told The Associated Press that the leading theory to explain the spread of the disease was sexual transmission among men at raves held in Spain and Belgium. Monkeypox has not previously triggered widespread outbreaks beyond Africa, where it is endemic in animals.
“We know monkeypox can spread when there is close contact with the lesions of someone who is infected, and it looks like sexual contact has now amplified that transmission,” said Heymann.
That marks a significant departure from the disease’s typical pattern of spread in central and western Africa, where people are mainly infected by animals like wild rodents and primates and outbreaks have not spilled across borders.
Health officials say most of the known cases in Europe have been among men who have sex with men, but scientists say it will be difficult to disentangle whether the spread is being driven by sex itself or merely close contact. Anyone can be infected through close contact with a sick person — or their clothing or bedsheets.
“By nature, sexual activity involves intimate contact, which one would expect to increase the likelihood of transmission, whatever a person’s sexual orientation and irrespective of the mode of transmission,” said Mike Skinner, a virologist at Imperial College London.
On Monday, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control Director Andrea Ammon said “the likelihood of further spread of the virus through close contact, for example during sexual activities among persons with multiple sexual partners, is considered to be high.”
To date, WHO has recorded more than 90 cases of monkeypox in a dozen countries including Britain, Spain, Israel, France, Switzerland, the U.S. and Australia. On Monday, Denmark announced its first case, Portugal revised its total upwards to 37 and Italy reported one further infection.
Germany has four confirmed cases linked to exposure at “party events … where sexual activity took place” in Spain’s Canary Islands and in Berlin, according to a government report to lawmakers obtained by the AP.
Madrid’s senior health official said Monday that the Spanish capital had 30 confirmed cases. Enrique Ruiz Escudero said authorities are investigating possible links between a recent Gay Pride event in the Canary Islands, which drew some 80,000 people, and cases at a Madrid sauna.
The monkeypox cases so far have been mild, with no deaths reported. Typically, the virus causes fever, chills, rash and lesions on the face or genitals. Most people recover within several weeks without requiring hospitalization.
Vaccines against smallpox, a related disease, are effective in preventing monkeypox and some antiviral drugs are being developed. In recent years, the illness has been fatal in up to 6% of infections.
Heymann chaired an urgent meeting of WHO’s advisory group on infectious disease threats on Friday to assess the outbreak and said there was no evidence to suggest that monkeypox had mutated into a more infectious form.
The U.N. agency said the outbreak is “a highly unusual event” and said the fact that cases are being seen in so many different countries suggests the virus may have been silently spreading for some time. The agency’s Europe director warned that festivals and parties could accelerate spread.
Still, at a public session on Monday, WHO officials described the outbreak as “containable” and cautioned against stigmatizing affected groups, saying the disease can infect anyone.
Authorities in Britain, Spain and Portugal have said most of the cases identified so far were in young men whose infections were picked up when they sought help for lesions at sexual health clinics.
Heymann, who is also a professor of infectious diseases at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said the monkeypox outbreak was likely a random event that might be traceable to a single infection.
“It’s very possible there was somebody who got infected, developed lesions on the genitals, hands or somewhere else, and then spread it to others when there was sexual or close, physical contact,” Heymann hypothesized. “And then there were these international events that seeded the outbreak around the world, into the U.S. and other European countries.”
He emphasized that the disease was unlikely to trigger widespread transmission.
“This is not COVID,” he said. “We need to slow it down, but it does not spread in the air and we have vaccines to protect against it.”
Heymann said studies should be conducted rapidly to determine if monkeypox could be spread by people without symptoms and that populations at risk of the disease should take precautions to protect themselves.
____
Barry Hatton in Lisbon, Portugal, and Frank Jordans and Kirsten Grieshaber in Berlin, contributed to this report.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. | https://wtmj.com/national/2022/05/23/expert-monkeypox-likely-spread-by-sex-at-2-raves-in-europe-3/ | 2022-05-23 19:07:44 | 0 | https://wtmj.com/national/2022/05/23/expert-monkeypox-likely-spread-by-sex-at-2-raves-in-europe-3/ |
Related video above: Quinta Brunson talks A+ first semester for 'Abbott Elementary'Quinta Brunson brought the audience to its feet when she won her first Emmy — but at her feet during the moment was Jimmy Kimmel, who pretended to be unconscious and stayed on the floor while she accepted her award as part of an intended joke that ended up miffing some viewers.Kimmel presented the award for outstanding writing for a comedy series with Will Arnett, who dragged Kimmel on stage and joked that Kimmel "got into the skinny margaritas" at the theater's bar after losing in an earlier category.After the "Abbott Elementary" creator and star was announced as the winner for writing the pilot of the popular sitcom, Kimmel stayed on the ground at the base of the microphone stand. He remained there throughout Brunson's acceptance speech and into the commercial break, nearly two minutes in total.Footage shared by a ceremony attendee showed that Arnett pulled Kimmel's body offstage at the end of the segment.Brunson, unfazed, used her limited time to thank the "Abbott Elementary" team, her family and her husband, but not without a dig at Kimmel: "Jimmy, wake up. I won!"Kimmel remained out of the camera's frame for the duration of Brunson's speech, which lasted roughly one minute.Later backstage, Brunson addressed the moment, saying the bit "didn't bother me that much," adding that Kimmel was an early supporter of her and "Abbott Elementary.""Tomorrow maybe I'll be mad at him. I'm going to be on his show on Wednesday, so I might punch him in the face," she joked.It would be the final time Brunson would appear onstage Monday. "Ted Lasso" won over "Abbott Elementary" in the outstanding comedy category, its second win in as many years.Though Brunson's win was widely celebrated — "Abbott Elementary" is a massive hit, ABC's most successful comedy in years — many viewers chided Kimmel for not ceding the spotlight, particularly to a Black woman accepting her first Emmy. (Kimmel, meanwhile, has been nominated for 18 Emmys and won two since 2012.)Sociologist Nancy Wang Yuen, who studies race in the entertainment industry, congratulated Brunson for "Abbott Elementary," whose cast is primarily Black and takes place in an underfunded Philadelphia public school. But she didn't think much of Kimmel's joke: "And presenter Jimmy Kimmel, get up, it's unfunny and rude," Yuen tweeted. Brunson, meanwhile, will return with the anticipated second season of "Abbott Elementary" on Sept. 21.
Related video above: Quinta Brunson talks A+ first semester for 'Abbott Elementary'
Quinta Brunson brought the audience to its feet when she won her first Emmy — but at her feet during the moment was Jimmy Kimmel, who pretended to be unconscious and stayed on the floor while she accepted her award as part of an intended joke that ended up miffing some viewers.
Kimmel presented the award for outstanding writing for a comedy series with Will Arnett, who dragged Kimmel on stage and joked that Kimmel "got into the skinny margaritas" at the theater's bar after losing in an earlier category.
After the "Abbott Elementary" creator and star was announced as the winner for writing the pilot of the popular sitcom, Kimmel stayed on the ground at the base of the microphone stand. He remained there throughout Brunson's acceptance speech and into the commercial break, nearly two minutes in total.
Mark Terrill
Quinta Brunson, right, winner of the Emmy for outstanding writing for a comedy series for "Abbott Elementary," checks on Jimmy Kimmel as he lays on stage at the 74th Primetime Emmy Awards on Monday, Sept. 12, 2022.
Footage shared by a ceremony attendee showed that Arnett pulled Kimmel's body offstage at the end of the segment.
Brunson, unfazed, used her limited time to thank the "Abbott Elementary" team, her family and her husband, but not without a dig at Kimmel: "Jimmy, wake up. I won!"
Kimmel remained out of the camera's frame for the duration of Brunson's speech, which lasted roughly one minute.
Later backstage, Brunson addressed the moment, saying the bit "didn't bother me that much," adding that Kimmel was an early supporter of her and "Abbott Elementary."
"Tomorrow maybe I'll be mad at him. I'm going to be on his show on Wednesday, so I might punch him in the face," she joked.
It would be the final time Brunson would appear onstage Monday. "Ted Lasso" won over "Abbott Elementary" in the outstanding comedy category, its second win in as many years.
Though Brunson's win was widely celebrated — "Abbott Elementary" is a massive hit, ABC's most successful comedy in years — many viewers chided Kimmel for not ceding the spotlight, particularly to a Black woman accepting her first Emmy. (Kimmel, meanwhile, has been nominated for 18 Emmys and won two since 2012.)
Sociologist Nancy Wang Yuen, who studies race in the entertainment industry, congratulated Brunson for "Abbott Elementary," whose cast is primarily Black and takes place in an underfunded Philadelphia public school. But she didn't think much of Kimmel's joke: "And presenter Jimmy Kimmel, get up, it's unfunny and rude," Yuen tweeted.
Brunson, meanwhile, will return with the anticipated second season of "Abbott Elementary" on Sept. 21. | https://www.wisn.com/article/jimmy-kimmel-joke-during-quinta-brunsons-emmy-acceptance-miffed-some-viewers-heres-what-happened/41184455 | 2022-09-13 23:36:44 | 0 | https://www.wisn.com/article/jimmy-kimmel-joke-during-quinta-brunsons-emmy-acceptance-miffed-some-viewers-heres-what-happened/41184455 |
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Carolina Panthers coach Matt Rhule said backup quarterback Sam Darnold and kicker Zane Gonzalez both suffered “significant” injuries in the 21-0 win over the Buffalo Bills on Friday night.
Darnold has a high ankle sprain, which is normally a four-to-six week injury. But Rhule said doctors haven’t determined how much time he’ll miss, adding that putting him on short-term injured reserve is a possibility.
The Panthers will enter the season with Baker Mayfield as their starter and P.J. Walker as his backup.
“We’re not sure of the exact length of that injury,” Rhule said Saturday on a videoconference call. “We sent those images to a specialist to gauge it, but it does look like a significant injury that could take some time.”
Gonzalez’s injury appears even worse, and there is a possibility it could be season-ending. He will see a specialist to determine the degree of injury.
Rhule wouldn’t specify what Gonzalez did to his groin while practicing kicks into the net on the sideline. But he said the Panthers will be looking to sign a kicker before the Sept. 11 regular-season opener against the Cleveland Browns.
“We are bringing guys in and figuring out our options,” Rhule said.
Gonzalez finished last season 20 of 22 on field goals after joining the Panthers in Week 2 of the regular season and making 22 of 23 extra points. The Panthers re-signed Gonzalez to a two-year, $4.5 million contract after he made his final 17 field goals last season.
Rhule said fullback Gio Ricci was getting an MRI on his groin, but said it doesn’t appear to be as significant as the injuries to Darnold and Gonzalez. Tight end Ian Thomas and center Bradley Bozeman are expected to return from injuries next week and play in the season opener against the Browns.
___
More AP NFL coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL | https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/sports/ap-panthers-darnold-gonzalez-sustain-significant-injuries/ | 2022-08-28 14:28:12 | 0 | https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/sports/ap-panthers-darnold-gonzalez-sustain-significant-injuries/ |
Crash leads to power outage
Published: Dec. 14, 2022 at 5:40 PM CST|Updated: 16 minutes ago
JONESBORO, Ark. (KAIT) – Crews are working to restore power following a crash in Jonesboro.
According to officials at the scene, a truck driver ran into a powerline on Red Wolf Boulevard sometime before 5:30 p.m., forcing a stretch of the road to close.
It was said there is also about a half-mile stretch without power currently.
Officials added the driver was not injured and crews are working to clear the live power line. It’s unclear when the power might come back on.
Region 8 News has a reporter at the scene and will give you a live update tonight at 6.
Copyright 2022 KAIT. All rights reserved. | https://www.kait8.com/2022/12/14/crash-leads-power-outage/ | 2022-12-14 23:58:26 | 1 | https://www.kait8.com/2022/12/14/crash-leads-power-outage/ |
Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame opens honoring James Brown, The Deele and more
CINCINNATI (WXIX) -The long-awaited Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame officially opened to the public Saturday, unveiling years of work honoring the rich music history the city has to offer.
It is a one-of-a-kind family tourism attraction that utilizes interactive technology to allow visitors to sing along to some of their favorite songs from legendary performers who made an impact in the city.
Several notable musicians who made an impact in the Queen City were inducted into the Black Music Walk of Fame Saturday. They include:
- The Deele (LA Reid, Babyface, Carlos Greene, Kevin Robertson, and Darnell Bristol)
- James Brown
- Philippé Wynne
- Louise Shropshire
“This is a concept, an idea that came from the community, and I brought it forward, but we said—bring me Disney World, bring me interactive, bring me something that grandma and the grandkids can enjoy,” Black Music Walk of Fame Founder and President of the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners Alicia Reece said.
Reece says this attraction serves as a way to highlight musical legends and inspire the next generation of musicians.
The immersive experience will allow audiences to perform with Bootsy Collins and Penny Ford, Reece said.
Reece says the attraction will bring in people from all over the country to experience and discover Cincinnati’s legacy in Black music.
“Make no mistake about it, this is a tourism attraction, to attract people from all over the country to learn about the legacy of Black music and black musicians and what they contributed who have come right from here, so this is definitely ‘edutainment’ its tourism, and we’re looking to bring a lot of people in town, a lot of people from all over the county to experience it.”
The Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame is located in front of the Andrew J. Brady Center. Admission is free.
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Copyright 2023 WXIX. All rights reserved. | https://www.wkyt.com/2023/07/22/cincinnati-black-music-walk-fame-opens-honoring-james-brown-deele-more/ | 2023-07-23 11:45:26 | 0 | https://www.wkyt.com/2023/07/22/cincinnati-black-music-walk-fame-opens-honoring-james-brown-deele-more/ |
(NEXSTAR) – It’s probably happened to you. You pull up to a stop light, and you wait patiently for the light to turn green. Maybe cross traffic continues moving through the intersection, or maybe you’re the only car at the intersection.
Yet somehow, the light never seems to turn green.
Chances are, you’re sitting at a light that doesn’t know you’re there.
Some traffic lights run on timers, which can vary by the time of day or during certain events. In Minneapolis, for example, there are set patterns for lights during Minnesota Twins or Timberwolves games and other special events.
If that’s the case, you’ll be stuck waiting your turn for the light to change.
However, other traffic lights rely on detection devices, including cameras or underground sensors.
You’ve likely seen the latter — before the stop line, you’ll notice a rectangle outlined in tar or that has a different color than the pavement around it. This is known as an induction loop.
“A loop is simply a coil of wire that is placed underneath the pavement, usually in the shape of a rectangle,” the public works department for Neenah, Wisconsin, explains. “When a large metal object is positioned over the loop (for example, a car), it affects the loop’s magnetic field.”
Once the traffic signal detects your vehicle, it knows it has to change the light.
Sometimes setting off these sensors can be difficult since vehicles need to pass over or stop within its detection area. To ensure you’re within that detection area, you’ll need to pull up to the solid white stop line at the intersection.
Not driving a car? Instead of parking your motorcycle, bicycle, moped, or other similar vehicle in the center of the loop, Neenah Public Works recommends positioning your tires on the tar lines.
Two other sensors, magnetic detectors and magnetometers, detect differences in the Earth’s magnetic field, caused by a vehicle passing over or stopping on it, to control the lights, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration. Like the induction loop, you’ll need to position your vehicle over the detectors to activate the light.
A traffic signal may also rely on sensors stationed above the roadway.
That includes infrared sensors, which are triggered once a vehicle breaks a beam of light or if it detects heat from a vehicle’s engine. Other signals may also use cameras, which can be connected to a network designed to detect traffic and adjust the signals as needed (those cameras may also be watching to catch drivers that run red lights).
You should be able to see both at the traffic light. They’ll look like a security camera you may see at a bank or store, often next to the traffic light itself. Some infrared laser sensors are contained in metal boxes hanging above the roadway.
In many cases, an intersection will rely on a combination of the above methods to control the lights. Los Angeles, for example, deployed a system in 2021 that uses magnetic sensors, cameras, and a central computer network to control all of its 4,400 traffic lights to combat gridlock.
If you are stuck at a red light, and have already tried pulling forward onto the sensor, you can also try flashing your high-beam headlights to activate the sensor. Honking your horn will not work, since these sensors don’t detect sound.
Even if it’s taking a long time to change, don’t run it. If you’re trying to turn left or go straight, you may need to look for another opportunity to get out of the intersection.
This could include making a right turn, where legal, and rerouting yourself where you need to go. If you find yourself waiting on a left turn light, you can turn through the red signal when the light turns green for traffic traveling straight ahead, California Highway Patrol Officer Dan Olivas explained to the Press Enterprise.
He encourages being “safe about it” and, if you are stopped, explaining the situation to law enforcement. | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/stuck-at-a-red-light-you-may-need-to-let-it-know-youre-there/ | 2023-07-09 16:13:09 | 1 | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/stuck-at-a-red-light-you-may-need-to-let-it-know-youre-there/ |
NOBLESVILLE — A Hamilton County woman is expressing her gratitude to the family who donated an organ from their loved one, which gave her a second chance at life.
Emmy Nix almost never got the chance to live her dreams of becoming a mom, wife and nurse.
She got sick with ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease, at a young age. The disease led to primary sclerosing cholangitis, a chronic liver disease.
"I was kind of oblivious to the whole thing," Nix said. "I just kept going, like what else is there to do?"
She was given one to two years to live.
"If it was my time, it was my time. I think I had come to terms with that," Nix said.
Nix's liver was failing; She needed a transplant.
As she waited, she studied for exams in nursing school, met her now husband Jason and prayed for a new liver.
Nix's time limit on life was given seven years ago.
She received a liver from a total stranger. Seven years ago, livers only came from deceased patients.
"I never prayed that somebody would die and that I would live," Nix sad.
But that gift of life is something that's left Nix with gratitude. Since her transplant, Nix has gotten to live a life she otherwise never would have had.
"I am a nurse now. We adopted our son Elijah, we got married," she said.
Nix is a nurse with IU Health and works with patients who are dealing with issues that she has experienced herself.
"That's the biggest thing we can be thankful for. The life that we build together, and have built with him [Elijah]," Jason said.
Nix said she is now building a life that wouldn't be here without a strangers organ.
"It's fun," Nix said. "Life is fun now that I am healthy."
There are currently more than 10,000 people on the wait list for a liver across the county.
Liver transplants can now come from living donors. It's the only organ in the human body that can regenerate itself.
Learn more on living liver donation here. | https://www.wrtv.com/news/local-news/noblesville-mom-receives-gift-of-life-from-stranger | 2023-04-26 23:21:39 | 1 | https://www.wrtv.com/news/local-news/noblesville-mom-receives-gift-of-life-from-stranger |
HALF MOON BAY, Calif. — Seven people were killed in two related shootings Monday at a mushroom farm and a trucking firm in a coastal community south of San Francisco, and a suspect was in custody, officials said.
San Mateo County Board of Supervisors President Dave Pine says four people were killed at the farm and three at the trucking business on the outskirts of Half Moon Bay, a city about 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of San Francisco.
It wasn't immediately clear how the locations were connected, though Pine said the suspect worked for one of the businesses. He called the suspect a "disgruntled worker."
California state Sen. Josh Becker, who represents the area, said people were killed in separate shootings. San Mateo County Supervisor David Canepa tweeted that one shooting happened at a mushroom farm.
The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office tweeted just before 5 p.m. that a suspect was in custody.
"There is no ongoing threat to the community at this time," the sheriff's office said.
Television footage from the area showed officers taking a man into custody without incident.
Aerial television images also showed police officers collecting evidence from a farm with dozens of greenhouses.
The shooting followed the killing of 11 people late Saturday at a ballroom dance hall in Southern California.
"We are sickened by today's tragedy in Half Moon Bay," Dave Pine, president of the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, said in a statement. "We have not even had time to grieve for those lost in the terrible shooting in Monterey Park. Gun violence must stop."
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.nprillinois.org/2023-01-23/7-people-have-been-killed-in-2-related-shootings-in-half-moon-bay-california | 2023-01-24 02:55:17 | 1 | https://www.nprillinois.org/2023-01-23/7-people-have-been-killed-in-2-related-shootings-in-half-moon-bay-california |
As state lawmakers wrestle with the issue of gas price relief, the cost of fuel in California is again creeping upward.
Rising crude oil prices have driven the average cost of gas statewide to $5.84 per gallon, according to the American Automobile Association. That figure is 9 cents higher than it was a week ago and $1.74 more than it was a year ago.
“With the cost of oil accounting for more than half of the pump price, more expensive oil means more expensive gasoline,” Andrew Gross, an AAA spokesperson, said in a news release. “These prices are creeping closer to those record high levels of early March.
And yet, Californians have yet to see any of the gas rebates that were promised by the state’s Democratic leaders earlier this year.
The holdup is a result of disagreement over a pair of proposals that would each provide rebates to California residents. Gov. Gavin Newsom and Democrats in the state Legislature have conflicting views over who should receive payments, as well as which state agency should work to issue rebates. Newsom signaled to Bay Area News Group that because of the dispute, relief may not come until October.
Newson wants to send $400 debit card payments to vehicle owners — regardless of their income level — and would hire a third-party vendor to work with the Department of Motor Vehicles in issuing those payments.
Members of the Legislature, on the other hand, want the state Franchise Tax Board — the agency that distributed state-issued pandemic relief checks — to issue $400 to residents making less than $250,000, regardless of whether they own a vehicle.
Legislators say they’re hesitant to leave relief in the hands of an untested system, especially because of the time it would take to implement and because of concerns about the DMV itself. In 2019, state auditors found "significant deficiencies" in the agency’s operations, saying outdated technology often led to long lines of customers.
They also argue that payments shouldn’t be directed solely to vehicle owners.
Newsom, for his part, says the state Franchise Tax Board already has too much work between issuing tax returns and backlogged stimulus checks to focus on gas rebates as well.
“Our approach with the DMV was exclusively an approach of necessity because FTB can't get these checks processed as they're doing tax returns,” Newsom told the Los Angeles Times editorial board.
"We're still in fact sending out Golden State Stimulus checks even now,” he added. “Most of them were done, but there's still some going out.”
The relief package will likely be rolled into the state’s budget bill, which needs to be passed by June 15. However, if disagreements continue, rebates will be delayed until the end of the year. | https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/California-gas-prices-are-rising-where-are-rebates-17165504.php | 2022-05-11 20:07:53 | 1 | https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/California-gas-prices-are-rising-where-are-rebates-17165504.php |
Pinner's suit alleges fraud and corruption surrounding the construction of Los Angeles Valley College's performing and media arts center by project director Mark Strauss, architect Kevin Tyrell, and others, costing taxpayers over $20 million.
Arbitrator selected by Pinner and the School District found "bad faith" and wrongdoing after a six-week binding arbitration. Pinner attorney Newt Kellam demands that Board President Gabriel Buelna, who misled taxpayers to the Los Angeles Times saying this was just a "lawsuit" to "correct the record."
Pinner attorney Lanny J. Davis, former special counsel President Bill Clinton, calls on the state legislature, the governor, and the attorney general to open an immediate investigation – "A state audit is needed after the findings of bad faith and wrongdoing by the arbitrator," said Davis. "The young people who rely on community colleges are the real victims."
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pinner Construction ("Pinner"), a century-old Southern California construction firm, today filed a lawsuit against the Los Angeles Community College District (the "School District") and its construction project consultants, alleging fraud, corruption, and racketeering conduct surrounding the construction of the School District's performing and media arts center, following the findings of a prestigious arbitrator that the District "consultants" were guilty of bad faith and wrong doing.
Along with the School District, Pinner filed suit against DACM Project Management, QDG, Inc., ARCADIS U.S., Inc., Jacobs Engineering Group, Kevin Tyrell, Mark W. Strauss, and Gig Pukprayura (the "Racketeers") in Los Angeles County Superior Court.
The law suit was reported in a major front page story in California news section by the Los Angeles Times this morning. The Times headlined the story: "Corruption and fraud besets long-delayed L.A. Valley college theater, project lawsuit alleges."
The Times also reported the factual findings of an arbitrator, Deborah S. Ballet from JAMS, one of the most prestigious arbitration organizations in the nation comprised of many senior retired judges, selected by both Pinner and the School District, "found multiple management failures by college consultants." The arbitrator's finding includes the statement that this conduct violated California's "implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing" – i.e., bad faith.
Pinner Attorney calls out Board President Buelna for misleading comment
Pinner attorney, Newt Kellam, cited the misinformation in his comment to the Los Angeles Times by the Board President Gabriela Buelna, who stated "people file lawsuits." Said Kellam: "The Board president is either willfully ignorant or has intentionally ignored the facts, which he must know, that the arbitrator selected by Pinner and the District, after an extensive 6-week binding arbitration or, in effect, a trial, found definitively that the District's consultants had "violated their covenant of good faith and fair dealing"—i.e., acted in bad faith. "Now we at Pinner are suing the wrongdoers/consultant and the companies they work for, to be sure they pay out of their own pockets for their wrongdoing, not the "taxpayers."
"Instead of ignoring this finding by the arbitrator, the entire Board, not just the Board President, should be actively conducting an investigation of this wrongdoing by its own consultants costing taxpayers, we now know from the arbitrator's decision, millions of dollars."
Pinner attorney Lanny J. Davis, former special counsel to President Bill Clinton, called on the state legislature, the governor, and the attorney general to open an immediate investigation – "A state audit is needed after the definitive findings of wrongdoing by the arbitrator," said Davis. "The young people who rely on community colleges are the real victims."
According to the complaint, in September 2016, Pinner contracted with the School District, a state agency created by state legislation, to build a multi-building performing and media arts center on the campus of the Los Angeles Valley College campus ("the Project"). The center is to include three theatres, a lecture hall, a radio station, and several classrooms and studios. Pinner agreed to build the complex for a guaranteed maximum price of just over $78 million in 851 days.
To incentivize a timely completion of the Project, the contract provided limited additional compensation to Pinner if the Project was delayed by the School District and actually charged Pinner with financial penalties if Pinner was responsible for the delay. According to the complaint, that was not the case for the Racketeers:
"Unlike [Pinner], RACKETEERS essentially work hourly and are: (A) guaranteed to receive unlimited additional compensation if the Project is delayed by [Pinner]; (B) guaranteed to receive even more unlimited additional compensation if claims filed by [Pinner] are arbitrated; and (C) are not charged liquidated damages if Project delays are determined to have been caused by themselves or [the School District]."
The lawsuit then asserts that because of this payment structure, the Racketeers, beginning in March 2017, "maliciously conspired to delay the Project, blame it on [Pinner] and earn themselves millions of additional dollars in the process."
They did this, in part, by allegedly "interfering with needed approvals from the Department of State Architect ("DSA"), delaying needed design direction and/ or robbing the contractor and its subcontractors of the capital needed for manpower by cutting monthly payment applications, increasing the cost of performance and/ or refusing to pay change orders." This ultimately resulted in the breach of contract between the School District and Pinner.
Pinner also alleges that from March 2017 onwards, there was a conspiracy among the Racketeers, combined with various actions that are crimes under federal law, and thus, violated the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations ("RICO") Act. California allows its citizens to file a civil case for damages under federal RICO Act. Pinner gives several examples of the Racketeers' allegedly illegal conduct:
"RACKETEERS commenced engaging in a wide-ranging and fraudulent scheme to concoct a false narrative that [Construction Change Directive 19] should not be resubmitted, that building the Project without splices in vertical reinforcing steel above 30' would not delay the Project, that the plans clearly precluded splicing above 30' and that Pinner and its subcontractors were not entitled to extra compensation. These statements were proven false and fraudulent at an arbitration which spanned the summer of 2021. Undaunted, [Pinner is] informed and believe[s] that RACKETEERS continue to willfully and maliciously delay the Project through misrepresentations and concealments made to [School District's] board and Chief Facilities Executive related to harvested wood, audio visual design and door hardware design and Trespa culminating with witness tampering related to executed DSA documents."
As a result of the allegedly corrupt overcharges by the Racketeers, Pinner alleges damages of nearly $25 million in extra construction costs, unnecessary consultant fees, attorney fees and loss of existing and future business opportunities.
Pinner also alleges this scheme to delay the project for increased consulting fees has defrauded the people of California. According to the lawsuit's estimates, taxpayers have already footed more than $20 million in wrongful payments to the consultants, extra construction fees, legal fees, and lost resources for students at Los Angeles Valley College – and Pinner says the number is only increasing as this matter goes unresolved.
"Community college students are among the most vulnerable, often learning part-time and coming from first-generation, low-income backgrounds," said Dirk Griffin, CEO of Pinner, who attended Riverside City College. "Resources are scarce at these institutions as they rarely have large endowments, sizeable state funding, or consistent alumni donations. That's what makes this alleged fraudulent scheme so devastating. We believe these consultants are taking advantage of an already vulnerable population just to earn more in fees for themselves. It has to stop."
"We allege this corrupt scheme among the named consultants ended up not just costing the taxpayers who, in the final analysis, fund these corrupt overpayments, but really, it's the students who pay tuition and in other ways are the victims of this corruption," attorney Davis said about the filed complaint. "That's why we are asking to meet with senior leaders of the California state legislature who are responsible for leading a state audit to consider initiating one. Davis went on to point out that it was the state legislature that created the School District and authorized the bonds to be sold to finance the LACCD. Davis concluded that he hopes leaders of the state legislature, supported by the governor and the attorney general, would start by initiating a state audit of this contract that the arbitrator found was riddled with over-billing and bad faith conduct."
About Pinner Construction
The people of Southern California have entrusted Pinner Construction with their building needs since 1919. Throughout the last century, the sustained growth of the firm, coupled with an unwavering commitment to excellence, has allowed it to provide top-tier customer service and truly one-of-a-kind project delivery to a variety of clients. Pinner is proud to celebrate 102 years of Pinner trust and looks forward to the next century and beyond. To learn more, please visit www.pinnerconstruction.com/
Media Contact: Taylor C. Pearson
tpearson@tridentdmg.com
202-235-3482
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SOURCE Newt Kellam, Kellam Law | https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/prnewswire/2022/08/04/pinner-construction-files-lawsuit-confirming-arbitrators-decision-alleging-scheme-that-cheated-california-taxpayers-out-more-than-20-million-construction-public-performing-arts-center/ | 2022-08-04 17:52:45 | 1 | https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/prnewswire/2022/08/04/pinner-construction-files-lawsuit-confirming-arbitrators-decision-alleging-scheme-that-cheated-california-taxpayers-out-more-than-20-million-construction-public-performing-arts-center/ |
Florida State Seminoles (1-4) vs. Siena Saints (2-2)
Florida State went 17-14 overall with a 7-4 record against non-conference opponents in the 2021-22 season. The Seminoles averaged 16.8 points off of turnovers, 11.5 second chance points and 27.2 bench points last season.
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The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar. | https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/colleges/siena-plays-florida-state-in-orlando-florida/2022/11/23/adfbda56-6b02-11ed-8619-0b92f0565592_story.html | 2022-11-23 08:03:06 | 0 | https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/colleges/siena-plays-florida-state-in-orlando-florida/2022/11/23/adfbda56-6b02-11ed-8619-0b92f0565592_story.html |
FLACHAU, Austria (AP) — American skier Mikaela Shiffrin finished second to Olympic champion Petra Vlhova after feeling ill during a night slalom race Tuesday as she attempted to break the record for most wins on the women’s World Cup circuit.
Shiffrin was sick between runs and vomited after the second run, a team official said, adding that she would not speak to reporters.
Shiffrin matched Lindsey Vonn’s record of 82 race victories by winning a giant slalom in Kranjska Gora, Slovenia, on Sunday, but wasn’t able to produce another win in her best discipline, slalom, to move past her former teammate.
Vlhova had the fastest time in the first run and then extended her lead over Shiffrin for her first win this season. The Slovakian skier finished 0.43 seconds ahead of Shiffrin, while Lena Duerr of Germany finished 0.85 back in third.
Shiffrin’s next chance to break the record will come in a super-G in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, in 10 days. She plans to sit out speed races in St. Anton this weekend.
Vonn broke the previous record, Annemarie Moser-Pröll’s mark of 62 wins, in Cortina eight years ago. Vonn retired four years ago when injuries cut her career short.
Shiffrin seemed to sense she might not have done enough after her second run, only briefly saluting the crowd as she then stuck her poles into the snow and looked back up the mountain to watch Vlhova’s winning run. She then went inside a tent adjacent to the finish area where she vomited.
Shiffrin’s teammates were holding aloft ballons shaped as an “8” and “3” to form the No. 83 but there was to be no celebration this time as Vlhova, Shiffrin’s biggest rival, enjoyed the moment instead with a large crowd of Slovakian fans that follow her around.
It was Vlhova’s first win this season after seven podium finishes.
“It was a long, long way to come back (to winning) here,” Vlhova said. “For me, it’s an amazing day. Thank you to my team, because they are always with me, supporting me, even if I a little bit back or a little bit down. But we were working hard on it and I’m super happy to win here, because it’s something special.”
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Eric Willemsen on Twitter: https://twitter.com/eWilmedia
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More AP skiing: https://apnews.com/hub/skiing and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://www.wjhl.com/sports/us-world-sports/ap-shiffrin-trails-vlhova-in-1st-slalom-run-of-record-attempt/ | 2023-01-10 23:37:05 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/sports/us-world-sports/ap-shiffrin-trails-vlhova-in-1st-slalom-run-of-record-attempt/ |
Dover man seriously injured after tree falls on him
Published: Jul. 7, 2023 at 3:00 PM CDT|Updated: 10 minutes ago
DOVER, Minn. (KTTC) – A man was seriously hurt in Dover Thursday night after a tree fell on him.
According to the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office, a 60-year-old man was doing some tree removal work for the city of Dover on 7th Street Southwest when the accident occurred.
A nearby man heard the chainsaw stop and went to go see if something was wrong when he found the man laying face down in the ditch with a tree on top of him.
Mayo One airlifted the man to Saint Marys.
He is currently stable but in critical condition.
Copyright 2023 KTTC. All rights reserved. | https://www.kttc.com/2023/07/07/dover-man-seriously-injured-after-tree-falls-him/ | 2023-07-07 20:12:06 | 0 | https://www.kttc.com/2023/07/07/dover-man-seriously-injured-after-tree-falls-him/ |
How realistic is the image and the American myth of pulling yourself up by your own bootstraps? And what policies would actually help promote social mobility at a time when the wealth gap is widening and the middle class is shrinking?
Here & Now‘s Scott Tong talks with Alissa Quart, author of the book “Bootstrapped: Liberating Ourselves from the American Dream.” Quart is a journalist and the executive director of the Economic Hardship Reporting Project.
This article was originally published on WBUR.org.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org. | https://www.wbaa.org/2023-04-24/can-you-pull-yourself-up-by-your-own-bootstraps-bootstrapped-debunks-american-dream-myth | 2023-04-24 18:23:18 | 1 | https://www.wbaa.org/2023-04-24/can-you-pull-yourself-up-by-your-own-bootstraps-bootstrapped-debunks-american-dream-myth |
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Aaron Garrett wanted to provide Southeast Texas athletes a go-to place to train, one he wish he had when he was younger.
Garrett, a 2008 Jasper High graduate, played football, basketball and baseball – winning a state baseball championship in 2007. Outside the school’s facilities, there weren’t any said buildings in town he could resume training at.
Garrett decided to give back in December 2021 by opening 409 Fit in Silsbee. Today, some of the area’s best athletes train in that very space.
The Enterprise spoke with Garrett – a personal trainer since 2014 – about 409 Fit, its clientele and the impact it’s had on Southeast Texas.
RELATED: 7 questions with...Beaumont's big-leaguer, Ford Proctor
Q: What’s the best part about having a gym like 409 Fit?
A: The best part of having a gym like this just trying to give back to the community, just trying to be who I needed when I was younger.
Now, we’ve got Bryce Anderson, Grayland Arnold… and Dre’lon Miller. I like the younger kids to be around the older kids so they can see what it’s like at the highest level.
I wanted to do it for our community, for the 409.
RELATED: 7 questions with ... new LIT President Sidney Valentine
Q: The people who train here, is it just the athletes? Or is it also those looking to simply get in shape?
A: I do personal training. I do it all. Athletic training is just a bonus for me because I’m a strength and conditioning specialist.
I do group training as well. This is my life, this is my gym. I do it all. I’ll put (clients) through the ringer.
(Covering different parts of the 409) was my biggest thing. Silsbee’s kind of in the middle of the 409. I’m from Jasper, and I wanted my people in Jasper to still be able to come here. Then, you’ve got Nederland, you’ve got Port Neches-Groves.
Instead of you driving an hour and 45 minutes to Houston, now you can come here to Silsbee. It’s a one-stop shop. We’ve got batting cages in the back, speed treadmills… I just try to encompass all of it.
RELATED: 7 Questions With...the 'mouthpiece' for high school fishing in Southeast Texas
Q: What sets you apart as a trainer?
A: One thing about me is, I’m (very) hands-on with them. As you can see, I’m going through the workout with them.
I’ve been around a lot of gyms that a trainer will talk at a kid or try to talk at somebody, and a lot of times they can’t do the workouts.
When we go to the field and we run routes or they need somebody to hold them, I’m always hands-on. I’m up here at 5:30 in the morning on school days with a lot of kids. I’m always here for the kids.
Q: Growing up in Jasper, did you have a gym like 409 Fit to go to?
A: Not at all, man. We didn’t have nothing like this.
I hear it all the time, people (are) like, 'Ah man, I wish I had you when I was younger' or 'Oh man, we should’ve had somebody like this.'
I think that’s pretty cool. Like I said, just trying to give back…
I’m super meticulous on the workouts. These guys are so high-level.
Bryce (was) getting ready to go back and start spring football, so I want him to go in 100%. I don’t need no injuries -- none of that kind of stuff.
I’m meticulous when it comes to the form and structure. I don’t care about how much weight you can do. I just want to make sure you’re doing it right.
I work a lot of injury prevention stuff. When you come to my gym, I want you to know that I’m not just some guy that just claimed to be a guru.
I’ve done all kinds of certifications, I’ve been to all kinds of seminars. This is my life, so I take it as serious as they come.
It’s always the small, little different details often there that can change everything (training-wise).
It’s different for everybody.
Every athlete is different. My group sessions are pretty much around the same thing.
Of course, you’ve got different athletes with different injuries. So, I try to moderate it for different people.
Q: Your experiences as an athlete at Jasper High School, especially winning a state baseball title, what influence did that have in your approach?
A: It was serious. When we won state in baseball, just being around the guys and watching them (in) how serious their approach was to win a state championship, everything has to go right to win a state championship.
I’ve been around Silsbee in (2017 and 2018) when they won back-to-back (state titles in boys basketball). I train Wesley Yates, who won back-to-back state basketball titles… Just trying to get those guys to (be) level-headed when things go wrong.
When the kids walk through this door, they’re getting a companion, a big brother, somebody they can talk to. I relate to them well.
RELATED: Beaumont United's 3-peat attempt ended by Lake Highlands
Q: You’re also present at collegiate athletic signing events across the 409. Whether it’s in Beaumont, Lumberton or Silsbee, How do you manage all that?
A: Man, it’s tough. It’s very tough. I could be sitting up here training and they’re like, 'Oh man, I forget to tell you the signing’s today at 10:30…' The kids know even if I can’t (attend), I try to do different stuff (like dinner). I try to be there for them.
The way that it’s set up, everybody’s signing on the same day, I really try to be there for all my kids. I’ve got a bunch kids in Lumberton, a bunch of kids in Beaumont, and like Newton. Just different places.
But I love it. I wouldn’t change it for the world. And the kids, they want me to be there. I’ve got to schedule my sessions around them.
Q: What’s that next step you’d like to take to keep growing your establishment?
A: I want a full-out facility.
(The current building’s) cool, I love it. It’s home, but I would like a bigger place so we can have a real indoor facility about 40 to 60 yards where people can work on their 40-yard dashes. We can work on NFL combine prep. We can do different stuff like that and also keep it as a gym, too.
With a bigger market, bigger place, bigger gym, I can accomplish more and bring in more.
I can touch more (of) Orange. I can even touch some of Louisiana and different places like that with a bigger facility in Beaumont.
It’d help out tremendously, just being able to have more space, bring in more athletes. I can host more classes as well.
Matt.Hollinshead@beaumontenterprise.com
twitter.com/MattH_717 | https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/get-know-aaron-garrett-owner-409-fit-silsbee-17862096.php | 2023-04-10 20:01:33 | 1 | https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/get-know-aaron-garrett-owner-409-fit-silsbee-17862096.php |
TOKYO, June 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Group Corporation announced today that it has filed its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2022 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. A copy of this document is available on the Sony Group Corporation Investor Relations website at https://www.sony.com/en/SonyInfo/IR/library/sec.html
In addition, shareholders of Sony may receive a printed copy of Sony's complete audited financial statements, free of charge, by visiting https://www.sony.com/en/SonyInfo/IR/library/ar/request.html
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SOURCE Sony Group Corporation | https://www.wflx.com/prnewswire/2022/06/29/sony-group-corporation-files-annual-report-form-20-f/ | 2022-06-29 15:18:37 | 1 | https://www.wflx.com/prnewswire/2022/06/29/sony-group-corporation-files-annual-report-form-20-f/ |
Minnesota Public Radio is shutting down its St. Paul-based, long-form reporting division, APM Reports, which has at least 18 employees and has garnered national fame for its investigative crime podcast “In the Dark.”
APM Reports was formed in November 2015 as the national programming division of MPR and served as American Public Media’s investigative unit, delivering documentary-style multi-media productions through podcast, radio, online and at times even print.
In a written statement, MPR attributed its decision to shutter the venture to “strategic priorities and our responsibility as financial stewards of MPR’s resources,” and noted that some “colleagues, who’ve invested their energy, skills and passion with us, will be leaving our organization.”
It was unclear how many employees from APM Reports will be retained. The division had been led by Chris Worthington, a former managing editor with the Pioneer Press.
A spokesperson said in an email she would not comment on individual personnel, but some employees will be folded into MPR News staff and “perform roles that are the same as or similar to their current roles,” while others “may transition into other roles within (the American Public Media Group) or leave the company.”
“We will no longer have a separate business unit for APM Reports, and will incorporate select programming elements, including our focus on investigative journalism, into MPR News,” said the spokesperson Friday. “We are currently entering a process about what decisions and possible changes will occur with the APM Reports portfolio.”
‘IN THE DARK’ WON PEABODY, POLK, duPONT AWARDS
Over the past seven years, APM Reports experimented with multiple podcasts, including light-hearted or literary fare such as the personal growth series “Terrible, Thanks for Asking,” the foodie discussion series “The Splendid Table” and the poetry series “The Slowdown.”
In 2016, the division’s true-crime podcast “In the Dark” took the genre in a heavier direction, focusing in the first season on the October 1989 abduction of Jacob Wetterling, a Stearns County boy whose murder went unsolved for 27 years.
The second award-winning season centered on Curtis Flowers, a Black man tried six times for a quadruple murder at a Mississippi furniture store in 1997. The reporting team spent more than a year combing through records throughout the Deep South, efforts that likely played a role in elevating Flowers’ case to the U.S. Supreme Court.
By September 2019, little more than a year after the first 11 hourlong episodes aired online, the season had been downloaded more than 28 million times.
The team began unveiling bonus episodes in September 2018 heavily focused on the arguments before the Supreme Court, which would ultimately allow Flowers a seventh trial and shot at freedom. Flowers, who was instead released from prison in 2019, is now suing the district attorney who prosecuted him, alleging that he pressured witnesses to fabricate evidence against him and ignored other potential suspects.
Each of the two inaugural seasons of “In the Dark” won a George Foster Peabody award — the highest honor in broadcast media. The second season also won the prestigious duPont-Columbia and George Polk journalism awards. A third season has never aired. | https://www.twincities.com/2022/05/27/minnesota-public-radio-shutters-apm-reports-long-form-producers-of-true-crime-podcast-in-the-dark/ | 2022-05-27 20:41:04 | 1 | https://www.twincities.com/2022/05/27/minnesota-public-radio-shutters-apm-reports-long-form-producers-of-true-crime-podcast-in-the-dark/ |
DENVER, Aug. 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lumen Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: LUMN) (the "Company" or "Lumen") announced today the results to date of its and its wholly owned subsidiaries' previously-announced cash tender offers for (i) any and all of the outstanding 5.375% Senior Notes due 2025 (the "2025 Notes") and 5.250% Senior Notes due 2026 (the "2026 Notes" and, together with the 2025 Notes, the "Any and All Notes") of Level 3 Financing, Inc. ("Level 3 Financing") (collectively, the "Any and All Tender Offers") and (ii) the outstanding 7.125% Senior Notes due 2023 (the "2023 Notes") and 8.375% Senior Notes due 2025 (the "8.375% 2025 Notes" and, together with the 2023 Notes, the "Embarq Notes") of Embarq Florida, Inc. ("Embarq Florida") and the Company's outstanding 5.125% Senior Notes due 2026 (the "Lumen Notes" and, together with the Embarq Notes, the "Maximum Tender Notes" and together with the Any and All Notes, the "Notes") (collectively, the "Maximum Tender Offers" and, together with the Any and All Tender Offers, the "Tender Offers"), each of which is subject to the limitations, restrictions, terms and conditions set forth in the Company's Offer to Purchase and Consent Solicitation Statement dated July 25, 2022 (the "Offer to Purchase and Solicitation Statement"). According to information received from Global Bondholder Services Corporation, the Company's tender agent and information agent for the Tender Offers, the tables below set forth the aggregate principal amount of each series of Notes that were validly tendered and not validly withdrawn on or prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on August 5, 2022 (such date and time, the "Early Tender Date").
Any and All Tender Offers
Maximum Tender Offers
(Subject to the Aggregate Maximum Tender Amount)
Because the aggregate principal amount of Maximum Tender Notes validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) at or prior to the Early Tender Date did not exceed the Aggregate Maximum Tender Amount or the Series Tender Cap, the applicable offeror intends to purchase all of the Maximum Tender Notes validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) at or prior to the Early Tender Date on the terms described below.
The Divestiture Condition (as defined in the Offer to Purchase and Solicitation Statement) has been satisfied. Subject to the satisfaction or waiver of all remaining conditions to the Tender Offers described in the Offer to Purchase and Solicitation Statement, the applicable offeror intends to accept for purchase, and to make payments on August 9, 2022 (such date, subject to change without notice, the "Early Settlement Date") for, all of the Notes validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) prior to the Early Tender Date (as summarized in the tables above).
In conjunction with the Any and All Tender Offers, the Company also announced that Level 3 Financing has not to date received the Required Consents (as defined in the Offer to Purchase and Solicitation Statement) sought in connection with its accompanying solicitations (each, a "Consent Solicitation" and, collectively, the "Consent Solicitations") of consents (each, a "Consent" and, collectively, the "Consents") from holders of the Any and All Notes, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase and Solicitation Statement, to amend certain provisions of the respective indenture under which the Any and All Notes were issued. Consequently, unless the Required Consents are received prior to the Expiration Date (as defined below), the Any and All Notes will continue to be subject to the terms of the respective indenture currently governing such Any and All Notes.
Additional Information About the Tender Offers and Consent Solicitations
The Tender Offers and the Consent Solicitations will expire at midnight, New York City time, at the end of the day on August 19, 2022, unless extended by the applicable offeror with respect to the applicable Tender Offer (and, as applicable, Consent Solicitation) (such date and time, as it may be extended, the "Expiration Date") or earlier terminated. No tenders of Notes or deliveries of related Consents submitted after the Expiration Date will be valid. The Early Tender Date was the deadline for holders to validly withdraw tenders of Notes (or, as applicable, validly revoke Consents). Accordingly, Notes tendered (with, as applicable, related Consents delivered) prior to or after the Early Tender Date may no longer be withdrawn or revoked, subject to applicable law.
The Tender Offers and Consent Solicitations are being made only pursuant to the Offer to Purchase and Solicitation Statement, which holders of Notes can obtain in the manner described below.
Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, Barclays Capital Inc., RBC Capital Markets, LLC and TD Securities (USA) LLC are acting as the dealer managers for the Tender Offers and the solicitation agents for the Consent Solicitations. Questions and requests for assistance regarding the terms of the Tender Offers and the Consent Solicitations should be directed to Citigroup Global Markets Inc. at (800) 558-3745 (toll-free) or (212) 723-6106 (collect), Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC at (800) 624-1808 (toll-free) or (212) 761-1057 (collect), Barclays Capital Inc. at (800) 438-3242 (toll-free) or (212) 528-7581 (collect), RBC Capital Markets, LLC at (877) 381-2099 (toll-free) or (212) 618-7843 (collect) or TD Securities (USA) LLC at (866) 584-2096 (toll-free) or (212) 827-2842 (collect). Requests for copies of the Offer to Purchase and Solicitation Statement and other documents relating to the Tender Offers and the Consent Solicitations may be directed to Global Bondholder Services Corporation, the Company's tender agent and information agent for the Tender Offers and Consent Solicitations, at (212) 430-3774 (for banks and brokers only) or (855) 654-2014 (toll-free) (for all others) or contact@gbsc-usa.com.
None of the Company, Level 3 Financing, Embarq Florida, any subsidiaries, affiliates, directors, managers or officers of any of the aforementioned parties, the dealer managers and solicitation agents, the tender and information agent or the trustees with respect to the Notes is making any recommendation as to whether holders should tender any Notes in response to the Tender Offers or deliver any Consents pursuant to the Consent Solicitations, and no one has been authorized by any of them to make such a recommendation.
This press release is for information purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any Notes in the Tender Offers. The Tender Offers and the Consent Solicitations are not being made to holders of Notes in any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities, blue sky or other laws of such jurisdiction. In any jurisdiction in which the Tender Offers and the Consent Solicitations are required to be made by a licensed broker or dealer, the Tender Offers and the Consent Solicitations will be deemed to be made on behalf of the applicable offeror by the dealer managers and solicitation agents, or one or more registered brokers or dealers that are licensed under the laws of such jurisdiction.
The applicable offeror reserves the right, subject to applicable law, with respect to any or all of the Tender Offers and the Consent Solicitations, as applicable, to (a) waive in whole or in part any or all conditions to the Tender Offers and Consent Solicitations, as applicable; (b) delay the acceptance for purchase of any Notes or delay the purchase of any Notes; or (c) otherwise modify or terminate any Tender Offer with respect to one or more series of Notes or the related Consent Solicitation, as applicable.
About Lumen
Lumen Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: LUMN) is guided by our belief that humanity is at its best when technology advances the way we live and work. With approximately 450,000 route fiber miles and serving customers in more than 60 countries, we deliver the fastest, most secure platform for applications and data to help businesses, government and communities deliver amazing experiences.
Lumen and Lumen Technologies are registered trademarks of Lumen Technologies LLC in the United States. Lumen Technologies LLC is a wholly-owned affiliate of Lumen Technologies, Inc.
Forward Looking Statements
Except for historical and factual information, the matters set forth in this release and other of Lumen's oral or written statements identified by words such as "estimates," "expects," "anticipates," "believes," "plans," "intends," and similar expressions are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and are based on current expectations only, are inherently speculative, and are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Lumen's control. Actual events and results may differ materially from those anticipated, estimated, projected or implied by Lumen in those statements if one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if underlying assumptions prove incorrect. Factors that could affect actual results include but are not limited to: the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to the Tender Offers and Consent Solicitations; the ability of the applicable offeror to consummate the Tender Offers and Consent Solicitations; corporate developments that could preclude, impair or delay the aforementioned transactions due to restrictions under the federal securities laws; changes in the credit ratings of the applicable offeror; changes in the cash requirements, financial position, financing plans or investment plans of the applicable offeror; changes in general market, economic, tax, regulatory or industry conditions; and other risks referenced from time to time in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). For all the reasons set forth above and in the SEC filings of Lumen and Level 3 Parent, LLC, you are cautioned not to unduly rely upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Lumen undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements for any reason, whether as a result of new information, future events or developments, changed circumstances, or otherwise. Furthermore, any information about the applicable offeror's intentions contained in any forward-looking statements reflects such offeror's intentions as of the date of such forward-looking statement, and is based upon, among other things, existing regulatory, technological, industry, competitive, economic and market conditions, and their assumptions as of such date. Lumen may change its intentions, strategies or plans (including the plans expressed herein) without notice at any time and for any reason.
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SOURCE Lumen Technologies, Inc. | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/08/06/lumen-announces-early-tender-results/ | 2022-08-06 02:30:13 | 0 | https://www.wbrc.com/prnewswire/2022/08/06/lumen-announces-early-tender-results/ |
OSWIECIM, Poland (AP) — Auschwitz-Birkenau survivors and other mourners commemorated the 78th anniversary Friday of the liberation of the Nazi German death camp, some expressing horror that war has again shattered peace in Europe and the lesson of Never Again is being forgotten.
The former concentration and extermination camp is located in the town of Oświęcim in southern Poland, which was under the occupation of German forces during World War II and became a place of systematic murder of Jews, Poles, Soviet prisoners of war, Roma and others targeted for elimination by Adolf Hitler and his henchmen.
In all, some 1.1 million people were killed at the vast complex before it was liberated by Soviet troops on Jan. 27, 1945.
Today the site, with its barracks and barbed wire and the ruins of gas chambers, stands as one of the world’s most recognized symbols of evil and a site of pilgrimage for millions from around the world.
Yet it lies only 300 kilometers (185 miles) from Ukraine, where Russian aggression is creating unthinkable death and destruction — a conflict on the minds of many this year.
One survivor, Zdzisława Włodarczyk, said during observances Friday that the war has created a “feeling of horror” in her.
Piotr Cywinski, Auschwitz state museum director, compared Nazi crimes to those the Russians have committed in Ukrainian towns like Bucha and Mariupol. He said they were inspired by a “similar sick megalomania” and that free people must not remain indifferent.
“Being silent means giving voice to the perpetrators,” Cywinski said. “Remaining indifferent is tantamount to condoning murder.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin attended observances marking the 60th anniversary of the camp’s liberation in 2005. This year, no Russian official at all was invited due to Russia’s attack on Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy marked the event, alluding to his own country’s situation.
“We know and remember that indifference kills along with hatred,” he said in a social media post.
“Indifference and hatred are always capable of creating evil together only. That is why it is so important that everyone who values life should show determination when it comes to saving those whom hatred seeks to destroy.”
Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, whose Brothers of Italy party has its roots in the post-Word War II neo-fascist Italian Social Movement, called the Holocaust “the abyss of humanity. An evil that touched also our country with the infamy of the racial laws of 1938.”
Bogdan Bartnikowski, a Pole who was 12 years old when he was transported to Auschwitz, said the first images he saw on television last February of refugees fleeing Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine triggered traumatic memories.
He was stunned seeing a little girl in a large crowd of refugees holding her mother with one hand and grasping a teddy bear in the other.
“It was literally a blow to the head for me because I suddenly saw, after almost 80 years, what I had seen in a freight car when I was being transported to Auschwitz. A little girl was sitting next to me, hugging a dollto her chest,” Bartnikowski, now 91, said.
Bartnikowski was among several survivors of Auschwitz who spoke about their experiences to journalists Thursday.
Another, Stefania Wernik, who was born at Auschwitz in November 1944, less than three months before its liberation, spoke of Auschwitz being a “hell on earth.”
She said when she was born she was so tiny that the Nazis tattooed her number — 89136 — on her thigh. She was washed in cold water, wrapped in rags and subjected to medical experiments.
And yet her mother had abundant milk, and they both survived. After the war, her mother returned home and reunited with her husband, and “the whole village came to look at us and said it’s a miracle.”
She appealed for “no more fascism, which brings death, genocide, crimes, slaughter and loss of human dignity.”
Among those who attended Friday’s commemorations was Doug Emhoff, the husband of U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris. Emhoff, the first Jewish person to be married to one of the top two nationally elected U.S. officials, bowed his head an execution wall at Auschwitz, where he left a wreath of flowers in the U.S. flag’s colors and the words: “From the people of the United States of America.”
The Germans established Auschwitz in 1940 for Polish prisoners; later they expanded the complex, building death chambers and crematoria where Jews from across Europe were brought by train to be murdered.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said “the suffering of 6 million innocently murdered Jews remains unforgotten — as does the suffering of the survivors.”
“We recall our historic responsibility on Holocaust Memorial Day so that our Never Again endures in future,” he wrote on Twitter.
The German parliament was holding a memorial event focused this year on those who were persecuted for their sexual orientation. Thousands of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transsexual people were incarcerated and killed by the Nazis. Their fate was only publicly recognized decades after the end of World War II.
Elsewhere in the world on Friday events were planned to mark International Holocaust Remembrance Day, an annual commemoration established by a United Nations resolution in 2005.
___
Frank Jordans in Berlin and Colleen Barry in Milan contributed to this report. | https://www.wfla.com/news/international/ap-international/ap-auschwitz-anniversary-marked-as-peace-again-shattered-by-war/ | 2023-01-27 14:30:48 | 1 | https://www.wfla.com/news/international/ap-international/ap-auschwitz-anniversary-marked-as-peace-again-shattered-by-war/ |
Hi, Carolyn: I have a 14-year-old daughter who has a nice group of friends and is generally doing well in school. Over the years, I have become close to some of the mothers of my daughter’s friendship group. I think it is important for our relationships with each other and our daughters’ relationships to be kept very separate. I don’t get involved in the daily teenage dramas, and I try to think of the girls as evolving personalities — to not judge them by adult standards, but instead listen and help them navigate the ups and downs in a kind, responsible way.
One of the mothers — whom I do really like and value as a friend — does not share this philosophy. She will text or call whenever she feels her daughter is being left out, once called one of the girls “a little b----” when she felt she had done her daughter wrong, and just doesn’t have the same boundaries I do. I have explained once that I will only get involved in my daughter’s day-to-day friendship dramas when (a) I feel a child is in an unsafe situation or (b) I feel as if there is serious bullying.
My friend doesn’t realize her involvement is making it worse for her daughter, and I don’t think it’s sending the best message to our kids. Not sure where else to go from here. Advice?
— Very Separate
Very Separate: One place you are absolutely obligated to go, if she ever calls any of these girls “a little b----” again, or anything even close, is to your flat refusal to stand for that term. “Whoa. I get that you’re upset, but this is a child. Not okay.” Don’t budge a millimeter on misogyny like that.
Because you’re responding to your friend’s invitation to join her in these conversations, you also have standing to explain why you respectfully decline. Make your statements as pointed as your comfort levels allow:
“What I hear is the normal learning process of 14-year-olds. Let’s give them room to figure it out.”
“I see my role as teaching [daughter’s name] not to fall over each time the wind changes direction.”
“I don’t see an emergency here, and you know my rule.”
“I don’t think it’s good for [daughter’s name] when I get this closely involved.”
“Whoa. They have to be 14; we don’t.”
As always, the right tone is the one that’s right for you and for your friendship, so modulate accordingly. But stick to the “I” or “we” format regardless. You’re not saying that she’s making it worse for her daughter, or that she is sending a bad message to your kids. That’s your opinion, but you’re not the parent police. (Though, if she asks for your opinion, offer it tactfully.) You’re saying what you believe and, in situation-specific detail, why you won’t join her on any given road or will make an exception.
Whether this persuades your friend to take a step back is up to her. I hope it does.
Regardless, she will have to take a step back if she wants to talk about your daughters’ social lives with you. Those are the limits you’re entitled to set and owe it to yourself to hold. She can either adapt or fight the friendship into extinction. Her call. | https://www.washingtonpost.com/advice/2023/01/18/carolyn-hax-mom-teens-drama/ | 2023-01-18 05:10:01 | 0 | https://www.washingtonpost.com/advice/2023/01/18/carolyn-hax-mom-teens-drama/ |
Minnesota Viking cited 3 times in one month for alleged speeding, reckless driving
(KSTP) – A player for the Minnesota Vikings was cited three different times in May for driving violations, including allegedly speeding 97 mph in a 55 mph zone.
Olisaemeka Udoh, who goes by Oli Udoh, was cited on two different days for speeding, and a third for reckless driving, according to court records.
The first citation was issued just before 8:00 p.m. on May 4, 2023. It’s alleged Udoh was driving 97 mph in a 55 mph zone on I-94 near Hwy 61 in St. Paul.
Just two days later, on May 6, Udoh was cited for reckless driving near I-35E and Cayuga Street in St. Paul. The citation alleges Udoh was weaving in and out of traffic at a high speed and driving in the carpool lane with no passenger.
On May 25, Udoh received a third traffic citation around 1 p.m. in the afternoon. Court records state Udoh went from the ramp to the far left lane on Hwy 77, driving 64 mph in a 55 mph zone. The ticket alleges Udoh rolled the window up on the State Patrol trooper as he was trying to explain the citation to Udoh. | https://www.kaaltv.com/news/minnesota-viking-cited-3-times-in-one-month-for-alleged-speeding-reckless-driving/ | 2023-06-23 17:41:50 | 1 | https://www.kaaltv.com/news/minnesota-viking-cited-3-times-in-one-month-for-alleged-speeding-reckless-driving/ |
Two plug-in models will be among the first to get an updated version of Ford’s Bluecruise hands-free driver-assist system when it launches this fall.
Adding an automated lane-change feature and other updates, the new version is dubbed Bluecruise 1.2 and will launch on the 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E, the automaker confirmed Friday. Lincoln will get its own version, called Activeglide 1.2, which will debut on the 2023 Corsair Grand Touring plug-in hybrid, the Ford luxury brand then confirmed early Monday.
With the updated versions of Bluecruise and Activeglide, drivers will be able to initiate lane changes with a tap of a turn-signal stalk, according to Ford. Vehicles will also suggest lane changes to get around slower traffic.
Other new features include predictive speed assist, which will automatically slow vehicles in anticipation of sharp curves, and in-lane repositioning, which can adjust the vehicle’s position when traveling next to wider vehicles, such as semi trucks, according to Ford.
As before, Bluecruise and Activeglide can control acceleration, steering, and braking on pre-mapped stretches of highway—Ford claims to have more than 130,000 miles mapped—and still require drivers to keep their eyes on the road.
Ford’s rival to Tesla’s Autopilot and General Motors’ Super Cruise, Bluecruise was announced in 2020, with the Mach-E one of the first models to offer it. Since then, 75,000 Ford and Lincoln owners have enabled Bluecruise and Activeglide, respectively, with more than 16 million hands-free miles logged through the end of August, Ford claims.
GM’s Super Cruise has a more advanced hardware set, however—with an even more advanced Ultra Cruise system due to debut next year. Both automakers see their systems as a driver-assist convenience, as opposed to the way Tesla has marketed its misleadingly named Full Self-Driving system.
The Mach-E gets a price increase of up to $8,300 for the 2023 model year, but does at least get more standard driver-assist tech. Ford’s Co-Pilot 360 suite of features is now standard across the lineup, and even base Select versions come with a 90-day trial period of Bluecruise.
The Corsair Grand Touring gets a handful of other changes, including a 13.2-inch touchscreen and Sync 4 infotainment system, an automatic air refresh system, and exterior and interior styling changes.
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- Mullen majority stake might revive Bollinger B1 and B2 electric trucks | https://www.kxnet.com/automotive/internet-brands/ford-mach-e-ev-lincoln-corsair-plug-in-hybrid-among-first-to-get-automated-lane-change-feature/ | 2022-09-13 12:11:25 | 1 | https://www.kxnet.com/automotive/internet-brands/ford-mach-e-ev-lincoln-corsair-plug-in-hybrid-among-first-to-get-automated-lane-change-feature/ |
Damian Lillard has made it very clear he wants to play for the Miami Heat. The NBA would prefer he be a little less clear.
The league issued a memo to all 30 teams Friday saying it had interviewed the Portland Trail Blazers star and his agent Aaron Goodwin about past public comments from Goodwin saying Lillard would only play for the Heat.
The memo, obtained by Yahoo Sports' Jake Fischer, said Goodwin denied a report that he had warned other teams against trading for Lillard because he wanted to land with the Heat and that he and Lillard both affirmed the player would suit up for any team that trades for him. It also mentioned the relevant teams described their communications as similar to what Goodwin told the league.
Lillard and Goodwin were reportedly warned that any future comments, public or private, suggesting Lillard would only play for the Heat will subject him to NBA discipline. The National Basketball Players Association was also reportedly told similar behavior from any other players or agents could see discipline as well.
The public comments that got Goodwin in trouble likely came in this article from the Miami Herald, in which he made the situation pretty clear:
"I do what I should for my client. Some teams I did call. Other teams have called me," Lillard's agent, Aaron Goodwin, told the Miami Herald on Thursday in his first public comments since his client asked for a trade. "It's a respectful relationship with most teams. Truthfully, he wants to play in Miami. Period."
He also told The Oregonian that it's "not fair" to allow teams to negotiate a trade for Lillard that could be "futile in the end."
Where things stand for Damian Lillard, the Blazers and the Heat
Lillard issued his trade request on July 1 and reportedly hasn't spoken with Blazers general manager Joe Cronin since.
Fischer reported earlier this month that Lillard's price has been compared to what it took the Phoenix Suns to land Kevin Durant: two blue-chip young players in Mikal Bridges and Cam Johnson, plus four first-round picks. That is obviously a high price when Lillard, as great a fit as he is for Miami, is 33 years old and owed $216.2 million over the next four seasons.
If the Heat think they're the only team with a real chance of landing Lillard, they have no reason not to try out and wait the Blazers.
The other issue is that Portland is apparently not interested in Tyler Herro from the Heat, so the Blazers are looking for a third team willing to pony up a first-round pick in exchange for the reigning NBA Sixth Man of the Year.
NBA's full Damian Lillard memo
Recent media reports stated that Damian Lillard's agent, Aaron Goodwin, called multiple NBA teams to warn them against trading for Lillard because Lillard's only desired trade destination is Miami. Goodwin also made public comments indicating that Lillard would not fully perform the services called for under his player contract if traded to another team.
We interviewed Goodwin and Lillard and also spoke with several NBA teams to whom Goodwin spoke. Goodwin denied stating or indicating to any team that Lillard would refuse to play for them. Goodwin and Lillard affirmed to us that Lillard would fully perform the services called for under his player contract in any trade scenario. The relevant teams provided descriptions of their communications with Goodwin that were mostly, though not entirely, consistent with Goodwin's statements to us.
We have advised Goodwin and Lillard that any future comments, made privately to teams or publicly, suggesting Lillard will not fully perform the services called for under his player contract in the event of a trade will subject Lillard to discipline by the NBA. We also have advised the Players Association that any similar comments by players or their agents will be subject to discipline going forward. | https://www.star945.com/news/national/nba-issues-memo/VYBTDE7BMPTBRAINX3XN7K6E54/ | 2023-07-29 00:09:14 | 1 | https://www.star945.com/news/national/nba-issues-memo/VYBTDE7BMPTBRAINX3XN7K6E54/ |
Biden: GOP must move off ‘extreme’ positions, no debt limit deal solely on its ‘partisan terms’
By ZEKE MILLER and JOSH BOAK
Associated Press
HIROSHIMA, Japan (AP) — President Joe Biden said Sunday that Republicans in the U.S. House must move off their “extreme positions” on the now-stalled talks over raising America’s debt limit and that there would be no agreement to avert a catastrophic default only on their terms.
In an effort to get negotiations back on track, Biden planned to call U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., from Air Force One on the way back to Washington after a Group of Seven summit in Japan. World leaders at the gathering expressed concern about the dire global ramifications if the United States were to be unable to meet its financial obligations.
“It’s time for Republicans to accept that there is no bipartisan deal to be made solely, solely, on their partisan terms,” Biden said at a closing news conference before he departed. The president said he had done his part in attempting to raise the borrowing limit so the U.S. government can keep paying its bills, by agreeing to significant cuts in spending. “Now it’s time for the other side to move from their extreme position,” he said.
Biden had been scheduled to travel from Hiroshima to Papua New Guinea and Australia, but cut short his trip in light of the strained negotiations with Capitol Hill.
“My guess is he’s going to want to deal directly with me in making sure we’re all on the same page,” Biden said about McCarthy before their expected conversation. A compromise remained within reach, the president said, despite their differences.
“I’m hoping that Speaker McCarthy is just waiting to negotiate with me when I get home,” he said. “I’m waiting to find out.”
GOP lawmakers are holding tight to demands for sharp spending cuts, rejecting the alternatives proposed by the White House for reducing deficits.
McCarthy tweeted on Saturday that it was the White House that was “moving backward in negotiations.” The speaker contended that Biden would “rather be the first president in history to default on the debt than to risk upsetting the radical socialists who are calling the shots for Democrats right now.”
Republicans want work requirements on the Medicaid health care program, though the Biden administration has countered that millions of people could lose coverage. The GOP additionally introduced new cuts to food aid by restricting states’ ability to waive work requirements in places with high joblessness. That idea, when floated under President Donald Trump, was estimated to cause 700,000 people to lose their food benefits.
GOP lawmakers are also seeking cuts in IRS money and asking the White House to accept parts of their proposed immigration overhaul.
The White House has countered by keeping defense and nondefense spending flat next year, which would save $90 billion in the 2024 budget year and $1 trillion over 10 years.
“I think that we can reach an agreement,” Biden said, though he added this about Republicans: “I can’t guarantee that they wouldn’t force a default by doing something outrageous.”
Republicans had also rejected White House proposals to raise revenues in order to further lower deficits. Among the proposals the GOP objects to are policies that would enable Medicare to pay less for prescription drugs and the closing of a dozen tax loopholes. Republicans have refused to roll back the Trump-era tax breaks on corporations and wealthy households as Biden’s own budget has proposed.
Biden, nonetheless, insisted that “revenue is not off the table.”
For months, Biden had refused to engage in talks over the debt limit, contending that Republicans in Congress were trying to use the borrowing limit vote as leverage to extract administration concessions on other policy priorities.
But with the U.S. Treasury Department saying that it could run out of cash as soon as June 1 and Republicans putting their own legislation on the table, the White House launched talks on a budget deal that could accompany an increase in the debt limit.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen was asked on NBC’s “Meet the Press” whether government might have enough cash on hand to its debts into the middle of June, when a new wave of tax revenue could arrive, potentially giving Washington more time to negotiate. Yellen suggested it was unlikely there was that much time left.
“There’s always uncertainty about tax revenue and spending so it’s hard to be absolutely certain about this,” she said. “But my assumption is that the odds of reaching June 15, while being able to pay all of our bills, is quite low.”
Biden’s decision to set up a call with McCarthy came after another start-stop day with no outward signs of progress. Food was brought to the negotiating room at the Capitol on Saturday morning, only to be carted away hours later. Talks, though, could resume later Sunday after the Biden-McCarthy conversation.
The president tried to assure leaders attending the meeting of the world’s most powerful democracies that the United States would not default. U.S. officials said leaders were concerned, but largely confident that Biden and American lawmakers would resolve the crisis.
The president, though, said he was ruling out the possibility of taking action on his own to avoid a default. Any such steps, including suggestions to invoke the 14th Amendment as a solution, would become tied up in the courts.
“That’s a question that I think is unresolved,” Biden said, adding he hopes to try to get the judiciary to weigh in on the notion for the future.
___
Associated Press writer Colleen Long in Washington contributed to this report. | https://kion546.com/news/ap-national-news/2023/05/21/biden-gop-must-move-off-extreme-positions-no-debt-limit-deal-solely-on-its-partisan-terms/ | 2023-05-21 14:50:00 | 0 | https://kion546.com/news/ap-national-news/2023/05/21/biden-gop-must-move-off-extreme-positions-no-debt-limit-deal-solely-on-its-partisan-terms/ |
CCC cross country championships: Rockledge, Satellite, Viera split titles
Rockledge took both individual titles while Satellite and Viera split the team trophies on Monday in the Cape Coast Conference cross country meet at Wickham Park in Melbourne.
Rockledge junior Malinda Underwood finished first among the girls, edging defending individual champion Madison Carr of Astronaut. Underwood ran the 5,000-meter course in 18:47.8, ahead of Carr's 18:54.1. Brooke Yates (19:10.3) and Keira Merrick (19:23.3) of Merritt Island followed.
Satellite's girls successfully defended their team title, taking four of the top 11 spots. Viera and Melbourne were second and third, respectively.
Viera's boys took the second, third and fourth spots to push their team to victory. The Raiders and Melbourne were next.
Rockledge's Devin Makousky won the individual title with a time of 15:44.4. Hawks seniors Aedan Rendek (15:51.0), Cameron Raney (15:53.1) and Aidan Carroll (16:15.0) rounded out the top four.
Cape Coast Conference cross country championships
Top 10 girls individuals: 1. Malinda Underwood, R 18:47.8; 2. Madison Carr, A 18:54.1; 3. Brooke Yates, MI 19:10.3; 4. Keira Merrick, MI 19:23.3; 5. Ava Quattrocchi, R 19:38.2; 6. Aubrey Orcutt, M 19:42.3; 7. Braelyn Wahy, S 19:54.5; 8. Mackenzie Thompson, S 19:56.1; 9. Addison Elwell, V 20:20.6; 10. Sierra Markle, S 20:21.8.
Girls team standings: 1. Satellite 57; 2. Viera 75; 3. Melbourne 83; 4. Rockledge 91; 5. Merritt Island 135; 6. West Shore 183; 7. Edgewood 203; 8. Astronaut 216; 9. Cocoa Beach 218; 10. Bayside 234; 11. Heritage 295.
Top 10 boys individuals: 1. Devin Makousky, R 15:44.4; 2. Aedan Rendek, V 15:51.0; 3. Cameron Raney, V 15:53.1; 4. Aidan Carroll, V 16:15.0; 5. Logan Chapman, R 16:24.7; 6. Andrew Mahorner, S 16:37.9; 7. Cristian Calderon, R 16:39.6; 8. Jaiden Martingano, M 16:47.9; 9. Isaac Cerverny, CB 16:51.6; 10. Marlon Cutkelvin, A 16:55.0.
Boys team standings: 1. Viera 43; 2. Rockledge 64; 3. Melbourne79 ; 4. Satellite83 ; 5. Astronaut 105; 6. Cocoa Beach 166; 7. West Shore 169; 8. Edgewood 242; 9. Merritt Island 281; 10. Titusville 302; 11. Bayside 327; 12. Space Coast 329; 13. Heritage 387. | https://www.floridatoday.com/story/sports/high-school/2022/10/03/brevard-county-hs-sports-results-week-oct-3-6-2022/10459633002/ | 2022-10-03 22:05:35 | 1 | https://www.floridatoday.com/story/sports/high-school/2022/10/03/brevard-county-hs-sports-results-week-oct-3-6-2022/10459633002/ |
Cloud9, Fnatic, NAVI, Ninjas in Pyjamas, NRG, SK Gaming, T1, and Team Liquid Enter the World of Blockchain Gaming
SYDNEY, Sept. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Guild of Guardians (GOG), a mobile squad-based action RPG game published by Immutable Games Studio and developed by Stepico Games, today announces a multi-year partnership with eight of the world's biggest and most prominent professional esports organizations. Together, the partners will build the future of web3 gaming and digital entertainment and open Guild of Guardians pre-registration to the largest esports communities around the world.
Under the partnership, esports household names, including Cloud9, Fnatic, NAVI, Ninjas in Pyjamas, NRG, SK Gaming, T1, and Team Liquid will join the vibrant fantasy world of GOG, representing their brands as full-fledged, playable characters. These characters will be tradable as digital collectibles on the fully carbon neutral scaling solution, Immutable X.
GOG's unprecedented partnership with the world's leading esports teams will help expose millions of their fans — in addition to over 250,000 already pre-registered players — to the future of web3 gaming.
"This is an incredible opportunity to team up with some of the most prominent and recognizable names in the professional esports space," said Derek Lau, VP & Game Director for Guild of Guardians. "GOG is a mobile team RPG which is built for players and designed as a highly accessible game, making it the perfect gateway into the world of web3 for all players."
Thanks to this collaboration, esports enthusiasts will be able to support their favorite teams and players in new and meaningful ways, by representing their favorite team in-game, via digital assets. With true digital ownership, fans will be able to create, own, and trade their digital assets, in addition to competing against others to earn rewards.
Five of GOG's partner organizations are among the top 10 most valuable esports teams in 2022, according to Forbes, and combined, the eight participants have a valuation of nearly $2 billion USD.
Similarly, the organizations have massive and active fan communities on their social media platforms, bringing together millions of esports enthusiasts. On Twitter alone, the teams are followed by more than 6.3 million users combined.
"We're thrilled to partner with Guild of Guardians in what we believe to be a hugely symbiotic relationship for both our industries - gaming and esports. We firmly believe that esport brand integration into games is the future, enabling closer interactions between fans and teams,"
Pietro Fringuelli, Chairman of the Executive Board of The World Esports Association (WESA). "We're excited by the notion of digital ownership and the ability to earn and trade in-game characters."
WESA includes five of the participating teams and has been chosen to develop a new commercial model for a unique landmark cooperation with a publisher.
This announcement comes in line with persistent growth in the popularity of esports, which boasts an estimated global revenue of $1.3 billion in 2022.
Immutable, the company behind Guild of Guardians, also has a proven track record in the web3 gaming sector, having raised $200 million in a Series C funding round last March.
For more information on Guild of Guardians, please see HERE.
About Guild of Guardians
Already in development since March 2021, Immutable and Stepico's joint gaming project is a mobile RPG where players summon guardians, join a guild, and defend Elderym in this revolutionary fantasy RPG. The game will combine high-quality gameplay, graphics, mechanics, and a sustainable rewards system alongside an active, contributing community. There are over 250,000 pre-registered emails already. Android and IOS releases will be later this year. For more information visit: https://www.guildofguardians.com/
Immutable Games Studio is the global leader in web3 game development and publishing. Having pioneered the world's first blockbuster NFT trading-card game, Gods Unchained and currently building multiplayer mobile RPG Guild of Guardians.
Immutable Games Studio is part of The Immutable Group, advancing the next generation of web3 gaming, and is on a mission to make asset ownership and commerce in digital worlds real - through the power of immutable NFTs.
Founded in 2016, WESA is the result of joint efforts between industry-leading professional esports teams and ESL, the world's largest esports company. Based on similar traditional sports associations, WESA is an open and inclusive organization that will further professionalize esports by introducing elements of player representation, standardized regulations, and revenue shares for teams. WESA serves as a single point of contact for publishers to support and amplify sustainable growth of esports.
Founded in 2013, Cloud9 has grown to become one of the most recognizable esports organizations in the world. With championships industry-wide, unmatched viewership hours, and extensive benefits packages for players and staff, Cloud9 prides itself on being the best in all categories. At this time, Cloud9 fields professional teams in Apex Legends, Chess, CS:GO, Fortnite, Halo, Hearthstone, League of Legends, Overwatch, Super Smash Bros. Melee, Teamfight Tactics, VALORANT, Wild Rift, and World of Warcraft. To find more information about Cloud9, visit https://www.cloud9.gg.
Fnatic is a global Esports performance brand headquartered in London. It is laser-focused on levelling up gamers, thanks to its digital ecosystem and physical products. Founded in 2004 by Sam Mathews, Fnatic teams have since claimed more than 200 championships across 30 different games and are one of the most successful esports brands of all time. Beyond winning prestigious championships, Fnatic's mission is to be the flagship brand for performance. Fnatic is the channel through which the most forward-thinking brands communicate with Gen-Z and Millenials. It delivers industry-leading content, experiences and activations through its offices and facilities in cities between London and Tokyo. For more information, visit Fnatic.com.
NAVI (Natus Vincere) is one of the leading esports clubs in the world, founded on December 17th, 2009, in Kyiv. During its long history, the club has represented 24 disciplines and won over $18,000,000 in prize money. NAVI became champions of The International in 2011, the major-tournament PGL Major Stockholm 2021, and has won over 100 gold medals across over 250 championships. NAVI has gained more than 17M fans on social media and YouTube. In 2020 and 2021, the club became the world's second most-watched esport organization.
Ninjas in Pyjamas is one of the most global esports organizations in the world with esports operations across the strongest gaming regions, including the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Born in 2000, we have pioneered the esports scene since its inception. We earned our stripes by competing at the very top level across almost a dozen game titles and we never lose — we only win or learn. Our vision is to bring gaming culture to a world without boundaries.
NRG is a professional gaming and entertainment company headquartered in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 2016, NRG has embodied competitive esports excellence and the best of gaming culture over the last half-decade. Known for championship teams and innovative gaming lifestyle content, NRG is one of the most-watched organizations in the world on Twitch and YouTube, and the most watched org across platforms in North America for 2021.
SK Gaming is the most traditional esports organisation and one of the world's leading brands in competitive video gaming. Founded in 1997, "Schroet Kommando" has been shaping and inspiring the industry for more than 25 years with a proven track record of business success. In the past two decades, SK Gaming built a legacy of achievements with more than 75 major championships and a rich history of competitive excellence across multiple game titles and genres. SK Gaming strives to inspire young people to have goals & aspirations in life - leading by example with a genuine family-friendly approach while actively promoting youth development, equal opportunities and diversity.
T1 Entertainment & Sports is an award-winning global esports and gaming organization. Fielding professional rosters in League of Legends (LoL), VALORANT, Dota 2, Super Smash Bros, Overwatch, and Splitgate. T1's LoL team has won three World Championship, two MSI and eleven LCK titles, making it the most successful team of all time. For more information on T1, visit www.t1.gg
Team Liquid was founded in 2000 in the Netherlands and has evolved into one of the leading international multigame esports teams with training centers in Utrecht, São Paulo, Brazil and Los Angeles, California. Team Liquid has over 120 athletes competing across 19 distinct games, including all major esports titles, such as VALORANT, Rocket League, DOTA 2, League of Legends, CS:GO, Fortnite, Rainbow 6: Siege, and more. Led by Co-CEOs Steve Arhancet and Victor Goossens, Team Liquid is one of the most successful esports teams in the Western market in terms of competitive achievement and fan engagement across multiple sports.
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SOURCE Immutable Games Studio | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2022/09/15/guild-guardians-teams-up-with-biggest-names-esports-bring-web3-gaming-millions/ | 2022-09-15 13:28:09 | 1 | https://www.valleynewslive.com/prnewswire/2022/09/15/guild-guardians-teams-up-with-biggest-names-esports-bring-web3-gaming-millions/ |
(KDVR) — With smoke from over 400 Canadian wildfires drifting south and blanketing much of the U.S., Americans are looking for ways to cope with a haze of very unhealthy air.
Dr. Anthony Gerber said the people most at risk in smoky conditions are those with lung disease, older people, and the very young. He said if those people have symptoms outside, they may benefit from wearing a well-fitted mask.
But keep in mind, surgical and cloth masks do not help in these conditions.
“Really, N95s are the only masks which are really proven to be effective,” Gerber said.
N95 masks filter particles as small as 0.3 micrometers, a fraction of the width of a human hair, according to the California Department of Public Health.
Still, masks are not an ideal solution for wildfire smoke. San Francisco health officials previously told SF Gate that sealed buildings with filtered HVAC systems are preferable to mask use.
“If you have filters on your home HVAC system, you should make sure they’re up to date and high quality,” Dr. David Hill, a pulmonologist in Waterbury, Connecticut told the Associated Press.
Air quality alerts often caution “sensitive groups,” to stay indoors. That is a big category that includes children whose lungs are still developing, older adults, and people with lung diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Gerber, a pulmonologist at National Jewish Health, said filters can help with smoke, but not all are effective, “Most folks will put them in their bedroom, but again, it has to be a HEPA filter and it has to be matched to the size of the space you are filtering.”
Even though smoke seems familiar, it is actually a complex mixture of shapes, from round to corkscrew-shaped under the microscope. It’s an intense form of pollution.
That makes this a good time for everyone to put off yard work and outdoor exercise.
As during the coronavirus pandemic, health officials say a snug fit is the key to getting protection from your N95. Bandanas and surgical masks typically fail to offer the needed protection.
The good news is that weather patterns change and the worst conditions should only last a day or two, though lighter smoke could linger for several days.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. | https://www.conchovalleyhomepage.com/news/which-mask-is-best-for-wildfire-smoke/ | 2023-06-07 23:01:33 | 1 | https://www.conchovalleyhomepage.com/news/which-mask-is-best-for-wildfire-smoke/ |
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WEXFORD, Pa. (AP) — By the time the doors open at 4:30 p.m., a boisterous line of 50 hungry people is looping around the gymnasium foyer at Blessed Francis Seelos Academy. Their objective: to occupy tables on the basketball court and, for the parish’s first time since the pandemic descended in 2020, sit down for an old-fashioned Lenten fish fry.
Many patrons are members of the flock — St. Aidan Catholic Parish north of Pittsburgh — and greet each other as longtime friends. But these days, newcomers figure in the mix, too. And some arrive in a way that unites two rich seams of western Pennsylvania culture — tradition and innovation.
The fish fry, a long-established Friday staple during Lent, is roaring back from COVID with an assist from something decidedly newfangled: an interactive map built by local volunteer coders that points the way to scores of churches, fire halls and other places that offer battered and breaded seafood for the taking. In the process, the new Pittsburgh is helping point the way to the old.
“I like to think that this project helps people get excited about these very old cultural and culinary traditions,” says Hollen Barmer, a Tennessee transplant who came to Pittsburgh two decades ago and started the map in 2012 for her fish-fry-loving self.
“Fish fries,” Barmer likes to say, “are an adventure.”
TWO PARTS OF PITTSBURGH
At this moment in its history, Pittsburgh is working to blend its fabled industrial yesterdays with a 21st-century economy based increasingly on services and innovation — something the map project reflects.
“Allowing people to interact with something traditional through technology, it adds an element to it that appeals to a different group of people," says Ellie Newman, a member and the former leader of the nonprofit Code for Pittsburgh, which works with Barmer to operate the map.
During Lent, thousands of western Pennsylvanians — Catholic and non-Catholic alike — stream into Friday afternoon fish fries. Some pick up for takeout. Some chow down right there — fish and shrimp, fries and cole slaw and mac and cheese, sometimes pierogies or a local noodle-and-cabbage delicacy called haluski.
Western Pennsylvania loves the past, but the fish fry itself is steered by some very modern forces.
Long a tradition in American cities with Catholic communities, particularly around the Great Lakes, fish fries surged in popularity after the Second Vatican Council essentially told the faithful in 1966 that the practice of not eating meat on Fridays was optional — except during Lent, the period between Ash Wednesday and Easter. That made February to April a concentrated period of fish consumption.
Then came the steel industry's foundering in the 1970s and 1980s. That upended the region, stole elements of civic pride and whipped up a fervor for traditions that shouted, loudly, “Pittsburgh!”
“There was a sense of destabilization — of `Who are we?' And people tended to center around things that symbolized the community," says Leslie Przybylek, senior curator at the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh.
Food touchstones like fish fries, pierogies and the “ cookie table ” — a western Pennsylvania wedding staple — became signifiers of identity. At the same time, technological advances in frozen food and the growth of fast food were making fish more accessible. The longtime presence of powerhouse regional fish distributor Robert Wholey & Co. also honed local tastes.
“People in Pennsylvania are used to good fish,” says Bill Yanicko, a funeral director in suburban West Deer Township who runs the community fish fry at Our Lady of the Lakes Parish. “They really don’t want to see a cookie-cutter triangle fish."
Overlay all that with a robust interactive map (and pent-up pandemic energy) and you have a potent mix that helps people in western Pennsylvania overcome the geographic hesitations of the region's hills and valleys, and go out searching for fish.
“Putting it in a digital frame and encouraging people to engage with it, it adds a level of vocabulary to it that makes a difference," says Przybylek, who favors the fry at the Swissvale Fire Department, just outside the city. “Different generations engage in stories in different ways. It literally takes a food tradition and puts it into a platform that speaks to them on a different level.”
MAPPING DELICIOUSNESS
Today, while churches remain a mainstay of Lenten fish fries, fire departments give them a run for their money — of which there is lots at play. Both entities use fish fries as volunteer-staffed fundraisers to offset budget challenges, and each works hard to stand out. “It takes a little army to make this happen," says Keith Young, a retired businessman who helps with the St. Aidan fry.
Code for Pittsburgh, a group designed to create places where “civics and technology meet,” is all-volunteer as well. Its varied projects include a food access map of Pittsburgh and a cartographic catalog that helps track vehicle-pedestrian accidents.
The volunteer coding sessions held to build the fish-fry map are — how to say it? — fish-forward. Swedish Fish candies are set out. Bowls of Goldfish crackers are distributed. Radiohead’s “Weird Fishes” plays.
“It’s kind of the perfect marriage of things — a team of super-nerdy people who know all about maps and know all about coding, and fish fries, which are just so Pittsburgh," Newman says. "I don’t know of any other city that has this kind of obsession. ... As soon as people in the group heard about it, they were instantly hooked on it.”
Pittsburgh’s growing reputation as an innovation hub — with companies from Google to Uber establishing beachheads here — is sometimes cast as recent. But innovation lies at the heart of the region's history. The steel industry that built it into an industrial powerhouse was a cutting-edge transformation of its day, and advances ranging from early movies to the polio vaccine have roots here.
David Schorr, an IT analyst from the Pittsburgh suburb of West Mifflin, is known locally as “ The Codfather " for his very public affinity to — and experience with — fish fries. He knows where to go for everything — including the places to secure, as he puts it, “handmade pierogies personally pinched by church ladies.” The interactive map, he says, opens myriad possibilities of fish-fry forays.
“It makes it a treasure hunt: `Oh — let’s go to that neighborhood,'” Schorr says. "They go, ‘Oh, look, this one’s on my way home from work.’ Or `I have to go visit Aunt Edna and we’ll be driving right by it.' Or, `Oh, they have sauerkraut soup.' Or, `I don’t like pollock. This one has cod. I’m going there.'”
The map, Barmer and Newman say, is designed to do precisely that — turn the western Pennsylvania fish-fry culture into an adventure stamped onto the landscape that fosters community engagement and understanding for natives and newcomers alike.
“As things become more globalized and cities tend to look more and more the same, there’s something appealing about coming to a place like Pittsburgh that still has things like this that have very deep roots in the community," Newman says. "Things may change around you every year, but you know that every year you can go to your same church basement or fire hall and get that fish sandwich.”
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Ted Anthony, director of new storytelling and newsroom innovation at The Associated Press, has been writing about American culture since 1990. Follow him on Twitter at http://twitter.com/anthonyted
___
Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content. | https://www.mrt.com/living/article/need-a-lenten-fish-fry-let-an-interactive-map-17817400.php | 2023-03-03 06:54:20 | 1 | https://www.mrt.com/living/article/need-a-lenten-fish-fry-let-an-interactive-map-17817400.php |
Tuscaloosa police and University of Alabama to increase safety measures on the Strip
Tuscaloosa Police Department and the University of Alabama are taking action to keep one of the busiest parts of the city safe. TPD and UA are teaming up to create a new precinct to cover areas close to campus.
This comes a month after a Birmingham woman was shot and killed on the Strip. This area of town isn't necessarily known for a lot of crime, but they want to make sure everyone can have fun and feel safe.
Tuscaloosa police and university leaders are strengthening their partnership and opening up a joint police station in the center of the Strip. Some students who visit the strip often hope these changes will make a difference in safety.
“I think I would feel a lot more safe if there were a bunch of cop cars over here just to, like, make us feel more safe and just regulate everything that's going on,” Hannah Lewis, a University of Alabama senior student, said.
That's exactly what TPD and UA are hoping to do through strengthened partnership —making the heartbeat of the city, the Strip — safer for students like Lewis. That includes a joint police station and improved lighting with already added security cameras.
“There's police officers up and down the strip and walking up and down the Strip,” Lewis said. “I feel safe because there's cops coming up to us 24/7 and asking us for our names and our IDs and stuff.”
Sophomore Jaida May feels the added safety measures will also help detour troublemakers from the area.
“It'll probably make people not want to come out if they're up to no good,” May said.
Last month’s shooting has increased safety concerns in the popular area.
“If there were more police, I feel like the same thing would've happened honestly,” May said.
May doesn’t go to the Strip often but she generally feels safer near campus. She realizes her safety can be compromised anywhere.
“It makes you look at your surroundings more,” May said.
UA and city police are adding officers dedicated to watching the Strip, especially during peak hours of traffic. There's also plans to improve pedestrian access in the area. | https://www.wvtm13.com/article/tuscaloosa-police-alabama-university-the-strip-safety/42962883 | 2023-02-18 05:47:38 | 0 | https://www.wvtm13.com/article/tuscaloosa-police-alabama-university-the-strip-safety/42962883 |
You already know and love Reese’s delicious chocolatey peanut butter cups. Now, the popular candy brand is kicking off the new year by taking its beloved treat to the freezer aisle, offering up a handful of new frozen desserts from ice cream to bars, sandwiches and cones.
The treats, which will be hitting store shelves nationwide starting this month, include three ice cream flavors, a peanut butter sandwich, peanut butter and chocolate cones, a dessert bar coated in cake crumbs and a dessert cup, which is essentially an ice cream version of the original peanut butter cup. Prices will range from $2.20 to $7.99.
Starting with the ice cream flavors, you’ll find Reese’s Peanut Butter Light Ice Cream, which is peanut butter ice cream with peanut butter cups and a peanut butter swirl; Reese’s Chocolate Frozen Dairy Dessert, which is the same as the light ice cream except that it has a chocolate base; and Reese’s Mini Pieces Light Ice Cream, which is vanilla light ice cream with Reese’s mini pieces and a peanut butter swirl.
For those who love ice cream sandwiches, the Reese’s Peanut Butter Sandwich features a peanut butter ice cream filling with a peanut butter swirl nestled between two chocolate wafers. The Reese’s Peanut Butter Frozen Dairy Dessert Bar is a peanut butter frozen dessert blended with Reese’s peanut butter sauce and covered in a milk chocolatey coating and cake crumbs.
You’ll also find two different flavors of cones together in one eight-pack box. The Reese’s Peanut Butter Cones are made with a peanut butter ice cream base and crispy wafer cones drizzled with a chocolate-flavored coating, while the Reese’s Chocolate Cones are made with chocolate ice cream and have a peanut butter swirl and chocolatey drizzle.
Finally, the Reese’s Peanut Butter Frozen Dessert Cup is a frozen take on the classic Reese’s peanut butter-and-chocolate candy. The dessert features peanut butter ice cream blended with a peanut butter swirl, all covered in a milk chocolate coating.
While these products are new, if you swear you’ve had Reese’s ice cream before, you’re not wrong. The brand Breyer’s also makes Reese’s ice cream, blending peanut butter light ice cream with Reese’s cups and swirls of peanut butter.
Breyer’s ice cream is essentially the same as the new Reese’s Peanut Butter Light Ice Cream, but the six other treats made directly from Reese’s are different from anything else in your grocery store’s freezer.
Reese’s new treats comes on the heels of a variety of new frozen treats from Oreo, which launched last January.
Oreo’s treats include bars, cones, sandwiches and tubs of ice cream, all with a creme-flavored base and chunks of Oreo cookies. The bars and cones are also both dipped in a coating made from crushed Oreo cookies.
Which new Reese’s frozen treat are you most excited to try?
This story originally appeared on Simplemost. Check out Simplemost for additional stories. | https://www.wrtv.com/reeses-is-now-making-ice-cream-other-frozen-treats | 2023-01-06 16:18:15 | 0 | https://www.wrtv.com/reeses-is-now-making-ice-cream-other-frozen-treats |
Black and White Ball aims to provide night of fun
Published: May. 18, 2023 at 5:33 PM CDT|Updated: 26 minutes ago
TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - A group called Topeka Nights Iconic hopes to create fun experiences for local nightlife.
Creater Nyesha Jasper visited Eye on NE Kansas to share details about their next event. It’s the Black and White Ball.
Nyesha said people are encouraged to dress up (a black and white color scheme is encouraged!) for a night of fun. They’ll be featuring DJ Fab with hip hop, R&B and dance music, with some other performances possible and a cash bar available.
The Black & White Ball is 8 p.m. May 26 at The Woodshed, 1901 N. Kansas Ave. Tickets at the door are $20 per couple, $15 for a single. You also may get tickets in advance at https://tniblackandwhiteball.eventbrite.com.
Copyright 2023 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2023/05/18/black-white-ball-aims-provide-night-fun/ | 2023-05-18 23:00:24 | 1 | https://www.wibw.com/2023/05/18/black-white-ball-aims-provide-night-fun/ |
Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson missed Friday’s practice with an illness but is expected to play Sunday against the Carolina Panthers, coach John Harbaugh said.
“He’ll be fine,” Harbaugh said. “He tried to get to practice but was just too sick.”
Backup Tyler Huntley and practice squad player Anthony Brown were the only quarterbacks present during the 30-minute period of practice open to reporters. Jackson, one of the NFL’s most important players, was a full participant Wednesday and Thursday. He’s played every snap on offense for the AFC North-leading Ravens this season.
An injury report and game statuses will be released later.
The Ravens were also missing left tackle Ronnie Stanley, outside linebacker Jason Pierre-Paul and rookie cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis (hip), who was sidelined Thursday. Practice squad wide receiver DeSean Jackson, who missed practice Wednesday and Thursday, also was not on the field Friday.
This story will be updated.
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We invite you to use our commenting platform to engage in insightful conversations about issues in our community. We reserve the right at all times to remove any information or materials that are unlawful, threatening, abusive, libelous, defamatory, obscene, vulgar, pornographic, profane, indecent or otherwise objectionable to us, and to disclose any information necessary to satisfy the law, regulation, or government request. We might permanently block any user who abuses these conditions. | https://www.twincities.com/2022/11/18/ravens-qb-lamar-jackson-expected-to-play-vs-panthers-after-missing-practice-with-illness/ | 2022-11-18 19:46:34 | 1 | https://www.twincities.com/2022/11/18/ravens-qb-lamar-jackson-expected-to-play-vs-panthers-after-missing-practice-with-illness/ |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – In the last decade, gender pronouns have become a much more common sight to see and hear – both in social media profiles, in their email signatures, on patches and pins, and when they introduce themselves.
As the fight for LGBTQ+ equality and rights continues, many people, including celebrities like Sam Smith and Demi Lovato, have publicly announced that they’re non-binary and use they/them pronouns.
When people share their pronouns, they’re explaining how they self-identify and how they’d like others to refer to them.
The best thing to do when someone shares their pronouns is to use them.
According to GLSEN, a group that provides resources for educators to use with LGBTQ youth, using a person’s pronouns is a first step toward showing respect for their identity and creating a more welcoming space.
Personal pronouns are words used in sentences to replace a person’s name or to refer to a person. The pronouns he and she are used in discussing other people and are gendered pronouns.
People can also use non-gendered or gender-neutral pronouns such as they/them, ze/zir, ze/hir, xe/xem, fe/fem, ey/em, co/co, or per/per.
Some of these, such as ze/sem and fe/fem, are known as neo pronouns, and are what some nonbinary, gender diverse, transgender and genderqueer people use.
Other people ask to be described by a variety of pronouns such as she/they, or any pronouns. Some ask that they be referred to only by their name, asking that no pronouns be used in reference to them.
GLSEN says pronouns can sometimes signify someone’s gender identity, but not always and that we should never assume a person’s gender identity based on how they dress, wear their hair, or their mannerisms.
The University of Oregon’s Division of Student Life says sharing your pronouns, whether you identify with the sex you were assigned at birth or not, is an important way to show respect and a way to be better allies to the transgender and greater LGBTQ+ community.
The university says it recognizes that assuming someone’s gender can be hurtful.
Portland State University’s Queer Resource Center has a detailed explanation online about pronouns and gender-expansive language.
The resource center points out that the singular they/them/theirs pronouns are sometimes used by non-binary people, but also, some people who are not non-binary may choose to use these pronouns.
The center also stresses that if people choose not to share pronouns or choose not to use them, that decision should be respected. The university pointed out that people’s gender identities can and do change.
“Gender is an internal sense of self that may or may not be expressed externally – you cannot know by appearance,” Portland State University says in a “Pronouns 101” video it published.
If you don’t know a person’s pronouns, Portland State University recommends offering your pronouns first. Often, people will follow your example. You can also listen to or read the words people use to refer to themselves, or you can privately ask them.
When a person uses incorrect pronouns or gender to refer to someone, it’s called misgendering. Several resources, including GLSEN and Portland State University, say when this happens, it’s important to apologize, correct yourself and move on. You should have the same reaction if someone corrects the pronouns you’re using.
For anyone struggling to use the correct pronouns, the Queer Resource Center recommends practicing in private or researching more tools to help practice pronoun use.
The chart below shows the many types of pronouns.
Here are a few example sentences.
- I walked with zir to the grocery store.
- Alex’s shoes are cool. They’re always dressed in the latest trends.
- Per said per dad has an appointment after work today. | https://www.kron4.com/news/national/gender-pronouns-confusing-heres-what-you-should-know/ | 2023-03-11 15:49:32 | 1 | https://www.kron4.com/news/national/gender-pronouns-confusing-heres-what-you-should-know/ |
NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- TripAdd, an ancillary service provider within the Blue Ribbon Bags Group, completed its multi-million dollar acquisition of Eddy Travels. The Blue Ribbon Bags Group plans to leverage their existing relationship with over 300 OTAs to promote the innovative TripAdd solution as well as Eddy Travels' A.I. powered chatbot.
TripAdd will function as an embedded white label marketplace for ancillary vendors & travel providers. TripAdd will be using real-time machine learning technology to optimize bundles of 3rd party ancillary services by using customer data points. Eddy Travels' machine learning expertise will enhance TripAdd's capabilities and provide a better user & travel experience within the TripAdd ecosystem.
Several travel vendors have agreed to provide discounted pricing to TripAdd so partners can offer value added services to their customers. Partners that include TripAdd in their booking flows will gain access to an ever-growing vault of ancillary products, along with receiving real-time intelligence from the TripAdd Partner Dashboard.
Eddy Travels will continue to operate its travel focused chatbot and will rebrand its assistant as 'EddyAI'. Eddy AI's assistant uses machine learning technology for natural language understanding and personalization. The AI assistant processes user messages and answers the most common customer questions instantly.
Edmundas Balčikonis, Co-Founder and CEO at Eddy Travels commented, "The whole Eddy Travels team is super excited to join the TripAdd family. We have been partnering with the TripAdd Team from the US for a while and working together has been great. With all the exciting opportunities in the travel industry, the time is perfect for a merger. We are eager to help the travel industry recover with TripAdd ancillary marketplace and AI assistant technology under the new Eddy AI brand."
"We're extremely excited to bring the Eddy Travels Team onboard. Their expertise in machine learning and language processing brings a huge boost to our Development Team," said CEO of Blue Ribbon Bags and TripAdd, Gabriel Menkin. He added, "With this partnership and introduction of TripAdd, we're better positioned to provide the best in class service providers to our customers."
About Blue Ribbon Bags: Blue Ribbon Bags ("BRB") is the world's leading lost luggage tracking service. For only $5, BRB tracks and expedites the return of luggage lost by airlines. If the luggage cannot be returned to the passenger within 96 hours, BRB will provide the passenger with a satisfaction guarantee of $1,000. BRB covers every flight, everywhere in the world and sells it services in 90+ countries through OTAs, TMCs, airlines, travel insurance providers and credit cards.
About TripAdd: TripAdd is a digital marketplace for all things travel. TripAdd sources thousands of offers from some of the world's largest travel companies. Based on the customers trip details TripAdd selects the best product offers and combines them into personalized discounted travel bundles. Travel products such as tours, flight care, e-visa and much are more are included in bundles provided by TripAdd.
About Eddy Travels: Eddy Travels is an artificial intelligence powered travel assistant with voice understanding that allows people to plan their trips in minutes. Travelers can send a text or voice message to Eddy Travels assistant and get personalized suggestions for the best flights, hotels, car rentals and other travel-related services instantly. The digital assistant is available on Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Telegram, Viber, Slack, Line and WhatsApp. Over 4 million people worldwide have already used the Eddy Travels Assistant to receive product offers and FAQ answers in seconds.
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SOURCE Blue Ribbon Bags, LLC | https://www.ktre.com/prnewswire/2022/09/09/tripadd-announces-acquisition-lithuanian-chatbot-innovator-eddy-travels/ | 2022-09-09 19:01:02 | 1 | https://www.ktre.com/prnewswire/2022/09/09/tripadd-announces-acquisition-lithuanian-chatbot-innovator-eddy-travels/ |
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Remember the grasshopper invasion of 2019?
Swarms of locusts invaded Las Vegas at the end of July 2019, taking over the strip and blotting out streetlights, and now they may be returning.
“They were just chirping and chirping and chirping at a very shrill level,” said Trish Nash, a resident of Henderson, Nevada, located near Las Vegas.
Nash spent hours trying to figure out where this noise was coming from in her Henderson home before discovering a group of insects made their way into her vent, garage, and laundry room.
“So what I did was contact a pest control company and I asked them what their thoughts were about this and they explained that it’s nothing they really can do,” she said, “You can’t control them with a service because they’ll continue to come.”
Sightings aren’t just limited to Henderson. Nevada residents report seeing these insects in Summerlin, Mountains Edge, Centennial Hills, North Las Vegas and the Thomas and Mack parking lot at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Could Las Vegas see another infestation? Field biologist Marija Minic said it’s possible.
“I think 2019 was a different year because it was a lot drier, Minic told KLAS. “We had more monsoons this year, more rains so I don’t honestly believe it’ll be that bad, but it could get worse.”
Minic said readily available food sources grasshoppers feed on like other smaller insects and plants are keeping them thriving, along with a change in climate conditions. She said don’t be surprised if you continue to see grasshoppers stick around.
With a short lifespan, grasshoppers, locusts and crickets are also food sources for birds and lizards.
Minic said these insects are harmless, adding that if you come across them, it’s best to leave them alone. | https://www.wjhl.com/news/national/are-hordes-of-grasshoppers-invading-las-vegas-again/ | 2022-09-27 19:19:23 | 0 | https://www.wjhl.com/news/national/are-hordes-of-grasshoppers-invading-las-vegas-again/ |
Cuba hotel blast toll rises to 42 — most hotel workers
Published: May. 10, 2022 at 2:58 PM EDT|Updated: 57 minutes ago
HAVANA (AP) — The elegant Hotel Saratoga was supposed to reopen Tuesday after a two-year pandemic break. Instead, it’s a day of mourning for the 42 people known to have died in an explosion that ripped apart the building and of searching for yet more victims.
A spokesman for the hotel company says experts estimate that 80% of the hotel was damaged by Friday’s explosion, which hurled tons of concrete chunks into streets just a block from the country’s Capitol and seriously harmed neighboring structures.
Fifty-one people were working to get the hotel ready for its re-inauguration and 23 of them are among the dead. Three workers remain missing.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wistv.com/2022/05/10/cuba-hotel-blast-toll-rises-42-most-hotel-workers/ | 2022-05-10 20:20:18 | 0 | https://www.wistv.com/2022/05/10/cuba-hotel-blast-toll-rises-42-most-hotel-workers/ |
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